"My house stands on a lake, but it also stands on the sea. Water lilies meet the golden seaweed. It is as if, in the fairy land of Connemara at the extreme end of Europe, the incongruous flowed together at last, and the sweet and bitter blended. Behind me, islands and mountainous mainland share in the final reconciliation at this, the world's end.

There was something else, something indescribable, but as real as dim color or soft sound. It was the spirit of the place. The countryside was magical the soft atmosphere made you feel that you were in a region that was your proper home, a home where there was neither time nor tide, nor change at all."

Oliver St. John Gogarty (1878-1957)

The Cork/Kerry Region of South West Ireland is one of the most popular holiday areas in Ireland. This area has a spectacular coastline of over 1,000 KM and has Ireland's highest mountain, Carrauntoohil at 1,039m. This region also has Ireland's most southerly point and the most westerly point. The Cork/Kerry Region is a region of scenic contrasts. The long indended coastline blends with spectacular mountains. The many rivers and lakes combine with these mountains to give as landscape that offers much to the visitor.

VISITOR ATTRACTIONS

The Cork/Kerry Region is steeped in ancient history and folklore. There are over 100 heritage and cultural sites of significance in the Region and these sites cover many diverse aspects of our heritage and culture. Themes include emigration from Ireland in the 19th century, the story of Irish whiskey, transport, the life of early Christian monks and traditional farming methods. There are also many sites of archaeological and historical importance in the Region.

BLARNEY CASTLE

Blarney Castle was built in 1446 by Cormac Laidir McCarthy as a defensive fortress. What is known as the Castle today, is in fact the keep of a much larger fortress. All visitors to the Castle should kiss the famous Blarney Stone. It is said to bestow the gift of eloquence on all those who kiss it. The Rock Close, part of the Castle grounds is also open to the public and is well worth visiting. This is a curiously interesting place of old trees. By legend, the gardens are of Druid origin and were a centre of worship in pre-Christian times. Within the Rode Close area there survives a Dolmen or ancient burial place.

CHARLES FORT KINSALE

This star shaped military fortress was built between 1678 and 1682, During the reign of King Charles II. As one of the largest military forts in the country, it has been associated with some of the most momentous events in Irish history. Tnese events are the Williamite War and the Irish Civil War. Charles Fort remained garrisoned by Britain until 1922.

DERRYNANE HOUSE NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK

Derrynane House was the ancestral home of Daniel O'Connell, the Irish statesman who played an important role in gaining Catholic Emancipation in 1829. The house contains many relies of O'Connell's life. The grounds take up 120 hectares, incorporating shelterered gardens and coastline.

MICHAEL J QUILL CENTRE

The centre is located in what was formerly St. Peter's Church of Ireland and is situated one mile on the Kenmare side of Kilgarvan. It is a memorial to Michael J. Quill, a native son of Kilgarvan, who was founder and first President of the Transport Workers Union of America. Visit the renovated building and landscaped gardens overlooking the Roughty Valley and Ardtully Castle. Enjoy a light refreshment and if you wish, avail of the opportunity to purchase quality craft items, many of which are made in the centre.

GUINNESS CORK JAZZ FESTIVAL

Friday, Oct. 24th - Monday, Oct 27th

The Cork Jau Festival is one of Ireland's most successful Arts & Cultural Events and one of the top three Jazz festivals in the world. 2003 sees the 26th festival taking place in various venues in Cork City It attracts over 40,000 visitors to Cork City each October Bank Holiday Weekend to hear over 1,000 musicians from 25 countries perform in concerts, clubs and pubs around the city For more info go to ww.corkkerry.ie and www.corkjazzfestival.com

EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE: CORK 2005

For details go to www.cork2005.ie

Forget what you know or think you know about Belfast!

This is a city emerging from the chrysalis of the last thirty years as the most exciting of social butterflies. Belfast is buzzing. Belfast offers a great gateway into Northern Ireland where you can explore some of the most breathtaking scenery in Europe.

Belfast City

Belfast is fast becoming one of the trendiest European cities to visit. This is reflected in the growing array of stylish bars, cafes and restaurants opening within the city the innumerable festivals ranging from the flamboyant Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival in May, Ireland's largest community festival, the West Belfast feile in August and November's world famous Belfast Festival at Queens. Famously friendly, you will experience the celebrated Belfast welcome as soon as you arrive, and for information about what's on in the city visit the aptly named Belfast Welcome Centre, ideally located in the city centre.

Belfast is famous for its maritime heritage, and is the birthplace of the world's most infamous vessel, the Titanic. Explore the city taking the Titanic Trail, a self-guided tour, which takes you through many of the dry's most interesting and historic buildings and attractions,including the impressive City Hall, and Belfast's own 'Leaning Tower' the Albert Clock. To fully appreciate Belfast's Titanic heritage, visit the city between the 19th and 26th April and experience the Titanic Festival, bigger and better than ever with a series of talks, tours, exhibitions and story telling.

One of the many jewels in Belfast's crown is the City's landmark Millennium project, the Odyssey, which is fast becoming the premier visitor attraction in the Province. The stunning Arena is home to the Belfast Giant's ice hockey team, supported by enthusiastic fans from every section of the community, as well as playing host to big name acts such as Elton John and Westlife. W5, the Odyssey's interactive visitor centre has something for all the family, with five amazing exhibitions in one building. With over 100 exhibits, ranging from a laser harp to a fire tornado, W5 is a 'must see' for kids and adults alike. More energetic visitors might like to take a Belfast city cyde tour to fully appreciate how traditional and contemporary elements blend in this capital city, or see the city sights through a blade taxi tour.

For a more leisurely way to see Belfast, take a boat trip along the Lagan on the 'Joyce', now offering a River Lagan tour and a Titanic tour, which high lights the spot where the ship was launched. An unprecedented program of high quality accommodation development is ensuring that excellent accommodation is provided in and around Belfast at very competitive rates.

Radisson SAS has announced a new $21 million 140-bedroom hotel whilst the 250 room Days Hotel is due to open in mid May. Ideally located in the area of the city centre known as the "golden mile" the Days Hotel heightens accommodation capacity for the rising num- ber of business and leisure visitors to the city. There's a good place to stay to suit your style and budget - cosy B&Bs, well appointed self- catering establishments as well as a wide range of hotels and guesthouses.

Trendsetters visiting Belfast can chose from a selection of stylish bars and clubs, offering the perfect setting in which to see and be seen. One of the most popular is the fashionable Irene and Nan's, a 50s style bar and bistro located in the heart of the city center. For those with more traditional tastes in pub culture, try a pint of Guinness in the Crown Bar. The Crown is a National Trust owned property which boasts, not only a good pint of the black stuff but stun- ningly ornate original Victorian exterior and 'intoxicating' interior with generous snugs from which to summon a creamy pint and a dozen Strangford oysters.

To eat, check out Rain City Grill, the newest addition to the Rankin's ever-impressive culinary empire on Belfast's Malone Road. Belfast has an assortment of restaurants offering traditional Ulster fare amidst the "craic" while Ireland's sexiest restaurant, Porcelain, and the Michelin starred Deane's promise glamor. Tnose with a taste for oriental cuisine should sample a bit of Indie Spice or something from The Wok - the choice for globally inspired food in Belfast is endless - with Thai, Italian, Spanish, Indian, Australian, Japanese, Californian, Mexican and Seafood themed restaurants emerging across the city.

NOT TO BE MISSED

• June 24-28, Special Olympics World Summer Games rollerskating competition at King's Hall
• August 3-12, Feile 2003 - West Belfast Festival
• November 29-0ct 9, Belfast Festival at Queens
• Nov. 27-December 7, Cinemagic

For details of where to stay and what to do contact:
The Belfast Welcome Centre,
47 Donegall Place,
Belfast, BT1 5AD
Telephone +44 (0)28 9024 6609;
Fax: +44 (0)28 9031 2424
Email: belfashvelcomecentre&nitic.net Or check out the website at
www.gotobelfast.com

Dublin

County Dublin is ideally situated on the east coast of Ireland and just a 20 minute journey will bring the visitor from the bustling city to the charming coastal towns and villages of the county which dot the sometimes rugged sometimes sanded coastline and provide boundless opportunities for craft shopping, water sports, seafood, dining and picturesque walks against the spectacular background of Dublin Bay.

As one of the oldest cities in Europe, Dublin provides the visitor with a multitude of cultural riches from the ancient to the avant garde from history architecture literature art and archaeology to the performing arts. Monuments in literature and stone mark the history, writers, poets and people of Dublin. Medieval, Georgian and Modern architecture provide a backdrop to a friendly bustling port. Dublin is also home to a great literary tradition - its native sons include: Shaw, Yeats, Joyce and Beckett and is the cradle of many musical talents, from the Dubliners and the Chieftains to U2.

Spawned by the need to ford the River Liffey, fortified by the Danes, Developed by the Norman's, adorned with fifie buildings by the Angle Irish, the city has grown in stature and elegance over the centuries.

When it comes to entertainment, Dubliners with their natural friendly and fun loving attitude, certainly know how to entertain. The quintessential "Dublin Pub" provides the focal point of Dublin social life, illuminating the vibrant hues of Dubliner's and their culture. It is a place where conversations and "craic" (Which is the Irish for Fun) flow freely, unleashing the unique atmosphere that is at the heart of Dublin and her friendly people.

There is a wonderful array of Dance, Theatre and Concerts from the most exquisite formal presentations of the National Concert Hall to the jovial street performer. Very exhibition is performed with a distinctly Irish sense of enthusiasm and conviction that delights and enthrals every audience.

Music and song play a large part in the artistic make-up of Dubliners. The city provides a showcase for all facets of such talent, from which traditional Irish Folk musicians such as The Dubliners, The Chieftains and contemporary artists like U2, Chris De Burgh and Sinead O'Connor have found inspiration and International Popularity.

Music whether it be classical, traditional or contemporary is very accessible in Dublin, often experienced with its natural accompaniment - dance. Visitors may try their hand at traditional set dancing or dance the night away at one of the numerous trendy night clubs that illuminate Dublin's night sky and carry the beat of the city well into the morning hours.

Internationally renowned artists regularly adorn the city with an abundance of First Class performances as varied as the Bolshoi ballet to the staging of rock concerts. Comedy and cabaret also features strongly in the entertainment line-up and can be sampled at a multitude of impressive venues in the City.

The Irish are passionate about their sports and Dubliners are no exception. The city comes alight with colour and expectation for many weekends of sporting from football internationals to street marathons. Golfing enthusiasts are well catered for in as many as 60 golf courses throughout the county of Dublin. Ireland's pride and reputation for the Sporting Horse is showcased at many a racing meet or show jumping occasion. Our most popular national sports include Gaelic Football and Hurting, the latter has been acclaimed as one of the fastest and most exdting field games in the world.

Due to Dublin's coastal location, water and the sea have always been an integral part of Dublin Life. From this inheritance a multitude of activities and sports have nourished for the water enthusiast's pleasure, including yachting, sailing, wind surfing and fishing.

In addition there are numerous opportunities to go greyhound racing cycling or visit the many fine gardens, houses and picturesque parks that adorn the area, or why not participate in one of the thoroughly enjoyable tours and trails available! You can catch a glimpse of a Polo match while wandering through the meandering paths of the Phoenix Park - the largest enclosed park of its kind in Europe - in the heart of the city. Whatever your heart desires, Dublin provides a superb location for all the above activities and many more besides.

The South East boasts many of the countries most visited and interesting attractions. From the world famous Waterford Crystal Visitors Centre, The Rock of Cashel, Kilkenny Castle, the Irish National Heritage Park, the Dunbrody Famine Ship and Waterford Treasures Museum there is always much to see and learn during your stay with us. Please see below for complete details on all our Top Visitor Attractions.

COUNTY CARLOW

Through the Waters of Time a big jewel of a county with a wealth of scenery - from rich pastureland and colourful mountains to the deep and historical Barrow River Valley. Everywhere in the landscape is the resonance of her ancient pre-Celtic past. A county of green vibrant colours who's welcoming people are much given to outdoor and sporting activities, such as gentle river cruising, golf or even hang gliding on Mount Leinster.

Carlow Town overlooks the meeting point of the Barrow and Burrin rivers, a point which was believed to be once made up of four lakes, hence the gaelic name Ceathar Loch, or City of the Four Lakes. The main townlands in the county are Bagenalstown, Sir Waiter Bagenal's 18th century attempt at replicating Versailles, Borris, a handsome estate town, full of charm and heritage and home to the MacMurrough Kavanagh family, former Celtic Kings of Leinster, Leighlinbridge, gold medal winner in Europe's Entente Florale in 2001, an attractive town with a beautiful arch bridge, said to be one of the oldest functioning bridges in Europe, and Tullow, ancestral home of the famous Wolseley family.

KILKENNY

The Medieval County Kilkenny - the Creative Heart of Ireland, where heritage and history, environmental harmony, crafts and architecture combine to create an all-pervading spirit of excellence. With Ireland Medieval Capital. at its heart, County Kilkenny offers an abundance of fascinating historic sites. There are castles and abbeys, forest parks, natural wonders and scenic locations. Good food, lively restaurants, popular pubs and nightclubs are also important in a County that offers quite simply everything for an enjoyable and memorable holiday.

SOUTH TIPPERARY

The Golden Vale County A county who's name is well known from the song 'It's a long way to Tipperary' offers the visitors many attractions and opportunities to explore its storied past. Energetic pursuits, angling, golf and mountain walking. Renowned to be the most scenic inland county in Ireland it is fashioned by the Galtee Mountains, the River Suir and a rich lush green landscape. Tipperary is particularly rich in archaeological sites of interest including the Rock of Cashel in Cashel Heritage Town and Cahir Castle in picturesque Cahir Heritage Town. These traditional attractions are now complemented by the new Excel Centre in Tipperary Town which boasts an interpretative centre depicting Tipperary's past, two cinemas, a modern theatre, and an art gallery.

WATERFORD

The Crystal County Waterford County offers a dazzling coastline, beautiful river valleys and a glorious range of very accessible mountains. Waterford City was established in Viking times and it has an exciting medieval navour and riverside bustle. The City is the home of Waterford Crystal. Dungarvan, the administrative capital for the county, is set in a broad, magnificent bay. In between are lively and quiet Seaside Resorts, the spectacular Copper Coast, and lovely Mountain & River Valley towns and villages. The town of Lismore was originally a monastic settlement founded in the 7th Century by St Carthage, a Heritage Town, it was the centre of ecclesiastical and temporal power for centuries. A natural playground for Golf, Equestrian, Walking, Angling, Water Sports and Cycling, enthusiasts, Waterford offers the complete holiday experience.

WEXFORD

The Maritinze Cencue 4 Ireland Wexford is known as the land of laughter and music, of legend and romance, where the locals take life easy and the warmth comes from the heart. Wexford, known as the "Maritime Centre of Ireland," offers coastal villages, sunny seashores, national heritage attractions, and gardens including the very famous John E Kennedy Park and Arboretum. Wexford is also home to a number of Ireland's newest and best attractions - the Dunbrody Famine Ship and the Hook Lighthouse Visiter Centre (see 'What's New'). So come relax and enjoy the many attractions awaiting you in Wexford and let our famous hospitality wash up over you like a wave - you'll be among friends here.

Our ancient kingdoms stretch from the eastern shores of Lough Neagh overlooked by Crewe Hill, where the Kings of Ulster were crowned a thousand years ago, through the Lagan Valley and the heartland of St Patrick to Strangford Lough, the Mourne Mountains and the historic coasts of County Down.

SPECTACULAR SCENERY The Kingdoms of Down offer a unique collection of all that is best in spectacular scenery, exciting attractions and endless opportunities for retaxation and activity. Recognized worldwide as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a marvelous combination of Loughs, country parks, forests and mountains are all surrounded by miles and miles of sweeping and beautiful coastline.

ENJOY THE CRAIC The more you enjoy the craic the more you'll want to stay, for this is a region where you'll always be made to feel at home. From Banger to Lisburn, Newtownards to Newcastle the people of the area greet every visitor with a happy mixture of humor and hospitality. You'll always be assured of a warm welcome in the Kingdoms of Down.

PLACES TO STAY The choice is vast, the quality superb. From a s star hotel fit for a king, to award winning guest houses and bed and breakfasts, or from luxury self-catering holiday homes to unbeatable value youth hostels and holiday parks. The Kingdoms of Down has it all including Ireland's oldest inhabited castle - Killyleagh.

A BREATHTAKING LANDSCAPE Choose the dramatic coastal route which skirts the Irish Sea as the road bends and twists between charming villages and picmresque towns or travel along the Strangford Shore and look out for seals and other wildlife as you move through this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which encompasses no less than six designated National Nature Reserves.

Marvel at the majestic Mourne Mountains from the seaside town of Newcastle or from the summit of the highest peak, Slieve Donard. Travel to Newtownards and visit Scrabe Tower, one of Northern Ireland's best-known landmarks or move on to the Lagan Valley with its meandering towpath and canal.

Or explore the Holywood hills, the inspiration for CS Lewis' Narnia Tales.

LOTS TO DO Activity seekers can challenge their skills on top class golf courses, including the world famous Royal County Down. Climb the majestic Mourne mountains, pony trek along numerous wooded forest paths, moor your yacht at the 5 Gold Anchor award winning Banger Marina or participate in one of the World Class sailing events. You can even explore shipwrecks 50 metres below sea level there's always something new to try!

HISTORY AND HERITAGE Follow the stories of centuries-old peoples discovering the flints, fairy mounds and burial grounds and the Giants Ring. Trace the life of St Patrick, Ireland's patron saint in Downpatrick's newest attraction Ego Patricius, with its numerous interactive displays which allow visitors to explore St Patricks Legacy and visit his grave at the nearby Down Cathedral.

Explore the early monastic sites at Nendrum, Grey Abbey and inch. Why not visit Banger Abbey which was founded by St Comgall in 558AD and the forbidding walls of former fortifications and castles that create a rich picture of ancient times.

Picturesque Historical Hills- A glorious example of Georgian architecture with the Courthouse, Fort, Castle and St Malachy's Church. Whilst the 200 year old working windmill at Ballycopeland demonstrates an enduring source of power.

MUSEUMS A MUST The Ulster Folk and Transport Museum recaptures the past in meticulously reconstructed farm and town dwellings set in open countryside and village format. Transport history is also celebrated with an award winning Road and Rail Gallery and thought provoking 'Titanic Exhibition'. Downpatrick Railway Museum has added an exciting extension to Abbey Railway line.

Step back in time to the First World War at the Somme Heritage Centre, while close by, North Down Heritage Centre features a permanent exhibition of the life and times of the composer of 'Where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea...' Percy.

Learn about linen production at the fabulous Irish Linen Centre and Lisburn Museum and make a quick exit from the 18th century prison cells at Down County Museum!

For more information go to kingdomsofdown.com

The landscape will also capture your heart and there are a variety of things to do and places to visit, from centuries old ruins to historic houses. You can walk in the countryside, fish, golf, horse ride, sail or cruise on the waterways - whatever your interest is, you will be sure to enjoy it in Ireland West.

COUNTY GALWAY Galway is a city, a county, and an experience to be savoured and remembered. The historic city of the tribes dances to a beat uniquely it's own. There is certain chemistry and vibrancy to this friendly University City, which many delight in, and few forget. Music, festivals, horse racing, pubs, restaurants, shops, theatres and most of all Galway people, combine to create this atmospheric mediaeval city of culture. From this pulsating heart the rest of the county flows. Galway Bay, immortalised in song, its beauty unchanging. Scenic Gaeltacht areas including the Aran Islands. Connemara, with the picturesque town of Clifden as its capital. Mountains, castles and stone walls, banks of turf, long sandy beaches, clear lakes, joyful leaping streams and flowing rivers. Delightful countryside punctuated by pretty villages, and traditional pubs.

COUNTY MAYO Jutting proudly into the Atlantic Ocean, County Mayo boasts a stunningly beautiful unspoilt environment with a magical attraction for visitors. Cosmopolitan towns such as Westport positively burst with charm and personality, as welcoming as the Mayo people themselves. The standard and availability of accommodation is excellent. Unique artractions include Croagh Patrick, Ireland's holy mountain with the starkly beautiful National Famine Memorial at its foot and Knock Shrine, scene of an miraculous apparition in 1879.

History comes alive at the world famous CCide Fields near Ballycastle in North Mayo, at The Foxford Woollen Mills, Hennigans Heritage Farm and the new National Museum of Ireland's Museum of Country Life, which opened in Autumn 2001 just outside Castlebar, the county town. Sporting opportunities abound especially fishing of all sorts including the River Moy in Ballina where the salmon is king. There are watersports, hiking and walk ing, golf links and courses, horseriding and cycling.., the list is endless. Sandy beaches, clear waters and beautiful islands. Superb restaurants, pubs of character and of course the irresistible tumbling melodies of traditional Irish music spilling onto the streets. Quite simply Mayo is Amazing!

COUNTY ROSCOMMON Roscommon offers an enchanting glimpse of hidden treasure to those who seek. Brimful of history and heritage, Roscommon boasts many archaeological structures including Rathcroghan, ancient home of the High Kings. From more recent times, great houses and castles are to be found. Here, a more tranquil and serene beauty reigns, framed by mountain, moor land and lake . Nature and wildlife flourish in undisturbed habitat. The warmth of the people is tangible, part of the essence of the county.

SCENIC BEAUTY Shannon and the Western Regions of Ireland boast natural beauty and spectacular scenery. The incredible coast of Kerry to Donegal with cliffs and golden beaches, the magnificent Cliffs of Moher in Co. Glare; the famous Burren District in Co. Clare with its lunar landscapes and rare flora; The River Shannon and its beautiful lakes; Glenveagh National Park in Co. Donegal; Ben Bulben in Sligo; the splendour of Connemara; the Slieve Bloom Mountains; the world-famous Lakes of Killarney and the Dingle Peninsula in Co. Kerry. All within a compact area that is less 5 hours drive from end to end.

GREAT ENTERTAINMENT From Donegal to Kerry; Tipperary to Clare and Sligo to Limerick, the Western Region's celebrate the musical and dramatic talent of its people. There are famous medieval castle banquets at Bunratty, Knappogue and Dunguaire Castles; high quality cabarets; traditional Irish music pubs and dance evenings (many of which invite and welcome partiupation); dinner shows, classical recitals, theatrical events and fine dining restaurants. You will never be far from great entertainment.

A SPORTING PARADISE You'll find great sporting facilities in Shannon and Ireland's Western Regions. Incredible golf courses including world rated links courses and magnificent parkland courses. A wealth of fish-fiued lakes and rivers and the Atlantic for sea-angling. horse riding, snorkelling and diving. Great trail walks and cycling options. For those who would just like to enjoy a spectator sport, Gaelic Games (football and hurling) provides excellent entertainment as does rugby, horse racing and greyhound racing.

GREAT VISITOR ATTRACTIONS Ireland's Western Regions have an incredible history and reminders of our ancient past abound. Mediaeval castle, ancient forts and burial sites, abbeys and monasteries, bronzeage settlements are all there to be explored. The Western Region's attractions also include waterworlds, sealife centres, folk parks, museums, show-caves, pet-farms, steam-trains, Shannon River cruises, island and dolphinwatching boat trips and more.

EVER ACCOMMODATING Accommodations range from luxury castle hotels and comfortable family-run hotels to holiday hostels, bed and breakfast and Irish farmhouse accommodation. Self-catering accommodation is another great option in a thatched cottage or a modern accommodation. You can also solve your accommodation and transport problems at a stroke - by renting a self-drive Shannon luxury cruiser.

Derry is one of Ireland's oldest cities. Visitors can walk the one-mile route along the City Walls from where they can survey the fine Georgian streets and 19th century public buildings such as the Guildhall. The city has some of the most stunning churches induding St. Columb's Cathedral, the Long Tower Church and St. Augustine's. Visitors can hear the historic tale of Derry at the award-winning Tower Museum, which uses ultra-modern display techniques and audio-visual programmes to tell the history of the area.

The area's accommodation ranges from hotels offering room and conference facilities for every kind of business and to suit every budget, from country house hotels, to cosy B8tBs and self-catering accommodation.

The city has seen the recent hotel expansion including Best Western ~hite Horse Hotel, Da Vinci's Hotel & Complex, Beech Hill Country House Hotel and Hastings Everglades Hotel. The city boasts three newly opened city center hotels, the City Hotel, Tower Hotel and Apartotel.

With its strong musical tradition, the city is home to many festivals and events throughout the year such as the Jazz and Big Band Festival, the Maiden City Festival, the Gasyard Festival, Foyle Film Festival and Ireland's largest Hallowe'en Carnival.

The city offers something for everyone and is renowned for its exuberant 'pub culture' which has proven to be a major attraction for an ever-growing number of younger tourists. Socialising is never a problem in Derry where there is a huge variety of pubs and clubs, as well as live music. And when you need a rest from dubbing and socialising, why not take some time to visit the city's many museums, galleries and cultural venues. The Orchard Gallery, Nerve Centre, MiUennium Forum, Playhouse and Verbal Arts Centre are all leading venues that can contribute to the creative powerhouse, the city ofers.

On the shopping front, expansions in the city's high street stores and the opening of new specialist retailers has brought more choice and value right in the heart of the city. Recently, Debenhams has announced plans to join the city's many leading high street stores such as Marks and Spencer, Tescos, Dunnes Stores, Argos, Virgin and Sainsbury's. Derry has a strong number of leading independent retailers who offer unique services and distinguished fashion brands. The choice is enormous, from crafts, healthcare, jewellery and fashion.

Whoever you are, wherever you come from, whether in Derry for a weekend break or a business trip, you'll find a warm welcome in Derry. Further information can be obtained by contacting the Derry Visitor and Convention Bureau. Tel. 011 44 28 7137 7577.

The East Coast & Midlands of Ireland, a land of Celtic myth and mystery, majestic rivers, lakes, mountains and sea, with warm and friendly people, interesting and attractive towns and villages. From the golden sands and resorts of the East Coast to the purpleheaded mountains of Wicklow, the Cooley Peninsula and the Slieve Blooms to the multihued Bog of Alien and Midland Lakes like Derravaragh and Ree there is magic everywhere.

Some of Irelands finest heritage attractions are sited in the region, dating from the prehistoric monuments of the Boyne Valley and Celtic monasteries of Clonmacnoise and Glendalough, to the castles, great houses and gardens of more modern times which will enthral both the general visitor and scholar alike. The rich tapestry of Irelands past is amply illustrated in the many heritage sites and interpretative facilities throughout the region.

Many of he country's best golfing and equestrian facilities are located here, ranging from the K-Club, host of the Ryder Cup, 2006 to Punchestown Racing Festival. Boating and Cruising enthusiasts are well catered for on the Shannon, Grand Canal and Barrow Systems. Coarse, game and sea angling spedalists or casual anglers can enjoy the sport in numerous centres throughout the region. Walking, cycling and auto-touring enthusiasts have many specialised tours to choose from; forexample, in the Wicklow Mountains, the Slieve Blooms in Counties Laois and Offaly and the Cooley MountainsinCountyLouth. Manyotherspe cialist activities from learning to fly, paint, dance etc, also can be enjoyed. Tnroughout the region a wide variety of entertainment is available, from summer schools to music festivals to sporting events.

The East Coast & Midlands Region of Ireland hosts a wide range of excellent quality. Good value accommodation to suit all tastes and price ranges. Full details on all festivals and events, heritage and special interest activities from angling to walking in the East Coast & Midlands Region is available from:

East Coast & Midlands Tourism Dublin Road, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, Ireland Tel: + 353 44 48650, Fax: + 353 44 40413 Email: info@ecoast-midlandstourism.ie Web: www.ecoast-midlands.travel.ie