Alternative hen getaways

Cologne Carnival - Cologne Germany
In the build-up to Ash Wednesday, the whole city kicks off for a week-long festival leading up to three days of 24-hour partying in the Old Town. The Germans show the results of their fine beer-making skills, bands play, everyone seems to get into the spirit by getting into fancy dress, and flirting is the order of the day. It is popular with visitors, but is nowhere near as touristy as the Munich Oktoberfest. A bunch of girls in fancy dress looking for a good time should fit right in.

For more information, visit www.koel.de

Venice Carnival - Venice, Italy
The world famous Venice Carnival turns the streets of the city into a theatrical stage for the ten days leading up to Ash Wednesday each year. Masked performers add glamour and mystery to the masses of partygoers who flock here from all around the world for the occasion. And they wonder why Venice is sinking... You'll need to book accommodation well in advance but the Venice Carnival will provide an extravagant backdrop for your alternative hen weekend.

For more information, visit www.venicecarnival.com

March

St Patrick's Day - Ireland (and any Irish pub in the world)
Ah, the charming Irish lilt and a velvety pint of Guinness. Dublin is the obvious choice to join in the craic but go into any Irish pub in the world on St Patrick's Day and the celebrations will be in full swing. So, if your hen night falls in March, take advantage. The Americans also go crazy for Paddy's Day. Cities such as New York have a huge population of expats who love to go totally over the top. Or you could check out Chicago where, not to be outdone, they go to the trouble of dyeing the river green to show their love of the Irish.

For a full week of festivities in Dublin, check out www.stpatricksday.ie

Eurochocolate - Rome, Italy
Not to be outdone by the New York Chocolate Show in November, Eurochocolate dedicates an entire week to the sweet treat. The festival takes place in Rome every March and is the stuff of dreams for a group of chocoholics. Everywhere you look there is something to do with chocolate, but the highlight is, undoubtedly, a gigantic chocolate egg that weighs over five and a half tonnes; take a moment to imagine it... Combine a visit with seeing a few other Roman sites and this could be the perfect weekend for a group of girls.

For more information, visit www.eurochocolate.roma.it