If you are based in Cork you are well situated for most of France, Spain, Portugal etc. Be brave and get a twin and head down to the Canaries or North Africa. The world is your oyster mate, shoot the moon as they used to say..
As you will be new to all this I would consider taking an experienced pilot with you for your first few sorties. No shame in asking someone to come and hold your hand really, just common sense at the end of the day. Good luck