A TASTE OF CHRISTMAS
DAZZLING FESTIVE FUN, WITH A GOURMET FLAVOUR! Hot on the heels of Taste of Dublin, its stylish summertime sibling, Taste of Christmas adds a glamorous new social event to this year’s festive season
O
pening in Dublin’s stunning new Convention Centre, from Friday 26 to Sunday 28 November, the Taste of Christmas menu includes celebrity chefs in a unique new live theatre show, sparkling champagne and cocktail bars, Ireland’s top restaurants, leading stylists and style icons, as well as an amazing entertainment line-up. All five floors of the new Convention Centre will host a three-day feast of seasonal food and drink and top culinary talent. Sponsored by Marks & Spencer, Taste of Christmas promises gourmet indulgence, festive style and exclusive gift shopping, as well as the chance to chill out and catch up with friends, and enjoy the party atmosphere.
LIVE THEATRE SHOW The new live theatre show features a five-star line-up of Irish and international chefs, including Gino D’Acampo, Kevin Dundon, and Heston Blumenthal, accompanied by MC Hector O hEochagain, as well as special
guests Catherine Fulvio, Oliver Dunne, Conrad Gallagher and Donal Skehan. Entertaining and inspiring, these unique live shows, in association with Bord Bia, will spark the imagination of even the most experienced foodie.
with the help of some of the world’s leading wine producers. The Powers Winter Warmer Lounge is the opportunity to kick back and relax with a premium Irish whiskey, and cool treats for all tastes include a Baileys over Ice, or a refreshing German Pilsner Lager at the Becks Vier Beer Bar.
FOODIE HEAVEN Perfect gourmet gifts, and the chance to taste and enjoy the finest foods, wines, and festive beverages, makes Taste of Christmas a true foodie heaven! Tasting menus from Ireland’s top restaurants will see a selection of mouth-watering signature dishes given a seasonal twist. Visitors will indulge with the chocolatiers, and experiment with the sommeliers. Masterclasses by guest specialists, including Patrick Guilbaud, offer the chance to taste and appreciate fine wines and foods. Tempt your taste buds with live baking from Catherine Leyden in the Odlum’s Baking Emporium and Catherine Fulvio serves up delicious festive fare in her Neff Christmas Kitchen. Festive drinks can be planned and purchased at the O’Briens Wine Experience,
FESTIVE STYLE AND SERIOUS SHOPPING Unique gifts, handcrafts, luxury treats and designer goods are all part of the boutique gift gallery. Gourmet gifts are available from 120 of Ireland’s finest food and drink companies, including artisan producers and hidden culinary gems. A stylish interiors showcase presented by Image Interiors will cover everything from chic tree-dressing, to elegant table settings, with some creative and colourful ideas for unique home styling this Christmas. The sophisticated Tipperary Crystal Emporium will host leading Irish style icons including Louise Kennedy and Graham Knuttel, showcasing their new designs; and Rachel Allen will present her latest collection of fine bone china and candles.
Headline sponsor Marks & Spencer is hosting a festive food hall, sampling delicious M&S seasonal party food, showcasing glittering decorations and gifts, and pouring champagne at their stylish Sparkling Bar. Christmas shopping couldn’t be easier, or more enjoyable, with personal shoppers, gift-wrapping, and handy home delivery all available too.
FIVE FLOORS OF ENTERTAINMENT A must-see is The Bar Wizards Tandem Flair Show, featuring flair bartending complete with juggling, flipping, spinning, throwing and catching, all choreographed to music. They even pour drinks! Big-name bands, carol-singing and string quartets will also add to the Christmas cheer, as well as some swingin’ jazz, gutsy gospel, and, maybe even some rockin’ around the Christmas tree! Five floors of festive fun is promised, in Dublin’s super-stylish new Convention Centre, for this dazzling new social event with a gourmet flavour; Eat, drink and be merry with family and friends at Taste of Christmas – some tickets are left, but do book soon!
Tickets from €19.50* on sale now. Visit www.tasteofchristmas.ie or call 0818 30 00 30 *Terms and conditions apply. Price excludes booking fees.
A TASTE OF CHRISTMAS
RESTAURANTLINE-UP There’s a stellar line-up of Ireland's top restaurants at Taste of Christmas. Many of Taste's favourite chefs and their signature dishes feature, alongside some exciting new names, reflecting the amazing calibre of Irish restaurants and their talented chefs e Bon Appetit
Michelin-starred restaurant in Malahide, using the freshest seasonal ingredients, sourced locally
e Jaipur Cutting-edge contemporary Indian restaurant; hugely popular and growing, with restaurants in Dalkey, Malahide, Greystones and, most recently, Ongar
e Pichet A modern take on the classic bistro, Pichet restaurant, on Dublin's lively Trinity Street, is a gourmet’s delight with cleverly combined ingredients and tastes
e Salon des Saveurs The Tasting Room, a unique French experience located on Aungier Street, is all about delight, surprise and delicious food
e The Cliff Town House New on St Stephen’s Green, traditional dishes are given a modern twist with lighter preparation and presentation, reflecting the modern Irish dining landscape e The Tannery
Based in Waterford, Paul Flynn cooks in his own eclectic style, which, over the years, has evolved into rustic and earthy cooking with some whimsical twists
e Town Bar & Grill Tucked into the vaulted cellars underneath a wine merchant, Town Bar & Grill is a bright, upbeat Irish version of a New YorkItalian eatery
e Unicorn An Italian-trattoria atmosphere, backed to the hilt by great Italian food and a wide ranging list of excellent Italian wines e Wilde, the Restaurant at the
Westbury Hotel A modern grill serving the finest, carefully selected, artisan Irish produce in an elegantly understated modern hotel setting
LIVE THEATRE SHOW IN ASSOCIATION WITH BORD BIA
Kevin Dundun
Gino D’Acampo
Take a state-of-the-art auditorium at the top of Dublin’s most stylish venue
A
dd one Gino D’Acampo, for Italian flavour, and a hint of home-grown Kevin Dundon. Bind the ingredients with a liberal dash of Hector O’Eochagain, and select guest celebrity chefs from a stunning line-up including Heston Blumenthal, Catherine Fulvio, Conrad Gallagher, Oliver Dunne and Donal Skehan, to suit your own individual taste preferences. The recipe for the Taste of Christmas Live Theatre Show, sponsored by Bord Bia, is a guaranteed success, with the key ingredients being some of the best, inspirational chefs who will cook, encourage, educate and entertain. Learn how to create perfect Christmas fare during this exclusive 50-minute live show, which includes fun challenges, cook-offs, audience interaction, and lots of helpful tips and demonstrations. All shows feature Gino, Kevin and
Hector, with special guests, and all Taste of Christmas tickets guarantee seating at the live show. Bord Bia and the Quality Assurance Mark will sponsor the Live Theatre at Taste of Christmas. We will also be distributing our Christmas recipe booklet in the Theatre with all the recipes you need to know this Christmas. • Did you know... there are almost 40,000 producers and 134 processors and packers certified as members across all Bord Bia Quality Assurance Schemes • Did you know… 5.8 million packs of food with the Bord Bia Quality Mark are sold in Ireland each week • Did you know… the Irish food industry supports almost 270,000 jobs Be proud to choose products with the Bord Bia Quality Mark when shopping for your family this Christmas.
✻ C E L E B R I T Y C H E F S ✻ L I V E T H E AT R E S H O W ✻ T O P R E S TA U R A N T S ✻ F O O D F E AT U R E S ✻ D R I N K S M A S T E R C L A S S E S ✻ ✻ S PA R K L I N G B A R S ✻ PA R T Y N I G H T S ✻ L I V E E N T E R TA I N M E N T ✻ F E S T I V E S T Y L E ✻ E X C L U S I V E G I F T S H O P P I N G ✻
A TASTE OF CHRISTMAS
P
lan your Christmas dining, your festive baking, your seasonal wine selection and your interior design style, with the help of the experts at Taste of Christmas who show you how.
MARKS & SPENCER FESTIVE FOOD HALL Marks & Spencer are delighted to be the headline sponsor of Dublin’s first Taste of Christmas Festival. Make sure to visit the M&S Festive Food Hall on the ground floor where visitors can stock up on delicious M&S seasonal party food, chocolates, biscuits and drinks or order your Christmas food and wine to be delivered at a later date. Browse through a great selection of fabulous gift ideas for the whole family in the Marks & Spencer Gift Area on the first floor while taking in the glittering decorations which will be available to buy, helping you create your own magical Christmas at home. If it all gets too much – stop by the M&S Sparkling Bar and enjoy a glass of bubbly while you soak up the Christmas ambience!
Catherine Fulvio
CATHERINE’S CHRISTMAS KITCHEN Join celebrity chef and owner of Ballyknocken House and Cookery School, in Wicklow, Catherine Fulvio, below, as she demonstrates a range of delectable Italian dishes in her Neff Christmas Kitchen - a state-of-the-art, purpose-built kitchen, where she will be on hand to share some of her delicious recipes inspired by her many trips to Italy over the years.
ODLUMS BAKING EMPORIUM Let the delicious aroma of the Odlums Baking Emporium greet you as you enter the ground-floor exhibition at Taste of Christmas. Don't miss live baking demonstrations from the “Odlums Lady” Catherine Leyden as she creates some great festive treats including the festive Plum Pudding, Yule Log and some amazing Baked Alaska Mince Pies!
O'BRIENS WINE EXPERIENCE Visit the ultimate wine-tasting experience with O’Briens Wines, where you can meet 10 of our wine makers who will be showcasing a selection of up to 80 wines for you to try! Taste for free and pick the brains of some of the world’s leading producers with all the questions you’ve always wanted to ask, but haven’t had the chance! The corners of the globe are covered with representation from Chile, France, Germany, New Zealand, Italy, Australia, Spain and Argentina. When you have found a favourite, pop around to our bar, where you can buy a glass or bottle and enjoy the entertainment on the main stage right in front of the stand! Or order from our sales team for home delivery or Shop collection.
POWERS WINTER WARMER LOUNGE This Christmas, Powers Whiskey are delighted to invite guests to relax in the Powers Winter Warmer Lounge. Guests can enjoy and savour the flavours of the perfect Hot Powers, skillfully prepared by our Hot Powers team while lingering in the comfort of the Winter Warmers Lounge. Powers Whiskey is regarded as one of the great Irish iconic symbols of quality, authenticity and tradition. Embrace the Christmas feeling in the Powers Winter Warmer Lounge this November.
TIPPERARY CRYSTAL GALLERY The Tipperary Crystal Retail Emporium is sure to be a crowd pleaser with top Irish talent including Rachel Allen, Graham Knuttel and Patrick Guilbaud, each presenting their exclusive collections over the course of the weekend. Rachel will be showing her latest collections with Tipperary Crystal including her fine bone china collection and new candle range. Make sure you seize the opportunity to meet Graham who will be on hand to sign all purchased pieces. Patrick Guilbaud will talk about his new Tipperary Crystal ranges as well as hosting wine tastings and teaching visitors about how to make the most from a bottle of wine: the correct glass, decanting and so on. Finally, Louise Kennedy will be signing gift cards on all purchases of her crystal on Sunday. Tipperary Crystal will have Christmas wrapped up ensuring choosing that special Christmas gift has never been easier.
IMAGE INTERIORS Looking for fun and easy ways to add sparkle to your home this Christmas? Join
Image Interiors at Taste of Christmas where you will find lots of inspiring Christmas decorating ideas and design advice. From the latest candles and fairy lights to chic table-setting ideas and tips on easy decorations you can make at home, the Image Interiors team will show you how to get ready for the festive season.
HAMLEYS TOY HEAVEN Hamleys is bringing toy heaven to Taste of Christmas this year. Our Information Elves will go through all the top toys for Christmas from board games and Lego to Barbie and Buzz! We’ll have the most popular toys for boys, girls and pre-schoolers, so get your Christmas shopping covered in one venue. And our famous Hamleys demonstrators will also be on hand to let you test out some of the coolest gadgets and games before the kids!
BECK’S VIER BEER BAR Stop by the Beck's Vier Bar on the ground floor and try one of their unique beers. Beck’s Vier is a 4.3% ABV German Pilsner Lager. Imported from Bremen, it is brewed with precision to the Reinheitsgebot purity law, which ensures that only four pure ingredients are ever involved. This unique blend of golden barley, Bavarian hops, pure glacier water and unique yeast gives Beck’s Vier its clean, crisp, full bodied taste and exceptional refreshment. Beck’s Vier. Different by Choice.
✻ C E L E B R I T Y C H E F S ✻ L I V E T H E AT R E S H O W ✻ T O P R E S TA U R A N T S ✻ F O O D F E AT U R E S ✻ D R I N K S M A S T E R C L A S S E S ✻ ✻ S PA R K L I N G B A R S ✻ PA R T Y N I G H T S ✻ L I V E E N T E R TA I N M E N T ✻ F E S T I V E S T Y L E ✻ E X C L U S I V E G I F T S H O P P I N G ✻
A TASTE OF CHRISTMAS TASTE OF MALAYSIA Taste of Christmas is delighted to introduce an exotic flavour to the event with the first ever Taste of Malaysia, brought to you by Matrade. Be inspired and educated by a true Malaysian experience as you enjoy the diverse tastes of the country with cuisine from two of Dublin’s top Malaysian restaurants. Plus sample a range of Malaysian food products, which will be available to sample and buy.
a memorable table-setting for a special festive meal, or advice on creating a unique seasonal look for your home, our style experts have it covered for you.
VOLKSWAGEN Watch out for the Volkswagen ambassadors and special VIP guests attending the event as they arrive in style in the Volkswagen VIP chauffeur driven cars. Catch a sneak preview of the sleek new Volkswagen Passat, that will be launched at Taste of Christmas.
DRESSING FOR DINNER! Stunning floral arrangements from Mad Flowers’ acclaimed floral designer Maurice Wynne, combine with exquisite table dressing by chic event stylists, Got’cha Covered, to produce a showcase of imaginative festive design. Whether it’s
Christmas starts here, so grab some glitz and prepare to party at Taste of Christmas, the season’s finest food, drink and shopping festival from 26th – 28th November, Convention Centre Dublin.
WIN A VIP TRIP FOR TWO TO TASTE OF CHRISTMAS
L
IFE Magazine, official media partner to Taste of Christmas, is giving one lucky reader the chance to win a VIP trip for two to Taste of Christmas on Saturday 27 November. Your VIP experience includes overnight accommodation in the luxury Five Star Westbury Hotel, VIP tickets to Taste of Christmas including access to the VIP Suite and two complimentary drinks. Don’t miss your chance to experience the season’s finest food, drink and shopping festival. Located just off Dublin’s famous Grafton Street, halfway between historic Trinity College and the landmark that is St Stephen’s Green, The Westbury Hotel is as the very heart of Dublin’s premier retail and cultural quarter, with great shopping, pubs and restaurants right on your doorstep.
HOW TO ENTER To be in with a chance to win, simply answer this question and follow the instructions below:
The Westbury Hotel has how many stars? A: 5 or B: 4 Text TASTE followed by your answer and name (e.g. TASTE A Kate Ryan) to 53306 or call 1513 415 002. Terms & Conditions: VIP tickets are for Sunday 11am show. Access to event all day. Overnight accommodation for Sunday 28th November including breakfast. Tickets are non-transferable. Cash alternatives not available. 18+. Cost of entry is €0.60. Network charges vary. Lines close at midnight on Thursday 25th November. SP Phonovation Ltd. PO Box 6, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin. Helpline 0818217100.
Tickets from €19.50* on sale now. Visit www.tasteofchristmas.ie or call 0818 30 00 30 *Terms and conditions apply. Price excludes booking fees.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
W
Gill Reilly
IKEA INTERIOR DESIGN MANAGER Corner cabinet storage •Make good use of those awkward corners by fitting corner cabinets with pull out storage options or carousels. These help you utilise the space that you would otherwise be unable to reach without fitting a double-hinged door, and help make life just that little bit easier.
islands and trolleys •AsKitchen well as providing an extra work FAKTUM/ APPLÅD white kitchen, €985*
Irish Kitchens for Every Flavour The kitchen is the ‘hub of the home’, so if you are making dinner for your family or entertaining guests at a party it has to work 24/7, 365 days a year.
W
hether you prefer traditional and homely or modern and sleek, IKEA can help you create the perfect kitchen to reflect your personality and lifestyle. With 45+ IKEA selections to choose from, your kitchen is guaranteed to be uniquely stunning and stylish. By simply changing door styles, cover panels, handles or worktops you can create your dream kitchen. No two IKEA kitchens are the same as
they are designed to meet your individual needs. Making your kitchen adapt to your lifestyle is easy with IKEA’s vast range of RATIONELL interior fittings. Smooth-closing drawers, smart interior organisers, durable worktops and energy efficient appliances are just some of IKEA’s key ingredients for making your home life more efficient and hassle-free. IKEA’s clear and transparent pricing as well as their free guarantees on the kitchen (25 years), appli-
ances (5 years) and any installation work (3 years) removes any stress and provides peace of mind. To achieve your domestic vision, the IKEA Dublin Kitchen Experts can help you find the best kitchen to suit you. You can pay for a Kitchen Planner to visit your home to draw up a plan, or you can go solo and use the free kitchen planning tool available at IKEA.ie/kitchenplanner. From design to installation, when buying an IKEA kitchen, you only pay for what you need.
COMPETITION IKEA is offering one lucky reader the opportunity to win gift cards to the value of €275. To enter, go to IKEA.ie/competitions and enter the code MOY28A. Then simply answer the following question: How many different styles of kitchens are there to choose from at IKEA? A) 45+ B) 10+ C) 5+
*Price includes cabinets, worktops, interior
surface, kitchen trolleys and kitchen islands serve as useful storage furniture. Islands are great for keeping bulky pots and pans from taking up valuable cupboard space, while trolleys are an excellent way to keep smaller utensils close at hand when preparing food.
•
Take careful measurements for your kitchen worktop When measuring a worktop for a DIY kitchen project, be sure to include a substantial overhang. This will cover any measurement discrepancies when fitting it to your kitchen base units, and you can always trim it back where it joins the kitchen wall.
a composter •ThisKeep doesn't have to be a huge smelly thing at the end of the garden. Kitchen composters are small, unobtrusive objects that happily take your food scraps and peelings – everything from egg shells to tea bags – and turn them into lovely compost, which can be dug straight into your garden.
Layout •When you're figuring out the layout of your kitchen cabinets, make sure you note the location of any existing power and plumbing points, gas supply, or air vents. Experiment with different kitchen layouts with the IKEA's free online kitchen planning tool.
fittings, hinges, cover panels, decostrips/ mouldings, plinths and legs. The choice of appliances, sinks, taps, knobs/handles and
For more ideas and inspiration visit IKEA.ie/thekitchen
lighting are not included.
Terms and conditions: All correct entries will be entered into a prize draw and the first correct entry selected at random will win IKEA Gift Cards to the value of €275. The closing date for entries is 22nd June 2010. The winner will be notified by email no later than 30 days after the closing date. Entrants must be 18 years and over. The prize must be redeemed before 31st December 2010. No cash alternative is available. Only a single entry is permitted per person. For full terms and conditions and details regarding use of your personal information, please see IKEA.ie/competitions. Entrants are deemed to have accepted all terms and conditions by participating in this competition.
A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E
HOLIDAY TUMMY What’s true, what’s not and what’s best to pack
A
h, Summer Holidays! Nothing quite gets you in the mood like running around on that shopping spree for the essentials’ you wouldn’t be caught dead wearing at home. There’s the wooden summer wedges you’ve been itching to flaunt, the new silk jumpsuit that’ll make you look so J-Lo on the beach, the wonder bikini that promises to suck everything in and then the fun of trying to squeeze it all into that ever expandable suitcase. So, if it’s all so pre-planned and positive, how is it that you can end up with one holiday non-essential – an intestinal system that has lost the run of itself, literally! Holiday bugs are common but have you ever wondered how they can possibly hit you before you become airborne? Over excitement or even stress will do it! This year, so you don’t end up doing the wrong kind of running, let’s bust a few myths that surround diarrhoea and prepare you for anything.
MYTH 1 Diarrhoea is your body’s natural defence mechanism used to ‘flush out’ toxins and therefore an antidiarrhoeal should not be used.
What to do if it strikes IF YOU ARE SUFFERING FROM DIARRHOEA, ONE OF THE FIRST THINGS YOU CAN DO IS TAKE IMODIUM INSTANTS® OR IMODIUM PLUS®. • Drink plenty of fluids but avoid alcohol, fruit juices and milk as they can irritate your intestinal system further. • If you think you are dehydrated, ask your pharmacist to recommend an oral rehydration treatment. It won’t stop your diarrhoea but it will keep you hydrated. • If and when you are hungry, eat small, light and plain meals and avoid rich or spicy foods until you have recovered. If your diarrhoea persists for more than 24 hours see your GP.
e
For more information se
.ie www.digestivematters MYTH 2
FALSE. Here’s the skinny. Despite what you think, diarrhoea is not a defence mechanism to rid the body of toxins; it is a symptom of an intestinal system that has fallen out of sync. When an intestinal system works too quickly it hinders the fluid absorption system in the gut and leads to excess water being left in the bowel. This causes loose and runny stools we know as diarrhoea. Nice! Also, because it is the immune system that deals with the actual infection, there is no benefit to letting a bout of diarrhoea ‘run its course’. In fact, leaving it untreated can lead to dehydration and feeling weak and defenceless. So why suffer the symptoms when an anti-diarrhoeal like Imodium® can help return your intestinal system to normal and allow you to get on with your day.
An anti-diarrhoeal will clog up your system and cause constipation. FALSE. Anti-diarrhoeals do not clog up your system nor do they stop normal bowel movements. Yes, it is an over active bowel which leads to diarrhoea, but fixing it is not as simple as putting on the brakes and letting it all back up. Your intestinal system responds better to a gentle approach like that of Imodium®. Imodium® works alongside the entire digestive process by slowing things down to give your gut just enough time to absorb fluids during transit. In fact, just one dose of Imodium Instants® can help relieve diarrhoea. Phew! So while Imodium® is doing its job, you can relax on the beach!
FAST & CALMING If you’re on the move and you need relief from diarrhoea fast, choose Imodium Instants®, as they can relieve diarrhoea within one hour. No need for water. Imodium Instants® dissolve on the tongue. Or if the associated symptoms of diarrhoea have got a grip, choose Imodium Plus®. Imodium Plus® doesn’t just stop diarrhoea, it also calms the intestinal system and provides relief from painful cramps and bloating. Imodium Instants® and Imodium Plus® are both available from pharmacies. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL: Imodium Instants® contains Loperamide.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
W
Experience all the magic of a West End show when you enjoy a great value London Theatre Break with Keith Prowse
London Calling
W
hether you are looking for drama, romance, tears or comedy, there has never been a better time to enjoy some of the world’s best theatre and musicals than on a break away in London. From such long-running classics as Les Miserables and Phantom of the Opera to fun-filled favourites like Mamma Mia and Chicago and newer shows like Legally Blonde and Flashdance, there really is nothing quite like the thrill of the West End.
London Theatre For many years, Keith Prowse has been the leader in London theatre, selling tickets to all the top musicals and shows and offering luxury London accommodation at bargain rates. It really is your one-stop shop for theatre, sightseeing, hotel and travel requirements, with knowledgeable sales staff, competitive prices and instant confirmation making your holiday booking as hassle-free as possible. Finding the perfect theatre package couldn’t be easier as Keith Prowse offer everything from budget weekends for those who are watching their wallets to special occasion breaks for those wish to indulge in a luxurious and pampering getaway. Stay one or two nights in a choice of three-star, four-star, fourstar deluxe and five-star hotels, as well as enjoying top price tickets to a West End show of your choice. For that very special occasion, why not treat yourself and your loved one to an overnight stay in the four-star deluxe Lancaster Hotel with sparkling wine and chocolates on arrival? With Hyde Park, the largest of the Royal Parks, directly to the south, and vistas east to the City of London, the Lancaster Hotel has arguably the best views in London. This fabulous hotel is ideally located in the heart of the city with Marble Arch and the shopaholic’s dream destination, Oxford Street, just a five-minute stroll from the hotel, while Harrods is only 10 minutes away by taxi. Whether looking down from the hotel’s superior bedrooms
or enjoying the view from the hotel restaurants, it really feels as if the entire city is at your reach – and indeed it is!
Sporting packages with Keith Prowse For those looking for more adrenaline inducing action, Keith Prowse also offers an array of exciting and unique packages to UK sporting events including Wimbledon and the UK Premiership. Taking place from 20 June to 03 July 2011, Wimbledon is undoubtedly one of the greatest sporting occasions in the world. For the tennis fan on a budget, Keith Prowse offer The Wimbledon Baseline tours, starting from €360pps plus airline tax, which combines a day at the Championships and one night’s accommodation. For the enthusiast, The Wimbledon Championship tours enable hardened fans to watch two days of tennis; a day’s play on Centre Court and another on Court Number One. Also included in this great package is three night’s accommodation and lunch each day at The Wimbledon Experience Club. Keith Prowse also offer The Wimbledon Semi-Final and Finals Tours, which include exclusive membership to the award-winning Gatsby Club and three night’s accommodation. Meanwhile, football enthusiasts can see their favorite team play this season with Keith Prowse providing ticket and accommodation packages to see Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelsea, West Ham and Liverpool.
Book your London Theatre Break today with Keith Prowse Best Value London Theatre Weekend 01 Oct – 20 Dec From €189pps • 2-nights B&B in the 4* Hesperia Hotel • Ticket to a top West End Show (Fri) Choose from Chicago, Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Grease, Wicked, Sister Act or We Will Rock You
UK PREMIERSHIP BREAKS FROM KEITH PROWSE Arsenal at Home From €277pps • Ticket to Arsenal home game • 3-course pre-match meal with drinks • Half-time drinks • 1-night in Days Hotel CB
Liverpool at home London West End & Dining 01 Oct – 20 Dec From €207pps • 2-nights B&B in the 4* Hesperia • 3-course pre-theatre dinner • Ticket to a top West End Show (Fri) Choose from Chicago, Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Grease, Wicked, Sister Act or We Will Rock You
From €209pps • Ticket to Liverpool home game • Access to Paisley or Shankly Bar & Lounge • Match day programme • 1-night in Holiday Inn CB
Man United at home From €222pps • Ticket to Man U home game • Access to International Suite • Match day programme • 1-night in Days Hotel CB
Chelsea at home
Special Occasion Theatre Weekend
From €169pps • Ticket to Chelsea home game • Access to Captains Bar • Pre-match meal • Match day programme • 1-night in Days Hotel CB
01 Oct – 20 Dec From €259pps • 2-nights in the 4* Deluxe Lancaster Hotel CB • Bottle of bubbly and chocolates in room on arrival • Ticket to a top West End Show. Choose from Chicago, Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Grease, Wicked, Sister Act or We Will Rock You
TENNIS FOR FANS So why wait? Enquire today about a great value breakaway because London is calling!
To book any of the featured offers or for further information, call Keith Prowse/ The Independent Travel Service on (01) 888 7899.
London West End & Christmas Shopping 01 Nov – 20 Dec From €185pps • 2-nights B&B in the 4* Hesperia • Ticket to a top West End Show (Fri) Choose from Les Miserable, Oliver! or Phantom of the Opera
Wimbledon 2011 – Be There 20 June – 3 July From €360pps Includes: • Return Flights Dublin-London • 1-night B&B in a 3* Hotel • Reserved seat on Court No.2 • Wimbledon information pack
Please note that flights are not included in any of the above offers with the exception of Wimbledon.
OVERSEAS PROPERTY
ADVERTISING FEATURE
New heights in Hurghada There is also a three year rental guarantee scheme in place and an excellent payment plan spread out over two years. At the moment although property and land prices are rising, they are still undervalued and offer lots of potential to investors. The transaction costs of buying a property in Egypt are low and there is no capital gains tax, inheritance tax or stamp duty.
ZINA HEIGHTS DELUXE RESORT, HURGHADA, EGYPT Open-plan apartments From €39,900 THE RED Sea Riviera in Egypt is on the brink of a major property boom, and many investors are becoming aware of the rewarding returns. Property prices have increased by as much as 50pc over the last few years and the upward trend is expected to continue, albeit at a much more stable pace. The promise of year round sunshine almost sounds too good to be true
Diving in the idyllic waters of the Red Sea
Pool-side luxury at Zina Heights when you are living here in Ireland. But for Egyptians, anything more than a five minute shower, a couple of times a year, is very unusual. Between the year round sunshine, the culture, the history, fantastic beaches and good natured people you can understand why
Europeans, Russians, Asians and North Americans are flocking to the white sandy shores of the turquoise waters of the Red Sea Riviera. Numerous five star developments along the red sea coast are offering buyers the chance to either
step on to the property ladder or add an exotic touch to ones expanding property portfolio. However one resort that has it all is the Zina Heights Deluxe Resort in Hurghada. This luxury resort is located within walking distance to the town of Hurg-
hada and a few minutes from the beautiful white sandy beaches there. The innovative design ensures that every property has views of the sea, pool or gardens and the whole ground floor is reserved for boutiques, high end restaurants and elegant poolside cafes.
Zina Heights Deluxe Resort will officially be launched on Friday 5th September. To register your interest in this resort and select the best apartments available contact Belmore International on 01 297 3394; visit www.belmoreinternational.com; or call to their offices in the Beacon Court (behind The Beacon Hotel) on Friday 5th from 10am – 5pm and Saturday from 6th 10am – 5pm.
Making a splash in Portugal OFTEN described as the California of Europe, Portugal has established itself as one of the top tourist destinations in the world. It has such a reputation that many tourists find that simply visiting is not enough and so the country is fast becoming a destination for those looking to buy property there. Portugal's property market appears to be one of the few that is handling the current economic shuffle with little or no trouble. The country's banks and other financial and lending institutions are supremely confident in the longevity of Portugal's property sector and are more than happy to lend to those re-locating to Portugal or investing. Dublin based estate agents, Splash International, market leader now for many years in the sale of Portuguese property to Irish residents, are just about to open new offices in Almancil on The Algarve’s Golden Triangle. Gabrielle O’Malley, Splash International’s Managing Director says: “The market in eastern and southern Portugal remains very strong despite changes in the world economic climate. “There are still pocket areas of emerging market opportunities such as the beautiful coastal area of the Alentejo region just
CONRAD PALACIO DA QUINTA One and two-bed apartments From €1.2m €2.875m
Stunning views are part and parcel of the Portugeuse property market south of Lisbon as well as the eastern Algarve, where it is still possible to find well finished, spacious properties for around the €200,000 price tag.” From €200,000 apartments to multi-million private retreats, such developments of interest include the Pinheirinho, Palmeiras Resort and Conrad Palacio da Quinta Resort each offering unique investment opportunities at varying ends of the scale.
PINHEIRINHO, A HYATT GOLF & BEACH RESORT Pre-launch prices From €800,000 AN HOUR'S drive from
Lisbon, the Alentejo coast is a stunning backdrop to one of the most soughtafter developments in Portugal. Pinheirinho is managed by the internationally renowned group, Hyatt and designed by the architectural group HKS, this development has been conceived to provide a fully integrated complex of 204 luxury villas, resort apartments, resort residences and a world class five star luxury hotel Park Hyatt. Distinguished by striking contemporary design and the highest standards of craftsmanship, the villas of Pinheirinho offer a choice of luxurious accommodation ranging from 400 to 1000sqm with a choice of seven distinctive styles. Light and spacious, these magnificent homes have been designed to take full advantage of the very special Alentejo climate. Large bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens, elegant
and sophisticated bathrooms and private spas, make these stunning homes a haven of stylish living.
PALMEIRAS RESORT, TAVIRA, EASTERN ALGARVE Two- and three-bed apartments From €265,000 €365,000 THIS development contains a wonderful opportunity to secure a property for a small deposit at today's market value. The five-star Palmeiras Resort , situated just outside the beautiful and historic town of Tavira, will be the Portuguese flagship resort development for international property developers,
Casa Amiga Group. With a capital investment of over €200m, this is by far the most significant development ever undertaken in the Tavira area. A secure, idyllic enclave of spectacular apartments set in sumptuous sub-tropical gardens. The properties will be finished to a particularly high specification with many special features such as air-conditioning, centralised vacuuming system, security package, fully fitted kitchens and electrical appliances included in the purchase price.
AAN IMPRESSIVE new opportunity for Irish investors has been announced. Residential units in the new ?180m Conrad Palacio da Quinta Resort and Spa on Portugal’s Algarve have been made available. Developers, the Imocom Group, who recently completed the fabulous Cascatas Hilton Resort in Vilamoura have joined forces with the The Conrad Hotel Group to create a six star oasis of pure luxury. The Imocom Group are offering for sale, eighty luxurious apartments which are integrated within the resort, with owners enjoying all the benefits associated with the six star seal of the Conrad Hotel Group.
The Conrad Palacio Da Quinta Presidential suite
ADVERTISING FEATURE
W
Take a great value break with Keith Prowse this Summer! 3H London Theatre Break
Summer Sizzlers
I
t’s official! Summer is here and with it comes the inevitable talk of holidays, weather, weekend getaways, and dream destinations. However, with Keith Prowse Travel providing some of the best prices, packages and services for entertainment travel in the UK, your perfect break this summer is not as far away as you might think. Keith Prowse is the biggest entertainment travel provider in the world with the widest variety of UK entertainment packages to suit all tastes, from London theatre breaks and sporting events to UK theme parks and air shows. And as most packages can be tailored to your individual preferences, all you need to worry about is enjoying every moment of your hassle-free breakaway.
Culture in the city Keith Prowse’ summer theatre breaks start from only €135pps and feature topprice tickets to a West End show of your choice, as well as two-nights accommodation in a conveniently located London hotel. Choose from such great shows as Grease, Les Miserables, Oliver, Jersey Boys, Mamma Mia, Phantom of the Opera and more. Upgrade your package to include flights, or to have sparkling wine and chocolates or flowers and chocolates waiting in your room on arrival. An opera break with Keith Prowse also ticks all the right boxes. For only €379pps, including return flights, enjoy two-nights in a four-star hotel and a ticket to the London Coliseum where performances this summer include The Pearl Fishers, Tosca and Cinderella.
Fun for all the family London is a great destination for a family break and Keith Prowse can help you put the ideal holiday package together. Offering family-friendly hotels and activi-
ties, plus trips to the London Aquarium, Dungeon, Zoo and more, your little ones will be sure to have a fun-filled holiday. And for further thrills, spills and excitement, then what about a trip to one of the UK’s great theme parks? From Alton Towers and Legoland Windsor to Thorpe Park and Chessington World of Adventures, Keith Prowse, together with bmi British Midland International, have a host of three-night packages available that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
Summer Sports This summer, Keith Prowse have teamed up with Premiership club Arsenal to provide one- and two-day packages to the Emirates Cup 2010. Taking place on Saturday 31st July and Sunday 1st August in the Emirates Stadium, this is sure to be a hugely exciting curtain-raiser to the 2010/2011 season with packages available from €158pps.
01 July – 31 August • Two-nights B&B in the 3* Days Hotel, Waterloo • 3-course pre-theatre dinner • Ticket (Fri) to see Grease in the Picadilly Theatre From €135pps (Flight inclusive packages also available, ask for price)
Make Keith Prowse Travel your one-stop shop for great value entertainment holidays this summer
01 July – 31 August • Two-nights B&B in the 4* St Ermins Jolly • 3-course pre-theatre dinner • Ticket (Fri) to see Mamma Mia in the Prince of Wales Theatre From €199pps (Flight inclusive packages also available, ask for price)
Emirates Cup 2010 Or why not get airborne at the Farnborough Airshow 2010, which takes place on the 24th and 25th July? With demonstrations from civil and military aircraft and displays of historic and modern technology, this festival is not to be missed. Keith Prowse has tickets available from €35pp. From wings to wheels now, as the F1 Grand Prix circus heads to Silverstone this July, with Keith Prowse offering packages from just €375pps. This price includes two-nights, three-star accommodation, a three-day general admission ticket and coach transfers to Silverstone. Ticket upgrades and flight packages are also available. So why wait? To book any of the featured offers, call The Independent Travel Service/Keith Prowse on (01) 888 7899. Terms and conditions apply.
Dublin-London Heathrow with bmi • • • •
4H London Theatre Break
Up to five flights per day Fares available from €35 one way/€84 Return Serving Dublin for 21 years One free checked bag up to 20kg allowed per passenger
WIN A WEEKEND FOR TWO IN LONDON!
July/August • Two-nights B&B in the 3* Days Hotel Waterloo • Ticket to the two games on 31 July or 01 August From €158pps (Flight inclusive packages also available, ask for price)
Legoland Windsor 01 July – 31 August • Return flights Dublin-London Heathrow with bmi • Three-nights B&B in a central London hotel • One-day ticket to Legoland Windsor (Transfers not included) From €385pps
Thorpe Park 01 July – 31 August • Return flights Dublin-London Heathrow with bmi • Three-nights B&B in a central London hotel • One-day ticket to Thorpe Park (Transfers not included) From €379pps
in conjunction with bmi To win a wonderful weekend for two in London including return flights with bmi, two-nights in a four-star hotel and tickets to see Grease in the Piccadilly Theatre, simply answer the question below.
Q: Where does the 2010 Emirates Cup take place? A: A. Whitehart Lane B. Emirates Stadium C. Stamford Bridge Call
1513 415 001 with your answer or text IND15 to 53307
Terms and conditions apply* *You must be over 18 to enter. Calls cost €0.60 per entry incl. VAT. Calls from mobile cost more. SMS network charges vary. Competition is open to Irish Independent readers. Lines close midnight 15th June. Entries made after the closing date will not be counted and you may be charged. SP Phonovation Ltd, PO Box 6, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin. Helpline 0818 217100.
Chessington World of Adventures 01 July – 31 August • Return flights Dublin-London Heathrow with bmi • Three-nights B&B in a central London hotel • One-day ticket to Chessington World of Adventures (Transfers not included) From €376pps
A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E
KEEPING AN EYE OUT FOR BEST PERFORMING TALENT Model, radio and TV presenter Michelle Doherty, a native of Donegal, tells us how Vodafone’s best performing Mobile Broadband has fit perfectly and seamlessly into her life allowing her to keep her finger on the pulse.
T
he last few years have been a whirlwind for presenter Michelle Doherty. In addition to her many guises – model, radio DJ and TV presenter – ‘awardwinning’ can also be placed before her many titles after she was voted “Best Irish Radio DJ” by Hot Press magazine two years in a row – the first-ever female to take the title. So how does she manage such a busy lifestyle? “Loving what you do – that has been the key to my success, that and plenty of hard work. I’m kept very busy with the radio show on Phantom and I constantly have to keep an eye out for new talent, stay ahead of the curve on up and coming artists and know who is gigging, where and when. The same goes for modeling, sometimes I need to be somewhere at the drop of a hat. “I am always on the go. With festival season soon upon us, it has never been more important for my work and personal schedule to be mobile. I need to be able to pick up emails and check in with friends and family from
wherever I may be – this is why best performing mobile broadband is an absolute must for me. “My radio show, Finest Worksongs, goes on air at 10.30am, but I start way before that. I like to keep my Phantom blog up to date, check what’s going on in the world, on the news and music sites and research new bands and talent – or track down that one song I heard somewhere and can’t get out of my head. “I’m based in Dublin and when I can’t get home to my family in Donegal, it is great be able to check in with them on Facebook. On the flip side of that, when I am traveling home and get to spend some time there, it is great to be able to keep my world turning while I’m on the move - my trusty little mobile broadband modem gives me the security I need.” For Michelle, Vodafone Mobile Broadband gives her security and flexibility knowing she can rely on the country’s best performing mobile broadband. “When I’m working at a gig or at a launch sometimes there is a bit
of waiting around, it is great to be able to use this time productively, grab a comfy chair and get a bit of work done. I will always have a list of things to do and there is no better feeling than having your life in order – being online anytime I need to be allows me that luxury.” www.vodafone.ie/mobilebroadband Keep up with Michelle on http://www.phantom.ie/djs-show/finestworksongs-with-michelle-doherty.html
W
ADVERTISING FEATURE – ZARA’S PLANET
Horsing around with
Zara’s Planet
If you’re an equestrian enthusiast then look no further for the perfect holiday destination. Saddle up with Zara’s Planet, which Irish International Show Jumper Cian O’Connor did recently, writes Collette Devlin.
Z
ara’s Planet Ltd is Ireland’s leading adventure holidays company. This specialist travel company focuses on providing the very best adventure and luxury trips in the world such as cultural escorted tours, horse riding holidays, walking/trekking, fishing, kayaking, diving, wildlife and simply chilling on the beach. The Irish owned travel agency is experiencing growth in spite of the economic climate. MD, Zara Stassin puts this down to their price guarantee and personal care in delivering consistent “trips of a lifetime”. Zara’a Planet personally deal with each client to ensure they match them to the right holiday, something that mass market companies cannot do. The large selection of horse riding holidays on offer have all been personally selected and tested by Zara and her team so that they cater for everyone from beginners to advanced riders. Holidays start at €500 for a week in France upwards depending on the riding, level of luxury and location. Recently Ireland’s Meath based International Show Jumper, Cian O’Connor and his girlfriend Ruth joined the growing number of fans to the Zara’s Planet holiday base.
Cian O’Connor saddles up for a safari holiday You would think that as an International Show Jumper Cian O’Connor would see enough of horses all year round, but after meeting Zara Stassin (from Zara’s Planet) at a competition in Birmingham he decided to go on an African safari holiday - on horseback. “This was a very different kind of horseback from international show jumping. But it turned out to be the very best way to see South Africa, its vast scenery and its wildlife,” says Cian. “More accurately it allowed us to see a tiny, but special, part of South Africa. We were in Limpopo Province, which you access via Johannesburg, and where Ant and Tessa Baber run private bush homes”. There are six luxurious bedrooms in Ant’s Nest, the original homestead, but Cian and Ruth stayed in the Ant’s Hill lodge which is about 8km away. “This is a great place and you are encouraged to come and dine with the staff and other guests, though you can of course order dinner privately on your own balcony,” adds Cian. There is only a two hour time difference so Cian and Ruth were able to go on an afternoon safari as soon as they arrived. On the
second day they relaxed with massages on their private deck and ate a leisurely lunch by the pool. “They have horses to suit all levels, but the one they gave me was very fresh. I think they were hoping I would take a tumble, but I didn’t give them the satisfaction,” laughs Cian. There is uniqueness to going on a safari on horseback that travelling in a Land Rover can never give you as Cian and Ruth found out. “Here you are at one with the wildlife, with nothing separating you from the huge variety of game that trots or canters alongside you, or sometimes just regards you with a baleful eye from the bush. However Ruth and I felt very comfortable with our experienced
guides and came across very little actual danger.” If you’re a family group and some members don’t ride, don’t worry as there are plenty of alternative activities, such as jeep safaris, and safaris on foot. But both Cian and Ruth agree that there is a magic in going on horseback especially when they set up a camp to watch the sun as it goes down and enjoy a ‘sundowner’ drink before being taken back to the lodge in a 4X4. After the wonderful few days at Ant’s Hill, the second leg of Cian and Ruth’s Zara’s Planet holiday took them by air to Benguerra, an island off the coast of Mozambique. As Cian pointed out,
this was a very different type of holiday to the safari as it was pure relaxation. The bars and restaurants were located in the main lodge while Cian and Ruth stayed in one of the casitas (small bungalows) with their own butler, pool and deck right on the beach. “As promised in the brochure, it is ‘barefoot luxury’ all the way”. Benguerra Lodge is an idyllic getaway with its white sands and warm turquoise waters.“For me, it was just about lying out in the sun and getting away from the real world for a few days, although the hotel also provides horses so that the guests can have a tour of the island. Ruth was a bit more adventurous and went diving one afternoon to see whale sharks and also saw stingray and octopus.” I am planning another “romantic” trip back to Mozambique next year with Ruth - perhaps this time I will use Zara’s Planet new weddings and honeymoon service www.runawaybrideandgroom.com!
Horse riding around the world Zara’s Planet offer horse riding holidays around the world. Prices for horse riding safaris start from a 7 night all inclusive package to Botswana for €2,100 per person (excludes air & transfer) Prices for a week’s riding in France on a half board basis is €585 per person (excludes air & transfer) Prices at Ant’s Hill and Benguerra Lodge where Cian O’Connor holidayed start at €280 per person per night all inclusive (excludes air and transfer) For more information, a brochure or booking please call 01 440 7477 or visit www.zarasplanet.ie