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Many of us began the year on a health and fitness kick. I say 'us', I don't actually mean ourselves included. Most people are still couch potatoes and the passing of time won't do much to change that.

80 percent of people will have abandoned their New Year's resolutions by February, which is a pretty high statistic.

The only thing that could tempt us to change our deviant ways and embrace the health kick is…luxurious travel destinations. Luckily for you gals, we've discovered the best value deals for your health-focused trips.

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Travel Republic have helped us to bring wellness to the forefront of our priorities…by having a selection of INSANELY stunning destinations to lure us towards.

Health and rejuvenation are the goal, and now it's never been easier to take a relaxing post-January break which doesn't negatively impact your lifestyle choices.

Sounds good to us, so what are the winners?

1. Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa: Killarney, Co .Kerry

The Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa is unbelievably magical, and offers unparalleled luxury overlooking the world-famous lakes of Killarney.

The spa at Aghadoe is honestly an oasis of pure serenity; the 10,000 square foot Resort Spa has 11 treatment rooms, relaxation areas, couples suites and a THERMAL SUITE.

The hotel has a fully equipped gym, conservatory-style indoor pool and outdoor terrace and some stunning local hikes and walking trails to enjoy.

If it's good enough for Gary Barlow, it's good enough for us:

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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2. RedLevel at Melia Palacio de Isora – Tenerife

This is next-level privacy chic, and it's adults ONLY. The RedLevel at Melia Palacio de Isadora is located beside the Tenerife sea, where the excellent service and facilities will give you a classy, unique stay.

The destination has the elite SPA by Clarins on offer, as well as a private pool surrounded by Bali beds and a Pool Concierge service for the infinity pool. They also boast the LARGEST saltwater hotel pool in Europe, at a 5,000m2.

If you need the perfect place for relaxed rejuvenation with the best food you can buy, total seclusion and dazzling sunshine, this one's a winner. Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and embrace the wellness, if you've got the cash, that is.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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3. 137 Pillars House: Chiang Mai, Thailand

Ah, our personal favourite. This destination is NEXT. LEVEL. GORGEOUSNESS.

If a far-flung and exotic setting is your biggest wish for the great escape, look no further than the beauty of Chiang Mai. The tropical Thai paradise is famed worldwide for it's calm and serene vibe, and private space.

Nestled in lush scenery, the hotel boasts a luxurious spa, yoga classes, tropical gardens, a drool-worthy pool, a gym….and Tai Chi. Wowza.

The hotel has a variety of wellness packages on offer to suit the needs of every traveller; it's the ideal health-driven retreat. There are also millions of elephant sanctuaries nestled in Chiang Mai which make the perfect tourist treat.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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 4. Taj Bentota Resort & Spa – Bentota, Sri Lanka

The Golden Mile of Bentota beach is something of a gem, nestled along the southwest coast of Sri Lanka.

The setting is totally unique, with the hotel overlooking the idyllic Indian Ocean and only 40 miles south of Colombo; Sri Lanka's capital.

The relaxing resort comprises 162 rooms with sea or garden views, vistas of the Indian Ocean of the lush vegetation of the tropical shrubbery around the building. They've got two tennis courts, a health club with a steam bath and sauna and a fully-equipped gym. Oh, and don't forget about the outdoor swimming pool, a poolside snack bar and games.

Asia's most exotic sanctuary is without a doubt a great decision for those wellness and health fanatics out there to enjoy:

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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5. Hotel Palazzo Montemartini: Rome, Italy

JUST LOOK AT THE POOL.

The prestigious Palazzo Montemartini is a boujée five-star hotel in central Rome, within walking distance from Termini Station, Baths of Diocletian and Michaelangelo's church of Santa Maria degli Angeli. Need we say more?

It's the ONLY hotel in Rome crossed by the Servian Walls, built way back in the sixth century BC. Wellness and holiday fans can find unique high-tech elegance in the location, with 82 rooms and suites and the ultra-exclusive Senses Restaurant & Lounge Bar

The exclusive SPA ExPure has pure unforgettable moments of relaxation. They've got massage and treatment rooms, colour therapy showers, heated swimming pools, saunas and Turkish baths. The dream.

We. Are. Drooling. It's the destination we want, but also the destination we NEED. 

There you have it, ladies and gents. The top five wellness and health destinations the world can offer, with opulent, lavish and sumptuous locations for y'all to visit.

You deserve this level of decadence, plus you'd achieve the most EXTRA of Instagram snaps.

Retreat to these magical destinations and never look back. Actually, screw that. Just don't ever leave? 

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It's happened to many of us…we're travelling to the most Instagram-able spots in the world, yet there's nobody to take photos of us in all our cultured glory.

Whether it's Niagara Falls, the Colosseum of Rome or the white sand beaches in Bali, sometimes a great candid is all we crave. Why waste the opportunity?

If your own significant other can barely hold a camera, or if you're a single solo traveller, finding somebody to capture us at our finest moment can be tedious at best. 

Not all of us have a John Legend to work his magic on the lens for the sake of our followers:

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Luckily for us, specialist tour operators Roma Experience are now (hilariously) offering an Instagram boyfriend to follow you around all day and get those #travelgoals snaps you've always wanted.

They spotted a gap in the market, that's for sure. Their timing couldn't be better, seeing as social media is playing a massive role in the lives of global youth.

Instagram is even acting as an influential factor in choosing a travel destination, with a ludicrous 40.1% of millennials deeming the site an important factor when considering a holiday. My God, what have we become?

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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The Roma Experience's 'boyfriend of Instagram' is sure to be a sell-out, offering the unsung heroes of 'likes' to women (and fellow men) from every corner of the world. Bless them.

The Instagram Boyfriend has become an obsession in its own right, with countless pages dedicated to the men who play their part in giving a partner the PERFECT shot for the feed.

Not all heroes wear capes, just selfie sticks.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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The wonderful service allows travellers to hire a profesh photographer to join them on their tour for three hours, taking pictures of them around some of the most picturesque Italian sites the gorgeous country has to offer.

You will then be emailed the iconic new pictures of you at your fiercest, fresh and ready for the gram. Or just your fridge?

The service is an additional €350 on top of the price for the full-day tour of Rome, but can you put a price on insta-worthy images? Hell no. It's 2019, this is our lifestyle now people.

Roma Experience’s Full Day Tour of Rome and Vatican City costs from €643, including all entrance fees, and private transfer from the city centre to the Vatican. The photographic service is an option extra, priced at €355.

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January is really a month for the winter blues. Christmas is a hazy memory, you can't quite shake that cold that's been bothering you, and summer seems like an eternity away.

Why not escape for a weekend to see some of Europe's most incredible sights, and stay in the best Airbnb's you can find. Treat yo'self, gowan.

Luckily for you, we've curated a list of some of the continent's best apartment finds.

We've already booked our flights straight out of Dublin airport, ASAP….

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1. Zagreb, Croatia

This new stylish apartment is in the perfect location in the centre of the beautiful Zagreb, on Križanićeva street.

For a quiet and safe space which is still central, this is one of the best areas to stay in. Close to the main city square, central bus and train station, everything is easily within walking distance.

A modern, contemporary apartment with a monochromatic décor theme, yet still so comfortable, this apartment is perfect. It can host three guests, and has two beds and a bath. 

New stylish central apartment
Price: €37 per night

2. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is an incredible city to visit, the Old Town is stunning and has a huge amount of history, and most of the town is within walking distance.

It also is home to some of the best pub crawls in the world, just sayin'. This gorgeous boutique apartment has us DROOLING.

The spacious design, the window panels allowing light to stream in, we just need to stay here ASAP.

The boutique apartment is located in the Bohemian Zizkov district, packed with unreal cafés, bars, restaurants and bars with some amazing views of Prague.

3. Paris, France

We have found a sunny, cosy studio apartment LITERALLY just down the road from the Eiffel Tower. What more would you need?

The charming apartment is ideal for an escape to the Parisian life; it's both residential and family-oriented.

There are windows throughout the apartment to let in the French sun, and the location is absolutely perfect; the seventh district of Les Invalides

Just picture yourself having a coffee and croissant downstairs, looking out the window at the Parisian aesthetic. We can.

4. Berlin, Germany

A 'superhost' owns this GORGEOUS Berlin apartment, which can house four guests and his also an absolute bargain of an offer for what you're getting.

The apartment is a short walking distance away from some of Berlin's top spots, with restaurants, shops and bars surrounding the area.

The subway station is only a seven minute walk away, and the location is both safe and central. You'll be prancing around Alexanderplatz in no time…

Design apartment
Price: €34 per night

5. Barcelona, Spain

This spacious loft is on Airbnb Plus, and for a good reason.

The stunning studio apartment has an actual JETTED TUB. Be still my beating travel heart. The location is extremely central; with the city's main sights within walking distance.

The New York-style space has exposed brick walls, high ceilings of rustic Catalan wood and bold modern art.

Catch some rays on the balcony and make use of the space's incredible amenities.

Spacious loft
€70 per night

6. Rome, Italy

This 'superhost' certified apartment in the centre of one of Europe's most renowned cities is GOALS.

The apartment can house up to four guests, and is located on the first floor of a beautiful palatial residence just minutes from the Piazza Della Repubblica.

The studio home is freshly renovated, filled with light and more luxurious than our future. We LOVE.

7. Edinburgh, United Kingdom

This stunning Georgian apartment in Edinburgh's New Town is one of the best Airbnb's on the market.

The loft is a ground floor flat in the famous area, with absolutely every part of the city within walking distance. The apartment is spacious, has fantastic amenities such as a bath, and even an indoor fireplace for those cold January months.

The beautiful home as Wi-Fi, free parking down the road and houses two guests easily, with comfort being the essential promise. 

New Town apartment 
€54 per night

8. Vienna, Austria

This sunny apartment is extremely sought after, for it's dedication to space and light.

It can house four guests, and they can each experience the unique, warm decor of the apartment while being close to the most famous parts of Vienna.

The metro station at Ober-St. Veit is only a seven minute walk away, with the home featuring a spacious living room with a kitchen, one bedroom and a bathroom.

The terrace can be used in summer to soak in that European sun that we Irish can never seem to get.

Sunny apartment in Vienna
Price: €69 per night

9. Krakow, Poland

Poland is a great country to escape to, especially because of how affordable it is.

This chic loft apartment in central Krakow is only €18 PER NIGHT, we cannot believe how great it is.

Beautiful, modern studio for one or two people has air conditioning for the hot summer months, and is located on Bonerowska Street in Krakow city centre. 

The space is less than five minutes walking distance away from Krakow's main historical sights including main square, Wawel Castle, the Jewish Quarter and more.

Loft apartment
Price: €18 per night

10. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

The hosts don't call it the 'stairway to heaven' for no reason. Amsterdam is one of Europe's most interesting cities, with a huge amount to do and some immensely picturesque locations to visit.

Little loft apartments near the canals and boats are such a dream come true, and this luxury apartment with warm, modern décor is perfect for a weekend away with someone special.

The private trendy studio is built in the attic of an authentic 1880 Amsterdam house, and is located in the cool neighbourhood near the food hall and outdoor markets. I wouldn't book this if stairs aren't suitable for you, however, it's a steep climb up.

Stairway to Heaven
Price: €80

You all deserve a holiday, and January is the perfect time to escape the winter blues and catch the travel bug.

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It seems people can't resist Ireland's charms. I mean, where else are you going to enjoy pints at midday without judgment?

We're ranked at number two on TripAdvisor's list of countries with the most excellent service in the world this year.

Iceland came out on top, with the UK just behind us in third place, the Irish Independent reports.

These awards were based on the percentage of properties that received a Certificate of Excellence for 2018 in each country or city.

The following are the top ten most excellent countries to travel to in the world, according to TripAdvisor:

  1. Iceland
  2. Ireland
  3. United Kingdom
  4. Greece
  5. Morocco
  6. France
  7. The Netherlands
  8. Italy
  9. Portugal
  10. Belgium

Clearly, Europe has the travel game in the bag, but it's also exciting to see Morocco ranking so high.

The Certificate of Excellence is given to experiences, restaurants, and accommodation through an algorithm 'that takes into account the quality, quantity, and recency of user reviews'.

Dublin also makes the grade when it comes to the most excellent cities list, coming in sixth place:

  1. Key West, USA
  2. Reykjavik, Iceland
  3. Edinburgh, UK
  4. Marrakech, Morocco
  5. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
  6. Dublin, Ireland
  7. Bali, Indonesia
  8. Krakow, Poland
  9. Glasgow, UK
  10. New Orleans, USA

This is the first time TripAdvisor has decided to rank destinations based on Certificates of Excellence.

Now, if you're looking for a somewhere to holiday with amazing accommodation, Chicago tops the list of cities in this department. Add their famous deep dish pizza to this, and we're practically ready to book our tickets now.

As for thrilling experiences and attractions, Costa Rica is the place to be, as it has the highest percentage of Certificates of Excellence in this category.

Our capital city has become a haven for foodies, and that's reflected on the list of most excellent restaurants for 2018:

  1. Key West, USA
  2. Reykjavik, Iceland
  3. Bali, Indonesia
  4. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
  5. Venice, Italy
  6. Florence, Italy
  7. Edinburgh, UK
  8. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
  9. Dublin, Ireland
  10. Krakow, Poland

Hmm, anyone else fancy a holiday all of a sudden?

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A recent study found that millennials are more likely to choose their next holiday destination based on it's Instagram-worthiness.

Yep, you read that right.

We don't choose it based on the nightlife or location – these days it's all about Insta.

Whether you agree with the findings or not, a few places around the world are just too beautiful to not picture, so The Cut asked the social media site to reveal which destinations get Instagrammed more than others, and here are the top nine:

1. Disney Theme Parks

 

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2. Universal Studios Theme Parks

 

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3. Central Park, New York City

4. Times Square, New York City

5. Eiffel Tower, Paris

 

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6. Louvre Museum, Paris

 

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7. Las Vegas Strip, Las Vegas

 

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8. Santa Monica Pier, Los Angeles

 

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9. Brooklyn Bridge, New York City

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Heading off for a long weekend with your best friends is one of the greatest things to do, especially if you haven't seen them all for a while.

However, deciding on the location for your trip can have the WhatsApp group chat hopping for weeks on end, and deciding on a destination is never easy. 

Luckily, we at the SHEmazing! offices have had a little think about some of the most entertaining trips we've been on with our girlfriends, and have compiled a list of the top five places we definitely recommend. 

5. Krakow

While having the craic in Krakow may become a running joke, the diverse Polish city has much more to offer than cheap vodka and infinite pretzel vendors.

The historically rich city has plenty of daytime activities to embark on, from walking tours of the entire town to visiting the Rynek Underground Museum to see the skeletons of vampires which were dug up in the town's famous square. 

The night life is also on point, with a mix of hidden Polish taverns, all-you-can-drink bars and glamorous night clubs. 

4. Berlin

Berlin has become a popular tourist spot for Irish adventurers, thanks to the eclectic food, Bauhaus architecture and poignant history of the city.

Sights like the Berlin Wall and the Jewish History Museum are must-sees by day, and by night the city reveals an unbeatable clubbing scene.

Spots like Tresor, The Matrix, Suicide Circus and Kitty Chengs are high on the list. 

 

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3. Newcastle

If you're not looking to stray too far from home and a partying is all that's on the agenda, Newcastle is the spot.

The shopping is pretty good if you can drag yourself from your hangover bed, and the night life is, as documented on Geordie Shore, completely insane. 

Tup Tup Palace, Florita's and Madame Koo's are all up there in terms of atmosphere and general craziness. 

 

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2. Paris

Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, but it doesn't often get the credit it deserves for its night life.

The city has breathtaking sites to see by day, including the Louvre, the Champs-Élysées and of course, the Eiffel Tower. 

By night, the city plays host to a menagerie of outdoor bars, rooftop parties, skyline view restaurants and wild nightclubs. 

1. Greece

Greece is a renowned set of party islands, and the sun-soaked destination has been attracting party-seekers for decades. 

Laganas on the island of Zante is one of the biggest resorts in the country, along with Mykonos and Malia. 

Prepare for vast vats of cocktails and lots of luminous paint. 

 

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So 2015 was not the year we were going to see the WORLD. but maybe we were just holding out for 2016!

This year, we are starting early and making a list of the dream destinations we just have to visit in the next twelve months. If we wish hard enough, it could happen? Right? RIGHT?

Some are perhaps more achievable than others but you'll get no where unless you dream BIG. 

So pack your bags and slap on the sunscreen, we are going on a fantasy holiday for the next five minutes. 

1. Santorini, Greece 

2. Angkor Wat, Cambodia 

3. Burano, Italy 

4. Ghent, Belgium 

5. Koh Samui, Thailand 

6. Mount Cook, New Zealand 

7. Uluru, Australia 

8. Edinburgh, Scotland 

9. Yucatan, Mexico

10. Kauai, Hawaii

11. Prague, Czech Republic 

12. Glacier Bay, Alaska

13. Surrigao, Phillipines

14. Iguazu Falls, Argentina

15. Halong Bay, Vietnam

16. Harry Potter World, Florida

 

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With budget airlines and so many amazing destinations to choose from – we’ve compiled some places you can visit on a mini-break that won’t completely break you.

Krakow in Poland
With stunning town squares and charming buildings – enjoy a coffee in one of many charming cafes or visit the extensive museums and galleries of Krakow.

Budapest in Hungary
With a stunning Royal Palace, the Széchenyi Baths and lots of delicious Hungarian delicacies to try out, Budapest will be a city break to remember.

Edinburgh in Scotland
From the castle on the Royal Mile to the countless charming medieval streets and great bars, Edinburgh is a must on any list. While drinks and food may not be cheap exactly, countless offers on flights will help to even things out.

Prague in the Czech Republic
A famously charming city, home to the gorgeous Charles Bridge and the Astronomical Clock in the Old Town, sit back with a local beer and soak in the great atmosphere of Prague.

Lisbon in Portugal
A fabulously historical city, Lisbon is one of the cheapest destinations in Europe with amazing value for money. Partake in a walking tour to make sure you get to see every inch of this fascinating city. Don't forget to eat one (or seven) custard tarts – they are famous here! 

all images via Pinterest

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Travel definitely broadens the mind, and ANYWHERE is better than little old Ireland right now! So this year, rather than spending January sticking to a diet you know you won't keep, get planning your summer holiday….

For the ultimate life experience and taste of adventure, you need to hit these destinations:

Vietnam

To really get out of your comfort zone, head to the glorious country that is Vietnam. Head to the FITO Museum in Ho Chi Minh City and while you’re there go to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Rent a bike in Hoi An, a stunning old seaside town, and head to the Sand Dunes of Mui Ne and try sand sledding – yes, it is a real thing!

South Africa

For a real wildlife adventure you need to go on safari in this beautiful country. The Hluhluwe and Imfolozi National Park is the largest in Africa and you might even spot a white rhino. If you are feeling brave, hop into a kayak and have a leisurely row down Catalina Bay – just watch out for the crocs and hippos! 

Japan

Japan is an absolutely stunning destination that needs to be seen to be believed. There are so many Shrines and Temples to be explored, festivals to enjoy,  shopping to do , Japanese culture to experience and so much traditional cuisine to try that you’ll never want to leave.

Chile

This incredible South American country has so much on you won’t know where to begin. To give you a helping hand start off at the Atacama Desert, hop over to Easter Island, explore the Torres del Paine National Park, take in the incredible beauty of the Patagonia or enjoy the nightlife in Santiago and have a wander around the La Vega market.

Serbia

Not on many people’s travel wish list, this European country is truly a sight to behold. Here you can explore the capital Belgrade, visit the Djerdap, hike in the Fruska Gora or soak in the culture at Novi Sad.

Now all you need to do is get saving…. 

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We love going on holidays but they can be lethal for our New Year’s resolutions – and we all know how one cheat week can ruin all our good work. Forever.

Researchers at Cheapflights have compiled a very useful list of destinations that can make or break the most common resolutions.

Here’s how you can stay on the straight and narrow while still having an amazing week away from reality.

Resolution: “I will save money”

Make it – Budapest, Hungary
A weekend break for you and your partner (or BBF!) is still achievable, even if funds are tight. It’s possible to snag yourself  a two-night stay at a 3 star hotel available in Budapest for only €162. Now, where did we leave our passports…

Break it – New York City, USA
Although you may get a good deal on a ticket to the Big Apple, you’ll pay through the nose for everything else. The average cost of a meal for two in NYC is €65 and a two-night stay in a 3 star hotel comes in at €400.

Resolution: “Curb my coffee addiction”

Make it – Sri Lanka
Did you now that Sri Lanka produces 12% of the world’s tea? Not a coffee bean in sight, so if cutting down on the black stuff is what you promised yourself this year then head to this eclectic Asian destination and down all the Darjeeling you please.

Break it – Sấo Paulo, Brazil
If you’re trying to cure your addiction to coffee then clearly Brazil is the wrong place to head to as it produces 40% of the world’s coffee – eek! Coffee is a integral part of society and Brazilian culture, particularly Sấo Paulo.

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