AND SOME OFFERINGS FROM HOME

Of course you don’t have to go abroad to enjoy a Christmas market. All across the country the stalls will be up, good warming drinks and hearty treats will be made and Santa will be rewarding little children with gifts for being good all year.

BELFAST

Why is it special? The baroque revival-style Belfast City Hall is one of the great buildings on our island and is even more stunning lit up in Christmas lights. Belfast’s Christmas markets have an international feel too with the best continental meats, baklava and, of course, gluhwein.

Fun starts: Already on. Stay: The Grand Central Hotel (hastingshotels.com) in the centre of Belfast. Rooms from €170. Look out too for festive offers.

GALWAY

Why is it special? Never mind the Galway Tent, it’s the Christmas beer tents in Eyre Square – where you can rest your shopping feet by relaxing with a stein or two – that make this market. Of course, for the kiddies there are amusements aplenty.

Fun starts: Already on. Stay: The G Hotel & Spa offers a Christmas market and afternoon tea special from €220 per room per night. Saving on flights will mean you can afford to spoil yourself (theghotel.ie).

WATERFORD

Why is it special? Rose of Tralee Kirsten Mate Maher and Santa launched Winterval yesterday. The market will attract around 500,000 visitors.

Fun starts: Already on. Stay: Winterval Early Booker Friday Night Special at Treacy’s Hotel. B&B from €79 for double or twin rooms (treacyshotelwaterford.com).