TRAVEL NOTES
Christmas in Bora Bora
The weather’s getting cold and the nights are drawing in. Imagine, then, an escape to the South Seas and days spent in over-water suites or beachfront villas, the sun beating down as you watch sea turtles paddle by and, later, seeing the sun set over the island’s dramatic Mount Otemanu. That’s the Four Seasons ultra-luxe, very family friendly resort inBora Bora for you; over-water bungalows actually have their own over-water plunge pools. Stay seven nights, pay for six from £4,060pp including complimentary daily breakfast, Christmas Eve dinner and New Year’s Eve dinner. Valid 20 Dec 09-3 Jan 2010. Book by 31 Oct 09. www.carrier.co.uk
Fizz Bar at HotelArts
Barcelona’s smartest contemporary hotel already has numerous options when it comes to fine dining and people-watching bars. A new addition is the champagne bar, with over forty different types of bubbly and an extensive wine list with some of the best Spanish and Catalan wines around. Needless to say, the interior is the height of design; black marble, minimalist lines and an outdoor terrace. www.hotelartsbarcelona.com
The best of Ireland
Two of the Emerald Isle’s most swish hotels, The Culloden Estate & Spa in Belfast and Dublin’s Merrion Hotel are offering joint autumn packages, meaning you can stay in style on both sides of the border. The Bishop’s Package starts from £455 for two nights in each hotel on a B&B basis and chauffeur transfer between the two. The Duke’s Package, from £815, throws in bigger rooms, a private art tour, walking tour in Dublin and and a three course gourmet dinner. See www.hastingshotels.com and www.merrionhotel.com for info.