Travel digest with Barry Coughlan

Down south there’s a new attraction in Dublin revolving around whiskey. 

The new Teeling distillery in Newmarket Square is the is the only such operational facility in Dublin City where visitors can get up close and personal with the traditional Irish whiskey making process.

For a starting entrance price of €14, visitors will receive a fully guided tour rounded off with a tasting. Details on www.TeelingWhiskey.com

Looking for family fun this October midterm? Kane’s Travel, amongst others, have a deal for thrill seekers with accommodation near the Port Aventura theme park.

Staying at the four-star Sol Costa Dorada Hotel, guests will be well situated for train services to Barcelona. The deal is half board and costs €1,375 for two adults and two kids. Visit: http://itaa.ie/midtermhalfboard

Whether you’ve got a young family or are just young at heart, Orlando is sure to put a smile on the face. With its wealth of theme parks, there is always something to do in this Florida hotspot.

American Holidays has a list of plenty to cater for all needs over the coming months. Expect to pay about €2,400 for a week long break ex Dublin for a family of four. Visit www.americanholidays.com

Featuring the best Mediterranean party hotspots ranging from the Balearic to the Greek favourites, the Falcon portfolio is now bigger than last year.

Bulgaria has been added, along with a number of new hotels. The prices in Greece are good, a September departure to Crete coming in for seven nights at €349 sharing. Log on to: www.falconholidays.ie  call Falcon Direct on: 1850-453545

There are lots of things happening up north over the coming weeks, festivals of beer and music, others covering food and visual arts. The big events stretch from Lisburn in county Antrim through to Derry and, of course, the big city of Belfast itself.

Oyster festivals are taking place in ever increasing numbers but one of the most established is in Hillsborough through from September 1 to 6. Details on www.discovernorthernireland.com/events