Decision time for our Summer holidays – if we’re actually allowed to have them

We are still inside looking out.

Maybe, just maybe, we’ll get away in the summer.

Not allowed fly – which is no bad thing when you look at the choices available on this beautiful island of ours.

So where will we go?

Truth is, I’d go just about anywhere in Ireland for a holiday.

I could list wonderful places 1-100.

But I’m going to choose from three or maybe six for this summer.

Mayo. If you have never driven from Louisburgh to Leenane (some spell it Leenaun) pure joy awaits you.

It is bleak and beautiful. Not a house. Not a tree. And, if you’re lucky, not too many people on the road either.

One of the few places I’ve been that actually made me draw breath.

And if you go back to Louisburgh, Old Head beach is worth a visit too.

The Beara peninsula is another stunner.

It doesn’t get the publicity the Ring of Kerry gets but it’s right up there. Full of history and occasional industrial history. But a magic place – nice beach too.

I’ve a thing about Waterford. Maybe it’s the year I spent in Ring in the Irish college.

But I love Ardmore – the beach and Brigid Shelley’s gallery.

I love Dunmore East, it’s just so different.

I’m thinking Kerry too, of course. Kenmare is my particular favourite and I fancy another few nights glamping in Dromquinna – if it’s not booked up.

And then there’s Connemara and West Galway.

We really, really enjoyed it last time, Renvyle in particular.

The whole area is a joy. Good places to eat. Good pubs. Magnificent scenery.

And of course I can’t forget Achill Island.

We stayed in the Mulranny Arms last time and it was brilliant, the whole place was just beautiful.

There’s lots to do and lots we didn’t get done so…

I can’t forget Castle Leslie either.

Love the place.

No, it’s not quite as expensive as you might think.

Sure, it’s not cheap. But if you can, it’s a fabulous place to stay with the bost incredibly brilliant staff.

(It is pure coincidence, by the way that I’m choosing Mulranny House, where John Lennon stayed and Castle Leslie were Paul stayed.)

So where will it be?

I’ll let you know if, that is, we’re allowed to go on holidays this year.