The Land of the Rising Sun spells mystery and magic for many. From Mount Fuji to the Inland Sea from Matsumoto to Kyoto, from Hiroshima to Ise Shima - even the place-names are magical. This 18day tour in November, led by David and Betty Slattery, will take you to all that is wonderful in Japan. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the snow-capped mountains. As an antidote, the tour ends with three days in Asia's most talked about and cosmopolitan city - Hong Kong. Don't forget the camera. Prices from £2,849 (066 21722).
Morrisons Island Hotel is one of the best located in. On a quiet quayside not even a stone's throw from anywhere. From August to October 9th you can combine the luxury of a suite at the hotel, sightseeing in Cork and golf at Fota Island for £50 per night per person. You could even go shopping for food in the English Market and have dinner in your suite. It is also an opportunity to visit the Wildlife park on Fota Island. Non-golfers and extra nights are £30. Excellent value as the suites are like one bedroom apartments with all the luxury of home. (021 275858)
Any agency that makes it easy to book accommodation is always useful. Irish Countrywide Accommodation Services can book a wide range of approved accommodation from B&Bs to hotels and guest-houses to self-catering anywhere in Ireland. It only costs a telephone call and saves all that ringing around, especially when you decide to book at the last minute. Call 094 81516.
The Romans may or may not have ever made it to Ireland and, if they did, I wonder would we celebrate it. Gloucester was founded by the Romans 1,900 years ago and the city has gone mad celebrating. There are events running all year. Next week the Ermine Street Guard Re-enactment Society will be joined by legions from around Britain to recreate scenes of Roman army life. In September, there will be Roman jewellery making workshops, and mosaic making. You can even take part in an archaeological dig or learn to cook the Roman way. The British Tourist Authority has details on 01 670 8100 or 00 44 1452 421188.
Bank holiday events in Northern Ireland on August 25th include the Bangor Busking Festival followed by an Open Air Concert in the McKee Clock Arena. The Buddy Holly Show will run until August 30th at the Grand Opera House, Belfast (080 1232 241919). Guided talk of the Crom Estate, Newtownbutler, Co Fermanagh, meet at 3 p.m. on Sunday. The Annual Dog Show is on in Ballymena, also on August 25th. The Ardhowen Film Festival runs from August 25th-30th. Details from the Northern Ireland Tourist Board at 1850 230 230.
1997 is the centenary of Saint Therese of Lisieux `The Little Flower' as we know her. This seven-day tour from September 13th-19th will visit Lisieux to see the Basilica and the family home of the Les Buissonets. It will also tour Normandy, visiting Rouen, Trouville, Deauville and Paris. Prices from £299 per person by ferry and coach (01 661 0533).
