We just got back from an enjoyable trip to Dublin, highlights for me were visits to the…

• Guinness Storehouse for a history lesson and a drop of the black stuff.
• The Old Jameson Distillery for another history lesson and a drop of the hard stuff, I also certified as an Irish Whiskey taster during the visit. I have a certificate and everything
• Gallagher’s Boxty House for some traditional Irish grub.
• Ryanair’s ticket prices, just 10p return each!

This was our first visit to Ireland and I am looking forward to going back again soon and maybe incorporate some diving.

I arranged a surprise holiday to the Isles of Scilly for my wifes birthday and we got back a couple of days ago. What a fantastic place! We very much enjoyed our short time on the islands and will definately be going back in the future, I think our enjoyment was also heightened by the fantastic weather we had during our stay.

One of the highlights of the trip was the helicopter flights to and from the islands, which gives you some great views of the Cornish coast line and Lands End. The Scilly Isles have a rich history and this is slowly revealed as you visit each island and the attractions they offer. The scenery is beautiful everywhere, but the Abbey Garden on Tresco is very impressive, I particularly liked the collection of figure heads which have been (mostly) recovered from wrecks around the islands.

A side from island hoping and wandering around the island coastal pathways we also went out to see some grey seals out on the rocks to the west of the islands. Other highlights are the plentiful supply of real Cornish pasties, cream teas and ice cream. The food on the islands was very good and if you like fish you are in for a treat. The views of the sunsets are lovely and best accompanied with a warm, flat, muddy ale