Departure lounge: Soak in summer sun surrounded but fields of lavender

Plus the deal of a lifetime on a getaway to Tenerife

Sat, 16 May, 2026 - 01:00

Hungary for more

Visit the Hungarian town of Tihany for the Lavender Festival

As the summer sun warms the shores of Lake Balaton, the pretty Hungarian town of Tihany will transform into a purple paradise. Celebrated for its stretches of lavender fields, against a backdrop of Eastern Europe’s largest lake, from June 26-28 the Lavender Festival takes place, with lavender-themed events, including guided tours, exhibitions, lavender harvesting and distillation.

Happily, visitors will find lavender- infused delights all summer, from teas and oils to pastries and cocktails. (Tihany’s lavender claims to have higher essential oil content than its French counterpart, thanks to the region’s microclimate, making it a prized ingredient in skincare and remedies). While here, visit the House of Paprika, hike the scenic trails and take a ferry ride on Lake Balaton.

hellohungary.hu

Mallorca magic

The Iberostar Es Trenc Hotel in Colònia de Sant Jordi

Throughout June 2026, enjoy 30% off stays at five-star Iberostar Selection Es Trenc, in one of Mallorca’s best-kept secret corners. Located in Colònia de Sant Jordi, a quieter part of the island, the chic property is minutes from the protected coastline of Es Trenc beach — one of the island’s most beautiful stretches of coastline.

Offering relaxed Mediterranean vibes, with panoramic sea views and private balconies, a serene spa, gym, and two outdoor pools you can indulge in rooftop cocktails, open-air cinema nights, boat excursions to Cabrera Island and local dining experiences. The beautiful hotel is 100% electrified and powered by renewable energy and uses AI-technology to minimise food waste. Rooms from €287 per night, with breakfast an astonishing €4 extra per person, when selected at time of booking.

iberostar.com/eu/hotels/majorca/

Five-star style in Mexico

El Castillo, ancient Mayan ruins outside Tulum, Mexico

If you are dreaming of a long-haul holiday but want to avoid any uncertainty with the Middle East, a jaunt to Mexico might scratch that itch.

Close to the Mayan ruins of Tulum, located on a secluded bay within the marina village of Puerto Aventuras, Dreams Aventuras Riviera Maya is a popular all-inclusive choice for families and couples. The five-star is highly regarded, offering a sheltered private beach, spa, waterpark, multiple dining options, activities and daily entertainment. Departs August 29 from Dublin, all-inclusive two sharing tropical view room with marina, garden, or ocean views, €1,519pp.

destination2.ie

Deal of the week

Redcastle Hotel & Spa’s Golden Years package lets you enjoy three nights of bed and breakfast accommodation and a two course dinner

Redcastle Hotel & Spa’s Golden Years package offers excellent midweek value on Donegal’s beautiful Inishowen Peninsula. Enjoy three nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation, a two-course dinner on one evening and €10 Voya retail credit per guest, from €385 per couple (Sunday – Thursday). A great deal, making it an affordable way to explore this beautiful corner of Ireland. You can add a spa treatment or day trip yourslef to Doagh Famine Village, Dunree Fort or even Wild Ireland wildlife sanctuary.

redcastlehoteldonegal.com

No-fuss Tenerife

TUI's Deal of the Week offers an all inclusive week in Tenerife for €699

TUI’s latest Deal of the Week offers an all-inclusive week in Tenerife, departing from Dublin, from just €699 per person sharing a twin room with balcony at the 3-star Catalonia Punta del Rey in January 2027.

Setting up a sunny start to the new year, you can enjoy all-inclusive dining and drinks, with the time- limited deal available to book until 11:59pm on Monday May 18.

Choose from flexible departure dates of January 8, 15, 22 or 29 2027. Book online or by visiting your local TUI store or travel agent.