Top ten overseas destinations

(c) Roderick Eime

Source: YOURLifeChoices

A trip overseas is no doubt a luxury yet surprisingly, over 40 per cent of YOURLifeChoices subscribers undertake international travel at least once a year. So where are they travelling? Find out what are the top ten overseas destinations indicated in our survey and our recommendations of what to see while you’re there.

10. Ireland
The home of leprechauns and Guinness has long been a favourite destination for Australians, many of whom can trace their roots back to the Emerald Isle. However, if you’re looking for a slightly different experience, why not travel to the north? Northern Ireland is trying hard to shake its reputation of a troubled nation and is working hard to woo tourists. While you’re there, take a taxi ride around Belfast, a great way to hear the locals’ point of view.

9. Australia
We know that technically Australia isn’t overseas, but as 10 per cent of our subscribers live elsewhere, Australia is an international destination to them. With many visitors to Australia choosing the Harbour Bridge or the Great Ocean Road as reasons to head down under, what national icon would you suggest they visit? Our recommendation would be a trip on one of the great train journeys – take your pick from The Ghan, The Indian Pacific or The Overland.

8. Europe
While Europe is an area rather than a country, it holds a romantic notion for those who enjoy travel. The blue seas of the Mediterranean, the Piazzas of Italy and the rolling vineyards of France are all great reasons to pack your bags and go.  Follow in the footsteps of the upper-class Europeans who undertook The Grand Tour of Europe in the 17^th and 18^th centuries.

7. England
It’s hardly surprising that England features in the top ten, with many Australians still calling it ‘home’. There is nothing to match the pomp and circumstance which the Royal family and the centuries of tradition bring to this small nation. No trip to England would be complete without a few days in the capital, London. However, the scenery in the north really is quite special.

6. France
Stinky cheese, rich, red wine and the Eiffel Tower are enough to have most Australians jumping on the first flight to France. While a trip to the Gallic nation can be combined with other European countries, there’s more than enough to see and do in France. Until 1 February 2012, Trafalgar is offering a special deal on its 11-day French Escapade, departing 23 March 2012.

5. Italy
 Food and romance just about sums up Italy. Has there ever been a country more blessed with beauty, passion and pasta? The only problem with taking a trip to Italy is deciding which of its magnificent cities you are going to love the most. Our recommendation would be to get down to the seedier side of Italy and follow in the footsteps of The Godfather.

4. Canada
The YOURLifeChoices team wouldn’t argue with the popularity of Canada. However, we’re surprised that it didn’t feature at number 1. Over the years we’ve been grizzly spotting, dog mushing and even can-can dancing in many of Canada’s beautiful provinces. The one destination which really gets us excited is Yukon, such a wealth of extremes, it has something for everyone. Don’t just take our word for it: find out what Margaret Goodwin, an Australian living in Yukon, has to say about the place she calls home.

3. United Kingdom
When you add the numbers for Ireland, England and the UK together, the British Isles would easily be number 1 on the list of most popular places to visit. Since it didn’t make the list as a top ten destination, we suggest you visit the many hidden gems of Scotland, of which Glasgow is only one.

2. America
North, south, east or west, which way would you head when you reach the USA? New York is a must and the romance and beauty of New England is difficult to pass by. But we’ve handed the stage over to one of our subscribers who has shared five reasons to visit Hawaii.

1. New Zealand
We’re delighted to see our closest neighbour take out number one spot. With its rolling countryside, mountains and rivers, as well as growing cosmopolitan cities and a three-hour flight time, New Zealand is the perfect destination for a holiday. One of the best ways to see the most of New Zealand is a cruise and we love this deal for 14-nights from $799.

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Come to South Africa – Escape Northern Winter’s Chill

~ Spectacular Bushmans Kloof Offers the Perfect Haven from Wintry Weather ~

If winter is getting to be too much, Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat offers the perfect escape! South Africa’s warm days are ideal for outdoor activities in the beautiful foothills of the Cederberg Mountains, and the cool evenings are perfect for enjoying drinks around the fireplace. As you ponder rock climbing, wine tasting, or a spa vacation. Bushmans Kloof’s excellent hospitality and delicious cuisine will push thoughts of winter well into the background.

Here are a few of the great escapes awaiting you at award-winning Bushmans Kloof:

Food and Wine Weekends. Winemakers from Cederberg, Tierhoek, Fryer’s Cove and Steenberg collaborate with Bushmans Kloof Executive Chef Floris Smith. March 30-31, May 25-26, June 1-2, July 6-7, and July 27-28. Food and Wine Weekends from $251.30 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

Take a Three-Night Winter Getaway. Escape to the breathtaking Cederberg wilderness and leave the stress and strain of everyday life behind. Incredible food and exciting outdoor activities await you. Three-Night Winter Getaway is from $205.00 per person per night.

Let nature restore you with the Natural Wellness package. “The Cederberg’s wide open plains, mystical rock formations, crystal clear water falls, and abundance of flora and fauna make it a source of rejuvenation,” says Bushmans Kloof General Manager Graham Kennedy. Included in the Natural Wellness package is a Bushmans Kloof back, neck and shoulder massage. Natural Wellness is from $225.00 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

The Nurture in Nature package combines stimulating outdoor activities along with relaxing soul soothing experiences. This two-night mid-week package is from $228.00 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

All three winter packages are valid from April 1 to August 3 and include accommodations, all meals (afternoon tea, dinner, full English breakfast and a la carte lunch), and a variety of activities such as nature drives, guided rock art excursions, botanical walks, canoeing, archery, fly fishing, hiking, swimming, birding and star gazing.

Respected researcher Quinton Martins from the Cape Leopard Trust will visit Bushmans Kloof for four two-day visits on March 28-29, May 15-16, June 27-28 and July 10-11, to share his passion on this intriguing animal and to discuss conservation and tracking with guests. From $228.00 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

Life coach and author Pierre van der Spuy will host two-night getaways on July 29-30 and August 20-21. He will guide guests in discovering your passion and changing your views on what makes us human, happy and authentically successful. From $215.00 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

Yoga enthusiasts can be guided through a two-day retreat from June 10-11 and August 13-14, in the stunning surroundings of Bushmans Kloof by experienced teacher Jim Harrington. From $215.00 per person per night, based on double occupancy.

For further information or to book your reservation, contact the Reservations Team on 021 481 1860 or info@bushmanskloof.co.za
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WAIKIKI, TAHITI AND FIJI ON 19-NIGHT HONOLULU TO SYDNEY FLY, CRUISE ‘N STAY

THERE'S no need to take three holidays to enjoy three of the Pacific's favourite destinations – Waikiki Beach, Tahiti and Fiji – because with a fly, cruise and stay package with Cruiseco they're all brought together as part of a 17-night cruise aboard super-liner Carnival Spirit as she journeys from Honolulu to Sydney on September 30 this year.

Cruiseco's package includes airfare from Sydney to Honolulu, two nights pre-cruise at the Pacific Beach Hotel across the road from Waikiki Beach with breakfasts and airport/hotel transfers, and then hotel/ship transfers to join Carnival Spirit for her 17-night cruise to Papeete, Moorea, Bora Bora, Suva and Sydney.

Also included in the price, that begins from just $3,395pp twin-share from Sydney*, are all meals aboard Carnival Spirit (some optional specialty dining venues have a small cover charge,) entertainment in the main show lounge that stretches through three decks, port charges, government fees, air taxes and gratuities aboard ship.   

*Prices from other gateways ($3,520pp ex Melbourne, Brisbane; $3,575pp ex Adelaide; $3,660pp ex Perth)

Almost the length of three football fields, Carnival Spirit also has a huge diversity of recreational and sporting activities for guests of all ages to enjoy during her eleven full days cruising at sea between ports.

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

Prices are subject to change.  Additional nights are available at the Pacific Beach Hotel, Waikiki Beach pre-cruise from $140pp per night twin-share.

Carnival Spirit has four main dining venues including an outdoor BBQ, two pools and two Jacuzzis, an aerobic area, jogging track, mini golf, sixteen bars and lounges with entertainment and dance areas, two show lounges, a casino, card room, video arcade and a shopping boulevard.

There are also three children's areas, Camp Carnival for 2-5 and 6-8 year olds with organised activities, Circle "C" with movies, dance parties, sports and a video arcade for younger teens, and Club 02 with a video arcade, dance floor and non-alcoholic drinks bar for 15- to 17-year-olds.

Embrace More Romance this Valentines Day + WIN!

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Four Seasons Hotel Sydney Teams Up with Cupid this Valentine’s Day

It’s almost time for Cupid to work his magic at Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, with three heart-felt experiences on offer to enhance the romance this Valentine’s Day.

Couples can relax at The Bar and ignite the spark with a special Valentine’s cocktail, ‘Cupid’s Cup’ for $26. Savour a romantic blend of rhubarb bitters, strawberry and elderflower shaken together with fresh mint and citrus with a splash of champagne, served with a seductive alcoholic strawberry sorbet. While enjoying the ambience of The Bar, sweeten the senses even more with a mini chocolate ‘Fondue for Two’ for $35.

Love-struck couples can wine and dine in Kable’s on level two, with a four-course candle-lit dinner complete with a rose petal-decorated table. A glass of Mumm Champagne on arrival will get hearts racing, together with some Sydney rock oysters to complement the mood. Lovers will be served poached lobster with shaved mango, pan-fried foie gras, White Pyrenees lamb or roasted mulloway followed by a chocolate surprise dessert for $155 per person.

Why not throw a little pampering into the mix with a sensory-filled Valentine’s package for two at Four Seasons award-winning Spa on level three. Couples can immerse themselves in a state of tranquility during 30 minutes of Spa Time prior to a 90 minute Aromatherapy, Prescriptive or Tension Zone massage for $450 per couple.

And for time-poor couples or those who dream about romancing their loved one but can’t be together on Valentine’s Day, give the gift of love with a Four Seasons Hotel Sydney gift voucher.

For more information about Valentine’s Day Dinner in Kable’s call (02) 9250 3306 or email lucy.frazer@fourseasons.com . Reservations are essential.

For Spa reservations or Valentines Gift Vouchers call The Spa on (02)9250 3388 or email sydney.spa@fourseasons.com

For hotel and event updates, follow us on:

Twitter: www.twitter.com/fssydney

Facebook: www.facebook.com/fourseasonshotelsydney

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Qamea Resort Picks Up Your Bar Tab

4 ½ star Qamea Resort & Spa, Fiji will be offering complimentary selected New Zealand wines, Draft Fijian Beer on tap and soft drinks, all by the glass and from the bar between the hours of noon – 10pm daily. This deal will be offered to all guests beginning 1 April 2012 until 31 March 2013.

The multi award winning adults only Qamea Resort and Spa is an exclusive tropical destination for discerning travelers seeking a truly unique and authentic Fijian experience without sacrificing luxury or service. From the moment guest's step onto the island, they will feel as if they have entered a Fijian village set in a South Pacific tropical paradise.

Named in the Robb Report as "One of the World's Top Ten Luxury Exclusive Hideaways" and recently was the only Fijian Resort finalist by Conde Nast Johansens 2011 Global Awards for Most Excellent Spa and Most Excellent Romantic Hideaway and Most Excellent Eco Resort, Qamea promises guests the ultimate romantic and luxurious private getaway.

The resort fronts onto a private white sand beach of just under a kilometer in length and accommodates up to 34 guests in 17 spacious bures, villas and exclusive Royal Beach Houses with private swimming pools and Jacuzzi Spas all facing the beach and positioned for maximum privacy.

Guests can avail themselves to a wide range of complimentary activities and Qamea is widely known throughout Fiji for its excellence in food, with a team of five full time Fijian chefs cooking up cuisine best described as South Pacific Rim.

Qamea is also famous for its Jungle Spa. Situated on the edge of a tropical jungle with five individual treatment bures, guests own private spa bure awaits them. The Jungle Spa is the only spa in Fiji to offer French facial therapies featuring Guinot products that relax, rejuvenate, revitalize and renew your mind, body and soul.

Qamea Island Resort starts from only *AUD$687.00 per bure per night and includes accommodation for two, all meals including full breakfast, three course gourmet lunch, afternoon tea, and three course gourmet dinner daily, In room tea and French press plunger coffee, daily maid and turn down service, romantic private dinners or room service, many resort activities and now complimentary selected wine, beer and soft drink – all by the glass.

*This rate is based on the year round Stay 5 Pay 4 special and is inclusive of all taxes and are based on conversion rate as at 23 January, 2012. Flights and transfers are NOT included in this rate.

For booking information please contact the Resort on reservations@qamea.com or +649 360 0858.

A DARLING VALENTINE'S PACKAGE FROM NOVOTEL SYDNEY DARLING HARBOUR

SPOIL YOUR DARLING THIS VALENTINE'S DAY AT NOVOTEL DARLING HARBOUR

 

 

Spoil your darling this Valentine's Day with a "Romantic Escape" at Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour including overnight accommodation in a superior harbour view room, sparkling wine on arrival, a Mediterranean tasting plate for two and a jug of white wine sangria to share at the hotel bar - all priced from just $340 per night.

With candles flickering softly on every table and stunning views, the hotel's restaurant is also offering a special Valentine's Dinner designed to set the mood for love and priced at $99 per person. The menu includes a choice of three entrees, mains and desserts, with each dish created for romance such as seared scallops on a cauliflower puree with salsa verde, prosciuotto & sweet potato crisps; grilled Hiramasa kingfish on kipfler potatoes with cherry tomatoes, baby capers and green olive tapenade; and of course a sweet finish such as a Dilmah rose and French vanilla semi-freddo; or Affaogato of Dilmah chai-infused ice cream with chilled Frangelico espresso. There is even a special gift for each couple to take home to remember their special night.

Guests will enjoy a comfortable bed, a soft duvet, total blackout blinds and vibrant colour schemes in all rooms and the morning after can avail themselves of the hotel's excellent leisure facilities including fully equipped InBalance gym, outdoor pool and tennis court. Surrounded by restaurants, bars and the attractions of Darling Harbour, Cockle Bay and King Street Wharf, the Novotel is just a short walk from the centre of the city and provides the perfect base for a romantic getaway.

For bookings phone (02) 9934 000 or go to www.novoteldarlingharbour.com.au

 

INTERLUDE LAUNCHES UNIQUE UK – EUROPE TOUR 2012

Interlude specialise in small group tours.

The original small group touring company Interlude Tours has released details of its exciting autumn tour to the UK and Europe for 2012.

Flying from Sydney to London with Thai International Airways, the fully escorted tour itinerary includes Paris, Monet's Garden, a D Day tour in Normandy, Loire Valley, Bordeaux, Spain's Basque Province, the Guggenheim museum in Bilbao, Piedmont area of Italy, Cinque Terre, Tuscany and Rome.

The 35-day relaxed tour departs Sydney, 18 September 2012.  Costs of $11995 pp twin share includes economy airfares, ground transport, all breakfasts, lunches, dinners and entrance fees as per the itinerary providing outstanding value for the seasoned traveller and first timers.

With a guaranteed departure and a maximum of 17 guests, the tour features leisurely travel in a family atmosphere with no rushed starts and ample free time to explore Europe's timeless destinations by yourself or with new travel friends.

Guests travel in new state of the art nine-seat Citroen vehicles.  They stay at select boutique hotels offering comfortable and secure accommodation available only to small groups.

Many singles and couples who have enjoyed other exciting and well catered Interlude Tour global trips during the past 30 years are expected to join the autumn tour to the UK and Europe 2012, which is being hosted by Interlude owner Jeanette Savage.

"Europe is at its delightful best in September with the rich colours of autumn creating a great setting for companionship and fun-filled relaxed touring," she said.

The continued strength of the Australian dollar means that travellers to Europe in 2012 will get outstanding value for their travel money.

Interlude Tours is taking this opportunity to offer a small group of like-minded travellers the chance to experience a more affordable Europe, to sample local food and wines as well as visit lesser-known destinations seldom visited by Australian tourists. 

For further information or traveller enquires, please contact Jeanette Savage 02 9405 2218, e-mail interlude@optusnet.com.au or visit www.interlude-tours.com

Sculptures to Reach Rainforest Floor in a Dramatic Installation Process

A 210cm gold leaf chandelier weighing 90kg will be delicately transported down the world's steepest railway incline to an ancient rainforest floor for the inaugural Sculpture at Scenic World exhibition in February.

Convert, created with aluminium sheeting and timber bird boxes by NSW artist Dale Miles, is one of 26 artworks of all shapes and dimensions to be transported by cable car, down a rainforest corridor and installed along the valley floor for this major cultural event between 16 February and 11 March 2012.

Sculpture at Scenic World Exhibition Manager, Lizzy Marshall, said the installation process is a breathtaking undertaking but Scenic World has met the highest artistic, environmental and human resource standards and aimed to be the benchmark for other outdoor exhibitions across Australia.

"The installation is a unique journey for what must be one of the most spectacular entries into an exhibition in the world," Ms Marshall said.

Artists selected from Belfast to Katoomba will be judged for the $20,000 Scenic World Acquisitive Award for artwork created especially for Sculpture at Scenic World.

Expected to attract more than 60,000 people, Australia's only dedicated rainforest sculpture exhibition features 26 sculptures by 27 artists, and a dynamic program of guided and independent tours, lectures and a discussion panel.

Ms Marshall said Sculpture at Scenic World will be an annual event and has already attracted some of Australia's leading art professionals to deliver a spectacular inaugural exhibition.

Scenic World is Australia's most visited privately-owned tourist attraction. More than 800,000 people annually riding the steepest railway in the world at 52 degrees; the highest skyway in Australia at 270m; the biggest cable car in the country fitting 84 people; and walking along the Sculpture at Scenic World trail spanning 2.4km, the longest boardwalk in the Southern Hemisphere.

Sculpture at Scenic World is free with every Scenic Railway ticket.

Ticket Packages

Unlimited Exhibition Pass - $49

Unlimited entry for the duration of the exhibition including all rides, all Exhibition Public Programmes - tours, artist talks and lectures, plus Exhibition Map.

Scenic Sculpture + Map - $32

Valley return ticket on either the Railway or Cableway, return trip on the Skyway, Exhibition Map, PLUS free entry to the Exhibition.

Scenic Sculpture - $28

Valley return ticket on either the Railway or Cableway, return trip on the Skyway, PLUS free entry into the Exhibition.

Sculpture Valley - $21

Valley return ticket on either the Railway or Cableway, PLUS free entry into the Exhibition.

* Family passes are also available.

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Two Day Byron Break - the perfect short escape

Byron Bay has experienced a bumper Christmas season and as the crowds now return to work and school, the coming months are the best time of the year to escape to Byron. The weather is beautiful, the water is warm and we've put together some great rates and tempting packages for the last days of Summer.

Sample the many elements of The Byron at Byron Resort and Spa including gourmet restaurant, award winning day spa and relaxing daily yoga. Bask in the ambience of the rainforest as you relax and unwind on this two night escape.

The package includes two nights' accommodation in a Superior Suite, full buffet breakfast daily, bottle of wine on arrival, gourmet dining voucher to the value of $130, one hour massage per person, complimentary daily bicycle hire and yoga.

$1250* per package for two adults
*Conditions apply, subject to availability, valid for travel until 31 March 2012, for two adults twin share in a Superior Suite

To book, email reservations@thebyronatbyron.com.au or call 1300 554 362

February Treat - save over 20%

From $300* per room per night

February's balmy summer weather makes it the the perfect time to visit Byron Bay. The holiday crowds have thinned and Byron returns to its usual village pace. This special is available for a strictly limited time so...

*Conditions apply, subject to availability, valid for travel from 31 January to 11 February 2012, for two adults twin share in a Standard Suite

Valentine's Day dinner - Tuesday 14 February

Valentine's Day is the perfect excuse to spoil that special someone in your life and The Restaurant at The Byron at Byron combines fantastic food and amazing ambience. Dine in style by candlelight overlooking the rainforest backdrop and enjoy a two course dinner with impeccable, unobtrusive service.

$65 per person
Including entrée, main and a glass of sparkling wine or beer

To book, email reservations@thebyronatbyron.com.au or call 1300 554 362

Live Music with Tim Stokes - 4pm every Sunday until 29 January

Relax overlooking the magnificent rainforest with laid back, live entertainment by local soloist Tim Stokes.

Whether you want to relax by the pool or on the wide verandahs, you can enjoy our Happy Hour drinks and select from a range of tempting snacks and nibbles.

It's a great way to spend a lazy Summer Sunday
 

Complimentary Rainforest Walk
Every Tuesday at 10.30am

When you next stay, join the resort's bush regenerator Rosemary Joseph on an informative journey through the resort's subtropical rainforest, paperbark forest and coastal cypress pine forest. Suitable for all ages.
 
Gain insight into the history of the site and the transformation of these sensitive eco systems. Learn about the different plant communities, see a variety of wildlife and learn about the endangered Mitchell's Rainforest Snail.
 
Rosemary has over 30 years' experience and has been working at the resort since its inception.

Calendar of Events

22 & 29 January 2012
Tim Stokes performing live at The Resort

14 February 2012
Valentine's Day Dinner

2-11 March 2012
Byron Bay International Film Festival

8.30pm 31 March 2012
Earth Hour

5-9 April 2012
Byron Bay Bluesfest

17 May 2012
Byron at Byron presents Angus McDonald

The Byron at Byron Resort and Spa
77-97 Broken Head Road
Byron Bay NSW 2481
1300 554 362 or +61 2 6639 2000
info@thebyronatbyron.com.au
www.thebyronatbyron.com.au