Prepare to feel terror's grasp from October 1st when Hallowe'en Horror Nights IX returns to Universal Studios Florida for its month-long fright-fest. The Orlando theme park will descend into the most wickedly maniacal depths of fear imaginable as gruesome creatures roam the streets and hide in the gloomy halls of Universal's infamous haunted houses. Universal's masters of fright have created new spine-tingling chills and thrills for guests ready to face their fears. A good travel agent will be able to organise the trip to Florida and you can purchase Universal tickets before you leave from Keith Prowse Travel, 10 St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, 01-679 5333.
If you haven't gone away yet and were thinking of renting accommodation somewhere in Ireland, then you should give Self-Catering Ireland a call at 053-33999. It has more than 1,000 units for rental in coastal locations throughout Ireland. If you are an owner of a holiday property then SCI offers an all-year-round service, not only for marketing and rental, but also management and maintenance of your property.
I was in London recently and it seemed every person I met was raving about Mamma Mia, the show based on the life and times of ABBA. This infectious and funny new musical features 27 of ABBA's bestknown songs. If you are an ABBA fan or want to treat an ABBA fan, the Westbury in Mayfair has an exclusive package for Mamma Mia. A two-night stay including tickets to the show and a souvenir programme costs £425 a room for two. Tel: 0044171 629 7755, or your local travel agent should be able to book it.
Talking of music, Pavarotti is coming . . . On Saturday, September 11th he will give one performance in the grounds of Stormont Castle, Belfast. Iarnrod Eireann is offering an exclusive package for the night, including the Enterprise first-class service, a night in the McCausland Hotel and concert tickets with transfer to and from the venue, cost £199 per person sharing, a second night increases the price to £239. You can book at 35 Lower Abbey Street, Dublin 1, 01-703 1839.
Just weeks after the launch of the Dublin Swift, Irish Ferries have announced that Ireland is to get the world's largest ferry. Parent company Irish Continental Group has ordered a new 50,000-tonne vessel for service on the Dublin to Holyhead route. The new ship will have almost three miles of vehicle space and will be able to carry 1,300 cars or 260 articulated units. It will also have cruise liner standards for passengers, with two cinemas, four lounges, three restaurants and retail units. It is expected to start operation in the autumn of next year.
While your tan is still fresh, run out and book your 2000 holidays now. Falcon Holidays launched its summer 2000 brochures last week and early birds can take advantage of opening discounts. Falcon Holidays also introduces a unique two-way guarantee. If you book your holiday by November 30th, alterations can be made at no extra charge to your departure date, duration length, destination and accommodation up to 10 weeks prior to departure. Brochure conditions apply. How's that for flexibility? Your local travel agent has the details.