The Southern Spirit (www.greatsouthernrail.com.au) is an exclusive six day/five night rail journey from Adelaide or Melbourne to Brisbane, and vice versa, covering 2,810 kms as it winds its way through four states – South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland.

Honeymooners can opt for the luxury ‘platinum service’ which includes plush, spacious en-suite private cabins, on-call Cabin Steward Service and in-cabin menu, as well as fine dining in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant car. By day the cabin is a private lounge but by night it is transformed into a luxurious bedroom complete with double bed.

Days are spent admiring the natural beauty of the diverse landscapes through which the train travels, from the rolling plains of the south to the stark beauty of the Red Centre. The Southern Spirit also makes a number of stops allowing guests to discover the beauty of The Grampians, the majesty of the Murray River, the vineyards of the Hunter Valley and the quaintness of Byron Bay.

In the evening, after a sumptuous dinner in the restaurant, honeymooners can retire to their cabin, dim the lights, pour themselves a glass of wine or champagne and sit back and enjoy the in-cabin entertainment. In the morning a leisurely continental breakfast is served in the cabins.

There are a limited number of departures remaining on the Southern Spirit until June and honeymooners wishing to include this trip in their Australian itinerary should ensure they register their interest or book well in advance due to the popularity of this route.

Fares for the five or six day train journey range from AUD$3,500 – AUD$6,800 (approx £2,357 – £4,579) depending on departure point and service level. These prices include Whistle Stop Tours and transfers. To book, either log on to www.greatsouthernrail.com.au or contact your local travel agent or tour operator.

Background
The Southern Spirit was launched in early 2010 with just two departures. This service increased to four departures, and now, due to demand, has further increased for the 2011/2012 season.

Great Southern Rail also boasts the world’s only two transcontinental services, namely The Ghan which operates north to south from Darwin to Adelaide, and The Indian Pacific which traverses east to west, Perth to Sydney. The Overland service completes Great Southern Rail’s portfolio of “Australia’s Great Train Journeys”.

The Southern Spirit guests can choose either a Gold or Platinum Service cabin.
The Gold Service cabin is a twin sleeper featuring ensuite facilities and a three-seater lounger which converts to upper and lower sleeping berths by night.
The Platinum Service cabin offers the ultimate in luxury rail travel. This spacious ensuite features a lounger that converts to a double or twin bedroom by night. Guests have on-call Cabin Steward Service and an in-cabin menu that make this a truly five star experience.

On the reinvention of Ayers Rock Resort, Managing Director of Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia Koos Klein said, “We are committed to exceptional guest experience and therefore we are looking forward to all the changes being made at Ayers Rock Resort. We have a new vision, new activities, with new directions — all complimented by the dramatic improvements and upgrades that are being made in 2012 on the property.”

Historically committed to community development, Ayers Rock Resort will now offer an indigenous training and employment program to attract employees locally and from across Australia. Furthermore, the Indigenous Land Corporation has committed to raising Indigenous employment at the resort to 50 percent by 2018, providing over 300 jobs for Indigenous Australians. Additional developments at Ayers Rock Resort include a new under-the-stars dining experience, Tali Wiru or Beautiful Dune, relocation and transformation of the Mulgara Art Gallery, a spa focusing on spiritual healing and desert meditation and a Welcome to Country Ceremony in the Ayers Rock Airport arrival hall.

“The Inaugural Australian Open of Surfing will reinforce Manly Beach and Sydney’s reputation as a top surfing destination not just for pro-surfers, but for any traveler interested in a vibrant coastal lifestyle and all the activities that go along with that,” said Sandra Chipchase, Chief Executive Officer at Destination New South Wales. “Manly Beach is a destination gem in Sydney and this event will help to showcase all that it has to offer young travelers – not only an unbelievable surf location, but the hub of live music, surf lifestyle, great restaurants, shopping, museums and art.”
Destination New South Wales, along with event sponsors Hurley and Billabong are partnering to bring the event to Manly Beach.

While the surf competition will take center stage, the other activities have been designed to attract beach lovers, surfing enthusiasts and youth travelers alike. A unique wooden bowl structure, dubbed the “Beach Bowl,” has been constructed especially for the skateboarding competition, which will feature three divisions – Juniors, Pro, and Pro Masters – showcasing more than 80 competitors. The total prize winnings being awarded to skateboarders tops $50,000, and promises to draw notable athletes from around the world. Large scale music performances from Australian bands and artists will also hit the stage throughout the event, drawing music lovers out to the sand for some music in the famous Australian summer sun.

“I grew up surfing New South Wales’ beaches and to me, there is no better surf destination in the world,” said Sally Fitzgibbons, winner of the ASP Women’s World Title at the US Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach, CA in July 2011 and New South Wales native. “New South Wales is full of incredible surf spots, and Manly Beach is one of the best in the world. I’m so excited that the surf community is recognizing the amazing surfing Australia and Manly Beach have to offer by hosting this world renowned event there.”

Along with the featured athletic events, attendees will also have the opportunity to partake in unique Manly Beach activities and Australian surf culture. The area offers extensive opportunities for waterfront dining, exciting nightlife, contemporary fashion boutiques, museums and adventure activities. Adventure and sports enthusiasts can partake in some of Manly’s offerings such as beach volleyball, kayaking, paddle boarding, surf lessons, or even whale watching while the more retail oriented traveler can stroll through the stores, arcades and boardwalks discovering Australian handmade jewelry, clothes, shoes and artworks.
To celebrate the Australian Open of Surfing, Destination New South Wales and STA Travel are partnering to offer affordable travel packages to young travelers starting as low as $1,383 per person including roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles and five nights’ accommodation at a choice of hotels. Additional nights are available for as low as $54 per person. Rates are based on twin share accommodation valid for travel February 16-20, 2012. Prices are valid for students or those aged 26 years or less. For more information and to purchase travel packages, please visit http://www.statravel.com/virgin-australia-student-tickets.htm
Manly Beach is home to more than 100 years of surf heritage, and was the host of the first World Surfing Championships in 1964. The “Path of Olympians” lines the boardwalk honoring notable athletes of the past and commemorates the area’s rich athletic heritage. Many world famous surfers call New South Wales home including Sally Fitzgibbons, winner of the US Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach, CA in August 2011, Layne Beachley and Barton Lynch adding to Manly’s tie to the surfing community. Manly’s unique history in the world of surfing from its iconic surf culture to its deep athletic history makes it the perfect location to host this inaugural event.

For more information, please visit www.Sydney.com

This edition we spotlight Europe, bringing you the lowdown on destinations as diverse as Russia’s wild Kamchatka Peninsula and Belfast, taking centre stage in 2012 for its Titanic celebrations. Away from the continent we take you on a road-trip through South Africa, to a sumo tournament in Japan and on bikes, boards and boats in Taiwan. As an added bonus the issue comes with an eight-page guide to Switzerland, a 28-page Thailand lift-out and a 68-page supplement dedicated to the United States.

That’s more than 300 pages of essential holiday ideas and information for just AU$9.95.

PLUS: One lucky subscriber to Vacations & Travel will win an unforgettable, seven-night trip to Malaysia. To enter, visit www.vacationsandtravelmag.com

Vacations & Travel is out now at newsagents. For subscriptions, call Global Publishing on 61-2/9555-8100; e-mail info@globalpublishing.com.au; or visit vacationsandtravelmag.com

Exotic islands from £2,009 – Combine Fiji and Hong Kong for the best blend of thrills and relaxation, with an added islands cruise for a deliciously exotic twist. Perfect for Swiss Family Robinsons or couples seeking pure indulgence, Fiji is a truly tropical paradise, whilst Hong Kong is one of the most vibrant cities in Asia.

Price includes: Return international flights from London Heathrow in economy with Qantas/BA/Air Pacific, 2 nights at Cosmo Hotel, Hong Kong, including breakfast, 2 nights at Sheraton Fiji Resort, including full breakfast, 4-day Southern Yasawa Islands cruise on Captain Cook reef Endeavour, return airport transfers in Hong Kong and Fiji.

Travel between 16 January and 24 March 2012 (travel must be completed by 24 March 2012).

World Explorer from £4,669 – A round the world trip still conjures up the magic of travel from the golden age of exploration. This ultimate globe-trotting trip takes in Singapore, Australia (Cairns, Port Douglas, Ayers Rock and Sydney), New Zealand (Auckland and Rotorua), Fiji and Los Angeles.

Price includes: International and Australia domestic economy class flights from London Heathrow with Qantas/British Airways and their codeshare partners, 26 nights 4-4.5 star accommodation, 7 days Hertz Group B car hire in New Zealand

Based on travel between 16 April – 20 June 2012.

All prices quoted are inclusive of taxes, fees and other charges unless stated otherwise. Prices correct at 12 December 2011 but may fluctuate if surcharges, fees, taxes or currency change. Amounts payable to third parties not included. Travel/book by dates are as specified unless sold out prior. Offers are subject to availability which may be limited. Please check all prices, availability and other information with your travel consultant before booking. All prices are ‘from’ prices, per person, based on two adults sharing. Qantas Holidays general booking conditions apply.

Great Barrier Reef, 11 nights from £2,219: The subject of a three part BBC documentary being shown on Sunday nights, the Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia’s must see attractions, even more spectacular ‘in the flesh’.

The Qantas Holidays January special package includes:
International and domestic economy class flights from London Heathrow with Qantas, Jetstar and British Airways
5 nights Heron Island in a Turtle Room including all meals
Boat transfers to Heron Island from Gladstone
6 days Hertz car hire Group B
1 night Edge Luxury Apartments, Rockhampton
1 night Coral Sea Resort Airlie Beach
1 night Seagulls Resort, Townsville
3 nights Bay Villas Resort, Port Douglas
Sailaway full day Low Isles cruise
Valid to book until 19 January 2012 unless sold out prior. Valid for travel 16 April – 20 June 2012.

5-star Sydney with 2-for-1 Bridge climb: Book a minimum of four nights at the 5-star Shangri-La Sydney and receive an upgrade from Deluxe Darling Harbour room to Deluxe Grand Harbour room. The first 10 bookings will receive a 2-for-1 Bridge Climb.

Prices from £525 per person twin share based on stays between 16 April-20 June 2012. Must be booked by 20 January 2012. Air fares are not included.

Explore New South Wales with FREE car hire: Australia’s Pacific Coast is one of the World’s great drives, stretching from Sydney to Brisbane and taking in some of the most famous surf beaches including Byron Bay. Book the 5-night Pacific Coast Explorer itinerary and receive six days Europcar compact car hire free (subject to Europcar rental terms and conditions).

Prices from £399 per person based on stays between 16 April-20 June 2012. Must be booked by 20 January 2012. Air fares are not included.

Stay, Explore & Experience Australia – iconic New South Wales with FREE experience: Sydney is arguably Australia’s most iconic city with its Opera House, Harbour Bridge and famous beaches, complemented by fantastic scenery throughout the state of New South Wales.

Book a minimum of three nights throughout January and February in selected accommodation in Sydney, along with one of the suggested New South Wales regional tours and enjoy a free local experience.

Example options include:
STAY – book a minimum of three nights at the 3.5-star Travelodge Sydney, from £55 per person per night twin share
EXPLORE – add a tour such as Sydney’s Southern Delights, a 4 days/ 3 nights self drive package visiting Kiama, Jervis Bay and the Blue Mountains, from £349 per person
EXPERIENCE – enjoy a free experience including a Bondi Surf Experience, a two hour beginner’s surf lesson on arguably Australia’s most famous beach
Packages are available to book until 29 February 2012, for stays between 16 April – 20 June 2012. Airfares not included. Both guests must take the same Experience/Explore option. All offers are subject to availability. Similar STAY, EXPLORE, EXPERIENCE packages are available for Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne and Brisbane.

Destination specialists and a boutique business by design; Albatross Tours believes this gives them a major competitive edge over the large companies that form much of the market. The boutique size enables Albatross to excel at services that are ignored or under-serviced by big companies. So do the smaller guys rule or is bigger better?

Albatross Tours Managing Director, Euan Landsborough believes it is possible to have the best of both worlds, “We are actually in a unique position as we are a small Australian company, who also has a large parent company in the UK, Albatross Travel Group.”

“We’re Australian in our service, attitude and application, but use the UK’s power to put together the nuts and bolts like hotels and activity suppliers that a small operator could access as easily, especially from the other side of the world.”

As the biggest wholesaler service in the UK, Albatross Travel Group operates like an airline consolidator, buying for Albatross Tours and other tour providers in the UK. Their great rates on hotel accommodation, transport and excursions are passed through to Albatross Tours and importantly their customers.

Mr. Landsborough comments, “Albatross Travel Group has a department set up specifically to service our needs in Australia, which is an advantage not many tour companies here have.”

In a volatile market where small businesses are suffering and the big guys are booming, Mr. Landsborough is in an enviable position, “Being affiliated with Albatross Travel Group allows us to be more financially stable – we sailed through the GFC and have never made any employee redundant.” he said.

As a primarily small tour operator designed specifically for Australians and New Zealanders, Albatross Tours is able to give time and attention to its customers, which is a notable foundation for a successful travel company.

“Being a small operator, customer loyalty is important for us, as this provides repeat business and word-of mouth referrals. Gaining such loyalty is often easier for a small business, who can offer a more personalised customer service experience.” Mr. Landsborough said.

With a small business also comes a smaller chain of command, allowing a quick response to problems. As a global company Albatross generates over 4000 tours and looks after over 100,000 passengers per year, so to be able to respond to any issues that arise immediately is a major advantage.

“Through our close relationship with our parent company, we’re able iron out problems as and when they come up. Every January we also dissect every tour group, analysing customer feedback and look at what works and what doesn’t, down to every detail. It’s great to have the UK’s feedback an input, which helps us enhance our customers travel experience. Again, we use our ‘global’ position to our customer’s advantage.” Mr. Landsborough comments.

For further information about Albatross Tours and upcoming departures, please visit www.albatrosstours.com.au  or visit http://www.facebook.com/AlbatrossTours

Note to Editors:
Albatross Travel Group has won the following accolades and awards:
2011 Tour Wholesaler of the Year- Albatross Travel Group
2009 Tour Wholesaler of the Year – Albatross Travel Group
2010 Albatross Travel Group shortlisted for Wholesaler of the Year at the Coach Tourism Awards
2010 the Albatross Group recognised as the UK’s top selling wholesaler for Accor Hotels UK