When I heard the name Liaisons Abroad I immediately thought this must be some sort of singles club - quite the contrary, it is an agency specialising in theatre tickets which covers the world of . Its extensive programme concentrates on Italy and also Zurich, Berlin, Stockholm, Amsterdam, Paris, Copenhagen, Vienna, Prague, New York and more. It can also get tickets for ballet, recitals and pageantry. Write for a programme to Liaisons Abroad, Chenil House, 181/183 Kings Road, London SW3 5EB, Tel: 00 44 171 376 4020, web: www.liaisonsabroad.com.
Competition on the route increased enormously this year with two additional airlines serving the city, Cityjet and Ryanair. Contrary to expectations traffic has increased, not surprisingly as fares are the lowest ever. Accommodation in Paris can be reasonable and I have come across studio apartments at which can make for an economical visit. At Porte de Bercy, near Gare de Lyon and Gare d'Austerlitz, Residence Hoteliere prices for studios are from 450Ffr (£52) and two bedrooms from 750Ffr (£86) per night. Prices go down for more than seven nights stay. 1 - 7 cour du Minervois, 75012 Paris, Tel: 00 33 1 53 02 11 00.
Christmas gift ideas from Irish Ferries: - gift vouchers for £10, £25 or £50. Ideal for relatives and friends at home or abroad, the vouchers are being sold through all the Irish Ferries offices in Dublin, Cork and Rosslare. They can also be used when shopping or dining on board ship. (01 661 0511, 021 551 995 or 053 33158)
Calling all shopaholics: you may have finished your Christmas shopping but how about thinking of January sales and visiting the biggest shopping mall in the world -
Mall of America? In the twin city of Minneapolis the mall is a consumer heaven, you can even get married there. Or with the Canadian dollar at its lowest for years is also possible. This vibrant Canadian city has more than three miles of underground stores and malls linked under the city centre to hotels and the subway system. You will not even know it is snowing above ground. On either of these trips you or the other half can take in some sightseeing such as Niagara Falls or a flutter at the Mysic Lake Casino. Cost of the four days packages are from £380 including accommodation, with prices going down for three travelling together. Details from DLT Group 01 660 6321
Christmas Pantomimes in Northern Ireland over the holiday period includes Hansel and Gretel at the Riverside Theatre, Belfast and Cinderella at the Rialto Entertainment Centre, Derry. Details from Northern Ireland Tourist Board, 1850 230230.
Budget Travel's summer brochure is due out shortly. Next year there will be lots more family holidays and some child prices of £1. In keeping with what people request, there will also be more day flights.
Compiled by Joan Scales