The Beast from the East and Storm Emma really brought home what it is like to live on cold, wet, windy island and had us dreaming of some sun and sea. Here are some of the best deals around that we found:
Long-haul specials
Emirates currently has some great long-haul offers. Find sandy beaches, tropical islands, lively locations and dynamic cities from as little as €449. Eat clean and green in Phuket from as little as €692, Explore Cape Town from €676 and visit the cousins down under from €948. Fares are valid until the end of the year. emirates.ie.
The longest route to the sun from Ireland is Addis Ababa with Ethiopian Airways and can be on a beach in Africa in no time. A week in the Bright Star Resort in Diani Beach in Mombasa will cost from €1,269pps, gohop.ie, 01-241 2389.
Save €650pps on a trip to Mexico to stay in the five-star Excellence Cancun Riviera resort. The adults only resort is on a stunning beach between Cancun and Riviera Maya, and an all inclusive package with water sports and fine dining from €1,619 with flights. tropicalsky.ie, 01-664 9999.
Golf and spa in Tenerife
Set high on the cliff tops of Guia de Isora, in Tenerife, the Abama Ritz Carlton is one of the best resorts in the Canary Islands, with as golf course and world class spa. A week will cost from €2,600pps. Classic-collection.ie
Sizzling Cyprus
Cyprus has returned to the Irish market for this winter and it is a short hop to access this lovely island, which has a great range of quality hotels at good rates. The Sunrise Beach Hotel is popular and boasts substantial repeat visitors. A week in Protaras will cost from €755 including flights and transfers. sunway.ie, 01-2111800.
Colourful coasts
Visit the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria, La Palma, Lanzarote and Madeira and Morocco by ship. Take a cruise on Marella Dream in April and visit some islands and coastal cities from €762pps full board. steintravel, 01-5175990.