TRAVEL NEWS
From Russian with Love
Great news with the announcement that one of the greatest Russian productions is coming to Ireland. TOSCA, a tale of love, lust and murder, arrives at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre for five performances from 14th until 18th March. So, all you have to do is travel to Dublin from wherever you live! Having visited Saint Petersburg myself, and taken groups of Irish ballet fans to see the great Mariinsky Ballet perform there, I am a fan of all things Russian, especially their art. I would encourage anyone interested in the unique and passionate Russian performing style to go and see this international, full-scale production. It is being performed by Russia's famous Mikhailovsky Opera of St Petersburg with the RTE National Symphony Orchestra and starring sopranos Celine Byrne and Russia's Maria Litke on alternate nights. This TOSCA is a very special Irish and Russian collaboration with performances taking place in both Russia and Ireland. It wil also be a big thrill to see and hear Ireland's leading soprano Celine Byrne performing in the lead role of Floria Tosca. And, I am sure it will encourage people to take a trip to St Petersburg, the world-famous opera and ballet centre of Russia's cultural capital. Tickets from €.35, subject to booking fee, from www.balletandoperaireland.com and www.ticketmaster.ie
Topflight & Princess Cruise
Embark on a journey across the Western Mediterranean and tick off a list of dream destinations along the way, including Spain, France and Italy. And, the journey on board the Crown Princess cruise ship is as enjoyable as exploring the port of call! Travel in September from €1,399pps. Price includes return flights from Dublin, return airport transfers, 20kg checked in bag, seven nights cruise, breakfast, lunch, evening meals and snacks. Guests will also experience on-board entertainment and finish up with two nights at the 4-Star Villa Glori Hotel in Rome with breakfast included. Call Topflight on (01) 240 1726, visit www.topflight.ie or your local travel agen.
Clodagh Dooley's pick of the week: Mother's Day Travel
Last weekend, I brought my mother Rita away on a trip to Belfast, staying in Bullitt Hotel (www.bullitthotel.com). For some last-minute gift inspiration for Mother's Day (11th March), here are deals from Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) members:
'Mamma Mia' in London
Cassidy Travel has the perfect mother and daughter trip to London. Enjoy a day of shopping before seeing musical, 'Mamma Mia', in the West End! Stay in the 4-star Westbridge Hotel, with easy access to the West End from the nearby underground station. Travel 10th March, from E269pps. Price includes: return flights from Dublin, B&B accommodation for two nights, and tickets to the show. http://itaa.ie/2018/02/28/see-mamma-mia-in-london-lOth-march-2-nights-from-e269pps/
Mini Mediterranean Cruise
Board 4-Star MSC Orchestra in the sea port of Genoa, travelling to Marseilles, Spain and Barcelona. Travel 10th September for three nights, from E587pps. Includes: return flights from Dublin, return transfers, three nights on board 4-Star MSC Orchestra, dining on board (full-board basis), day and evening entertainment, 10kg hand luggage pp, and taxes. For more on this deal from Cruisescapes: http://itamie/2018/02/27/mini-med-cruise selection/ Email your questions to Kevin: kevin@becreativesie