tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88839779221876110092024-03-12T21:10:04.883+13:00top tips for tripThe Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.comBlogger70125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-3043350258301808732011-05-26T20:22:00.000-11:002011-05-26T20:22:27.614-11:00Berlin Wall East Side Gallery<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One of the highlights of my recent visit to <a href="http://toptipsfortrips.blogspot.com/2011/05/observations-in-berlin.html">Berlin</a> was the fascinating East Side Gallery on the Berlin Wall. Rather than enter into lengthy discussion on visual art and history I will let the pictures speak for themselves. Each mural tells a thousand words.....</span><br />
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</div>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-23649807135458454532011-05-24T22:05:00.001-11:002011-05-26T20:25:12.604-11:00Observations in Berlin <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I headed to Berlin for a first look at the German capital back in February and for some reason have still not managed to do a Berlin blog! There is heaps to write about the city, but as my visit was short and sweet and now fading into memory and filed away photos, I thought I would be as true to my initial thoughts as possible. Straight from my notebook here are some very quick observational jottings I made in -of- Berlin! Mental notes thrown down as a fleeting first impression. </span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5lEWmZITaWspQxI_s5Uo2HOQfY7sGdrMrN1qa1wFb89zbqwy_NkAhk_2eVbH7BdSThMmk058Pfm8e-e2K7jwpFfPzFSlIX9xU0QhyphenhyphenpUD8KnTA1CPyLr-1DvYHjUkEa_SdUpP4jrT_BRQ/s1600/Germany-Berlin-Berlin_Wall-East_Side_Gallery-image-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5lEWmZITaWspQxI_s5Uo2HOQfY7sGdrMrN1qa1wFb89zbqwy_NkAhk_2eVbH7BdSThMmk058Pfm8e-e2K7jwpFfPzFSlIX9xU0QhyphenhyphenpUD8KnTA1CPyLr-1DvYHjUkEa_SdUpP4jrT_BRQ/s320/Germany-Berlin-Berlin_Wall-East_Side_Gallery-image-4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">City space is wide, spread out, lacking a social clustering or hub.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Very little to add colour to this city in winter.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Very clean city with minimal litter. There is a lot of graffiti along metro lines, some good, some bad. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Alexanderplatz square-the city centre- is massively expansive, a little grey, mixed architecture serves as a stark reminder of war, while techy type structure such as the world clock and other modern installations point to a forward-looking, progressive nation.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB2Y-I1Nlv62wFyBdmNW2h-3De1XQjtb5trNk5dIqK2QWRIeVXVl-Z__R46SyQad1GxTL46JHOaTGBCRPIHa2G5cGB7DG4GvfanefF_2VOjf9MjfCJDoMmDyR9-F13nx-gCFSphLPnZQbZ/s1600/alexanderplatz03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" src="file:///Users/sineadgillett/Downloads/berlin%204.jpg" /><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB2Y-I1Nlv62wFyBdmNW2h-3De1XQjtb5trNk5dIqK2QWRIeVXVl-Z__R46SyQad1GxTL46JHOaTGBCRPIHa2G5cGB7DG4GvfanefF_2VOjf9MjfCJDoMmDyR9-F13nx-gCFSphLPnZQbZ/s320/alexanderplatz03.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSaN3ccAO5D3MYGV-dL3azLGJNADWNaAS6iTd4mv1A8Cnc3he-VIPgLaQotBbxxOq3NETAcBx0uikBCoYyIX-fBVnxl6VIzKZ__WncI1dgehNK4SHSrrBF_X6WkdjKry6d76R4x5l5_5Jp/s1600/Alexander_Platz_TagWEB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSaN3ccAO5D3MYGV-dL3azLGJNADWNaAS6iTd4mv1A8Cnc3he-VIPgLaQotBbxxOq3NETAcBx0uikBCoYyIX-fBVnxl6VIzKZ__WncI1dgehNK4SHSrrBF_X6WkdjKry6d76R4x5l5_5Jp/s320/Alexander_Platz_TagWEB.jpg" width="274" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The famous Berlin television tower is better viewed from a distance as part of the city scape. A trip up will give you a great view of the city, but it is over-priced and under-rewarding as you struggle to peer out over the shoulders of throngs of tourists. Skip. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo7fCMd0cLlZ3T2doSKNyxoxCTJpVNpD92RH74W45cpsstovuB87T0rGLJa1p78S8gCgX5sYkKFacgBrFOd4oj4to0waKpkghzW1MBqYYJjxaTuL-vNlGt2RnW1PvB_UeakW4eSYfKp9nJ/s1600/berlin+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo7fCMd0cLlZ3T2doSKNyxoxCTJpVNpD92RH74W45cpsstovuB87T0rGLJa1p78S8gCgX5sYkKFacgBrFOd4oj4to0waKpkghzW1MBqYYJjxaTuL-vNlGt2RnW1PvB_UeakW4eSYfKp9nJ/s320/berlin+4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The Brandenburg gate is impressive and its history, which you can read at information points near to the gate, is very interesting. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The East Side Gallery on <a href="http://toptipsfortrips.blogspot.com/2011/05/berlin-wall-east-side-gallery.html">the Berlin Wall</a> makes a fascinating walk. We visited on a week day and it was refreshingly not thronged with visitors, just a couple of people checking out the murals. It only had one tiny little souvenier shop so the whole tourist experience was, surprisingly, not spoiled by, well, tourism. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFfjw4TrmGSp-nbDHb8Dh4oDcS-kcdNri2vlaFBiOSWVusH4WF76qvnb2wdrzpUNRsZpH94D5PKewwy1fWH2abL6vcEVI7ccLTsnHO9HOJ1hj8O7ApoRuC8_K2IbK-hVjhpMEqBIk9bGZB/s1600/berlin-wall-east-side-gallery-east-side-gallery-berlin-berlin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFfjw4TrmGSp-nbDHb8Dh4oDcS-kcdNri2vlaFBiOSWVusH4WF76qvnb2wdrzpUNRsZpH94D5PKewwy1fWH2abL6vcEVI7ccLTsnHO9HOJ1hj8O7ApoRuC8_K2IbK-hVjhpMEqBIk9bGZB/s320/berlin-wall-east-side-gallery-east-side-gallery-berlin-berlin.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw6fWNVOByimDz5wDSL5bGqAkxd0N3pBbEToqjEPfMC1LXHdGr3-oox8tAsQzpbrRLBiZKAhaUbDi8OvV1tkXIEAeu86kPXM-o0RLLyPJcLxY4lOI3LrWoa6dysuloiNC_JDSH2jdAu3hC/s1600/berlin-wall-mural.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw6fWNVOByimDz5wDSL5bGqAkxd0N3pBbEToqjEPfMC1LXHdGr3-oox8tAsQzpbrRLBiZKAhaUbDi8OvV1tkXIEAeu86kPXM-o0RLLyPJcLxY4lOI3LrWoa6dysuloiNC_JDSH2jdAu3hC/s320/berlin-wall-mural.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDwMWwzxuNSVqbSTmR8bFpGxhbW0HMXDM-rLJaPKiAIKTwF38RDLgmu9YyjEaiaMgesFz89Kz8va5WCzftuPmVw9rFEG7lHo2GwaXWOYiK8p8_FLzeOmkHx9RKlvCxqivx-DD2MNiHGNhE/s1600/P31211859e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDwMWwzxuNSVqbSTmR8bFpGxhbW0HMXDM-rLJaPKiAIKTwF38RDLgmu9YyjEaiaMgesFz89Kz8va5WCzftuPmVw9rFEG7lHo2GwaXWOYiK8p8_FLzeOmkHx9RKlvCxqivx-DD2MNiHGNhE/s320/P31211859e.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Generally very helpful locals.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Metro system is excellent.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">You will see locals opening can of beer on the metro home from work on Fridays.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5MFGVWzcTKCEv5kwj6HG1qC6bLSa_tve6Avdix4pVDQ8lQIjYLoBcr7YyaCKKN17WZzxmuZyf6mrc-LvPv82nqBPN7VVhzDLGNweK35cY619e5VA9pXglmoL2hV4sHbnPi2AzZqch2u06/s1600/berlin-hotels-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5MFGVWzcTKCEv5kwj6HG1qC6bLSa_tve6Avdix4pVDQ8lQIjYLoBcr7YyaCKKN17WZzxmuZyf6mrc-LvPv82nqBPN7VVhzDLGNweK35cY619e5VA9pXglmoL2hV4sHbnPi2AzZqch2u06/s320/berlin-hotels-5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Nightlife is brilliant, with lots of really good bars and some huge mega clubs, particularly for lovers of dance music. Good bars can be found throughout the city's many districts, but they are spread out nestled within otherwise quiet streets. The same can be said for restaurants. There doesn't seem to be any definitive nightlife destination zones, streets or areas. You can wander about to find somewhere, but window shopping as such can be a little frustrating when it feels that few are far between. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Recommendations and a little research go a long way in this spread out city. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Some nightclubs open for the entire weekend so this is a serious destination for clubbers and should not be missed!</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Live-music in many bars for those not into nightclubs. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Asian and Italian cuisine is very popular. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Streets are very quiet in the evenings, however the city feels relatively safe, even late.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There is good shopping with lots of big high street shopping centres, as well as a more underground, but thriving vintage sector. </span>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-86705017442371531812011-04-27T22:05:00.000-11:002011-04-27T22:05:23.201-11:00Royal Wedding Party-Checklist<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlcSGr9i6ndWpWDDpfG6wRKdOSD_gLOUxqBUqT_jnaJ3eqSznCXqgkrIBpGiFXK0QMYOAroxuVyJ8y_0Yy8lkorBr-rnZ9YEY1vI5sMmZ9Iw3g77wnxytijwF3cYTiPrFWodG3LK1BLBGc/s1600/will-kate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlcSGr9i6ndWpWDDpfG6wRKdOSD_gLOUxqBUqT_jnaJ3eqSznCXqgkrIBpGiFXK0QMYOAroxuVyJ8y_0Yy8lkorBr-rnZ9YEY1vI5sMmZ9Iw3g77wnxytijwF3cYTiPrFWodG3LK1BLBGc/s320/will-kate.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFy32rmDyGUNXd3sjHz4C44gAD6XsIFQ6AobZM7-KvrKV1nYRszCU62KMh7an377HC_M-nVrHtFt8JwtY-i3fm78PXpih9u4aCApZjWXwBgqhStuXK49yEfCIQHFFWAoGw04D-pPYaeUTh/s1600/51904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFy32rmDyGUNXd3sjHz4C44gAD6XsIFQ6AobZM7-KvrKV1nYRszCU62KMh7an377HC_M-nVrHtFt8JwtY-i3fm78PXpih9u4aCApZjWXwBgqhStuXK49yEfCIQHFFWAoGw04D-pPYaeUTh/s320/51904.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Whether you are in London or not, Friday 29 April is unavoidable. The first royal wedding since Diana and Charles has flung Britain into a tizzy of excitement. Spectators have flocked to the city in their thousands, tents have been pitched as close as possible to the proceedings, an array of tacky memorabilia flies from trucks to shelves to person t home and drips from the rafters in anticipation of the big event. Britain, the media, the world are all waiting for Will & Kate. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Now I'm no royalist. And I'm not British. But I am a festivalist and this event is a festival free for all. OK so it is just an excuse to stray from the desk for a glass of bubbles on a Friday morning, but give me an inch and I'll take a mile. I now on the eve of this event find myself the eager host of a Royal Wedding Party!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">If , like me, you fancy a fun Royal Wedding themed themed day off, then here is a top ten check list of what you need</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">1. Guests. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">No point putting on a party without some pals to enjoy it!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">2. Dress code</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It is not every day you go to a wedding. Ask your guests to dress to impress. A touch of Britain in a court shoe or a string of pearls perhaps....</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">3. Lots of seating around a decent, reliable Telly</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Dedicated </span><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/pressoffice/pressreleases/stories/2011/04_april/27/wedding.shtml"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">coverage on the BBC</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> begins at 8 AM and ends at 1:40 PM</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">4.Endless supply of tea</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">5. Token cucumber sambos (make sure to cut off the crusts!)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">6. Scones, Cream and Jam</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">7. A spread of cakes</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Victoria sponge, fruit breads, cream buns......</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">8. Strawberries and champagne</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">9. Pimms</span><br />
<a href="http://www.taste.com.au/recipes/2759/pimms+punch"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Pimms punch</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> always goes down a treat</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">10. Bunting, mini flags, other random memorabilia</span>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-21121104154567172782011-04-20T20:51:00.001-11:002011-04-20T20:54:51.257-11:00AdVANtage Living<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"></span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1bD7J9zIxUIRMTFePV88VLAGu-c9KKfFxQBCiY2hvVZN5umWQ5FUdSqsthZHIpcaYphqKUd-rtZc2bZrRocAtSmPTTopXJYwWCW5kGtPFWsejlGPyNon-LbZk12d6nSYu4LGfIoar-dgU/s1600/VW_Camper_Van_on_a_campsite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1bD7J9zIxUIRMTFePV88VLAGu-c9KKfFxQBCiY2hvVZN5umWQ5FUdSqsthZHIpcaYphqKUd-rtZc2bZrRocAtSmPTTopXJYwWCW5kGtPFWsejlGPyNon-LbZk12d6nSYu4LGfIoar-dgU/s320/VW_Camper_Van_on_a_campsite.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHN0oo5nKVazubbqk1g2LNc8ZRzsxNSDwKK_BjEumf3G04PHbQB9fgujy2XRKINo7XixCgufBfRfflQphytpCfN0r-WuXA5WQnV2gkra1D-HmC_jD-vfdcdw43bK0eP9xU7dv_ptKk22MD/s1600/vw-campervan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHN0oo5nKVazubbqk1g2LNc8ZRzsxNSDwKK_BjEumf3G04PHbQB9fgujy2XRKINo7XixCgufBfRfflQphytpCfN0r-WuXA5WQnV2gkra1D-HmC_jD-vfdcdw43bK0eP9xU7dv_ptKk22MD/s320/vw-campervan.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">You may have noticed its absence from the roads. Its confinement to driveways in Dublin estates or the back of country homes. Like a vacated Granny flat, its motionless mobile space fading and dating and depreciating over anniversaries of abandonment. It rests and rusts for years. Eventually pragmatism wins out over nostalgia and it is sold on to an online bargain hunter or dumped at some final cruel reunion with its cousins, where, in a neat row for the last time, the unwanted caravan queues for death.</span></div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Banishing the caravan is much like putting the family dog to sleep. The need for action and call to action take over as you remove the spent family treasure from the home. Guilt and sorrow take hold when you return alone.</span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">What separates the two is the nature of their design. The animate is destined to die. The need for action-freeing them from pain-is real and kind. The inanimate however is a different story. It is a call, rather than a need for action, that results in its disposal.</span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The call usually comes from the younger members of the family, who find the permanent mobile home attached to their permanent home a point of irritation and embarrassment. It is an eye sore, a hick, grotesque, useless waste of space. They nag until their complaints, along with a begrudging self-admission that the wanderly wagon wanders no more, become too difficult to deny and the decision is made to vanish the van.</span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The demise of the caravan as an Irish family holiday institution from the early 90s onwards is largely attributed to a general increase in disposable income and the introduction of low-fare airlines. Foreign travel became affordable and easy. It grew in popularity as people were swayed by exotic destinations that could guarantee good weather and new experiences. Spending two weeks with the family in a leaky, cramped caravan, in a wet, cramped caravan park in West Cork, did not trump two weeks at a holiday resort in Italy. Under Celtic Tiger conditions, other categories bar Cost could hold weight on a trump card.</span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">And so, tugging your accommodation behind you and setting up camp alongside like-minded families fell out of favour. Caravans, like caged birds, were left to sit and ruin at the side of the house until the now teenage children convinced their parents to ditch the last remaining badge of their pre-Celtic Tiger existence, and get an extension.</span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Our national dismissal of the caravan was reinforced by popular culture programming coming from the Uk. Television shows <i>Top Gear</i> and <i>Brainiac</i> regularly explored inventive methods of destroying caravans.</span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Ironically it is the very same generation of children , who campaigned against the family caravan, that are now reclaiming the mobile home as their own. The caravan is replaced by the camper-van; a more compact, convenient and well, cooler, set of wheels, particularly if it is a vintage 70's, retro, pseudo retro or hand painted model. The passengers/inhabitants are groups of friends rather than families. The destinations of choice are predominantly music festivals, although vanning is also popular with surfers.</span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The new wave of vanning has been sparked by the growing number of successful music festivals popping up around Ireland over the past ten years. Veteran festival goers, who have tried and tested <a href="http://toptipsfortrips.blogspot.com/2011/04/irelands-summer-festivals-2011-calander.html">the circuit ,</a> decide to invest in a van that will take them around and around again in relative comfort and style. Testament to this trend is the introduction in 2010 of <a href="http://toptipsfortrips.blogspot.com/2010/04/vantastival-2010.html">Vantastival </a>in Co. Louth, a free spirited festival aimed specifically at van enthusiasts, although all are welcome.</span></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLknB9OswFBOVAtWtfPONv1x2nswYFzqrjK6sZNCQFk5-fydPYrwkG7sVJWfJ6GOmQIMiacE1cY_sKSi1gHFoFpyTQelbxysrSpDb85J8t3FayCYy2gB8uXcVTpL34fKi9dJfF8BKPDF8S/s1600/bus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLknB9OswFBOVAtWtfPONv1x2nswYFzqrjK6sZNCQFk5-fydPYrwkG7sVJWfJ6GOmQIMiacE1cY_sKSi1gHFoFpyTQelbxysrSpDb85J8t3FayCYy2gB8uXcVTpL34fKi9dJfF8BKPDF8S/s320/bus.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi4yayn2k4Wie_l4CWY3-2Jtejy-2wTLa8S-B3F4r0PuIjW3CvRNwF0XyKcvO7fDmexeNy0Gc8XD2riI_0NTQyrLUoswBju974vSBkk9hDtPBqgVWOX-qK75w5aX8Q-SjueaNFmEGL-UMZ/s1600/logo.24.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi4yayn2k4Wie_l4CWY3-2Jtejy-2wTLa8S-B3F4r0PuIjW3CvRNwF0XyKcvO7fDmexeNy0Gc8XD2riI_0NTQyrLUoswBju974vSBkk9hDtPBqgVWOX-qK75w5aX8Q-SjueaNFmEGL-UMZ/s1600/logo.24.png" /></a></div></div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The camper-van has become the ultimate accessory for the festival elite. Anyone can wear floral wellies or a mac or novelty shades and pretend to fit in. But the camper-van is the secret nod between true, devout festival goers; an emblem of their commitment and subscription to the weekend hippy club.</span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">It's not a mainstream club, but it is growing. The lifestyle appeals to a range of people, generally over 25, who can afford to buy a van and escape the higher rate of insurance applied to those below this age. They are usually leftist but often apolitical, well educated, free in spirit but not of commitment people, who combine watered down hippy sentiment with the festive Irish session at weekends and on their 21 days of annual leave.</span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Depending on their owners the vans can occupy two places during the week. They are parked in front of their parents' relatively new extension: an eye sore , a waste of space, a flag marking the fact that the 27 year old unemployed son is a permanent fixture of the permanent home. The van may also be found outside a brand new duplex; with crumbling walls and faulty plumbing; an over-priced, undervalued anchor for the good time machine. If only it was a time machine.</span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The latter group are moving on camper-van style: They arrive to the alter in the back of a vintage Volkswagon classic, upgrade their own van with the money they make from the wedding; slap a Baby on Board sticker on the back; and park next to the like-minded young families at the festival-themed weddings of their like-minded friends. Blindly, blissfully they follow in the tracks of the previous generation.</span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">And then from nowhere, a glimpse, a flicker; the slow creeping elevation of the caravan as vintage gold. The retro tin-home-tug-along making its comeback on the organic pages of blogs and as a celebrated motif in underground art circles. Those who resisted the movement to expunge the caravan may soon find themselves the much envied owners of a now 'priceless' vintage classic. Hands off kids. Better still, they can now milk their van for political kuddos; a badge that they, unlike their neighbours, family or friends, did not lose the complete run of themselves during the Celtic Tiger; A badge that says 'I did not vote Fianna Fail'. </span></span><br />
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</span></div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN8gDVCZgDUxqsbi6afP65mNp-RlXvtY_roVRT15UmwpwOewsljmXt8gZrFJj8fuEySjORrqN1u_IzXHndJik-y91pdTn3Dzl6r6_x9tkl3UbwP9VKvEpNteBAski91q_QWkfNpREeXXvQ/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN8gDVCZgDUxqsbi6afP65mNp-RlXvtY_roVRT15UmwpwOewsljmXt8gZrFJj8fuEySjORrqN1u_IzXHndJik-y91pdTn3Dzl6r6_x9tkl3UbwP9VKvEpNteBAski91q_QWkfNpREeXXvQ/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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</span></div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The campervan is mainstream and slowly the caravan returns. Watch that space at the side of the house.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-79390966878742234092011-04-11T05:27:00.000-11:002011-04-11T05:27:08.622-11:00Top 10 European City Destinations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyl_LH7n3UQGbLdZk_fkEEk1IaYmMSPOav4zXzsixDcyBhgDFZowTzLFe6QwkcFcAAAaJ0duEA5JGEaSLrR9EmoHf8iQy9MoqjbVYmOsrKjEuoSdUnTg8yQQztVi59rla6OGeoFotkj6Ke/s1600/Paris-at-night-by-photos4travel-300x225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyl_LH7n3UQGbLdZk_fkEEk1IaYmMSPOav4zXzsixDcyBhgDFZowTzLFe6QwkcFcAAAaJ0duEA5JGEaSLrR9EmoHf8iQy9MoqjbVYmOsrKjEuoSdUnTg8yQQztVi59rla6OGeoFotkj6Ke/s1600/Paris-at-night-by-photos4travel-300x225.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The votes have been cast, favourite European cities have been chosen and now the results are in! Starting with the most popular here are your Top 10 European City Destinations in 211! </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">1. Paris</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
2. Barcelona</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">3. Rome</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
4. Amsterdam</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
5. Venice</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
6. London</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
7. Dublin</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
8. Berlin</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
9. Madrid</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
10. Prague</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-50937603017570589002011-04-08T03:15:00.002-11:002011-04-11T05:26:16.708-11:00Ireland's Summer Festivals 2011 Calander<style type="text/css">
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<span style="color: black; font-size: small;">The festival season is fast approaching and what a season it looks set to be! We Irish just love to party and will throw up any old excuse to warrant a celebration. There is an array of micro-festivals happening across Ireland over the coming months, with almost every small town in the country flying flags for some reason or another. Add to this a considerable number of top international festivals and you have an impressive fixture of events all condensed into one relatively small island. Colourful, yet compact, the Irish festival circuit has us spoiled for choice. Check out this chocolate-box calendar of summer festivals and then try tell us you're not tempted!</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></b> <br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Vantastival</b><br />
</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">18th April 0 1st May </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Price: €85 3 day camping </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Music and camper-van enthusiasts gather fo a chilled and cosy celebration. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Click here for website</span><a href="http://www.vantastival.com/music-at-vantastival.html">http://www.vantastival.com/music-at-vantastival.html</a><br />
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</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Dublin City Soul Festival </b></span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">26<sup>th</sup> - 29<sup>th</sup> May</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">Price: Free</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">Feel-good celebration of music, art, food and laughter.</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.dublincitysoulfestival.ie/">Click here for website</a></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><b>Life Festival </b></span><span style="color: black;">(Belvedere House, Park and Gardens, Co. West Meath)</span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">27</span></span><span style="color: black;"><sup><span style="font-weight: normal;">th</span></sup></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> - 29</span></span><span style="color: black;"><sup><span style="font-weight: normal;">th</span></sup></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> May</span></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Price: EB* WC* €99</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Hybrid of dance music and performing arts. </span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a href="http://life-festival.com/lifefestival2011/"><span style="font-size: small;">Click here for website</span></a> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>The Forbidden Fruit Festival </b>(Grounds of the Irish Museum of Modern Art, Dublin)</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">4<sup>th</sup> - 5<sup>th</sup> June </span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">Price: Day ticket €49.5, 2 day €90</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sponsored by Bulmers, this inaugural festival, contained within the shape of an apple, fuses music, art and fashion across four distinctly fruity entertainment zones. </span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a href="http://forbiddenfruit.ie/home"><span style="font-size: small;">Click here for website</span></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>All Ireland & International Sheep Shearing Championships</b> (Cillin Hill, Co. Kilkenny)</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">4<sup>th</sup> & 5<sup>th</sup> June</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">Price: on the day </span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">Show, trade exhibition, market.</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a href="http://www.sheepshearing2011.ie/"><span style="font-size: small;">Click here for website</span></a> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Westfest</b> (Aghamore, Co. Mayo)</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">4<sup>th</sup> & 5<sup>th</sup> June</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">Price: WC €120</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">Mayo's answer toOxygen (capacity 5,000). </span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a href="http://www.westfest.ie/"><span style="font-size: small;">Click here for website</span></a> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><b>Sea Sessions</b> (Bundoran, Co. Donegal)</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">24</span></span><span style="color: black;"><sup><span style="font-weight: normal;">th</span></sup></span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">-26</span></span><span style="color: black;"><sup><span style="font-weight: normal;">th</span></sup></span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">June</span></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Price: will be announced in April</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Music festival on the beach</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a href="http://www.seasessions.com/"><span style="font-size: small;">Click here for website</span></a> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><b>Body and Soul-Solstice Gathering </b></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">(</span></span><span style="color: black;">Ballinlough Castle, Clonmellon, Co. Meath.</span><span style="color: black;"><b>)</b></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> 18<span style="color: black;"><sup>th</sup></span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">& 19</span></span><span style="color: black;"><sup><span style="font-weight: normal;">th</span></sup></span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">June</span></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Price: EB WC €99</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Focus on atmospheric engineering with quirky nooks and crannies. </span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a href="http://www.bodyandsoul.ie/"><span style="font-size: small;">Click here for website</span></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span> </div><div lang="zxx" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><b>Oxegen </b></span><span style="color: black;">(Punchestown Race-course</span><span style="color: black;"><b>, </b></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Co. Kildare)</span></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> <span style="font-weight: normal;">7</span><span style="color: black;"><sup><span style="font-weight: normal;">th</span></sup></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> -10</span></span><span style="color: black;"><sup><span style="font-weight: normal;">th</span></sup></span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">July</span></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Price: 4 day WC €244.50</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Ireland's largest music festival with headline acts The Foo Fighters, Black Eyed Peas, The Strokes, The Arctic Monkeys, Cold Play.....</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a href="http://www.oxegen.ie/"><span style="font-size: small;">Click here for website</span></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><b>Galway Arts Festival</b></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: 0.64cm; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">11</span><span style="color: black;"><sup>th</sup></span><span style="color: black;"> -24</span><span style="color: black;"><sup>th</sup></span><span style="color: black;"> July</span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: 0.64cm; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Price: Free with charge to individual events</span></div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: 0.64cm; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">International celebration of performing and visual arts, attracting over 150,000 annually. </span> </div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: 0.64cm; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a href="http://www.galwayartsfestival.com/"><span style="font-size: small;">Click here for website</span></a> </div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; line-height: 0.64cm; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><b>Castle Palooza </b></span><span style="color: black;">(Charleville Castle, Tullamore Co. Galway) </span></span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">30</span><span style="color: black;"><sup>th</sup></span><span style="color: black;"> & 31</span><span style="color: black;"><sup>st</sup></span><span style="color: black;"> July </span></span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Price: EB WC €59</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Music and Arts Festival</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a href="http://www.castlepalooza.com/"><span style="font-size: small;">Click here for website</span></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><b>Killorglin Puck Fair (Co. Kerry)</b></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">10</span><span style="color: black;"><sup>th</sup></span><span style="color: black;"> - 12</span><span style="color: black;"><sup>th</sup></span><span style="color: black;"> August </span></span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><sup>Price: Free</sup></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><sup>One of Ireland's oldest and most unusual street festivals celebrates the King Pick (make goat) for reasons that have now become blurred...</sup></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a href="http://www.puckfair.ie/"><span style="font-size: small;">Click here for website</span></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><b>Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann</b></span><span style="color: black;"> (Cavan town)</span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"> 13<span style="color: black;"><sup>th</sup></span><span style="color: black;"> - 22</span><span style="color: black;"><sup>nd</sup></span><span style="color: black;">August</span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Price: Free</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">National traditional Irish music festival combining competition, concerts, céilithe, parades, pageants and street sessions.</span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a href="http://comhaltas.ie/events/detail/fleadh_cheoil_na_heireann_2011/"><span style="font-size: small;">Click here for website</span></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
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</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><b>Rose of Tralee (Co. Kerry)</b></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">19</span><span style="color: black;"><sup>th</sup></span><span style="color: black;"> - 23</span><span style="color: black;"><sup>rd</sup></span><span style="color: black;"> August</span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Price: Tickets needed for the live final. But lots of free fun leading up to this. </span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Festival around an international pageant to select a 'rose' from women of Irish descent</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a href="http://roseoftralee.ie/catalog/"><span style="font-size: small;">Click here for website</span></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
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</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><b>Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival </b></span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">All of September</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">Price: Tickets for individual events </span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">Over 150 years old, this month of matchmaking is Europe's biggest singles festival!</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a href="http://www.matchmakerireland.com/"><span style="font-size: small;">Click here for website</span></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
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</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><b>Electric Picnic </b></span><span style="color: black;">(Stradbally Hall, Stradbally village, Co. Laois)</span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">2</span><span style="color: black;"><sup>nd</sup></span><span style="color: black;"> -4</span><span style="color: black;"><sup>th</sup></span><span style="color: black;"> September</span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Price: WC €240</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Funky music and arts festival, has been described as Ireland's answer to Glastonbury. </span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a href="http://www.electricpicnic.ie/"><span style="font-size: small;">Click here for website</span></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
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</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Irish Bog Snorkelling Championships</b> (Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan)</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">10<sup>th</sup> September</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Price: Entry fee TBC</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Fun day of mud and mayhem. </span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a href="http://www.irishbogsnorkelling.com/"><span style="font-size: small;">Click here for website</span></a> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><b>Galway Oyster Festival</b></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">21</span><span style="color: black;"><sup>st</sup></span><span style="color: black;"> – 25</span><span style="color: black;"><sup>th</sup></span><span style="color: black;"> September</span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Price: Buy tickets for individual events</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">Celebration of Oysters Guinness and Craic!</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><a href="http://www.galwayoysterfest.com/"><span style="font-size: small;">Click here for website</span></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </div>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-1099832631830987222011-03-16T02:21:00.000-10:002011-03-16T02:21:05.844-10:00St. Patrick's Festival 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihhCiQoac1LSGY5Bv0mIOZmLiBbN_i64VjORSZD_TkvF-NCnYUmttediuRHUhaBnqYUA4esJ9ASFHO6dRfitSX5JHbzzuVQ_EZ_e_gqEElO4QneTcj_2anVse0qfGfSV_pPPlLVxYa85lB/s1600/gpo_performer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihhCiQoac1LSGY5Bv0mIOZmLiBbN_i64VjORSZD_TkvF-NCnYUmttediuRHUhaBnqYUA4esJ9ASFHO6dRfitSX5JHbzzuVQ_EZ_e_gqEElO4QneTcj_2anVse0qfGfSV_pPPlLVxYa85lB/s320/gpo_performer.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEify8YoEGu4yswUNbfsHmmvZ27LSZyOS1dJ4tpM0AARxIhWp6k1G1JN0-JRhuzNb2EUhre86ZClusNnw-oe3ksInuTDHgfzVVG-8ZeTvoZnmOqlAthuySclXJnHaDk9qKVT8b5Fgj0peZ4U/s1600/big_day_out2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEify8YoEGu4yswUNbfsHmmvZ27LSZyOS1dJ4tpM0AARxIhWp6k1G1JN0-JRhuzNb2EUhre86ZClusNnw-oe3ksInuTDHgfzVVG-8ZeTvoZnmOqlAthuySclXJnHaDk9qKVT8b5Fgj0peZ4U/s320/big_day_out2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ireland's national festival of St. Patrick starts today and will run through the weekend until Sunday 20th March. As the one national holiday that is celebrated in more countries around the world than any other, St. Patrick’s Day is the day when everyone wants to be Irish. If you are, or happen to be in Ireland at the moment, then you're in luck! The festival has a packed <a href="http://www.stpatricksfestival.ie/index.php/events">calender of events </a>encompassing, film, music, comedy, culture, games and family entertainment, as well as the annual impressive firework production Skyfest, this year taking place in Wexford. </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The highlight as always is the St. Patrick's Day Parade which takes place on Thursday starting at . This year's Grand Marshall is Dublin boxer and national hero Katie Taylor. The theme of the parade is based around the short story 'Brilliant' written by Irish author Roddy Doyle for the festival. The story follows the children of Dublin as they try to chase the 'Black Dog of Depression' from Ireland. Doyle's story (available to<a href="http://www.stpatricksfestival.ie/index.php/home"> download here)</a> is apt in its portrayal of Ireland as a people under a dark cloud. The upcoming festival offers some relief from this; it is hoped that a proud and cheerful green will replace black, for the weekend at least. If you are Irish, in Ireland, or just up for the craic, make sure you get it this weekend! Happy St. Patrick's Day!</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">For more information on the St. Patrick's Day Festival please visit the <a href="http://www.stpatricksfestival.ie/index.php/home">Festival's official website. </a> </span></div>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-78389002096335185622011-03-11T03:15:00.000-10:002011-03-11T03:15:45.637-10:00Night out in Kilkenny City<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzAPQbSKlTCOhPxsvqvS3rjIr09wsDDOO7UgG8qTS5VZJMbqXql5fGDbb1H2dDzxZOoA8_g_9DuS7_Jji49iuoCLsPsvgej6kgxoVZShiTCa8mGOfpvm-UI5xZLo0bF_V46Ok9ENYCI8gx/s1600/kilkenny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzAPQbSKlTCOhPxsvqvS3rjIr09wsDDOO7UgG8qTS5VZJMbqXql5fGDbb1H2dDzxZOoA8_g_9DuS7_Jji49iuoCLsPsvgej6kgxoVZShiTCa8mGOfpvm-UI5xZLo0bF_V46Ok9ENYCI8gx/s1600/kilkenny.jpg" /></a></div><div><br />
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</div>A few weeks back I had a fantastic <a href="http://toptipsfortrips.blogspot.com/2011/02/girly-day-in-kilkenny_02.html">Girly Day in Kilkenny</a>. Departing just before dark on a Saturday afternoon, I was dismayed to be leaving the city just as the evening festivities were getting underway. I pledged to myself, and to the readers of The Top Tips for Trips Blog, that I would return soon to sample Kilkenny's famous nightlife. And that I did. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last weekend myself and 16 female female descended on Kilkenny to celebrate a double birthday. Not ones to let our climbing ages prevent us from acting as young as we feel, we decided to stay in Kilkenny Tourist hostel. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This was a good move because</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">a- It was super cheap (€17 pp)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">b-nothing like sharing a room with 12 others to keep you entertained!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">c-the hostel had lots of info on what was happening around the town, all displayed on a blackboard</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was a bad move because</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">a-all bathrooms were shared</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">b-all bathrooms were gross</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">c-The guards were called during the night to apprehend a peeping tom (although to be fair this did add to our list of entertaining stories!)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On a recommendation from our hostel we went to Titlers (on Butterslip) for a pub lunch. The pub is in a lovely old building with lots of little enclaves and cosy corners. Because it was so bright outside it seemed incredibly dark inside, a little too much so for day time drinks, but it did have a very large roofed beer garden for smokers. Food wasn't great. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After a few drinks here I couldn't resist slipping out and doing a spot of <a href="http://toptipsfortrips.blogspot.com/2011/02/girly-day-in-kilkenny_02.html">shopping in Kilkenny. </a> Thirsty after just a few purchases we rejoined the gang in Matt the Millers. They were seated around a giant barrel with its own taps in the centre. Friendly staff and very comfortable, with a good buzz coming from its many different floors. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Back to the hostel for a quick change and in next door to the Italian Connection, where we had a slap up cheap and cheerful italian meal. Wine was flowing. As we stepped back out onto the streets our night had officially begun. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We immediately encountered a couple of bouzies on the path and buzzed off them for a while as we waited for the snake of girls to exit the restaurant. After much arguing back and forth about where to go (I was pushing Bridie's, but to no avail :( ), we gave up scrapping and swung into the nearest spot-The Playwright, across from Titlers. Here we had a couple of drinks while absorbing dins. It definitely was a stop-off spot rather than an all night venue for us, lacking a bit of atmosphere and charm. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well on the way-and on the way again-we trotted (now split from one another) to the Left Bsnk. This is a large and very busy late bar contained in a beautiful old building. It is the kind of place that could be restored into something fabulous and made really chic and stylish-but isn't. Maybe it was once. We pushed our way to the font of the bar to buy a million drinks and then lucked out with an empty landing space where we danced around two stairwells. It might not sound great, but it actually was a great spot-near to the smoking area (again covered), which had a much less busy bar, and lots of room to shake our moves. Things were swinging in the Left Bank, when suddenly it closed. The venue is big enough to be a nightclub so it is a shame its license doesn't allow it be one.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Like dirty dish water we're flung from the Left Bank into crowds coming from bars all over town. It was 1:30 AM and everywhere but three places were closed. Looking around the scene on the streets it was easy to see why Kilkenny chose to smack down on its licensing, an attempt to discourage hens and stags. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hitting the fresh air people immediately donned their rowdy coats-screaming back and forth at one another about where to go next. Of course this wasn't true for everyone; worse for wear girls wander around in a drunken stupor, lost and coatless. The atmosphere was jovial, but just. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We're in flying form, ready for a marathon night of drinking and dancing. We regroup and decide on Morrissons for our next destination. Arriving here it is plain to see that there isn't a spare inch inside. It is heaving. The smell of mass human odour oozes out its doors, where a swaying mob are trying to enter. Skip.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Back to Matt the Millers, where the casual bar from earlier has transformed into a steaming cesspit of leftover punters from now closed pubs. We don't care though-this is the only place we can go-our night is definitely NOT over. Drunkly determined and thirsty we head up the stairs past lines of smooching strangers and red-faced randomers and carve out a corner for ourselves where we can drink, dance and scream the night away.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This ended too early for us too, but there were no more options. Out onto the streets for us and an entertaining meander home with lots of buzz, banter, barneys and well, barfing, from our pedestrian pals. Home to the hostel for an almost pre-teen slumber scenario, swapping tales from the night that was in it and repeating them in the morning for those who had lost their memory in their sleep. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Overall I would say <a href="http://toptipsfortrips.blogspot.com/2011/02/girly-day-in-kilkenny_02.html">Kilkenny Day</a> trumps Kilkenny Night hands down. We all had a great night but it was more funny than fantastic. A touch too Temple Bar for us. Perfect for a hen. Of course we didn't manage to get nearly enough venues in, and I was with a group of 16 girls, so were on that kind of night........I am sure there are lots of lovely , more local-frequenting spots that would sweep me off my feet. Luckily I am back in Kilkenny over the Eater Bank Holiday and will be keeping my eye out for them. If you have any recommendations please send them my way!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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</div>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-39793042296391297382011-03-07T13:33:00.000-10:002011-03-07T13:33:10.963-10:00Paris Revisited: Fresh eye on the French capital<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDOYFTwZh6lxEYCZMyY1HSDFnyWHlre0vltRFYF__y_O1P74Ehv2Jaaa2WQHq0xq0trArey5OhWnAYho4WwPXounfhg-SmdbFyiE4zlKw-0G-5FIiNYhYsXXlbmHOdIN130QUASiRBotpw/s1600/nead6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDOYFTwZh6lxEYCZMyY1HSDFnyWHlre0vltRFYF__y_O1P74Ehv2Jaaa2WQHq0xq0trArey5OhWnAYho4WwPXounfhg-SmdbFyiE4zlKw-0G-5FIiNYhYsXXlbmHOdIN130QUASiRBotpw/s320/nead6.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have recently returned from a 5-day trip to Paris. The French capital is generally perceived as the ultimate European city destination, and it is easy to see why when you begin to check off the boxes-history, architecture, tourist attractions, shopping, cafe culture, romance......for centuries Paris has had it all, and more. But when a city has been so long celebrated, so utterly glamorised and elevated in the eyes of the world, can expectation haze real experience? Is Paris on a pedestal or does it deserve its prestigious reputation? I cast as fresh a pair of eyes as I could (for someone on their third visit in 8 years) over the French capital, looking to see past postcard Paris and evaluate the city as it lives and breathes in 2011. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My first visit to Paris consisted of a hostel stay-one of the worst I've been in, complete with sagging bunks, a curfew, a lock out time during the day and filthy conditions. My second was a 2* hotel with iron-barred windows, bare floors, bug-ridden beds and a fluorescent-lit basement breakfast room. Both were grossly over-priced and substandard. Of course I wouldn't have had much cash to flash on either of my previous visits, but the point here is that you don't </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">even</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> get what you pay for when it comes to accommodation in Paris. The reasons that I can see for this are simple. Paris is an old city, made up of old buildings, many of which have escaped proper </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">modern</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> restoration and continue to allude renovation decades after it is due. Paris is an old city, made up of old buildings. It is rich in history and architecture and therefore many people want to visit it. Demand exceeds supply. Paris grew out, not up, and people like to stay in the centre. Like any competitive market this leads to inflated prices for often sub-standard accommodation. Paris is a year-round destination. With no real off-season and continued demand for accommodation despite the need for a lick of paint or retiling, why would a hotel or hostel proprietor want to close its rusty door for the sake of a face lift? Simple economics and old city charm combine. For those who can afford it, pay big. After all you are in Paris. For those that can't, be content to enjoy the luxury and elegance of the city with the majority, as a shared, public , exterior experience. Who needs to be indoors when after all you are in Paris?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Another option, what turned out to be a third time lucky roll of the dice for me, is to rent an apartment. Half my reason for being in Paris was to source vintage clothing for my sister's online boutique </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/dandeliondaydreamer?ref=si_shop"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Dandelion Daydreamer</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">. To be close to the shops and weekend markets we decided to stay in La Marais, literally 'The Swamp'. The area, which now makes up the 3rd & 4th arrondissiments of Paris, was built on marsh land from the 16th century onwards. Since then it has been a centre of history, politics and the arts. Home of kings, of Napoleon, and home of the ideas of liberty. Home of music and literature, of Mozart and Victor Hugo. And now, the home of the creative, design and fashion elite. Home to the Parisian gay scene. Home to a young, stylish and modern Parisian people. And home to me, for five days anyway. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On walking into our little apartment after a scratch o'clock flight and a 2 hour multi-transfer journey from Charles de Gaulle, I was immediately refreshed and lifted by its stylish mix of fancy-french elegance with modern finishings. We settled in at once, locating our local bouloungarie and toasting our trip with fresh-baked baguettes and oozing cream patisseries. It became our little haven in a hectic city, home for a cup of tea, a wink of sleep, one indulgent bakery binge after the next, and, most importantly, a place to put our Parisian purchases, of which there were many, and then more. We took to apartment living like ducks to water, helped in I suppose by the value of it all. €40 per person per night for a little shelf of our own in that great city. Legitimate locals if just for a few days. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Shopping was a priority for us. Our first few days were spent at markets, some good, some bad, all on the outer, less desirable, limits of the city. The suburbs we visited stood in stark contrast to the exquisite architecture and elegance of the city's historical centre. Grim, grey buildings loomed over heavily littered and unkempt streets. Shop fronts were fluorescent, undressed, unappealing. No trees or greenery broke the grey. Groups of men stood together, leering and whistling at us as we passed. If I din't know I was in Paris, I would have guessed at an Eastern European city, some part of Pest perhaps. It was Paris without its make -up and it wasn't pretty. Deep in the markets of these suburbs however, past the riff-rff fare of pirate DVDs and electronics, amid heaped piles of clothing, shoes and bags, were some utterly splendid vintage finds. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My favourite of the markets was at Monte Marte. There are two distinct areas. The first consists of open-air weekend stalls and is everything I hate in a market-fake branded products sold by heckling vendors. The second, more permanent arrangement, is made up of a labyrinth of winding lanes packed higgeldy-piggeldy with antique boutiques and outlets. Here we encountered a world of wonderful and absurd items, piled high in stores and spilling out onto the lanes, making a mini museum-like obstacle course of our path. War-time trunks, ornate picture frames and mirrors, vintage perfume bottles, jewellery cases, hat pins and brooches, fur coats of every kind, dusty trinkets, yellowed first editions, dainty teas sets, mahogany drinks cabinets, door knobs, parquet floorboards, amoire desks, four poster beds.......all mixed up together with a large sprinkling of dust and a collective odour of must and history. The vendors-many on the kooky side-know that for some these items are gold dust, rather than just dust, and they charge accordingly. Even if you don't intend to spend, a walk around the market is a pleasant way to spend the day off the tourist trail. They don't allow photography, but I couldn't resist sneaking a snap of this fella, just the kind of random thing you can expect to see! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When we had our fill of markets we focused our attention on La Marais. This is a charming place to walk around taking in an array of tempting boutiques, artistic window displays, elegant public spaces, stylish dog walkers and coffee drinkers and lots and lots of vintage shops. </span><br />
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</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For antique lovers Rue St. Paul is a street of dreams. </span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg352fT4pVuMGMV37gtvjp1EY2BCfwJKSKzewvjlxxVud5SUXFMIM4jueB56Fh1z5cS7rCpNHsza6sm1-1bSfNBJNNkUs4YWYGUeyl4SkcQWQhoYyjr7uOm1iz7plQltw_lngn2E_GpWP2r/s1600/image-preview%252811%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg352fT4pVuMGMV37gtvjp1EY2BCfwJKSKzewvjlxxVud5SUXFMIM4jueB56Fh1z5cS7rCpNHsza6sm1-1bSfNBJNNkUs4YWYGUeyl4SkcQWQhoYyjr7uOm1iz7plQltw_lngn2E_GpWP2r/s320/image-preview%252811%2529.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNCj1eW2BPHJIjZJN-vkx_rCZJhx4saZSiAbww0MmrsNp3qBsTHe_aktu96YveHWFq1NyVBCiSKKT9NGw-DDY8D1F55mYI4AqhY90zzwM-Ap1ES5A4WurBl7uvMR5HcGQnkR2Qz3RY7cfQ/s1600/image-preview%25286%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNCj1eW2BPHJIjZJN-vkx_rCZJhx4saZSiAbww0MmrsNp3qBsTHe_aktu96YveHWFq1NyVBCiSKKT9NGw-DDY8D1F55mYI4AqhY90zzwM-Ap1ES5A4WurBl7uvMR5HcGQnkR2Qz3RY7cfQ/s320/image-preview%25286%2529.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Also in La Marais is Hotel de Ville, a lovely recreational open space that includes an ice rink and a beautiful carousel that brought a smiie to my face each time I passed it. I also loved the old-style snack cart selling 'barbe du papa' or 'Father's beard', a lovely name for the sweet treat candy floss. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our shopping did not end in La Marais with our spending money. It wouldn't have been a visit to Paris without a stroll down </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Avenue des </span><em style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Champs</span></em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-</span><em style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Élysées. The wide avenue continues to exude style and elegance, with flagship stores from most of the world's top fashion houses occupying an almost palatial presence on the famous street. There is also a good representation from high street stores, so if your budget is more H&M than </span><em style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Louis Vuitton you don't have to leave empty handed. </span></em></em></span><br />
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</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As you may have noticed from my previous posts on </span><a href="http://toptipsfortrips.blogspot.com/2010/07/glitz-of-biarritz.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Biarritz</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">, </span><a href="http://toptipsfortrips.blogspot.com/2010/07/heavenly-hossegor.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hossegor</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> and </span><a href="http://toptipsfortrips.blogspot.com/2010/07/just-10-minutes-north-of-biarritz-is.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bayonne</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">, I am a lover of French patisseries. From early morning bakery runs to cheeky fly-by macaroons, one of my favourite things about France is their cakey, bakery culture. The minute I stepped into </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 8px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ladurée</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> on </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;"><em style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Champs</span></em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-</span><em style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Élysées</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> I knew I was in for a treat. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ladurée is a luxury cakes and pastries brand based in Paris. It has a long-standing reputation as being the inventor of the double macaroon, of which it sells over 15,000 daily! A glance inside made me weak at the knees. Trays of macaroons and elaborate displays of cakes tempted me from every direction. We were brought to a grand tea room upstairs, where we sat on plush antique chairs at a little table covered in a white cloth. We began to read. Page after page of dessert options almost made me dizzy. We finally settled on a couple to share and almost cried when they arrived and we had to break the artistic creation in order to eat -although of course the eating sweetend this for us! My favourite, pictured below, had so many ingredient combinations that I cannot regurgatate them here, but believe me it was delicious. For me a trip to Paris must include a trip to a </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 12px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ladurée. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></span></span></span></span></em></span></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When not eating cakes there are many restaurant options in Paris. Ambient Cafes line the streets, although I prefer these for a coffee or a glass of wine to rest the feet. Often they have restricted hours on their kitchens. Fine dining is synonymous with France, so there are many high-end gourmet establishments. These come with a price though so more a special treat option than a daily feed. In between the bakery and fine dining I think Paris could do with some bolstering. There are so many tourist traps, serving over-priced, tasteless meals that eating out proves to be a real case of hit or miss and it is often a cheaper and more satisfying bet just to grab a pastry or stop at a roadside </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 12px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><em style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">crêperie. This is not to say that there aren't lovely restaurants, of course there are, but they just need a little teasing out from the tourist traps. Local knowledge in Paris would have you eat out every night in one great place after another, but alone, uninformed and hungry can sometimes result in bad choices and disappointment. To try dodge this it is always good to stay away from major attractions when dining, explore side streets, check out where the locals are eating, spy on other diners' meals from a window.......using these savoury survival techniques we managed to uncover a tapas hideaway that was cozy, delicious and well-priced, as well as a very nice Italian. we also landed a few absolute honkers, but what can you do!</span></em></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 5px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;">It is not acceptable to dodge the capital's famous attractions simply for the sake of your stomach however. Parisian landmarks are amongst the most recognised in the world and are a must-see/must-do for tourists. Luckily for us the Arc de Triomphe is located at the end of the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 10px;"><em style="font-style: normal;">Champs</em>-<em style="font-style: normal;">Élysées. We were able to roll out of Ladurée and immediately encounter the impressive 50m high structure. The Arc, which was commissioned in 1806, honours those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic wars, with the names of all French victories and generals inscribed on its walls. Under the Arc is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The Arc stands <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px;">at the centre of a pentagon-shaped configuration of twelve radiating avenues, a sight that in itself is something to behold. Traffic winds its way around the Arc in a flurry of disorder and chaos. No insurance company will cover a vehicle involved in a crash while navigating this danger zone! </span></em></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-style: normal;">After taking in the Arc we headed via the Metro towards the Eiffel tower. We had spotted it poking its head above the city a couple of times over the past few days, each sighting bringing with it a little excitement and a rushing reminder of where we were. The Iron Lady, as it is commonly known, stretches 324 metres into the sky and is the tallest structure in Paris, as well as the most visited. We arrived on site and marvelled at the sheer size of the tower. The symbol of France, so commonly used and seen and printed, suddenly becomes a giant when you stand underneath it. Apart from appreciating the colossal size of the tower, I prefer viewing the tower from a distance. Walking around a corner and spotting the tower lurking in the distance, or appreciating the fullness of the structure framed and staged from the Trocodero are nicer experiences than moving amongst throngs of tourists snapping iron. Like many a lady, this one is better viewed from a distance. </span></span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;">After our token visit to the tower we again hopped on the Metro and headed towards Notre Damme. Located near La Marias this was a convenient last stop for us to walk home from. Like good tourists we took our photos of the Gothic cathedral and bought a crepe. As we left the crowds of tourists busy flashing their cameras and crossing the cathedral off their lists, I thought of how we had rushed three major attractions into one afternoon. Witnessing the exteriors of these famous architectural buildings, but going no deeper than that. I suppose we were surface tourists. </span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Feeling somewhat guilty about the lack of proper attention I had paid to France's most celebrated structures, I decided to take a red bus tour the following day to learn a little more about the city's history. OK so technically I was cramming Paris into an afternoon again, but this time I was using my ears as well as my eyes. €24 got me a 90 minute round trip complete with an audio guide. I sat on top, as you have to do or you miss everything, and endured the bitter cold as I learnt some interesting facts about the city. Having spent the previous four days underground on the Metro it was wonderful to piece together the landmarks and familiar street names, finally mapping Paris out visually in my head. It was also a great opportunity to appreciate the incredible town planning that Paris is laid upon, symmetry, clean lines, bridges lined with statues, urban gardens and the vast, magnificent Place de La Concorde. The formal layout of Paris is for me more impressive than any single monument, structure or space contained within it. Visually the bus tour provided a great vantage point from which to soak in the city. The audio fell short of stimulating however, with a rather dull recorded commentator offering historical fact and and instructions on where to look. No anecdotes, current affairs, local knowledge, no colour or flavour, it was formal and clipped and dull. A live guide that could entertain and educate simultaneously-somethign akin to a London bus tour-was grossly missed. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Disembarking the bus I couldn't help feeling like more boxes had just been ticked, rather than enjoyed. Historical dates and names of Kings swirled in my head, but soon were lost as I was yet again absorbed by the city swelling around me. Boutiques, boulangeries, intimate cafes, stylish ladies all caught my eye and then blurred as yet another came into sight. The everyday elegance of Paris is what I love. It struck me then, that Parisians do not live in Paris because of its architectural grandeur and aesthetic appeal, rather that this exists because of Parisians. Mentally I threw away the tourist check list-I had no intention of going to the Louvre anyway- and enjoyed my final walk to the apartment. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
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</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">I actually had been to the Louvre a few years before and found the endless galleries quite draining. With no art history education much of the priceless art washed over me and blended to one. I do remember my surprise at seeing how small the Mona Lisa was. It is so easy to big things up. I remember how from a distance her face appeared smooth and as one, but how on closer inspection there were countless cracks and lines. In many ways Paris is like this. It has its cracks, its blemishes, its dirty secrets, but this fade away when you take a step back and evaluate it as a whole. I saw litter on the streets, was served some terrible meals and let crowds of tourists spoil my view of its prestigious landmarks. But distance makes the Eiffel tower more splendid, makes the heart grow fonder and makes Paris more perfect. Every day I stay away makes me want to go back more. The cracks fade in on themselves. That's the magic of Paris I guess. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In honour of the upcoming St. Patrick's Day Festival, Mysterytrips are giving away a fun weekend for 4 friends in Ireland! The Facebook competition is free, quick and easy to enter! </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/notes/mysterytrips/i-love-ireland-competitionwin-a-fun-mystery-weekend-for-4-in-ireland/151368791588936"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Click here to enter</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> for your chance to win. Good Luck! </span><br />
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/notes/mysterytrips/i-love-ireland-competitionwin-a-fun-mystery-weekend-for-4-in-ireland/151368791588936"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mysterytrips Facebook Page</span></a>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-86254112524069343412011-02-24T01:50:00.000-10:002011-02-24T01:50:28.133-10:00POLL: What are your Favourite European Destinations?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9jDXNA6vL3qPxOytKZy9L_28QEpGiNItGh690tymQs8RL2H1-A70wEsgUmjFWlJbu_Fq5nUUvCSW9L1eNvBUGmLO88gLULhiDccEEC4AVDCIbuCW8Ag9-GICtavSefuL-m388LJa8wimf/s1600/Voting1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9jDXNA6vL3qPxOytKZy9L_28QEpGiNItGh690tymQs8RL2H1-A70wEsgUmjFWlJbu_Fq5nUUvCSW9L1eNvBUGmLO88gLULhiDccEEC4AVDCIbuCW8Ag9-GICtavSefuL-m388LJa8wimf/s320/Voting1.jpeg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As part of our European City Break Season I have put together a list of 20 destinations that I want YOU to vote on! Help me to put together a Top Ten list by voting on the poll to the right. You can vote for more than one city .... so no need to spend hours deciding! It takes just a few seconds to vote for your favourite cities so please cast your vote now!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If your favourite city does not feature then don't let it be left behind...comment here and I will add it in :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thank You!</span>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-33686212516693157232011-02-22T01:19:00.000-10:002011-02-22T01:19:44.582-10:00City Break Season<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJaNgH9sdx6MxVWnDZDDha4xNAZ034HAgStZAHXZ3as_VDKVmPWc56flUHTc_3q283QDjnkHs_uSxJGZ3ZoTbep0rUfwq6DC6DqIn9_oY8U5G5ub_jWRnMDVpApmS-iOUMZOyk_BzSjlT/s1600/400_F_1220413_RyCMAxdHw67dnJcG4aFPC0OBqVJxcm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJaNgH9sdx6MxVWnDZDDha4xNAZ034HAgStZAHXZ3as_VDKVmPWc56flUHTc_3q283QDjnkHs_uSxJGZ3ZoTbep0rUfwq6DC6DqIn9_oY8U5G5ub_jWRnMDVpApmS-iOUMZOyk_BzSjlT/s320/400_F_1220413_RyCMAxdHw67dnJcG4aFPC0OBqVJxcm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://t1.ftcdn.net/jpg/00/01/22/04/400_F_1220413_RyCMAxdHw67dnJcG4aFPC0OBqVJxcm.jpg">mage source</a></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Spring is the awakening season for more than just nature. It is generally the time of year when that traveller's itch starts to itch that bit more! With Winter over and the Summer in sight the urge to get out of the house, the town, the country becomes unbearable. Given that it is still too cold/wet/elementally unreliable to plan an excursion based solely on outdoors living and pursuits, we flock in our thousands to various cities across Europe looking to scratch that itch with some urban sampling of the foreign variety. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Over the next few weeks the Top Tips for Trips Blog will focus on European city destinations and what they offer the itchy tourist :)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Having just returned from a 5 day trip to Paris (in case you're wondering I was not swept there for a romantic Valentine's weekend....a girly shopping spree took priority!), the French capital is first on my list for review. Still itchy after the spree I immediately booked a weekend in Berlin on my return-so I will end my city break season with a review of the German capital. In between expect lots of tips for city breaks in Europe, including my top ten picks! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For now I leave you with a word of advice: If you want to fit in a mini-break between now and summer NOW is the time to book :)</span></div>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-66916481297827482272011-02-05T15:00:00.003-10:002011-02-05T15:00:00.887-10:00Valentines' Weekend Ideas<style type="text/css">
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</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you missed our interview on Spin this afternoon then here is a little round up of some ideas and offers for this Valentine's weekend in Ireland. </span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </div><div style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Dublin Dates on the cheap</b></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dublin might not have the same romantic connotations as the amorous and atmospheric Paris or Rome. However on a technicality it is THE destination to go to if you want to celebrate Valentine's day properly. And by properly I mean acknowledging the 'saint' part of the holiday. This is because Dublin is home to the relics of the patron saint of lovers. St. Valentine's remains reside at the Whitefriar Street Church, Aungeir St. Couples are welcome to visit the church and pray to the saint year round, but the 14th February in particular is a busy day as there are two special 'blessing of the rings' ceremonies held at 11 AM and 3:15 PM. Many soon to be wed couples have their marital bands blessed here, hoping to start their marriage on a good foot!</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
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</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">There is nothing more romantic than climbing to the top of the world and enjoying the view with your lover. You share a sense of achievement in getting to the top and then pleasure in admiring the world below. This is probably why hilltops are traditionally popular locations for marriage proposals! But don't worry; you don't have to propose just because your on an incline...! For south-siders Killiney hill offers stunning views; for north-siders Howth Head with it's view of <a href="http://toptipsfortrips.blogspot.com/2010/08/my-favourite-place-in-ireland-isthe.html">the Howth peninsula</a> and beyond is breathtaking. If you are a lazy lover that likes the idea of a view without the climb then take a ride on the Dublin eye. Enjoy the cityscape with zero effort and a glass of champagne in your hand!</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglvaoKwwQ6jCyp6iZW-OSpsmCqaw6bSPRzwr9ZQA_3I01MPyj5xKshnQSpwaicizqAhoASWQAj_hAtzsp9H8XMYIRHXg3q7TWNTKo94-j6Sao6K54DMMml4-zfd48rTaoBNXoPX0wKDnyr/s1600/157721874ZswRwx_fs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglvaoKwwQ6jCyp6iZW-OSpsmCqaw6bSPRzwr9ZQA_3I01MPyj5xKshnQSpwaicizqAhoASWQAj_hAtzsp9H8XMYIRHXg3q7TWNTKo94-j6Sao6K54DMMml4-zfd48rTaoBNXoPX0wKDnyr/s320/157721874ZswRwx_fs.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"> View from Killiney Hill</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi-BU-lk7rkG02omCb1_nEeCIgpKE3Ujuab5qFsA7Fjzc-p9S6O8b0tWQeubE0Z6smpaGfm_Z-L5YXFOYFRzHdPG0Tb_Q4Plv2fum3Q3nascOxgm6Q4fnODIkH2PENt9fSwas8Ei5ZuHM5/s1600/dublin_panorama2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi-BU-lk7rkG02omCb1_nEeCIgpKE3Ujuab5qFsA7Fjzc-p9S6O8b0tWQeubE0Z6smpaGfm_Z-L5YXFOYFRzHdPG0Tb_Q4Plv2fum3Q3nascOxgm6Q4fnODIkH2PENt9fSwas8Ei5ZuHM5/s400/dublin_panorama2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">View from Howth Head</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPxMtMdQWxqgfnkskB2I9J0GBVuoHFwEOY6-DI1SIiOxQodZv5QiiAa7sUTGYFMHPyVqAFMGaDL99EB-kWmktqCHb41A_EEMtYMx11fztyVRW80ii_i3mHqgc3-pEjMZQxjtXG89bYDHZv/s1600/3314942538_193c620df5_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPxMtMdQWxqgfnkskB2I9J0GBVuoHFwEOY6-DI1SIiOxQodZv5QiiAa7sUTGYFMHPyVqAFMGaDL99EB-kWmktqCHb41A_EEMtYMx11fztyVRW80ii_i3mHqgc3-pEjMZQxjtXG89bYDHZv/s320/3314942538_193c620df5_z.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you have worked up a hunger after your hike - or are simply just hungry-there are lots of Dublin restaurants offering romantic meals this year, too many to mention! Like the rest of Ireland, Dublin's restaurant industry is currently a competition of value. 'La carte' is in the hands of the diner, so shop around and you will be sure to get an intimate, tasty Valentine's meal with a price tag that won't break your heart! </span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</span> </div><div style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Hotel Breaks </b></span></div><div style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">Irish hotels love Valentine's. Most put together enticing weekend packages to tempt courting couples. Like restaurants there are many great deals to be had. Invest a bit of time researching what is on offer before you decide and your patience will be rewarded! In saying that there is just ONE WEEK left to Valentine's weekend so get moving! </span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">Here are some of my top picks for Valentine's with an activity twist:</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><b>Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa</b> has put together a package that includes a stunning starlit kayak paddle for two through the water. Enjoy a gourmet picnic and marvel at the bio-luminessence in the water as you float along. </span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">WARNING: Not all couples are suited to manning a two-man kayak together (personal experience!). Unless you work well as a team this love boat could turn into the divorce boat! </span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black; font-size: small;">But even if you have a frustrated lovers tiff on the water you should make up over the rest of your weekend. </span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: small;">Package includes 2 nights bed and breakfast accommodation, 1 gourmet evening meal, access to the spa facilities (including a warm saltwater pool), the starlight kayak experience with picnic basket. €336 pp. Package available throughout February. To book <a href="http://www.inchydoneyisland.com/">click here. </a></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
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</style> </div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Clonakilty's <b>Fernhill House Hotel and Gardens</b> has also put together an activity package, this time swapping a kayak for a horse. This package includes 1 night Bed and Brealfast in the newly refurbished bedrooms, gourmet dinner for two, winter picnic and a one hour Horse riding lesson at Kingston's Horse Riding School all for €125 pps.</span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: medium;">This next package is gimmick led and extremely corny, but I thought I'd include it anyways for the sickly-sweet hell of it! </span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><style type="text/css">
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</style> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Rathmullan House</b> in Donegal has a package especially for couples who are Nuts About Each Other. Guests get to plant a nut tree in the hotel grounds to symbolise that they are madly in love. Not only will they receive a Nuts About Each Other certificate giving details of their tree, couples also but get a complimentary upgrade at the hotel whenever they return to check on its progress (how enterprising!).</span></div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: medium;">A one night package starts at €135 pp.If you are nuts enough to book <a href="http://www.rathmullanhouse.com/">click here!</a> </span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><span style="color: red;">Thrifty Tip:</span></b> If you like this idea, but can't afford the hotel stay then DIY by heading to your local garden centre and buying a packet of seeds for a fiver. You'll have to make your own certificate in Word, but if you're lucky there will be a squirrel nearby who can validate it for you both....... </span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
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</div><div align="LEFT" style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Bed and Breakfast Country Breaks </b> </span></div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Hotel breaks can be expensive, but you can enjoy a romantic getaway for less by sticking with B & B accommodation. There are heaps of lovely Bed and Breakfasts around Ireland, lots with a very high standard -almost like boutique hotels-and almost all with extremely helpful and friendly staff! Expect to pay about €30-€40 pp. p/n for an en-suite room and endless local knowledge! This is a great option for people who love exploring the countryside and village life. Both <a href="http://www.bandbireland.com/">www.bandbireland.com</a><a href="http://www.bandbireland.com/">www.bandbireland.com</a> and <a href="http://www.bedandbreakfastireland.net/">www.bedandbreakfastireland.net</a><a href="http://www.bedandbreakfastireland.net/">http://www.bedandbreakfastireland.net/</a> are good sites for sourcing accommodation. </span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />
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</div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: medium;">For people who usually hide under their (single) duvet until the soppy holiday passes and the dessert-sharing lovers go back indoors. there are some single friendly Valentine's weekend options out there! </span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />
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</span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b>TullAmoré Matchmaking Festival </b><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: medium;">If you are looking for love this Valentine's then the </span></span>TullAmoré Matchmaking Festival may be just the ticket! <span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: medium;">The inaugural festival </span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: medium;">takes place between the 11-13th February and is pitched as a celebration of life, friendship and love. Three days of events in the Offally ton centre around the headliner Black tie Valentine's Ball @ the Bridge House Hotel in aid of the Irish Heart Foundation. Ball tickets cost €100, a steal considering professional 4th generation matchmaker, Claire Daly, will be on hand to offer her services. You can't put a price on love! A 2 night B & B stay at the hotel cost €110 pps. Visit the <a href="http://www.bridgehouse.com/">Bridge House Hotel website </a>or the <a href="http://www.tull-amore.com/">festival site</a> for more details. </span></span></div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHLQpEktHfK-LFoQdUSlBiocy6HnpEpiHN9H_06tfBVzdQ39qxT4JxJUSyZtrcFzlGU5S1yTF0V13FM8bNX_-N2AH9wzvTbk3j4A-5GXzqIyXeH_eNWUaxFxkE1q84dNbunl2UEEK0toXS/s1600/tml.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHLQpEktHfK-LFoQdUSlBiocy6HnpEpiHN9H_06tfBVzdQ39qxT4JxJUSyZtrcFzlGU5S1yTF0V13FM8bNX_-N2AH9wzvTbk3j4A-5GXzqIyXeH_eNWUaxFxkE1q84dNbunl2UEEK0toXS/s320/tml.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div align="LEFT" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
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</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Pour Moi @ the Mayrick hotel Galway</span></b></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgVWWwN-ik7Xjualuf2eFRQOYTdrDnsej2mcmPD1c6nPm-qCV6XKl9FEi-Q8TjvFIZsL105N_tKqBMsnkPgqQoaoUr8_6qq76qL6VLFztlwjK2PWsNOGaWnshxCTwzc9tjNiedoHj5jhtI/s1600/125_exterior2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;">The Galway city hotel is running a Pour Moi package with a variety of fun activities laid on for singletons.These include a welcome treat on arrival (strictly not of the heart-shaped variety), a soothing hot stone back massage and a singles cocktail party in the Basement Bar that night. You can choose between 5 dates over the weekend. A single occupancy room is priced at €165, but if you bring a pulling partner or wing man it works out @ €110 pp. To book your place <a href="http://www.hotelmeyrick.ie/">click here!</a></span><br />
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Hope this has inspired some nice trips for the upcoming weekend! For me it is fingers crossed that my other half reads this and cops on that I would love to be swept away..............likely :(<br />
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Happy Valentines!<br />
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</span></span></span></div><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-84303269806321492832011-02-03T22:53:00.000-10:002011-02-03T22:53:49.750-10:00Valentine's tips on Dublin's Spin 103.8 FM<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJKXMqtW97zhcTXTrHMC-bQIrVbWeqxfHlvfpZ5n6WzqDRZFeQ_qhTL06D8yNlpRLnutAn0pPSZD_lJ6ONtD1Ro9J7E5fuv3YhZds_JLs6rr10AoRINUBsmPEBFIIFwAtvm2WdCqeZF4WP/s1600/Spin_1038-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJKXMqtW97zhcTXTrHMC-bQIrVbWeqxfHlvfpZ5n6WzqDRZFeQ_qhTL06D8yNlpRLnutAn0pPSZD_lJ6ONtD1Ro9J7E5fuv3YhZds_JLs6rr10AoRINUBsmPEBFIIFwAtvm2WdCqeZF4WP/s320/Spin_1038-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Tune in to <a href="http://spin1038.com/onair/shows/planb/">Plan B</a> on Dublin's Spin 103.8 FM tomorrow (Sat 5th Feb) between at 11:45 AM and 1:45 PM (most likely @ 1:20 PM) to hear me talking all things Valentines' with Spin presenter Michelle Beatty. We will be discussing ideas for trips in Ireland to suit all budgets, as well as some suggestions for singletons! If you miss the show no need to worry, you will find all the info discussed here on The Top Tips Blog after it has aired. </span>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-83604720041157131412011-02-02T09:21:00.002-10:002011-02-02T09:31:44.594-10:00Girly Day in Kilkenny<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghbrPHJLDAQ7JE6-pNpgxTb0zlED82EjxSy7ppdd9482vg-k2M-kLlZ4azKYzq6mEAOY_ppzdhN87lf_zBXDD6oZsF5OtqSh0h1gOPNZXHWFaAB3T4U4Gr4jgRknk3F_PsKxJUHqiEey34/s1600/13e925c1-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghbrPHJLDAQ7JE6-pNpgxTb0zlED82EjxSy7ppdd9482vg-k2M-kLlZ4azKYzq6mEAOY_ppzdhN87lf_zBXDD6oZsF5OtqSh0h1gOPNZXHWFaAB3T4U4Gr4jgRknk3F_PsKxJUHqiEey34/s1600/13e925c1-a.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3f5M3i9NIO8euV_1BHvJr3D4y_0NN8VHwtPGD4KDEt02KULtPv9R8yQAlxeX_XHQzktWmhTN2GOXW7e_lxTNWJMHyH9MR3nicJhWK9t0uDZwnsoG7tKEdKPIdUlV7SqsTWAhfykzy-WKX/s1600/kilk2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3f5M3i9NIO8euV_1BHvJr3D4y_0NN8VHwtPGD4KDEt02KULtPv9R8yQAlxeX_XHQzktWmhTN2GOXW7e_lxTNWJMHyH9MR3nicJhWK9t0uDZwnsoG7tKEdKPIdUlV7SqsTWAhfykzy-WKX/s320/kilk2.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZV9suo_Abpmod3BLQSE9HRoHe0mtMb3ohYjBM__-oM_ZdFXBOUJg7cZcwX36iYaqyMG9bW5f8nD-c8jH7MG7KoRL40H_xotKp7N3CjDmypHLnp7jZ-7Vm9d3LdVkcpr_UhA0Amrn1EE6F/s1600/125566138_0e0579f3e2_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZV9suo_Abpmod3BLQSE9HRoHe0mtMb3ohYjBM__-oM_ZdFXBOUJg7cZcwX36iYaqyMG9bW5f8nD-c8jH7MG7KoRL40H_xotKp7N3CjDmypHLnp7jZ-7Vm9d3LdVkcpr_UhA0Amrn1EE6F/s320/125566138_0e0579f3e2_o.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Last weekend I spent the day in Kilkenny. It is 15 years since I last visited the city, so remembering very little of my childhood visit, I literary came to it with a fresh pair of eyes. I loved what I saw.</div></div><table border="0" cellpadding="8" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: left; width: 662px;"><col width="646"></col><tbody>
<tr><td valign="TOP" width="646"><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: black;">Located in central Ireland on the river Nore, Kilkenny is a medieval city with a population of about 24,000 people. It is acclaimed internationally as a centre for craft and design, for its beautiful castle and its lively and atmospheric spirit. The old city is characterised by exquisitely restored buildings and narrow winding slip ways. It is small enough that you can explore on foot, yet so packed with fascinating historical architecture, treasure chest shops, design galleries and cosy pubs and restaurants that you could easily pass a carefree weekend here.</span></div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: black;">Kilkenny was named after a 6th century monk St Canice.His memory lives on in the beautifully restored St Canices Cathedral, built overlooking the city in the 13th century. Kilkenny Castle , one of Ireland's finest, was built by the Normans who arrived in the city during the 12th century. A visit to the castle is an absolute must for newcomers to Kilkenny. At €6 entrance fee per adult and discounts for seniors, families and students it is a very affordable tourist attraction. The Office of Public Works, charged with the restoration and upkeep of the castle, should be commended for keeping entrance fees so low, as well as keeping the castle in such good knick of course! For visitor information visit the <a href="http://www.kilkennycastle.ie/en/">Kilkenny Castle website.</a></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij_wf6fnOI_85b4XGW7aEG_ylJKgCkcIO79K0gacE4T8Cv6cRxoH6FLCgcdXKjEUvBBUObK8gDPm-Oe6DLeDF_dLeZsQg39JEwcOQauvo3o2Pu0NDpLb3a2jib0zD2Pm8UIZcRLL8sbLuH/s1600/80.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij_wf6fnOI_85b4XGW7aEG_ylJKgCkcIO79K0gacE4T8Cv6cRxoH6FLCgcdXKjEUvBBUObK8gDPm-Oe6DLeDF_dLeZsQg39JEwcOQauvo3o2Pu0NDpLb3a2jib0zD2Pm8UIZcRLL8sbLuH/s320/80.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="252" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
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</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: black;">Kilkenny city may be old in structure, but it is young at heart It is one of Ireland's creative hubs, home to many independent artists and musicians, design centres and studios- including the renowned Kilkenny design centre- and even its very own Oscar-nominated animation studio, Cartoon saloon. There is a definite arty vibe here. Creative charm and retro chique combines with quaint and cosy comforts to deliver a warm and inspiring environment. It is a free-spirited town with a welcoming atmosphere, helped along by friendly relaxed locals in friendly, relaxed venues.</span></div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6RoKUQCmgqnkwlvkaITIqyuN3Mtl14wWb97CBmg-5KmrX-X2RP8fqk0v3geImAa32cfx8QF7LcFdt3EUy-0UczhMQavs37uFcXVwAnx3Q7GUd2RIi0c_zCuoHEG-yL0aPE92yESqz2WEB/s1600/dandeliondaydreamer2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6RoKUQCmgqnkwlvkaITIqyuN3Mtl14wWb97CBmg-5KmrX-X2RP8fqk0v3geImAa32cfx8QF7LcFdt3EUy-0UczhMQavs37uFcXVwAnx3Q7GUd2RIi0c_zCuoHEG-yL0aPE92yESqz2WEB/s320/dandeliondaydreamer2.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJd1tI2YQL848hsQyjrEn7idlTa5FOhMIySCPtIQGnCcBF5J1hgdD0JoWZ_40AqAnPOaEqUBSNrnX5wwYpe8IlwOxSKSSWh1HXHe6tlhOnk_eWQA7CcEFX0AcbUYQeRXzHk7_xwqpQfae4/s1600/kilk1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJd1tI2YQL848hsQyjrEn7idlTa5FOhMIySCPtIQGnCcBF5J1hgdD0JoWZ_40AqAnPOaEqUBSNrnX5wwYpe8IlwOxSKSSWh1HXHe6tlhOnk_eWQA7CcEFX0AcbUYQeRXzHk7_xwqpQfae4/s320/kilk1.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
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</div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="color: black;">One of the most charismatic spots in Kilkenny is definitely Bridie's General Stores. We were just minutes on the street when we passed its magical window display and were forced to slink in for a pre-mature coffee. stop Few could resist the tantalising tarts and fancies that devilishly lure you through the door. Once inside there is more to delight. Floor to ceiling shelves of glass jars filled with old-style sweets greet you. A glance at those forgotten- familiar treats had my mouth watering for days gone by. Childhood nostalgia out of the way,you can slip through the swing doors that lead to a wonderfully charming old-world bar. Even empty and in the light of day this place oozed atmosphere. Through the bar again is a stylish-heated-beer garden. Whatever your vice-a tipple, a smoke, or just a sweet tooth- Bridie's will be sure to cater for all.</span></div></td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd2QwAvEagKPSkqiVisL0txMFDBVZL4eA3QvCnN35HXqdA8ykJZl3yNgVSWKcRhiPOKbty9h0k4Ha6dSW7GrfYuMIEJdMPEIHKlynhW9dzeVQEaMxVU_4sMU5qexg70wDOzh7V78xH0QAu/s1600/dandeliondaydreamer3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd2QwAvEagKPSkqiVisL0txMFDBVZL4eA3QvCnN35HXqdA8ykJZl3yNgVSWKcRhiPOKbty9h0k4Ha6dSW7GrfYuMIEJdMPEIHKlynhW9dzeVQEaMxVU_4sMU5qexg70wDOzh7V78xH0QAu/s320/dandeliondaydreamer3.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgssyiNh3VJC5rCWqy4V9J86R12xCDnf6GyyXhXon2fKir2JglnUYmA5WhdFn6sSgu2JMsL8mJsppRNZSHXd5pvWCQbxDqyv9GmxM9u_kmL2bFm2Cbtvw3m2PAYMXzYhZ8uGpiVAzjQpeJq/s1600/dandelion+daydreamer5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgssyiNh3VJC5rCWqy4V9J86R12xCDnf6GyyXhXon2fKir2JglnUYmA5WhdFn6sSgu2JMsL8mJsppRNZSHXd5pvWCQbxDqyv9GmxM9u_kmL2bFm2Cbtvw3m2PAYMXzYhZ8uGpiVAzjQpeJq/s320/dandelion+daydreamer5.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">Want to see more of Bridie's? Check out this little slide show :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/JZ4MVkvFUTI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Leaving Bridie's in a dreamy haze we hit the shops. Most of the high-street chains can be found here, and for the thrifty shopper I counted at least 5 charity stores. The highlights for me however were the little boutiques, treasure chest everything stores and hide-away vintage shops. My sister and I through the town gathering a bundle of unnecessary, must-have delights. Luckily we were travelling in a van :) <a href="http://www.dandeliondaydreamer.blogspot.com/">Dandelion Daydreamer</a>, my sister's blog, has covered the many lovely shops we visited. But if you just want a saeak peak then here are some photos that are sure to get you counting you saving for a spree in Kilkenny.</div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNiv9Pjx4PC6NzQfTGLQMtEoxA8fBt1G9aXrlmDIm22peu6dSqOcHI4-t2D3Rzh-dsbZ1liyfK81Lob0GOdx9RFuZn6k1hwRzyOz1RVxW6dtbhLLTeIPE7HnMkcGAuTs2V9MU5w2PSS9fJ/s1600/dandeliondaydreamer5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNiv9Pjx4PC6NzQfTGLQMtEoxA8fBt1G9aXrlmDIm22peu6dSqOcHI4-t2D3Rzh-dsbZ1liyfK81Lob0GOdx9RFuZn6k1hwRzyOz1RVxW6dtbhLLTeIPE7HnMkcGAuTs2V9MU5w2PSS9fJ/s320/dandeliondaydreamer5.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">Butterslip-a haven for trinkets and jewellery </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNFcwRhJfOBTimTREwj_K9jSPseMG3W2-CQscPo7vGFBAZCubofTsXovSpBA_gm8s6ezI0Av6_phQ5mofA6M-zpN7zIj5K68t_sgxTXK95VaXrDU1pXb4jJBwjKYA385jIBfxfy1MSZc1N/s1600/dandeliondaydreamer6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNFcwRhJfOBTimTREwj_K9jSPseMG3W2-CQscPo7vGFBAZCubofTsXovSpBA_gm8s6ezI0Av6_phQ5mofA6M-zpN7zIj5K68t_sgxTXK95VaXrDU1pXb4jJBwjKYA385jIBfxfy1MSZc1N/s320/dandeliondaydreamer6.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGEiNbwa10BtnnnTOvdrHDux3ijW9tDQdlE30lUYKNr68Zmc-PVt56xJHnwgWvnxFj3nHq02JFrNIrHIk7OvJIEJNVAk0rdK3GcIdI_vRyVMZbxrS9Q6xZCzhIbvxhtIwxTjP1DkgkW1dw/s1600/dandeliondaydreamer7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGEiNbwa10BtnnnTOvdrHDux3ijW9tDQdlE30lUYKNr68Zmc-PVt56xJHnwgWvnxFj3nHq02JFrNIrHIk7OvJIEJNVAk0rdK3GcIdI_vRyVMZbxrS9Q6xZCzhIbvxhtIwxTjP1DkgkW1dw/s320/dandeliondaydreamer7.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc1hDgxze8PZfdkaa9sdH5Ba0BmGveWUdUdWZDYsfPZYmYA3Qvff4pAX1YdjqZm2Ypwx8wmgxpWq6sFMBLYK5yxwMOjKKGC6mShVclKCEjQr0dxLMuzWk4tHYqwly8V5PPuggxJtkYtLwV/s1600/dandeliondaydreamer9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc1hDgxze8PZfdkaa9sdH5Ba0BmGveWUdUdWZDYsfPZYmYA3Qvff4pAX1YdjqZm2Ypwx8wmgxpWq6sFMBLYK5yxwMOjKKGC6mShVclKCEjQr0dxLMuzWk4tHYqwly8V5PPuggxJtkYtLwV/s320/dandeliondaydreamer9.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">Yesterdays-O so lovely French style furnishings and interiors</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5L2XpqgOmUgBvGTPdh7aoCJ6qOgcrnvndV-yTEP2-QvKACkR8QOfiP7qhXrVLFghq64lyAIMk7UZwe4Z9k2QZdAaQB_ja7Oms9gwCahJtEw19uZOgjHjo4aGHiblURHxbFfBdNLQ1oXd1/s1600/dandeliondaydreamer12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5L2XpqgOmUgBvGTPdh7aoCJ6qOgcrnvndV-yTEP2-QvKACkR8QOfiP7qhXrVLFghq64lyAIMk7UZwe4Z9k2QZdAaQB_ja7Oms9gwCahJtEw19uZOgjHjo4aGHiblURHxbFfBdNLQ1oXd1/s320/dandeliondaydreamer12.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvzFVHasP4PL0eujvy-8qAyIXBsqul9Vql3keIX2qYuvVoBqRlFt0D98hRpiPiQl0sUAKT7bo5wQLaYq_5T_PNJx7EYvewe__dGxPrrnzgLReRiIWkyyHxdlGHANEpdJHf_bQNPV4I75lg/s1600/dandeliondaydreamer13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvzFVHasP4PL0eujvy-8qAyIXBsqul9Vql3keIX2qYuvVoBqRlFt0D98hRpiPiQl0sUAKT7bo5wQLaYq_5T_PNJx7EYvewe__dGxPrrnzgLReRiIWkyyHxdlGHANEpdJHf_bQNPV4I75lg/s320/dandeliondaydreamer13.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="258" /></a></div>Smoking Lily -vintage clothing<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjrvuEunxwDr-Q8OAeCKnyzj31YI8nbgrAGL6FiKER_fZ77jB5KRQqVsvZsP6OKrFOfYGEhbfszsWjCmeCCtFrQGi7X3H0ri3NmahDfSmoMijZ7WAvRGUArcVpoJBUzR8seaDEzOrlwSbJ/s1600/dandeliondaydreamer14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjrvuEunxwDr-Q8OAeCKnyzj31YI8nbgrAGL6FiKER_fZ77jB5KRQqVsvZsP6OKrFOfYGEhbfszsWjCmeCCtFrQGi7X3H0ri3NmahDfSmoMijZ7WAvRGUArcVpoJBUzR8seaDEzOrlwSbJ/s320/dandeliondaydreamer14.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="260" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYXTJk76JQLfG_4GJqqIoD2TEL4BH1K_YnRtbjryYnNU10mJljmplu_wHdjO-QGnB8vYZI0cnFhM6JIv7DbdAn_dkTHNM9zJZBxwlDwY-hZZr7yIFdNo0ggQeTT3O2A9NPWy9jFvUo6Ln/s1600/dandeliondaydreamer15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYXTJk76JQLfG_4GJqqIoD2TEL4BH1K_YnRtbjryYnNU10mJljmplu_wHdjO-QGnB8vYZI0cnFhM6JIv7DbdAn_dkTHNM9zJZBxwlDwY-hZZr7yIFdNo0ggQeTT3O2A9NPWy9jFvUo6Ln/s320/dandeliondaydreamer15.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="257" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">Shutterbug-Photography studio and second hand store</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
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</div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Exhausted after splurging in the shops we decided to splurge over lunch instead. With so many cafes and restaurants to choose from we found ourselves in a dining dilemma. When in doubt, ask a local. We were directed to Cafe Mocha on the main street and am I glad we were! A giant toy soldier at the door invited us up the stairs and into the restaurant. Inside the country kitchen style cafe we struggled to choose from a tempting menu and then struggled even harder not to look at the cake display while waiting for our lunch. Luckily our food arrived quickly, and it was gone nearly as quick. Delicious home-style cooking with bags of flavour- the only thing after a day on your feet! </div></div></span></span><br />
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</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We weren't lucky enough to experience Kilkenny after dark, but I am assured that the nightlife is kicking! However, not one to take someone else's word for it, I am already booked in for a night out in Kilkenny in early March.....All in the name of research of course! Once I have sufficiently sampled the pubs and clubs I will report back to the Top Tips Blog! For now I just have to save my pennies so I can hit all those lovely shops again in March....</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTJEfSFvhDdIaHGYf6CEyz4uEACVeVrF3pIW04CaFEgCl2eZ9IYGG8-eKIganV9IXLUjQDLi0z6biKGBvz5G5N8xrEVq2sjqhnh9mvYy8FJPxUJy30V_lew5burBlZeq_qwSrLPY8f8DcQ/s1600/kilkenny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTJEfSFvhDdIaHGYf6CEyz4uEACVeVrF3pIW04CaFEgCl2eZ9IYGG8-eKIganV9IXLUjQDLi0z6biKGBvz5G5N8xrEVq2sjqhnh9mvYy8FJPxUJy30V_lew5burBlZeq_qwSrLPY8f8DcQ/s320/kilkenny.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></span></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To keep up with news and events in Kilkenny visit the </span><a href="http://www.kilkennytourism.ie/">Kilkenny Tourism website. </a></div></div>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-38733163925492456172011-02-01T04:58:00.000-10:002011-02-01T04:58:59.842-10:00Spring is in the air! Famous quotes about springtime<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDIoAI3d6vA-CeCJaBrMzj-shy56uNLDyVfHB3gvtvcW41Dl1BoHhC4BxnYsKReYOY73mw649mLJ_ite-PPSO387VOhwOs_U6211vsNQJPPloHwvLd5XFdDK2_BA1-IEmuMkDrHARCTrii/s1600/spring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDIoAI3d6vA-CeCJaBrMzj-shy56uNLDyVfHB3gvtvcW41Dl1BoHhC4BxnYsKReYOY73mw649mLJ_ite-PPSO387VOhwOs_U6211vsNQJPPloHwvLd5XFdDK2_BA1-IEmuMkDrHARCTrii/s400/spring.jpg" width="400" /></span></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://stopdrinktax.files.wordpress.com/2009/01/spring.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Click for image source</span></span></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYHYhDFCdvB5zQKqwxkgSTrFk4E-d8D_fDMS8XBE-iFjp13W9wicrPV9rd3tm4iJZY7xtCED7LuspoVGEY2ljQfY0lAu-l537ODuXUyjHa9WqHJV7qeHcuG_gkpQX50Kau0Y_ysxQl2dnu/s1600/springAUSTIN0702_468x594.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYHYhDFCdvB5zQKqwxkgSTrFk4E-d8D_fDMS8XBE-iFjp13W9wicrPV9rd3tm4iJZY7xtCED7LuspoVGEY2ljQfY0lAu-l537ODuXUyjHa9WqHJV7qeHcuG_gkpQX50Kau0Y_ysxQl2dnu/s400/springAUSTIN0702_468x594.jpg" width="315" /></span></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://img.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2008/02_01/springAUSTIN0702_468x594.jpg">Click for image source</a></span></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today we can officially wave goodbye to the winter blues and welcome -warmly-the arrival of spring! It might still be cold, it might still be wet, but the evenings are lengthening by the rooster's step (as my Grandad would put it) and the eternal optimism of spring is in the air. It's in my step too :) </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For me Spring is about getting back outdoors, taking weekend mini-breaks and planning for your summer trips....all of which will be covered here on The Top Tips for Trips Blog over the coming months. If you still have one foot stuck in winter then have a read of these famous seasonal quotes...they might help you get a spring back in your step like they did for me! Enjoy! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Spring is when you feel like whistling even with a shoe full of slush.</i></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Doug Larson</span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade. </i></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Charles Dickens</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Everything is blooming most recklessly; if it were voices instead of colors, there would be an unbelievable shrieking into the heart of the night. </i> </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Rainer Maria Rilke, </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Letters of Rainer Maria Rilke</span></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt. </i></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Margaret Atwood</span></span></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span> </i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>A little Madness in the spring Is wholesome even for the King. </i></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Emily Dickinson</span></span></i></span><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Spring has returned. The earth is like a child that knows poems. </i></span></span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Rainer Maria Rilke</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>It's spring fever. That is what the name of it is. And when you've got it, you want - oh, you don't quite know what it is you </i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>do</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i> want, but it just fairly makes your heart ache, you want it so! </i> </span></span></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mark Twain</span></span></i></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>The year's at the spring<br />
And day's at the morn;<br />
Morning's at seven;<br />
The hillside's dew-pearled;<br />
The lark's on the wing;<br />
The snail's on the thorn;<br />
God's in His heaven -<br />
All's right with the world!</i><br />
Robert Browning</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A<i>nd Spring arose on the garden fair,<br />
Like the Spirit of Love felt everywhere;<br />
And each flower and herb on Earth's dark breast<br />
rose from the dreams of its wintry rest.</i><br />
Percy Bysshe Shelley, "The Sensitive Plant"</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>The sun was warm but the wind was chill.<br />
You know how it is with an April day.</i><br />
Robert Frost</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Spring is nature's way of saying Let's Party.</i></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Robin williams</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
<i> The first day of spring is one thing, and the first spring day is another. The difference between them is sometimes as great as a month. </i> </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Henry Van Dyke<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i> If you've never been thrilled to the very edges of your soul by a flower in spring bloom, maybe your soul has never been in bloom. </i></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Terri Guillemets</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>April hath put a spirit of youth in everything.</i> </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">William Shakespeare</span></span><br />
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</span></span>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-40761164565046477782011-01-27T00:27:00.000-10:002011-01-27T00:27:09.659-10:00Win an 'Around the World in 80 Days' trip from Cathay Pacific Airlines<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx_w4Af9x0geuF5iF16Ab5yYH4Zdy_SRkXAXPPi04JALz1m7fCwwauB0PNqfMSgVbdimHUC_DSSeQvsfxloScK21NkXH0ILENb_D8tFBf0ohuZKjUf7mfJRd_5-UnLYY5dk_Z_h-oTChcD/s1600/WishYouNorthPole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx_w4Af9x0geuF5iF16Ab5yYH4Zdy_SRkXAXPPi04JALz1m7fCwwauB0PNqfMSgVbdimHUC_DSSeQvsfxloScK21NkXH0ILENb_D8tFBf0ohuZKjUf7mfJRd_5-UnLYY5dk_Z_h-oTChcD/s320/WishYouNorthPole.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><div><br />
</div>I just came across this amazing competition and thought I would share it with you all. Around the world in 80 days......for FREE! And by FREE I mean flights, 4/5* hotel accommodation AND a daily allowance! This prize was made in heaven! OK well actually Hong Kong, home to Cathay Pacific Airlines, who are putting up this glorious gift for one lucky globetrotter! </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So what do you have to do to win?</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well to be fair it isn't too hard. Plus the 8 finalists all get flown to Hong Kong for the final judging , so there is a real incentive to entering even if you don't claim the main prize. Here is what you need to do BEFORE THE CLOSING DATE OF MARCH 5TH:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Lucida, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; line-height: 15px;"><div class="story-body" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative;"><div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/1.55em 'Lucida Grande', Lucida, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">· First, you need to </span></span><b style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Like" their</span></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_280472273"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Facebook page</span></span></a></b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/cathaypacific?v=app_130796400318240"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></span></a></div><div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/1.55em 'Lucida Grande', Lucida, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/cathaypacific?v=app_130796400318240"></a><br />
· Next, figure out your ideal itinerary for all those 80 days of unlimited travel on the Cathay Pacific and Dragonair route network. Remember: Cathay will give you 3 nights hotel in each location. Tell Cathay about your around-the-world trip by relating your itinerary, hopes and dream via a video, photos or a simple story. </span></span></div><div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/1.55em 'Lucida Grande', Lucida, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
· Maje sure to read all the Terms and Conditions (available through the Facebook page).</span></span></div><div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/1.55em 'Lucida Grande', Lucida, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/1.55em 'Lucida Grande', Lucida, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Good Luck! </span></span></div></div></span></div>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-65318465423067510982011-01-17T23:53:00.000-10:002011-01-17T23:53:40.284-10:00WARNING: Valentine'sDay Approaching!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicWGLzAlZf9PKEPChkxHhljeUlDZrNdB6Yl1u-kAhS6e_5p6OBxJAEDWrCbDO1nzJOovDscwCXzpVDihi_xdmb_iQiEbgnf1hfcsjSBiTABUGOY-5bKJ9y9U7xiScw61RFraZZK7LTfgNS/s1600/645px-love_heart_svgsvg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicWGLzAlZf9PKEPChkxHhljeUlDZrNdB6Yl1u-kAhS6e_5p6OBxJAEDWrCbDO1nzJOovDscwCXzpVDihi_xdmb_iQiEbgnf1hfcsjSBiTABUGOY-5bKJ9y9U7xiScw61RFraZZK7LTfgNS/s320/645px-love_heart_svgsvg.png" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Just a quick heads up to all you lovers out there! If you want to surprise your other half with a romantic Valentine's weekend or night away this year.......it is time to book now!!!! Put your wallet where your heart is and get planning! </span>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-74935594814030289382011-01-13T08:08:00.000-10:002011-01-13T08:08:54.208-10:00Get UP and Do Something: Things to do in Northern Ireland this January<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</span></strong></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEbGoyNcXoJB7YiK3BomP_dsn6USpi0N6bvPlFEemHqFbjOLdHNztDYKtfeJrc50tYcmN5QfTJ8UY76uPMac36bYWLAKHKlN9SWNnvF6daToEeAIBXepSevlqXzPpe1mJ8-P7OhMbkwT7J/s1600/image-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEbGoyNcXoJB7YiK3BomP_dsn6USpi0N6bvPlFEemHqFbjOLdHNztDYKtfeJrc50tYcmN5QfTJ8UY76uPMac36bYWLAKHKlN9SWNnvF6daToEeAIBXepSevlqXzPpe1mJ8-P7OhMbkwT7J/s320/image-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKBYpDq374hP6v-kWUF7WB_T2iXqZu8rP03fAuzM83BztuKDlU_esEMXkl8WUt0BQzrZNNS4mosJ-Dwk4TmygZjNNqu59EWdDbN23L0WDxumW8aRN3H7rE5X9w4ZTgzT93SYoKbiuNVlY/s1600/image-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKBYpDq374hP6v-kWUF7WB_T2iXqZu8rP03fAuzM83BztuKDlU_esEMXkl8WUt0BQzrZNNS4mosJ-Dwk4TmygZjNNqu59EWdDbN23L0WDxumW8aRN3H7rE5X9w4ZTgzT93SYoKbiuNVlY/s320/image-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">The long days of January are upon us. For many it is a month of few pleasures, a period of self denial and hibernation, an empty diary used to save and plan for funner times ahead. It is the new Lent. But it need not be so grim. Fair enough we are all broke and deflated after the festive season-but let's not waste a month of living on waiting for the next one to come. I have a simple, low-cost suggestion to help us hurdle the dreary days of January; Get up and Do Something! </span></strong></span></div><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></strong></span> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMMm8PK8cxuSOunT7hArxVBF-atyKhSgf_rk-RCPDvqCtMg0XxA47sYKND4sNRyRanJh1kZRASxkWdpL2M12fn77crXoYyTlX_zbruQpf_IdjXeAQySUNOKFGQu3LqQfgzbiHESWeNXadi/s1600/image-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMMm8PK8cxuSOunT7hArxVBF-atyKhSgf_rk-RCPDvqCtMg0XxA47sYKND4sNRyRanJh1kZRASxkWdpL2M12fn77crXoYyTlX_zbruQpf_IdjXeAQySUNOKFGQu3LqQfgzbiHESWeNXadi/s320/image-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNdkdg-uaEs_3y42N1Wd56IWmHFZxBKRzcxgHFXe4c5_omXqjz-tivlRlI3Xq-N8lbCn48xy-YoniLv7miTXKweXPiPJ1y1UDW_PCX01taVYcmu3DAip7MQBaPEkVojjMQEErfKxRr3b7z/s1600/image-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNdkdg-uaEs_3y42N1Wd56IWmHFZxBKRzcxgHFXe4c5_omXqjz-tivlRlI3Xq-N8lbCn48xy-YoniLv7miTXKweXPiPJ1y1UDW_PCX01taVYcmu3DAip7MQBaPEkVojjMQEErfKxRr3b7z/s320/image-4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ZX3x87gClhE53NNco1EP76X4BTvPKy1YvqLufGRqA0hvNz1Gowoof387JFqTLKXxDOR8VkpAyBTUlrz6J6kXgrAkG3dqnJbFeoi3ainKYIHHdQErgD_8Q3y8QDa6xOWutiDrfiThpD4g/s1600/image-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ZX3x87gClhE53NNco1EP76X4BTvPKy1YvqLufGRqA0hvNz1Gowoof387JFqTLKXxDOR8VkpAyBTUlrz6J6kXgrAkG3dqnJbFeoi3ainKYIHHdQErgD_8Q3y8QDa6xOWutiDrfiThpD4g/s320/image-5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaIju5BwzEuH8MEBwY4L3LIzpiXw2knROA1mnO00TWhzbDuGgBaIqh72QIqlDwTvt-zw00oqMQZhBK18R6Wwnf-JnQVd6hV0jefJlQ9U6j9pSBUY2B7CLvlR804SwK2b90mt4xk_KBMi6d/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaIju5BwzEuH8MEBwY4L3LIzpiXw2knROA1mnO00TWhzbDuGgBaIqh72QIqlDwTvt-zw00oqMQZhBK18R6Wwnf-JnQVd6hV0jefJlQ9U6j9pSBUY2B7CLvlR804SwK2b90mt4xk_KBMi6d/s320/image.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> Images from DiscoverNorthernIreland</span></span></strong></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Northern Ireland is often underestimated as a tourist destination by those in the south. This is a big mistake. Right on our doorstep is a region boasting incredible natural beauty, lively cities and towns, great cultural attractions and a diverse range of activities and pursuits. It is close enough to allow us visit as day tourists, or for longer if we have the time, and yet just different enough for us to feel like we are getting the real deal tourist experience. The change from Euro to Sterling or from something as simple as green post box to red, gives us that slight feeling of exoticism-even if it is literally the next step up from a domestic day trip. </span></strong></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"> If you want to break out of the January blues and break out of Ireland (technically( the here are some events happening in Northern Ireland this month. </span></strong></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></strong></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong> </strong><br />
<strong>Out to Lunch Festival 2011</strong></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong> the Black Box, Belfast</strong></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong> 5-30 January</strong></span> <span style="font-size: small;"><br />
The annual festival presents a line-up of live music, comedy, spoken word, theatre, film and, of course, lots of yummy food.</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
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</div><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Winter Race Series</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong> Stormont Castle</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong> 20 January</strong></span> <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br />
Banish your winter blues and take part in the Winter Race Series. Competitors will don their head torches and light up the trails through the forests.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Belfast Electronic Festival</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong> Warehouse, 91-93 Boucher Road, Belfast</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong> 22 January</strong></span> <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br />
The festival will feature 38 artists across two main rooms. It also provides a creative space for like-minded musicians of various music styles such as Electronica, House, Drum n Bass, House, Garage and more.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Introduction to Coasteering Day</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong> Mobile Team Adventure, Millisle, Co Down, </strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>29 January</strong></span> <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br />
Coasteering fast becoming a popular adventure sport in Ireland. It mixes swimming, climbing, scrambling, jumping and traversing the coastline. Not for the fainthearted! <br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Sperrintrek 2011 Winter Hill Walking Festival</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong> 29-30 January</strong></span> <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br />
Sperrintrek is a series of walking weekends in the Sperrins Mountains, an area of outstanding natural beauty. Wow at the stunning scenery around you as you walk of those Christmas pounds! <br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">For more details on these events or for future events in Northern Ireland call: 1850 230 230, visit Northern Ireland Tourist Board's Information Office at Suffolk Street, Dublin 2 or logon to the <a href="http://www.discovernorthernireland.com/events">Discover Ireland website.</a> </span>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-985140176719893962011-01-06T09:15:00.000-10:002011-01-06T09:15:02.791-10:00Happy New Year!<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Happy New Year!</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b><br />
</b></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A little late maybe, but we at the Top Tips for Trips Blog would still like to wish all our readers a very Happy New Year! 2010 saw the lunch of our blog and we are delighted with how well it has been received. Thank you all for stopping by :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our New Year's Resolution is to bring you MORE interesting topics, tricks and tips than we managed to get to last year! We would also like to make The Top Tips for Trips Blog a little more interactive...so if you have a question, suggestion, review request or just a comment please let us know and we will try our best to respond to you through the blog!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To another year of travel and event!</span>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-91992881241522012442010-12-17T02:04:00.000-10:002010-12-17T02:04:44.391-10:00WIN a €600 Mystery trip for 2 to Europe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFzwUO_h7TmVem4nCMZJO23l6kiedcXSkAnCGCPOlIfavrlQl0iATpexNBtmYR8YX6QQ4ywRV_I7KN6k73vzkZcJbU846H6ahyphenhyphenHbs-KgA2z6bNBKu8DVvmeFqx5hH98YF9CIZL6pkaouib/s1600/win_button-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFzwUO_h7TmVem4nCMZJO23l6kiedcXSkAnCGCPOlIfavrlQl0iATpexNBtmYR8YX6QQ4ywRV_I7KN6k73vzkZcJbU846H6ahyphenhyphenHbs-KgA2z6bNBKu8DVvmeFqx5hH98YF9CIZL6pkaouib/s1600/win_button-1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">There are just 3 days left to enter the competition to win a €600 Mystery trip for 2 to Europe!!!! Imagine how nice it would be to be jetting off to a secret destination in 2011! Entering is quick and easy, simply log on to the M</span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/#%21/pages/Mysterytrips/122808217737467?v=info" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">ysterytrips Facebook Fan-page</a><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> for details! Best of Luck! </span>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-75569274156355274712010-12-14T01:04:00.000-10:002010-12-14T01:04:58.542-10:00Top Travel Gift Ideas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">With Christmas just around the corner it is time to think put your own wish list down for a moment and think gifts (to give). If you happen to have a travel-loving loved one to buy for then you have come to the right place! I have put together a list of my top ten travel gift ideas. They may not be the most practical of all travel accessories, but who wants to wake up on Christmas morning to find an international plug adaptor or an emergency mobile phone charger under the tree? Here are my top ten travel gift ideas-some purposeful, some fun, some stylish, some silly, but most important of all...welcome under the tree! </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWUowCOmj_4EgEjTjfLDM8kggt2HHbiDqSjdlNpXt53gVLdQRV-XfcIfO-wJR9AkgLVmOWFMv28FyI_bMEoKLqlBRK0pZIKEFKUFrF3wrlY-tEC_s9l3A_DLCuUydnqfqDBYDsHBVQGwcg/s1600/il_570xN.79373481.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWUowCOmj_4EgEjTjfLDM8kggt2HHbiDqSjdlNpXt53gVLdQRV-XfcIfO-wJR9AkgLVmOWFMv28FyI_bMEoKLqlBRK0pZIKEFKUFrF3wrlY-tEC_s9l3A_DLCuUydnqfqDBYDsHBVQGwcg/s1600/il_570xN.79373481.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNt3H_-PMOM4YaoGhKtt5go14kaiOkrEM-5HNWJP7ZvWhYe53N0K9W7osxUQ_5uQcojHIC0f9DTRmQjAo8u11LPpR7IKiz1qBb8qYKsLe9pqkuvkTGwbwifjgq56VhWHrLGBekJFzJ5skB/s1600/il_570xN.181803214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNt3H_-PMOM4YaoGhKtt5go14kaiOkrEM-5HNWJP7ZvWhYe53N0K9W7osxUQ_5uQcojHIC0f9DTRmQjAo8u11LPpR7IKiz1qBb8qYKsLe9pqkuvkTGwbwifjgq56VhWHrLGBekJFzJ5skB/s1600/il_570xN.181803214.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglbDDce5aef84_Wy78slIzNR2Uyri9uAJOFvIoAH1VXUE400cthtIR2mcg4Z6RL40tqpWZ4PD6nbCzJFXMsafSILIJVQQxBbH035zMw6ns4FUTz8uw_bFluugakbuKmevES0bvBEkaEtl2/s1600/il_570xN.191052348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglbDDce5aef84_Wy78slIzNR2Uyri9uAJOFvIoAH1VXUE400cthtIR2mcg4Z6RL40tqpWZ4PD6nbCzJFXMsafSILIJVQQxBbH035zMw6ns4FUTz8uw_bFluugakbuKmevES0bvBEkaEtl2/s1600/il_570xN.191052348.jpg" /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></div><div><div style="color: red;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Passport Covers </span></b></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Practical and stylish, passport covers make perfect accessories for the frequent flyer. There are heaps of styles and variations available at really reasonable prices. Check out our recent post on Passport covers for our </span><a href="http://toptipsfortrips.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">top picks for passport cover</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">s. We have selected our top picks for boys and girls, and all come in under €15! </span><br />
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</span></div></div><div><div style="color: red;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Mystery Trip</span></b></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">If you want to give a truly unique and memorable gift this year, why not give the gift of a Mystery trip! This is the gift card that retains the element of surprise even after it has been opened! Your loved one will not find out where they are headed until the day of departure when they arrive to the airport! All trips are tailored with the particular customer in mind, so you can be assured that they will have a thoroughly enjoyable experience! This is the perfect gift for a special occasion or to show someone how much you care. Gift cards are available online from <a href="http://www.mysterytrips.ie/gift_voucher.aspx">www.mysterytrips.ie </a></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRq0YiQN94GdSvG6dtk1S-n1ekf05XWCn1lIX9G8MN6VD45JhRLDQBlksU2hACti3yzpuXDKz7LkTJoWLJmCI6Rk5wVF_IOp8QzHEEmgNrG8dSTN_oFWxCzBdbJ7CWqOV2Za12ul1hI49I/s1600/mysterytrips_logo+large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRq0YiQN94GdSvG6dtk1S-n1ekf05XWCn1lIX9G8MN6VD45JhRLDQBlksU2hACti3yzpuXDKz7LkTJoWLJmCI6Rk5wVF_IOp8QzHEEmgNrG8dSTN_oFWxCzBdbJ7CWqOV2Za12ul1hI49I/s320/mysterytrips_logo+large.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsd_e1fguUBXg5EDrkKeQwwxkPPtRY8VUEfm7yR0McHWph0lKsKkQU1WFTlv9uGKpDMbMiN2YSmw2AoGXv1wtE1zMK8ybLgsk5KdZ_SzQLe0vnjS-i36ll1DIDVdUPcar_iwbGSy6vX2J/s1600/il_570xN.197522563.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><b style="color: red;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Luggage</span></b><br />
<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Send your loved one packing in style! Check out some of our recent <a href="http://toptipsfortrips.blogspot.com/2010/08/happy-packing-bag-yourself-beautiful.html">top picks lovely luggage</a>, including the fab bags below! </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv2Ty8bkIYNY-C7iad_tjDgcuoZkjOoPUu_v4AlDrXRFG68PJjdGw72-S-7tlA1guY-RhvYAE2lNT-EwS4c7S3OnfCUfmbrnn5QVhvzhfCojiC19M7Vt-MnuLdxtf2AuBdNXH9VWvbZ4cj/s1600/5771466940001_Assort_m2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv2Ty8bkIYNY-C7iad_tjDgcuoZkjOoPUu_v4AlDrXRFG68PJjdGw72-S-7tlA1guY-RhvYAE2lNT-EwS4c7S3OnfCUfmbrnn5QVhvzhfCojiC19M7Vt-MnuLdxtf2AuBdNXH9VWvbZ4cj/s320/5771466940001_Assort_m2.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifMWuofbUJhytt6BK7aDUG4SQ_DMAIA34N4G8C28NrCCJS-YQdqE3OUufGdhrQoMEX-xauf1hwSlltD7Q9yqVtnjqWgEHAcQKrO4EiMTxLhW0i6Je1n4UbYKvRvrRVLHGaAHjsd6LsFzaO/s1600/il_430xN.168986502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifMWuofbUJhytt6BK7aDUG4SQ_DMAIA34N4G8C28NrCCJS-YQdqE3OUufGdhrQoMEX-xauf1hwSlltD7Q9yqVtnjqWgEHAcQKrO4EiMTxLhW0i6Je1n4UbYKvRvrRVLHGaAHjsd6LsFzaO/s320/il_430xN.168986502.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: red;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Luggage Tags</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Make sure they don't lose their lovely new bags with a nice luggage tag that will last long after the airline paper ones do. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </span></b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3LdBQiFZCHHg9cvi3U5TfHcq2_8L6T5Shmi9GBUN5-qM0pW5lVyjIuhbUG1ezwhh_iiMvxvjpmdVo7bgd8fsR6qVlHuCOqp5AxrW8EXyGb1IX36jm9UJdZC8oqGbH4EDXXs15vqVrfp7n/s1600/291767.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3LdBQiFZCHHg9cvi3U5TfHcq2_8L6T5Shmi9GBUN5-qM0pW5lVyjIuhbUG1ezwhh_iiMvxvjpmdVo7bgd8fsR6qVlHuCOqp5AxrW8EXyGb1IX36jm9UJdZC8oqGbH4EDXXs15vqVrfp7n/s200/291767.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4OBgD_49IiWFmc6OkItNjuw_lQkZ_r1dWwi7Fqo15deMCbmwNbAqGWraEeyFId9RqWuOXSotEIDKiTO3APP8RVsXFwqgsLsZBYsZZErpD8Tn0NFDDq9P09ijYQ0M2xxTNC8lKwcftwLtC/s1600/291781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4OBgD_49IiWFmc6OkItNjuw_lQkZ_r1dWwi7Fqo15deMCbmwNbAqGWraEeyFId9RqWuOXSotEIDKiTO3APP8RVsXFwqgsLsZBYsZZErpD8Tn0NFDDq9P09ijYQ0M2xxTNC8lKwcftwLtC/s200/291781.jpg" width="200" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">These two tags are available from <a href="http://www.cathkidston.co.uk/searchadv.aspx?IsSubmit=true&SearchTerm=luggage+tag&cm_mmc=Google+-_-Luggage+Tags-_-Brand+%7C+Accessories-_-PPC+&gclid=CPSy9eG_66UCFY4f4QodHDp_pQ">Cath Kidston </a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHxGI4BPJwS69EZMFMGrgHg1dAnB_WFaT6dL1_eJtUSefod-k69L_-YG6lXXxOO55kebN2VfcYiFdO4Um_RTZMBP7y947TrfO_WePonIihW5usJ1J_ft_1s9NoT37d6q4CyQhPOO9_d8QT/s1600/il_570xN.177044585.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHxGI4BPJwS69EZMFMGrgHg1dAnB_WFaT6dL1_eJtUSefod-k69L_-YG6lXXxOO55kebN2VfcYiFdO4Um_RTZMBP7y947TrfO_WePonIihW5usJ1J_ft_1s9NoT37d6q4CyQhPOO9_d8QT/s320/il_570xN.177044585.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/57093784/leather-baggage-tag-hand-stitched?ref=sr_list_30&ga_search_query=luggage+tag&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=&order=&includes%5B0%5D=tags&includes%5B1%5D=title&filter%5B0%5D=handmade">Harlex</a> on Etsy will personalise your tag for you on real hand stitched leather</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">A Good Book </span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">You can't beat a good book, especially when you have hours of spare time lounging on the beach, swinging in a hammock or simply just in transit. If your travel-loving family member or friend has a trip planned then try to get them a book set in or about the destination they are going to. It will not only entertain them, but also heighten their experience while abroad and let them l arn more about the history and culture of the location they are in. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </span></b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcy0bporTry1YZA-FdxYVu-__3Vne7hFQCTSajnkk_E0fwVpWUY0wMDyrkubeQajyNe_CZvA-Gcy7XO4_5VKEQOcD25lr26I8aO0ysR3-D9JWQN71P2IfUqZYnHaVVu6DZaU30vJs121wJ/s1600/518ynYXhgvL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcy0bporTry1YZA-FdxYVu-__3Vne7hFQCTSajnkk_E0fwVpWUY0wMDyrkubeQajyNe_CZvA-Gcy7XO4_5VKEQOcD25lr26I8aO0ysR3-D9JWQN71P2IfUqZYnHaVVu6DZaU30vJs121wJ/s1600/518ynYXhgvL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" /></a></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.google.ie/imgres?imgurl=http://img.amazon.ca/images/I/518ynYXhgvL._SL500_AA300_.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.amazon.ca/Good-Book-David-Plotz/dp/0061374253&usg=__1YODXaL-GkfUph99K-7CM1naihI=&h=300&w=300&sz=22&hl=en&start=0&sig2=zvF1g2gXaPl8VwBymHYJCA&zoom=1&tbnid=O3GHYKiVhNiRXM:&tbnh=125&tbnw=125&ei=OkUHTba1HoSChQfb4N3tBw&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dgood%2Bbook%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26biw%3D994%26bih%3D673%26tbs%3Disch:10%2C103&um=1&itbs=1&iact=hc&vpx=355&vpy=377&dur=596&hovh=222&hovw=222&tx=148&ty=127&oei=-0QHTebSEtGahQeM_vHtBw&esq=6&page=1&ndsp=23&ved=1t:429,r:19,s:0&biw=994&bih=673"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Image Source</span></a></span></div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Travel Pillows</span></b><br />
<div style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">One major downside to travelling is the long hours you need to spend in the same tight seat. Whether it is a bus/train/plane or boat a travel cushion will help your loved one to get comfy and relax as they make their way around the world. </span></div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIa3B-R6Vn5ctZZlo1eiQ1Rd9MYXDGsXc55KI4O5OEpM6zcnY6uL8egovVE2thOyX5LWLeCXc9hbAN1yB9zS7kDzAvPKuc8LuL10-2NjP9TGB8mTb3oJ_sxwCBscOqDsl9_AnvI_SxhgEf/s1600/travel_pillow.pixela.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIa3B-R6Vn5ctZZlo1eiQ1Rd9MYXDGsXc55KI4O5OEpM6zcnY6uL8egovVE2thOyX5LWLeCXc9hbAN1yB9zS7kDzAvPKuc8LuL10-2NjP9TGB8mTb3oJ_sxwCBscOqDsl9_AnvI_SxhgEf/s320/travel_pillow.pixela.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></span></b></div><div style="color: red;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
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<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">This cheerful cushion is from <a href="http://www.minitravelmates.com.au/cart/index.php?_a=viewProd&productId=318">Mini Travel Mattters</a></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTdvQJfto6ApLQuLIyEfXoPUxl4Rc1fDGTRZQjcBGGjdQO0Gl96ApmVhRv3oyJgYac8BUw9O26Rf5eqE7ZfJoE2x3Tn-qaN2lv_lpQ1SrcM_Rl4Yvo4VbwEAMziefrqZHJoRNvhUiWeAfF/s1600/-%2521Travel+Buddy+By+Bud+U+neck+Travel+Pillow+International--363827527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTdvQJfto6ApLQuLIyEfXoPUxl4Rc1fDGTRZQjcBGGjdQO0Gl96ApmVhRv3oyJgYac8BUw9O26Rf5eqE7ZfJoE2x3Tn-qaN2lv_lpQ1SrcM_Rl4Yvo4VbwEAMziefrqZHJoRNvhUiWeAfF/s1600/-%2521Travel+Buddy+By+Bud+U+neck+Travel+Pillow+International--363827527.jpg" /></a></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The <a href="http://uk.shop.com/Travel+Buddy+By+Bud+U+neck+Travel+Pillow+International-363827527-p+.xhtml">Travel Buddy</a> is a good option for the boys </span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnfo2frgn_QN_PJAO6vK1mC8pj-Nzq_bhGiUqYRzSBIwEegLCF0PjWt0uE2rVE86YRWxplwWjq5CeKYfjIaLA3a7FlR-eMua3ayUZiEvhxI-KqC-lWJLecp3QfpYy3JyWBj5dgIdkD76Jb/s1600/il_570xN.146433853.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnfo2frgn_QN_PJAO6vK1mC8pj-Nzq_bhGiUqYRzSBIwEegLCF0PjWt0uE2rVE86YRWxplwWjq5CeKYfjIaLA3a7FlR-eMua3ayUZiEvhxI-KqC-lWJLecp3QfpYy3JyWBj5dgIdkD76Jb/s320/il_570xN.146433853.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">This elephant cushion from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/47938660/elephant-pillow?ref=sr_list_26&ga_search_query=neck+pillow&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=4&order=&includes[0]=tags&includes[1]=title&filter[0]=handmade">Lilly's shop</a> makes a sweet neck pillow for kids</span></div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="color: red;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Sleep Masks</span></b></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Now you have made them comfy with a travel pillow why not help them to catch some undisturbed sleep as they travel. Sleep masks are a good way of shutting out the workd and letting everyone know you do not want to be disturbed! <br />
They are great for simulating nigh-time so also come in handy when trying to shake off jet lag. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVpmv6MeLq-_qvITXCpn1Q1psFDiXCwMRhRV7uZ96ugKaGko7BM51TKeniB172gnUE-u_r9sY7BaCaAnhE5hK3eQaUadlk5lv4lnotphB1yRlWWEG0c_GJW6un1MxnSaCYbxhCV_jD-me1/s1600/il_570xN.96003752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVpmv6MeLq-_qvITXCpn1Q1psFDiXCwMRhRV7uZ96ugKaGko7BM51TKeniB172gnUE-u_r9sY7BaCaAnhE5hK3eQaUadlk5lv4lnotphB1yRlWWEG0c_GJW6un1MxnSaCYbxhCV_jD-me1/s320/il_570xN.96003752.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZZ7ewH9VTtRJ8Qo2gP_o4ujLZ0nPvKs0xAEN6DhxcLPMkirh8bhfUWHZQCMwjv-c-n87uK88S64ucJbBvEO6to4mj0C55RogzzzQjXoMoW2fdf76rzVm0WgDxw3YrhJrWpzlQ5R3mP0FW/s1600/il_570xN.173558868.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZZ7ewH9VTtRJ8Qo2gP_o4ujLZ0nPvKs0xAEN6DhxcLPMkirh8bhfUWHZQCMwjv-c-n87uK88S64ucJbBvEO6to4mj0C55RogzzzQjXoMoW2fdf76rzVm0WgDxw3YrhJrWpzlQ5R3mP0FW/s320/il_570xN.173558868.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk8VmRwYDPHsqqF1C52XZOukyQAVoZjfuvenETQB21jBQab9e1M_AjHOl__x43lQ0NyZH5o3g0KLOCy_biXMYxZiUj7R24bslNkGJRjSkbqAlu0D4fN61T3mDBT_uZ2AWAfehAxrJETSFq/s1600/il_570xN.193750091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk8VmRwYDPHsqqF1C52XZOukyQAVoZjfuvenETQB21jBQab9e1M_AjHOl__x43lQ0NyZH5o3g0KLOCy_biXMYxZiUj7R24bslNkGJRjSkbqAlu0D4fN61T3mDBT_uZ2AWAfehAxrJETSFq/s320/il_570xN.193750091.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BibBon?section_id=5370851">BigBen</a> has over 100 eye masks for sale, something for everyone! </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFDfeV0rJtYNh8byj__h7wWHvm8sjRKLNiB9_B54r2oEjOWZvnrs2hr0patpb2CowHndqxvruv2nwmVx-0MX4vKtEtB2GjESvLdpmD79SCDdAawspQiKqicRe8vzRPDFwTc66hohZ2Pxn/s1600/Urban-Outfitters-F-k-Off-Eye_61C4BF40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFDfeV0rJtYNh8byj__h7wWHvm8sjRKLNiB9_B54r2oEjOWZvnrs2hr0patpb2CowHndqxvruv2nwmVx-0MX4vKtEtB2GjESvLdpmD79SCDdAawspQiKqicRe8vzRPDFwTc66hohZ2Pxn/s320/Urban-Outfitters-F-k-Off-Eye_61C4BF40.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">This cheeky mask from <a href="http://www.thisnext.com/item/E0FECAC2/Urban-Outfitters-F-k-Off-Eye">Urban outfitters</a> may not be for everyone, but pretty effective if you don't want to be disturbed....</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: red; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Glasses Case</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Whether it is a selection of stylish shades or a practical spare pair of specs, many people carry more than one pair of glasses with them when they travel. Help them to stay stylish, or sighted, with a glasses case gift. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpLCaoDE_Jbv1WWZuKhm8fnPmHjlk3evktxAsZdw2cxA926VuYr5zxmlcAXvd96g4aEt2X_G10gJ8p3ZtkpweIygmxJJ8_kVxDiCwxDybmOEo1r16hekT2uHl-un8ChAQ9OpIMymUJVuN9/s1600/295215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpLCaoDE_Jbv1WWZuKhm8fnPmHjlk3evktxAsZdw2cxA926VuYr5zxmlcAXvd96g4aEt2X_G10gJ8p3ZtkpweIygmxJJ8_kVxDiCwxDybmOEo1r16hekT2uHl-un8ChAQ9OpIMymUJVuN9/s320/295215.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm5cvsryvW4028Buysy8a98F9mLdfEx1ZJQlgTwX-JNXSuwbDfM87GkD8nm28nnx0BXkmz-wAOjkQDodwUZxulJWhOg6e8zsBMcD2rKurhW2ZNNG2WKABCTWhsaKIEnB78JV6InSmoXFt4/s1600/295239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm5cvsryvW4028Buysy8a98F9mLdfEx1ZJQlgTwX-JNXSuwbDfM87GkD8nm28nnx0BXkmz-wAOjkQDodwUZxulJWhOg6e8zsBMcD2rKurhW2ZNNG2WKABCTWhsaKIEnB78JV6InSmoXFt4/s320/295239.jpg" width="320" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">These two pretty cases are from <a href="http://www.cathkidston.co.uk/c-717-glasses-cases.aspx">Cath Kidston </a> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpLCaoDE_Jbv1WWZuKhm8fnPmHjlk3evktxAsZdw2cxA926VuYr5zxmlcAXvd96g4aEt2X_G10gJ8p3ZtkpweIygmxJJ8_kVxDiCwxDybmOEo1r16hekT2uHl-un8ChAQ9OpIMymUJVuN9/s1600/295215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26wXauF3cSFkAxOmDmpO3XhvN_1p2ffcM5ErVbHu2XtEY7TpLZ676D2EEbpzX2qapbH-WLN41DdOpWPGpyYhgDlFe3JfIz1hog8Et3LyMSuuIpXUzvd0oqj5jYC3N4SWXHgusn_azHhSV/s1600/il_570xN.124029617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26wXauF3cSFkAxOmDmpO3XhvN_1p2ffcM5ErVbHu2XtEY7TpLZ676D2EEbpzX2qapbH-WLN41DdOpWPGpyYhgDlFe3JfIz1hog8Et3LyMSuuIpXUzvd0oqj5jYC3N4SWXHgusn_azHhSV/s320/il_570xN.124029617.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZmLrHV7vVeQpzA58RUPqBCFgKfjcnTGwDc0zZ8pnlZCPIHjDy1lrrSIV7zYNQ0WC2K8mGqU3FHe5EKFTOYdHGBgxQVar8RSOXtNyd8fNFnl8lXEKQCsmSxp10Zhqa1FS9VzZXBPW7kJPg/s1600/il_570xN.191470626.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZmLrHV7vVeQpzA58RUPqBCFgKfjcnTGwDc0zZ8pnlZCPIHjDy1lrrSIV7zYNQ0WC2K8mGqU3FHe5EKFTOYdHGBgxQVar8RSOXtNyd8fNFnl8lXEKQCsmSxp10Zhqa1FS9VzZXBPW7kJPg/s320/il_570xN.191470626.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHxsDdx5nSEFxCVT3QHHVLFqZMUalJQxybYbDrbmAduSy6nwgWhqw7x7nRuztWo_HygU5Kveggb1jEOlO48JBQhHeX1PbjA4AYln5_4XYYJVBDKUPOsQroba3-8tei8w5HO26x-LUPCYyh/s1600/il_570xN.194647266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHxsDdx5nSEFxCVT3QHHVLFqZMUalJQxybYbDrbmAduSy6nwgWhqw7x7nRuztWo_HygU5Kveggb1jEOlO48JBQhHeX1PbjA4AYln5_4XYYJVBDKUPOsQroba3-8tei8w5HO26x-LUPCYyh/s320/il_570xN.194647266.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsd_e1fguUBXg5EDrkKeQwwxkPPtRY8VUEfm7yR0McHWph0lKsKkQU1WFTlv9uGKpDMbMiN2YSmw2AoGXv1wtE1zMK8ybLgsk5KdZ_SzQLe0vnjS-i36ll1DIDVdUPcar_iwbGSy6vX2J/s1600/il_570xN.197522563.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsd_e1fguUBXg5EDrkKeQwwxkPPtRY8VUEfm7yR0McHWph0lKsKkQU1WFTlv9uGKpDMbMiN2YSmw2AoGXv1wtE1zMK8ybLgsk5KdZ_SzQLe0vnjS-i36ll1DIDVdUPcar_iwbGSy6vX2J/s320/il_570xN.197522563.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;">I love the old-style fastener on these lovely cases, all available from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/kailochic?section_id=6235998">Kailochic </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: red; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><b>Pedometer</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">Slightly unusual but a very well received gift by tourists! Have you ever been sightseeing for the day and can't quite understand why your legs ache so badly! With a pedometer you can track how far you have walked during the day! Your friend will be surprised at how many miles they clock up! This also make s a really good gift for people who are into trekking or trail tourism.....the Inka trail won't seem so tough when they can see how far they are actually going! <a href="http://www.argos.co.uk/static/Browse/ID72/14418392/c_1/1%7Ccategory_root%7CHealth+and+personal+care%7C14418350/c_2/2%7C14418350%7CHealth+monitors+and+aids%7C14418375/c_3/3%7Ccat_14418375%7CPedometers%7C14418392.htm">Argos </a>have a number of different options starting as low as €4.50!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: red; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><b>Footwear</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">Send them trotting in the correct footwear! Whether it is flipflops, snowboots, hiking boots, sailing shoes.........</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZzP3RPMXjQBY5EEwbdpdWan4v06cuTeoIekD_iUNc3Drlwsjteun-cRn6XfOxVS1dBGxa1ETNaZRdLUj7XwjhN0d544EIBnsJDDWzKynCM1DBPHi32Fbf3xcWczdxwEDq5lAOI87RrRvx/s1600/6a00d834527dd469e200e5537633828834-800wi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZzP3RPMXjQBY5EEwbdpdWan4v06cuTeoIekD_iUNc3Drlwsjteun-cRn6XfOxVS1dBGxa1ETNaZRdLUj7XwjhN0d544EIBnsJDDWzKynCM1DBPHi32Fbf3xcWczdxwEDq5lAOI87RrRvx/s320/6a00d834527dd469e200e5537633828834-800wi.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.google.ie/imgres?imgurl=http://citizenchris.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/2008/06/17/flipflops_popsicle_lg_2.jpg&imgrefurl=http://citizenchris.typepad.com/citizenchris/2008/06/mccain-flip-flo.html&usg=__Jhusmp15NK4MHXt9HIIBjTMrXTc=&h=347&w=475&sz=42&hl=en&start=0&sig2=PRpRbf0WHcttexUDxEZfeA&zoom=1&tbnid=OzVXWgP1VHA66M:&tbnh=127&tbnw=174&ei=400HTZqTOcG7hAe8rfztBw&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dflip%2Bflops%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26biw%3D1024%26bih%3D733%26tbs%3Disch:10%2C354&um=1&itbs=1&iact=hc&vpx=442&vpy=57&dur=2210&hovh=192&hovw=263&tx=180&ty=130&oei=400HTZqTOcG7hAe8rfztBw&esq=1&page=1&ndsp=23&ved=1t:429,r:14,s:0&biw=1024&bih=733">Image Source</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-40398844653206150402010-12-07T04:23:00.000-10:002010-12-07T04:23:58.528-10:00Top Picks Passport Covers<div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKLrTYk9C9pcBVdCZ6JFAO9zWRX3PZxYAXJR-PsAJUHl6QA9Z894YT6pV1NSPZRRjQtNihk4eQ5gRVKnTRhvttDgK9UuFS-EQPwbz672Ar7oCZwnbB0cwXL4NtwgoD52Wkhj5U0Hx5I9Cw/s1600/il_570xN.193577237-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKLrTYk9C9pcBVdCZ6JFAO9zWRX3PZxYAXJR-PsAJUHl6QA9Z894YT6pV1NSPZRRjQtNihk4eQ5gRVKnTRhvttDgK9UuFS-EQPwbz672Ar7oCZwnbB0cwXL4NtwgoD52Wkhj5U0Hx5I9Cw/s320/il_570xN.193577237-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62028007/design-your-own-passport-cover?ref=sr_list_5&ga_search_query=passport+covers&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=&order=&includes[0]=tags&includes[1]=title&filter[0]=handmade">Hotpinklemon</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Passport covers are a great accessories for all types of tourist. They are practical, make great conversation pieces and come in all sorts of styles and price ranges. Many people don't have them, but want them, so for that reason they make great gifts or stocking fillers! If you are looking for one for yourself or to give as a present here are some of my favourite picks that are currently available online. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For the girls:</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5NHDXaAh9vUMEHYvpXGBg8CcBLdI6dl64br7D7lSbdDQHEXpuKyoWvxAb-whyphenhyphen_koxpDGtdWSq0vQerIZvmebV9Yfql7U5ma6oTr6UhNEEcLKURjG25hqak-4V7NYx4wrFhdoGfUKAYXsk/s1600/il_570xN.79373481.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5NHDXaAh9vUMEHYvpXGBg8CcBLdI6dl64br7D7lSbdDQHEXpuKyoWvxAb-whyphenhyphen_koxpDGtdWSq0vQerIZvmebV9Yfql7U5ma6oTr6UhNEEcLKURjG25hqak-4V7NYx4wrFhdoGfUKAYXsk/s320/il_570xN.79373481.jpg" width="233" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzzrcyitdb7N4FhoAEC7F5K5Prh6OTS5yhortzcXgJuX2X1eKU_qrnJVDeiWvXgjR19cLihFfWiVVIUDPm2pMoVYHGpLMDuqI0zcfmywD7LOwlX33JbiDDTikLy7CkHYrJ9ohDo4gioXVO/s1600/il_570xN.76652636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzzrcyitdb7N4FhoAEC7F5K5Prh6OTS5yhortzcXgJuX2X1eKU_qrnJVDeiWvXgjR19cLihFfWiVVIUDPm2pMoVYHGpLMDuqI0zcfmywD7LOwlX33JbiDDTikLy7CkHYrJ9ohDo4gioXVO/s320/il_570xN.76652636.jpg" width="243" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Both these gorgeous printed covers are from </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/handmadewithjoy?section_id=5414936"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hanmadewithjoy </span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and cost €10</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKZcSRzve4Tr0uNKvp4DqQ8FF-xMWolDqa6tfU9DnMaVEbQlKy6xeISiQXqnhyphenhyphenMj9SXrOwyxX9WW6KFgPhhdQ8-yT7ucFg12yMDNLe4wxyjGsc8T8sJibccuYWhjj8WdFrd639Sw1AK-Jm/s1600/il_570xN.191052348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKZcSRzve4Tr0uNKvp4DqQ8FF-xMWolDqa6tfU9DnMaVEbQlKy6xeISiQXqnhyphenhyphenMj9SXrOwyxX9WW6KFgPhhdQ8-yT7ucFg12yMDNLe4wxyjGsc8T8sJibccuYWhjj8WdFrd639Sw1AK-Jm/s320/il_570xN.191052348.jpg" width="284" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For those who love to fly! Under €10 from </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/61277224/dollbirdies-passport-wallet-covers?ref=sr_list_23&ga_search_query=passport+cover&ga_search_type=all&ga_page=3&order=&includes%5B0%5D=tags&includes%5B1%5D=title"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Dolliebirdies</span></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbDSh99l8SAr3dcXnKJEn5pYaTSGubLV67XDU7JxrJyOG4Hxksu4tKIjnyuNJ_SwliLzsUlfwYH4Q-rDwyj6UtulsfiqzXj10tiuTSwRwTLWiglYa4RIP3hy4QWmq2dS4saZbZijTPoh-h/s1600/il_570xN.198965093.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbDSh99l8SAr3dcXnKJEn5pYaTSGubLV67XDU7JxrJyOG4Hxksu4tKIjnyuNJ_SwliLzsUlfwYH4Q-rDwyj6UtulsfiqzXj10tiuTSwRwTLWiglYa4RIP3hy4QWmq2dS4saZbZijTPoh-h/s200/il_570xN.198965093.jpg" width="186" /></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbBb2WJTZqGDWAhicz5crM7G4s0OaNhcLYnatR3Enc0L7vZ8vCNyURKWjWF83l8nOU5ZYGWhvR6VUeKoSLG_4dZl9UljqpKXmC7se98FdVEClx5TFvH48d0XqcE1cKqpnWe-dtA0wAYmnZ/s1600/il_570xN.197988039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbBb2WJTZqGDWAhicz5crM7G4s0OaNhcLYnatR3Enc0L7vZ8vCNyURKWjWF83l8nOU5ZYGWhvR6VUeKoSLG_4dZl9UljqpKXmC7se98FdVEClx5TFvH48d0XqcE1cKqpnWe-dtA0wAYmnZ/s200/il_570xN.197988039.jpg" width="188" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB5vGZWHF7sFNPqr4DbXY1gA7nCffs0dXZHHFerPg6ZlRjeg7yaZCqG0ZSjBGp-EbGRmXVV9tNXw8e3yYfUzifhy07wHqPAxBo7x_LhYLS-1141x2QQ0naXArKtHN7nRM-FG_f-nK5TLte/s1600/il_570xN.199547876.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB5vGZWHF7sFNPqr4DbXY1gA7nCffs0dXZHHFerPg6ZlRjeg7yaZCqG0ZSjBGp-EbGRmXVV9tNXw8e3yYfUzifhy07wHqPAxBo7x_LhYLS-1141x2QQ0naXArKtHN7nRM-FG_f-nK5TLte/s200/il_570xN.199547876.jpg" width="180" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">These three lovely covers are a steal at under €5 each from </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/owlsay?section_id=6169013"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Owlsay</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> on Etsy</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHjHMDz70dAw7lSA9iAW4eRCH_U5AghbKLrIwX6JynkRj3FHB16m6ZfKfALFN3IqT78kR1_M75kwN3JRP-3el4v9mFVEgjdAO0-eNBr8r5PrJrA3CuYBlNfBcP7rNC5NQOvQvdDQtYkT2y/s1600/il_570xN.164983776.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHjHMDz70dAw7lSA9iAW4eRCH_U5AghbKLrIwX6JynkRj3FHB16m6ZfKfALFN3IqT78kR1_M75kwN3JRP-3el4v9mFVEgjdAO0-eNBr8r5PrJrA3CuYBlNfBcP7rNC5NQOvQvdDQtYkT2y/s320/il_570xN.164983776.jpg" width="247" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This 'Passport to Paris' is under €10 by </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/53490999/passport-to-paris?ref=sr_list_5&ga_search_query=passport+cover&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=&order=&includes%5B0%5D=tags&includes%5B1%5D=title&filter%5B0%5D=handmade"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">HotPinkLemon</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">, I love it!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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</span> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQr45960pl_XFpwo_DVvFooTv-xZNKoGUPQixWrn5GznrO9DcsyRYFA7kIhFaci7d0oq_UjRXb51QyI5yoVdzzsp4JVDt1Ll4QtjYJdpVIBQh8xPyIs6DCDysRL4qJGK4S9BnqWXPP2UJ-/s1600/il_570xN.148608580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQr45960pl_XFpwo_DVvFooTv-xZNKoGUPQixWrn5GznrO9DcsyRYFA7kIhFaci7d0oq_UjRXb51QyI5yoVdzzsp4JVDt1Ll4QtjYJdpVIBQh8xPyIs6DCDysRL4qJGK4S9BnqWXPP2UJ-/s320/il_570xN.148608580.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Red Riding Hood</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDrKhYzNBHc3MC3lBxbXoieOD4t1xdM3jK_Q3OvijEiJZ30DvEfVA8daiStZmwXE1Xrrzju0Rx0UiwNDXDW9iM_AL3V-vSrTdS-tN_f6RnxK1PdCjS1DEJaZy78jdqMI7O1dsgtqxh-tJm/s1600/il_570xN.199566833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDrKhYzNBHc3MC3lBxbXoieOD4t1xdM3jK_Q3OvijEiJZ30DvEfVA8daiStZmwXE1Xrrzju0Rx0UiwNDXDW9iM_AL3V-vSrTdS-tN_f6RnxK1PdCjS1DEJaZy78jdqMI7O1dsgtqxh-tJm/s320/il_570xN.199566833.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Little Mermaid</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJU233Ql6OfBjqZ0oMf8JgrdCZlw92z0kZamAmaa0IhwETWf8OG-U2fuChGS58Z-w_XUOrv7WA2KglR-itsSWlEp7m1V6t5yzy8_d96kg_klMP2Cod-L44hI-MrEuBFE9uZ5uI7ZUsPhHo/s1600/il_570xN.198448837.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJU233Ql6OfBjqZ0oMf8JgrdCZlw92z0kZamAmaa0IhwETWf8OG-U2fuChGS58Z-w_XUOrv7WA2KglR-itsSWlEp7m1V6t5yzy8_d96kg_klMP2Cod-L44hI-MrEuBFE9uZ5uI7ZUsPhHo/s320/il_570xN.198448837.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">& Alice in Wonderland covers from </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Noei?section_id=5831702"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Noel </span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">are perfect for little girls or big ones who like fairytales, all under €15</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For the Boys!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-v1840MrsBwrqcjDpXNY83moTlZ73bBUVM3NeHcnZNNVfR1lidb66otZESaVJScIsJY0l4y2cWvvX_8ChKqYTcWxum4hIj_Cgc_cXvGtaABsju9FbP1bFK3MJj_iT-DeremyrcJbjd3Yg/s1600/il_570xN.181803214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-v1840MrsBwrqcjDpXNY83moTlZ73bBUVM3NeHcnZNNVfR1lidb66otZESaVJScIsJY0l4y2cWvvX_8ChKqYTcWxum4hIj_Cgc_cXvGtaABsju9FbP1bFK3MJj_iT-DeremyrcJbjd3Yg/s320/il_570xN.181803214.jpg" width="312" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bear v Robot cover from </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/58517366/bear-vs-robot-passport-case?ref=sr_list_12&ga_search_query=passport&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=&order=&includes[0]=tags&includes[1]=title&filter[0]=handmade"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tinymeat</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> under €15</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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</span> </div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiijC00ySn5C2c6sc1kPXmmrQYS7fdPyUYPbeTKsQoyJkMKDgqbUVDngfaQFUYTR0_QQFEu2kZB6A9eL-SzcQ9Wfu8ooDeEqr-E1FZHD8B_PoIKEEOE23ST2MTcMHgS5JclaU-AaUpOjtX9/s1600/airplanecockpit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiijC00ySn5C2c6sc1kPXmmrQYS7fdPyUYPbeTKsQoyJkMKDgqbUVDngfaQFUYTR0_QQFEu2kZB6A9eL-SzcQ9Wfu8ooDeEqr-E1FZHD8B_PoIKEEOE23ST2MTcMHgS5JclaU-AaUpOjtX9/s200/airplanecockpit.jpg" width="189" /></span></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVnAR6Y8cgLR0jLe70xX4sRILy6jZKTvX2pstuNbe2fsSYCktVvjbS6pU4i9YI4wqbzQJkHiHNdxXOyr_T8rJJBuJHap5lMVapqvHUdap2Md8X8efbTp5LQqUEFG5N-j4ixo0cOwbKah8R/s1600/oceancurrents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVnAR6Y8cgLR0jLe70xX4sRILy6jZKTvX2pstuNbe2fsSYCktVvjbS6pU4i9YI4wqbzQJkHiHNdxXOyr_T8rJJBuJHap5lMVapqvHUdap2Md8X8efbTp5LQqUEFG5N-j4ixo0cOwbKah8R/s1600/oceancurrents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVnAR6Y8cgLR0jLe70xX4sRILy6jZKTvX2pstuNbe2fsSYCktVvjbS6pU4i9YI4wqbzQJkHiHNdxXOyr_T8rJJBuJHap5lMVapqvHUdap2Md8X8efbTp5LQqUEFG5N-j4ixo0cOwbKah8R/s200/oceancurrents.jpg" width="188" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Both of these are under €10 and are available from </span><a href="http://www.flight001.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">www.flight001.com </span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJNB89NnhrYXQzY5xf-8oQFYcaDP4QMBW_oKpDONwJRTS9dco1EwqRXk916N1O-dvXrKtBnCaqU-d11Mks_U1NI29P5d724mdvxXcg-dMlvrz2EvwuZaX4EGfmoYz5WUF-Z1pVNxt05pqq/s1600/il_570xN.161921904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJNB89NnhrYXQzY5xf-8oQFYcaDP4QMBW_oKpDONwJRTS9dco1EwqRXk916N1O-dvXrKtBnCaqU-d11Mks_U1NI29P5d724mdvxXcg-dMlvrz2EvwuZaX4EGfmoYz5WUF-Z1pVNxt05pqq/s200/il_570xN.161921904.jpg" width="181" /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCtjpjEX6f-VTCaU-gKQ17jP7vAXCISG4PQKpw4TSsamTDgfe5-k7nJOaW_Iq5kHVqOzADcMStwj_fk-N8qZkdXA0jYTka55Xn8F6Z-AeSBN6O5mcK9C8YDo7s4WRVE0LSQ-1u7biGfqbV/s1600/il_570xN.185808592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCtjpjEX6f-VTCaU-gKQ17jP7vAXCISG4PQKpw4TSsamTDgfe5-k7nJOaW_Iq5kHVqOzADcMStwj_fk-N8qZkdXA0jYTka55Xn8F6Z-AeSBN6O5mcK9C8YDo7s4WRVE0LSQ-1u7biGfqbV/s200/il_570xN.185808592.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMfQ-exdhrlBHJbXq6jEsw1f_EQVTsW9k1VlmbfLHHmuQgKuR4ZZJSnOBnyIuVBYJ68gSn3x1RntpQub0yhlX2r_dGwM1DhEqtiVdFWt2JOQCLe-eCXJDpgWWCHx7WbqA-Os5OG2e7nmDu/s1600/il_570xN.195206050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMfQ-exdhrlBHJbXq6jEsw1f_EQVTsW9k1VlmbfLHHmuQgKuR4ZZJSnOBnyIuVBYJ68gSn3x1RntpQub0yhlX2r_dGwM1DhEqtiVdFWt2JOQCLe-eCXJDpgWWCHx7WbqA-Os5OG2e7nmDu/s200/il_570xN.195206050.jpg" width="200" /> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjpzJXKMqg0UYERiZDozw09tjaso0-vhNoTgdhAW3YLte5Mv3aXelMWEbteNxyfuZXP1V7FXYGY8ptT4t1On8yOpWLel1VtDbMn-cgx2M_-DTBar21ARKZoG7h31SdORogXEIgMHiqZFf/s1600/il_570xN.195949573.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjpzJXKMqg0UYERiZDozw09tjaso0-vhNoTgdhAW3YLte5Mv3aXelMWEbteNxyfuZXP1V7FXYGY8ptT4t1On8yOpWLel1VtDbMn-cgx2M_-DTBar21ARKZoG7h31SdORogXEIgMHiqZFf/s200/il_570xN.195949573.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">These four are all under €5 from</span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/sugarcanetrain808?section_id=7174164"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Supercanetrain808</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi04qs28iN1PHIXyD68ms1NwZI0TcP25O1Lv8V8_I3jrJzD5Vohyl3q1mtSqBS_oW8bjrz5stvgwXSkPNo_x4Nz2v8sIQA9cbw-O0TBu9cpYtmpX_aOPYRHV2roynJBV1HGGWmJ8XtdaGRB/s1600/il_570xN.153658063.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi04qs28iN1PHIXyD68ms1NwZI0TcP25O1Lv8V8_I3jrJzD5Vohyl3q1mtSqBS_oW8bjrz5stvgwXSkPNo_x4Nz2v8sIQA9cbw-O0TBu9cpYtmpX_aOPYRHV2roynJBV1HGGWmJ8XtdaGRB/s320/il_570xN.153658063.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCtjpjEX6f-VTCaU-gKQ17jP7vAXCISG4PQKpw4TSsamTDgfe5-k7nJOaW_Iq5kHVqOzADcMStwj_fk-N8qZkdXA0jYTka55Xn8F6Z-AeSBN6O5mcK9C8YDo7s4WRVE0LSQ-1u7biGfqbV/s1600/il_570xN.185808592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This vinyl cover is under €5 from </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/50105353/vinyl-passport-cover-blue-and-brown?ref=sr_list_6&ga_search_query=passport+cover&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=6&order=&includes%5B0%5D=tags&includes%5B1%5D=title&filter%5B0%5D=handmade"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kotibeth</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">, a perfect match for the man who wears flowery shirts!</span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJNB89NnhrYXQzY5xf-8oQFYcaDP4QMBW_oKpDONwJRTS9dco1EwqRXk916N1O-dvXrKtBnCaqU-d11Mks_U1NI29P5d724mdvxXcg-dMlvrz2EvwuZaX4EGfmoYz5WUF-Z1pVNxt05pqq/s1600/il_570xN.161921904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><br />
</span></a>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-2320997588758093542010-12-01T04:52:00.000-10:002010-12-01T04:52:16.407-10:00Ireland's Christmas Markets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpwSB1_ual5gStrbTt_czUxx1qjAAlw4S0-zORDlMSkIyM-VKLNJYPN1g3lfRSVjV9nT-thTrrMCHH5_X_uJKNzlnllD3YqEY4YOwZU0N6gIFlv06LHcWO06uFjM__Xm4SdnwwvlqJvsgH/s1600/MC5010_Christmas_Countdown-300x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpwSB1_ual5gStrbTt_czUxx1qjAAlw4S0-zORDlMSkIyM-VKLNJYPN1g3lfRSVjV9nT-thTrrMCHH5_X_uJKNzlnllD3YqEY4YOwZU0N6gIFlv06LHcWO06uFjM__Xm4SdnwwvlqJvsgH/s1600/MC5010_Christmas_Countdown-300x300.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">December has arrived in a blizzard of snow! It is finally OK to talk about Christmas and for once we here in Ireland aren't! Distracted by the Winter Wonderland outside we seem to have forgotten that it is just 24 days until Santa arrives! Today on The Top Tip for Trips Blog I want to refocus our attention on the festive season and one of my favouite aspects of it.....shopping! </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Heading to your nearest big town, city or shopping centre to buy the token gift, stock up on seasonal goodies and soak up the festive buzz is an integral part of Christmas. But high street and multi-storey are not the only shopping opportunities available to us. Although still a relatively young trend for Irish shoppers, Christmas markets are popping up around the country and growing in popularity! </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp8tZtAA0Qv__a3fIfOIhJq21kxuXl5f8AnD3DwFrJzOuV1o_yoatdAU9rtWvak0M8bgdH64c3wbZnhmAP0wYGusSX_jjMmIOpcEyXN3NwtglfGINI4-9SdAOL_pn3op_xAdjPjjR7NKkv/s1600/Christmas+Market.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp8tZtAA0Qv__a3fIfOIhJq21kxuXl5f8AnD3DwFrJzOuV1o_yoatdAU9rtWvak0M8bgdH64c3wbZnhmAP0wYGusSX_jjMmIOpcEyXN3NwtglfGINI4-9SdAOL_pn3op_xAdjPjjR7NKkv/s400/Christmas+Market.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Christmas markets have thrived in Europe for centuries, with Germany holding the crown when it comes to the sheer size, quantity, standard and atmosphere atmosphere. A visit to a German Christmas market is a true Yuletide treat that every enthusiastic shopper should experience at some time in their lives! But if time, finance and the snow is against you this December, you can enjoy the Christmas market experience a little closer to home! With a wide selection of gourmet and speciality foods, hand crafted decorations and accessories, one off art pieces, unique gifts, the personal touch and a whole of of Christmas cheer, it is certainly worth paying a visit to your local Christmas market this year! </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> Below is a list of the larger Christmas markets taking place around Ireland this year! If I have missed any and you want to add it to the list just let me know :)</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b style="color: red;">12 Days of Christmas' Festival</b> at Dublin Docklands</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Open From 12 Dec 10 to 23 Dec 10 </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></div><div style="color: red; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Christmas in Killarney</b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Open From 25 Nov 10 to 09 Jan 11 </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Cork, Christmas on the Grand Parade </b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Fridays to Sundays only, Open From 26 Nov 10 to 22 Dec 10 </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
<b style="color: red;">Dublin Fitzwilliam Square Christmas Market</b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Open From 03 Dec 10 to 23 Dec 10 </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Galway Christmas Market</b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Open From 19 Nov 10 to 19 Dec 10 </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Limerick Christmas Market </b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Thursdays to Sundays plus 7, 8, 15, 21 & 22 December, Open From 25 Nov 10 to 24 Dec 10 </div>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8883977922187611009.post-34234716652599762502010-11-29T06:44:00.000-10:002010-11-29T06:44:18.051-10:00Win a Mystery trip to Europe worth €600!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOn883AEo7GyKKHUznmi01AYjiJ3Xxp_YgvishHeGsxD4HfL_uiWlSkSfdLseR40TVkkH4boRaGVWngEsG3WqI72RxPNYgR8KRL1XhElvCAp_lspFPfUQbcGIEoN6ssGnBADCArjO6f6Ij/s1600/win_button-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOn883AEo7GyKKHUznmi01AYjiJ3Xxp_YgvishHeGsxD4HfL_uiWlSkSfdLseR40TVkkH4boRaGVWngEsG3WqI72RxPNYgR8KRL1XhElvCAp_lspFPfUQbcGIEoN6ssGnBADCArjO6f6Ij/s320/win_button-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Christmas is approaching and here at Mysterytrips we feel like Giving!!!!</span></b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We have just launched our Facebook Christmas competition to win a fantastic Mysterytrip to Europe for 2 people worth €600!!!!!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It is FREE and EASY to enter. Simply follow the link below to our Facebook page, suggest it to your friends and post our competition status as your profile status! Full instructions can be found in the info box on the left hand side of the page!</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mysterytrips/122808217737467?ref=ts"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mysterytrips Facebook Competition!</span></a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Best of Luck to you all!</span><br />
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</span>The Top Tips for Trips Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09374572895456280276noreply@blogger.com1