CHOOSE a week-long stay in Puglia at an 18th-century hunting lodge. Surrounded by olive groves, you'll have five morning cookery sessions followed by afternoon activities including a seafood dinner in Gallipoli and visits to markets and vineyards.

Book with www. flavoursholidays. co. uk;

Tel: 0044 1506 854 621

Cycling in Sri Lanka

CYCLE through tea estates, jungle parks and Buddhist cities on the original island of Serendip. You'll cover an average of 75km a day, which will keep your body fit and your bum firm! The nine-day trip allows plenty of time to relax at the Indian Ocean. Book with www. exodus. co. uk.

Painting in Tuscany

AT Studio Paradiso your Irish hosts will tutor you while you paint for as many hours as you wish.

Accommodation is in a beautiful 18th-century country villa with views to inspire your work. There's sketching trips to scenic spots and homecooked Italian cuisine to keep you sated. Book at www. studioparadiso. com; Tel: 074 954 2388.