Chill out with island detox

WILD, rugged and beautiful, Ireland’s islands are a much needed detox from the stresses of modern-day life, and living proof that the best things in life are free.

The islands hold something for everyone, whether your idea of bliss is wandering through deserted villages, exploring ancient monastic sites, spotting whales or enjoying one of the thriving festivals that celebrate everything from Father Ted to Achill yawls. For further information on Ireland’s Islands, tips on what to bring, a list of facilities, and for great value deals on accommodation and activities, log onto www.discoverireland.ie/islands.

- SUNWAY is pushing the month of August for a series of west coast USA packages titled California Dreamin’, starting with a four night break for a family of four at the three star Wilshire Grand from €685 per person or for two sharing from €708.

The four-star Parc 55 Hotel in San Francisco comes in from €679 or for two people from €826.

Sunway has a package that includes LA, San Francisco, Yosemite and going on to Las Vegas, with 10 nights starting from €1,104 (four sharing) and €1,455 (two sharing). Price includes flights, accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis and all taxes and charges. Car rental is included in the fly-drive option. Check out the offers on www.sunway.ie or telephone [phone]

- FORGET VIPs, it’s all about VIKs (Very Important Kids) this summer at Castlemartyr, Ireland’s luxurious resort in east Cork. In a special three-night family offer, kids will be treated like lords and ladies of their own manor with a menu of special treats to keep them entertained and happy. These include a daily cinema club, high tea with created by head chef Roger Olsson and The Zone playroom.

Package costs start from €770 and rise, depending on accommodation (room) choice and family size, to €1,280.

Booking details at 021 4219000 or see www.castlemartyrresort.ie for more information.

- THE Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) believes June is a great month for visitors to head north with an action packed calendar of events perfect for entertaining the whole family, including National Family Week which runs between May 31 and June 6.

Visitors planning a trip to can take advantage of exclusive accommodation offers available from the Tourist Information Centre which includes two nights’ accommodation and one evening meal from £99pps in the Wellington Hotel, Belfast, the Dunadry Hotel, Co Antrim, the Armagh City Hotel, Co Armagh, and Beech Hill Country House in Co Derry and more.

To find out more, check out the free booking and advice service at NITB’s Tourist Information Centre in Suffolk Street Dublin 2, callsave 1850 230 230 or click on www.discovernorthernireland.com.