Regeneration has turned Liverpool, the pride of the Merseyside, into a city that you would hardly recognise. As a small city, it makes for a very comfortable city break. Places to visit include the Albert Dock area, which has been transformed, with pubs, clubs and hotels; and the Beatles Story museum; and eight museums. If you like dance, some of the best clubs in Britain are here, such as Cream. Super-seacat (tel: 1800-551743) has daily services from Dublin and the crossing takes only four hours. Five minutes from the terminal is the Crowne Plaza Hotel (tel: 0044151243 8000), which has special offers for weekends.
The idea of going on a cruise is one that many people have reservations about - the thought of being confined to the one place with people you don't know can be off-putting. However, Beatty and Daly Travel tel: 01-6623030) has come up with the ideal solution for those who want to give it a try. It has week-long packages to Florida that include three- or four-night cruises to the Bahamas combined with a stay in Orlando. Holidays are available from September to December and prices start at £780.
Kinsale becomes more and more Mediterranean-like at this time of the year with the sun shining on the brightly painted houses and the harbour full of yachts.However, Kinsale is most famous for its gourmet cuisine and the Gourmet Festival will take place from October 12th to 15th this year. Over the autumn and inter, three-day breaks are available from £130 and include three £25 vouchers to be spent in your choice of restaurants in the town. Details from 021- 774026.
The Belfast Motorsport Festival will take place from August 25th to 28th and will feature a motorsport market where the Grand Prix, rally and vintage cars and trials bikes taking part will be on display in an open paddock. Watch the best handbrake turns and motorcycle stunts. Northern Ireland Tourist Board has details: 1850 230230.
Alton Towers and Legoland are two of the most popular attractions in Britain for families. Irish Ferries has put together family packages from £314 for Alton Towers and £348 for Legoland. The cost covers two adults and two children taking a car, two nights' accommodation and entry to the theme parks. Your local travel agent has more information or call Irish Ferries on 01- 638 3333.
Northern Ireland has some of the finest and most challenging golf courses in Europe and with the new Golfer's Passport, you can play them for 25 50 per cent discount. The 50 participating courses and include Annesley Links, Ardglass, Clandeboye, Kilkeel, Malone and Shandon Park. The cost is £9.95 sterling from Open Fairways Ireland, Bangor BT20 3BR, or tel 048-91471277.