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An impending strike action from Ryanair is the LAST thing we want to think about as we pack our bags, preparing to run to the beach, but it could become a reality later this month. 

Before you go changing any plans, breathe. There's still time to potentially rearrange a few things and look at getting some potential compensation, should your flight get cancelled.

HolidayGuru.ie have compiled a set of tips to follow, which may be helpful, should you be affected.   

Here's what you need to know: 

Can I claim compensation due to a strike?

This depends on whether the airline is legally obliged to provide compensation if the flight is affected due to reasons beyond their control e.g volcanic eruption, a strike, extreme weather.

Depending on who is striking you may be able to claim up to approximately €530 in compensation from your airline.

  • With Ryanair, you may be eligible to claim monetary compensation if your flight was delayed more than 3 hours on arrival or cancelled within 14 days of departure.

  • They say “If the delay or cancellation was unexpected and therefore outside of our control (extraordinary circumstances) no monetary compensation is due under EU Regulation 261/2004.”

What am I entitled to if my flight is cancelled?

Under EU regulation you are entitled to:

  • A full refund of the cost of the ticket within 7 days (fees may apply)

  • A substitute flight to your destination from another airport (additional travel costs will be covered by the airline)

  • A replacement flight outside the strike duration (usually limited to a 12-month period)

Fill out the Ryanair Claim form

If your flight is cancelled and you have to make temporary arrangements in a different city, make sure that you keep your spending costs low and keep the receipts. You can claim a reimbursement from the airline when you return home.

Ryanair has a claim form which can be found on their “Contact us” page. To claim your expenses, you have to provide the flight number, date of the delay or cancelled flight and proof of your expenses such as photos of receipts, PDFs etc.

What happens if the airline rejects your claim?

  • Use an adjudicator or regulator to take the claim further.

  • Take the claim to court: If the airline still reject your claim or you are unhappy with the outcome of your claim then you can take them to court. The court may refuse claims if they date back more than 6 years in England, Northern Ireland and Wales (five years in Scotland) so be sure to keep this in mind.

  • Your insurer may be able to help. Check the terms and conditions of your insurance policy to see what situations it will cover. You may also receive payment to cover hotel costs or alternative transport you require; the airlines should provide this by law, however, as previously stated.

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Tbh, we don’t know how our parents planned holidays way back when.

No price comparison online, no filtered results to find the perfect hotel – our travel experiences have been fuelled by technology.

And the tech industry continues to innovate, which will transform our jet-setting plans in incredible ways.

Here are five of the most exciting tech innovations in the travel industry, according to Holidayguru.ie:

1) Augmented Reality (AR)

While we always have notions of picking up a few key phrases before travelling to a foreign country, we have to admit, it doesn’t always happen.

AR is a lifesaver in many ways because, using this, Google Translate lets you take pics of signage you need to be translated. Let’s face it – we’re mostly talking about menus here. Gotta get that holiday grub.

As well, there are also apps like VisitScotland and England’s Historic Cities that can help you learn about cultural sites you’re visiting.

2) Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI makes travel handy as can be, and it’s what allows Dutch airline KLM to send your boarding pass and other updates through chat apps like Facebook Messenger.

It’s also making waves in the hotel industry. Hilton Hotels’ ‘Connie’ makes guests’ stays feel personal with assisted check-ins and tips.

3) Virtual Reality (VR)

Want to travel without having to go halfway across the world? Well, airlines like Lufthansa have created stunning 360-degree videos so you can experience the amazing visuals of distant destinations without leaving the comfort of your own home.

If you have a VR headset, you can practically have your own holiday looking at what apps like Google Earth VR, NASA, and Boulevard have to offer.

4) Blockchain

Blockchain is a way for digital info to be distributed safely not but copied.

This means that in the future we could possibly say goodbye to passports and boarding passes, and instead verify our identities online at the airport. Imagine how quickly we’d get through to our gate!

5) Voice Control Interface

No, Amazon’s Alexa isn’t just for asking silly questions (though we do really, really enjoy doing that). When asked, she can look through Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights available.

Google Assistant can look for flights and help you practice those handy phrases in foreign languages. Siri is able to check the status of your flight and look for hotels in the area.

So what’re you waiting for? With all of this futuristic tech at our fingertips, holidays are easier than ever before.

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It’s that marvellous time of year when the sun starts shining, and we all start booking amazing holidays.

If you’re anything like us, you probably have a pretty lengthy travel bucket list – including the world’s most amazing places.

Well, the stunning Barbados is at the top of our list this year!

And while we look into booking our trip, we cannot help but drool over the most amazing places you can stay while in Barbados.

From treehouses to magical beach resorts, there’s something for everyone, and every budget.

Have a look, we dare you not to be impressed…

1. Treetop Cottage 

Your own romantic retreat in a lush tropical garden ten minutes east of Holetown. With secure off street parking and a private jungle pool complete with its own monkey troop!

Enjoy Caribbean Balcony living from a hammock in the breeze or on a lounger around the jungle pool! The cottage comfortably accommodates four in two private bedrooms upstairs and an open plan kitchen-living room downstairs. Explore the orchard and compete with the monkeys for the seasonal fruits!

2. Turtle Beach Resort

This premium all-inclusive, all-suite enclave, features 161 contemporary suites on Barbados’ luminous South Coast. Turtle Beach appeals to families and couples. Within walking distance from The Gap and nightlife. The Resort has three restaurants, including Zagat rated Asiagos, two bars, two swimming pools, kids splash pool, plus Jacuzzi, tennis courts, complimentary non-motorised water sports, beach ambassador service, Flying Fish Kids Club, spa facilities, fitness centre and classes and complimentary Wi-Fi in rooms and throughout the property. Guests can enjoy signature dine around programme with 3 sister properties.

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3. Fairmont Royal Pavilion

Located on the sought-after Platinum Coast, on a half mile long beach and 11 acres of lush tropical gardens, you’ll fill your sun-kissed days and starlit nights with unforgettable moments.

All 72 rooms and suites offer magnificent, unobstructed views of the beautiful Caribbean Sea, while three superbly decorated Villas offer ample spaces and mesmerizing ocean views. Several included services will make your stay even more memorable, including daily afternoon tea, WiFi, fitness room, tennis courts, a freshwater pool, non-motorized water sports, swim with the turtles activity, a weekly manager’s cocktail and garden tours.

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4. Cobblers Cove

A favourite destination for discerning travellers, Cobblers Cove is set within lush tropical gardens and each of the hotel’s spacious suites has a private balcony or terrace. Discover country-house elegance combined with authentic Caribbean character in this luxury hideaway that overlooks Barbados’s stunning west coast.

Days can be spent soaking up the sun or getting to know the real Barbados with the hotel’s superb organised tours, or for those feeling a little more energetic there’s a wealth of complimentary water sports on offer.

As a Relais & Châteaux hotel, dining at the award-winning Camelot Restaurant is an occasion to be savoured. Head Chef Jason Joseph excels with sensational creative menus.

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5. Crane Resort

For over a century, the historic Crane Resort has surveyed the famous pink sands and turquoise waters of Crane Beach from its dramatic cliff-top perch. A Barbadian legend since 1887, and the oldest operating hotel in the Caribbean, The Crane effortlessly marries the old-world charm of its past to all the 21st century amenities and services expected by today’s most discerning travellers.

From grand colonial styled suites and residences featuring lush gardens, private pools and rooftop terraces, to an impressive array of world-class amenities and services including fitness facilities, spectacular cascading pools, exciting restaurants and of course, the Zagat rated Zen, The Crane in an idyllic respite on the South East coast of Barbados.

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6. Savannah Beach Hotel

Situated on the pristine South Coast of Barbados, Savannah Beach Hotel is a four star beach resort that easily ranks as one of the most idyllic destinations on the island. This restored 19th century Plantation House once predominantly featured brick construction and elegant cast-iron balconies. Great Britain’s colonial architecture was rampant in Barbados from as early as the 17th century so it’s easy to understand why this hotel is so roped into the anatomy of its environs.

Forget everything you’ve ever known or experienced about all-inclusive hotels… Savannah is distinctly different. It is an all-inclusive hotel with style! Dive in… Savannah is an excellent choice for a relaxed Caribbean holiday. It is a Caribbean paradise that simply must be experienced!

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7. Sweetfield Manor

Sweetfield Manor was once a cozy plantation house from days gone by. Now it’s a unique boutique hotel offering exclusive comfort in a relaxing atmosphere. A luxury five star, intimate 10-room hotel. The Manor was built in the early 1900’s, and has maintained its treasured original qualities.

The hotel is centrally located, perfectly situated within lush tropical surroundings, atop a hill which affords spectacular views over the south coast of Barbados. It is only minutes from the heart of the exciting south coast, beaches, restaurants, shopping and entertainment.

8. Blue Lagoon

This very private, recently renovated, 2 storey, beach front villa includes a large ocean front terrace with pool and private steps down to an idyllic beach.

It is located close to the Lone Star Restaurant and is within a few minutes of all other amenities. This is an exceptional holiday home benefiting from a successful rental history.

There is access down to a small tidal beach with lovely snorkelling and swimming. Three lovely en-suite bedrooms are located on the first floor, while the ground floor comprises of the living area, kitchen and exceptional sun terrace with plunge pool.

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9. Coconut Court Beach Hotel

Recently renovated, award-winning, family-owned hotel located directly on a large, beautiful beach in the heart of the South Coast. Located in the historic UNESCO World Heritage district within easy walking distance to historic sites, shops and restaurants.

Full self-catering apartments also available for families and long stay visitors. Complimentary roundtrip airport transfers provided for all guests. Hotel facilities include two full service restaurants and bars, one beach bar, swimming pool, cold water Jacuzzi, 24-hour front desk and security services, activities desk, gift shop and complimentary hospitality suite.

Coconut Court is a charming hotel that offers great value and warm, genuine service making it a perfect holiday choice for the young at heart!

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10. Coral Mist Beach Hotel

A Tropical haven where turquoise sea, edges the vast sweep of pristine white sand of worthing beach. This comfortable and restful hotel boasts 32 newly built rooms exquisitely furnished with Studios, 2 Bedroom, 1 Bedroom and 1 Bedroom suites.

All with kitchenette, air-condition, private bath and balconies, over looking the Caribbean Sea, with a restaurant, fitness centre and novelty shop combined with warm hospitality and lively water sports which all adds to the charm of the hotel.

 

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Everyone's jetting off on their holidays all of a sudden, and we can't help but look out the window wistfully as we sit here at home.

If you're also green with travel envy though, never fear. No longer will you have to look at your friends' Insta posts wishing you were travelling the world, too.

Thanks to cheap-ish flights and the beauty of our European neighbours, you can still go on those last-minute trips. 

Here are our top picks for Airbnb homes in Madrid, Budapest, Rome, and Edinburgh.

Madrid

NEW Remodel Madrid Sol downtown duplex €63 p/n

This chic apartment is nestled in the heart of Madrid, near plenty of the Spanish capital's main attractions.

The flat can accommodate two guests and is exquisitely decorated – perfect for the cosmopolitan traveller.

Private Studio in Sol, Madrid €80 p/n

If you're looking for a place steeped in history, this is it. This antique apartment was built in the 17th century but has been refurbished in a modern style.

The studio fits four guests, has two large balconies to enjoy, and is just a stone's throw away from Sol Square.

Budapest

Best panorama, great location on Buda side €48 p/n

This one-room flat offers a gorgeous view of the Danube and Chain Bridge.

The cosy apartment suits two guests and the hosts hope that, while everyone may arrive as strangers, they leave as close friends.

Rooftop Atelier Apt.- Cozy & Lovely €50

A mere five minute walk away from the lively bars and restaurants of the Jewish Quarter, this cute apartment is a lovely home away from home.

Sleeping up to three guests, the balcony opening onto a courtyard is just one of the many touches that make this a memorable place to stay.

Edinburgh

Converted factory with parking €103

This flat is the perfect place for you and three of your friends to enjoy the bohemian Stockbridge neighbourhood.

As well, the funky industrial-style apartment is within walking distance of Edinburgh city centre.

Quiet, bright apartment with free parking space! €62 p/n

Tucked away in a family-friendly neighbourhood, this place is so lovely with its bright pops of colour and eclectic decor.

City centre is a walkable distance away, and there are plenty of amenities nearby for the four guests staying in the flat.

Rome

PignetoRhome: Casetta Allegra €40 p/n

By far the highlight of this cosy attic home is its rooftop with an amazing terrace. Just imagine sipping an espresso up there in the morning!

The apartment fits two guests and is quite close to public transport lines.

Loft Garden San Lorenzo €45 p/n

We are simply in love with this apartment situated in the historical San Lorenzo neighbourhood.

Besides its beautiful retro decor, the flat also boasts an outdoor courtyard and has enough room for you and five friends.

 

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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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While we're delighted that Dublin plays host to some of the biggest names in music on a regular basis, if you're not from the Big Smoke, the costs of concert attending can get steep. 

There's the cost of getting up to the capital from wherever in the country you hail, getting back home again AND if you're relying on public transport, there's a chance you might have to shell out for an overnight stay after the concert. 

Irish Rail is taking steps to combat this, and with Taylor Swift taking to Croke Park stadium this Friday and Saturday, the train authority has decided to add additional services to run after the concert to get you home safe. 

If you're from Galway or Cork, you;'re in luck, here are the times of the additional services after the gig: 

  • Dublin Heuston to Galway 00:30hrs
  • Dublin Heuston to Cork 00:40hrs

As for getting to the gig, an extra train at 9.05am has been added from Tralee to Dublin Heuston. 

If you're planning on getting any of the extra trains, it's worth noting that pre-booking as a must. 

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The sun has finally made a welcome return to Ireland and we’ve been bitten by the wanderlust bug. We can’t help but daydream about strolling through the streets of Paris with an ice cream in one hand and a camera in the other.

There are many things we love about going away on holidays, from tanning our pasty pale legs to drinking cocktails in the afternoon because anything goes when you’re in holiday mode.

We are so ready to jet off, even though packing is a complete nightmare, we are ready for the challenge. All we want is to lounge by the pool and soak up that sweet, sweet Vitamin D.

One of our ultimate holiday essentials is a good book. We struggle to fit all of our clothes, shoes and beauty bits into our suitcase, but we’ll always manage to squeeze in a book.

If you’re looking for a decent summer read, we’ve gathered up three of the best books that are worth popping in your carry-on.

1: The Night of the Party by Rachael English

Rachael English is a master at drawing you into the lives of her characters, making them feel like dear friends you’ve known for years. The Night of the Party follows four Irish teenagers whose lives are changed forever during the biggest snowstorm Ireland has seen for decades. Years have passed since the night of the party, but will they keep quiet or will one of them break their silence? A gripping read that you’ll fly through during a day by the pool.

The Night of the Party published by Hachette Books Ireland is available here.

2: Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton

A brutally honest book about the realities of growing up and the complications of adult life. Dolly Alderton, who is a former dating columnist for the Sunday Times, perfectly captures what adulthood is really like, from the heartaches to those drunken nights you’ll never forget. This book is a breath of fresh air that teaches you about self-worth, genuine friendships and bad dates in a witty and wise way.

Everything I Know About Love published by Penguin Books Ltd is available here.

3: Leah On The Offbeat by Becky Albertalli

This joyous young adult tale is a sequel to Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda, which was adapted into the major motion picture- Love, Simon. This heartwarming tale follows Leah as she handles the stress of first love, complicated friendships and school life. Leah has told her mum she is bi-sexual, but there are some very important people that she has yet to tell- her friends. Teen Vogue described the book as, “The love child of John Green and Rainbow Rowell,” so we’ll certainly be purchasing a copy in the airport before catching our flight.

Leah On The Offbeat is published by Penguin Books Ltd is available here.

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Lush green parks throughout the city centre, imposing heritage buildings, real Central European cafe society, Mediterranean style hospitality.

Welcome to Zagreb, Croatia’s stunning capital!

Rich in culture, including museums, theatres, galleries, authentic markets and a surprisingly buzzing nightlife.

Add a great gourmet scene, from quirky bistros to fine dining, exciting events, a wide range of accommodation choices, easy access to Croatia’s famous coast, plus some excellent shopping and this is a place for the “must see” list.

So, what’s on in this fine city during the summer months? Keep reading…

Cest is d’Best

Bringing vibe, energy, and laughter to city streets, squares, corners and parks this spring! The urban tradition and alternative culture of the city flourishes with street performers, clowns, musicians, hometown boosters, actors, and others whose only wish is to put a smile on people’s faces. The PoŽuji Waiters’ Race, Dustmen Cart Race, The Slowest Bicycle Ride, and the Wandering Piano are just some of the traditional events.

Summer on Stross— Strossmartre

For more than 100 days the Strossmayer Promenade in the Upper Town delivers a Parisian spirit to all who pass by. Majestic views of Zagreb will be met with a carefully created musical programme, art installations, open-air cinema, painters, and pop-up stalls with all sorts of goodies. It’s very romantic with a sense of nostalgia written all over.

#WELOVESOUND Festival

Over two days the festival offers fans of electronic music the chance to see performances by leading international stars. Some of the confirmed artists at the second #WELOVESOUND festival are Ricardo Villalobos, The Martinez Brothers, Sonja Moonear, and Jackmaster. Come share the magic on the dance floor by the lake.

Design District Zagreb

Dedicated to design, architecture, art, fashion, and gastro delights! Expect pop-up galleries, urban gardens and picnics, art installations in streets and parks, incentive design projects, DIY (do-it-yourself) workshops, open days of design and architectural offices, creative catering facilities, a music programme and a lot of other exciting activities.

INmusic Festival #13

One of many buzzing music festivals that puts Zagreb on the map! International world headlining bands strut their stuff at Lake Jarun in our lead up to summer and this year’s headliners are Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, The Kills, Alice In Chains, David Byrne and many more…

ZG Classic 2018

When it comes to music, this is going to be the richest festival to date, gathering around 1000 performing artists, with 13 concerts by leading Croatian and international orchestras over the course of three weeks. Listen to the sounds of opera under the stars, the Nabucco opera, the symphonic orchestras of the Croatian Radio and Television or the Music Academy, as well as Zagreb’s best choirs.

The Courtyards – Each one has its own story

For the fifth year in a row, the majestic courtyards of seven famous city buildings and galleries will open their doors for all to see. This is a must see if you’re in town; simply head to the Upper Town and you’ll be further entertained with a lot of great music, delicious snacks and refreshing sips. Top urban summer fun!

How to get there?

Click here, and start planning your adventure.

And where should you stay?

Zagreb offers a wide range of accommodation possibilities to suit any budget or taste, from luxury five star hotels to accommodation suitable for visitors on a tighter budget. Whatever the type of accommodation you choose, you will find consistent standards and quality of service.

Zagreb Card (important)

The ZAGREB CARD is your best companion when in Zagreb, entitling you to fare free public transport and free visits or discounts at over 50 different locations. You can find detailed information and a complete list of available discounts here.

Have the BEST TIME.

Brought to you by

Zagreb is a little treasure trove of European culture and civilization.

 

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Music festivals are truly hallmarks of an excellent summer. 

While the likes of Forbidden Fruit, Longitude and Electric Picnic are beyond epic, sometimes our sense of adventure takes us further a field to quench our musical thirst. 

There has been a huge trend in Ireland for young people to book flights abroad to attend international music festivals. While many of the basic tips remain the same, there are a few extra essentials to consider when going abroad for a camping extravaganza.

Whether it's Lollapalooza, Creamfields or Mad Cool, here are a few things you may not have considered.

European Health insurance

Sorry to be a party pooper, but it's really important to get yourself some cover when going abroad.

After all, accidents happen when you least expect them.

Try applying for a European Health Insurance Card just in case you fall ill or hurt yourself while raving in a field over yonder.

The European Health Insurance Card allows the holder to access health care services when travelling to or on holiday in another EU or EEA country.

You can also download the free EHIC App to help you contact health services in the country you are visiting for quick assistance.

Phone insurance

We're all partial to losing things from time to time, but it's so much easier when abroad, and especially easy at a festival. 

Even if you never lose things, being away from a normal routine with only temporary places for things, your precious gadgets could easily go astray. 

If you've been meaning to get insurance ever since you bought that new iPhone, before heading abroad is the time to do it. 

Bear in mind that some insurance companies insist that you be signed up to them for a full month before providing cover, so make sure you have this one ticked off the list in advance. 

The Cloud

In accordance with the above tip, make sure your Cloud storage is up to date before heading abroad. 

One of the worst things about losing a phone while on a trip is all of the amazing memories you lose in your Camera Roll (well, that and the expensive inconvenience of repurchasing a phone) so make sure you have extra Cloud Storage to preserve your precious memories. 

Weather packing 

It can be easy to think 'ah, it will never rain while I'm away' when heading to a festival in a country with a reputation for hot summers. 

Don't be fooled by the forecast, always pack for every extreme of weather possible. 

Even if you just bring one rain poncho to go over your denim shorts and crop top, you'll be damn grateful if you end up needing it. Even if it doesn't rain, you can use it to sit on.

Sunscreen, sunglasses, a rain poncho and one cardigan in case it gets cold at night, and you should be sorted. 

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Tent distinction

If you're heading to an international festival for the first time, you might not be ready for the sheer scale of the events. 

Acres of tents covering unfamiliar terrain may leave you scratching your head when you return to the campsites, and getting lost in a sea of tents in never fun. 

Something as simple as draping an Irish flag across the side of your tent, or arranging your tents in a circle if you are wih multiple freinds, can make finding your way back to bed much easier. 

 

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We love nothing more that a cheeky success story… especially when those behind it happen to be Irish.

COYBIG, and all that jazz.

Anyway, with that sentiment, we'd like to introduce you to ourApp of the week, created by two lads from Dublin.

Ekho is a snazzy new app that uses BLE Beacon technology to empower curators of galleries and museums to create a fully immersive multimedia experience that engages visitors through navigation, narration and access to your additional content.

So basically, you can get amazing tours of iconic locations through your phone. Handy or what?

At Ekho, the goal is to help "transform cultural and museum interactions through mobile technology."

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Founders, Raef Tyrell and Mark McGeogh are committed to empowering a new generation of art and culture lovers (hey, that's us!) and attraction visitors, allowing them to delve deeper into the wonderful stories behind the attractions that they love!

Over the past few years, cultural institutions and tourist attractions have sought innovative ways to improve visitor engagement, and the lads decided to act on that industry need.

While many try to draw visitors in with compelling exhibitions, they also seek to add other elements that will facilitate visitor engagement and learning through a unique experience.

And so Ekho was born! 

But how does it work? Well, it couldn't be more simple, trust us, we're far from tech savvy.

Visitors just have to download Ekho onto their own device either from the AppStore or Android's Playstore.

And then you can seamlessly engage with the exhibits via Ekho's Bluetooth technology.

And the best part? Ekho is officially launching today – so get your ass to the app store! 

You'll be glad you did. 

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Are you bored at work? Do you feel like you're not fulfilling your full potential? Looking for a change of pace?

Well, it might be time to ask for your P45, because an Icelandic airline is looking for two best friends to travel the world while documenting their experience – and honestly, it sounds like our dream job.

Yep. WOW Airlines want to pay you and a mate to go on the trip of a lifetime, stopping off in a number of incredible locations including Barcelona, New York and Stockholm. 

What's more, the company will also set you up with a swanky pad in Reykjavik, which will become your base from June 1 to August 15. 

The lucky applicants will be tasked with creating travel content for the budget airline's travel guide, covering a range of topics such as food, culture, nightlife, nature and budgeting. 

Think vlogs, Instagram stories, photos, blog posts – all that good stuff! 

Applications close on May 14 and all you have to do is make a two-minute video showcasing your local town as a travel destination. 

Oh, and did we mention you'll be paid a salary of around €3,300 per month? That's on top of the free apartment and travel, btw. 

If you want to apply, you can click here.

Good luck! 

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When you visit a new city/country, checking the local food market is usually a great way to discover some amazing food for a reasonable price in a fun and lively atmosphere. 

Here are some of favourites, both in Ireland and abroad, that you should definitely put on your foodie bucket list.

Marchés des Enfants Rouges, Paris

 

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From Alain Miam Miam for the best sandwich you'll ever have, to Le Traiteur Marocain for a traditional couscous, pizza, japanese or libanese delicacies, the oldest indoor market in Paris located Rue de Bretagne is a great spot for a scrumptious lunch.

Dun Laoghaire People's Park

Hot food, baked goods, art and crafts, artisan food products and seasonal produce: these are all the wonders you can find every Sunday at People's Park.

Pick up your hangover fuel, dumpling and fresh carrot 'n ginger juice, saunter down to the pier to sit an people watch while you stuff your beak. Then you can get a cheeky Teddy's before hopping on the DART home.

Foodhallen, Amsterdam

Located in a renovated tram depot, Foodhallen offers over 20 different stalls, from Michelin star concepts to international streetfood.

If you have heard of a new food trend you are dying to try, you will find it there!  

English market, Cork

With its various cafes and deli’s as well as its impressive fresh food offer (from meats and fish, fruits and vegetables to cheeses, cakes and pastas) the English Market caters for all culinary tastes and all eating occasions. 

Its unique atmosphere make it a mandatory stop during visit in Cork.

Times Out Market, Lisbon

 

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The issue with the Times Out Market in Lisbon is that you will literally want to never leave this place and keep eating until they kick you out. 

From chef's stalls to amazing seafood, artisan charcuterie and of course, the famous pasteis de nata, you will find the best of what Portuguese food has to offer in this popular market. 

Torvehallerne Market, Copenhagen

 

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Located in the centre of the Danish capital, this market is a real foodie temple with its 60 stands selling everything from fresh fish and meat to gourmet chocolate and exotic spices, as well as refined quick bites (the famous smørrebrøds) and the best coffee you could ever ask for.

Chelsea Market in NYC

 

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Located in a building where the Oreo cookie was invented and produced, the Chelsea market is the best food hall in NYC, whether you are in the mood for some great seafood, fabulous tacos, sushis or tasty ice-cream.

Great Market Hall in Budapest

 

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Opened in 1897, the biggest market hall of the city is held in a gorgeous building adorned with Zsolnay tiles

Renowned for its great variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, baked goods, quality meat products, wines and other Hungarian delicacies, it is also a great place for some handicrafts and souvenirs and take a quick break at the food stalls where you’ll be able to try some classic Hungarian dishes, such as goulash, Hortobágyi palacsinta (meat filled pancake), or lángos.

The Galway Street Market

 

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In the shadow of the St Nicholas Church in Galway City Centre, this adorable market offers fresh fruit and veg, fish and cheese, as well as a huge range of Irish and ethnic street food stalls.

You will also find loads of Celtic jewellery stalls, art sellers and holistic stalls that will make great presents. 

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