Smell the Roses! The National Rose Garden Celebrates Its 11th Anniversary and Woolmers Estate's Newly Minted World Heritage Listing

The exquisite National Rose Garden in Longford, Tasmania will be celebrating its 11th anniversary this summer, and is inviting visitors to the estate to take in the stunning sight and scent of the extensive rose collection. Open from 21 November 2010 to 1 March 2011, The National Rose Garden has one of the finest collections of historic roses in the southern hemisphere, ranging from the earliest European and Chinese roses to 21st century varieties.

Over 500 different varieties of the fragrant blossoms can be found in a typically English setting, with vast green lawns, sculptured beds, white pebbled pathways and a rose arbour transporting guests to yesteryear. Entry to the Rose Garden costs $14 for adults, $5 for children aged five to fourteen, and $12 for concession holders. The National Rose Garden is situated within the grounds of the historic Woolmers Estate (1817 - 1850s), one of the most important colonial-era heritage properties of Australia.

Established by Thomas Archer in 1817, Woolmers Estate is one of five convict sites across Tasmania that were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List on 1 August 2010 as part of the Australian Convict Sites Inscription. The other Tasmanian sites include The Cascades Female Factory (1828 - 1856), The Port Arthur Historic Site (1830 - 1877), The Coal Mines Historic Site (1833 - 1848), and Darlington Probation Station (1825 - 1832; 1842 - 1850).

"The World Heritage Listing of the Cascades Female Factory, Port Arthur Historic Site, Coal Mines Historic Site, Darlington Probation Station and Woolmers and Brickendon Estate is a momentous milestone for Tasmania," Felicia Marini, CEO of Tourism Tasmania said. "It is an indication of our rich convict history as a state and nation, and an irrefutable testament of the need to keep the sites preserved for future generations. I am proud of the tireless measures taken to conserve them, and the opportunities we have provided visitors and ancestors alike to walk in the footsteps of history, and gain an invaluable insight into the lives and conditions of families and convicts in the 1800s."

The five World Heritage listed convict sites are as follows:

Brickendon and Woolmers Estates (1817 - 50s)
Consisting of two convict built properties established by two brothers, Thomas and William Archer, circa 1817, Woolmers Estate is the slightly grander of the two, is a convict built property and one of the most outstanding examples of 19th century rural settlements in Australia. It comprises more than 18 buildings over 13 hectares, including family houses, workers cottages, a former chapel, blacksmith's shop, stables, bakehouse, pump house and gardener's cottage.


Its neighbouring property, Brickendon (established in 1824) covers 420 hectares of farming land and 20 timber and brick buildings including the homestead and original farm village built with convict labour.

The two estates represent the convict experience of assignment where convicts both male and female, were assigned to private owners free as a labour source. Assignment was the most common experience, with 80% of all convicts being assigned to private owners and was key in settling the new colony, producing food and developing the economy. Combined the estates had an annual convict population of over 100, the second largest pool of convict labour in private hands in Van Diemen's Land. W: www.woolmers.com.au; www.brickendon.com.au

The Cascades Female Factory (1828 - 56)
Operating from 1828 to 1856, the Cascades Female Factory housed female convicts in the colony, and was one of the first purpose built femal penal establishments in the world. The site included five yards around which cells, storerooms, workrooms and offices were built, and housed over 5,000 female convicts and their babies throughout its history. The women were employed at the factory to wash, sew, card, spin and assigned out as domestic labour, greatly offsetting the penal costs of the colony. Today, the Cascades Female Factory is one of the most intact surviving female convict sites in Australia. W: www.femalefactory.com.au

The Port Arthur Historic Site (1830 - 77)
Established in the 1830s, Port Arthur was built as a penal settlement and comprises over sixty buildings across 136 hectares including the Penitentiary (1843), Separate Prison (1850), Dockyard, Convict Church (1836 - 37), Hospital (1841 - 42) and historic houses where the Commanding and Civil Officers once lived. Most of the convicts here were employed in dangerous and hard labour including the felling of timber and the quarrying of sandstone. Convicts also worked at the dockyards, building boats for the government and private entities.

Today, the management of the Port Arthur Historic Site continue to undertake ongoing heritage and conservation management listed ruins, working in tangent with a team of archaeologists, architects, engineers, conservation professionals and trades staff to ensure that the buildings are carefully conserved for future generations. W: www.portarthur.org.au

The Coal Mines Historic Site (1833 - 48)
Named after the discovery of coal at the site in 1833, The Coal Mines Historic Site has a 40 year history of convict excavation, producing around 60,000 tonnes of coal throughout its lifetime. At its peak, it held up to 500 convicts, who worked arduous eight-hour shifts in the mines' appalling conditions. Other convicts were assigned to the building of infrastructures, quarrying of sandstone, brick-making and lime burning to extract lime for mortar and leather tanning. The Coal Mines were eventually closed on moral and economic grounds.

Today, the site comprises 25 buildings over 214 hectares, including the remnants of coal mining activities in the bushland. Ruins that once housed the stone prisoners' barracks, punishment cells, a chapel, bakehouse, store and quarters for the commanding officer, surgeon and soldiers still stand, providing an insight into the significant role convicts played in the early colony's economic development. W: www.portarthur.org.au

Darlington Probation Station (1825 - 32; 1842 - 50)
Built in 1825, Darlington Probation Station, on Maria Island off Tasmania's East Coast, initially served as a convict station, later becoming a probation station for male convicts. It was established to reduce the pressures placed on the other penal settlements as a result of the increasing number of convicts, and fulfilled its purpose well as its geographic location made escape difficult.

Today, Darlington is the most representative and intact example of a probation station in Australia, with its 14 convict buildings and notable ruins illustrating the key features of a probation system during the colonial era. At its peak, Darlington housed 492 prisoners. It closed in 1850 following the cessation of the probation system.

Travel to Tasmania
Travellers can fly to Tasmania on Jetstar, Virgin Blue, Qantas, Tiger Airways or Rex Airlines, or take the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Port Melbourne (VIC) to Devonport (TAS).

Tourism Tasmania is a Tasmanian Government agency whose role is to lead the industry in jointly delivering marketing and development programs that drive benefits for Tasmania from domestic and international tourism.

Part of the wider Department of Economic Development, Tourism and the Arts, Tourism Tasmania links government and the private sector in marketing Tasmania's unique assets.

Tourism Tasmania's new strategic direction has been shaped by the recognition for the organisation to continue to change to meet the challenges of a new world in Tourism.

Mr & Mrs Smith has your Christmas stocking stitched up

Thinking of buying your loved one socks and hankies again this Christmas? Boutique accommodation specialists Mr & Mrs Smith can put the spice back in your festive season with this selection of smart and sexy stocking fillers.

**GET A GUIDE**
Mr & Mrs Smith Hotel Collection: South-East Asia is the seventh book in the bestselling series of hotel guides from intrepid style-hunters, Mr & Mrs Smith. Aimed at the discerning traveller, this coffee-table essential showcases a carefully curated selection of South-East Asia's most gorgeous getaways: beach hideaways in Thailand, Malaysia and Bali, Indochine-chic retreats in Laos and Cambodia, and slick city boltholes in Singapore and Vietnam.

Fix yourself a Singapore Sling and settle in for that characteristic Smith mix of wry humour and need-to-know detail.

Mr & Mrs Smith Hotel Collection: South-East Asia has an RRP $45 and is available from all good book stores or online at www.mrandmrsssmith.com. Guides to Australia/New Zealand and France are also available.

**GET A ROOM**
Buy a $200 Get a Room! voucher from Mr & Mrs Smith this Christmas and receive a bonus copy of Mr & Mrs Smith Hotel Collection: Australia/New Zealand, our comprehensive guide to the best boutique retreats in this corner of the globe.
The book includes a complimentary BlackSmith membership, granting you instant access to exclusive offers and special gifts at any Smith recommended hotel.
Get a Room! vouchers are stylishly presented in an intricate black display box and can be used toward the purchase of accommodation at any boutique hotel in the Mr & Mrs Smith collection worldwide.
Left it too late? Our Get a Room! e-vouchers are the perfect last-minute gift. These electronic accommodation vouchers, available in denominations of $100 and up, will be sent to your inbox as soon as your order is processed.
All vouchers are valid for 12 months from date of purchase and are available online by visiting www.mrandmrssmith.com/au/products/gift-vouchers.

**GET A MEMBERSHIP**
Is there a better Christmas gift than a membership to the hottest travel club in town? A Mr & Mrs Smith membership entitles you to life-enhancing extras such as free gifts on check-in, accommodation offers and access to exclusive benefits from our partners including Koko Black, Tea2 and Mecca.
Mr & Mrs Smith also gives money back to its members each time they book which can be saved up and put towards your next Mr & Mrs Smith Hotel stay.
Memberships are available in three tiers, BlackSmith ($25), SilverSmith ($250) and GoldSmith ($499) and can be purchased online (www.mrandmrssmith.com) or by calling our travel team on 1300 89 66 27.

About Mr & Mrs Smith
Meet Mr & Mrs Smith, the boutique travel specialists with an expert eye for stylish holidays. An acclaimed travel publisher and hotel booking service founded in London, 2003, Mr & Mrs Smith recommends smaller, sexier hotels and properties from around the world that stuffy luxury guides and run-of-the-mill directory sites so often overlook.

Our name is a nod to couples who fancy checking into a fabulous hotel under this classic naughty-weekend pseudonym and we aim to ensure every weekend away is an unforgettable experience.

Mr & Mrs Smith guide you to the most inspirational places to stay from boutique hideaways, luxurious spa retreats or secret city havens. Each property has been rigorously researched, visited and anonymously reviewed, and each review gives the inside scoop on the best rooms, top tables and things to see and do.

You don't need to be a member to book, but join the Smith's unique travel club, and get access to exclusive, life-enhancing hotel offers, gifts and upgrades.

With a global online collection of more than 700 hotels and luxe rentals at www.mrandmrssmith.com , Mr & Mrs Smith has evolved to respond to travellers seeking unique and beautiful places to stay, the perfect antidote to faceless chain hotels.

A dedicated international online reservation service and phone access to the expert Smith travel team mean that style-conscious travellers can also check availability and book all the hotels in the collection at our guaranteed low rates.

Learn to Cook Like a Master Chef

IT'S one thing to enjoy a delicious meal, but imagine being able to create your very own culinary masterpieces.

Budding chefs can learn some of Spicers Clovelly Estate's culinary secrets in a series of cooking classes hosted by talented chef Cameron Matthews in the coming months.

Cameron, head chef of the Sunshine Coast hinterland estate's The Long Apron restaurant, will show you how to prepare wonderful French and Italian style dishes two Saturdays a month from 10am to 3pm.

Cooking lessons cost $165 each and cater for six to eight guests and include lunch, wine, full recipes, tips pack and a branded apron to take home.

Upcoming lessons will be held on:

* December 4 (Italian); December 18 (French)

* January 8 (French); January 18 (Italian)

* February 12 (French); February 26 (Italian)

Cameron has been Executive Chef de Cuisine at Siggi's Restaurant in Brisbane, Executive Chef of Restaurant Lurleen's at the Sirromet Winery in Mount Cotton and honed his skills overseas before heading The Long Apron.

"Long Apron Cooking School guests will enjoy hands on, intimate and informative sessions based on building basic skills and fostering a love of gourmet food," Cameron said.

Set on nine hectares of lush country land within easy reach of Noosa and Mooloolaba and just 90 minutes from Brisbane, Spicers Clovelly Estate at Montville is one of the Sunshine Coast hinterland's most intimate and refined accommodation experiences.

The estate is part of luxury accommodation brand Spicers Retreats Hotels and Lodges owned by Flight Centre Limited founder and managing director Graham Turner and his wife Jude.

For bookings phone 1300 592 924 or email clovelly@spicersgroup.com.au

Australia's Coolest Summer Packages

Cool down this summer by visiting picturesque Thredbo in the heart of Australia's beautiful Snowy Mountains, staying at the coolest place in town - The Denman Hotel & Spa.

In Thredbo, at an altitude of 1400 metres, summer temperatures are an average 10ºC cooler than Sydney or Canberra - offering the perfect escape from oppressive summer heat. Ed Denny, The Denman Hotel & Spa's proprietor states: "Many of our guests enjoy the peace and quiet of Thredbo in summer away from beach crowds, high humidity and sizzling heat. It's always cool on the roof of Australia!"

Here are 10 cool reasons to stay at Australia's coolest destination this summer:

1. Walk amongst cool-climate wildflowers whilst trekking to Mount Kosciuszko, the roof of Australia, marvelling at Kosciuszko National Park's spectacular wilderness scenery.

2. Discover some amazing cool picnic spots and water holes by car or on foot. The Denman Hotel provides guests with their Kosciuszko Picnic Map to help find the coolest spots to enjoy their Denman Gourmet Picnic hamper.

3. Relax with coffee and cake at Eagles Nest, Australia's highest café at 1900 metres, enjoying cool, fresh mountain air and a majestic panorama.

4. Have a cool game of tennis or round of golf in beautiful alpine surroundings.

5. Venture out for some cool stream fly-fishing for rainbow and brown trout.

6. Be pampered by a refreshing Cold Marine Facial at The Denman Thalgo Spa.

7. Laze on The Denman veranda under a shady umbrella enjoying a cool drink and even the coolest ice cream sunday.

8. Savour Australia's coolest cuisine at the Terrace Restaurant. Executive Chef Hayden Ellerton's modern Australian fine dining uses local alpine produce and is gaining rave reviews, being just awarded "Australia's Alpine Restaurant of the Year".

9. Sip a cool cocktail or Veuve Clicquot Champagne in the 'Snowy's' coolest nightspot - The Denman's Après Bar.

10. Take an after-dinner stroll through picturesque Thredbo village in the quiet cool of the evening.

So this year The Denman Hotel & Spa, in association with guiding company K7 Adventures, has created "The Coolest Summer Packages" to entice those seeking a really cool holiday. "The only thing that is sizzling is our summer rates, significantly lower in our summer season", comments Ed Denny.

There's a choice of packages: select from a 15 km trek to Mount Kosciuszko or, for the more sedentary, indulge with spa, champagne and picnic hamper in beautiful alpine surrounds. K7 Adventures Chief Guide Peter Cocker states: "Walking in the Australian alpine area is truly addictive with its cool temperatures and lofty altitudes with stunning views."

The Denman's coolest summer packages:

Coolest Summer Adventure Package
The Denman's Coolest Summer Adventure package features a spectacular walk to Mt Kosciuszko. Your private K7 Adventure guide leads you on a scenic route to Mt Kosciuszko that offers a true appreciation of the region's natural beauty and unique ecology.

The Denman's Coolest Summer Adventure package includes 2 nights' accommodation, continental breakfast daily, half-day mountain adventure walk through the Ramshead Tors to Mt Kosciuszko, gourmet picnic lunch, 2 full day lift access pass, and dinner for two in The Terrace Restaurant. Prices start from $317 per person.


Coolest Summer Indulgence Package
The Denman's Coolest Summer Indulgence Package is designed for those that simply wish to unwind in cool surroundings, enjoying The Denman Hotel & Spa's facilities and services and the natural surrounds of the Kosciuszko National Park.

The Denman's Coolest Summer Indulgence Package includes 2 nights' accommodation, continental breakfast daily, welcome drink on arrival, a 1-hour spa treatment, an easy alpine wildflower walk with gourmet picnic, French Champagne in room on arrival and dinner for two in The Terrace Restaurant. Prices start from $515 per person.

The Denman Hotel & Spa boasts a dress circle position at Terrace Diggings in the heart of Thredbo Village, just a few minutes walk to the Crackenback chairlifts. The Hotel offers 36 guest rooms with ensuites, with a wide range of room styles and sizes, compact to spacious, chalet to contemporary, with no two rooms the same. Room service, porterage and valet parking are included.

Floor to ceiling windows offer stunning daytime mountain views and set the stage for award winning dining at the Denman's Terrace Restaurant. The Restaurant has just been named "Australia's Alpine Restaurant of the Year" in the 10th Annual Skiwatch Awards and has been named as the 'Restaurant of the Year' for the Southern Region of NSW
 in the Restaurant & Caterers Association Awards for Excellence. Open in winter from 6 pm till late, guests enjoy a la carte dining as part of the Denman tariff and savour the modern Australian cuisine of Executive Chef Hayden Ellerton.

The Denman's Après Bar is recognised as the Snowy Mountain's most sophisticated nightspot. It's a chic metropolitan style cocktail lounge with comfortable seating -ideal for either pre or post dinner.

The Denman Day Spa
The Denman Day Spa is the only full day spa in Thredbo and exclusively offers Thalgo treatments from aromatherapy to remedial sports massage. Guests can choose from indulgent spa packages, facial treatments, body treatments, hand and feet treatments, plus waxing and tinting.

K7 Adventures
K7 Adventures is an all-seasons specialist for Snowy Mountains' adventure tours, offering trekking, climbing and abseiling in summer, and snowshoeing, ski touring or the freedom of nordic skiing through the Kosciuszko Cross Country Ski School in winter. K7 Adventure Guides are 'mountain people' who love where they live and live what they love. Its experienced team of guides and instructors spend winter after winter exploring the back country steeps, finding the sweetest lines and the purest untracked snow, the best views and most surprising angles that become a photographer's delight. K7 Adventures prides itself on customer service and satisfaction.

Snowy Mountains National Park & Thredbo
Covering 690,000ha. the Snowy Mountains is the largest national park in NSW and one of the Australia's most significant natural resources - with the highest mountains in Australia as well as the legendary snowy river. Besides having New South Wales' major ski resorts and some of the best cross country skiing areas in the world, in summer this is the heart of alpine adventure with numerous walks on the roof of Australia, including Australia's highest point - Mount Kosciuszko, plus great trout fishing, scenic drives and a multitude of other outdoor activities.

Thredbo is the perfect base from which to explore the Snowy Mountains National Park. It is reminiscent of a European mountain retreat, with its town square and Village atmosphere. Summer leisure facilities include a nine-hole golf course, tennis courts, indoor leisure centre with 25 m lap pool. Shops, cafés and a myriad of local attractions are all nearby.

Tourism Industry Must Learn How To 'Deliver On The Promises Made' To Gay Travellers

"LGBT FRIENDLY" TOURIST DESTINATIONS NEED TO IMPROVE THEIR GAME, ACCORDING TO NEW GLOBAL RESEARCH

FIRST EUROPEAN GAY TOURISM DATA RELEASED FROM LARGEST EVER LGBT GLOBAL MARKET RESEARCH STUDY

LONDON, UK (WTM/OUTNOW) -- November 8, 2010 -- GLOBAL LGBT marketing agency Out Now Consulting (www.OutNowConsulting.com ) is calling on the global travel market to dramatically improve customer service standards after new research reveals that many destinations marketing themselves as" gay friendly" may be falling well short of the mark.

Out Now Consulting will announce significant upgrades to its GayComfort (www.GayComfort.com ) training and certification program at World Travel Market, the premier global event for the travel industry, in London this week, as it moves to help tourism centres improve their standards of customer training and deliver a fairer and more equal experience to gay and lesbian people.

Out Now is currently conducting Community Values 2010, the world's biggest ever global LGBT research study in 23 countries and 10 languages, offering unprecedented insights into the lives and views of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people across six continents.

More than 8,000 LGBT people in the UK have already taken part in the study, and more than 30,000 have participated globally. The full findings are published in January 2011.

Tourism study findings, to be released at World Travel Market on November 10, reveal that modern gay and lesbian travellers are highly wary of tourist destinations and hotels that market themselves as "gay friendly" to try and attract a slice of the lucrative pink dollar, yen, peso, euro or pound.

In reality, LGBT travellers report that many destinations and hotels offer a less than welcoming customer experience because frontline staff just don't have the right skills to make gay and lesbian travellers feel as welcome as everybody else.

Out Now Consulting founder and CEO Ian Johnson said: "These days, suddenly everyone wants to be "gay friendly" and frankly, that has made today's LGBT consumers extremely wary of the bona-fides of the welcome being extended.

"Even the phrase "gay friendly" is pretty hackneyed and does absolutely nothing to rescue a holiday that can be ruined when a stay feels far less than welcoming for a lesbian couple because of their experience at check-in, or for two gay men when ordering room service to the honeymoon suite.

"The number one factor that LGBT travellers hope for when they travel away from home is an equal and genuine welcome, which means that travel providers need to improve their communications and behaviours. So that LGBT people can enjoy what every other customer has taken for granted for years: the chance to simply be themselves on their vacation. It seems obvious that when we go on holidays we all want to relax and feel comfortable. The industry needs to lift its game on the staff training front if it is going to deliver on the promises being made to LGBT travellers.

"The message to the travel industry is clear. It's no longer good enough to tick an equality box, fly a rainbow flag or join an LGBT trade association because that's not going to deliver the level of experience that today's LGBT customers want. Improvements need to be made."

WTM Chairman Fiona Jeffery said: "This new Out Now Global research is a truly groundbreaking study. It will help inform the leading thinkers in our industry how to deliver constantly improving levels of customer understanding and better levels of training and service to the increasingly important global LGBT tourism market."

LGBT travel market research findings for countries around the world will be announced by Out Now at World Travel Market, the premier global event for the travel industry, on Wednesday, November 10 at 11am at the Out Now Gay Marketing Masterclass. Initial UK results released today (November 8) reveal that the UK LGBT travel sector is now worth £5.1billion per annum despite the recession.

Headline UK findings from the Community Values 2010 LGBT global research study

LGBT travel in the UK has proved resilient despite the recession, experiencing a slight increase in total annual expenditure to £5.1billion, compared with £4.9billion in the 2007-2008 survey.

Lesbian and gay parenting is a growing issue for the industry as more LGBT people become parents. So too is the continuing growth of the LGBT honeymoons market - as more lesbians and gay men enter into civil partnerships and equal marriages - with a massive growth in the total value worldwide of LGBT honeymoons tourism spending being predicted by Out Now.

Gay travel destinations preferred tend to be long-haul for many, with the USA and Australia occupying the top two travel spots in the LGBT travel wish-list.

Airlines have much to learn from the new research - with LGBT marketing and staff equality issues revealed to be more important factors to LGBT travellers than frequent flyer programs.

UK RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS - SOURCE: 2010 OUT NOW GLOBAL LGBT STUDY

The total value of UK LGBT travel spend is now £5.1billion annually

Top 10 desired destinations over the next three years
1. USA
2. Australia
3. France
4. Italy
5. Spain
6. Canada
7. Germany
8. New Zealand
9. Greece
10. Ireland

Top 10 European Cities
1. Paris
2. Amsterdam
3. Rome
4. Barcelona
5. Berlin
6. London
7. Venice
8. Madrid
9. Prague
10. Vienna

Top 10 North American Cities
1. New York City
2. San Francisco
3. LA / West Hollywood
4. Las Vegas
5. Miami
6. Chicago
7. Vancouver
8. Toronto
8. Washington DC
10. Key West and The Florida Keys

The importance of LGBT festivals and special events in determining travel plans
More respondents chose "not important at all" (14.5%) than selected "often important" (12%).
LGBT festivals and events can have some limited value to tourism marketers - 36% of respondents selected "sometimes important", however this is balanced by a similar number of people (37%) selecting that LGBT events are "neutral" or "not very important".

Key criteria for choosing an airline
1. Price
2. Flight schedules
3. Route network
Importantly, the marketing activities of an airline to the LGBT market, sponsoring LGBT groups and equal treatment of LGBT staff were all ranked as more important than an airline's frequent flyer program.

The paramount importance of customer service excellence in hotels
75% of respondents agree or strongly agree that they prefer to choose to stay with hotels that they believe are genuinely "gay-welcoming".

Top 5 preferred holiday activities
1. Dining
2. Museums
3. Beaches
4. Nightlife (lesbian/gay)
5. Local history

Preferred methods of booking a holiday
-- Airline
66% will book direct with airline's own website
24% prefer to book hotels online via a mainstream travel agent/tour operator (Thomson/ Thomas Cook/Expedia etc)
-- Hotels
52% will book direct with hotel's own website
29% prefer to book airlines online via a mainstream travel agent/tour operator (Thomson/ Thomas Cook/Expedia etc)

RACE INTO HONG KONG NEW YEAR, AND CRUISE OUT

TWO days of Hong Kong's legendary New Year's Eve celebrations and fire-works are part of a 21-night fly, cruise and stay package in February next year from Hong Kong to Japan, South Korea, mainland China and back to Hong Kong – and selling from just $4559pp twin-share through ecruising.travel. 

This 3-week package that's nearly fifty percent below originally advertised prices, includes five hotel-nights with breakfasts pre-cruise in Hong Kong, viewing the New Year's Eve Parade that billed as "the Greatest Chinese New Year Parade on the Planet," tours of Aberdeen, Repulse Bay and Kowloon with dim-sum lunch, and a Chinese New Year Fireworks Cocktail Cruise with drinks on board and dinner afterwards at a local restaurant.

There's also a day at the New Year races with return transportation, entry to a box inside the Members' Enclosure and a buffet lunch at the Hong Kong Jockey Club, followed by a full day at leisure for shopping and sightseeing.

P&O's 1200-passenger Artemis then sails on February 7 2011 for Tokyo, Hiroshima, Pusan, Beijing, Shanghai and back to Hong Kong. This luxury, child-free cruise liner features a choice of formal or casual dining, eight bars, an observation lounge, two show lounges, two pools including a lap pool, two Jacuzzis, casino, spa, salon, gym, sauna, library, cinema and nightclub.

This unique 3-weeks-long package that includes return air and taxes from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, ends with a final hotel night in Hong Kong before flying home. For full details phone toll-free 1300 369 848 or visit www.ecruising.travel

             

Tokyo's New Landmark, The Capitol Hotel Tokyu, Now Open

 

World-Famous Architect Kengo Kuma Creates A New 21st Century Icon Reinterpreting Traditional Japanese Architecture

 

 The Capitol Hotel Tokyu opened its chic doors to the public in October 2010. The brand new building in the centre of Tokyo is designed by the world famous architect Kengo Kuma. The hotel is a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts.

 

Adopting Japanese tradition and culture as its core theme, the prestigious building distils the very best of traditional Japanese architectural principles in a breathtaking contemporary building which will serve as a new landmark for Tokyo.

 

The Capitol Hotel Tokyu is located in a tranquil, green oasis in the downtown Tokyo Akasaka area, overlooking the city's historic Hie Shrine and close to the Prime Minister's official residence.

 

The Capitol Hotel Tokyu is on the site of the former Tokyo Hilton Hotel, which was opened in 1963 in preparation for Japan's hosting of The Olympic Games and became the first global chain hotel in Japan. The hotel was then operated as Capitol Tokyu Hotel from 1983 and closed its door in November 2006. It was for years "the" address in Tokyo, and received many international VIPS and celebrities, including The Beatles during their world tour.

 

The original hotel was demolished to make way for Kengo Kuma's new architectural masterpiece. With latticework-inspired exterior design and graceful interiors, the new 29-storey luxury hotel features 251 guest rooms with panoramic views of Tokyo's skyline from the 18th to 29th floors.

 

Its luxurious facilities include five restaurants and bars, five banquet spaces and two floors of state of the art fitness and spa facilities, including a 20-metre indoor swimming pool, membership gym and jacuzzi.

 

Spacious 45 sq m guestrooms invoke the delicate style of traditional Japanese architecture with 'shoji' paper screen divides and artworks by local artists.

 

There are a total of 13 elegant suites, 4 of them on the 5th floor enabling guests to enjoy the greenery of the landscaped gardens and the picturesque 500-year old Hie Shrine.

 

A Club Floor on the top three floors includes five types of rooms – Club Deluxe King, Club Premier Corner Twin, Club Premier King, Executive Suite and The Capitol Suite – and incorporates a Library Lounge for breakfast or cocktails exclusively for Club Floor guests.

 

Signature Japanese Restaurant 'Suiren' features the best of the country's cuisine serving teppan-yaki, sushi and the fine art of kaiseki in the peaceful surroundings of the hotel garden – and in the garden, guests can have traditional tea ceremonies.

 

Food & beverage venues also include Chinese Restaurant 'Star Hill', All-Day Dining 'ORIGAMI' and 'The Capitol Bar'.

 

Located in central Tokyo and connected directly to subway stations, the hotel is a convenient venue for events such as weddings, parties, seminars and business meetings. The "Ho'oh" room and Foyer can be combined for spacious banquets and large-scale gatherings.

 

"The Capitol Hotel Tokyu's unique concept marks a sophisticated new era in Japanese hospitality. It is a new type of luxury hotel in Tokyo that adopts Japanese tradition and culture as its core theme," said General Manager Susumu Togashi.

 

Architect Kengo Kuma said: "The question is not how you design the building, but how you design the relationship between the outside and the inside. You do not separate spaces with walls, but you use flexible screens, and you aim for an integration of the building with the garden and the woods.

 

"It's a miracle that such a densely wooded environment still exists in the middle of the city."

 

Many of the local artworks that adorned the original building are still retained including the famous works of Toko Shinoda at her 40s. The old piece is being showcased at the lobby along with a new piece she just did at the age of 97.

 

The Capitol Hotel Tokyu is located within a 10 to 20 minutes subway ride from Tokyo station and the major shopping and dining areas of Ginza, Roppongi, Shinjuku, Shibuya.

 

The Capitol Hotel Tokyu is a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts.

 

About Preferred Hotels & Resorts

 

Preferred Hotels & Resorts is the ultimate collection of exceptional hotels and resorts in the most desirable locations around the world. For over forty years, the brand's legendary commitment to quality has ensured an unparalleled guest experience from the best amenities to anticipatory service and elegant sophistication. www.PreferredHotels.com

 

 

Website:       www.capitolhoteltokyu.com

 

 

Spring into Summer at The Byron at Byron

Spring has been a little slow to arrive this year but the warmer days are now here and it's time to embrace the wonderful warm sunshine. This is the time to enjoy a reviving short break, perhaps including an indulgent outdoor massage to bring you closer to nature or relax in our restaurant and enjoy an amazing meal full of fresh, local ingredients. In Byron Bay, Spring is well and truly in the air.

Spring into Summer - a great value two day break

This time of year is reflective of the beauty of nature, renewal and new beginnings. Winter is long forgotten and Summer is just around the corner so escape to Byron with our great 'Spring into Spring' package, now extended until 16 December. The package includes two nights' accommodation in a Superior Suite, full buffet breakfast daily, 10% discount off all spa treatments, an all-natural  Macadamia Skin Care gift on arrival and complimentary daily bike hire.

$760 per package for two adults

To book email reservations@thebyronatbyron.com.au or call 1300 554 362

Get Closer to Nature - a brand new spa experience 

'The Elements of Nature' outdoors couples massage is the quintessential Byron rainforest interlude... Your therapist will create your own personal escape within the rainforest where, surrounded by flowing netting, you can relax in nature and enjoy a luxurious full body massage for two with macadamia nut and fragonia essential rainforest oils, including a nourishing scalp treatment.

$220 per person for 1½ hours

To book email spa@thebyronatbyron.com.au or call 02 6639 2110

Vogue Living Champagne Dinner

A gorgeous, balmy Byron Bay evening welcomed guests to the third annual Vogue Living Champagne dinner on Friday 29th October. Guests were greeted by a glass of the finest champagne accompanied by an array of canapés that were a treat for both the eyes and the tastebuds. Our 90 guests were then invited into the elegantly decorated restaurant and experienced an evening of indulgent dining featuring a menu prepared by current Chef of the Year, Mark Best. 

This was a spectacular event enjoyed by all who attended and The Byron at Byron looks forward to hosting this and many other events in 2011.

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Our Chef's Favourite Recipe
Rare local beef and gorgonzola salad

You can't resist the classic combination of a good quality blue cheese and beef. Here is my version of a cold beef olive, rolled with a picante creamy blue cheese, accompanied by tender celery heart, candied pecans for texture, and peppery watercress. The beetroot vinegar really sets this simple dish alight!

Enjoy with a crisp glass of Spinifex Luxe Rose from the Barossa Valley – spend an hour in heaven!

Gavin Hughes, Head Chef.

Flights to Ballina/Byron Bay

Just in time for Summer, Jetstar have announced a relaunch of direct flights between Melbourne and Ballina/Byron Bay. With three flights per week, starting 21 December, our Victorian friends will be just a short 2 hour trip away. What's more, our Sydney friends haven't been forgotten with two additional weekly flights via Virgin Blue. And with fares starting from just $88 it's the perfect excuse for a relaxing getaway.

Calendar of Events

14 November 2010
Rainbow Ride Cycle Challenge

25-28 November 2010
Mullum Music Festival

4 December 2010
Byron Bay Reggaefest

17-19 December 2010
PGA Golf - Australian Legends Tour Championship

23 December 2010
Byron at Byron Christmas Carols
Be sure to book your Christmas holiday at the resort & join us on the 23rd for this special event.

31 December 2010
Byron at Byron New Year's Eve

The Byron at Byron Resort and Spa
77-97 Broken Head Road
Byron Bay NSW 2481
1300 554 362 or +61 2 6639 2000
info@thebyronatbyron.com.au
www.thebyronatbyron.com.au

LUXURY MALAYSIA

Savvy travelers head to Malaysia for a sophisticated sojourn

 2 November, 2010: Malaysia Tourism is set to capitalise on Australians' increasing propensity for boutique accommodation experiences, with a range unique, high end properties opening throughout the country. 

Shahrin Mokhtar director of Tourism Malaysia in Sydney says that Malaysia is keen to attract upscale travellers. In particular, a market Tourism Malaysia calls the 'Golden Third Age'.

"Tourism Malaysia is not alone in recognising the potential of couples who no longer have dependent children and have the resources to embark on new adventures.

With a new range of unique, luxurious accommodation and attractions that really appeal to this market, including three UNESCO World Heritage sites, 19 national parks, beautiful beaches, luxury spas, pristine golf courses and a multitude of fascinating cultures, Malaysia undoubtedly has the product to attract these travellers.

Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi as well as the island states of Sarawak and Sabah are proving most popular," he said. 

Penang, in particular, is emerging as a fascinating heritage destination with an increasing inventory of boutique accommodation. Heritage properties in UNESCO World Heritage George Town are being acquired by savvy property developers to create stunning boutique hotels.

Lone Pine is the latest addition to Penang's ever increasing boutique collection. The colonial house dating back to 1948 was the first ever built on the picturesque beach of Batu Ferringhi. It is scheduled to re-open on November 1, 2010 after a $16.3 million dollar refurbishment and extension.

Nearby, Clove Hall has also been restored by Christopher Ong to create a charming boutique hotel, or more aptly, a heritage home with six luxurious rooms.

Australian developers, Narelle McMurtrie and Alison Fraser who make up the Bon Ton group have revamped a row of five heritage houses along Stuart Lane in George Town to create the Straits Collection.  

The Bon Ton group have also created a fascinating eight villa boutique property, in Lankawi restoring antique buildings with Chinese, Malay, Indian and Eurasian origin, each with a 70 – 100 year history to create Temple Tree Resort.

In Kuala Lumpur, the iconic colonial mansion the Carcosa Seri Negara has reopened after an extensive refurbishment. The heritage building, set within four hectares of lush lawns overlooking the Lake Gardens was once the official residence of the Federated Malay States' first Resident General and has played host to numerous heads of state including Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth

In 2010, no less than five new luxury resort developments have opened with a total of 270 rooms and an additional 14 new resorts are planned before 2014.  

Other larger developments in the pipeline for Malaysia include, a new ultra luxury island resort on Gaya Island which YTL will open before the end of 2011 and a new Grand Hyatt in Kuala Lumpur.


For more information about Malaysia visit, www.tourism.gov.my 

 

Vanuatu makes Lonely Planet's "Top 10 countries in the world for 2011" list

Vanuatu has been ranked sixth on the Lonely Planet's list of the Top Ten Countries 2011 in the eagerly-awaited annual publication titled Best in Travel 2011, announced today.

Lonely Planet's Asia-Pacific travel editor Shawn Low says that Vanuatu made the list for its unrivalled authentic cultural experiences.

"Best in Travel 2011 is all about providing a year's worth of inspiration to take travellers out of the ordinary and into some unforgettable experiences.  Vanuatu really delivers when it comes to interesting things to do."

Authentic cultural and nature based experiences propelled Vanuatu into the top 10 list, with Vanuatu's strong living traditions, festivals, active volcanoes, 'thunderous waterfalls' and 'remote villages' highlighted as part of the appeal.

Vanuatu Tourism Office general manager Annie Niatu says the announcement shows that Vanuatu is so much more than a relaxing island destination.

"The Lonely Planet recognition gets to the core of what Vanuatu can offer visitors, a unique and authentic experience and as Lonely Planet states a 'mystic vibe' that comes from culture and traditions that are still very much alive," said Annie.

"Travellers are often drawn to Vanuatu by a vision of white sandy beaches and with 83 idyllic islands, Vanuatu has its fair share of waterfront but there are also really inspiring cultural experiences that are relatively untapped.

"Some lucky travellers are starting to realise that Vanuatu is much more than just a beautiful beachside destination. There is a huge amount to do here, abseil down waterfalls, sand board down volcanos, see traditions of an ancient culture, take a jungle trek and so much more."

A new campaign recently launched by Vanuatu Tourism communicates this exact appeal, taking a deliberate move away from traditional images of picture perfect white sandy beaches and focusing on soft adventure and authentic imagery to differentiate the country from its South Pacific Neighbours.

Best in Travel's recommendations are drawn from hundreds of ideas submitted by Lonely Planet's staff, authors and community of travellers, bloggers and tweeters. Their suggestions are then refined by a panel of Lonely Planet's in-house experts.

To view the new look website, visit www.vanuatu.travel