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.

Meals free at Bora Bora Lagoon Resort

Bora Bora Lagoon Resort, the iconic Orient Express resort which defines the very character of Tahiti’s most beautiful island, is offering visitors an amazing deal.

Guests who stay for four nights or more in a one of the Resort’s Overwater Bungalows will receive complimentary daily breakfast, lunch and dinner for two for the duration of their stay (based on a maximum of two people sharing). Given the exceptional standard of French and local cuisine for which the resort is known, along with exquisite five star amenities, this offer represents great value.

Meals are served at the resort’s stylish restaurants, and include a continental breakfast, followed by a two course lunch and three course dinner, both of which are served A la Carte. (Drinks are excluded). Talpacific is currently offering a package for $5029 ex Sydney, $5199 ex Brisbane and Melbourne, which includes:-

• Five nights at Bora Bora Lagoon Resort with all meals free
• Return economy airfares with Air Tahiti Nui
• Return transfers throughout including domestic airfares to Bora Bora
• One night in Papeete

Travel validity is until 21 December 2008 and bookings can be made until 15 December 2008. (Seasonal surcharges may apply) Please call Talpacific on 1 300 665 737

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

Free night at Yasawa Island Resort and Spa, Fiji

Yasawa Island Resort and Spa has come up with the perfect excuse to escape the winter blues, offering three nights for the price of two in one of Fiji’s most remote luxury retreats.

The three-for-two offer is available until December 15, 2008 (except June 16 to July 15) and can be taken in any multiple – six nights for the price of four, nine nights for the price of six, and so on. It’s ideal to combine with some of the discount airfares to Fiji now available online.

Yasawa’s three-for-two offer also provides an opportunity to indulge in the resort’s magnificent Baravi Spa, the first beachfront spa in Fiji. Housed a contemporary thatched bungalow on the sands of a pristine white beach, the Baravi Spa offers massages and treatments sourced from around the world and performed just a few metres from the lapping waves.

Yasawa Island Resort and Spa is one of the most exclusive retreats in Fiji, with just 18 luxury bungalows hidden among the palms on an island overlooked by the modern world. There are no other resorts and only a handful of neighbours in the traditional Fijian villages nearby, leaving most of the island and its idyllic beaches completely deserted.

Yasawa’s three-for-two offer is for new bookings only, subject to availability and cannot be combined with other specials. Rates at Yasawa start from AU$970 per couple per night (plus 17.5% taxes) and include all meals, non-alcoholic drinks and all activities except spa treatments, scuba diving and sportsfishing.

For bookings, full details and conditions contact Yasawa Island Resort and Spa by phone on +679 6722 266 or email reservations@yasawa.com.fj  See also www.yasawa.com

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

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

Virgin Gorda’s Little Dix Bay Savings

Rosewood Little Dix Bay on Virgin Gorda is offering a specially priced getaway until Dec. 19 with savings of up to 30 percent off regular prices. Inclusive of full American Breakfast buffet for two, the “Rosewood Escapes” special is priced at $475 per night for accommodations in a Premium Ocean View room, or $525 per night in an Ocean Cottage, based on single or double occupancy. Taxes and gratuities are additional.

The five-star resort, founded by Laurance S. Rockefeller, recently introduced the Sense Spa at Little Dix Bay offering longer spa treatments, a breadth of wellness and relaxation therapies with local botanicals and other ingredients, and kids’ Move ‘n Groove and Yoga classes.

Call 888-767-3966 or visit www.littledixbay.com

Mexico’s Hotel Marina El Cid Family Offer

The Hotel El Cid Spa & Beach Resort, in Puerto Morales, Mexico, is offering the Maya Discovery Family Adventure Package, now through June 30, 2008. Offering discounts of up to 30 percent, the Maya Discovery Family Adventure features three expeditions for a total of $150 per person, including taxes, in addition to the all-inclusive rate, down from $215 per person for these excursions booked separately.

The Arrecife Day Trip takes guests on a sailing cruise to the white sandy shores of Playa Maroma. The second excursion, the Snorkeling Trip, explores vibrant underwater life in the protected Puerto Morelos National Reef Park. The third excursion, the Chichen Itza Day Trip, brings visitors to these Maya ruins.

Each of the Maya Discovery Family Adventure excursions includes transportation and lunch. The Chichen Itza tour leaves from the lobby, while the snorkeling and sailing tours depart from the El Cid Marina, located one block from the resort. This private, state-of-the-art marina accommodates up to 120 slips. In addition to catamaran and snorkeling tours, the full-service facility offers sport fishing expeditions, organized fishing tournaments, private trips, water sports, and dive center. The Maya Discovery Family Adventure Package is valid for guests who pre-book and pre-pay for a junior, one-, two- or three-bedroom suite.

It also applies to Platinum Club guests. Call 800-525-1925 or visit www.elcid.com

Nassau’s Sheraton Cable Beach Girlfriends Escape

The Sheraton Cable Beach Resort is offering a special Girlfriend Getaway Package for mothers, daughters, sisters and girlfriends seeking a female-friendly trip to the beaches of Nassau, Bahamas. The Sheraton Cable Beach Resort’s special Girlfriend Getaway Package offers: an ocean view room; breakfast daily at the Bimini Market Restaurant; one welcome cocktail at the Telegraph Bar (per person); one snorkeling trip at Stuart Cove (per person); and an amenity of wine and cheese delivered to room day of arrival. The Girlfriend Getaway Package starts at $309 per night based on double occupancy and requires a minimum three-night stay.

For more information or reservations, call 866-716-8106 or visit www.sheraton.com/cablebeach

Aruba Hotels Summer Specials

Hotels and resorts across the island Aruba are offering summer vacation deals for families, couples and others. Guests at the Westin Aruba Resort Spa & Casino (877-822-2222, www.westin.com/aruba) will receive a fourth-night-free on a minimum five-night stay, plus $100 food and beverage credit. Stays of six nights or longer, receive $200 food and beverage credit.

The rates start at $289. Agents should use the promotional code SUNFREE. Other properties offering specials include: the Radisson Aruba Resort & Casino’s (800-333-3333, www.radisson.com/arubaspavacations)  the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino’s (800-421-8188, www.renaissancearuba.com)  the Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives’ (800-554-2008, www.diviaruba.com  and www.tamarijnaruba.com)  the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort & Casino’s (800-55-HYATT, www.aruba.hyatt.com)  the Bucuti Beach Resort Aruba’s (888-4-BUCUTI, www.bucuti.com)

For more information, call 800-TO-ARUBA or visit www.aruba.com .