Seven Staycation Ideas For A Break With The Girls

It's that awkward time of year when the Christmas holidays are a distant memory but you haven't yet managed to book a summer break. This is why we love a good staycation, you can have a fun weekend away for a relatively cheap price and still have ALL of the craic. Better still, there's no last minute freaking out that you've forgotten your passport or left your hair straighteners behind you (still switched on) in the hotel room. Glamping We must admit that the idea of spending the night in a tent isn't the most appealing given the VERY unpredictable nature of Irish weather. However, glamping is a little different and there's luxury accommodation to be found, yurt style, overlooking Lough Swilly in Donegal, Teapot Lane in North Leitrim and Killarney to name but a few destinations. Shop till you drop If you'd rather pick up a few bargains while on a mini break, the capital has got you sorted. With plenty of department stores (BTs & Arnotts) not to mention vast shopping centres (Dundrum & Jervis), you and your girls will be spoilt for choice. There's also pretty boutiques and vintage finds to be found on South William Street and if you're a beauty product hoarder, stop in at Space NK on Grafton St. Surfboard Ok so it might not be Summer Bay but Ireland has plenty of surf spots where you can avail of lessons. Inch Beach in Kerry, Louisburgh in Mayo and Tramore, Waterford are just a few of the spots recommended for the best surf. We can't promise you'll look like Queen B but you'll definitely have a laugh. Hit the races The Galway Races is always a highlight of the summer calendar but if you fancy getting some practice in early, both the Tattersalls Gold Cup Ladies Day and Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby are taking place in Kildare next month. If that's not an excuse to get your glad rags on (and hopefully win some extra cash) we don't know what is... Adrenalin adventure If you'd rather do something completely different for your break away, hit up an adventure park. Ziplines and zipwires are slightly scary but at the same time we want to see what all the fuss is about. There's Skypark Zipline in Louth, Lough Key in Roscommon and Kippure in Wicklow to name but a few options. Spa experience If you're completely burnt out and want to completely destress, then there's a lot to be said for an indulgent spa weekend. Most hotels have spa facilities so whether you want a quick treatment or a top to toe body pampering, your every need will be catered for. Now we're dreaming of aromatherapy massages and mani pedis.  Water babies Water sports aren't for everyone but if you haven't tried them before, they're well worth a go. From kite-surfing to Chinese dragon boating to canoeing, there's something to suit every taste. You're with your best friends too, so there's sure to be lots of laughs. Once you have that, you're sorted.