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Tuesday 31 January 2017

Cruise on the Murray Princess and Discover Adelaide Free


Discover the stunning Murray River and secrets of Adelaide with Australian Holiday Centre's new cruise and tour deal. Book any three, four or seven night Murray River cruise on-board the Murray Princess and receive a free Adelaide City Highlights Tour, with prices starting from only AU$799 per person.

Three, four and seven night historic Murray Princess cruises start with the ship itself. Finished with polished wood and gold trimmings and featuring a winding staircase and two-story full-length windows to view the turning  paddle wheel,  the Murray Princess replicate's the paddle wheelers that first cruised the Murray in the 1800's. Accommodating only 120 passengers, the Murray Princess is filled with character and charm.

Cruises all feature exciting day trips to historic ports and unique on-shore excursions. Follow the food and wine trial for tastings onboard or at several vineyards and cellar doors along the river.

Get up close to the river's 20-million-year-old cliffs and amazing birdlife on the 'Dragon-Fly' Flat Bottomed Boat vessel and led by on-shore guides enjoy nature walks, eco-tours and learn about the thriving ecology of the river.

Join the Captain for a general inspection of the wheelhouse, participate in lively quizzes, play some bocce on the riverbank or relax with some fishing off the ship.

On-board sit back on the open top sundeck or in one of two air-conditioned paddlewheel lounges and enjoy the spectacular scenery of Australia's longest river, as the Murray Princess cruises past towering limestone cliffs and along riverbanks lined with mallee scrub and red gum forests.

Food is a highlight of the cruise with guests enjoying hearty hot buffet breakfasts, two-course or buffet lunches and three-course or buffet dinners.

You can't visit South Australia without experiencing Adelaide itself and better yet for free, on an Adelaide Sightseeing tour.

The Adelaide City Highlights tour takes in Adelaide's main attractions including the cultural boulevard of North Terrace, its university, library, art gallery and museum; St Peter's Cathedral; historic North Adelaide; the Adelaide Oval and Haigh's Chocolates for a factory tour and tastings.

All Adelaide Sightseeing tours feature expert commentary by a local driver and guide and include pick-up/drop-off from selected Adelaide hotels and Adelaide Central Bus Station.

This fantastic deal is valid until 31 March, 217 and valid for travel until 31t March 2018.

The three nights Murray Princess Discovery Cruise travels between Walkers Flat and Murray Bridge and departs every Friday at 4.30pm with Early Booking Saver (EBS) fares starting from AU$799.00 per person, twin share.

The four nights Outback Heritage Cruise travels between Mannum and Blanchetown and departs every Monday at 4.30pm with EBS prices starting from AU$1099.00 per person, twin share.

The seven nights Murraylands and Wildlife Cruise travels between Blanchetown and Murray Bridge and departs every Friday and Monday at 4.30pm with EBS prices starting from AU$1639.00 per person, twin share including a complimentary Barossa Valley tour.

Prices include an Adelaide City Highlights tour, accommodation, all meals, guided nature walks, eco-excursions, onboard presentations, onboard WiFi, the Captain's Dinner and Cocktail Party, live entertainment, use of ship's facilities including a sauna, spa, sun deck, bar, two lounges, restaurant and mini gymnasium, complimentary scenic coach transfers from Adelaide or return to Adelaide Airport and secure car parking in Mannum. Private car transfers are also available return from Adelaide CBD and return to Adelaide Airport.

To find out more about the Murray Princess, join Australian Holiday Centre and Captain Cook Cruises for a lunch presentation on March 15, 2017 from 12/noon on-board the Sydney 2000. Tickets are only $30 per person, normally $79.

For further information or cruise and lunch bookings call Australian Holiday Centre on T: 1300 799 342, visit www.australianholidaycentre.com.au or visit them at Shop 3, Skyview Plaza, 551 George St, Sydney.


 

Wednesday 25 January 2017

Romance on the Harbour this Valentine’s Day



Celebrate the most romantic day of all, on the world's most beautiful Harbour aboard one of Captain Cook Cruises Valentine's Day Dinner cruises, departing Tuesday 14 February, 2017.

Watch the sunset over the picturesque Harbour this Valentine's Day on one of Captain Cook's, early dinner cruises departing at 5pm. Enjoy a delicious three-course menu and open bar of Tyrrells still and sparkling bottle wine, beer and soft drinks.

5pm dinner departures include the Sunset Dinner, priced from only $85 per person and the Valentine's Dinner priced from $89 per person. 5pm cruises return at 6.30pm.

Be seduced by the spectacular beauty of Sydney at night on one of Captain Cook's 7.30pm dinner cruises. Be spoilt with a scrumptious four-course Valentine's menu and dance the night away to a live band.

7.30pm dinner departures include the Captains Dinner, priced from $155 per person and the Lovers Dinner & Drinks, priced from $159 per person. 7.30pm cruises return at 10pm.

For the ultimate in romance Captain Cook Cruises luxury Gold Penfolds Dinner, on-board the prestigious Sydney 2000, offers it all. Indulge in a six-course degustation menu, Penfolds bin and vintage wines to match each course, priority boarding, cocktail reception and lounge entertainment and an open bar of beer, house spirits and soft drinks.

The Gold Penfolds Dinner cruise is priced from $209 per person and departs at 7.30pm, returning at 10pm.

All dinner cruises depart and return Darling Harbour, King Street Wharf No.1.

For further information visit: www.captaincook.com.au

 

Tuesday 24 January 2017

Oceania Cruises Announces Special Limited Time Offers for Best of Europe 2017 Campaign




Oceania Cruises is delighted to announce their new Best of Europe 2017 campaign with special limited time offers on 36 voyages, travelling to over 200 different ports across Europe, including the very best of Northern Europe, the Baltic and the Mediterranean.

Guests looking to book European voyages on Oceania Cruises will benefit from an array of special offers valid until March 31, 2017, including OLife Choice offering FREE Internet, plus choose from any one – FREE Shore Excursions, FREE Beverage Package or FREE Shipboard Credit.

Guests will also enjoy a bonus US$250 to spend onboard and 50% reduced deposits valid on 36 select European itineraries departing from March to December 2017, and ranging from 7 to 58 nights. Some of the spotlight sailings include the 10-day Barcelona to Lisbon voyage departing July 17, 2017, and the 24-day Copenhagen to London voyage departing August 28, 2017.

"With destination-rich itineraries beautifully crafted to help guests enjoy the very best of Europe's magnificent gems, along with offering some of the best on board restaurants, Oceania Cruises creates the perfect blend of cultural, culinary and historical immersion. Featuring overnight and extended stays in many ports, guests can indulge in in-depth exploration and relaxed touring." said Vice President of Sales for Oceania Cruises, Lisa Pile

"Guests travelling on our European voyages will also be treated to the finest cuisines on the high seas, with a range of fine dining options from all around the world. The Culinary Discovery Tours and Culinary Centre aboard Marina and Riviera offer a unique opportunity for food lovers to appreciate the epicurean cultures of local ports," she added.

Featuring some of the most desirable destinations in Europe, Oceania's guests can not only immerse themselves in unique destination experiences, but they will also enjoy a wide selection of culinary offerings on board. Celebrated as the leader in culinary excellence, Oceania Cruises offers the finest cuisine at sea™, corroborated by its recent #1 ranking for its ship 'Marina' in leading global cruise review site and online community – Cruise Critic 2016 Cruisers' Choice Awards.

To book a cruise with Oceania Cruises or to find out more about the European itineraries, please contact a travel professional, call Oceania's Sydney contact centre, Australia: 1300 355 200, New Zealand: 0800 625 691, email res.apac@oceaniacruises.com, or visit www.oceaniacruises.com/special-offers

 

Sunday 22 January 2017

Nanuku 'prolongs' Valentines Day with new five-day offer



Fiji's Nanuku Auberge Resort is offering couples the opportunity to celebrate Valentine's Day until the end of June with the release of a new five-night special offer.

The luxury, all-villa resort is offering a 20 per cent discount plus free private return land transfers on all five-night bookings made before 10 February for travel up to 30 June 2017*.

This very special offer comes complete with all gourmet meals, select non alcoholic beverages, WIFI and IPTV and in-villa movies, use of non -motorised sporting activities, access to the resort's state of the art gym and scheduled yoga sessions

Valid across all room types, the offer also includes a free upgrade to the next category subject to availability at check-in.

Located in one of Fiji's most romantic locations, Nanuku Auberge Resort is set in lush tropical gardens fronting pristine Beqa Lagoon on one of the destination's best white sand beaches.

All residences have been designed with huge air-conditioned living and entertaining areas, luxurious en suites complete with spa baths, private yoga bures, plunge pools, media rooms, expansive decks, outdoor living rooms, private landscaped gardens and daybeds.

*Conditions apply. Please note bookings not available from 08 – 23 April 2017.

To make a booking, email Nanuku Auberge resort reservations at nan.reservations@aubergeresorts.com.

For further information on the resort visit https://nanuku.aubergeresorts.com.


Thursday 19 January 2017

Classic Rail / Sail Journey: The Brisbane Limited.

This is your chance to experience the golden age of travel aboard the privately chartered heritage 621/721 Rail Motor on a delightful journey all the way to Brisbane!



With stops along the way to take in the sights you’ll enjoy an overnight stay on the banks of the Clarence River in Grafton, with dinner included at the heritage Crown Hotel.

A stay in Brisbane allows you to explore the river city including the South Bank precinct.

You’ll then sail back to Sydney in style aboard the beautiful Sun Princess. This will be a thrilling trip of more than 2,000 kilometres, a unique and authentic heritage rail and sail journey, never before offered.




Tuesday 17 January 2017

Casa Angelina on Italy’s Amalfi Coast




Casa Angelina on Italy's Amalfi Coast has announced exclusive offers for Australian guests wishing to stay at this stunning boutique hotel during the European Spring and Autumn in 2017.

Casa Angelina overlooks expanses of the Mediterranean Sea from a cliff-edge perch in the quiet and picturesque Campania village of Praiano, which is only a 10-minute drive from Positano and 15 minutes from Amalfi.

The property, which welcomes many Australians to enjoy all the magnificence and splendour of the Amalfi Coast and its surrounds during the beautiful European Spring and Summer months, operates seasonally and will be available in 2017 for bookings from 5 April to 27 October. Children from 12 years of age are welcome to visit.

The special offer for Australian guests applies to Spring bookings confirmed by 15 May 2017 for minimum 2-night stays from 5 April to 31 May 2017 and Autumn bookings confirmed by 15 October 2017 for minimum 2-night stays from 1 October to 27 October 2017.

Exclusive inclusions are:

·         10% discount on best available rates
·         Early check-in or late check-out (subject to availability)
·         20% discount on dinner at Un Piano Nel Cielo Restaurant
·         Complimentary bottle of Casa Angelina Champagne and in-season fruit platter in room upon arrival

Casa Angelina room rates are from EUR305 (approx. AUD439) per night excluding 10% VAT and City Tax for 2 people in a Classic Room inclusive of buffet breakfast, parking, return scheduled shuttle bus service to Positano, Wi-Fi internet connection in guest rooms and public areas, use of gym and sauna and access to La Gavitella Beach via hotel elevator and 200 steps.

For bookings, contact The Unique Tourism Collection on info@uniquetourism.com or your local travel agent.



A member of Design Hotels, Casa Angelina provides a welcoming embrace, with guests able to leave a little of the world behind, safe in the knowledge that they will find the time and space to rediscover those forgotten rhythms of long days and easy nights.

The timeless elegance of style and service at Casa Angelina combines with cosseting accommodation, gourmet cuisine, restorative wellness therapies and an unsurpassed location, delicately perched above the azure tranquility of the Mediterranean.

Casa Angelina features 39 exquisite and luxurious rooms and suites, plus 4 ultra-exclusive Eaudesea rooms, almost at sea level.

During 2017, Eaudesea Rooms will again be available from 15 May to 15 September and will offer guests 2 one-way complimentary water taxi transfers to or from Positano during the stay.

The gourmet restaurant, Un Piano nel Cielo, showcases seasonal, locally sourced Mediterranean cuisine, while the poolside dining offers easy, healthy salads, pastas, and other lighter dishes.

One can dip into the heated indoor or outdoor pools at will, and bask in the summer sun on the poolside deck, relaxing while life goes on elsewhere.

The spa pampers and soothes the soul with a comprehensive range of beauty and wellness treatments sure to refresh and unwind to and guests can also wander down to the local beach for a drink from the seaside bar or head out on a trip on one of Casa Angelina's private boats.

www.casangelina.com


New 2018 cruise package including all three #Cunard liners

#cruise

Sail all Three Cunard liners in one holiday spanning two continents

A unique Cruise Express exclusive

Bonus onboard credit of up to US$1270 per cabin




A new, luxury fly/cruise package from Cruise Express allows cruise-loving Australians to sail aboard all three Cunard liners in one seamless holiday across two continents in 2018.

The 37-night 'Three Queens' package features a trio of back-to-back cruises aboard Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria and Queen Mary 2 in Europe, including a voyage across the Atlantic to New York, recreating an iconic route forged by Cunard's pre-jet age ships in the early 1900s.

The liner-hopping adventure in the northern spring begins on May 7, 2018, with a flight from Australia to London for a two-night stay. After free time to explore the city, guests will be transferred by private car to Southampton to board Queen Elizabeth for a 14-night, round-trip cruise to seven ports in Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Estonia and also Russia where the ocean liner will dock overnight to allow passengers to explore the famous, treasure-filled palaces and castles of St Petersburg.

After a one-night stay ashore in Southampton, Cruise Express guests will return to the docks to board Queen Victoria for a seven-night, round-trip cruise to four ports in Norway, including sailings through Norway's most spectacular fjords such as World Heritage-listed Geirangerfjord, which is lined by sheer, snow-topped peaks and thundering waterfalls.

Guests will stay two nights back in Southampton before boarding the third Cunard liner and the flagship of the fleet, Queen Mary 2, for a seven-night crossing of the Atlantic Ocean to New York - the world's most famous sea route. Aboard, passengers can indulge in the signature experiences common to all three ships – grand ballrooms, dazzling chandeliers, sweeping staircases, fine cuisine, high teas, spacious teak decks and white-gloved service.

A three-night stay in New York follows before a flight back to Australia on June 13, 2018.

The 'Three Queens' package is available from $10,999 per person, twin-share. Fares include return economy class flights, the three voyages and eight nights' accommodation in London, Southampton and New York. Each booking also attracts an onboard spending credit of up to US$1270 per cabin.

Call Cruise Express on 1300 764 509 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au

Monday 16 January 2017

Final Interlude Tour To South America



Experienced Interlude tour company owner Jeanette Savage has been lured back to her desk to create a final journey - "an Interlude in South America".

Savage has been creating and escorting international small group tours for more than 30 years and announced her retirement 12 months ago but an enthusiastic group of past guests convinced her to do one last trip.

Interlude in South America is an outstanding 26-day relaxed and fully hosted tour departing from Australia on 23rd September 2017 with a maximum of 16 guests at a twin share price of $15990 it includes:
 

·         Return Economy Class International airfare with LAN and Qantas Airlines
·         Eight economy class domestic airfares on LAN as per itinerary.
·         Fully escorted from Sydney International Airport
·         Private Airport to Hotel air-conditioned coach transfers throughout
·         Quality accommodation with daily breakfast
·         Eight Lunches & 12 dinners as specified
·         Exclusive Belmont Rail 2 Day / 1 night rail journey
·         Tours as per itinerary
·         Admission & Entrance Fees as per itinerary
·         English speaking local tour guides throughout

 
An optional add on cruise from Valparaiso to Rio starts from $3699.

Discover the amazing premium highlights of treasures, ruins, ancient cultures and spectacular scenery of South America. The tour includes Lima, Cusco, Machu Picchu, a rail trip over the Andes on the luxury Belmond Andean Explorer sleeper train to Lake Titicaca. Fly from Peru to Iguassu to visit the Brazilian and the Argentinean side of the falls. Rio de Janeiro is next with the famous Copacabana beach. On to Argentina's capital city, Buenos Aires, to experience all this city's magic. Fly to Santiago, Chile. Take the Gondola to view this cosmopolitan city. Finally onto cultural Valparaiso, a UNESCO declared World Heritage site with its charming picturesque and historic port.

The original small group touring company, Interlude Tours offers high value for the seasoned traveller and first timers in a family atmosphere with no rushed starts and ample free time to explore on your own or with new friends.

 

Tel: Interlude Tours (612) 94052218 www.interlude-tours.com  (for full itinerary)
E interlude@optusnet.com.au   

 

Sunday 15 January 2017

Win a trip to America’s no.1 destination for 2017

COMPETITION
Visit Asheville, North Carolina
– our Best in the US champion

This year, we’ve named Asheville as the best place to visit in America – and you could be there!
We’ve partnered with Explore Asheville and Biltmore to give you the chance to experience one of the USA’s most artistic, eclectic and innovative small cities. And you can bring a guest too.
The prize also includes:


  • A $2,500 travel voucher from Lonely Planet



  • A three-night Discover Biltmore Package stay at Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate



  • VIP seats for a show at The Orange Peel, Asheville’s renowned concert venue


  • Tickets for Asheville Art Studio Experience ToursTumblestone Waterfall Tours and Asheville Farm to Table Tours
  • ENTER NOW
    NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER TO WIN. This promotion is open only to those aged 18 years or older at the commencement date of the promotion. The laws in some places don’t allow Lonely Planet to run this promotion, in which case the promotion and these conditions of entry are void in those places. Promotion runs through 23:59 PDT on 6th February 2017. Please read the offical rules which govern this giveaway.

    Saturday 14 January 2017

    A birthday present to you from MSC Cruises



    Cruising is a great way to celebrate any occasion. Just like the milestone that is celebrated, cruising is as much about the journey as the destination.

    Thanks to MSC Cruises, passengers who are lucky enough to have a birthday during selected cruises will enjoy cruising for free.

    The complimentary cruise will be an unforgettable experience in your choice of amazing destinations.

    MSC Cruises offers itineraries in destinations such as the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, West Indies, Arabian Peninsula, Caribbean and Cuba. Longer cruises are available through Grand Voyages. Individuals can extend their birthday celebrations, combining itineraries from 14 nights to 22 nights.

    Bookings must have at least one paying passenger and a maximum of one free birthday passenger. The birthday of the one passenger must fall on one of the cruising days (excluding arrival and departure days).

    Bookings are for a minimum of 2 adults, with one adult maximum celebrating a birthday.
    This offer is subject to selected availability. Bookings must be made between 17th January 2017 and 10th March 2017.

    Hurry and book now to avoid missing out on this great offer.

    Friday 13 January 2017

    New Australia Day Lunch Cruise from only $99

    The harbour will again host the big events in Sydney this Australia Day and Captain Cook Cruises has released a new Australia Day lunch cruise from only $99 per adult, adding to their exciting range of cruises available on 26th January, 2017.



    Cruise aboard MV John Cadman 2 and see the spectacular Australia Day events from the Tug & Yacht Ballet to the Australia Day Parade and Tall Ships Race while enjoying a fabulous Aussie buffet.

    The John Cadman 2 Australia Day lunch cruise starts from only $99 per person, normally $139 per adult and departs at 10.45am from Darling Harbour, King St Wharf No.1, disembarking at 2.30pm.

    Other Captain Cook Australia Day Cruises include premium lunch and dinner cruises aboard MV Sydney 2000, BYO picnic cruises, Shark Island picnic ferry and Fort Denison mini-tours.

    Bring your own picnic and take advantage of the licensed bar on-board the Australia Day Picnic cruise. See the full day’s exciting entertainment program and enjoy a relaxed day on Sydney Harbour from only $69 per adult and $35 per child. The Australia Day Picnic cruise departs Circular Quay Wharf 6 at 10.30am and returns at 2.15pm.

    Lunch cruises on-board the MV Sydney 2000 depart Darling Harbour, King Street Wharf No.1 at 10am for the start of the Ferrython and return at 2.15pm. Choose from an Aussie Buffet on Club Deck or the premium four course menu on Sky Deck. Prices start from $189 per person including a premium bar package.

    Shark Island is one of the best vantage points on the Harbour for watching Australia Day events. Captain Cook Cruises and NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service is operating a special Australia Day ferry from Circular Quay to Shark Island at 9am and returning at 3.15pm for $49 per adult and $25 per child. Bring your own picnic and celebrate Australia Day in the middle of Sydney Harbour.

    Special ferry services are also running to Fort Denison and include a 10-minute mini-tour of the Martello Tower and its 360 degree views of Sydney, access to the Fort Denison museum and fully operational tide gauge room where Sydney's tidal benchmark is recorded, return ferry to Fort Denison from Circular Quay and National Park entry fee to Fort Denison. The Australia Day Fort Denison Ferry and Tour is priced at only $35 per adult and $27 per child.


    For further information and bookings, please contact Captain Cook Cruises on
    T: +61-2-9206 1111
    Website: www.captaincook.com.au

    Wednesday 11 January 2017

    Seabreeze Resort wins ultimate prize at STA Awards

    The luxurious, adults only, Seabreeze Resort, Samoa proved the ultimate winner at the Inaugural Samoa Tourism Excellence Awards, held recently at Taumeasina Resort, Samoa, taking home the top and most sought after award, the ‘National Tourism Excellence Award’ and ‘Best Accommodation’.



    Nominated in five categories, Seabreeze Resort was truly the star of the evening, which celebrated the outstanding performances of those who have made exceptional contributions to Samoa’s Tourism Industry within the past 12 months.

    The Samoa Tourism Excellence Awards were judged by visitors who were surveyed throughout the year and the Tourism Standards Committee which conducted inspections during 2016.

    According to Wendy Booth, owner of Seabreeze Resort, “to win the most prestigious award at the first ever Samoa Tourism Excellence Awards is a privilege and we are honoured to be recognised as the best in Samoa, especially considering the tough competition we were up against in both categories.”

    “This award means so much to us and our staff are overjoyed. With a philosophy of ‘the harder you work the luckier you get’, my husband Chris and I dedicate these awards to our committed and skilled staff who make this all possible.” Says Wendy.

    “The last eleven years have been so rewarding, seeing a dream to create a utopia for couples in an untouched Island paradise come true. With our high expectations and our likeminded staff determined to exceed our guest’s expectations, seeing guests wave goodbye with tears in their eyes is our greatest reward, but being acknowledged at this level, especially in our home country is just an amazing achievement.” Continues Wendy.

    These two awards have capped off an amazing four years for Seabreeze Resort who have taken out an avalanche of awards on worldwide levels including winning ‘Leading Hotel in Samoa’ at the World Travel Awards for the past four years (2016, 2015, 2014 and 2013) and being recognised as the number one hotel in Upolo on tripadvisor.com and ranked 11 out of 25 for the Top 25 small hotels in the South Pacific in the 2016 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice™ awards. Also in 2016 and 2014 Seabreeze was voted 9th in the Top 25 resorts in the South Pacific for Romance in the Travellers' Choice Awards and in 2014 and 2013 Seabreeze was named as Tripadvisors "Travellers’ Choice® winner and voted on Trip Advisor as one of the TOP 10 resorts in the South Pacific for "Romance & Value”.

    Seabreeze also has an outstanding reputation for its amazing food and service. A constant entrant in the prestigious New Zealand Restaurant Challenge, Seabreeze won the challenge in 2014 and 2012, in 2015 won the “Best Atmosphere and Service and in 2016 won ‘Best Service’.

    Seabreeze Resort is the ultimate in boutique luxury, gently nestled into a private secluded bay on Samoa's famous south east coast of Upolu.

    The first "Genuine Adults Only" resort in Samoa for guests 18 years and over, Seabreeze provides the ideal romantic getaway for honeymooners and couples or those seeking luxury and intimacy.
    Seabreeze has 11 air-conditioned villas including the ultimate Honeymoon Point House with its private plunge pool. All villas have ocean, lagoon or reef views, designed to provide guests with a sense of relaxation and tranquillity. All villas receive a nightly turndown service and feature a complimentary mini bar that is re-stocked daily and features a selection of white or red wines, beer, soft drink and nibbles.

    With quality, innovative cuisine and outstanding customer service paramount, Seabreeze Resort offers three dining options including the a la carte Waterfront Bar & Restaurant situated right on the water with unsurpassed lagoon and reef views, Cbreeza Pizzeria and Paulini’s Pool Bar.

    From the time guests wake there is always something to experience at Seabreeze Resort. Relax by the infinity pool while enjoying cocktails, laze on the beach or take a dip within the protection of the pristine lagoon. Enjoy the use of complimentary glass bottom Kayaks and snorkelling equipment to view the beautiful coral and marine life or venture outside the resort for surfing, charter fishing, trekking, golf, visit a nearby beach, or walk to the famous To Sua Trench with blow holes and a cave pool.

    Seabreeze Resort has a recipe for relaxation, “when hungry you eat, when thirsty you drink, when tired you sleep and be pampered at every opportunity”. With this motto in mind, guests can be treated to a range of totally indulgent and nurturing massages and facials. With the focus on natural, age old techniques handed down through generations, guests will experience treatments unique to Seabreeze.

    Romance is intrinsic to the spirit of the resort, so there is no better place to celebrate a wedding, honeymoon or special anniversary than at Seabreeze. Offering wedding programs from the simplest to the most elaborate of occasions, an experienced wedding coordinator will tailor a ceremony that not only meets individual needs but surpasses their expectations.

    Tuesday 10 January 2017

    Textile theme tour of Peru


    “The skill of Peruvian weavers has confronted experts for centuries.”



    Join Valerie Kirk on this fully escorted program and experience the textiles of the people of the Andes.

    Recognised as a unique and spectacular region for ancient ruins, beautiful mountains, former civilisations and hospitable people, Peru is also justifiably known for its textiles. Ancient examples are so complicated modern experts can’t replicate them. Today, weavers follow traditional skills and impress anyone with an interest in textiles and other crafts.



    Monday 9 January 2017

    World Degustation Day: The Hydro Majestic serves global dining palette



    Traditional dishes from exotic global locations infused with local flavours served by staff from around the world: the Hydro Majestic Hotel in the Blue Mountains represents the modern face and cuisine of Australia – as it has for more than a century.

    The original Blue Mountains party palace will celebrate its history of cultural diversity during the Australia Day week with a World Degustation Day feast on Friday, January 27.

    The Hydro Majestic Wintergarden Restaurant

    Escarpment Group general manager Ralf Bruegger said: ``The Hydro Majestic has always embraced cultural diversity, not because its first owner Mark Foy was politically correct but because he genuinely loved people of all races, their culture, art and food – just as we do today.

    ``In fact, what is seen as progressive, even outrageous today, has always been normal at the Hydro Majestic. I mean, what was normal for a man who liked to dress in his wife’s clothing and held cross-dressing parties for his friends?’’

    With the means to satisfy his every whim, the well-travelled Foy had the famous hotel dome pre-fabricated in Chicago and shipped to Australia. Dr George Baur of the Shoeneck health spa in Switzerland was hired to devise and supervise a program of diets and weird and wonderful treatments. Turkish coffee at the Hydro Majestic was served by Turkish waiters, Chinese tea by Chinese waiters.

    Fascinated by all things Asian, Foy employed many Chinese workers disillusioned with the lack of fortune in the Bathurst goldfields who had found themselves stranded in the Blue Mountains with no money to return to Sydney.

    One was Louie Goh Mong, nicknamed ``Charlie’’, who worked as a cook at Foy’s Sydney home and managing the mayhem at the Hydro Majestic for 35 years.

    Today, staff from 15 language groups work at the Hydro Majestic including English, French, Canadian, Russian, Chinese (all dialects), Portuguese, Vietnamese, Spanish, Italian, Indonesian, Thai and more. Mr Bruegger is German and head chef Mate Herceg has a Croatian background.

    ``People visit the Hydro Majestic from all over the world and we must understand and accommodate their cultural needs,’’ Mr Bruegger said. ``In an internationally renowned destination such as the Blue Mountains it is expected of us and certainly received by our guests in all other mature tourism regions of the world.’’

    Guests at the World Degustation Day banquet will be treated to global gastronomy through a decadent five-course food safari featuring flavours from all seven continents on Earth infused with the distinctive tastes of the Greater Blue Mountains and NSW Central West.

    ``We’ll also have a dish that’s quintessentially Aussie, because after all that’s our shared experience and we all love being here in this fantastic country of opportunity and diversity,’’ Mr Bruegger said.

    The multicultural feast at the grandest of the grand hotels in the Blue Mountains will be designed and prepared by chefs from various cultural backgrounds with experience at internationally-recognised restaurants around the world including Michelin star restaurant-trained sous chef Max Vloet.

    Guests can fully immerse themselves in the sumptuous theme with the dramatic colours and sensual textures of the hotel, the unrivalled views over a jaw-droppingly beautiful landscape set to the dulcet tones of African-Australian jazz songstress Evelyn Duprai.

    World Degustation Day will be held at the Hydro Majestic Hotel, Great Western Hwy, Medlow Bath, from 5.30pm to 9.30pm on Friday, January 27. Cost: $125pp includes five-course dinner, beverages and entertainment. Bookings: hydromajestic.com.au or (02) 4782 6885.

    The Melbourne Limited - Rail and Sail - featuring James Craig harbour cruise and heritage rail journey from Sydney to Melbourne




    Relive the glamour days of travel with our unique 5-day Rail and Sail adventure between Melbourne and Sydney next April.

    From Melbourne, you’ll sail in luxurious style to Sydney for two nights aboard the mighty Golden Princess. After sailing into the spectacular harbour city, you’ll stay at Sydney’s elegant Grace Hotel for two nights, with time to explore the world-famous sights. You'll also join us on a morning harbour cruise on the historic, 1872 built, 3-masted tall ship, James Craig.

    Then it’s ‘all aboard’ the heritage Melbourne Limited from Sydney’s Central Station. We’ve chartered the whole train so relax in the stunning seating, lounge and compartment cars as you head south through the beautiful Southern Highlands with a short stop in Gouburn. Morning and afternoon tea are included onboard as is lunch during a stop at Junee. After crossing the border into Victoria, you’ll change trains at Seymour and board the prestigious and famous Spirit of Progress. A light dinner will be served in the ‘Murray’ dining car as you approach your journey’s end in Melbourne.

    A rare, unique and totally exclusive experience. We invite you to join us for The Melbourne Limited.

    Departs: April 19, 2017 - 5 days
    Strictly limited space available
    From $1,990* pp twin share | $2,490* solo fare

    MORE DETAILS

    Book Your Travel with Wego