Culture Archives - Page 2 of 64 - Jim Murty’s TravelTravelTravel

Channeling your inner Traitors at Slane Castle

13th February 202613th February 2026 funtime65

Who’d lie to Derry Girls’ Sister Michael… well you can by channeling your inner Traitors at Slane Castle.

Sister Michael, or Siobhan McSweeney as she is known in some quarters is back for a second season as host of the international phenomenon that is The Traitors game show.

And participants and viewers alike have been caught up in all the shenanigans that take place in its gilded quarters.

Now the good news for us is that you don’t need to be a Traitor or a Faithful to sample what the competitors do.

Because the Co. Meath estate, 35 miles north of Dublin, is open to visitors to enjoy its charms or channel your inner game player as part of the Slane Castle Collection.

With anything from a three or five-bedroom apartment to taking out the whole castle.

Slayin’ it at Slane

Yes, you read that right, you can now play lord or lady of the manor for the first time in the Georgian demesne in the Boyne Valley.

The Retreat includes exclusive hire of three storeys of the Castle.

With six bedrooms located on both the first and second floors, sleeping up to 15 guests.

As well as reception rooms (dining room, drawing room and main hall) on the ground floor.

The ballroom and morning room event spaces can be booked as part of an additional event hire booking.

And the Conyngham family will cater for breakfasts as well as half to full board once the accommodation is booked.

The castle also has a 60-seater restaurant (Gandon Room).

And 20-seater bar (Browne’s Bar) on the lower ground floor as well as its own nightclub in the basement.

The stage is set

Now if Slane or the Conyngham family rang a bell with you long before its Traitors iteration then we’re not surprised.

As Slane has long been associated with big music festivals.

With it being 45 years this year since Irish rock pioneers Thin Lizzy played in the castle grounds.

With one Hazel O’Connor supporting Phil Lynott and his pals.

In the years since a who’s who of musicians have made Slane Castle a must-play venue.

Including the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Queen, David Bowie, Guns N’ Roses, Robbie Williams and of course U2 who have played Slane three times.

There have also been iconic sets from Madonna, Oasis, Bon Jovi, Eminem, the Foo Fighters and Harry Styles.

While this summer you can see Country superstar Luke Combs on Saturday, July 18, and Sunday, July 19.

With local favourites The Script among the support acts.

A Celtic connection

Now if you’ve Scottish and Irish blood running through you you will be in good company.

As so do the Conynghams are of similar Caledonian and Donegal stock as ourselves.

Which is probably why they turned on the taps and let the whiskey flow at their distillery and invited us down to partake.

All of which, in music and Slane Castle folklore remains in Slane Castle.

Caribbean, Countries, Food & Wine, Music

Dub jammin’ with Celtic reggae

11th February 202611th February 2026 funtime65

It’s one love that Jamaicans and the Irish share which is why we brought our evening of travel networking to a bass jumpin’ climax Dub jammin’ with Celtic reggae.

Two islands forged in struggles against the British Empire it was natural that the Godfather of Reggae Bob Marley should gravitate towards Ireland.

And play his last outdoor concert at Dalymount Park in Dublin in the summer of 1980.

The One Love or An Afternoon in the Park gig on July 6 of that year.

I’m all right, Jack: A pirate of the Caribbean

When he braved his failing health to play before a packed stadium, generously charged as little as I£7 to see a global superstar.

Back in the day when any superstar would bodyswerve Ireland in favour of Britain.

The Irish, of course, never forget and Bob remains such a hero today that the Bohemians football club commemorated the concert with a special football shirt of the Great Man.

Let’s get together

Whisper it but our tickets were even cheaper for our celebration of all things Bob, Reggae and Jamaica.

With a home-grown Celtic Reggae band at the Botanical Garden Opium at the end of our annual Meet the Media networking travel fair.

And don’t worry, nothing that strong was inhaled!

Jamaica has become a growing market, for the reasons of kindred links, love of music, drink, partying and sun… well, OK, only one of the two islands has that.

And, of course, we have road tested the Caribbean and its Celtic roots for you and can vouch that we’re all brothers by another mother or sisters by a different mister.

Now having chewed the fat, or the jerk chicken, with our friends at Tropical Sky and toasted their 20 years in business with Appleton rum.

We got the skinny too on the best offers out there.

Isle sign up for a couples break

And were taken especially by the Couples trips particularly as I went Single Pringle without my partygoer back in the day while she ducked out to stay home with the kids!

And so Couples Tower Isle is an idyllic five-star all-inclusive seven-nighter from £1,629pp including flights.

With a stunning private island just a 100 yards boat ride away.

Now because only the best do for Herself Couples Tower Isle looks just about suitable.

With its four swimming pools, three Jacuzzis and a large beachfront.

We’re gonna jam it with you: The Great Man

The Oasis Spa Villas offers a private sun terrace, a personal plunge pool, and unlimited spa services customised for you by the spa concierge.

And there are complimentary excursions including Dunns River Falls, Sunset Catamaran Cruise and a trip to Margaritaville.

Unlimited scuba diving for certified divers or a beginner’s course with introductory dive.

Yes, or Irie, as they say in these parts, dive into Jamaica, pick up their distinctive vibe and recognise it in your Scots and Irish Celtic roots.

Countries, Culture, Deals, Europe

Tiaras for tear-ups on the Tenerife carnival

30th January 2026 funtime65

I’ve been known to tart up for an oul’ fiesta so think nothing of donning tiaras for tear-ups on the Tenerife carnival.

The Canary Island might not immediately strike you as being Carnival Central.

And most wouldn’t pick it out as the second biggest in the world after Rio.

But once you get under the skin of Tenerife and it has many layers.

You’ll see the island has many, varied and colourful costumes.

I mean where else will you see Jesus kitted out in a skirt on a cross… and not just at carnival?

Float on

Tinerfenos and Tenerifophiles are gearing up for next month’s Carnival.

In truth they have been since the last float was broken down and tiara hung up last year.

As have island specialists Spring Group Hotels.

Which boasts half a dozen beachfront and city-side hotels across Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos.

Just 50 minutes from Santa Cruz.

Reign with my parade

The action gets underway on the Wednesday, February 11 with the Carnival Queen Gala.

After a night of revelry, guests can retreat to the boutique Sir Anthony Hotel.

With its ocean-view rooms and private plunge pools.

The Opening Parade (Cabalgata Anunciadora) is on the Friday.

Guests at Spring Hotel Vulcano can toast the day from the UP! rooftop terrace or unwind by the pool.

And try the pilates, yoga, meditation, and spa treatments.

Super trouper

Ready for Ritmo y Armonía Parade the next day.

Glad you asked… well, it’s high-energy Latin dance troupes along the seafront.

Mediterranean Palace offers children (those who insist on coming along) the Club Mare Kids while you relax by the pool.

Or unwind in the spa and saltwater pool.

After giving worship at your kilted Jesus Mass you’ll be cleansed for the Daytime Carnaval.

The Apoteosis

Guests staying at Spring Hotel Bitácoracan continue the Carnival energy in the south on the UP! rooftop terrace.

A new week and the fun keeps coming on Carnaval Monday.

Wellness is the order of the day at Arona Gran Hotel or if you’re the active type hire a bike to take a spin along the coast.

All to give you energy for Tuesday’s Coso Apoteosis (Grand Parade/Main Parade).

With its fantastic floats, comparsas, music, and fireworks.

Before setting off your day with a rooftop sunset at the Spring Hotel.

Sardines and other fishy tales

The scales of it: The Burial of the Sardine

Well into the ways of the locals you’ll be exercised by now at what to do with your sardines!

Don’t be… the islanders host the Burial of the Sardine on the Wednesday.

A playful, theatrical farewell blending theatre, satire and tradition.

Back in the south, carry on the party in the Piramide de Arona at the Mare Nostrum Resort (beside Cleopatra Palace).

Then it’s back to your Spring hotel for downtime.

The Festival of Rondallas & Children’s Carnival Parade spans the next two days.

There’s still a weekend to go and we won’t take any flagging now.

Take it all out on Piñata Weekend on the Saturday and Sunday.

While for the more grown up there is the Exhibition and Parade of Vintage Cars.

Take a plunge

Seven nights Half Board at 5* Hotel Sir Anthony departing London Stansted on 11 February 2026.

Superior Double room with Sea View and Private Plunge Pool from £2,305pps with Jet2holidays.

Seven nights B&B at Spring Hotel Vulcano departing London Stansted on 11 February.

Standard room. From £1,113pps* with Jet2holidays.

Seven nights B&B at 5* Mediterranean Palace departing London Stansted on 11 February.

Standard Twin room. From £1,082pps* with Jet2holidays.

Expansive: But not expensive at the Cleopatra

Seven nights B&B at 4* Cleopatra Palace Hotel departing London Stansted on 15 February.

Standard Twin room with Pool View. From £1,197pps* with Jet2holidays.

Seven nights B&B at 4* Spring Arona Gran Hotel & Spa, Los Cristianos, Tenerife, departing London Stansted on 11 February.

Twin room with Side Sea View. From £1,122pps* with Jet2holidays.

Seven nights Half Board Plus at Spring Hotel Bitácora, Playa de las Américas, departing London Stansted on 11 February.

Sharing a Standard room. From £1,131pps* with Jet2holidays.

T&Cs

●All prices correct at time of writing and include Jet2holidays’ promotional offer (January payday offer of £100pp off all holidays, plus an extra £100 off per booking).

Prices include 22kg checked baggage per person, 10kg hand luggage per person,

Countries, Culture, Europe

Just Jew It and visit a Jewish Quarter on World Holocaust Day

27th January 202627th January 2026 funtime65

It’s maybe not what you’d expect to see but we’d advise Just Jew It and visit a Jewish Quarter on World Holocaust Day.

And the biggest synagogue in Europe in Dohany Street in Budapest.

And learn how the Hungarian capital was bled of its Jewish population.

With half a million citizens sent to die in Auschwitz-Burkenau, the largest number from any single city in the Holocaust.

All of which is laid out in minute and everyday detail.

In the Quarter’s museum and honoured in the architecture and tributes around Dohany,

Been there bought the T-shirt

Of course, the greatest answer to the ravages of the Holocaust is for the survivors and their descendants to live a good and full life.

And that means celebrating your heritage.

Which we discover when we visit that the Jews of Hungary do with self-effacing humour.

With T-shirts and mugs of the famous Michael Jordan leaping logo with Just Jew It written on them.

It is a side of Jewish people which most will not reflect on today.

But we are reminded of one of the most memorable and heart-rending scenes in any film on the Holocaust.

Life Is Beautiful

From La Vita E Bella (Life is Beautiful) when father Guido uses humour to protect son Giusue’s innocence.

Explaining that the signposts ‘No Jews, No Dogs’ and we are reminded that similar prohibitions throughout history have included ‘No Irish’ are a joke too.

And that when they will go on to open a bookstore they will erect a sign saying ‘No Visigoths, no Spiders.’

And by joking that the rules of the camp are a game.

Read all about it: A Tora in the Jewish Quarter museum

Where you can accumulate points by obeying the draconic, inhumane regulations.

While when the guards come for Guido at the climax for execution and he sees Giusue hiding in a box.

He deflects with wit by winking at him and goosestepping.

The humanity of humour

Roll of honour: Artists in the Jewish Quarter

That people use gallows humour in their worst moments is a uniquely human coping mechanism.

And one which Jews have consistently turned to in the face of victimisation.

With Mel Brooks ridiculing Hitler and anti-semitism and Woody Allen celebrating the eccentricities of his own culture.

While a list of great Jewish comedians rolls off the tongue.

Jackie Mason, George Burns, Groucho Marx, Rodney Dangerfield and Joan Rivers.

To today’s powerhouses of Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David, Sarah Silverman, Adam Sandler, Billy Crystal, Sacha Baron Cohen and Jerry Sadowitz.

World Holocaust Day is, as it should be, a difficult one for us to get through.

None more so than those Jews, Gypsies and other cultures who suffered more than most.

But this year I will reflect on the shared humanity of humour.

Which I encountered in that small piece of Jewish-American fusion of culture I saw in the Magyar capital by the Danube, complete with its emotional shoes statue.

Countries, Culture, Europe

The best place for an eyeful of the Eiffel

23rd January 202623rd January 2026 funtime65

The best place for an eyeful of the Eiffel, of course, can never be at its top, n’est ce pas, but instead from high up the Paris Montparnasse Observatory.

Which is still the only skyscraper in the City of Light and soars to 688ft.

Now to get the full panoramic experience of the French capital you’ll have to get moving, though.

With the Observatory due to close on March 31 for years of renovations.

The closure precedes the launch of a major renovation program aimed at completely transforming the building and its surroundings.

Highful in the Eiffel

Naturellement the Eiffel Tower is the biggest draw for visitors to France.

Many of whom, like ourselves with our then young family, will climb 674 stairs to reach… the second floor.

Because you can’t scale the 1,665 steps and will instead have to take the elevator, although you can skip the lot and get the lift from the ground floor.

All of which you’ll find out or already have in your Paree vacation.

Va va voom

What you might not know is that that other grand edifice by the Seine, the Paris Montparnasse Observatory, boasts the fastest elevator in Europe to get up to its observatory on the 56th floor.

Which more than 30 million visitors have taken in since its opening in 1974, offering a 360-degree view of Paris and its suburbs.

Now with such a vista you won’t be surprised to learn too that the Observatory has hosted more than 3,200 cultural, artistic, and institutional events at the top of the tower.

It has notably served as the venue for concerts by internationally renowned artists such as Justin Bieber, Soprano, Indochine and Feu Chatterton.

As well as events open to the general public, such as temporary recreational installations, an ice rink, a temporary roller skating rink and fashion shows during Fashion Week.

C’est Magnicity

The renovation project will involve a complete transformation of the building and its surroundings.

Mais non, it’s not adieu though, only a bientot.

And Magnicity, which has owned and operated the Paris Montparnasse Observatory and its floors for 53 years, will continue to operate its other panoramic sites internationally.

Notably the architects in Warsaw, Berlin, Rotterdam, and the iconic Sears tower in Chicago which is a truly ear-popping experience.

Countries, Culture, Deals, Europe, Music

Time to say good buy… in Prague

10th January 202610th January 2026 funtime65

Horizons are never far, and particularly with the Institute for Culture Travel, who know exactly when it’s time to say good buy… in Prague, with this Andrea Bocelli special trip.

Now Bohemian Prague is embedded in opera and you’ll jostle with punters from monks to mainstream at the bar at the interval.

While humming to La Boheme or whistling to the Magic Flute.

Our pals at the Institute know us better than we know ourselves and that we have resolved to be more cultural in 2026.

And so they have sneaked in this last-minute concert tour to the Czech capital, departing January 23 and featured a performance by tenor Andrea.

The three-night tour offers guests the chance to see Andrea perform live at Prague’s O2 Arena.

And all that jazz

In the Strahov Monastery Brewery: In the Czech Republic

Along with the added bonus of an expertly curated itinerary of cultural experiences in one of Europe’s most enchanting cities.

So that you can continue your musical odyssey by taking in the jazz saxophonists on the King Charles Bridge by the great River Vlatva.

Which, if you’re like me, and God help you if you are, might prompt you into channeling your inner Ray Charles later in the evening.

All after one too many Pilsener Urquells, you understand, and urged on by Swedish Agnetha (no, not that one).

You’ll stay at the stylish 4* Jalta Hotel on Wenceslas Square.

And don’t worry if it’s after the Feast of Stephen and it’s not snowing, it’s still a marvellous sight.

On a pedestal

You’ll be within easy reach of the State Opera, of course.

And the National Museum and the city’s many historic and cultural attractions and that Astronomical Clock.

Explore the city’s palaces, castles and churches and wander the charming lanes of the Old Town and get in your steps.

Take in the guided tours of Prague Castle and the Lobkowicz Palace.

And look out too for the David Cerny statues dotted around the city, cheek by jowl with Habsburg architecture.

The trip also includes a pre-concert dinner and a return coach transfer to the arena, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.

Tour highlights

Return flights from Dublin and airport transfers with local guide assistance
Three nights B&B at the Boutique Jalta Hotel
Guided walking tour of Prague Old Town
Guided tour of Prague Castle and Lobkowicz Palace
Pre-concert dinner in your hotel
Andrea Bocelli concert at Prague’s O2 Arena (upstairs sector 110)
Prague city tax

And because we know you’ve tucked a little away for your deserved January treat, you’ve got this.

The Institute break comes in at €1,097pps|Single Supplement €256. With a booking deposit of €450pp.

America, Countries, Culture, Music

Route 66 terminus Santa Monica is getting its licks

8th January 20268th January 2026 funtime65

Famously it winds from Chicago to LA and takes in ten other named destinations on the way but we’re glad to say at last that the Route 66 terminus Santa Monica is getting its licks.

Route 66 has been following us all the past year since checking in to Chicago, where the great western highway begins… and we’ll go there again.

But here we’re flagging up the official finishing spot, the pier in Santa Monica, your final stop-off, unless you want to end up in the Pacific Ocean.

Why Bobby Troup bodyswerved Santa Monica when writing his classic 80 years ago about the odyssey to California is lost to history.

But the Santa Monica Travel & Tourism is putting that right.

By inviting musicians and songwriters from across the globe to celebrate the centennial of Route 66 through music.

A hundred-thousand reasons

And he’s off: Route 66 starting point in Chicago

The Route 66 Song Contest offers artists over-18 (we just qualify) the chance to submit an original track capturing the spirit of Santa Monica.

And its legendary connection to the highway for a chance to win $10,000.

Entries are welcome from the U.S., UK, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Mexico, and New Zealand.

Route 66, The Mother Road, stretches 2,448 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica.

‘The Santa Monica Route 66 Song Contest presents an opportunity for music lovers to be part of this historic anniversary’ said President/CEO Misti Kerns..

‘By invoking their artistic imagination and sharing what the road’s legacy and Santa Monica’s connection means to them.

‘The arts are core to Santa Monica’s community and culture.

‘And we’re pleased to invite artists from around the world to join us in creatively honoring this milestone.’

‘As part of the 100-year celebration, we look forward to welcoming visitors from around the globe.

‘to begin or end their Route 66 journey in our urban beach city.’

Riding into history

And, of course, who’s to know if you cheat by getting a picture at the start in Chicago and one at the end in Santa Monica?

Maybe even ask a kind Hell’s Angel to take a photo of yourself next to his motorbike…

Well, it worked with a bicycle at the highest point of the Tour de France on the Col du Tourmalet.

The centennial festivities kicked off with The Drive Home.

Thorn among roses: With the gang in Santa Monica

A cross-country journey by America’s Automotive Trust in partnership with the National Route 66 Centennial Commission.

The trip started in Santa Monica on January 3 and is covering the full length of the highway.

And culminating in an exhibition at the Detroit Auto Show.

Visitors can also explore Route 66 stops along the way, including retro diners, neon-lit motels, and cultural landmarks.

Countries, Deals, Music, UK

Mamma Mia in London

2nd December 20252nd December 2025 funtime65

And if you don’t want to leave your kids with a ‘free house’ then take them with you… to Mamma Mia in London.

Take one precious neighbour back home in Ireland.

And a much-earned weekend away in the West End.

And your peace will be broken.

With endless texts about how she’s had to get the Gardaí out to break up the Son and Daughterie’s party.

Just as you are dancing away to the show-stopping finale to Beautiful: The Carole King Story.

Take a chance on Mamma Mia!

Alas, it’s too late baby to see the brilliant which packed up and moved on.

But Mamma Mia! Here we go again with the magical musical on at Novello Theatre (Holborn).

And you can dig in the dancing scene with Cassidy Travel who are offering a two-nights package in March.

With two nights’ accommodation, March 11 and 12.

You’ll get a seated show ticket in the Dress Circle with return flights (optional). Prices from €289pp.

Super troupers

Now if you’re looking for a Christmas gift for Herself.

And aren’t women always harder to buy for than men.

Then why not take your Dancing Queen to London’s bright lights for the big Abba musical.

Only make sure that you don’t leave a free house behind.

And seeing you’re asking then all My Own Little Spirit of Christmas wants is…

Jimmy, Jimmy, Jimmy… a man after midnight.

Countries, Culture, UK

The updated Story of Scotland’s Flag

1st December 20251st December 2025 funtime65

And here’s one Big Bang’s Sheldon Cooper missed so we’ll fill in the gaps… it’s the updated story of Scotland’s flag.

Because the history of our Saltire is being brought up to date.

Sixty years after we started telling people about it in the region where it was spawned, the village of Athelstaneford in East Lothian, 22 miles west of Edinburgh.

Raise the flag: But Sheldon missed our Saltire

And nearly 1,200 years after King Angus mac Fergus designed the drape.

Or rather somebody far higher than even a Picts and Scots monarch did.

Fearing defeat to a much larger Northumbrian army, Angus prayed for help.

And took solace in the vision of a white cross against the blue sky, which spurred his army to victory.

God’s own country

Fighting Scots: They can never take our flag

Now cynics would prosaically say that Angus was suffering from pareidolia.

America, Countries, Culture

Party like a pioneer in Plymouth on Thanksgiving

27th November 202527th November 2025 funtime65

The people of Massachusetts feel more blessed on this day than any neighbour which is why they party like a pioneer on Thanksgiving.

Because, of course, legend tells us that it was in Plymouth where the Pilgrims and the people who were already there first broke bread and wine in 1621.

Some 53 Pilgrims and 90 Wampanoag, led by Chief Massasoit, feasting on fish, shellfish and veg.

The table is set: What it might have looked like in 1621

Now talk around whether everything happened exactly the way we play it out today keeps a whole industry of historians in work, which is no bad thing.

Of course, the best place to immerse yourself in everything Thanksgiving is where it all began, in Plymouth.

Where they are feasting like it’s 1621.

Pilgrim’s Progress

Free the turkey: And vote for Thanksgiving

Our Plymouth pals direct us to the Pilgrim Hall Museum, Plimoth Patuxet Museums, Plymouth Rock and the National Monument to the Forefathers.

And as we’re channeling 1621 then first off is the Pilgrim’s Progress, a procession to Sabbath worship.

The Donald will: Even if he gets his feathers ruffled

On the site of the original fort/meetinghouse where psalms are sung.

And passages are read by ‘Elder Brewster’ from Governor Bradford’s Of Plymouth Plantation or other sources.

The First Nations

Now Thanksgiving Day, on the third Thursday of November, should be as much about the indigenous population as the settlers.

And Plymouth doesn’t forget them with a National Day of Mourning March and ceremonies at Massasoit Statue, Cole’s Hill.

Now Plymouth is only 40 miles from Boston and should be part of every American history fan’s odyssey.

Thanks to Aer Lingus

And like everything American for us travelling from these next rocks at the eastern end of the Atlantic.

We advise to travel through Dublin.

Irish-Americans all: Thanksgivings in Dublin

With Aer Lingus with pre-clearance.

We found a random return flight for next month from €634.42.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE