As Paris gears up to host the 2024 Summer Olympics, more than 200 chefs will have to prepare over 13 million meals. The base for this huge operation? The world’s biggest restaurant, in the Cité du Cinéma film studio complex in Saint-Denis. Located near the Olympic Village, the restaurant is set to become a landmark of Parisian hospitality. Covering an area of over 10,000 square meters, it will surpass existing records for dining establishments in terms of size and capacity. The restaurant is designed to accommodate more than 5,000 athletes at any given time, and this colossal venue will feature a variety of dining sections. The Summer Olympics will have to feed over 15,000 international athletes from 208 territories and nations – making it a huge task. 200 cooks are ready to prepare more than 40,000 meals a day to keep everyone well-fed and most importantly, fueled. These meals will be served both in the Olympic Village restaurant and at the 14 competition sites throughout the city. The Cité du Cinéma film studio complex in Saint-Denis, on the outskirts of Paris, will be the centre of this foodie-heaven. Here, athletes will have access to six main areas devoted to French, Asian, Afro-Caribbean and world cuisine, with 500 different recipes catering to a wide variety of tastes. Menus were prepared in collaboration with former French sailor and bronze medalist  Hélène Defrance  (now a nutritionist), who focused her expertise on helping deliver “an overall pleasurable, nourishing offering that would satisfy any type of diner,” she said. She paid close attention to the quality and transparency of the ingredients, but also the flavours and aesthetic appeal of the recipes. A strict  quality charter  also governed the food at the Paris Olympics. It was developed over the course of four years of work with the goal of halving the carbon footprint of meals produced during the Games, as compared to London 2012. As a result, a quarter of all ingredients will be sourced in a 250km radius from Paris, and 20% will be certified organic. All meat, milk and eggs will be from France, and a third of the food will be plant-based. Two hundred water, juice and soda fountains have been installed in the Olympic Village, and only reusable cups and crockery will be offered. Chefs will also have help from Charles Guilloy, Executive Chef of the Olympic and Paralympic Village – the “chef des chefs” – for the duration of the Games. The recipes in place have been in the works for months, which was a huge challenge in of itself, as every athlete of every sport has different nutritional and portion size requirements. That being said, the meals prepared aren’t just your typical buffet spoonful – these are intricately crafted meals both gorgeous in presentation and taste. His signature dish takes full advantage of local lentils! Guilloy transformed the greenery into a lentil dal and paired with creamy Icelandic skyr. The dal is then seasoned with lime and coriander, then topped with a crispy corn tuile (a French baked wafer), making it a dish delicious and nutritious! Alongside Guilloy, superstar chefs Amandine Chaignot, Alexandre Mazzia and Akrame Benallal have all developed a signature dish marrying the best in French tradition and local ingredients with an eye towards the nutritional needs of the world’s top athletes. For many athletes, this will be their first time in France. The chefs have been hard at work to “show them what they can do”. The worlds biggest restaurant looks like it will be serving the worlds most nutritious and tastiest meals!

Imagine exploring the world with your family while being part of a supportive, like-minded community. This is the essence of the Travelling Village, a revolutionary concept designed for parents with kids who crave adventure without sacrificing stability and camaraderie! What is the Travelling Village? The Travelling Village is an intentional community where families travel together for four months, sharing experiences, resources, and support. It’s more than just a travel group; it’s a mobile village that fosters deep connections among its members, offering both freedom, and what’s important to family life – structure. The first village experiment consisted of about 21 families (70 people) moving across 3 destinations in 4 months. How Does it Work? Families join the Travelling Village with the intention of creating a supportive community, and the ability to see the world. Here’s a look into the inner workings: Community Contribution : Each family contributes to a communal fund, which covers local fixers, communal meals, and events. This financial transparency ensures that everyone knows where their money goes and fosters a sense of shared responsibility. For the first village, this was a cost of around €2765. Workgroups : Essential to the village’s functioning, workgroups handle various tasks, from finance and infrastructure to communal meals and emergency situations. These groups ensure smooth operations and give everyone a role to play. Workgroup consist of 3 to 6 people, with one moderator who is the overall responsible. Communal Meals : Twice a week, families gather for communal meals, a cornerstone of village life. 99% of the time these communal meals have people split out in smaller groups. The communal meals works as a sort of community glue. It’s the one thing that is always in the calendar, where every gets together and get the chance to reconnect. Village Meetings : Regular meetings provide a platform for families to discuss challenges, offer support, and make decisions collectively. This democratic approach ensures that everyone’s voice is heard. In larger groups, this is key for stability and structure. Education and Childcare : Tailored to the needs of travelling families, the village offers flexible education and childcare solutions, making it easier for parents to balance work, travel, and family time. Why Join the Traveling Village? The Travelling Village isn’t just about seeing new places; it’s about transforming the way you live and travel. By joining, families gain: Community : Build lasting friendships and a network of support. Adventure : Explore the world without the usual stressors of solo family travel. Growth : Learn more about yourselves and each other, fostering personal and collective growth. Intentionality : Experience a lifestyle that encourages conscious living and decision-making. A Transformative Experience Joining the Travelling Village is a commitment to an intense yet rewarding adventure. It’s designed for families who want to explore the world while being part of a community that values diversity, freedom, and shared experiences. The aim of the Travelling Village is for members to eventually return home, and carry with them new perspectives and deeper connections, hoping that it leads people to “more conscious lifestyle choices in the future”. Interested in joining or learning more? The first village experiment has ended, but you can visit the Travelling Village website for detailed information on how to become part of this innovative travel community in the future.

As the weather starts to heat up, it’s time to ensure that you’re thoroughly looking after your hair this summer. Warm temperatures and humid conditions can make your hair more susceptible to damage, so as well as protecting your skin from the sun, it’s also crucial to be mindful of your hair care over the next few months.   Rising temperatures can cause hair to become frizzy, damaged, and discoloured. To prevent any lasting damage this summer, experts at the beauty and wellness marketplace, Fresha , have created a guide on how to protect your hair during the warm months ahead.   Don’t skip the conditioner  Hydration is essential over the next few months to prevent your hair from becoming dry and damaged. As the temperatures rise, the warm weather can strip away the hair’s natural moisture, so it’s crucial to ensure you’re not skipping out the conditioner in your hair-care routine.   Deep conditioning treatments can prevent the hair from looking dried out and will defend against any breakage, keeping your hair sufficiently hydrated this summer.   Try out a hydrating hair mask  Hair masks can also boost your hair’s hydration, making them an essential part of your summer hair care routine. It’s advised that a hydrating hair mask should be used around once a week during the warmer weather to prevent dry and brittle hair.   The products contain restorative ingredients and should be applied directly after shampooing for maximum benefits. When using your hair mask, generously apply the product from the roots to the tips and focus on gently massaging it into your scalp. Once applied, leave the hair mask on for about 3-5 minutes before rinsing as usual.   For very dehydrated hair, you can leave the product on longer, around 10-15 minutes. However, it’s important not to leave the product on overnight with wet hair as this can result in oily-looking hair.   Hair masks work to strengthen and hydrate hair, reducing the appearance of frizz. Because of this, it’s worth trying one out this summer if the product isn’t already part of your hair-care routine.   Avoid daily hair washes  While it’s incredibly tempting to wash your hair after a long day in the sun, experts recommend that you resist this urge over the next few months. Washing your hair daily over the summer can strip it of natural oils, making it extra dry.   Because of this, your hair will become more susceptible to damage and breakage, such as split ends. As the sun is already drying out your hair enough this summer, experts advise you to wash your hair every other day during the warmer months ahead.   Use sun-protecting products  It’s not just your skin that needs protecting this summer; intense UV rays can also significantly damage your hair and scalp.   A badly sunburnt scalp can result in typical symptoms of sun poisoning, such as headaches and nausea. To prevent this, it is essential to use scalp suncream when working on your tan over the next few months. Wearing a hat in the warm weather will also effectively protect your hair and scalp from any nasty sun damage.   After-sun shampoo products are also essential to pack with you on holiday this summer. The products contain UV filters, which aid rehydration after sun exposure, making them a necessary part of your summer hair-care routine.   Various UV sprays are also hugely beneficial to try out this summer. The leave-in product protects hair from harmful sun exposure, maintaining healthy-looking hair in warmer weather.   Ditch the straighteners  Over the next few months, it’s heavily advised to ditch the heated styling tools and embrace your natural hair type.   Hair straighteners and curling irons can apply extra stress to hair during summer, resulting in split ends and dry-looking hair. After being out in the sun all day, heated appliances exemplify sun damage, so opting for natural styling techniques over the warmer months ahead is better.   Protect your hair before heading off for a swim  While there’s nothing better than a refreshing dip in the pool to cool down, chlorine and salt water can cause significant hair damage. Saltwater can cause your hair to become incredibly dry, while the chlorine chemicals place your hair at risk of becoming discoloured.   To prevent these risks, it is recommended to wash your hair in cool, fresh water before and after swimming. Pre-soaking your hair reduces the amount of chlorine or saltwater it absorbs. Applying water directly after swimming also helps to rehydrate the hair as quickly as possible, which is essential after swimming in the sea.   It’s also advised to try out a conditioning hair spray after swimming. This helps restore moisture to your hair, preventing split ends and breakage. You can also make your own conditioner spray at home by mixing fresh water with your daily conditioner, which works to restore healthy-looking hair as soon as possible.   Invest in a silk pillowcase  As the humidity rises, it’s natural for your hair to start feeling slightly frizzy. However, to keep the frizz under control, experts recommend using a silk pillowcase at night. Silk absorbs less moisture than other materials, preventing your hair from becoming dehydrated.  Sleeping on a silk pillowcase at night can effectively reduce frizz, resulting in smoother and softer-looking hair. The product is also hugely beneficial for your skin, making it a worthwhile investment for the summer.   Looking after your hair in the warmer months ahead is hugely important if you want to reduce the appearance of frizz and brittle-looking hair. It’s time to start making conscious decisions about protecting your hair against harsh UV rays.   Prioritising your hair care routine this summer is essential, as it’s not just your skin that can be affected by sun damage in the warmer months ahead. It’s also important not to underestimate the importance of staying hydrated during the warmer weather, as not drinking enough water can create weak and brittle hair.   Actively drinking more water and investing in products to rehydrate your hair are great ways to start on your hair care journey this summer! This information was provided by experts at the beauty and wellness marketplace, Fresha.

Beat the crowdsand soak up some sun this September with Sunway Holidays! 7 nights in Kos, Morocco and Costa Brava await, for less than €350pp – flights included! Kos – 7 Night Breaks from €330 What Kos lacks in area it more than makes up for in Wow factor! Whatever point on the compass you follow you’ll find an amazing experience waiting for you. If you’re looking to party well all the stories are true, Kos rocks! Especially in the South of the island. This is where to go to see the sunset and sunrise at the same party! If you’re looking to chill and find your inner Zen well, the North is beckoning. Long sandy beaches, tranquil hideaways. This is the place to retreat and recharge. Nature lovers go East! Rugged and rural but within easy reach of historic Kos town this is the ideal spot for walkers and hikers. And in the West you get the real taste of Greece, the authentic Kos. A time capsule of how things used to be. Kos packs a pint sized punch when it comes to value for your money. Prices are per person, and include return flights and accommodation, based on 2 sharing. Visit Sunway.ie for more information! Morocco – 7 Night Breaks from €317   Irish people love to go to Morocco for the culture, food, beaches, sports and shopping. This North African nation is synonymous with golden beaches, buzzing cities, vibrant souks and active sports. However, you can also trek the Sahara, surf on an idyllic beach or trek the Atlas Mountains. There is so much to see and experience in this budget destination. It’s the perfect year-round holiday. Day time temperatures are up in the mid-20s most of the winter, and still hitting the 30s all through the autumn making Morocco a go-to place for a blast of sun, sea and surf just as it starts getting cold in Ireland. Morocco’s sandy coastline is actually 1,200 miles (nearly 2,000 km) long. The beaches themselves are stunning and line the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts with fascinating seaside towns and numerous idyllic stretches of golden sands. Eat lots of seafood when on the coast and enjoy the relaxed vibes of the lazy surf towns. Prices are per person, and include return flights and accommodation, based on 2 sharing. Visit Sunway.ie for more information! Costa Brava – 7 Night Breaks from €329 The Costa Brava is located in the province of Girona in Catalonia, only two and a half hours flying time from Dublin! It’s an area of stunning natural beauty, ancient history and heritage and exciting culture. Add in over 300km of coastline varying from long sandy beaches to hidden coves and you have all the ingredients for a truly memorable holiday experience. There is something for everyone in The Costa Brava so you really will be spoilt for choice. Explore the cobbled streets of medieval Girona before heading out into the wine-tasting region of Emporda, Kayak your way down the coast before taking an e-bike tour of the Catalan countryside. Sample the more simple pleasures of life in one of the many Costa Brava villages such as Cadaques or Begur. Culture Vultures can visit the home town of Salvador Dali in Port Lligat and the Dali Museum in Figueres. Prices are per person, and include return flights and accommodation, based on 2 sharing. Visit Sunway.ie for more information!

Up to 25% off European flights Fares to North America from €199 each way as part of a return trip Offer is live from July 12 th  – July 18 th European offer is valid for travel from July 20th to September 30th, 2024 North American offer is valid for travel from August 1st to October 6th. Aer Lingus has today announced fare offers with significant savings on flights to Europe and North America. This special offer is live from today, July 12th through to July 18th. Passengers can enjoy up to 25% off flights to popular European destinations, valid for travel from July 20th to September 30th, 2024. Whether it’s the golden beaches in Faro, the Olympic games in Paris, the stunning Santorini sunsets, the vibrant nightlife in Palma, or exploring the Côte d’Azur in Nice. Those looking further afield now have 19 North American routes to choose from, including the vibrant cities of New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Boston, San Francisco, and Seattle, each offering some of the best culture and entertainment in the world. Fare offers to North America start from €199 each way as part of a return trip including taxes and charges and are valid for travel from August 1 st  to October 6 th . As always, customers flying to North America with Aer Lingus will enjoy complimentary meals and drinks, endless hours of in-flight entertainment and US Customs and Border pre-clearance at Dublin and Shannon airport. For more information on the Aer Lingus sale, please visit  www.aerlingus.com .

Food markets and dining halls have been a staple of European culture for centuries. While vendors have been selling delicacies on the streets since the days of Ancient Greece, the ornate covered markets and grand food halls we know today are a 19th-century phenomenon.  These culinary institutions, from London’s Borough Market to Amsterdam’s Albert Cuyp Market, have become sources of municipal pride, as well as a cultural melting pot where international cuisines from the cities’ immigrant communities take centre stage. They are also a vital part of Europe’s food and drinks industry, which turned over €1.1 trillion in 2023.  But which of the continent’s great food halls and street food markets are the best? To find out,  Radical Storage  analysed more than 300,000 Google reviews and almost 1,100 establishments to determine which markets have the nicest food and offer the best value for money.  London is Europe’s best city for food markets To work out which European city has the best food markets, Radical Storage analysed all cities that have at least five food markets. They then created a simple index which takes into account the average Google Reviews rating of all markets within the city and the number of markets in total. With a combined score of 8.36, London takes the crown as Europe’s best food market city. With 33 markets and an average rating of 4.5 stars, the British capital stands above all others. It’s no secret that London is a world-renowned food destination, with the city’s distinct international culture playing host to cuisine from across the UK and all over the world. Its food and market halls are also essential visits in their own right, from trendy upscale Camden to the city’s oldest space – Borough Market. Locals and tourists alike love London’s food markets, giving them an average rating of 4.5 stars. Two hidden gem markets help it stand above the rest. Islington’s Junction Market and Southwark’s Tabard Street Market – both rated at 4.7 stars – embody London’s independent street food scene. The best cities in Europe for food markets Four Spanish cities – Madrid (index rating 7.25), Barcelona (6.56), Zaragoza (4.86) and Valencia (4.59) – all feature in the top 10, making Spain a must-visit destination if you’re looking for great street food.  The country’s capital Madrid is another of Europe’s great foodie destinations with a thriving culinary scene that offers up the best of Spanish cooking. Yet hidden gem Understreet Market (4.8 star Google rating) appears to be the pick of the bunch with its variety of home-grown classics and globally-inspired food vendors.

The new  Wilderness Mokete  luxury tented camp has opened in the famed Mababe wilderness area on the eastern edge of the Okavango Delta, offering an unparalleled safari experience in Botswana. Spanning over 50,000 hectares of private concession land, the Wilderness area in Mababe teems with game, and is a haven for serious safari enthusiasts seeking once-in-a-lifetime encounters with Africa’s wild. Mababe is a prime wildlife destination in Botswana, offering uncharted territory that remains a sanctuary of natural splendour. This pioneering new camp is solely accessible through Wilderness, and was designed by reMORPHED Arch & Design architects, with interiors by Michele Throssell Interiors. It represents a captivating fusion of architectural innovation and environmental respect. In keeping with our ethos, the considered approach is truly immersive and intentionally minimalist, ensuring the lightest possible footprint. Wilderness Mokete follows a design narrative which intricately blends traditional textiles and a neutral colour palette, paying homage to the surrounding bush, using contemporary forms and contrasting use of materials to create a harmonious cultural tapestry. It features nine en-suite canvas tents and a communal tented lounge area, linked by wooden walkways at ground level. Luxurious interiors and modern amenities, including inverter air conditioning and Wi-Fi in all bedrooms, complete the experience and ensure guests want for nothing during their stay. One of the standout features of Mokete’s tented suites is the retractable roof in the bedrooms, allowing guests to stargaze at night. Integrating this feature into the bedroom design at Mokete was an inspired choice that truly sets this camp apart. It offers guests a one-of-a-kind African night-time experience, immersing them in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Out-of-camp Experience Focus While the camp will offer an extraordinary stay with warm hospitality and a unique African-fusion menu, the focus is on the out-of-camp experience. Unusually, lions often spend the daylight hours on the hunt in Mababe, taking down buffaloes in and around the marsh, with hyenas in clans of up to 60 seen competing with them. With no other commercial properties in the area, guests can choose to stay out on drives as long as they wish. Here, time is dictated by nature, not the clock. Mababe Mababe is an area of tremendous ecological significance, made up of three key habitats: grassland, wetlands and mopane woodland. It harbours a marsh which fills in the summer season, creating a wetland of some 2,600 hectares, serving as a sanctuary for diverse wildlife in search of this precious life source, and vital habitat for numerous bird species. Herds of buffalo in the thousands, the largest gathering in Africa, alongside abundant predators and massive elephant herds (occasionally accompanied by migrating zebras), all converge on the Mababe Marsh. Aptly named “Mokete” (meaning “feast”), the camp embodies an abundance of wildlife, varied landscapes and pristine natural beauty. Mokete guests will encounter truly remarkable vistas, unlike any other wilderness areas in northern Botswana. Sustainability Standing as a beacon of sustainability, the camp is fully off-grid, utilising exclusively renewable PV energy systems. Passive design principles, including maximised natural ventilation, wide overhangs for shade, and a layered roof system further mitigate the camp’s environmental impact, while enhancing guest comfort, inviting nature in and blurring the distinction between indoor and outdoor spaces. Working closely with the Mababe community, Wilderness is thrilled to include this beautiful part of the country in its luxury safari circuit. Residents will benefit from employment opportunities, and future initiatives will ensure that the community partners also share in the advantages of this development. For more information on Mokete, visit wildernessdestinations.com.

For the second consecutive year, Philadelphia has been named the “Most Walkable City to Visit” in the 2024 USA TODAY 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards contest. Walkability is a crucial factor for travellers when selecting a destination, offering significant benefits such as cost savings and increased engagement with local communities. In Philadelphia, visitors can explore the city’s neighbourhoods on foot, enjoying everything from public art installations and premier cultural institutions to green spaces and historic landmarks. Philadelphia’s nomination for its walkability came from a panel of experts, including editors from USA TODAY and 10best.com. They selected 20 cities featuring diverse activities, dining options, and accommodations, all connected by pedestrian-friendly streets. The public then voted Philadelphia as the No. 1 city on the list of the 10 most walkable cities to visit in the U.S. “This title underscores our city of neighbourhoods, offering a pedestrian-friendly environment where visitors can effortlessly experience the charm, culture, and convenience that define Philadelphia,” said Gregg Caren, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Our walkable streets connect international travellers and convention attendees alike to an array of hotels, restaurants, and attractions, making Philadelphia a standout destination for those seeking an engaging and accessible travel experience.” Philadelphia’s city centre, known as Centre City, is an easy-to-navigate corridor spanning 26 blocks from the Delaware River on the east to the Schuylkill River on the west. With only 2.4 miles separating Penn’s Landing and the Schuylkill River Trail, visitors can walk from one end of Centre City to the other in under an hour. Navigating Philadelphia with ease allows both first-time travellers and returning visitors to discover and rediscover the city’s history, culture, cuisines, and hidden gems. Visitors can also take advantage of self-guided walking tours and guided tour experiences catering to a wide range of interests.

As summer arrives, Hungary gears up for an incredible season of events, starting with the high-speed excitement of the Hungarian Grand Prix. From the bustling streets of Budapest to the shores of Lake Balaton, every corner of the country is filled with festivals, cultural celebrations, and great food that all promise unforgettable experiences for families, couples, and all travellers alike. Here are the highlights that every culture and food enthusiast must explore. Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix: The Highlight of the Summer Experience the thrill of the Hungarian Grand Prix at Hungaroring, just outside Budapest. This historic race, a staple on the Formula 1 calendar for 39 consecutive years, draws motorsport fans from around the world. But the excitement doesn’t end at the track—Hungary’s summer is brimming with events that make your visit even more memorable. For more details visit  Hungarian Grand Prix . Iconic Music Festivals Veszprémfest  (July 16-20):  Experience world-class productions at Veszprémfest, an international music and theatrical festival turning Veszprém into a temporary home for global stars. This year will see Paloma Faith, Milky Chance and Toto hit the stage. Campus Festival  (July 24-28):  Music lovers flock to Debrecen for the Campus Festival, which boasts an impressive lineup of performances in Hungary’s second-largest city including Martin Solveig and Rita Ora. Sziget Festival  (August 7-12):  No summer in Hungary is complete without the iconic Sziget Festival. This internationally renowned event transforms Budapest into Europe’s party capital with a mix of music, arts, and cultural activities. 2024 will see Fred Again, Stormzy and Kylie Minogue in action. Family Friendly Jazzpiknik of Paloznak  (August 1-3):  August begins with the charming Jazzpiknik of Paloznak, a family-friendly festival that combines the beauty of Lake Balaton with soothing jazz sounds. Debrecen Wine and Jazz Days  (August 8-11):  Discover Hungary’s third-largest wine event and its largest jazz festival at the Debrecen Wine and Jazz Days, offering a perfect blend of music and fine wine. Debrecen Flower Carnival  (August 14-20):  From August 15-20, the Debrecen Flower Carnival captivates with its grand parade of elaborate flower displays, traditional dances, and performances. Concurrently, the Galiba Kids Festival and the Beer by Lake event offer family-friendly fun and a celebration of quality beer gastronomy. National Celebrations and Local Traditions St Stephen’s Day (August 20):  August 20 marks St Stephen’s Day, commemorating the foundation of Hungary with spectacular fireworks over the Danube, creating a breathtaking visual feast. Budapest Central European Fashion Week  (August 26-September 1):  Fashion enthusiasts can look forward to the Budapest Central European Fashion Week, a highlight on the Central European fashion calendar, showcasing a varied program of fashion events. XXV FAI World Ballooning Championships  (September 8-14):  Held at Szeged Airport, this championship is a special sporting event offering a unique spectacle as over 100 hot air balloons colour the skies of Szeged. Onion Festival of Makó  (September 13-15):  For a taste of local flavour, the Onion Festival of Makó showcases the rich traditions of Makó onions, complete with gastronomic specialties and entertainment.

On the northern coast of Kyushu Island, the city of Fukutsu offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of Japan’s more popular destinations. Here, you’ll find the Sea Mirror Beach, a 3km stretch of stunning coastline that reflects the sky above, a location that has remained a well-kept secret by locals, untouched by crowds. Sea Mirror Beach Sea Mirror Beach, or “Umi no Kagami” in Japanese, is an extraordinary natural wonder. Unlike other beaches that have been heavily featured on Instagram, Sea Mirror Beach remains relatively undiscovered, keeping it unspoilt. This picturesque coastline is known for its mirror-like reflections that happen during low tide, creating a stunning visual trick. The beach’s tidal flats reveal a glossy surface that reflects the sky, creating the illusion of walking on water. The beach is ideal for capturing out-of-this world Instagram worthy shots, without the crowds that typically swarm more popular locations. How to See the Sea Mirror The reflections can happen anywhere along the 3km stretch of coastline that is split into three different beaches: Tsuyazaki Beach, Miyajihama Beach and Fukuma Beach. However, the phenomenon can be somewhat elusive, subject to the tides and the weather. The best time to try is at low tide, when the largest portion of the beach is exposed and the remaining seawater sitting on top can create the mirror effect when winds aren’t too strong (visitors can check the tide forecasts on the  Kagami no Umi website ). Fukutsu Looking to visit? Fukutsu is more than just its beach. The city is home to a variety of natural attractions like the Tsuyazaki Kannon Temple, perched on a hill overlooking the Genkai Sea, which provides panoramic views of the coastline. Nature enthusiasts can also explore the Genkai Quasi-National Park, which offers hiking trails, lush greenery, and opportunities to observe local wildlife. The cities great mix of things to do and see makes it a great destination for travellers looking for an authentic Japanese experience, off the beaten track. Getting to Sea Mirror Beach Located conveniently between Fukuoka and Kitakyushu, Fukutsu is easily accessible by train, car, or bus. The beach itself is a short distance from the city center, making it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway.

Discover the magic of the American East Coast, where rich history, culture and exciting city life converge. From the bustling streets of New York City, where iconic landmarks like Times Square and Central Park await, to the historic charm of Boston, steeped in revolutionary history, the East Coast offers something for everyone. Click&Go Holidays  American East Coast City Breaks below include three night hotel stays and return direct Aer Lingus flights. 3-night New York City Break in January 2025 from €669pp From €669 per person  for the  4* The New Yorker, A Wyndham Hotel.  Price is per person based on 2 adults sharing for travel the January 2025.  Price includes:  ·        Direct Return flights with Aer Lingus from Dublin to New York    ·        3 nights in the  4* The New Yorker, A Wyndham Hotel ·        On a Room Only basis  ·       Airport taxes & charges   View the offer here. 3-night Boston City Break in November 2024 from €639pp From €639 per person  for the  4* Hilton Boston Park Plaza.   Price is per person based on 2 adults sharing for travel the November 2024.  Price includes:  ·        Direct Return flights with Aer Lingus from Dublin to Boston   ·        3 nights in the  4* Hilton Boston Park Plaza ·        On a Room Only basis  ·        Airport taxes & charges   View the offer here.  3-night Philadelphia City Break in December 2024 from €599pp From €599 per person  for the  3* Hampton Inn Philadelphia Centre City – Convention Centre.   Price is per person based on 2 adults sharing for travel the December 2024.  Price includes:  ·        Direct Return flights with Aer Lingus from Dublin to Philadelphia    ·        3 nights in the  3* Hampton Inn Philadelphia Centre City – Convention Centre ·        On a Bed & Breakfast basis  ·       Airport taxes & charges   View the offer here. 5 star Washington, DC City Break in November 2024 from €769pp From €769 per person  for the  5* Grand Hyatt Washington.   Price is per person based on 2 adults sharing for travel the November 2024.  Price includes:  ·        Direct Return flights with Aer Lingus from Dublin to Washington, DC   ·        3 nights in the  5* Grand Hyatt Washington ·        On a Room Only basis  ·       Airport taxes & charges   View the offer here.

Cathay Pacific announce its summer sale, offering a €235 discount on flights for at least 2 people travelling together to some of the most captivating destinations across Asia , Australia and New Zealand! Asia Pairs using code  SAVE200GB  can marvel at the natural wonders of Bali or immerse themselves in the history and culture of Vietnam, all for less this summer. The discount can be applied to all destinations across Asia and Southwest Pacific, excluding Hong Kong, and flights are available from London Heathrow and Manchester Airport.  Australia & New Zealand For further savings, Cathay customers can also combine the deal with the Australia and New Zealand specific Southwest Pacific sale running until 1st August. Visit Australia’s cultural capital, Sydney, from  €1030  in Economy or  €2,880  in Premium Economy. The city is home to must-visit icons like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, with new rooftop bars, theatre shows and designer shops popping up at every turn. Travellers can also embrace the best of both worlds in Perth where the western hotspot’s soft-sand beaches and scenic parks meet a thriving metropolis of small bars, creative restaurants and curated street art. Economy flights starting from  €1030 and Premium Economy from  €2999 .  Additional destinations included include Cairns* from  €1089 , Brisbane from  €1050 , Auckland from  € 1360,  and Christchurch* from  € 1470  in Economy . Booking with Cathay Pacific guarantees the excitement begins on the plane through its commitment to providing an exceptional travel experience. Passengers can indulge in some of the elevated food and beverage partnerships throughout all classes on board. The airline also offers a wide selection of inflight entertainment options, including its partnership with Disney+, ensuring that passengers are entertained throughout their journey.  Sale Dates The summer sale will be available for booking from 15th July until 31st August. Trips must be between 1stSeptember 2024 and 31st May 2025, with blackout periods applying. The Southwest Pacific sale will be available for booking from 2nd July until 1st August. Trips must be between 25th August 2024 and 12th June 2025, with blackout periods applying. Full terms and conditions for the summer sale can be found  here . Southwest sale can be found  here. *Cairns route available from 17 th  December 2024 to 29 th  March 2025. *Christchurch route available from 13 th  December 2024 to 26 th  February 2025.