DEALS OF WEEK THE

NORTHERN LIGHTS

The darker the nights, the brighter the lights! When winter brings increased darkness to Iceland, it also brings increased chances to view the northern lights. The official aurora-spotting season runs until March but the aurora has been observed as early as August and as late as April. If you are interested in seeing this remarkable phenomenon, check out Icelandair, flying daily from Dublin to Reykjavik. See www.icelandair.com

VALENTINES DAY

New York from €1,240pp: Fly to the Big Apple with the one you love and enjoy the city’s legendary entertainment, shopping and landmarks. Stay for five nights in the Grand Hyatt Hotel just steps away from Grand Central Terminal and Empire State Building. A CITYPASS will be included with discounts for six of New York’s top attractions plus skip-the-line admission. Depart on February 14 and price is based on two adults sharing a room. Trip includes flights with United Airlines, hotel and private return transfers. See www.travelcounsellors.ie/sarah.mccarthy

BEAT THE WINTER BLUES

Gran Canaria from €389pp: With average temperatures of 21C, Gran Canaria is the place to be in January. The Monte Feliz Apartments are in a quiet corner of the island just five minutes’ walk from a beach and 20 minutes’ drive from Playa del Ingles. Depart on January 9 from Dublin. Price for seven-night stay at three-star apartments is based on per person sharing. See tuiholidays.ie

CHRISTMAS MARKET

Belfast: City Hall gardens have been transformed into a festive village for its festive market and will be running until December 22. Highlights include artisan food such as Belgian chocolate, giant bratwursts and french crepes. Festive bars offer mulled cider, hot chocolate and continental beers. Visitors can wander around the stalls selling everything from clothing, arts and crafts to jewellery and inspiring gift ideas. Bring the kids along to visit Santa in his grotto and take a ride on the vintage carousel or a slide down the Helter Skelter. See visitbelfast.com