Jose Carreras fans may like to treat themselves to a gala concert in that city of music - Verona. Harry Cahill Tours (01) 670 5123 is leading a group to Verona from December 2nd to the 5th to see Carreras.
You will also have an opportunity to tour Verona. The price of £549 per person includes flights from Dublin to Milan, accommodation in a four star hotel, a cocktail party, the tour and tickets for the concert.
London is still popular for pre-Christmas shopping, and if you are going this December, here is an idea to get the best from your trip. Black Taxi Tours is providing a two-hour personalised tour taking in many of London's Christmas attractions for visitors. The tour includes the traditional lights in Oxford and Regent streets and the giant Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square. The taxi will call to your hotel, stopping at the major sights for photographs. The drivers will provide a full commentary as only a London cabbie can. You can book your tour for up to five people and it costs £65 (00 44 171 289 4371).
While in London you may like to experience its newest designer hotel - the Kensington. In a quiet street close to Shepherd's Bush underground the Kensington is the height of modern style. Formerly BBC studios, it has been converted into a luxury hotel. Even better, the Sanctuary - the haven of luxurious beauty treatments - has located a salon here, which is also open to men.
An ideal way to spend a weekend in London, enjoying the hotel and taking some of the treatments. More details from (00 44 171) 674 1000.
Thinking OF a luxurious little break in ? Then look no further than the excellently located Fitzwilliam Park. At 5 Fitzwilliam Square, this graciously decorated Georgian townhouse is a centre of peace and relaxation just minutes away from the bustle of Grafton Street. A weekend break costs £98 per person sharing.
To celebrate its 75th anniversary, Finnair is offering special winter flight prices to Stockholm and Helsinki. From now until January 7th a return flight direct from Dublin will cost only £146 to Stockholm and £156 to Helsinki.
Helsinki will be European city of culture in 2000. More details from Finnair on (01) 844 6565 or your local travel agent.
Dunbrody Country House Hotel, on the wild Hook Peninsula in Co Wexford has been awarded four stars by Bord Failte. It is a small luxury hotel that is working hard to give guests a memorable stay. Little touches like complimentary tea and fresh scones on arrival, individually decorated bedrooms and breakfast served until noon are some of the reasons you will want to return.
The restaurant is featured in the Bridgestone Guideand was awarded two rosettes by the AA. A weekend in Dunbrody will cost £98 per person B & B. Table d'Hote dinner is £25. Tel: (051) 389600 or email: dunbrody@indigo.ie. If you go there take a drive out to the Hook Lighthouse - it's worth it for the view.