THE truth is, I love being a home bird.
I've never been a fan of boarding planes and flying miles away and while I've done it, I like coming home.
The thing is, though, if you're going to be a home bird, I don't think there is any better place than Northern Ireland.
Our wee part of the island is simply bursting with beautiful scenery, world-class activities and award-winning food and drink – why would you want to go anywhere else?
So, when Tourism NI offered to send myself and Darren on a relaxing adventure to enjoy Co Antrim and the Causeway coastal route, I jumped at the chance.
And the first stop was a visit to the The Chocoalate Manor in Castlerock where chief chocolatier and owner, Geri Martin, took us on an amazing experience.
This little gem of a business runs a range of private workshops for all ages, offering visitors the chance to enjoy the wonder of creating their own decadent chocolate treats.
We started with the experience called Taste Causeway, the name for a collective of passionate artisans who draw upon the north's rich landscape and heritage to create extraordinary food experiences.
During our workshop we were introduced to an exclusive selection of local products and educated on how to pair them with the finest chocolate.
We chose Distillers Raspberry & Apple Sauce, which we added to white chocolate and then encased in a milk chocolate shell – just divine.
Then, during the Chocolate Box Experience, we created delicious milk chocolate and honeycomb bonbons before making some caramel postcards.
And while we waited for our creations to set, we enjoyed the banter with Geri, who had such a warmth and kindness about her, all while sipping a caramel hot chocolate.
I can honestly say I have never enjoyed an activity more and of course, we hit the shop on the way out to pick up some delicious treats.
Afterwards, we parked at the stunning beach at Castlerock and enjoyed our creations as the waves crashed in. It was just bliss.
Soon we were off again, this time towards the famous Dark Hedges between Armoy and Stranocum which were so impressive up close.
Then it was off to our base for the night, the luxurious surroundings of The Galgorm Resort and our lavish stay started with afternoon tea in the Conservatory overlooking the water.
Here, we indulged in a chocolate & clementine mousse and a passionfruit and mango tart, among many other to-die-for creations, and of course a cocktail – I chose the sumptuous Duchess of Galgorm which came served in a cute teacup.
After a nap in a bed where I could live forever, it was time for Fratellis for dinner where we enjoyed an amazing mushroom and pancetta gratin, linguine and a gorgeous vanilla cheesecake and of course, I sampled The Rose cocktail.
And after a superb night's sleep and a breakfast, which was both a carnival for the eyes and taste buds, it was time for the spa, where we both had full body massages – my masseuse, Karen, had me floating on air.
When it was over, I enjoyed a sorbet in the Orangery, where I daydreamed about how I would live at the Galgorm if I won the lottery.
Setting off home, I was sad our adventure was over but I felt on top of the world, refreshed and relaxed.
And now, I've caught the staycation bug.
We should we so proud of what we have on our doorstep here in Northern Ireland.
There's so much out there to explore – so what are you waiting for?
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It's Valentine's Day on Tuesday and if you're single, worry not because how do you fancy winning a bag of lovely goodies to treat your gal pals?
Lingerie chain Boux Avenue has a cute collection of all things pretty, cosy and divine to treat your `Galentine' this year.
Whether you're thinking of a relaxing evening with your besties or you want to gift your BFF the perfect present, Boux Avenue has you covered.
The range includes Boux’s Wellness Glow Gift Set, available in a beautiful rose gold cosmetics bag, as well as Boux's Wellness White Flowers and Vanilla Candle.
Or how about a cosy pair of socks featuring an adorable heart motif design or the cuddliest heart-shaped water bottle?
I have three Boux Avenue gift bags to give away.
If you would like the chance to win one, simply email your name, address and telephone number – along with the answer to the question below – to competitions@irishnews.com.
Closing date for entries is noon on Tuesday February 14.
(Q) What date is Valentine's Day?
Normal Irish News rules apply.
*These prizes must be collected from the offices of The Irish News
COMPETITION WINNERS
The winners of the Out of the Blue competition are Martina Campbell from Moy, Sinead Winters from Killyclogher, Una Hegarty from Draperstown, Lilian McGuigan from Newry, Frances Doyle from Draperstown, and Vincent Harvey from Glenariffe.
