Take me there
Not since the Titanic launched has Belfast's shipbuilding quarter been the subject of so much optimism. As the countdown begins to the centenary of the ship's doomed voyage in April 1912, preparations are being put in place for the opening of the Titanic Belfast exhibition. The €113m attraction is expected to bring massive regeneration to the shipyards, now rebranded the Titanic Quarter. The building will house nine interactive galleries, including a ride through the recreated shipyards of 1911. It opens on 31 March. Admission: adult £13.50, child £6.75 (titanicbelfast.com). For details of the city's Titanic Festival, themed walking tours and packages, go to discoverireland.com.
Travel clinic: hen weekends
The dilemma I've been given the task of organising my friend's hen weekend in May. She wants something "classy and low key". There will be 14 of us, ages ranging from 35 up. Yasmina, by email
Joanne replies I'm sensing that L-plates, stretch limos and strippers are off limits? Let's give hen party hot spots Newcastle and Brighton a miss then in favour of something more genteel. With its beautiful Georgian architecture, great shops and serious spa credentials, Bath rarely fails to delight.
Start your weekend by soaking in the heated rooftop pool at the Thermae Bath Spa, then enjoy a champagne afternoon tea in the glorious setting of the Pump Room. Bath Tourist Information Centre offers great packages combining the two with a visit to the Roman Baths for £63.50pp. Visit its website to book these and other creative ideas, including narrowboat trips and craft workshops (visitbath.co.uk/groups/itinerary-ideas/hen-party-ideas).
The Big Domain has a selection of large self-catering houses. The Duchy is an elegant Georgian townhouse in the city centre which sleeps 16, with prices from £50pp per night (thebigdomain.com/large-houses/the-duchy-prince-charles-townhouse-in-bath).
If you have a travel dilemma, email Joanne O'Connor at magazine@observer.co.uk
Three of the best… Hockney sites
Have you been inspired by the Royal Academy's David Hockney exhibition? Then head to Yorkshire to discover three iconic locations that are intimately connected with the artist.
1. Salts Mill, Saltaire, Bradford
Imposing former mill in Hockney's home town that features a substantial collection of the artist's work. Free (saltsmill.org.uk)
2. Kilham
Featured in several artworks, this Wolds village is a great base for a Hockney trail. Stay at the lovely Kilham Hall hotel. From £130 (kilhamhall.co.uk)
3. Thixendale
Hike the Wolds Way to see the beauty spot captured in the Three Trees near Thixendale paintings (nationaltrail.co.uk/yorkshirewoldsway/)
