UTracks Early Bird Deals to Europe

It’s that wonderful time of the year – UTracks’ Early Bird Sale has arrived. Save on a huge range of walking, cycling and boat based trips in Europe when booking a 2020 holiday with UTracks, Australia’s leading active travel specialist.

Travellers can save up to 10% on a wide range of UTracks trips for new bookings made between 25 September and 25 October 2019.

From walking in the High Tatra and Pieniny mountains in Poland, to exploring the less trodden Camino trails of Magna Via Francigena in Italy or Spain’s Sanabrés, cruising and biking the Low Countries from Amsterdam to Bruges, taking the kids on a Sweden summer holiday or following the ancient Thames Path in the UK, the Early Bird offer* is available on a plethora of old favourites and new experiences for 2020.

Currently 2020 European holidays are great value for money, with many airlines offering some amazing Early Bird airfares. When these are combined with UTracks’ Active Europe itineraries, travellers are receiving excellent value with inclusions such as accommodation, many meals, luggage transfers on self-guided trips, experienced local guides for guided trips, bikes for cycling trips, and complete back up and support.

Here are just some of the exciting Early Bird Trips on offer:

Via Dinarica: Bosnia to Montengro Walk – NEW for 2020

Walk a section of the Via Dinarica, the long distance walking trail through 8 Balkan countries. Our 7 day Via Dinarica: Bosnia to Montenegro guided walk includes the most breathtaking section of the Via Dinarica, a route filled with hidden natural gems and culture that crosses national parks and countries. Save 10 per cent and pay from $2025 per person if you book between 25 September and 25 October 2019. The trip includes accommodation in a range of hotels and guesthouses, most meals, an English speaking mountain guide, luggage transfers and entrance fees for national parks and sights visited. Read more here: UTracks.com/VDA

The Way of St James – Conques to Cahors Walk, France

Experience the most beautiful landscapes of the camino trail to Santiago on The Way of St James – Conques to Cahors. This is an 8 day self guided walk across the Parc Régional des Causses du Quercy in France, sampling delicacies such as Quercy lamb, truffles and local wines en route. Book during the Early Bird period and save 10 per cent, paying just $1134 per person which includes comfortable accommodation (with option to upgrade to charm category), breakfast daily and 6 dinners, route notes, maps, emergency hotline and luggage transfers. Read more: UTracks.com/FC3

Treasures of the Baltic by Bike

Our popular Treasures of the Baltic by Bike travels through Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. Discover the contrasting cultures and natural landscapes by cycling along the Baltic coastline. The 11 day guided cycle trip includes accommodation in 3-4 star hotels, cycle guide, all transfers and some entrance fees plus much more. If booked during the Early Bird period, 25 September to 25 October 2019, pay from $2331 per person twin share. Read more: UTracks.com/TBY

The bigger than ever UTracks 2020 brochure will be available at the end of September.

For more information please visit www.UTracks.com or call 1300 303 368.

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Trip.com drops prices on Malaysia hotel stays

#traveldeals

Malaysia is closer and more affordable than you think, with Trip.com offering up to 20% off hotels and flights from just $399, now is the time to make some memories in Malaysia.

Fly from Melbourne to Kuala Lumpur direct with Air Asia priced from $399 per person including all taxes and charges. Malaysia is on sale with Trip.com from 16 September 2019 to 14 October 2019, for travel between 16 September and 31 March 2020.

Take advantage of these incredible flight and hotel deals to Malaysia so you can tick this beautiful Southeast Asian country off your list.

From the orangutans in Borneo and the dreamy islands of Langkawi to the beautiful beaches of Penang and the exciting theme parks in Johor, Malaysia has something for everyone. Here are some of the hottest spots you won't want to miss out on in Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia. A very modern city, the skyline boasts the famous 451m-tall Petronas Twin Towers, a pair of glass-and-steel-clad skyscrapers with Islamic motifs. The towers also offer a public skybridge and observation deck. The city is also home to British colonial-era landmarks such as the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building. A mecca for foodies, you can stroll the streets and taste the local cuisine from many street food markets.

Stay at the PARKROYAL Kuala Lumpur for 20% off, starting from $85 per room, twin share, per night. Travel dates between 10 September 2019 and 31 March 2020. Explore Batu Caves on a tour from Kuala Lumpur from just $17.52 per person.

Langkawi

Langkawi, also known as the Jewel of Kedah, is an archipelago of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea some 30 km off the mainland coast of northwestern Malaysia. It is here you will find resorts scattered across pristine white sand beaches and warm enticing waters of the Andaman Sea. It is a popular spot for couples and honeymooners.

Stay at the Tanjung Rhu Resort Langkawi for 20% off, starting from $240 per room, twin share, per night. Travel dates between 10 September 2019 and 31 March 2020. Take a Langkawi Island Hopping Boat Tour with Fishing & BBQ Lunch from $40.46 per person.

Penang

Penang is a cocktail of Eastern cultures and has long served as the link between Asia's great kingdoms and an important outlet to the markets of Europe and the Middle East. The cosmopolitan George Town, Penang Island's main city and an urban centre, delivers old-world Asia mixed with aspects of modern culture. It is also a popular beach destination.

Stay at the Holiday Inn Resort Penang for 20% off, starting from $78 per room, twin share, per night. Travel dates between 10 September 2019 and 31 March 2020. Take the ferry between Langkawi and Penang from $26.97 per person.

Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is the capital of Malaysia's Sabah state in the northern part of the island of Borneo. Often referred to as KK, it's a coastal city partly surrounded by rainforest. It's known for its bustling markets, modern boardwalk, beaches, waterfront Kota Kinabalu and flora and fauna, including the orangutan.

Stay at the Sabah Beach Villa Kota Kinabalu for 20%, starting from $88 per room, twin share, per night. Travel dates between 10 September 2019 and 31 March 2020. Discover more by visiting the Half-Day Mari Mari Cultural Village from Kota Kinabalu from $48.33 per person.

Between January and May 2019, tourist arrivals into Malaysia recorded a growth of 4.8%, with 10.95 million tourist arrivals, compared to 10.45 million tourist arrivals in the same period last year.

In 2018, with 25.8 million tourists visiting our shores, Malaysia secured 15th place among countries with the highest number of tourist arrivals. Meanwhile, Malaysia ranked No.21 among countries with highest tourism revenue, bringing in RM84.1 billion in tourism revenue in 2018.

Sign up and earn coin

With the TripPLUS rewards program, members can earn 25 Trip Coins for every US$100* they spend on flight bookings, 80 Trip Coins for every US$100 spent on hotel bookings, and up to 120 Trip Coins for every hotel review they post. Members can either make instant savings on Trip.com hotel products by selecting the number of Trip Coins to use when booking, or exchange Trip Coins for access to promo codes. By enabling instant saving through Trip Coins, Trip.com will offer further attractive products in the highly competitive online travel market.

*Statistics recorded by United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) in its Barometer Report published in May 2019.

A&K Ultimate globe-spanning adventure

Even modern-day adventurers may need to Google some of the destinations featured on the latest newest Private Jet journey from the luxury travel experts at Abercrombie & Kent – Around the World with Geoffrey Kent: An Inspiring Expedition by Private Jet.

AirAsia new red carpet service in Australia

AirAsia, the World’s Best Low Cost Airline has announced the introduction of a new ‘Red Carpet Service’ at Brisbane International Airport, redefining the low cost travel experience for its Australian guests.

The new service, which includes a dedicated check-in area, priority baggage delivery, complimentary lounge access and express boarding is now available for guests departing Brisbane International Airport.

AirAsia Regional Commercial Head Matana Thienthong said, “AirAsia is already known for its fantastic fares and award-winning service. Today, we are taking that up a notch with the introduction of our ‘Red Carpet Service’, a typical premium perk which includes priority check-in and baggage, exclusive lounge access and boarding privileges.

“As the world’s best low cost airline for the 11th consecutive year, we’re always looking for opportunities to make our guests feel like VIPs. We think that by rolling out the red carpet on our newest Australian route, Brisbane to Bangkok direct, we will be able to do just that.”

AirAsia’s ‘Red Carpet Service’ is now available for pre-booking at airasia.com for just AUD$75. Children under the age of two are able to access the lounge free of charge when travelling with a full paying adult (limit of two children per adult). Guests may also purchase ‘Red Carpet Service’ at check-in for just AUD$85.

The lounge service is offered in partnership with Plaza Premium Lounge and includes up to three hours of lounge access, complimentary food, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and shower facilities. The lounge is open from 5am until midnight and is located in the Departures (Level 4) area of Brisbane International Airport, between Gate 81 and 82.

AirAsia also offers ‘Red Carpet Service’ at Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok

For more information, please visit: airasia.com/my/en/at-the-airport/red-carpet.page.

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Tourism Authority of Thailand Dares You #WeDareYouThailand

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is launching a unique online video sharing campaign that ‘dares’ foreign tourists and expats in Thailand to accept four challenges by creating videos to post on social media and share with friends using the #WeDareYouThailand hashtag.

Each of the four activities will allow participants to discover more about the identity of Thailand through four different types of challenges including Muay Thai (Thai boxing), Thai language, Khon (Thai masked dance drama), and Ruesi Dat Ton (Thai yoga). Those who successfully complete the challenge get the chance to win a trip to Thailand or other exciting prizes.

TAT Governor Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn said, “We Dare You’ encourages participants from around the world to accept the challenge set by TAT and explore their inner ‘Thainess‘ in every video that they post.

“The activity promotes a range of ‘Thainess’ elements and experiences through the four unique challenges. We hope that it will help encourage repeat visits among international tourists who appreciate these timeless traditions and cultures of Thailand,” Mr. Yuthasak said.

He added that anyone can join on the ‘We Dare You’ campaign website that includes special privileges, articles and travel information. In addition, there will be other online activities which participants can join on a monthly basis.

The TAT’s ‘We Dare You’ challenge runs from now until 31 July, 2019.

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Europe 2020 Flash Sale

Europe is your oyster!

For those of you currently suffering from severe summer FOMO, scrolling through a social feed full of friends living their best lives in sunny Europe right now, good news friends, that could very well be you next year!

STA Travel has just announced a Europe 2020 Flash Sale and hoo boy your 2020 travel plans just escalated!

Have you found yourself pining for the European summer sun but the cost of flights as held you back? Well pine no more, as STA are offering return flights to Europe from just $969! Or, if you’re curious to check out the motherland before country-hopping through the rest of Europe, take advantage of flights to the UK for a cheeky $999 return!

Can’t decide whether you’d prefer a relaxing and rejuvenating beach vacay or a fast-paced, interactive city escape? You can easily experience it all in the one trip, with 2020 Contiki and Busabout trips at 2019 prices, PLUS up to 20% off!

Tempted by tapas in Spain or intrigued by the Eiffel Tower in France? Tossing up between bathing in the crystalline waters of the Greek Islands or traipsing through the crisp mountain ranges of Italy? Nab a Eurail Global Pass from just $12 per day and treat yourself to it all!

Not big into solo travel but want to start the adventure? Small group adventures with G Adventures are up to 20% off!

Save on accommodation during your journey as well, with up to 25% off hotels, meaning you could score 3 nights from just $95! Madness!

Peep the full list of sales available, only until 15th July 2019!

-       Flights to the UK return from $999 with Malaysia Airlines (layby from $99)
-       Flights to Europe return from $969 with Thai Airways (layby from $99)
-       Contiki & Busabout 2020 trips at 2019 prices, plus up to 20% off
-       G Adventures up to 20% off small group adventures
-       Eurail Global Passes from $12 per day
-       Up to 25% off hotels – 3 nights from $95
-       Book a store appointment online and get $50 off

Keen to start the adventure? Head here for more information: https://www.statravel.com.au/flash-sale.htm

Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply.

To book your next adventure, visit an STA Travel store or call 134 782.


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SPECIAL OFFER: Up to 25% OFF Bali Health Retreats with Yovada

Health and wellness travel company, Yovada.com, is offering a 'buddy' deal wherein if you book for yourself and a friend to travel before December 10th, you will both receive 25% off the advertised price.

Furthermore, yovada.com is offering single guests 15% off their Bali health retreats in 2019, with savings of up to USD$1500 per person.

Yovada.com can make your wellness dream in Bali come true. Offering spa, detox, massage, yoga, Ayurveda, meditation, fitness and more, and with Chefs preparing deliciously healthy food and juices, you will reconnect with your inner vitality.

Yovada spokesperson Richard Saul says, "Bali is a mecca for many health and wellness centres that offer programs to recharge and rejuvenate yourself in the most serene and beautiful locations.

"We are pleased to partner with the popular centres in Bali to offer this 2019 special booking offer," says Saul.

Representing centres in Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud and beach locations around Bali, Yovada offers programs of all types and durations, and with incredible accommodation and facilities.

Whether you are interested in a private yoga retreat to spend some well earned 'me time' or travelling together to Bali for a detox spa experience, Yovada has got you covered.

To book your health retreat visit www.yovada.com

Banyan Tree Samui Opens Cool New Tuk-Tuk Bar

Banyan Tree Samui resort has opened what might be the quirkiest if not the cutest bar in Thailand — a cocktail caravan remodeled from a classic 1960s tuk-tuk.

The MP4 Midget is virtually unseen on the streets of Thailand these days. But once upon a time, the “frogs”, as they were commonly nicknamed, were everywhere. Thousands of these 12 HP 350cc three-wheelers were manufactured by Japan’s Daihatsu company and exported to Thailand starting in 1959 to form a fleet of taxis nationwide.

This particular frog was discovered last year in the southern Thai port town of Trang by Banyan Tree Samui’s head chef Rainer Roersch, who says he sensed immediately that a novelty tuk-tuk would make for an ideal art installation on the Koh Samui beachfront.

Revived from retirement, and now dubbed the Froggy Sea Breeze Beach Bar, the emerald-green van today serves up cocktails, beers and spirits to Banyan Tree guests and non-guests alike in a quiet cove in the southeast of the island between the popular beaches of Chaweng and Lamai.

The Froggy Sea Breeze Beach bar is open from 5pm till 11pm every evening. Highly recommended is the sweet n’ sour Froggy Melon, garnished in mint leaves, or The Botanical, a gin and absinthe-infused cocktail guaranteed to kick-start any engine.

Villas at Banyan Tree Samui, each with infinity pool, start from US$550 per night.

AirAsia’s BIG Sale is here with 5 million promo seats on sale

AirAsia’s latest sale fares are set to take off as the airline launches its BIG Sale of 5 million promotional seats next week.

Fly AirAsia to a range of destinations including newly launched routes from Perth to Lombok for as low as $99 and Brisbane to Bangkok starting at just $169.

A full list of the discounted fares for Australia below:

• 
  
• Perth to Denpasar from $109
• Perth to Lombok from $99
• Perth to Kuala Lumpur from $119
• Brisbane to Bangkok from $169
• Sydney to Kuala Lumpur from $149
• Avalon to Kual Lumpur from $139
• Gold Coast to Kuala Lumpur from $139

Low fares are available across AirAsia’s international network and guests can book at airasia.com or via the AirAsia mobile app from 17 June 2019 (0201h AEST) to 20 June 2019 (0200 AEST) for travel between 1 November 2019 and 8 September 2020.

AirAsia Group Chief Commercial Officer Karen Chan said, “There’s never been a better time to book your next holiday with AirAsia. In addition to the five million promo fares we’ve got on sale, AirAsia will waive all processing fees for guests who pay using BigClick*, a fast and hassle-free way to pay.”

AirAsia BIG members, BigPay users and AirAsia Credit Card holders will be able to take advantage of a 24-hour priority access period starting 16 June 2019 (0201h AEST). Simply log in as an AirAsia BIG Member to access seats at the lowest fares. AirAsia BIG members will also be able to redeem promo seats for as little as 500 BIG Points on airasiabig.com and the AirAsia BIG mobile app.

Guests who wish to make changes to their booking or purchase additional add-ons such as pre-booked Santan meals and Pick A Seat may do so at our improved My Bookings page with just 3 simple steps - Enter, Select & Pay!

For the latest AirAsia news, activities and promotions, follow AirAsia on Twitter (twitter.com/AirAsia), Facebook (facebook.com/AirAsia) and Instagram (instagram.com/AirAsia).

*All-in fares including taxes and fees. BigClick zero processing fees applies to bookings made between 10-30 June 2019. Refer to Terms and Conditions here.




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Great Train Journeys' New Addition - The Presidential

Great Train Journeys, Rail Europe’s portfolio of luxurious train journeys around the world, has announced its latest addition, Portugal’s The Presidential.

A journey that focuses on the country’s fine food and wine, The Presidential is a mouth-watering journey that spoils guests with meals prepared by some of the country’s (and the world’s) most renowned and upcoming chefs. The culinary talents in 2019’s departures between 20 Sept and 26 October include Chefs Henrique Sá Pessoa (two Michelin stars), Oscar Goncalves (one Michelin star), Leandro Carreira, Alexandre Silva (2012 winner of Top Chef), Óscar Gonçalves, as well as Nuno Mendes and Bruno Rocha. Rising stars include André Lança Cordeiro and Pedro Pana Bastos.

There are three packages on offer aboard The Presidential. The first is a 9-hour The Presidential Experience, a return Sao Bento – Vesuvio day trip, which includes a gourmet lunch with pairing wines and a port-tasting excursion to Quinto do Vesuvio. Prices start at AU$1,390.

The second offer is a 2-day Escapade Pack from Sao Bento to Duoro. It includes a return Presidential Experience from Porto – Vesuvio, grape treading in one of the world’s last stone pits and an overnight at Casa do Rio. Prices start at AU$4,274.

The third offer is the 3-day Premium Pack. It includes private tours to Serralves (Portugal’s premier modern art museum) and Casa de Musica (the country’s grandest concert hall); an overnight stay at the Intercontinental Hotel and Six Senses Duoro Valley; a boat cruise; as well as Michelin class meals on board the train and at Palacio das Cardosas and O Gaveto. Prices start at AU$8548.

For more information, visit www.greattrainjourneys.com.au.

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