Jetsettersblog

The famous Golden Circle route is to see its first geothermal spa this June. Laugarvatn FONTANA sits above the steamy waters of Lake Laugarvatn and is en route from Þingvellir National Park to Iceland’s shooting geyser fields. The spa will provide an indulgent stopover between the impressive natural sights of the Golden Circle.

The spa will include three geothermally heated open air baths, a sauna, a warm sand beach and access to the pristine waters of Lake Laugarvatn. FONTANA focuses on wellness and follows a century-old tradition of locals using the healing powers of Lake Laugarvatn’s natural stream baths.

FONTANA will be open daily in summer and winter from 11am – 9.30pm. Entrance will be £12 for adults and £6 for 12-16 year olds. Children under 12 go free.
www.fontana.is

New Eyjafjallajökull Volcano Centre receives over 1,000 visitors in first two weeks

Iceland’s brand new volcano centre, ‘Iceland Erupts’, saw an incredible 1,150 visitors within its first two weeks of opening. As the centre is located at the base of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano in a rural area this is testimony to the growing interest in Iceland’s volcanoes. The centre documents last year’s ash cloud with photographs and films of the eruption.
www.icelanderupts.is

Pink Iceland- Iceland’s first tour operator dedicated to LGBT clientele
Recently launched tour operator, Pink Iceland, is the first of its kind as it deals wholly with LGBT visitors to Iceland.

Tours on offer include whale watching, visiting the Blue Lagoon, superjeep volcano tours, river rafting, diving, helicopter tours and gay culture walks.

To make travel even easier for the LGBT community, Pink Iceland has developed an app downloadable to mobiles called the Pink Pass. This gives regular updates of LGBT events in Iceland, lists Pink Iceland’s partners and has an interactive gay map. There is also up to 25 per cent off regular tour prices with the Pink Pass.

Pink Iceland can also help recommend night-life venues, events and accommodation with the best gay friendly atmosphere.

http://pinkiceland.is/

Relish a bit of rural Iceland with Discover the World’s new farmstay holiday

Discover the World has introduced a self-drive farmstay holiday following Iceland’s scenic Route 1. Covering 1,760 km in 11 days, visitors stay at working farms, get to know the farming community and enjoy fresh and natural local produce.

Route 1 takes in the best of Iceland’s beauty as it winds along the coast, through the highlands and Myvatn’s lava fields and along the base of the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon.

All accommodation has been carefully selected to provide guests with the best rural experience. Overnight stays include a beach guesthouse with views of the Snaefellsjokull glacier, a sheep farmer’s guest cabin and the charming coastal village of Seydisfjordur which sits on the tip of a fjord.

The self-drive holiday allows guests to drive at their own pace and stop along the way to see wildlife, thundering waterfalls, shooting geysers and the impressive cliffs of Dyrholaey.
The trip is available from June until September 2011 with prices starting at £1,280 per person. The price includes accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, car rental, insurance but excludes return flights, fuel and oil.
www.discover-the-world.co.uk
Transport news

Icelandair to Fly Non-stop from Glasgow and Manchester to Iceland

Icelandair is to launch new non-stop flights from Glasgow and Manchester to Iceland on 20 September 2011. These flights will replace the current Manchester- Glasgow- Reykjavik “triangle route” and connect to Icelandair’s North American destinations.

The Glasgow flights will operate three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays and the Manchester flights will operate up to three times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays.

The result will be additional flying capacity from Glasgow and Manchester, as well as quicker flying times to Icelandair’s North American destinations.

www.icelandair.co.uk

From country towns and regional cities to wonderful wildlife and beautiful beaches, a short break in Denmark offers a huge range of possibilities that will appeal to all walks of life. And to really gain an insight into the country and its culture, what could be better than a visit to its very heart? The Trekanten region, located in the eastern part of the Jutland peninsular, is at Denmark’s geographical centre and as such makes a splendid base from which to discover the essence of this thoroughly laid-back and enticing country.

Trekanten (also known as The Triangle) is a peaceful and little-known area that lies between the towns of Kolding, Vejle and Fredericia. With these charming and historic settlements being in such close proximity – and with rolling, unspoilt countryside in between – Trekanten is an ideal destination for a leisurely touring holiday. Visitors can choose to travel at their own relaxed pace either by car or (in true Danish style) by bicycle, enjoying plenty of distractions along the way. With a host of rewarding experiences to be found at every turn, a touring holiday in Trekanten is the perfect introduction both to East Jutland and the country as a whole.

A ‘must’ on any touring itinerary in Trekanten are the monuments at Jelling, which is one of Denmark’s most important historical sites. Created in the 10th Century by the Viking kings Gorm the Old and Harold Bluetooth, the site contains a huge, ship-shaped stone circle as well as some important rune stones and a church.

Its relevance is such that the site was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 – thereby ranking it alongside other iconic monuments like Stonehenge and the Great Wall of China. Jelling is not the only memorial to Harold Bluetooth, however: the Bluetooth communication technology is named in honour of his efforts to unite the Scandinavian powers, with the logo representing a combination of the runic equivalent to the letters H and B. http://www.kongernesjelling.dk

Another of the region’s key attractions is the TRAPHOLT museum of art and design in Kolding http://www.trapholt.dk/. In addition to its permanent collections of modern artworks and 20th Century Danish furniture, the museum has a sculpture park with works by Danish contemporary artists and also stages revolving exhibitions of art, design and handicrafts. Other highlights include the summer cottage belonging to Arne Jacobsen (the legendary designer best known for his iconic ‘Egg’ chairs), which can be visited on a guided tour; and a museum shop stocked with designer gifts and homewares.

Kolding is also the starting point for the Vejen Art Route, which introduces visitors to area’s various galleries, studios and other places of artistic interest.

For something a little more outdoorsy, the area around the pretty town of Vejle is filled with all kinds of recreational opportunities, from activities like golf and cycling to indulgent spa treatments at a wellness hotel or lazy afternoons on a sun-kissed, sandy beach. Just outside the town lies the Kongens Kær wetland park, a recent addition to Vejle’s list of attractions that’s home to nature trails and picnic areas where visitors may be lucky enough to spot the rare white-tailed eagles that hunt across the wetlands. Vejle itself has plenty of shopping and dining opportunities and is so attractive that it’s been labelled ‘Denmark’s cosiest town’!

The largest town in Trekanten is historic Fredericia, which was established in 1650 by the Danish King Frederick III (after whom it was named). Fredericia began life as a fortified encampment and, thanks to its central location and large port, developed to such prominence that it almost became the Danish capital (though Copenhagen eventually won the honour on account of its larger population). Today, Fredericia is known for its well-preserved ramparts, which form a scenic park around the town centre, as well as its beautiful buildings, café culture and pleasant, typically Scandinavian ambiance.

There are also cultural attractions galore – from live music and modern art to museums and the largest play-park in Denmark – plus nearby wooded countryside, sandy beaches and a modern, bustling harbour-front to explore.

Fredericia’s former military might is still evident to this day, with plenty of relics being visible all over the city. One of the town’s must-do activities is the hour-long stroll around the well-preserved, defensive ramparts.

Here visitors will discover cannons, a citadel and statues of soldiers and other prominent figures from the city’s turbulent past. Anyone visiting in early July will enjoy a spectacular commemoration of these more violent days. Each year on 6th July, a major festival takes place to mark the anniversary of a significant battle that took place in Fredericia in 1849.

The victory is celebrated with cannon salutes, processions and all kinds of entertainment and festivities staged in the town centre (including a four-day Jazz & Blues Festival). Fredericia’s other notable attractions include the Gunpowder Tower (the oldest military building in town); the family-friendly Madsby Play Park; and the beautiful, blue-flag beach at nearby Skærbæk

http://ipaper.ipapercms.dk/fredericiaKommune/bysek/Kommunikation/Fredericiaguiden

Trekanten’s central location at the heart of the country also provides for easy access to the many attractions in the wider area, such as Sønderskov castle, the Viking Centre in Ribe, Hans Christian Andersen’s house in Odense or – most famous of all – the world-class attraction of LEGOLAND (which is just an hour’s drive away).

Getting there?

The area is easily accessible via the nearby gateways of Aarhus, Billund and Esbjerg, all of which offer frequent and convenient connections to Fredericia by bus and train. Billund and Aarhus airports are served from the UK by Ryanair (www.ryanair.com ) which means it’s both easy and affordable to arrange a visit to this fascinating and appealing corner of Denmark.

DFDS Seaways (www.dfds.co.uk ) offers a regular service of overnight departures between Harwich and Esbjerg in West Jutland, with prices starting from £249, based on two people and one car travelling one way with a sea view cabin. The drive from Esbjerg to Trekanten takes less than two hours.

For more information on Denmark including the latest offers go to: www.visitdenmark.com

Matakauri Lodge is celebrating its first ski season with a fabulous Winter package that offers great value and ultimate comfort and luxury alongside some of the country’s best winter skiing and snow sports.

What could be better for ski enthusiasts than enjoying all the exhilaration of a day on the South Island slopes than knowing they have Matakauri Lodge and all its seclusion and warmth to retreat to après ski?

As part of Matakauri’s all inclusive Winter Ski Package, the team at the Lodge will drive skiers to and from Cornonet Peak*, making a day at the slopes effortless, hassle free and great fun!

Since opening in August 2010 as a sister property to North Island lodges Kauri Cliffs and The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, Matakauri has quickly become one of New Zealand’s most awarded luxury lodges.

Tatler Magazine named it one of 101 Best Hotels in the World for 2011, and Conde Nast Traveller has named it in its 2011 HOT LIST.

Matakauri Lodge combines fabulous accommodation in just eleven suites and villas with exceptional lodge facilities, top dining from Chef Dale Gartland’s seasonal menus, a wine cellar with plenty of offerings from Central Otago and beyond, and a luxury spa.

Tariff NZ $750.00 per person per night + GST
Tariff INCLUDES accommodation, a 50 minute massage per person per night, transfer to/from Coronet Peak from Matakauri Lodge, pre-dinner drinks, canapés, dinner full breakfast non-alcoholic mini bar and use of lodge facilities. Rates are quoted for double occupancy. For single occupancy add NZ$200.00+GST.

Matakauri Lodge’s Winter Ski Package is available to August 31, 2011.
*Transfers to other ski mountains are available at an extra charge
For Reservations please contact: Matakauri Lodge
P +64 3 441 1008 or E reservations@matakaurilodge.com

About the lodges:

Matakauri Lodge, Queenstown, NZ
Spectacularly situated on Lake Wakatipu with stunning views of the Remarkables mountain ranges, Matakauri Lodge offers luxury accommodation in just eleven suites, each with private terraces looking out to the dramatic vistas. Recently named by Tatler Magazine as one of the “World’s 101 Best Hotels”, and also earning a spot in Conde Nast Traveller’s 2011 HOT LIST, Matakauri boasts stylish lodge facilities, superb food and wine, and exemplary service. Nestled in one of the world’s most serenely beautiful landscape settings yet just minutes from the attractions of Queenstown, it is the perfect alpine lakeside retreat. www.matakaurilodge.com

The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, Hawke’s Bay, NZ
The Farm at Cape Kidnappers is one of the world’s extraordinary top luxury destinations, set on a 6,000 acre sheep and cattle farm with breathtaking views over the Pacific in the Hawke’s Bay wine region. With just 24 ultra-comfortable and spacious “cottage” suites and a four bedroom “Owner’s Cottage”, and a spectacular Tom Doak designed golf course, all with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, a stay at the Relais + Chateaux Cape Kidnappers is truly “farm luxe” at its best. www.capekidnappers.com

The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, Northland, NZ
Set on 6,500 acres near Matauri Bay, Kauri Cliffs enjoys a commanding position with spectacular 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean overlooking the championship golf course. The beautiful lodge is built in the grand colonial style, with gorgeous living and dining rooms opening on to covered verandahs. 22 outlying guest suites, and a 2 bedroom Owner’s Cottage provide the spacious accommodation at this Relais + Chateaux hideaway complete with a fabulous spa beautifully nestled amidst a totara forest, a giant Kauri Tree, and gorgeous Pink Beach.
www.kauricliffs.com

As if a scenic ferry ride to the airport isn’t special enough, Air Whitsunday has launched a new service linking Shute Harbour and Hamilton Island Airport. The ‘Air Links Whitsunday’ service is currently available for passengers arriving and departing on domestic flights at Hamilton Island Airport, offering an even more spectacular arrival or departure into the Whitsunday region.

Air Whitsunday has added a new Airvan for the airlink service, complementing its existing fleet of Cessna Caravans and DeHavilland Beavers. Air Links Whitsunday operates from the Whitsunday Aviation Village Estate, Terminal One, Shute Harbour Road, a short 10 minute drive from central Airlie Beach.

There are also plans to also include the Mackay market to support the Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Cairns and Townsville services. Rates: Introductory fare is $79 per person one way. Luggage limit is 20kg per person.

Tourism Whitsundays has this week released its major marketing tool for the year, the Whitsundays Visitor Guide. Around 90,000 Whitsundays Visitor Guides will be distributed all over the world over the next 12 months. The Visitor Guide has been significantly revised this year to provide a comprehensive overview of how to get here; must do’s; Island and Whitsunday Coast Accommodation; a dedicated sailing section; tours and attractions on land, on water and in the air; dining, nightlife and shopping; getting off the beaten track; caravan and camping; national parks; weddings and events.It is also exciting to announce a brand new initiative this year with the introduction of a pull out ‘Whitsunday Coast Drive Trail’ map in the centre of the publication.

The Drive Trail map aims to further showcase the diversity of the Whitsunday Coast from Airlie Beach to Proserpine, Bowen and Collinsville, encourage more driving holidays to the region and offer 6 great alternatives to water based activities when it’s wet and windy.

To view the Visitor Guide and Drive Trail Map online, go to www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au  and click on the links on the home page.

An all new ‘Red Service’ has just been launched aboard The Ghan following a $6 million facelift.

Economy rail travel across Australiahas just been enhanced with newly refurbished diners aboard The Ghan named ‘Matilda Café’. The new Matilda Café complements the ‘Red Gum Lounge’ launched last year and the recently refitted seating carriages.

The upgraded facilities and features will make the journey through the Red Centre a world-class travel experience for economy travellers on a limited budget who want to experience the rich tapestry of landscapes through the Red Centre and the Top End.

The new ‘Matilda Café’ features comfortable booth seating for guests to enjoy delicious freshly prepared snacks and meals, freshly ground coffee and a range of Australian wines and beers.

From made to order wraps to outback inspired main courses, such as braised Australian Lamb Shoulder infused with red wine, rosemary and garlic with mustard seed oil over mashed potato and carrots, or classic favorites such as crumbed fish and chips with salad, the new menu offers a range of mouth watering options.

The new ‘Red Gum Lounge’ provides the perfect place to enjoy the panoramic window views, socialise with new friends, or spend a leisurely afternoon with a good book. Complimentary tea and coffee are available all day and a selection of reading material and a range of games are also provided.

The newly refurbished Red Day-Nighter Service offers comfortable reclining seats that provide more leg room than planes or coaches and are now adapted for DDA access. The two-abreast seats are comfortable and rotatable, allowing the ability to better socialise and interact with fellow travellers.

While services and facilities have been completely upgraded, prices have become even more competitive. New ReadyRail fares offer a saving of up to 50% on full priced Red Service fares when booked online.

Guests can also travel aboard The Ghan with up to 40kg of luggage (two 20kg bags) per person at no additional cost.

Chief Executive of Great Southern Rail, Tony Braxton-Smith said, “We have invested significantly in re-defining the standards for our Red Service. We aim to offer a unique way to see more ofAustraliaat a very competitive price with loads more comfort and features than any other form of transport.”

The Matilda Café will be launched on the Indian Pacific in September.

For more information on Red Service aboard The Ghan and the Indian Pacific, or to make a reservation, please visit the Great Southern Rail website, www.greatsouthernrail.com.au  or call 13 21 47.

Whitsunday Sailing Club has introduced SUNGRAZE, an exciting new menu of appetisers and snacks so you can enjoy a lazy, grazing afternoon on the balcony with friends. Add some live music and great cocktails to the mix and you have a perfect social combination.Often called “the best spot in town” the Whitsunday Sailing Club now has a great new partnership in the kitchen with chef Craig Hart and Sous chef Shuga Martin. They have designed an extensive tasting menu with items including salt and pepper calamari strips, peking duck spring rolls, steamed mussels in white sauce and thai fish cakes. With over twenty dishes to choose from and very reasonably priced, they are trying to dish-up an enjoyable Sunday afternoon for locals and visitors.Live music and great food every Sunday afternoon from 3pm at the Whitsunday Sailing Club.

Crown Metropol is combating the cold with a package for the winter months to allow guests to forget the frost. Guests can book one night in a luxe room for $335.00 and receive valet parking as well as access to ‘28’, the hotel’s private guest lounge where guests enjoy complimentary evening drinks and breakfast for two. This special winter warmer package is available Sunday – Friday until the end of August 2011.

Included in the package is access to “28”, Melbourne’s most exclusive night spot. Located on the hotel’s top floor, the chic sky-high bar and lounge offers guests complimentary drinks and bar snacks between 5:30pm and 7:00pm. In the morning, guests may return to the stylish surrounds and take in 180 degree views of Melbourne. Unlike many other guest lounges, guests are entitled to order from a decadent a la carte menu as well as take advantage of the extensive buffet breakfast laden with premium organic dishes including sheep’s yogurt parfait, freshly baked bread, organic bacon and eggs and more.

The package also includes access to level 27, which features the now iconic 25 metre long waterfall-edge pool with city views as well as the spa’s terrace including a hot plunge pool with massage jets, lounges and couples day beds for guests to enjoy throughout the day and up until 9pm. Also located on level 27 is the hotel’s worldclass day spa, ISIKA which offers guests an array of treatments from massages to facials to full body indulgence packages to warm the mind, body and soul.

Gordon Ramsay’s two restaurants, maze and maze Grill are conveniently located on level one of Crown Metropol. The mouth-watering winter menu includes a roast feast option fit for royalty with dishes including a choice of suckling pig, lamb or an assiette of rabbit. Guests need to book 24 hours in advance when choosing the feast menu. Diners looking for a lighter option can choose from the maze bar menu including favourites such as the maze mini burger, prawn and miso salad, cucumber, shiso and charred octopus, chorizo and capsicum.

Guests with a sweet tooth are invited to pull up a stool at the grand marble table in the maze bar which also doubles as a pop-up dessert bar. Pastry chef, Dan Fletcher builds and plates decadent desserts right in front of guests to tantalise both the eyes and palate.

In addition to all the in-house offerings at Crown Metropol there is also a world of entertainment and retail options available to guests. The hotel is located adjacent to a range of popular retail outlets leading guests through to air-bridge access to the gaming floor, cinemas, luxury brand shopping plus casual and further premium dining options including the recently opened Bistro Guillaume, The Atlantic, Nobu, Neil Perry’s Rockpool, Spice Temple and The Waiting Room and many more.

Reservations can be made by calling Crown Metropol reservations on +61 3 9292 6211 or by visiting http://www.crownmelbourne.com.au/crown-metropol

Targeted to raise SGD25,000 for Straits Times Pocket Money Fund

SINGAPORE – The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore and Singapore Grand Prix have teamed up to auction a three-night suite stay for two guests over the 2011 FORMULA 1 SINGTEL SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX weekend from 23 to 26 September 2011. To qualify, submitted bids must exceed SGD$20,000 and include a valid contact number.

The target is to achieve at least SGD$25,000 to be contributed to the Straits Times Pocket Money Fund (SPMF) towards assisting needy students in Singapore with pocket money for school.

The Ritz-Carlton Singapore Grand Prix Suite Stay includes:
- a three-night stay for two guests in a newly-renovated Premier Suite at The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore overlooking the race circuit (worth SGD$6,000);

Located in the heart of Marina Bay and the race circuit, enjoy a luxurious perspective from a spacious Premier Suite. With resplendent city and harbour views, enjoy one of the most privileged points of view and a truly grand sense of arrival as a Ritz-Carlton guest.
- a pair of three-day 2011 FORMULA 1 SINGTEL SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX Club Suite passes (worth SGD$11,000);

The air-conditioned, glass-fronted Club Suites offer excellent vantage points of the thrilling Formula One race action. Each suite comes with a private outdoor viewing balcony, a sumptuous five-star menu, a dedicated bar offering complimentary free-flow champagne and premium wines, plus access to all entertainment zones within the circuit park.
- a pair of exclusive passes to the Drivers’ Autograph Session and cocktail reception on 22 September;
This event is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fans to spend valuable face time with their favourite Formula One drivers and get their coveted autographs.
- a pair of three-day Podium Lounge passes (worth SGD$800).

The ultimate A-list poolside party for the racing circle, guests join the after-race party attended by the glitterati held from 23 to 25 September. The action includes international DJs and a charity auction with Formula 1 paraphernalia.

To enter the auction, please email cherylsh.ng@ritzcarlton.com with “The Ritz-Carlton Singapore Grand Prix Suite Stay” in the subject header by 9 June 2011. The email should contain your bid inSingapore dollars (in excess of SGD$20,000), your full name and valid contact details. In the event of an equal amount received as the highest bid, the winner will be selected based on the earliest submission time and date.

“We are delighted to partner Singapore Grand Prix during one of the city’s key events of the year to fulfill our corporate social responsibility objectives by supporting the Straits Times Pocket Money Fund as part of our ongoing Community Footprints Program. This will be an experience of a lifetime, replete with luxurious hospitality, coveted first-class access to the race and related exclusive events.” Says Mr Peter Mainguy, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore.

“It gives us great pleasure to support a charity like the Straits Times Pocket Money Fund which provides assistance to children from low-income families,” said Mr Colin Syn, Deputy Chairman, Singapore GP Pte Ltd. “We hope that like-minded individuals who share our passion for giving back to the community will participate in this auction and be rewarded with an unparalleled first-class hospitality experience at The Ritz-Carlton and Singapore Grand Prix.

About The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore

With restaurants and food and beverage options voted by readers of Travel and Leisure as “The Best inSingapore”, The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore is a newly-renovated 32-storey luxury hotel located inMarinaBay, next to the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay. Set amidst seven acres of tropical landscape, all guest rooms and bathrooms offer views of eitherMarinaBay orKallangBay and the city skyline. Services and facilities include restaurants and a lounge serving Chinese, Western and international favourites; a Fitness Centre and Spa with swimming pool, indoor gym and spa treatment rooms; and a business centre.

About FORMULA 1 SINGTEL SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX

Singapore has successfully hosted the only night race in Grand Prix history and Asia’s only street race on the FORMULA ONE calendar on a street circuit of public roads in downtown Singapore for two years since the inaugural race in 2008.