Jetsettersblog

Tourism Australia has teamed up with Google and YouTube in an innovative new digital marketing campaign, which will showcase many of Australia’s most iconic visitor attractions to an international online audience of millions.

Making Tracks will see four international musicians from the USA (two), the UK and Taiwan, who have recently been selected to take part in YouTube Symphony Orchestra 2011, flown to Australia where they will each team up with one of Australia’s most promising musicians and take part in their very own journey Down Under.

The journeys, and the musical compilations which come out of them, will be filmed and later broadcast on YouTube and via Tourism Australia’s digital and social media channels.

Between them, the musical pairings will travel to every State and Territory and participate in a range of Australian experiences, including surfing at Bondi beach, a scenic flight over Uluru, an ocean walk on Kangaroo Island, a helicopter flight over the Twelve Apostles, journeying across the Western Wilderness in Tasmania, hot air ballooning over Canberra and a visit to the Sunshine Coast.

The campaign is the latest push in Tourism Australia’s highly successful digital strategy, highlights of which include a YouTube-branded channel and the recent There’s nothing like Australia marketing campaign, which has encouraged thousands of people around the world to share their favourite Australian experiences.

Tourism Australia is now working with YouTube to support the second YouTube Symphony Orchestra project. This has seen thousands of musicians from all over the world audition to win one of 101 spots to play at Sydney Opera House on 20 March 2011.

Tourism Australia Managing Director Andrew McEvoy believes that the creative collaboration with YouTube will enable Tourism Australia to reach new markets by focusing on music and the arts.

“In an increasingly competitive tourism industry, we’re always looking for new and innovative ways to get our message out that there’s nothing like Australia,” Mr McEvoy said. “The recent Oprah visit was one example of that, and YouTube Symphony Orchestra 2011 gives us another great opportunity – this time using digital marketing to engage with a global audience in an innovative and engaging way.

“Making Tracks is Australia’s own magical musical mystery tour and will open up some of Australia’s most iconic destinations and experiences to a huge, global online audience. I’m sure the experience will prove inspiring to all the musicians taking part. What better way to showcase Australia’s music, arts and culture than through these unique and highly personalised musical road trips through our great country.”

The first YouTube Symphony Orchestra saw 90 musicians from 30 countries play a sold-out performance at Carnegie Hall in New York as well as attracting 25 million views from 226 countries to the Symphony channel (youtube.com/symphony).

Tourism Australia is supporting YouTube Symphony Orchestra 2011 through its global public relations activities such as the international media hosting and visiting opinion leader programs.

The 101 musicians selected to form YouTube Symphony Orchestra 2011 will be flown to Australia in March and participate in a week of rehearsals and concerts from March 14 – 20, 2011, culminating in a final performance at the Sydney Opera House on 20 March that will be live-streamed around the world on YouTube.

YouTube is the world’s largest online video community, with two billion video streams a day, and 35 hours of video content uploaded per minute.

Musical pairings:

• Australian guitarist Luke Webb from the Blue Mountains, NSW, will pair up with English cellist, Desmond Neysmith to travel to NSW and Western Australia

• Australian pianist and keyboardist Andy Bull from Sydney, NSW, will pair up with Taiwanese clarinetist Irene Chen to travel to South Australia and Northern Territory

• Australian guitarist Dewayne Everett-Smith from Hobart, Tasmania, will pair up with American viola player Jasmine Beams to travel to Tasmania and Victoria

• Australian pianist and guitarist Stu Cullen from Melbourne, Victoria, will pair up with American bassoonist Samuel Blair to travel to ACT and Queensland.

The New Year brings an opportunity to take a breath and refocus your attitude to health and well-being. Set beside the lush rainforest, The Byron at Byron Spa & Wellness Centre is renowned for being a coveted hideaway and place to unwind. Creating memorable and spiritual journeys for guests, the focus at the resort is on rejuvenating health and wellbeing.

The Byron at Byron Spa & Wellness Centre Manager Naomi Quarrell shares six tips to help bring The Byron at Byron experience to everyday life, sharing insights on how to reduce stress and improve energy and vitality.

1. Big breaths equals little stress

Breathing deeply can have remarkable effects in reducing stress.

“Remember to breathe into your belly,” says Naomi. “A few deep breaths will bring your awareness back to your body and will assist in switching off the ‘stress’ response that occurs in the body when we shallow breathe. While you are breathing, wiggle your toes – yes this works! It grounds the minds energy back down to the feet – try it!”

2. Stay hydrated

Maintain your health and wellbeing and reduce stress by hydrating inside and out.

“It’s an oldie but a goodie. Staying hydrated is so important,’ says Naomi. “Keep your body hydrated by drinking plenty of filtered water throughout the day. It will help make those big problems seem more surmountable. If you start to feel a little overwhelmed at work, take a moment, spritz your face to hydrate and refresh, using a hydrating mist like Pevonia’s phyto aromatic mist or iKOU’s Hydrate Mist. Breathe in the essential oils as you enjoy the little moment. You’ll feel much more ready to face the next challenge.”

3. Rise and shine

Many of us wake up, roll out of bed and sleepwalk into work, and somehow the day never quite gets started. Take a few moments first thing in the morning to energise your body to ensure you get the most out of the day. Naomi shares a list of quick ways to energise in the morning – just one of which will make a big change to the day.

“Take a few deep breathes to expand the lungs and oxygenate the body,” says Naomi. “Sip on fresh lemon juice in warm water to stimulate the liver and gallbladder and wake up the digestive system.

Add a few drops of uplifting essential oil to the floor of the shower – any citrus oil like orange and lemon will energise even the sleepiest of souls. I’d recommend using Byron at Byron’s native essential oil blend.”

4. Sleep deep

Sometimes achieving a peaceful night’s sleep can be easier said than done. Creating an easy evening sleep ritual can be the key to deep slumber.

“Make a list of things to do for the next day so that your mind can let go and stop thinking about them,” says Naomi. “Then create an evening stress release ritual – brew a calming herbal tea like iKOU’s Sleephead Tea, put a few drops of lavender or chamomile on your pillow case, place an eye pillow over your eyes and focus on your breath for a few minutes. You’ll gradually nod off, and your sleep will be so much deeper and give you so much more energy the next day.”

5. Perspective, perspective

“List 5 things that you are grateful for – life perspective is a powerful tool used to combat stress. Keep bringing your thoughts and awareness back to the present moment – when you are present there is no fear or anxiety or worry because you are already coping with everything that is going on right now. Remember to breathe, to laugh, eat well, be grateful and enjoy the amazing journey of life.”

6. Treat yourself

It’s important to regularly take time out to relax and unwind,” says Naomi. “Take some time to think about what kind of treatment or experience will suit you – or go to someone experienced who will help you decide. For example, if you are carrying stress in your body, which many people do, I would always recommend a massage with aromatherapy oils and a remedial style massage for muscular stress. For mind stress, a private meditation will help focus and slow the mind down to the present moment. If you need to detox to help you remove the stresses that toxins can place on the body, the iKOU Ocean Embrace is a gorgeous treatment that utilises Australian green clay and sea kelp to assist the body in removing toxins.”

For the ultimate pampering experience to enrich the body, soul and mind, The Byron at Byron Spa & Wellness Centre offers a signature spa menu that celebrates the unique Australian rainforest environment that surrounds the resort. Signature treatments encompass native Australian ingredients and rituals distinctive to Byron Bay, each named in tribute to the natural surrounds and using nourishing iKOU and Pevonia Botanica products.

The Byron at Byron Resort and Spa
77 – 97 Broken Head Road, Byron Bay NSW Australia
+61 2 6639 2000
www.thebyronatbyron.com.au

Bali’s most sought after destination, edging fashionable Seminyak Beach. A boutique retreat of unassuming minimalist chic. A five star brand, revered for its heartfelt hospitality, impeccable service and creative flair. And now, raising the roof for eventful incentives, Anantara Seminyak Resort & Spa launches its one-of-a-kind rooftop Penthouse suite as the ultimate party venue.

Throughout the impressive Penthouse residence, the height of contemporary interior design is complemented by sweeping views of the jet setter Seminyak Beach scene down below, while an ingenious layout and imaginatively luxurious amenities present multiple dining and entertaining options, culminating in a private sanctuary that raises the bar for super cool events.

Inspired space, spanning an incredible 420 sqm of pure rooftop glamour, is characterised by distinctive indoor-outdoor living spaces, packed with sophisticated charm. Guests are welcomed to the height of exclusivity by a light filled terrazzo stairwell which leads into a library filled with eclectic books and made comfortable by cotton sheathed rattan recliners, inviting guests to catch their first lofty glimpse of the beach, temple and mountain vista below.

An interior of polished travertine marble clad walls and floors is complemented by a black granite bar and furnishings of palomino blonde woods, fringed latte coloured leather mirrors and lamps, and extra wide divans. Tasteful simplicity marries the latest technology, with a 52 inch plasma television and Bang & Olufsen sleek metallic phones joined by touch pad lighting controls and an Ipod with Bose surround sound speakers which can be adjusted to set a sultry mood or cranked up for a gathering in full swing.

Guests can take time out to relax in one of two bedroom suites which flank the centralised dining, bar, pool and indoor living areas, with the master suite offering the distinctive allures of floor-to-ceiling glass and a 2.5 metre Serta bed which perches on a suspended block of marble and is swathed with oversized down feather pillows and plush 520 thread count bed linen.

Cooling down is equally enticing with a refreshing dual perspective, courtesy of a private eight metre infinity pool which connects the internal and external spaces, allowing guests to enter the water in the interior living space and swim directly through to the 120sqm al fresco deck, where a hydro spa bath furthers the airy pleasures with a view.

The well appointed high tech kitchen shouts out chic with a fire engine red Smeg refrigerator, and a wealth of elite appliances afford the perfect set up for a personal chef to cook up a storm, at precisely the timing desired. Select an imaginative canapé menu, a distinctive Thai or western set menu. Savour the spice of life in a richly flavoursome Indian buffet, or tour the culinary world with a decadent international buffet including live cooking stations of sensational land and sea creations to tempt every preference and palate. While adding to the Penthouse facility and service repertoire, a personal wine sommelier plus private vintage wine cellar embellish the gastronomic possibilities.

Time your event with Seminyak’s changing mood throughout the day. Open a breathtaking window to the rolling blue Indian Ocean, beautiful clear sky and basking Balinese sun by day. As night time approaches, the famous Seminyak sunsets create a romantic atmosphere and sense of anticipation, with the Penthouse’s minimalist style serving as a blank canvass for any party style or theme. Simply dream up the perfect party, or let the resort’s experienced team of dynamic event planners assist, or even guide, the conceptual vision. Book a live trio acoustic band or enjoy a traditional performance of the Balinese kecak dance. Transform a private party into a seductive James Bond meets Austin Powers pad with French champagne on arrival. Seminyak Resort & Spa is poised to set new trends and create unique events.

Treat your guests to a cocktail party of eclectic canapés and exotic live entertainment. Sensationalise a corporate event with a masterminded boardroom session and unsurpassed VIP treatment. Or pamper best friends with a ladies only affair, combining spa, yoga, spiritual and fitness treatments for a rejuvenating getaway to treasure forever.

Catering for 30 dining guests and hosting up to 70 revellers for a cocktail style party, the Penthouse at Anantara. Prices start from US$2,000.

Le Maitai in Bora Bora has been awarded a Silver Green Globe in the 2011 Sustainable Tourism Operators category.

This is the third year in a row that the four-star Polynesian resort has made the grade but this is the first time the property has been granted Silver status.

Le Maitai General Manager Ms. Catherine Savatier says, “After being granted Bronze status for the past two years, we decided that with a concerted effort we could make the move to Silver. This was an intensive process that involved daily checks across all departments to meet the requirements of the Green Globe Benchmarking and Certification program. It wasn’t easy but it’s definitely worth it to achieve this level of globally recognised eco-accreditation.”

The criteria for the accreditation includes the stringent evaluation of areas such as:
• Water and energy consumption
• Garbage management
• Environmental preservation
• Staff commitment to sustainability practises
• Communication inside the hotel and with third parties
• Participation in local and community life

For further information about Le Maitai, please visit http://www.hotelmaitai.com /

For further information about Green Globe, the premier global certification for sustainability, please visit www.greenglobecertification.com

New research reveals that Australia’s proactive service style is one of the key assets in attracting international association events to the destination.

Released today at the Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Expo (AIME), the new research shows that Australia’s service culture and high quality conference facilities are ranked very highly among the hosts and organisers of international association events. It also found that Australia’s leadership across a range of industry sectors leads to events regarded as among the worlds best for professional networking and business development.

The research, undertaken by customer research agency TNS on behalf of Tourism Australia and Australia’s leading convention bureaux and centres, was commissioned as part of the Australia Associations Project (AP) to guide future marketing and communications activities to attract more international events and more international delegates to Australia. It involved quantitative surveys and in-depth interviews with a range of domestic and international association, academic and industry leaders who influence decisions about where association congresses are held.

The research found that Australia is the first choice destination for hosting major international events, particularly among those who had previously hosted an event here. All of those interviewed would recommend Australia as a destination to host an international event, with 23% nominating Australia as their first choice, ahead of Singapore (14%), India (9%) and the United States (2%).

Project Manager for the Australia Associations Project, Julie Sheather said Australia ranked higher than other Asia-Pacific countries, Europe and North America for its international leadership in industries relevant to associations, one of the top five factors influencing event destination decision-making.

“Australia’s expertise in areas such as agribusiness/aquaculture, education and training, ICT and clean energy is already helping to attract significant events here,” Ms Sheather said. “Building on this to ensure that the best of Australian expertise from the government, university and private sectors can be harnessed to support associations staging major events in Australia is a key focus of the project’s work during 2011.”

Ms Sheather said Australia also scored particularly well on some of the measures that matter most to event hosts and delegates.

“Australia was viewed as an appealing destination which is exotic, exciting and unique,” she said. “The appeal of a destination which will help attract delegates was listed most often as a key factor in determining a destination, alongside the quality of conference facilities and accommodation options where Australia also scored highly.”

“But it is the professionalism of the Australian business events industry and our proactive service style which really sets Australia apart from the rest of the world,” Ms Sheather said. “The research shows that the Australian approach is giving event organisers confidence that their business events will be successful.”

Ms Sheather said distance and accessibility continued to be the main restraints to associations considering Australia for the major events, but that experience from a number of events held in 2010 shows that fear is often unwarranted.

“We are reviewing the outcomes of around 20 different international association events held across Australia last year, and are finding that initial fears about the impact of distance on delegates is proving to be unfounded,” Ms Sheather said.

“Reviews finalised to date shows that delegate numbers for events in Australia are exceeding expectations and, in some cases, we are recording record delegate numbers for events on rotation.”

ABOUT THE RESEARCH
• Surveys and in-depth interviews conducted by TNS between 23 November and 10 December 2010.
• Respondents were a mix of domestic and international association leaders, sector champions and others. All had international responsibilities with just over 50% based outside Australia.
• The majority of respondents are in the health/medical and education fields.
• The majority were either the sole decision-makers about association event destinations or have a strong influence on the final decisions.
• One-third had previously hosted an event within Australia.

ABOUT THE AUSTRALIA ASSOCIATIONS PROJECT
The Australia Associations Project is a collaboration between the Australian Government through Tourism Australia, and Australia’s leading convention bureaux and centres to help associations access and leverage Australia’s knowledge economy.

Huka Lodge, Taupo, New Zealand has been ranked as an ‘All-time Great’ amongst Tatler’s choice of the World’s 101 Best Hotels.

This latest announcement by the United Kingdom’s Tatler magazine has come on the heels of a slew of recent awards and accolades for New Zealand’s classic luxury retreat Huka Lodge. It has been a special time for the property over recent months as Huka Lodge’s unique style of hospitality and attention to detail has drawn consistent recognition at the highest international levels.

Tatler also singled Huka Lodge out for recognition by bestowing their Enduring Excellence Award on the property, for 25 years of outstanding consistency in maintaining the highest standards of excellence.

Further accolades came from the USA’s Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report when it’s readers voted Huka Lodge as one of the Top 20 International Hideaways in the World.

This was further endorsed by the UK’s Condé Nast Traveller magazine when it ranked Huka Lodge amongst the ‘Best for Rooms’, in their prestigious Gold List 2011.

The USA’s Condé Nast Traveler magazine also included Huka Lodge within it’s hotly contested Gold List, giving the property scores of 100% for Rooms, Service, Food and Design.

Huka Lodge is a sister property to Grande Provence Estate in South Africa and Dolphin Island, Fiji. All three properties comprise The Huka Retreats, and embody the vision of their owner, Alex van Heeren.

Dolphin Island is currently undergoing a major refurbishment and will be re-opening and welcoming its first guests soon. The 13-acre private Fijian Island will boast luxurious ‘castaway’ accommodation by renowned interior designer Virginia Fisher.

Queensland’s Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast provide two very different experiences for travellers and Wyndham has quality resort accommodation in the heart of both spectacular coastal destinations.

Both the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast remain unscathed from recent natural disasters which have affected some areas of Queensland and continue to provide the ultimate holiday experiences. From the sand and surf to the beautiful hinterland, family fun attractions and leisurely experiences, both coasts have something to offer everybody. But despite the similarities, the experiences are truly unique.

The Gold Coast’s vibrant coastal city of Surfers Paradise is a unique holiday experience with beautiful white-sand beaches and a vibrant nightlife and Wyndham Surfers Paradise is close to it all. The nearby theme parks provide plenty of action for the whole family and the surrounding beaches and hinterland offer spectacular experiences with nature’s best.

Just a few hours north are the relaxed seaside towns that make up the Sunshine Coast. In the heart of the Sunshine Coast is SurfAir on Marcoola Beach – an absolute beachfront resort in a tranquil setting for the whole family to relax and rejuvenate. From fine dining, shopping and exploring the beaches and hinterland, there is plenty of activity for everyone.

For a limited time guests can enjoy the fun and thrills of the Gold Coast staying at Wyndham Surfers Paradise in a one-bedroom ocean view deluxe apartment for two nights from just $149*per person (twin share). If a more laid back escape is what you’re after, SurfAir on Marcoola Beach boasts ocean view deluxe hotel rooms for two nights from $129* per person (twin share).

Book your beachside escape now!
For Wyndham Surfers Paradise call 07 5579 6500 or visit www.wyndhamsurfersparadise.com.au

For SurfAir on Marcoola Beach call 07 5412 0100 or visit www.surfair.com.au

Visitors to Melbourne can stay at Crown Towers and choose their own spice-filled culinary adventure sampling dishes from around the globe during the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival Friday 3 March – Friday 11 March 2011.

Crown Towers has created a delectable package for ‘Stars of Spice’ enthusiasts wanting to stay and dine in style from 3 – 11 March 2011.

Crown is hosting six international master chefs and featuring their signature menus at selected premium Crown restaurants including Nobu, JJ’s Bar and Grill, Koko, Number 8 restaurant and wine bar, the Conservatory and Breezes.

Crown Towers has a special “Stars of Spice” package for $435.00 that is available from 3-11 March 2011 and includes luxurious overnight accommodation in a premier room as well as $150.00 dining voucher that can be redeemed for lunch or dinner at any of the six participating restaurants showcasing cuisine from Peru, India, Bali, China and Japan.

The Stars of Spice line up includes Indian-born and UK-based, double Michelin Star chef Atul Kochhar, Lima-based Pedro Miguel Schiaffino who has been dubbed “the Jungle Chef” for his unique dishes using ingredients sourced from the depths of the Amazon, Bali’s most revered chef, Chris Salans from Ubud’s award-winning Mozaic restaurant, three Michelin star chef Jun Yukimura of Azubu Yukimura, Tokyo’s eponymous ten seat restaurant, the innovator of Peruvian and Japanese fusion cuisine, Toshiro Konishi from Toshiro’s in Peru and Liu Yun, the master of Sichuan cuisine from The Place at Langham Place, Beijing. Considered the restaurant capital of Australia, Melbourne becomes the destination to visit during March as it comes alive with international food and wine events to remember.

Crown Towers’ package allows for the local or travelling foodie to choose a gastronomic adventure whilst enjoying the ease and convenience of luxury accommodation all located in the one precinct.

Guests can consider staying multiple nights and embark a culinary journey eating their way through Chinese, Indian, Peruvian, Japanese and Balinese cuisines.

Another once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to consider are the Star cooking classes on offer 9 – 11 March with Chris Salans, Pedro Miguel Schiaffino and Atul Kochhar. Participants can get up close and learn from this “Spice Stars” and then enjoy the results of the cooking class with the day culminating in a dinner at the chef’s host restaurant.

Reservations can be made by contacting Crown hotel reservations on + 61 3 9292 6868. Rates are valid Sunday to Friday (offer not available on Saturday the 5th of March).

Restaurant voucher will be presented to guest upon check in. It is recommended that accommodation and dinner reservations are made in advance to avoid disappointment.

Star cooking classes are available for $245.00 including cooking class and dinner.

Bookings may be made by contacting, +61 3 9292 6942 during business hours.

Numbers are strictly limited and bookings are essential.

Terms and conditions apply, for more information please visit http://crownmelbourne.com.au

Conferences and meetings at Constellation Hotels have become even more delicious with their tempting introductory booking incentive.

Book your next conference with a Constellation Hotel and you’ll automatically receive a signed cookbook by celebrity Chef Pete Evans, host of “My Kitchen Rules”. But it gets saucier! Spend more than $5000 on your next event and go in the draw to win a 3 hour Hugos Hands-On Pizza and Cocktail Making Class for 30 people, created by the man himself!

Constellation Hotels have a diverse collection of hotels and resorts participating in this promotion in some of Australia’s most popular and convenient conference destinations, from the city to the country to the coast. We offer venues that specialise in meetings, conferences, seminars and functions, both small and large where you will receive undivided attention and unquestionable value for money.

“Hugos Cooking Events” are a unique concept combining Australia’s leading chefs, sensational food and a night of unforgettable entertainment!” This prize can be used to reward your hard working team, create a fun and original corporate event, or to impress your clients, the choice is yours.

To be eligible to enter the draw and to receive your copy of Pete Evans signed cookbook, your meeting or conference simply needs to be held before 1 February 2012 and must be booked by 30 June 2011. Must have a minimum of 15 delegates.

For more information and to make your initial enquiry visit www.constellationhotels.com.au/conferencerecipe  or call 1300 650 464.

* Conditions apply.

MISSED out on joining the Queen Elizabeth whilst she was in Sydney in February? Don’t worry there are still spaces available on her 2012 voyage from San Francisco to Sydney with discounted cabins now available from ecruising.travel if you book by March 31.

The 26-night cruise package begins with two nights to explore historic San Francisco before embarking on the grand ship on February 4, 2012 and sailing south with port visits in Hawaii, American Samoa, Fiji, New Zealand and Australia – disembarking in Sydney.

This luxury ship has many attractions and facilities to keep you occupied whilst at sea including a large variety of bars, lounges and restaurants, a three-storey theatre, sports centre, two outdoor pools, casino, library, on board lessons from dancing to computers and many more.

The itinerary is priced from $7389 for past passengers per person twin share and includes a one-way economy airfare from Sydney, two nights’ accommodation at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square, the San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf pass, 24-nights cruise accommodation with all meals and entertainment and transfers in San Francisco.

There are more than 18 cabins types to choose from, for further information contact ecruising.travel on 1300-369-848 or check-out www.ecruising.travel