Jetsettersblog

If you want to channel your inner adventurer over the long summer holidays, NSW’s Sapphire Coast is the place to be.

The region on the far south coast of NSW, between Bermagui and the Victorian border, will be a hive of activity over the Christmas break with lots more on offer than the usual beachside activities.

For those who like to go in search of where the wild things are, the Marine Discovery Centre at Eden is offering a tailored-to-you program of workshops themed ‘soft and squishy’, aimed at de-mystifying some of our common underwater creatures.

If you have a family or group of four or more, the Marine Discovery Centre team will fit in with your holiday timetable – as well as tides and weather – and schedule a discovery programme to suit. There are sessions geared to children and families as well as some advanced activities for adults who would like to know more (for example, there’s more to a squid than slice, dice and toss in salt and pepper!). Just contact the Centre to book a time (www.sapphirecoastdiscovery.com.au or phone [02] 6496 1699).

It’s action a-plenty with the National Parks and Wildlife Service’s Discovery walks, talks and tours programme, which is being run at different park areas along the coast, as well as some inland sites.
Snakes and snorkels, platypus and planets and koalas and canoes are all part of a varied timetable designed to highlight some of the stunning beaches, camping areas and lagoons that stud the area.

There’s also a 4WD Tag-Along Tour of the South East Forest National Park for those who like to get off the beaten track, but with some expert advice on hand. Check the timetable on the Sapphire Coast website (details below) and book your adventure by calling 1300 361 606.

And if your tribe needs some serious activity to get their attention – and the prospect of some great prizes – then sign on to compete in the 10th annual Tathra Wharf to Waves weekend, January 15 to 16.

There is a series of 600m age-based ocean swims and the 1200m ‘Splash for Cash’ open race, all starting from the Tathra Wharf and finishing on the beach in front of the Tathra Surf Club. There’s a race for every age group and ability, and you’ll feel good knowing you are raising funds for the local life saving club, preschool and rural fire service.

But if you’re more of a runner than a swimmer, you can still be a part of the action by competing in the 2km fun run along the beach, or for those who favour two wheels rather than two legs, there’s the scenic 30km Bridge To Bridge mountain bike race from Bega to Tathra. Check out the website for all the details (www.tathrawharf2waves.com).

You can find details on accommodation as well as information on these and other activities by visiting www.sapphirecoast.com.au or calling toll-free on 1800 150 457.

From the shores of Waikiki in the 1950′s to the NSW South Coast of today comes one of the world’s fastest growing board sports – Stand Up Paddle.

An exciting low impact water sport that allows you to learn new skills whilst experiencing the outdoors, Stand Up Paddle is a graceful and fun activity that promotes fitness, stamina, strength and balance for participants of any age or fitness level.

Total Eco Adventures at Broulee provides Stand Up Paddle tours, expert tuition and top quality equipment. Set amongst the beautiful beaches and waterways of the NSW South Coast, choose a from leisurely Eco cruise, flatwater lessons or a dynamic fitness work-out; ideal for family fun, group outings or corporate events and team building exercises.

Totel Eco Adventures founder, Dr David Baine, says “I have found that engaging people in exciting outdoor activities in beautiful natural areas is a great way to promote environmental education and awareness. The amazing coastal environments of the Eurobodalla, particularly in the Broulee area, allow us to attract and inspire people to come on our unique Stand Up Paddle experiences and other activities on offer.”

Private Stand Up Paddle Surfing lessons for beginners to intermediate surfers are also available for 1-2 people, as well as cross training advice and personal fitness assessments by qualified yoga teachers and Stand Up Paddle instructors.

Total Eco adventures was founded by Belinda Whener and Dr Dave Bain as an evolution from the company Fluid Adventures into an ocean based outdoor activities company with a strong environmental theme. (02) 4471 6969 7/77 Coronation Drive, Broulee NSW 2537

The Wilderness Gallery, in conjunction with the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) has opened the world’s largest private exhibition of thylacine material “Thylacine – The Tasmanian Tiger Exhibition”.

Chairman of Trustees of the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, Sir Guy Green, officially opened the exhibition, describing it as a highly professional, wonderfully comprehensive presentation which will provide visitors with a unique opportunity to increase their knowledge and understanding of this internationally recognised Tasmanian animal.

“This exhibition gives further fine expression to the most productive partnership which exists between TMAG and the Federal Group, which was recently recognised by the award of the Australia Business Art Foundation Partnering Award for Tasmania,” Sir Guy said.

The new permanent exhibition tells the story of the Tasmanian Tiger and the human interaction that led to its extinction.

“The exhibition comprises a number of rare artefacts from the Federal Group Collection, as well as the thylacine skin rug that was purchased for TMAG and the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery by the Federal Group in 2002. This exhibition is sure to reinforce the significance of our natural and cultural heritage and the journey we have taken on the road to conservation,” Wilderness Gallery General Manager Mark Whitnell said.

“Visitors can learn about the Tiger’s unusual biological features through a replica thylacine skeleton, the first whole-mammal skeleton produced in Australia using Stereolithographic BioModelling; enter a Trappers’ Hut and travel back in time listening to the stories of the old trappers and snarers; and view recorded footage of the last Tasmanian Tiger and images of Tiger hunters.

“This will be a truly world-class exhibition and we are very proud to have it housed at the Wilderness Gallery.

“I would like to acknowledge the work of Wilderness Gallery Manager Tracy Thomas and Scott Marston, together with Kathyrn Medlock, Brian Looker and Nikki King-Smith of TMAG, who have worked extremely hard on this project.”

A major new annual event will showcase Canberra in a whole new light and provide more reasons to visit the nation’s capital during autumn.

Enlighten: See Canberra in a whole new light was launched today by ACT Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation, Andrew Barr, and will premiere in March 2011 to coincide with the month-long Canberra Festival.

“Enlighten is an exciting new event that will be held over four nights on 11, 12, 18 and 19 March 2011, and will involve after-hour activities at national attractions, amazing architectural lighting and a vibrant event hub with headline acts against the stunning backdrop of Lake Burley Griffin,” Australian Capital Tourism General Manager, Simonne Shepherd said.

“The ticketed event will enhance the festive vibe of Canberra’s birthday month with an exciting program highlighted by our national attraction partners offering a unique after-dark experience and outstanding musical acts including concerts by international artists, George Benson, Chris Isaak and Frankie Valli.

Performing exclusively at Enlighten, George Benson expressed excitement about his involvement in the event.
“I’m thrilled to be coming to Australia with my band to open the very first Enlighten festival in Canberra in March. I love Australia and I can’t wait to get back,” Mr Benson said.

“But the excitement doesn’t end there,” said Ms Shepherd. “We will be announcing another major musical act in early 2011, so stay tuned.”
National attractions participating in the 2011 Enlighten event include the National Gallery of Australia, Parliament House and the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House.

“Visitors will see the capital in a whole new light as the stunning foreshore of Lake Burley Griffin is transformed into a festive hub and national attractions come to life with spectacularly lit facades and special one-off activities,” Ms Shepherd said.

“Autumn is a wonderful time to visit the Canberra region. The change of season is heralded not only by the fiery colours of the deciduous trees, but by the iconic Canberra Balloon Fiesta and a month long celebration of Canberra’s birthday – the Canberra Festival.

“This event promises to bring a new dimension to Canberra’s birthday celebrations, enhancing the vibrancy of Canberra during autumn by creating a ‘city in festival’ and showcasing the fantastic experiences we have here.”

Enlighten tickets will be on sale this week through Ticketek at www.ticketek.com.au or by calling 13 28 49. For more information visit www.enlightencanberra.com

Captain Cook Cruises and Bass & Flinders Cruises, in conjunction with National Parks & Wildlife Service, have launched the ultimate Sydney Harbour attractions pass – the Harbour Hopper, which allows passengers to hop on and off at 10 of Sydney Harbours main attractions.

Available throughout December 2010 and January 2011, the Harbour Hopper pass will enable passengers over one or two days to visit and explore ten of Sydney Harbour’s most popular attractions. Attractions include Darling Harbour, Circular Quay, Fort Denison, Taronga Zoo – Athol Bay, Shark Island, Watsons Bay, Luna Park, Manly, Quarantine Station and Chowder Bay- Clifton Gardens.

This pass, offering so many destinations to passengers, is a first for Captain Cook Cruises and Bass and Flinders and is perfect for families.

“Captain Cook Cruises and Bass and Flinders are delighted to be able to give passengers the opportunity to visit so many of Sydney’s attractions all on the one pass. This is a fantastic pass for families and an ideal activity to do with the kids over the school holidays.” Explains Anthony Haworth, Managing Director, Captain Cook Cruises.

The Harbour Hopper also gives people ferry access to incredibly beautiful but little known parks and beaches in the heart of our Harbour.

“The diversity of natural and built attractions around the harbour with its mix of beaches, islands, walks and attractions gives this pass a broad family appeal. The new National Park and Wildlife Service plan of helping make these area areas more accessible is a real bonus for Sydneysiders and tourists.” Says Richard Ford, Bass and Flinders Cruises.

The Harbour Hopper pass is operated in three cruise circuits which cover all parts of the main harbour including Manly.

The three circuits integrate into a seamless one-day or two-day experience. Passengers can transfer between circuits at Circular Quay, Watsons Bay or Manly.

The Harbour Hopper operates 7 days between Sunday 19 December 2010 and 30 January 2011 excluding Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Eve.

One-Day Harbour Hopper passes are priced at $59 for adults, AUD$33 for children (5-14yrs) and AUD$118 for Families (2 adults and 2 children). The Two- Day Harbour Hopper pass is AUD$79 for adults, AUD$47 for children and $158 for Families. All prices include unlimited reboarding and National Park entry fees.

For bookings and enquiries telephone Captain Cook Cruises (02) 9206 1111 or visit www.captaincook.com.au/harbourhopper

Harbour Hopper
Brief description of attractions visited on the Harbour Hopper pass

Darling Harbour: Aquarium, Wildlife World, Maritime Museum, Imax, shops & restaurants plus Monorail to Sydney Tower, Casino, Powerhouse Museum & China Town

Taronga Zoo – Athol Bay: Discover Australia’s amazing wildlife – koalas, platypus and kangaroos – plus animals of the world. Park entry fees apply. Daily 9am-5pm. Take the 5km walk along the bush track to Chowder Bay and view the headlands historic forts and cannons.

Watsons Bay: Home of Doyles famous seafood restaurant & waterfront pub and only a short walk to beautiful harbour swimming beaches & HMAS Watson.

Luna Park: Sydney’s famous fun park with rides & games. Only a short walk to the entrance to the harbor bridge walking lane for those who’d like to walk across the Bridge

Fort Denison: An historic island & restaurant in the middle of Sydney Harbour.

Shark Island: The perfect destination for a BYO picnic, complete with a small beach, large grassy areas, shady trees and a gazebo.

Manly: Only a short walk to Manly Ocean beach, restaurants & shops

Circular Quay: The Rocks historic precinct, weekend markets, Opera House, Royal Botanic Gardens and Harbour Bridge pylon & restaurants

Quarantine Station: Visit the Boiler House Restaurant right on the sandy swimming beach. Take the 200 steps to top of North Head for scenic views of the city and explore the site of the infamous Q Station which operated between the 1830s and1984.

Chowder Bay – Clifton Gardens: A former military site opened to the public in 2000. The historic Submarine Miner’s Depot buildings have been restored and include a display, wooden boat building, kiosk & Ripples restaurant with stunning views. The netted beach at the western end of Chowder Bay is ideal for swimming. Walk along the 5km bush track to Athol Bay.

For further information and bookings, please contact Captain Cook Cruises toll free from Australia on
02 9206 1111; Int +61-2-9206 1111, Email: or visit www.captaincook.com.au/harbourhopper

Thailand’s multi-award winning 56 boutique residence, The Sarojin, has dreamt up the ultimate romantic celebration for couples looking to create everlasting memories on Valentine’s Day: a six-night ‘Just For 2 Renewal of Vows’ package featuring a range of unforgettable experiences and special touches to make this romantic day a truly memorable one.

Why not spend 14th February revelling in romance and recreating the highlights of your wedding day with your own personal wedding coordinator, before saying ‘I do’ for the second time during a magnificent renewal of vows ceremony?

Sip champagne as you travel by luxury car through some of Thailand’s most beautiful backdrops with your loved one. Allow yourself to be guided along a secluded jungle path, the early evening romantically illuminated by the soft glow of hundreds of candles, before you take centre stage at one of nature’s most mesmerising natural theatres at the base of a cascading jungle waterfall set against a rainforest backdrop. There really is no better place to celebrate your love and renew your vows, or simply say, ‘I love you’.

Following your special vow renewal ceremony, your own personal chef will prepare an exquisite gourmet experience in this breathtaking location. Follow this with a midnight dip in the cool, clear night waters of this enchanting natural wonderland to bring your special day to a close. This is something special for any couple, with the romance of the setting heightened by its ethereal beauty.

The Sarojin’s six-night ‘Just For 2 Renewal of Vows’ package starts from THB 141,785 which is approximately AUD $4,726 for two people, inclusive of all taxes and includes: six nights’ accommodation in a luxurious Garden Residence, the services of an experienced and professional wedding coordinator, an exclusive wedding ceremony complete with renewal of vows certificate, a private candlelit dining experience at a jungle waterfall with a choice of a five-course Thai or Mediterranean dinner served ‘Just For 2′, one bottle of celebratory champagne, all day à la carte breakfast with sparkling wine, and private airport transfers to and from Phuket Airport with cold towels and refreshments served for two people.

For further information on The Sarojin, please visit: www.sarojin.com

About The Sarojin
Winner of the ‘World Luxury Hotel’ Award 2007, 2009, 2010* and ‘World Luxury Romantic Hotel’ in 2007 and 2009*, The Sarojin is internationally renowned as one of the finest resort properties in Asia. Designed in a contemporary Asian style and beautifully set on an 11km stretch of secluded white sand beach in Khao Lak, just a 55 minute drive north of Phuket Airport, the five-star resort boasts 56 deluxe residences set within ten acres of grounds leading directly onto the beachfront. Each guest room features its own private garden and ‘sala’ sundeck, couples’ baths with waterfall showers, and plunge and relaxation pools that blend into the natural habitat; while other complimentary facilities include a fully equipped fitness centre and mountain bikes, sailing catamarans, sail boats, sea kayaks and windsurfing boards.

The Sarojin’s name is inspired by the mythical Lady Sarojin, the daughter of a prominent Thai nobleman who was regarded as the perfect host and whose household became famous for its hospitality. The Sarojin’s goal is to reflect this legacy by providing an experience that is reminiscent of staying at a friend’s private estate. The hotel’s team of personal guides delight in creating tailor made experiences, along with the elegant and inspired ‘Imagineer’ who offers the ultimate personal concierge service for hotel guests. Tranquillity is guaranteed as no children under the age of 12 are permitted to stay at The Sarojin.

*The World Luxury Hotel Awards are the most exclusive luxury hotel awards, setting the benchmark for world class facilities and service excellence. The Awards were established to recognise hotels that have taken the extra step and differentiated themselves from ‘good hotels’ to ‘exceptional

Escape Club members can now redeem Escape Dollars for heavenly treatments and gift vouchers from endota spa. And, if you join before the 28 February 2011 you will go in to the draw to win 1 of 10 endota spa gift packs, valued at up to $135 each!

endota spa are dishing up freshly spirited, all Australian spa services for Escape Club Members offering sublime treatments using certified organic ingredients in 7 locations in New South Wales, including Sydney CBD, Paddington, Rozelle, Crows Nest, Turramurra, Forster and Diamond Beach on the Mid-North Coast.

Loyal members can find ‘in-spa-ration’ from endota spa organic product gift packs, gift vouchers and a number of indulgent endota spa packages including a customized massage to remind the muscles how to release stress, toxins and tension, unwind with a soothing billabong footbath, a signature endota organic facial, full body exfoliation and clay body wrap.

Members can earn Escape Dollars every time they stay at any Constellation Hotel and they can be used just like cash in our network of more than 60 Hotels across Australia and New Zealand and now also with our 7 endota spa locations. Members of The Escape Club are also entitled to exclusive hotel deals as well as a free drink every time you dine in a hotel restaurant.

So go ahead and join The Escape Club for free. And, if you join before the 28 February 2011 you will go in to the draw to win 1 of 10 endota spa gift packs, valued at up to $135 each! So what are you waiting for? To join call 1300 650 464 or visit www.escapeclub.com.au/endotaspa

Mercure Geelong is offering guests a true taste of the region this summer with the Bellarine Taste Trail Tour Package priced from just $318.50 per person.

The package includes a personalised six-hour tour for two people of three superb Bellarine Peninsula cool-climate wineries, a visit to an olive grove and a two-course lunch; overnight accommodation in a Bay View Room at Mercure Geelong with buffet breakfast; late check out to noon and complimentary car parking. Package is valid until 31 March 2011, subject to availability.

For bookings contact Mercure Geelong on 03 5223 6200 or h3033-re01@accor.com

The Bellarine Taste Trail comprises a selection of food producers, farm gates, provedores, restaurants and cellar doors all waiting to be explored in chauffer driven comfort with local experts, Gallivantours.

Situated east of Geelong and enclosed by Bass Strait, Port Phillip Bay and Corio Bay, the Bellarine Peninsula’s maritime climate lends itself particularly well to Chardonnay and Shiraz, with some excellent examples of Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc also on offer.

With Tiger Airways now flying direct to Avalon Airport, 15 minutes from the centre of Geelong, interstate guests can now easily access one of Victoria’s most picturesque destinations. Mercure Geelong is located in Geelong’s CBD, the gateway to the Great Ocean Road and Bellarine Peninsula. Rooms offer bay views and in traditional hotel room style as well as apartments and suites. For further information about the hotel visit www.mercuregeelong.com.au and the Bellarine Taste Trail visit www.bellarinetastetrail.com

Enjoy the best of South Australia with this fantastic cruise and land package from Captain Cook Cruises. Enjoy three or four nights cruising the spectacular Murray River aboard its only paddlewheeler, the Murray Princess, one night in Adelaide and two full days on Kangaroo Island.

Passengers will spend the first part of their trip cruising the beautiful Murray River and exploring the big river gorges, bio-diverse Murray riverlands, unique flora and fauna of the outback and experiencing exciting day trips to historic ports, sacred Aboriginal sites, a sheep station and woolshed and a native wildlife shelter.

On-board passengers will enjoy outside cabin accommodation, all meals, the use of two spas, two saunas, a sun deck, two bars, two lounges, a single sitting dining saloon and great entertainment.

Following the cruise, a complimentary scenic coach will transfer passengers to the Mercure Grosvenor Hotel in Adelaide. Arriving at midday guests will enjoy one night’s accommodation and have all of Adelaide’s main tourist attractions including Rundle Mall, Skycity Casino, museums and art galleries at their feet.

A coach will then transfer guests the next morning to Cape Jervis where they will join the Sealink Ferry to Kangaroo Island.

Day one on Kangaroo Island will feature a full day Seal Bay Discovery Tour including a delicious lunch. Guests will then settle into their choice of overnight accommodation on the island.

On day two, guests will enjoy a Remarkably Wild tour that also includes lunch before returning to Penneshaw for the return ferry and coach to Adelaide. For a few dollars more guests can upgrade to the late afternoon flight from Kangaroo Island to Adelaide.

For people with a love of food and wine, an optional full day Barossa Valley Tour is available when disembarking the Murray Princess at Mannum. Those on the tour will return to Adelaide at 5.30pm that day in time for the transfers the following morning to Kangaroo Island.

Prices for the five night package starts from $1604 per person, twin share and includes three nights on the Murray Princess, one night at the Mercure Grosvenor Hotel and one night on Kangaroo Island. The six night package starts at only $1874 per person, twin share and includes four nights on the Murray Princess, one night at the Mercure Grosvenor Hotel and one night on Kangaroo Island.

Prices are valid to 31 March 2012.

For further information and bookings, please contact Captain Cook Cruises toll free on 1800 804 843; Int +61-2-9206-1111, Email: murray@captaincook.com.au  or visit www.captaincook.com.au

The exclusive eco-luxe island hideaway, Ratua Private Island, has been selected as one of 36 new properties to join the 2011 Relais & Chateaux Guide with over 500 hotels in over 60 countries. Ratua Private Island is the first Relais & Chateaux property in the South Pacific and joins the ranks of an enviable list chosen after a rigorous selection process involving inspections of more than 100 establishments. Each and every one, whether historic or contemporary, located in the city or the countryside, is unique in its charm, elegance, excellence of service, and quality of hospitality. These small properties with an average of 30 rooms are often family enterprises, and they all bear the mark of the soul of the innkeeper which impresses on them their own character and personality. Ratua Island is no exception.

In Europe and the US, Relais & Châteaux has a long tradition of being known as the best way to locate the most outstanding cuisine and the most charming and unique hotels when travelling, from converted castles to snow-decked chalets, overwater bungalows and plush beach villas. This phenomenon is growing among Australians and New Zealanders as Relais makes its mark in this part of the world. There are now 13 restaurant and hotel members in the Australasia-South Pacific region, including Ratua Island in Vanuatu.

To celebrate this exciting new partnership, Ratua Private Island is offering a Special R&C Discount Pay 5, Stay 6 (Valid from 1st January – 31st March, 2011)

Ratua Island belongs to a French nature-lover who fell in love with the area when sailing around the Pacific and made a personal commitment to preserve the island and support the local community. Located 30 minutes by boat from Espiritu Santo or a 1hr direct flight from Port Vila to the island’s private runway, guests can enjoy peace and quiet, space, privacy and pure romance in luxurious Pacific-style accommodation. There are 146 acres to explore by electric buggy, bicycle, trek, horseback or boat. Most of the amenities are centrally located just a short walk from the Yacht Club, including an overwater Spa. Three villages offer 15 individual villas handcrafted from 200-year-old teak wood with Indo-Oceania inspiration. Each are uniquely furnished and accommodate two to four guests who can enjoy their own beach and perfect privacy.

The foundation of Ratua’s dining experience is the organic Kitchen Garden, where the culinary staff sources organic fruits and vegetables to supplement the island’s fresh meat and poultry and daily fish from local anglers. A wine cave houses the best of Australia and New Zealand wines – not to mention Champagne and exclusive French wine from the owner’s vineyard.

Ratua’s weather is ideal for easy exploration of surrounding lagoons, beaches, and reefs – where sea tortoises, bright coral gardens and colourful fish abound. Beyond Ratua’s shores, guests can discover the infinite wealth of the area’s exceptional nature and unique local culture through a range of discovery tours – from active volcanoes, waterfalls and caves, to sailing, blue hole swimming, wreck diving, deep sea fishing and Vanuatu cultural excursions.

To view details and know more about Ratua Private Island, visit: www.ratua.com  

RELAIS & CHATEAUX BOOKINGS ENQUIRIES: www.relaischateaux.com  

Bookings: management@ratua.com  or
Ph: +678 300 20