Travellers' Good Buys

Longest Town Name - Port Stephens Thundaraft - Azamara Cruise Deal - Italy Rail - Japan Niseko

2012-01-23T10:53:00.002+11:00

VISIT WHAT'S IT'S NAME? OH YES: LLANFAIRPWYLLGWYNGYLLGOGERICHWYRNDROBLLLANTISILLIOGOGOGOCH

LONDON during the Olympics, a town with the longest name in Europe, the world's oldest clock, a tour of Buckingham Palace, and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are features of a 21-day UK cruise-tour in August this year.

Offered by Australia's Cruise Express, the hosted 'Glory of the British Isles' tour will begin during the final days of the London Olympics and also include ancient Stonehenge, London's now-leaning Big Ben, Shakespeare's home town, and a tour of the Queen's own former cruise ship, the Royal yacht Britannia.

The full, all-inclusive 21-day package tour departs Australia on August 7and begins with a five-night coach tour of southern England, including the Cotswolds, the Roman relics of Bath and the 750-year-old Salisbury Cathedral which boasts the tallest church spire in Britain (123m), the world's oldest working clock (626 years and still ticking) and the Magna Carta, written in 1215.

Cruise Express passengers will then board the deluxe, 3000-passenger superliner Caribbean Princess, in Southampton for a 12-night circumnavigation of the British Isles including the Channel Islands, Wales, Dublin and Belfast in Ireland, the Orkney Islands, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness in Scotland and Le Havre in France.

A special Cruise Express shore-tour package for $890 offers a guided tour in every port including a Welsh town with the longest place name in Europe stretching for 58 letters – Llanfairpwyllgwyngyllgogerichwyrndrobllllantisilliogogogoch – as well as the Guinness Brewery in Dublin, the Giant's Causeway and medieval ruins of Dunluce Castle near Belfast, Loch Ness and Cawdor Castle near Inverness, and the French town of Rouen where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in 1431.

Cruise Express's guests will also receive tickets to the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo at Edinburgh Castle, a cruise on Britain's largest lake, Loch Lomond, a tour through the Royal Yacht Britannia and two days of sightseeing in London including a ride on the London Eye, 2012 Olympic venues and a tour inside the 600-room Buckingham Palace.

Including return flights from Australia, extensive sightseeing, accommodation and 45 meals, the 21-day coach and cruise tour is available from $8190 per person, twin-share. A shorter 16-day package is also available from $6990pp twin-share.

Full details: Cruise Express 1300 766 537 or www.cruiseexpress.com.au

PORT STEPHENS PARASAILING AND THUNDARAFT 'DOUBLE DARE'

THE purchase of Port Stephen's Thundaraft operation by Port Stephens Parasailing has resulted in a new 'Double Dare' adrenalin deal that saves adventure seekers $30 a couple.

The offer from newly named Port Stephens Watersports includes a tandem parasail flight above the blue, dolphin-rich waters of Port Stephens plus a 45-minute, heart-pounding ride on the wave-jumping Thundaraft – all for $240 per couple – a saving of $30 per couple.

Port Stephens Watersports' 60-minute parasailing trips see high powered speedboats depart from the Nelson Bay marina every day, with passengers attached to parachutes from the boat for a thrilling flight 150m above the protected, crystal clear waters of Port Stephens. Riders take off and land straight from the boat so no experience is necessary. Many 'flyers' spot the bay's famous bottlenose dolphins while soaring over Port Stephens beneath their colourful parachutes.

Meanwhile, the high-tech rigid hull inflatable Thundaraft takes passengers on a thumping thrill ride over ocean waves to nearby islands for wildlife viewing.

For all deals and packages, call Port Stephens Watersports on 02 4982 2808 or visit the new website www.pswatersports.com.au

A 2½ hour drive north of Sydney, Port Stephens offers dolphin and whale watching cruises, sandboarding on Australia's biggest sand dunes, camel rides on the beach, horseriding, koala spotting, kayaking, fishing, fauna parks, wineries, bushwalks, seafood restaurants and a range of accommodation close to Port Stephens' bay and ocean beaches.

For general information on Port Stephens, visit www.portstephens.org.au

GET MORE WITH CRUISECO'S AZAMARA FLY, CRUISE & STAY DEALS

CRUISECO has 10-nights aboard the luxury mid-size Azamara Quest from Barcelona to Corsica, Italy, France and back to Barcelona on October 6 this year.

Priced from just $4,060pp twin-share, the package includes Earlybird return airfare and taxes from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide (deduct $50pp ex Perth), a deluxe pre-cruise hotel stay and another post-cruise hotel stay with breakfasts.

It also has 11-nights on sister-ship Azamara Journey from Paris (Rouen) to England, Ireland, France, Belgium and finally Amsterdam on May 6 2012 from a low $4485pp twin-share, again with Earlybird return airfare and taxes from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth, two-nights deluxe pre-cruise stay in Paris with breakfasts and one-night deluxe post-cruise stay in Amsterdam with breakfast.

Both these vessels carry under-700 passenger vessels and include boutique wines with onboard lunches and dinners, onboard gratuities, port charges, fees and taxes.

Cruiseco also has fourteen other fly, cruise and stay packages with Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey in 2012 in the Mediterranean, UK and Northern Europe, North Africa and from Suez to Mumbai.

For fully detailed itineraries and the name of your nearest Cruiseco cruise-specialist travel agent, go to www.cruising.com.au.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Both vessels are able to access more-intimate destinations than larger ships, have onboard "Destination Experts" who give talks and advice on ports of call, and guests are encouraged to embrace local cultures, music, dance, art, history, and activities such as biking, golf, walking or hiking.

ITALY'S NEW FOUR CLASS RAIL SERVICES

MELBOURNE-based International Rail is selling the new four classes of travel which are now available on Italy's Trenitalia services.

The new system will provided travellers with a clear choice for comfortable, speedy travel by rail rather than air.

These pioneering innovations are leading the way for rail travel in Europe with the top-of-the-range executive class offering access to Freecia club lounges, private meeting room, a quiet area, open bar and gourmet meals by renowned Italian chef Vissoni, free papers and magazines, great comfort in fewer seats and maximum ticket flexibility.

The four class system will be introduced service-wide but is now available on schedules between Rome, Milan and Naples.

The three other classes business, premium and standard are all offering improved facility with greater space for passengers and luggage.

Carriages on the new services will provide eight executive seats, 52 single and double business seats, 62 premium and 68 standard.

Typical of the fares are AUD270 to travel executive from Rome to Milan and AUD155 for business, AUD135 for premium and AUD115 for standard.

Customers can access Italian trains live through a direct connection on the IR website www.internationalrail.com.au or by calling 1300 387 245

KIDS SKI FREE AT JAPAN'S NISEKO

JAPAN'S Niseko has had some exceptional snow (almost 10 metres so far) and come March there will be ample snow for Australian families seeking a once-in-a-lifetime Japanese snow holiday.

The bilingual snow resort offers a fusion of western and Japanese accommodation, restaurants and Kids Clubs, some with first-time friendly moving carpets.

With strong Australian-owned and operated facilities, Niseko features luxury Western apartments/condos, which plenty of English (as well as Japanese) language signage making it easy to find trails that link four separate ski areas.

SkiJapan.com has announced children 12 years and under can Ski for free during the entire month of March at Niseko. The deal is available on All Mountain Lift Passes.

To take advantage of this free Lift Pass offer – a child would be with adults who purchase a SkiJapan.com accommodation package that can cost up to 60% less than peak season. Plus there's free night skiing and free village shuttle throughout March.

Also in March, SkiJapan.com has a pay for six, stay for seven-night offer at any of its numerous managed properties in Niseko.

SkiJapan.com can also source well-priced airfares to Sapporo (the closest international airport to Niseko) via Hong Kong, Seoul or Tokyo.

For more information e-mail enquiries@skijapan.com or call SkiJapan.com 1300 137 411.

Langham Hotel - Celebrity Solstice - Phillip Island

2012-01-22T22:32:00.002+11:00

Travel Briefs

John Crook

Snow in Summer-time

Snow holiday wholesaler Skimax is offering plenty of great packages for those looking to escape the hot summer months in Australia. It has included Korea in its annual line-up of Northern hemisphere ski and boarding holidays. The Koreans have long protested that their ski fields are the equal of anywhere in the world, and point to Yongpyong as one of the best resorts. The alpine resort, which will host numerous alpine skiing events at the 2018 Winter Olympics, has more than 25 kilometres of groomed slopes, 15 chairlifts, a 3.7 kilometre gondola (which incidentally is the longest in Asia) and a terrain park which ensures all levels of skiers and boarders are satisfied. The ski lifts even stay open until 10p.m. each day. There are also plenty of other resorts closer to the Korean capital of Seoul if your time is limited. A seven-day package staying at Greenpia Condominiums in an Ondol Room, plus a 6-day Yongpyong ski left ticket costs from $1,l 159 per person twin share. For more details, contact Skimax 1300 136 997 or at skimax.com.au

Australia's Best Hotel

If you'd like to treat yourself or there's someone you want to impress, it's be hard to go wrong by booking a room at The Langham in Melbourne. It has just been named Australia's best hotel by American travel bible, Travel + Leisure, in the 10th anniversary edition of its 500 world's best Hotels. The rooms which apparently caught the judge's eyes were the Club Terrace rooms. Seven exclusive rooms within the hotel were exquisitely redesigned to include 50 square metre outdoor terraces. Furnished with luxurious sun lounges and a matching outdoor dining set, the timeless terraces look out over Melbourne's fabulous skyline. You can even hire a personal butler, who will look after your every need. You know what they say about someone who asks how much this all costs – you probably can't afford it! But if you'd like to live the high life, visit langhamhotels.com to make your reservation.

Last minute Holiday Treat

School holidays are almost over in most states, but if you are all out of ideas, and the kids deserve a treat, then Phillip Island is offering some great last minute ideas for a summer escape. Phillip Island of course is home to the world famous penguin parade, and also the motorcycle GP. Several accommodation providers have joined forces with some of the regions leading attractions to offer some great deals. Casablanca Phillip Island is a quiet self contained Bed and Breakfast at Cowes, and holidaymakers staying for 3 nights during January will receive a fourth night free. Prices for self-contained units start from$220 per night for 4 people. For all packages, and a full listing of attractions at Phillip Island, check www.visitphillipisland.com or call 1300 366 422

Free Upgrades on new Superliner

While the Italian cruise disaster is still making news, it seems most travellers believe that lightning is unlikely to strike twice. Travel agents say cruises are still proving very popular, and Cruiseco is offering a real enticement for travellers to experience life on board one of the most stunning superliner's ever to be based in Australasia. Book by February 29th this year for any of the eleven to thirty-five nights sailing on the 5-star Solstice, and you'll be upgraded from an interior cabin to a balcony cabin at no extra cost. The 122,000 tonne ship can carry 2850 passengers and has ten restaurants, cafes, grills and speciality dining venues. That's not to mention the nine bars and lounges, glass blowing studio (no kidding!), theatre, pools, casino and youth fun factory. An eleven night Tropical Queensland at Easter cruise sails Sydney-Sydney on March 28, 2013, and starts from $1650pp twin-share. For full itineraries and prices, go to www.cruising.com.au

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency. Block-out periods may apply.

Need a holiday? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

SeaDream Amazon - Italy Lake Tour - Burma River Cruise - HAL Baltic - US Parks

2012-01-17T13:28:00.003+11:00

20-NIGHTS ON 5-STAR SEADREAM II FROM BARBADOS UP THE AMAZON

IF you got a nice bonus in your Christmas pay packet, SeaDream Yacht Club's 5-star SeaDream II is sailing two extremely rare voyages in February and March of this year – the first is 20-nights from Bridgetown in Barbados in the Caribbean on February 13 to the-once notorious Devil's Island in French Guiana, and then a dozen ports on the Amazon River in Brazil and Colombia to Iquitos in Peru, and the second is 20-nights back to Bridgetown on March 4.

And both sailings are now exceptionally priced for last-minute sale from US$16,619pp twin-share including all 5-star gourmet dining, wines with lunch and dinner, drinks from the open bars, use of a 30-course golf simulator, power and sail watersports (in ports where allowed,) onboard gratuities, government charges and taxes; air fares are additional.

SeaDream II carries a maximum of just 112-guests in 56-staterooms served by 95-crew, with open-seating dining indoors or on deck and with dress requirements at dinner Smart Casual only; for full itineraries and other details see travel agents or visit www.seadream.com

ITALY LAKES TOUR IN SPRING WILL HAVE YOU OVER THE MOON

CAROLINASUSI Italia Tours has a 15-night escorted tour of Italy's Northern Lakes District this European Spring that's purely for gourmets and garden lovers, shopaholics and serious sightseers, photographers – and the just plain-curious.

Limited to just 20-guests escorted by Carolinasusi's Australian owners, this unique tour will venture from the streets of Romeo and Juliet's Verona to the bar in Varese in which the cocktail Apollo 11 was created 40-odd years ago on the night "a man named Armstrong walked upon the Moon," to the villas of the rich and famous of the 1920s and '30s, dining with a renowned local chef, and unspoiled little towns and market villages that larger coaches cannot access.

By contrast there'll be the chance to explore Vicenza (including its Teatro Olimpico that opened in the 1580s as Europe's first theatre,) Venice and its boutiques for designer clothes… and in little Marostica the possibility to dine in one of Ernest Hemingway's favourite restaurants.*

Or try a coffee with traditional hazelnut, almond, cinnamon and vanilla biscuits, chocolates in more ways than you thought possible, cruise postcard-perfect lakes, wander historic gardens, sip wines from centuries-old family vineyards.

The May 21 tour is priced from $6895pp ex-Milan including 15-nights twin-share, breakfasts and most dinners, lunches in alpine and lakeside venues, coach touring, lake cruises, villa entries, walking tours of Verona, Vicenza and Venice, a rack-railway trip and Australian escorts assisted by local professional guides.

Details on www.carolinasusi.com.au or phone 1800 770 599.

* The restaurant today still serves his favourite dish: vegetables marinated in olive oil and lemon juice and baked with sausages and pork.

RIVER CRUISE UNSPOILED MYANMAR (BURMA)

THE worldwide boom in river cruising has reached the unspoiled country of Myanmar (Burma) where Australians can now explore this exotic, culturally intact country aboard luxury, colonially-styled river boats as part of new fly/cruise packages.

Cruise Express is offering an 11-night package that features an eight-night cruise along Burma's beautiful Irrawaddy River between Prome and Mandalay aboard the boutique, 64-passenger Orient Pandaw, which is air-conditioned and handcrafted in brass and teak. Along the way, passengers will visit spectacular gilded pagodas, Buddhist monasteries, unspoiled villages, markets and schools and other community projects supported by international tourism companies and river cruise passengers.

Available from June,2012, to April 2013, the new package includes return flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide or Perth, one-night's deluxe accommodation pre-cruise in Yangon (Rangoon), the eight-night cruise including all meals, soft drinks, local beers and spirits, two-nights deluxe accommodation after the cruise in Mandalay, daily breakfast on land and extensive sightseeing with local guides along the way.

The 11-night package is available from $4999 per person, twin-share.

Call Cruise Express on 1300 766 537 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au for details.

CRUISECO'S PREMIUM CRUISING SANS THE PREMIUM PRICE

CRUISECO has coupled Earlybird Airfares with exclusive prices aboard the premium ships of Holland America Line, to create four super-value fly, cruise and stay holidays between May and September 2012 that range from 10- to 30-nights across regions as diverse as the Mediterranean, Egypt, Black Sea and Russia, the Baltic, North Sea and North Cape.

And prices begin from as low as just $4210pp twin-share for 10-nights from Civitavecchia (Rome) on September 5 2012 to seven ports in Italy, Monaco, Spain and Tunisia and back to Civitavecchia, including a 2-night hotel stay in Rome and return airfares from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.

Even a 30-night Black Sea & Holy Land package is priced from only $9050pp twin-share, with a departure on September 17 2012 from Barcelona to Civitavecchia (Rome) by way of 19-ports in Greece, Turkey, Russia, the Ukraine, Bulgaria, Egypt, Israel and Croatia, with a 2-night pre-cruise hotel stay in Barcelona, 2-nights post-cruise in Rome and return airfares from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.

Other packages include a Mediterranean 20-night fly, cruise and stay offer from Civitavecchia return on July 7 from $5725pp twin-share, and 29-nights fly, cruise and stay from Tilbury (London) to Amsterdam on May 28 2012 visiting ports in the Baltic, Russia and North Cape and priced from $7615pp twin-share.

Cruiseco can also arrange optional pre/post cruise tours and transfers; for fully detailed itineraries of these four unique packages, and the name of your nearest Cruiseco cruise-specialist travel agent, go to www.cruising.com.au.

STAY IN USA's MOST SPECTACULAR NATIONAL PARKS

TOUR operators Globus and Cosmos have formed an exclusive partnership with US National Parks giving them the opportunity to contribute to the preservation of America's pristine wilderness, whilst also treating their passengers to unique experiences.

Through the recently introduced GoParks! scheme, the Globus family of brands makes a charitable donation to the US National Parks Foundation on behalf of every Australian passenger who visits a park on one of its tours.

In return, Globus and Cosmos have access to accommodation within America's most spectacular national parks including Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon as well as special tour experiences such as a four-wheel drive adventure through Monument Valley with a Navajo guide.

During Cosmos' 13-day National Parks and Canyon Country tour, travellers stay overnight in World Heritage-listed Yellowstone National Park.

Priced from $1399* per person twin share, the trip also includes visits to Jenny Lake in Grand Teton National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park as well as an overnight stay on the rim of the Grand Canyon.

Globus' 14-day Western Explorer visits Bryce Canyon, Zion and Yosemite national parks as well as the Grand Canyon, where travellers stay overnight in a national park lodge, waking up to one of the seven wonders of the world the next day. The tour is priced from $2699* per person twin share.

More than 20 Globus and Cosmos tours take advantage of the initiative, which has raised substantial funds for restoration projects during its first year.

*Prices subject to availability, conditions apply. For full details and conditions see travel agents or visit www.globus.com.au or www.cosmostours.com.au

Royal Clipper - India Tour - Travel Insurance - Accor Brisbane - Luke Nguyen Tour

2011-12-12T12:47:00.000+11:00

STAR ACT FOR CARIBBEAN WHALE WATCHERS

CRUISE passengers on the tall ship Royal Clipper will have more chances to spot whales and dolphins and delve into the mysteries of marine biology in the Caribbean next year.

Star Clippers, operators of the world's largest fleet of luxury sailing ships Royal Clipper, Star Flyer and Star Clipper, have appointed Spanish-born Laura Del Rio Torres as marine biologist-in-residence for the 2012 Caribbean season aboard Royal Clipper.

A graduate of universities in Barcelona and New Jersey, Laura will give talks on marine wildlife, operate a daily whale and dolphin watch, lead beach walks and join guests on dives. She will also continue studies of the environment in which Royal Clipper sails.

Royal Clipper spends nearly five months a year (November to April) in the Caribbean sailing from Barbados on mainly seven-night cruises.

Owner-operator of Star Clippers, Mikael Kraftt, said: "We at Star Clippers are passionately committed to preserving the environment and by offering more opportunities for our guests to learn and get involved, we hope to pass on our enthusiasm."

For reservations contact travel agents or Star Clippers on 1300 362 599 or visit www.starclippers.com

UNIQUE INDIA HOLIDAY INCLUDES CAMEL RACES, DANCING HORSES AND SUNRISE AT THE TAJ

HOLIDAY Specialists has a genuinely out-of-the-ordinary very-small-group travel experience to India in November 2012 that will include not only luxury hotels and sightseeing in Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Jaislamer and Agra, but the colourful and highly-unusual Pushkar Camel Fair – one of the world's largest tribal gatherings with events ranging from camel racing and horse dancing, to musical performances and seldom-seen cultural programs.

Limited to just sixteen guests this exclusive package also includes an Australian escort, pre-departure Cocktail Party in Sydney, a Welcome Dinner in Delhi, a Gala Dinner at Meherangarh Fort in Jodhpur, a Farewell dinner in Agra and a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, and a 2-night stay in deluxe tents in the heart of the Pushkar Fair Grounds.

There'll also be 2-nights at the Dera Sand Dune Retreat in Jamba in the Rajasthan Desert, the world's first resort built on a sand dune.

The 16-day luxury package is priced from $5,897pp twin-share including return air and taxes from Sydney. For full details call Holiday Specialists on 1300 783 852 or visit www.holidayspecialists.com.au

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: The annual 5-day Pushkar Camel Fair attracts up to 300,000 tourists and tribes people, with 20,000 camels, cattle and horses brought in to participate in races, camel and horse dances, camel decorating, traditional tribal games and cultural programs from dancing to turban tying.

Thousands of those attending also bathe in Pushkar Lake during the full moon that coincides with the Fair – believing that bathing during the full moon will release them of their sins.

PUT TRAVEL INSURANCE AT TOP OF THE HOLIDAY LIST

ALMOST 40 per cent of Australian holidaymakers fail to buy their travel insurance until a week before their holiday, putting themselves at financial risk, according to leading online travel insurance company Travel Insurance Direct (TID).

While travellers often purchase their airfares up to a year in advance to secure a bargain, research shows travel insurance was being pushed down the list and bought much later, TID spokesman Graham Kingaby said.

"Many unforeseen issues, from airline strikes to floods, can jeopardise your holiday plans at the last minute. And if disaster strikes before your holiday and you haven't bought travel insurance, you'll lose your cash as well as your vacation."

Mr Kingaby said TID's research showed around two-thirds of travellers bought their insurance in the four weeks before they travelled, with almost 40 per cent waiting until the final week before departure.

"Travel insurance isn't a last minute bargain – you get the best benefit by purchasing early, as soon as you book your flights.

"In the case of the Icelandic volcano eruption in April 2010, which led to an estimated 300,000 flight cancellations, travel insurance exclusions on cancellation and delay came into effect the day after the eruption.

"Those who had bought their insurance before the eruption were fine. But anyone planning to travel in the week after the volcano erupted who didn't already have travel insurance, would have been cursing their tardiness."

And travel insurance, he said, was far cheaper than most holidaymakers believed. "A single person's policy for a week in Bali is about $40. When you consider the cost of losing your luggage or having to seek medical treatment overseas, that's clearly money well spent."

See www.travelinsurancedirect.com.au

ACCOR's WINNING RATES DURING BRISBANE'S INTERNATIONAL TENNIS TOURNAMENT

ACCOR'S Novotel, Mercure and Ibis hotels have slammed down their rates during the 2012 Brisbane International Tennis Tournament.

The Brisbane International which will be held from January 1-8, 2012 at the Queensland Tennis Centre will attract some of the world's best international tennis stars including Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova, Kim Clijsters, Ana Ivanovic and Australia's own Sam Stosur and Bernard Tomic.

Accor Brisbane hotels are offering unbeatable accommodation rates during the Tournament: until the end of January it has a Summer Special 'stay a little longer, save a little more' where tennis fans staying two or more nights will save 10% and receive a free breakfast.

Head to Novotel Brisbane for rates from $179 per night, Mercure Brisbane from $159 per night, or the Ibis Brisbane from $139 per night.

To book call Novotel on 07 3309 3309, Ibis on 07 3237 2333 or Mercure on 07 3237 2300 or visit www.accorhotels.com.au

Rates are subject to availability and conditions apply.

LUKE NGUYEN LEADS VIETNAM FOODIE TOUR

CELEBRITY chef Luke Nguyen will lead two food-themed APT 19-day Vietnam and Cambodia Signature Experience tour-cruises next year, one on June 30 and the other on December 29.

Luke Nguyen is famous for his SBS cooking show "Luke Nguyen's Vietnam", his cook books and his world-renowned Sydney restaurant Red Lantern. He will be with the tour over 10 days.

Among the Nguyen-inspired experiences on the Hanoi-to-Siem Reap itinerary are sampling authentic homemade Pho from a side-street stall in Hanoi, a vegetarian banquet lunch at Dong Thien Pagoda nunnery in Hue, a class-lunch at the Morning

Glory Cooking School in Hoi An and in Saigon, exploring the local neighbourhood of his family, a cooking class based on his menu with matching wines and a Red Lantern-style degustation dinner with matching wines.

Following the Saigon cooking lesson, a professional mixologist, using ingredients such as tamarind, lychee, chilli and lemongrass, explains the art of creating Asian-inspired cocktails.

The price of this holiday is from $8395 per person twin share, which includes the above experiences, another 44 meals, five-star hotels in Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An, Saigon and Siem Reap, overnight sailing on a Ha Long Bay junk, eight days cruising on the Mekong River on the new luxury APT-owned RV AmaLotus, small group shore excursions, city tours, internal flights, port charges, tipping, soft drink, local beer and spirit at all times during the cruise as well as regional wines with lunch and dinner on the RV AmaLotus.

As APT's Ambassador for Vietnam, Luke Nguyen also recommends city restaurants for APT's Dine Around Dinner concept, which provides dining choices covered by the tour price.

APT's package includes free return flights deal for bookings made before March 31. Call 1300 229 804, visit www.aptouring.com.au or see a travel agent.

Chelsea Flower Show - Ski Japan - Irish Spirit

2011-12-12T10:20:00.000+11:00

12 Dec 11

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Grabbed around gardens
Once I was the first to escape gardening tours, that was until a good friend of mine, Colin Campbell persuaded me to 'let the aromas float in'. These days there are plenty of quality garden tours on offer.   Departing from London, on May 19 2012, I just may be doing that with the departure of a small group touring some English gardens including the best known of all gardens, - Chelsea. This is part of a 7-day Chelsea Flower Show and the Gardens of Kent and London.   Check out the itinerary, prices and some of the finer points of this garden tour, by ringing 1300 100 410. The tour in question looks like being one of the best in this upcoming year of flower shows.

Plenty of snow around
At last report the snow at Nesko is feather light.
Japan's Niseko is renowned for top quality which has blessed the fields of Japan. There is so much good news these days, it would be a shame if you do not pay a visit.   Rod White of SkiJapan has a daily information (and honest) report for your viewing. Just visit www.Ski.Japan.com

40 passengers on Irish Spirit
Here's one of the current Irish hols on the market. The magical Emerald Isle's stunning scenery awaits. No need for me to try to talk you into consider checking this one out. It has Ireland written al over it. The real Island !! Go visit www.tempoholidays.com or telephone 1300 558 987.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency.   Block-out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Red Carnation - Best Bakery - Sovereign Hill - Pacific Arts Festival - Globus US

2011-12-05T10:01:00.001+11:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS
John Crook

Red Carnation
This group of high end hotels includes '41' in London. It is a discreet haven for comfort and style. There is a great offer in the regards to packages. An offer is available for those who book a Magical London deal which is inclusive of so many goodies,- quality goodies at that. Two nights accommodation, a warm drink on arrival, a full English breakfast daily, a festive afternoon tea (not available December 25), a festive turndown treat at bedtime, free movies, a 6.00pm checkout on day of departure, and for guests staying on Christmas Eve a stocking full of delightful surprises. For all the details go visit www.redcarnationhotels.com

My best baker recommendation
I judge the places I visit by the quality of the town's local bakery, or rather the baker's breads. Naturally enough, there is some difficulty to do justice to the hundreds of bakeries in this country, you will just have to leave it to me to be as fair as possible. Until I find better I'm putting my hand up to salute the Romsey Bakery, in the tiny village of same name.   In most cases, particularly at weekends, the 'sold out' sign is displayed before 11.00 in the morning. Romsey is north of Melbourne,- and is well supported by air crews who call Romsey 'home'. The pies and treats are also in first class mode.

But first, it's Ballarat
Let's take in Sovereign Hill (part of the Ballarat scene). Every day from December 26 until January 28 2012, Sovereign Hill will host fun filled activities. New theatre performances, treasure hunts, underground tour, music and art are all part and parcel just waiting for you and the kids.
For all the details grab control of your computer and go visit www.sovereignhill.com.au or telephone (03) 9836 2167

11th Festival of Pacific Arts
Honiara is the location for the 11th Festival of Arts between July 1 to 14 2012. Featuring 2,500 performers, artists and Cultural practitioners from 27 countries. The fist thing I would be pursuing is availability of accommodation, which I imagine would be in great demand. For all the details on travel, accommodation and cultural activities (watch this space), or Google 11th Festival of Pacific Arts.

Globus and Cosmos have formed a partnership with US National Parks which allows special exclusive deals in America's pristine wilderness. Every passenger from Australia makes a charitable donation. In return the tour groups of Globus and Cosmos have access to accommodation within the spectacular national arts including Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon as well as special tour experiences such as four-wheel drive adventure through Monument Valley, with a Navajo guide. Wowee !!!   Contact your travel agent of go visit www.globus.com.au or www.cosmostours.com.au

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency.   Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Castlemaine Victoria - Cape York 4WD tour - Christmas Cruise - Morocco

2011-11-28T10:28:00.000+11:00

28 Nov 11
TRAVEL BRIEFS
John Crook

A dining experience like no other
A recent visit into the central Victorian city of Castlemaine gave me the chance to join locals at The Good Table. This is one of the best restaurants I've included in my Central Victorian travels. Their six course tasting menu' is on offer at just $50 a head. Beverages are additional. Each month Chef Alex Perry orders in local produce for his menu. November for example included eggplant and zucchini flowers from Dragi, Diggers Rest; tomato and stone fruit from Uncle George Harcourt; Butter from the Myrtleford Butter Factory; goats cheese from Holy Goat Organic Farm, Sutton Grange; and on the list goes. December will have a different list of local inclusions, January ditto and so on. We chose our dishes from the menu. Prices are very reasonable. A true gourmet's experience. A return visit is guaranteed. Lunch and dinner Thursday to Sunday. Reservations (03) 5472 4400 or go visit www.thegoodtable.com.au

Cairns to Cape York
A 12-day Cape York and Cooktown in depth is planned for next year. The price is from $5795 per person, twin share and that includes a $600 per couple saving for bookings made before February 29. The price includes guided touring in a custom-designed 24-passenger 4WD vehicle, accommodation, 26 meals, flights from Horn Island to Cairns, entrance fees, permits, transfers and cruises. Highlights include Cairns, Kuranda, Cape Tribulation, the Daintree, the Bloomfield Track, Cooktown (one of my favourite Oz destinations), Weipa, Coen, the Gulf Country, Cape York and Thursday Island. One heck of a tour. Get the facts by visiting www.aptouring.com.au, travel agents or call 1300 229 804.

Celebrate Next Christmas
The deal is a 12-night cruise from Sydney to Auckland aboard one of the largest and most spectacular super-liners ever to visit Australia. Join the 122,000 tonne vessel in Sydney where the celebrations begin. There are two nights post-cruise in Auckland's Stamford Plaza Hotel. There's one-way travel from Auckland back to Sydney. You really need to get all the details for what looks like one of the best value-for-money tours in 2012. Full details from travel agents, or for detailed itineraries and the name of your nearest Cruiseco cruise-specialist travel agent go to www.cruising.com.au

Snake charmers and fortune tellers
It has to be magical Morocco. It is an eight-day package planned for those folk with limited time and on a budget. It's amazing what one can cram into eight-days. Morocco, Rabat, Marrakesh and Casablanca. Leave it to Temp Holidays and they have the answer. A glance at their latest brochure will provide the answers. The tour is priced from $737 per person twin share. Conditions do apply, so telephone 1300 558 987 or go visit www.tempoholidays.com. The folk at Tempo have the answers.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency. Block-out periods may apply.

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Provence Tour - Moscow - Tempo 50% off -

2011-11-21T15:17:00.000+11:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS
John Crook

Top tour in Provence
She is at it again. One of my best friends has just released a tour of Provence. If perchance you have read one of her six books you need no prodding from me. Ann Rickard is leading a two-week tour of Provence in June of next year and again in 2013. Her tours are have a base in an 18th century stone maison. Excursions to nearby towns include Avignon, Gordes and hill top villages There are market tours, gala dinners, long luncheons, elementary French lessons, even cooking demonstrations. I've known Ann and husband Geoffrey for some years and I know that there is always a queue of people making enquiries about the tours which the couple schedule on a semi-regular basis.   For more information, inclusions ad conditions go visit www.annrickard.com or telephone the lady herself on 0408 557 311. In a nutshell, these tours are like having a personal invitation to a two-week party in the south of France.   I could not thinking of a better French experience. Folks! It's party time !!

Two nights in Moscow, - and more
Explore Russia in style with two new river cruise packages which offer accommodation in fabulous hotels near famous attractions in Moscow and St Petersburg, and with six nights aboard the MS Volga Dream.   Also, included in the price tag, are most meals (served with house wine with lunch and dinner), lectures and daily sightseeing. For a full itinerary, conditions and terms just visit www.bentours.com.au or telephone 1800 221 712.

Benefit with a 50% discount
There's been a 50% discount on the Tempo Holidays Wonders of Egypt package which combines Cairo and Alexandria with an eleven day journey into history. Discover 5000 years of history priced from just $3,500 per couple when booked by 30 November. The price is inclusive of discount, based on two passengers travelling together and sharing a twin or double room. It is valid for travel until September 21, 2012. Explore the Giza Pyramids, the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum . All that, and more, before moving on the Catacombs, Pompey's Pillar and the El Alamein's World War 11 battlefields. International air travel is not included.
Get the facts and the tour itinerary by visiting www.tempoholidays.com or telephone 1300 558 987. There's so much more to this package, which is deserving of your interest and of course, discovery.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency.   Block-out periods may apply.

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Newcastle - Dalmatia by Small Ship - Stonehenge - Spain

2011-11-14T13:03:00.001+11:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS
John Crook

Congratulations Newcastle
I 'discovered' the New South Wales city of Newcastle a couple of years ago. I was knocked out by the attractiveness of a city which was once heavy industrial. Industry still plays a role in the lives of those who live here, but oh-how it has changed. Great buildings from another era, a bevy of restaurants ((on a par with some of Sydney's best). A range of tours and activities form part of an exciting slice of NSW. Inner city wine tours, a Newcastle Ghosts' tour, and did I mention restaurants ? You bet I did ! Try this one. Rustica on Hunter Street. This dining spot has great views of the ocean and its Mediterranean menu which throws its doors open for those looking for a real treat.

Deluxe small ship cruising
Beyond Travel has just introduced a choice of cruising in Dalmatia and the eastern Mediterranean. Among the new eight-day itineraries for 2012 is a voyage on the mega yacht Harmony G, a modern vessel for up to 44 guests. Check the itineraries which are available through Beyond Travel. Telephone 1300 363 554 for the details.

A chance to do some back road touring
In my opinion, Back Roads Touring, is the answer for those folk looking to do some soft adventure touring. This is real soft adventure, like touring aboard a Mercedes-Benz with 15 fellow travellers. The back roads tour gets you into the Salisbury Plain, visiting Stonehenge, Salisbury and Windsor Castle. In keeping with back roads touring, you get to stay in charming accommodation. This is my style of soft-adventure touring. A nice surprise awaits would-be travellers, being an early bird saving if booked and paid in full by December 15. Call 1300 100 410.

Sit back and relax
This time around I'm spotlighting a group of tours which should satisfy those from 'down under' who want to get in touch with their mother lands. Tempo coach tours offer the best seats in the house (or should that be coach?) no matter what, it's a grand tour covering Spain, Italy and Turkey.

International flights are provided by Etihad. There are savings on offer as well. To ascertain how you can benefit, it's just a matter of ringing 1300 558 987.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency. Block-out periods may apply.

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Vietnam and Cambodia - Topdeck New Zealand - Norway - SeaDream Amazon

2011-11-07T10:23:00.000+11:00

7 Nov 11

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

A free deal
Travelmarvel is offering a fly-free deal from Australia, with a saving well worth pursuing. Make contact with www.travelmarvel.com.au or your travel agency, and receive details on the 12-day Essential Vietnam and Cambodia (just one example)m priced from $3495 per person, twin share. This includes eight-days cruising between Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap. If I were you, I would make a simple phone call, 1300 805 493. Conditions apply. To benefit, deposits need to be paid by March 31, 2012.

If you're young, this is for you!
Topdeck, the youth travel operator, is taking 20% off its Reverse New Zealand trips of ten days or more, when booked by November 30 2011. For instance, stay overnight in a traditional Maori marae, enjoy an overnight cruise on Milford Sound, hike the Fox Glacier and throw yourself off a bridge in Queenstown.   It's a 17-day Kiwi Encounter Reverse from Christchurch to Auckland from $1925, a saving of $480.    Check out the facts by calling 1300 886 332 or visit www.topdeck.travel, or chat it over with your local travel agent.

Explore Norway
Scenic landscapes featuring snow capped mountains and crystalline glaciers await. Royal Caribbean's Arctic Circe and Northern Lights cruise departs Amsterdam on June 6, 2012 from $4199. The itinerary includes a couple of nights in Amsterdam staying at the Holiday Inn, before boarding the four-star Brilliance of the Seas to explore magnificent fjord country, the beauty and wildlife of the Arctic Circle and the colourful Arctic city of Tromso. Book before 12 November and receive a $200 voucher for your next cruise. For all the details go visit www.cruise1st.com.au or telephone 1800 331 506.

Too good to miss
Here is news of a cruise which embraces Chile, Colombia, the Caribbean and a boutique SeaDream 11 cruise up the Amazon River. Business Class airfares ex Sydney for two nights each at Santiago, Bogota and colonial Zipaquira. Then there is a two night stay in Barbados. Five star, or best available accommodation.
Even an excursion to Machu Picchu aboard the luxury Orient Express.   All with organised sightseeing. This has to be a trip of a life time. Best thing is to arrange a chat with those in the know. Go visit www.farhorizons.com.au Personally. I would be inclined to telephone the escorts of the package, namely Martin and Auriel Wright, the founders of Far Horizons. Ring 1800 083 141. Please do yourself a favour and get a fully-detailed itinerary. Conditions apply.
Then let the journey begin !

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency.   Block-out periods may apply.

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Wurlitzer Wonder - Beverley Harvest Festival - Outback Adventures - Sunshine Coast

2011-10-31T13:32:00.000+11:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

The Wurlitzer is back
Here's the chance to catch the music of the mighty Wurlitzer. As a kid I made a beeline each weekend to witness the offerings of Knight Barnett at the console of the Regent Theatre in Adelaide. These instruments of glory got lost midst the music of the rock 'n roll era. However, there are a number of outlets which feature the Wurlitzer. One in particular has Thomas Heywood in concert at the Kingston City Hall in Melbourne. The date – Saturday November 26, at 2-00pm. For more information telephone (03) 9556 4440. Heywood took lessons when he was just four and performed at five.

Beverley Harvest Festival
Thanks to the good folk at York in Western Australia, I am being kept informed on some of the events and activities happening in the west. Beverley is only a short drive from Perth and you are invited to include their big festival on November 19 and 20. The festival kicks off with a concert featuring Daryl Braithwaite and his full touring band. For more information on this part of the world, go visit www.yorkwa.org

Check these out
APT has just released its 2012 Outback wilderness adventures which carry discounts of up to $900 a couple,- with the condition that bookings are made prior to February 29 2012. Small group 4WD adventures include Kimberley, Cape York, the Red Centre, the Top End, the gulf country, Birdsville, the Pilbara, the Flinders Ranges and Lake Eyre, during the April to October season. For touring information, prices and conditions telephone 1300 229 or go visit www.aptouring.com.au Your travel agent should have relevant information.

Sunshine Coast
Things are on the move in the high country west of the Sunshine Coast. Mention Maleny, or the Tamarind, and luxury. If that's a question, then the answer must be a real beauty. Popular Sunshine Coast hinterland property, Spicers Tamarind Retreat, has continued its expansion with the addition of six new two-bedroom pavilions. Truly, a slice of heaven. If there's a glimmer of interest, take my advice and go straight to www.spicersgroup.com.au or telephone 1300 311 429. Spicers Tamarind Retreat is located at 88 Obi Lane South in the Sunshine Coast hinterland. See you there!

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency. Block-out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

National Circus Centre - Phillip Island - Free Air for Gold Cruise - Asia Cruise Deal - Fiji Resort Deal

2011-10-24T18:04:00.002+11:00

Travel Briefs

John Crook

Catch a rising star

Graduating artists shine in a stella finale performance season at the National Institute of Circus Centre in Prahran from November 23 to December 3, 2011. Ticketing is available and bookings may be made www.nica.com.au For general enquiries telephone (03) 9214 6975.

One heck of a place

I refer to Phillip Island where there is coastal-style adventure, wildlife galore, and such an array of local foods and wines. Fishing is one of the popular pastimes. Grab a rod, check out the type of bait which is recommended and with sea breeze in your face, go out after the big ones. If you are really keen, try one of the charter boats on offer at Rhyll and San Remo. For information on accommodation, attractions, events, go visit www.visitphillipisland.com or telephone 1300 366 422.

Free air fares for 2012 Europe golf cruises

Sounds pretty good to me, so how about you ? Rounds of golf at three courses in Scotland, three in Germany and one in Austria, are now part of a new series of APT Magnificent Europe luxury river cruises with land extensions next year. These have been launched with a free airfares offer, including air taxes of $850. Deal bookings must be made before January 31, 2012. The 20-day package starts in Glasgow on May 1 and September 23, while the 15-day cruise only version starts in Amsterdam on May 6 and September 28. All finish in Budapest. For the full story, go visit www.aptouring.com.au or telephone 1300 229 804. Visiting your travel agent could also be a good thought.

Unbeatable voyages - Sydney and UK

There are hugely-discounted prices for last-available cabins aboard the 650-passenger Discovery on a sailing from Bangkok to Hong Kong on December 19, this year. It's now available from a low, low $2060 per person twin share for 16-nights, as well as on six sectors of Discovery's cruise from Sydney back to the UK between February and April 2012. Conditions apply, and I would suggest you make a move as soon as you can. This is sailing at its best, -so contact your nearest Cruiseco-specialist travel agent by visiting www.cruising.com.au

Stay four pay three

Australians visiting Fiji should check out the great stay four, pay three deal on the tropical paradise located on the island of Malolo in the beautiful Fiji islands. Enjoy the famous Fijian hospitality from only $210 per bure per night, with the price based on a one bedroom bure, which sleeps two adults. The offer applies to all accommodation types and is valid until 31 March 2012, including school holidays and Christmas. You really should check out Fiji's Walu Beach Resort. Conditions do apply, so if you are interested, check with your travel agent, or go visit www.walubeach.com

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency. Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Hyatt Regency Coolum - Germany at Christmas - Sydney Fish Markets - Turkey Cave Hotels - Europe Earlybirds

2011-10-17T13:00:00.001+11:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Friends double up
For a spot of luxury which is a shared experience the good folk of the Hyatt Regency Coolum offer the 'lap of luxury' package for friends, offering all the privileges of its Ambassador Club. This means that four people may share This means two king size bedrooms, two spa bathrooms and stylish living areas. The package is priced from AU$378 per couple per night. To learn more about the inclusions
telephone 1800 266 586.

Germany and a Christmas Fantasy
There's a seven-day and a five-day package on offer. Accommodation is in 3-4 star hotels. Just check out the inclusions and conditions by calling 1300 558 987. The seven day Christmas Fantasy tour, departs Munich and is priced from $1432 per person twin share. The five day tour departs Frankfurt and is priced from $891 per person twin share.   What a wonderful way to spend the Christmas season.

Sydney Seafood School's summer program.
Australia's largest cooking school offers hands-on facilities for 50 guests. For those who want smaller, more intimate classes check out the packages catering for those smaller groupies. There is a 3-course dinner school with matching wines.   Giovanni Pilu of Pilu at Freshwater and his award winning sommelier, Lara Caraturo, have their guests working in pairs to prepare three Sardinian inspired courses. OK! For more information and bookings telephone (02) 9004 1111. For all the info on upcoming programs go visit www.sydneyfishmarket.com.au

Stay in cave hotels
Accommodation from cave hotels, to Ottoman mansions and historic boutique hotels provided so many different options for those joining small group tours of Turkey. Eastern Turkey, to be more precise. The tours operate between May and September next year. Priced from $1834 per person twin share the itineraries range from Troy, Anzac Cove, the lime cascades, these tours must surely be amongst the most memorable on offer. It would pay for you to go visit www.iconjourneys.com   Or, why not ring 1300 853 953 ?

Earlybird airfares
There is a choice of European cities with special earlybird airfares awaiting those travellers heading into Europe. The fares, with Cathay Pacific are available from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and yes, also from Adelaide and Perth. Destinations are London, Paris, Rome, Milan, Frankfurt and Amsterdam. For the full story telephone 1300 303 343 or visit www.ventureholidays.com.au

By the way, please note the airfares are for sale until March 31 2012. There are also accommodation packages available to all six cities ranging from between $456 and $934 per person, twin share for seven nights with daily breakfasts and with some guided sightseeing.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency.   Block-out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Amazon Cruise - Amalotus Mekong - Last Minute Hotel Deals - Northern Europe Cruise

2011-10-16T10:55:00.001+11:00

EXTRAODINARY TOUR EMBRACES CHILE, COLOMBIA, THE CARIBBEAN – AND BOUTIQUE SEADREAM II UP THE AMAZON RIVER

FAR Horizons is offering an extraordinary holiday package aboard Sea Dream II, with Business Class air from Sydney for two nights each in Santiago in Chile, Bogota and colonial Zipaquira in Colombia, a further two in Barbados in the Caribbean – all with organised sightseeing – then 21-days on the inaugural Amazon cruise by award-winning SeaDream II* that carries just 112-guests, including seven days cruising south to Tobago and Devil's Island then an amazing 14-days cruising up the Amazon River.

On Sea Dream's arrival at Iquitos the tour continues by air to Lima for 2-nights at the 5-star Lima Country Club that's now a National Monument, then to Cuzco for three nights in South America's oldest continually inhabited city, with visits to the Pisac Indian Markets in the Urubamba Valley and an excursion to Machu Picchu on the luxury Orient Express train named Hiram Bingham after the man who discovered the Lost City of the Incas in 1911.

The tour is fully-escorted by Martin and Auriel Wright, founders of Far Horizons tours in 1976. Price for the full 37-days departing on February 4 2012 starts from $43,500pp twin-share including all meals, five-star or best-available accommodation, sightseeing, and much more; spaces are limited and booking deadline is 31st October. For a fully-detailed itinerary phone 1800 083 141 or visit www.farhorizons.com.au

*SeaDream II has just been given top rating by the Berlitz Guide to Cruising and Cruise Ships in the Boutique Ships category; SeaDream II includes all 5-star onboard gourmet dining, wines with lunch and dinner, no-charge bars, nightly cocktail gatherings, a 30-course golf simulator, and gratuities. Most other meals and daily sightseeing during the tour are also included.

AMALOTUS FLOWERS FOR APT ON THE MEKONG

APT's new 62-suite luxury river ship AmaLotus has begun her career cruising Vietnam's Mekong River.

The vessel is owned and operated by APT, AMAWATERWAYS of Europe and APT's Vietnam partners, Indochina Sails.

"(She) is the most modern and beautiful ship to sail the Mekong River," said APT owner Geoff McGeary.

AmaLotus offers the largest suites on the Mekong, 90% of which have APT's unique twin balconies that give an outside balcony and glass-sided indoor conservatory that opens to create another balcony; she also has two lounges, a library, sun deck with pool and bar, spa, fitness centre and restaurant.

Passengers have a choice of Asian and Western cuisine, regional wine is included with lunch and dinner and soft drinks and local beers and local spirits are served all day.

Eight-day cruises on the Mekong River feature in nine out of 10 fully-inclusive tours in APT's Vietnam and Cambodia 2011-2012 brochure.

The eight-day Mekong River Cruise package is priced from $2995 per person twin share (based on Apr 2 departure), which includes cruise, 21 meals on board the ship, local wine with dinner, local beer, soft drinks and spirits on request, onboard entertainment, APT Tour Director, port charges, transfers and tipping.

Call 1300 229 804, see www.aptouring.com.au or see a travel agent.

SLUMP SEES MORE HOTELS BARGAINING WITH GUESTS

THE downturn in domestic tourism in Australia has seen more hotels turn to bargaining directly with consumers to fill rooms.

New last-minute deals have been released on Australia's first hotel haggling site, www.ubid4rooms.com, with properties and consumers able to bargain with each other via the website to strike confidential rates lower than available on other booking sites. Confirmation of bargained rates is received within three hours, often minutes, for accommodation up to three months ahead.

More than 1100 properties around Australia and New Zealand are willing to negotiate with consumers on Ubid4room's no-auction, no-blushing website.

Latest deals on www.ubid4rooms.com include:

Ballina, NSW North Coast

Stay at the deluxe four-star Ballina Beach Resort, nestled by the beach in lush tropical gardens on the NSW North Coast. Offer the resort less than the already reduced rate of $155 for two per night including continental breakfast. The full rate is $290 per night.

Gold Coast

Stay in a one bedroom apartment at the 4½-star Towers of Chevron Renaissance on the Gold Coast and offer the hotel a rate less than the already discounted tariff of $215 per couple per night (three-night minimum). The full rate is $500 per night.

Visit www.ubid4ooms.com.au

CRUISE IN THE WAKE OF VIKINGS

HISTORICALLY rich St Petersburg, Estonia's Tallinn, Amsterdam and its interesting network of canals, and Copenhagen with its royal links to Australia are among a host of fascinating ports on MSC Cruises' ever-expanding Northern Europe program.

From the ancient routes of the Vikings to the breathtaking Norwegian fjords and the heritage-listed sites in the Baltic, the leading family-owned cruise line has a range of cruises for Australians looking to alternative programs to the more traditional Mediterranean cruises.

The 2012 Northern Europe program runs from April until October, four-night cruises beginning at $509 per person, twin share – or a little more than $125 a night.

Seven-night cruises begin at $869pp, twin share while 11 nights start from $1489.

For holidaying families, children under 18 years cruise free, providing they share a cabin with two adults, a policy adopted by MSC Cruises on all its cruises (children need only pay port charges). "When you consider the impressive ports of call and how well cruises are priced, the Northern Europe program is an exciting one," said Lynne Clarke, managing director of MSC Cruises (Australia and New Zealand).

"The itineraries provide cruise fans with the opportunity to explore a new region and experience something glorious and wonderful," she said.

Four of MSC Cruises' 11-strong fleet are engaged in the Northern Europe program with cruises ranging from four- to 14-nights.

Prices are inclusive of on-board meals and entertainment, invitations to a Captain's cocktail party and gala dinner, and port charges.

Details MSC Cruises on 1300 028502 or www.msccruises.com.au

Peugeot Lease Europe - Qantas Smiles - Las Fallas Festival

2011-09-26T09:44:00.001+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Huge savings on Peugeot

Collect your Peugeot Lease vehicle in Europe before December 31 this year and benefit with savings, in some cases, of more than $1000 on a 21-day lease, The offer is available through DriveAway Holidays. Also check out the offer of 50% off delivery and return fees with these brand new Peugeot vehicles which can be collected and returned from 45 locations in nine countries. Don't just take my word for it, instead go visit www.driveaway.com.au or telephone 1300 363 500

Fabulous scenery in a selection of unique tours and destinations which are aimed at travellers looking for travel activity in lesser known and lesser travelled areas of Asia. For instance, check out the 14-day Sichuan Explorer package which travels through some of China's most spectacular regions including the Nine Villages Valley. Or gather together details of tours worth including, simply get in touch with Wendy Wu Tours on 1300 727 998 or visit www.wendywutours.com.au This one is priced from $3923 per person twin share from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide or Perth. It's a fully inclusive group tour which includes international economy return fares, accommodation with all meals, English speaking guides, sightseeing, transport, visas for Australian passport holders and fuel surcharge and tipping which are subject to change.

Returning to Qantas

I have not been a traveller on a Qantas ticket for some time. I don't quite know what has happened to the Aussie airline, except that I reckon things have changed for the better.

On a Melbourne/Brisbane flight last weekend the crew of the QF flight smiled their way through in-flight service. From the flight deck both captain and first officer continued with a friendliness which I don't recall from any previous flight over the past couple of years. Something is going on and it is all for the better !

Fiery Fiesta

One of Europe's craziest festivals, Las Fallas is scheduled March 17 – 20 and a Topdeck package includes three nights multi-share accommodation at a centrally located hostel with daily breakfasts, a walking tour of Valencia, a Las Fallas information book, trip leader and a trip t-shirt. The centrepiece is the spectacular La Crema, the parading and burning of a 20-metre high effigies of politicians. Las Fallas (the fires) is held in honour of St Joseph. Contact Topdeck on 1300 886 332.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency. Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Antarctic Peninsula - Sandboard Safari - Agnes Water and 1770

2011-09-19T11:20:00.001+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

A true delight – Agnes Water and 1770

Words cannot match the pictures of that slice of Australia which Captain James Cook discovered. Thanks a lot Jim. I've followed in his footsteps on a number of occasions, each visit making a promise to return again, and again.

Part of the attraction (in addition to the fabulous coastal scenery) may be attributed to Michael and Vera Ferinac.

They made their discovery years ago and that discovery includes the site itself, the tropical foliage and the pristine beaches. One not to be missed is Honeymoon Bay.

For a 1770 Getaway holiday retreat, go visit www.1770getaway.com.au    Check out the three-day package, which includes a coffee and cake. Not you're ordinary cake,- Vera's are very special. Also special are the pizzas from the wood-fired pizza oven. Just give Vera a ring for all the good news. She is available on (07) 4974 9323.

Another bonus from 1770 Getaway

An Agnes Water massage especially designed to relax and unwind. Whilst staying at the holiday retreat, do take a massage. For health fund rebates ad gift vouchers, call Emma, on 0438 549 512.

And then –

Have you ever experienced a sandboard safari. It ls part of a full day tour of discovery and adventure. For a sandboard lesson and board hire, lunch, and national park fees, you get all this for $110.   Each tour departs from the 1770 marina. You will need socks, sun protection and a backpack.

There are 2.5 k's of sand dunes to sandboard.   Get out there ! First up, telephone (07) 4974 9422.

And for those travelling overseas

Experience the magic o the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. It's a classic 13-day cruise. It's just one of several memorable cruises on offer by Bentours. Each voyage departs from Ushuaia. Terms and conditions ply so best to make contact with the operators. For the full story telephone 1800 221 712 or go visit www.bentours.com.au

Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability.   This information is provided as a guide only.

Check with your travel agency.   Block out periods may apply.    Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Nile Cruise - Tuscany Umbria - Luna Park - Wollongong

2011-09-10T14:24:00.001+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Nile cruising

There is an 11-day tour, including a Nile cruise, of Egypt with return airfare from Melbourne flying with Etihad Airways from $3480, which is $880 per person less than the normal land only package. The deal is on offer from October 1 until December 20 2011 and that includes a free side flight from Abu Dhabi to Muscat in Oman. Bookings need to be made by November 4. From Sydney and Brisbane the deal is from $3599. Check prices from other departure points. Conditions apply. Telephone 1300 195 873 or go visit www.benchinternational.com.au

A brilliant mix of history and cuisine

Here's your chance to do just that plus get immersed in the arts and cultures of Italy's Tuscan and Umbria. Accommodation on these tours provides a weekly change, over the three weeks. If Italy is your choice, and may it be so, check the content of tours being offered by Carolinasusi Italia Tours. Each of the tours depart Rome. Accommodation is twin share, and the tours include breakfasts, most dinners, a lunch with wine. Day touring is included by coach, rail and ferry. I caught up with the movie Under The Tuscan Sun,- and lo and behold you get to visit the town of the author of that movie. Don't delay, get on the phone and check out the inclusions, itinerary and conditions. Ring 1800 770 599, or go visit www.carolinasusi.com.au

Luna Park

It's years since I last visited Luna Park in Melbourne , so the upcoming school holidays provide the excuse to get involved again.

The attraction is open every day during the school holidays. Check the entry prices and get ready for a barrel of fun. For more information go visit www.lunapark.com.au

Go visit the Gong

Spring is when Wollongong really sparkles and to entice your interest the city's best known hotel is offering a room for family of four. It's priced at $229 a night. The centrally located Downtown Motel caters for the budget market, with rooms priced from $100 per night for two adults.

There's heaps to do in the Gong. For instance,- tandem skydiving, hang gliding, through to the brilliant Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk. Get to know more about this part of the world, - call 1800 240 737.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency. Block-out periods may apply.

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Gladstone - Easter Island - Kimberley Cruise - Eastern Europe

2011-09-05T10:10:00.001+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Gladstone is truly a success story

The coastal city of Gladstone in Queensland has grown from a heavy industrial destination into a gem of a tourism 'attraction'. Today, this delightful community boasts some of the best seafood in the entire country. Whether it be the tasty seafood platters, which display the rewards of commercial fisherfolk or the do it yourself anglers testing the waters in the inland lakes, - Gladstone has it all. Check the 'other' side of Gladstone, with its parks and gardens, marinas, through to the free tours of industry, such as, you can take it from me, 'You will be surprised'.   For the full details go visit www.gladstoneregion.info or telephone (07) 4972 9000.

And, what about Easter Island?

The eco-experience 'explora' alerts you of the upcoming 15-day Tapati Festival, which just happens to be one of the most important celebrations in all of Polynesia. It's destination Easter Island when, from February 3 to 18, local artists and athletes form alliances which compete in 40 ancient sporting and cultural events.    'explora' has three and eight night packages, starting from $2385 per person, twin share. Get the rundown on what is happening and how you can participate, by visiting www.explora.com or email reserve@explora.com

Ten day cruise next year

There is a ten-day Adventure Quest Cruise which has been added to boutique Kimberley Quest 's program of six, ten and 14-day cruises along northern Western Australia's rugged Kimberley coastline.

The deal on the new cruise, for example, means the price is from $7200 per person instead of from $9000.     The price includes cabin with en suite, all chef-prepared meals served on the shady stern deck or in the air-conditioned lounge.     Check it out by visiting www.kimberleyquest.com.au or telephone (08) 9193 6131. Get on the 'phone today. I say this because amongst the scheduled tours, two of three eight-day fishing expeditions are booked out.

Eastern Europe packages

Two new special journey's have been added to the eastern European collection, by Beyond Travel. There is bound to be terrific interest shown in the 11-day Bohemia to Budapest tour which begins in Prague and travels through a variety of regions. There are departures in May, July, August and September, which tie in with a selection of river cruises, priced from $3495.   Just call to check on what's available, conditions and so on.   Telephone 1300 363 554 or email info@geyondtravel.com.au

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. The information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agent.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Avoca Cup - Split Sailing - Vietnam Battlefield Tour - Air Pacific - Turtle Season

2011-08-29T10:37:00.001+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Backing the favourite

The PJA Blue Pyrenees Avoca Cup is scheduled for Saturday October 15. That gives you plenty of time to make plans to include a visit to the country race meeting. This is not just any 'old' country race meeting, rather it is to experience country racing at its best. Sponsored by Blue Pyrenees wines, this is the blue ribbon event at he Avoca Shire Turf Club, hosted by Blue Pyrenees winemaker Andrew Koermer. For more information go visit www.bluepyrenees.com.au

For 18 to 30 somethings

Should you be between that age bracket, you just may be interested in picking up some information on an 8-day Split to Split sailing experience, or something even grander, ie a 26-day summer fun and sailing Top Deck holiday. The latter visits 14 countries, and features a unique 3-day sailing adventure from $3371. There's a whole pile of options which are available. Download the latest brochure which features all the options, discounts and conditions. The address is www.topdeck.travel/brochure-request A hard copy will be released in October. There's a telephone number at your disposal, - 1300 886 332.

Pilgrims embrace Vietnam

The inaugural Vietnam commemoration tour will take place from March 19 to April 3 2012. The tour is being conducted with the full cooperation of the people of Vietnam and it takes in all the key Australian sites of the war, long with many of Vietnam's cultural reassures. A 15-night tour to be escorted by Gary McKay, a former platoon leader, will attract enormous attention, so obtain the details as soon as you can.

For more information and for bookings go visit www.battlefields.com.au

2011-2012 turtle season

Ticket prices have changed for the upcoming turtle season. Bookings for the season are essential, and it should be remembered that some nights do get booked out. For an update on prices and availabilities, check with the visitor information centre in Bundaberg on (07) 4153 8888.

By the way, the next season commences on Saturday November 5th.

A great deal for travellers

You would be aware that Air Pacific is turning 60. But, did you catch up with the latest news on your inclusion in the celebration and fly off to Fiji with adult return fares from $636 including taxes (ex Sydney).

Children get to fly for $60 return, including taxes. Conditions do apply and availability is limited. Check with your travel agent.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. The information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agent.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Machu Picchu - Rail Africa - Barge Germany - Emporium Hotel Brisbane

2011-08-01T21:50:00.001+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Visiting Latin America

The lost city of Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca are absolutely 'musts' for intrepid travellers and to make it easy for adventurers check the itinerary which has been released by Tempo Holidays. It has those two wondrous highlights included, along with visits to markets, handicraft options and that scenic train ride to the Machu ruins.    Several tours are listed. For the story and the conditions, call 1300 558 987. Take a good long look at the inclusions within the Best of Peru tour, priced from $2510 per person twin share.   Departures are from Lima. Conditions do apply.

Tickets please

A 16-day rail itinerary awaits at a cost from $5910,- destination Africa. The deal includes two free nights with breakfast and a themed dinner at five star hotels, simply by joining this year's two remaining Shongololo rail safaris. The special offer has departures on September 28 and November 8, 2011. The price includes a sleeper cabin on the train, breakfast and dinner, airport transfers, sightseeing excursions every day in air conditioned vehicles carried on the train.   Also included are entry fees to attractions and game parks. A simply super way to explore Africa. May I suggest you check this out by calling 1300 195 873. That's the direct telephone contact for Bench International.

Bike it ! Barge it!

There's easy cycling along the banks of the River Saar and also the Moselle. Spot ancient castles, try the wines, journey into some fascinating old towns of Germany, visit Germany's oldest river, Trier.   There are savings to be made as well. The 8-days/7-nights cruise is now great value at $1430 (down from $2185). A journey of a lifetime. There's so much included in the tour so be sure to move quickly and telephone 1800 331 582 or go visit www.outdoortravel.com.au

George and Harry

Something a little different. The Emporium Hotel (Brisbane) offers the art of High Tea and High Fashion when, on Thursday September 8, Australian design duo George Cross and Harry Who put on one heck of a showing of their creations on centre stage. Champers, towers of tasty sweet and savoury treats, and fashion.   What a mix ! Check the time and availabilities by visiting events@emporiumhotel.com.au

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. The information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agent.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Queen Victoria Markets - Anzac Day 2012 - Lapland

2011-07-25T12:49:00.001+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Vibrant is the word

Bright warm colors, simplistic in design and close to the working end of Melbourne, that is, right next door to the Queen Victoria Markets.

The Jasper Hotel is great four-star accommodation designed for business and leisure travel. It's big in the conference sense of the word, yet offering residential day packages. Well known and respected hotel ceo Tony Barradale, with his creative team, offers a four-star hotel, with quite a difference.    For instance, it has an entirely smoke free environment. There's the renowned Jasper Kitchen for breakfasts, lunches and events. Two points worth considering when looking for a Melbourne hotel. This one offers complimentary access to a health club, and the big attraction in my book (the Jasper point of difference), is the Jasper art gallery, featuring the works of leading artists. The current display features the works of Rebecca Pearson.     Out of 10, I'd give the Jasper Hotel '11'.   Reservations to 1800 468 359 or go visit jasperhotel.com.au and for general enquiries ring (03) 8327 2777.

Anzacs 2012

Check out the three-day Anzac Day package which combines the Dawn Service and a selection of Turkey's touring highlights. Departure date is April 24 2012 from Istanbul. There's a whole pack of departures for various tours, so best thing to do is to obtain package information, conditions, departures and prices, - contact 1300 558 987 or go visit www.tempoholidays.com    For the 3-day Anzac Day package, take note the price is from $381 per person twin share.

Lapland, here I come. Baby, it's cold outside !

There's a unique adventure awaiting, with inclusion of a Lapland ice safari on offer. It's a four-day adventure expedition on the Sampo icebreaker. Reindeer sleigh rides, a visit to a husky farm, and a snow castle made of snow and ice, are just some of the inclusions. Also includes option to swim the Arctic!    The Laplander Ice Safari itinerary also features three nights in a 3.5 star hotel. Get the full story, a copy of the itinerary and also the conditions and terms by calling 1800 221 712. There are other packages available.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency.   Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Spicers New Farm - Danube Cruise - Merlo Red Ride for Life - Russian River Cruise

2011-07-11T15:18:00.001+10:00

TRAVEL NEWS

with John Crook

Warm up this winter

Stay in the sunshine with a stopover at Spicers Balfour Hotel in New Farm. Stay for two nights in this inner Brisbane hotel. Pay $399 per couple per night Friday to Sunday. This package includes two tickets to the Surrealism Exhibition at the Gallery of Modern Art, a two course dinner for two at the Continental restaurant (winter menu) on one night, canapés each evening in the rooftop bar, a fully cooked breakfast each morning, with complimentary bubbles on arrival. Sounds good to me,- so how about you and your partner ? For booking details and conditions go visit www.spicersgroup.com.au

The Danube

There is a 35% discount on an 'early bird'   cruise-tour special travelling from Prague to Budapest in 2012. It is a 13-day package including three nights in Prague, and visiting port stops including Nuremberg, Regensburg and Vienna (to mention a few). The package is now priced from $5869 per person twin share. Return air fares with Emirates from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth. Accommodation in Prague is five-star. There's even a night's accomm at the Sofitel Budapest Chain Bridge Hotel, and two nights stay at Raffles in Dubai. There's more to this story, so to get the facts ring 1300 369 848 or check www.ecruising.travel

It's a freebie, for just a bit of blood

Give blood and get an invite to a sausage sizzle and a coffee. Not just any old coffee, but a Merlo coffee. The event is the Merlo Red Ride for Life, on Saturday 16 July, which peddles off from Merlo Coffee Torrefzione, at 10 Thompson Street, Bowen Hills. To register visit www.merlo.com.au or ring (07) 3620 4239.    Keep an eye out for the bikies who are on a mission.

Vikings on the way

Check the details of the 13-day Waterways of the Czars between St Petersburg and Moscow, with a saving for earlybirds of up to $2000 per person on the 2021 Viking River Cruise itineraries.   The discount also applies to the 12-day Footsteps of the Cossacks from $2299 per person twin share. Viking River Cruises operates the world's largest fleet of superior vessels built especially for river travel. To be sure that we are reading from the same hymn book, check out the deals and conditions by visiting www.bentours.com.au

Just imagine, there you are visiting the highlights of Russia's imperial heartland. Full payment required by 31 July 2011. It's just as easy to do the checking by ringing 1800 221 712.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency. Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

PNG Surfing - Cruise Venice - Amalfi Coast - Sydney Singapore Cruise - Putignano Carnival -

2011-07-11T11:52:00.001+10:00

PAPUA NEW GUINEA'S IDYLLIC REMOTE SURF LOCATIONS

WITH its tropical climate, un-crowded waves and enticing package deals at remote and picturesque surfing locations, now's the time to book a surfing trip to Papua New Guinea.

Madang, Milne Bay, Kavieng and New Hanover are favourite PNG locations for surfing, boasting great swells and water temperatures of 26 degree Celsius year round. And with surf management laws in place, surfers are guaranteed to never be battling the crowds on PNG's waves.

Surf travel options include heading out with a charter company to catch the breaks around off-shore islands, giving surfers the opportunity to explore the waves in various locations on one trip. Or base yourself at a land surf camp, such as Clem's Place on Tunnung Island, just north of Kavieng, New Ireland, which is currently offering additional free nights if you book before 31st August 2011.

And places like Clem's Place often offer secluded accommodation options for small groups in remote island locations, where the focus is on relaxation and surfing with true PNG hospitality from the land owners.

With six bungalows available and great surf, Clem's Place has two deals for those wanting to experience the 'last frontier' when it comes to surfing: pay for 9 days and stay 10 or, pay for 12 days and stay 14

Trips need to be booked before 31 August 2011 and travel must be during the 2011/2012 surf season (October-April).

Prices start at $270 a night with packages including reef fees, three meals a day and surf transfers. To book call South Sea Horizons on +61 432744490 or visit www.southseahorizons.com

CRUISE VENICE TO RIO FOR LESS THAN $100 PER DAY

FROM romantic Venice to vibrant Rio de Janeiro, MSC Cruises has a 25-night package which combines an eight-night Mediterranean cruise with a 17-night ocean voyage, with prices starting from $91 per passenger per day.

The Sizzling Venice to Rio holiday aboard MSC Musica on November 23 this year is priced from $2285 per person twin share and starts with a return cruise from Venice to Bari, Rhodes, Izmir, Piraeus (Athens), Katakolon and Dubrovnik, before embarking on an ocean voyage to South America.

The second leg includes another visit to Bari before the cruise ship heads to Valletta, Malaga, Madeira Island and the Brazilian ports of Salvador, Buzios and, ultimately, Rio de Janeiro.

"Passengers will have two chances to explore and experience Venice – before and during the 25-day cruise holiday," said Lynne Clarke, managing director of MSC Cruises Australia and New Zealand.

"It's an exciting holiday of almost four weeks and well within many passengers' budgets when you consider the starting price is around $91 a day," she said. "And for the money passengers enjoy on-board meals, international standard entertainment, invitations to the captain's cocktail party and gala dinners. Port charges are also included."

And children under 18 years are free, providing they share the cabin with two paying adults (need only pay port charges of $665 per child).

Details: MSC Cruises, phone 1300 028502, www.msccruises.com.au

FOODIE HOLIDAYS: CHILLI CROC AND GRILLED OSTRICH

TELEVISION shows such as Masterchef have prompted Explore Worldwide to introduce a choice of food-oriented holidays based on the cuisine of places like Vietnam and Italy.

In Italy an eight-day Amalfi Coast Walking tour it combines planned walks with a farm-stay that welcomes guests into the family home, giving the opportunity to enjoy home-made Italian food. Guests will sit down to South Italian breakfasts, picnics and three and four course evening meals that make use of home-grown fruit, vegetables, nuts, meats and wines.

The tour costs from $1258 per person twin share.

A Cycle Vietnam tour takes guests off the beaten track to eat with locals and learn about their unique cultures and traditions. Guests will enjoy home-cooked dinners, fresh Vietnamese coffee and be tempted with all manners of noodles, snacks and stir fried delights by food sellers in Hanoi.

They'll also have a chance to sample a traditional Vietnamese meal of grilled ostrich in bamboo, crocodile with chilli and lemon grass, or perhaps snake-head fish. This 14-day package costs from $1786 per person twin share.

All Explore Worldwide packages include accommodation, many meals, transportation and the service of a tour leader, driver and local guides.

For more details contact Venture Holidays on 1300-414-151 or visit www.exploreworldwide.com.au

START 2012 WITH VALUE-PACKED SYDNEY-SINGAPORE CRUISE PACKAGE

SAIL off to a grand start to 2012 with a 15-night package from Cruiseco that will have you cruising from Sydney to Singapore in one of the most gracious vessels to visit Australia, having a night in Singapore at the luxurious Fairmont Hotel with plenty of time for duty-free shopping and sightseeing, and one-way airfare back to Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide or Brisbane (deduct $64pp ex Perth.)

And with all air, port and other taxes and even onboard gratuities, it will cost from just $2450pp twin-share – plus Cruiseco is including the indulgence of Private Car transfers from port to hotel, and hotel to airport in Singapore.

The 4-star Rhapsody of the Seas will sail 14-nights from Sydney on February 16 2012, visiting Brisbane, Airlie Beach, Cairns, Darwin, Benoa on Bali, and Singapore, and will have a whole eight days cruising at sea to make use of the ship's extraordinary range of sporting, social and recreational facilities.

A slightly-longer 16-night package with one-way airfare to Singapore from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or Adelaide (deduct $100 ex Perth), a night pre-cruise at the Fairmont Hotel with all private car transfers, and 15 nights (departs March 29 2012) cruising back to Sydney via the same ports (but with an additional day in Cairns,) air and all taxes and onboard gratuities, will cost from as low as $2430pp twin-share.

For full details and the names of Cruiseco's 200 cruise-specialist travel agencies visit www.cruising.com.au

ADDITIONAL SHIPBOARD INFORMATION: Rhapsody of the Seas offers a choice of formal and casual dining in several restaurants and cafés to suit the mood of the day, eight themed bars and lounges, shopping in an open atrium, a Day Spa & Fitness Centre, and a casino.

For the more active there's a rock-climbing wall, outdoor pool, six whirlpools, a separate indoor/outdoor pool in a Solarium with sliding roof, and a youth activity centre.

ITALY'S UNUSUAL PUTIGNANO FESTIVAL

ITALY'S Putignano Carnival in the country's south is one of the oldest and longest-running carnivals in the world, with evidence that it dates back to 1394.

And while it starts on the 26th of December and runs through until Shrove Tuesday, it is the Carnival Parade on the first day that draws the most interest, with enormous floats and characters wearing satirical and colourful masks.

Another feature is poets who recite satirical and pungent verses addressed at the local government and prominent local business, government and other figures, while the centre-piece figure is Farinella whose is costume made of multicoloured patches with bells on the tips of her hat, shoes and collar that give her a joker-like appearance.

There is also the "Propaggine" that's one of the most traditional aspects of this Carnival. According to local legend, the origin of the "Propaggine" goes back to the 26th of December 1394, during the transfer of St. Stefan Protomartye's Holy Relics from Monopoli to Putignano, where the Holy Relics are still preserved today in the church of St. Maria of the Greca.

Legend has it that during the transference of the Relics some farmers who were going to plant a new vineyard joined in the procession with its dancing, singing and reciting rhymes. Over the centuries, this festival on 26th December, has lost its religious content and is today a critical and satirical show-piece directed towards the most prominent figures in the city.

For more information about Putignano and its Carnival and Parade visit www.turismo.regione.puglia.it

Burma Railway - Black Sea - Germany - Queen Mary 2

2011-07-03T22:13:00.001+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Follow in the footsteps of the Diggers

The Diggers who served in Thailand will never be forgotten and an 11-day Old Siam and River Kwai tour will further enhance the memories of the prisoners of war who built the notorious death railway between Thailand and Burma. Departures include a two-day cruise down the Chao Phraya River in a converted rice barge, a stay in a jungle raft house, a night on an overnight train, all in all, nine nights accommodation. Get the full facts by calling Venture Holidays on 1300 414 151 ort go visit www.exploreworldwide.com.au

Free air

If you book a 28-night cruise from Southampton to the Black Sea tour aboard the 660-passenger Saga Ruby, you could utilise an exclusive fly-free offer. Conditions apply. The October 4 2011 sailing includes the offer, if booked up to and including July 29, unless sold-out beforehand. Take a look at these ports,- Vigo in Spain, Valletta on Malta, cruise the Dardenelles, visit Vama in Bulgaria, Constanta (Romania), along with Talta and Sevastopol, Sochi in Russia, Istanbul and on the list goes. Priced from $6647 per person twin share get in touch with Cruiseco for the names of cruise specialist travel agencies. The contact website is www.cruising.com.au

Germany awaits

Austria as well, in a 15-day Grand German Circular tour, which allows you to explore the wonderful scenery of the Rhine Valley, Black Forest and the Alps. Tour includes Dresen, Potsdam, Berlin, Bavaria and Weimar. Plenty more as well, so please do yourself a favour and call 1300 558 987. Get the details of inclusions by visiting www.tempoholidays.com

Queen Mary 2

The world's most famous cruise liner will visit Sydney prior to a departure for a history-making 12-night Royal circumnavigation of New Zealand.\ in March of 2013.   She is but one of three Queens' making history in 2013. Queen Mary visits Cairns, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Fremantle and then onwards to NZ.   Call 13 24 41 for more information.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency.   Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Cruise Fremantle - Queen Mary 2 New Zealand - Istanbul - Fort Lauderdale Cruise - Mount Annan -

2011-06-27T10:55:00.001+10:00

YESTERYEAR CRUISING FREMANTLE TO ENGLAND

CLASSIC International Cruises will next year offer its first-ever line voyage from Australia to Europe via South Africa instead of the Suez Canal, with the traditional liner, Athena making the journey over '40 days and 40 nights'.

The mid-sized, 600-passenger Athena will sail from Perth on April 14, 2012 for Portsmouth in the UK, with the 40-night voyage taking passengers to many destinations rarely visited by Australians, including Reunion Island in the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic isles of St Helena, Ascension, the Canary Islands and the Cape Verde Islands as well as Mauritius, South Africa, Morocco and Portugal.

Price starts from $6995 per person, twin-share, with fares for solo passengers in selected cabins just 30 per cent more than twin-fares instead of double.

Classic International Cruises is also offering the chance to sail the first half of the voyage from Fremantle to Cape Town – an 18-night cruise priced from $3575 per person, twin-share, with the solo traveller supplement as low as 30 per cent in selected cabins. The second half of the voyage from Cape Town to Portsmouth, a 22-night cruise, is available from $4220 per person, twin-share.

"A voyage aboard Athena is cruising as it was meant to be, with a sense of the ocean, adventure and nautical traditions, and that special personal touch often lacking in today's hectic age," said Classic International Cruises' Managing Director, Grant Hunter. "Attentive, old-fashioned service and first-class cuisine are the hallmarks of the Classic Cruising experience," Mr Hunter added.

"Up to half of all passengers on our cruises from Australia have sailed with us before; ninety-two per cent rate their Athena cruise as very good to excellent, with the onboard service, dining experience and entertainment singled out for the highest scores."

Originally a transatlantic liner, the 16,000-ton Athena features traditional wooden deck chairs, pool, fitness centre, five bars and lounges, casino, library, cinema and two restaurants. Athena has 276 spacious cabins and each boasts a bath – a luxury only found in suites on the latest superliners.

Bookings and fly/cruise packages are available via travel agents. For information, visit www.classicintcruises.com.

QUEEN MARY 2 TO CIRCUMNAVIGATE NEW ZEALAND IN 2013

QUEEN Mary 2 will make a circumnavigation of New Zealand in March 2013 as part of a 104-night world voyage.

The 12-night roundtrip voyage from Sydney will go on sale on July 13, priced from $3329pp twin-share, with the Cunard flagship visiting Auckland, Wellington and the Bay of Islands, sailing the Milford Sound and making a maiden call to Christchurch.

During her 104-night world voyage, the 151,400-tonne Queen Mary 2 will also visit Cairns, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Fremantle and Sydney.

Announcing the NZ circumnavigation today, Cunard Line President and Managing Director Peter Shanks said the voyage followed already-strong bookings for Queen Mary 2's circumnavigation of Australia in February 2012.

"It's clear from the response to our Australian circumnavigation that Australians and New Zealanders are very keen to cruise on the legendary Queen Mary 2 in their own waters," Mr Shanks said.

"After our circumnavigation of Australia in 2012, we thought we would try something a little different and sail around the North and South Islands of New Zealand in 2013. New Zealand is renowned for its stunning scenery and interesting ports and we think Australians will love the chance to enjoy it all from the comfort of Queen Mary 2."

With interest in the New Zealand circumnavigation expected to be strong, limited bookings for the cruise will open at 8am on Wednesday July 13, with two options available: the 12-night roundtrip voyage from Sydney departing March 7, 2013 or 19-nights incorporating the New Zealand circumnavigation and then going on to Fremantle after returning to Sydney.

For more details call Cunard on 13 24 41 or visit www.cunardline.com.au *Fares are per person twin share and are subject to availability; conditions apply.

JOIN AN ARCHAEOLOGIST'S VIEW OF ISTANBUL

PETER Sommer Travels has introduced a new tour of Istanbul, uncovering the ancient Turkish metropolis through the eyes of a prominent archaeologist.

The eight-day tour Exploring Istanbul is guided by Jim Crow, Professor of Classical Archaeology at Edinburgh University, who has spent the past 20 years delving into the layered history of one of the world's great ancient cities.

His tour, from September 10-17, 2011, will offer a chance to see such landmarks as the Haghia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, as well as other ancient sites Professor Crow has himself been researching.

It visits Istanbul's extraordinary column-filled underground cistern – the Yerebatan Sarayi – as well as the Hippodrome, the Archaeological Museum and the beautiful church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus.

It also takes a day trip into the country to visit two of Professor Crow's research projects, the great aqueduct of Constantinople, the longest in the ancient world, and the Anastasian Wall, part of the city's outer defences.

The tour also includes a private boat trip up the Bosphorus, as well as a chance to explore Istanbul's lively streets and market areas between the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar.

Peter Sommer is a British archaeologist and BBC documentary maker whose tours are led by experts including archaeologists, historians and travel writers.

The eight-day tour Exploring Istanbul starts September 10, 2011, and costs £1835 per person twin share (approx A$2830) including meals, accommodation, transport, excursions and entrance fees.

For full details and bookings contact Peter Sommer Travels on 0011 44 1600 888 220, email info@petersommer.com or visit www.petersommer.com

LUX ONE-MONTH CRUISE FORT LAUDERDALE-SAN DIEGO

A WHOLE month of 5-star indulgence aboard Holland America Line's Rotterdam from Fort Lauderdale to San Diego via the empires of the ancient Incas, is selling through Cruiseco later this year from $6660pp twin-share, including return international airfare and taxes from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, (add $330 for Adelaide) (add $1,400 for Perth), a night pre-cruise in the Hilton Marina Fort Lauderdale and another post-cruise in the Hilton Resort and Spa San Diego.

And for those who can't take a month away, Cruiseco have the option of a 13-night cruise only from Fort Lauderdale to Callao (Lima) in Peru from just $1998pp twin-share with a night aboard ship in Callao (Lima), or 17-night cruise only Callao (Lima) to San Diego, from an even lower $1748pp twin-share, again with a night aboard ship in Callao (Lima).

Cruiseco can also arrange best-possible airfare and pre- or post-cruise hotel prices on these shorter sections.

The 1400-passenger Rotterdam will sail from Fort Lauderdale on November 21 this year, visiting seventeen ports in the Bahamas, Colombia, Costa Rica, Panama, Peru, Ecuador, Nicaragua, Guatemala, and Mexico.

For details and the names of Cruiseco's 200 cruise-specialist travel agencies Australia-wide, visit www.cruising.com.au; onboard gratuities are not included in prices on these sailings.

Rotterdam will transit the Panama Canal, have three days in Callao (Lima), and during ten full days at sea guests will have the opportunity to enjoy Rotterdam's range of lounges and bars, theatre and culinary arts centre, casino, cinema, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis and basketball courts, video arcade, a health spa, beauty salon and a unique company-commissioned collection of paintings, sculptures, textiles and other art works.

MOUNT ANNAN AUSTRALIAN BOTANIC GARDEN NOW FREE

MACARTHUR'S Quest Campbelltown motel has released new weekend deals to encourage people to visit the Australian Botanic Garden at Mount Annan, where entry is now free into Australia's largest native botanic garden.

New NSW Premier and Minister for Western Sydney, Barry O'Farrell, abolished the previous fees when he gained office, saying: "This decision will make it easier for families to access these parklands to enjoy, relax and learn about our natural and unique environment, and to do it more regularly."

Opened in 1988 as part of the Bicentenary, the Australian Botanic Garden has attracted an average 90,000 visitors a year, but this figure is expected to grow significantly with entry to the park now free.

With this in mind, Macarthur's newest accommodation, Quest Campbelltown, has released new weekend deals for their 4.5-star self-contained apartments:

It include accommodation in spacious 4.5-star apartments, a complimentary bottle of local Fussy Grape wine, DVD hire and popcorn on arrival plus use of the on-site gymnasium and BBQ terrace. The package is available from $159 per night for two guests in a studio room, $172 per night for two guests in a one-bedroom apartment, $250 per night for up to four guests in a two-bedroom apartment and $299 per night for up to six guests in a three-bedroom apartment. Conditions apply.

Call Quest Campbelltown on 02 4622 4900 or visit www.questcampbelltown.com.au For information on the Australian Botanic Garden, Mount Annan, call 02 4634 7900 or visit www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/annan.

Anzac Gallipoli - Sydney Fish Market - Renault Eurodrive

2011-06-27T09:40:00.001+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

It's a must

There's a brand new package available for the 2012 Anzac Day services scheduled for Gallipoli, with credit offers which can be used on any land based tour when booking a return economy Etihad flight by August 31 2011. To obtain the details of the offers telephone 1300 558 987 or go visit www.tempoholidays.com

Larrikins are welcome

I've known a few in my day, but right now I can share details about a little larrikins' morning tea at Melbourne's Langham Hotel. Fairy bread to ANZAC biscuits and pavlovas for the kids when accompanied by an adult, and available from Monday to Friday 10-00am to 1-00pm, July 4 to July 15. It's $25 per child whilst the traditional Tiffin for adults is $39 per person. To whet the appetite call 1800 641 107 for bookings.

Leading chefs

The July-October program of cooking classes have been released. The courses have been running for years, and now it's your chance to be one of the 'graduates' of the Sydney Fish Market's experience. Courses range from basic to classy dinner parties. To get the facts ring (02) 9004 1111. The school features some of the nation's top chefs. Certainly worth a phone call.

Book and pay by July 29

There is still time to book through Renault Eurodrive for a holiday starting in Europe any time up to December 31 this year.   Just check out the various packages and particularly the week's extras driving for free on select compacts, mid and family size, luxury sedans and estates and even people movers.

Renault has been offering these great services for holidaymakers in Europe since 1955. Get the conditions by calling 1300 55 11 60.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency.   Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Monaco Grand Prix Cruise - Round Cape Horn - Canada and Alaska - Greek Islands - Renault Eurodrive

2011-06-20T10:06:00.001+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Monaco cruising discounts

During the Grand Prix party season ecruising.travel is offering discounts of $2700 on a nine-night package and that includes a five-night cruise on board Azamara Quest, also with a bonus two-night stay in Monaco at the time of the Monaco Formula One Grand Prix in May. The package also comes with a two-night stopover in Dubai at the Raffles Hotel and a traditional belly dancing show with camel rides and a starlight BBQ dinner. The deal also includes economy airfares from Sydney, Melbourne. Brisbane and Perth. Add to that, two nights at the Fairmont, Mont Carlo and five-nights cruise accommodation with full board, including wine at lunch and dinner, transfers and sightseeing.   WOW, and how do I access this package ?    Simply telephone 1300 369 848 or all the details and bookings. Or go visit www.ecruising.travel

Rounding Cape Horn

Check this out ! A 21-night fly, cruise and stay package happening in December 2011. On this cruise, you sail out of Uruguay's Punta Del Este heading to Buenos Aires. Celebrate the new year, stay in luxury, inclusive of return air fare from Buenos Aires. The deal also includes economy international airfares ex Sydney to Santiago on December 16 and back from Buenos Aires, airport, hotel and ship transfers, port charges and shipboard gratuities.   Prices start from $7,750 per person, twin share with a saving of $500 per person if booked with deposit paid before June 30 this year.   For this deal and for more details go visit www.cruising.com.au

Canada-Alaska holidays

Fly free deals with guaranteed inclusions, exclusive experiences, new cruises and Alaskan Wilderness lodges feature heavily in APT's latest brochure release.   The 104 page brochure carries 12 Rockies and Alaskan cruise holidays, two winter touring holidays, three Alaskan journeys and five eastern Canada holidays. Check out the launch deals which range from free return flights to Canada, worth great savings per couple. Do yourself a favour and go visit www.aptouring.com.au

Greece ?

There's a saving of 10% on four independent Greek island hopping itineraries with departures in September and October. Check on the 10-day Mykonos and Santorini tours which explore the most popular of the Greek islands. Priced from $880 per person, twin share. There are plenty more options, each with their very own spectacular offerings. Get the latest information on Greece and her holiday options by ringing 1300 558 987 or pay a visit to www.tempoholidays.com

Book and pay Renault

Checking through the Renault news releases I note that there is still plenty of time to do a deal with Renault Eurodrive. For instance, book and pay by July 29 for a minimum 21-day lease of a Renault or Dacia and you get full factory warranty, 24 hour roadside assistance, unlimited kilometres, full insurance with no excess in 42 countries, minimum age for drivers 18 years and no upper age limit nor additional driver charges. That's only [part of the story. Best advice I can give you is to pay a visit to www.renaulteurodrive.com.au   My mates tell me this is the way to go when in Europe !

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency.   Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Helen Wong China - Russian Palaces - Torres del Paine - Beijing Cruise - Lion Attack

2011-06-13T10:41:00.001+10:00

HELEN WONG'S TOURS' GLEAMING HOT CHINA DEALS

HELEN Wong's Tours has slashed $300 a couple off the price of its 17-day Jewels of China itinerary, with packages now starting at $5120 per person, twin share, including return airfare from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or Perth.

The discounted price applies to a September 8, 2011 departure and is on sale until July 4.

Those who book and pay by August 1 for an October 6 departure will also be rewarded with a $300-a-couple discount, with the price of this package starting at $5325pp, twin share.

The Jewels of China tours begin with flights to Beijing followed by visits to Xian, famous for its Terracotta Army, and scenic Jiuzhaigou, renowned for its alpine forests, waterfalls and series of beautiful crystalline lakes.

Chengdu, home of the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, and Hangzhou, famous for its "heavenly beauty", are also visited before the tour ends in vibrant Shanghai.

Prices include domestic economy class air fares as well as the international flights, stays in 4-5 star hotels, daily breakfast and lunch, six dinners and six evening cultural shows, specified transfers, sightseeing and entrance fees and the assistance of English-speaking guides.

As a bonus, a travel kit comprising a 424-page Odyssey China book and cabin bag is also included along with departure taxes, security charges and fuel surcharges (subject to change).

The cost of an arranged China visa is also included for Australian passports holders.

Details: Helen Wong's Tours, phone1300 788328, www.helenwongstours.com

RUSSIA's PALACES, SANTA CLAUS VILLAGE AND AN ICE-BREAKER

FAR Horizons has an extraordinary 18-day tour next March that embraces St Petersburg, Murmansk's celebrations marking the end of 40-days of total winter-darkness, Finland's Santa Claus Village, a cruise on an ice-breaker, and the chance to stay in a Snow Castle Hotel that's built a-fresh each year...

This extraordinary adventure departs Australia on March 20 2012 for 3-days in St Petersburg visiting the Peter and Paul Fortress, Peter the Great's Winter Palace, the Hermitage Art Gallery and the Palace of St Catherine at Pushkin.

Three days in Murmansk for the end-of-winter Festival of the North includes the start of a cross-country ski marathon, parachute jumping and reindeer racing, an ostrich farm – and a visit to the world's first nuclear-powered ice-breaker that's now a museum.

Guests are then driven through to Finland's Arctic Lapland for a walk on a frozen river, stay in a log cabin or an optional glass igloo, view the Northern Lights, visit Santa Claus Village Post Office that handles thousands of letters sent each year to "Santa Claus, North Pole," a snow-mobile safari, a husky farm, and a Gulf of Bosnia ice-breaker "cruise" through metre-thick ice…

Finally try a stay in a Snow Castle that's built out of fresh snow every November at Kemi rather than a traditional hotel, and end with three days sightseeing in Helsinki; prices start from $19,750pp twin-share ex-Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane (from $19,650pp ex-Perth,) including return air and taxes, all meals, daily excursions, entry fees, guides and gratuities.

Phone 1800 083 141 or visit www.farhorizons.com.au; Business Class air is available as an optional extra.

SOUTHERN MOST TIP OF THE WORLD

MOUNTAINS, glaciers, parks and rivers inhabited by mostly native fauna and flora are a key part of a tour of Patagonia – home to Torres del Paine National Park – with eco-adventure operator explora .

Situated right at the most southern tip of the world, the park covers 242,242 hectares and is home to 500 species of animals, 400 birds, 60 mammals and numerous amphibians, fish and reptiles.

There are thousands of plant species in the park, many of which are endemic. Declared a world biosphere reserve by UNESCO in 1978, its geography has been shaped by successive waves of geological and glaciological phenomena which occurred millions of years ago.

The package includes staying at one of Chile's most luxurious hotels, the Salto Chico is the only lodge situated in the centre of the park and is on the shore of Lake Pehoe facing a breath-taking panoramic view of the Paine Massif.

Packages ranging in length from four to eight nights are available at prices ranging from around $2780 per person twin share and include daily explorations with bilingual guides in groups no larger than eight people.

The deal includes luxurious accommodation with all meals, soft and alcoholic beverages, transfers from the local airport and equipment including all-terrain vehicles and horses, as required for the range of exploration.

explora offers more than 30 explorations and activities ranging from a couple of hours to a full day. Activities are rated in easy, moderate and difficult levels and include treks, horseback rides accompanied by a gaucho, the emblematic figure of the Patagonian pampas, bird watching explorations and in the spring and summer time Quincho barbeques to experience the local cuisine.

For more information email reserve@explora.com , visit www.explora.com or see your local travel agent

16-NIGHT ORIENT CRUISE FROM JUST $2500

CRUISE Express is offering exclusive fares on an exotic 16-night cruise through Asia this October, with 12 courses of fine cuisine a day, spectacular stage shows each night, and deluxe 'megaliner' accommodation – all from $156pp a day.

The 2600-passenger Diamond Princess sails from Beijing on October 10, 2011, and will take passengers to Singapore via seven ports – Busan in South Korea, Nagasaki in Japan, Shanghai and Hong Kong in China, Nha Trang and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam and Bangkok in Thailand.

Prices start from $2500 per person, twin-share (or $156 a day) in an inside cabin, with a special rate of $3900 for single passengers instead of double the twin-share rate. Balcony cabins are available from $3400 per person, twin-share, or $5400 for single passengers. These fares are exclusive to Cruise Express and include all onboard meals and entertainment.

Special air fares are available through Cruise Express and there is also a fully-escorted fly/cruise package available including daily shore excursions. For details phone 1300 766 537, email info@cruiseexpres.com.au or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au.

GOT LION-ATTACK TRAVEL INSURANCE?

ONLINE travel insurer, Travel Insurance Direct says a lion attack on an American tourist near Victoria Falls last month provides a timely reminder of the dangers of African wildlife.

"Now that the dream of an African safari has become more commonplace, we're hearing occasional reports that travellers aren't always paying full attention to their safety," said TID General Manager, Ian Jackson. "A safari is generally a very safe and rewarding experience, but it's vital that travellers take precautions and follow the instructions of their guides."

Here are his key tips when taking safari expeditions in Africa:

. Always stay in the vehicle - unless directed by a guide, never stray from the safety of your van, truck or four-wheel-drive.

. Never turn your back – watch and listen at all times. Always remember the adage that the only thing in Africa that turns and runs is prey.

. Listen to your guide. If a guide says to move on, or to back away, do so.

. Keep your voice down – animals scare easily and are less predictable when startled.

. Only travel with a licensed safari guide and ensure you have adequate travel insurance.

Mr Jackson said the best game-viewing in many African countries was between June and October, and while animal attacks on tourists were extremely rare, the growing popularity of African tourism meant increasing contact between animals and humans in some areas.

"Safari travellers are covered by most travel insurers as long as they travel with a licensed guide and do not behave recklessly or under the influence of alcohol or drugs," Mr Jackson said, and adding: "No photograph is ever worth the risk of an animal attack."

For more information see www.travelinsurancedirect.com.au

Jasper Hotel Melbourne - Unlimited Golf - Werribee Zoo - Spicers Peak Lodge

2011-06-12T11:28:00.000+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Bed and Breakfast at Jasper

This package is for the Jasper Hotel located at 489 Elizabeth Street in Melbourne. Not your usual inner-city hotel, but rather a full boutique hotel with its very own Jasper Art Gallery. Exhibitions rotate each three months, so every visit should be a new experience. The hotel is currently offering a package, at $169, featuring accommodation, with breakfast for two in the Jasper Kitchen. For bookings telephone 1800 468 359, subject to availability. The Jasper Hotel is close handy to the colourful Queen Victoria Market and that's an experience in itself. Go visit www.jasperhotel.com.au

Unlimited golf

If golf is your thing, how's this for a deal?

It's a winter golf package from Hyatt Regency Coolum, priced from $340 per night and that includes accommodation for two staying in a king or twin room. The deal includes daily continental breakfast, adult entry to the spa. Tennis court hire, weekday golf clinics, motorised cart and bucket of driving range balls, per person, per night. Get onto this one by visiting www.coolum.regency.hyatt.com   You will need to quote offer code CLM006.    Subject to availability, conditions and two night minimum stay applies. Offer valid until August 31, 2011

It's that time again

Wild nights return with a vengeance at Werribee Open Range Zoo during the winter school holidays.    It was a big event last year, so much so, that the powers that be are right behind a return for this year. The zoo comes alive with fire dancing, African drumming and so much more. The winter series is scheduled July 2 to 16 July.

General admission prices apply. A hint, - bring your own torch.   For more information go visit www.zoo.org.au/WerribeeOpenRangeZoo

Staying in Oz super style

Queensland's scenic rim is one heck of a place to stay. Spicers Peak Lodge offers special winter deals until 30 June 2011, with savings of up to $200 per couple for two night stays and up to $400 for three night stays. Two night stays are priced from $2180 inclusive of all indulgences and meals. One night stays are available, but please check the conditions. Also included coffee and tea, a gourmet continental and a la carte breakfast, evening cocktails and canapés, plus, plus and plus. Guests will be treated to a seven-course degustation dinner each evening, a choice of al fresco style lunch or gourmet picnic hamper, 24-hour beverage serviced including cocktails, wines, champers and spirits. Get all the facts and inclusions, along with terms and conditions, by calling 1300 253 103.

This just has to be one of Australia's most exciting and romantic stays, luxury style.

No apologies

Before rushing overseas, just do a check on what's available here in Oz. I have selected just a few options for your consideration.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency.   Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Seniors Cruise - Lion Attack - Egypt Tour - China Tour

2011-06-06T16:29:00.001+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Seniors special

I've just come across a deal which should be of interest to 'we seniors'. Ecruising.travel has just released a special seniors' fare from $979. It's a 12-night cruise on board the Century Celebrity, sailing from Auckland to Sydney. Make a booking prior to August 30 to capitalise on this deal. Sail out of Auckland on December 12 and visit the Bay of Islands, Tauranga, Napier, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin and then Melbourne before arriving n Sydney. The discounted fare applies only if one or more passengers are over the age of 55. For conditions and bookings telephone 1300 369 848 or go visit www.ecruising.travel Special airfares to Auckland can also be booked. Check the birth certificate and then go for it.

Business class to Manila et al

Some really decent business class airfares are on offer with Philippine Airlines. Try these for size.

To Manila ex Sydney $1688, ex Melbourne $1668.
To Hong Kong ex Melbourne $1858, ex Sydney $1878.
To Shanghai ex Melbourne $1651, ex Sydney $1671.
To Tokyo ex Melbourne $1869, ex Sydney $1888.

Under the deal, return business class fares are priced per person when booked with a companion fare. The prices are per person including taxes and must be booked in pairs. The fares are on sale until June 30, 2011 and valid for travel until September 30 2011. To get all the facts and conditions telephone the airline direct on 1300 888 725 or see your travel agent.

A Lion attack

Nothing to do with the Brisbane Lions, but rather a warning to those lucky enough to be able to take a safari tour in Africa. Travel into wildlife parks is more commonplace these days and that, at times, may see a lack of care being shown by visitors. To assist, first up make sure you have adequate insurance. Stay in the vehicle if game watching. Listen to your guide, always! Keep your voice down and never turn your back. Special care needs o be taken if on a walking tour. Regarding the insurance, only travel with a licensed safari guide and ensure you have adequate travel insurance. For more information go visit www.travelinsurancedirect.com.au

Classic sites await

Check out the savings on a seven-day Taste of Egypt tour which includes a cruise on the iconic Nile, three nights in Cairo, transfers in Cairo,, Luxor and Aswan. Priced from $1117 per person, twin share. To check on all the goodies, telephone 1300 558 987, or go visit www.tempoholidays.com Terms and conditions apply. Book for two people before June 30 and receive 40% off the second fare and a free hotel upgrade.

What a picture!!

A 15-day Timeless China escorted small group journey opens the door to China, the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, a full day tour of the Great Wall, the summer palace. And, the Terracotta warriors ! A real highlight just has to be the giant Panda breeding research base in Chengdu. Then, there's the Jade Buddha Temple, the Tiger Leaping Gorge, and the world's largest Buddha statue. Priced from $4078 per person twin share. In my opinion, worth every cent. Get the terms and conditions and a full itinerary by calling 1300 836 764.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. The information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agent.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

York WA - South Africa - Sydney Fish Markets - County Kerry -

2011-05-29T11:35:00.001+10:00

Travel Briefs

John Crook

York Australia, not York UK, nor York USA

Now that we have settled that, here's how you can experience a very special event,- a gourmet food and wine festival. Set these 2011 dates in your travel diary.   June 25th and 26th. The festival are all-day affairs on both days,- ie 9.00am to 3.30pm in the century old anniversary York Town Hall with interactive cooking demos in the Masonic hall.   York is set on the Avon River. A pretty town which springs into life with its many temptations. This is the first time in almost 20 years that I have had the door open into Western Australia. One could not be seeking a better event than the York festival to get the ball rolling.   I believe accommodation is plentiful, although filling fast. For more information go visit www.yorkwa.org or telephone Tanya on 0429260537.   Entry is just $5 with children free.

Seven days in South Africa

This is a real bargain. Costing a little over $100 a day the deal includes three nights accommodation with breakfasts at the Cadogan Hotel in Capetown.   There's extensive sightseeing followed by a spectacular scenic drive to the quaint village of Franschhoek with three more nights at the luxurious boutique property Country House. This is the stepping off point for Paarl and the Cape Dutch architecture and hisoric Stellenbosch.    The package costs $740 ($845 in September) and that includes accommodation with breakfast, airport transfers, transport and sightseeing. Get the full facts by contacting Bench International, - 1300 195 873 of visit www.benchinternational.com.au

Cooking fish

Arguably, there is no better way to success in cooking fish than signing on for one of the cooking classes, in the July – October program, which is promoted by the Sydney Seafood School. For all the details it is just a matter of calling (02) 9004 1122, or email sss@sydneyfishmarket.com.au or visiting www.sydneyfishmarket.com.au   It's as easy as that.

I see where Mark Jensen, from the famous Red Lantern Restaurant, is one of the chefs to be featured in this upcoming series.

Explore Celtic Kerry

There's a real saving on the cost of a relaxed guided walking and cultural holiday in Ireland. Departures are scheduled on selected dates in September and October 2011 and now reduced from $2095 to $1795 per person twin share. The tour is based in the kingdom of Country Kerry. It includes all the splendours of this part of Ireland. Seven nights ensuite hotel/guest house accommodation including experienced local tour guide, five packed lunches six dinners, and seven breakfasts. You even get to do some Irish dance lessons. Get the deal outlined for you by calling 1800 331 582.

Here's an offer which is hard to resist.

If you are into Rugby, Cruiseco will fly you free from

Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane and have you join the luxury cruise liner Rhapsody of the Seas, with part of an eight night cruise having you in Wellington for quarter finals 1 and 3, with transfers and your game tickets included,- and with free air to come home. There are other deals awaiting as well. So, to get the information which will get you on your way, go visit www.cruising.com.au and get the names of Cruisco's 200 cruise-specialist travel agencies Australia-wide. Full details are available on that website.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency.   Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Explora Chile - Guadalcanal - Avalon Europe - Tuscany - Calgary Cowboys

2011-05-23T15:19:00.001+10:00

Travel Briefs

John Crook

Purchase a four night stay and save

Chilean-based travel company explora has announced the arrival of their 100,000th visitor and to celebrate they are offering all travellers, who book a four-night program, with a complimentary stay at any of its three luxurious eco-lodges. Four night packages, include accommodation, meals, soft and alcoholic beverages, transfers from local airport plus equipment. Prices commence at AUD2640. Check for conditions by visiting www.explora.com   Your local travel agent should also be able to provide more info. Guests will receive their fifth night free when they visit before August 31 2011.

The bloody battlefields of Guadalcanal

This is the resting place of HMAS Canberra, which was sunk during the battle of Savo Island. It is also the base at which JFK was stationed with his PT109.   A Guadalcanal 69th anniversary tour, featuring highlights of the battlefields, is scheduled for a seven-night tour from August 5. Full details of the tour can be checked by ringing 1300 880 340 or visiting www.battlefields.com.au   Prices begin from $3197 per person and that includes first-class hotel accommodation, excursions, entry fees. Daily breakfasts and lunches, two dinners, tips and educational site pamphlets. The tour has been planned by leading Australian war historian Mat McLachlan. This is a living museum of the 1940's.

Suite ships

Two new luxury 'suite ships' lead the most modern river cruise fleet in Europe. Not only that but they tell me that 2012 river cruises are on an average 10 per cent cheaper than 2011. Avalon's Panorama was launched last week.

Such has been consumer reaction, Avalon has commissioned another two 'suite ships'. The 83-cabin Avalon Vista and the 64-cabin Avalon Visionary enter service on the Danube and the Rhine in 2012.    So many options are available right now, so to get the full facts go visit www.avalonwaterways.com.au    Conditions apply.

Tuscan food and wine

Get the full story on Italy's best food and wine based packaging and do the visit as an independent traveller. Add that little extra such as a three-day Great Wines and Tuscany package which is priced from $751 per person twin share.   Tempo Holidays has a bundle of food and wine experiences. To check on the range and conditions, call 1300 558 987 or visit your local travel agent, or check out the facts by visiting www.tempoholidays.com

Real cowboys.- yippee

The Calgary Stampede is widely known as the Greatest Show on Earth. Well, - it's on again in Calgary from July 8 to 17. Four day packages start from $758 per person twin share. That includes three nights accommodation, a two-day light rail transit pass to and from the Stampede grounds, reserve ticket to the afternoon rodeo including admission, reserve seating in the Gold Outdoor Balcony section to the evening chuckwagon races and grandstand show, There's also a skyride pass, a carry bag, polo T-shirt and a Calgary Tower elevation pass. Got that? Next job is to make a booking. Telephone 1300 303 343 or visit www.ventureholidays.com.au

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. The information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agent.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Ski Korea - Central Australia - Monza - SeaDream - Hemmingway Walk -

2011-05-16T11:00:00.000+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Discovering ski resorts Korea

In case Korea has not been at the top of your ski lists, here's news from Yongpyong, known world-wide as Korea's ski mecca. With more than 25 kms of groomed slopes, 15 chair lifts, a 3.7km gondola – it has just about everything for all levels of skiing or snowboarding.   Check this package! Priced from $1035 per person, twin share, there are seven nights in a deluxe room at the Dragon Valley Hotel accompanied by a six-day lift pass. For more information and bookings get in touch with www.skimax.com.au or telephone 1300 136 997. Book and pay by 14 December 2011 and valid for travel Jan – 18 Feb 2012.   Airfares are additional.   Conditions apply.

The red centre

Central Australia awaits, with some excellent deals, such as the Visit Uluru land package priced from $399. It includes three nights accommodation at Ayers Rock Resort, free return airport transfers and a free half day Uluru highlights tour,- and that comes with a saving of up to $335 per person.   Also, be sure to set aside one of the nights for a Sounds of Silence dinner (extra cost),- one of the real highlights of any visit to this part of the world. I've done that experience on several occasions. So popular though, that early reservations are absolutely necessary. For bookings and more information telephone 13 38 43 or visit www.territorydiscoveries.com

The Grand Prix (Italian style)

Friday September 9th, Saturday September 10 and Sunday Setember 11 2011 are important dates on the Formula 1 world championships.   Perhaps, the most important ! The location is Monza, (Lombardy) Italy. The Italian Grand Prix is one of the longest running events on the motor racing calendar.

It's extremely popular and the Year 2011 event will again prove to be the ultimate circuit for speed lovers. Interested? Then get the facts, by visiting www.formula1.com   Should you need to speak with those 'in the know' call the Italian Government Tourist Office on (02) 9262 1666 or email Sydney@enit.it

This website a must

SeaDream Yacht Club has just released a dramatically improved website, a site which will provide consumers and travel professionals with the easiest access to everything there is to know about its twin mega motor-cruiser yachts. For more information simply visit www.seadream.com or have a yarn with your travel agent.   But above all, check out the upgraded website, today !

Take a walk Hemingway style

You too can walk the streets of Italy's Bassano del Grappa, the same streets as Ernest Hemingway drove his America Army ambulance in WWI, was injured and hospitalised and inspired to write A Farewell to Arms. This same town where ancient Roman soldiers created what has since become internationally known for its Grappa. So much history, so many memories and by joining a 16-day small-group tour to the Lakes of Northern Italy. The tour departs Milano on September 5 2011, and prices start from $6485. Simply drop into www.carolinasusi.com.au or telephone (07) 3396 8652

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency.   Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Solo South America - Grand Mediterranean cruise - Eastern Europe - Star Clippers - Logan Wines Tasting

2011-05-09T11:48:00.002+10:00

SAVINGS FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS IN SOUTH AMERICA
INNOVATIVE Chile-based active travel company, explora has just announced it will be dropping single supplement surcharges for those who want to go it alone to the unexplored regions of South America - Atacama, Patagonia and Easter Island.

explora operates three luxurious eco-lodges and offers fully-inclusive packages of accommodation with all meals, soft and alcoholic beverages, transfers from the local airport and equipment, including all-terrain vehicles and horses, as required for the range of exploration.

Packages range from three to eight night stays and prices for singles start from around A$1980 for a three-night experience at Atacama, which is a saving of about A$780, a four-night stay in Patagonia is from A$2780 which can save a solo traveller almost A$1000. A six-night stay at Rapa Nui on Easter Island costs from A$4560 which saves A$1800.

The waiver of the single supplement applies to travellers staying at the properties between May 15 and October 15 2011.

For more information see your local travel agent, email reserve@explora.com or visit http://www.explora.com/

MSC's $200 OFF GRAND MEDITERRANEAN HOLIDAY

MSC Cruises has slashed the price of its 14-night Grand Mediterranean cruise, that combines two week-long cruises, to $2198 per person, twin share.

And as an added bonus, it will provide free transfers between Venice and Genoa to link the East and West Mediterranean cruises aboard luxurious MSC Armonia and MSC Lirica.

This latest deal coincides with news that MSC Cruises is to complement its standard dining with lighter casual dining on its fleet, where passengers will be able to dine at their own leisure with the buffet-style restaurants providing an evening service

"There will be no fixed sitting times, so they can dine exactly as and when they please," said Lynne Clarke, managing director of MSC Cruises Australia and New Zealand.

A series of Grand Mediterranean departures are scheduled during this year's northern summer months of July and August.

MSC Armonia will begin its seven-night cruises from Venice, calling on Ancona (Italy), Corfu, Santorini, Piraeus (for Athens), and Kotor (Montenegro).

MSC Lirica on the other hand, begins and ends in Genoa, with calls on Ajaccio (Corsica), Civitavecchia (for Rome), Salerno (Italy), Palma, and the giant French port of Marseille.

"Ancona and Kotor are amazing stops on the MSC Armonia Eastern Mediterranean cruise leg as they are UNESCO World Heritage listed, a real photographer's dream," said Mrs Clarke. "As for the MSC Lirica cruises, well, Ajaccio may not be well known in Australia but it is in Europe as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte," she said.

As with all MSC Cruises' programs, children aged under 18 years cruise free when sharing a cabin with two adults (port charges are extra).

To cash in on the latest saving, bookings must be made by May 20, 2011.

Details: MSC Cruises, phone 1300 028502, http://www.msccruises.com.au/

EASTERN EUROPE TOURS ON SALE

TOURING specialist Beyond Travel has announced discounts across the board on their escorted tours through Eastern Europe including Germany, Czech Republic, Austria, Poland, Hungary, Slovakia and more, for departures in 2011.

The 14-day Tallinn to Vienna has been discounted by $120 per couple. The tour travels through some of the lesser known regions of Eastern Europe including Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania before heading south to Poland, Czech Republic and Austria.

Now priced from $2720 per person twin share there are seven departures between June and October.

One of Beyond's most popular escorted tours is the 10-day Vienna to Bucharest including three nights in Hungary's famous split capital city Budapest and costs from just $2060 per person twin share.

All escorted tours include accommodation and daily breakfast, transportation by a high quality air conditioned coach, comprehensive sightseeing with an English-speaking tour director and return transfers.

For other escorted tours across Eastern Europe contact Beyond Travel on 1300-363-554 or email info@beyondtravel.com.au

GEMS OF MED CRUISING AT 25% DISCOUNT

STAR Clippers is offering 25% discounts on 23 of its most popular Mediterranean cruises between July and October this year.

The cruises, from $2340 for seven nights including taxes, are available on all three tall ships in the fleet including the 227-passenger flagship Royal Clipper.

Prime itineraries include the playgrounds of the rich and famous in the French and Italian Rivieras, the Greek Isles, Turkey, Malta, and a string of small ports unable to be visited by large liners.

A focus for Star Flyer (170 passengers) is the new 'Yachtsman's Paradise' route between Istanbul and Athens with calls at picturesque villages, towns and islands in the Aegean Sea. Sister ship Star Clipper is operating from Athens, cruising to the Northern and Southern Cyclades calling at the best-known Greek islands.

The discounted prices are twin-share for cruises booked before June 30. Past passengers are entitled to an additional five percent discount.

All three ships are high-tech luxury versions of the spectacular clipper sailing ships made famous as they swept across the ocean trading routes of the world under billowing white sails in the 1900's.

The 21st century clippers come with swimming pools, piano lounge, bars, library, en-suite cabins and all the pampering of a private yacht.

Call 1300 362 599, (02) 8913 6588 or visit http://www.starclippers.com

LOGAN AND LONGRAIN

LOGAN Wines will share a hot and spicy dinner at their Mudgee Tasting Room in the Hunter Valley this June, when Longrain's renowned Executive chef Martin Boetz takes time out from his modern-Thai restaurants in Sydney and Melbourne for a one-off dinner matched with winemaker Peter Logan's wines.

It will be held on Saturday June 18th to showcase a marriage of Boetz's banquet style dishes and Logan's broad spectrum of wines.

Peter and his wife Hannah have been trying to 'woo' Martin for Logan's popular 'Dinner with…' series for several years. "Longrain and its progressive Asian fare has truly stood the test of time and we are really looking forward to joining forces with Martin while pairing his high-flavour cooking with wines from the Logan stable. We hope to get some lovely taste combinations with some of our reds as well as our aromatic whites,'' said Peter.

"Hot, sweet, salty and sour – the Longrain menu will incorporate all these tastes with Logan Wines balancing them beautifully," said Martin Boetz. "Logan has some wonderfully fragrant whites including the Weemala Pinot Gris, Riesling and Gewürztraminer, and I am looking forward to mixing things up with their spicy reds such as the Logan Pinot Noir and Shiraz too," he added.

Martin is bringing Longrain's signature style to Mudgee but intends putting a fresh spin on some locally sourced produce as well. This will include such courses as Seng wa of Mandagery Creek Venison fillet (cured Venison) with kaffir lime juice, mint and chilli, and Mussaman curry of grass fed beef (also from Mandagery Creek) with potato and baby onions.

'Dinner with Martin Boetz' with matching Logan Wines will be held at the Logan Tasting Room, Castlereagh Highway, Mudgee at 7pm on Saturday June 18th. The price is $150pp including food and wine.

Saltimbanco - Ski Korea - Victor Harbour - Greek Islands - Cruise Baltic

2011-05-09T11:46:00.001+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Stand by for Saltimbanco

Perth has had its go and now the remaining capitals are preparing for the arrival of Cirque Du Soleil. Billed as one heck of an attraction, the big show features 51 artistes from 20 different countries. Following a highly successful season in South Africa get ready for a kaleidoscopic

celebration. Adelaide is next, May 12 to 22; then Melbourne from May 25; followed by Hobart, Brisbane, Newcastle and Wollongong. For details of play dates, go visit www.cirquedusoleil.com/saltimbanco

Go ski in Korea

Check the ski packages on offer at Yongpyong in Korea. Staying at the Dragon Valley Hotel, pay from $1035 per person, for a seven night stay in a deluxe room, with a six-day ski pass included. Located in the Gangwon Province, this ski experience is just 2.5 hours east of Seoul. Known as Korea's Ski Mecca, the mounting has more than 25kms of groomed slopes, 15 chair lifts, a 3.7km gondola and a terrain Park. All levels of skiing experience are catered for. For all the facts go visit www.skimax.com.au or telephone 1300 136 997.

Local seafood at Bombora

Having stayed at Victor Apartments it's easy to be full of praise for the holiday experience which awaits at Victor Harbor. The Victor experience includes such treasures on the Fleurieu Peninsula as beautiful surf beaches and amazing panoramas, that seafood experience, and the Coorong and Goolwa. There's nothing quite like a holiday at this location,- particularly when one is staying at Victor Apartments. Check to ascertain whether there is an apartment with your name on it! To do that, telephone (08) 8410 8189, or go visit www.victorapartments.com.au

Hop off to the Greek Islands

There's a 10% saving on Greek hopping packages when travelling in May and June, with Tempo Holidays. Some of the world's most favoured beaches await, such as Mykonos and Santorini. They feature in value packages starting from $919 per person twin share. There is so much to enjoy in this part of the world, so go make a start on checking the itineraries and costs by ringing 1300 558 987.

Book before May 22 2011

Cruiseco has extended to May 22, its 20% early bird savings on two return-sailings, from Harwich to the Baltics, and anther from Lisbon through the Med and Adriatic Seas to Dubrovnik, on board the 650-guest exploration ship Discovery, in July, August and September this year. For all the details visit www.cruising.com.au

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Emilio Estevez - Princess Cruises - Croatia - Paul Gauguin Tahiti - Pacific Jewel Wedding

2011-05-01T13:05:00.001+10:00

EMILIO ESTEVEZ CREATES WALKING TOUR

HIGH profile actor Emilio Estevez has joined adventure tour operator Explore Worldwide to create a small-group walking tour which follows in the footsteps of Estevez' latest film "The Way".

The tour will feature many of the highlights shown in the film, which will be released next month.

The 15-day itinerary for "Highlights of The Way – Camino de Santiago" will include stays at three of the hotels featured in the film, including the exotic Parador de Leon.

Other aspects of the tour include the historic Roncesvalles Pass, dramatic Muxia and a visit to the famous Cruz de Hierro (Iron Cross), as well as guided visits of Leon, Burgos and Santiago.

Explore Worldwide has scheduled departures of the tour on September 9 and 24, 2011, with a support vehicle at hand to carry luggage and members of the group wanting a break from the walking.

The 15-day package costs from $2541 per person and includes accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, all transport, some guided visits and the services of a tour leader.

Explore also has a number of other holidays incorporating the Camino, including a 12-day walking trip, a seven-day independent itinerary and a 12-day rail journey through Northern Spain.

For more details contact Venture Holidays on 1300-414-151 or visit http://www.exploreworldwide.com.au/

PRINCESS CRUISES' 2012-2013 WORLD CRUISE SEASON

Princess Cruises has launched its worldwide 2012-13 season, including its biggest ever Australian summer deployment with four ships offering 61 different cruises in local waters.

In a first for the cruise line, almost 600 cruises have opened for bookings simultaneously around the globe, with Australians able to take advantage of some of Princess' best-ever early booking fares.

Prices for an 11-night cruise to Fiji from Australia start from $1,699* per person twin share, while fares for a seven-night Alaskan Inside Passage sailing start from $799* per person twin share.

The eleven programs now on sale include Alaska; Asia, Africa & India; Australia & NZ; Canada & New England; Caribbean; Europe; Hawaii, Tahiti & South Pacific; Mexico and Pacific Coast; Panama Canal; South America & Amazon and World Cruises.

The 2012-13 Australia and New Zealand program includes the return of Sea Princess for a second summer season sailing from Sydney, with Sun Princess sailing from Brisbane from October 2012 to April 2013 as well as Sydney and Fremantle, and Dawn Princess cruising from Melbourne and Sydney. Meanwhile, Diamond Princess will sail on six cruises between Sydney and Auckland over the summer, adding Wellington and Picton to create a longer 14-night itinerary.

New cruise options include a 33-night cruise around Australia and New Zealand on Sea Princess, two 40-night sailings to China and Japan in spring and autumn and a special 11-night cruise on Dawn Princess from Sydney to northern Queensland to coincide with the phenomena of the total solar eclipse in November 2012.

The warmer months will see Princess offering a range of South Pacific cruises from Sydney and Brisbane, each featuring up to four ports of call in Fiji – more than any other cruise line.

For more information visit http://www.princess.com/ , call 13 2488 or see travel agents.

CROATIA NOW ON SALE

TOURING specialist Beyond Travel has announced discounts across the board on their escorted tours through Croatia's mainland, the Dalmatian coast and its neighbouring countries, for departures in 2011.

There are discounts of up to $1500 per couple on the 'Best of Croatia and Dalmatia Cruise' package which includes a four night cruise aboard M/S Pape Prvi from Dubrovnik to Split with port visits to Mljet, famous for its huge salt water lakes and national park, Korcula, the birthplace of Marco Polo, and Hvar, rich in historical and cultural heritage. You will also visit Split, the Plitvice Lakes region and the capital Zagreb.

Now priced from $2800 per person twin share there are two departures in June and two in October.

For those looking for an extended holiday, the 16-day journey "From Greece to Dalmatia" travels from Athens to Dubrovnik and Zagreb and costs from just $3463 per person.

All escorted tours include accommodation and daily breakfast, transportation by a high quality air conditioned coach, comprehensive sightseeing with an English speaking tour director and return transfers.

For other escorted tours in Croatia on sale contact Beyond Travel on 1300-363-554 or email info@beyondtravel.com.au

RARE PAUL GAUGUIN LUXURY CRUISE BRISBANE-TAHITI

The award-winning, ultra-luxury cruise liner, Paul Gauguin, will offer a rare voyage from Australia to Tahiti next Australia Day, with Cruise Express offering half-priced fares as part of an all-inclusive, fly/cruise package just released.

Normally based in Tahiti, the five-star boutique Paul Gauguin will sail from Brisbane on January 26, 2012, for an exotic 17-night 'South Pacific Discovery' cruise to French Polynesia via ports in Fiji, New Caledonia, Tonga, the Cook Islands and the spectacular Tahitian islands of Bora Bora, Moorea and Taha'a, described as amongst the most beautiful islands on Earth.

At Bora Bora, guests will relax on Paul Gauguin Cruises' private white beach with free bar service, volleyball and snorkelling, and at the cruise line's private islet of Motu Mahana near Taha'a, passengers will be treated to a lavish barbecue lunch with full complimentary bar service.

The 322-passenger Paul Gauguin offers ocean views from every cabin – with 70 per cent of cabins having a private balcony - as well as three, surcharge-free dining venues, deluxe L'Occitane bathroom products, luxurious European linen and robes, and a retractable watersports marina at the rear of the ship which opens when anchored to offer passengers kayaking, snorkelling and windsurfing.

Cruise Express' package includes the indulgent 17-night cruise – only the second time Paul Gauguin has sailed from Australia since her launch in 1998 – as well as a flight from Tahiti back to Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne plus selected beers, wines, spirits, soft drinks and beverages onboard the ship, free room service and in-room mini bar.

The fly/cruise package is available from $6674 per person, twin-share, which is half the normal cost.

Call Cruise Express on 1300 766 537 or visit http://www.cruiseexpress.com.au/ for details.

PACIFIC JEWEL'S FIRST ONBOARD WEDDING

LOVE was in the air on P&O Cruises' Pacific Jewel recently, when the ship provided the setting for the cruise line's first onboard wedding ceremony.

South Australian couple Gary Graham and Sue Marcelis tied the knot on Pacific Jewel in Sydney Harbour – and then sailed off on a 10-night honeymoon cruise with their wedding party of 10 guests.

It was the first onboard wedding as part of P&O Cruises' new Ceremonies at Sea program that was launched late last year.

It was Sue's sister, a travel agent, who suggested that she and Gary be married on a P&O Cruises' ship.

"Everything was organised and we didn't have a worry beforehand," Sue said after their honeymoon cruise. "The venue was beautiful and it all went very smoothly.

"Our sailaway under the Sydney Harbour Bridge and out of Sydney Harbour was fantastic – it just added to the occasion."

Ceremonies at Seas wedding ceremonies are available aboard P&O Cruises' ships in port in Sydney, Brisbane, Newcastle and Fremantle on embarkation day and are performed by a marriage celebrant. Vow renewals and commitment ceremonies can also be performed, and can be done at sea by the Captain or a senior officer.

For more information see travel agents, phone P&O Cruises on 13 24 94 or visit http://www.pocruises.com.au/.

Puccini in Italy - Mary Poppins - Austria - Excess Baggage - Ultimate Asia Cruise

2011-04-30T13:01:00.001+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Celebrating Puccini

Commencing Friday July 22nd and then on selected dates throughout July and August, a musical festival is scheduled in the town of Torre del Lago, home to Puccini. Throughout July and August his works will resonate through the village, featuring La Boheme, Turandot, and Madame Butterfly. For details of the festival go visit www.puccinifestival.it or telephone the Italian Government Tourist Office on (02) 9262 1666. The festival will welcome in more than 40,000 spectators to the town's open air theatre. If you can make it, do yourself a favour.

Ok, so Mary Poppins hits town

Bowral in the New South Wales Southern Highlands, on Saturday May 7th. Not that much time to organise a trip into this beautiful region and also to join in the Welcome Home Mary Poppins, but for those who can make it, the locals (and Mary) extend a great welcome. The gathering of the clan, so to speak, will attempt a record breaking event,- namely creating a mosaic greater than that set by the 1,026 people in Serbia in 2009. If interested and to register your intent,   telephone (02) 4801 0622. The big day is to salute a former Bowral resident,- Helen Goff, the creator of Mary Poppins.

Uniquely Austrian

The Austrian National Tourist Office has launched a new online and social media campaign, featuring 250 authentic activities, meals, landmarks and an assortment of secrets in which to assist travellers to better enjoy their Austrian experience. The campaign promotes a wealth of recommendations, from dining in Europe's oldest restaurant, doing an apple Strudel baking course in the bakery at Schonbrunn, to uncrowded bicycle paths, - to name but a few. To obtain your copy of 'Austria. Unique Like You' simply email info@antosyd.org.au   Include your postal address.

Going overseas?

That's when one discovers the suitcase is too small. Perhaps one should consider a national excess baggage service, boasting more than 15 years experience. Jetta Excess Baggage offers deals cheaper than airline excess baggage and offers luggage rates to more than 6500 destinations in 240 countries.   For more details telephone 1300 300 688.

The ultimate Asia visit

A 22-night package which begins in Beijing opens the door to Aussies wishing to explore a fascinating country. All aboard, - for the cruise of a lifetime,- the departure ex Beijing on March 6, 2012.   Priced from $9439 per person twin share, there's even a free night stopover at Singapore's Raffles Hotel.   Not only cruising, but there's heaps of on-land touring as well. Best thing is to get yourself a copy of the itinerary by calling 1300 369 848. Truly, one of the best itineraries I've come across. Included in the price as quoted is return economy airfares with Singapore Airlines from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth. Check it out by contacting www.ecruising.travel


* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency.   Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Madagascar - QM2 - Oktoberfest - Orion’s Spice Islands - Yoga Cruise

2011-04-25T11:33:00.002+10:00

DISCOVER MADAGASCAR AS DAVID ATTENBOROUGH DID

ADVENTURE holiday operator Explore Worldwide has two 15-day packages which follow in the footsteps of David Attenborough's latest documentary masterpiece "Madagascar," in which he explores the unique wildlife of the world's oldest island.

Explore's Madagascar itineraries have a strong wildlife focus, such as the 'The Lost Continent' tour which passes through rainforest and crosses plains, canyons and highlands in search of lemur and other extraordinary wildlife. The package is priced from $2711 and includes accommodation with daily breakfast, 11 other meals, transport, sightseeing as well as a tour leader, driver and local guides.

For the more active adventurer the 15-day 'Madagascar Wilderness Trek' takes in similar highlights but has more of a trekking-focus. There are departures from September to April and costs from $2547 and includes accommodation with most meals, transport, extensive sightseeing and the services of a tour leader, driver and local guides.

For more details contact Venture Holidays on 1300-303-343 or visit www.exploreworldwide.com.au

QUEEN MARY 2 PLUS LONDON & NEW YORK'S BEST HOTELS FOR $3850pp

A WHOLE week regally cruising the Atlantic aboard the grand Queen Mary 2, stays in the finest world-class hotels in New York and London for shopping and sightseeing, airfares and taxes from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane – and through Cruiseco, all this is from an incredibly low $3850pp twin-share.

Cruiseco has four of these packages between May 9 and June 8 this year, sailing 7-nights aboard Queen Mary between New York and London (or vice-versa) with all onboard dining and amid an ambience of gracious and "unmistakable Britishness," and 2-nights pre- or post-cruise at the Hemlsley Hotel New York and a night at either the Waldorf Hilton London or Radisson Edwardian Bloomsbury Street London.

These value-packed holidays start at just $3850pp and begin with 2 nights at the Helmsley Hotel in New York on June 8 2011.

For full details, prices from other capital cities, and the names of Cruiseco's 200-plus cruise-specialist travel agencies visit www.cruising.com.au

FURTHER SHIPBOARD AND HOTEL DETAILS: The majestic 148,500-tonne Queen Mary 2 offers no fewer than nine restaurants, twelve bars and lounges, five pools, a casino, ballroom, live-stage theatre and cinema with late-release movies.

New York's Helmsley Hotel is located on the East Side close to Fifth Avenue shopping and dining, and within easy reach of the city's best attractions and sights, including the heart of Midtown Manhattan, Times Square, the United Nations building, the Theatre District and Rockefeller Centre.

London's Radisson Edwardian Bloomsbury Street Hotel is a true one-off property close to the chic boutiques of Covent Garden and Oxford Street's celebrated shopping, while the Waldorf Hilton London is close to the city's Theatreland, 5 minutes' walk from the shops of Covent Garden, and near to the London Eye and Trafalgar Square.

STEIN-SIZED BARGAIN ON TAP FOR GERMANY'S OKTOBERFEST

THIRSTY Australians keen to help the locals and other visitors drink their way through seven million litres of beer at this year's Oktoberfest in Munich, are being offered discounted flights to the Bavarian capital by online travel agent, Direct Flights International from $1541pp.

One of the world's biggest festivals, the 17-day Oktoberfest will run from September 17 to October 3, 2011, with its cavernous beer tents, rock concerts, streets parades and thrill rides drawing more than 6.4 million visitors, just under the seven million litres of beer that will be downed at the thirst-quenching carnival.

More than half a million sausages and 70,000 pork knuckles will also be consumed with the Bavarian beer, which will be sold in huge one-litre steins for around AU$12 each.

And to cope with the liquid intake, there will be 1000 toilet seats and almost a kilometre of men's urinals on hand in the fair grounds. 2011 will also be the first year smoking will be banned inside the giant beer tents, some of which can seat 8400 people.

Direct Flights is offering return flights to Munich with full-service British Airways from $1541 from Perth and from $2192 from Adelaide, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Darwin. * The fares include taxes and are available for sale on www.directflights.com.au until April 29, 2011, for departures up to October 3, 2011.

Accommodation, car hire, tours and attractions in Germany can also be booked online with Direct Flights.

Conditions apply and flights are subject to availability.

ORION EXPEDITION TO ISLANDS LOST IN TIME

EXPEDITION cruise ship Orion's Spice Island Adventure later this year explores one of the most extraordinarily bio-diverse regions on Earth, a handful of rarely visited islands situated just north of Australia.

Centuries ago the Spice Islands were the source of the world's most valued foodstuffs and most treasured commodities of their time, multiplying in value up to a thousand-fold by the time they reached the markets of Europe.

Dotted among the thousands of islands that make up the Indonesian archipelago, only nine supported the Myristica fragrans tree, the source of nutmeg and mace, while just six more supported a myrtle whose dried flower buds were known to the Chinese as 'fragrant nails' – and to us as cloves.

More than 3000 years ago cloves were traded in Persia, and Romans were able to buy spices originating from Indonesia. In the 16th century Magellan and Vasco da Gama opened the way for the trading houses of the British East India Company and the Dutch East India Company.

In 2011 Orion Expedition Cruises will again open the way for adventurous spirits with an 11-night expedition to a region where few outsiders set foot.

It is home to many unique flora and fauna species, particularly birdlife. Towering volcanoes, many still active, rise from the sea, tropical islands appear through the soft light of morning, a hint of kretek – aromatic clove and tobacco blended cigarettes – wafts on the breeze and bright and colourful customs bring ancient legends and traditions to life in remote island villages.

This expedition includes a visit to Komodo and the chance to see the world's largest lizards – the Komodo Dragons – that grow to over 3 metres in length.

There's also Pink Beach named because of its crushed red organ pipe coral sand, and perfect for swimming, snorkelling or just relaxing, the island of Alor whose predominantly Christian villagers can be traced back to the Dongson period in Vietnam around 350 BC, and Sumba an uplifted coral limestone island once known as Sandalwood Island whose people retain a strong cultural heritage resistant to the outside influences of Christianity, Hinduism or Islam…. Orion's guests will be welcomed by villagers wearing traditional woven ikat fabrics and see ancient megaliths that adorn the village entrances.

Orion's expedition voyage will include a specialist Expedition Team selected for their knowledge and practical experience in botany, marine biology, anthropology and history.

The 11 night Spice Island Adventure departs Darwin on July 14 this year visiting Kisar on Maluku, Alor, Maumere (Flores,) Komodo, East and West Sumba, Savu, Rote and back to Darwin; prices start from $8175pp including twin-share, onboard meals, shore excursions, lectures and backgroundings, Zodiac transfers, gratuities and port charges.

Details (02) 9033 8777, toll-free 1300 361 012 or www.orionexpeditions.com

CRUISING WITH A CONSCIENCE

IT'S a tough call – waking to an alarm clock for free early morning yoga lessons and meditation on the open deck of a great luxury sailing ship, or giving up pre-sunset cocktails for a late afternoon session.

In any case, yoga teacher Christel Vollmer who trained on the US West Coast with Bryan Kest, yoga guru to celebrities including Madonna, Cindy Crawford and Sting, will be holding classes twice a day for seven days on two special Star Clipper cruises in the Mediterranean on August 6 and 13.

Christel, who specialises in Astanga (power) yoga, will also give lectures on the philosophy of yoga and advice on practice at home. Age is no restriction and no experience is necessary to attend lessons.

Supplementing the healthy yoga theme, Star clipper will offer some vegetarian meals at dinner and plenty of fruit and salads with breakfast and lunch.

The 170-passenger tall ship operates a series of cruises from Athens in May, June July and August on alternate southern and northern itineraries that include popular Greek islands and Turkish ports in the Aegean Sea.

The two cruises where yoga is offered start at $5820 including return airfare from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide with Singapore Airlines, all port and air taxes and all meals and entertainment onboard Star Clipper.

Star Clipper, sister ship Star flyer, and flagship Royal Clipper follow the sun year-round to exotic ports in the east and west Mediterranean, the Caribbean and Costa Rica and, in 2012, to Baltic and Scandinavian ports.

For reservations contact your travel agent or Star Clippers on 1300 362 599 or visit www.starclippers.com

Croatia and Dalmatia - Paris - QM2 - Festival of Voices - Kings Canyon

2011-04-25T10:58:00.001+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Birthplace of Marco Polo

There are discounts of up to $1500 per couple in the Best of Croatia and Dalmatia cruise package, with two departures in June and likewise October. What caught my eye was the mention of Marco Polo. His birthplace is included in the tour itinerary. Fabulous historical and cultural heritage throughout. Also included is a four night cruise from Dubrovnik to Split aboard M/S Pape Prvi. All those intense hours set aside for history and geography lessons at Eudunda Area School now come alive via these escorted tours. Full details by calling 1300 363 554 or email info@beyondtravel.com.au

Four nights in gay Paree

Book selected hotels under the banner of Tempo Holidays and enjoy an extra day in Paris. Stay four-nights but pay for only three on a range of properties including Sully Saint Germain which is located in the heart of the Left Bank.   Prices start from $309 per person, twin share . Just note that the deal on offer is valid for sale and travel until August 25 2011. For all the facts and conditions give this number a ring – 1300 558 987. Or, email info@tempoholidays.com

Queen Mary 2, London and New York

Wowee,- this has to be one of the best cruise offers around. An entire week cruising the Atlantic aboard the grand dame herself, - Queen Mary 2. Then staying in luxury at the finest hotels in New York and London. Included in the cruise package are airfares and taxes from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane.   Cruiseco has four of these packages between May 9 and June 8 this year, - priced from as low as $3850 per person twin share,- and in my book that's totally affordable. Go visit www.cruising.com.au

Festival of voices in July

Sing your hearts out! The 2011 Festival of Voices incorporates choral and ensemble singing, hip hop, musical theatre and on and on it goes. July is the month to get involved with a Tasmanian arts and music festival. The events are scheduled in Hobart's majestic and historic buildings, concert halls and open spaces. Get the full facts by visiting www.festivalofvoices.com   That website has more details of the program of events, including workshops and performances.

Kings Canyon is terrific

I've made numerous visits into Central Australia, and without doubt one of my most favoured locations is Kings Canyon.    A five-day Red Centre Long Weekender awaits you and that includes car hire with unlimited kilometres. The price is from just $717 per person twin share. That includes a complimentary upgrade to a deluxe spa room.   Whilst at Kings Canyon you will also experience the award-wining Under the Desert Moon dining experience. The deal is valid until 30 June. For all the details and conditions which may be applicable, telephone 13 38 43

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency.   Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Mary Poppins - Mediterranean - South America - Houdini - Orion Sabah

2011-04-18T10:44:00.000+10:00

JOIN MARY POPPINS HUMAN MOSAIC WORLD RECORD ATTEMPT

. Bowral event "will be big enough to be seen from space…"

HEAD to Bowral in the NSW Southern Highlands on Saturday May 7th and you could find yourself part of history: an attempt will be made that afternoon to create a new world record for the most number of people gathering with opened umbrellas to form a gigantic mosaic of the world's most famous nanny, Mary Poppins.

It was in Bowral in the early 1900s that teenager Helen Lyndon Goff made up bedtime stories to tell to her younger sisters after the premature death of their father, amongst her tales being the adventures of a no-nonsense nanny.

And today it's another local teenager, Melissa McShane who's sparked community interest in a Mary Poppins statue in Bowral; the "Welcome Home Mary Poppins" record attempt is part of promotion and fund-raising for that statue, and will be witnessed by representatives of The Guinness Book of Records.

The mosaic will be formed on Bowral's famous Bradman Oval.

Organisers, the Southern Highlands Youth Arts Council, hope to smash the current Mary Poppins mosaic record set by 1,026 people in Serbia in 2009, and are inviting all Mary Poppins fans to join them – pointing out that their human mosaic will be big enough to be seen from space.

Their planned bronze Mary Poppins statue will be sited in Bowral's Glebe Park, that is just a block away from where Helen Lyndon Goff lived, and is adjacent to Bowral Oval.

You can register to take part in the mosaic on www.shyac.org.au, phone (02) 4801 0622 – or just turn up on May 7th with your most colourful umbrella.

And after the mosaic everyone's invited to an open-air screening of the Disney 1964 Mary Poppins musical, and a fireworks show.

MEDITERRANEAN CRUISING IS HOT – IN WINTER

A growing number of Australian cruise fans are opting to cruise the Mediterranean in winter, cashing in on savings offered on flights and cruises during the traditional off-peak season.

Family-owned Italian-based MSC Cruises says it's seen a surge in interest for its cruises in January, February and March, supporting the company's move to keep three of its 11 luxury ships – Splendida, Fantasia and Magnifica – in the region year-round.

"Cruising in the Mediterranean is hot with Australians, even in winter," said Lynne Clarke, managing director of MSC Cruises (Australia and New Zealand).

"The demand for these cruises is riding on the crest of a wave. Price, style of ship and the interesting ports have all played a role."

Drawing on Australian interest is a 22-night Mediterranean Discovery Cruise which pools, back-to-back, two 11-night cruises aboard the luxurious Splendida.

Price for the cruise begins at $2048pp twin share (January 15, 2011) with return air fare options available, flying Emirates to Milan, from $2056pp. Two other itineraries are scheduled for February 6 (from $2158pp twin share) and March 19, 2011 (from $2268pp, twin share).

During the traditional cruising months, MSC Cruises has noticed an upsurge of bookings for MSC Musica's Italy, Greek Islands and Croatia seven-night cruises, priced from $1099pp, twin share.

They begin in Venice and call on Italy's Bari, Greece's Katakolon (Olympia), Santorini, Mykonos, Piraeus (Athens), Corfu and Dubrovnik in Croatia, before returning to Venice.

Details: MSC Cruises, phone 1300 028502, or www.msccruises.com.au

FREE FLIGHT TO SOUTH AMERICAN HOLIDAY SAVES $3735

APT has launched its new South America 2012 brochure with a Companion Fly Free deal for every itinerary, representing savings of up to $3735 per couple if bookings are made before June 30 2011.

A 21-day The Very Best of South America escorted tour is the backbone of APT's new South America small group journeys (maximum 24 passengers). Travellers can add Chilean fjiord cruises, Patagonia Lakes, Galapagos Island cruises, Amazon Lodge, Patagonia fjiords, Rio Carnival or Buenos Aires/Rio de Janeiro city stays to create a itineraries between 24 to 31 days.

The Very Best of South America is priced from $11,995 per person twin share. There are nine departures between April and November for this luxury escorted coach tour which explores the cities and ancient sights of Brazil, Peru, Uruguay and Chile.

The price includes touring, accommodation, 39 meals, flights within South America, local arrival and departure transfers, port charges and all tipping, Freedom of Choice Touring and Dining, APT Tour Director and local guides.

Among the highlights are exploring Buenos Aires, full-day excursion to Uruguay's oldest town, Iguassu Falls including jet boat ride, discovering Rio de Janeiro including Corcovado, Sugarloaf mountain at sunset, Copacabana beach, and the amazing local culture and dining, two days exploring Santiago and its neighbouring wine regions, Cusco high in the Andes, a local hand weaving demonstration, riding PeruRail's Vistadome train to the lost Inca City of Machu Picchu, onboard the Orient Express' Hiram Bingham train for a luxurious rail journey and sumptuous four course dinner and riding the Orient Express Andean Explorer in first class to Lake Titicaca.

Contact: call 1300 229 804, visit www.aptouring.com.au or see a travel agent

NO ESCAPING HOUDINI EXHIBITION ON LOS ANGELES VISIT

MORE than 80 years after his death, Harry Houdini and his feats of escape still fascinate even the most casual fans of magic and mystery.

And if you are visiting Los Angeles between now and September 4, the Los Angeles' Skirball Cultural Center at 2701 N. Sepulveda Boulevard is paying homage to the man with an exhibit titled "Houdini: Art and Magic."

This examines the life of the man born Ehrich Weisz in Hungary in 1876 and who thrilled millions until his death in 1926. There are more than 150 objects, including original props – such as the straitjacket and trunk from which he regularly escaped – as well as posters and film clips.

There are also testimonies to Houdini's greatness from contemporary magicans and escape artists including Matthew Barney, Jane Hammond, Vik Muniz, Deborah Oropallo and Raymond Pettibon.

CRUISECO'S CAPTIVATING HIGHLIGHTS ON ORION II IN FASCINATING SABAH

THE memorial to Borneo's infamous 1945 Sandakan Death March, and by contrast the little island on which the first of the TV reality Survivor shows was filmed in 2001, are amongst the diverse highlights of a 10-night cruise available through Cruiseco aboard the boutique Orion II in Malaysia's Sabah in August.

Others include two rehabilitation centres that care for orphaned and injured wildlife including orangutans and sun bears, a visit to one of Borneo's most traditional longhouses, the memorial Peace Park where Japanese forces surrendered in 1945, a swim amid coral with myriad sea-life from black-tipped sharks and rays to tiny seahorses, and a splash in reputedly medicinally-valuable volcanic mud.

And for the inquisitive, a visit to the intriguing 33-metre high Labuan Chimney that was built in the mid-1800s with 23,000 red bricks imported from England; to this day no one knows if it was to be part of a British-style luxury mansion, a ventilation shaft for Labuan's one-time coal mines, a bell tower – or the start of a lighthouse for ships passing along the coast.

Cruiseco's 11-night package includes return airfares and taxes from Australia to Kota Kinabalu via Singapore, a night pre-cruise at the Fairmont Hotel in Singapore including breakfast, 10-nights aboard Orion II return from Kota Kinabalu with daily excursions, transfers in Singapore and Kota Kinabalu and port charges and government fees.

Prices start from $7988pp twin-share from Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane (deduct $227pp for Perth)

For full details and the names of Cruiseco's 200-plus cruise-specialist travel agencies visit www.cruising.com.au

FURTHER ITINERARY DETAILS: ORION II will sail from Kota Kinabalu on August 11 this year for Mantanani and Lankayan Islands, Sandakan for three days to explore the Kinabatanga River, historic WWII sites and the Sepilok Wildlife Sanctuary, Kudat to visit the Rungus Longhouse, Labuan Island, the Klias Wetlands and Tiga Island.

The 5-star Orion II carries just 100 guests served by 65 crew and has an indoor restaurant and on-deck café, health spa, gymnasium, hair and beauty salon, Jacuzzi, lounge, library and lecture hall in which talks are given by the ship's Expedition Team and Guest Speakers.

Millamolong Polo - Venice Rowers - Glacier Express - Mary Poppins

2011-04-18T10:22:00.005+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

They’re racing

Well, not exactly, but it’s to do with horses, wine and food at a major sporting event at Mandurama in New South Wales. It’s the Millamolong Polo Carnival on Saturday April 30th. For more information on the event call 0467 67 65 62. Some of the nation’s best polo players will battle it out at the polo grounds. Admission is by a gold coin donation, with proceeds to the James Ashton Charity Fund. For those who want to be VIP’s on the day, get the details by either telephoning or email office@millamolongpoloclub.com The program includes a Volvo car versus horse race, heaps of activities and food for the family. For all the details go visit www.millamolong.com Vintage cars to helicopters, a petting zoo to a pig called Sharon.

This is one heck of an event,- not to be missed !

A rowing race in Venice

A 30 km rowing race with hundreds of boats (all shapes and sizes) is scheduled for Sunday June 12th. The participants include local Venetians and foreign rowers. It is a huge festival and an event which saw the light of day in 1974 when locals gathered together to rid the lagoon of noisy boats with outboard motors. The event this year will welcome about 5000 rowers. To get the full story go to www.turismovenezia.it or telephone the Italian Government Tourist Office in Sydney, on (02) 9262 1666. The email address is Sydney@enit.it

Train it in spectacular comfort

A spectacular rail journey is about to set off into the Swiss Alps. It is the three-day Glacier Express,- and what an experience.

Travel is between St Moritz to Zermatt and aboard the world’s most famous railway, across 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels and the Oberalp Pass. The price is from $652 per person twin share. The package includes two nights in some of Switzerland’s most popular resorts, first class train travel, two breakfasts and three transfers.

There are other packages available, so check them out by visiting www.tempoholidays.com or your local travel agent, or telephone 1300 558 987.

Mary Poppins

Saturday May 7 is one date to set aside, for it heralds an attempt to create a mosaic world record attempt in beautiful Bowral. In the early 1900’s teenager Helen Lyndon Goff made up bedtime stories to tell her younger sisters. One such story has made it to the silver screen,- Mary Poppins. Another teenager, Melissa McShane is out to set a new record. She, along with more than a thousand people hope to smash a record, set in Serbia (2009) where 1,026 people are to face ‘defeat’ by the ‘down under’ locals, - but you are needed at Bradman Oval, on Bowral’s big day. Get all the facts by ringing (02) 4801 0622, or visit www.shyac.org.au See you there!

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency. Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We’re archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Indochina Tours - Il Gioco del Ponte - Cirque du Soleil - Q Station - Rio Brazil

2011-04-11T10:31:00.000+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Wendy Wu

Indochina specialist Wendy Wu is offering a $200 per person discount on their Vietnam departure July 09m 2011. One of the conditions is that bookings need to be made prior to 31 May. It is an 18-day tour which takes in some of Vietnam's key attractions including, the dynamic city of Saigon, the Mekong Delta which includes a homestay, Hoi An, Hue and the treasures of Halong Bay. The package is now priced from $3889 for departures from Sydney and Melbourne, for those travelling ex Brisbane and Adelaide it is priced from $4089 and from Perth $4191. Prices are per person, twin share and include return economy airfares and taxes, 16 nights accommodation, comprehensive touring, visa fee for Aussie passport holders, fuel surcharge and gratuities. For more information and to confirm the conditions and prices, telephone 1300 727 998.

Could be you in battle

An historic event known as Il Gioco del Ponte is a colourful and violent ritual where two opposing camps fight over the town's main bridge, an event which dates back to the Middle Ages. That's how it once was. These days the event is more of an endurance course rather than a blood thirst battle. Get to the location early in the day and grab a good spot to catch the marching, the 'battle' and the huge military parade. Best advice I can give is to go visit www.comune.pisa.it or contact the Italian Government Tourist Office in Sydney. The email address is Sydney@enit.it or telephone (02) 9262 1666. It all happens the last Sunday in June.

They're back– be warned !

Something a little different is happening in Brisbane in July. Tickets are currently available for Cirque du Soleil – Saltimbanco, playing at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre at Boondall from 8 July to 17, 2011. Starting as a group of street performers in 1984, the company has grown somewhat, now boasting 5,000 employees, including 1,300 artists playing to the world.   For more information and other play dates contact Ticketek on 132 849.   You can also catch the show at other locations,- Perth April 21, Adelaide May 25, Melbourne May 26, Hobart June 15, 2011.

Manly's Q Station

Impress Mum on May 8 with a night at Manly's Q Station, located within Sydney Harbour National Park. A special Mother's day package awaits. It is priced from $210 and includes accommodation for two in a deluxe Queen ensuite room, a full buffet breakfast and a late checkout time of 1pm on Sunday. Mention it's a Mother's Day when booking and also receive a comp bottle of sparkling wine on arrival. To book contact (02) 9466 1500 or g visit www.qstation.com.au    The deal is valid for stays May 7 and 8, 2011, with the late checkout valid only on the Sunday.

Rio and more

Here's your chance to really get to know the most exciting parts of South America,- exploring Rio, the Iguassu Falls, historic Salvador and the rhythms of Brazil. The 11-day small group tour is priced from $3967 per person, twin share. Make a promise to yourself that you will make contact with Cox & Kings for the full story of a quite remarkable tour of adventure,.. and rhythms of Brazil. Call 1300 836 764.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency.   Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Mornington Peninsula - Silversea - Lake Okareka Lodge - Masala Dandenong - Russia

2011-04-04T10:36:00.000+10:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

A top spot from which to escape

Apart from the fact that most of the disaster zones, in Victoria and Queensland, have returned to normal business, Aussie domestic travel and tourism offer some fantastic holiday options. In this week's report I'm suggesting a couple of days R & R on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula. Packages vary in price and inclusions, however, a studio suite package at Best Western Brooklands of Mornington should be considered.    Check this one out ! Included in the tariff of $200 is complimentary breakfast in your room, a newspaper delivered to your room and a comp bottle of wine awaiting your arrival.    The studio suites of this four star property feature a deluxe king bed, a kitchenette and a 41" plasma TV. The property, which is close to beaches and attractions, is set on three acres of stunning landscaped gardens. For all the information simply go visit www.brooklands.bestwestern.com.au or telephone (03) 5973 9200.

Luxury ? Yes please!

Current packages cruising with Silversea offer no less that six ships sailing twenty-six itineraries in seven regions of the world between November of this year and December 2012. All of the packages are inclusive of return air from Australia, pre and post cruise accommodation in luxury hotels with prices starting from just $7975 per person twin share. Packages range from 14 to 33 nights embracing Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, and also north and south America, through to the Antarctic. There is real choice on offer, each offering luxury and exciting inclusions.   Simple go visit www.cruising.com.au

Mum will remember

To share Mothers' Day this year make a beeline to a website which shows how to spoil Mum and give her memories for years to come. New Zealand's Lake Okareka Lodge is the destination and it's there that your Mum will be treated right royally. Packages are available for sale through to April 30 and for travel through 31 August 2011.   What's the deal ? I am delighted to share this one with you. Lake Okareka Lodge's recommended package is priced from AUD$3110 (check on currency exchange). That includes three nights suite accommodation for two persons, champagne breakfasts, pre dinner drinks and canapés, daily five-course dinners, 24 hour butler service, personal chef to create dishes to your liking, return airport/lodge transfers,- and there's more. I'll race you to make contact at info.nz@lebua.com or go visit www.lebua.com

Wander through Little India

Several years ago I joined a walking tour group through the Melbourne suburb of Dandenong. The local council encouraged those with adventurous taste buds to travel to Little India. Passports, visas nor international airline tickets were required. Those early food lovers can now join latter-day visits to the well organised Masala Meander in Melbourne's Dandenong. Included in these foodie experiences, are Indian dishes at an Indian café, a visit to an Indian grocery store, a three-course luncheon at an Indian Restaurant with a glass of wine and a surprise giveaway. Various dates are available so check these out by visiting www.beaconholidays.com.au     A minimum of four guests make for a tour group, with a $70 price tag per person. These are genuine 'North Indian style' experiences which depart Dandenong railway stations at 11.15am for an 11.30am start. The company also offers a similar tour through Melbourne's cbd.

For details use the same web address. Bookings are essential.

How about Russia ?

There's a discounted nine-day package cruise between St Petersburg and Moscow with the discounts of $500 per person on selected dates. This is a great adventure with inclusions such as a farmers' market, a visit to a 17th century church, with its own legends and memories, and tours of both Moscow and St Petersburg. The cruise includes private tours, five-star accommodation with breakfast included, and on the six-nights aboard the MS Volga, the price includes daily meals with wine and soft drinks during lunches and dinners. For more information telephone 1800 221 712. Go visit www.bentours.com.au Terms and conditions apply.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. The information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agent.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Northwest Tasmania - Battlefield Tours - Werribee Zoo - India Tour - Central Australia

2011-03-28T19:58:00.000+11:00

with John Crook

Taste the North West

Make a note of these dates – April 24 to April 30 2011. These could mean something to you if you are also into food and the arts. The location is Sheffield in Tasmania. There are lots of happenings on those dates but probably the date which is most attractive to me would be April 30, where a mural festival coincides with the tastes of the North West. It's a celebration of the finest foods, beverage and produce. Try these for tastes. Rabbit pies, German-style small goods, smoked salmon through wood fired pizzas. For all the information go visit www.muralfest.com.au

Battlefield Pilgrims

There's a whole range of tours awaiting those who re interested in the battlefields of the WWII. These tours are becoming increasingly adventurous. Mat McLachlan heads up the company which provides one of the most comprehensive range of touring options. The tours visit war zones of the Pacific, Europe and Asia.   The range of tours has been released, so for all the details and costs, visit www.battlefields.com.au

April a big month for zoo visits

Thursday April 14, Tuesday April 19 and Thursday April 21. The location is the Werribee Open Range Zoo, which is located between Melbourne and Geelong. There is a program at the zoo which offers youngsters the chance to work at the zoo for a day as a zoo keeper. What a wonderful opportunity.

Kids become participants working amongst the regular zoo keepers and their charges. To get the costs, and the conditions, telephone the zoo direct (03) 9285 9406.

Enjoy the tastes of India

You can put eight days towards exploring India, taking in the sights of a great country in a tour which includes the Red Fort, Jama Masjid Mosque and the Raj Ghat in Old Delhi, along wiith the India gate and the former vice-regal residence in New Delhi. Just to mention a few. Did I mention the Taj Mahal ? Well, I should have. The tour departs Delhi and the price tags from $1698 per person twin share.   Visit www.coxandkings.com.au   This tour is part of the great range of experiences waiting to be discovered.   Being a Cox & Kings product it must be good!

Explore the Red Centre

The world famous icons await those who have their eyes set on Central Australia as a destination. There's a six-day self-drive holiday priced from $733 per person twin share. Exploration includes Uluru-Kata Tjuta, Kings Canyon and the Alice.

This is more than your usual Red Centre tour,- in the fact that participants also get to join an Aboriginal guide to walk the Mutitjulu waterhole and the caves at the base of the Rock.

For more information and conditions telephone 13 38 43.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency.   Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Four Seasons Sydney - Cruise Hawaii - South Africa Rail Cruise - MSC Deal - Easter Q Station

2011-03-21T23:23:00.002+11:00

A PRESIDENTIAL SUITE THAT'S FIT FOR A KING

OKAY so your hotel room does have views of Sydney Harbour – but does it have a master bathroom with a bathtub in a bay window overlooking the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House and most of the Harbour from the 34th floor?

Or a four-poster bed, rich leathers on other furnishings, and the ambience of a circa 1930s New York-style apartment?

If not, then book into this one – the Presidential Suite – at the Four Season's Hotel Sydney that's just come out of a two-year refurbishment at a cost of $1.6m. And if you have to ask the price, then as they say, you can't afford it (so we'll satisfy your curiosity now: the Presidential Suite starts from $5925 a night.)

Designed by one of Australia's leading interior and architecture practices, Bates Smart, that Presidential Suite, a Deluxe Royal Suite (from $3925 per night) and two Royal Suites (a snip at just $1925 per night each) offer a kind of hotel-staying that's definitely in a world of its own.

And while that Presidential Suite features the luxuries usually associated with royalty or their more-wealthy rock-star cousins, the three Royal Suites aren't to be sneezed at either: with their undertones of penthouse glamour matched with metropolitan flair they invite guests to enter each through grand, full height double doors, stepping then into million dollar views that simply say "Wow."

And parquet floors, timber wall paneling, wallpaper and soft Roman blinds create a feeling of intimacy and warmth that will have you simply not wanting to leave.

And while we dream of the day we take out that Lotto win and have to decide between the Presidential Suite, the Deluxe Royal Suite or a Royal Suite, we can always book a special night in one of the hotel's Deluxe Rooms from just $275 a night. Ring them on toll-free 1800 222 200.

GRAND 21-NIGHTS FLY, CRUISE AND STAY HAWAII, TAHITI AND SYDNEY

THREE days and two nights in Honolulu, another day in Hawaii's picturesque Lahaina on the Island of Maui, then day's ashore in dreamy French Polynesia's Papeete, Moorea, Raiatea and Bora Bora, before cruising into beautiful Sydney harbour – these are the highlights of a 21-night fly, cruise and stay package with Cruiseco in November of this year.

Guests will have two nights at the Waikiki Resort Hotel in the heart of Waikiki and just seconds from the beach, before sailing away on November 11 aboard Celebrity Cruises' 70,000-tonne Century for 19-nights of 4.5-star luxury cruising.

Prices start from $3835pp twin-share that includes one-way economy class airfare from Sydney to Honolulu, 2-nights pre-cruise stay at the Waikiki Resort Hotel, 19-nights aboard Celebrity Century with all dining and nightly entertainment, port charges and government fees, onboard gratuities and air taxes.

For full details and names of Cruiseco's cruise-specialist travel agencies Australia-wide, visit www.cruising.com.au.

Guests will enjoy thirteen full days at sea between ports to unwind and indulge Century's many facilities including a golf simulator, pool, jogging track, fitness centre, AquaSpa, card room, library, a show lounge and celebrity theatre, cinema, casino, and a selection of bars and lounges.

And when it comes to meals, a choice of gourmet fine-dining in the Grand Restaurant, or for more casual café-style, dine in the Islands Café, Cova Café and Sky Bar.

LUXURY 2012 RAIL AND CRUISE TOUR OF SOUTH AFRICA

TWO glamour queens of transport which recapture the romance of travel– the famous Rovos Rail train and ocean liner, Queen Mary 2 – will be combined in a new luxury rail and sail tour in South Africa in 2012 offered by Australian cruise agency, Cruise Express.

The new "Pride of Africa' trip is one of seven hosted tours Cruise Express will offer in Africa in January, 2012, with fly/cruise packages available from $4990 per person, twin-share for a two-week adventure.

The 'rail and sail' trip departs Australia January 17, 2012, and includes a three-day 'tick-off-the-must-do list' journey on Rovos Rail's legendary train, The Pride of Africa, from Pretoria to Cape Town as well as a 14-20 day voyage back to Perth, Adelaide or Sydney aboard the world's grandest ocean liner, Queen Mary 2.

Queen Mary 2 encapsulates the golden age of ocean

The Pride of Africa train – described as a luxury liner on tracks – boasts stylish Edwardian furnishings, crisp linen, fine china, exquisite cuisine, afternoon teas and elegant double bed cabins, with guests sipping Champagne in opulent lounges during black tie evenings.

Cruise Express' all-inclusive 'Pride of Africa' tour starts with two nights and three 'big five' safari drives at the luxurious Tinga Private Game Lodge with its private swimming pools and panoramic viewing decks in the wildlife-rich Sabi Sands Game Reserve in the world-famous Kruger region. Also included is the Rovos Rail journey, four nights in Cape Town, the voyage back to Australia aboard Queen Mary 2, sightseeing trips in South Africa, a flight from Australia to Johannesburg, connecting flights in South Africa, 23 meals in South Africa and all meals and entertainment onboard Queen Mary 2.

The tour lasts from 22-28 nights, depending on the disembarkation point in Australia aboard Queen Mary 2.

Fly, cruise, rail and tour fares start from $12,690 per person, twin-share for passengers disembarking in Perth (22 night trip) $13,390 for Adelaide (25 nights) and $13,990 for NSW, QLD and Victorian passengers disembarking in Sydney (28 nights).

For bookings or a brochure, contact Cruise Express on 1300 766 537 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au

MSC CRUISES' TWO-FOR-ONE FARES

TAKE a friend or cruise as a couple and you pay for only one passenger through MSC Cruise's two-for-one fares on ocean voyages in 2011-2012.

The world's leading family-owned cruise ship line is offering this money-saving deal on 13 continent-to-continent cruises; as an example, a 16-night voyage from USA's Fort Lauderdale to Genoa in Italy is priced from just $2358 a cabin for two on board MSC Poesia.

This lead-in fare applies to a cruise in March next year, calling at Puerto Rico's San Juan, St Maarten and the St John's, also in the Caribbean, before crossing the Atlantic to Madeira Island in Portugal, and Malaga, Alicante and Barcelona in Spain, and ultimately Genoa.

"These ocean voyages are perfect for passengers who love to take a holiday with plenty of sea days to explore the ship," said Lynne Clarke, managing director of MSC Cruises (Australia and New Zealand). "They have ample time to not only get to know their ship, but to warm to it, the facilities, the friendly crew, the daily programs, and the many other fine aspects of ocean cruising.

"Guests also have the opportunity to a number of ports that are not normally included on regular cruises."

Book a cabin on the MSC Melody for its 18-night ocean voyage between Genoa and Cape Town in November this year and price starts at $2438, the second passenger free. It will call at Barcelona, Cadiz (Seville), Tenerife (Canary Islands), Dakar (Senegal) and Walvis Bay in Namibia.

MSC Melody's return voyage to Europe, in February next year, starts at $2798, calling at St Helena, Walvis Bay, Dakar, Arrecife, Cadiz and Palamos before reaching Genoa.

Other voyages in the two-for-one – between October this year and April 2012 – link South America with coastal Africa and Europe; fares include on board meals and entertainment, port charges for two, a Captain's cocktail party and a Gala Dinner.

As well children under 18 years, who share a cabin with two adults, cruise free. However, port charges of up to $500 per child apply. Entry to the children's club is also included.

Details: MSC Cruises, phone 1300 028502, www.msccruises.com.au

EASTER AT Q STATION OVERLOOKING SYDNEY HARBOUR

SYDNEY's waterfront heritage retreat Q Station has released a choice of Easter escapes featuring luxury accommodation overlooking Sydney Harbour.

With its panoramic views from Manly's North Head, Q Station combines a National Park setting with the unique heritage buildings of Australia's first quarantine facility.

Two Easter escapes are available:

Family Fun Package - from $199* per night, including accommodation for two adults and two children in a Heritage Queen Suite, full buffet breakfasts, a family pass to Oceanworld in Manly and a free inhouse movie. Plus, kids 12 and under eat free when dining with their parents at Q Station's Boilerhouse Restaurant.

Easter Escape - from $160* per night including accommodation for two in a Heritage Queen Room including breakfasts.

Q Station has a wealth of activities including its popular ghost tours, history tours and activities on its own secluded beach. The site is accessible over the holidays via the Harbour Hopper ferry service and is just a few minutes from all the bars, restaurants and activities of Manly.

For full details and bookings contact Q Station on 02 9466 1500. See also www.qstation.com.au

*Packages available for stays April 8 to May 1, 2011. Minimum two night stay required for reservations over a Saturday. Heritage Queen Suites and Heritage Queen Rooms feature private external bathrooms.

Tasmania - Sardinian Festival - Easter Escape - Greek Islands - Machu Picchu

2011-03-21T10:56:00.001+11:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Time to return to Tassie

Join us on a charity flight with 180 like-minded charity folk having fun whilst supporting the 2011 Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal. This is an exclusive experience taking in a rich heritage, distinctive wildlife and scenery galore. Tickets are on sale for $299. To purchase and to get more information simply dial 1300 659 115.          Ring between 10.00am and 4-00pm Monday to Friday. The program includes a walking tour of the World Heritage listed Port Arthur historic site. Also you will be able to get up close and personal with Tassie Devils at the Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park.    The flight is from Melbourne to Hobart (return) and it all takes place on Good Friday.

Sardinian Cavalcade

May 22nd is the date thus year for the Sardinian Cavalcade, a gathering of locals and visitors who parade in their colourful costumes, participate in various traditions including a parade of horsemen. Commemorating a special day way back in 1899 when the king and queen arrived in town. Unlike most Sardinian feasts this festival is not a religious event,- but rather a chance to participate in an historic cultural celebration. More information is available through travel agencies which have an Italian bent. Or email Sydney@enit.it

The Easter bunny package

It's indulgence time in Brisbane.    An Easter Escape package including all things Easter, starting with accommodation and a king suite and a bottle of French champagne for starters,- for $275 per night. Then it's just a matter of adding items from the 'pure pamper menu' which are priced individually. These include one- hour full body massage in-suite, a dozen long stemmed red roses, chocolate dipped strawberries for two and/or a celebration cake for two.    His and hers bathrobes, to take home as a memento, can also be added to the list. For all the information and conditions call the good folk at the Emporium Hotel on (07) 3253 6999 or 1300 883 611.

Follow the path to the icons

The lesser-known Greek islands of Sifnos and Milos are included in an 11-day private tour, with tours available any day during the May – September season.   The price ranges from $3465 to $4930 per person, twin share, with a minimum of two passengers on each departure. This is a novel way of being part of a 'small group'. For starters the tours include driver, accommodation, all breakfasts and one lunch, transfers, meet/assist services, private guides, fast ferries and entrance fees, listed on the published itinerary. Check the conditions and inclusions by ringing 1300 853 953 or your local travel agent. The islands are part of the Cyclades group which are located 130km east of Athens.

Another option for Easter

To the hinterland of Queensland's Sunshine Coast and a true Easter indulgence. The package includes Estate suite accommodation, daily Parisian breakfast for two, a bottle of Moet and also on arrival Lindt chocolates. For this package, starting from $1974 per couple, there's luxury accommodation for three nights, a one-hour chocolate facial and body scrub in a Spa Anise day spa. French or Italian cooking school, lunch and a three-course dinner in the exquisite French-inspired Long Apron restaurant. That's the three-day/night experience,- just wait until you get to check out the five day package !    To do that, contact Spicers Clovelly Estate on 1300 717 027, or go visit www.spicersclovellyestate.com.au

How could you bypass this ?

Spectacular Peru, via complete comfort, awaits with a train journey to Machu Picchu. A 13-day escorted small group journey explores the wonders of this exciting country. The itinerary includes the archaeological site of Machu Picchu , the Colca Canyon's snowy peaks, and a full-day tour of the floating islands of Titicaca.    The price starts from $2783 per person twin share. It's a once in a lifetime experience.    The package is valid for sale until December 24, 201. At least make the effort to check on this package, You can do that by 'phone, 1300 836 764. Terms and conditions apply. The advertised price is valid departures July 4, 16 and 25, 2011.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. The information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agent.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Hobart Cascade - SeaDream II - Gastronomic Dandenong - Georgia

2011-03-14T11:26:00.001+11:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Come join Louisa's Walk

Cascade Brewery is an appropriate location from which to begin Louisa's Walk history to life. This is Hobart and the walk is part of what is called 'strolling theatre' Guests follow Louisa's story as she is arrested, convicted, transported and marched to the grim gates of the female factory womens' prison. Chris and Judith Cornish 'star' in this Hobart attraction. Whatever you may have planned for your visit to Hobart, you will be disappointed if this walking tour is overlooked. Bookings are thoroughly recommended. Cost is $30 for each adult, and there is a family ticket priced at $75. Get the conditions ad all the details by calling (03) 6238 4222 or (03) 6229 8959.

That 'other' Georgia

If you've been everywhere, how about trying Georgia, - a destination of discovery. The 8-day Wonders of Georgia is an escorted small group tour which offers an in-depth exploration of a captivating nation. Priced from $1662 per person twin share, the tour features life at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. The tours are valid for sale until October 1, 2011. Included are seven nights' accommodation, transportation by quality air-conditioned vehicles, tour escorts/guides along with entrance fees for sites listed on the itinerary. Get the facts by calling 1300 836 764. The tour departures are from June 19 through October 2 2011.

This is some tour,- you bet !

SeaDream II sails 20-nights from Bridgetown in Barbados to Manaus and Iquitos on the Amazon on February 12 2012 and 20 nights back to Bridgetown on March 4 2012. There's an exciting range of optional 3, 5 and 6 night post voyage packages to Machu Picchu after her arrival in Iquitos and similarly a choice of 3, 5 and 6 nights to Machu Piccu pre the mega cruiser's departure from Iquitos back to Barbados. Prices of the optional packages start from US$3350 per person twin share. These are the technical facts as such,- just wait until you check out the main itinerary on the voyages on the Amazon River.

The cruise prices for the Amazon on SeaDream II start from US$12919 per person twin share. Do yourself a favour and go visit www.seadream.com or call into your nearest travel agent.

Just make a note of this number – 1800 667 791

Then get ready to join like minded travellers and get ready to get the taste for Indian cuisine,- without leaving the country. Beacon Holidays is ready to lead you and yours on a gastronomic tour of Dandenong. That's right, Dandenong, in Melbourne. The cost is $70 a head. That opens the door for a foodie adventure which starts at Federation Square in Melbourne's CBD, then to Dandenong for a visit to an authentic Indian grocery store, an elaborate three-course Indian meal and then onwards to a variety of Indian desserts. The tours begin at 11.30am and finish at 2.00pm. So call the number at the head of this brief, or email masalatrails@beaconholdays.com.au

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency. Block-out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Kimberley Coast - Cooking Italy - Celebrity Century - Wollongong - Fiji Yasawa Islands -

2011-03-07T14:30:00.002+11:00

REMOTE KIMBERLEY COAST WITH AURORA EXPEDITIONS' CORAL PRINCESS

DISCOVER the magically remote coastline of the Kimberleys with legendary expeditioner, Mike Cusack aboard Aurora Expeditions' Coral Princess.

In 1987 Mike and his wife Susan were chosen to be the first Australian Geographic's Wilderness Couple, and Mike will share their experiences with guests of this once forbidding ancient and forgotten land – including discovering over 1600km of towering cliffs, plunging waterfalls, and beckoning white beaches that will touch the soul like no where else on Earth.

Join Mike on the Kunmunya 'Wilderness' Walk, exclusive to Aurora Expeditions' passengers. This optional 9.5 km, or seven hour, rock-hopping journey is an inspirational and authentic bush experience, and one of the best ways to discover the true heart of the Kimberley.

Many of the Kimberley Coast's most fascinating sites can only be accessed by sea and guests will also visit islands with nesting boobies and frigate birds, revel in the amazing Montgomery Reef, uncover the ancient secrets of Aboriginal rock art galleries, and participate in the excitement of spotlighting saltwater crocodiles.

And complex river systems, waterfalls and freshwater swimming holes complete the Kimberley picture.

The voyages will also be joined by eminent indigenous art historian Garry Darby and the inimitable Chris Done, whose years of research as a naturalist bring the wonders of the Kimberley Coast to life.

As with all Aurora Expedition's voyages, emphasis is placed on a combination of interactive experiences with the environment and a strong educational element including its history, plants and animals from Aboriginal and European perspectives.

Departures are still available in May and June 2011. For more details or a copy of the Kimberley Coast 2011 brochure, contact Aurora Expeditions on 1800 637 688 or 02 9252 1033, or visit www.auroraexpeditions.com.au

COMBINE COOKING AND WALKING IN ITALY

A COMBINATION cooking and walking tour of Italy's Amalfi Coast sounds like a good way to keep things in balance and even better is that the tour has been discount by $200 per person if you book by March 31.

Italian travel specialists SIT have just released a nine-day round-trip package from Naples which includes daily walking excursions, cooking lessons and many samplings of local cuisine, including antipasto, cheeses, home-made pasta, fruit, vegetables, local desserts and coffee.

The $2350 deal includes accommodation with en suite facilities, breakfast daily and many other meals, transport, tour leader and guides and entry to sites like Pompeii and Mt Vesuvius.

The tour visits places like Amalfi, Naples, Ravello, Capri, Sorrento and Positano and has 2011 departure dates on June 4, July 1 and October 1.

For more details contact SIT on 1300 885 173 or visit www.southernitaliantours.com.au

VALUE CRUISE DEAL ON OUR HIGHEST-RATED SHIP

CRUISECO has a range of exceptional-value cruise opportunities from November this year to March 2012 aboard the highest-rated ship to spend a season based in Australia, the "classically elegant" 5-star Celebrity Century.

And book before March 31 this year and you'll get a free onboard spending credit of up to US$150 per cabin.

Choose from sailing 19-nights from Honolulu to Maui, Papeete, Moorea, Raiatea, Bora Bora and Sydney on November 11 this year from just $2490pp twin share (or 17-nights back to Honolulu via same ports on March 6 2012 from $2439pp twin-share,) to a choice of 12- and 13-nights Sydney-Auckland (or vice-versa) sailings including either Hobart or Melbourne, New Zealand's Milford, Doubtful and Dusky Sounds, Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, Napier, Tauranga and the Bay of Islands from a low $1649pp twin-share*.

There's also 18-nights Auckland-Perth via Tauranga, Christchurch, Dunedin, the three Sounds, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Albany and Bunbury from just $2515pp twin-share, and Perth-Sydney via Geraldton, Broome, Bali, Darwin, Cairns and Brisbane from only $2365pp twin-share.

Cruiseco's cruise-only prices include onboard dining, nightly entertainment and port charges and taxes on Celebrity Century, that is rated 5-star by the Berlitz Guide to Cruising and Cruise Ships; airfares to and from cruises are additional.

For full details and names of Cruiseco's cruise-specialist travel agencies Australia-wide visit www.cruising.com.au

(*One of these sailings includes Christmas Day at sea between Sydney and Melbourne, and New Year's Eve at sea between Dunedin and Christchurch.

The 1750-passenger Celebrity Century has four dining options from the Grand Restaurant to leisurely café-style, an entertainment lounge and live theatre, cinema, casino, four "club" lounges and bars, library, AquaSpa, fitness centre, pool, jogging track and golf simulator.)

…………………………

HOP INTO THE 'GONG THIS EASTER

SPEND five fun filled days in Wollongong over the extended Easter break this year and combine spectacular escarpment adventure with great wildlife, arts, fun parks and eating experiences, all just 90 minutes from Sydney.

The city's centrally-located Best Western Wollongong Hotel is offering an enticing family package to give visitors an extra reason to make Wollongong their Easter Escape in 2011.

Costing $899 for two adults and two children and valid between April 22 and 26, the Three-Day Easter Package includes free breakfasts, undercover parking, DVD hire, Ten Pin Bowling pass, Jamberoo Action Park pass, Illawarra Fly Family Pass, giant Easter egg and plush toy for each child plus a dozen medium Easter eggs per person, red and white wine pack for Mum and Dad and $50 pizza voucher.

For more details or to book the Best Western Hotel Easter Package call 02 4222 4000 or visit www.bestwesternwollongong.com.au. For more information about events and where to stay in Wollongong, call 1800 240 737, or visit www.visitwollongong.com.au

CRUISE 7-DAYS, PAY-4 IN FIJI'S YASAWA ISLANDS

FIJI's iconic Blue Lagoon Cruises is offering seven-day Yasawa Island cruises at four-day pricing on all departures booked for travel from 01 April 2011 until 30 June 2012.

Bookings need to be made before 30 June 2011 to take advantage of the special offer.

The discount means pricing for the seven-day cruises starts from as little as AUD1192 per person twin share in the boutique cruise company's 'Hibiscus' class cabins.

This represents a saving of AUD526 per person on normal pricing.

Pricing includes all onboard accommodation, all main meals, morning and afternoon teas, cruise and cultural activates.

The daily cruise activity program includes shore excursions and such water-based activities as snorkeling safaris, fish feeding, bush walking, fishing and glass bottom boating.

Cultural experiences include visits to remote villages, Kava ceremonies and a day spent at Blue Lagoon Cruises' private island of Nanuya Lailai.

A feature of the Nanuya Lailai visit is a traditional torch-lit Fijian 'Lovo' feast taking place on the island's famous white sand beach.

For cruise reservations phone Blue Lagoon Cruises in Lautoka, Fiji, on +679 666 1622, email reservations@blc.com.fj or book online at www.bluelagooncruises.com.

*Conditions apply. All cruises are subject to availability. Please note prices do not include international airfares or beverages (other than tea or coffee).

Tasmania - Wild Borneo - globalCARS - Bundaberg Turtles - International Rail

2011-03-07T11:35:00.001+11:00

Travel briefs for w/c March 7

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Tassie is after your tourist dollar

Currently, on the waterfront alongside the Elizabeth St Pier, there's a sailing opportunity awaiting those with sea-legs. For beginners, join the crew and fellow sailors aboard the Windeward Bound for lunch and a three-hour sail. For $65 per adult ($30 per child, or $160 per family) sail the Derwent. This is aboard Tasmania's largest tall ship. Join the sailors Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The Windeward Bound Trust also offers a grander sailing experience on eco and history voyages. The latter is designed for youths aged 20 to 35. For more details and prices, telephone 0418 120 399 or 0418 120 243. Or just stand dockside and watch the action as crew members prepare for their next adventure.

Where to stay and why ?

A trip to Tasmania is not complete without inclusion of a few nights accommodation at historic Woolmers Estate, - near Longford. There are seven cottages set in the spectacular grounds of the Estate. Built in the 1840's each has been converted into fully self-catering colonial cottages. The tariff is from $135 per night for two adults sharing a cottage. For an extra adult just add $35 per night. Tally-Ho, the coachman's cottage, accommodates up to six people, so it is necessary to check tariff. There are guided tours of the grand homestead and the estate grounds. For more information go visit www.woolmers.com.au or, telephone (03) 6391 2230.

Now, it's overseas for a saving with 12 free days

The deal is on offer from globalCARS which has on offer more than 35 air-conditioned models (most with GPS), with rates including full insurance, a choice of petrol or diesel and with 24-hours road assistance.

Wow, - what a deal ! The deal also offers up to 12 free days and other bonuses on brand new Citroen cars costing from just $28 a day. This is one deal worth checking out. To do that, telephone 1300 789 992 or go visit www.globalCARS.com.au   For your information the French Government allows manufacturers to lease to non-French residents free of all duties and taxes with zero insurance excess.

Or go wild in Borneo

How about a six-day five-night sailing adventure aboard a 19th century riverboat replica into the heart of Borneo. The luxury sailing opportunity is aboard Pandaw River Cruises. The itinerary includes visits to a jungle longhouse, a village school when coinciding with school terms, bustling markets and plenty of cultural activities.   Cruise-only prices begin from as low as $1260 per person, twin share between now and March 2012. Get all the info by calling (02) 80 visiting www.pandaw.com There's a pre-cruise package, at a cost of $344 per person twin share and also a post-cruise package from $475 per person twin share which includes two-nights at the Pullman Kuching Hotel with breakfasts, a day visit to wildlife centres and more. Check it out! Conditions apply, Also I suggest a check on the inclusions.

Good news for turtle lovers

My friends in Bundaberg advise that the turtle viewing season at Mon Repos has been extended. The last night for viewing these wonderful creatures is now set for Sunday April 2, 2011.    Bookings are recommended and so that there will not be any disappointments, I suggest you telephone (07) 4153 8888.

International rail

There is a new reservation system for Italian trains over the upcoming summer months. It is now possible to book, and confirm tickets and seat reservations for travel until the end of May 2011 directly on all high speed train services on Trenitalia sectors. To avoid disappointment it is important to book well in advance.   Check www.internationalrail.com.au or call 1300 387 245.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. Block out periods may apply.    Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

St Petersburg - Swiss Alps - Air Pacific - Japan

2011-02-28T17:52:00.001+11:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

It's Victory Day in St Petersburg

It would make sense to seek a reservation making a link with the 2011 Russian Victory Day celebrations. The five-day event combines the May 9 parade which celebrates the end of WW11. It's a full-on package, one which should suit those with even the faintest knowledge of Russian history. The tour departs May 7 and includes four-star accommodation, arrival and departure private car transfers, some meals and privately guided sightseeing. This is a tour not to be overlooked. To get the full story why not check out www.bentours.com.au or ring 1800 221 712.

Ski vacations in the Alps

If you are quick off the mark, there's still time to take on some skiing in the Swiss Alps. Check out the 'Happy Family' packages which combines a week's accommodation, ski passes and access to sports and leisure centres. There are also 'her and him' packages and an Easter package which is valid from March 27 to April 25. Check www.leysin.ch

Air Pacific a fine way to sample Fiji and beyond

They claim to be the friendliest airline in the world. That's some claim. I first sampled their friendship 15 years ago. Almost time for another inspection and sampling. Perhaps the package priced from only $1199 ex Sydney or $1299 ex Melbourne. That price offers inclusive flight, stay and drink. That's enough to get me checking further. I suggest you do the same, just to be sure you have not misread the facts. Call Specialist Holidays on 13 13 81 for more news on the option above, and also to check out other packages.

Cultural treasures of Japan

To get the real feel of Japan, there are special departures April 16. May 13, September 17 and in October, two departures. A nine-day escorted small group is priced from $4401 per person twin share. Some departures feature colourful festivals and sumo wrestling. Make contact with reservations@coxandkings.com.au to get the full story on conditions, inclusions and the itinerary. The tour package includes some travel aboard the bullet train, tour escort and entrance fees for the itinerary sites.

Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency. Block out periods may apply. Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Fiji Deal - Pacific Pearl - Southern Highlands - Round the World Cruise

2011-02-21T23:22:00.002+11:00

GREAT NEW DEALS AT "FIJI'S BEST-VALUE BEACHFRONT BURES"

WALU Beach Resort, renowned to its legion of fans for having "the best value Beachfront Bures and most sensational views in Fiji," has released new super-saver "Bula11 Rates" through to June 30 this year that are ideal for families or groups of friends looking to get the most from their holiday dollar.

One bedroom Beachfront Bures now cost just AU$125 per bure per night and have a double bed, two roll-out beds, a bathroom and lounge-room, while 3-bedroom Oceanview Villas are now priced at only AU$175 per Villa a night and have a double bed, four single beds, two bathrooms, a lounge-room and elevated veranda.

And a great-value optional new Meal Plan gives breakfast, lunch and dinner for just $40 per adult per day and $20 per child per day

"We're putting real value into holidaying at one of Fiji's most-perfect beach-front resorts that's set in a private secluded paradise surrounded by tropical gardens, golden sands and graceful palms," said new Managing Director, Michael Hay. "And we're on Malolo Island just 20km from Port Denarau, the stepping-off point from Nadi Airport to Fiji's off-shore islands."

Walu Beach Resort has plenty to do (or nothing at all): swimming in the pool or lagoon, snorkelling, kayaking, sailing, bushwalking and running, fishing, table tennis, volleyball, billiards, village visits, fish feeding, trivia, a massage service, dining that includes freshest local seafoods and just-gathered local tropical produce, and a never-to-be-forgotten Sunset Bar.

Walu Beach Resort is also just a short boat ride to one of the South Pacific's best surf spots, "Cloudbreak."

Details from www.walubeach.com, phone +679 665 1777, or email Michaelhay@optus.ap.blackberry.net. Ask for "Bula11 Rates."

PEARLER IDEA: FINE WINE AND FOOD AT AUSSIE CRUISE SHIP'S CHEF'S TABLE

P&O Cruises has introduced a new dining concept with the debut of its latest cruise ship Pacific Pearl – an exclusive Chef's Table in the ship's Wine Room.

The Chef's Table dinner will be offered up to three times on every Pacific Pearl cruise, with just 14 passengers a time able to reserve a seat.

Set in the elegant, bottle-lined Wine Room within the ship's chic Waterfront Restaurant, the Chef's Table will feature a seven-course degustation menu paired with Australian wines.

Sture Myrmell, Vice President of Hotel Operations at Carnival Australia, which operates P&O Cruises, said the concept was designed to showcase the high quality of P&O Cruises' food and wine and offer a unique passenger experience.

"Pacific Pearl's Wine Room sits beautifully within the contemporary Waterfront Restaurant so it's the ideal setting for the Chef's Table," Mr Myrmell said.

"We are very proud of the quality and variety of cuisine on our ships, and felt the Chef's Table would be another way to let passengers experience great food and wine during their holiday."

Priced at $75 a head including wine, the three-hour Chef's Table experience starts with pre dinner cocktails, canapés and an introduction by the ship's Executive Chef. Diners will then enjoy a tour of the ship's main kitchen before enjoying their dinner, with Chef introducing and explaining all seven courses.

The Chef's Table concept will be extended to Pacific Jewel, which also features a Wine Room, later this year.

Carrying 1800 passengers, the 63,500-tonne Pacific Pearl features three restaurants, seven bars and lounges, a giant poolside entertainment screen, Aqua HealthSpaFitness centre, two swimming pools, a swim-up-bar, multi-level show lounge, four kids centres, a casino and duty-free shopping boutiques.

Pacific Pearl will offer cruises from Sydney throughout 2011-12. As an example, a nine-night voyage to the South Pacific departing Sydney August 10, 2011 is priced from $899 quad share.

For more information contact P&O Cruises on 13 24 94 or visit www.pocruises.com.au

A TASTE OF ITALY IN THE SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS

A TASTE of Italian food and wine, cars and culture, entertainment and motorbikes will highlight the weekend of March 12 and 13 at Sutton Forest in the NSW Southern Highlands when local wine company Southern Highland Wines celebrates the Italian heritage of its winemaking team – and raises funds for children's cancer research.

On the Saturday night there'll be an authentic 4-course Italian feast prepared by local Chef Franco Rossetti, with live entertainment by Italian-born and now Sydney-resident Angelo Di Bella who'll perform songs made famous by Andrea Bocelli, Luciano Pavarotti and Patrizio Buanne.

Entry to the evening will be $95pp including all drinks.

On Sunday the winery will swing into action with a display of Alfa, Lancia and Fiat cars and an assortment of Italian motorbikes, plus there'll be cooking demonstrations, and visitors can make purchases from an Italian BBQ conducted by the Italian Alpini Association, a roasted chestnut stall, buy fresh crostoli (strips and squares of deep-fried pasta dough dusted with icing sugar) made by the ladies of the Italian Social Welfare Society – and of course there'll be plenty of pasta dishes to choose from.

The whole family can also join in grape-crushing, macaroni craft and for the children a range of rides to keep them amused. Local Italian identity Luciano Liberale will MC the day and there'll be live entertainment by the Marconi Club choir and roving piano accordion artists.

Entry will be $10 per car, the full $10 going to the Children's Cancer Institute of Australia; for details phone Southern Highland Wines (02) 4868 2300, email info@shw.com.au or visit www.shw.com.au

WORLD'S TOP 25 LOVE NESTS

FROM Tasmania to Turkey, the Maldives to Macao, there's never been a better time for romance according to a leading Australian authority on the subject.

Glossy magazine Holidays for Couples scoured the globe in 2010 to find the world's top 25 newest, most romantic resorts and hotels to prove that love is in the air, in almost any language.

The Romance List 2011, published in the current summer edition of the magazine, paints a dazzling picture of spectacular, sexy and glamorous hideaways pandering to every whim for honeymooners, lovers, and couples with a passion for sheer indulgence.

The ultimate holiday wish list in the dizzying world of new resorts and hotels opens up a vista of architectural wonderlands in settings from beachfronts to rice paddies, mysterious jungle valleys and glaciers, to roaring log fires and tropical plunge pools.

There's even a Champagne-fuelled secluded love-nest amid the frenzy of Las Vegas, an elegant hotel right in the middle of New York City and a five-star canvas tent resort in a desert. There are butlers, yachts, spas, celebrated chefs and armies of pampering staff.

All properties were opened for business in 2010 with the top 25 chosen by an independent panel of five top travel writers and authors after a survey of readers and industry leaders.

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Rhonda Bannister said the magazine's annual Top 25 Romance List reflected the expertise and impartiality of a carefully-selected judging panel.

"Each property in this year's list which includes Turkey, Tasmania, the Maldives, Macao, India, Thailand, New Zealand, China, Utah, Italy, Bali, Spain, Mexico, Laos, Abu Dhabi, Hong Kong, France and Singapore is a remarkable story of romance in itself", she said.

Holidays For Couples is from the Graphic Publishing stable of quality niche magazines covering the Travel, Home and Weddings markets circulating both nationally and internationally.

See http://www.HolidaysforCouples.travel

ROUND WORLD CRUISING FROM SYDNEY IN 2012

PRINCESS Cruises will operate two world cruises from Australia in 2012 for the first time, giving Australian travellers the choice of a 104-night or a 75-night voyage around the globe from Sydney.

The move reflects the overwhelming popularity of Princess Cruises' annual world cruises from Australia since they were first introduced in 2008.

The globe-trotting duet is a highlight of Princess Cruises' new 2012 winter program for its locally-based superliners Sun Princess and Dawn Princess, and includes the debut of 17 exotic ports new to the Australian world cruise itineraries.

Sun Princess will set sail on her first 104-night full world circumnavigation from Sydney on May 16, 2012, visiting 38 ports in 28 countries including maiden world cruise visits to Iceland's colourful capital Reykjavik, Halifax in Nova Scotia and Lerwick in the Shetland Islands. Her world cruise will also feature overnight calls in the city that never sleeps – New York, as well as picturesque Venice, with fares for the full 104-night voyage starting from $20,999* per person twin share or just $34,000 per person for a balcony.

Meanwhile Dawn Princess will offer a 75-night Grand Pacific World Voyage, calling at 28 ports in 13 countries from Northern Asia and Russia to Canada and Alaska and the tropical islands of the Pacific. New ports of call on her cruise include Seward and Sitka in Alaska, Nawiliwili in Hawaii and Russia's Siberian city of Vladivostok, with the cruise departing July 27, 2012 and priced from $14,499* per person or just $23,499 per person for a balcony.

Travellers will save up to $1000 on bookings made before May 31, 2011 and will also receive a bonus onboard credit of up to $1000 per person for the full 104-night and $500 for the 75-night voyage.

Plus, passengers who book the full 104-night or 75-night cruises will receive free return economy airfares to Sydney from Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, Coolangatta, Brisbane and Hobart.

Princess Cruises President and CEO Alan Buckelew said interest in world cruising from Australia had grown steadily since the cruise line sailed the first world cruise from Sydney in 2008.

For more information visit www.princess.com call 13 2488 or see a licensed travel agent.

*Fares are per person, twin share. Subject to availability, conditions apply.

Fiji Travel Deals - Swiss Skiing - Daydream Island

2011-02-19T11:05:00.001+11:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Fancy a bure ?

Right now one-bedroom bures cost just AU$125 per bure per night. The location is Walu Beach Resort, recognised the world over as the best value beachfront bures with the most sensational views in all of Fiji.   This is the location where you can do everything, or nothing at all. There's further great value as well, with an optional new meal plan which offers breakfast, lunch and dinner at a $40 adult price, or for $20 per day per child.

For surfers, Cloudbreak is just a short boat ride away, Get all the details when visiting www.walubeach.com   It's just a matter of quoting the super-saver 'Bula11 rates. They are available through to June 30 this year. Check out the conditions.

Port Denarau and Tourism Fiji and Air Pacific

What a combination! The group has launched the first ever Fijian international jazz and blues festival. Artists include leading musicians from around the world. Billy TK Jnr, Hammond Gamble, Tony Painting through to crooner Diana Harris. For more information go visit www.fijibfest.org There are some attractive packages featuring the Sheraton Villas, the Sheraton Fiji ocean breeze room, and the Westin Fiji tropical garden room. For more info on the packages, telephone 1300 370 792. The 2011 dates are May 12 to 15. The location, Port Denarau.

Ski until Easter

Where? The Swiss Alps of course. Special deals are on offer including happy family packages. These are worth checking out. There is the 'her and him' package with two meals at restaurants in the region, in addition to the accommodation and ski passes. The Easter package, which is valid from March 27 to April 25, which provides two nights at half-board and three days on the slopes. Go visit

www.leysin.ch - www.diablerets.ch - www.villarsgryon.ch

Daydream Easter deal

Stay at Daydream Island for four nights but only pay for three. One of the packages is just $449 per person twin share and that includes four night's accommodation with buffet breakfasts daily, and a free upgrade to an ocean balcony room and a free Easter hamper. Kids stay and eat breakfast for free.   Check out the conditions and at the same time check on any of the other packages. The deals are available from now until April 26 with travel 1-30 April 2011. Daydream Island escaped major damage during the inclement weather conditions experienced along the Queensland coast. Telephone 1800 075 040 or go visit www.daydreamisland.com

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. The information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agent.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

BEIJING TO ST PETERSBURG - EUROPE RIVER CRUISES - MEDITERRANEAN SMALL-SHIP CRUISE - NSW WINE - PERU

2011-02-14T11:31:00.001+11:00

EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL JOURNEY BEIJING TO ST PETERSBURG

EXPERIENCE a trip of a lifetime on a 22-day Trans-Mongolian rail journey with Beyond Travel, there are limited spaces available plus you can receive $1000 travel credits per couple, to use on any future Beyond Travel product, when you book and deposit by April 1.

Departing on June 10, this deluxe itinerary begins in Beijing with three days of sightseeing before boarding your train to Mongolia, Siberia, Moscow and St Petersburg. This journey passes through the magnificent landscape of the Gobi Desert and its nomadic communities. Enjoy a typically local meal at a Mongolian folkloric show and then travel on to Lake Baikal, the world's largest freshwater lake.

After passing through Irkutsk, Siberia's biggest city Novosibirsk and Kazan on the Volga River disembark in Moscow and visit the must see destinations in the capital before joining the new high speed Sapsan train in business class to St Petersburg to explore sights such as the Spilt Blood Cathedral, Peterhof and the Hermitage Museum.

Priced from $13,350 per person twin share it includes 11 nights deluxe hotel accommodation, 10 nights train accommodation, most meals, comprehensive sightseeing with an English speaking tour director, all ground transportation, gratuities and porterage during the tour and airport transfers by private vehicle.

This exclusive tour is a guaranteed departure and carries no more than 20 passengers.

For more details contact Beyond Travel on 1300-363-554 or email info@beyondtravel.com.au

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FREE AIRFARE WITH APT CHRISTMAS EUROPE RIVER CRUISES

APT is offering free return economy airfares to Europe (including taxes) for those booking a European Christmas season river cruise before April 30... also the first time its offered its Magnificent Europe river cruises during the Christmas-New Year season.

Lead-in cruise is the 15-day Europe Christmas Markets, priced from $6345 per person, twin share which includes 14 nights on board an APT Concerto Class river ship, all meals with beer and wine served at lunch and dinner, Freedom of Choice Touring at no extra cost, the Christmas markets including Rothenberg and Nuremburg, return local airport transfers and tipping, excursions and entertainment, plus an APT exclusive tour of the Hungarian State Opera House in Budapest, complete with private opera recital.

General Manager Marketing, Debra Fox said APT was able to now offer cruises with Christmas-New Year highlights because of having its own eight-ship fleet.

"There been a huge demand for this experience," she said. "So we've responded with a great range of cruises, and are expecting a very good response."

APT has listed 42 departures across a choice of 10 Christmas season cruises, with departures running from November 25 through to December 30 for itineraries ranging from 10 days to 21 days. Concerto class riverships operate on the longer itineraries and Aria ships on the 10 or 12 day itineraries.

Thirty-two departures include Christmas Day and New Year's celebrations on board and most also experience the fabulous Christmas markets of Germany.

Previously, APT winter season Magnificent Europe River cruises did not include Christmas or New Year.

Phone 1300 229 804, see aptouring.com.au or ask local travel agent for more details and APT's new Christmas Cruise & Tours brochure.

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12-PORTS, 9-COUNTRIES ON MEDITERRANEAN SMALL-SHIP CRUISE

Twenty-six nights, twelve ports, nine countries – that's Cruiseco's offering in a uniquely elegant, intimate and relaxed atmosphere aboard the small-ship Saga Pearl II from Southampton to the Mediterranean and return in April of this year.

Carrying just 450-guests, Saga Pearl II will visit Lisbon, Malaga, Palermo, Dubrovnik, Hvar, Koper, Venice, Kotor, Salerno, Civitavecchia (for Rome,) Barcelona and Gibraltar on her leisurely 26-night journey that Cruiseco has discounted to as low as $5355pp twin-share. This is a saving of $500pp off the regular cruise price.

It includes fine dining in a choice of two restaurants, on board lectures about upcoming ports and regions being visited, and nightly movies on the Sun Deck.

The small (18,600 tonne) ship also has Cabaret entertainment, a casino, three bars and two lounges, a library, freshwater pool and fitness equipment, and a range of therapies and treatments are available in the Spa.

Saga Pearl II departs Southampton on April 3 this year; for full details and names of Cruiseco's cruise-specialist travel agencies Australia-wide, visit www.cruising.com.au; air fares are additional.

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NSW IS WINE & FOOD HEAVEN: FEBRUARY 26-MARCH 31

NSW wines are set to star at the annual NSW Wine Festival launching on February 26 that toasts the State's most talented winemakers and award-winning wines with a collection of public tastings and dinners in Sydney.

This year the Festival (formerly NSW Wine Week) will host a huge number of ways to discover the wine and food produce of NSW's 14 diverse wine regions.

This will include the Sydney Cellar Door – from 11am to 6pm on Saturday February 26 and Sunday 27 – with 100-plus winemakers bringing their favourite drops to the city, the State's best producers and providores, and Sydney's finest restaurateurs providing more dishes than ever to perfectly complement the wines.

This will be set in Sydney's Hyde Park, and will be free to enter with tasting packages starting at just $25.

Dine with NSW Wine from February 28 to March 31 will star special NSW wine-matched lunch and dinner menus at participating restaurants throughout NSW, and priced from just $30-$50 including wine. Participating restaurants will be listed on www.nswwine.com.au

And a number of Tour NSW Wine Regions Dinners will feature degustation dinners – created from NSW produce and matched to the finest NSW wines - hosted by leading food and wine personalities at four specially-selected top Sydney restaurants. For more details see www.nswwine.com.au

Chair of NSW Wine Strategy, James Agnew says: "The latest Nielsen figures* show that sales of NSW bottled wines, within NSW, have grown a huge 22% or $14.3 million on the previous year, to reach a record $79.3 million.

"This shows that people are really embracing the quality and personality of our local wines and the 2011 NSW Wine Festival is the ultimate way to discover the true secret gems in food and wine our State has to offer."

NSW's 14 diverse wine regions are: Canberra, Cowra, Gundagai, Hastings River, Hilltops, Hunter Valley, Mudgee, New England, Orange, Perricoota, Riverina, Shoalhaven, Southern Highlands and Tumbarumba.

For full program details see www.nswwine.com.au

*31 August 2010 MAT Nielsen data

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PERU'S AMAZING 3,000 ANNUAL FESTIVALS

PERUVIANS love to celebrate life, doing so with an amazing 3,000 festivals a year that are a colourful mix of musical and spiritual celebrations that some-how combine a peculiar blend of ancient cultures with Christian traditions.

Peru's Tourism Board coordinator for Asia Pacific, Rosana Guinea, says there is a festival or celebration almost every day somewhere in Peru. "If you are visiting Peru, it is worth taking the time to find out what is going on in advance... these festivals are a great way to absorb Peruvian culture."

The first half of 2011 is packed with cultural festivals, with Christmas celebrations continuing right through to January: the Epiphany in Huancavelica sees parades in every town representing the journey of the Three Wise Men, with children once again showered with gifts and lollies.

Later in January, dance lovers from all over the world congregate in Trujillo for the Marinera Festival, and in February traditional dress parades, folklore dances, singing, food tasting and Carnival Queen Contests cheer up the atmosphere in every little town.

The Negro Summer Festival, an Afro-Peruvian dance contest at the end of February features street music, parades and wine/food fairs in the district of El Carmen Ica.

The Grape Harvest Festivals in Lima and Ica and the Easter Christian Celebrations brighten up March, and the month also sees the world-famous surfing Championships in Chicama. In April, the Peruvian Paso Horse Festival in Mamacona is held at the foot of the pre-Inca Pachacamac oracle.

In many of Peru's festivals Christian celebrations are oddly blended with Inca and Pagan rituals and the El Señor de Qoyllur Ritti, held every May-June in the District of Ocongate Cusco, is a good example of this mix. The festival is a pilgrimage to Mount Sinaqara, a holy mountain from pre-Inca times, in homage to Corpus Christi and the ancient Cult of the Sun. The celebrations include a procession, dancing performances, fireworks, and an adorable handmade miniature market, known as "alasitas".

The winter solstice at the end of June is also celebrated with both Christian and Inca cultural traditions, with the Festivity of St. John in the Amazon region, and the Festival of the Sun in Cusco that's become one of the most popular festivals in South America, and held at the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress.

For more information visit www.peru.info

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Red Carnation - Beerenberg - Tahiti - Tuscany

2011-02-13T18:10:00.001+11:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

No request too large, no detail too small

According to Old Government House hotel general manager, Andrew Chantrell, that's the ethos which continues to win friends for his Channel Island's four star hotel. Celebrating 150 years of hospitality it is just one of numerous first class hotels under the Red Carnation banner. Check the visuals of the hotel and for further information go visit www.oghh.com    It features fabulous views from St Peter Port across the harbour out to sea.

Beerenberg jams

First it was to locals and visitors to Hahndorf, then along came Qantas and for the past 18 months the beautiful jams from Beerenberg have been featured on the shelves of Coles and Woolworths. A new milestone has been created by the company, with more than a million jars of their premium jams have been moved from the shelves of the major supermarkets. The advice I have when travelling through South Australia, and in particular the delightful town of Hahndorf, join the throng of happy jam eaters.

Tahiti and Moorea.

Grab a Madness Moorea discount card from Tahiti Tourism, or your local travel agent, - but before you leave Australia for Tahiti. Discounts include meals at a number of restaurants. However, discounts apply to direct bookings only. Check out the deals on rental cars, through 4WD safari excursions.   To obtain your car and for more information on Tahiti and Moorea, go visit www.tahitinow.com.au or telephone 1300 655 563.

Genuine Tuscany

There's a round trip escorted tour from Florence and it has a whole bunch of highlights.   The five-day tours are priced from $1625 per person twin share and includes four star accommodation with breakfasts and dinners.   Transportation is included along with all sight-seeing, wine tastings and a tour escort. The round-trips ex Florence are scheduled with numerous departures between April and October.    If interested, have a look-see at www.southernitaliantours.com.au or telephone 1300 885 173.

Seadream - Hawaii - Macau - LA Zoo - Carnival Australia -

2011-02-07T16:59:00.001+11:00

SEADREAM's BALTICS, NORWEGIAN FJORD AND RUSSIA DEBUT

SEADREAM Yacht Club's 112 guest mega-motor-cruiser, SeaDream I will break from her normal Mediterranean sailings with a 10-weeks Baltics, Norwegian Fjords and Russia season this northern summer, starting with 11-nights on May 28 from Hamburg in Germany to Bergen in Norway.

This sailing will include a transit of the Kiel Canal and SeaDream I will be the first cruise vessel ever to visit Faaborg on Denmark's island of Fyn, one-time home of Hans Christian Andersen. She'll also visit 13th century Marstrand in Sweden, Lillesand in Norway that's a small and quaint village that due to it's size is unable to cater for larger cruise vessels, and the tiny "Skjaergaarden" Islands with their opulent summer homes of Norway's wealthiest.

SeaDream will have a day in Oslo with its blend of old culture and today's modern Norwegian lifestyle, and by contrast visit remote Flam with its steep mountains and waterfalls… with an optional trip on the famous Flåm Railway.

On June 21 guests will experience the longest day of the year when the "midnight sun" bathes Norway in a near-24 hours of light, and the voyage will conclude in Bergen with a gourmet island beach barbecue.

Prices start from US$7924pp twin-share including accommodation in ocean view staterooms, 5-star dining, wine with lunch and dinner, open bars with selected premium brands, nightly cocktail gatherings, use of mountain bikes shoreside, power and sail watersports facilities, a 30-course golf simulator, onboard gratuities, and port charges and taxes. Air travel is additional.

For itinerary details and prices see travel agents or visit www.seadream.com

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HAWAII'S WAIMEA VALLEY 2011 HIKING SERIES

WAIMEA Valley on Hawaii's Oahu Island has announced its 2011 Hiking Series for individuals, families and those looking for more strenuous up-to 5-hour hikes.

Beginning this month, there will be Valley hikes every Saturday with the last Saturday of each month featuring the more strenuous.

Hikes will embrace stunning views from atop high ridges, and guides will help hikers identify native and exotic plants, view various streams and the Waimea Waterfall, point out native o`opu (fish), rare endemic aquatic moth pupa, and showcase the Valley's indigenous birds.

Children (15 years of age or younger) must be accompanied by an adult.

To participate in the Family Hikes children must be 7 years of age or older. Family Hikes cost $10 per person plus the cost of admission to the Valley. Space is limited to 20 participants and reservations are required.

To participate in the strenuous hikes, the last Saturday of each month, children must be at least 12 years of age. Strenuous hikes cost $15 per person plus the cost of admission. A minimum of 5 participants are required for the hike to take place.

Registration is at 8:30 am at the Waimea Valley Visitor Center. Hikes start promptly at 9:00 am and end at 12:30 pm (short hikes only). Participants should bring a snack, insect repellent, sunscreen and water and must wear closed-toe, non-slip hiking shoes.

Waimea Valley is a living place of peace and safety and is significant in the history of Hawaiian spirituality and traditions. The 720ha valley offers an authentic cultural window into the lifestyle and customs of the Hawaiian people through daily programs and activities. For more information visit www.waimeavalley.net.

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2011'S FESTIVAL FUN TIMES IN MACAU

MACAU'S reputation to entertain its guests will continue throughout 2011 with the Asian centre set to host a series of colourful festivals and events to complement the city's extravagant year-round Vegas-style stage shows.

Headlining the glittering list of annual celebrations are the A-Ma Festival (April 25), the 22nd Macau Arts Festival (April 29 – May 28) and the thrill-a-minute Macau International Dragon Boat Races (June 4-6).

For a number of days between September 10 and early October, Macau will host the 23rd Macau International Fireworks Display, while September 12 is time for locals and guests to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival.

"When it comes to festivals Macau knows how to turn on a colourful and exciting event," said Helen Wong, managing director of the Macau Government Tourist Office in Australia and New Zealand.

"From such events as the 11th Macau Lotus Flower Festival (June) and the 25th Macau International Music Festival (Oct 7 – Nov 6) to the 58th Macau Grand Prix (Oct) and the 11th annual Food Festival (Nov), there's much to excite visitors as well as the locals... and not to be missed is the Macau City Fringe Festival which will be into its 11th year when staged in November."

Other major events include Procession of the Passion of Our Lord (Mar 12-13), Feast of the Drunken Dragon (May 10), National Day of the People's Republic of China (Oct 1), Festival of Ancestors (Oct 5), the 16th Macau International Trade and Investment Fair, Lusofonia Festival 2011 (Oct 21-23), the Macau International Kart Grand Prix (Oct), Macau International Food Festival (Nov) and the Macau International Marathon (Dec 4).

Each festival and event complements the major full-time shows such as the City of Dreams' The House of the Dancing Water spectacular, and The Venetian's Cirque Du Soleil Zaia.

On average, Australians spend almost four nights a visit in the city with its east-meets-west and old-meets-new characteristics.

Details: Macau Government Tourist Office, phone (02) 9264 1488, or check out www.macautourism.gov.mo

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NEW ELEPHANT EXHIBIT AT LA ZOO

A NEW "Elephants of Asia" exhibit has opened at the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens.

Designed with the health, welfare and enjoyment of the elephants in mind, the state-of-the-art facility also gives viewers an entertaining look at these magnificent pachyderms, as they romp and play in the tropical landscape. Bathing pools, a waterfall, river sand, sandy hills and varied topography offer plenty of activity for the three new residents - Billy, a 25-year-old male Asian elephant and a long-time resident of the LA Zoo, and two female Asian elephants from the San Diego Zoo: Tina, 30 some years old, and Jewel, 40-something.

Both the females were born in the wild and have been together for nearly 30 years.

Elephants of Asia will focus on the rich connection between elephants and the cultures of Thailand, India, China and Cambodia. The exhibit will familiarize guests with the challenges Asian elephants face in the wild, including their shrinking natural habitat, and give visitors the opportunity to directly contribute to conservation programs that support elephants in their native countries.

"Seeing the elephants explore and engage inside their new habitat is an amazing and rewarding sight," said Los Angeles Zoo Director John Lewis. "We are excited to share this incredible new exhibit and these stunning animals with everyone." See www.lazoo.org

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CARNIVAL AUSTRALIA RIDES A RECORD CRUISE WAVE

AUSTRALIA'S largest cruise operator, Carnival Australia says its cruise business will hit an all-time high over the 2011-12 summer when it will have nine ships based in Australian waters.

And while they'll offer a wide range of destinations, cruises to New Zealand are set to reach record levels.

Carnival Australia CEO Ann Sherry said Princess' recent announcement that it would deploy a fourth superliner, Sea Princess, in Australia for the summer would take the number of locally-based ships represented by Carnival Australia to new records, with four P&O Cruises' ships and Cunard's Queen Mary 2 also based in Australian waters at that time.

"It's tangible evidence of the growth of the Australian cruise industry, particularly when you consider that only a year ago Carnival Australia had just five ships based here over summer," Ms Sherry said.

Ms Sherry said while the ships would offer an array of itineraries, one of the top destinations would be New Zealand; between them, P&O Cruises and Princess Cruises will offer 38 cruises to New Zealand in 2012, carrying around 80,000 passengers.

"New Zealand is becoming to Australia what Alaska is to America – a very desirable holiday destination that's ideal to visit by sea," Ms Sherry said.

"Last year, P&O Cruises and Princess Cruises operated 11 New Zealand cruises which proved so popular we increased our offering to 17 cruises this year. Next year we'll have 31 cruises across the Tasman and in 2012 that number will rise to 38."

Ms Sherry said official statistics showed that the number of Australians taking trans-Tasman trips has more than doubled over the past decade, and now exceeds one million a year.

"Access Economics figures show that the cruise industry will grow by 7 per cent annually over the coming years, with the number of Australians taking cruise holidays reaching one million by 2020."

The nine cruise ships to be deployed in Australia in 2011-12 are P&O Cruises' Pacific Jewel, Pacific Pearl, Pacific Dawn and Pacific Sun as well as Princess Cruises' Sun Princess, Dawn Princess, Sea Princess and Diamond Princess and Cunard's Queen Mary 2. At least five other ships from Carnival Australia-represented cruise lines are also expected to visit over the 2011-12 summer.

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Waikiki - Phuket - London - Avalon Waterways

2011-02-07T09:42:00.001+11:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Meet me in the Sky Bar

That's just one of the several drinking spots aboard the 70,000 tonne Century which offers a 21-night fly, cruise and stay package. Spend two nights at the Waikiki Resort Hotel prior to setting sail on the November 11 cruise en route to Sydney, then 19-nights of 4.5 luxury. Prices start from $3835 per person twin-share, with all dining on board, nightly entertainment, port charges and government fees, air taxes and yes, onboard gratuities. A one-way economy class airfare from Sydney to Honolulu is also included in the price. For full details go visit www.cruising.com.au

Staying picture postcard style

Forget the postcard, go visit the real thing. Phuket is the ideal choice. And the price is not a deterrent, particularly when half-price holidays are on offer. TravelOnline makes the offer on Horizon Patong Beach Resort & Spa, with rates starting from as low as $169 per person twin share,   and that also incudes return airport transfers, four nights for the price of two in a superior room, plus daily breakfasts.   The special Thailand tour offer (with conditions) is valid or travel from April 16 to October 31 2011.   Get the full story, along with competitive airfare prices by visiting www.travelonline.com

Next best thing to guesting at the palace

'41' in London makes the boast of being a discreet, residents-only haven of style and comfort. Guests overlook the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace. And yet another plaudit for this fabulous hotel,- listed as the only London hotel to be voted one of 25 Best Europe Hotels.

You should check the comments from past guests. That will really excite and encourage you to consider spending a night or two.    '41' is one of the great properties owned and operated by the Red Carnation Hotel Collection.   Get the facts by visiting www.41hotel.com

Early birds get ready

Move quickly to check on 2011 European river cruises and to capitalise on savings pf $400 per couple. The offer refers to dozens of Avalon Waterways river cruises. It's available until March 31 2011 or until sold out. Choose from more than 60 departures between July and December.   Try this for size.

An 8-day Paris to Normandy Landing Beaches cruise on the Seine, now from $2937 per person twin share, including discount. Or, how about a 16-day Grand Christmastime cruise, from Vienna to Basel, from $4686 per person twin share, including the discount.   For a full itinerary go visit www.avalonwaterways.com.au

Now for something truly appreciated

The cyclones have passed by, storm waters and flooding, in most cases, ditto. The recommendation is to still take a holiday, but take it in Australia. Consider North Queensland, the central tourist regions of that same state, Central Australia, Victoria – and probably destinations yet to be listed. The suggestion is to check around, Google a bit, surf the net and see what offers are currently in vogue.   Not only helping Australia on the move again, but also at the same time holidaying here at home. In most cases the waters have disappeared, the winds have slowed down, and there are literally hundreds of holiday destinations just waiting to give you a smile.

Through my syndicated radio travel food and wine programs on RadioTAB Australia I'll be pushing like mad to encourage fellow-Australians to go take a break, at home, in 2011. By car, train, plane,- you probably can't do better than putting those holiday dollars back into Australia.

Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability.   This information is provided as a guide only.

Check with your travel agency.   Block out periods may apply.    Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Jeju Korea - Elvis Tribute Cruise - Wollongong Flights - London Transfers - Frommers Praise

2011-01-31T10:46:00.001+11:00

Travel briefs w/c Jan 31 2011.

Feel like a walk ?

Visitors to Korea now have access to some fabulous walks with the recognition of nine geological sites on Jeju Island. These are the first in Korea to earn UNESCO recognition and with it, Jeju becomes the only place in the world with three UNESCO certifications. Mountains, caves, cliffs, beaches and more. Check out the official travel web sites and be on your way to a real adventure. Email visitkorea@knto.org.au      A little bit of pre-travel knowledge will make the adventure even more memorable, so make the first contact via the web of telephone (02) 9252 4147.

Remembering Elvis

It's a three-night Elvis Tribute Cruise aboard Rhapsody of the Seas. Departure date for this 'cruise to nowhere' is 24 November 2011.   You'll be joining ten of the best Elvis tribute artists performing in the ship's 850 seat theatre and in various entertainment lounges.    Prices start at $820 per person in an inside twin bed cabin. To check out the various prices and availabilities send an email to peter@cruiselovers.com.au or talk to the man himself by ringing (07) 3488 0103

Gunning the Gong

One of the most underrated destinations in the city of Wollongong. Here's another reason why you need to cast your directions that-a-way.   Local aviation family, the Clarks, have five packages including the Smithy named in memory of Australia's greatest aviator.

Pilot Chris Clark is the man in charge. By the way, when I say Clark family, I mean Dad Tony who is an airline captain based in Hong Kong, and brother Jamie who is in training with the RAAF. Now that gives me real confidence.

Chris just loves the Gong and he wants to share it with you. You will travel in style as he will also have you dressed in Top Gun style outfits including cap and goggles. Go visit www.southernbiplanes.com.au

Door to door transfers in London

A new 24-7 door-to-door transfer service is now available linked to Kings Cross, St Pancras, Liverpool Street, Charing Cross, Victoria, Paddington, Marylebone, Euston and Waterloo stations. Sounds a lot like Monopoly, except here the travel is for real and the prices most affordable. It's a private car transfer between London's central rail stations and some 1000 hotels. Each transfer costs just $58 and covers up to three people. For information go visit www.railplus.com.au

Frommer's is the word

Praise doesn't come any higher than the words included in Frommer's 2011 Guide.

'Step aboard one of the 112 passenger yachts (SeaDream 1 or SeaDream 11) and you're boarding a floating club, with super pampering service and cuisine which is fine, fine, fine.' It doesn't come any better. Itineraries include the eastern Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and the Amazon. The published prices include all-ocean-view staterooms, beers, wines, spirits from the open bars, fabulous cuisine, through to a 30-course golf simulator, mountain bikes for on-shore explorations, and even on-board gratuities.

So good is the experience not only is it club-like, but you really feel like the yacht club is yours. Why not check it out. You can do just that by visiting www.SeaDream.com

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency.   Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Visuals :

SeaDream 1 at the entrance to Portofino
Southern Biplane at Wollongong

Arctic Cruises - India Tour - South America - Tunisia - Bundaberg

2011-01-24T10:29:00.000+11:00

See the Taj Mahal on a Tempo 8-day tour

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Unlock Arctic secrets

A 14-day adventure into the Russian Arctic is just one of the amazing experiences awaiting adventure seekers. Aurora Expeditions offers Voyage to the End of the Earth, which is just one of several arctic itineraries. Prices start from US$8,080 per person. Conditions apply. The fully refurbished Akademik Shokalskiy provides accommodation for a maximum of 54 passengers. The philosophy of Aurora Expeditions, an Australian-owned adventure company specialising in small group voyages to the Polar regions.   The voyages are staffed by a Russian crew, supported by premium expedition leaders, naturalists, historians and geologists.   For more information call (02) 9252 1033 or go visit the web site, www.auroraexpeditions.com.au

Staying in the history zones

Here's a chance to really soak up the rich history and culture of India.   An 8-day tour, priced from $1373, takes in Delhi, Jaipur, Agra and more, - plenty to truly satisfy the adventurous amongst us. Some of the highlights include a morning boat ride on the sacred Ganges in the holy city of Varanasi.    Of course there's a visit to the Taj Mahal. Take an elephant or a jeep ride. No two days are the same in this magical country.   Terms and conditions apply, so to get the facts telephone 1300 558 987 or go visit www.tempoholidays.com

Got a spare 21 days ?

Find a gap in your diary and prepare yourself for one of the most exciting adventures around. Priced from $10,995 per person twin share, the Very Best of South America awaits. Departure date is November 6, 2011.   The itinerary has been prepared by the owner of APTouring, Geoff McGeary. He also hosts the group for the four days they are in Buenos Aires.    Have a think about these highlights. For instance, guests get to visit Rio, Santiago, Lima, Machu Piccu and Lake Titicaca, just to mention a few. Included also is luxury accommodation, internal flights within South America, most meals, airport transfers and all gratuities for land touring and cruise staff.

Got the idea ? Well, convert the interest into actually bookings. Get the story by calling 1300 229 804. Or, go visit www.aptouring.com.au Travel agents also have the facts.

Get the full itinerary first

Once you check the details of a surprise filled Tunisia, with all the highlights included, you will be tempted. Ancient royal palaces, underground villas built by wealthy Romans, great mosques and a cliff village where streets are too narrow for two persons to pass. Welcome to Tunisia.   The fully-escorted tour which departs April 10, 2011 is priced from $6550 per person and that includes return air and taxes from Sydney, 19-nights twin share in first class and deluxe accommodation. Breakfasts and dinners daily and an English speaking guide throughout.   Call toll-free 1800 044 519 or visit www.internationaldestinations.com.au

Bundaberg is in business

Whilst much of Queensland has suffered from the recent floods, it should be noted that tourist areas such as Bundaberg North Burnett are in business. The majority of the main attractions are operating as per normal.   In most cases, no need to cancel bookings,- let's face it tourists are still visiting the region, the turtles at Mon Repos are still arriving to lay their eggs, whilst hatchlings are already returning back to the open ocean. For a true report on the current picture, telephone (07) 4153 8888 or visit www.bundabergregion.info

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. The information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agent.

Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Europe River Cruise - Hotels Vienna - Solo Europe - Air Pacific Flood Passengers - Hotel Charles

2011-01-17T16:53:00.024+11:00

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Fancy taking a river cruise ?

Not only that, but there are savings galore as well. That is, for new bookings confirmed before February 25th 2011. What a grand way to get the new season on the move. The cruises in question are fully crewed and are aboard all-inclusive luxury hotel barges with travel on inland waterways of nine European canals, rivers, lakes and lagoons. For instance, aboard Renaissance, travelling the Burgundy/Upper Loire there are discounts of $700 off per cabin on cruises departing April 3, May 1 and May 15. To get the facts on these Spring cabin discounted cruises, and for a free brochure telephone 1800 331 582. You could actually check this out right now by visiting www.outdoortravel.com.au

New accommodation in Vienna

Travelling to Austria? Then consider a night or two at the new Sofitel Vienna Stephansdom, which opened its doors in December. By early 2011 you will also have the choice of staying at the latest hotel from the Shangri-La group. This is a 400 bed five-star hotel. Vienna these days offers a choice of selecting pure luxury or if watching the budget there’s a heap of delightfully Austrian single-star pensions.

To get the latest information on accommodation and general tourist news, email info@wien.info

Hotel Charles- a fine place

Heading towards Tasmania? Then, if Launceston is your destination, here’s news of a hotel which is priced to suit most pockets. Rates start from $139 a night for a hotel king room. Conditions apply. For other prices, go check www.hotelcharles.com.au The hotel is located at 287 Charles Street.

Good news for solo travellers to Europe

If travelling through Europe and you happen to be a solo traveller, here’s news which could be of interest. An Eastern European tourism specialist has developed a registry for solo folk who would like to save money and enjoy companionship with like minded travellers whilst travelling through Europe. This means that solo travellers of the same gender on a special-journey range of tours have the opportunity to avoid single supplements and possibly save several hundred dollars. Check this web site for the details www.beyondtravel.com.au There are nine itineraries for solo travellers during 2011. Telephone 1300 363 554.

Passengers impacted by recent floods

Air Pacific guests with flight bookings impacted by the recent major flood events in Brisbane should check with their travel agent or directly with Air Pacific to ascertain rebooking considerations. Please note that all refunds/amendments need to be processed through the Air Pacific office. For information telephone 1800 230 150

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. This information is provided as a guide only. Check with your travel agency. Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ? We’re archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Renault Eurodrive - Carnival Spirit - Solar Springs - Banrock Station - Japan Rail

2011-01-17T10:43:00.000+11:00

UP TO TEN EXTRA-DAYS FREE WITH RENAULT EURODRIVE

BOOK and pay before March 31 for delivery before December 31 2011 and Renault Eurodrive will give an extra 10-days free with bookings of 21-days or more on its luxury Laguna range – and an extra 7-days free on 41-other models to suit every need and every budget for European holiday motoring.

The Laguna range includes the luxury Berline sedan, luxury Estate and the sporty two-door coupe, while other Renault and Dacia* vehicles range from economic compacts through mid-size, family-size, luxury and people-movers.

All include free delivery and return in 17-French cities and airports, and for bookings made before March 31 this year fifty per cent off delivery and return fees at 16-cities and airports in Belgium, Germany, Holland, Great Britain, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Switzerland.

Renault Eurodrive also offers unlimited kilometres, full insurance with no excess in forty-two countries, 24-hour roadside assistance, full factory warranty and Europe GPS with virtually all vehicles; minimum age for drivers is 18 years, with no upper-age limits and no additional-driver charges.

Prices begin from a low $1299 for 21-days lease of a 2-door Twingo compact with a further 7-days additional use free; the Laguna range begin from $2299 for 21-days for the luxury family-size Berline plus ten days additional use free. Past clients since 2006 receive a further 3-days free on top of these bonus days on all 44-models in the Renault and Dacia* range.

See travel agents, phone toll-free 1300 55 11 60 or visit www.renaulteurodrive.com.au for full details and a detailed brochure online.

* Dacia is a Romanian car maker and subsidiary of Renault.

88,500 TONNE CARNIVAL SPIRIT TO CALL AUSTRALIA HOME

THE world's largest cruise line, Carnival Cruise Lines will base one of its ships fulltime in Australia from next year – after never having ventured into Australian waters before.

The 88,500 tonne Carnival Spirit will be the largest cruise ship ever to sail year round from Australia when she arrives in Sydney in October 2012 to operate a schedule of 8-12 day voyages to the Pacific Islands.

Carrying 2,667 passengers, Carnival Spirit will be the first ship to be based in Sydney year-round that will be too tall to sail under the Sydney Harbour Bridge; she will instead have to be based at the Circular Quay Overseas Passenger Terminal.

Founded in 1972 and based in Miami, Carnival Cruise Lines is the best known cruise brand in North America and is expected to carry more than four million passengers this year – the most in the global cruise industry. Approximately two-thirds of Carnival Spirit's cabins will feature private balconies, and facilities will include a 22 metre corkscrew water slide, four swimming pools, a miniature golf course, jogging track and a sport court.

There'll be a choice of 16 lounges and bars, a 1,170-seat three-deck-high theatre, a two-level main dining room, reservations-only steakhouse and an expansive casual poolside restaurant. She'll also have a two-level health spa with wrap-around ocean views and an Internet café. Ann Sherry, CEO of Carnival Australia said the cruise line's move into Australia was testament to both the recent growth and the ongoing potential of the local cruise industry. "Cruising is booming in this country because it offers passengers a great value holiday inclusive of accommodation, top quality dining and entertainment that appeal to all age groups," she said.

Carnival Spirit will offer a year round schedule of 8- to 12-day cruises to the Pacific Islands and a selection of 13-day sailings to New Zealand beginning October 25, 2012, with the program expected to go on sale by the middle of this year. The shipboard experience will be tailored to the Australian market with onboard spending in Australian dollars and no tipping will be required.

Ms Sherry said while the primary market would be Australians and New Zealanders, Carnival's strong brand recognition in the United States would play a role in attracting more US tourists to Australia. For more information visit www.CarnivalCruise.com.au

TONE-UP FOR SUMMER AFTER THE CHRISTMAS BLOW-OUTS

SOLAR Springs Health Retreat at Bundanoon in the picturesque NSW Southern Highlands – 1.5 hours drive from Sydney and a little more from Canberra – has a value-packed 3-night midweek getaway for those seeking a tone-up after the blow-outs of Christmas and New Year.

Their Summer Stunner package includes three therapies or consultations (choose from Solar Polish, Special Back Treatment, Manicure, Pedicure, Swedish Massage, Personal Training, a Physical Health Assessment or a Naturopathy Session,) twin-share or single accommodation, and all meals that are well-balanced to provide adequate protein, healthy fats, whole grains and plenty of seasonal fruit and vegetables.

Vegetarian meals and other diets are also catered for and wine is available by the glass at optional cost.

As many supervised activities as you want to fit in during your stay are also included in the cost, ranging from games, use of the 25-metre indoor heated pool, and meditation classes and health talks, to cycling, tennis, archery and walking in the adjacent Morton National Park.

The 3-night Summer Stunner package is priced from just $880pp twin-share or $975 single and is available Sunday to Wednesday or Tuesday to Friday. For full details phone 1800 044 944 – and ask also about their New Year New You package for the overweight and tired seeking to be healthier, fitter and more energetic.

BANROCK STATION WELCOMES THE FLOODS

THERE'S at least one place in Australia where the current floods are being welcomed: a large part of the wetland and floodplain at Banrock Station in South Australia's Riverland is now inundated for the first time in 14 years.

Like most places in the Murray Darling Basin, Banrock Station has been hindered by years of drought, but a spokeswoman says the flooding will bring enormous benefits to the River Murray and surrounding wetland and floodplain ecology.

In recent years Banrock Station has deliberately dried and flooded its wetlands to mimic natural cycles which stimulate the breeding of native animal and bird species. The natural flooding will now provide what the company has been recreating in its wetland, but on a much larger scale.

"Many of our native aquatic species will only breed in significant numbers in flood conditions, so if it's been too long between drinks, there may be very few of some species left to breed," Banrock Station Conservation and Wetland Manager Kate Thorn said. "The flood will also flush salt out of the system, give plants a big drink of fresh water and, most importantly, deposit a layer of fresh water into the ground, which will sustain trees for several years."

Banrock Station is located off Sturt Highway at Kingston-on-Murray near Renmark. The flooding is providing spectacular views from the deck of Banrock Station's Wine and Wetland Centre, with a large expanse of water with islands of higher ground, and lots of healthy trees with a light green halo of new growth.

The boardwalk, which provides unprecedented public access to River Murray wetlands, is 30cm (1-ft) under water and is expected to be covered by over a metre of water by mid-February. However visitors can still use most of Banrock's walking trails and the Wine and Wetland Centre deck to get an up-close look at the wetland.

"Many birds are enjoying the shallow water and the good pickings to be had in areas which have not been inundated for many years," Ms Thorn said. "We have erected temporary bird-viewing screens and a platform to help visitors get closer to the wildlife."

JAPAN RAIL PASS

INTERNATIONAL Rail has many rail access passes in Japan, the most popular being the National Japan Rail Pass which is available as seven, 14 or 21 consecutive day passes in either Green Class (First class) or Ordinary Class (Second class).

This JR rail pass gives you access to almost all types of travel around Japan including JR trains, Shinkansen "Bullet" trains, cities and rural local trains and JR ferry service in Miyama.

There are also special rail passes for certain regions in Japan such as the Japan East Pass, Japan West Kansai Pass or the Japan West Sanyo Pass- all have different lengths and periods in which to use them.

IR are offering travellers a bonus $25 duty free shopping voucher or a Roaming SIM card which carries discounted phone charges of up to 90% valued at about $50 with rail travel bookings which exceed $800.

Passes start from as little as $52 day.

For more details and to purchase this pass contact International Rail on 1300-387-245 or visit www.internationalrail.com.au