Fraser Island Summer Deal Extended Until March 31

FRASER ISLAND: Make the most of the summer months on Fraser with Kingfisher Bay Resort’s ‘Pay 2, Stay 3’ deal – extended until March 31. Book a summer holiday at the award winning eco tourism resort, travel to stunning Fraser Island before the end of March and for every two nights booked, you’ll receive a third night for free.

Hotel resort accommodation, with bush or lake outlooks, starts from just $99 per person, per night twin share. Travel with family and friends and triple share in a two-bedroom villa, hidden amongst the treetops, also just $99 per person, per night. Each offer includes the bonus third night free. Four wheel touring adventures are also available to suit all tastes and wallets.

Virgin Blue and Jetstar operate direct jet services daily from Sydney to the Fraser Coast and other major city connections are available. QantasLink also operate services daily from Brisbane to the Fraser Coast. Kingfisher Bay Resort operates regular passenger catamaran services from Urangan Boat Harbour to the island and vehicle barge services operate from River Heads or Rainbow Beach.

For more information on the ‘Pay 2, Stay 3’ deal call Kingfisher Bay Resort on 1800 FRASER or visit kingfisherbay.com.

Life Change Holidays in Thailand

……a new approach to changing your life.

Combine a fantastic and unusual holiday with a new therapeutic approach to making positive changes in your life.
Whether you are one of the growing numbers of people affected by:
• Depression and anxiety
• Work related stress
• Fear of the future
• Unhappy relationships
• Unfulfilled ambitions
• Feeling unable to cope with any more pressure
…or simply feel unhappy, stuck and unsure how to improve things, our Life Change Programme offers a permanent solution.
Created and delivered by a group of qualified professionals, with many years experience at the highest levels.

We are based in Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand, renowned for its vibrancy, hospitality and breath taking natural beauty. We have developed partnerships with four fantastic, boutique hotels, each with their own individual character. We want you to feel relaxed and nurtured while undertaking your Life Change Programme and have chosen hotels that we would be happy to stay in ourselves. They differ in location, atmosphere and price range, offering something for everyone:

Baan Deva Montra
Stay in your own private villa with private pool in this relaxed hotel with beautiful extensive gardens. It is just outside the city, at the foot of the mountain, surrounded by rice fields and ideal for complete peace and relaxation. Although only a fifteen minute drive from Chiang Mai city, this hidden gem of a hotel conveys a real sense of space and connection to nature .

Baen Saen Doi
Ideal for luxury Spa lovers, this hotel specialises in world class Spa treatments and complete tranquillity. When visiting Baan Saen Doi, we were immediately struck with the sense of serenity, created by the Lanna architecture, the flowers and scented oils and by the attention, support and care offered to each guest by the staff of this beautiful Villa Hotel

Rachamankha Hotel
One of the very few world class hotels within the ancient city walls, full of genuine art and antiquities, a very special hotel indeed.. The Rachamankha is a temple to the rich cultural heritage of Chiang Mai, which combines elements of Lanna, Chinese and Burmese influences. Here you will be able to feast your senses, seeing and touching the genuine Lanna artwork, antiques and furniture that fill the hotel.


Puripunn Baby Grand Boutique Hotel
An amazing oasis in the city of Chiang Mai, individually designed rooms with every attention paid to your comfort. We stepped from a seemingly ordinary city street into the elegance and sense of tradition, which has been woven into the creation of this stunning hotel. Each room has been individually designed, by the owners themselves, and the loving attention to detail, apparent in the choice of furniture, colours and even flowers, is indeed inspiring.

The Life Change People ……New Year Special Offers….
• .A free weeks accommodation in a garden villa, (sleeping two), in the Baan Deva Montra Hotel ……..for the first six individuals or couples to book a Life Change Programme in 2009.

• 12 free weeks follow-up for everyone who undertakes a Life Change Programme….we had so much great feedback about this last year so we’re doing it again.

• 5% of the cost of every Life Change Programme will be donated to the Vieng Ping Childrens Home, in Chiang Mai. You can help change a child’s life as you’re changing your own.


Combine a tailor made holiday with a Life Change Programme, including full Personality Profile, daily sessions with your personal Life Change Practitioner, developing a Change Plan and 12 weeks free follow up coaching and support.

You’ll return home with more than a sun tan… cared for, energised…and ready to make and maintain the changes which will allow you to take control of your life.


Or choose from a selection of our packages for 2009 including…….

7 night Heart of Chiang Mai package at the Rachamankha Hotel in the heart of the ancient city including: Life Change Programme (Personality Profiling, individual coaching, Change Plan and 3 months follow up coaching), full day sightseeing package including elephant trekking, and a spa treatment, daily breakfast and transfers….£1,500 pp or £1,650 for 2 people

7 night Tranquillity package at Baan Deva Montra, including: Life Change Programme with Personality Profiling, Individual tutoring and coaching, Change Plan and 3 months follow up coaching, private villa with Jacuzzi Pool, half day sightseeing, full day elephant trek and rafting, or full day at elephant nature park, 1 spa treatment, daily breakfast and transfers…. £995 pp or £1,424 for 2 people.

14 nights Chiang Mai Adventure package at Baan Deva Montra, including: Life Change Programme with Personality Profiling, Individual tutoring and coaching, Change Plan and 3 months follow up coaching, private villa with Jacuzzi pool, elephant trekking and rafting, or full day at elephant nature park, 2 night hill tribe trek, full day mountain sightseeing, tour of Buddhist temples….. £1,695 pp or £2,187 for 2 people

Currumbin Sanctuary adds more nature fun

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary on the Gold Coast has opened a range of new attractions within the popular nature park.

Extreme Green Challenge opened mid-December 16 and is a safe, fun and exciting treetops ropes course developed in association with French company, Adventure Parc. Extreme Green has 14 challenges including rope bridges and ladders high into the treetop canopy and a flying fox over the Crocodile Wetlands. Two other attractions also opened in December were Australia’s Green Cauldron Experience and Green Guardian Theatre. The Green Cauldron explains how Currumbin’s scenic beach headlands were created from ancient lava flows and showcases the wildlife of the region. The Theatre screens wildlife documentaries and live animal presentations in air-conditioned comfort. A Forest Walk opens this month giving visitors the chance to explore the coastal eucalypt and rainforest areas on walking trails and interpretation sites. www.cws.org.au

Fitzroy Island: Queensland’s newest island resort opens

Nestled on the fringing Great Barrier Reef of Tropical North Queensland, Fitzroy Island Hunt Resort Managed by Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific offers a new luxurious island getaway.

Located 45 minutes by ferry from the Reef Fleet Terminal in Cairns, Fitzroy Island Hunt Resort is a stylish, modern and sophisticated resort which features natural timbers, stone, leather and marble finishes. A choice of accommodation options is available including hotel rooms, one and two bedroom apartments, beachfront suites and a luxurious penthouse. Resort facilities include a spectacular swimming pool and spa, a variety of dining options including restaurants and a food court, games room, boutique resort shopping, cinema, and tour desk. Day trippers and overnight guests can choose from a multitude of activities to fill their time including sensational snorkelling and diving directly off white beaches, national park walks, fishing, sea kayaking and Great Barrier Reef cruises. Phone (07) 4044 6700 or visit www.fitzroyisland.com.au.

Desk-tied couples mindful of the economic downturn but seeking a short break should look
closer to home. Greater Port Macquarie Tourism has launched a range of new, great value
packages at some of its best hotels for travel in January and February 2009.

The enticing "Sarong" and "Taste of Port Macquarie" deals are an ideal way to enjoy the balmy
climate and regional produce. Or if the kids are in toe, the "Kids Play Free" package will ensure
some time out for mum and dad.

"With tightening budgets, reduced petrol and travellers seeking safe destinations, now is the time
to travel in our own backyard," said Linda Hall, Tourism Manager at Greater Port Macquarie
Tourism.

"Just 4.5hours drive from Sydney, Port Macquarie offers a range of new and award-winning four-
star and above properties, so there is more choice and great savings for couples." said Linda.

Time your visit with new outdoor events, the Wauchope Country Music Festival (9-11 Jan) and the
Ani DiFranco concert (7 Feb) at Cassegrain Winery. Local favourite Oysters in the Vines will also
return (25 Jan) to Cassegrain Winery.

* The 'Sarong Package' at Mercure Centro Hotel is ideal for couples who thought Port was just for
kids - laze by the pool in complimentary sarongs, sip cocktails from the bar, indulge on a cheese
platter and enjoy hot breakfasts daily. The two night package at this newly built four star
property located in town costs $399.
* The 'Taste of Port Macquarie Package' at Rydges showcases the local flavours of this up and
coming foodie region. Enjoy a two course dinner using local produce, a bottle of Cassegrain
wine, two bottles of Wicked Elf beer, a hot buffet breakfast, late 1pm checkout and use of the
first class facilities including a pool with river and ocean views. The one night package costs
$299 per night.
* The 'Kids Play Free Package' at The Observatory is every parent's dream - exhaust the kids at
no cost so mum and dad can lap up the luxury at Port's award-winning hotel. Stay two nights in
a two bedroom ocean view apartment and receive a complimentary family pass to Timbertown
Heritage Theme Park, plus free Nintendo game hire, DVD rental and activity packs. The two night
package costs $438.

Greater Port Macquarie Tourism invited all its accommodation partners to submit their best and
most enticing offer for travel in January and February 2009.

To book any of these deals, and more, contact the Greater Port Macquarie Visitor Information
Centre on 1300 303 155 or book on-line at www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au and quote the
package name. All these offers are subject to availability in January and February 2009.

A Suite Seduction or an Intimate Indulgence?

IA boutique hotels in Shanghai and Hong Kong are offering two very special Valentine’s packages guaranteed to make it a memorable Valentine’s day and night!

Choose from JIA’s SUITE SEDUCTION PACKAGE in Hong Kong for HKD2988+10%, or Shanghai for RMB 2995+15%. Guests enjoy a seductive selection of treats to enjoy in the privacy of a one bedroom suite. Those feeling naughty can nibble on chocolate covered strawberries by GODIVA or lather up with Body Butter from The Body Shop in Hong Kong, or indulge in a decadent handmade dessert from Issimo in Shanghai, then crack open a bottle of Veuve Clicquot or Moet Rose Champagne and settle in for a dose of Lorenzo Saraceni’s seductive ‘The Human Form” books. Couples are then treated to an arousing ‘morning-after’ breakfast.

Those seeking total decadence can indulge in the JIA INTIMATE INDULGENCE PACKAGE. Priced at HKD5988+10% at JIA Hong Kong and RMB 9995+15% at JIA Shanghai, this ultimate Valentine’s Day celebratory package includes one night’s accommodation in the duplex Penthouse in Hong Kong or the rock-star Penthouse Suite at JIA Shanghai, with all of the above ‘Suite Seduction’ goodies, and more. Guests can discover little delights in a unique ‘Proposal Box’ including a chocolate covered fruit, g-string, massage oil from l’Occitane, a finely wrapped aromatic candle and with the last drawer left for you to add your own gift to surprise your lover…

All JIA guests enjoy a host of complimentary ‘extras’ which include breakfast, all day soft beverages , afternoon cakes, evening wine, broadband/wifi throughout hotel, local phone calls and more…

Located in the heart of the city’s buzzing Causeway Bay shopping and entertainment district, JIA Hong Kong comprises 54 studios and suites, including two penthouses with a stylish but relaxed flavour. The interior spaces of JIA have been transformed by French design guru, Philippe Starck, showcasing his celebrated sleek, modern designs and handpicked chic furnishings and fittings.

From its moody, dark and seemingly secretive corridors to its 55 chic guestrooms and suites, some with balconies, JIA Shanghai exudes seduction. Further evoking the romantic ambience so often associated with this city known as the “Paris of the East”, JIA Shanghai also features two penthouse suites located on the top floor, each appointed with ultra indulgent facilities.

For reservations and more information visit www.jiahongkong.com on the internet, call + (852) 3196 9000 or email info@jiahongkong.com.

AMAZING WORLD OF CHOCOLATE OPEN

Phillip Island Chocolate Factory- the sweetest attraction on this Icon Island- has unveiled a magnificent new attraction that will surpass even the most avid chocolate-lover’s fantasies.

This experience includes a free sample of premium chocolate with each admission into the newly renovated Panny’s Amazing World of Chocolate.

A 4.8 metre chocolate village coming complete with buildings, street houses and landscaping, all constructed out of chocolate, will be guaranteed to keep both children and adults enthralled. For those interested by the processes of chocolate-making, an educational exhibition on cocoa plantations, trees and demonstration on the whole deliciously sinful process will also be on show.

Certainly living up to its name, Panny’s Amazing World of Chocolate has also set a record for the largest chocolate waterfall in the world. Lucky patrons will be able to witness 200kg of chocolate descending in a mere five seconds. Patrons can also wonder through a Chocolate Art Gallery and marvel at the two metre chocolate statue of Michelangelo’s David whilst brazenly admiring chocolate painted versions of Edward Munch’s ‘The Scream’ and Sidney Nolans ‘Ned Kelly’. For those lovers of the iconic Dame Edna, be prepared to be impressed by a 12,000 piece mosaic of her image.

There are also interactive exhibits, quizzes and demonstrations.

At the end of the activities, you will be able to savour a multitude of quirky sweet treats- including Vegemite, Wasabi and Cola flavoured chocolate delights, straight out of Panny’s Amazing Chocolate Machine.

The Chocolate factory has been on the Island for two years and is expanding very quickly- with over 200,000 people visiting each year. It has been in a constant state of development and now has created the world’s first interactive exhibition on chocolate.

A wonderfully gifted and innovative chocolatier, Panny is the front face of this chocolate wonderland. A self-confessed chocolate lover, Panny migrated to Australia with his family from Malaysia after working for over 30 years in the chocolate industry. Using only the finest Belgian chocolate and ingredients, it has taken Panny over eight years to perfect the final product – and what a product it is!

Prices for entry into Panny’s Amazing World of Chocolate is very reasonably priced at just:

Adults: $12.00
Children: $8.00
Family: $36.00

For more information visit:

www.phillipislandchocolatefactory.com.au

www.amazenthings.com.au

Chifley Hotels: Stay in the heart of Sydney’s Nightlife

Celebrate 2009 at Chifley Potts Point from only $49 per night during January.

With the summer festive season in full swing, Chifley Potts Point, is giving guests the chance to party in the heart of Sydney’s nightlife with it’s sizzling Sydney Sale.

Guests can stay in one of Chifley Potts Points’ standard rooms for only $49 per night for two people before stepping out to soak up one of the country’s most colourful entertainment precinct or stroll to some of Sydney’s top tourist attractions.

Chifley Potts Point is in the heart of the liveliest pocket of Sydney, King Cross, only minutes walk from Sydney’s most rated bars and clubs including the Piano Room which is directly opposite the hotel and Hugo’s Lounge just 50 metres from the hotel entrance.

Spend the day strolling the terrace-lined streets, browse trendy boutiques or catch a wave at Bondi. Enjoy a balmy summer night of wining and dining at one of the 250+ local cafes and restaurants before turning up the heat on the dance floor at one of the many nearby nightspots.

The hotel also incorporates the stylish Cursa Restaurant and Delta Bar, as well as undercover car parking and easy access to Sydney trains and buses.

Sizzling Sydney Sale is only $49 per room per night and includes;

* Accommodation in a Standard Room for 2 people
* Valid for stays from 1 January to 31 January 2009, subject to availability

Chifley Potts Point opened this year on the corner of Victoria Street and Darlinghurst Road following the completion of a $20 million renovation.

For reservations call the hotel direct on 02 9358 2755 or for further information visit www.chifleyhotels.com.

Purchase a Constellation Gift Card, the perfect gift or reward today and up until the 28th February 2009 and you could WIN yourself a sizzling 5 night holiday in one of our hottest locations. For more details visit www.constellationgiftcard.com/holidaygiveaway

About Constellation Hotel Group

Launched in 1986, Constellation Hotel Group (formerly known as Touraust Hotels), a division of Touraust Corporation, is the fifth largest hotel operator in Australia and proudly the largest Australian-owned hotel management company. CHG’s 80 hotels are located in capital cities, key regional centres and leisure destinations throughout Australia.

TARRALEAH – BE SURPRISED

Stunning Tarraleah Estate is taking a positive and cheering approach to all the nation’s doom and glom by actually increasing its services to further entice Tasmanians to enjoy their own special state.

With the appointment of Scott Monaghan to the executive chef’s position, direct from two years as executive chef at the Tokyo Club in Japan, as well as the fortuitous find, via England, Maldives and California, of professional sommelier Tilak Sinha, the “Wildside” restaurant will now present Table D’hote fine dining to all guests at the estate. Further complimented with a ‘two goblet’ wine list of over 300 labels, the “Wildside” is offering an unforgettable dining experience not to be missed during a sojourn in the Tasmanian Central Highlands.

With the recent completion of the “Cliff Top Spa” and under the expert management of local therapist Maree Bradshaw, the Tarraleah Estate now boasts outstanding Relaxation and Therapeutic Massage and Day Spa services, bubbling hot tubs, gymnasium and infra red sauna, all back dropped with magnificent wilderness views.

Stay at the award winning Luxurious Lodge, the popular and spacious self contained Cottages, the comfortable and welcoming studios in the old School House or the picturesque Caravan Park – experience other dining facilities with sumptuous meals at the famous Highlander Arms Tavern or a reviving coffee and bite at the new Teez Café – enjoy the many soul massaging activities of fishing, golf, mountain biking, kayaking, squash, bushwalking or just indulge in good old peaceful relaxation with some expert wine and whisky tastings.

RING FOR HOT SUMMER DEALS ON 03 62890111 OR VISIT WWW.TARRALEAH.COM

Vietnam's First Launched Privately Owned Airline Soaring High

Who says the global financial meltdown has cut short the growing air travel demand and launch of new flights in the list? At least, Vietnam is not buying such words! Aiming to tap rising demand for air travel in the fast growing South East Asian nations, Vietnam’s aviation industry has introduced its first privately owned airline, setting aside the dark meltdown saga.

This Indo-china airline, owned by a group of Vietnamese businessman is operating four daily flights between the Southern commercial center of Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. This is the third airline, offering domestic flights in Vietnam, joining National carrier Vietnam Airlines and Jetstar Pacific, a partnership between a state owned carrier and the ‘Qantas’ of Australia.

The company chaired by Ha Hung Dung, a well known Vietnamese pop music composer and businessman is known to offer two flights daily between Ho Chi Minh City and Central Coastal city of Danang. As confirmed by company spokeswoman, Nguyen Thi Thanh Quyen ‘the launch of such airlines not only aim to meet growing air travel demand in Vietnam but will also offer plentiful choices for its customers.

According to Quyen, ‘Indochina Airlines has registered capital of $12 million and is all prepared to lease two 174 seat Boeing 737-800s. She also convinced that in the next two to three years the company will be hoping to add flights to the resort city of Nha Trang and the ancient capital of Hue as well as countries in the region.

According to Vietnam’s civil aviation administration, ‘with the launch of new flights, passenger air travel to and from Vietnam has grown between 13 and 17 percent annually in recent years’.