Caribbean is calling

THOSE looking for an alternative luxury winter sun holiday might be tempted by new deals to the Dominican Republic.

Budget Travel is offering all inclusive hotel packages to the tropical resort of Playa Dorada with prices from € €899 per person sharing. It includes food, drink, and entertainment. Flights are scheduled weekly from Dublin every Monday starting from November through until April.

Situated on the North Coast of the island, Playa Dorada boasts over two kilometres of sandy beaches and the resort, near to a quality golf course, is said by Budget to be ideal for sports enthusiasts.

Bookings can be made online at www.budgettravel.ie, through Budget Travel Shops nationwide, or on 01- 6311111.

AT a time when society is becoming less tolerant of stag and hen parties, eastern Europe holds out a welcoming arm to the wild ones!

Malév Hungarian Airlines has just launched a “free leader fare” promotion for any group of 25 or more people booked with the company to fly to any destination ex-Dublin between September and December 10.

Malev’s group fares start from €164 return including taxes from Dublin to Budapest and beyond Budapest starting from €328 return including taxes.

Details on email: [e-mail] or call Rafael Diaz on 01 601 6609.

DAWSON TRAVEL have just launched their 17th year of premiership packages and also a new La Liga programme featuring Barcelona, Real Madrid and Malaga CF.

The company has invested over €125,000 in the advance purchase of match tickets, including all home games for Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Sunderland as well as the Spanish Clubs.

Malaga is expected to be a popular destination this winter, particularly since Malaga CF have gained promotion back to La Liga. Prices to see Malaga CF at home, which include three nights accommodation in the four star Hotel Alay in Benalmadena and match ticket start at €189 per person sharing and rise to €339 (for Real Madrid) depending on the length of stay and accommodation selected. Flights extra. Full details from dawson-travel.com or from the company direct at Princess Street, Cork.

IRISH FERRIES have introduced a range of low-cost autumn short breaks for motorists and motorcyclists, with savings of up to 30 per cent.

One of the packages on offer allows up to six nights in France and comes in at a price of €258 return for two passengers plus car or motorbike. Cabin accommodation is available at a further surcharge.

Two-night, wine-buying mini cruises, with all-inclusive prices, are pitched at around €170 per adult.