Unveiling Alentejo: A Hidden Gem for Relaxation in Portugal

Discover Europe’s Most Magical Christmas Traditions & Festive Secrets While we cherish our familiar traditions, the continent is brimming with ancient rituals, mythical gift-givers, and culinary delights that capture the true wonder of the season. From the snowy peaks of the Alps to the candlelit processions of the North, we’ve handpicked 10 unique ways our European neighbours celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. Get ready to explore a world where witches bring candy, gnomes guard the home, and the magic of Christmas takes on a whole new meaning.

Discover Europe’s Dreamiest Towns, Castles & Villages Looking for places where history meets magic, colours glow in every season, and every street feels like a storybook scene? Europe is full of destinations that capture the imagination – from romantic towns and charming villages to mystical forests and dreamlike castles. We’ve handpicked the most enchanting spots that will make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a fairytale.

✨ The Most Magical Christmas Markets You Have to Visit This Festive Season ✨ As the nights draw in and the scent of mulled wine fills the air, Europe begins to twinkle with festive magic. Christmas markets have long been the heart of winter celebrations — where fairy lights glow against historic buildings, choirs sing carols, and cosy stalls brim with handcrafted gifts and local treats.  If you’re dreaming of a festive getaway this year, here are some of the most enchanting Christmas markets you simply have to visit.

Legend of the Seas Since our last update on Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas, there’s even more to get excited about. Families planning their summer 2026 getaway now have even more reasons to look forward to this incredible ship, from brand-new accommodation options to extra playful touches designed for kids of all ages. 

Discover the best beaches, snorkeling spots, and authentic Caribbean food while island hopping with Norwegian Cruise Line. Your ultimate guide to the Caribbean’s must-see highlights.

Travel doesn’t have to end when the sun sets – in fact, it can just be beginning. Noctotourism , the practice of exploring destinations at night, is a growing trend that opens the door to unforgettable experiences. From night safaris and polar light chases to stargazing and nocturnal dives, the night offers a magical perspective that daytime simply cannot. Exploring the world in darkness lets you see nature, wildlife, and urban landscapes in a completely different light, creating memories that are often more intimate, mysterious, and unforgettable. Nighttime travelling offers many advantages: Peace and privacy – fewer crowds mean you can enjoy scenery and natural sites at ease. Unique natural phenomena – many wildlife activities, polar lights, and starry skies can only be fully experienced at night. Otherworldly atmosphere – familiar locations take on a new, magical character when illuminated by moonlight or are they swallowed by darkness Adventure and romance – from night safaris to nocturnal dives, noctotourism blends thrill with peace. 

Prague , often called the “City of a Hundred Spires” , is one of the most charming capitals in Europe and the capital of the Czech Republic . Thanks to its central location, it’s easily accessible from Ireland and offers a perfect combination of history, culture, stunning architecture and modern city life. In the evening, Prague transforms into a lively city full of atmosphere. From cosy traditional pubs serving world-famous Czech beer as Pilsner Urquell to stylish cocktail bars and jazz clubs, there’s something for everyone. You can enjoy a night at the theatre or opera, take a river cruise under the illuminated bridges, or simply stroll through the beautifully lit Old Town . Easy Connection from Ireland Getting to the Czech Republic is simple – a direct flight from Dublin to Prague takes just about 2.5 hours. Several airlines, including Aer Lingus and Ryanair, operate regular services, making it easy to find convenient times and good fares. With such a short journey, Prague is perfect not only for a weekend city break but also for longer holidays, whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a cultural trip or a lively group adventure.

Summer is a time to enjoy long days, blue skies, and unforgettable adventures — but not everyone dreams of sweltering under the sun. With rising temperatures and more frequent heatwaves across Europe and beyond, many travelers are now searching for destinations that offer ideal summer weather without the intense heat. Whether you're hoping for outdoor exploration, cultural discovery, or relaxing coastal views, you can enjoy the season in comfort. In this post, we highlight some of the trendiest destinations for summer 2025 where you can stay cool while still soaking up the best of what the season has to offer. The Azores, Portugal Rising from the North Atlantic, the Azores are a captivating Portuguese archipelago known for their lush volcanic terrain, emerald-green hills, and dramatic coastlines. Often called a nature lover’s paradise, these islands offer a serene escape filled with crater lakes, geothermal springs, and breathtaking viewpoints. Even in peak summer, temperatures remain comfortably mild — typically ranging between 20° and 25°C — making it ideal for outdoor activities without the discomfort of extreme heat. From hiking the volcanic trails of São Miguel to spotting whales off the coast or soaking in the thermal waters of Furnas , the Azores invite exploration at a relaxed pace. With a growing focus on sustainable tourism, the region offers an authentic and uncrowded alternative to traditional beach destinations, blending adventure with tranquility in one of Europe’s most eco-conscious retreats. The Easiest Way to Get There Travelling from Ireland to the Azores requires connecting flights, as direct routes are unavailable. São Miguel Island , the main entry point, is accessible from Dublin Airport (DUB) to Ponta Delgada , with one or more layovers. Flight Duration: from 8 to 12 hours , depending on layover durations. Price: return flights start from €143 . 

Imagine this: you’re waking up to the sound of gentle waves lapping against the hull, stepping onto the deck with your morning coffee in hand, and being greeted by another sun-drenched port along the Croatian coast or the sparkling isles of Greece. That’s not a daydream—that’s life aboard a APT Travelmarvel Coastal Cruise. At Barter’s, we’re always on the lookout for those truly special travel experiences. The kind that balance comfort, discovery, and a little dash of magic. APT Travelmarvel’s Coastal Cruises tick all those boxes—and then some.