Departure Lounge: Up to 30% off over a hundred routes

Plus a great-value getaway at a cozy B&B in Mitchelstown

Explore some of this week's best getaway opportunities

Sat, 12 Sep, 2026 - 01:00

Shannon to Toronto

Air Canada and Shannon Airport today announced a new non-stop service between Shannon and Toronto. Picture: Don Moloney

It’s one of the most exciting new routes from Ireland in some time. This week Shannon Airport has announced a new direct service to Toronto with Air Canada, marking the first transatlantic route from Munster to Canada.

The three-times-weekly service aboard an Airbus A321 XLR, which will also feature the airline’s Signature Class with lie-down seats, will connect Shannon to Toronto Pearson International Airport on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, beginning June 25 until October 3.

The route will also open access to Air Canada’s network of 150-plus onward destinations; return fares are currently starting from approximately €630.

Aircanada.com

Barnahown break

For a great-value autumn getaway, check out the latest offers at popular Barnahown in Mitchelstown. The refurbed farmhouse property has announced a series of pop-up dining events taking place this September and October, with overnight stays available from €135, a 10% saving on regular rates.

Chefs on location will include Bryan Rudd of Sunshine Primo, who will host a Tostada Boy night celebrating Mexican cuisine; Praline’s Norma Kelly will offer a decadent afternoon tea experience, while Sinéad Delahunty of Delalicious and Little Deer will host one of her trademark Barnahown brunches. The Galtees offer a wonderful setting to get active here too.

Barnahown.com

Deal of the week

Summer may be in our slipstream, but Aer Lingus’ latest sale, which is currently live, may just offer the incentive you need to book your next getaway. The airline is offering reductions across its 100-plus route network, jetting to everywhere from the Mexican Caribbean to the Northern Lights of Norway. European city breaks will see 30% off fares, with North American fares from €199 return…I like the look of Miami as a great winter escape option, with return fares available from around €500. Book by September 17 (short haul) or 29 (long haul), and valid for travel from October 1 to March 19.

Aerlingus.com

Dromoland makeover

Big news for one of the most iconic names in Irish hospitality. Dromoland Castle in Co. Clare is set to undergo its most significant transformation in its 63-year history as a hotel, thanks to a €55 million redevelopment which will see the hotel closing from this November to next June.

The landmark investment will see the five-star property expand its accommodation from 96 to 121 rooms and suites, alongside a host of enhancements throughout the estate, highlights including a new glass atrium social heart, lakeside saunas and a new live-fire grill restaurant. What do you think of the watercolour renderings?

Dromoland.ie

Vietnam luxury

While Thailand remains Southeast Asia’s tourism powerhouse, Vietnam continues to grow in popularity, not least for the affordable luxury market. Reflecting that shift is the first international luxury hotel to open in the UNESCO-listed hub of Halong Bay, celebrated for its dramatic limestone islets. InterContinental Halong Bay has 275 rooms and residences, six restaurants, bars and a spa. With a bay setting and rooms from just €150, expect Vietnam to feature big on travel wish lists in the year ahead