Jetsettersblog

In an Australian first, Sea World Resort has launched an exclusive Dolphin presentation, free for guests staying two nights or more.

The Dolphin Discovery presentation is set in the spectacular Dolphin Cove theatre and will provide guests with an insight into the amazing world of the Dolphin.

Sea World Resort & Water Park General Manager Ernst Pfister said that Sea World Resort is the only hotel in Australia where guests who stay two nights of more can experience the Dolphin Discovery presentation for free.

“Dolphin Discovery is a unique presentation which provides our guests with a sneak peek of Sea World’s Dolphins, all before the park opens”.

“One of the reasons guests love staying at Sea World Resort is that they are so close to Sea World, and now they can enjoy an amazing insight into the world of the Dolphin included as part of their stay”.

“The Dolphin Discovery presentation provides our guests with the chance to witness a Dolphin training session while a Sea World Dolphin trainer enlightens them on the world of the Dolphin and answers their questions”.

“A few lucky guests will even be chosen to have a close encounter with a Dolphin as part of Dolphin Discovery – what a magical holiday highlight”, he said.

Sea World Resort & Water Park is the ultimate family theme park holiday destination, featuring three lagoon pools and direct monorail access to Sea World.

Located on the stunning Broadwater, guests will enjoy 4.5 star facilities and friendly service all within easy access to famous Gold Coast beaches, shopping and of course theme parks.

There is so much for the whole family to enjoy, so why not stay, play and splash at the award winning Sea World Resort & Water Park for your next holiday. Contact us for our great range of amazing packages. Phone 1800 074 448 or visit www.MyFun.com.au

Debut of a new five-star brand by Shangri-La

Shangri-La International Hotel Management Ltd announces the opening of Kerry Hotel Pudong, Shanghai. Located in the new Kerry Parkside complex in the heart of Pudong, the hotel marks the debut of a new five-star hotel brand by Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts: Kerry Hotels.

“Kerry Hotels will appeal to the business traveller who prefers a vibrant and relaxed environment without compromising on service or quality. The hotels are contemporary in style and provide a seamless link between business, entertainment and recreation. Extensive leisure facilities are designed to become a social activity hub for both hotel guests and the local community,” said Greg Dogan, president and chief executive officer of Shangri-La International Hotel Management Ltd.

Soaring 31 storeys over the Kerry Parkside complex, Kerry Hotel Pudong, Shanghai offers 574 guestrooms and suites, ranging in size from 42 to 168 square metres, with sweeping views of Century Park or the city. Sleek and contemporary furnishings provide optimum comfort for work, relaxation or socialising. Custom-designed in-room consoles with high stools and build-in minibars, 40-inch flat-screen televisions, iPod docking stations and complimentary broadband and wireless Internet access are standard. Sliding wall panels partition the guestrooms, leading to separate bath and shower facilities.

Seven floors are devoted to Club accommodation, including 33 suites. Guests can enjoy round the clock butler and Club concierge services, such as restaurant and sightseeing tour reservations, and exclusive access to the 670-square-metre Club Lounge, with expansive Century Park views. All suites have a separate living room providing a residential-style ambience. DVD players and Nespresso coffee machines are available in addition to the standard guestroom amenities, as are complimentary daily breakfasts and evening cocktails.

Kerry Hotel Pudong, Shanghai introduces one of Shanghai’s most innovative dining and entertainment concepts, an integrated three-in-one designer showcase developed by boutique design consultancy Stickman Tribe – The COOK, The MEET and The BREW.

The COOK, the main à la carte restaurant with 11 live show kitchens and a gourmet delicatessen has seating for 365 people, including an outdoor patio. Offering a feast for the senses, the speciality chefs at The COOK follow the philosophy of uncomplicated, home-made preparation accentuating the flavours of fresh, organic ingredients. The culinary experience offers a global snapshot of cuisines ranging from Chinese wok and steam baskets to an Asian noodle station and the Japanese sushi, sashimi and yakitori kitchen. An orchard deli and butchers’ block, an Asian barbecue station, a coffee counter and beverage bar, the patisserie, the wine cellar and cheese vault round out the culinary smorgasbord. All kitchens similarly focus on meticulously sourced ingredients supplied by local Shanghai growers and overseas artisanal producers to ensure quality. The COOK’s interior showcases a bold mix of traditional and modern materials and finishes, such as handwritten menus on rustic wooden blackboards, Corian marble countertops mixed with rustic crate-stamped timber drop ceilings and custom-designed tiles. All design elements blend together to produce an eclectic lifestyle theme that reflects a bustling deli-style marketplace in contemporary Shanghai.

A craft brewery with its own signature beers created by the resident brew master, pub-style favourite dishes and live music entertainment, The BREW is a lively, contemporary pub. Beer connoisseurs or novices unwind after a hard day’s work, listening to live music entertainment or watching sports television broadcasts, or simply relax on the outdoor terrace, taking in views of Century Park. Six handcrafted beers and one cider represent the tip of a vast selection of beverages on offer. Evoking industrial chic, The BREW’s interiors revolve around the “flying brewery,” custom designed and built three-storey stainless steel vats used for brewing and storing its signature brews. Forming a dramatic visual centrepiece and framing the brewery’s steel vats in the background is an eye-catching, multi-tiered steel and glass chandelier over the centre of the bar that conveniently doubles as a beer pint glass rack.

Diners at The MEET, a contemporary steakhouse and speciality grill opening in April 2011, are greeted by a theatrically lit “Ageing Room” window dominating the restaurant entrance. The largest variety of steak and beef available in Shanghai is displayed and presided over by the restaurant’s house butcher, who assists guests in selecting the finest cuts of meat to suit their fancy. Whilst waiting for their dinner companions, guests may relax with a drink on pony hair and leather armchairs near a fireplace flanked by hand-carved wooden bullhorns. A scarlet-hued vertebrae-inspired light fixture stretches down the expanse of the restaurant and makes a dramatic visual centrepiece to the restaurant and counterpoint to the gleaming tops of The BREW’s glass encased brewery vats below. Non-carnivores need not despair; The MEET also offers a range of premium grilled items such as seafood and vegetables, along with a wide selection of New and Old World wines and beer.

Rounding out the hotel’s dining and entertainment options are The COOK Lounge, which serves refreshments and premium teas by day and speciality cocktails at night, and Blossoms, a collection of elegantly designed private dining rooms, specialising in authentic Cantonese cuisine prepared by a Hong Kong chef.

The hotel houses the city’s largest hotel-based sports club with Kerry Sports, a recreation destination spanning 6,000 square metres over three floors. The facilities include a 24 hour gymnasium with studios for aerobics, spinning, Pilates and yoga (including hot yoga), a 25-metre heated indoor swimming pool, an outdoor basketball court and tennis court and an outdoor roof garden with a jogging track. The 700-square-metre Adventure Zone, an indoor children’s fantasy playground, features a two-storey high fun slide, age-appropriate play “zones” and three festive themed party rooms, ideal for birthday celebrations. Scheduled to open in April 2011 is a 275 square-metre wellness day spa with nine treatment suites, and specialising in health, beauty and physiotherapy, including traditional Chinese medicine treatments based on ancient Wushu healing traditions.

“We are all about creating memorable experiences, enabling our guests in seeking enjoyment and a balanced lifestyle,” said George Wee, the hotel’s general manager. “Our facilities, our surrounding community and our engaging, individualised service from vibrant, spirited colleagues make it effortless for guests to combine work with leisure, to travel and yet not leave the rest of one’s life and all its pleasures and comforts behind.”

Kerry Hotel Pudong, Shanghai unveils the largest portfolio of hotel meeting and banqueting facilities in the city, with more than 7,300 square metres of space. Dominating the hotel’s third floor are two ballrooms, the 2,230-square-metre Grand Shanghai Ballroom and the 1,018 square metre Pudong Ballroom, which can be interconnected. The Grand Shanghai Ballroom is pillar-free can accommodate more than 2,800 people theatre style and 1,600 guests for banquets. With a ceiling soaring up to nine metres and direct lift access from the car park, the ballroom can easily be transformed into a car showroom for model launches. In addition, the hotel features 26 multi-purpose function rooms, most with natural daylight. The Balcony Garden on level three offers a refreshing outdoor alternative, overlooking the vibrant courtyard of the Kerry Parkside complex; at 195 square metres, it is ideal for small meeting breaks or exclusive gatherings. Meetings and event organisers benefit from a dedicated events manager, a meetings butler and an audio-visual technician on standby at all occasions.

Complementing the diverse selection of venues, the hotel also offers the Business Centre and Office Suites, with 16 fully furnished service offices and four meeting rooms. The round-the-clock operation is dedicated to meeting the needs of business travellers and guests on the go.

Kerry Hotel Pudong, Shanghai provides seamless access to multi-brand shops and boutiques, dining and entertainment facilities within the Kerry Parkside shopping mall as well as to the office tower and Residences at Kerry Parkside, a service apartment tower. The Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC), the city’s largest trade exhibition venue offering more than 300,000 square metres of exhibition space, connects directly to the complex via an enclosed footbridge and walkway. Across the street from Kerry Parkside lies Shanghai’s largest public gardens and the city’s “green lung”, Century Park, providing 140 hectares.

The Kerry Parkside complex’s own underground subway station is a strategic artery connecting the new landmark to the rest of the Shanghai metropolis. With the Maglev express train station a seven-minute ride away from the hotel, guests can arrive at Pudong International Airport and be whisked off to their rooms for check-in within 15 minutes; the hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the Maglev train station. Alternatively, Pudong International Airport can be reached in approximately 30 minutes via the airport expressway.

From its traditional origins as a vast farmland, Pudong, on the eastern banks of the Huangpu River, has emerged as China’s financial and commercial hub and one of the fastest developing districts in Shanghai today. From the distinctive skyscraper-dotted skyline of the Lujiazui financial district overlooking the Huangpu, Pudong sprawls towards Century Park and its surrounding communities of trade and export processing zones, upscale residential areas, schools and golf clubs, while encompassing popular sightseeing attractions such as the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, cultural venues such as the Shanghai Oriental Art Museum and the future site of Shanghai Disneyland.

To celebrate its opening, Kerry Hotel Pudong, Shanghai offers a special introductory package until 31 May 2011. The package includes:
 Accommodation in a Deluxe Room (single or double occupancy)
 Daily breakfast for up to two persons
 Rmb300 dining credit per stay valid at The COOK, The MEET or The BREW
 A special Kerry welcome amenity
 Complimentary wired and wireless broadband Internet access

Rates start at Rmb1,688 plus tax, and reservations are subject to availability and advance booking. For reservations at Kerry Hotel Pudong, Shanghai, please contact the hotel directly on (86 21) 6169 8888 or e-mail reservations.khpu@shangri la.com. Alternatively, visit www.shangri la.com or consult a travel professional.

The second Kerry Hotel will be based in Beijing and is the conversion of Shangri-La’s Kerry Centre Hotel. Kerry Centre is currently undergoing a multimillion-dollar top-to-bottom renovation and upgrade that includes all public facilities, restaurants and guestrooms. It is scheduled to be completed by early 2012.

Hong Kong-based Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts currently owns and/or manages 71 hotels under the Shangri-La and Traders brands with a rooms inventory of over 30,000. Shangri-La hotels are five-star deluxe properties featuring extensive luxury facilities and services. Shangri-La hotels are located in Australia, Canada, mainland China, Fiji, France, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Maldives, Philippines, Singapore, Sultanate of Oman, Taiwan, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates. The group has a substantial development pipeline with upcoming projects in Austria, Canada, mainland China, India, Macau, Malaysia, Philippines, Mongolia, Russia, Sri Lanka, Qatar, Turkey and United Kingdom. For more information and reservations, please contact a travel professional or access the website at www.shangri-la.com

Many brides choose to tie the knot in the cooler months in Australia and there is a raft of destinations around the world that Abercrombie & Kent offers to ensure a honeymoon experience to treasure forever.

It is the ideal time to honeymoon in the Northern Hemisphere, during their sublime summer season – a perfect escape from our winter chill. There’s the romantic appeal of an adventure in the wild – imagine waking to a steaming cup of tea on the verandah outside a canvas tent in Africa, mist rising from the marsh below and a herd of zebra grazing in the distance or perhaps enjoying the panoramic Amazon views from the bed of one of the 12 oversized air-conditioned suites on MV Aqua. In Europe, the Italian way of life is steeped in romance and passion from their devotion to all things culinary, to wine and art. A&K offers an insiders experience with the Inside Italy and Amalfi Coast itineraries.

Australia’s Tropical North should also be considered as a winter honeymoon beach holiday with a temperate climate and stunning scenery, lazing on the fine powdery white sand of Lizard Island Resort, undisturbed but for the occasional footprint.

All Abercrombie & Kent itineraries are bespoke private journeys for discerning guests and their chosen travelling companions, they are not group departures; perfect for creating an intimate, romantic journey.

Africa
Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton in Africa, a royal endorsement that this is a winning destination for romance. A&K offers many choices of safari in Africa from mobile camping, to a walking safari in Zambia, to the company’s signature luxury safari lodges dotted throughout the continent.

After the excitement of an African safari, honeymooners should consider a stay at Alfajiri on the Kenyan Coast. Harpers & Queen magazine voted the cliff top villa at Alfajiri in the top 5 most romantic bedrooms in the world – enough said!

Wildlife and Warriors Kenya includes flights Nairobi/Samburu/Masai Mara/Nairobi and commences at $8,330.

Website references:

http://www.abercrombiekent.com.au/luxury-travel/africa/kenya-wildlife-and-warriors.cfm

http://www.alfajirivillas.com

Peru

For honeymooners with a social conscience A&K offers the Glimpse of Peru itinerary which along with visiting some of Peru’s highlights such as the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Cusco also offers the chance to visit an Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy project, ‘Children of the Rainbow’, an inspirational undertaking bringing encouragement and healing in an area of dire poverty by providing a home for seventeen abandoned children.

After time on the touring trail, A&K recommends extending on a luxury boutique cruise aboard MV Aqua, or her soon to be launched sister vessel MV Aria. Aqua is the first true luxury cruise ship on the northern Amazon River and offers an extraordinary level of comfort. She accommodates an intimate 24 only and is the perfect size for expeditionary adventure along the Amazon. There are 12 oversized air-conditioned suites all with generous outward-facing picture windows for panoramic Amazon views. Decor is simple and elegant with timber floors, crisp white linen, straw-coloured throws and a well-sized en suite bathroom. For leisure time there are sun beds and an outdoor shower on the top deck and plenty of sofas, books and games in the library/bar area. A crew of 21 caters to guests every need including cruise director and paramedic.
 Departs Saturday and Tuesday year round with 3, 4 and 7 night cruises.

Glimpse of Peru includes flights Lima/Cusco/Lima and starts at $6,810.
A four-day cruise on MV Aqua commences at $2,400 USD.

Website references:
http://www.abercrombiekent.com.au/luxury-travel/latin/09-glimpse-of-peru-peru.cfm
http://www.abercrombiekent.com.au/luxury-travel/latin/peru-mv-aqua.cfm

Australia

Lizard Island is one of Australia’s most stunning Great Barrier Reef Islands and the perfect location for honeymooners to indulge themselves in utterly luxurious surrounds. .

This is the ultimate tropical paradise escape and just a few privileged newlyweds can enjoy the experience. The resort has won a host of rightfully deserved prestigious national and international awards for excellence.
There’s stunning accommodation, pristine beaches, gourmet food and wine and activities to ensure a treasured life experience.

Lizard Island is priced from $820 per person per night including all meals and selected beverages.

Website reference:
http://www.abercrombiekent.com.au/luxury-travel/oceania/qld-reef-retreats.cfm

Turkey

Turkey is a land of juxtapositions from the ever-present traditional Muslim call to prayer to the cosmopolitan culture of Istanbul. Discover its colourful traditions, ancient archaeological sites, poignant war cemeteries, Ephesus and the Fairy chimneys of Cappadocia with A&K’s ten day Treasures of Turkey.

Following the action packed exploration of Turkey, A&K recommends relaxing in the charming Aegean city of Bodrum at the luxurious hotel, The Marmara. This very sophisticated hotel is set high above the town of Bodrum with breathtaking views towards the castle and harbour. Interiors are inspiring with extensive use of stone and timber throughout the hotel, antique carved doorways, giant terracotta urns, sculptural lamp bases and local artworks. The property boasts 100 comfortably equipped rooms, all with ensuite bathroom, sitting area and terrace with an eclectic blend of antique and contemporary furniture. A charming outdoor terrace and swimming pool, fitness centre, Turkish bath and spa complete the amenities.

Treasures of Turkey starts at $9,335.
The Bodrum four-day extension is priced from $920 and must be booked in conjunction with the Treasures of Turkey itinerary.

Website references:
http://www.abercrombiekent.com.au/luxury-travel/europe/09-turkey-treasures-of-turkey.cfm
http://www.abercrombiekent.com.au/luxury-travel/europe/bodrum-extension.cfm

Brazil

For an exotic honeymoon, Brazil offers barefoot luxury on the beach of Kiaroa, staying at the Kiaroa Eco-Luxury Resort. One of its major attractions is its privileged location in the ecological sanctuary of the Maraú Peninsula. Spend four days or more in this remote area enjoying all the facilities; relax on the unspoiled beach or by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment or for the more active there is tennis, beach volleyball, boating or land excursions.

The itinerary starts at $1,300 and includes transfers via light aircraft to and from Salvador.

Website reference:
http://www.abercrombiekent.com.au/luxury-travel/bbke.cfm

Italy

Arguably the world’s most romantic culture coupled with natural and designed beauty, Italy is always a honeymoon favourite.

A&K offers an eight-day Inside Italy tour encompassing the classic Italian cities of Rome, Siena, Florence and Venice. Visit one of Florence’s city gelaterias with an A&K Guardian Angel for a tasting and to peer behind the scenes at how the ice-cream is made according to artisan traditions. There’s also a special romantic treat with a private after-hours visit to view the illuminated mosaics of St. Mark’s Basilica.

An Amalfi Coast extension provides the perfect addition to the Inside Italy itinerary. Drive along one of the most stunning coastlines in the world where vertical cliffs plunge dramatically into the blue Mediterranean waters and seaside towns shaded by umbrella pines give way to terraced olive groves. Stop in the town of Amalfi and see the 10th century Duomo fronted by a beautifully colored 13th century façade, before continuing on to the enchanting village of Ravello, said to have the best views along the coast and a visit to Pompeii.

Inside Italy commences at $7,820 twin share.
The Amalfi Coast extension must be booked in conjunction with another A&K Europe itinerary and twin share commences at $2,775.

Website references:
http://www.abercrombiekent.com.au/luxury-travel/europe/09-italy-inside-italy.cfm
http://www.abercrombiekent.com.au/luxury-travel/europe/09-italy-amalfi-coast.cfm

Morocco

Honeymooners will enjoy the quiet pace of exploring Morocco’s Atlantic Coast at the charming whitewashed town of Essaouira. The itinerary includes a private drive west from Marrakech to the Atlantic Ocean and the ancient port of Essaouira, formally known as Mogador. It is famous for its multiple shades of blue: blue skies, deep blue sea, blue trawlers and sardine boats loaded with their daily catch , tiny blue boats huddled against each other, blue shutters and doors on bright white walls. The itinerary includes a half-day walking tour of the 16th century fortified town exploring the narrow whitewashed alleyways and tranquil squares, and the central medina and for more active honeymooners options include wind or kite surfing or a round of golf. Accommodation is a Junior Suite at the beautiful boutique luxury hotel L’Heure Bleue.

The Essaouira extension starts at $1,300 and must be booked in conjunction with another A&K Morocco itinerary.

Website reference:
http://www.abercrombiekent.com.au/luxury-travel/egypt/09-morocco-essaouira-extension.cfm

Momento Travel Services is proud to launch their inaugural Experience Canada brochure, a selection of hand picked Canadian experiences including the world reknowned Rocky Mountaineer, VIA Rail, Sightseeing, Bear Viewing, Coach Tours, Car Hire and more.

Momento Travel Services is proud to introduce an expanded selection of holiday options for the independent traveller in Canada.

“For more than two decades, Momento Travel Services has been matching travellers to experiences that are unique and individual. Historically an official Australian distributor of leading travel and touring products across Canada, USA and Hawaii our first hand knowledge of these destinations and experiences is unparalleled. And, as a TCF fully licensed travel wholesaler, we can also connect travellers and travel agencies alike to Canada with our indepth expertise that ensures the best travel selection is made to meet individual expectations,” says Kylee Kay, Managing Director of Momento Travel Services.

“The majority of our programs are adaptable to allow you to add excursions, extra days or modify your itinerary to visit an area of particular interest,” adds Ms. Kay.

For further information on ‘Experience Canada’, please visit www.momentotravel.com.au or call Momento on toll free: 1300 300 713.

Also visit the direct brochure link: http://www.momentotravel.com.au/momento/brochures-201112

ABOUT MOMENTO TRAVEL SERVICES:
Momento Travel Services was first established as Asia Pacific Travel Marketing Services in 1986. Based in Surry Hills, Sydney, Momento Travel Services was created to provide the traveller with a wealth of ‘experiences that move them’ and take those experiences to the next level of product delivery.

The company represents Alamo Rent-A-Car worldwide, Aston Hotels and Resorts, Hawaii, VIA Rail Canada, Papillon Grand Canyon Tours, Original London Sightseeing, Pierce & Leslie India and Amtrak U.S.A.

To view Momento Travel Services’ 2011-2012 Planes Trains and Automobiles brochure, please call 02 9213 2000 or 1300 300 713, or visit www.momentotravel.com.au

Since Manly Bike Tours began in 2007, Manly Bike Tours customers have now collectively ridden the same distance as between the Earth and the Moon.

With over 30,000 customers renting bikes for, on average, a 13km ride, they have clocked up an impressive 390,000km – more than the distance between the Earth and the Moon (approx 380,000km) or the equivalent of 31 times around the Earth.

Some interesting statistics in travelling that distance.

Bike fleet – 120
Tyres used – 2,160
Brake pads changed – 3,200
Longest individual bike ride – 1,900km (Sydney to Brisbane return!)

So now its just a question of, once they are at the moon, how much further to Mars?

Manly Bike Tours offers self guided bike rental in Manly. They are located opposite Manly Wharf, a 30 minute ferry ride from Sydney CBD and are open 7 days a week.

This Autumn-Winter stay at Port Macquarie’s new tree house accommodation, take the new Aboriginal Coastal Walk, freefall at Australia’s First Outdoor Vertical Wind Tunnel, whale-watch on a beautiful new cruiser, and check-in your family to new apartments in the Camden Haven.

New Tree House Accommodation in Laurieton

• Sleep up amongst the trees and in a natural koala habitat in new tree house accommodation at Diamond Waters Nursery and Open Garden. Two superbly appointed one-bedroom self-contained houses float 3.5 metres above the air and are nestled in a beautiful rainforest beneath North Brother Mountain, 20 minutes south of Port Macquarie.
• Connected by a 45m walkway, the tree houses are designed to ‘touch the ground lightly’ and make the lowest possible carbon footprint with many eco features. Each is a spacious 90 square metres and features a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, living area and large deck overlooking the river.

• The setting itself is totally unique. Diamond Waters is renowned as the region’s most beautiful nursery and is more of an Open Garden of rambling rainforest groves. Guests have access to the kitchen garden, herbs and fruit trees, free range eggs and fresh espresso and ice creams from the on-site Coffee Bar.
• During your stay walk 250m to the beach, enjoy fresh blue-swimmer crabs from the local co-op with a glass of wine, take in 360 degree views and a walk around North Brother Mountain, hire a boat, go kayaking, fishing, surfing or book a cooking class at Amber Healing Farm.

• Cost from $550 for a three-night stay based on two people sharing.

Diamond Waters Nursery & Tree House Retreat
128 Diamond Head Road
Laurieton NSW 2443
Tel: 6559 8328
www.diamondwaters.com.au

New Aboriginal Coastal Walk at Sea Acres Rainforest Centre

• Sea Acres Rainforest Centre has launched a new 1.5 hour Aboriginal guided coastal walk and cultural experience through the Yun Yi Barragay Aboriginal tour guiding program. Yun Yi Barragay means Walk With Me in the local Aboriginal language.

• Sea Acres Rainforest Centre Manager, Janet Cohen, said the Yun Yi Barragay walk traverses a section of dramatic and beautiful coastline including subtropical and littoral rainforest, headlands, and the secluded coves of the Port Macquarie coastal walk.

• The tour is a unique opportunity to experience Aboriginal culture with experienced guides through story, music and dance and to discover how Aboriginal people used rainforest plants and the coastal environment. It passes from the rainforest to the sea

• The walk is suitable for adults and children over 12 years. A moderate level of fitness for walking is required.

Contact: Sea Acres Rainforest Centre
159 Pacific Drive
Port Macquarie NSW 2444
Tel: 6582 3355

Extreme Velocity – Australia’s First Outdoor Vertical Wind Tunnel

• Extreme Velocity is Australia’s first outdoor vertical wind tunnel and one of Port Macquarie’s newest adventure attractions. The experience is the exhilaration of free falling with a rush of air travelling at over 200km/h, levitating you into a mind blowing hover above the flight deck, much like the sensation of skydiving without jumping out of a plane.

• Immensely popular in the Northern Hemisphere, body flight is suitable for all ages and available for the whole family to enjoy. The Extreme Velocity wind tunnel ‘THOR’ promises your flying experience will blow your mind, but not your budget.

• Extreme Velocity vertical wind tunnel is located at Port Macquarie airport. A skydiving freefall is around 30 seconds. Vertical wind tunnel flights are from two minutes depending on the package you choose. Costs start from $39.

Contact: Christie Corse
Tel: 0447 359 669
Bookings are essential
www.extremevelocity.com.au

Port Venture’s New Luxury Cruiser

• Port Venture is Port Macquarie’s newest cruise vessel which can carry up to 150 passengers on the river and 100 passengers outside on the ocean for whale watching.

• The largest whale watching boat in Port Macquarie, it offers enough space to move around the boat and an eagle eye to spot the whales from the top deck. There are five different viewing levels and unrivalled stability. The whale watching season is from May to November.

• As well as whale watching there are a number of enjoyable river experiences:

o Bush BBQ cruises – meander up the Hastings River with an exclusive BBQ & salad followed by afternoon tea, along with boom net rides which the kids will love.

o Eco History cruises – along the Hastings River system with informative commentary about the history and environment whilst enjoying afternoon tea.

o Family Fun Twilight cruise – bring your own drinks and nibbles to enjoy on the picturesque waterways. Children’s entertainment, a sausage sizzle and boom net rides included.

• Port Venture is one of Port Macquarie’s largest and most established cruise operators.

Junk Cruises & Port Venture
The Cruise Terminal
Town Wharf, Clarence Street
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
Tel 02 6583 3058 or 1300 795 577
www.portventure.com.au

New Aspire Pelican H2O Accommodation in North Haven

• Aspire Pelican H2O Apartments is a new addition to the luxury offerings in Port Macquarie and is situated on the picturesque North Haven River, just 20 minutes south of Port Macquarie.

• Choose from one of the one, two or three bedroom fully self-contained apartments on the river – with passing resident dolphins – or overlooking the manicured gardens. They are ideal for families, groups or couples and if you have your boat with you there is a jetty and boat parking available

3-5 Bridge Street
North Haven
Tel: 02 6559 9580 or 0419 994 698 (out of hours)
www.aspirepelicanresort.com.au

Port Macquarie is a four-hour drive from Sydney on the Mid-North Coast of NSW with daily flights from Sydney and interstate and intrastate connections.

For more information contact Greater Port Macquarie Visitor Information Centre on 1300 303 155 or go online at www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au

Surf, sand, nature, adventure, shopping, nightlife, theme parks, FUN… it’s all here waiting to be enjoyed.

Aquarius Backpackers located in Southport, Surfers Paradise is a boutique backpackers hostel that caters for all those who share a love of travel. Situated on the famous Gold Coast, they offer a very friendly home away from home experience. Aquarius Backpackers has dormitory style accommodation with either 4 or 6 share bunks as well as private queens and twins. Also catering for all female & male rooms.

“A lot of love has gone into looking after this boutique property. We are here for the long term and over the past few years have been dedicated to creating a safe, clean and sustainable business. From our eco friendly showerheads and taps to the state of the art front loader washing machines we feel we are helping the environment in more ways than one” says Jo-anne Wilkie, hostel owner and manager.

“Additionally, we have put a strategic business plan together that will allow us to maintain and develop with industry growth and regulation”.

“We encourage you to stop in and say hi… we would love to show you our piece of paradise and shout you a beer at “Jack’s Spot” our in-house bar”.

NINGALOO’S first whale shark of 2011 has been spotted off the coast of Exmouth, hailing the early start of the annual whale shark season.

The four metre juvenile was sighted in the Ningaloo Marine Park, just outside the reef on 15 February – an earlier than usual start to the season.

Australia’s Coral Coast Chief Executive Officer, Mr David O’Malley said the whale shark season at the Ningaloo Marine Park was becoming longer and more successful each year.

“Whale sharks have arrived earlier than previous years and hopefully they’ll be around for a long season again this year,” Mr O’Malley said.

“Last year’s whale shark season was a record season, with tours operating from mid March until mid July and sightings reported until late in the year,” Mr O’Malley said.

“Many tour operators recorded a 100 per cent success rate for swimming with the whale sharks on tours that departed.

“More than 14,000 people went on whale shark tours last year, which was 1700 more passengers than the 2009 season.

Ningaloo Marine Park whale shark tours are tipped to start early next month in response to the early sightings of whale sharks in the area.

Whale sharks are attracted to the Ningaloo Marine Park each year to feed on the rich nutrient waters created from the mass spawning of coral on the reef.

Ningaloo Reef is one of the most reliable and easily accessible places in the world to swim with whale sharks, which are the largest fish in the sea, growing up to 14 metres in length.

“Swimming with these majestic gentle giants of the sea is an awe inspiring experience and should be on everyone’s bucket list,” Mr O’Malley said.

“Qantas recently announced new flight services between Perth and Exmouth will start in late March, meaning the region will soon be serviced by two professional airlines, creating greater accessibility to the Ningaloo Marine Park in time for this year’s whale shark season.”

People who swim with whale sharks are encouraged to upload their whale shark images onto Ecocean’s online gallery at www.whaleshark.org, which catalogues and monitors whale sharks for research and conservation purposes.

“Australia’s Coral Coast has adopted a whale shark and we encourage others to adopt one of their own to ensure future conservation of the species,” Mr O’Malley said.

Visit www.westernaustralia.com or www.australiascoralcoast.com  to start planning your next holiday.

Following the sell-out success of Great Southern Rail’s newest and most exclusive rail journey, The Southern Spirit, Great Southern Rail have just released a limited number of departure dates for a further travel season from November 2011 to February 2012.

The new Southern Spirit explores the path less travelled taking in the sights and delights of four states as it winds through the Great Dividing Range and along Australia’s Eastern Seaboard.

The Southern Spirit makes a number of whistle stops enroute including The Grampians, The Murray River, the Hunter Valley and Byron Bay as it journeys from Adelaide to Brisbane, or vice versa, over six days and five nights.

“Since the launch of The Southern Spirit in early 2010, we have seen growing demand for this exciting new service,” said Chief Executive of Great Southern Rail, Tony Braxton-Smith.

“In the second season in early 2011, we increased the number of departures from two to four. The popularity of the new itinerary has led us a decision to increase the departures for the 2011/2012 season to twelve journeys that will operate between November 2011 and February 2012.”

“The Southern Spirit is a unique way to experience the jewels Australia’s east coast hinterland. It is the essence of a relaxing rail adventure, taking guests on a journey of discovery through the rural heartlands of four states, winding through hills and ranges, across green valleys and along the Australia’s east coast.”

“With only twelve journeys available places will always be limited and highly sought after,” said Tony.

Guests can choose to join The Southern Spirit journey in Adelaide or Melbourne, travelling in either luxurious Platinum Service or hallmark Gold Service cabins.

Exclusive ‘Whistle Stop Tours’ provide guests with the opportunity to explore along the way. A relaxing wine tasting tour in the Hunter Valley and a chance to roam around Dubbo’s Taronga Western Plains Zoo, one of the world’s finest open plain sanctuaries, are just two these journey highlights.

“No other rail journey in Australia offers the variety of off-train tours included with The Southern Spirit. The itinerary has been meticulously planned so that the majority of train travel is during daylight hours, giving guests a full appreciation of this unique journey,” said Tony.

Back on board The Southern Spirit, guests will enjoy fine dining in the famous Queen Adelaide Restaurant, meeting new friends for a drink in the Outback Explorer Lounge, or just watching the breathtaking scenery unfold from the window of their private cabin.

Fares for the five or six day holiday of a lifetime range from $3,500 – $6,800 depending on departure point and the service level.

Registration for the next journey of The Southern Spirit is now open. To book call 13 21 47, visit www.greatsouthernrail.com.au  or contact your licensed travel agent.

Discover this magical yet remote coastline with legendary Kimberley expeditioner, Mike Cusack on the Coral Princess. In 1987, Mike and his wife Susan were chosen to be the first Australian Geographic’s Wilderness Couple. Mike will share his experiences with you of this once forbidding ancient and forgotten land.

Unlock her secrets in over one thousand miles of towering cliffs, plunging waterfalls, and beckoning white beaches which will touch your soul like no where else on Earth. After a remarkable wet season this year, Kimberley will be at its best for the start of Aurora Expeditions’ thirteenth season.

Join Mike on the Kunmunya ‘Wilderness’ Walk, exclusive to Aurora Expeditions’ passengers. The optional 9.5 km, or seven hour, rock-hopping journey is an inspirational and authentic bush experience, and one of the best ways to discover the true heart of the Kimberley.

With such an isolated coastline, many of the Kimberley Coast’s most fascinating sites can only be accessed by sea. Passengers will visit islands with nesting boobies and frigate birds, revel in the amazing Montgomery Reef, uncover the ancient secrets of Aboriginal rock art galleries and participate in the excitement of spotlighting saltwater crocodiles. Carved by millions of years of extreme tidal patterns, complex river systems, waterfalls and freshwater swimming holes complete the Kimberley delights.

The voyages will also be joined by eminent indigenous art historian Garry Darby and the inimitable Chris Done, whose years of research as a naturalist bring the wonders of the Kimberley Coast to life.

As with all Aurora Expedition’s voyages, emphasis is placed on a combination of interactive experiences with the environment and a strong educational element. Our onboard team of lecturers and naturalists are Kimberley experts who interpret history, plants and animals from Aboriginal and European perspectives.

Departures still available in May and June 2011.

Voyages 1 & 2 – Broome to Broome

Depart – 30th May & 10th June 2011 (11 days)

These unique expeditions travel from Broome to Bigge Island off the Kimberley’s northwest coast and back again. Along the way travellers will see the Lacepede Islands, a prime breeding ground for green turtles and tens of thousands of breeding birds; the tidal pools of Montgomery Reef; and the secrets of the Wandjina spirit paintings.

Voyage 3 – Broome to Darwin

Departs – 20th June 2011 (11 days)

The third voyage explores from one end of the Kimberley Coast to the other, crossing Joseph Bonaparte Gulf and visiting the spectacular King George River on the north coast. Cruising north, expeditioners will explore the renowned Horizontal Waterfalls, the shark, turtle and whale rich waters of Montgomery Reef, Prince Regent National Park and the spectacular 90 metre plunge of the King George Falls.

Prices are from AU$6,950 per person twin-share, including all meals on board and Zodiac excursions. Solo travellers are welcome.

Special offer – Simply book on any of Aurora Expeditions’ 2011 Kimberley voyages before 31 March 2011 to receive a FREE accommodation and Minyirr Park tour package valued at $300. Conditions apply.

For more details or to obtain a copy of the Kimberley Coast 2011 brochure, contact Aurora Expeditions on 1800 637 688 (Australia only) or +61 2 9252 1033, visit www.auroraexpeditions.com.au