Eight Blissful Bites of Brazil with Crystal Cruises

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With 11 Brazilian ports on its fall cruise calendar, luxe Crystal Cruises has set dozens of cool ways to explore the country’s hot culture, culinary arts, and landscape. 

Sugar Loaf, samba, and snorkeling may be most famous, but guests can take in such varied Crystal Adventures as: 

1.    Learning the secrets of making Moqueca, a traditional Brazilian seafood stew, from a local instructor in Rio de Janeiro.

2.    4x4-ing to swim in waterfalls and lagoons otherwise only accessible by foot, followed by cachaça- tasting at a localParaty distillery.

3.    Reveling in the charms of Buzios, an old fishing village known as Brazil’s St-Tropez, via foot, land trolley or ocean schooner.  (Brigitte Bardot famously fell in love with this charming old fishing village!)

4.    Strolling the cobblestone walkways of Paraty’s pedestrian-only historic core, an UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its beautifully preserved colonial architecture.

5.    Sampling multiple varieties of caipirinhas while sailing along beaches and an ecological preserve in Ilha Grande, local forró and samba band in the background.

6.    Attending a private, Crystal clergy-led Mass at the base of Rio’s famous Corcovado: Christ the Redeemer statue.

7.    Marveling at the magic of capoeira, an African-Brazilian mix of martial arts and dance, in Natal.

8.    Hiking through the Brazilian Atlantic rainforest to a hidden waterfall, in Ilha Grande.

Crystal begins its South American cruise season with a 16-day, November 23, Miami-to-Rio voyage, followed by a 12-day, December 9, Rio-to-Buenos Aires sailing.   To savor more South America, as well as Crystal’s delicious, award-winning experience, travelers can combine the two voyages for an additional 5% savings.  In all, Crystal Symphony’s Brazilian calls include Belém, Fortaleza, Natal (maiden call), Maceió, Salvador, Rio de Janeiro (overnight), Buzios, Ilha Grande, Paraty, Santos/São Paulo, and Rio Grande du Sol.  Depending on the departure, the cruises also include ports in the Caribbean, Uruguay and Argentina.

All-inclusive fares start at US$3,990 and US$3,555 per person, for November 23 and December 9’s voyages, respectively.  Travelers can save 5% off cruise fares when combining the two cruises.  Travelers also have a choice of Crystal Getaways carved from each voyage: 12 days starting November 27 from Barbados to Rio de Janeiro, or seven days starting December 14 from Santos to Buenos Aires.

Crystal Cruises’ passion for creating unique luxury experiences both on land and at sea have helped earn the company top ratings from international travelers for two decades.

For additional information or booking, please contact Miramar Express at +852 3960 0388 or email mecruises@miramarexpress.hk; also visit the luxury line's website at www.crystalcruises.com.

Travel Indochina experiences continued growth in cruise passenger numbers

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The release of the 64 page brochure has also coincided with the inclusion of cruise packages on Travel Indochina’s new consumer website http://www.travelindochina.com.au/global/asia-cruises.

Thirteen new itineraries across the Mekong, Yangtze Ayeyarwady and Chindwin Rivers in Indochina, China and Burma respectively, are included in the new brochure.

Two new vessels have also been introduced into the Travel Indochina stable; the ‘Mekong Sun’, suitable for the upper reaches of the Mekong River, with a maximum of 28 guests, and Orient Express’ new Burma cruiser, the ‘Orcaella’, with 25 spacious cabins.

Managing Director of Travel Indochina, Paul Hole, says the uptake of river cruising in Asia has been strong.

“Last year we experienced an unprecedented 400% year-on-year growth in cruise passenger numbers,” says Paul.

“This year has continued to provide strong results, with an increase of 83%.”

“We’ve continued to expand our offering to keep up with travellers’ seemingly insatiable appetite for new experiences along Asia’s fascinating main rivers. River cruising offers a unique way to experience Asia, spanning the lifeblood of many of these countries. We’ve been working with this demand to provide more flexibility in our packages, offering trips varying in length to suit all preferences, from 4 – 22 day options.”

One of the new packages available is a 5 day/4 night ‘Mystical Luang Prabang & Cruise’ option that includes a 3 day cruise on the Mekong Sun, and 2 nights deluxe accommodation staying at Luang Say Residence after the cruise. The relaxing escape also includes a cooking class at Tamarind, and plenty of time to explore all that Luang Prabang has to offer.

To mark the release of the brochure, 2014 Early Bird Sale prices are available for select cruises.

Early bird Mekong River cruise packages on the luxurious Jahan and Jayavarman vessels are available for a range of Jun – Sept 2014 8-22 day departures from either Saigon or Siem Reap.

For sale from 01 Jul to 31 Aug 2013, the 12 Day 'Saigon to Angkor' Mekong cruise package was $3,823 pp twin share 'Superior Cabin', and is now $3,490 pp twin share, for a saving of  $333 pp twin share, or $666 per couple.

Travel Indochina is also offering solo cruisers a ‘Yangzi Explorer’ Yangtze River Cruise with no single supplement for the 16 – 27 March and 1 June – 4 September 2014 departures.

The brochure provides information designed to make a traveller’s life easier, with new content that includes shore excursions, cuisine, charters and full deck plans.

For full details of River Cruising itineraries or a copy of the brochure, Travel Indochina’s Asia experts can be contacted on 1300 362 777 or travindo@travelindochina.com.au.

Cycling and Sailing Sojourns with Sea Cloud Cruises

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Sea Cloud Cruises, together with cycling tour operator terranova, is offering a selection of cycling cruises on the luxurious windjammer Sea Cloud II and the elegant river yacht River Cloud II this year.

River Cloud II has two cycling cruises from Passau to Budapest available, either 24-31 August or 21-28 September 2013.  Meandering along the Danube each 8 day/7 night voyage will take in the history, art and culture of this ancient Austrian-Hungarian Empire. The itinerary includes visits to numerous wine producing regions, national parks, artistic treasures and ecclesiastical residences.

Cruise only fares start from AUD $2,800* per person.  The all-inclusive cycling program is available from AUD $980* per person and includes five guided cycling tours; a highly qualified terranova tour guide; the use of a bicycle for the cruise duration; a support van; all excursions and tours; all transfers, and all-round service including drinks and lunch each day.

Departing Malta on 28 October 2013 for the Spanish city of Valencia, a nine day sailing on Sea Cloud II will allow guests to discover the Mediterranean’s most beautiful islands by bicycle and sea. Highlights will include Malta’s fortress town of Valletta, the lemon groves and cultural scene of Sicily, Sardinia’s unspoilt landscapes, and picturesque artists’ villages in Mallorca.

Fares for Sea Cloud II’s Mediterranean cycling cruise include four guided cycling tours; a highly qualified terranova tour guide; the use of a bicycle for the cruise duration; a support van; airport transfers, and all-round service including drinks and a substantial picnic lunch.

Cruise only fares start from AUD$4,250* per person and the cycling package is available from AUD$1,400* per person.

Guests will be provided with a top-quality bicycle for the duration of each trip and an accompanying bus will transport bicycles and provide guests with the option of a lift if desired. After relaxing days exploring quiet roads and laneways by bicycle, guests will return to indulge in the exquisite on-board service.

*Rates are subject to currency fluctuation

For more information please contact Sales Activation Marketing (Sea Cloud Cruises representative for Australia/New Zealand) on toll free 1300583 572 (Australia) or info@seacloud.com or visit www.seacloud.com

Cruise New Zealand and Experience the Best of Auckland

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Grand Pacific Tours, the New Zealand Coach Holiday specialist, has joined forces with Celebrity Cruises to release the 15 Day New Zealand Cruise & Auckland Highlights.

Your journey begins with a cruise from Sydney, to Melbourne, then across the Tasman Sea to New Zealand on-board one of the world's newest and most luxurious ships, the Celebrity Solstice.

Enjoy the ocean view from the balcony in your Stateroom and take advantage of its luxurious amenities including 24-hour room service, Egyptian cotton bed linen, interactive flat screen TV and personal bathroom toiletries.

From an upper deck of lush, natural grass to chic restaurants, dazzling entertainment and sophisticated lounges, the Celebrity Solstice offers you more than you ever imagined.

On your journey you will see the Milford Sound, Dunedin, Akaroa, Wellington & Tauranga, before completing your cruise in Auckland.

Your holiday then continues with two nights in the city of sails, Auckland. Experience a day of sightseeing including a city tour with a visit to Sky Tower and a chance to see unique aquatic life at Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium. The next day gives you time to explore the city at your leisure.

Prices start from $3449 per person (ex SYD, MEL, BNE & OOL) which includes airfare from New Zealand to your homeport, taxes, most meals, attractions and cruise travel.

This tour departs on on 4 November, 28 November and 22 December 2013.

More information on the 15 Day New Zealand Cruise & Auckland Highlights can be found at www.grandpacifictours.com or by calling 1800 622 768.

Live Like Gatsby With Fairmont Hotels & Resorts’ Suite Luxury Offers

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Living the suite life is a timeless indulgence.  From the fictional to the famous, foreign escapades and fantastic hideaways are Fairmont specialties.

Turning a hotel visit into an extravagant Suite Luxury escape is something that never goes out of style, whether it’s Jay Gatsby roaring through the 20’s at The Plaza in New York, John Lennon and Yoko Ono singing for world peace at Montreal’s Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, or JFK bedding down in the Penthouse at The Fairmont San Francisco.

Fast forward to 2013 and the luxury hotel brand is offering an inside track to Suite Luxury offers that will make the suite life a reality for guests who want to live large.  Whether celebrating a special occasion, seeking a luxurious departure from the everyday, or living out a childhood fantasy of ordering room service to the “tippy-top floor” à la Kay Thompson’s Eloise, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts’ Suite Luxury offers turn a mini break into a well-deserved retreat.

One of the world’s most iconic hotels, The Fairmont Peace Hotel, is offering the ultimate in art deco inspired accommodation with its Suites at the Peace package.  Staying in one of the hotel’s 39 suites, many with stunning views over the Huangpu River, the Bund and the city skyline, the package includes a complimentary second night and free access to the Fairmont Gold Executive Floor. Rates start from CNY 7,000 per night plus 15%.

To experience a new lifestyle and escape from the heat of summer, enjoy a cooling summer at the tranquil shores of Fairmont Yangcheng Lake. A one night stay in a One Bed-room Suite or Signature Lakeview Suite will include a fresh fruit basket, breakfast for two at Essence, and 3kg of vegetables from the property’s very own organic farm, that can either be self-harvested or ready to go at check out.  Rates start from CNY 2,880 per night plus 15%, valid until 15 September, 2013.

Head further north to The Fairmont Beijing to enjoy a sweet city escape with a partner.  Stay for three nights in a Fairmont Suite with welcome amenities, a romantic dinner for two at the famous steakhouse The Cut, and top it off, a Side by Side SPA Couple Massage. Rates start from CNY 2,800 per night plus 15%.

For a complete listing or to book a stay, visit fairmont.com/promotions/suiteluxury, call 1-888-431-8080 or contact your local travel professional.

Located in world-class destinations, Fairmont’s spectacular collection of suites and villas range from oceanfront pads in Hawaii, Bermuda and Mexico to sophisticated urban oases in key city centers that include New York, London and Shanghai to name a few.  This year’s series of Suite Luxury offers ensure busy vacationers can kick back and fully enjoy the benefits of a spacious, separate living area – perhaps that translates into a late-night action flick while the kids sleep soundly in the next room or just a little extra square footage to stow the proceeds of an ambitious shopping spree.  Mountain-view retreat in the heart of the Rockies or luxurious sea-view suite on the Monaco shoreline, guests can choose their suite style and begin living the good life.

Throughout the year, Fairmont will also “suite’en” up its social pages with special giveaways, exclusive photo tours, legendary accounts and more.  Watch for the #SuiteLuxury hashtag, which will indicate something special is in store for fans on Twitter,Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook.

All packages unless noted otherwise are subject to availability and blackout periods, priced per suite, per night, exclude taxes, resort fees and gratuities and are based on double occupancy.

Corinna Retreat with Steve Parish

Corinna Wilderness retreat in Tasmania's pristine Tarkine region is presenting an extraordinary opportunity for photography enthusiasts to experience some of the country's most unique scenery and enhance their photography skills under the expert guidance of Australia's most recognised wilderness photographer Steve Parish.

Participants will spend 5 nights at the idyllic Corinna Retreat with Steve Parish hosting daily workshops and expeditions into the surrounding wilderness including some of his favorite landscapes.

"If I were to close my eyes and revisit the highlights of my fifty year career, a three hour shoot at dawn on the Piemen River one misty morning would be right up there at the top of the list." - Steve Parish.

Nature photography, nocturnal photography, light and design, content and technique and digital Photography from capture to post production; will all be covered in an intimate setting where participants will all be given the opportunity to work closely with, and learn from Steve's extensive knowledge of Australia's diverse elements.

 
DATE: August 18-23st 2013

COST: $4100 pp or $7395 for a couple

BOOK: www.corinna.com.au

Steve Parish at the idyllic Corinna Retreat, Tasmania

Steve Parish

Corinna Wilderness retreat in Tasmania’s pristine Tarkine region is presenting an extraordinary opportunity for photography enthusiasts to experience some of the country’s most unique scenery and enhance their photography skills under the expert guidance of Australia's most recognised wilderness photographer Steve Parish.

Participants will spend 5 nights at the idyllic Corinna Retreat with Steve Parish hosting daily workshops and expeditions into the surrounding wilderness including some of his favorite landscapes.

“If I were to close my eyes and revisit the highlights of my fifty year career, a three hour shoot at dawn on the Piemen River one misty morning would be right up there at the top of the list.” - Steve Parish.

Natural elemenst

Nature photography, nocturnal photography, light and design, content and technique and digital Photography from capture to post production; will all be covered in an intimate setting where participants will all be given the opportunity to work closely with, and learn from Steve’s extensive knowledge of Australia’s diverse elements.

DATE: August 18-23st 2013

COST: $4100 pp or $7395 for a couple

BOOK: www.corinna.com.au 
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Sapphire Princess cruise to unsual destinations in Asia

THE opportunity to visit fascinating and rarely visited ports like Bandar Seri Begawan in Brunei, Nha Trang in Vietnam and Sihanoukville in Cambodia is part of an exciting 21-night cruise from Singapore now being sold through ecruising.travel

The voyage aboard Sapphire Princess departs on November 27 2014 and also makes calls in Vietnam's Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Ko Samui and Phuket in Thailand, Bali, Port Kelang and Penang in Malaysia before returning to Singapore.

The stop at Sihanoukville can include a visit to the legendary Angkor Wat Temples, whilst the stop to Port Kelang provides time to take advantage of Kuala Lumpur's fantastic shopping value.

Priced from $4699 the packages also includes return economy airfares from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, airport transfers and two nights at the luxurious Shangri-La hotel in Singapore.

Renowned for its on-board service, Sapphire Princess offers you everything you could need for a relaxing, rejuvenating retreat, including a wide variety of freshly prepared cuisine and innovative experiences and facilities.

Facilities on board include a wine and caviar bar, 24-hour buffet/bistro, Specialty restaurants , theatre, casino, swimming pools, the Lotus spa, gym and fitness area and a range of sporting activities.

More information from ecruising.travel on 1300 369 848 or check-out www.ecruising.travel

 

Einstein, Vivaldi and Geoffrey Rush – the Arts Centre and Mantra Southbank Bring You Eclectic Melbourne!

Culture vultures will revel in the variety of events on show at Arts Centre Melbourne with partner hotel Mantra Southbank offering fantastic deals in the heart of the city's entertainment precinct. From operatic theatre inspired by Einstein; to a musical celebration of the seasons or an eclectic homage to great Australian actor Geoffrey Rush – it's all happening in Melbourne.

Mantra Southbank is conveniently located on City Road within walking distance of Arts Centre Melbourne and offering the following deals all available for booking at www.mantra.com.au/southbankmelbourne/ or phone 13 15 17.

Einstein on the Beach

It might be the middle of winter but in Melbourne it's all about the beach - Einstein On The Beach!  Universally hailed as one of the greatest artistic achievements of the 20th century, Einstein on the Beach breaks all rules of conventional opera.  An exclusive season of the operatic masterpiece at Arts Centre Melbourne will run from 31 July to 4 August.  Relax afterwards in a One Bedroom Spa apartment at Mantra Southbank and enjoy breakfast for two in Spire Restaurant from $289* per night.   Car parking and late checkout to 12 noon is also included to ensure a leisurely break.

*Subject to availability. Valid 31 July – 4 August 2013

Culture Your Kids at Botanica

The tiny dancers in your family will love this unique dance and visual extravaganza celebrating the four seasons.  Enhanced by spectacular costumes, exquisite projections, amazing puppetry and music by Vivaldi, Botanica offers a memorable cultural experience for the whole family, on show from 7 to 11 August.  Enjoy the space and comfort of Mantra Southbank's Two Bedroom Executive Apartment from $389* per night including breakfast for four in Spire Restaurant, complimentary car parking on presentation of your Botanica show ticket and late checkout of 12 noon.

*Subject to availability.  Valid 7 – 11 August 2013

Extraordinary Shapes of Geoffrey Rush

A fascinating exhibition celebrating one of Australia's best-known and most-respected actors, Extraordinary Shapes of Geoffrey Rush features costumes, photographs, moving image and personal items highlighting the roles created by Geoffrey Rush in plays and films such as Shine, Quills, Pirates of the Caribbean and The King's Speech.  The exhibition will run from 6 July to 25 September and Mantra Southbank is offering arts lovers the chance to make a night of it with rates from $289* per night in a One Bedroom Spa Apartment including breakfast for two, complimentary car parking and late checkout to 12 noon.

*Subject to availability. Valid 6 July – 25 September 2013

Mantra Southbank

Mantra Southbank's location is close to the Southgate dining precinct and many of Melbourne's other major cultural attractions including the National Gallery of Victoria, the Melbourne Recital Centre and Federation Square.

Located at 31 City Road, Mantra Southbank boasts a selection of modern one and two apartments and facilities including an indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, spa, and Spire Restaurant & Bar.

ABOUT MANTRA HOTELS, RESORTS AND APARTMENTS

Whether for business or leisure, the extensive collection of hotels, resorts and apartments captures the natural charm and ambience of their diverse locations, from bustling cities to serene coastal escapes. Stylish decor, quality service and the best locations are all part of the offering at over 50 Mantra properties across Australia and New Zealand.  Mantra opened its first property in Asia – Mantra Nusa Dua – in March 2013. Visit www.mantra.com.au for further information.

ARTS CENTRE MELBOURNE

Arts Centre Melbourne is the flagship of the performing arts in Victoria, and the focal point of Melbourne's cultural precinct. For more information or bookings visit artscentremelbourne.com.au or phone 1300 182 183. Become a fan of Arts Centre Melbourne on Facebook or follow @artscentremelb on Twitter.

 
Web: www.mantragroup.com.au

Experience our newest Mantra at French Quarter Noosa

Free Prague Extension with Avalon Waterways Cruises

 

Luxury river cruise specialist Avalon Waterways is offering a bonus three-night stay among the gothic spires of Prague with several departures of its most popular European cruise itinerary.

 

The Prague extension is normally valued at $2000 per couple and is offered free with select departures of Avalon's 15-day Magnificent Europe cruise between Amsterdam and Budapest during September and October, 2013. 

 

On sale for a limited time, it includes three nights' accommodation, breakfasts, sightseeing and transport to or from Budapest.

 

The Magnificent Europe itinerary cruises the Rhine and Danube rivers aboard Avalon's award-winning Suite Ships and includes a special music-themed departure in October with expert guides, onboard presentations, a Strauss Concert in Vienna and an excursion to Mozart's birthplace in Salzburg.

 

Applicable departures are priced from $4883* per person twin share. The offer is on sale until August 31, 2013, or until sold out.

For full details and bookings see licensed travel agents, visit www.avalonwaterways.com.au or phone 1300 230 234.
 
*Prices and special offer subject to availability and conditions.