Jetsettersblog

A fresh, new collection of Luxury, Adventure and Great Value Holidays fill the pages of the newly released 2011/12 brochure, ‘Broome, the Kimberley & Northern Territory’, from Broome & the Kimberley Holidays.

Broome & The Kimberley Holidays are Australia’s leading specialist travel company for the Kimberley and beyond and this year’s brochure delivers over 100 pages of holiday ideas for this highly sought after destination. Travel in the Kimberley and the Top End, continues to excite holiday makers who desire the true essence of Outback Australia. Knowledge and experience in these regions sets Broome & The Kimberley Holidays apart when seeking advice on the best combinations of itineraries.

This year, not only does the brochure feature a fresh new look, but we have also introduced a NEW concept in holiday modules, called ‘Essentials’. These packages are based on 4 night stays mini-stays and are designed to be ‘more than just a hotel stay’. We’ve negotiated breakfast inclusions and ‘must do’ tour experiences in destinations including Broome, Kununurra, Darwin & The Red Centre to provide the best short stay experience in one great value deal. Our ‘Broome Essentials’ package includes 4 night’s accommodation at a choice of hotels, breakfast daily, a Willie Creek Pearl Farm Tour and a Broome Sightseeing Tour, starting from $395pp twin share.

Our Experience Packages are also a feature of the brochure, including a NEW luxury package for Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa in Broome, featuring 4 night’s accommodation, a Sunset sail along Cable Beach, a scenic helicopter flight to a private beach for a romantic sunset dinner and a 30 minute massage at Chahoya Spa.

NEW tour offerings include a 3 day tour on The Ghan, Katherine & Kakadu, a new Top End 6 night self-drive and dedicated features for APT Kimberley Wilderness Adventures and Pinnacle Tours. We also welcome new product including Wildman Wilderness Lodge and Hawk Dreaming Wilderness Camp to our NT programme.

Kimberley cruises are again featured in this year’s brochure. A Kimberley Cruise is an adventure of a lifetime. With over 12 different vessels to choose from including, True North, Orion, Coral Princess and Kimberley Quest II, our team can assist with recommending the perfect match for any holiday maker. Our most popular package is an 18 Night Ultimate Rail/Cruise combination featuring The Ghan and Coral Princess.

Be it self-driving on The Gibb River Road, luxurious getaways in Broome, Kimberley air safaris or remote eco stays in Kakadu and Arnhemland, Broome & the Kimberley Holidays can tailor a personalised experience for all.

For copies of the new brochure, visit your local Travel Agent or call Broome & The Kimberley Holidays on 1300 245 565. Brochures can be downloaded at www.broomekimberley.com.au

Dive HQ / H20 Sportz is running free scuba diving lessons at the Airlie Beach Lagoon to offer people an opportunity to try scuba diving for the first time. This new endeavour is an exciting new prospect, teaching people how to dive before they head out on one of the many tours available that visit the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding Whitsunday Islands. Lessons are run daily between 11am-3pm.

8. NEW ROOM TYPE AND DINING PACKAGE ON HAMILTON ISLAND

Hamilton Island is pleased to announce the introduction of a new room category at the 4-star Reef View Hotel – Reef Family Room. The Reef Family Room is two interconnecting rooms that cater for families travelling to Hamilton Island who wish to enjoy the benefits that the hotel provides with a little extra space.

The introduction of Hamilton Island’s new Dine Around package enables guests to enjoy the convenience of having breakfast and dinner included daily in their package, removing the worry of how much dining out will cost each evening. With a wide range of restaurants available guests will be spoilt for choice with a different cuisine each evening.

Riverview Retreat for dog lovers

The pet-friendly boutique retreat just north of Hervey Bay even offers optional dog training sessions for its canine guests.

The Riverview Retreat, located at picturesque Burrum Heads 30 minutes’ north of Hervey Bay, fronts both the river and beachfront. The luxury retreat is the creation of former world surf champion Chris de Aboitiz, the founder of Natural Balance For You And Your Dog, and partner yoga specialist Claire Dixon. Guests will enjoy a heated spa and sun deck overlooking the water, while luxurious touches include Egyptian linen, organic bathroom amenities plus an in-room espresso machine with organic coffee. There is so much to do in this beautiful hideaway, from the complimentary bikes to ride around the foreshore bike paths, lessons on the stand up paddle board on the river or a one hour private yoga session. One-on-one dog training sessions are also available so you can improve your relationship with your dog while you holiday.

Contact Information:
P: 0421 026 255
W: www.riverviewretreatburrum.com.au
Rates: Accommodation starts at just $195 per night for two people, including breakfast and afternoon tea daily. Dog training sessions cost $300 for the first day and each additional day of dog training $100.

Outback’s “Million Star” magic

Outback tour operator Kinnon & Co. Longreach is offering an overnight camping experience under a “million stars” and vintage bike hire as new ways to enjoy Queensland’s spectacular Outback.

The Clancy’s on the Thomson “Million Star” overnight experience offers the opportunity to enjoy a memorable night out in the bush at a tranquil nook of Longreach’s Thomson River. Highlights include a sunset cruise on the newly refurbished Thomson Princess Riverboat, a drover’s dinner with entertainment, and sleeping in deluxe swags under a canopy of stars. Clancy’s Overnight Tours are available for anyone aged nine years and above on Mondays and Thursdays, and are available for private groups and team building activities. Outback visitors can now hire a vintage bike from the Kinnon & Co Booking Office and step back in time to explore Longreach on wheels.

Contact Information:
P: (07) 4658 1776
W: http://www.kinnonandco.com.au/
Rates: Clancy’s on the Thomson Tour – Adult $198, Child 9-14 years $99. Vintage bike hire – Full day $25, Half Day $15. Helmet, security chain and basket provided with bikes.

Outrigger style for Whitsundays

Airlie Beach has welcomed the opening of the brand new Boathouse Apartments by Outrigger at the Port of Airlie Marina.

The striking plantation-style resort features airy, open-plan two and three bedroom self-contained apartments and elegant penthouses, overlooking the marina to the Coral Sea. Each of the beautifully-appointed apartments have been designed with a nautical theme with glass louvres and shutters to capture coastal breezes, hardwood flooring reminiscent of a yacht deck, stainless steel detailing and deep, all-weather balconies offering spectacular views. A short 150 metre walk into Airlie Beach’s main town centre, the Boathouse Apartments by Outrigger’s onsite guest facilities include pool, spa, tennis court, 44-berth marina, a restaurant and café opening in April, plus a range of specialty retailers set to open over coming months.

The opening of the Boathouse marks the completion of the first stage of the $750 million Port of Airlie Marina that will eventually become a world class destination, featuring a 289-berth marina, residential apartments, a public boardwalk, beach and parkland, thriving retail precinct and an integrated ferry, cruise and coach terminal.

Contact Information:
P: (07) 4841 4100 or 1800 547 020
W: www.outrigger.com.au
Rates: The Boathouse is offering a special opening rate of just $260* per night in a two bedroom apartment. *Rate is based on a minimum two-night stay for bookings until June 23, and is subject to availability.

Kayak southern Moreton Bay

Redlands Kayak Tours offers guided adventure kayak tours around the picturesque southern Moreton Bay.

Guests can choose from one of 10 possible launch sites, including Tingalpa Creek, Coochiemudlo Island, Victoria and Cleveland Points. Tours run from two to three hours, and conclude with light refreshments. Operators Tony and Katrina Beutel have lived around the Redland waterways for 30 years. Tours are led by an Australian canoeing-accredited and qualified guide and include some basic instructions, a safety briefing and all equipment.

Contact Information:
P: 1300 529 258
W: www.redlandskayaktours.com.au
Rates: A single tour is $59, Family Tour (4 people) $196 and a group booking of eight or more is $54 per person.

SkyPoint tells Gold Coast story

The Gold Coast’s SkyPoint Observation Deck has added a sky-high theatrette which tells the colourful story of Australia’s favourite holiday destination.

Located on level 77 and 78 of the iconic Q1 tower, the SkyPoint Observation Deck has recently undergone a stunning transformation to include new foot-level educational boards, informative feature zones and static displays along with the new theatrette which promotes the Gold Coast’s lifestyle and experiences. The deck doubles as a chic, high-altitude lounge bar after dark with live entertainment every Friday, Saturday and acoustic entertainment each Sunday evening plus a new cocktail menu including the signature ‘Mile High.’ The much anticipated external Skywalk, which climbs from the roof to the peak of Q1 is planned for completion by the end of 2011 and will take guests on a journey around the exterior of the building up to 250 metres above sea level.

Contact Information:
P: (07) 5582 2700 / 1300 473 325
W: www.skypoint.com.au
Rates: SkyPoint Observation Deck is open from 9am to 9pm Sunday to Thursday and 9am to midnight every Friday and Saturday. Admission is $21 per adult, $12.50 per child and $54.50 per family (two adults, two children). Guests can also purchase the $29 Annual Pass for year round access to the deck. For more information or to purchase your tickets online, visit www.skypoint.com.au

New water fun at Tangalooma

Tangalooma Island Resort has added a sunset cruise and new water sports to its range of fun activities, all operated by island-based Tangatours.

Guests board a 12-metre catamaran for the one hour sunset cruise drifting along beautiful Moreton Bay while enjoying hot canapés complemented by champagne, beer and soft drinks. Experience the large array of local marine life, while enjoying the serenity and beautiful natural landscapes that Moreton Bay has to offer. The cruise returns in time for the nightly feeding of wild dolphins at Tangalooma. Cost is $49 per person.

Also new is Stand Up Paddle Boarding. From beginner to advanced, Tangatours have guided tours to suit all levels. The paddle boards will challenge your balance and coordination while giving you a whole new view and experience of Moreton Bay. Choose from one hour hire ($15 per person), or guided tours ranging from Beginner (30 minutes – $35 per person); Intermediate (60 minutes – $55 per person) to an Advanced tour to the Tangalooma Shipwrecks (90 minutes – $65 per person).

Tangatours also recently added scuba diving to its activities so guests can discover what’s below the surface around the wrecks and shoreline off Moreton Island. From Introductory to Advanced single dives as well as Dive Courses, all levels of experience are catered for.

Contact Information:
P: (07) 3410 6927
W: http://www.tangatours.com.au / and www.tangalooma.com
Rates: All activities can be booked at the resort at Tangatours, located next to the Beach House Rotunda restaurant.

Tamarind’s taste of Thai

Renowned Thai chef Paul Blain is set to reveal his secrets in April 2011 with the opening of a new purpose-built cooking school at Spicers Tamarind Retreat in the Sunshine Coast hinterland.

Classes at The Tamarind Restaurant Cooking School will be held on the first and third Wednesday of every month and every Saturday. The intimate classes of up to 12 participants offer the chance to learn everything you ever wanted to know about delicious Thai cuisine, from where to find the right ingredients to creating the perfect Thai menu. Each class covers around five hours of cooking plus lunch, wine and full recipes. Paul has long been admired for his innovative Thai cuisine, having travelled, absorbed and lived the Thai lifestyle and honed his craft in notable restaurants such as Darley St Thai in Sydney and Chilli Jam Cafe in Noosa. Set near a waterfall in a stunning rainforest just 3km from Maleny, Spicers Tamarind is an intimate retreat where Thai style meets the tranquility of the Australian bush.

Contact Information:
P: 1300 411 587
W: http://www.spicersgroup.com.au/property/spicers-tamarind-retreat
Rates: Classes are $165 per person. Spicers Tamarind also has a Mid-Week Cooking School Package which includes two nights in a one bedroom Falls Pavilion, continental breakfast daily, bottle of sparkling wine on arrival, 10 course Thai banquet for two on one evening (excluding wines) and cooking class for two from $1,143 per couple. A Weekend Cooking School Package is also available, including two nights in a one bedroom Falls Pavilion, continental breakfast daily, bottle of sparkling wine on arrival, 10 course Thai banquet for two on one evening with matching wines and cooking class for two from $1,320 per couple.

Meriton Southport opens for guests

Meriton has opened its eighth property at Southport, on the northern end of the Gold Coast.

Located in the Brighton on Broadwater development, Meriton Serviced Apartments Southport offers 172 fully self-contained one, two and three bedroom apartments. Resort style facilities include an indoor heated swimming pool, spa, sauna and gymnasium. Each apartment is equipped with a flat screen TV, kitchen and separate laundry.

Contact Information:
P: 1800 214 822
W: http://www.meritonapartments.com.au/gold-coast/southport
Rates: One bedroom apartments available from $97 per night, subject to availability.

Lake Eyre in a day

See amazing Lake Eyre in a Day from Brisbane onboard a private chartered high-winged Dash 8.

The day tour departs from the Brisbane Jet Base at Brisbane Airport and includes a visit to Queensland’s iconic Birdsville Hotel as well as breakfast, lunch, morning and afternoon tea, light evening meal and informative commentary by Charleville-based guide Graham Reid from Travel West. Graham will share his knowledge of the western river systems, the road networks, small communities and huge properties of the Outback plus tell stories about our early explorers. Graham’s knowledge comes from many years of conducting tours throughout the region and his enthusiasm for the land and history is reflected in his commentary. Tours are currently available on April 9 and 16.

Contact Information:
P: (07) 4654 3155
W: www.travelwest.com.au

Rates: $1,699 per person.

Travellers to Korea in 2011 can benefit from FREE nights at hotels, FREE transportation from Seoul to major tourist destinations like Gyeongju, Jeonju and Busan and gain discounts at restaurants, theatre performances, shopping and much more.

From March 2nd, the the Visit Korea Committeee (VKC) and Busan Municipal Government will launch a free shuttle bus from Seoul to Busan exclusively for foreigners. The Seoul-Busan route is the third offering from the (VKC) following introduction of free buses on the Seoul-Gyeongju and Seoul-Jeonju routes last year.

With the introduction of the new Seoul-Busan free shuttle it means that tourists to the country this year can effectively travel to many of the major tourist destinations in Korea for free. Buses run only once per day so travellers need to reserve their seats online in advance of travel through the Visit Korea Year website www.visitkoreayear.com

The ‘One More Night’ promotion allows visitors to gain a free night’s accommodation at selected hotels if they stay for a minimum three nights. Stay three nights and get the fourth night free is available at select hotels at major tourist destinations around the country.

The hotel promotion is available at hotels ranging from three star to five star located in the capital Seoul as well as the major tourist cities such as Gyeongju, the ancient capital of Korea, the seaport city of Busan and beautiful Jeju Island off the southern coast of the country. To reserve accommodation at hotels in Korea for this promotion go to www.visitkoreayear.com and click on the ‘One More Night’ promotion button.

Also, visitors to Korea this year can take advantage of a discount coupon booklet freely available from the Sydney office of Korea Tourism Organziation (KTO) which allows visitors discounts on duty-free and shopping outlets as well as restaurants, cafes, museums, theatre performances and more.

Contact KTO Sydney office by email: visitkorea@knto.org.au  or phone: 02)9252-4147/8 for your free copy of the booklet if you are planning a trip to Korea this year.

Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) has launched the new ‘Visit Korea’ app for iPhone users and Android users. The mobile application provides easy and convenient access to tourist information on Korea. It will be of great benefit to travellers visiting Korea having all the latest travel information on the country in their hands.

KTO is one of the first national tourism operators to provide countrywide travel information via the smartphone service.
Some key features include recommended itineraries, a photo gallery highlighting Korea’s tourist attractions, and access to interpretation services by clicking on the 1330 tt call centre link. Also, with GPS integration, users can search travel information by their current location. Other travel tools include real-time exchange rates, local weather, world time and essential Korean travel phrases.

To download the application, search for ‘Visit Korea’ in the Apple App Store and ‘KTO’ in the Google Android market. The app is also available in the online markets of the three main service providers in Korea (LG Oz Store, SKT Store, and KT Olleh Market).

At the same time Seoul Metropolitan Government is providing real-time bus information through 6,300 QR codes posted at every bus stop in the city. To check out the bus arrival time (and other useful information on downtown tours and daily life in Seoul) simply take a photo of the QR code at the bus stop with a smart phone. The information will be stored in your device and is accessible at any time. The service is provided in several languages including Korean, English, Japanese and Chinese.

An alliance that combines aviation and hospitality leadership to deliver one stop access to business aircraft from Jets to turboprops to helicopters:

Deccan Charters Ltd – a leading aviation services company of India, Taj Air – the executive charter service of IHCL, and Business Jets India Private Ltd (BJETS) have announced a significant collaboration to launch a new alliance in the air charter industry – called POWERFLY. The collaboration will leverage the synergies of the three brands and their fleets and is poised to become a considerable force.

Deccan Charters will be the exclusive Marketing Concessionaire for BJETS aircraft in India and will work on developing, expanding and consolidating the market across the country through Powerfly. The combined fleet will be available through various programs including adhoc charters and memberships, loyalty programmes that extend across all three brands and the various hotels of Taj and membership options. Powerfly membership will provide a unique first of its kind of solution where the customer can customize his own program by mixing and matching from the wide choice of aircraft provided through the alliance. Powerfly will be a comprehensive offering to the end consumer who will now have a wider choice of aircraft, more reach and a wider geographic network coverage. This is a significant deal in the chartered airline business in India as Deccan Charters, Taj Air and BJETS will grow in size, influence and network while they will draw on each others strengths and synergize on operations.

Mr. R K Krishna Kumar, Director, Tata Sons and Vice-Chairman, Indian Hotels Company Ltd. said, “We are very happy to partner with Capt. Gopinath and Deccan Charters. We believe that the air charter service industry in India has immense potential. While Taj Air, Deccan Charters and BJETS all have their individual strengths and strongholds in the business, this collaboration will bring together a new force that will catalyze the sector. Powerfly will be a win-win for the end consumers as it increases their options. While Deccan Charters have their own fleet of aircraft, Taj Air and BJETS will add value to their existing portfolio with our distinct and stellar fleet. Powerfly will soon change the face of the chartered airline sector in India”

Speaking about this agreement, Capt. G R Gopinath, Chairman & Managing Director, Deccan Charters Ltd., said “We are very happy to be joining hands with Taj Air and BJETS to form Powerfly. India has seen an unprecedented growth in commercial aviation over the last few years. This alliance will fuel growth in the general aviation industry and provide entrepreneurs and professionals greater flexibility to conduct their business and reach remote destinations through these airplanes and helicopters. While we have our existing portfolio of 16 aircraft, Taj Air and BJETS will now bring three Hawker 850XPs and the Cessna Citation CJ-2, along with the P180 Avanti and the Falcons – thereby enhancing our portfolio of aircraft”

Powerfly will combine the fleets of all three brands and will indeed empower the customer to make a better choice. The booking process will henceforth be integrated so the customer would be able to book any sector, any airline at any budget at a ‘one-stop-shop’. Also, with Taj InnerCircle coming on board, customers can earn and burn points on this programme at Taj properties or flying with Powerfly. Powerfly will give the end-user the advantage of a wider choice, a better geographical coverage and more reach – all at a price point convenient to the customer. Also, during the period of the agreement, Deccan Charters will provide BJETS with repair and maintenance service for its fleet and conduct scheduled inspections as per the requirements of DGCA.

About Deccan Charters
Deccan Charters formerly known as Deccan Aviation is a leading aviation services company of India. Started in 1997, it has grown at a rapid pace, expanding its network across the country and providing a level of service unparalleled in the charter industry. In 2003, it also spawned India’s first low cost airline giving wings to the common man’s dream to fly. Deccan Charters, today, operates with a fleet of helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, which suit virtually any requirement and has the widest geographical reach in India among General Aviation companies with over 10 operational and engineering locations. Today, Deccan provides a complete suite of aviation solutions ranging from Corporate Travel to Aircraft Management, Maintenance and Technical Services.

About Taj Air
Taj Air pioneered charter aviation in India in 1993; bringing to the industry, the world-renowned service and Indian hospitality of the Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces. Today, Taj Air is globally recognized as the finest executive charter airline service in the country. Taj Air is equipped with a young fleet of aircraft; Falcon 2000 private jet aircraft, and a brand new Falcon 2000LX jet and P.180 Avanti II turbo-prop aircraft. Our private jets fly to more than 150 airports in 56 countries. Within India we can fly to over 130 destinations while commercial airlines cover 71 destinations. A highly trained crew with over 25,000 hours of flying experience, supported by the most competent ground staff in the business, ensures a bespoke flying experience, perfected by impeccable service, for its discerning and exclusive guests.

About BJETS
Business Jets Private Ltd. or BJETS offer solutions in the Business Aviation space. The company is backed by Singapore based Briley Group and has a significant shareholder in Indian Hotels Company Ltd. in India. BJETS offers world class private jet travel across Asia with its fleet comprising of Citation CJ2 & Hawker 850/900 XP jets – to provide the utmost in comfort operational efficiency and state-of-the-art technology.

AQUA RESORT – THE SOUTH WEST’S LATEST LUXURY DESTINATION

After more than 4 years in the making the Aqua Resort is now open.

Situated on the tranquil shores of Geographe Bay between Dunsborough and Busselton the resort is the latest addition to the premium accommodation market in the South West and is sure to become a desirable destination for those seeking a relaxed family holiday and a five star base from which to experience what is arguably
Western Australia’s most popular tourism region.

With it’s 34 single storey Grove villas and 7 two storey Beachfront Villas, private plunge pools, 25 metre beachside pool, tennis court, gym, spa and steam room, Aqua sets a new benchmark in style and luxury beach house accommodation.

Set within 8.5 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds the developers have embraced the sites existing stand of mature peppermint trees and managed to retain the majority of the trees giving the resort a unique established feel which typically takes years to achieve.

Taking a tour through the property one gets a true indication of the quality and attention to detail which has been lavished on this truly exceptional resort.

Arriving at the resort you are greeted at the stylish reception area with striking vaulted roof set within a cooling pond with the sound of cascading water. After collecting a room key card we enter the resort proper passing through a set of electronic gates decorated with a Peppermint leaf silhouette which provides a glimpse of the exclusive enclave which lies beyond. Passing the tennis court under an avenue of timber arches you are immediately immersed in the relaxed ambience of the resort with its collection of private villas set amongst the peppermint trees which are a signature feature of this unique stretch of coastline. With extensive use of natural materials, a colour palette which responds to the landscape and interiors which combine rich textures with quality furnishings and fittings the designers have captured the essence of relaxed beachside holiday living.

Each grove villa has been cleverly designed to accommodate two families sleeping up to 10 in the 4 bedrooms. Matching master suites branch off the large open plan living area each with ensuite bathroom and freestanding bath avoiding the dilemma of which couple loses the coin toss and takes the inferior bedroom. A second bedroom provides a king split ensemble which can be configured as either a king or two singles, a further bedroom has two sets of bunk beds for the kids and a third bathroom. A fully equipped kitchen to satisfy the most demanding chef, separate laundry and powder room round out the extensive accommodation. Other features include an open gas fire, outdoor kitchen with barbeque and sink, outdoor shower, large timber deck and expansive private lawn area.

Continuing our stroll along the main access path we meander through the trees to beach stopping to explore one of the impressive Beach front Villas. These two storey villas with their striking architectural design can be booked as either two separate apartments or linked to provide accommodation for up to 12 with the first floor providing a luxurious master suite with ensuite bathroom overlooking the bay, two double bedrooms, bathroom and spacious oversized living dining & kitchen area leading out to a large entertaining deck with built in outdoor kitchen all with expansive views across Geographe Bay. Luxury furnishings and fittings have been used throughout with stylish neutral palette and large comfortable lounges tempting lazy days of free in house movies on the 56inch flat screen or entertaining friends with music supplied by the Bose sound system with iPod dock. Downstairs is another master suite with ensuite bathroom overlooking the villas private plunge pool, a further bedroom and bathroom and second kitchen, dining and living area which again leads on to a large deck with BBQ again all with views to the Bay.

Leaving the Beach Villa we stroll through the gardens and along the timber boardwalk to the pool area set metres from the sand and tranquil waters of the bay. Here the inviting 25 metre resort pool with waterfall edge and separate spa is surrounded by decking and lounges. Passing the pool we arrive at the Steam Room and fully equipped Gymnasium with views to Cape Naturaliste through the floor to ceiling glass.

If all of this sounds appealing Aqua Resort is now open for bookings and is sure to fill fast with quality unmatched in this special part of the South West.

Dragons, spices and megaliths

Orion’s Spice Island Adventure explores one of the most extraordinarily bio-diverse regions on Earth, a handful of rarely visited islands situated just north of Australia.

Centuries ago the Spice Islands were the source of the world’s most valued foodstuffs, the most treasured commodities of their time. Spices enriched a chain of traders and merchants with profits beyond belief, multiplying in value perhaps a thousand-fold by the time the spices reached the markets of Europe.

Dotted among the thousands of islands that make up the Indonesian archipelago, only nine islands supported the Myristica fragrans tree, the source of nutmeg and mace, while just six more islands provided the right combination of soils and micro climate to support a myrtle tree whose dried flower buds were known to the Chinese as ‘fragrant nails’ but are best known as cloves.

More than 3000 years ago cloves were traded in Persia, and Romans were able to buy spices originating from the east of Indonesia. In the 16th century Magellan and Vasco da Gama opened the way for Europeans and the trading houses of the British East India Company and the Dutch East India Company. In 2011 Orion Expedition Cruises will again open the way for more adventurous (albeit these days culturally sensitive) spirits with an 11 night expedition to explore a region where few outsiders ever set foot.

Being part of Wallacea, the legendary area that separates the Australian and Asian continental plates, it is home to many unique flora and fauna species, particularly birdlife. Here towering volcanoes, many still active, rise from the depths of the sea. Tropical islands appear through the soft light of morning, a hint of kretek – aromatic clove and tobacco blended cigarettes – wafts on the breeze. Bright costumes and colourful customs bring ancient legends and traditions to life as you explore remote island villages.

This expedition includes a visit to Komodo and the chance to see the world’s largest lizards. Growing to over 3 metres in length Komodo dragons are an impressive sight, and whereas they don’t spit flames like those of mythical

dragons they can be seen dribbling blood-red saliva after feeding – equally impressive.

Remote Pink Beach, so named because of crushed red organ pipe coral sand, is perfect for swimming, snorkelling or just relaxing on the beach – options available to make the most of time spent on this stunning beach.

Ashore, on the island of Alor the predominantly Christian villagers are friendly, their culture as intriguing as it is enduring, exampled by the existence of Moko drums which can be traced back to the Dongson period in Vietnam around 350 BC.

The residents of Sumba, an uplifted coral limestone island once known as Sandalwood Island by early European traders, retain a strong cultural heritage resistant to the outside influences of Christianity, Hinduism or Islam. Orion’s guests will be welcomed by Sumba villagers wearing traditional woven ikat fabrics to see imposing ancient megaliths that adorn the entrances to Sumba villages.

As on all Orion expedition voyages, the specialist Expedition Team, selected for their knowledge and practical experience in fields that include botany, marine biology, anthropology and history will share their in-depth knowledge to enhance guest experiences.

This 11 night Orion Spice Island Adventure has captured the imagination of Orion’s Expedition Team. The heady blend of local culture, European discovery, geology, unique flora and fauna all wrapped and presented in a series of beautiful islands largely lost in time promises to be a voyage of a lifetime.

Spice Islands Adventure – 14 July 2011 – 11 nights
Darwin, Kisar (Maluku), Alor, Maumere (Flores), Komodo, East and West Sumba, Savu, Rote, Darwin

Fares Guide:
Fares begin from $8,175 per person for an ocean view Category B Stateroom
Suites begin from $11,275 per person for a Junior Suite
Owners’ Suites with French Balcony are $17,120 per person

Ranked #2 expedition cruise ship in the world in the current Berlitz Cruise Guide, Orion is the world’s latest and Australia’s only purpose-built luxury expedition cruise ship.
With 75 crew and a maximum of just 106 passengers Orion offers the highest staff to guest ratio and guest to public space ratio of any ship based in Australian waters.

For further media information please contact

If you’ve been searching for your inner child, you just might find it again with a visit to an up-to-the-minute, old-time country carnival.

The town of Bermagui on the NSW Sapphire Coast comes alive each year with the annual Seaside Fair – and it isn’t just the small fry having all the fun!

Put Saturday, March 12 in your diary, with the day kicking off at 8am for the Blessing of the Fleet, an important ceremony in a coastal town where fishing plays a vital role in the local economy.

With the solemnities over, it’s time for all the favourite funfair attractions, starting with the street parade at 10am – a fabulous collection of entries from the local school and preschools, along with members of various clubs. There a floats and fancy dress – everyone dresses up to the theme.

After the parade, everyone gets down to serious funfair business, according to organiser Jo Jacobs.

“I think we have about 120 market stalls selling all manner of food, refreshments, crafts and produce, as well as helicopter joy flights, a vintage and classic car show, and a fashion show.

“We also have exhibitions of art and craft, model boats and photography, two stages in operation with a variety of entertainment going all day, a carnival with rides, a pet pageant, a sand castle building competition and, of course, fireworks to finish.

“This is the 14th year the fair has run. We do try to have something for everyone and I think we must be doing something right – everyone seems to have fun, no matter what age they are.”

For more information on the Bermagui Seaside Fair, visit the website: www.bermaguiseasidefair.com

One former inclusion of the annual funfair is now a stand-alone event, but visitors to the fair will be able to see both.
Sculpture on the Edge (March 4-13) features large sculptural pieces set into the magnificent coastal scenery.
Artists and audiences come from around the country for the exhibition which includes installations on Endeavour Point Headland, Dickinson Park and Horseshoe Bay beach as well as an indoor exhibition of smaller sculptures and a public symposium.

There are rewards on offer for the pieces judged the best in the show, including a residency at the ANU Sculpture School and nearly $10,000 in prize money, including two People’s Choice awards.

The event also features children’s workshops, a Festival club (at Fishermen’s Wharf) and a symposium on the changing face of sculpture featuring four sculptors including local artist, Peter ‘Beatle’ Collins who won the People’s Choice Award last year.

For more information about the event, see the website: www.sculpturebermagui.org.au

More information on Bermagui and the Sapphire Coast, including accommodation details and bookings, can be found by calling toll-free on 1800 150 457 or visiting the website www.sapphirecoast.com.au

ASX listed hotel group (ASX:OAK) Oaks Hotels & Resorts is one of Australia’s largest apartment accommodation providers, boasting a portfolio of 38 properties across Australia, New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates.

Recently appointed to manage the brand new $150 million Mon Komo Development on Marine Parade Redcliffe; Oaks Hotels & Resorts are supporting the notion that Redcliffe could be set to become one of Queensland’s most in demand destinations for leisure and business travellers.

CEO of Oaks Hotels & Resorts, Brett Pointon said “Redcliffe is already a popular tourist destination. But with recent and ongoing major infrastructure upgrades vastly improving connectivity; the charm of a relaxed, beachside lifestyle combined with easy access to both Brisbane City and the Brisbane airport are now within more travelers reach,”

Oaks Mon Komo is set to welcome its first guests on April 15 and early bookings are already proving to be very strong.

“As one of Brisbane’s fastest growing corridors, Redcliffe presently struggles to cope with the demand for accommodation that regularly exceeds supply. Oaks Mon Komo will introduce a whole new level of quality accommodation to Redcliffe and a fantastic beachside base for business and corporate travelers too.” Mr Pointon said.

Mon Komo (meaning My Dream Place) is idyllically positioned on the Redcliffe Esplanade. With stunning, unobstructed sea views; 76 spacious apartments occupy 12 levels with one, two and three bedroom self contained apartments infused with Queensland coastal décor and beach house ambience. Leisure facilities are equally impressive with a large, lagoon sized pool, pool deck and fully equipped gymnasium.

The resort is just footsteps from the famous partrolled Sutton’s Beach and for boaties – close proximity to marina facilities at Scarborough providing the perfect relaxed gateway with direct access to Moreton Bay. There is also a range of dining options close by and by June 2011 the property will also be home to a brand new pub with indoor and outdoor dining and retail facilities. Conference facilities will follow thereafter putting Redcliffe firmly on the map as the ideal destination to combine both business and leisure.

Oaks Hotels & Resorts have commenced taking bookings for Mon Komo with opening rates starting for a one bedroom apartment from just *$129.00 per night.

*Based on minimum 2 nights stay, subject to availability, valid until 31/05/11.

For more information on Oaks Mon Komo go to www.oakshotelsresorts.com.au