Davin O'Dwyerwith a round-up of soccer deals
The 6 Nations rugby clash between Italy and Ireland is only two weeks away, but already the soccer clash between the two nations is looming on the horizon. The match has been scheduled to be played in the southern city of Bari (the Azzuri rotate their international home games between stadiums around the country) on Wednesday, April 1st.
As if visiting the reigning world champions weren’t a big enough occasion, extra spice will be added as Giovanni Trapattoni (below) tests his team’s progress against his home country. If things don’t go well, expect the red tops to have a field day with April Fool headlines.
You can apply for tickets by e-mailing ticket.office@fai.ie, with your full name, postal address and contact numbers.
Alternatively, you can choose from numerous tour-operator packages, many of which include a match ticket, as well as travel and accommodation offers.
Club Travel (www.clubtravel.ie, 01-6080000) has a deal departing Dublin on March 31st and returning on April 2nd, including match tickets, two nights’ accommodation and transfers, from €729 per person, plus €69 tax. It is also offering a one-day package, flying out early on the Wednesday morning and returning after the game, from €489 per person.
Abbey Travel (www.abbeytravel.ie, 01-8047102) has a three-day package, including flights, two nights’ accommodation and match ticket, from €749 per person, plus tax.
747 Travel (www.747travel.ie, 01-4780099) is charging from €649 per person, plus €69 tax, for flights, two nights’ three-star accommodation, ticket and transfers.
Dawson Travel (www.dawson-travel.com, 021-4274397/ 01-6618900) has flights from Cork and two nights’ accommodation for €695 per person, with match ticket costing extra but available on request.