Top Casino Etiquette Rules Every Beginner Needs

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Top Casino Etiquette Rules Every Beginner Needs

Walking into a casino for the first time can feel overwhelming. The bright lights, the roar of slot machines and the buzz of excitement around the tables create an electric atmosphere that attracts millions of visitors each year. However, behind all this entertainment lies a set of unwritten rules and etiquette standards that every player should understand.

Whether you visit a physical casino or play online — global market players like DraftKings, BetMGM and FanDuel know this well — knowing how to behave respectfully makes your experience better for everyone involved. It helps you avoid awkward situations or conflicts.

Responsible casino play treats gambling as entertainment rather than a way to make money. It requires clear pre-set limits, an understanding of the odds and readiness to use support tools if play becomes harmful. This approach not only protects your wallet but also ensures that you enjoy the experience safely and responsibly.

Photo by Michał Parzuchowski on Unsplash

Foundation of Casino Etiquette

When you choose to play at 32 Red Casino or any other site, you enter an environment where respect and courtesy are essential. Casino etiquette goes far beyond simple politeness — it encompasses comprehensive behaviors and practices that allow the venue to operate smoothly.

It protects the integrity of games and creates a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors. Understanding these rules helps you avoid penalties, embarrassment or even being asked to leave the establishment.

Global market leaders — Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts and Wynn Resorts — enforce these standards across their properties. Responsible casino play means treating gambling as entertainment, setting firm time and money limits and never chasing losses.

Before you visit any casino, decide how much money you can afford to lose and stick to that budget. Set a time limit for your playing session and use alarms or reminders to help you track time.

Learn the rules and odds of the games you choose. Manage your bankroll carefully. Always prefer licensed and reputable venues to reduce risk. These fundamentals form the backbone of good casino behavior.

Importance of Respect at the Tables

Dealers, servers and other casino staff work hard to ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience. Treating these professionals with respect is essential casino etiquette.

Never berate dealers when you lose money or when luck isn’t on your side. Dealers do not control the outcomes of games — they’re simply doing their job. Show patience with slower-moving tables or inexperienced dealers.

If you have a problem or concern, ask politely for floor staff instead of arguing with dealers directly. Simple courtesy like saying please and thank you goes a long way. Global operators from Las Vegas to Macau enforce these standards vigorously.

Handling Your Chips, Cards and Bets

Physical casino games involve strict rules about how players handle cards and chips. These rules exist to protect the integrity of the games and prevent cheating.

Never touch other players’ chips or cards. Keep your hands visible when the dealer is looking at your cards. Place your bets clearly and only when the dealer indicates it’s time.

Do not reach across other players or the table unnecessarily. If you want to change your bet after you’ve placed it, ask the dealer or floor staff for permission. Breaking these rules can result in warnings or being removed from the table.

Essential Behavioral Standards for Casino Visitors

Beyond table-specific rules, casinos have general behavioral standards that apply to all areas. Understanding these standards helps you navigate the casino smoothly and avoid uncomfortable interactions with other guests or staff members.

Major casino operators — from Atlantic City to Singapore — maintain consistent expectations across their venues. Here are the key behavioral expectations that every casino visitor should follow.

The following list outlines critical etiquette rules that apply across all casino environments:

  • Wait your turn patiently and do not interrupt other players’ games
  • Keep noise levels reasonable and avoid excessive celebration or frustration
  • Use your phone discreetly and step away from tables if you need to take calls
  • Never take photographs or videos of other players without permission
  • Follow the casino’s dress code and maintain good personal presentation
  • Tip dealers, servers and staff appropriately for their service
  • Avoid aggressive behavior or language when disputes arise
  • Know when to join and leave a table politely without disrupting play
  • Respect personal space and do not hover over players’ shoulders
  • Follow all house rules and game-specific regulations without argument

Bankroll Management and Responsible Gambling

One of the most important aspects of casino etiquette involves managing your money responsibly. This protects not only your finances but also demonstrates respect for the establishment and other players.

Recognize early warning signs of problem gambling and use self-exclusion tools or seek professional support when needed. Many modern casinos offer these support services because they care about player wellbeing — global platforms prioritize player safety.

Below is a comparison table showing responsible gambling practices versus risky behaviors:

Responsible GamblingRisky Gambling Behavior
Set a weekly or monthly budgetSpending more than planned regularly
Take regular breaks during playPlaying for extended periods without stopping
Never chase lossesTrying to recover losses by betting more
Use self-exclusion when neededIgnoring warning signs of problem gambling
View gambling as entertainmentSeeing gambling as a way to make money
Play with money you can afford to loseUsing borrowed money or credit to gamble

Handling Disputes and Seeking Assistance

Even in the most pleasant casino environment, disagreements or misunderstandings can happen. How you handle these situations reflects your character and respect for the establishment.

If you have a concern about a game decision, a bet outcome or any other issue — stay calm and polite. Never raise your voice or become aggressive.

Instead, politely ask to speak with floor staff or a manager who can address your concern professionally and fairly. Casinos have trained specialists who handle disputes — they’re much better equipped to resolve issues than dealers or other players. Global casino chains have standardized protocols for this.

Professional Dress Code and Personal Presentation

Different casinos have different dress codes — many upscale establishments enforce formal attire requirements. Check the specific casino’s dress code before visiting.

Generally, avoid extremely casual clothing like beachwear or athletic wear. Clean, neat clothing demonstrates respect for the venue. Personal presentation matters because casinos maintain certain standards to create an appropriate atmosphere for all guests.

What Makes a House Feel Like a Home

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What Makes a House Feel Like a Home

Wondering what makes a house feel like a home? There are both practical and emotional elements that can help transform a physical building into a space that feels like your home. This post will highlight how design, personal routines, sensory comfort, and meaningful connections shape that sense of belonging. Keep reading to find out more.

Photo by Spacejoy on Unsplash

The Psychology of “Feeling at Home”

Home is where the heart is. This means that it is not just a physical space; it is an emotional attachment shaped by comfort, safety, and personal meaning. People form deep bonds with their living spaces that contribute to the sense of comfort and identity at home. It can take a while to develop this feeling, but once it has been reached, it can make life at home more enjoyable and relaxing.

Design Elements That Support Comfort & Well-Being

Factors like light, layout, colour, and sensory details influence mood and comfort in the home. In well-designed new homes, thoughtful layout, abundant natural light, and intentional use of materials help foster instant comfort and encourage occupants to personalise spaces over time. In recent years, trends like soft minimalism, biophilic design, and flexible interiors have been popular as a way to foster relaxation and well-being.

Personalization & Daily Routines

The daily routines that people develop can also help turn a house into a home. This could include morning rituals, favourite reading corners in the home, or how people arrange their workspace and rest areas. Interior design trends in recent years support personalized spaces that can be adapted to daily life, allowing homeowners to create spaces that feel like their own and support their daily routines.

Emotional & Social Connections Within the Home

Relationships and memories contribute to a home’s emotional resonance, including the role of family, shared experiences, and even spaces that foster socializing and connection. Design can support these emotional and social connections – this can involve creating living rooms that welcome conversation or zones that can be used for shared activities or entertaining. As noted above, time is a key factor: you will build a stronger connection to your home as you create memories and enjoy life’s big moments there.

These are the key factors that make a house feel like a home. It is all about creating a space that supports your daily routines and wellbeing while reflecting your character and personality. Hopefully, the information in this post will prove to be useful and help you make a few changes in your own home that will make it feel more like your own space.

Celtic Bhoys Athletic Win In A 15 Goal Thriller

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Celtic Bhoys Athletic Win In A 15 Goal Thriller

Rossglass County Development Squad traded goals with Celtic Bhoys Athletic until the unlucky 15th winner for Celtic

The Newcastle and District Amateur Football League,

McCalls Division 2 League Match,

Venue: Dunleath Park, 3 1 26,

Final Score: Rossglass County Development Squad 7 Celtic Bhoys Athletic.

On a freezing cold day at Dunleath Park when most of the Saturday fixtures were cancelled due to pitches being ice-bound, Rossglass County Development Squad faced a challenging Celtic Bhoys Athletic and managed to steal the match with a late extra-time goal writes Jim Masson.

Celtic started off pressing forward and a long through-in from Cameron O’Donnell but Rossglass defender Shane Todd cleared well. Sean Ferris seemed to rise to the occasion and had two shots at the Rossglass goal, one going over and the second being saved. Celtic were pressing more.

Ferris then eventually scored again and this was followed by a blast on target for another goal from Brendan Laverty.

Celtic Bhoys Athletic striker Sean Ferris, right, in action against Rossglass County Development Squad. (Photos: JimMasson/DownNews©).

Sean Ferris missed two fairly easy opportunities in the first half but made up for it with a hat-trick with goals in the 20th, 61st and 88th minutes to keep Celtic in contention in this fast paced match.

Brendan Laverty also enjoyed a hat-trick for Celtic on the 47, 72nd and took the winning goal on the 91st minute to steal the game from Rossglass who has fought so well.

Cameron O’Donnell hit low to the back post in the 9th minute followed 2 minutes later and Steven Laverty deflected in an own goal in the 11th minute.

Initially it was Celtic who did the pressing but Rossglass came back into the game well but a break from Padraig McConvey saw him take another goal for Celtic taking the lead once more.

Rossglass winger Chris Reid pressed forward and hit just wide then a long ball to Jack Sharvin saw him run at the Celtic goal and slip the ball past keeper Sean Dalton.

Check Out Down News Facebook Match Action Photos

Rossglass were certainly warming up and Declan Dowie was unlucky not to score close in when keeper Dalton made 2 quick reflex saves. Dowie appeared to be the point man for Rossglass. Eventually his hard work paid off and sub Brendan Laverty put the ball through to Dowie who rounded keeper Sean Dalton to score bringing the score to 3-3.

The first half closed with Rossglass midfielder Jack Sharvin having a pop at the Celtic goal but again Dalton was sharp and caught the ball well.

As the second half started, Christopher Reid hit a long ball at the Celtic goal and scored to put Rossglass into the lead.

Rossglass County Development Squad battle against Celtic Bhoys Athletic and squeeze the ball over the line.

But Celtic replied one minute later with a Brendan Laverty goal.

And minutes later Rossglass’ Cameron O’Donnell scored from the spot when a penalty was awarded.

The play was relentless despite the poor weather conditions and in the last 21 minutes, the game hung in the balance despite both sides scoring well.

Check Out Down News Facebook Match Action Photos

On 70 minutes Chris Reid scored well to be countered 2 minute slater by a Celtic goal from Brendan Laverty. Then Rossglass stayed in contention with a goal from Conor. On 88 minutes the teams were again deadlocked with another goal from Ferris going into extra time at 7-7.

But it was Brendan Laverty who scored the winner in one minute into extra time as keeper Hagen failed to block the ball and it cruelly rolled in unchecked to the Rossglass back post making another comeback unlikely.

Celtic nicked the game in the dying embers. Conditions were brutally cold and despite scoring 7 goals, it was Celtic who won the bragging rights on the day.

Sean Ferris had a better second half, and clicked well with Brendan Laverty. And Rossglass player Christopher Hamilton also played well opening up the game with some fine crosses and passes.

Rossglass County Development Squad: 1 Daniel Hagen (GK) 2 Cameron Taylor 3 Gary Walker 4 Shane Todd 6 Jack Sharvin 7 James Cusack 9 Declan Dowie 10 Conor Steele 11 Christopher Reid 15 Christopher Hamilton. 16 Eden Reid (C). Subs: 12 Ciaran Brannigan 13 Patrick Houston 14 Bailie Telford.

Celtic Bhoy Athletic: 1 Sean Dalton (GK) 2 Conor Carberry 3 Roman Tilley 4 Steven Laverty 5 Luke McKay 6 Casey Magee 7 Padraig McConvey 9 Cameron O’Donnell (C) 10 Sean Cahill 11 Sean Ferris. Subs: 12 Odhran Daly 14 Tyler Fung 15 Brendan Laverty.

Check Out Down News Facebook Match Action Photos

Newcastle Assault Leads To Man Being Arrested

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Newcastle Assault Leads To Man Being Arrested

Traffic Warden In Newcastle Seriously Assaulted And Man Later Arrested By Police

Police are holding a man in custody after a serious assault on a traffic warden in Newcastle.

A traffic warden and four police officers were injured following a serious assault in Newcastle.

The police spokesperson said: “It’s appalling that a man going about his lawful business should be attacked in this way. 

Police in Newcastle have made an arrest after a man sustained serious facial injuries in an assault on Saturday afternoon, 3rd January.

A police spokesperson said: “We received a report from a member of the public just before 4pm that she had witnessed a traffic attendant being assaulted by a man in the Main Street area of the town. 

“The traffic attendant, a man aged in his 30s, later reported to officers that a man had bumped into him as he left an off-licence, before becoming verbally abusive.

“In fear for his safety, he switched on his body worn camera and the man swung a plastic bag of bottles towards him, striking him in the face, before he made off from the scene.

“The traffic attendant sustained a number of facial fractures and a deep laceration. 

“With the help of the local community, we were able to quickly identify the suspect. A 28-year-old man was located a short time later at licensed premises, at which time he became aggressive, assaulting four officers.

“He was arrested on suspicion of a number of offences including grievous bodily harm with intent and four counts of assault on police. He remains in custody at this time.”

“We know this type of incident can have a negative impact on those who live in the town, and will be maintaining our proactive policing presence in the area.

“Our enquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone who witnessed the assault or who may have footage, including dash-cam, to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 901 03/01/26.

“Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via:

http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ 

or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at:

http://crimestoppers-uk.org/ .”

McGrath condemns attack on traffic warden and police officers in Newcastle

SDLP South Down MLA Colin McGrath has condemned the violent assault on a traffic warden and four police officers in Newcastle, County Down on Saturday afternoon.

Colin McGrath MLA said: “This was a deeply concerning incident and my thoughts are with the traffic warden who was injured while carrying out his work in Newcastle on Saturday.

“No one should have to face violence while at work, and it is particularly concerning that police officers responding to the situation were also assaulted.

“Incidents like this are distressing for the local community and are not reflective of the town. It’s important that the individual involved is held to account and that we continue to support the work of those who help keep our towns safe.”

UPDATES TO CHARGES

Police in Newcastle have charged a man to court following an assault in the Main Street area of the town on Saturday afternoon, 3rd January, where atraffic warden sustained serious facial injuries.

The 28-year-old is charged with grievous bodily harm with intent, five counts of assault on police, resisting police and disorderly behaviour on licensed premises.

He is due to appear before Downpatrick Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 5th January, 2026.

As is usual procedure, the charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.

Boston Uni Win Friendship Series At SSE Arena

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Boston Uni Win Friendship Series At SSE Arena

Friendship Series Title Won By Boston University At The SSE Arena In Belfast

Boston University has been crowned champion of the 2026 Friendship Series after defeating Harvard University 3-2 at The SSE Arena, Belfast, rounding out a week of competition, cultural exchange, and shared experience for the participating teams.

The Friendship Series is the first and only NCAA Division One women’s ice hockey tournament to be held outside of the United States.

The event is an extension of the Friendship Four tournament, which was devised by The Odyssey Trust in 2015, and has been developed year on year to promote education, social welfare, and community integration in Northern Ireland, building on the Sister City agreement between Belfast and Boston.

The Boston University team after defeating Harvard University to win the Friendship Series Championship game and lift the Belpot Trophy at the SSE Arena, Belfast. (Photos by William Cherry/Presseye.)

The 2026 Friendship Series represented a significant step forward for the tournament, with four women’s teams taking part for the first time, expanding the format beyond the traditional two-team series, reflecting the continued development of the women’s game on a global stage.

Paul McMahon, Chief Executive Officer of The Odyssey Trust, said: “The Friendship Series has always been about creating meaningful experiences for student-athletes, and this year’s expanded format allowed even more players to be part of that journey.

“Bringing four teams together in Belfast reinforces the purpose of the tournament and reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting opportunities for women in sport.”

Alongside the on-ice action, the four teams experienced Belfast and Northern Ireland during their stays.

Maeve Carey, Captain of Boston University, rings the Belpot Trophy at The SSE Arena, Belfast.

Players and staff visited a number of the region’s most iconic landmarks and attractions, including the Giants Causeway and Titanic Museum, as well as watched the Belfast Giants’ Elite League clash against the Glasgow Clan on Tuesday 30 December as part of the trip.

Martin McDowell, Chair of The Odyssey Trust, said: “Expanding the tournament while staying true to its original values is a real achievement.

“We’re proud to continue hosting an event that places student-athletes and shared experience at its heart.”

Having celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2025, the men’s Friendship Four returns to The SSE Arena in 2026, with the University of Connecticut, Providence College, the University of Minnesota-Duluth, and Colgate University going head-to-head for the Belpot Trophy at the home of the Belfast Giants.

(Courtesy of Belfast Giants©).

Boston University Terriers celebrate winning the Belpot Trophy on the ice at The SSE Arena, Belfast.

Lewis Calls For Action On Backfiring Exhausts

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Lewis Calls For Action On Backfiring Exhausts

Call to tackle backfiring exhausts as Slieve Croob Councillor Alan Lewis requests police and DVA action

Anti-social driving and vehicle back-firing is causing considerable problems in small communities in the Slieve Croob area says DUP Councillor Alan Lewis.

Cllr Alan Lewis has called on the PSNI and the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) to intervene to curb anti-social driving habits which have been having a serious and ongoing impact on local communities.

DUP Slieve Croob Cllr Alan Lewis is calling on action by the police and the DVA to curb anti-social driving and back-firing cars.

Councillor Lewis said: “Over the Christmas period there has been a noticeable increase in noise and anti-social behaviour caused by a small number of drivers who are deliberately making their vehicles back-fire, either through intentional modification or through deliberate driving behaviour.

“This has become increasingly irritating and disruptive to residents in Spa, Seaforde, Clough, Dundrum and Castlewellan.

“While it is only a small number of vehicles involved, residents have taken the time to note and report registrations, and in many cases these vehicles appear not to be taxed, let alone MOT tested.”

Cllr Lewis added: “There is a difference between being proud of your car and showing a complete disregard for everyone else. Many people invest significant time and money into the appearance and performance of their vehicles, and that is their choice.

“However, there is a time and a place for that interest, and deliberately causing explosive noises in residential villages at two o’clock in the morning is neither impressive nor acceptable.

“What we are seeing is not enthusiasm for motoring, but it is attention-seeking behaviour driven by over-inflated egos, paired with unappealing vehicles and a complete lack of consideration for others.

“I will be writing to the DVA to seek clarity on what action is being taken to remove these types of vehicles from our roads, to outline the MOT standards that apply, and to ensure there are clear and enforced guidelines around exhaust modifications and excessive noise.

“I am also calling on the PSNI to make use of their traffic branch and enforcement powers to ensure those responsible are stopped and dealt with.

An adrenalin-pumping run at the Bishopscourt Diff and Drift in a safe environment. Such driving in a small community during unsocial hours can be stressful for local residents. Cllr Alan Lewis is calling on police and DVA action to curb anti-social driving and the use of back-firing vehicles..(Photo: Jim Masson/DownNews©).

“These villages have raw and painful memories of the past. To many residents, these sudden explosive noises sound like gunfire. I strongly suspect that some drivers know exactly what they are doing and the reaction they are provoking.

“These noises are not harmless. They wake small children, they terrify elderly residents, and they can trigger deep distress for those affected by conflict-related trauma.

“I have received reports from families with neuro-diverse children who were left inconsolable, frightened and unable to return to sleep. This is not funny, and it is not trivial.

“I know these families. I know these children by name. The consequences of allowing a car to backfire through a village at two in the morning go far beyond thirty seconds of misplaced bravado.

“It leaves lasting fear, exhaustion and anxiety behind it.

“This behaviour is not about cars… it is about insecurity being broadcast as noise, and our communities should not be expected to tolerate it.”

Unionists Remember The Kingsmills Victims

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Unionists Remember The Kingsmills Victims

Ahead of the 50th Anniversary The Ulster Unionist Party Remembers Kingsmills Victims

The Ulster Unionist Party remembers the ten innocent men murdered by the IRA on 5 January 1976. Lord Elliott of Ballinamallard and Councillor David Taylor expressed solidarity with the bereaved families and sole survivor Alan Black.

Ulster Unionist Peer and Party Chair Lord Elliott of Ballinamallard said: “The 50th anniversary of the Kingsmills murders, like every day that passes, is, I’m sure, another painful reminder to the families of those killed and to the survivor of the devastation caused by those IRA murders.

“While previous investigations have yielded little comfort for those left behind and suffering, the Government of the Republic of Ireland had promised significant information in relation to these murders.

The UUP’s Councillor David Taylor along with party chair Lord Elliott of Ballinamallard speak out on the anniversary of the Kingsmills’ shooting when 10 Protestant workers were killed.

“However, they produced little more than newspaper cuttings that were already in the public domain.

“If this is the level of information we can expect through the new Legacy Bill from the Irish Government, their input will be of little use to the innocent victims of the Northern Ireland Troubles.

“This was a terrible act of sectarian murder against innocent people, with little comfort offered to the families and the survivor since then.

“My continued thoughts and prayers are with the families of those innocent victims who were murdered that day and with the sole survivor, Alan Black.”

”Ahead of the 50th Anniversary of the Kingsmills Massacre, Newry Mourne and Down District Councillor David Taylor said: “My thoughts are with the Kingsmills families and the sole survivor, Alan Black, as we approach the 50th anniversary of the Kingsmills Massacre.

“This is a deeply solemn time for the local area and one that continues to weigh heavily on many people who retain vivid memories of the horrific events of 5 January 1976, when ten innocent Protestant men were murdered by the IRA as they returned home from their day’s work.

“We continue each year to remember an atrocity that remains one of the most shocking and cruel acts carried out by republicans during the Troubles, and one that left a lasting impact on the Protestant community in South Armagh.

“This year is particularly significant as we mark the 50th anniversary of the massacre.

“The families and Alan Black have endured decades of pain and trauma as a result of what happened at Kingsmills, and it is all the more regrettable that justice has yet to be achieved for this heinous crime.

“I will be attending a number of commemorative events locally over the coming days to show my support for Alan Black and the Kingsmills families, including remembrance services at Bessbrook Town Hall today and at the Kingsmills roadside memorial tomorrow.”

CompareNI.com Says 25% Of Us Can’t Holiday

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CompareNI.com Says 25% Of Us Can’t Holiday

One if 4 adults in Northern Ireland can’t afford to go on a holiday in 2026

A quarter of people in Northern Ireland will not be able to afford a holiday getaway in 2026, according to new research.

Given January is the busiest time of the year for holiday bookings, travel insurance experts at CompareNI have researched top tips to help travellers find savings and snag a bargain amongst the new year sales – in a bid to make holidays more affordable.*

A survey by travel insurance experts at CompareNI.com, which asked 600 people about their holiday plans for the year ahead, found that 25% will not be taking any trips due to rising travel costs.

As stubbornly high living costs leave many households struggling to afford everyday essentials such as weekly food shops and energy bills, a growing number of people are being forced to make changes to their travel habits – or even forgo their holiday plans altogether.

Worried about your travel plans and holidays this summer? Check out CompareNI.com advice for travelling abroad.

These rising costs have played a major role in reshaping travel trends, as budget-conscious holidaymakers look for ways to cut costs on trips, such as avoiding peak season – with a fifth of parents taking their kids out of school during term-time.

The CompareNI survey showed that 40% of travellers are planning shorter getaways than usual this year. This reflects a growing trend, as more UK tourists are opting for multiple short breaks – or ‘microcations’- rather than one longer annual trip to spread costs.***

Meanwhile, staycations have become a popular alternative to holidaying abroad, with Northern Ireland residents accounting for 33% of all overnight stays here in 2024.****

Some 15% of respondents told CompareNI they were planning a staycation this year, while more than one in 10 people (12%) said that although they would prefer a holiday abroad, they would be settling for a staycation due to budget constraints.

Despite ballooning costs, almost half of respondents (45%) said they still intend to jet off on a foreign holiday in 2026 – showing that travel remains high on the list of priorities for many people in Northern Ireland.

Ian Wilson, travel insurance expert and Managing Director at CompareNI.com said: “As the cost-of-living crisis continues to hammer households across Northern Ireland, many people view holidays as a luxury they simply cannot afford.

 “Even those who do intend to take a trip this year may find themselves struggling with inflated travel costs, which could force them to consider shorter breaks, booking during the off-season or staying closer to home.

“However, there are some key steps travellers can take to save money when booking their next trip.

“While summer may seem like a long way off, January may be the ideal time to book for those looking to secure a big discount, as this is when many travel providers start their sales.

“Leaving it late in the hopes of securing a last-minute deal can be risky, as flight prices for popular routes tend to get more expensive the closer it gets to the date of travel.”

Whether it is a relaxing beach holiday, a snowy ski adventure or a short city break, the experts at CompareNI have put together some useful tips that could help travellers cut costs.

CompareNI’s top tips for travel savings:

Early bird gets the worm

While an early morning flight may not be everyone’s idea of a relaxing start to their holiday, it could be worth it if you want to grab a good deal. Many airlines sell morning flights at a cheaper price to make the flight more attractive.

As a bonus, early flights are less likely to be delayed, as air traffic is not normally as busy in the morning.*****

Fly mid-week

Due to lower demand, the cheapest days to fly are typically Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. If you can, avoid travelling on Fridays, Sundays and Mondays, as these are popular days for business travellers, which can push up prices.******

Be flexible

Having some flexibility with your travel dates and destination is one of the most effective ways to save money when booking a holiday.

Rather than picking a set location and date range, keep an open mind of where and when you are prepared to travel. This will allow you to shop around and take advantage of the best possible deals.

Take out travel insurance as soon as you book

Ideally your travel insurance policy should start once you book your holiday, not the day your holiday starts. Doing this gives you added protection and means you’re likely covered for any unforeseen circumstances that might prevent you from going away in the first place.

CompareNI can help holidaymakers compare and find savings on annual travel insurance, travel insurance for families and even those who are need travel insurance for pre-existing conditions.

*https://www.tropicalsky.co.uk/dont-book-your-holiday-in-january-until-youve-read-these-tips

**https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/clyndp097gro#:~:text=All%2Dinclusive%20family%20package%20holidays,goes%20and%20when%20they%20book.

***https://facefactsresearch.com/the-uks-holiday-planning-habits-do-we-book-early-or-spread-it-out/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

****https://datavis.nisra.gov.uk/tourism/tourism24.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com

*****https://www.alternativeairlines.com/morning-flights

******https://www.kayak.co.uk/news/how-to-find-cheap-flights/

NMD Civic Awards For 2026 Launched

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NMD Civic Awards For 2026 Launched

Chairperson Launches Civic Awards 2026 – #CelebratingWHO Call for Public Nominations

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, has officially launched the Council’s Annual Civic Awards 2026, calling on residents to help shine a spotlight on the people who make a real difference across the district.

This year’s awards campaign, #CelebratingWHO, is designed to inspire everyone to pause and think about the individuals and groups in their lives who go above and beyond for others.

From quiet volunteers and community champions to inspiring young people and creative trailblazers, the Civic Awards celebrate the everyday heroes whose dedication, kindness and commitment help make our district a stronger, more vibrant place to live.

Nominations open on Monday 5 January and anyone can put forward a nomination by completing the simple online form available on the Council website:

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, pictured at the Millbrook House Hotel, launches the #CelebratingWHO campaign, encouraging residents to think about who in their lives goes above and beyond for others and to put them forward for recognition through his Civic Awards nominations.

https://www.newrymournedown.org/chairpersons-civic-awards.

Residents, community organisations and elected members are all encouraged to take part.

Nominations close on Friday 23 January 2026 and all successful nominees will be notified during the week commencing Monday 2 February, with winners announced at a special awards ceremony on Friday 20 February 2026.

The Civic Awards ceremony will take place at the Millbrook Hotel, Ballynahinch and will be hosted by BBC Radio Ulster personality Connor Phillips. The evening will bring together nominees, their families, community groups and elected representatives for a celebration of people, pride and place across the district.

Launching the awards, Chairperson Councillor Philip Campbell said, “The Civic Awards are about recognising the people who quietly and consistently make a difference in our communities.

“Through the #CelebratingWHO campaign, I encourage everyone to think about who they would like to thank, recognise or celebrate, because everyone has a story worth telling and every community has heroes who deserve to be acknowledged.”

Civic Awards 2026 – Award Categories

  • Arts, Culture and Heritage Award
    Recognising an individual or group who has made a significant contribution to the arts, local culture or heritage in the district.
  • Chairperson’s Special Award
    Presented in recognition of outstanding service or special qualities demonstrated by an individual. This award will be selected by the Chairperson from the overall pool of nominees.
  • Community Pride Award
    Awarded to an individual or group who help make where we live more environmentally friendly and better for nature.
  • Fundraising Award
    Recognising individuals or groups who have raised significant funds for charities, causes or community projects.
  • Human Endeavour Award
    Celebrating exceptional dedication, courage, resilience or perseverance, often in the face of challenge or adversity.
  • Volunteering Award
    Awarded to an individual who makes a notable difference by giving their time voluntarily to support others in the community.
  • Youth Impact Award
    Recognising an individual under the age of 18 who has made a positive impact through achievement, leadership, creativity or community contribution.

The Council is encouraging everyone to get involved, submit a nomination and help ensure that local people doing extraordinary things receive the recognition they deserve.

Further information and reminders on how to nominate will be shared across Council social media channels as part of the #CelebratingWHO campaign.

UUP Confirms Nesbitt To Step Down As Leader

Staff Reporter
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UUP Confirms Nesbitt To Step Down As Leader

Ulster Unionist Party Announces Leadership Change in 2026 as Mike Nesbitt to step down

The Ulster Unionist Party spokesperson today confirmed that Mike Nesbitt MLA will step down as Party Leader.  

UUP Leader Mike Nesbitt is to step down to allow a new leader to have a run into the 2027 set of elections.

This marks a pivotal moment as the Party builds on strong foundations and accelerates towards a bold, forward-looking vision for the 2027 elections.

The party will now seek a new leader to take them forward to the forthcoming council and NI Assembly elections.

Since returning in 2024, Mike Nesbitt has led from the front as Minister of Health, reinforcing the UUP’s reputation for responsible, effective governance. 

He has also delivered key internal reforms, restored financial stability, modernised Party rules, and strengthened policy and communications teams – leaving the Party resilient, and ready for the future.

Mike’s earlier leadership saw notable electoral successes, including strong local and European results in 2014, two MPs elected in 2015, and increased Assembly representation in 2016.

He explained his decision not to stand for a fifth time. Mike Nesbitt said: “The next five-year mandate stretches to May 2032, the month I hope to celebrate my 75th birthday.

“That’s a commitment to full-time politics I just do not feel I can make. And I would not be comfortably seeking a vote knowing that privately I was intending to retire during the mandate.

“I retook the leadership to do a short-term job of getting the Party match fit for the forthcoming election campaign.

“That job is now done so the time is right to select the politician who will lead us into the May 2027 polls promoting our brand of confident, responsible unionism.”

Party Officers will shortly outline the leadership selection process, ensuring an inclusive, engaging and seamless transition.

Party Chair, Lord Elliott of Ballinamallard, said: “We are deeply grateful to Mike for his decades of service and unwavering dedication to improving our society.

“As we enter 2026, we look forward to building on the strong platform he has created.

“Our next Leader will champion forward-looking Unionism, safeguarding Northern Ireland’s place in the UK while promoting prosperity, reconciliation, and a shared future for all.”

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