South Africa: The Wild and Wonderful

As the capital of Belgium and the administrative heart of the European Union, Brussels is a city that seamlessly blends political significance with cultural richness. Whether you prefer to explore on foot, by bike, bus, or tram, the city offers countless ways to discover its many charms. A Rich History and Stunning Architecture Brussels is home to numerous historical and architectural landmarks, some of which are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . Among the remarkable monuments that are waiting to be explored, the most iconic is the Grand-Place , a breathtaking central square surrounded by the Town Hall, and the King's House (Maison du Roi). A simple turn on the spot reveals centuries of history and stunning architecture. This vibrant square isn’t just beautiful — it's alive with activity year-round, hosting concerts, traditional fairs, cultural events, and the famous Flower Carpet every two years in the summer. Just a short walk away, you’ll also find the city’s mascot, the Manneken-Pis , a small statue with a big personality that has captured visitors’ imaginations for centuries. With its unique silhouette, The Atomium has, over time, grown to become the symbol of Brussels. On the inside it offers a beautiful view of the capital, and also an entirely astounding and surreal ride through its interior spaces and volumes which alone makes a visit worth. Other monuments to be discovered throughout the city include the elegant La Monnaie opera house, the historic Bourse , the grand National Basilica of the Sacred Heart , the impressive Justice Palace , and the beautifully maintained Royal Greenhouses of Laeken — an architectural gem surrounded by stunning gardens. And whether you want to enjoy a cup of coffee or chocolate, take a stroll or go shopping, don't forget to visit the Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries , a gorgeous glass-roofed arcade in the centre of Brussel.

Famous for its rich cultural life and warm, festive atmosphere, Liège is a vibrant city in Wallonia, the French-speaking region of southern Belgium, nestled in the scenic valley of the Meuse River. Though compact in size, it offers an abundance of experiences for visitors —blending history, charm, and energy in every corner. Scenic Walks and Cultural Highlights Liège offers a variety of scenic routes for walking enthusiasts, from riverside strolls along the Meuse to exploring the charm of its historic city center. For those seeking a physical challenge, the Montagne de Bueren — a staircase with 374 steps — is a must. At the top, you'll be rewarded with one of the city's most stunning panoramic views. If you're looking to reconnect with nature, Liège also features several inviting parks and gardens. One highlight is the Parc de la Boverie , beautifully situated between the Meuse River and the Dérivation canal. It's the perfect spot to unwind or enjoy a leisurely walk. At the heart of the park lies an art museum, home to both permanent collections and rotating exhibitions. For plant enthusiasts, the Liège Botanical Garden and its greenhouse offer a captivating experience. Wander through the park and admire a diverse array of exotic plant species from around the world including Plane trees, Bald cypresses, Judas trees, Japanese zelkova, Sequoias, Paulownia, Ginkgo and Catalpas.

As a marketing assistant at Barter’s Travelnet Cork, I’m lucky enough to be talking about and researching stunning destinations every day. One place that has stuck with me and become my favourite travel destination is Bilbao. My sister has lived there for the past 4 years, so I’ve been lucky enough to visit quite a few times, each time bringing new experiences and plenty of memories. When I found out that Cork Airport now has a direct flight to Bilbao, I think it's safe to say I was pretty excited. Bilbao: More Than Just a City Bilbao is one of those places that manages to surprise you each time you visit. It has a mix of modern architecture, historical charm, and an atmosphere that’s laid-back but buzzing at the same time. If you’re not familiar with the city, it’s probably best known for the Guggenheim Museum (definitely worth the visit), but there’s so much more to Bilbao than that. Every time I visit, I always feel like I’m uncovering something new. Whether it’s a quiet street in Casco Viejo or a hidden café serving the best coffee you’ve ever had, Bilbao always seems to have something up its sleeve.

Traveling through Europe is a dream for many, but the way you choose to experience it can make all the difference. Whether you’re considering an independent adventure or an escorted tour, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. While solo travel has its perks, Riviera Travel’s escorted tours offer an unmatched combination of stress-free planning, expert guidance, and exceptional value for money. Here’s why choosing a guided experience is the ultimate way to explore Europe. Stress-Free Planning We Handle the Details, You Enjoy the Journey Independent travel requires meticulous planning—researching flights, accommodations, transportation, and daily itineraries. The time spent coordinating logistics can quickly become overwhelming, especially when navigating different languages, local customs, and last-minute changes. With Riviera Travel’s escorted tours , everything is expertly arranged for you. From handpicked hotels to comfortable transportation and immersive itineraries, you can simply relax and enjoy your adventure without the hassle of planning. No stress about finding the best places to stay or eat. Seamless transfers between destinations. Pre-arranged skip-the-line access to top attractions.

Legend of the sea's Royal Caribbean is set to debut their third icon class ship ‘Legend of the Seas’ Debuting Summer 2026 this modern facilitated vessel promises to redefine cruising with innovative features & unparalleled travel experiences. Legend of the Seas is the perfect family getaway, offering a luxurious cruising experience with stunning interior facilities and top-notch quality. Designed with families in mind, the ship features modern design and thoughtful details to ensure everyone has an unforgettable time on board. Here's everything you need to know about the debut of this dazzling new ship. Click here to explore our offers on Legend of the Seas. European debut The Legend of the Seas will commence its first journey in the summer of 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. The Legend of the Seas will debut in August 2026 with a 7 night Western Mediterranean journey visiting Palma De Mallorca, Spain, Florence/Pisa, Italy, Rome, Italy & Naples, Italy before returning to Barcelona. Caribbean Debut After the summer season concludes the Legend of the Seas will reach its new homeport in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Starting in November 2026, Legend of the Seas Journeys 6 Night western Caribbean & 8 night Southern Caribbean Cruises visiting destinations such as Aruba, Jamaica, Curacao, Haiti, The Bahamas & the Dominican Republic.

Riviera Travel's themed river cruises offer travelers the opportunity to combine their passion for specific subjects with the serene experience of river cruising. These specialized journeys are designed to immerse guests in their interests, whether it be music, art, history, or nature, all while traversing Europe's most scenic waterways. What Are Themed River Cruises? Themed river cruises are curated voyages that focus on particular areas of interest. They provide guests with tailored experiences, including expert-led excursions, onboard lectures, and activities that align with the chosen theme. This approach allows travelers to delve deeper into their passions in the company of like-minded individuals, all within the comfortable and luxurious setting of a river cruise.

New destinations from cork IN 2025 With three airlines announcing exciting new routes from Cork to Izmir , Turkey , Bilbao , Spain , Bordeaux , France , & Dalaman , Turkey . There's never been a better time to take off from everyone’s favorite airport. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a thrilling solo adventure, a fun-filled getaway with friends, or a memorable family holiday, Cork airport’s new summer destinations offer something for everyone. iZMIR, tURKEY SunExpress is launching a new direct flight from Cork Airport to Izmir, Turkey , for the summer of 2025. This service will operate twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays & conclude in October 2025. Izmir is a vibrant coastal city in western Turkey, located on the Aegean Sea. Known for its rich history, modern vibe, and beautiful scenery, it's the third-largest city in Turkey and a major port. It boasts a warm climate, with summer temperatures averaging between 27°C and 34°C , making it an attractive destination for travelers seeking sun. The region is home to significant cultural sites like the ancient city of Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary . Additionally, Izmir offers a rich culinary scene, including a variety of local wines. A Holiday to Izmir is best suited for families seeking a mix of history, Beach time, and cultural experiences, with kid friendly activities & attractions like Ephesus and the numerous waterparks in the area. Izmir is also a fantastic destination for a romantic getaway with your significant other. The scenic coastal views, charming streets & sunset along the Kordon promenade make it an ideal choice. While Izmir is not known for its big party scene it makes the perfect for solo travelers seeking a peaceful & relaxing holiday. Izmir is a perfect blend of serenity and vibrant experiences that makes it a versatile destination, appealing to those seeking relaxation or cultural discovery. Click here to contact one of our agents & start planning your trip to Izmir!

where to holiday in 2025? Ryanair has just unveiled a new route for 2025 from Shannon airport to Madeira ,Portugal. Commencing on March 30th Ryanair will fly two times a week to this dazzling new destination. Madeira, a vibrant green island positioned in the Atlantic Ocean, is one of Portugal’s most captivating regions. Celebrated for its incredibly diverse culture & breathtaking nature. From its dramatic mountains, breathtaking coastlines and botanical life Madeira is Portugal’s secret island paradise. reasons to go to madeira Madeira is a year round destination Being cradled between Europe & Africa and being almost 1000 kilometers from Portugal’s mainland, Madeira offers charming climate throughout the year. With average temperatures ranging from 18 to 24 degrees. Making it an ideal destination to soak up some winter sun & visit all year round.

How Barter's Travelnet and Celebrity Cruises Can Help? Planning a family vacation can be overwhelming, especially when coordinating travel for a large group. At Barter’s Travelnet, we believe family travel should be stress-free and full of unforgettable memories. That’s why we’re thrilled to highlight Celebrity Cruises , which offers exceptional cruises tailored to multigenerational families. Whether you're dreaming of tropical beaches or cultural cities, Celebrity Cruises' seamless blend of luxury, value, and family-friendly activities ensures there’s something for everyone.  Here are our top tips for planning a large family cruise, so all you need to focus on is enjoying the journey.