Save Up to 40% Plus Free Breakfast at Over 100 AccorHotels

Rates from as low as $71 per night

AccorHotels' famous Super Sale – one of the best online hotel sales in the world – is back again, offering discounts of up to 40% plus free breakfast for members of AccorHotels' loyalty programs (Accor Plus and Le Club AccorHotels) and 30% with free breakfast for the general public when booking onwww.accorhotels.com

Rates start from as low as $71 a night at Ibis Styles Eagle Hawke in Canberra, $125 at ibis Sydney World Square, $139 at Novotel Brisbane and $146 at Pullman Melbourne on the Park.

The sale applies to selected hotels across Sofitel, Pullman, MGallery, The Sebel, Novotel, Mercure, ibis, ibis styles and ibis budget hotels across Australia.

With over 100 hotels participating in the sale, holiday seekers can chase the sun in Cairns, Port Douglas or Palm Cove; choose to rug up by the fireplace in the heart of wine country in the Hunter or Barossa Valley, or enjoy a romantic city escape to Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Canberra or Perth – the choices are endless.

The sale applies to bookings made online from 22-26 June 2015 for stays between 10 July–29 August 2015.

Bookings are subject to availability and conditions apply. To book head towww.accorhotels.com.
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What's On in Melbourne's Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

ALL MONTH


HIGH TEAS - Across various venues in the Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges

LIVE MUSIC - Live music is happening in venues across the Yarra Valley & Dandening Ranges

U-PICK - There is always a variety of U-Pick available in the Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges.

Tractor Fruit Tasting at Rayners Stonefruit Orchard

Fruit Bottling Workshops at Rayners Stonefruit Orchard


REGIONAL EXHIBITIONS

Consequences by Jenny Reddin - Memo, Healesville - June 5 - 30

Lynette Orzlowski. Unleashed - Art at Linden Gate, Yarra Glen - May 29 - July 6

Australia Will Be There - Yarra Ranges Regional Museum, Lilydale - May 30 - Aug 23

Contents Under Pressure: Stencil Art in Australia from 2003 - 2010 - Burrinja Cultural Centre, Upwey - May 26 - Jun 28

MARKETS

St Andrews Market - every Saturday

Yarra Valley Organic Market at Healesville's Coronation Park - every Saturday

Upper Ferntree Gully Market - every Saturday

ALL THE MARKETS FOR THE REGION LISTED HERE:

YARRA VALLEY & DANDENONG RANGES MARKETS


VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES (VICS)

Need more information regarding the local region? Then contact your nearest VIC and chat to the team of friendly staff and volunteers. They can also help you with your accommodation needs.

Dandenong Ranges VIC - 1211 Burwood Hwy, Upper Ferntree Gully. Phone: 03 9758 7522

Marysville VIC - Murchison St, Marysville. Phone: 03 5963 4567

Warburton VIC - 3400 Warburton Hwy, Warburton. Phone: 03 5966 9600

Yarra Valley VIC - The Old Courthouse, Harker St, Healesville. Phone: 03 5962 2600


== Printable Version (PDF) ==

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Tauck: 7 Day Cuba Tour. Miami return 2015

Book now and receive 1 FREE hotel night before or after your trip at Hyatt Regency Coral Gables*

For immediate release: 18 June 2015

Tauck has been providing People-to-People educational exchange travel to Cuba since 2012. Meet with local residents and share thoughts, gain knowledge, and connect with Cuba's cultural heritage on our 7-day, Havana-based Cuba: Connecting with People and Culture. Centered on key themes of Cuban culture, travellers will have the opportunity to interact directly with the people of Cuba. Meet Cuban students, teachers, architects, artisans, musicians, farmers and athletes. Dine at paladares (small, privately operated Cuban restaurants) and connect with Cuba and Cubans on Tauck's cultural exchange.

Tauck Value Includes:

· All hotel accommodation – 1 night in Miami at the Hyatt Regency Coral Gables and 5 nights in Havana at the Meliá Habana

· Tauck's "Leave Your Worries at Home" service, with all day-to-day travel details taken care of for you

· Escorted travel from the moment your People-to-People trip begins in Miami, accompanied by a professional Tauck Director and experienced local Cuban guides, all fluent in both English & Spanish

· Six days of "People-to-People" educational exchange in Havana, Finca Vigia, Viñales and Pinar del Rio

· Discussions with representatives from Cuban community and arts organizations, educational institutions and museums, community art projects, architectural preservation organizations, tobacco and cigar production facilities, baseball organizations and more

· Exclusive Tauck Experiences fostering meaningful cultural connections with Cuban families, artists, musicians, students, educators, agricultural workers, artisans, entrepreneurs, community leaders, baseball coaches and players and others

· All ground transportation

· Airport transfers upon arrival and departure

· All meals in Cuba – 17 (6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners), including authentic Cuban cuisine at local restaurants and private paladares throughout your trip

· All gratuities to Tauck Director, local guides and drivers, hotel and restaurant staff; all taxes, admission fees, porterage and departure tax

From US$5,490* pp twin share 7 day tour departs 15, 22 Oct; 5, 12 Nov & 3 +17 Dec '15

24 Dec '15 from US$5,890*pp twin share

*Prices are per person twin share are in US dollars. Prices are correct as at 11 June '15. Seasonal surcharges apply. Prices are subject to availability, currency fluctuations and seasonal surcharges. Free hotel night is not guaranteed and is subject to availability. One room per reservation

Sales Now Open on Biggest Cruise Ship to Ever Visit Australia - Ovation of the Seas

Maiden season fares start from only $979 including exclusive charter on historic first voyage Down Under

Cabins can now be booked to and from Australia aboard the biggest and newest cruise ship to ever visit our shores – the massive, 5000-passenger Ovation of the Seas, with leading cruise agency, Cruise Express, offering fares from just $979 on an exclusive charter on the ship’s first voyage Down Under from Singapore to Australia.

Stretching for more than a third of a kilometre (348m) with an aerial observatory reaching higher than the pylons on the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Royal Caribbean International’s A$1.3 billion Ovation of the Seas will be the world’s fourth largest cruise ship when she arrives in Australia for a ground-breaking season here in December, 2016, just eight months after her launch next April.

Currently under construction in Germany, Ovation of the Seas will boast features never before seen on a ship in Australia including a glass capsule suspended 91m above the sea, a skydiving simulator, flying trapeze school, bumper car arena, 19 restaurants and cafes, super-fast internet, a multi-sensory show arena, a robot bar and wristbands that open cabin doors and make onboard purchases. Also offering four pools, the 168,666-ton ship will be 14 per cent bigger than the Queen Mary 2 (current title holder of the biggest cruise ship to visit Australia) and the most technologically advanced ship to ever sail here.

During her maiden season here, the head-turning, 18-deck Ovation of the Seas will offer three, round-trip cruises from Sydney to New Zealand in December, 2016, and January, 2017, as well as a chartered cruise from Singapore to Australia on November 30, 2016, and a voyage back to Singapore on January 23, 2017.

Cabins on the first voyage are only on sale via selected agents, including Cruise Express. Per person twin share fares on this special, inaugural voyage from Singapore to Australia are available from $979 to Perth (six nights), $1879 to Adelaide (11 nights), $2239 to Hobart (13 nights), $2339 to Melbourne (13 nights including flight from Hobart to Melbourne as Ovation will not call at Melbourne), and $2599 to Sydney (15 nights) for her first spectacular arrival in the harbour city on December 15, 2016.

The three, round-trip cruises from Sydney to New Zealand - a 15-night Christmas departure on December 15, 2016, a 10-night New Year’s holiday on December 30, 2016, and a 14 night itinerary from January 9, 2017 - are available from $1899 per person, twin-share, for the 10-night cruise. The 14-night cruise from Sydney back to Singapore on January 23, 2017, is available from $1889 per person, twin-share. Onboard spending credits of up to $100 per stateroom are also available

Cabins for Ovation of the Seas’ five-cruise maiden Australian season are expected to fill quickly. Fares are subject to availability. For details and bookings, call Cruise Express on 1300 764 509 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au.

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Ovation of the Seas maiden voyage to Australia on sale now

Cruiseco, the leading provider of cruising options in Australia and New Zealand, is now offering guests the chance to book cabins on board Ovation of the Seas' maiden voyage to Australia. This latest addition to Royal Caribbean International's fleet will depart from Singapore on 30 November 2016, visiting four ports in Australia, providing travellers with a once in a lifetime opportunity to be part of the inaugural sailing.

Amber Wilson, International Marketing Manager, says:

"Ovation of the Seas' state-of-the-art facilities are set to completely redefine cruising in Australia. Cruiseco is delighted to exclusively charter the full ship for her first voyage to Australia. As the biggest ship to ever sail Australian waters, this very special event will provide guests with memories to last a lifetime. Whether you're a first time cruiser, or a seasoned traveller, there is something for everyone onboard Ovation of the Seas."

"The facilities will be truly spectacular - from 'North Star', a large capsule that carries passengers over 300-feet above sea level, to the 'RipCord', an air machine that lets you feel like you're flying. The cruise ship offers the perfect experience for the entire family. Not only is there access to a myriad of fun and exciting facilities, such as wave surfing and bumper cars, but also an incredible 18 different dining options and exquisite cabins with all the mod-cons. This truly is the ultimate holiday for the whole family.

Ovation of the Seas' debut Australian voyage is on sale now, with the following itinerary options available:

· Singapore to Fremantle: 6-night voyage, with fares starting from AU$979 per person, based on twin share.

· Singapore to Adelaide: 11-night voyage, with fares starting from AU$1,879 per person, based on twin share.

· Singapore to Hobart: 13-night voyage, with fares starting from AU$2,239 per person, based on twin share.

· Singapore to Melbourne: Although Ovation of the Seas will not visit Melbourne, guests wishing to travel from Singapore to Melbourne will disembark in Hobart and fly to Melbourne. Fares for this 13-night voyage start from AU$2,339 per person, based on twin share. This price includes transfers to Hobart airport and a one-way economy class flight from Hobart to Melbourne.

· Singapore to Sydney: 15-night voyage, with fares starting from AU$2,599 per person, based on twin share.

Cabins on the inaugural sailing to Australia are available for sale exclusively through Cruiseco agents. To book, visit your local Cruiseco agent or www.cruising.com.au.

"This is an opportunity not to be missed – I encourage guests to book quickly before cabins sell out," adds Amber.

Herman’s Hermits playing at the Novotel Vines Resort

NO MILK TODAY – WINE DINNER AND HERMAN'S HERMITS

Two nights of nostalgia at The Novotel Vines resort in August

If you are into something good, then book yourself some tickets to see the legendary Herman's Hermits playing at the Novotel Vines Resort for two nights only, Friday 7th & Saturday 8th August, 2015.

From 6.30pm you will be able to sing along to the hits of the 60's and reminisce with hits such as There's a Kind of Hush, I'm into Something Good, Henry the 8th and "Mrs Brown you've got a Lovely Daughter".

One of the most popular and successful English pop bands of the 60's is coming to Perth, with their UK and US chart topping hits. See the iconic Herman's Hermits perform over two nights at the Novotel Vines Resort

Included in your ticket price of $160 per person is a gourmet buffet dinner with your choice of house beer, wine or soft drink on arrival. After dinner there is a cash bar available.

Doors open at 6.30pm with dinner served at 7pm and Herman's Hermits on stage from 8.30pm in the Barrett Lennard Room.

Early bird tickets available now for just $150 per person

Make the most of it and stay the night.... click here to book our Herman's Hermits Accommodation package including 2 tickets to the show with overnight accommodation in a Premium Resort Room (for two people) with buffet breakfast in Muscats Restaurant - just $599 per night.

Bookings essential – book your ticket online at www.vines.com.au

Novotel Vines Resort Verdelho Drive, The Vines WA 6069

www.vines.com.au

 

Discover the Secrets of Sri Lanka with Byroads Travel on a 13-Day Small Group Tour

Sri Lanka has a magnetic appeal and its gems, pearls, ivory, and spices have attracted seafaring traders for many centuries. In the 13th century Marco Polo visited the island twice and he was followed by the Portuguese, Dutch and British.

Byroads Sri Lanka.Pollonaruwa1

It is a fascinating island, packed with ancient and modern sights, which you’ll discover with Byroads Travel on a 13-day small group tour. Stay in fabulous boutique hotels, see all the major sights, and explore lesser-known gems including the cave temples at Dambulla, picturesque Ella and a secret hideaway on the south coast.

Departs 3 March 2016. $3875 p/p land only twin share).

For details call 02-9357 6800 or visit www.byroads.com.au.

Byroads Sri Lanka.98 Acres Resort

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Cruise Deal - Free Air To New Zealand, Upgrades and Onboard Extras With Celebrity Cruises

Experience the natural beauty of New Zealand in style and comfort onboard Celebrity Solstice, one of Australia’s highest rated cruise ships, and enjoy terrific savings on selected itineraries booked before 20 June 2015, including free international airfares, a free upgrade from an Oceanview to a Balcony Stateroom plus a choice of a free beverage package for two or up to USD$300 onboard credit per stateroom.



A 12-night New Zealand cruise, departing Sydney on 2 November 2015 or from Auckland on 14 November, starts at just $2,499 per person. The twin sailings include calls at Hobart, Milford, Doubtful and Dusky Sounds, Dunedin, Akaroa, Wellington, Tauranga and the Bay of Islands. Fare includes one-way economy airfares between Auckland and Sydney, as well as a free upgrade to a Balcony Stateroom and a free beverage package for two or up to USD$300 onboard credit per stateroom.

Or choose to sample Celebrity Solstice’s unique brand of modern luxury on 12-night New Zealand cruise that also includes Melbourne, departing Sydney on 4 December 2015. Priced from $2,199, the fare includes one-way economy airfares from Auckland to Sydney, as well as a free upgrade to a Balcony Stateroom and a free beverage package for two or up to $300 onboard credit per stateroom.

With its unique contemporary luxe style, Celebrity Cruises lets guests explore New Zealand on the region’s highest rated superliner, offering world class cuisine, outstanding service, exceptional wellbeing and fitness programs, all while taking you to some of the most spectacular destinations.

No other cruise line offers the luxury of a real grass lawn onboard, allowing guests to have a picnic or play a game of boules on manicured lawn in the middle of the Tasman Sea. Celebrity Cruises also provides guests with delectable meals, specially designed spa-holidays in AquaClass rooms and gorgeous spaces throughout the ship to explore or relax in.

Celebrity heightens the modern luxury experience with Suite Class, offering a new private dining experience and more premium inclusions, such as beverage packages, specialty dining, and unlimited internet, a dedicated butler and a VIP lounge for Suite guests.

For more information about or to book a cruise, call 1800 754 500, contact your travel agent or visit http://celebritycruises.com.au/specials/123go/.

Celebrity Cruises AU & NZ Facebook: facebook.com/celebritycruisesausnz 

Celebrity Cruises AU & NZ YouTube: youtube.com/user/celebritycruisesaunz

*Price is a from price only and applies to the lowest category of stateroom. Subject to availability and conditions apply. For full terms and conditions, visit: www.celebritycruises.com.au.

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APT Celebrates the End of the Financial Year with Special Europe River Cruise Savings

​

Book and pay in full for any 2016 all inclusive luxury APT Royal Collection European River Cruise before 30 June 2015 and you could save up to $2,000 per couple. Furthermore, this special discount is combinable with APT's current brochure offers, such as free return flights.

APT is offering the special savings to celebrate the end of the financial year, with discounts of $1,000 per couple available on select Royal Collection river cruises of 7-14 days and $2,000 per couple on select cruises of 15-day or longer for those than pay in full by 30 June 2015.

The promotion applies to a selection of Royal Collection river cruise departures in Central Europe, France and Portugal, offering guests a choice of destination and departure.

For example book to travel in a category E and D cabin on APT's 15-day Magnificent Europe river cruises from Amsterdam to Budapest in October to December 2016 and as well as free return flights to Europe, including air taxes of up to $1,100 per person, you'll also save an extra $2,000 per couple.

With the saving the cruise is priced from just $6,795 per person, twin share, and travels through five countries: Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. Highlights include the three royal jewels in APT's sightseeing crown; a journey aboard the luxurious Majestic Imperator train, authentic replica of the Imperial Royal train of the Hapsburgs; a private visit to Namedy Castle, including a cocktail reception and lavish royal banquet; and a private musical soiree at Vienna's newly refurbished City Palace, featuring members of the Mozart Boys' Choir.

Also included are all meals aboard the cruise; complimentary beverages throughout; room service and butler service in select suites, all sightseeing and entertainment; and transfers, port charges and tipping. There is even a fleet of bicycles on board for guests to use at their leisure.

Offer is valid for new bookings that are made on select dates and paid in full by 30 June 2015. For full terms and conditions for this offer, please refer to APT's website aptouring.com.au Offer is subject to availability.

Call APT on 1300 196 420, visit aptouring.com.au or see your local travel agent for more information.

 
 

Glamour Ports of the Mediterranean

Two Weeks of Luxury From only $4759 including Return Flights from Australia

Four nights in a five-star hotel designed to look like an ocean liner on Barcelona’s waterfront will be followed by an eight-night Mediterranean cruise aboard the luxurious Azamara Quest as part of a special holiday package this September offered by Cruise Express.

Some of the most glamorous ports of the Mediterranean, including Monte Carlo, Ibiza, Palamos and Calvi, are included in the cruise which offers the 686 pampered passengers aboard Azamara Quest complimentary beers, wines, spirits, soft drink, bottled water, teas and coffees.

Departing Australia on September 26, 2015, the Cruise Express itinerary begins with a flight from Australia to Barcelona and four nights’ accommodation with breakfast at the deluxe Eurostars Grand Marina Barcelona Hotel which is nestled on the waterfront near the cruise terminals and designed to resemble an ocean liner.

On September 30, guests transfer to a real cruise ship, the stylish Azamara Quest, for an eight-night, round-trip cruise to six ports in Spain, Italy France and Monaco after the peak summer season, and when the crowds have thinned.

First port of call is the famous and lively resort island of Ibiza, followed by Rome and Livorno for tours to nearby Florence and Pisa in Tuscany. The beautiful beaches of Calvi on Corsica, with its imposing, 15th century fortified citadel looming above the town, appear next on the itinerary followed by the glamorous yachts, boutiques and cafes of Monte Carlo. The final destination is the Spanish Riviera resort of Palamos where passengers can top up their tans on the golden beaches.

The cruise also includes a leisurely day at sea aboard Azamara Quest which is renowned for its country club style, intimacy, gourmet cuisine and non-stop pampering from the 408 crew.

Including return flights from Australia, four nights in Barcelona, eight days on Azamara Quest and onboard gratuities, the 14-night package is available from A$4759 per person, twin-share, from Melbourne and Perth, $5059 from Sydney and $5359 from Adelaide and Brisbane.

For bookings and details, call Cruise Express on 1300 764 509 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au

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