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Travel News: Cognac in Cognac, Hagrid in Orlando, Prosecco in Hillsborough

Universal Resort, Orlando, where there's even more fun to be had this year
Universal Resort, Orlando, where there's even more fun to be had this year Universal Resort, Orlando, where there's even more fun to be had this year

Learn the art of Cognac making

Whether you’re a Cognac connoisseur or a total novice, discover the art and science of Cognac production by visiting Hôtel Chais Monnet during the distillation period (October-March). Home to the south-western French town of Cognac's largest Cognac bar, stocking more than 400 Cognac varieties, Hôtel Chais Monnet's team is on hand to organise private tours, tastings and food and Cognac pairings at some of the town’s 250 Cognac houses. Guests are encouraged to use the hotel’s Citroen 2CVs or Jaguars to explore the region’s vineyards and distilleries, including Hennessy and Otard. Nightly rates from £196 per room. Chaismonnethotel.com/en

New at Universal Orlando for 2020

The adventures get even bigger in 2020 with new attractions and events at Universal Orlando. Already opened at Universal's Islands of Adventure is Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. And still to come is The Bourne Stuntacular, cutting edge live-action stunt show. Also opening in 2020 is Universal's Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites, which are inspired by 'sand, sea and breathtaking sunsets'. American Holidays are offering a seven-night stay at the resort, with one checked bag per person and a three-park explorer ticket from €999pp, based on two adults and two children travelling in October 2020. See Americanholidays.com

Bottle of bubbly in Hillsborough stay

Relax and wind down at 17 Arthur Street, Hillsborough, from £155. Enjoy two nights or more in the historic Co Down village at a discounted rate. Bookings for two nights or more can avail of 10 per cent discount on the normal price and a free bottle of Prosecco on arrival. This quaint cottage is ideally located for trips to Hillsborough Castle and Montalto Estate. To book call 0780 2541 779 or email arthurcottages@gmail.com quoting the promotional code 'Prosecco' (subject to availability). Offer available until March 31.

European breaks from just £319

Jet2holidays and Jet2CityBreaks have a number of tempting European holidays this spring. A three-night room-only city break at Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, staying at the three-star Aloe Canteras and departing Belfast International on March 12, is from £319pp. For a longer break, seven nights self-catering at the three-star Levante Club Restor in Benidorm on Spain's Costa Blanca, departing Belfast International on March 2, is from £399. Details and booking at Jet2holidays.com