Deal of the week

With the news that Irish people are now tenth in the world when it comes to internet shopping, an online presence is becoming increasingly important. Online business directory www.whatswhat.ie,

which received over 6,500 visitors per day, recently lowered its premium charges and brought in monthly payments of €5 plus VAT. The move allows companies to have an online presence without breaking the bank.

Tip of the week

Price comparison websites save our British neighbours a fortune every year but remain in their infancy in this country which is a real shame. However, there are signs of improvement with the recently revamped Uchoose.ie a case in point. Previously, users could compare pricing and products using the site's search engine, but now they can seek and leave advice on a wider range of topics relating to finance, home utilities and insurance, as well as travel at home and abroad.

Bad value of the week

Not so much bad value of the week as confusing offer of the week. The Church at Mary Street in Dublin has two restaurant deals on offer at the moment which make little sense side by side. A four-course meal for two plus bottle of wine costs €59; at €29.50 each that is a an excellent deal. However, the four-course meal for four plus bottle of wine comes in at €150, which works out at €37.50 per person. Granted there are differences in the menus offered but they aren't so vastly different that you would be better off opting for the menu for four.

Recession rates

Travel Insurance

Two people, worldwide (to cover USA), multi-trip, not covering winter sports

Getcover.ie: €75

Chill.ie: €76.35

Travelinsurancedirect.ie: €76.65

Note: It is worth comparing the amount of cover available on additional benefits. For instance, missed flight cover pays €500 with Chill, €1,500 with Travelinsurancedirect.ie and €2,000 with Getcover.ie, so the base price doesn't always reflect the benefit levels.

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