The Shelbourne, Dublin Dublin is swinging again. Ireland’s capital of cool has the edginess of a metropolis but the friendliness of a village. You’ll find medieval monuments, glorious Georgian architecture, a cutting-edge creative quarter, fabulous antique markets and, of course, pubs galore. And there’s still time for a last-minute city break before the year is out.
New Orleans “An American has not seen the United States until he has seen Mardi Gras in New Orleans.” Mark Twain was blown away by the Big Easy’s annual extravaganza — and you will be too. Marching bands, fantastical floats, flying beads, and beignets at dawn are all part of this life-affirming experience.
Venice La Serenissima is not so serene in the month of February, when the piazzas and palazzos throng with masked revellers. Carnevale is a busy time to visit Venice, but we have the lowdown on how to navigate the labyrinthine alleys and canals like a local.
Rio De Janeiro Often billed as the world’s biggest street party, Rio Carnival is certainly the most famous, flamboyant and sexy carnival on earth. From frisky samba dancers in feathered outfits to bootylicious beach parties that last until sunrise, in Rio anything goes…
