0:00:02 > 0:00:04Welcome to the travel show where we go where you want us to go.
0:00:04 > 0:00:06This week, we've come to northern Italy's
0:00:06 > 0:00:09most popular tourist destination, Lake Garda.
0:00:09 > 0:00:12On our website, we asked you for your top tips -
0:00:12 > 0:00:14what to do here, and what to avoid.
0:00:14 > 0:00:17We've taken your recommendations and are going to rate
0:00:17 > 0:00:19and review them for ourselves, and for you at home.
0:00:28 > 0:00:31The easiest way to get to Lake Garda is by flying to Verona.
0:00:31 > 0:00:34You can fly there from Belfast, Dublin or Cork
0:00:34 > 0:00:35in about two and a half hours.
0:00:36 > 0:00:38Lake Garda is Italy's largest lake,
0:00:38 > 0:00:41and it's about a half hour drive from the airport.
0:00:41 > 0:00:43It's a good base for exploring northern Italy,
0:00:43 > 0:00:45including Verona and Venice.
0:00:47 > 0:00:48OK, Aoibhinn, here we are in Lake Garda.
0:00:48 > 0:00:50What do you expect in this place?
0:00:50 > 0:00:52Well, I mean, it's absolutely beautiful,
0:00:52 > 0:00:53so between the lake and the mountains,
0:00:53 > 0:00:56I think it's going to be really scenic and lovely and relaxing.
0:00:56 > 0:00:59You see, that leads me to believe, and from other things I've heard,
0:00:59 > 0:01:01that this is for the older generation, really.
0:01:01 > 0:01:04I'm going to be more interested to see if there's enough here
0:01:04 > 0:01:06to appeal to younger holidaymakers and to families.
0:01:06 > 0:01:08Well, we've got all of your recommendations,
0:01:08 > 0:01:10so we're going to go and check them out.
0:01:12 > 0:01:15We've gathered together all your advice from the website
0:01:15 > 0:01:16and come up with a plan.
0:01:16 > 0:01:19We've identified our top five from your suggestions
0:01:19 > 0:01:23and we're throwing in a few of your more offbeat recommendations, too.
0:01:24 > 0:01:25So before we get going,
0:01:25 > 0:01:28here are some of the basics you need to know about Lake Garda.
0:01:29 > 0:01:33Lake Garda was created 1.5 million years ago by a massive glazier
0:01:33 > 0:01:36that flowed down from the Dolomites, gouging out this valley
0:01:36 > 0:01:39and leaving behind the beautiful lake that we see today.
0:01:42 > 0:01:44The water can get up to 27 degrees in the summer,
0:01:44 > 0:01:48so it's a great place for a swim or a paddle, but the shoreline is
0:01:48 > 0:01:50really stony, so make sure you bring your water shoes.
0:01:53 > 0:01:55There are really good roads all around the lake,
0:01:55 > 0:01:58but the best way to see it is definitely by boat.
0:01:58 > 0:02:00And taking a boat trip around the lake
0:02:00 > 0:02:02is actually one of our top recommendations.
0:02:02 > 0:02:04Many of you said that it's the best way to get a sense
0:02:04 > 0:02:08of the many small towns and villages scattered along the coast,
0:02:08 > 0:02:10so it's our number five choice.
0:02:12 > 0:02:15There's a complex network of sailings up and down Lake Garda,
0:02:15 > 0:02:17and you could easily spend a day village hopping.
0:02:19 > 0:02:20I decided to visit a couple,
0:02:20 > 0:02:23starting with Malcesine, on the east of the lake.
0:02:26 > 0:02:28Now, walking round the town, you can't help
0:02:28 > 0:02:31but notice the beautiful cobbled streets beneath your feet.
0:02:31 > 0:02:34They are two different colours, the darker stone and the white stone.
0:02:34 > 0:02:36The dark stone is rougher and gritted,
0:02:36 > 0:02:38and that was for the donkeys to get their grip
0:02:38 > 0:02:40when they were pulling carriages back in the day.
0:02:40 > 0:02:43The white stone is very slippery when wet, and the carriages
0:02:43 > 0:02:46flowed nice and smoothly for the wee donkeys to pull them along.
0:02:46 > 0:02:48They have a lot of weddings there, so, ladies,
0:02:48 > 0:02:51if you get invited to a wedding here, don't be surprised
0:02:51 > 0:02:53if you're asked to bring some flat shoes.
0:02:53 > 0:02:56You could go on your ear right and quick.
0:02:56 > 0:02:59The villages around the Italian lakes are becoming increasingly
0:02:59 > 0:03:02popular as a place to get married, and you can see why people would
0:03:02 > 0:03:05want to get wed here. There's a photo opportunity at every turn.
0:03:15 > 0:03:18Because they are so pretty, you'll find the villages also attract
0:03:18 > 0:03:20a lot of tourists, but the lakeside setting
0:03:20 > 0:03:23means they don't seem too packed or hectic.
0:03:25 > 0:03:29Now, the most prominent landmark in Malcesine is the Castello Scaligero.
0:03:29 > 0:03:33With its 13th century outer ramparts and its sixth century inner tower,
0:03:33 > 0:03:36it is probably the best place to get an unparalleled view
0:03:36 > 0:03:38of the lake and the town below.
0:03:47 > 0:03:50Another ferry trip took me to a village on the other side
0:03:50 > 0:03:51of Lake Garda - Limone.
0:03:54 > 0:03:58They've been cultivating lemons here for four centuries.
0:03:58 > 0:04:01Now, to protect the citrus fruits from the occasional winter
0:04:01 > 0:04:04frost, the first lemon houses were built in the 17th century.
0:04:04 > 0:04:07Stone columns with wooden frames and glass panes
0:04:07 > 0:04:11ensured that the lemons were kept warm between November and March,
0:04:11 > 0:04:13and thus saving the crop for the whole year.
0:04:16 > 0:04:19It's not just citrus fruits that have made this town famous.
0:04:19 > 0:04:23It's also renowned for having many of Italy's most senior citizens.
0:04:24 > 0:04:26Here is a remarkable fact about this place -
0:04:26 > 0:04:30there are over a dozen people here who are over 100 years old.
0:04:30 > 0:04:33Considering the population is only 1,000, that is remarkable.
0:04:33 > 0:04:36You could put it down to the sunshine, the lifestyle,
0:04:36 > 0:04:38the vast consumption of lemons.
0:04:38 > 0:04:41I like to think it's because this place is so beautiful,
0:04:41 > 0:04:42nobody really wants to leave.
0:04:47 > 0:04:50Now, thankfully, a lot of you lovely boozy people went on the website and
0:04:50 > 0:04:53suggested that, while we're here, we simply have to try limoncello.
0:04:53 > 0:04:55Now, it also makes a very good gift, but
0:04:55 > 0:04:57if you do receive a bottle of this,
0:04:57 > 0:04:59don't be putting it in the back of the cupboard and only taking it
0:04:59 > 0:05:02out at four o'clock in the morning when there's nothing else left.
0:05:02 > 0:05:04It is a very tasty beverage.
0:05:05 > 0:05:06Mmm, lemony.
0:05:21 > 0:05:23Time for our number four choice
0:05:23 > 0:05:26from your recommendations for this part of Italy.
0:05:26 > 0:05:29Gardaland is one of Europe's most popular theme parks,
0:05:29 > 0:05:32and it's right here on the shores of the lake.
0:05:32 > 0:05:35If, like me, you thought that Gardaland was somewhere you ended
0:05:35 > 0:05:39up after being a very naughty boy, then you're in for a big surprise.
0:05:39 > 0:05:41This is a great day out, but be warned -
0:05:41 > 0:05:43the queues can be very long.
0:05:57 > 0:06:00I'm not generally a fan of roller coasters, but I loved that,
0:06:00 > 0:06:02and I kept my eyes open for the whole thing.
0:06:02 > 0:06:04I'm very proud of you. Extremely proud of you.
0:06:04 > 0:06:06I will never again underestimate
0:06:06 > 0:06:08the thrill of being upside down at speed.
0:06:08 > 0:06:10I loved it. I think this is the best theme park I've ever been to,
0:06:10 > 0:06:13and I would really recommend people visit this.
0:06:13 > 0:06:15Yeah. I would second that, and I love my theme parks.
0:06:15 > 0:06:16Go on another one?
0:06:17 > 0:06:19To help avoid the crowds,
0:06:19 > 0:06:21you told us that there's a cheaper entrance ticket
0:06:21 > 0:06:25available in the late afternoon when the park is cooler and less busy.
0:06:27 > 0:06:30With 32 rides, including six roller coasters,
0:06:30 > 0:06:32there's plenty to choose from.
0:06:32 > 0:06:35Owned by the same company that operates Alton Towers in England,
0:06:35 > 0:06:37it's aimed at young families, but there are good options
0:06:37 > 0:06:39for the grown-up thrill-seekers, too.
0:06:42 > 0:06:44Raptor is the park's newest ride.
0:06:49 > 0:06:50Well?
0:06:50 > 0:06:52Joe, I don't think I can do this one.
0:06:52 > 0:06:54No, probs. Shall we just sit it out?
0:06:54 > 0:06:55Yeah. Can we do that?
0:06:55 > 0:06:56JOE IMITATES CHICKEN
0:06:56 > 0:06:59That's not helping. That's really annoying.
0:06:59 > 0:07:00I know. Come on, you'll love it.
0:07:00 > 0:07:01You go on this one by yourself.
0:07:01 > 0:07:03No, that's no fun. Both of us have to do it.
0:07:03 > 0:07:06I'm giving you a maximum fun guarantee. Look at it.
0:07:08 > 0:07:09Come on, let's go. Go.
0:07:09 > 0:07:11You will have fun today. Let's go.
0:07:11 > 0:07:13Come on, it's going to be fun, it's going to be fun!
0:07:27 > 0:07:28You all right?
0:07:30 > 0:07:32That was actually great fun. I had a really good laugh.
0:07:32 > 0:07:33Do you want to go again?
0:07:33 > 0:07:38No. That is a very bad ride. That is a very, very bad ride.
0:07:38 > 0:07:41I've swallowed at least five insects.
0:07:41 > 0:07:42I actually thought it was great.
0:07:42 > 0:07:45I'm not going to tell you what I nearly did on that ride, OK?
0:07:45 > 0:07:47- That is a very bad ride. - I'm going to get another ticket.
0:07:49 > 0:07:51But if roller coasters aren't your thing,
0:07:51 > 0:07:54then Joe has gone in search of a more serene way to travel.
0:07:56 > 0:07:59I'm in Malcesine, at the foot of Monte Baldo.
0:07:59 > 0:08:01I'm about to get the cable car up to the summit.
0:08:01 > 0:08:04I'll see you in 1,760 metres' time.
0:08:07 > 0:08:09I feel I should point out at this stage that
0:08:09 > 0:08:10I have a chronic fear of heights.
0:08:14 > 0:08:16I don't particularly mind cable cars
0:08:16 > 0:08:19until they get to the bumpy bit where it goes, boom-boom-boom.
0:08:21 > 0:08:23Yeah, that's the bit I don't like.
0:08:32 > 0:08:33Oh, it's swinging!
0:08:35 > 0:08:37You can knock that off any time you like, mate.
0:08:38 > 0:08:41Whilst Joe boldly journeys to the top of the mountain,
0:08:41 > 0:08:43I'm catching up with expat Michael Colleary
0:08:43 > 0:08:46to get the inside track on what to do in Lake Garda.
0:08:49 > 0:08:51Michael, tell me, how long have you been here, initially?
0:08:51 > 0:08:54I've been here on Lake Garda since June '96.
0:08:54 > 0:08:57And what made you move from Sligo all the way here?
0:08:57 > 0:09:00Well, if you look at the sunshine, look around this lovely place,
0:09:00 > 0:09:02that was one of the reasons.
0:09:02 > 0:09:04I can see why you'd like to stay.
0:09:04 > 0:09:06And tell me, I'm here just for a short little while,
0:09:06 > 0:09:09so what is it that I have to do in Lake Garda?
0:09:09 > 0:09:11You have to take the boat to visit all the lovely little
0:09:11 > 0:09:16towns on the lake, you have to enjoy the very nice food here on
0:09:16 > 0:09:20Lake Garda, and there is one special place I'm going to take you now.
0:09:20 > 0:09:22OK, lovely.
0:09:22 > 0:09:25Meanwhile, 1,000 metres up, Joe's on the second stage
0:09:25 > 0:09:30of the cable car journey, but things aren't going quite as planned.
0:09:30 > 0:09:33Oh, and here we go into the mist. Look!
0:09:33 > 0:09:34Ho-ho-ho!
0:09:36 > 0:09:37That's the stuff there, eh?
0:09:39 > 0:09:41If I was to say what I really feel about this,
0:09:41 > 0:09:43you'd have to bleep it so much it would sound like a lorry
0:09:43 > 0:09:45backing into a heart machine, honestly.
0:09:47 > 0:09:50'While Joe journeys into the unknown...'
0:09:50 > 0:09:52Buongiorno!
0:09:52 > 0:09:54'..I'm finding a better way to chill.'
0:09:55 > 0:09:58Fragola and tiramisu, due.
0:09:58 > 0:10:01'Whether it's plain old ice cream, gelato or granita,
0:10:01 > 0:10:02'there's little doubt that the Italians
0:10:02 > 0:10:05'make the best frozen food in the world.'
0:10:05 > 0:10:07- Prego.- Grazie.
0:10:07 > 0:10:08Grazie mille.
0:10:11 > 0:10:14Oh, that's absolutely gorgeous, and it's home-made, as well?
0:10:14 > 0:10:16- Home-made. - OK, definite recommendation.
0:10:17 > 0:10:20And Joe has finally reached his destination.
0:10:41 > 0:10:43You might want to check the weather before you come up here.
0:10:47 > 0:10:49We started our trip in Lake Garda,
0:10:49 > 0:10:53and we really liked the fact that it's handy for several great cities.
0:10:53 > 0:10:56At number three is one of the best - Verona.
0:10:58 > 0:11:00Verona is only 20 kilometres away from Lake Garda,
0:11:00 > 0:11:02so it's an ideal place to go for a day trip,
0:11:02 > 0:11:06and here you'll find history sitting side-by-side with modern life.
0:11:06 > 0:11:08You'll find spectacular Roman ruins,
0:11:08 > 0:11:10as well as plenty of shops and places to eat.
0:11:13 > 0:11:15There are two main squares in Verona that are popular
0:11:15 > 0:11:17with the tourists.
0:11:17 > 0:11:18Piazza Erbe, with its weekday market...
0:11:21 > 0:11:25..And the other is Piazza Bra, with its coffee shops, restaurants,
0:11:25 > 0:11:27gelaterias, buskers -
0:11:27 > 0:11:30this is the place you come to for a good old people-watch.
0:11:34 > 0:11:37If you like your Shakespeare, there's good reason to visit.
0:11:37 > 0:11:39The Bard based several of his plays here in Verona,
0:11:39 > 0:11:42including, of course, Romeo and Juliet.
0:11:42 > 0:11:45And the city apparently provided the location
0:11:45 > 0:11:47for the famous balcony love scene.
0:11:48 > 0:11:52And you can visit the balcony, but all is not as it seems.
0:11:52 > 0:11:55Although Juliet's house is a major tourist attraction,
0:11:55 > 0:12:00the fact is it has no connection with Shakespeare's characters whatsoever.
0:12:00 > 0:12:03And even the balcony itself is of dubious origin.
0:12:03 > 0:12:08This balcony was added in 1936, just to attract all of these tourists.
0:12:08 > 0:12:12In the courtyard, you'll find a bronze statue of the tragic heroine.
0:12:12 > 0:12:14Good fortune is said to be awarded to you
0:12:14 > 0:12:16if you touch the right breast of the statue.
0:12:17 > 0:12:19A gentleman always warms his hands.
0:12:23 > 0:12:26'At Juliet's house, you'll also find a museum with nine rooms,
0:12:26 > 0:12:28'housing period furniture and artwork,
0:12:28 > 0:12:31'including some with connections to the famous love story.'
0:12:35 > 0:12:37Clare Devine got in touch via our website to say that this
0:12:37 > 0:12:40museum wasn't worth the six euro entry charge,
0:12:40 > 0:12:43but you can buy a Verona Pass that gets you into lots of different
0:12:43 > 0:12:47churches and museums over two days for just 15 euro,
0:12:47 > 0:12:49and I think that's great value.
0:12:49 > 0:12:51Plus, where else can you immerse yourself in a Shakespearean
0:12:51 > 0:12:52romance like this?
0:12:59 > 0:13:01There is also a tradition
0:13:01 > 0:13:03of leaving a little message on the walls for Juliet.
0:13:05 > 0:13:11"It would never have worked."
0:13:13 > 0:13:14He wasn't a keeper.
0:13:17 > 0:13:21But what Verona is really famous for is its wonderful arena.
0:13:24 > 0:13:26Along with the Colosseum in Rome,
0:13:26 > 0:13:29the Arena di Verona is one of the largest amphitheatres in Italy.
0:13:29 > 0:13:31It was built by the Romans in the first century AD,
0:13:31 > 0:13:34and can hold up to 15,000 people.
0:13:43 > 0:13:45It gets its name from the central area.
0:13:45 > 0:13:47Arena means sand in Latin, and sand was spread all through
0:13:47 > 0:13:51the centre part here to absorb the spilled blood of the gladiators.
0:13:53 > 0:13:57Nearly 2,000 years later, it's still a working auditorium.
0:13:57 > 0:13:59The arena has been home to all sorts of shows
0:13:59 > 0:14:01and public functions over the centuries,
0:14:01 > 0:14:03from the trials under the Lords of Verona,
0:14:03 > 0:14:06to jousts and tournaments in the Middle Ages, but now it's home to the
0:14:06 > 0:14:10spectacular opera which shows here from late June to early September.
0:14:11 > 0:14:13'And even if you aren't a big fan of opera,
0:14:13 > 0:14:16'we'd still recommend you visit to see this unique setting.'
0:14:18 > 0:14:21On our website, you told us that the cheap seats,
0:14:21 > 0:14:23which aren't that cheap, aren't allocated, so you have to get
0:14:23 > 0:14:26here early to find a good spot, but also make sure you bring
0:14:26 > 0:14:30something soft to sit on, because the stones aren't that comfortable.
0:14:44 > 0:14:47That's a photo. That's a photo. OK.
0:14:48 > 0:14:50Nice.
0:14:51 > 0:14:53I think that's enough, sir.
0:14:53 > 0:14:55Thank you.
0:14:55 > 0:14:56Are you sure?
0:14:56 > 0:14:57It's enough for public dominatrix.
0:14:57 > 0:14:59One more for the lady, please.
0:14:59 > 0:15:00OK.
0:15:01 > 0:15:02Oh, how lovely.
0:15:02 > 0:15:04That's more like it.
0:15:07 > 0:15:09Get your cape, girl, you've pulled!
0:15:11 > 0:15:15For this week's Getaways, we're visiting northern Italy,
0:15:15 > 0:15:19and our number two choice means that it's time for the wetsuit.
0:15:19 > 0:15:22You've suggested that we can't come to the lakes without trying out
0:15:22 > 0:15:24some of the water sports, and they're all here -
0:15:24 > 0:15:28water-skiing, jet skiing, windsurfing, kite surfing and sailing -
0:15:28 > 0:15:30so I'm going to give one of them go.
0:15:35 > 0:15:37So, Toby, tell me about the wind system,
0:15:37 > 0:15:40because I think it changes quite dramatically during the day.
0:15:40 > 0:15:43In the morning, it comes from the north, perfect for beginners,
0:15:43 > 0:15:46and then at midday the wind comes back from the other direction,
0:15:46 > 0:15:51180 degrees different, and stronger rain, a little bit more waves,
0:15:51 > 0:15:53and the advanced people have more fun.
0:15:53 > 0:15:55So I want to get out there early,
0:15:55 > 0:15:57because I'm a beginner and I don't want the waves?
0:15:57 > 0:15:59Exactly. That's why we're going now.
0:15:59 > 0:16:01We have no waves, and just a little bit of wind.
0:16:01 > 0:16:03OK. And promise I don't get wet.
0:16:03 > 0:16:06I will promise!
0:16:06 > 0:16:09Near the sail, take care of your fingers,
0:16:09 > 0:16:12and then just pull on the other side.
0:16:12 > 0:16:14Right.
0:16:14 > 0:16:17- Perfect.- I don't know if this is going to go well!
0:16:21 > 0:16:24'This is how to get close to the elements, but remember that
0:16:24 > 0:16:27'the weather around Lake Garda can be changeable.'
0:16:29 > 0:16:31This is so much fun!
0:16:31 > 0:16:34'If this is the calm part of the day, it must be pretty hair-raising
0:16:34 > 0:16:36'once the wind's blowing hard.'
0:16:38 > 0:16:40I think I've found a new hobby!
0:16:40 > 0:16:44'We sailed from Torbole, a resort renowned for sailing and windsurfing,
0:16:44 > 0:16:45'located in the north of Lake Garda.'
0:16:53 > 0:16:55Ah!
0:16:56 > 0:16:58After all that, I didn't get wet!
0:17:00 > 0:17:02Did you enjoy it?
0:17:02 > 0:17:03That was great, thanks.
0:17:05 > 0:17:08Typical! But you know what? That was great fun.
0:17:08 > 0:17:10I was kind of nervous about it, but it was great fun driving it,
0:17:10 > 0:17:13and it's the perfect way to see the lake.
0:17:21 > 0:17:24Now, for those who prefer a short getaway closer to home, I'm going
0:17:24 > 0:17:27to explore one of Northern Ireland's most interesting coastlines.
0:17:29 > 0:17:33I'm starting my day on the Antrim coast, and my first port of call
0:17:33 > 0:17:36is the only World Heritage site in Northern Ireland.
0:17:37 > 0:17:39It's over 60 million years old,
0:17:39 > 0:17:41and it's the top tourist destination in Northern Ireland.
0:17:41 > 0:17:44I'm here at the Giant's Causeway, and I'm going to check out
0:17:44 > 0:17:46the new visitors' centre that opened here last July.
0:17:49 > 0:17:54The centre cost £18.5 million, and contains exhibitions on the stories,
0:17:54 > 0:17:57the myths and the science behind the causeway.
0:17:57 > 0:17:59'An intense volcanic interruption created
0:17:59 > 0:18:03'over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns.'
0:18:03 > 0:18:04There's lots of things to see here
0:18:04 > 0:18:06that help you learn about how the causeway was formed.
0:18:08 > 0:18:11'Molten basalt emerged through the chalk beds,
0:18:11 > 0:18:14'and as it cooled and contracted, it formed a unique landscape.'
0:18:18 > 0:18:21'The Visitor Experience is a good place for a rainy day,
0:18:21 > 0:18:24'but for me, it's what's outside that's really interesting.'
0:18:36 > 0:18:39'Before science could explain this phenomenon, folklore gave us
0:18:39 > 0:18:43'the giants Finn McCool and the Scottish big boy Benandonner.'
0:18:43 > 0:18:45Legend has it that Finn McCool built the causeway
0:18:45 > 0:18:48in order to go and challenge the Scottish giant.
0:18:51 > 0:18:55From a distance, I don't think you get a true impression.
0:18:55 > 0:18:57It's really worth getting up and close to the stones,
0:18:57 > 0:19:00because you see the strange and fabulous formations.
0:19:00 > 0:19:02You can tell why it's called the duel of the coastline.
0:19:04 > 0:19:07There's no charge to visit the Giant's Causeway itself.
0:19:07 > 0:19:10But if you want to spend time at the Visitor Experience,
0:19:10 > 0:19:11there is an admission fee.
0:19:20 > 0:19:21As well as family-friendly beaches,
0:19:21 > 0:19:24the north coast also has great scenery.
0:19:26 > 0:19:30And while you're here, you can't miss the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.
0:19:30 > 0:19:32Unfortunately, I now have to walk across it.
0:19:34 > 0:19:39'The bridge crosses a chasm 30 metres deep and 20 metres wide.'
0:19:39 > 0:19:41'But let me tell you, it feels a lot higher and longer
0:19:41 > 0:19:44'when you're out there in the middle, between the cliffs.'
0:19:50 > 0:19:53I am so proud of myself for crossing the bridge, and do you know what? It
0:19:53 > 0:19:57really is worth it, because the views of these cliffs are just spectacular.
0:20:05 > 0:20:07The north coast is also famous for its golf courses,
0:20:07 > 0:20:10and is fast becoming a popular destination for golfing holidays.
0:20:10 > 0:20:12With the recent high-profile
0:20:12 > 0:20:15successes of Rory McIlroy, Darren Clarke and Graeme McDowell,
0:20:15 > 0:20:18Northern Ireland is becoming a centre of golfing excellence.
0:20:21 > 0:20:26'And I fancied an afternoon teeing off with golf pro Shaun Devenney.'
0:20:26 > 0:20:28We're going to get you started today, have a wee look,
0:20:28 > 0:20:32probably work on the basics, and then try and build a good swing.
0:20:32 > 0:20:34And now you can see, when your arm hangs down,
0:20:34 > 0:20:37we've got a nice wee gap here between the club and your body.
0:20:37 > 0:20:39So I'm going to get your feet together, and that's us ready to go.
0:20:39 > 0:20:42We're going to hit a few shots and see how we get on.
0:20:45 > 0:20:47- Good, very good. - Yay!
0:20:48 > 0:20:51'It was very quickly obvious that I needed extra help with my swing,
0:20:51 > 0:20:54'so we went indoors to try a high-tech masterclass.'
0:20:55 > 0:20:57So, you can see here, Aoibhinn, look at your arms.
0:20:57 > 0:20:59- See the elbows folding? - Oh, yeah.
0:20:59 > 0:21:02That's the reason why we had the top of the ball, sometimes.
0:21:02 > 0:21:04- You can see here, sort of eight to four.- Yeah.
0:21:04 > 0:21:06What I'm looking for on the way back is just a short swing,
0:21:06 > 0:21:08clubhead hinged.
0:21:08 > 0:21:12That's really uncomfortable! That's awful on my elbows!
0:21:12 > 0:21:13# La-la-la. #
0:21:14 > 0:21:16Good improvement. Eight to four.
0:21:16 > 0:21:19Just work on those positions, and we should see a bit of a difference.
0:21:19 > 0:21:21Thank you, Sean. You're a very good teacher.
0:21:21 > 0:21:22'In this part of the world,
0:21:22 > 0:21:25you'll find some world-class golf courses,
0:21:25 > 0:21:28'including Royal Portrush, Portstewart and Castlerock.'
0:21:31 > 0:21:34I took my coaching lessons at the new Golf Academy
0:21:34 > 0:21:36at the Roe Park Resort in Limavady.
0:21:54 > 0:21:56Back now to northern Italy,
0:21:56 > 0:21:59and it's time for our number one choice from your recommendations.
0:22:02 > 0:22:05'It's a two and a half hour journey from Lake Garda to get here,
0:22:05 > 0:22:08'but if you're visiting possibly the most stunning city in the world,
0:22:08 > 0:22:09'then it's got to be worth the trip.'
0:22:16 > 0:22:19Right in the heart of Venice is St Mark's Square.
0:22:19 > 0:22:21To say it's one of the most beautiful squares in the world
0:22:21 > 0:22:23is somewhat of an understatement.
0:22:23 > 0:22:24It's breathtaking.
0:22:31 > 0:22:34'You could easily spend a week here, but I'd certainly try to stay
0:22:34 > 0:22:36'at least one night to get a sense of it all.'
0:22:42 > 0:22:45It's very tempting, but unless you're seriously loaded,
0:22:45 > 0:22:48it's best to avoid sitting down for a coffee in one of the cafes,
0:22:48 > 0:22:51where an espresso can cost you eight euro.
0:22:53 > 0:22:56Incidentally, feeding the pigeons in St Mark's Square is
0:22:56 > 0:22:59a fineable offence, though quite why you'd want to do it is beyond me.
0:22:59 > 0:23:02They're sky rats, that's all they are. They're not cute.
0:23:02 > 0:23:04Hideous!
0:23:04 > 0:23:05Get out of the way!
0:23:07 > 0:23:11It's a city that feels very familiar from TV and movies.
0:23:11 > 0:23:14It seems that every corner you turn you hit another iconic landmark,
0:23:14 > 0:23:16like this one - the Bridge of Sighs.
0:23:18 > 0:23:22It passes over the Rio Di Palazzo, and connects the interrogation rooms
0:23:22 > 0:23:24in the Doges Palace to the prison cells.
0:23:25 > 0:23:28Legend has it that this bridge was the last site that convicts
0:23:28 > 0:23:31saw before they were imprisoned, and they let out a long sigh
0:23:31 > 0:23:34before they were brought down to their cells.
0:23:34 > 0:23:36However, the truth is the inquisitions
0:23:36 > 0:23:38and executions were well over by the time the bridge was built,
0:23:38 > 0:23:41and the cells were mostly occupied by small-time criminals,
0:23:41 > 0:23:44who were only there for a short time anyway.
0:23:45 > 0:23:48This is Rialto Bridge, and there are beautiful shops along it,
0:23:48 > 0:23:50and as you can see, spectacular views as well,
0:23:50 > 0:23:53but it gets incredibly packed in the height of summer.
0:23:58 > 0:24:02And although the main thoroughfares are busy with tourists,
0:24:02 > 0:24:04there are areas of calm to be found.
0:24:05 > 0:24:06There are no cars in the city,
0:24:06 > 0:24:10and the only form of transport is by boat, but I think the secret
0:24:10 > 0:24:12to taking in the beauty of this place is to walk around.
0:24:19 > 0:24:21And even if your time is limited,
0:24:21 > 0:24:24well, I guess you've got to give it a try, don't you?
0:24:24 > 0:24:27Here's a little tip if you fancy taking a gondola ride.
0:24:27 > 0:24:28Number one, don't bother haggling.
0:24:28 > 0:24:32It's a fixed cost, set by the city government, and secondly,
0:24:32 > 0:24:33they do expect a tip.
0:24:39 > 0:24:41That guy's totally proposing.
0:24:42 > 0:24:45And the thing is, if she's not expecting it, she's not that bright.
0:24:45 > 0:24:49You know what I mean? That's a hell of a build-up, you've got to admit.
0:24:52 > 0:24:55So what do you reckon, Joe, about the whole gondola experience?
0:24:55 > 0:24:57I really like it. I think if you come to Venice,
0:24:57 > 0:24:59it's something you're kind of expected to do.
0:24:59 > 0:25:00It is a bit pricey,
0:25:00 > 0:25:03but how many times do you come to Venice in your life?
0:25:03 > 0:25:05I suppose that's a good point.
0:25:05 > 0:25:08Push the boat out. I'm sorry, that was an awful pun.
0:25:10 > 0:25:13To be honest, Joe, I don't get the romance of this.
0:25:13 > 0:25:14That's because you're here with me.
0:25:14 > 0:25:17I get that a lot. No, I know what you mean.
0:25:17 > 0:25:19- I've kind of enjoyed walking around the place.- Yeah.
0:25:21 > 0:25:23I think it's because it's synonymous with Venice
0:25:23 > 0:25:24that people do it, really.
0:25:24 > 0:25:26But I don't think I'd recommend it to people.
0:25:26 > 0:25:28No. I think it's expensive.
0:25:28 > 0:25:31I think you can spend your money in other ways, and the price of
0:25:31 > 0:25:34coffees and food in Venice, you're going to need it, to be honest.
0:25:34 > 0:25:36It is an expensive place to go out in.
0:25:46 > 0:25:50For our visit to Lake Garda, we checked in to the four-star
0:25:50 > 0:25:52Hotel Kristal Palace in Riva del Garda,
0:25:52 > 0:25:54one of the largest resorts on the lake.
0:25:56 > 0:25:58There are plenty of accommodation options here,
0:25:58 > 0:26:02with a selection of grand hotels around the harbour and lakeside.
0:26:02 > 0:26:05And here's the money bit...
0:26:12 > 0:26:15If you're looking for something totally family friendly,
0:26:15 > 0:26:17then we'd recommend Bella Italia,
0:26:17 > 0:26:21a large holiday resort on the shores of Lake Garda.
0:26:21 > 0:26:24It's only three miles from Gardaland and 14 miles from Verona.
0:26:26 > 0:26:28This place has a wide variety of accommodation, from a four-star
0:26:28 > 0:26:34hotel, to the site for caravans, tents, mobile homes and chalets.
0:26:34 > 0:26:37In fact, enough for 9,000 people. It's great for families as well.
0:26:37 > 0:26:42There's a fantastic waterpark, and an on-site restaurant.
0:26:52 > 0:26:55On our website, you told us that it's best to book earlier rather
0:26:55 > 0:26:59than later as it gets booked up quickly for the summer months.
0:26:59 > 0:27:02There are other campsites around Lake Garda that are smaller
0:27:02 > 0:27:03and quieter,
0:27:03 > 0:27:05but if you're looking for a livelier experience,
0:27:05 > 0:27:06then Bella Italia is for you.
0:27:10 > 0:27:12If you want to visit Venice, then be warned.
0:27:12 > 0:27:15The hotels are notoriously expensive.
0:27:15 > 0:27:18A cheaper option is to stay outside the city, and we'd suggest
0:27:18 > 0:27:20the Eden Hotel in Lido di Jesolo,
0:27:20 > 0:27:23which is only a 35 minute ferry ride from Venice.
0:27:34 > 0:27:39We booked our flights and all hotels with Topflight.
0:27:39 > 0:27:43If you'd like any more information about our holidays, visit -
0:27:45 > 0:27:47Well, Aoibhinn, I think it's fair to say we've discovered this place
0:27:47 > 0:27:50is more than just a holiday for the older generation.
0:27:50 > 0:27:52Absolutely, and I think it's a great idea to situate yourself
0:27:52 > 0:27:55in Lake Garda and then take a trips if you feel like it.
0:27:55 > 0:27:57You'll get a great experience, especially with the kids.
0:27:57 > 0:27:59Exactly, because nothing is too far away to do a day trip,
0:27:59 > 0:28:02and you will get such a varied experience, and to be honest,
0:28:02 > 0:28:04I'm finding it impossible to pick a favourite aspect,
0:28:04 > 0:28:06because I have loved every single minute of this.
0:28:06 > 0:28:08Well, my highlight was definitely Verona,
0:28:08 > 0:28:11because the shopping looked great, it's got history and culture,
0:28:11 > 0:28:13and I really want to come back and see an opera in the arena.
0:28:13 > 0:28:14- Can I come?- Yeah.
0:28:14 > 0:28:16Brilliant. OK, join us next time on Getaways.
0:28:41 > 0:28:44Subtitles by Red Bee Media