Author: Brian Ogle

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A SURVEY by AirHelp has uncovered a major knowledge gap among UK air passengers.

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A NEW baggage policy will apply across Aer Lingus’ Regional Network from March 2026 and will give passengers more flexibility while travelling.

‘PROGRAMME IS A VITAL BUILDING BLOCK TO HELP ASPIRING PILOTS TAKE THEIR FIRST STEPS SKYWARDS’

AFTER a phenomenal response to its inaugural programme last year, Jet2.com has today announced that it has reopened its Jet2FlightPath programme for 2026, giving at least 60 aspiring pilots the opportunity to fly for the award-winning airline without having to self-fund the £100,000-plus cost of flight training.

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TO celebrate Margarita Week and build on the global momentum of National Margarita Day on February 22, for the first time ever, Cointreau is inviting cocktail lovers to experience a rare, once-in-a-lifetime getaway inside the home of the Margarita, in partnership with Secret Escapes. For more information and entry details, visit: https://mp.secretescapes.com/uk/2026/cointreau/ 

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AER Lingus has announced it will operate a temporary scheduled service between Dublin and Barbados for spring 2026. The seasonal route will run from March 31, 2026 to May 31, 2026, offering Irish customers a direct connection to the Caribbean.

1. NI Science Festival 2026, various locations across Northern Ireland, 11 – 22 February. Over the years NISF has striven to bring the very best of science communication to Northern Ireland. The festival offers a stimulating and wide range of events focusing on the wonders of science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics. These events present some of the best scientists from NI and beyond to discuss their work, cutting-edge research and what the future might hold.
   2. Love LegenDerry Food Month, Derry~Londonderry, 1 – 28 February. This February, the historic city and its surrounding district will once again celebrate its exceptional culinary heritage with a month-long programme of unique events and experiences. With a backdrop of stunning landscapes, a rich heritage, and passionate producers, this food destination offers an immersive experience that celebrates authentic local flavours and the artistry of its chefs and artisans.
   3. Dome Shows at Armagh Planetarium, Armagh, County Armagh, visit website for open dates and times. The main attraction at Armagh Planetarium is a 360-degree digital theatre, where they present immersive dome shows on a wide range of topics. With programmes designed for toddlers, families, and adults, there’s something for every visitor.
   4. Stargazing Evening at Armagh Planetarium, Armagh, County Armagh, 20 February. Experience the wonders of the night sky with guided observations through telescopes and explore stars and the constellations (weather dependent). This event offers a unique opportunity to learn about the cosmos from expert astronomers and whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or new to astronomy, it’s a night not to be missed.
   5. Behind The Scenes: Natural Science Collections Talk at Ulster Museum, Belfast, 18 February. Explore the fascinating world of the Ulster Museum Natural Science collections. From plants, insects, and snails to birds, mammals, and fossils, these specimens tell the story of our natural world – past and present.
   6. W5 Late: CSI – Can You Dig It?, Belfast, 20 February. W5 Late returns for a strictly adults-only, after-hours adventure inside Northern Ireland’s award-winning science and discovery centre. On the fateful night of Friday, 20 February 2026, 7pm–11pm, step into a world of intrigue, where a mysterious death demands fresh eyes and sharper minds. Your mission: investigate the crime scene, pick up real forensic techniques, follow the evidence, and expose what really happened to Dr. Algernon Everett.
   7. Foraging Afloat, Killinchy, County Down, 21 February. Spring is arriving on Strangford Lough and with it the arrival of an array of seasonal wild food emerges from the land and water. Join Rory Martin of Strangford Lough Activity Centre and David Thompson & Celia Spouncer from Wild About Tours for a unique guide to the sights and flavour of the area.
   8. Behind the Scenes: Nature Conservation Walk with Ulster Folk Museum, Cultra, County Down, 21 February. The Ulster Folk Museum and nearby Cultra Manor are home to an incredible range of natural wonders – from ancient woodlands to flourishing farmlands. For the first time, we’re inviting visitors to go behind the scenes and learn about the exciting conservation work taking place across the site.
   9. Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, visit website for open dates and times. Wander the well-trodden pathways and traditional farmhouses, learning what life was like in rural Ulster. Step on-board the full-scale emigrant ship, experience what the cramped quarters were like on the dangerous journey to America, and find out how Ulster people’s emigration had a lasting impact through North America.
   10. Mini Explorers: Science in the Dark with Marble Arch Caves, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, 21 February. Join an engaging two-hour family event that delves into the fascinating science behind cave exploration and how it has developed over time. Perfect for children aged 7 and above, this experience offers a unique opportunity to learn about the tools, techniques, and discoveries that have shaped the study of caves. Through hands-on activities, families will get to explore the challenges and wonders of cave exploration on an interactive guided walk through Marble Arch Caves showcave.

For more information on what’s on, or to plan your next giant adventure in Northern Ireland, visit: discovernorthernireland.com.

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IN France, romance isn’t just an idea – it’s a way of life. So, this Valentine’s season, Irish Ferries is inviting couples to get onboard, lean into love and sail straight into the heart of French amour, with its expert’s pick of some of the most romantic towns in the world.

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SKI slopes and cross-country adventures are set to be showcased on a global scale with the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics taking place in Italy this February. 

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HONG Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is proud to announce that the highly anticipated debut episode of the 20^th season of The Apprentice takes place in Hong Kong, a “hunting ground” that kicked off Lord Sugar’s business career. 

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NORWEGIAN Widerøe is increasing the number of its weekly flights from Dublin to Bergen from three to four.