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Travel News: LGBT+ friendly Canary Islands and new year spa breaks

The Canary Islands boasts many LGBT+ friendly entertainment spots
The Canary Islands boasts many LGBT+ friendly entertainment spots The Canary Islands boasts many LGBT+ friendly entertainment spots

LGBT+ friendly places in Canaries

Known for their laid-back culture and open-minded spirit, the Canary Islands are among the most LGBT friendly destinations in the world. The 'gay capital of the Canaries', Maspalomas, boasts exceptional nightlife and themed beach events. Enjoy cocktails while basking in the sun along Kiosk 7 beach (where clothing is optional) or relax on the outdoor terraces in Yumbo, Europe's only LGBT shopping centre. Visiting Lanzarote? A must-visit nightlife spot is Punto, the main LGBT venue in Puerto del Carmen. More details and suggestions at Hellocanaryislands.com

New fire and ice spa experience

Recover from the festive season with a restorative Fire & Ice Day Spa Experience at The Spa at Culloden, near Hollywood or The Spa at Slieve Donard in Newcastle. Combining cooling methods to ease away stress and warm oils to release tension, the deeply relaxing package has been carefully created to target three key areas – the back, the face and scalp. Treatments include a volcanic hot stone back massage and a frankincense facial with iced rose quartz crystals. Available until February 29. See Hastingshotels.com

Cure the January blues in Malta

Escape the cold, grey skies of Ireland with a visit to Malta. The Valletta International Baroque Festival will take place from January 10–25 and you can celebrate the Chinese New Year with a performance from the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra on January 22. With Budget Travel you can depart from Dublin on January 18 and stay a week at the four-star Gillieru Hotel, St Paul’s Bay (room only) for €269pp. With Mercury Holidays you can depart Dublin on January 21 and stay a week at the four-star DB San Antonio Hotel and Spa, Saint Paul's Bay (all inclusive) from €375pp. Maltaireland.com

Get on your way to wellness in Wexford

Monart Destination Spa in Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, promises to ensure you get 2020 off to the best start possible. The Way to Wellness offer at the five-star resort includes a series of cleansing and rejuvenating treatments focusing on offering guests the opportunity to 'reset' with a five-day individualised wellness programme and exercise schedule. This is combined with a series of health and beauty treatments enabling guests to restore their body and mind. The five-day all-inclusive break is priced from €1,095pp. Booking and info at Monart.ie

:: All prices correct at the time of issue.