Jetsettersblog

What better way to solidify your travelling ambitions for the New Year than by picking up a copy of the Jan/Feb/March issue of Vacations & Travel, Australia’s longest-running travel magazine?

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

From an exotic island-hopping escapade to a full ’round the world’ expedition, Qantas Holidays (www.qantasholidays.co.uk Tel 020 8222 9124) has something for all globe-trotters itching to get out and explore in 2012.

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.

Bigger is most certainly not always better and that definitely rings true for specialist European tour company, Albatross Tours.

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

In February, Binna Burra Mountain Lodge will open its new Sky Lodges, which are self-contained apartments that sleep from one to 10 people in studio, one, two or three bedrooms for singles, couples, families and groups. Each has its own fireplace and spa bath, and the views from every Sky Lodge are breathtaking.

Though the Sky Lodges appeal to those who prefer a more contemporary alternative to traditional Binna Burra, guests can still access the historic Lodge and the Clifftop Dining Room. Binna Burra Mountain Lodge combines a mountain getaway with the opportunity to explore a rainforest environment. Binna Burra is located outside of Brisbane.

The Lodge provides accommodation for a limited number of guests in heritage-listed lodges with the original buildings built from hand-cut tallow wood slabs. Some of the cabins date back to when the Lodge was first established in the early 1930s. All rooms offer tea- and coffee-making facilities, heaters, fans, are non-smoking, and are serviced daily. Televisions and telephones, clocks and radios are available in the Lodge, but not in guest rooms. Two styles of accommodation are available at The Lodge. Acacia rooms offer panoramic mountain views or rainforest views and each has its own balcony. Acacia’s have private shower and toilet facilities and have either queen, double, twin beds or can sleep larger families.

Casuarina rooms are heritage guesthouse style rooms nestled amidst native gardens. These original rooms were designed just to be slept in, as the rest of the time was spent socializing in the guest lounges and enjoying the facilities of the Lodge. Casuarina rooms offer comfortable beds plus a wash basin vanity unit. Separate bathroom facilities close to rooms on the same level are shared by just a small number of other guests. Guests participate in free daily activities program of guided walks, experience the adventure activities or explore the National Park at their leisure. For more information, call 011 1300 246 622.

Qantas plans to introduce new regional cuisine on its flights around the world, with locally sourced food and cuisine characteristic of the regions in which the flights take place. The regional cuisine will be introduced primarily in the snacks and in-between meals.

It will represent the region of origin or destination.

The new program will be put in place in spring.

The new on-board cuisine program is being directed by Neil Perry, a well-known Australian chef, author and restaurateur who has been directing Qantas on-board dining for 15 years as executive chef.

Perry is responsible for the development of the menus in the business and first class cabins, as well as the sommelier program providing Qantas with a selection of Aussie wines. Passengers in the premium seats are offered menus from which they can choose their meal selections.

Much of the food is prepared on the plane.

Vegetables are blanched and meats and fish are finished off on board.

Starwood Offers up to “50% Off” Discounts at Over 160
Hotels and Resorts in Asia Pacific

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) welcomes 2012 with the launch of a sizzling ‘Red Hot Deals’ promotion where travelers can book a room at up to 50% off the Best Available Rate (BAR).

Red Hot Deals are hotter than ever. The promotion kicks off today and runs until 31 January 2012 only. ‘Red Hot Deals’ offers special rates at over 160 participating Starwood Hotels and Resorts in Asia Pacific, in premium destinations like Hong Kong, Bali, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, Shanghai, Beijing and Fiji. The special rates can be booked online, at Starwood’s Customer Contact Centers and via Global Distribution System (GDS). Visit www.starwood-ap.com/redhotdeals2012  take advantage of this limited special offer.

‘Red Hot Deals’ is valid for stays from 4 January 2012 to 31 March 2012. Please visit www.starwood-ap.com/redhotdeals2012 for the full list of terms and conditions. Participating brands include Sheraton, Westin, St. Regis, The Luxury Collection, Four Points by Sheraton, W and Le Méridien.

With an exquisite selection of retreats and resorts in Australia and New Zealand’s most romantic destinations, Peppers is the perfect choice to celebrate St Valentine’s Day on February 14.

From chic hotels to quaint country retreats, Peppers offers a getaway to suit every couple’s idea of romance.

Choose from the following selection of top love nests to assist you in stoking the flames of love this Valentine’s Day…

TROPICAL NORTH QLD
Peppers Beach Club, Port Douglas: Love is in the air at Peppers Beach Club at Port Douglas for the entire month of February. The luxurious resort is offering a Valentine’s Day package which includes overnight accommodation in a luxurious Spa Suite, full breakfast for two, a bottle of bubbles, box of chocolates and rose petals scattered on the bed in the shaped of a heart from $252* per couple per night. Valid until 29 February, 2012. Call 07 4087 1000 or visit www.peppers.com.au.

Peppers Beach Club & Spa, Palm Cove: Overlooking a stunning palm-fringed beach, Peppers Beach Club & Spa at Palm Cove has crafted a special Valentine’s Day Package. Priced from $265* per couple per night, the romantic package includes overnight accommodation in a Lagoon Spa Room with sparkling wine, chocolates and frangipani flowers on each pillow on arrival. The following morning, guests will also be treated to a special gourmet lovers continental breakfast delivered to their room. The first 25 lucky couples to book will also receive a complimentary room upgrade. Valid until 31 March, 2012. Call 07 4059 9200 or visit www.peppers.com.au.

Peppers Coral Coast Resort, Airlie Beach: The tropical haven of Peppers Coral Coast Resort, Airlie Beach is the ideal setting for a romantic Valentine’s Day escape. Be pampered at the luxury resort where guests who book a Valentine’s Day package from $599* per couple per night will enjoy overnight accommodation in a One Bedroom Apartment, breakfast for two, a $100 dinner voucher at the resort’s Tides Restaurant & Bar, a pamper treatment at the onsite endota spa plus a bottle of sparkling wine and gourmet cheese plate on arrival. Valid from 10 to 15 February, 2012. Call 07 4962 5100 or email coralcoast@peppers.com.au.

GOLD COAST, QLD
Peppers Broadbeach, Gold Coast: Relax, unwind and rejuvenate this Valentine’s Day at Peppers Broadbeach, the pinnacle of cutting-edge accommodation on the Gold Coast, on their luxurious All About You Package. The package is priced from $295* per couple per night and includes overnight accommodation for two people in a spacious One Bedroom Suite, a 30 minute clarity massage at endota spa, unlimited in-room movies and internet access, their superb pillow menu, complimentary iPad hire plus onsite parking and daily housekeeping servicing. Valid until 31 March, 2012. Call 07 5635 1000 or email broadbeach@peppers.com.au.

Peppers Ruffles Lodge & Spa, Gold Coast Hinterland: Located just 30 minutes from Surfers Paradise, this architecturally stunning retreat is ideal for lovebirds looking for a hinterland escape. Catering exclusively for adults, the retreat has Valentine’s Day all wrapped up with their special Valentine’s Day package. Includes overnight accommodation, a bottle of French champagne and a fruit platter on arrival, a three-course candlelit dinner for two people, breakfast for two and their evening turndown with port and chocolates. Priced from $570* per couple for a Garden Villa or Chums Spa Villa, $720* per couple for a Treehouse Pool Villa or $770* per couple for the Executive Suite. Valid 10 to 17 February, 2012. Call 07 5546 7411 or email ruffleslodge@peppers.com.au.

NORTHERN NSW
Peppers Bale Salt, Kingscliff: Treat your loved one to Peppers Bale Salt’s romantic Luxury Package. Priced at $449* per couple per night, relax in a beautifully appointed One Bedroom Apartment and indulge in an assortment of package inclusions such as a three-course a la carte dinner at Season restaurant, full buffet breakfast for two, a welcome drink on arrival, a bottle of wine and cheese platter in-room on arrival, evening turn-down service, executive concierge services and unlimited in-room movies and internet access. Luxury Package guests staying on February 14 will also be treated to a private, candlelit booth for their dinner at Season and complimentary glass of sparkling wine each. Valid for travel from 1 February to 31 March, 2012. Call 02 6674 7777 or email salt@peppers.com.au.

Peppers Coorabell Retreat, Byron Hinterland: Couples will go head-over-heels for Peppers Coorabell Retreat’s Hinterland Romance Package which is available every weekend throughout February and includes overnight accommodation in a Rainforest Suite, a bottle of champagne, scented oils and music on arrival to set the mood for love to shine, a romantic candlelit two-course dinner at the retreat’s highly-acclaimed Wilsons by the Creek restaurant, breakfast for two and a late 12pm check-out from $369* per couple per night. Valid until 26 February, 2012. Call 02 6684 7348 or email coorabellretreat@peppers.com.au.

SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS, NSW
Peppers Manor House, Southern Highlands: Speak the language of love with Peppers Manor House’s Ultimate Indulgence Package from $575* per couple per night. Includes overnight, romantic candle-lit three-course dinner for two at the retreat’s award winning Katers Restaurant, breakfast for two, sparkling wine and chocolates on arrival and a 30 minute relaxation massage per person at the onsite endota spa. Valid on 14 February, 2012. Call 02 4860 3111 or email manorhouse@peppers.com.au.

DAYLESFORD, VIC
Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat, Hepburn Springs: When it comes to an intimate Valentine’s Day experience, it doesn’t get any more romantic than Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat’s Valentine’s Day Escape package. Includes overnight accommodation in a luxurious Superior Room with a two person spa bath, a twilight bathing session at Mineral Spa, a three-course a la carte dinner for two at Wild Birch restaurant, a dozen red roses and a selection of local hand-made chocolates, breakfast in bed or full buffet breakfast at The Conservatory and a late check-out of 12pm for $665* per couple per night. For added luxury, couples can also upgrade to the Deluxe Valentine’s Day Escape which, in addition to the above, also includes a take home hamper of regional produce and a couples Mineral Spa body and face treatment for $995* per couple per night. Valid for stays on 13 or 14 February, 2012. Call 03 5348 2202 or email springsretreat@peppers.com.au.

GREAT OCEAN ROAD, VIC
Peppers The Sands Resort, Torquay: Peppers The Sands Resort has an oriental inspired package for lovebirds looking to escape to Victoria’s Great Ocean Road. The luxury resort’s Indulgent Oriental Geisha Retreat package is priced at $399* per couple per night and includes overnight accommodation in a Studio Room, breakfast for two, a 12pm late check-out and an Oriental Geisha day spa package for two at Saltair Spa Retreat, just a five minute drive from the resort. Valid until 30 April, 2012. Call 03 5264 3333 or email hotel.reservations@thesandstorquay.com

NEW ZEALAND
Peppers Bluewater Resort, Lake Tekapo: Surprise your loved one with a Valentine’s Day package that is ‘two perfect’ at Peppers Bluewater Resort at Lake Tekapo. Priced at $530* per couple per night, the package includes overnight accommodation in a One Bedroom Lakeview Villa, a bottle of sparkling wine and chocolate dipped strawberries on arrival, a Valentine’s Day degustation dinner for two, breakfast for two, two hot pool passes at Alpine Springs and a 1pm late check-out. Valid 10 to 18 February, 2012. Call +64 3 680 7000 or visit www.peppers.co.nz.

Or take the option of allowing your Valentine to choose their own way to celebrate the day with a Peppers gift voucher. Priced from $50, these can be redeemed for accommodation at participating Peppers properties. Call 1300 987 600 or visit www.peppers.com.au

*Subject to availability.

Stay with Somerset serviced residences in Melbourne, Perth or Hobart this Summer and experience the comforts of home from $125 daily*. Or stay at the award-winning Citadines on Bourke Melbourne Apart’hotel from $159 daily* and receive a free upgrade!

Experience the Comforts of Home at Somerset Serviced Residences in Australia

Somerset serviced residences are designed with families in mind. Whether you are on a business trip or holiday with your family, Somerset serviced residences offer well-furnished apartments with fully-equipped kitchens, spacious living and dining spaces separate from bedrooms, complete with a wide range of recreational facilities, all designed to make you feel at home during your stay.

The Somerset properties offering the ‘Comforts of Home’ promotion are:

- Somerset on Elizabeth Melbourne
- Somerset Gordon Heights Melbourne
- Somerset St Georges Terrace Perth
- Somerset on the Pier Hobart

Enjoy the ‘Live Large’ Special at Citadines on Bourke Melbourne

Award winning Citadines on Bourke Melbourne offers easy access to major business and financial offices as well as restaurants, entertainment areas, shopping precincts and theatres in the heart of Melbourne. Designed for savvy independent travellers on business or leisure, the stylish Apart’hotel features modern amenities and recreational facilities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, outdoor sundeck and guest lounge.

For reservation or more information, please visit www.the-ascott.com,  call 1800 766 377or email enquiry.australia@the-ascott.com.

Terms and conditions*
Promotions are valid from now till 31 January 2012. Rates are for apartment only and are inclusive of 10% Goods and Services Tax. Complimentary upgrade applies only to studio and one-bedroom apartments and will be applied at the point of reservation. Offer is subject to availability.

About The Ascott Limited
The Ascott Limited is the world’s largest international serviced residence owner-operator with about 22,000 operating serviced residence units in key cities of Asia Pacific, Europe and the Gulf region, as well as over 7,000 units which are under development, making a total of more than 29,000 units.

The company operates three brands – Ascott, Citadines and Somerset. Its portfolio spans over 70 cities across more than 20 countries, 15 of which are new cities in Ascott’s portfolio where its serviced residences are being developed. Ascott’s properties can be found in cities including London, Paris, Brussels, Berlin and Barcelona in Europe; Singapore, Bangkok, Hanoi, Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, Seoul, Shanghai, Beijing and Hong Kong in Asia; Melbourne and Perth in Australia, as well as Dubai, Doha and Manama in the Gulf region.

Ascott, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CapitaLand Limited, is headquartered in Singapore. It pioneered Asia Pacific’s first international-class serviced residence in 1984. In 2006, it established the world’s first Pan-Asian serviced residence real estate investment trust, Ascott Residence Trust. Today, the company boasts a 27-year industry track record and award-winning serviced residence brands that enjoy recognition worldwide.

Ascott’s achievements have been recognised internationally. Recent awards include DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards 2011 ‘Best Serviced Residence in Asia Pacific’, Business Traveller Asia-Pacific Awards 2011 ‘Best Serviced Residence Brand’ and ‘Best Serviced Residence in Asia-Pacific’, Business Traveller UK Awards 2011 ‘Best Serviced Apartment Company’, TTG Travel Awards 2011 ‘Best Serviced Residence Operator’ and TTG China Travel Awards 2011 ‘Best Serviced Residence Operator in China’. For a full list of awards, please visit http://www.theascottlimited.com/aboutus/awards

Ascott’s parent company, CapitaLand Limited, is one of Asia’s largest real estate companies. Headquartered and listed in Singapore, the multi-local company’s core businesses in real estate, hospitality and real estate financial services are focused in growth cities in Asia Pacific and Europe. The company’s real estate and hospitality portfolio, which includes homes, offices, shopping malls, serviced residences and mixed developments, spans more than 110 cities in over 20 countries.

For more information on Ascott’s property listings, please visit http://www.theascottlimited.com/aboutus/group_directory.html

For more information on Ascott’s portfolio in China, please visit http://www.ascottchina.com

TROPICAL NORTH QUEENSLAND

MEET THE CHALLENGE: The ‘Cairns Airport Adventure Festival’, returns for a second year, utilising the reefs, mountains and beaches of the tropical north to stage a jam-packed 10 day Triathlon & Multi-Sport event from 27 May to 4 June. The pinnacle event of the festival is the ‘Challenge Cairns’ – a gruelling iron-distance triathlon that features a 3.8km swim, a 180km bike leg that travels one of the most scenic coastal roads in Australia towards Port Douglas and a 42.2km run finishing along the Cairns Esplanade.

Other events include the Coral Coast Triathlon, RRR Mountain Bike Challenge, Great Barrier Reef Ocean Challenge, Quicksilver Reef Swim – Green Island as well as Junior Challenge events.

Mantra is setting the pace for the best deals in town with Mantra Trilogy offering from $144* per room per night, or Mantra Esplanade from $135* per room per night. Or just a comfortable drive away, stay at Mantra Amphora in Palm Cove from $136* per room per night or further north at Port Douglas, stay at Mantra Heritage from $144* per room per night, Mantra on the Inlet from $126* per room per night, Mantra PortSea from $135* per room per night, Mantra in the Village for $126* per room per night, or Mantra Aqueous on Port from $160* per room per night.

Call 13 15 17 or visit www.mantra.com.au.  For event details visit www.usmevents.com.au.

HERVEY BAY, QUEENSLAND

TAKE TWO: With so much to see and do in Hervey Bay’s aquatic playground during summer, make the most of Mantra’s Fraser Coast Sizzling Summer Special.

Stay at Mantra Hervey Bay with this two night package which includes your choice of a bucket of beer or two bottles of wine on arrival and a tasty BBQ pack. From $132* per night in a Hotel Room, from $146* per night in a One Bedroom Apartment, or from $151* per night in a One Bedroom Spa Apartment.

Valid for travel to 29/02/12. Call 13 15 17 or visit www.mantra.com.au.

SUNSHINE COAST, QUEENSLAND

AUSSIE CULTURE: The Australia Day Havaiana Thong Challenge at Mooloolaba Beach is back! The popular event will see participants once again attempt to break a new world record of the longest line of giant inflatable Havaiana thongs joined in the water, with each receiving a giant inflatable thong to take home.

Take up the challenge and combine it with some true blue accommodation offers from Mantra, which has several properties in Mooloolaba close to the fun. Mantra Mooloolaba Beach has One Bedroom Apartments from $154* and Two Bedrooms from $248*, and until the end of January, stay for a minimum of two nights at Mantra Sirocco in a Two Bedroom Apartment from $322* per night, or at Mantra Zanzibar in a Two Bedroom Apartment from $294* per night or Three Bedroom Apartment from $461* per night.

Call 13 15 17 or visit www.mantra.com.au. For event details and registration visit www.havaianasthongchallenge.com.au.

BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND

TREAT YOUR SWEETHEART: Love is in the air at Mantra on Queen where couples can spend a divine time together enjoying the ‘Sweet Treat’ Romance Package ideal for Valentine’s Day. Delight in the city sights from this superb CBD location and relax back at this stylish property with overnight accommodation, chocolates, and complimentary parking (subject to availability) all on offer from $159* in a Hotel Room, or from $189* in a One Bedroom Apartment.

Or just minutes away in Brisbane’s vibrant arts precinct, share the Romance Package at Mantra South Bank and enjoy chocolate dipped strawberries and a bottle of sparkling wine, from $199* per night in a Hotel Room. Both packages are valid from Friday to Sunday between January 10 and February 28, 2012. Call 13 15 17 or visit www.mantra.com.au.

GOLD COAST, QUEENSLAND

GO PRO: With the world’s top surfers putting on a spectacular show at the Quicksilver and Roxy Pro on February 25, the famous southern Gold Coast breaks at Snapper Rocks will be the places to visit.

That makes Mantra Coolangatta Beach an ideal base to catch all the world class surfing on offer. Stay for a minimum of three nights in a One Bedroom Apartment and pay $156* per room per night. Call 13 15 17 or visit www.mantra.com.au.

STAR STRUCK: There will be plenty of sports fans eager to see the Indigenous All Stars take on the National Rugby League All Stars in the third annual Harvey Norman Rugby League All Stars match at Skilled Park on February 4.

Since the game, which has sold out for the past two years, is the official kick off to the 2012 Rugby League season and will feature some of the best players from across the Southern Hemisphere, make sure you score a winning deal at one of Mantra’s Broadbeach properties, situated close to the stadium. Choose Mantra Sierra Grand from $165* per room per night in a One Bedroom Apartment or Mantra Bel Air from $120* per room per night in a One Bedroom Apartment when you stay for a minimum of three nights. Call 13 15 17 or visit www.mantra.com.au.

PARENT POWER: Everyone’s favourite Nanny, Jo Frost, is coming to speak at the Gold Coast Convention Centre on February 7 as part of her ‘Jo Frost Live – Be The Best Parent You Can Be Tour ‘.

Parents, grandparents, teachers, social workers, nannies and all co-carers can be empowered with unique insights into parenting that will unlock the key to happy, confident and loving relationships with toddlers, pre-teens and teenagers. For the ultimate convenience, stay a short stroll away at Mantra Broadbeach on the Park from $150* per room per night in a One Bedroom Apartment or at Mantra Phoenician from $137* per room per night in a One Bedroom Apartment (three night minimum stay applies). Call 13 15 17 or visit www.mantra.com.au.

* Subject to availability. Minimum stays and block-out periods may apply.

TROPICAL NORTH QUEENSLAND

AMAZING GRACE: Peppers Beach Club & Spa in picturesque Palm Cove is welcoming Vanessa Grace to the team as the new Executive Chef. Vanessa is looking forward to setting a new benchmark for dining at Lime & Pepper restaurant – a stand out venue on the Williams Esplanade dining strip. Joining Peppers from Heron Island and having previously worked on Lizard Island in Tropical North Queensland and Long Island in the Whitsundays, Vanessa will draw on her superb knowledge of tropical flavours and produce to create a unique dining experience for locals and guests. Visit www.peppers.com.au  for more information.

MAGNETIC ISLAND, QUEENSLAND

INTO THE BLUE: Peppers Blue on Blue Resort on Magnetic Island is the new focus for Abraham Dow, who has been appointed as General Manager of the popular island resort. A venue of choice for weddings and conferences, Abraham brings with him a wealth of expertise having previously managed large scale events at Bellachara Boutique Resort Gerringong on the New South Wales South Coast. Set in tropical landscaped surrounds with marina and mountain views, and positioned in the heart of a new waterfront precinct, the resort is a 25 minute ferry ride from Townsville and a leisurely stroll from the Magnetic Island ferry terminal. Visit www.peppers.com.au  for more information.

MARTINBOROUGH, NEW ZEALAND

SIMON SAYS: The newest addition to the Peppers New Zealand network, Peppers Parehua Country Estate, has welcomed Simon Tocker as its new General Manager. Simon brings with him an array of senior hospitality management experience as well as extensive Executive Chef skills as former owner of the restaurant at Huka Falls Resort in Taupo. Executive Chef Paul Condron has also joined the team from Elephant Hill winery estate restaurant in Hawkes Bay where his culinary flair catapulted Elephant Hill to the forefront of the region’s dining highlights. Located just minutes from charming Martinborough Village and one hour’s drive from Wellington, Peppers Parehua Country Estate offers a range of luxurious accommodation options with 28 exclusive suites and villas or garden and lakeside cottages. Visit www.peppers.co.nz  for more information.

HOT DEALS:

TROPICAL NORTH QUEENSLAND

SPENDLESS SUMMER: Escape with your family to the holiday haven of Peppers Beach Club & Spa in Palm Cove before the end of April and enjoy three nights for the price of two. Stay for three and pay for two from just $290* per night in a Lagoon Spa Room, from $390* per night in a One Bedroom Lagoon Suite and from $490* per night in a Two Bedroom Lagoon Suite. Reconnect as a family, indulge in a spa treatment at the onsite Salt Beauty & Spa, enjoy a gourmet beach picnic or dine at the resort’s Lime & Pepper restaurant where kids 12 years and under eat for free (complimentary kids meal for each adult meal purchased). Call 1300 987 600 or visit www.peppers.com.au.

MAGNETIC ISLAND, QUEENSLAND

MAGNETIC ATTRACTION: Set in tropical landscaped surrounds with beautiful marina and mountain views, Peppers Blue on Blue Resort redefines the essence of island holidays. Enjoy an island escape with these great bed & breakfast deals from $179* per night in a Hotel Room, from $279* per night in One Bedroom, or from $329* per night in a Two Bedroom. All rates include breakfast for two people. Valid until 31 March, 2012. Call 1300 987 600 or visit www.peppers.com.au.

GOLD COAST, QUEENSLAND

ROD STEWART TOUR: The cosmopolitan vibe of Broadbeach is enticing all year round, but when a music legend such as Rod Stewart comes to town, there’s even more reason to visit this beautiful Gold Coast hub of dining, shopping and sightseeing. With forty years of chart-topping singles and albums under his belt, the ageless Rod Stewart will be rocking his incredible ‘The Hits’ tour at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre on February 9. Hear all the favourites from Sailing to Maggie May, and enjoy a performance from special guest Diesel. Then simply stroll back to the comfort of your contemporary and luxurious five-star accommodation at Peppers Broadbeach. From $265* per room per night for a One Bedroom Suite. Call 1300 987 600 or visit www.peppers.com.au.

TWEED COAST, NEW SOUTH WALES

YEARNING FOR YOGA? Rejuvenation and relaxation is guaranteed at a series of yoga retreats on offer at Peppers Salt Resort & Spa at Kingscliff. For beginners through to experienced practitioners, join Yoga TV host Kris McIntyre at each retreat for soothing Ryoho yoga therapy. The four retreats have a specific focus including:

17- 19 February: Digestion, weight loss, energy levels and sugar cravings
18-20 May: Mother & Daughter retreat focusing on women’s health, sugar cravings, stress release and core strength
20-22 July: Stress release and sexual energy
12-14 October : Power and strength, upper back release, blood pressure, circulation and happy hearts

Priced from $557* per person twin share, the Yoga Retreat package includes two nights accommodation, full buffet breakfast daily, five yoga classes, a yoga mat and DVD. In addition, workshops, Zumba classes and a 50-minute spa treatment at the onsite The Golden Door Spa, wholesome meals including supper on Friday and lunch and dinner on Saturday inspired by The Golden Door cook book and prepared by Peppers Salt Resort & Spa’s onsite restaurant Season, full use of resort leisure facilities, unlimited in-room movies and more. Non-residential packages are available from $407* per person including all yoga classes, mat, The Golden Door Spa treatment, one dinner and two lunches. For bookings call 02 6670 5027 or email jolene.napper@conferencesandeventsatsalt.com.au 

DAYLESFORD, VICTORIA

CHILL OUT: It’s time to mix the stylish with the serene and begin the new year in the right frame of mind at Hepburn Springs thanks to the ‘Chill, Soak, Relax’ package at Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat, a grand 1930′s guest house that has been transformed into a deluxe retreat with elegant reception areas, leafy gardens and stunning courtyards. Stay for two nights from $480* and receive a 90-minute pass to the mineral water therapy zone at the award-winning Mineral Spa to reach that stress free goal and enjoy a weekend away or romantic escape. Valid to March 31. Call 1300 987 600 or visit www.peppers.com.au.

SURF COAST, VICTORIA

TAKE THE PLUNGE: Peppers The Sands Resort, Torquay has devised a unique Indulgent Oriental Geisha Retreat for guests to sit back and relax in a private Japanese plunge bath at Saltair Spa Retreat before indulging in an hour-long Susu Dew Massage. All from $399* per night in a Studio Room including a complimentary upgrade to a Studio View Room, hot breakfast for two in Hanners Restaurant and late checkout. Valid until 30 April, 2012. Call 03 5264 3333 or email sands@peppers.com.au.

AUSTRALIA DAY DEAL: Escape to the home of Australian surfing this Australia Day on Peppers The Sands Resort’s three night Australia Day Package. Priced from $503* per room per package, the package includes overnight accommodation in a Studio Room, an Aussie beach pack with Aussie thongs, sunscreen and a cap, hot breakfast for two served in Hanners Restaurant, a complimentary room upgrade to a view room (room upgrade subject to availability), complimentary car parking, morning newspaper and a late check-out (subject to availability). Peppers The Sands Resort, Torquay is located adjacent to Whites Beach and near the world-famous Bells Beach on the Great Ocean Road. Valid January 25-29, 2012. Call 03 5264 3333 or email sands@peppers.com.au.

*Subject to availability. Block-out dates and minimum stays may apply.