Get Up & Go, Australia’s premier magazine for grown-ups is out and about now.

The new-look Get Up & Go magazine is on sale now. Featuring how to deal with the tricky bits in India; discovering a movie star in Cambodia; riding the rails in Canada; enjoying the Porto of Portugal and many other international destinations.

In Australia we’ve got every stare well and truly covered too.
Enter the competition to WIN a fantastic P&O Cruises holiday. Get going now!

Follow the editor’s blog

A box office hit this Travelodge Choose-day!

Travelodge, teaming up with Hoyts, has added movie tickets to the swag of bonus gifts on offer each Choose-day…

In conjunction with the highly successful Choose-days campaign, Travelodge Hotels is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Hoyts. This new alliance adds 2-for-1 movie tickets to the growing list of gifts to choose from with any booking on a Travelodge Choose-day.

We all love the buzz of getting a bargain and nothing beats the feeling of knowing you walked away with a great deal. Each Choose-day (translation: Tuesday) Travelodge offers its best rates online and to top it off, guests get to choose a gift upon check in – now including Hoyts movie vouchers!

So, how exactly does it work? Follow our simple five step process for great value, rest assured:

1.       Make a diary note: Travelodge's Choose-day deal is available each and every Tuesday, by booking online.

2.       This Choose-day log onto www.travelodge.com.au or www.travelodge.co.nz

3.       Select the location, hotel and nights you want to stay (this deal applies to stays on any day of the week, but has to be booked online on a Tuesday).

4.       Feel the buzz as you select your bonus gift from the list including: Hoyts movie vouchers, complimentary parking, buy one get one free breakfast offers and Krispy Kreme gift cards.

5.       Enjoy your next getaway at any one of Travelodge's city locations across Australia and New Zealand – great value, rest assured.

Lisa Phillips, Director of Marketing at Toga Hospitality said: "The highly successful Travelodge Choose-days concept has been running for almost three years now and is loved by our guests. We are excited to be working with Hoyts, the brand which made us all refuse to pay full price for anything on a Tuesday, to give our guests even more value."


About Travelodge Hotels

Great Value. Rest Assured.

Travelodge is proud of consistently offering great value, rest assured. Whether it's your next holiday, a weekend getaway or even a business trip, Travelodge's price per room rates offer comfort and quality at unbeatable value. There are currently 16 Travelodge Hotels across Australia and New Zealand in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Rockhampton, Newcastle, Perth, Darwin, Wellington and Palmerston North. For more information about Travelodge Hotels or to book, visit: www.travelodge.com.au or www.travelodge.co.nz

Tower Lodge Wins Best Luxury Lodge at the 2010 World Luxury Hotel Awards

Tower Lodge Wins Best Luxury Lodge at the 2010 World Luxury Hotel Awards

Tower Lodge the only Australian property to take out top global award

Tower Lodge located in the picturesque Hunter Valley has taken out top honours winning the "Global Luxury Lodge" award at the 2010 World Luxury Hotel Awards held at the Dusit Thani Hua Hin, Thailand over the weekend.

With 350 attendees from 53 countries and 1,000 hotels nominated for the awards, Tower Lodge was the only Relais & Châteaux property to receive an award during this year's competition, and is the only Australian luxury hotel to win a global accolade since the awards commenced in 2006.

"To be announced as the best luxury lodge in the world is a wonderful honour for the entire team at Tower Estate," said Matt Cowley, Chief Executive Officer, Tower Estate.

"Australia has so many brilliant holiday destinations and I hope this award brings attention to everyone in this great country that some of the best destinations in the world are right on our doorstep."

"To be the first Australian company to win this award makes it all that more special," added Cowley.

Tower Lodge, Australia's best shared secret comprises of 12 distinctly different guest rooms including two premier suites. Each of the rooms are uniquely furnished with no room the same and feature a king size bed, deep soaking spa bath, complimented with antique pieces and rich fabrics creating an opulent setting for any guest.

Lodge guests can choose from an array of unique dining options while staying at Tower Lodge – nine (nine course degustation menu with wines matched by Tower Estate), in-room service by Roberts Restaurant or at Roberts Restaurant, or at specially selected outdoor dining areas including the poolside, golf course and the Tower spire.

Tower Lodge is located in close proximity to Tower Estate Winery which has one of the Hunter's female winemakers Sam Connew, who has already won top gold for her 2010 Tower Estate Semillon at the NSW Small Winemakers Show.

While staying at the luxurious Lodge guests can opt to indulge in a spa treatment, take a plunge in the pool, enjoy a leisurely walk along the 1.6km walking track, play a round of golf on the 18-hole short golf course or take time out to relax and enjoy the surrounds.

Tower Lodge was nominated by hotel guests and then selected as a winner by travel industry experts and the WLHA selection committee.

To make a reservation at Tower Lodge visit www.towerestate.com or call (02) 4998 7022

About Tower Lodge

Opened in May 2001, and situated on the grounds of Tower Estate, Tower Lodge is the only 5-star boutique luxury lodge in the Hunter Region.

The Lodge features 12 rooms including two suites accommodating up to 24 guests. Room rates range from $710.00 to $810.00 per night and include accommodation for two, full buffet and a la carte cooked breakfast, complimentary afternoon tea, a pre-dinner drink and an evening turn down service

Website www.towerestate.com

Tower Lodge is a member of Relais & Châteaux.

Toast the Coast with Mercure Geelong

Wine, Dine and Stay and save 25%

Escape the hordes of punters descending on the city for Melbourne Cup Weekend and indulge in Geelong's premium cool climate wines and regional produce at the 'Toast to the Coast' Food & Wine Festival, Saturday 30 - Sunday 31 October 2010.

To celebrate this gastronomic event, Mercure Geelong is offering a 'Toast the Coast Weekend' package which includes two tickets to the event; two nights accommodation with full buffet breakfast in Zenith restaurant; a complimentary glass of local regional wine from the Mercure's Grands Vins wine list for two; car parking and late check-out - all from just $383 per couple - a saving of over 25%!

The package is valid from 29 - 31 October, 2010 and to book phone Mercure Geelong on 03 5223 6200 or email h3033-re01@accor.com

Toast to the Coast weekend provides travellers with the opportunity to sample award winning wines from over 33 local wineries - from Bellarine Peninsula and the Surf Coast, across to the Moorabool Valley and throughout Geelong - plus local produce and gourmet food, while enjoying entertainment and live music across the region.

Weekend events include Wine Master Classes, Master Chef cooking demonstrations in the great outdoors, art exhibitions and farmers markets. For further information visit www.toasttothecoast.com.au

Mercure Geelong is located in Geelong's CBD, the gateway to the Great Ocean Road and all that the region has to offer. Rooms offer bay views in traditional hotel room style as well as apartments and suites. For further information visit www.mercuregeelong.com.au.

Old Government House Hotel and Spa scoops "Guernsey's Leading Hotel" in World Travel Awards

Red Carnation, the luxury collection of thirteen five and four star family-run boutique hotels, is delighted to announce their four star hotel in the Channel Islands, The Old Government House Hotel and Spa, was awarded "Guernsey's Leading Hotel" at the recent World Travel Awards 2010 held in Turkey on the 1st October 2010.

Described as the 'Oscars' of the travel and tourism industry by The Wall Street Journal, the World Travel Awards represent the ultimate accolade, as consumers are increasingly using this award as a reliable and independent guide when booking their travel. Founded in 1993, the awards recognize those in the travel and hospitality trades who achieve the very highest standards of excellence. This year a phenomenal 185,000 industry professionals participated in the voting process which is both monitored and independently audited. Winners were selected with the help of thousands of industry professionals worldwide who voted online.

The Old Government House Hotel and Spa boasts a wealth of heritage, with over 150 years of hospitality, and is known fondly as Guernsey's most historic hotel. Its history dates back to 1796 when, until 1842, it was the official Governor's residence for the island and the Bailiwick, which includes Alderney, Herm and Sark. In March 2008, in the hotel's 150th anniversary year, the property was acquired by The Red Carnation Hotel Collection.

Andrew Chantrell, General Manager of The Old Government House Hotel and Spa comments, "Since The Red Carnation Hotel Collection purchased the property, they have undertaken an extensive and sensitive refurbishment to retain the romance and grace of a bygone era, yet showcasing chic contemporary styling and the latest technology. In addition, there has been considerable investment into staff training and development to ensure we achieve the highest standards of personal service. We strive to adhere to Founder and President Mrs. Bea Tollman's guiding principle - 'No request is too large, no detail too small'.

Set in the heart of Guernsey's capital, St Peter Port, The Old Government House Hotel and Spa commands inspirational views across the harbour, out to sea and the neighbouring islands. Celebrating over 150 years of hospitality, the hotel retains its timeless charm and elegance whilst combining contemporary comforts and features of a modern hotel. The 63 deluxe bedrooms and suites, outdoor swimming pool, two AA Rosette Governor's Restaurant, and The Spa providing soothing treatments for both men and women, offer the perfect weekend escape, on an island where road side honesty boxes and good old-fashioned values are not a thing of the past.

To book The Old Government House Hotel and Spa contact the hotel directly on +44 (0) 1481 724 921 or visit www.theoghhotel.com

Kernaghans & Choirs to 'Deck the Hall'

TANIA and Ray Kernaghan and 20 massed choirs from throughout central Queensland will headline a packed program of bush pageantry set to 'Deck the Hall' for a spectacular early Christmas in the outback.

Revellers from far and wide are invited to muster at the Stockman's Hall of Fame for the inaugural 'Deck the Hall' Bush Christmas Pageant on October 21, 2010.

The iconic outback attraction will be decked out with a giant Christmas tree, hundreds of carollers and thousands of flickering candles for the event, which will raise vital funds for Angel Flight Australia.

'Deck the Hall' organiser Lance Smith AM said the inspiration for the bush Christmas entertainment extravaganza emerged during planning for the 2010 Angel Flight Outback Trailblazer 4WD adventure charity event.

The 2010 Trailblazer, from October 17 to 23, will see a convoy of 'outback angels' visit towns and schools from Jundah to Jericho, Barcaldine, Muttaburra, Winton, Tambo, Blackall and many points in between.

"Trailblazer is a madcap, magical adventure that leaves its participants awe-inspired and exhilarated at the wonder of the bush, and the Deck the Hall Bush Christmas Pageant in Longreach will take their breath away," Mr Smith said.

"But more than that, it will be a chance for people from all over central Queensland to enjoy a very special night that showcases local talent, towns and schools."

Compered by Channel 7 presenter Dean Miller and sponsored by Woollam Constructions, the Stockman's Hall of Fame 'Deck the Hall' Bush Christmas Pageant will feature choirs from 16 western Queensland schools and several towns' Sing Australia adult choirs.

As well as appearances by country music stars Tania and Ray Kernaghan, concert-goers will be treated to performances by the famed 'dancing horses' of the Australian Agricultural College, bush poets and didgeridoo players plus a special visit by Santa Claus.

"It will be an unforgettable carols by candlelight experience with an outback difference," Mr Smith said.

"Santa is giving his reindeer a spell, so we've found him a genuine bullock wagon to arrive on, while other VIPs will arrive be Cobb & Co horse-drawn stage coach.

"And Tania Kernaghan has volunteered to step in as Santa's helper, so it promises to be huge fun while we raise precious funds for Angel Flight."

Established in 2003, Angel Flight co-ordinates free non-emergency flights for financially and medically needy people to assist patients, family and carers travelling to and from medical appointments anywhere in Australia.

Volunteer pilot 'angels', who donate their time, skills, aircraft and the bulk of their costs, have so far flown more than 8000 missions helping over 1800 people.

"Angel Flight relies entirely on donations, so fundraising like this is critical to keep the service aloft," Mr Smith said.

Gates to the Stockman's Hall of Fame 'Deck the Hall' Bush Christmas Pageant will open at 6.00pm on Thursday, October 21, with the concert to run from 7.30pm to 10.00pm.

Concert-goers are requested to BYO blanket or folding chair.
For more information and ticket sales locations, visit the website www.outbacktrailblazer.com.au.

Five reasons why campervans are cool again

With the warmer weather fast approaching, campervan holidays offer the ultimate summer getaway on a budget. Bringing together the fun and adventure of the outdoors with the added benefit of a fully equipped home on wheels, campervans are no longer reserved for daggy family getaways. It appears that people are changing their attitudes towards the humble campervan holiday with a recent survey by campervan rentals company Jucy Rentals finding that 80 percent of respondents who hadn't previously been on a campervan holiday would consider it.

"At Jucy Rentals we love campervans and think other people should know how great they are too!" says Tim Alpe, co-founder of Jucy Rentals. "Here's our top five reasons why campas are cool again."

1. The freedom to explore at your own pace.

A holiday is meant to shake you out of a regular routine, so for those tired of sticking to your hour by hour itinerary, a campervan holiday is the perfect solution.

Rather than rushing through your holiday and constantly checking the time to ensure you haven't missed that transfer, campervans give you the chance to choose where you want to go, when you want to go. According to the survey conducted by Jucy Rentals, this was the most appealing aspect of a campervan holiday with 84.6 percent of respondents choosing this as one of the main reasons they would like to travel in a campervan.

2. Enjoying the outdoors.

We spend so much time talking about how important it is to get in touch with nature, but how many of us actually go out and enjoy it. Enter campervan holidays.

"Without the confines of a hotel compound, you would be silly not to take the opportunity to get into the thick of it – whether that's discovering a waterfall during a drive in the Atherton tablelands near Cairns or driving along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria," says Tim.

3. Not having to deal with hotels, airlines and all the rest.

Another appealing aspect of campervans, according to 35.5 percent the Jucy Rentals survey respondents, was not having to deal with the dramas of hotels, airlines and everything in between. Rather than spending time booking your trip step by step, a campervan holiday means that you can consolidate your travel and accommodation in one, making for a more flexible journey, whilst leaving you with the option to book as you go.

4. Modern comforts.

No longer the dodgy campervans of decades past, new campervans come equipped with all the modern luxuries to suit even the most fussy traveller, becoming a cool new way to explore the wonders of Australia.

"At Jucy, we know what our customers want and so we ensure that our campas come with everything they could possibly need. This includes DVD and MP3 players, double beds, a stove, fridge and even the kitchen sink!" says Tim.

5. Cheap and cheerful

"All else aside, campervans can be one of the most cost-effective ways to explore Australia in style – especially in a Jucy campa," says Alpe. Jucy Rentals campervans start from $39 a day (depending on the season), making them ideal for travellers on a budget.

For more information visit www.jucyworld.com

About JUCY

Having launched in January 2002 in New Zealand, Jucy Rentals is one of Australasia's fastest growing independent tourism companies. Founded by brothers Tim and Dan Alpe, Jucy has grown from 35 cars to a fleet of over 2200 vehicles. Jucy currently employs 130 energetic and youthful staff members in offices throughout New Zealand and Australia. Jucy entered the Australian market in 2008, bringing its vibrant campervans to streets all over Australia. Jucy Australia is located in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Cairns. Jucy New Zealand is located in Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown and Greymouth. In August 2010 Jucy opened its first Jucy Hotel in Auckland, New Zealand.

Seven Skies Luxury Adventure Travel best of Borneo

Seven Skies Luxury Adventure Travel, the Australian company blending indulgence with adventure, has created a Borneo trip offering experiences ranging from the thrill of scaling Mount Kinabalu and island hopping by sea kayak to sipping sunset G & Ts poolside at stunning new luxury resorts.

Those seeking post-adventure pampering will be pleased to know that by booking the Borneo trip before 30th November 2010, a session at the Shangri-La's famous Tanjung Aru Chi Spa will be included, a well-deserved indulgence for many in a trip that perfectly infuses luxury into adventure.

Following active days spent sea kayaking, on river safari, or climbing, retire to Borneo's best luxury digs, ranging from a Conde Nast Traveller's Hot List island resort to an Alpine-inspired hut and beachside villas. Discover what makes Borneo's seafood famous and experience the immense variety of wild animals and plants that are unique to this part of the world.

The Seven Skies Borneo trip includes the following highlights:-

Sea kayaking in tropical waters and exploring the coral-fringed and forested islands of Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Swim, snorkel or just relax, island hopping through the stunning new Bunga Raya Island Resort and Gayana Eco Resort - included in Conde Nast Traveller's Hot List for 2009. Land your kayak on breathtaking island beaches for a personalised resort check-in and unwind in style.

With its strong focus on exquisite regional cuisine, lovers of seafood will be in culinary nirvana, dining at handpicked coastal restaurants. Freshly caught fish and crustacea of every description is beautifully prepared in front of your eyes. Savour soft shell crab, Cantonese style or steamed Coral Trout with ginger and shallots, overlooking the waters where they were caught.

Climb South East Asia's highest and most accessible peak, Mount Kinabalu (4095m) and be rewarded with an unforgettable sunrise on top of Borneo. Conquer the world's highest Via Ferrata (3376m) by making part of the descent on iron rungs, ladders and cable suspension bridges to get an experience usually only available to mountaineers.

Safari by boat down the Kinabatangan River, one of Borneo's most significant wildlife corridors and observe up close orang-utans, proboscis monkeys and Borneo pygmy elephants. Soak up the ambience of the river and tropical jungle before retiring at night to the comforts of a riverside lodge.


This Seven Skies 10 day Borneo fully hosted trip is priced from $6,195 per person twin share (excl. airfares from Australia). Bookings www.sevenskies.com.au or (07) 3160 5484.

P&O Cruises' Adds New Tropical Paradise to 2012 Cruise Program

P&O Cruises has introduced another exotic tropical island to its Pacific islands holiday program, with Mare in New Caledonia's Loyalty Islands set to make its debut as a port of call. 

Both Pacific Jewel and the cruise line's latest ship, Pacific Pearl, will make five visits to Mare, which boasts spectacular soft white powder beaches, imposing forest-clad cliffs and small, secluded coves tucked around the island. 

Pacific Jewel will be the first P&O Cruises' ship to call at the island, on a ten-night cruise that includes calls to Vanuatu's Pentecost Island, home to the brave vine jumpers, as well as Port Vila and Noumea. Departing April 9, 2012, fares are priced from $1549* per person in a complete four-berth cabin and $1899* twin share. 

The cruise is a highlight of P&O Cruises' new winter program, which offers 55 sailings across 15 different itineraries between April and August 2012.  

The program also includes more short cruise breaks, with 10 departures of less than a week on offer. New to the mix is a four-night roundtrip cruise on Pacific Sun from Brisbane to the Whitsundays, departing May 13, 2012 and priced from $849* per person twin share. 

The cruise is just one of 28 sailings from Brisbane on Pacific Dawn and Pacific Sun during winter 2012.  

Seven-night cruises to the Pacific islands from Brisbane on Pacific Dawn are priced from $889* per person in a complete four-berth cabin and $1349* per person twin share.  

Meanwhile, holidaymakers from Sydney will be able to select the perfect winter escape from 26 voyages onboard the city's own superliner, Pacific Jewel, and Pacific Pearl.  

Fares on Pacific Pearl's seven-night cruise from Sydney to New Caledonia's Noumea and Isle of Pines departing May 5, 2012 start from $979* per person in a complete four-berth cabin and $1399* per person twin share.  

Jenny Lourey, Senior Vice President of Carnival Australia, which operates P&O Cruises, said no other cruise line offered travellers the convenience of five home ports as well as the pleasures of dozens of destinations. 

"The addition of idyllic Mare to our ports of call is sure to delight our passengers, who consistently nominate the nearby islands of Ouvea and Lifou as their favourite stops," Ms Lourey said. 

For more information and bookings contact a licensed travel agent or P&O Cruises on 13 24 94 or visit www.pocruises.com.au   

 

* All prices are per person, twin share. Subject to availability, conditions apply.

Time to Visit Korea and Save during Visit Korea Years 2010-12

Australian visitors to South Korea over the next three years can look forward to taking advantage of many special offers and discounts and also enjoy some of the major events planned for Visit Korea Years 2010-12.

This year marked the beginning of the VKY2010-12 campaign aimed at generating $10billion in annual tourism revenue and advancing Korea's stature as a major tourism player. Last year almost 100,000 Australians visited Korea and from January to August this year Australian visitors to Korea have grown by 23.4% over the same period last year.

Visitors can save at present with the good exchange rate for the Korean won against the Australian dollar as well as the VKY2010-12 long stay discount program at various hotels. Stay four nights and get one night free via the Visit Korea Year website www.visitkoreayear.com

Free shuttle buses are operating to the major tourist cities of Busan and Jeonju as well as Korea's number one tourist destination, the ancient city of Gyeongju in the south-east corner of the country. Applicaton for the 'Free shuttle buses' are via the www.visitkoreayear.com website on a first come first served basis.
The website also has various discount coupons to print out for various restaurants, tea houses and beauty salons in the capital Seoul.

The theme for VKY2010 is 'City & Style' which has focused on the World Design Capital of Seoul and the rising interest in Korean pop culture in East Asia, urban tourism, culture and fashion.

Of interest to Australians shortly is the Formula One Grand Prix being held in Korea for the first time on 24 October with Australian Formula One driver Mark Webber tying to maintain his leading position for the World Championship this year.

2011's focus is 'Nature & People' of which the highlight is the IAAF World Championships in Athletics in Daegu city as well as green tourism. No doubt many of Australia's elite athletes will compete in the World Championships. See http://english.daegu2011.org

2012 will highlight 'Blue Ocean' when Korea will host an international exposition on the 'The Living Ocean and Coast' in Yeosu city. As well 2012 will spotlight Korea's IT technology, maritime tourism, cruise and island tourism. See www.expo2012.or.kr

Further information on VKY2010-12 can be obtained by visiting the official website www.visitkoreayear.com and for planning your travels in Korea visit the Korea Tourism Organization website www.visitkorea.or.kr or request a free information kit including a 230 page colour guidebook from the Sydney office by email: visitkorea@knto.org.au