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Tuesday 30 April 2013

Jeeva Resorts Set to Open Saba House



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An Indonesian-based resort group praised for the development of two small, ecologically and culturally sensitive Lombok hideaways, will open its third property on Bali's east coast in June.

Jeeva Resorts’ management refers to it latest retreat, jeeva Saba, as a purpose-built Bali “house” intended for families or small groups who are only able to book the entire retreat under a single reservation. The fully integrated property features eight large butler-kept suites in its three “houses,” a restaurant kitchen and chef, games and media rooms, open-air function areas, 25-meter infinity pool, fitness center and grassy, oceanfront lawn for private parties. 

Jeeva Klui Lombok
“We chose the word “house” simply because the property is planned more like a residence than what you’d expect in a villa or resort,” said jeeva Saba operations manager and Bali native, Wayan Narta. 

“Here’s a facility ideal for small, corporate MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Exhibitions and Conferences) and weddings, too, given its privacy, intimacy and natural setting.”

A picturesque coastline with a backdrop of the Indian Ocean and Mt. Agung, Bali’s most revered volcano, is what decided jeeva Resorts’ director Pak Supriyanto on the location back in 2007. “It’s not a coincidence that our first resort in Lombok, jeeva Klui, also has a view of Mt. Agung, although from across the Lombok Strait.”

The company’s second resort, jeeva Beloam, is a cluster of traditional Lombok dwellings known as “beruga” majestically located in a nature reserve with its own 250-meter beach on Lombok’s wild east coast.

“At jeeva Saba the concept is all about catering to the requirements and whims of an important family event or company function with some of the finest service you’ll find on the island. For example, instead of a set menu or a restaurant, we plan and serve meals dictated by individual and group needs.”


Paul Gauguin Cruises Offers Exclusive 2-Week Sale On Select 2013 Tahiti, French Polynesia & South Pacific Voyages And European Sailings



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For two weeks only, Paul Gauguin Cruises, operator of the highest-rated and longest continually sailing luxury cruise ship in the South Pacific, the m/s Paul Gauguin, and the m/v Tere Moana , is offering incredible savings on select 2013 Tahiti, French Polynesia & South Pacific voyages and European sailings when booked between April 29 and May 11, 2013.


Guests will benefit from exceptional savings of $850 to $2,550 per person off previously advertised rates while enjoying the highest standards of luxury, quality, and service in enchanting destinations.

SALE: Book select 7-night Tahiti & the Society Islands or 7-night European voyages and save $850 to $2,550 per person in addition to 50% off standard cruise fares on both ships with included airfare from Los Angeles on Tahiti, French Polynesia & South Pacific itineraries.

 Tahiti & the Society Islands
7-night voyages: September 7, 14; October 12, 19, 26, 2013
Now from only $4,795 $3,945 per person

7-night voyages: July 13, 27; August 3, 10, 2013
Now from only $4,895 $4,045 per person
European Voyages
7-night voyage: Istanbul to Athens (Piraeus):
July 27, 2013
Now from only $3,595 $2,695 per person

7-night voyages: Athens (Piraeus) to Rome (Civitavecchia): June 15; September 21, 2013
Now from only $3,795 $2,845 per person

CONTACT: For more information or reservations, contact a professional travel agent, call 1-800-848-6172, or visit www.pgcruises.com.


LUXE City Guides Announces new 'Flash Sale' Site



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LUXE City Guides announces the exciting launch of their brand new ‘LUXE Offers’ online hotel booking site. LUXE Offers will bring you a handpicked collection of the best luxury hotel sales and special offers worldwide.

Always at the forefront of the latest travel trends, LUXE City Guides has teamed up with UK based luxury travel firm, Secret Escapes, to dive into the fast growing ‘flash sale’ market.

LUXE Offers are available online at www.luxecityguides.com and are updated regularly to make sure there is always something to inspire and interest those planning ahead, or just those looking for some speedy sun-worshipping, pronto! The hotels are in LUXE destinations and beyond, members of LUXE can now save up to 70% on 5* hotels around the globe. Want to be in the know but not have to pay the earth to go? Sign up now!

Booking through LUXE City Guides will get you an exclusive voucher to spend against your first purchase, and with every booking made through their site, LUXE will give you a free LUXE City Guide for the city of your choice! 

As a part of this partnership LUXE City Guides will also be using their tried and trusted travel savvy to enhance the already super chic Secret Escapes collection, as well as offering existing Secret Escapes customers insider tips and exclusive discounts on the LUXE City Guides collection of titles. 

Famous for their ultra short, sharp and snappy reviews and highly personal and selective entries, LUXE City Guides have sold well over one million copies - no padding, no maps, no daft pictures and graphics, just super-curated, highly opinionated quickfire speed reads from resident editors and contributors who REALLY know their city, so you can spend time enjoying the city not head down in a book. Packed from concertina cover to cover with snazz, snark and snap, if it's in LUXE, it's IN. For smart and savvy travelers LUXE City Guides have gone mobile. More than 20 cities are now available as apps, which come with a year of free updates sent directly to your mobile. Whether you have a few hours or a few days, LUXE really is all you need.

For more information please contact: sarah-jane@luxecityguides.com


Monday 29 April 2013

Hurtigruten Sensational Norway Summer Solstice Fares Offer EXTENDED until 31 May 2013



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Discover the World Cruising have extended their Hurtigruten Sensational Norway Summer Solstice Fares for new bookings made and deposited by 31 May, 2013!

To celebrate Norway's endless summer, Discover the World Cruising is offering special Summer Solstice

Fares on selected Hurtigruten cruise dates from 01 May to 31 July 2013 on the following itineraries:

 12 Day Classic Round Voyage – Bergen Round Trip
 11 Day Classic Norwegian Discovery Voyage – Bergen - Trondheim
 7 Day Classic Voyage North – Bergen - Kirkenes
 6 Day Classic Voyage South – Kirkenes - Bergen

Prices start from only $1,376 per person based on 6 Day Classic Voyage South, so hurry, book by 31 May 2013 to take advantage of these fantastic savings!

PLUS, book any Classic Norway Voyage departing between 01 April & 30 September 2013 and receive a special 120th Anniversary Shipboard Credit of GBP120 per cabin.


Take in the UK and Europe with British Airways Special Fare Offer



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British Airways is offering special fares to encourage customers to enjoy all that the UK has to offer plus a choice of one of over 80 European destinations.

The UK is always a popular holiday destination for Australians, thanks to its world-class events, rich culture and history, and fantastic dining and shopping options. Now travellers can also experience the sights and sounds of one of Europe’s great cities on the one special fare, whether it is the romance of Paris, the history of Rome, or the markets of Marrakesh.

By booking before midnight on 31 May 2013, customers can travel in World Traveller economy from Sydney to London and then on to a choice of one European city:

-       Sydney to London and Rome from $1,846*
-       Sydney to London and Barcelona from $1,840*
-       Sydney to London and Paris from $1,858*
-       Sydney to London and Marrakesh from $1,999*

Making travel to the UK and Europe an even more attractive prospect British Airways recently introduced its Boeing 777-300ER, featuring the very newest cabins on the Australian route. 

Furthermore, all Australian services now arrive into Heathrow T5, providing Australian customers smoother access to British Airways’ extensive network of European destinations.

"British Airways has always worked hard to provide customers with the best of British service. We are really excited by our latest offer that showcases over 80 UK and European destinations, providing customers with not only a vast choice of destinations, but also seamless connections at the world’s best airport terminal, Heathrow Terminal 5, as voted by Skytrax for the second year in a row,” said Nicole Backo, British Airways Regional General Manager, South West Pacific. “With our new aircraft, extensive European network, and special low fares, we are confident that our customers will enjoy a smooth and comfortable door-to-door experience.”

Seats at these special prices are limited so customers are urged to book early to avoid disappointment. For more information, and for more destinations, please visit ba.com/au.


Hawaii On Sale!



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It’s no secret that Hawaii is an absolute favourite holiday destination for Aussie travellers – and now it’s even more affordable thanks to Travelscene American Express and VIVA! Holidays.

With all-inclusive holiday packages starting from just $1,698* per person, twin share, there’s never been a better time to travel! Here’s just a taste of the deals on offer:

Hawaiian Family Holiday – Kauai and Oahu 6 nights from just $1698* per adult 6 nights from just $912* per child Prices are based on 2 adults and 2 children (2 - 17 years) sharing a room in existing bedding INCLUDES:

• Return economy airfares from Sydney to Kauai via Honolulu flying Hawaiian Airlines*
• 4 nights accommodation at Aston Islander on the Beach (Kauai) in a Garden View Hotel Room
• 2 nights accommodation at Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel (Oahu) in a Partial Ocean View Hotel Room
• Return airport taxi transfers
• Valid for travel 01 November - 03 December 2013.
ALSO INCLUDES these unbelievable BONUSES
• Bonus neighbour island flights from Honolulu to Kauai from just $5* per person
• Kids 2 - 17 years stay FREE*
• Kids 2 - 12 years play and eat FREE*
• Teens fly at kids prices! (Based on teens aged 12 - 17 years and kids aged 2 - 11 years)
• Price includes up to 1 FREE night at Aston Islander on the Beach*
• Price includes up to 15% OFF nightly room rates at Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel*
• Breakfast daily for adults at Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel

There are plenty more Hawaii travel packages on offer and they are available now from your nearest Travelscene American Express Member agency – but you must get in quick! Offer ends 10 May 2013, unless sold out prior.

Book these deals and more by contacting your nearest Travelscene American Express Member agency on 13 13 98 or www.travelscene.net.au.

* Conditions apply. Please check all prices, availability and other information with your travel consultant before booking. Agents may charge service fees and/or fees for credit card payments which vary.

Contact your nearest Travelscene American Express Member for more information.


Friday 26 April 2013

Windstar Introduces Star Pride



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Travel the World are pleased to announce the name of the first of the three new Windstar, all-suite, power yachts: Star PrideStar Pride, (formerlySeabourn Pride) which will launch May 2014 spending her first season in Europe.

Exciting new Windstar voyages will go on sale Tuesday, May 14, 2013. The names of the additional two yachts (formerly Seabourn Legend and Seabourn Spirit) will be announced in the coming weeks.

For bookings contact Travel the World on 1300 950 622 or visit www.traveltheworld.com.au

SEAB_Pride_2


Save Up To 40% and Have 100% Fun If You Linger Longer with Anantara



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Linger a little longer and enjoy time well spent at one of Anantara’s dream hideaways.  Make the most of a 
special seasonal worldwide deal that offers great discount rewards the longer you stay, as well as a complimentary daily breakfast buffet. 

Anantara Kihavah DaytimeWith up to a generous 40% off luxury accommodation, there’s never been a better time to experience some of the world’s most exotic destinations in Anantara’s signature style.

Choose from a collection of Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas located across Asia, the Maldives and the Middle East.  Book a minimum three, four or five night getaway before 20 July 2013 for a stay between now and 31 July 2013, reaping greater savings the longer your escape.

Uncover Thailand’s exotic diversity.  Experience unforgettable adventures at Asia’s premier elephant camp in the verdant jungle of the Golden Triangle.  Delve into Bangkok’s rich cosmopolitan and cultural scenes from sophisticated hotels thatAnantara Qasr al Sarab_hotel villa boast impressive views over the cityscape and majestic River of Kings.  Indulge in a blissful beach getaway, from royal seaside charms to the natural beauty of the Andaman and famous tropical islands.

Travellers can also spread their wings across Asia.  Live the dream of holidaying in beautiful Bali, choosing between a romantic cliff-side haven and a boutique retreat in the trendy enclave of Seminyak.   Become immersed in China’s ancient culture and unique natural attractions from inspirational island and riverside sanctuaries.  Unwind along Vietnam’s vibrant southeast coast and trace the footsteps of merchants in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Anantara-Mui-Ne-Restaurant-and-Pool-ViewCall the Indian Ocean your playground and luxury accommodation your tropical home away from home in the breathtaking Maldives, perhaps for a once in a lifetime family vacation or the most romantic holiday imaginable.
In the Middle East, legendary escapades whisper across the sands of the world’s largest desert,  a vast island wildlife park offers opportunities to track free roaming Arabian animals, and a lush mangrove waterway balances urban splendour with a refreshing view of nature.

So what are you waiting for? Discover the benefits of a Stay Longer escape with Anantara.
For reservations and full promotional details, visit anantara.com/staylonger or call +66 (0)2 365 9110 

Terms & Conditions
  • Offers are valid at participating Anantara Hotels & Resorts worldwide from 22nd April – 31st July 2013
  • A minimum night stay is required and varies per participating hotel or resort.
  • Discount and offer validity varies per participating hotel or resort. Please check each individual offer for exact terms and conditions.
  • Bookings are subject to availability, and blackout dates and other conditions may apply.
  • Offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers, discounts or packages and are non exchangeable, transferrable or redeemable for cash.


MSC Cruises' New Campaign Reflects Belief That Life Should be Measured in Moments not Minutes



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MSC Cruises has announced its new campaign conceptually based on a series of personal moments and vacation experiences inspired by the company's unique Mediterranean spirit and way of life.  

As part of a worldwide launch, the campaign reveals a series of moments that define MSC Cruises' belief that life shouldn't be measured by the minutes we experience, but by the moments we enjoy.

In North America, the campaign will include various online, social media and email marketing initiatives along with trade and consumer contests, partnerships and promotions.

Shot entirely on board MSC Splendida in September 2012, the campaign follows a day on board an MSC cruise with a focus on four of the company's key values - discovery, the art of dining, the value of time and the enjoyment of socializing and connecting with others.

The visuals convey the enthusiasm, energy and informality that are only found as part of the MSC Cruises experience, while the passion and vibrancy of the Mediterranean can be experienced from the bright colors of the sun and sea, the warm lighting, the fresh produce and the people.

Since the beginning, the MSC experience has been defined by its heritage," said Richard Sasso , President and CEO of MSC Cruises USA.  "The new campaign truly captures the very essence of this unique spirit, from our traditional Mediterranean hospitality to our multinational crew and our enjoyment of good food as a way of life, all reflect the region's authenticity, warmth and humanity."

My Moments Video Sharing
As part of the campaign launch, MSC Cruises has also introduced the "My Moments" online tool, offering travelers across the world a fun and original way of creating and sharing a video photo album of their own most memorable moments.  This new tool encourages people to celebrate the moments that make their own travels special.  Users are invited to upload photos that evoke the enjoyable moments they experience when time drifts by.

Photos can be uploaded from users' computers or directly from Facebook, and once the album is created it can be shared with friends on Facebook, Twitter and Google+.  The new "My Moments" tool is available on www.msccruisesusa.com.

To view MSC's new branding video, click on Moments.


Discover Beautiful Italian Summer at Cristallo Hotel Spa & Golf



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This summer season, the legendary Cristallo Hotel Spa & Golf in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy is promising an unmissable holiday for travelers from the GCC with an unbeatable summer package. 


Launching the promotion, Mr Giorgio Borgonovo, General Manager, Cristallo Hotel Spa & Golf said, “Our hotel is ideal for Interior - Room - Junior Suitefamilies, couples, golf lovers and is gaining in popularity with travelers from UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and other parts of the Arab world. Hence we have created a very special offer this season for those who enjoy good life and are passionate about golf, Italian cuisine and beauty.

Starting from Euro 1.410, per person in a double room
The package of 5 nights includes:
Stay for 2 persons in a superior double room
Half Board in our “La Veranda del Cristallo” Restaurant with flavours of Italian traditions.
Access to the Cortina Golf Club for 3 days.
Transfer from the Hotel to and from the Golf Club
A € 60.00 credit per person (non-transferable) for a luxury beauty treatment of your choice at our exclusive Cristallo Ultimate Spa (valid until 02:00 pm of any day of your stay)



Exterior-summer
In addition, guests will be able to enjoy a Grand Buffet Breakfast, fruit and sweet delights in their room upon arrival, heated Swimming pool with view on Tofane mountains, Solarium Plein Air, Thermarium (Sauna, Relaxarium, Whirpool, Turkisch bath), free access to the Fitwell Club, Shuttle service to and from Cortina, Solarium Plein Air, Whirpool in each room, Piano bar every evening, Wi-Fi Internet Connection, Service, tax and 10% VAT.

This offer cannot be combined with any ongoing offers, promotions & discounts.

With its nomination to the coveted 2013 Condé Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Awards Survey, Cristallo Hotel Spa & Golf of Cortina d’Ampezzo, the only Italian 5-star luxury venue to be included in the exclusive Best of the Alps, is in for a chance to be selected as one of the top 100 best hotels in the world.Ristorante Gazebo
Member of The Leading Hotels of the World, Cristallo Hotel Spa & Golf has been one of the most sought-after, international destinations, made especially famous by films which have immortalized its charm and glamour; but also by famous names – royalty, aristocrats, actors, actresses and artists – who have made it their personal buen retiro. The most aristocratic hotel of the Dolomites has enchanted both Italian and international film stars, who have enjoyed their life there, far away from the spotlights. From Brigitte Bardot to Frank Sinatra, from Peter Sellers to Claudia Cardinale.


Wednesday 24 April 2013

American Cruise Lines Debuts Puget Sound Cruise on April 27



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American Cruise Lines (www.americancruiselines.com), the largest U.S. cruise company, introduces Puget Sound and San Juan Islands itinerary to the American Spirit's 2013 schedule with a debut journey sailing on April 27.


This new voyage is a one-of-a-kind experience that provides a glimpse into the pristine environment and captivating scenery only found in the Pacific Northwest. This is the company's newest addition to a growing portfolio of cruises in the Pacific Northwest which includes Alaska and Columbia & Snake River itineraries.

AMERICAN CRUISE LINES AMERICAN SPIRIT
The eight-day roundtrip voyage from Seattle explores the hundreds of islands, many of which are uninhabited, nestled betweenCanada's Vancouver Island and the U.S. mainland. While aboard, guests enjoy elegant accommodations, personalized service, fine dining, nightly entertainment and daily lectures and seminars from local experts on the region's rich history. The Puget Sound itinerary will run from April 2013 through October 2013 and then again from March 2014 through November 2014. Rates start at $3,750 per person.

"We are excited to offer the Puget Sound cruise to our guests and to provide a unique experience in that location," said Timothy Beebe , Vice President of American Cruise Lines. "We recognize that cruisers have many options these days and we are proud they choose to sail with us and identify our brand as a leader in the cruise industry."

The Puget Sound and San Juan Islands cruise will feature a variety of excursions:
  • Victoria, Canada: This adventurous day begins with a ferry ride to Victoria, Canada from Port Angeles, WA. On a guided tour guests can visit Butchart Gardens - one of Victoria's most famous and popular attractions. After the gardens, guests can participate in a narrated tour of the city before taking the ferry back to Port Angeles.
  • Anacortes, WA: Located between Seattle and Vancouver, on beautiful Fidalgo Island, Anacortes is known as the gateway to the San Juan.  A thriving seaside town with a past that mirrors the fascinating boom and busy history and entrepreneurial spirit of the area, a walking tour is a great way to get a true feel for the town. Guests can admire the extensive, colorful murals depicting the history of the city while taking in the town center and the W.T. Preston stern wheeler.
  • Friday Harbor: Guests can visit The Whale Museum and learn about the natural history of marine mammals in the museum's Gallery of the Whales, with a special focus on orcas that live in the surrounding area.
  • Olympic National Park and Hurricane Ridge: Known as a land of beauty and variety, guests can explore the home of some of the largest remnants of ancient forests left in this country while at Olympic National Park. While at Olympic National Park, guests can marvel at the spectacular view at Hurricane Ridge.
  • Port Townsend, WA: Guests can experience the 19th century Victorian buildings, historic charm and striking natural setting in Port Townsend by taking part in a guided walking tour through the town.
The American Spirit carries 100 guests in 200 square foot staterooms, which feature large opening picture windows and hotel-style bathrooms, various unique panoramic lounges and amenities including an exercise area and putting green.


GOA Tourism Promotes Its Beaches, Spice Plantations This Summer



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Keen on making Goa a year-round destination for tourists, its Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in partnership with Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) has launched attractive packages to draw in the summer vacationers.


The state is actively promoting its beaches to couples and families who are looking to take a break during this summer holidays. Its ‘Beach-Bumming’ package for three nights and four days comes at Rs 7,270 per couple for an AC room under Continental Plan (CP) and Rs 8,990 for an AC Deluxe room. This is inclusive of all taxes.

Valid till mid-June, visitors have the option of choosing their location to stay: Miramar, Colva or Panjim Residencies run by GTDC. The package also includes two full days of sightseeing on GTDC-run coaches in North and South Goa, and a river cruise on boat Shantadurga/Santa Monica.

Another package that Goa is promoting this summer is its ‘Coastal Delight’ package. Valid for four nights and five days, it includes a luxurious stay at Miramar Residency and Calangute Residency for two nights each.

The tour is priced at Rs 21,100 per couple under CP for an AC Deluxe Cottage. Guests can avail of pick-up and drop from the airport/railway station/bus stand as well as welcome drink and cookies upon arrival.
The package includes one full day sightseeing in South Goa by AC taxi, one day spice plantation tour by taxi inclusive of entry fees and lunch there, as well as a two-hour dinner cruise, inclusive of entertainment and buffet dinner on boat Shantadurga/Santa Monica (only Wednesdays and Saturdays). This is not all – guests will also get entry passes to Tito’s Club/Club Mambos in Baga.

GTDC has offered to customize packages for families and groups as per their requirements. For more details on the package itineraries and their cost, please refer to the Goa Tourism website at www.goa-tourism.com. For reservations, call 2436666/2424001/2424002


Bigger, better, best - Royal Caribbean wraps up monumental season



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This evening, Rhapsody of the Seas departs Sydney for the last time this season, marking the official end to Australia’s summer cruise season and wrapping up a season full of superlatives for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises – bigger, grander, more beautiful and more popular than ever before.


Australians enjoyed the biggest and most innovative ships ever to be homeported here with features never before seen in the region – like ice skating on Voyager of the Seas – as well as a real life lawn on Celebrity Solstice, the newest and most stylish superliner based down under.

In all, the cruise company had five ships from two cruise lines in Australia for the summer, carrying 170,000 guests – nearly twice as many as the previous season.  With three ships sailing in the region, Royal Caribbean International became the largest cruise line in Sydney while sister brand Celebrity Cruises had two ships here for the first time. 

“Just three years ago we had one ship offering 15 sailings from Sydney; today we have a fleet of five world class superliners and almost 70 cruises on offer,” said Adam Armstrong, commercial director, Royal Caribbean Cruises Limited Australia.  “This season we also introduced the two largest and newest superliners ever based in Australia.  The arrival of Voyager of the Seas and Celebrity Solstice made headlines across the country and redefined Australian cruising forever.”

Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the SeasRadiance of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas, and Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Millennium sailed a total of 67 cruises and visited 54 ports in 14 countries. Compared to the previous season, the number of cruise nights doubled while the total number of cruises sailed increased by 50 per cent.

During the season, the three Royal Caribbean ships sailed 53 cruises and called on 49 ports in 14 countries, including new ports calls to Singapore,Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City and Picton, New Zealand. Celebrity Cruises’ 2012-13 Australian season featured 14 cruises calling on 35 ports in nine countries. This included first visits for the cruise line to Port Douglas, Port Hedland, Noumea, Singapore and Bali.

Guest Nationality
Australians and New Zealanders made up three quarters of all guests sailing on the two cruise lines over summer.  Overseas guests came from 116 countries – including some unexpected nations like Botswana, Uzbekistan and Guatemala – with a large 176% growth in guests from China.  Overseas guests were particularly drawn to Celebrity Solstice, accounting for some 55% of guests.  “This is one of the unique selling points of our ships in this region; we offer a very international cruise experience in which Aussies and Kiwis will holiday alongside a diverse mix of interesting nationalities,” said Armstrong.  “It creates a fantastic, cosmopolitan atmosphere onboard.”

Popular Cruises
South Pacific itineraries proved the most popular on Royal Caribbean ships, while New Zealand itineraries were the hot favourites on Celebrity Solstice.  “Demand was very strong for Fiji and New Year cruises, as well as Voyager of the Seas’ repositioning cruise from Asia to Perth, which attracted a large number of newcomers to Royal Caribbean from WA.  Several Voyager of the Seas sailings were over 90 per cent filled six months prior to departure – demonstrating strong demand for the maiden season of Australia’s first megaliner,” said Armstrong.

The 2013-14 Season
Royal Caribbean will be back for another big summer this October, with Rhapsody of the Seas the first ship off the mark, arriving in Sydney on 5 October 2013, followed closely by Radiance of the Seas on 11 October and Voyager of the Seas on 7 November. Celebrity Solstice arrives in Sydney on 23 October and Celebrity Millennium calls in for a brief visit on her way from Alaska to Asia.

According to Armstrong, “Booking momentum is solid for both cruise lines – and prices are increasing –although it’s not too late to book for next summer, with cruises available from under $1,000 per person for seven nights.”

A seven-night Tasmanian cruise on Radiance of the Seas departing 27 January 2014 starts from just $899 per person, while a pre-Christmas seven-night cruise on Rhapsody of the Seas departing 12 December to Tasmania starts from $999 per person.  If you want to experience the many attractions on Australia’s largest cruise ship, Voyager of the Seas, 11 nights on a New Zealand cruise departing 24 January 2014 will give you plenty of time to explore – and fares start from just $1,399 per person.  If modern luxury is more your style, then try the 12-night New Zealand cruise on Celebrity Solstice departing from Sydney on 28 November 2013 and sailing to Auckland, with fares from $1,309 per person.


Tuesday 23 April 2013

A&K offers the best of Rajasthan from under $200 per person per day!



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A specially tailored itinerary from the luxury experts at A&K offers guests the opportunity to experience all the colour and magic of India in ten days, from bustling cityscapes to remote countryside, backed by the company’s customary service and style. 


Northern India’s most iconic attractions are featured including Delhi’s Red Fort, the impressive Agra Fort, the Taj Mahal, the legendary Pink City of Jaipur, the 500 year old hilltop fortress of Amber, the 18th century Palace of the Winds, Jodhpur’s Mehrangarh Fortress and the lakes of Udaipur. Guests learn from the experts about ancient monuments and historic palaces, understand its complex history, experience an engaging culture and bed down in a choice of handpicked hotels.
A choice of Platinum and Gold accommodation is offered with prices from $1,790 per person. Those guests booking international flights in conjunction with the itinerary will receive $100 off their airfare. Valid for departures between 18 April and 20 September 2013.


A Glamorous Liaison - Perth's Terrace Hotel and WA's Kailis Australian Pearls



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Perth's iconic and independently owned Terrace Hotel and Western Australia's first pearl family Kailis have joined to provide a unique experience for guests at the Terrace Hotel - a warm VIP personal introduction to a trusted source for the world's finest Australian South Sea pearl jewellery.

"Through decades as pearl farmers we have evolved into creators of stunning, versatile pearl jewellery. Kailis Australian Pearls has become an iconic Australian brand with each carefully crafted piece carrying our family's commitment to quality, natural beauty and design"- Alex Kailis, Director.

Kailis Australian Pearls are delighted to cooperate with the elegant and iconic Terrace Hotel, and are providing all guests who book for a minimum of 2 nights with a $500 voucher to spend at the luxurious King Street Boutique with VIP treatment including a lesson on choosing the perfect pearl.
The package begins at $1050 for two nights, includes breakfast and is valid across any room type.
Opened in November 2012, the luxury Terrace Hotel has 15 suites, a restaurant with a garden terrace, dining room, bar, first class wine cellar and three private function rooms. It is located at 237 St George's Terrace in the city's prestigious West End - merely a skip to Kailis' stylish 29 King Street Boutique.
For bookings call +618 924144444 or email events@terraceperth.com.au or www.theterraceperth.com


Popular Lau Cruise gets Second Departure



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Captain Cook Cruises, Fiji has released a second departure date for is its 11 night Lau cruise after the first departure scheduled for October 22, 2013, immediately sold out. The second departure is scheduled for 22 April, 2014.


The Lau cruise, which visits the Northern region of the Lau Islands, visits a part of Fiji never seen by tourists before.

“We are so happy that we can offer a second Lau cruise, due to the first cruise being so popular and filling so quickly. This is a really unique cruise and we have worked so hard, using local knowledge and advice, to put together a fantastic 11 night FIZ0035itinerary that will allow passengers to experience a remote and unspoilt part of Fiji.” Says Jackie Charlton, Managing Director of Captain Cook Cruises, Fiji.
Invited to visit these incredible islands by locals eager to share their beauty, the 11 night Lau cruise will visit the untouched northern island of Lau - Wailagilala, Lau’s largest Island - Vanuabalavu, the most beautiful Island in the Lau group - Fulaga, the uninhabited Vuaqava, Kabara - known for its wood turning and Tongan heritage and the untouched white beaches of Totoya Island.

On the way to and from the Lau group the cruise will stop in at Yanuca Island, Savusavu Bay and Kadavu, famous for its wildlife and underwater world.

Passengers can also sit back, relax and enjoy the spectacular views as they cruise through the Bay of Islands, renowned for its beauty, pristine waters and spectacular scenery and the central Lau Group, passing Islands such as Lakeba, Oneata, Komo, Namuka-i-Lau and Yagasa.

Exciting activities over these 12 days include Kayaking or river tubing on the Nasakawa River, mountain bike riding through hills, valleys and villages in Savusavu Bay, visiting a crater of an extinct volcano at Cobia, fishing at Wailagilala, visiting Fijian and Tongan influenced villages and schools, attending a local church service, exploring the flora and fauna of the Vuaqava region, a traditional Meke, Sevusevu and lovo feast and endless swimming, snorkelling and diving in the clear blue ocean water off picturesque islands and in beautiful lagoons.

If a day trip isn’t for you, passengers can also stay on-board and be pampered at the ships Senikai Day Spa offering a range of body treatments, work out in the ship’s mini gym or simply relax on the sun deck by the spa or pool or grab a cocktail at the pool bar.

Dining is another vital ingredient of these amazing cruises. Whether it is an alfresco luncheon, a casual barbecue or table d’hote dinner, all food is prepared on board from fresh local and imported produce and cultural on-board entertainment adds a special flavour to the mix.

The Discovery Lau cruise departs Tuesday 22 April 2014 at 1.00pm from Port Denarau and disembarks on Saturday 2 May, 2013 at 9.00am at Port Denarau.

The 11 night cruise is priced from $3430 per adult twin share and includes accommodation, all meals, daily stopovers and water activities, guided village, school and island tours, glass bottom boat excursions, Marine Biologist and cultural talks, on-board entertainment and use of the ship's facilities including swimming pool, spas, pool bar, sun deck, sauna, cocktail bar, day spa and library.


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