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The Irish Sun
6 days ago
- Politics
- The Irish Sun
‘Disappointing' blow for Irish students amid J1 visa appointment ban as fresh ‘delete' social media warning issued
THOUSANDS of Irish young people fresh face J1 delay issues after a major crackdown on embassy interviews. Thousands of students from Ireland flock to The States to work every summer on the visa. However, a new crackdown from US President The directive will also impact students hoping to study abroad as foreign exchange students on the M or F visas. US secretary of state Marco Rubio instructed foreign embassies via a cable to stop taking new appointments amid a plan to expand the social media vetting of foreign students. Appointments already scheduled will be allowed to proceed but Ireland will now be unable to offer further embassy appointments as part of the interview process. READ MORE IN TRAVEL This means students who already have secured visas or appointments for this summer will be mostly unaffected. However, those who had yet to secure their visa may face delays of days or weeks. Speaking to He told RTE: "We understand there's some students out there that may feel concerned about the potential delays Most read in News Travel "We want to assure that those students who have already scheduled their interviews shouldn't be affected" We fled America for one of Europe's cheapest places - our monthly expenses for 2 fell to $1.5k & we 'don't need a visa' "And the most of you who have already begun the process as well will more than likely see it through." "For those who are applying in the coming days it's important to be aware there might be some delays and we encourage them to remain patient and stay in close contact with their local provider and to keep the conversation going as they progress." He added: "There's a lot of student that are eager to go across on their J1s. "Once again we have to remind them if they're apply for their visa their social media accounts and their travel documentation, to be very truthful and honest when it comes to this and protect themselves where they can. "Overall it's going to be disappointing for some students." Around 5,000 Irish students avail of the J1 visa each year to spend their summer in the Multiple warnings have been issued to those hoping to travel over the The USI previously warned: "While activism is a vital part of student life and a right that should be protected, it is important that students fully understand the possible consequences for their visa status, including the risk of deportation, and take steps to safeguard their participation in such activities." FRESH ACTIVITY WARNINGS And Michael Doorley owner of SAYIT Travel has said speaking to students already in America the majority have not encountered difficulties while passing through immigration. However, he is still warning students they may need to "delete" certain social media activity. He told RTE: "We're in touch with them everyday, the students who are already out there. It's really just be careful with your phone and your social media. "If they have history on their mobile phones of social activity that wouldn't please the American situation just delete. "And don't start using your phone while you're in America on social media activity that wouldn't comply with american policy worldwide at the minute." 1 Some students may miss out Credit: Getty Images
The Irish Sun
23-05-2025
- The Irish Sun
The stunning outdoor heated swimming pool 2.5hrs from Dublin with water slides, splash zones & free entry for toddlers
TAKE a look at the fantastic outdoor swimming pool 2.5 hours from Dublin with water slides and splash zones and toddlers go free. The Tropicana Outdoor Heated Fun Pool in Newcastle, 3 Tropicana Outdoor Heated Fun Pool is located in Newcastle, Co Down Credit: Social Media Collect 3 It is one of the only outdoor pools in Ireland Credit: Social Media Collect This underrated spot is located on the Central Promenade in Newcastle and is one of the few heated outdoor pools on the island. Situated right by the sea, It's open every The pool includes a large heated swimming area and a toddler pool, along with the 'Nellie the Elephant' slide for young children. And there are special 'Tropicanarama' sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evenings where swimmers can enjoy music and games in the water. READ MORE IN TRAVEL It reads on their website: "Those who enjoy the wet side of life can have fun in Tropicana, Newcastle's outdoor heated leisure pool." ""To ensure that the toddlers are not forgotten, they have their own paddling pools with the Nellie the Elephant slide."" Operated by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, the pool is well-maintained and includes a range of amenities such as changing rooms, toilets and a play area for children. There are also picnic tables and benches nearby, offering the perfect spot for families to enjoy a lunch between swims. Most read in News Travel There's even a miniature slide and splash zone in the toddler pool. The views of the Mourne Mountains from the nearby promenade make the whole experience even more of a must-visit – the perfect spot for a walk along the shore. 'It's very important' - Ryanair's 'baggage sizers' warning to Irish passengers ahead of busy Easter break amid €75 fine Admission is What's more, children under 4 can enter for free and families can get a group ticket of 2 adults, 2 children for only £9.60. The heated pool operates on weekdays from 12:00pm to 5:30pm, with extended hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays until 8:00pm. Weekends have longer opening hours, with Saturdays from 10:00am to 5:30pm and Sundays from 2:00pm to 5:30pm. Stunning beach nearby After a This beach stretches for 2.5 kilometres, and is located right next to the promenade which has shops, cafes and restaurants. People have taken to One person wrote: 'Two kids went and loved it! "Didn't want to come out! Great splash pools for younger children, would recommend!' Another said: 'A great day out! Once in, you can stay here as long as you like.' 3 It's open every day in July and August Credit: Social Media Collect
The Irish Sun
20-05-2025
- The Irish Sun
The ‘fantastic' Irish playground with swings, slides, and zipline – and it's just minutes from beach and seaside town
TAKE a look at the "fantastic" Irish playground with swings, slides and a zipline - and it's just minutes from a beach and seaside town. Malahide Castle Playground in 4 The playground is located on the grounds of Malahide Castle Credit: Alamy 4 And it is open all year long Credit: Malahide Castle 4 It's the perfect place to visit with children this summer Credit: Malahide Castle Located just 20 minutes from Dublin city centre, it's the perfect destination for a fun and easy day trip as With wide open spaces, stunning grounds, and a fantastic playground, it's an ideal spot for families - and it's open all year round. The highlight for It's a spacious and well-designed area that offers hours of entertainment for kids of all ages. READ MORE IN TRAVEL It reads on the official Malahide Castle website: 'Located only a short walk from the castle is a wonderful children's playground. 'it was recently renovated and consists of various types of swings, slides, climbing frames and imaginative contraptions to suit children of all ages.' One of the standout features is the large wooden play structure inspired by a castle theme, complete with towers, bridges and slides and a zipline. Here, Most read in News Travel The playground caters to children of different ages and abilities, with inclusive equipment that ensures fun for everyone. What's more, the surrounding parkland offers even more to explore with long walking trails, open fields and beautiful The best playground in Ireland with castle, natural vistas and windsurfing - and it's right next to the beach This includes a fairy trail designed especially for children, where they can follow clues and search for tiny fairy houses hidden among the trees. For toddlers, there's a dedicated area within the playground with play equipment like baby swings, low slides and sensory panels. The park also features plenty of benches and seating areas, making it easy for families to have a picnic. And there's also a cafe on site that offers food, coffees, and sweet treats. Entry to the playground and grounds is free, with paid options available for tours of the castle or access to the butterfly house and walled gardens. STUNNING BEACH And just a short drive away is the stunning seaside town of Malahide, which offers plenty to explore after a visit to the playground. Known for its picturesque marina and vibrant atmosphere, it's a great spot to grab an ice cream or go for lunch. The nearby Malahide Beach is another favourite for families, with its long stretches of sand, gentle waves and beautiful coastal views. It's an ideal place for a walk, a paddle in the sea or simply relaxing while the kids play along the shore. Visitors to the playground have shared their experiences on One parent wrote: 'The playground is exceptional and there's no charge. "I finally sneaked the opportunity to go on a zip line, something I've longed to do since I saw one first many years ago." Another commented: 'Very therapeutic place, very clean park with lovely playground for kids with a nice coffee shop next to the castle." 4 The playground is minutes away from Malahide town Credit: Alamy
The Irish Sun
25-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
‘Looks amazing' say Irish parents as new playground with trampoline, sandpits and roundabout opens ahead of summer
A NEW playground with a trampoline, sandpits and a roundabout has opened ahead of summer - and Irish parents have praised it as "amazing". The fantastic spot in Saggart, 3 A new playground has opened in Saggart, Co Dublin Credit: Social media collect 3 It features a variety of different rides Credit: Social media collect 3 And it is designed for all children up to 12 years old Credit: Social media collect South Dublin County Council has officially opened a brand new playground at the Saggart Community Centre. Designed for The council made the announcement on They said: 'Exciting News! The brand new playground at Saggart Community Centre is now OPEN! READ MORE IN TRAVEL 'Come and explore a fantastic range of play equipment, perfect for kids up to 12 years old!' Among the features are swings, a climbing frame, a sandpit and a play house. Kids can also enjoy a play kitchen and a set of musical chimes. What's more, there's even a trampoline, a roundabout and a spinner. Most read in News Travel And the council said the playground includes accessible elements to ensure all children can join in. They added: 'Plus, with plenty of accessible features, this playground is designed for everyone to enjoy! This Eurocamp in the Netherlands has its own theme park 'Bring the whole family and let the kids have a blast in a safe, fun environment. We can't wait to see you there!' Located right at the Saggart Community Centre in Co Dublin, it's open now and ready for Irish parents have taken to the comment section to welcome the new playground. One person wrote: 'Looks amazing!' Another said: 'Very good' This comes after the Lake Kilrea waterpark, in Kilrea, opened to the public for summer. The park is located less than an hour from With a wide range of activities on offer, it's the perfect place to visit as Ireland begins to enjoy this summer - and it's open from April 18. This fantastic It reads on The Lake Kilrea's website: 'With over 11 acres of freshwater, our 80,000 sq ft waterpark on Lake Kilrea is now the biggest in Ireland. "Suitable for those aged 6 and up, our park boasts challenges for all ages, from giant icebergs and mega slides to wipeout balls and swirly bridges. "You'll not be bored at the Lake Kilrea, that's for sure."
