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Is it just us, or does anyone else feel like winter is here to stay?

Below average temperatures and cloudy skies have us pining for beer gardens, BBQs and long summer evenings, but alas, it looks like it'll be a while yet before the sun makes its annual appearance on Irish shores. 

But why wait? There are plenty of sunny holiday destinations just waiting to be explored this Spring, and with so many Bank Holidays coming up over the next few months, you've no excuse. 

To help you decide, we've put together a list of the best last-minute spots –  perfect for topping up your tan before summer officially begins. 

Sicily, Italy 

Rising temperatures, celebrations, and delicious food make Easter is one of the best times to visit Sicily.

With daytime highs of 18°C, you'll get a well-needed does of Vitamin D without feeling like you've been burnt alive.

What's more, each town celebrates the religious occasion with its own traditions and processions, so you'll get an authentic look into Sicilian culture.

Tenerife, The Canary Islands

With the mercury rising to the early twenties, and miles upon miles of sandy beaches, Tenerife is pretty much a sun worshipper's paradise.

Sure, it's nothing compared to the highs experienced in July or August, but unless you're in potion to cough up for flights to the Caribbean, it's probably the best you're going to get for this time of year.

The island has something for every type of holiday maker so make sure to choose your location wisely.

Those in search of a party atmosphere should head to the resorts of Playa de Las Americas or Los Cristanos, while those looking for something more relaxed should try Los Gigantes or Puerto Santiago.

Faro, Portugal 

Located in the heart of the Algarve, Fargo is often overlooked by tourists who instead opt to spend their holidays in the neighbouring towns.

History and culture are two of the city's biggest draws, and its position makes it a great central base from which to explore the rest of the Algarve.

With temperature once again hitting the early twenties, this picturesque little city is the ideal destination for a relaxing couples break or a well-deserved chill-out trip with the girls.

St. Paul's Bay, Malta 

During the day, Easter sun-seekers can enjoy highs of 20°C at the Golden Sands Beach, before spending the evening relaxing at one of town's glamorous bars and restaurants.

What's more, the Maltese resort also caters for the adventurous traveller, with scuba diving, snorkelling and water sport activities.

Heraklion, Crete

A prt city and the capital of the Greek island Crete, Heraklion (also called Iraklio) offers holiday-makers the perfect balance.

City vibes, seaside views, and a bustling nightlife – what more could you want?

Temperatures typically peak in the late teens or high twenties in March and April.

 

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Get the suncream out everyone, we look set to have a scorcher on our hands.  

Ireland will be getting some rays from the Europe-wide heatwave as temperatures will inch towards highs of 28C.

A Status Yellow heat warning has been issued by Met Éireann for Galway, Mayo, Clare, Cork, Kerry, and Limerick.

If you want to avoid the heat, stay indoors between 1pm to 7pm tonight.

Met Eireann forecaster Dr. Clara Finkele said, ''It will reach those temperatures of 27, 28 in those counties along the west coast, generally we're looking at 22, 24, 25, 26 degrees nationwide, maybe a few degrees lower in the east coast.'' 

She continued, ''Early next week, the temperatures will return to more normal temperatures in high teens, low 20s, mainly 21, 22, degrees by midweek next week.”

Pride parade attendees will be in for a stunning day this Sunday with 25 degrees expected in some parts of the country.

Dr. Finkele. said, ''Saturday is still a warm day, 20 to 25 degrees but then the winds will turn westerly for Sunday and it will be actually quite breezy. And then, temperatures will return to 17 to 20 degrees.''

It might not be a fab as 2018's summer, but we'll happily take it.

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January is really a month for the winter blues. Christmas is a hazy memory, you can't quite shake that cold that's been bothering you, and summer seems like an eternity away.

Why not escape for a weekend to see some of Europe's most incredible sights, and stay in the best Airbnb's you can find. Treat yo'self, gowan.

Luckily for you, we've curated a list of some of the continent's best apartment finds.

We've already booked our flights straight out of Dublin airport, ASAP….

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1. Zagreb, Croatia

This new stylish apartment is in the perfect location in the centre of the beautiful Zagreb, on Križanićeva street.

For a quiet and safe space which is still central, this is one of the best areas to stay in. Close to the main city square, central bus and train station, everything is easily within walking distance.

A modern, contemporary apartment with a monochromatic décor theme, yet still so comfortable, this apartment is perfect. It can host three guests, and has two beds and a bath. 

New stylish central apartment
Price: €37 per night

2. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is an incredible city to visit, the Old Town is stunning and has a huge amount of history, and most of the town is within walking distance.

It also is home to some of the best pub crawls in the world, just sayin'. This gorgeous boutique apartment has us DROOLING.

The spacious design, the window panels allowing light to stream in, we just need to stay here ASAP.

The boutique apartment is located in the Bohemian Zizkov district, packed with unreal cafés, bars, restaurants and bars with some amazing views of Prague.

3. Paris, France

We have found a sunny, cosy studio apartment LITERALLY just down the road from the Eiffel Tower. What more would you need?

The charming apartment is ideal for an escape to the Parisian life; it's both residential and family-oriented.

There are windows throughout the apartment to let in the French sun, and the location is absolutely perfect; the seventh district of Les Invalides

Just picture yourself having a coffee and croissant downstairs, looking out the window at the Parisian aesthetic. We can.

4. Berlin, Germany

A 'superhost' owns this GORGEOUS Berlin apartment, which can house four guests and his also an absolute bargain of an offer for what you're getting.

The apartment is a short walking distance away from some of Berlin's top spots, with restaurants, shops and bars surrounding the area.

The subway station is only a seven minute walk away, and the location is both safe and central. You'll be prancing around Alexanderplatz in no time…

Design apartment
Price: €34 per night

5. Barcelona, Spain

This spacious loft is on Airbnb Plus, and for a good reason.

The stunning studio apartment has an actual JETTED TUB. Be still my beating travel heart. The location is extremely central; with the city's main sights within walking distance.

The New York-style space has exposed brick walls, high ceilings of rustic Catalan wood and bold modern art.

Catch some rays on the balcony and make use of the space's incredible amenities.

Spacious loft
€70 per night

6. Rome, Italy

This 'superhost' certified apartment in the centre of one of Europe's most renowned cities is GOALS.

The apartment can house up to four guests, and is located on the first floor of a beautiful palatial residence just minutes from the Piazza Della Repubblica.

The studio home is freshly renovated, filled with light and more luxurious than our future. We LOVE.

7. Edinburgh, United Kingdom

This stunning Georgian apartment in Edinburgh's New Town is one of the best Airbnb's on the market.

The loft is a ground floor flat in the famous area, with absolutely every part of the city within walking distance. The apartment is spacious, has fantastic amenities such as a bath, and even an indoor fireplace for those cold January months.

The beautiful home as Wi-Fi, free parking down the road and houses two guests easily, with comfort being the essential promise. 

New Town apartment 
€54 per night

8. Vienna, Austria

This sunny apartment is extremely sought after, for it's dedication to space and light.

It can house four guests, and they can each experience the unique, warm decor of the apartment while being close to the most famous parts of Vienna.

The metro station at Ober-St. Veit is only a seven minute walk away, with the home featuring a spacious living room with a kitchen, one bedroom and a bathroom.

The terrace can be used in summer to soak in that European sun that we Irish can never seem to get.

Sunny apartment in Vienna
Price: €69 per night

9. Krakow, Poland

Poland is a great country to escape to, especially because of how affordable it is.

This chic loft apartment in central Krakow is only €18 PER NIGHT, we cannot believe how great it is.

Beautiful, modern studio for one or two people has air conditioning for the hot summer months, and is located on Bonerowska Street in Krakow city centre. 

The space is less than five minutes walking distance away from Krakow's main historical sights including main square, Wawel Castle, the Jewish Quarter and more.

Loft apartment
Price: €18 per night

10. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

The hosts don't call it the 'stairway to heaven' for no reason. Amsterdam is one of Europe's most interesting cities, with a huge amount to do and some immensely picturesque locations to visit.

Little loft apartments near the canals and boats are such a dream come true, and this luxury apartment with warm, modern décor is perfect for a weekend away with someone special.

The private trendy studio is built in the attic of an authentic 1880 Amsterdam house, and is located in the cool neighbourhood near the food hall and outdoor markets. I wouldn't book this if stairs aren't suitable for you, however, it's a steep climb up.

Stairway to Heaven
Price: €80

You all deserve a holiday, and January is the perfect time to escape the winter blues and catch the travel bug.

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As Ireland basks in the annual (and long overdue) Leaving Cert weather, many of us Dublin's are choosing to spend the sun-drench evenings the only way we know how – cans by the canal, naturally. 

And now, thanks to Deliveroo's extreme new deliver method, it looks like we won't even have to make the trek back into town in order to enjoy the city's tastiest food. 

The food deliver service has teamed up with the Canoe Centre to launch it's first ever kayak delivery, meaning you can now get your favourite dishes dropped directly to the banks of the Grand Canal. 

The maiden voyage meal of choice were. you guessed it… burritos from Boojum.

A Deliveroo spokesperson said: “We’re delighted that our customers are enjoying great food and getting out in the good weather, while it lasts!

“We know that taking in as many sunshine hours as possible is very important. Our extreme kayak delivery along the Canal ensures that those stuck in the office all day need waste no time in catching up on rays after work.” he added.

We reckon this'll come in handy over the summer months!

 

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Like many an Irish man, Kian Egan is looking forward to the long evenings. 

"Last year I went out surfing and I was still in the water at five to twelve. It's just incredible." 

The former Westlife singer and dad-of-three has always loved the beaches, and in particular the coastline of his native Sligo. 

"We have amazing beaches in Ireland. I remember when I first started travelling around the world, you’d go to different parts of the world and think this isn’t that great really, is it? as an Irish person we have an amazing coastline." 

As an avid surfer, Kian is not bluffing about his connection to the sea, and to show it he's teamed up with Coca-Cola Clean Coasts Week. Running from the 1st to the 10th of June, the week encourages communities around the coast of Ireland to "Do good, Feel good" by volunteering to keep our beautiful beaches litter-free. 

For Kian, getting involved with Clean Coasts was a no-brainer. 

"It’s a natural fit. I’ve noticed over the years that people do get a bit 'lacksidaisy' when it comes to leaving stuff on the beach and not even know what they’re doing, it’s not conscious.

"It’s a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness for someone like myself who loves the beach so much. I’m very environmentalist anyways." 

Keeping local beaches clean is something that Kian does all year around. 

"When I’m walking along the beach I always try to bring back a few pieces of rubbish. I think that’s such a simple thing to do, it’s a feel good task. I think if we try to spread messages like that around the country then we’ll be doing very well." 

It's something that he gets the kids involved in too. 

"Whenever I bring them to the beach I always say 'right lads, go find me three pieces of rubbish'. When the tide comes in it picks up that rubbish and it gets brought out to the sea again and that’s where the problem arises in the sea as well."

Kian, whose boys are aged six, three and eight months, sees the beach as a "natural playground". 

"My kids have more fun in the beach than they do in the actual playground. You’d find yourself when you go to the beach, feeling happier naturally. I don’ know why it does it, it could be the sea air, the calming of the water.

"In general if people are in bad form and they go for a walk on the beach it cheers them up." 

He's been spending a lot more time at the beach recently, since the birth of his third son he's actively stepping away from the limelight. 

"I feel like being at home with my children is now important right now. To help them and to raise them especially in the first few years. I love the idea of being around them, cooking their meals and make sure they’re not eating junk too much.

“I feel very privileged to do that. I am very privileged to be about to do that. I know dads that would give so much to be able to do what I do. I want to keep it going for as long as we can."

Married to British singer Jodi Albert, he jokingly calls his three boys "little terrors".

"Having the three boys together is a good thing, cause they’re going to such a little unit. I have an older brother whose the same age gap as my older two and I looked up to him so much.

As for the possibility of one of his sons following in his footsteps, he "wouldn't be completely against it" but he has "a lot of opinions about it". 

Completely happy with his dad-at-home dad life, Kian has no current plans to get back in the limelight. As for a Westlife reunion? 

"There’s no doubt that there will be one at some stage in the future, but when is the real question. Not for a long time I don’t think." 

Excuse us while we go cry in the bathroom. 

Coca-Cola Clean Coasts Week runs from the 1st to the 10th June.  

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When the Irish sun shows its face, so does the Irish BBQ.

And with news that the sunshine is planning on staying this week, we thought we'd scour the Internet for some fab BBQ recipes.

So, instead of grilling the usual beef burgers and frankenfurters, here are a few ideas to make 2017's summer BBQ a little bit more memorable.

Fajita Chicken Kebabs

Succulent chicken, juicy peppers and spicy onions, all cooled down with a squeeze of lemon. This Well Plated recipe looks too good to eat (almost!).

Smokey Grilled Sweet Potato

Leave the frozen chips behind and make yourself some delicious smokey sweet potatoes. Taking only four minutes to cook, you can check out the recipe here.

Smokey Grilled Sweet Potato Wedges

Glazed Country Ribs

With prep taking one minute, and cooking time under five minutes, you can't go wrong with these ribs. See the juicy Country Living recipe here.

Grilled Avocado Caprese Crostini

If you're having people over, these are great for a starter or side dish. Grill over a medium heat on the BBQ and you're good to go.

Coconut Pineapple Shrimp Skewers

If you want to really impress your friends, go for these sweet and spicy skewers. You can find the Well Plated recipe over here.

Tabasco Grilled Veggie Skewers

If you want to opt for veggie skewers, these are definitely the ones to pick. The Country Cleaver recipe is smokey and full of summer flavour.

Grilled Potato Salad with Bacon Vinaigrette

Another impressive side dish, just grill some baby potatoes on the BBQ and add the fab bacon vinaigrette. Find the yummy recipe here.

Now crack open the cans, and enjoy! 

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We probably only get 3.5 days of pure sunshine in Ireland, so it's safe to say we all get a little excited when the temperature rises above 20C.

And since the whole weekend was filled with an enormous amount of glorious sun, most of us probably did a few things on the list here.

1. Checked the weather app on your phone

Because you never believe the weather woman on TV. Plus, you need to screenshot that sh*t for Instagram.

2. Announced your delight that the sun is out to everyone

'The weather's gorgeous, isn't it?' was uttered to your mam, neighbour, milkman, dog.

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3. Made extravagant BBQ plans

Then you found out that the BBQ was broken or rusted… Trip to IKEA it is!

barbecue, beer, cutlery

4. Pulled out your holiday clothes

Because we might as well be in Costa Rica. Short shorts, crop tops, flowy dresses, sandals; all made an appearance.

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5. 'Forgot' about applying sun screen

Because we're all stupid and never learn. Cue farmer's tan.

6. Tried to be ~*adventurous*~

Hiked up mountains, dived off cliffs… tried to let your inner Bear Grylls out.

Person Standing in the Cliff of the Mountain during Golden Hour

7. Thought it was a good idea to go day drinking

Sure, what else would you be doing when the sun is out in Ireland?

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8. Regretted your decision to go day drinking 

Come 4 o'clock, you're already langers and don't know what to do with the rest of your day.

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9. Decided to do it all over again the next day

The short shorts, the beer, the regret… the fun.

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So, at this stage we all know the importance of applying sun cream on a daily basis. 

However, if like us your often forget this vital step, it might be time to consider using an SPF foundation. 

With one simple step you’ll achieve that flawless look while also protecting your skin from the sun – essential as we head into summer

Here's our top picks. 

Dior Diorskin Forever Fluid Foundation SPF 35

As well a providing impressive sun protection, this non-oily formula provides a long-lasting matte finish while also helping to improve the texture of your skin in as little as four weeks.

It is available in 18 different shades and is available from Debenhams stores nationwide – € 50.50

Rimmel Lasting Finish 25hr Foundation SPF 20

Great value, flawless coverage and long-lasting.

What's not to love?

This sweat, heat, humidity and transfer-proof formula lasts up to 25 hours, making it your perfect go-to base this summer. 

Rimmel's flagship foundation includes SPF 20 and is available from pharmacies nationwide. – €7.99

Benefit Hello Flawless Oxygen Wow! Liquid Foundation SPF 25 

The liquid foundation builds from light to medium coverage for a natural finish.

The oil-free formula will leave your skin looking luminous and healthy, while also providing superb protection from UV rays. 

Available from Benefit counters around the country and online at benefitcosmetics.com.

Vichy Dermablend Fluid Corrective Foundation SPF 35

If you're looking for a light-coverage foundation that will stay in place all day long – this one's for you. 

The hydrating formula is enriched with Vichy’s thermal spa water, glycerine and plant oil, making it the perfect choice for all skin types. 

All seven shades are available from feelunique.com – €18.00

Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Perfectly Satin 24hr Makeup SPF 15

This matte finish foundation is infused with climate-resistant technology that lasts through heat, humidity and moisture.

Shine control ingredients are time released to absorb oil throughout the day for and most importantly, the built in SPF 15 works to protect your skin from UVA/UVB damage.

Available from Debenhams stores nationwide – € 38.00

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If you managed to catch the good weather yesterday by ducking out of the office, then good on you, but you may have wanted to save that strategic break for today.

The temperature is due to reach a glorious high of 24 degrees, and we're just glad our foundation has built-in SPF.

According to Met Eireann: 'Sunny spells developing widely during the day and becoming warm with highest temperatures 18 to 24 degrees in light breezes.'

Temperatures are expected to remain high until Friday, when there may be a spot of rain. 

We're dusting off the sunnies in anticipation. 

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Temperatures this weekend are set to hit 19 degrees, and there is no way we're going to let this fine weather pass us by.

There are plenty of amazing things to do in the capital and beyond while the sun is out.

Here are a few of our recommendations: 

5. Eatyard

If you haven't already had the chance to hit up Eatyard, then this weekend is the perfect opportunity.

The foodie festival has a vast range of delicious food stalls ready to be plundered, with everything from delicious sweet potato fries at Box Burger to the insanely poplar bubble waffles at Bubble Waffle Factory.

 

A post shared by Eatyard (@eatyard) on

4. Dine al fresco in the park 

Ireland has plenty of beautiful parks that are well worth a visit on a sunny weekend like this.

Grab a few nibbles from the supermarket and lay out a blanket to sunbathe, because this great weather isn't going anywhere. 

This is ideal if you have the misfortune of working this weekend, as lunching in the park is the perfect way to see a bit of sun, even if it is just for an hour.

 

A post shared by Kate Dunne (@katodunne) on

3. City Kayaking

City Kayaking Dublin gives sporting enthusiasts the opportunity to explore the river Liffey and see the entire city from a very unique vantage point. 

If you don't happen to be in the capital this weekend, there are plenty of other companies around Ireland that provide delightful kayaking experiences in rural rivers. 

 

A post shared by City Kayaking (@citykayaking) on

2. Pints. That's all. 

Park yourself at a comfortable table outside your favourite pub and people watch with your favourite drink in hand.

After all, when else do we get the opportunity to don a pair of sunglasses and drink in the sun? 

1. Head to the beach

This one is pretty obvious, but Ireland has so many beautiful beaches that don't get half as much use as they should thanks to our usually lacklustre weather. 

Bring the sun cream and some change for a 99 and you're all set. 

Feature image: Instagram / Ohreallysid

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In case you hadn't noticed, the sun is splitting the rocks today.

"Dry and mostly sunny this afternoon and evening with temperatures reaching 15 to 19 degrees in light to moderate southeasterly breezes," is the forecast, according to Met Éireann. 

As always when the sun is out, we can't help but take photos of the gorgeous little island we live on, and these photos from today prove just how beautiful the place is. 

12. Oh Galway, how we'd love to be at the Spanish Arch today. 

 

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11. No filter needed is right. 

 

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10. This picture of Temple Bar has us dreaming of pints in the sunshine.

 

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9. Howa'ya Howth, you beauty. 

 

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8. These gorgeous cherry blossoms in Wicklow are giving us life.

7. We're loving how blue the sea is looking today.

6. It even looks good from the high-altitude angle. 

 

A post shared by Emilline  (@emilpe1) on

5. Even the bog is looking lovely. 

4. Artistic AF.

3. Barely a cloud in the sky in Dublin city centre.

2. And no clouds at all over the Botanic Gardens. 

 

A post shared by Silvia De Giorgi ✈ (@silvidegio) on

1. Completely breathtaking views in Donegal, TBH.

 

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Feature image: Instagram / Adam Littlewood 

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Okay, nobody panic, but the weather is set to be totally divine today.

According to Met Éireann, temperatures are set to soar today, hitting highs of 17 degrees. 

"Sunny this morning, but cool to start, with the frost and patchy mist soon clearing."

"Further sunshine this afternoon and evening, but some of it hazy later," says the national weather forecaster. 

"Fresh along the south and east coasts, with temperatures of 11 or 12 C., in moderate to fresh east to northeasterly winds, but warm elsewhere, with highs of 15 to 17 C., best of all in western areas."

Feature image: Instagram/Phood4life

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