Jetsettersblog

Long-weekend of Pampering on Whitsunday Islands

Escape for a long-weekend and pamper your partner while cruising through the Whitsunday Islands and The Great Barrier Reef on a four-night cruise aboard the MV Fantasea Ammari. Enjoy up to $400 added value per couple in onboard beverages and Spa & Beauty treatments. For all bookings made before 30 June, for travel through to 12 December 2008 prices start from just AUD$2460 per person (twin-share). This current special offer allows for each guest to receive the added bonus of $100 credit for beverages plus $100 credit for Spa & Beauty treatments while enjoying the boutique cruise experience.

The MV Fantasea Ammari is the flagship of Fantasea Adventure Cruising, providing a unique and intimate cruising adventure through the Whitsunday islands and the Great Barrier Reef. With a maximum of only 64 passengers and a crew of 23, the vessel offers the space to get away in privacy, yet intimate enough to spoil with outstanding personal service.

With an itinerary including world-famous Whitehaven Beach, Blue Pearl Bay and the Great Barrier Reef, passengers can enjoy an idyllic romantic escape. Imagine a long-weekend including walking the pure white sands of Whitehaven Beach, floating in the crystal clear waters of Blue Pearl Bay, diving with fish at Fantasea’s Reefworld on the Great Barrier Reef, enjoying a massage on the top deck as the sun sets and indulging in delicious chef-prepared meals under a star-studded sky.

Bookings information see www.fantaseaammari.com  or call toll free 1800 662 786 or 07 4946 7084.

0422 617 442.

Fantasea Flies you Free to Whitsunday Islands

Fantasea Adventure Cruising has launched an exciting offer for travellers who want to visit the Whitsundays for a long-weekend. For all bookings made before 30 June for travel through to 12 December 2008 on the MV Fantasea Ammari four night cruise, passengers also receive free flights from Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne airports to Hamilton Island, free chauffeur transfers to and from home to the airport and $100 gift voucher per cabin for use in the Ammari day spa. Cruise prices start from AUD$2460 per person (twin-share).

The MV Fantasea Ammari is the flagship of Fantasea Adventure Cruising, providing a unique and intimate cruising adventure through the Whitsunday islands and the Great Barrier Reef. With a maximum of only 64 passengers and a crew of 23, the vessel offers the space to get away in privacy, yet intimate enough to spoil with outstanding personal service.

With an itinerary including world-famous Whitehaven Beach, Blue Pearl Bay and the Great Barrier Reef, passengers can spend a perfect stress-free, relaxing weekend experiencing one of the most beautiful parts of Australia. Imagine a weekend where you walk the pure white sands of Whitehaven Beach, float in the crystal clear waters of Blue Pearl Bay, dive with fish at Fantasea’s Reefworld on the Great Barrier Reef, watch tropical sunsets every evening and indulge in delicious chef-prepared meals under a star-studded sky.

Terms and conditions include:

• valid for bookings made during May and June for travel prior to 12 December 2008

•Travel is based on per person economy return flights to Hamilton Island and the carrier for flights is at the discretion of Fantasea (max flight value $300/person return)

•Transport to and from airport to the maximum value of $300/cabin and transport to be arranged by the Company

•Cancellation & Refunds: Bookings must be made and deposit received within 7 days with balance of payment due 60 days prior to cruise departure date.

For more information and full terms and conditions of this offer please call Fantasea Toll Free 1800 662 786 or 07 4946 7084 or email info@fantaseaammari.com

Famous Author, Samuel Pickering to talk on Murray Princess

Passenger’s on Captain Cook Cruises seven night Murray River cruise departing June 6, 2008 will meet famous author and the man who inspired the character of Mr. Keating, played by Robin Williams in the film Dead Poets Society, Samuel Pickering. Throughout June the second person also travels for half price.

Despite being best known in Australia for his unconvential way of teaching that that inspired the character Mr Keating, Samuel Pickering is also a famous author having written 21 books and 100’s of articles. Some of his books include Walkabout Year and Waltzing the Magpies, both written in Australia.

Mr. Pickering has returned to Australia, to write a third book entitled A Tramp’s Wallet and says he has always been fascinated by Australia and has come to enjoy the people. “They are the nicest, most generous people in the world,” Pickering says.

Part of this book will feature a chapter on the Murray River and whilst researching the book, Captain Cook Cruises will be hosting Mr. Pickering on the Murray Princess. During the seven night cruise Mr. Pickering will be giving talks to passengers on life and capturing life on paper.

For those unable to cruise for 7 nights Mr. Pickering will be speaking for guests on the 3 night cruise departing June 6 and also for guests on the 4 night cruise departing June 9.

The 3-Night Wetlands Discovery Cruise is a mini weekend escape where passengers will discover the vast variety of flora and fauna, join a backwater boat tour, visit the Port of Murray Bridge and sample the food and wine of this famous region. The cruise departs Mannum every Friday at 4.30pm and returns Monday at 9.00am. Prices start from $775 per person twin share and from only $388 for the second person twin share.

The 4-Night Outback Heritage Cruise departs Mannum every Monday at 4.30pm and return Fridays at 9.00am. Cruise highlights include a visit to a vineyard and wine-tasting at the cellar door, a wildlife shelter and an aboriginal archaeological reserve plus a woolshed riverside barbeque & campfire. Prices start at $999 twin share for the first person and from $500 twin share for the second person.

The 7-Night Murraylands & Wildlife Cruise includes a free Barossa Valley tour and combines the 3 and 4 night cruises for a total Murraylands and wildlife experience. Prices start from $1596 twin share for the first person and from only $798 twin share for the second person. The seven night cruise departs Mannum every Friday and Monday at 4.30pm and returns Friday and Mondays at 9.00am.

All cruises include meals, accommodation, complimentary scenic coach transfers from Adelaide or car parking in Mannum, guided walks, presentations and all onboard facilities including use of two spas, two saunas, sun deck, two bars, two lounges, single sitting dining saloon and entertainment.

For reservations and enquiries please contact Captain Cook Cruises toll free on 1800 804 843,

Int +61-2-9206 111 or email: murray@captaincook.com.au  or visit www.captaincook.com.au

Create a Korea Tour Package and Win Cash

Korea Tourism Organization is inviting foreign tour operators/travel agents and members of the public to enter their ideas in the ‘Visit Korea Tour Package Development Contest’ to have a chance to win some of the A$16,000 in prizemoney.

There are two prize categories with ten prizes of approx A$1,000 each in the tour operator/travel agency category. There are also six prizes offered in the public category of approx. A$1,000 per tour development idea.

The contest is being held in collaboration with the ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and falls in line with the launch of Korea’s new tourism brand image launched last year ‘Korea, Sparkling’.

The contest seeks to find and commercialize sustainable quality tourist products to meet new tourism demands and to attract more foreign tourists to Korea. It is expected that both Korean and international tour operators/travel agents will collaborate in their efforts to create new and unique tour products for visitors to Korea.

The contest runs until the 15th June and winners will be announced late June. Get your entries in now via the www.visitkorea.or.kr website or contact the Sydney office of Korea Tourism Organization for full details of application. Email: jenny@knto.org.au  or phone 02)9252-4147/8

2008 Indy 300 on the Gold Coast

It’s a race, a party, an eyeful and an earful. Champ Cars scorching through bends and screaming down the straights. The earth shaking thunder of Australia’s V8 Supercars laying it all on the line. And ninety-six hours of on and off track entertainment at one of the world’s most famous beach. Feel the Gold Coast fire up for another four sizzling days and nights of high octane entertainment – Indy 300 style.

Sportsnet Holidays has just released a fantastic package that will put you in the grandstand at one of Australia’s premier motorsport carnivals! Sportsnet Holidays are offering a great range of accommodation suitable for all clients – ranging from the 4 star Vibe Gold Coast through to the 5 star Conrad Jupiter’s Casino and Sheraton Mirage. Sportsnet Holidays certainly have your accommodation options covered.

For those that want something a little more special, why not upgrade your package to Track view rooms at the 5 star Marriott Resort Surfers Paradise. Just imagine being able to watch all of the on track action from the comfort of your room – Sportsnet Holidays can make this happen. Track view rooms are extremely limited and selling fast.

Don’t delay - you cannot afford to miss out on seeing the 2008 Indy 300 on the Gold Coast.

Call Sportsnet Holidays on 03 9482 9411 to book your place, or visit www.sportsnetholidays.com  for further information.

Orpheus Island Winter Getaway

Orpheus Island Resort has launched a special package for those seeking the ultimate island experience.

For a limited time, Orpheus Island is offering a Pay 3 Stay 4, and a Pay 5 Stay 7.

With a total saving of up to $2900.00 per couple, this offer provides the perfect Winter Getaway.

Strictly limited to 42 pampered guests, Orpheus is a sophisticated yet relaxed retreat offering premium service, exquisite cuisine and total seclusion. Privacy is assured with the exclusion of telephones, televisions, day-trippers, nightclubs or children under 15 years. All guest accommodation is located on the beachfront surrounded by lush tropical gardens.

Imagine lazing on your own private beach with a gourmet picnic hamper or snorkelling some of the best spots on the Great Barrier Reef.

On Orpheus, dining is the ultimate indulgence with guests invited to experience sumptuous seven (7) course degustation dinners in the award-winning restaurant, prepared daily to cater to all dietary requirements.

Orpheus is renowned for its premium yet personalised and friendly service. Your every need is anticipated and taken care of with maximum care and minimum fuss. You may arrive as a guest but you will most certainly leave as a friend.

The ORPHEUS – PAY 3 STAY 4 package is just $2,175.00 per person* for 4 nights - SAVING $1450 The package includes:

• 4 nights accommodation in private beachfront Orpheus Retreat accommodation. (One night FREE)

• Meet & greet with fresh fruit cocktail on arrival.

• Full a la carte breakfast daily.

• Lunch daily – either alfresco-style in the courtyard or picnic-style on your own private beach.

• Gourmet, seven course degustation-style menu each evening.

• Unlimited use of motorised dinghies, paddle skis, catamarans, canoes, snorkelling equipment, local snorkel trips, light fishing gear, tennis court, pools, gymnasium, bushwalking and selected interpretive activities.

The ORPHEUS – PAY 5 STAY 7 package is just $3,625..00 per person* for 7 nights - SAVING $2900 The package includes:

• 7 nights accommodation in private beachfront Orpheus Retreat accommodation. (Two nights FREE)

• Meet & greet with fresh fruit cocktail on arrival.

• Full a la carte breakfast daily.

• Lunch daily – either alfresco-style in the courtyard or picnic-style on your own private beach.

• Gourmet, seven course degustation-style menu each evening.

• Unlimited use of motorised dinghies, paddle skis, catamarans, canoes, snorkelling equipment, local snorkel trips, light fishing gear, tennis court, pools, gymnasium,bushwalking and selected interpretive activities.

* The package price is based on twin/double occupancy and in AUD. The price includes GST. Seaplane transfers ex Townsville are not included and priced at $450 per person return To take advantage of this exclusive offer, book before June 2 2008, for travel up to August 31 2008.

Contact Orpheus Island Resort on phone 07 4777 7377 or email bookings@orpheus.com.au

2008 TASTES OF GOLD COAST Australia

Tastes of Gold Coast is now in its fifth year and has become a much anticipated festival on the Queensland events calendar.

From 22 August to 7 September 2008, visitors can indulge in over 30 events with lavish banquets, progressive dinners, gourmet delicacies, outdoor celebrations and much more. There are events in the program to cater to a wide variety of tastes and budgets.

Great food and wine, new taste sensations and idyllic settings – there is no better way to explore a city’s cuisine!

Feast your senses at Tastes of Gold Coast, the Gold Coast’s annual showcase of local seasonal produce from the Gold Coast and the hinterland region in a two week showcase of wine and food events.

Diversified events on this year’s Tastes of Gold Coast calendar will also see new features and highlights including hands-on cooking classes with an Italian Pasta Master Class on Saturday 30 August, organically grown local produce will be teamed with local olive oil from Rathlogan Olive Oil farm, expertly matched with local wines from Barney Creek Vineyard or head to the hills as the Tamborine Mountain Slow Food Group presents a symphony of textures and tastes for sampling of this popular international food movement.

The highly acclaimed Absynthe Restaurant in Surfers Paradise will be showcasing an intimate luncheon with ‘Jewels on a Plate’ on Friday 22 August. Renowned for his passion and flair for food, Michelin rated Executive Chef and owner Meyjitte Boughenout will take only 65 bookings for this must-do event.

Visitors to the Tastes of Gold Coast festival will enjoy annual favourites including the 2008/2009 Teppanyaki Championships at three locations including Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort, Crowne Plaza Royal Pines Resort and Gold Coast International Hotel, the family favourite A La Carte on the Beach and 3 Chefs Do Lunch at the Gold Coast Arts Centre.

Tastes of Gold Coast is a highlight in Gold Coast’s event calendar and the perfect excuse to indulge in 17 days of fun, food and wine.

To research and start planning your visit to the 2008 Tastes of Gold Coast visit www.tastesofgoldcoast.com.au

Tastes of Gold Coast is presented by Gold Coast City Council and proudly supported by Gold Coast Tourism.

Coral Princess Cruises Vanuatu

Black magic, secret societies, ritual dances and exploring the eerie underwater remains of WWII wrecks are not the stuff of ‘typical’ cruise itineraries, but Coral Princess’s five-night Vanuatu adventure and discovery voyages include all this – as well as the luxury of the 72-passenger expedition ship, the Oceanic Discoverer.

Following the success of its inaugural Vanuatu program in 2007, Coral Princess has released sailing dates for just three voyages in November, 2008, with the intention of introducing passengers to some of Vanuatu’s least-visited corners and most fascinating traditional customs, while minimising the impact on the local culture and environment.

Departing from Port Vila, first stop is Ambrym Island – famed for its black sand beach, ‘black magic’ and towering twin volcanoes. The Rom spirit dance – performed in situ by special arrangement with the local villagers – is associated with sorcery and is rarely witnessed by outsiders. The day is spent with the villagers and snorkelling on the reef, and the evening is illuminated by the lava glow from nearby Mts Marum and Benbow.

Maewo Island is also known for its ancient secret societies and dancing, but waterfalls, rivers and lush rainforest give the island its physical beauty. There are rainforest walks on Maewo and Ambae Island – said to be James A. Michener’s inspiration for Bali Hai.

Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu’s largest island, is known for one of the most stunning strips of golden sand in the South Pacific: Champagne Beach. Passengers can relax on the beach or there are bushwalking and water activities. Later in the day, experienced SCUBA divers have the opportunity to dive on the SS President Coolidge, sunk during WWII. With its collection of jeeps, munitions and extraordinary sea life, it’s the largest intact shipwreck accessible to divers in the world.

Malakula is the most culturally diverse island in Vanuatu and locally produced art and ritual objects are among the finest in the country. Gaining an insight into the complex ceremonies of the remarkable Big Namba and Small Namba tribes is a highlight of the voyage.

Throughout the cruise, there is ample opportunity to swim, snorkel and SCUBA dive, utilising Oceanic Discoverer’s onboard facilities, under the guidance of instructors and naturalist guides. The finale of the voyage is an afternoon exploring the amazing coral reef complex of the Maskelyne Islands, with its colourful corals and prolific fish life.

The Oceanic Discoverer travels with a purpose-built excursion vessel, Xplorer, a fleet of inflatable Zodiacs and a glass bottom boat, allowing guests to explore Vanuatu with naturalists and experts who interpret natural, cultural and historical highlights.

Prices start at $3,150 per person twin share in a Main Deck B stateroom, including accommodation, all meals, lectures and services of expedition staff on board, group transfers, most activities during the cruise, and landing fees. There are departures from Port Vila on November 10, 15 and 20, 2008.

For further information and reservations contact Coral Princess on 1800 079 545 or visit www.coralprincess.com.au

New Nepal Trips with 10% off

For keen adventurers looking to get ‘off the beaten track’ Intrepid has expanded its offerings in Nepal with the launch of eight new trips and a super special deal!

Exotic, remote and wild, Nepal is a land that conjures up images of frosted mountain peaks, deep green valleys and bustling market towns. After years of limited tourism, Nepal is opening up to the world once again and is back on the top of everyone’s ‘must see’ list!

Intrepid has recently released its Nepal and India brochure showcasing its eight new trips as well as another ten amazing tours that explore the wonder of these regions. To celebrate, Intrepid is offering 10% off all trips listed in the Nepal and India brochure (excluding Intrepid Independent trips) for purchase from 1 May to 30 June 2008, for travel before 31 December 2008.

Travellers looking for a real life experience will find an abundance of amazing options in Intrepid’s Nepal and India brochure. New trips include a high-altitude adventure to Nepal’s highest trekking peak - Mera Peak, a journey to the Secret Kingdom of Mustang and the incredibly challenging but equally rewarding trek along the Southern Route to Everest.

While these Nepalese locations may be well off the beaten track, the trip styles are distinctly Intrepid. Travelling in small groups and joined by expert local guides, travellers are able to experience unique cultures, amazing adventure and stunning scenery. Intrepid’s tours truly take travellers beyond the guidebooks to discover the real Nepal.

Examples of the Nepal discounts on offer include:

Mera Peak

21 days, ex Kathmandu

WAS from $3405, NOW from $3064

Nepal’s highest trekking peak, Mera Peak, offers all that makes Nepal a classic travel destination. Challenge yourself as you trek to 6,476 metres and take in some spectacular views as you follow glaciers, frosted rivers and rocky valleys. Although this trek is challenging, it does not require special mountaineering skills - travellers need to be reasonably fit, have a sense of adventure and be ready for an awe-inspiring trek!

The Secret Kingdom of Mustang

19 days, ex Kathmandu

WAS from $3000, NOW from $2700

This trip is one of the more challenging in Intrepid’s range. Travellers will trek around one of the highest mountain ranges in the world - the Annapurnas. The snow-capped mountains, deep plunging valleys, isolated communities and remote monasteries will inspire those with a true adventurous spirit. The trek will reach altitudes of up to 5,400 metres - giving Intrepid travellers the opportunity to truly feel on top of the world.

The Southern Route to Everest

25 days, ex Kathmandu

WAS from $1175, NOW from $1057

An unforgettable expedition into the most mountainous corner of the world, the Nepalese Himalayas. Everest has traditionally been the ultimate goal for mountaineers and on this challenging expedition, Intrepid heads towards the Everest base camp. Explore the mountains and valleys around the towering peak, learn about the traditions and cultures of the famous Sherpa and spend time in exotic Kathmandu

Great Canadian Travel Company Greenland Program

The Great Canadian Travel Company is offering a new tour program to Greenland. Participants will join environmentalist David Hatch on an eight-day Greenland Climate & Culture Tour, an exclusive travel program that enables participants to study two communities in Kangerlussuaq and Ilulissat.

An early-morning flight takes you to Ilulissat for a five-night stay at the Hotel Arctic. On a guided walk through the town-third-largest in Greenland, with more than 4,500 inhabitants, founded in 1741-you’ll learn about local history and culture in the community. You’ll visit fishermen at the harbor and the hunters at their trading posts-as well as the church and the house where famous polar explorer Knud Rasmussen was born. The program operates Aug. 15 to 21, 2008.

Priced from $3,989 per person (land only, based on double occupancy), plus $1,700 round-trip airfare Copenhagen/ Kangerlussuaq, this tour includes round-trip airfare Kangerlussuaq to Ilulissat, one nights’ accommodations at Kangerlussuaq, five nights’ accommodations at Ilulissat, breakfast daily and two dinners in Ilulissat.

Also included are local transfers in Ilulissat, musk oxen photo safari, city walk, sled dog life tour, Oqaatsut boat tour with lunch and Eqi boat tour with lunch. Round-trip airfare between U.S. departure city and Copenhagen is additional.

For more information, call 800-661-3830 or visit www.greatcanadiantravel.com