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Ibiza for girls and big girls blouses

7th April 20267th April 2026 funtime65

And because I’ve always been comfortable enough to explore my feminine side I’m taken here with Ibiza for girls and big girls blouses.

So let me explain.

When an invitation came in for a week in a thalassotherapy break in Biarritz I shot my arm up.

And disappointed the girls in the office who said that no man should be shoulder-charging their way into a wellness break.

Not put off by being the only man in the Sofitel village or being wrapped up in seaweed I signed up for more girls’ trips away.

And partied at Crop Over in Barbados with the must fun party of ladettes.

While my old Scots-Trinidadian university buddy Jevan made sure I manned up.

For the islanders’ own through the night party, Foreday Morning.

Women only… and no Scotsmen

Of course, there are some gigs you can’t blag your way on to.

And I decided to pass on a once-in-a-lifetime International Women’s Day trip to Ethiopia.

With an all-female Ethiopian Airlines crew.

And not even the explanation that as a Scotsman with a kilt.

That I could maybe pass myself off got me on that trip.

Modern girls’ getaway

Now our travel provider friends who represent Amàre Beach Hotel Ibiza, are billing their offer as a modern girls’ getaway.

Why it should be just for girls they don’t say but I guess they had their reasons.

Well, the fun all kicks off for the summer season on April 24.

Where Amare has redefined the modern girls’ getaway as a grown-up, design-led escape.

With style, music and meaningful moments coming together on the shores of the White Isle.

Musical Tur de force

The adults-only hotel is located in the heart of Cala de Bou, Sant Josep de sa Talaia.

Amàre Beach Hotel Ibiza is a haven of bohemian style, excellent cuisine, wellness and relaxation, sunshine and good times.

And new for 2026 is a real female powerhouse in Anna Tur.

A native of the Med madhouse and one of the island’s most influential musical talents, she is the new curator of its music selection.

You might know her, of course, from some of Ibiza’s most prestigious clubs.

At international venues such as the Kit Kat Club in Berlin and at some of the world’s biggest festivals.

Anna is also a music producer, founder of her own label ‘LOWLITA Records’ and radio host.

Her selection of Balearic beats will flow through the hotel’s spaces for the entire season.

Party with panache

Overlooking San Antonio Bay, Amàre we’re told, is where girls on a sunshine getaway can experience a more refined side of the party destination.

Mornings can start with sea-view yoga, afternoons can be spent poolside with chilled cocktails and listening to DJ sets.

And golden hour is the time for epic sunset dinners and rooftop DJ sets that ease guests into the night.

While the amenities at Amàre Club’s Lounge are recommended.

As are the pool and beach areas, outdoor Jacuzzi, gym with personal training available.

Yoga classes and relaxing beauty and treatments at the Wellness area by Germaine de Capuccini.

Eat, drink and be happy

Several restaurants, include the rooftop Hayaca curated by Michelin Star awarded chef Mauricio Giovanini.

While Argentine mixologist Diego Cabrera is standing by at the Belvue Rooftop Bar with his cocktail menu.

Amàre Ibiza is one of three Amàre Hotels.

The other properties are Amàre Marbella, located in the centre of Marbella.

And Amàre Sancti Petri, located in Novo Sancti Petri área of Chiclana, Cádiz which is opening soon.

Prices start from €140B&B for the ‘I Was Here’ room type, per night.

Countries, Deals, Europe, Sport

Scalextric at 70 and forward to Monaco

20th March 202620th March 2026 funtime65

We’ve raced off in different directions, but as we look back on Scalextric at 70 and forward to Monaco, wherever you are now Paul DiFazio I trust you’re still on a fast track.

I used to always look forward to visiting my cousin Greg’s part of Glasgow.

But big reveal here I enjoyed going to his neighbour Paul more.

As I’m sure he did on account of Paul owning that most sought-after Seventies toy Scaletrix.

Which no matter how much badgering I could never get my parents to buy for me.

Now Scaletrix allowed us to transport ourselves in our imaginations.

On the fast track

To the exotic tracks around the world, the Monzas, Monte Carlos and Melbournes.

If those early days zooming your cars around the tracks of your living room or your cousin’s neighbour has pricked a lifelong interest.

And you too have got on the fast track and can afford to join the fast set in the likes of Monaco.

Then you’ll likely have come across and called on the services of Keith Prowse Attractions.

Va-va-voom with Keith Prowse

KP offers a full weekend of VIP treatment at the Monaco Grand Prix with two day suite access across June 5-7.

Enjoy the Shangri La rooftop on Saturday, offering panoramic views of the street circuit and starting grid.

Sunday offers unrivalled views of the start/finish strait.

And, of course, you’ll enjoy gourmet all-day dining, premium drinks and an exclusive suite setting across the weekend.

The starting grid package is sold out.

But KP is tempting us with a Vantage Monaco del from £4,590p.

Eleve Monte Carlo from £5,065pp, The Apex from £6,580ppm, Elite Day Experience for eight from £8,270pp.

And a Harbour Club 30M Yacht from £2,170pp.

While if you’re on a different scale, which Paul very might well be.

Gullivers travels

Then Keith’s sister company Gullivers Sports Travel will take you to a whole different level.

By enhancing your experience and including flights, private jets or helicopter flights.

Of course, there is nothing wrong though with just replicating the race.

On your Scalextric tracks in your living room… and saving up.

Countries, Culture, Deals, Food & Wine, Ireland

If Ireland did boozy St Patrick’s Day breakfasts

1st March 20261st March 2026 funtime65

If Ireland did boozy St Paddy’s Day breakfasts… well, they do, and the Ruby Molly has promised to get the party started early.

So early, in fact, that they’re starting the night before on March 16, with what they’re billing a Pre-Parade celebration.

The action gets going with an hour of free welcome drinks between 4pm and 5pm and a Dublin feast of food.

Featuring those Irish classics Guinness, Jameson whiskey and, er William Grant.

See they do cater for their diaspora from Scotland.

While it wouldn’t be Dublin if there wasn’t a singalong.

And the Ruby Molly has Jerry Miles to entertain you while you scoff your specially curated menu inspired by Irish classics.

Tour de force

You’ll be perfectly situated for the Dublin Grand Parade, just ten minutes from the hub that is Temple Bar.

And the Guinness Storehouse within strolling distance for the best panoramic views of the city from the Gravity Bar, and best pint of plain.

Although family loyalties will always mean we point in the direction of the Liffeyside institution that is the Workshop bistro bar, next to the Tara Street Dart (or train) station.

While if you’re wanting some culture, or just get away from the crowds for a breather.

Then Trinity College and its Book of Kells and the National Gallery are havens of peace.

Of course, it’s no coincidence that the Ruby group dedicated their hotel to arguably Dublin’s most famous citizen, one Molly Malone.

Molly’s Dublin

As its location in Oxmanstown on the north of the river is solid market trading land.

Where you’d not be surprised to find Mrs Brown or her boys.

Once the site of an abbey, the rediscovery of parts of its vault in the 1880s, 7 feet under the street, adds to the mystical allure surrounding the hotel.

Drawing inspiration from the vibrant covered market of 1892, Ruby Molly channels former market trader Anna Lawlor’s story.

A place where farmers sold their fresh produce.

Including the much-coveted strawberries that adorned the tables of Dublin’s finest hotels.

And well-endowed Dublin lasses sold their cockles and mussels, alive-oh.

Rates from €345 (16–18 March). Images and further details available on request.

Caribbean, Countries, Deals, Flying

Woah, we’re going to Aerbados

12th February 2026 funtime65

And with apologies to soft reggae revellers Typically Tropical… woah, we’re going to Aerbados, woah, Aer Lingus Airways.

Yes, you read that right… Ireland’s national airline carrier have stepped up to fill the gap.

Where floor fillers Typically Tropical gave us Coconut Airways.

Which Son and Heir and Daughterie will recognise the tune from being repurposed in Woah, we’re going to Ibiza.

Now the Balearic Island has always had its charms which we enjoyed on family holidays long before it became Rave Central.

Bridging the gap

But we have long hoped and believed that the Caribbean could more than match it.

Once we opened it up for Irish travellers with a direct route.

England’s loss here, and more specifically Manchester’s, will be Ireland’s gain.

When Aer Lingus opens up a temporary seasonal route connecting Dublin and Bridgetown from 31 March to 31 May.

With fares available from €229 each way, including taxes, fees and carrier charges and departing Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

Now it might be a small window but there’s a world of fun waiting through it once you get out there to Bim.

Just promise us that should you get along to say Club Barbados and you see a dapper dude.

Suited and booted

In penguin suit and bow tie designed on to his t-shirt in the bar chaneling his Typically Tropical then say an Irie from us.

And he’ll be happy to let you join him at the mic.

Now Club Barbados is on Barbados’s prestigious Platinum Coast but you don’t have to be Midas to afford it like you might at next-door Sandy Lane.

And join the Club

Me-me and Dee-Dee: At Crop Over in Barbados

Club Barbados is all-inclusive and adults only and we found a Garden View room for £1830.14 (€2,102.45).

And an Aer Lingus return flight for the random dates of April 7-14 for €449.11.

Asia, Countries, Deals

Kyrgyzstan where it’s no mad

7th February 2026 funtime65

With all sporting eyes focusing on the Winter Olympics in Italy what of Kyrgyzstan where it’s no mad?

The former Soviet republic will be gathering Asian itinerants for the World Nomad Games kicks off in August and September.

Who knew… well, our old friend Stans and Asian go-to Wendy Wu.

Who is putting on a brand-new, fully inclusive tour through Kyrgyzstan.

All in good time to coincide with those biennial 2026 World Nomad Games.

Wendy’s Games

Wendy has put together an itinerary which covers a country of towering mountains and red rock canyons to vast alpine lakes.

And another too… in Uzbekistan.

Wendy’s 2 September departure can be combined with an 11-day fully inclusive Ultimate Uzbekistan tour.

The Kyrgyzstan & the World Nomad Games
11-day fully inclusive tour is priced from £3,940pp.

Departing 29 August & 2 September 2026.

Giddy up

You’ll witness the beauty of the alpine heaven Ala-Archa National Park in the Tian Shan mountains

Bishkek is known for its Manas Monument and vibrant bazaar.

And we know you know that Issyk Kul is home to the world’s second-largest mountain lake and you’ll want to go on a boat ride.

You’ll spend a full day at the World Nomad Games.

Where you’ll soak up nomadic sports like horseback wrestling, archery and eagle hunting.

And take in village life in Tup and enjoy a tour and tasting of the region’s Kyrgyz cheese.

Before relaxing in the natural hot springs of Karakol.

Yurt to know better

Go native in the evening in Karakol with a local family for a home-cooked dinner of lagman.

Which we don’t have to tell you is a popular Central Asia noodle dish with stewed meat.

Now you can’t visit Central Asia without spending a night or, in this case, two in a traditional yurt camp.

Yours along the edge of Issyk Kul Lake has, of course, private en-suite facilities.

And how to make your own from a local family in Kyzyl-Tuu village.

You’ll even take part in a hands-on cooking class with a local chef.

That’s all folks

And what about a lunch in Kadji-Sai village with a family of local musicians.

And a lively folklore performance as you dine.

While Wendy also tempts us with a walk in scenic Chon-Kemin Nature Park.

Followed by a hands-on cooking class making Boorsok – a traditional Kyrgyz bread.

Countries, Deals, Europe

Our romantic beach shot for Valentine’s Day

3rd February 20263rd February 2026 funtime65

And when Vogue comes asking we’ll give them this, our romantic beach shot for Valentine’s Day.

And any one else who wants to promote romantic breaks which at this time of year means gifts to give on February 14.

Which it happens is our friends at Cassidy Travel.

Who are pitching a five-night package to our old hunting ground of the Algarve.

Where we took our first sun holiday in Cabanas.

And survived a circuitous road trip to Expo in Seville which almost ended up in Madrid.

Love in the Algarve

You’ll stay five nights at the 3* Soldoiro Apartments in Alubfeira.

With return flights from Dublin to the Algarve from April 5 with 10kg luggage included.With prices from €430pps.

Your favourite Irish travel providers seem to be mapping the course of our lives here with Malta on their radar too.

Maltese romancing

It was then that I knelt down in the searing sun only for Herself to yell ‘yes’…

And 33 years and two bank overdrafts (or children as we also call them we’re still here.

Now we’ve still to rekindle the magic of that time.

Although I have looked forlornly at the restaurant we pledged our troth in on a return visit with an Irish party.

Which in a roundabout way brings us round to their seven-night package in Malta on March 2.

Where you’ll stay all-inclusive at the 4* DB Sea Bank Resort & Spa.

Return Flights from Dublin with 10kg luggage included. Prices from €810pps.

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, Deals, Europe, Sustainable Tourism

Where to go and getting there rail slow with Super Escapes Travel

28th January 202628th January 2026 funtime65

It’s the downside of an island and the upside of a continent. a variety of accessible countries, but here are our friends to show us where to go and get there rail slow with Super Escapes Travel.

Because from Portugal to Poland we’re cutting out the stress of even more regulated travel through airports, preferring to let the train take the strain.

And addressing the heightened awareness of environmental impact, rising flight costs, and a desire to travel with greater purpose.

Increasingly, mature travellers, and don’t you know this pup of a 60-year-old has been pitched into that category, are choosing curated European
itineraries.

The ones that combine two or three destinations in a single trip.

By linking destinations seamlessly, travellers are also finding better value for money and making smarter use of their time abroad.

Still on the right track

The train in the plains: The Jungfraujoch in Switzerland

Back in our day it was EuroRail and Transalpino to the French Riviera (ask your Mums and Dads).

These days companies like Super Escapes Travel have stepped in and stepped up.

With an expanded product offering a new collection of multi-stop European itineraries.

Tailored specifically for those older travellers who train-hopped back in their salad days but have lost the habit since.

These trips prioritise comfort, convenience, and cultural depth and centrally located hotels.

Clock this: The Astronomical Clock in Prague

The focus is on balance, pairing contrasting destinations such as coastal retreats and historic capitals.

Or vibrant cultural hubs and quieter scenic regions, all while minimising unnecessary travel stress.

It’s no surprise then that the poster twin-centre city breaks for Super Escapes Travel are two of our favourites.

The Central European gems of Prague and Budapest.

Central casting

Culture vulture: With the locals in Budapest

You will look out from the Wenceslas Square Hotel in the Czech capital, no, not on the Feast of St Stephen but on selected dates in March.

And enjoy the charms of the Bohem Art Hotel in Budapest.

Super Escapes Travel will fly you from London into Prague and back from Budapest.

With rail travel between the two cities included.

Your four-day trip, from a choice of March 1, 3, 8, 11 and 15, from £179pp and your hotel stays will be room only.

Deals, Europe, Pilgrimage

Corphew go trekking in the Greek islands

24th January 202624th January 2026 funtime65

Giorgios, Maria, Evi and all our Greek friends, and Dutch Frank, all tell us that the locals head for the islands when it heats up so Corphew… let’s go trekking in the Greek islands.

And put in the hard work we wimped out on the last time we were there.

On honeymoon, 32 years ago when it was more about sunset walks on the Corfiot beach.

In my defence it was toga-wearing hot when we were there in the September of 1994.

Good reason then for the grumpy Greek Orthodox monks to be wearing robes.

Going Solos

I have since got my walking shoes on on my travels out to the Attica region and Kythera, and continue to mither The Scary One to join me.

Although, of course, my notorious wayfaring is hardly a persuasive argument.

Which will be why she always suggests I go on my own… ‘take a long walk down a short pier.’

Solos are, of course, the go-to for, er solo, trips where you meet like-minded travellers.

Or those who have exhausted the patience of those at home and who you end up falling out with on holiday.

Come what May

And so Solos are marking this May, in celebration of National Walking Month, by sending us all out on a week of hiking and cultural discovery in Corfu.

You’ll be based at Aronda House in Dassia.

And the itinerary features moderate guided hikes through the hills, coastal paths and valleys on this most verdant of Greek islands.

Highlights include a coast to coat walk from Skripero, a forested trail past the heritage village of Agios Markos.

And a loop around the flamingo-dotted Korission Lagoon in the island’s quieter south.

With daily distances around 13kms and routes made up of gentle ascents, it’s ideal for all walkers.

Deal us in

A seven-night Corfu Walking Tour departs on May 1 and is priced at £1,259pp.

This includes return flights, transfers, airport taxes, double room for solo use.

A welcome drink, daily breakfast, BBQ dinner at hotel, three picnic lunches.

Four exclusive fully guided walks and a Solos Tour Leader.

America, Countries, Deals

Dolly Parton Day… and she’s working it 9 to 5

17th January 202617th January 2026 funtime65

So power up the karaoke because Monday is Dolly Parton Day… and she’s working it 9 to 5.

The evergreen Dolly turns 80 in two days’ time, January 19And to mark the occasion her fellow Tennesseans have given their favourite daughter her very own day.

And Dolly being Dolly she has given back with a special rerelease of her classic Light of a Clear Blue Morning.

With Lainey Wilson, Miley Cyrus, Queen Latifah, and Reba McEntire, with David Foster on piano, all pitching in in perfect pitch.

And the money going to pediatric cancer research at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

Dolly’s Tennessee Mountain Home

Every day, of course, is a Dollyday at Dollywood.

Although you’d expect her Tennessee Mountain Home will be dialling it up to 11 on Monday.

With Dollywood boasting more than 40 rides, splash park, high-energy entertainment and exceptional dining.

And that good ole Southern hospitality.

Of course as with everything Dolly there’s that little bit extra up top.

With Dollywood laying out the pink carpet to y’all to stay at the HeartSong Lodge & Resort.

And crimp yourself at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa.

Dolly good show

While, of course, the shows are spectacular, whether the Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Attraction, the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show.

Or the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, the Comedy Barn Theater, Frizzle Chicken Cafe and even the Titanic Museum Attraction (just because she can).

So to stay in a Dolly Bear Cabin with all the Dolly bells and whistles.

Then Dollywood is offering for May 23-September 20 the 2026 Dollywood Summer Fun Pass.

Smoky Mountain Hide-Away

Now Dolly’s cabins are all playfully named but we alighted on A Smoky Mountain Hide-Away.

Which you’ll be able to make your own for $3,252 for two bedrooms for six guests and two baths for a sample May’s week vacation…. well this is caring, sharing country.

And with British Airways flights now to Nashville from London Heathrow.

Since last we visited Tennessee and had to get an interconnecting flight through Newark you’re made up.

With it costing you £867.99.

And to mark her standing in Country music the Grand Ole Opry are dedicating tonight, January 71 to Dolly.

Because, Dolly you know we will always love you.