Jetsettersblog

Pocket-sized koalas, wombats the size of cows and an ancient gorge fringed by rainforest are just waiting to be discovered in Queensland’s very own Outback oasis, writes Jessica Reid.

Three hundred and ten kilometres and we didn’t so much as pass a petrol station; three cars, two wedge tail eagles, thousands of termite mounds standing like tombstones, an emu, a roadside cattle muster and a couple of kangaroos, yes, but otherwise it was just us and the wide expanse of Queensland’s Outback.

We were on our way to two hidden gems in this remote part of the State’s far north-west – Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park and the World Heritage-listed Riversleigh Fossil Fields, which are both, as we found, well worth the drive.

If you don’t have a 4WD, the best way to see these spectacular landmarks is on one of Dell Burgen’s three day/two night Yididi Aboriginal Guided Tours which depart Mount Isa every Tuesday and Friday.

After driving such a long way through flat savannah land, we were nearly at the Queensland/Northern Territory border and I must admit I had started to doubt the legend of Lawn Hill’s greenness and grandeur.

Yet almost out of nowhere we were suddenly at the gorge’s entrance and before long were silently canoeing carefully through the waterlilies and striking scenery.

Steep ochre cliffs guide the permanent fresh water gorge along a winding path fringed with thriving green trees, ferns and scrubs. About 1km into the gorge we tied off our canoes and dived into the fresh water.

I was quickly drawn to the nearby tiny waterfalls and well-placed rocks which created my own mini Outback spa, while the fishermen, hikers and bird watchers in our group were also well catered for in this incredible spot flourishing with flora and fauna.

The afternoon quickly slipped by before we headed back to the area’s only accommodation at Adel’s Grove, which lies just downstream from the gorge’s main entrance.

Adel’s Grove began humbly as an experimental Botanical Garden in 1920 created by Albert de Lestang (hence the name “Adel” derived from Albert’s initials).

By 1939, Albert had planted more than 1,000 species of exotic and native plants, shrubs and trees, but in the early 1950s disaster struck when a fire swept through the grove and destroyed almost everything in its path including Albert’s dwelling and trunk containing all of his research papers.

The current owner managers of Adel’s Grove, Rod and Michelle Low Mow have been running the property since 2001 and have made quite a few changes since they took charge. The site now offers a bar and restaurant, 17 permanently-erected tents (complete with bedding, bedside table, deck and outdoor setting), 15 cabins and 53 designated tent sites, which according to the Low Mows are all booked out months in advance during the peak season of June to September.

“I’m always asked if I feel isolated out here, but with so many people coming through, it’s often a case of me wanting to get away from everyone,” laughed Rod.

Both Michelle and Rod were born and bred in Brisbane, but met while working in Mount Isa as teenagers.

“We set off to travel around Australia, but didn’t get much further than here!” said Rod.

While Michelle runs the restaurant and day to day operation of the property, Rod takes daily trips to one of the area’s other highlights – the Riversleigh Fossil Fields.

“Since 1967, scientists have increased Australia’s known creatures by more than 1,000 from this site alone,” he said.

“Wombats the size of cows, flesh-eating kangaroos, three metre tall flightless birds, pocket-sized and giant koalas, and 13 different species of crocodiles are just some of the creatures they have discovered to be roaming the land where you are standing up to 25 million years ago.

“This land used to be a lush rainforest and lake and I guarantee you that under nearly every bit of rock out there you will find a bit of bone which has been preserved in limestone,” Rod said.

Granted World Heritage listing in 1994 for its outstanding representation of the evolution of Australian mammals and the quality of its fossils, Riversleigh Fossil Fields covers a 10,000ha area, with ‘D-Site’ the only section open to the public.

Before or after seeing the real thing it’s highly recommended that visitors pop into the Riversleigh Fossil Centre in Mount Isa for an extensive insight into the region as it was millions of years ago, and into the process of fossilisation.

Here we watched a palaeontologist at work and saw a number of fossils and life-size replicas of some of the ancient animals which once inhabited Australian soil.

The Riversleigh Fossil Centre is located in the Outback at Isa complex which is also home to the famous ‘Hard Times Mine’, which was built and operated by real miners and today provides the opportunity to experience first hand the daily life and workings of an underground mine.

After donning bright orange overalls and hard hats with lamps, we descended 30 metres into the mine and began exploring the rabbit warren of underground tunnels and pathways. Our passionate guide explained the history and evolution of mining, showing us both past and present equipment and even let each of us try the Air Leg Drill.

Other highlights in Mount Isa include a visit to Arilla Paper, the indigenous paper-making company that uses everything from mango leaves to cow poo to make paper, and of course the Mount Isa School of the Air whose students live up to 500km away and come to ‘class’ over the radio. Tours of the school operate each weekday during the school term at 10am.

And while there aren’t any pocket-sized koalas and gigantic wombats roaming outside the classroom window, there’s certainly enough history and heritage in this stunning part of the world to make you feel like you’ve gone back in time and back to nature.

If you go:
Accommodation and holiday ideas: www.outbackholidays.info
Adel’s Grove: www.adelsgrove.com.au
Getting there: Qantas flies direct to Mount Isa from Brisbane

Port Macquarie’s newest attraction ‘The Coastal Walk’ has been completed, providing access to one of NSW’s most dramatic and inspiring coastlines. The 9km easy-grade walk takes in beaches, headlands, historic sites and subtropical rainforest.

Stretching from Westport Park in town to Tacking Point Lighthouse, the walk takes approx 3.5hours one way and is being hailed as the new ‘must-do’ in the region.

“Visitors are always looking for ways to explore our beautiful beaches and waterways, and with a growing demand for healthy, nature-based experiences, we expect this walk will become very popular,” said Linda Hall, Tourism Manager at Port Macquarie Hastings Council.

“The specially constructed walkway hugs the coastline and features viewing platforms, interpretive signage, picnic spots and swimming at bays and beaches. Four of out five times you will see the resident dolphins of Hastings River, plus there is a variety of birdlife and the annual whale migration from May to November.” said Linda.

The opening of the final stage adds more to the experience – as well as enjoyment and fitness – there is also learning and education. Take a bush-tucker tour at Sea Acres Nature Reserve or explore historic sites from Port Macquarie’s past such as Tacking Point Lighthouse.

The Coastal Walk can be divided into four sections of approx 2.5km each, with a return bus option. It is a free experience and accessible every day. The Walk is a joint project between Port Macquarie Hastings Council and the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Port Macquarie is a 4.5 hour drive north of Sydney and is serviced by regular Qantaslink, Brindabella Airlines and Virgin Blue flights, just 40minutes from Sydney.

There is no better way to take in the beautiful scenery and landscapes of Greater Port Macquarie than on one of the many walks in the region.

Other great walks include Kooloonbung Creek Nature Reserve, North Brother Mountain, Queens Lake Foreshore and Rocks Ferry Reserve along the Hastings River at Wauchope.

For more information on the Coastal Walk and others, contact the Greater Port Macquarie Visitors Information Centre on 1300 303 155 or go online to www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au

At a time when everybody is talking about ‘The Best Job in the World’ on the Islands of the Great Barrier Reef, why not start planning the perfect getaway of your own in this very same stunning destination? DescaradA Charters offer a tempting island escape onboard a luxury yacht exploring the coral blue waters, sunny beaches and spectacular landscape of the Whitsundays. And yes – just like ‘The Best Job in the World’, you do get to snorkel, laze around and indulge in sweet luxury… No pool to clean though!

Some 74 secret pieces of island paradise can now be discovered in style. DescaradA takes you for a trip of a lifetime with a crew of three catering to your every need from fine food to fun activities and moments of complete relaxation. Accommodating a maximum of eight passengers overnight, the 70ft luxury vessel provides every guest with an exclusive, intimate experience.

Perfect as a getaway cruise for couples, DescaradA’s prescheduled two and three day tours enable anyone to experience the thrill of luxury boating. Or for the ultimate in private travel, simply hire the entire vessel with close relatives and friends for a special occasion.

DescaradA’s home port is Abel Point Marina in Airlie Beach, Queensland. Closest airports are Proserpine on the mainland or Hamilton Island with a convenient ferry connection to Airlie Beach. Private charter pick ups can be organised from most island resorts.

All three day cruises in April and May include a complimentary accommodation night in Airlie Beach. The four night indulgent escape package starts from just AUD$1,495.00* per person twin share and includes the selected cabin, crew of three, all DescaradA meals with non-alcoholic beverages and full cruise itinerary with activities.

*Applies to direct bookings made by 31st March 2009. Subject to availability.

FOLLOWING £25 MILLION TRANSFORMATION

New Radisson Edwardian Bloomsbury Street Hotel Offers £139 (Approx. $204*) Opening Rate

LONDON – As part of a £25 million (approx. $36.7 million*) transformation, leading London hotelier Radisson Edwardian, has renamed its four-star deluxe Marlborough Hotel, as the Radisson Edwardian Bloomsbury Street Hotel (www.radissonedwardian.com).

To celebrate the multi-million-dollar makeover, the 174-bedroom hotel will offer a special introductory rate of £139 (approx. $204*) per room, per night until April 30, 2009.

Staying at the new Radisson Edwardian Bloomsbury Street Hotel, visitors will enjoy being in the heart of London’s vibrant literary and cultural quarter, made famous by a group of turn-of-the-20th century intellectuals, including writers Virginia Woolf and E.M Forster, economist John Maynard Keynes and artist Roger Fry.

“Bloomsbury has a creative and independent edge and is renowned as a center for artistic activity,” says Karthik Ramamurthy, General Manager. “Being located on Bloomsbury Street and with the British Museum, Covent Garden and Theatre Land on our doorstep, we felt it only fitting to reflect and celebrate this heritage through our name and new design”.

Paying respect to Bloomsbury’s literary connection, a whole wall made up of pages from one of Bloomsbury’s most famous exports – Virginia Woolfe’s Mrs. Dalloway – now dominates the hotel’s spacious reception area.

The Radisson Edwardian Bloomsbury Street Hotel, has enjoyed a top-to-bottom makeover including the creation of a brand new seventh floor hosting some of the smartest and largest bedrooms and bathrooms in London. The innovative meeting and events suite now boasts seven sleek spaces including the immense Folio Room (300 capacity) and the very latest HD technology with built-in Blu-Ray and intuitive touch-screen controls.

The beautifully designed spaces provide true five-star luxury at four-star prices providing guests with the same convenient location and high-quality service, now with a new contemporary design and modern amenities.

Showcasing the culinary craftsmanship of chef Redmond Hayward, the opulent Bloomsbury Street Restaurant is also set to become one of London’s hottest gastronomic destinations.

“We believe that this fresh “Bloom” offers a ray of light in otherwise gloomy times for London’s tourist industry” says Ramamurthy. “Our transformation proves that we are committed to investing in the capital and providing a luxurious, yet affordable haven for visitors to bustling Bloomsbury”.

For more information or reservations, visit www.radissonedwardian.com/bloomsburystreet or call 011 44 20 7636 5601.

About Radisson Edwardian
Part of the UK’s fastest growing upscale hotel brand, Radisson Edwardian has a collection of 13 individual hotels in unparalleled locations across London and Manchester.

While each has its own unique character and independent spirit, all are renowned for a “Yes I Can!” spirit of service, supported by a “100% Guest Satisfaction Guarantee”.

 With design that doesn’t compromise on comfort, a commitment to intelligent technology – high-speed wireless is complimentary throughout – and chic restaurants and bars showcasing seasonal British ingredients, Radisson Edwardian offers a stylish, upscale experience at an affordable price.

For information on any of our hotels visit the web site www.radissonedwardian.com

CARMARTHENSHIRE, WALES, – - Americans in search of a vacation retreat that’s fit for a king will be pleased to know that they can now stay at Prince Charles’ Welsh country home in Carmarthenshire and, quite literally, live like a royal.

Llwynywermod, a former 18th century coach house and farm bought by the Duchy of Cornwall estate, has been renovated to become the first Welsh home for the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall. While the royal couple has their quarters in the old coach house; visitors are able to book the neighboring two 18th century style cottages when the royals aren’t at home.

The properties feature Welsh slate and stone, and the interiors mix period and contemporary furniture including many Welsh pieces and local fabrics. Prince Charles said: “It is above all a tribute to Welsh craftsmanship, which is of a very high order, and that unique rural and industrial craft inheritance that has formed so many equally unique Welsh characters that I have been so proud and privileged to have known during the past 50 years.”

Guests staying at Llwynywermod will be enjoying the same surrounding landscapes and tranquility which attracted its royal owners.

 Carmarthenshire is known for its castles, beautiful gardens, and towns and villages like Laugharne, where visitors can tour the Dylan Thomas Boathouse.

Both of the cottages feature stone floors, large fireplaces, oak-shuttered windows and high quality furnishings.

They also include modern comforts such as flat-screen TV, DVD player, dishwasher and washing machine. North Range Cottage sleeps up to six people, and West Range Cottage sleeps up to four, with prices starting at £600 per week.

The rental includes electricity and heating, towels and linen, toiletries, logs for the fire and a welcome pack.

Each cottage has a fully-equipped kitchen with a timber work surface.

Heat and hot water is supplied from a woodchip boiler, and sustainable natural products have been used in the construction, including sheep’s wool insulation and hemp plaster.

For more information on planning vacations in Wales, visit

www.TravelWales.org

 For more information on the vacation cottages, visit

www.duchyofcornwallholidaycottages.co.uk

Hawaii’s first Ernie Els-designed signature 18-hole golf course has opened for play at Hoakalei Country Club in Ewa Beach, Oahu.

 This private course offers breathtaking views of Oahu’s southwestern coastline and a thoughtful design for both leisure and competitive golfers.

For more information, visit www.HoakaleiCountryClub.com

Cathay Pacific’s All-Asia Pass allows travelers to visit to 24 of Asia’s hottest destinations for three weeks at a low starting price of $1,499.

The All-Asia Pass is eligible for Asia Miles, which means one trip can earn free future flights, upgrades and other lifestyle rewards.

With the newly added destination of Hanoi, a city boasting French-Colonial influences, the All-Asia Pass features everything travelers need in one single trip — low fares, exciting destinations, mileage earning opportunities and the flexibility of customizing their flight itinerary.

The All-Asia Pass includes Economy Class round-trip travel from Los Angeles, New York or San Francisco to Hong Kong — plus 21 consecutive days of travel to four other destinations chosen from 24 Asian cities.

Popular destinations include Bangkok, Busan, Cebu, Denpasar, Fukuoka, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Kaohshiung, Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Nagoya, Osaka, Penang, Phuket, Phnom Penh, Sapporo, Seoul, Singapore, Surabaya, Taipei and Tokyo.

The All-Asia Pass starts at $1,499 for travel to Hong Kong plus two cities, $1,799 for travel to Hong Kong plus three cities, and $2,099 for travel to Hong Kong plus four cities.

Departure dates are  to May 17 and Aug 17 to Dec 9. Summer travel, extension options up to 90 days and departures from other U.S. gateway cities are available for an additional fee. For those seeking adventures beyond the basic cities, the All Asia Pass also offers add-on destinations to selected cities in Bangladesh, China, India, Nepal and Vietnam.

Flights must be booked by a travel agent. For more information, visit www.cathayusa.com/offers/AllAsiaPass

The Lodge at Sonoma, a Renaissance Resort and Spa in Northern California’s Wine Country, has launched a series of green initiatives and practices for meeting planners.

Among them are 100 percent recycled note pads, pens made from recycled materials, eco-friendly water service, meeting room recycling available, online event menus, organic flowers upon request, certified staff in green meetings, a recyclable box lunch program and paperless billing.

In addition, green practices throughout the hotel include recycling of office paper, plastic and glass; installation of water saving showerheads and toilets in all guestrooms; fluorescent bulbs installed in all guestrooms and hallways and throughout meeting areas; and an energy management system to control air flow throughout the hotel.

For more information, call 888-236-2427 or visit www.thelodgeatsonoma.com

Copper Mountain will provide a satellite-based safety net for thousands of ski and snowboard school students this year with a GPS tracking system developed by Boulder location-based services company flaik, Inc. JP Chevalier, director of Copper’s Ski and Ride School, said that flaik successfully integrate mobile technology and GPS to reliably increase performance and safety.

“Our goals are to provide the best services for our customers today and to enhance the overall resort experience for the next generation of skiers and riders,” he said. Flaik is an Australian startup company whose satellite-based social networking technology helps skiers track their vertical performance and resorts monitor ski and snowboard school students.

For more information, visit www.flaik.com

Hilton HHonors, the loyalty program for more than 3,000 Hilton Family hotels, and Miles & More, the frequent traveler program for guests of Lufthansa and 12 other European airlines, announced the launch of a unique online portal, which allows Miles & More members to book hotel stays at Hilton Family hotels using their miles.

 The collaboration represents the first endeavor by both Miles & More and HHonors that allows members to use miles for hotel bookings in a simple and flexible way. The convenient online portal can be accessed at www.HiltonHHonors.com/MilesandMore

Some additional benefits of the new Hilton HHonors and Miles & More exchange portal include the ability to book hotel rooms with no blackout dates using miles earned through Miles & More. Anytime a standard room is available for purchase, Miles & More members can redeem miles for it, with no minimum or maximum stay requirements.

Stays can be booked during the week or on the weekends with no advance booking requirements, so stays can be booked last minute, with access to more than 3,000 Hilton, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Doubletree, Embassy Suites Hotels, Hampton, Hilton Garden Inn, Hilton Grand Vacations, and Homewood Suites by Hilton hotels around the world.

For further information, visit www.HiltonHHonors.com