Hamilton Island’s World-Class Golf Club Officially Opens

Hamilton Island Golf Club has officially opened as the only 18 hole championship golf course on its own island in Australia. The event was marked by an official handover between designer and champion golfer, Peter Thomson AO CBE and Hamilton Island owner, Bob Oatley, on Sunday 30th August 2009. The opening was especially timely for Thomson, a five-time British Open winner, who celebrated his 80th birthday the week before.

The 18 hole golf course has been tipped to quickly gain a reputation as one of the best courses in the world, not least because of the stunning views of the Whitsunday Islands from many of the holes. The 6,120 meters, par 71 course sits on its own island called Dent Island, just a five minute ferry ride from Hamilton Island. It has been designed not only to test the golfing proficiency of resort guests, but also to challenge the world's professionals.

The course makes the most of the island's natural and rugged beauty and works with the landform, offering variety and excitement with some holes being played across steep valleys and over lakes, trees and natural boulders. To ensure a good game for all proficiencies, three tee positions are offered for each hole, taking their names from indigenous trees on the island. The changes in course elevation, restricted landing areas and the ever-present breezes provide a definite challenge from the back 'Hoop Pine' tees. Meanwhile, resort golfers can enjoy an easier time of it from the forward marks of the 'Grass Tree' tees. For the middle-ground, there are the 'Pandanus' tees.

The crowning glory of the course is the stunning Chris Beckingham-designed clubhouse, ideally perched to take in the stunning views of Passage Peak and the Coral Sea. The clubhouse offers an idyllic spot for non-golfing partners to relax over a laid-back lunch, or for golfers to take stock of the day's game over a cold beer.

Those that wish to brush-up on their golfing skills can enlist the support of the resident golf-pro, Cherie Byrnes. Cherie has been a professional for nine years and past strings to her bow have included being Tournament Director for the 2002 and 2003 Australian Ladies Professional Golf Players Championship, as well as assisting with the 2004 Men's ANZ Championship.

A number of packages are being offered to celebrate the opening of the new resort, including 'Golf in Paradise' and 'Golf and Spa in Paradise'. Guests can enjoy three or four nights' accommodation on Hamilton Island, to include a round of golf on the new course and an optional spa treatment, from $628 per person.* qualia guests can benefit from preferential tee times on the course and, in the near future, luxury golfing packages will be offered, to include accommodation at qualia and helicopter transfers to the course.

Sandy Oatley, chairman of Hamilton Island, commented, 'The opening of the Golf Club is part of our ongoing commitment to develop and maintain Hamilton Island as a truly world-class and leading holiday destination. Since we purchased it in 2003, we have invested over $300 million in the Island. This has included the development of qualia, the 60 pavilion luxury resort on the northern most point of the Island and, most recently, the building of the iconic, Walter Barda-designed Yacht Club.'

For more information about Hamilton Island Golf Club visit www.hamiltonislandgolfclub.com.au

*Rate includes: Three or four night's accommodation based on twin share at a choice of either the Palm Bungalows, Whitsunday Holiday Apartments, Reef View Hotel or Beach Club; Full buffet breakfast; Round of golf for one adult (18 holes) to include return launch transfers from Hamilton Island and use of a two-seater electric golf buggy on-course; Return Hamilton Island airport/marina to hotel transfers; Use of catamarans, paddle skis, windsurfers and snorkelling equipment; Unlimited use of the scheduled 'Island Shuttle' service (7:00am -11:00pm daily). To book this package, guests can contact Hamilton Island Holidays on on 13 REEF (13 7333) within Australia or +612 9433 0444 outside Australia

Food and Wine Weekend at Byron at Byron Resort

The Byron at Byron Resort and Spa has received more accolades this August, taking out two major awards at the HM Awards in Sydney on August 14 and also receiving the annual national “Pevonia Hotel/Resort Spa High Achievement Award” for excellence in treatment performance.

To celebrate The Byron at Byron Resort and Spa will be holding its first Food & Wine Weekend on November 20 and 21, with special guests Philip Johnson of Brisbane’s acclaimed e’cco bistro, Justin Telfer from Bangalow Cheese Company and Mary Jeanne Hutchinson from New Zealand’s multi award winning Craggy Range Winery.

Open to all food and wine lovers, the weekend will highlight the local Northern Rivers produce in a space of relaxed sharing. “It’s a good marriage’’ said Philip Johnson. “The Byron at Byron Resort, good food, good wine and some learning and experimentation. The Byron region is home to some of the Australia’s finest foods’’.

The Byron at Byron Food & Wine Weekend Package includes:
- Two nights’ accommodation in a one bedroom superior suite
- Full buffet breakfast daily
- Bottle of Craggy Range Wine and Philip Johnson cookbook in room on arrival
- Welcome drinks and canapés on 20 November
- One workshop of your choice on 21 November, either:
Philip Johnson Cooking Demonstration including tastings, 10:30am - 12:30pm or Cheese and Wine Masterclass with Justin Telfer from Bangalow Cheese Company and Mary Jeanne Hutchinson from Craggy Range Winery, 2:00 – 4:00pm
- Gala Celebratory Dinner with Philip Johnson on 21 November – Five course degustation matched with Craggy Range Wines.
Single Share $989 / Twin Share $1,328.

For bookings and enquiries telephone 1300 554 362 or visit www.thebyronatbyron.com.au

Snow Time! Pacific Blue Takes Off to Queenstown

Snow bunnies and adrenaline junkies will be among those expected to fly on Pacific Blue's brand new year round direct flights from Sydney to Queenstown. The new services are set to launch tomorrow, just in time to carve up the slopes for spring skiing.

Snow bunnies and adrenaline junkies will be among those expected to fly on Pacific Blue's brand new year round direct flights from Sydney to Queenstown. The new services are set to launch tomorrow, just in time to carve up the slopes for spring skiing.

The new flights are part of Pacific Blue's ongoing expansion plans and coincide with the launch of other international direct services from Australia to Dunedin and Hamilton, New Zealand.

Virgin Blue's sister airline will operate a twice weekly service designed to suit those travelling to Queenstown to experience the delights of one of New Zealand's premier tourist destinations.
Sydney-Queenstown: Two flights a week
• Special launch day celebratory fare of $209* one-way on the internet
• Regular lead-in fares will start from $299* one-way on the internet.

Virgin Blue Group Chief Executive, Brett Godfrey, said, "Our Guests have lobbied us for some time to start direct flights from Sydney to Queenstown so we're responding to them at last with the opening of the new route."

He continued, "It's no secret Queenstown is one of New Zealand's most popular year round destinations and we are excited to be bringing more, choice and convenience for travellers wanting to fly direct, fly affordably and of course fly the fun way with Pacific Blue's friendly crew."

The carrier is also expanding into New Zealand's regional centres in recognition of the tourism opportunities and desirability's of the non-metropolitan destinations and the unique attractions the New Zealand's tourism regions have to offer. Whether it's the cobbled streets or ski slopes of Queenstown, the penguins in Dunedin or glow-worm caves and cultural heritage in Hamilton, these regional cities and towns have plenty to offer.

Forward bookings for Queenstown are trending well with early indications showing group bookings are going gangbusters. The service will be a year round flight and Pacific Blue will work closely with local businesses and tourism organisations to entice travellers to experience the summer sights and delights of the region including wineries, bush walking and of course mountain climbing.

Pacific Blue's holiday program Blue Holidays, offers some sensational snow holiday packages to New Zealand including:

Sofitel Queenstown ^
Return airfares to Queenstown
7 nights accommodation in a Superior Room
From $1570pp twin share

On Sale Until 30 November 2009
For Travel Between 4 September 2009 - 31 March 2010

For Booking see www.virginblue.com.au/holidays or call 13 15 16 within Australia or 0508 13 15 16 within New Zealand.

Launch flight takes off from Sydney's Kingsford Smith International Airport at 10.30am and arrive in Queenstown at 3.35pm. On board the first flight will be Pacific Blue executives who will conduct in-flight launch activities including a charity auction to raise money for New Zealand's registered charity "Cure Kids".



* All fares are subject to availability, are one-way on the internet or $15 more by phone. Seats are limited and may not be available at peak times or on all flights. A credit/debit card fee of $5 per person per one-way flight applies. Sale fares include taxes, fees and surcharges. International return fare may vary with the addition of local taxes and charges. Fare price is based on GO! Fare and is non-refundable. Checked baggage charges apply to all Blue Saver and GO! Fares. Pre-pay $8 online for up to 23kgs of checked baggage per person one way flight, or pay $20 at the airport for the same allowance. The special launch day celebratory fare is on sale from now until midnight 13 September 2009 or until sold out and is for specific travel periods between 20 October 09 – 10 December 09 and 12 January 10 – 24 March 10 and 20 April 10 – 24 June 10.

^ Package price is correct as at 1/9/2009. During some periods air and hotel pricing may not be available and surcharges may apply. Prices are subject to availability and not guaranteed until the booking is completed and confirmed. Prices based on direct route, including taxes, levies and other government charges which may vary and are subject to change. Seasonal surcharges may apply. Hotel rates quoted are based on double occupancy, per room per night, unless otherwise noted. Prices based on lead-in room, additional room types available. Charges for extra persons and/or children may apply and will be charged directly by the hotel. Package conditions apply. Further conditions may apply. Prices advertised are a from price based on per person, twin share

All travel is subject to normal terms and conditions of carriage which can be found at www.virginblue.com.au

New initiative makes it easier for tourists to ‘Ride Canberra’

Australia’s mountain bike capital

More tourists can realise the Canberra region’s offerings for mountain bikers with the launch of Ride Canberra, an exciting new tourism venture dedicated to attracting interstate and international mountain bike visitors to Canberra.

With the international standard Stromlo Forest Park as its centrepiece, Canberra is fast becoming Australia’s number one mountain biking destination. The recent World Cup event, National Championships and this weekend’s World Championship, are firmly placing Canberra in the mountain bike spotlight.

“Tourism mountain biking is a rapidly growing tourism sector in Australia. Canberra’s vicinity to Sydney and Melbourne position the city in a prime location for weekend mountain bike and adventure tourists, as well as families looking for an active weekend away,” said Ride Canberra founder and mountain bike enthusiast, Clint Wright, of Threesides Marketing.

The first phase of Ride Canberra includes the launch of a dedicated website, the first of its kind in Australia, devoted to mountain bike based tourism.

“Ride Canberra is a one-stop-shop for interstate and international mountain bikers visiting Canberra. The website includes ride friendly accommodation and booking facilities, trail information, directions, trail reviews and maps, restaurants and bars, bike gear and tours,” said Mr Wright.

Ride Canberra will initially be delivered via the dedicated website, with plans to expand to a booking centre onsite at Stromlo Forest Park and a printed guide to mountain biking in Canberra. The business model is based on similar international models in Canada, Wales and New Zealand that Mr Wright, being a passionate mountain bike rider himself, experienced first-hand.

“Mountain bikers are tourists just like everyone else. Ride Canberra lets them know about all the great trails around the region, but can also assist with useful and practical information like bike friendly hotels. They can quickly access information such as distances of trails from accommodation, security for their bikes, bike wash facilities as well as other things to do and see in Canberra,” he said.

Ride Canberra is an initiative of two small businesses, Threesides and Early Bird Marketing and Events. The two Canberra based businesses have worked with the ACT Government through Territory Venues and Events and Australian Capital Tourism, to ensure the concept is able to leverage off the Stromlo Forrest Park Development, Mountain Bike World Championships in Canberra, and tourism industry development activity.

More information on Ride Canberra can be found at www.ridecanberra.com.au

KEY FACTS ON MOUNTAIN BIKING IN THE CANBERRA REGION

· Canberra and the region is home to over 150kms of purpose built mountain bike trails.

· Stromlo Forest Park is the host of Australia’s first ever Mountain Bike World Championship events 1-6 Sept 2009.

· Canberra has five dedicated mountain bike areas to suit all riding levels – Stromlo Forest Park, Majura Pines, Sparrow Hill, Tuggeranong Pines and Kowen Forest.

· Canberra is home to Australia’s largest mountain biking clubs – the Canberra Off Road Cyclists (CORC) www.corc.asn.au

· Mountain Biking is one of the fastest growing sports in Australia.

· Interstate and international mountain bike events are often hosted in Canberra.

· Canberra has more bike shops per capita than any city in Australia.

PACIFIC BLUE'S INAUGURAL BRISBANE - DUNEDIN FLIGHT TAKES TO THE SKIES

A penguin party took place today when Pacific Blue began flying non-stop between Brisbane and Dunedin this morning. 

Celebrating Dunedin's unique wildlife, Pacific Blue's inaugural flight saw three human penguins auction $2,000 worth of prizes.  Proceeds will go to the Yellow Eyed Penguin Trust, the Dunedin based charity charged with conserving arguably the world's rarest penguin – the yellow eyed penguin. 

During the flight Guests raced chocolate Jaffas down the aisle of the Boeing 737-800 in honour of Dunedin's annual Jaffa race down the world's steepest street.  The real Jaffa race takes place each July as part of the Cadbury Chocolate Carnival.  This year 30,000 Jaffas were raced raising AU$75,000 towards Dunedin charities.  On the inaugural flight each Jaffa raced represented a different charity.  The winning charity, Children's Variety Club, will receive NZ$500 (AU$410) from Cadbury World who run daily tours of the chocolate factory. 

Following an eventful flight, the aircraft was warmly welcomed into New Zealand by a flash mob of penguins at Dunedin airport.  Promoted through Facebook, the two best dressed 'penguins' in attendance won return flights for two on the inaugural Brisbane to Dunedin flight.  

Tourism Dunedin Chief Executive, Hamish Saxton, said, "The inaugural flight, like Dunedin itself, was fun and quirky.  We are a lively city with a big heart and look forward to welcoming more Australians". 

Minutes from Dunedin CBD is the Otago Peninsula, the jewel in New Zealand eco-tourism.  Visitors can get up close to the world's only mainland breeding colony of Royal Northern albatross, New Zealand fur seals, sea lions, fairy penguins, indigenous birdlife, hectors dolphins and the yellow eyed penguin. 

"The yellow eyed penguin can only be seen on New Zealand's lower south east coast and outer islands.  There are an estimated 4,000 yellow eyed penguins left in the world and Dunedin is one of few places you can see the species in their natural environment without putting their safety at risk," says Saxton. 

From today Pacific Blue will operate the return Brisbane to Dunedin service three times per week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.   

Virgin Blue Group Chief Executive Brett Godfrey said the new route has shown a positive response in both sales and support by Aussies and Kiwis with the launch flights filled to capacity in both directions. 

"Being the second-largest city in the South Island, this direct route provides a market opportunity to attract and satisfy both business and leisure Guests and if our initial and forward bookings are anything to go by this service is already proving very popular with travellers." 

Pacific Blue will operate a B737-800 between Brisbane and Dunedin increasing capacity on the route by over 170% or 540 seats per week in each direction.  

Pacific Blue's everyday low lead-in fares start from $219^ one-way on the internet and Guests wanting extra leg room can also book 'Blue Zone' exit row seating for an additional $45 one-way per person on top of the standard fare. 

Pacific Blue's holiday program Blue Holidays offers 'all inclusive' deals to Dunedin including return airfares and two nights accommodation in a standard room at Mercure Hotel Dunedin starting from $507*pp from Brisbane or: 

Ex Melbourne from AUD$592**pp

Ex Sydney from AUD$598**pp

Ex Darwin from AUD$713**pp

Ex Perth from AUD$764**pp

For more information on Dunedin visit www.dunedinnz.com.

Sizzling deals for Sunshine State stays

Tourism Queensland has rounded up some sizzling deals for Spring-time visitors. Here’s a taste of what’s on offer in the Sunshine State.

Rumba on the Sunshine Coast

The brand new Rumba Beach Resort, recently opened on picturesque Bulcock Beach at Caloundra on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast is offering a special “Preview Rate” of Stay 5 nights and Pay 3.

The waterfront boutique all-suite resort is within walking distance of all of Caloundra’s best cafes, main street shopping and iconic Pumistone Passage marine park. Rumba’s stylish apartments feature cable TV, on-demand movies, iPod docks, in-room spa and an expresso machine, while leisure facilities include two main swimming pools, a massive Jacuzzi and outdoor cocktail bar.

Rumba Resort’s “Preview Rate” is available from now until 24 December, 2009 with the Stay 5 nights, Pay 3 package deal for $570 for a 5 night stay in 1 bedroom apartment or $690 for a 5 night stay in a 2 bedroom resort suite – just $34.50 per person per night for four people sharing. The deal is subject to availability. www.rumbaresort.com.au

Spring special at Lillydale Farmstay

For September only, the multi award-winning Lillydale Farmstay is offering a Spring deal. Stay one night get the second night 50 per cent off. Please quote the code word ‘Spring’ to receive this offer. Lillydale is located only 90 minutes from Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The farmstay has recently opened a new eco-cabin perfect for couples wanting total privacy or large families. www.lillydale.com.au

Voyages extends free meal deals for tropical island getaways

Voyages has extended its Free Meal packages now on sale until 31 October, 2009. Save from $69 per person per day on either Brampton, Dunk or Heron Islands.

A four-night stay on Brampton Island costs from $524* per person and includes full buffet breakfast, buffet lunch and buffet or three-course dinner daily, plus many island activities, meaning you can spend more on a jet ski safari! www.brampton-island.com

On Dunk Island a four-night package costs from $588* per person and includes full buffet breakfast, buffet or 2-course lunch and buffet or three-course dinner daily. Also included are many non-motorised water sports and islands activities, plus children stay and eat for FREE! www.dunk-island.com

On Heron Island a four-night package costs from $676 per person, and includes full buffet breakfast, buffet lunch and buffet or 3-course table d'hote dinner daily, many island activities and children stay and eat for FREE! On Heron Island treat yourselves to the world class snorkelling and diving expeditions.

For bookings or more information call 1300 134 044 or visit www.voyages.com.au/blue *Conditions apply. The deals are valid for travel until 30 November, 2009.


Great value family fun at Novotel Twin Waters Resort

Spring into Novotel Twin Waters Resort for some family fun from $269 per room per night including accommodation in a king suite, full buffet breakfast for two adults and two children and two busy body kids club vouchers.

Guests can enjoy an exhaustive list of activities and attractions for both kids and adults including swimming pools, spa, lagoon with complimentary water sports; kayaks, windsurfers, catamarans and a giant water trampoline. There’s also a day spa, circus school, segway tours, golf course and numerous dining options.

The family package is valid to October 31, 2009. For bookings call 1800 072 277. www.novoteltwinwatersresort.com.au

By Jupiter, here’s a hot deal!

Stay 3 nights and pay for 2 at Jupiters Townsville Hotel & Casino. Packages start from only $450, including three nights’ accommodation in a room type of your choice plus full buffet breakfast for two daily in Aqua Restaurant. The package is valid form now until 30 December, 2009 and is subject to availability. For bookings contact Jupiters Towers on (07) 4722 2333. www.jupiterstownsville.com.au

Sunny September Deals from Thredbo

With good spring snow conditions and a big blue sky, here's some deals to entice you head to the
hills for a September to remember.

September Ski for Free
Hit the slopes of Thredbo this September for free… yes FREE. Book and stay any day from
September 14th in the Thredbo Alpine Hotel and the lift tickets are thrown in for free. Book two
nights and get two free days of riding, book five nights and have five days of schussing some of
Australia's favourite trails

Here's the deal
Accommodation at the Thredbo Alpine Hotel
Hot mountain breakfast daily
Lift passes
30% off all pre-booked Thredbo Sports equipment hire

2 nights from $250 per person twin share
5 nights from $565 per person twin share

Notes: Valid for nightly accommodation 14th September - 3rd October 2009.
Two night minimum stay. Subject to availability. Further terms and conditions apply

Sensational Spring Rates
Staying at the Thredbo Alpine Hotel, you are close to everything, so all you need is just an easy
stroll from your door. Enjoy a big mountain breakfast and we will throw in the views for free.
$95 per person per night*

Notes: Valid from Sunday 13th September 2009 - Sunday 4th October 2009.
Includes full hot buffet breakfast daily.
Two night minimum on weekends.
Conditions apply*

Call 1300 020 589 to book, or book online thredbo.com.au

Spring Season Pass that lasts all summer too
Thredbo are offering a Spring Platinum pass that give you skiing and boarding for the rest of
this season PLUS it includes summer activities like chairlift rides, access to the Thredbo Leisure
Centre, bobsled, golf and tennis.

Prices are:
Adult Spring Platinum $665.00
Child or Student or Over 65 Spring Platinum $395.00
Purchase at all Thredbo ticket outlets

One for the Werewolves: overnight walks by full moon

Novotel Lake Crackenback has launched its new look Kosciuszko Alpine Guided Walks with each overnight walk scheduled around a full moon. There will be six exclusive experiences throughout the summer season in some of Australia's most beautiful mountain terrain.  

Over two days, this 22km fully guided tour will take you on a journey across the dramatic vistas of Mount Kosciuszko, Carruthers Peak and Dead Horse Gap. Discover the blooming wild flowers surrounding glacial formations of Blue Lake and Lake Albina.

Enjoy luxuries such as guides with  unrivalled local knowledge and  a  pre-prepared and catered campsite. Campsites are set up at vantage points to witness the kaleidoscope of a Snowy Mountains sunset and sunrise.

The guided walk experience is coupled with luxury accommodation in either the resort's 4.5 star Overwater Apartments or 5 star Mountain Views chalets. Weary walkers can take advantage of the onsite day spa or keep active with the resort's complimentary activities including tennis, golf, canoes and paddle boats, archery, volleyball plus a myriad of picturesque walking and mountain bike trails. 

Overnight Alpine Walks FROM $589.00 per person (six share) 

2 nights accommodation at Lake Crackenback Resort and 1 overnight camp
Breakfast daily
1 x 2 course dinner
2 day walks including all meals
Complimentary use of resort activities

Conditions apply, subject to availability 

BOOKINGS

Novotel Lake Crackenback Resort
1800 020 524 or 02 6451 3000
walks@lakecrackenback.com.au
www.lakecrackenback.com.au 

IT HAPPENED AT THE OYSTER BOX

A magnificent piece of architecture is not merely a building, it is a storybox. Sitting grandly on the dramatic shoreline of the Indian Ocean overlooking the iconic lighthouse of Umhlanga, the statuesque Oyster Box represents a treasure chest of stories of the past, present and future of the people of Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa and beyond. Occupying a special place in the hearts of the countless guests who have enjoyed its warm, caring service and relaxed elegance since it first opened in 1947, The Oyster Box has become synonymous with some of the best memories of our lives.

On OCTOBER 1st 2009 "the rebirth of a legend" begins when The Oyster Box opens its majestic, welcoming doors once more.

To mark the occasion, a blog has been launched to preserve the special memories of those guests who had the opportunity to experience this legendary hotel in years gone by. Past memories, pictures and videos can be posted and viewed at my.oysterboxhotel.com. What's more, posts added prior to September 25th will automatically be entered into the 'It happened at The Oyster Box' competition.

On the day of opening, The Oyster Box will be delighted to announce the winner of this competition where one lucky entrant will be given the chance to create new memories with their prize of an all-inclusive weekend for two at the hotel.

The competition winner and new guests alike will be struck by how perfectly history has been interwoven with essential modern touches to ensure a truly 'today' five star experience which adds even greater beauty to the hotel's historical majesty.

The Red Carnation Hotel Collection has gone to extraordinary lengths to preserve the original character and allure of The Oyster Box throughout the two year restoration project.

From the exceptional cuisine to the magnificent array of guest rooms, suites and villas, the impeccable wines, rich collection of artwork and furnishings, exquisite detailing in design and décor, and breathtaking ocean views throughout the hotel, to the exquisitely designed Spa, The Oyster Box is, as always, perfect for personal retreats, private meetings and events of celebration.

If the moment is special, 'it happened, and now happens, at the OYSTER BOX'

Rates start from ZAR 3,990 inclusive of tax and breakfast based on two people sharing a Classic Double Room, valid from October 1st 2009 until December 19th 2010, excluding the World Cup period June 6th 2010 to July 13th 2010. Reservations can be made online at www.oysterboxhotel.co.za

Accommodation, function and event bookings for the Oyster Box can be made to reservations@oysterbox.co.za or on +27315612233

Breakfast on the Hilltop Overlooking the Mekong River, Burma, Laos...

Private gourmet breakfast experience at Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa

See the morning sun rise behind misty mountaintops. Hear the sweet serenade of birdsong herald a new day. Indulge in a delicious private breakfast feast with the glories of Thailand's Golden Triangle as your backdrop.

The new Breakfast By Design at Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa is the ultimate al fresco early morning dining experience, and is unsurpassed in terms of beauty and serenity.

Couples are transported to a rustic private platform at a secret location close to the Anantara Resort, but in a scenic world of their own.  As guests climb the bamboo stairway they will be treated to their first sight of the stunning views across the mighty Mekong River and lush hills of Laos. These first magical moments will be marked with the serving of sparkling wine, to be enjoyed at leisure before the breakfast service begins.

The menu includes freshly squeezed juices and exotic fruit, a variety of cereals, alongside breads, croissants and pastries fresh from the oven. The private chef will prepare eggs in any style desired, served with sizzling bacon and an array of hot side dishes.

Breakfast by Design is a new innovation for Anantara Golden Triangle, whose constant quest is to bring guests closer to the unspoilt environment and authentic culture of its unique location.

With the 360 degree panorama of the Golden Triangle's three countries - Laos, Burma and Thailand - this breakfast experience promises unforgettable memories.

Price 4,800THB++ per couple. Call for information at Anantara Resort Golden Triangle, Tel: +6653 784 084.

Anantara Resorts are currently located in the seaside town of Hua Hin and on Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand, and in the Golden Triangle in the country's north. In the world-renowned destination of the Maldives, Anantara Dhigu and Anantara Veli are a 30-minute boat ride from the capital Male. Anantara Seminyak debuted in April 2008 in the most fashionable district of Bali – the Island of the Gods. Late 2008 saw the opening of Anantara Phuket, situated in the serenity of Mai Khao, Thailand, followed by Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa on Sir Bani Yas Island off the coast of Abu Dhabi, and nantara Si Kao which lies on the secluded Changlang Beach area   south of Krabi, Thailand. The newest member of the Anantara family opened its doors in April 2009, Anantara Baan Rajprasong in Bangkok is the first serviced suites property for the Anantara group.  www.anantara.com

Anantara is a member of Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world's largest alliance of independent hotel brands. GHA partner hotels are renowned for reflecting and respecting local traditions and culture through the their products and services www.globalhotelalliance.com