Spring into summer this year with a short break in Scotland. A British Tourist Authority and Aer Lingus promotion has made Scotland so affordable you cannot ignore it. Aer Lingus has reduced fares to £79 for two to Glasgow, and £99 for two to Edinburgh.
Special offers in the brochure include three nights for the price of two. The selection of accommodation on offer is extensive, from farmhouses to designer hotels, from inns to stately homes. You can obtain a brochure from the BTA on 1800 409 493, or write to BTA, Freepost, 18 College Green, Dublin 2.
Hong Kong and Disney have been holding discussions about building a theme park in the former British colony. Following the hand-over almost two years ago Hong Kong tourism has dropped considerably and this would be a draw to increase numbers, not only from the region but also longhaul.
Other plans to enhance tourism include the construction of a cruise terminal, a "Fisherman's Wharf" development and the abolition of the HK$50 tax on transit passengers. Airfares to Hong Kong have dropped in the last year, and also the softening of the Hong Kong dollar makes it a more attractive destination.
Ecuador in South America is home to the mountain whose peak is furthest from the centre of the earth - El Chimborazo. The best way to see what Ecuador has to offer is to go with an escorted group. Ursula Willig has led groups to various destinations in South America and will be leading a group in July for three weeks to see the beauty of this South American country. You can call her for details on (01) 492 3563.
The Irish Czech Slovak Society has organised the first ever group tour of Slovakia to take place from April 29th to May 7th. The new service with CSA Czech Airlines makes this possible with a direct service to Prague.
The tour will be led by professor Annraoi de Paor, and will make its way to Bratislava and from there visit over the next eight days many of the cities and places of interest in Slovakia. The cost is from £475 and includes flights, accommodation and tours. You can get more details from (01) 872 7066.
Here's an idea of how to have a good family holiday without breaking the bank: swap your home with another family.
Homelink International has been helping people exchange homes for more than 40 years. Each year they bring out five big books of members' homes and you can choose where you would like to go, depending on what other people are looking for. Many of the members would like to come to Ireland and the selection of properties worldwide is extensive. Membership of Homelink costs £60 per year, and they will also put your home on their website. You can get details from Marie Murphy, 95 Bracken Drive, Portmarnock, Co Dublin (01) 846 2598.
Finnair's Business Link programme has great added value for those travelling to Stockholm or Helsinki. The business fare includes one night's accommodation in either city, complimentary limousine transfer in Stockholm and three days free parking at Dublin airport.