Scotland's nationhood goes back a thousand years more than last week's elections. The first recorded parliament was in 1293 but the institution goes back further. Robert Bruce's victory at Bannockburn established Scotland's de facto right as a kingdom. Scotland has many historic sites that commemorate its long history. Places such as Arbroath Abbey, Parliament Hall, St Giles Cathedral, Brodick Castle, Edinburgh Castle, Lennoxlove House, Duff House, and Scone Palace, where the stone of Scone was returned to in 1996 having spent 700 years in Westminster Abbey. Further details for visiting and touring Scotland can be had from the British Tourist Authority, 18 College Green, Dublin 2, tel: (01) 670 8000 and on www.holiday.scotland.net
THE hardest thing to do when you pick up the Hidden Ireland booklet is trying to pick which place you would like to visit. This unique collection of private houses offers such a different type of holiday. Some are great houses at the centre of large estates, some were designed by famous architects or were the homes of famous people. Most are surrounded by parks and gardens. Many have belonged to the same family for generations. Prices are from about £30 per night B&B. You can get a copy of the booklet from 37 Lower Baggot Street, Dublin 2 - phone (01) 662 7166 or www.hidden-ireland.com
IT might seem a bit early to be mentioning holidays in October, but I know golfers are always organised and will be putting this one on their itinerary today. Villa and Golf Vacations - (01) 662 5866, has a trip to Marbella on October 2nd. It includes flights to Malaga, self-catering accommodation at the Pyr Apartments, three rounds of golf at Monte Mayor, Santa Maria and La Cala and seven days car hire. All this costs £479 per person sharing, tax and insurance are extra.
NOT for nothing is McCausland's Hotel in Belfast a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Its sister hotel, the Hibernian in Dublin, won hotel of the year in 1996. I expect the McCausland will be winning the award next. Converted from a merchant premises that had lain idle for many years in the city centre, the McCausland is a terrific conversion to an hotel. It retains reminders of the past, with the high ceilings, exposed beams and the beautiful sandstone facade. When you are there, dine in the Merchant restaurant or the Marco Polo cafe bar. The food is great. Until the end of the June they have a very special offer of £69 for two nights B&B sharing - don't miss it. You can book through Northern Ireland Tourist Board on callsave 1850 230 230.
Here I go again, talking about holidays later in the year, but apparently everyone wants to book their winter holidays earlier and earlier. It's a sign of the times when many people are taking two holidays a year. Best new product in Budget Travel's winter brochure is the cruise option. Fly to Gran Canaria and join the Island Breeze and sail to Lanzarote, Morocco, Madeira and Tenerife while enjoying the comfort of a luxury ship. Prices start from £699 for one week and include flights from Dublin, full board and entertainment. Details from Budget or your local travel agent.
Apologies - the telephone number for Ryanair Direct appeared incorrectly last week. It should have read (01) 6097800.