Where can I find the best travel deals?

Keep up to date with the best travel deals every week with veteran travel journalist, Ian McIntosh, who scours the web for you so you don't have to.

Check out: Best travel deals of the week

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Secret Japan: where to go off-grid

 

The coast of Shimane Prefecture. Credit JNTO

 

Accelerated by the pandemic, international tourism is seeing a trend towards travellers seeking out 'hidden gem' destinations that are slightly off the beaten path and which offer authentic cultural experiences. While most tourist hotspots in Japan like Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto are popular for good reason, Japan is home to an array of lesser-known destinations that are well worth exploring.

European Gems River Cruise

 Europe River Cruising is back and Travelmarvel is celebrating with big savings for all 2022 cruises.

Enjoy the best of Europe on a 14-night premium river cruise aboard one of Travelmarvel’s brand new ships.

Cruise through some of the most beautiful landscapes along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers. Discover Germany’s well-preserved medieval towns. Wind through the world-famous Rhine Gorge. Admire Vienna’s elegance. From the grand network of Amsterdam’s canals to the splendour of Budapest, the treasures of this cultural continent are yours and not to be missed. Further enhancing the cruise is the inclusion of wine, beer and soft drink with onboard lunches and dinner and water stations enables you to refill at any time.

Trip details: https://www.travelmarvel.com.au/eutc15

Price: From $4,995 per person, twin share

Flights Included + Save $2,000 per couple. Valid until 31 July 2022 or until sold out

Call Travelmarvel on 1300 300 036, visit www.travelmarvel.com.au

Or speak to your local travel agent.

(Conditions apply, refer to website for details)

Cyber Sale - G Adventures’ biggest sale of the year

 

Up to 30 per cent off for travel before May 31, 2022

As the world reopens to international travel, G Adventures is offering up to 30 per cent off on more than 400 itineraries departing before October 31, 2022 with the launch of its biggest 'Cyber Sale' of the year. With the launch of the new sale, the small group adventure operator, and community tourism pioneer, is rewarding hungry travellers who are eager to get back out there with the biggest 30 per cent discounts to help them hit the road as soon as possible now Australian borders are starting to open.

G Adventures' annual Cyber Sale launched on November 11, 2021 and runs through to December 03, 2021. It applies to more than 400 itineraries across the company's selection of 18-to-Thirtysomethings, Active, Classic, Family, Local Living and Marine travel styles.

Tours that are on sale and depart before May 31, 2022 earn travellers a generous discount of up to 30 per cent, with additional departures before October 31, 2022 offering savings of up to 20 per cent off the original price.

Sean Martin, managing director for G Adventures in Australia and New Zealand, says the sale provides an added incentive for travellers at a time when the conditions are just right for booking travel.

"Our most recent consumer research panel* tells us that 39 per cent of respondents plan to take an international holiday by mid-2022, but only 19 per cent have actually booked, so there's still a lot of pent-up demand that is yet to be realised.

"This year's Cyber Sale has some of the biggest discounts we've ever offered, giving people the added incentive they need to secure their international holiday. And with our flexible Book with Confidence policy still in place, which enables travellers to cancel and rebook their tour up to 14-days before departure at no added cost, plus Vaccinated-Only and Travel Ready trip options, travellers can feel confident about their holiday booking and that we have their health and safety top of mind.

"Last month we celebrated operating our 1,000th tour in the past year, and the local communities we support could not be more excited to welcome our travellers back. Everyone booking a G Adventures trip can feel safe in the knowledge that they are helping support local people in communities that have been devastated by the lack of tourism as a result of the pandemic," says Martin.

Departures and options are subject to availability, and travellers are encouraged to take advantage of the deals as soon as they go live to secure their desired trip option and departure date. Sample itineraries in this year's Cyber Sale** include:

 

• Classic Vietnam: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City - Travel from vibrant Hanoi, the natural beauty of Halong Bay, the atmospheric imperial capital of Huế, and the charms of Hoi An, to the modern day life of Saigon, and experience the energy of Vietnam in 10 jam-packed days. Save 30 per cent - was $1,549pp now $1,084pp for a 10-day trip from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. 

• Walk the Camino de Santiago - On this eight-day trip, complete the last 100 km of the pilgrimage route to Santiago and receive a "compostela" at the finish to prove the accomplishment. Refuel with tasty Spanish food and take the time to stop and smell the flowers — it's active but at a slower, more picturesque pace. Save 30 per cent - was $1,599pp now $1,119pp for an eight-day trip from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela. 

• Absolute Turkey - This comprehensive tour of Turkey combines history and beaches, man-made wonders and natural phenomena, as well as a vibrant and welcoming culture. Begin the trip roaming the palaces and mosques of Istanbul before journeying into the bizarre to explore otherworldly Cappadocia. Save 30 per cent - was $1,999pp now $1,399pp for a 15-day trip from Istanbul return. 

• Backroads of Japan - Wander off the beaten path away from Japan's big cities and popular sites with this 11-day tour that travels to destinations that are often overlooked. Visit the treasured castle of Matsumoto and learn about samurai culture, relax in a traditional hot spring-fed onsen, explore the quaint city of Hagi by bicycle, and settle in at a community homestay to truly immerse in the local culture. Save 20 per cent - was $4,999pp now priced from $3,999pp for an 11-day trip from Tokyo to Kyoto. 

 

For more information or to book, please visit www.gadventures.com/cyber-sale/. 

 

Twenty per cent off popular G Adventures trips as travel ban lifts and 1,000th tour departs

#traveldeals

Adventure operator ready to welcome Australian travellers from November 2021

With the news that international travel will finally be a reality for travel-starved Australians, G Adventures is reassuring travellers that the adventure travel specialist and community tourism pioneer has plenty of inventory for those looking to book their long-awaited bucket list trip. To celebrate the news, it is extending up to 20 per cent off a wide range of its most popular Classic tours.

Book an autumn getaway in NSW

 

Seek out a little comfort this autumn with a cosy adventure in NSW. As the landscape transforms with an explosion of colour, find inspiration for cooler days in country towns fringed by golden leaves and unwind in luxury cabins among natural wonderlands. Get out and about in the crisp autumn air and join pro surfer Tatiana Weston-Webb as she explores the great outdoors in Sydney's Northern Beaches. We’ve also got exclusive deals so you can be rewarded just for holidaying in NSW. 

 

AUTUMN MAGIC IN NSW 

Autumn is a spectacular season in NSW, and we’ve got plenty of ideas for a cool-weather getaway. Photograph the fiery shades of autumn leaves in quaint country towns like Tumut and Wagga Wagga, warming up in heritage pubs along the way. Cosy up in luxe new cabins in bush settings like the Southern Highlands and Kangaroo Valley. Autumn is also harvest season - join festivals celebrating local produce or stop by the apple orchards of Bilpin or Batlow to pick your own.  

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SURF PRO EXPLORES THE NORTHERN BEACHES 

The Rip Curl Narrabeen Classic recently took over the waves of Narrabeen Beach and brought the world’s best surfers to the shores of Sydney. Brazilian-Hawaiian surfer Tatiana Weston-Webb is current world No. 3 on the WSL women’s championship tour and has been making the most of Sydney's beautiful Northern Beaches during her stay. Join Tatiana as she discovers the region beyond surfing - from sailing in Pittwater to mountain biking in Garigal National Park.   

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BOOST YOUR QANTAS POINTS IN NSW

Be rewarded for exploring NSW with Qantas Holidays, who have a range of NSW hotel and holiday package offers available. You’ll enjoy premium inclusions such as wine on arrival or complimentary room upgrades, plus Qantas Frequent Flyers can earn up to six Qantas points per $1 spent.* From vibrant city stays in Sydney to relaxing coastal retreats and much more, there's something for everyone. Love Sydney and NSW with new adventures at every turn. *Terms and Conditions apply. 

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THE SECRET PAINTINGS

Coming soon to Sydney’s Art Gallery of NSW is Hilma af Klint: The Secret Paintings. More than a century ago, Swedish artist af Klint (1862-1944) created paintings unlike anything that had come before. Believing her abstract works wouldn’t be understood until modern times, she instructed that her artworks be kept from public view, awaiting future generations. Now you have the chance to encounter her other-worldly paintings in Sydney, when the first survey in the Asia-Pacific exhibits 12 June to 19 September. 

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SHORT BREAKS WITH STAYZ

Find your next getaway inspiration and book your weekender or short break with Stayz. Spend the night in the city and wake up to Sydney’s sandy harbour coves, urban food trails and vibrant performances in iconic venues. Stay a little longer and see more of NSW - hike among coastal bushland, climb across mountain landscapes and get up close to native wildlife. Explore more of Sydney and NSW - a short break here is love at first sight. 

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SEARCH ACCOMMODATION IN SYDNEY & NSW  |  GREAT DEALS IN SYDNEY & NSW  |  EVENTS IN SYDNEY & NSW

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#holidayherethisyear With These Australian Holiday Deals from Accor

For travellers looking to escape their cabin fever and embark on a holiday closer to home, Accor has released a range of state-by-state accommodation deals.

If you're yearning for a change of scenery like an inner-city urban retreat, a local beach getaway or a cosy country escape, with these great-value deals on offer, now is the time to discover some of the many incredible destinations in your home state.

Best of New Zealand 17 day coach tour

With only a few seats left now is your last chance to book the all-inclusive ’17 Day Highlights of New Zealand’ escorted coach tour! Departing 15 March 2020, experience the iconic attractions of New Zealand, including the breathtaking Milford Sound, the world-renowned scenic rail journey - The TranzAlpine and the magnificent Bay of Islands.

The tour is escorted by well-known South Australian tour host, Shirley Tamm, who has over 36 years’ experience in the travel industry.

According to Shirley “This is the ideal way to discover New Zealand for those who prefer travelling in the safety of a group and like meeting new people. I’m with my guests all day every day and take the stress out of their travel, so they can just have a truly wonderful holiday.”

Over 17 days this amazing tour visits New Zealand’s much-loved towns and cities including Christchurch, Omarama, Dunedin, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Arrowtown, Fox Glacier, Arthrs Pass, Picton, Wellington, Taupo, Rotorua, Auckland and Bay of Islands

Tour highlights include: a Haggis Ceremony and gift; visiting Larnach Castle; a Milford Sound Cruise and lunch; cruising Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw; visiting Lakes District Museum; the TranzAlpine Rail Journey; cruising on the Interislander Ferry; visiting Te Papa – New Zealand’s National Museum; the Skyline Rotorua Gondola and Luge Ride; Agrodome; Thermal mud pools and geyser; experiencing a traditional Maori Hangi and concert; a Dolphin / Hole in the Rock Cruise at Bay of Islands; visiting Kauri Museum and enjoying a city sights tour of Christchurch, Dunedin, Wellington and Auckland.

The tour departing from Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane is $5614 per person twin share, the tour departing from Adelaide is priced at $5914 per person twin share and the tour departing from Perth is $6164 per person twin share.

Tour prices include return airfares, personalised meet and greet on arrival, return airport transfers in New Zealand, 48 seat modern coach travel with two door access, restroom, reclining seats and panoramic windows, professional Coach Captain and Tour Guide, 16 nights 3.5 star hotel accommodation, five two night stays, hotel porterage, four cruises , all sightseeing and pre-paid attractions, comprehensive documentation pack, 16 cooked breakfasts, 12 sumptuous dinners including three specialty dinners, one picnic lunch and one delicious Devonshire Tea at Larnach Castle.

For bookings or further information contact: Australian Holiday Centre on 1300 799 342

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The Ultimate Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race Lunch Experience

Experience the excitement of one of the world’s greatest ocean races, the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race on Thursday 26th December 2019. Celebrating its 75th year, see all the action as the largest fleet for 25 years departs Sydney Harbour, while enjoying a mouth-watering lunch on one of Captain Cook Cruises Boxing Day Lunch cruises.

Join the prestigious dining vessel MV Sydney 2000, as she cruises from King St Wharf to Parsley Bay where she will anchor between 11.00am and 2.00pm. With over 170 yachts entering this year’s blue water classic, and owners and crews coming from far and wide, be amongst the spectacular shotgun start and view the sailing fleet on their way to ‘the heads’ of Sydney Harbour.

There are three fantastic Boxing Day lunch cruises to choose from including the Sky Deck Lunch, Club Deck Lunch and Show Deck Lunch. All lunches feature live commentary, onboard television coverage and access to the Sydney 2000’s open top deck offering uninterrupted 360-degree views of Sydney Harbour.

The Sky Deck Boxing Day Lunch is the ultimate Boxing Day experience. Enjoy a delicious four-course premium menu including an open bar of house spirits, superior wines, beers and soft drinks, all on the uppermost dining deck.

The Sky Deck Boxing Day lunch is priced at $229 per adult and $169 per child (4 to 15 years).

The Club Deck and Show Deck Boxing Day Lunch offer a special seafood buffet including a variety of non-seafood and vegetarian dishes, fresh salads, a cheese board, a selection of desserts and tea and coffee.

The Club Deck lunch includes an open bar of superior wines, beers and soft drinks and is priced at $179 per adult and $99 per child (4 to 15 years). The Show Deck lunch includes a standard bar of house wines, beer and soft drinks and is priced at $169 per adult and $99 per child (4 to 15 years).

Boxing Day Lunch cruises depart on Thursday 26th December 2019 from Darling Harbour, King Street Wharf No.1 at 10.30am, returning at 2.15pm.

Other Captain Cook Cruises Boxing Day cruises include the Boxing Day Race to Bondi and Boxing Day Race Picnic.

For further information and menus visit: https://www.captaincook.com.au/sydney-harbour-cruises/whats-on-in-sydney/boxing-day/

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New 2020 Exquisite Gold Lunch Cruise Series Launched on Sydney Harbour

Captain Cook Cruises has taken its most popular Gold Lunches from 2019 and put together the most exquisite Gold Lunch cruise series for 2020. Showcasing Australia's finest food, wine and liquor, each cruise offers a mouth-watering six course menu, paired with sophisticated wines and beautiful harbour views. Gold Lunch cruises operate once a month from February to December 2020.

Gold Lunch cruises HARBOUR SPICE, PADDOCK & CLAW, AQUA FIZZ, CUT ABOVE and VINO BOTTE make up the ten cruises held onboard flagship vessel, MV Sydney 2000, in this exceptional 2020 lunch series, including a mix of Thursday, Friday and Sunday departures.

HARBOUR SPICE pairs Asian cuisine favourites with Ales and Wines and departs Sunday 23 February 2020.

PADDOCK & CLAW celebrates Australian Beef and Shellfish paired with cocktails and wine and departs Friday 20 March and 7 August 2020.

AQUA FIZZ combines scrumptious Seafood and Sparkling Wines and departs Sunday 05 April and 13 September and Thursday 3 December 2020.

CUT ABOVE partners the finest Australian beef and wine and will be held on Friday 1 May and 16 October 2020.

VINO BOTTE takes the best rustic Italian food & pairs it with the best wines and departs Sunday 28 June and 15 November 2020.

On every Gold Lunch cruise, premium food and beverage suppliers from across Australia share secrets of their success. The 2020 series will include presentations from a variety of Australia's top wineries including Tyrrells, Vasse Felix and Brokenwood, plus prestige suppliers including Andrews Meat, the company behind Tajima Wagyu Beef brand, and M&G Seafoods with a portfolio including Australia's award winning seafood producers Huon Aquaculture and Humpty Doo Barramundi.

2020 Gold Lunch Series cruises depart 12 noon from King St Wharf No.1, returning at 3.30pm and an 'Early Bird' special of only $129 per person is available online at www.captaincook.com.au, normally $169 per person.

For further information, bookings and menus visit: www.captaincook.com.au

Digital direct link https://www.captaincook.com.au/sydney-harbour-cruises/lunch-cruises/gold-lunch-series/

Enjoy a ‘Cruisey’ Christmas Day with Captain Cook Cruises

Spend Christmas Day relaxing on Sydney's magnificent Harbour on a Captain Cook Cruises Christmas Day lunch cruise. With no meals to prepare and no washing up to be done, the whole family can enjoy a stress-free Christmas.

Held on-board the super-cruiser, MV Sydney 2000, with three separate dining decks and an open top deck offering 360-degree views of Sydney Harbour, choose from three Christmas Day lunch cruises including Christmas Sky Deck Lunch, Christmas Club Deck Lunch and Christmas Show Deck Lunch.

The Christmas Sky Deck Lunch is the ultimate Christmas Day experience. Soak up the million-dollar views from the uppermost dining deck while enjoying a five-course premium menu and an open bar of spirits, superior wines, beers and soft drinks. 

The Christmas Sky Deck Lunch is priced at $259 per adult and $199 per child (4 to 14 years). Guaranteed window seating is an additional $35 per person.

The Christmas Club Deck lunch offers a fabulous festive Christmas buffet feast including Virginia baked leg ham, roast turkey, marinated beef sirloin, oysters, prawns, barramundi, a wide selection of salads and vegetables, assorted petit cakes, plum pudding and mince pies. The Club Deck lunch also includes a superior selection of wines, beers and soft drinks.

The Christmas Show Deck Lunch offers the same expansive feast as the Club Deck with a standard selection of wines, beers and soft drinks.

The Christmas Club Deck Lunch is priced at $249 per adult and $189 per child. The Christmas Show Deck Lunch is priced at $199 per adult and $155 per child. Guaranteed window seating for Club and Show deck lunches is an additional $35 per person.

The MV Sydney 2000 departs 12 noon on Christmas Day, Tuesday 25^th December 2018 from No.1 King Street Wharf, returning at 3.00pm. 

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

Digital Link: https://www.captaincook.com.au/sydney-harbour-cruises/whats-on-in-sydney/christmas-day/

Banyan Tree Bangkok launches deluxe dining-cruise service along ‘River of Kings’

Saffron Cruise blends hotel’s award-winning cuisine with romantic riverine scenery in this unique adventure-in-elegance excursion.

Banyan Tree Bangkok Hotel announces the launch of Saffron Cruise, a new riverboat cruise service aimed at discerning diners and culture aficionados with an appreciation for Thailand’s artistic heritage and the timeless splendour of the Chao Phraya River. The waterborne dining experience is one of both the modern and traditional influences, with styling touches, cuisine and entertainment that celebrate Thailand’s rich cultural heritage.

The 38 metre-long vessel features a show-kitchen restaurant and bar on the open-air main deck for alfresco daytime and evening dining, with air conditioning available when conditions require. The rooftop Moon Deck features a stool-sit bar and lounge plus a scenic Sky Bridge for viewing the river’s gently rippling waters and spectacular sunsets. Authentic Thai dishes that are masterfully prepared and creatively presented come from the kitchens of Banyan Tree’s celebrated signature Thai restaurant Saffron.

The cruise takes guests along the Chao Phraya and its heritage-rich list of popular riverside cultural sites and attractions, including Wat Arun/Temple of Dawn, The Grand Palace, Asiatique, vintage Royal Barge Museum, plus many other fascinating facets of Bangkok as viewed from this unique, floating perspective. On-board ambience includes live entertainment and cultural performance. Additionally, Saffron Cruise is the only leisure river cruise service that offers MICE hosting, including business and trade group meetings and company incentive events. Private charter packages include cooking classes, tailored spa treatments from the multiple award-winning Banyan Tree Spa, engagement and wedding ceremonies, cultural/scenic tours and more.

Daily sunset cruise inclusive of one standard drink at the Moon Deck, priced at THB550net per person

Asiatique Embarkation 5.00pm Disembarkation 6.00pm

ICON Siam Pier 2 Embarkation 5.30pm Disembarkation 6.45pm

Daily dinner cruise inclusive of 5-course Thai set menu, one cocktail at Moon Deck, priced at THB3,200 net per person

ICON Siam Pier 4 Embarkation 7.00pm Disembarkation 10.00pm

*Complimentary return van transfers hotel-pier-hotel, leaving from hotel lobby at 5.30PM.

G Adventures one-week Cyber Sale #traveldeals

Save up to 35 per cent on over 7,400 departures from November 27 - December 05, 2019

Leading small-group adventure operator, G Adventures, today announces a Cyber Sale for the week leading up to and Cyber Monday. With savings of up to 35 per cent on thousands of trips departing between December 3, 2019 and April 30, 2020, the sale begins at 9am AEST on November 27, 2019 and runs until midnight on December 5, 2019 AEST.

“We’re pleased to offer travellers some extra savings on their year end or 2020 holiday,” says Adrian Piotto, G Adventures’ Managing Director for G Adventures Australia and New Zealand.

“This is an extremely wishlist-worthy sale. Whether your dream has been to hike the Inca Trail, explore the Galapagos Islands, cruise down the Mekong River, or witness the mesmerizing wildlife of South Africa, we’ve got an adventure for you at a great price.”

During the Cyber Sale, 600 itineraries across six continents will be marked down, adding up to more than 7,400 opportunities to join an immersive, life-changing adventure before April 30, 2020. Of those, over 400 trips will feature a 30 to 35 per cent discount.

Departures and options are subject to availability, and travellers are encouraged to take advantage of the deals as soon as they go live.

Destinations with the deepest discount of 35 per cent off will be the Galapagos, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Peru, Australia and New Zealand. Sample itineraries include:

● Machu Picchu in Style, seven days, was AUD$1999 now from AUD$1299pp
● Trek Hidden Costa Rica, 12 days, was from AUD$2349 now from AUD$1527pp
● Backroads of Central America, 18 days, was AUD$2049 now from AUD$1332pp
● Galapagos - North & Central Islands Aboard the Eden, seven days was from AUD$4039 now from AUD$2625pp (twin cabin)
● Galapagos - South Islands Aboard the Xavier III, seven days was from AUD$3979 now from AUD$2586pp (Lower deck doube cabin)
● Mekong River Encompassed, 10 days was from AUD$3079 now from AUD$2001pp (Main deck twin cabin)
● Southern Africa Southbound, 21 days was from AUD$3429 now from AUD$2229pp
● Burgundy River Cruise Adventure, eight days was AUD $3499 now from AUD$2274pp (Main deck twin cabin)
● Hawaii Adventure, eight days was from AUD$3849 now from AUD$2502pp

Travellers can visit www.gadventures.com/subscriptions/newsletter to sign up for an email to notify them when deals go live on the tour operator’s homepage at www.gadventures.com on November 27. Alternatively, they can call 1300 180 969 or consult their local travel agent for full details, terms and conditions.

UTracks Releases its Boldest Brochure ever

UTracks, Australia's leading active European holiday specialist today released its boldest brochure ever. The 84 page catalogue is jammed with active tours covering 40 destinations and it's just the starting point. UTracks.com has over 460 active tours in Europe. The 2020 selection includes 35 new tours from England's Thames Path East Walk to Turkey's Lycian Coast Cycle.

UTracks General Manager, Kate Baker says, "the team have been 'burning the midnight oil' finalising the new itineraries for the 2020 brochure".

"Each year, we comb Europe's most remarkable landscapes and cultural hotspots to create a unique collection of guided and self guided walking and cycling holidays that take travellers off the tourist beat," Ms Baker said.

With Poland now the latest 'must visit' destination, an expected favourite in 2020 is UTracks' new 8 day self guided Pieniny and Tatra Mountains walk.

"I'm excited about experiencing this walk next year. The region is visually stunning and filled with many cultural highlights like the picturesque village of Jaworki with its renowned jazz concerts," Ms Baker continued.

"The benefits of staying active while travelling are well documented. Slowing down the travel pace to the spin of a bike wheel or footsteps on a pilgrim trail, allow for an immersive experience and is on trend for 2020," according to Ms Baker.

Whether it's walking the Via Francigena camino trail, scaling high passes in the European Alps, cruising the islands of Croatia, cycling through the vineyards of France or taking the family on a bike & barge trip from Holland to Belgium, there's a UTracks active holiday to suit every traveller.

For more information please visit www.UTracks.com or call 1300 303 368.

Biking Plus on French luxury canal cruises

Earn the gourmet food and wine – with the new Biking Plus option

Biking Plus is now available at no extra cost on select barges in Burgundy and Alsace, with bicycles available for you to explore the countryside and local villages with the help of tailored maps and a carefully researched itinerary.

These NEW specially commissioned maps are offered to those passengers seeking a more active canal or small river cruise. They include a suggested cycling routes plus information on nearby places of interest.

The maps are also accessible via a smartphone app.

A bike and a backpack is provided along with everything you may need to explore the surrounding countryside at your own pace. A crew member with a mini-bus can be called for support should the need arise.

The Biking Plus cycling program is arranged each day so that you won't miss any of the organised guided excursions and visits or much of the cruising

Biking Plus is available for Art de Vivre, Anjodi, L'Impressionniste, La Belle Epoque in Burgundy, Renaissance in the Upper Loire region and Panache in Alsace.

Bike helmets are provided.

E-Bikes are available on some barges at an additional cost.

Dates and prices for all cruises in Europe for 2020: https://bit.ly/2kqb7Xc

Download the e-brochure for itineraries: https://bit.ly/2MScKVK

OUTDOOR TRAVEL Pty Ltd

The Active Holiday Company
PO Box 286, Bright, Victoria 3741, Australia
Tel: (03) 57 501 441 Toll free 1800 331 582 Fax (03) 57 501020
Email: info@outdoortravel.com.au

Website: http://www.outdoortravel.com.au/

UTracks Early Bird Deals to Europe

It’s that wonderful time of the year – UTracks’ Early Bird Sale has arrived. Save on a huge range of walking, cycling and boat based trips in Europe when booking a 2020 holiday with UTracks, Australia’s leading active travel specialist.

Travellers can save up to 10% on a wide range of UTracks trips for new bookings made between 25 September and 25 October 2019.

From walking in the High Tatra and Pieniny mountains in Poland, to exploring the less trodden Camino trails of Magna Via Francigena in Italy or Spain’s Sanabrés, cruising and biking the Low Countries from Amsterdam to Bruges, taking the kids on a Sweden summer holiday or following the ancient Thames Path in the UK, the Early Bird offer* is available on a plethora of old favourites and new experiences for 2020.

Currently 2020 European holidays are great value for money, with many airlines offering some amazing Early Bird airfares. When these are combined with UTracks’ Active Europe itineraries, travellers are receiving excellent value with inclusions such as accommodation, many meals, luggage transfers on self-guided trips, experienced local guides for guided trips, bikes for cycling trips, and complete back up and support.

Here are just some of the exciting Early Bird Trips on offer:

Via Dinarica: Bosnia to Montengro Walk – NEW for 2020

Walk a section of the Via Dinarica, the long distance walking trail through 8 Balkan countries. Our 7 day Via Dinarica: Bosnia to Montenegro guided walk includes the most breathtaking section of the Via Dinarica, a route filled with hidden natural gems and culture that crosses national parks and countries. Save 10 per cent and pay from $2025 per person if you book between 25 September and 25 October 2019. The trip includes accommodation in a range of hotels and guesthouses, most meals, an English speaking mountain guide, luggage transfers and entrance fees for national parks and sights visited. Read more here: UTracks.com/VDA

The Way of St James – Conques to Cahors Walk, France

Experience the most beautiful landscapes of the camino trail to Santiago on The Way of St James – Conques to Cahors. This is an 8 day self guided walk across the Parc Régional des Causses du Quercy in France, sampling delicacies such as Quercy lamb, truffles and local wines en route. Book during the Early Bird period and save 10 per cent, paying just $1134 per person which includes comfortable accommodation (with option to upgrade to charm category), breakfast daily and 6 dinners, route notes, maps, emergency hotline and luggage transfers. Read more: UTracks.com/FC3

Treasures of the Baltic by Bike

Our popular Treasures of the Baltic by Bike travels through Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. Discover the contrasting cultures and natural landscapes by cycling along the Baltic coastline. The 11 day guided cycle trip includes accommodation in 3-4 star hotels, cycle guide, all transfers and some entrance fees plus much more. If booked during the Early Bird period, 25 September to 25 October 2019, pay from $2331 per person twin share. Read more: UTracks.com/TBY

The bigger than ever UTracks 2020 brochure will be available at the end of September.

For more information please visit www.UTracks.com or call 1300 303 368.

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A&K Ultimate globe-spanning adventure

Even modern-day adventurers may need to Google some of the destinations featured on the latest newest Private Jet journey from the luxury travel experts at Abercrombie & Kent – Around the World with Geoffrey Kent: An Inspiring Expedition by Private Jet.

SPECIAL OFFER: Up to 25% OFF Bali Health Retreats with Yovada

Health and wellness travel company, Yovada.com, is offering a 'buddy' deal wherein if you book for yourself and a friend to travel before December 10th, you will both receive 25% off the advertised price.

Furthermore, yovada.com is offering single guests 15% off their Bali health retreats in 2019, with savings of up to USD$1500 per person.

Yovada.com can make your wellness dream in Bali come true. Offering spa, detox, massage, yoga, Ayurveda, meditation, fitness and more, and with Chefs preparing deliciously healthy food and juices, you will reconnect with your inner vitality.

Yovada spokesperson Richard Saul says, "Bali is a mecca for many health and wellness centres that offer programs to recharge and rejuvenate yourself in the most serene and beautiful locations.

"We are pleased to partner with the popular centres in Bali to offer this 2019 special booking offer," says Saul.

Representing centres in Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud and beach locations around Bali, Yovada offers programs of all types and durations, and with incredible accommodation and facilities.

Whether you are interested in a private yoga retreat to spend some well earned 'me time' or travelling together to Bali for a detox spa experience, Yovada has got you covered.

To book your health retreat visit www.yovada.com

Family Fun At Angsana Laguna Phuket

Experience the best in sun, sand and sea

Boasting pristine beaches, white sand and luxe villas, Banyan Tree's Angsana Laguna Phuket is the perfect retreat for luxury-loving families. Set on the shores of Phuket's Bang Tao Bay in the island's northwest, the resort offers unrivalled luxury suites complimented by a multitude of activities to keep the whole family happy.

Rediscover ultimate family fun with endless land and water activities, including mountain bike expeditions, island tours, diving excursions, snorkeling and windsailing. For families after something more relaxed, explore the beauty of the island with horseback riding on the shore of Bang Tao Bay, or catch the remarkable sunset at Promthep Cape. To recharge after a big day of activities, spend an afternoon bonding with the family by floating in Angsana Laguna's free-form pool, winding its way through the resort.

Kids won't want to leave the Tree House Kid's Club, a multi-level play area with jungle gyms, educational games and entertainment welcoming children of all ages. Mum and dad can sit back and relax with the complimentary childcare, keeping little ones completely entertained with many activities to enjoy, from treasure hunts and face painting to  cooking classes. Angsana Spa even offers gentle massages for kids, making for the perfect quality family time.

Make this year unforgettable by booking a stay at Angsana Laguna Phuket! Book the Live for Family Fun package by the 29th March 2019 and enjoy attractive inclusions such as:

• Kids below 12 dine for free
• Free access to the Tree House Kids Club
• 1 Set Dinner for 2
• Round trip transfer from Phuket International Airport in a family van
• 1 Kayak lagoon exploration tour for the whole family
• 2 hours baby-sitting service for up to 2 children per stay
• Complimentary unlimited non-motorized water sports
• 20% savings on all restaurants (except alcohol)
• 20% savings on all body massages at the Angsana Spa Laguna

For more information please call: +6676358500 or visit

Angsana Laguna Phuket.

12 Day Classic Egypt tour

Tour operator, Gate 1 Travel is returning to Egypt with the launch of a new 12 Day Classic Egypt with 7 Day Nile Cruise tour.

Gate 1 Travel Australia General Manager, Kim Erskine says, “We are so excited to relaunch Egypt. It’s one of our favourite destinations and has so much to offer travellers. Our new tour is a great way to see the highlights of the country as we take care of all the details allowing you to relax and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture. We can’t wait to take Australians over there."

The new tour includes first-class star accommodation, return airport transfers when you book a flight-inclusive package, as well as seven days cruising along the Nile on the MS Queen of Hansa, an elegant and comfortable ship.

The Classic Egypt tour includes a visit to the 3000-year-old Temples of Karnak, the Temple of Edfu, dedicated to the falcon-headed god, Horus, the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Temple of Philae located on an island in Aswan Dam, and Kom Ombo, a rare Greco-Roman temple.

“This tour is perfect for first-timers, as well as return visitors as it includes all the ‘hits’, as well as a few of the more unusual sites. The upside of travelling with us is that our local guides possess true insight into the culture and can share insider tips on where to go during free time for an authentic experience that goes well beyond the tourist trail. Similarly, there's the added peace of mind that comes with travelling with a local expert and within a tour group of like-minded people.” Mrs Erskine continued.

For more information about the new tour, visit: https://www.gate1travel.com.au/africa/egypt/2019

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