Jetsettersblog

Truly remote, Berkeley River on the Kimberley Coast will be one of Australia’s newest luxury outback lodges, only accessible by air or water. Twenty ocean view suites will sit atop a coastal dune surrounded by native vegetation, with views over the Timor Sea, Reveley Island and the mouth to the stunning Berkeley River.

Guests will have the opportunity to indulge themselves in a touch of barefoot luxury by the sea and soak up the wide open spaces, fresh air and an abundance of nature. Access to the lodge will be by hour-long scenic transfers by float plane from Lake Kununurra in WA’s Kimberley region. Due to open on 4 April 2012, prices start from AU$1,792 (approx £1,110) per night in a one bedroom king size chalet with a minimum stay of 4 nights. www.berkeleyriver.com.au

Train journeys are one of the most romantic ways to travel and for honeymoon couples looking for the romantic journey of a lifetime, Great Southern Rail’s The Southern Spirit (www.greatsouthernrail.com.au) is just the ticket.

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.

With an infusion of more than $21 million, Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia and the Indigenous Land Corporation have begun the largest transformation of Ayers Rock Resort since its opening in 1982. Stage one entails an extensive refurbishment of all guest rooms and public areas at the five-star Sails in the Desert Hotel. All rooms will feature new furniture, curtains, linens, LCD TVs, carpet inspired by the topographical map of Uluru and artwork commissioned by local aboriginal artists. Refurbishment at Sails in the Desert is scheduled to conclude in May. Renovations will then extend to the other four hotels — Desert Gardens, Outback Pioneer, Lost Camel and Emu Walk Apartments.

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.

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.