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www.traveltalkmag.com.au - Issue summer 2015 TT613/051 WIN! A holiday in BALI Extreme fun in AFRICA GERMANY Beer and bratwurst VIVE LA FRANCE! The world unites
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PLUS: Star Trek, James Bond and the world’s best ‘selfie’ spots * 30 DISCOVER FLY FREE TO EUROPE HIDDEN DEPTHS
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*TERMS & CONDITIONS: Fares in AU$, per person, twin share based on Premium Outside Cabin & include all promotional savings & offers, onboard gratuities, air & port taxes where applicable (correct as of 10 November 15). Valid for new bookings only. Offer expires 31 January 16. Offers are capacity controlled & may be withdrawn at any time without notice & can’t be combined with other offers. Cancellation penalties & conditions apply. FLY FREE offer is subject to availability and only available on outside cabins. Fly, cruise and accommodation fares are based on specified economy class air, specific airlines, routings & departure dates. Flights to/from Sydney, Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide only. Pre & post hotel accommodation & transfers from airport/port/hotel offered on dates specified on itinerary only, ask for details. Travel agent service fees not included. Voyages to Antiquity reserve the right to change, correct errors, withdraw from sale any or all fares, itineraries, excursions & fees. editorial Jon Underwood Managing Editor Email: [email protected]
Jessica Zoiti Deputy Editor Email: [email protected] Contents Gaya Avery Online Editor DEPARTMENTS Email: [email protected] Features Rebecca Lawson 28 BALI 4 NEWStalk Sub Editor Venture beyond Bali’s tourist haunts and editorial contributors you’ll discover some of the best holiday 8 TRAVELtalk Jessica Zoiti, Jenny Rowland, Robin Bayes, experiences in Indonesia. JESSICA ZOITI Belinda Luksic has some suggestions to get you started. 12 CRUISEtalk Art director 20 PROPERTYtalk Daniel Pritchard 40 HAWAII Email: [email protected] Some major sporting events will be 24 SKYtalk taking place across the islands in 36 INDIA advertising coming weeks. Here we look at some of Sydney: Jenny Rowland the best places to catch all the action. Tel: (02) 9969 3390 52 ROMANTIC HOLIDAYS Mobile: 0414 746 146 62 DRIVE HOLIDAYS Fax: (02) 9969 3390 48 AFRICA Email: [email protected] Looking for some extreme adventures? 64 NEW ZEALAND: Whether it’s jumping off the roof of a Kelly McCann National Business Development Manager football stadium or cage diving with Fiordland Mobile: 0414 363 314 great white sharks, South Africa has you Email: [email protected] covered, as JESSICA ZOITI discovers. 68 WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Perth: Debbie Sproule 74 PROFILE: Lloyd Tel: (08) 9300 0219 58 GERMANY Fax: (08) 9300 0237 JENNY ROWLAND makes her first visit to Davidson Mobile: 0403 833 295 Germany and falls in love with the Email: [email protected] country, the people and the beer. Directors and Associate Publishers Jenny Rowland (Sydney) CONGRATULATIONS! Debbie Sproule (Perth) Perth Office: The two winners of our recent Motorola Moto E Next Generation smart phone are PO Box 1105 Hillarys WA 6923 Judith Hards from South Plympton in South Australia and Sally Cochrane from Albany Creek in Queensland. We would also like to congratulate Mel Buterin from distribution and subscriptions Bunya in Queensland who won the luxury weekend for two at Vibe Hotel Tel: (08) 9300 0219 Marysville. Turn to page 33 and see how you could win a four-night family escape Email: [email protected] Annual subscription of 11 issues $72.60 in Bali valued at $2,000. (within Australia) Annual Subscription of 11 issues $175.40 (international) on the cover Rates include GST, postage & handling Australia’s favourite travel news magazine 36 publisheD BY Pointer Publishing Pty Ltd www.traveltalkmag.com.au - Issue summer 2015 tt613/051 ABN 92 150 111 701 PO Box 1105 Hillarys WA 6923 WIN! A holiday Tel: (08) 9300 0219 in BALI Website: www.traveltalkmag.com.au Extreme fun in AFRICA GERMANY Beer and bratwurst VIVE LA FRANCE! The world uniTes
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Cab Audited Plus: star trek, James Bond and the world’s Best ‘selfIe’ sPots Distribution 6170 August - September 2015
While every care and precaution has been taken in the preparation EDITOR’S NOTE: Traveltalk is proud to of Traveltalk, no liability can be accepted for errors or omissions herein. Information is published in good faith to stimulate dedicate the front cover of our December independent investigation by the reader. Views and opinions expressed in Traveltalk do not necessarily reflect those of the issue to the people of France and to management. express our sympathy to the relatives of All articles are fully protected by copyright. To obtain written permission to reproduce any material please contact the managing those who died in the Paris attacks. 40 editor on [email protected]
Traveltalk summer 2015 | 3 Newstalk
FILM STARS BOLDlY GO WHERE NO FILM STARS HAVE GONE IN A WHILE
Dubai is likely to receive a major tourism the conference was attended by more than throughout Dubai, which is already boost next year when the highly- 100 local and international media. Those proving a hit with the film’s stars. anticipated movie Star Trek Beyond is present included Justin Lin, the film’s director “I love discovering new places and released featuring scenes shot in the city. and producer, and stars Chris Pine, Simon Dubai is such a stunning city – it looks like Stars from the film, a sequel to the 2013 Pegg, Zachary Quinto, Karl Urban, Anton a future land!” said Chris Pine, who plays movie Star Trek Into Darkness, gathered in Yelchin and Idris Elba (pictured above). Captain James T. Kirk. “I am extremely the UAE recently for a press conference The Dubai Film and TV Commission happy to be here making this great film ahead of shooting and to publicise the announced that Star Trek Beyond would with Justin and the team, and so far my next instalment, due for release in July spend almost two weeks in the city, filming experiences have been wonderful, people 2016. on the sound stages in Dubai Studio City have been gracious and welcoming.” Held at the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah Hotel, as well as key indoor and outdoor locations visitdubai.com Daring Aussies showing plenty of courage New research shows Aussies like to let cultural experience and we found plenty outdoors their hair down when travelling, with one in of Aussie travellers swap their Vegemite 4. Tightrope walked across a cavern in the three admitting doing something daring on sandwiches for exotic eats like bamboo rat Blue Mountains holiday they wouldn’t have done at home. and bull’s testicles.” 5. Ate bamboo rat The How Are You Travelling survey by The top 10 most daring and unusual 6. Paraglided topless in Fiji Wotif also found travellers were more likely things Aussies have done on holiday are: 7. Ate bull’s testicles to let the purse strings go and max out the 1. Hiked into the Norwegian wilderness 8. Started a karaoke party in a stranger’s flat credit card (29 per cent), enjoy themselves alone with more than 100 people inside and go out dancing until the early morning 2. Hired a camel alone at the edge of the 9. Made love in a canoe on honeymoon (22 per cent), watch the sunrise (33 per cent) Sahara to explore the desert 10. Went in a ‘Fear Factor Eating Comp’ in and embrace a holiday fling or romance 3. Travelled with no money and slept Tallin by locking lips with a stranger (14 per cent) while away. “Our Wotif survey found Aussies are more daring on holidays, with one traveller sharing that they dared to tightrope walk across a cavern in the Blue Mountains, and another revealed they hired a camel and explored the Sahara desert solo,” said Kirsty La Bruniy, Wotif Travel Specialist. Ms La Bruniy said Australians are also not afraid to be more adventurous with their food choices by trying exotic dishes and local delicacies. “Trying the local food is all part of the
4 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au PERFECTLY PLANNED
As the gold standard in first-class escorted travel for more than 88 years, Globus introduces you to the stories behind the world’s most awe-inspiring places. Offering VIP access to must-see sights and insights from expert Tour Directors and Local Guides, your next holiday will be truly unforgettable.
For more information on escorted tours of Europe, See your travel agent, call 1300 230 234 or visit globus.com.au Newstalk selfie heaven We all love a good ‘selfie’ on holiday, an image we can send back to envious family and friends. Here, APT selects seven of the world’s top spots to get the best picture.
Grabbing a ‘selfie’ with a couple of Mounties in Banff in Canada
MOUNT UP of the most photographed icons in the and you’ll have exclusive access to Namedy Canada has some of the best scenery in the world. Built in 1889 to celebrate the 100th Castle. Situated in the German town of world, from mountains to the crystal clear anniversary of the French Revolution, the Andernach this 14th century residence is waters of its many lakes. A selfie shot with tower welcomes more than seven million home to Princess Heide von Hohenzollern a local against one of the many memorable visitors a year. Many of APT’s French river who will open the doors to her home just backdrops is the ultimate way to show cruises include a stop in Paris to visit the for you. off this destination. With the exception of Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe, The all inclusive 15-day ‘Magnificent the bears, most locals are only too happy as well as a climb to the second level of the Europe’ river cruise is priced from $6,795 to share a snap. On an APT trip you can Eiffel Tower. per person twin share and includes three meet a Mountie to learn about the Royal The all inclusive 11-day ‘Grand Bordeaux’ exclusive ‘Royal Invitations’ – Namedy Canadian Mounted Police and capture the river cruise is priced from $7,745 per person Castle, a rail journey on the Majestic moment against the backdrop of the Rocky twin share and commences with a three- Imperator and a private recital at Vienna’s Mountains. night grand city stay in Paris. City Palace. APT’s 22-day ‘Rockies Odyssey & Alaska Cruise’ luxury land journey and ‘Inside CASTLES & KINGS WAT A SUNRISE Passage’ cruise is priced from $12,495 per One thing you are guaranteed to see on One of the most important archaeological person twin share. a trip through Europe is a fairytale castle sites in Southeast Asia, the World Heritage- or two. Make like royalty for the day and listed Angkor Archaeological Park includes AN EYEFUL OF THE EIFFEL procure yourself a portrait in front of one the remains of the different capitals of the No trip to Paris is complete without a of these historical homes. Travel on APT’s Khmer Empire, from the ninth to the 15th quick ‘selfie’ stop at the Eiffel Tower, one 15-day ‘Magnificent Europe’ river cruise century. This includes Angkor Thom, the
6 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Newstalk
Bayon Temple with its countless sculptural decorations, and the famous Temple of Angkor Wat. Said to be the world’s largest single religious monument, Angkor Wat is a sight to behold. The 12-day ‘Vietnam and Cambodia Highlights’ all-inclusive luxury land tour and Mekong river cruise is priced from $4,395 per person twin share.
POSE AT PICCHU Peru offers a host of highlights, including Lima, Lake Titicaca, Cusco and the Sacred Valley. But the most sought-after ‘selfie’ Capturing the magic of the spot has to be at the World Heritage-listed Windjana Gorge in the Kimberley site, Machu Picchu. This iconic Lost City of the Incas remained undiscovered until 1911 when American historian Hiram Bingham aboriginal rock art, desert and national expert lecturers and a sense of adventure brought it to international attention. parks – you won’t be short of content to to far-flung and unusual destinations. Visitors can choose to trek the Inca Trail or capture on film. Some of the best ‘selfie’ Here you’ll experience some of the most board PeruRail’s Vistadome train. spots include a helicopter ride over Mitchell remote and unusual ‘selfie’ spots the world APT’s 21-day ‘Best of South America’ Falls, sunset at the Bungle Bungle Range, has to offer. From snorkelling with the is priced from $13,195 and includes the dining under the stars at an APT Wilderness stingless jelly fish of the Kakaban Island chance to ride the Vistadome train and Lodge and on a jet boat ride through of East Kalimantan to learning about the walk part of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Horizontal Falls. local culture and customs of the people of The 15-day ‘Kimberley Complete’ is Torajaland in Central Sulawesi, there will CATCH THE KIMBERLEY priced from $8,795 per person twin share. be more photo opportunities than you can Filled with some of the best natural vistas in shake a selfie stick at. the world, the Kimberley is widely regarded SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL APT’s 17-day ‘South East Asia Explorer’ is as Australia’s last true frontier. From its Get off the beaten track on a small ship priced from $11,995 per person twin share. rugged coastline to the waterfalls, gorges, Thecoastal cruise award with an expedition winning team, caraptouring.com.au hire provider Affordable Car Hire offers
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Traveltalk summer 2015 | 7 Traveltalk
Chimu Adventures are running a charter to Antarctica with a portion of the profits from the voyage going to help projects chosen by GET ON BOARD the Make a Difference project (MAD). Since 2010 Chimu Adventures has handed CHARTER TO out more than $250,000 in donations and micro financing to various charities and ANTARCTICA AND local communities in which it operates. To leverage the successes of these initiatives, the company has now created the MAD YOU CAN MAKE A brand to represent, administer and grow their philanthropic activities. big DIFFERENCE The MAD initiative has been set up to principally support projects where the beneficiaries are given the tools or support to help them build a better future for themselves, their communities and the planet. The objective is to pass on knowledge and goods as well as funds to help build these projects. The aim is to empower local communities, helping them to develop their own infrastructure for the future. “Operating tours and cruises in Latin American and Antarctic locations, we have witnessed first-hand many areas of need, from ecological sensitivities to poverty and homelessness, to name a few,” said Chad Carey, Co-Director of Chimu Adventures. “We carry caring travellers on our journeys, it’s not hard to feel a connection to a destination after you have either had a trip of a lifetime or spent a lot of time in the area.” The charter to Antarctica will take place early in 2017 along with special guests Andrew Denton and Jennifer Byrne who are returning for the second time to support one of Chimu Adventure’s fundraisers to Antarctica. Already half full, berth sales begin at $8,790. chimuadventures.com/pureantarctica Have an adventure in a secret world The Baobab Avenue at sunset, the water lakes and lagoons – and the national unique rock formations of the national parks of Andasibe, Isalo and Ranomafana, park of Tsingy de Bemaraha and the where several rare species of flora and tropical garden of Sainte Marie Island. fauna can be found. These are just some of the highlights of Accommodation for travellers on the the 23-day ‘Madagascar – The Lost World’ tour is of a high standard and has been itinerary from Adventure Associates, carefully selected for its local charm and who have just released dates for their location. The group size is limited to 12 expeditions to the island in 2016. to 14 guests per departure. The tours “Madagascar is a destination we have depart May 28 and September 24, 2016, come to specialise in over the years and and prices start from $9,990 per person we’ve seen a growing interest in our ex-Antananarivo. expeditions in the last 12 months,” said Sue “Madagascar possesses a landscape so Werner, Managing Director of Adventure diverse it astounds, and is home to wildlife Associates. found nowhere else on the planet. Add to “It’s becoming a very popular this the unique culture and smiling faces destination for our adventurous travellers. of the welcoming Malagasy local people However, it is still one of the world’s best and you will find that Madagascar offers kept secrets.” a delightfully different and adventurous Other tour highlights include the travel experience,” added Ms Werner. Pangalanes Channel – a chain of sweet adventureassociates.com
8 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Traveltalk
Checking out the sights in Rome just became easier with Monograms
Brochure spruiks brand new way to travel The Globus family of brands has are included in each location to showcase London, Paris and Rome, as well as multi-city released its first brochure of Monograms the must-see sights and provide an insight combinations and multi-country options. holidays, offering Australians a different into the local history and culture. Highlights include the seven-day way to travel among some of the greatest “Monograms is a great option for ‘A Week in London & Paris’ tour which cities in Europe. anyone who likes the idea of a tour but includes sightseeing, premium hotels and With dozens of holidays to choose from, wants to experience cities their own way,” travel by high-speed Eurostar train. There’s Monograms gives tourists all the freedom said Stewart Williams, Managing Director, also ‘Rome, Florence & Venice,’ a 10-day and independence of travelling alone, yet still Globus family of brands. itinerary including sightseeing, premium provides the same level of ease and personal “It provides a great opportunity for hotels and travel by high-speed train, support expected on a guided holiday. travel agents to attract a customer who and ‘Barcelona, Madrid & Lisbon,’ another All the essentials like hotels, transfers might not ordinarily consider organised 10-day itinerary including sightseeing, and rail tickets are pre-arranged, but travel, or to create extra value as an premium hotels and travel by high-speed guests are free to explore at their own addition to a tour or river cruise.” train. pace. Each holiday offers the services of a The new Europe 2016 brochure features local host who can provide assistance and more than 50 different holiday options monogramstravel.com.au; advice throughout, and guided city tours including city getaways in destinations like globusfamily.com.au
Experience the Extraordinary! on one of our boutique, small group adventures of a lifetime to: . Madagascar . Ethiopia . Cuba . Iran . Zanskar . Ladakh. Kashmir
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Traveltalk summer 2015 | 9 Traveltalk SURGE IN AUSSIE VISITORS ANTICIPATED FOR IMPORTANT BATTLE ANNIVERSARY
Vietnam is expecting a further villages and traditional artisan markets. $3,347 per person, land only. The ‘Long Tan increase in Aussie visitors next year “Vietnam is one of the most vibrant Private Flexi Tour’ is a three-day flexi tour, with 2016 marking the 50th anniversary destinations in Southeast Asia and this commencing as per request. It is priced commemoration of the Battle of Long Tan. important war-time anniversary – which from $647 per person, land only. Australians wishing to retrace the steps commemorates the longest conflict “Mat McLachlan Battlefield Tours is of the Anzacs can take advantage of Australia has ever been involved in, lasting Australia’s leading battlefield tour operator special itineraries from Mat McLachlan ten years – provides an added incentive for and our strength in this area allows us Battlefield Tours. travellers to plan trips to the ‘Land of the to provide valuable peace of mind by Alongside the famous Cu Chi Tunnels Blue Dragon’ for 2016,” said Peter Smith, guaranteeing that agents’ own group and iconic Long Tan battle site, the General Manager of McLachlan Tours. tours will be accommodated even if their company’s Vietnam itineraries encompass The company’s 10-night ‘Long Tan 50th minimum numbers are not reached,” cultural experiences including a cruise on Anniversary Commemoration Tour 2016’ added Mr Smith. Ha Long Bay (pictured), visits to floating runs from August 15 to 25. It is priced from battlefields.com.au
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10 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Traveltalk
STOP THE SCAMMERS WHILE TRAVELLING WITH NEW ANTI-THEFT ACCESSORY RANGE
Protect your credit card and passport summer collection of luggage and packing and overnight bags, leather laptop information with Zoomlite’s just-launched solutions. backpacks, leather laptop sleeves, business range of travel accessories embedded Standard in all of this season’s new travel accessories and mobile office rolling with the latest in RFID blocking, anti-theft wallets and passport holders, RFID laptop bags plus smart packing organisers technology. blocking technology stops digital theft are also included in the range. A range of anti-theft, slash-proof, known as ‘skimming’, giving you peace of The Toby Weekend Duffle (pictured) is lockable travel bags has also been released mind while you are on the road. available from $299 with a leather passport as part of the company’s 2015 spring- New season vintage leather messenger holder costing $49. zoomlite.com.au
Australia’s Latin America and Antarctica travel experts! Chimu Adventures create personalised journeys and match small ship FROM ONLY cruises to suit all travel GRAND PERU $3967*AU styles. Hand-picked luxury properties make this journey Our destination specialists extraordinary. Weekly departures throughout 2016 have expert on the ground Includes: 9 nights’ accommodation, Andean Explorer luxury train knowledge, we even have our journey, tours and excursions with local English speaking guides, own operations across South private airport transfers, internal flight and breakfast daily. America. Discover diverse cultures, rich history and awe-inspiring scenery. FROM ONLY $ *US With us, your itinerary is as PURE ANTARCTICA 7595 you want it to be – we work Join Andrew Denton and Jennifer Byrne who are returning around you. So stop dreaming for a second fundraising voyage to Antarctica. Proceeds and live for today! from this trip will directly benefit the MAD project, which will help us build a sustainable future for challenged communities and our planet.
Visit our website, email or call us for more information Web: www.chimuadventures.com Email: [email protected] Phone: 1300 678 909 *Conditions: Tour prices are correct as at 12th November 2015 and are subject to change & availability. Grand Peru price valid from 25Nov15 until 31Dec15, contact us for more information and further conditions.
Traveltalk summer 2015 | 11 Cruisetalk Uniworld is playing the generation game
Due to popular demand from those who wish to travel in ultimate luxury as a family, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is expanding its dedicated multi- generational itineraries in 2016. From next year the company will triple the itineraries and departures available via its ‘Generations’ program. These itineraries will include special onboard perks for kids including a personal ship tour with the captain or cruise manager, language classes (French, German, Italian, Hungarian), dessert- for junior cruisers (ages four to 11 years) The company’s family itineraries offer making workshop with the ship’s pastry and young cruisers (ages 12 to 18 years) activities every child will love, from chef, hands-on craft workshop, kid-friendly will supervise and coordinate engaging glassblowing and Venetian mask-making, menus with unlimited beverages and a onboard activities giving parents to a giant ferris wheel ride in Vienna, dedicated family host to oversee children’s opportunities to enjoy romantic evenings ‘Gladiator School’ in Rome, or a visit to activities. Guests aged four to 18 years or go to the Serenity River Spa for a Germany’s Speyer Technik Museum, full of of age travelling with an adult will also relaxing treatment while the kids have fun vintage cars, planes and motorbikes. receive a 50 per cent discount. and make new friends. Uniworld’s ‘Generations’ departures With convenient departures scheduled Every itinerary will also feature onboard are available in 2016 on ‘Castles along the during summer and winter school breaks, visits from local junior guests who will Rhine’, ‘Delightful Danube & Prague’, ‘Paris the new itineraries will offer exciting shore educate travellers on the daily lives of & Normandy’, ‘Rhine Discovery & Prague’, excursions that are tailor-made for families local cultures such as German, Austrian ‘Danube Discovery & Prague’, ‘Grand and are hosted by local experts that are and Italian. Uniworld’s ‘Curious Minds’ European Discovery’, ‘Gems of Northern trained to make excursions as engaging cultural chats will give young travellers an Italy’, ‘Splendours of Italy’ and ‘Classic and hands-on as possible to cater to young inside look into the schooling life, sport Christmas Markets’. attention spans. and other social activities of their foreign uniworld.com/au The two dedicated family hosts, one contemporaries. Endeavour to have more family fun with great sale Captain Cook Cruises is about to launch Senikai KIDZPA. The ship also has a pool accommodation, all meals, guided village, a special promotion that will enable while on shore families can relax on white school and island tours, snorkelling and families visiting Fiji to enjoy more of the sandy beaches, snorkel or go glass bottom glass bottom boat excursions, daily famous island hospitality. boating over coral reefs and kayak, swim island stopovers, water activities, hikes From December 26 to February 28, 2016, and dive in blue lagoons. and kayak safari, free Wi-Fi and on board the company is having a ‘Up to Four Nights Cruises depart from Denarau Marina entertainment. Free’ sale where passengers receive four and the price includes shipboard captaincookcruisesfiji.com nights free on 11-night cruises, three nights free on seven-night cruises and one night free on all four-night cruises until March 31, 2017. All cruises provide a unique cultural experience visiting unspoilt Fijian villages, churches, schools and handicraft markets. Passengers even take part in a traditional village sevusevu ceremony, meke and lovo feast. The three-, four-, seven- and 11-night cruises take place onboard the 120-passenger, fully accommodated MV Reef Endeavour cruise ship. A range of family accommodation is available from family cabins to inter-connecting family staterooms and a complimentary kids’ club is available for children aged five to 10 from 9am. Onboard, adults can be pampered at the Senikai Day Spa while kids can enjoy the
12 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Cruisetalk Tour takes the back roads to discover best of britain
Cruise Traveller is promising to take travellers off the tourist beat with a new back-roads exploration of Britain and Europe called ‘From Kilts to Colosseum’. Visits to England and Scotland are followed by a 24-night ‘Grand Voyage to the Rivieras’ cruise from London to Rome aboard Aegean Odyssey. The ship is operated by Britain’s Voyages to Antiquity, winner of the ‘Best for Enrichment’ category accolade at the 2015 Cruise International Awards. Starting in Edinburgh, guests set out on a week-long back-roads tour with seven nights’ accommodation. This includes three nights in London, two as part of the cruise itinerary and two nights in the heart of the Peak District National Park. Experiences and locations along the way include a visit to Queen Elizabeth’s private retreat at Sandringham Estate, a visit to Scotland’s Holy Isle of Lindisfarne and a chance to drift along the River Cam in Cambridge on a traditional punt. The European leg of the trip takes in the D-Day beaches in Normandy, the Abbey wines of Bordeaux. summer, departing Australia on June 13, of Mont Saint-Michel and the elegant The 36-night ‘From Kilts to Colosseum’ 2016 Châteaux of the Loire Valley, plus the fly-cruise-and-stay tour costs from $20,549 opportunity to taste some of the great and catches the essence of European cruisetraveller.com.au
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west mediterranean east mediterranean northern euroPe northern euroPe France Norway GENOA VENICE (Portofino) msC Poesia msC orChestra GEIRANGER msC oPera msC oPera MARSEILLE HELLESYLT Finland (Provence) Croatia HELSINKI ST. PETERSBURG Italy FLAAM Russia Italy BERGEN Baltic KOTOR Sea BARCELONA Montenegro TALLINN SALERNO Estonia Spain (Amalfi Coast) BARI Sweden
CORFU North Sea Denmark PALMA DE Greece MALLORCA MESSINA PIRAEUS Denmark COPENHAGEN (Balearic Is.) (Taormina) (Athens) Mediterranean Sea COPENHAGEN KATAKOLON WARNEMUENDE WARNEMUNDE Malta (Olympia) SANTORINI (Berlin) Mediterranean Sea (Berlin) VALLETTA Germany Germany 7 nights 7 nights 7 nights 7 nights GENOA to GENOA VENICE to VENICE COPENHAGEN to COPENHAGEN COPENHAGEN to COPENHAGEN from $729pp COMBINE from $809pp from $1,129pp COMBINE from $1,129pp Departs Genoa or Venice AND SAVE Departs Genoa or Venice Departs Copenhagen AND SAVE Departs Copenhagen Every Sunday MAY-NOV 2016 Every Sunday MAY-NOV 2016 Every Saturday JUN-AUG 2016 Every Saturday JUN-AUG 2016 Phone 1300 028 502 | Visit www.msccruises.com.au | Contact your travel agent *Conditions apply. PICK YOUR GIFT is valid for new bookings made till 20 January 2016. Prices are per person twin share low season travel subject to availability at time of booking. Offer is combinable with loyalty membership however not with any other promotion or discount. MSC Poesia 7nts departs 17Apr16, MSC Orchestra 7nts departs 24Apr16, MSC Opera 7nts departs 20 Aug 16 and 27 Aug 16 respectively. All details, prices, itineraries and maps are correct as at 12/11/15 and are subject to change or withdrawal at anytime without notice. For full details of Pick Your Gift and Conditions please visit www.msccruises.com.au/specialoffers.E&OE MSC Cruises (Australia) Pty Limited ABN 55 003 526 725. General Sales Agent for MSC Cruises S.A | ATAS Accredited No. A10954. Ad8512Nov2015
Traveltalk summer 2015 | 13 Cruisetalk FIRST LOYALTY MATCH PROGRAM IN INDUSTRY HISTORY IS LAUNCHED After launching its new loyalty program, MSC Voyagers Club, MSC Cruises has recently introduced a new ‘Status Match’ program. The first initiative of its kind in the cruise industry, ‘Status Match’ is aimed at future MSC cruise guests who already participate in other leading travel reward programs, allowing them to receive similar benefits when they join the MSC Cruises Voyagers Club. Guests that sign up through ‘Status Match’ will automatically acquire a similar or higher MSC Voyager’s Club membership status as well as a guaranteed five per cent discount on any booking. The new initiative is not limited to just cruise reward programs but also includes an array of other travel reward clubs, a great benefit for frequent travellers new to cruising. “The Status Match is another way in which MSC Cruises strives to provide guests and future cruisers the distinctive, best-in-class service our company is known for and allows them to experience similar, or even better, benefits than they are used to receiving when travelling,” said Lynne Clarke, Managing Director, MSC Cruises Australia & New Zealand. “The range of privileges extended to MSC Voyagers Club members includes, from a family-owned company.” will be made available to MSC Voyagers among others, dedicated events, Joining the MSC Voyagers Club is free Club members at the beginning of each milestone rewards and exclusive onboard of charge and is possible even before sailing. offers. Such a level of care is only possible taking a cruise. Personalised cruise cards msccruises.com.au
Sydney welcomed a new visitor recently when Golden Princess sailed into Princess Makes her debut the harbour to make her maiden call to Australia. Stretching 290 metres long, the 108,000-tonne, 2,600-guest vessel has joined four other ships from Princess Cruises to offer roundtrip voyages in local waters during the cruise line’s biggest ever Australian summer season. The ship’s many standout features include Skywalkers Nightclub, suspended at the rear of the vessel and reached by a moving walkway above the decks, as well as more than 1,300 staterooms, four pools, nine whirlpools, two show lounges and 12 dining options. Arriving after a 28-day cruise from San Francisco via the Pacific, Golden Princess departed on a 10-night South Pacific cruise before sailing to Melbourne for a five-month season of cruising from the city. She will be the largest cruise ship to be based in Victoria.
Golden Princess. Picture courtesy Damian Shaw princess.com
14 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Cruisetalk
Worldwide Cruise Centres are FLAIR AND CHARM COME offering a new fly-cruise-and stay holiday featuring plenty of experiences in Spain TOGETHER ON THIS and Italy. Guests will cruise the Mediterranean EUROPEAN EXPLORATION and Aegean aboard Norwegian Spirit before heading to Barcelona (three nights), Venice (two nights) and Milan (two nights). The land portion also includes two nights in Verona, the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Other exclusive touches on the ‘Spanish Flair to Italian Charm’ itinerary include first-class Italian train travel, a tour that skips the queues for Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia cathedral in Barcelona, a walking tour of Venice, a gondola ride through Venetian canals and a boat cruise on a renowned Italian lake. All hotels on the holiday are four-star and include daily breakfast. Prices for the 21-night holiday start from $7,999 per person twin share from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide or Perth to Barcelona and return from Milan. ‘Spanish Flair to Italian Charm’ gets underway with a flight to Barcelona on May 27, 2016, as European springtime The Grand Canal in Venice turns to summer. worldwidecruisecentres.com.au
2015 2015 2015 Editors’ Editors’ Editors’ Picks Picks Picks
BEST BEST BEST NEW RIVER SHIP RIVER CRUISE LINE RIVER LINE S.S. MARIA THERESA SHORE EXCURSIONS
Uniworld would like to thank the Editors of Cruise Critic for these prestigious awards, and the Cruise Critic community for rating Uniworld as the top cruise line across both ocean and river cruises, based on guest reviews. As the world leader in all-inclusive European luxury boutique You deserve the best river cruising, Uniworld’s mission has always been to deliver the best.
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Traveltalk summer 2015 | 15 Cruisetalk No need to muse on these divine features
Silversea Cruises has just released A veranda suite on Silver Muse additional details about its newest ship, which is due to enter service in 2017. Silver Muse will have the highest number of large suites (silver, royal, grand and owner’s) in the fleet and the greatest number of connecting suites for families and friends. With more restaurants than any other ultra-luxury ship – eight venues including an exclusive Relais & Châteaux restaurant – Silver Muse will also offer a bespoke culinary experience. Inquisitive guests can find detailed information on suites, restaurants and other elements of the new vessel on a dedicated website, which features an interactive discovery of Silver Muse with a ground-breaking 360-degree virtual tour. This provides a variety of viewing options, including day and night renderings of the ship at sea. A ‘Stay Updated’ tab enables Marketing, Australasia. weeks. Bookings can be made now for the visitors to register to receive the latest “We are sure that many discerning inaugural sailing from Monte Carlo to Nice Silver Muse news by email. travellers will love it, and will be eager to in April and May 2017. During that year, “Our beautiful new site utilises the latest learn more about this highly anticipated Silver Muse will sail throughout Europe, technology to bring to life the state-of- new addition to our ocean fleet.” Canada, North and South America as well the-art design and luxe, modern amenities Further information, such as details as the Caribbean, taking in more than 130 of Silver Muse,” said Karen Christensen, on itineraries, public spaces and deck destinations in 34 countries. General Manager & Director Sales/ plans, will be added to the site in coming silvermuse.info Ship builders working overtime to meet Croatian demand A record number of small ships are being built in Croatia as demand from Korcula Island Australian travellers continues to grow. Beyond Travel will use more than a dozen new ships for the 2016 cruise season, allowing the company to produce its largest ever range of product in Croatia, including 15 brochure pages dedicated to cruising holidays. New to its 2016 Croatia and Beyond brochure are mini cruises, including three- day itineraries, more one-way cruises on the Dalmatian Coast and new cruise tours combining land touring with a seven-night island cruise. There are also new hotels, an exclusive special journey and more premium escorted tours in Croatia and surrounding countries. “The company has steadily grown the holiday options in Croatia and its neighbours but the main consumer request has been for more Dalmatian and Italy and a seven-night cruise on the The company has also continued its Island cruises on new vessels suitable for new MS Romantic Star, debuting in 2016. ‘Discover More Travel Credits’ which are the 55-plus market,” said Bryce Crampton, “This year we are excited to offer available on a choice of tours, cruises and Marketing Manager. Australians, for the first time in the Adriatic, hotels which range from $400 to $600 per An increased demand for land/cruise a ship with VIP private balcony cabins, the couple to be used towards any additional combinations has led the company to add MS Infinity. She will operate the popular services booked with Beyond Travel until two new premium itineraries, including seven-night cruises between Split and December 31. a 12-day deal with land touring in Croatia Dubrovnik,” added Mr Crampton. beyondtravel.com.au
16 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Cruisetalk Growth in Indochina leads company to expand Market demand for more variety of cruise options in Indochina has seen Wendy The sun deck on the RV Mekong Pandaw Wu Tours expand its 2016 program making it the largest range to date with a focus on various cruising products in Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar. “Indochina has been such a strong destination over the last few years and is a constantly growing market, so it made sense for us to expand our product options in the region with cruising, which is a consistent favourite with Australian passengers,” said Alan Alcock, Managing Director. These cruising options have been designed to coincide with group tours allowing customers to add pre- or post- touring in conjunction with their cruise. A new, fully-inclusive Classic Tour has also been designed for 2016, the 12-day ‘Irrawaddy Voyager’ which includes three nights in Yangon and a seven-night cruise been redesigned to clearly categorise In 2016 the company will also offer four along the Irrawaddy River from Mandalay four distinct tour types: Classic, Discovery, new group tours in its Classic and Discovery to Bagan. Deluxe Tours and Independent Travel. The range across Indochina, including the 20- This new product, as well as expanded Vietnam brochure includes a separate cruise day ‘Mekong Odyssey’ tour travelling from product for independent travellers, is section to be more consumer and agent Hanoi to Siem Reap. featured in the company’s newly-designed friendly by highlighting the most relevant 2016 Vietnam brochure. All brochures have information. wendywutours.com.au
FIJI’S CRUISE LINE
Traveltalk summer 2015 | 17 Cruisetalk There’s a Darwin debut brewing as cruise line makes its first port of call down under Azamara Club Cruises is counting down to the debut of its first ever season in Australian waters with the imminent arrival of the 686-guest Azamara Quest in Darwin. “We cannot wait for Azamara to arrive in Australia. We’re now the third largest market for the brand and we know that more growth will come with Azamara sailing from our doorstep,” said Adam Armstrong, Commercial Director, Azamara Club Cruises Australia. The Azamara Quest will arrive in the capital of the Northern Territory on December 28. Every Azamara Club cruise offers an exclusive, complimentary and bespoke ‘AzAmazing Evening’ to showcase a destination and its culture during Azamara Quest the voyage, and the company has just announced further details of the unique events to be held in Australian and New Zealand ports. Guests sailing on the 16-night ‘Australia & New Zealand’ cruise which departs Sydney on January 15, 2016 and sails to Auckland, will be treated to a night with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra in Hobart on the wharf during her overnight stay in the city. The evening will begin with a performance by the Tasmanian Police Pipe Band which has been performing can’t-miss moment of the night is the Cage Guests will be able to discover and together in Australia and around the world of Death. A handful of the ship’s officers experience their history and ways during since 1969. After a rousing tattoo, guests will drop into a protected tank while giant this night of music, dance and cultural will be welcomed by local dignitaries crocodiles approach for a little nose-to- talks. A tribal elder kicks off the evening ahead of a performance by the Tasmanian nose time. The unique event continues with a welcome to Australia and an Symphony Orchestra. with a ceremonial demonstration by introduction to the values of his people. The AzAmazing Evening event during representatives of the Larrakia people and Musicians will play the didgeridoo while the 13-night ‘New Zealand’ sailing the chance to handle some of the reptiles. dancers perform rhythmic moves that from Auckland to Sydney on January On the 10-night ‘Barrier Reef’ sailing have been passed down for hundreds 31, 2016, will allow guests to discover from Cairns to Sydney, guests will enjoy of generations. Afterwards, guests will the rich culture of the Maori people. a private night at historic Fort Scratchley indulge in local desserts, cheese and fruit During an evening of entertainment at in Newcastle. Overlooking Nobbys Head, or can explore the park. the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa home to the famous beach and lighthouse, “It has been a number of years in the Tongarewa in Wellington, guests will be the fortress boasts panoramic ocean, making and Azamara Quest will sail Down welcomed by traditional Maori chiefs coastline, harbour and city views. Settled Under for two months,” continued Mr before Temuera Morrison, best known for by convicts in the early 19th century, Armstrong. “She will offer a range of five his roles in Star Wars, opens the night’s the city will provide the backdrop to unique itineraries that feature all of the performance. His distinctive voice will entertainment from local artists including usual hallmarks of Azamara’s cruises: more lead into entertainment by the Modern James Morrison, one of the nation’s most onboard inclusions such as beverages, Maori Quartet and a cultural performance, iconic jazz instrumentalists, before a gratuities and self-service laundry, longer including the haka. fireworks display caps off the evening. stays in port, more overnight calls and An evening at Crocosaurus Cove in During Azamara Quest’s last local sailing, exclusive AzAmazing Evenings.” Darwin is part of the entertainment during the 17-night ‘Great Barrier Reef’ cruise from The cruise line has also confirmed it will the 14-night ‘Bali and Barrier Reef’ sailing, Sydney to Bali, guests will be treated to a deploy a ship to the region for another two departing Indonesia on December 22 traditional aboriginal cultural performance seasons, with Azamara Journey coming for and arriving in Cairns for the beginning of from the Tjapukai people in Cairns at the first time in 2017 and Azamara Quest Azamara Quest’s maiden season. the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. returning in 2018, following extensive Here, guests will meet the world’s Known as ‘the people of the rainforest’, multi-million dollar facelifts. largest captive reptile collection, including the Tjapukai are the world’s oldest living nearly 200 saltwater crocodiles, while the culture. azamaraclubcruises.com
18 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Luxury is about to DROP ANCHOR IN AUSTRALIA
AZAMARA QUEST IS CRUISING FROM AUSTRALIA IN 2016
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PEPPERS POPS THE CORK ON TASTY NEW PROPERTY IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Adelaide’s key tourism, business and Victor Faisca, Peppers General Manager. pool, spa, sauna and fitness centre. Peppers industry contacts were on hand to celebrate Zach Riemersma, Chef at Peppers will be undertaking ongoing upgrades to the grand opening of Peppers Waymouth Waymouth, treated guests to an array of the hotel’s rooms and public areas over the Hotel recently. local produce including Coffin Bay oysters, next 12 months. The guests experienced an evening Woodside Chevre from the Adelaide Hills, “Melbourne will soon have the third CBD celebrating regional food and wine – a South Australian blue swimmer crab Peppers hotel opening early 2016 in the key focus for the newly branded property, ceviche, Clare Valley gold seared beef and Docklands precinct and another new build formerly the Rendezvous Hotel. smoked kangaroo from the Barossa Valley, Peppers hotel is slated for Perth opening “We are looking forward to a long and accompanied by South Australian wines late 2016,” said Tomas Johnsson, Mantra happy partnership with all things gourmet from Yalumba. Group Director of Operations. and see the hotel becoming involved in The hotel offers 202 five-star rooms and the local food and wine related events suites, two food and beverage outlets – The peppers.com.au and festivals on the tourism calendar,” said Cafe and Lounge 55 – a heated indoor lap
There’s great meriton in first north sydney hotel Meriton has opened its 14th entertainment venues and public apartment hotel featuring one-, two- and transport surround the new hotel, three-bedroom suites plus first-class allowing guests to leave the car at home recreational facilities. as everything is within walking distance. Located in Chatswood, the property is “Being Sydney’s third largest the first in Sydney’s north for Australia’s CBD we identified a need for more fastest growing operator of serviced accommodation to suit Chatswood’s apartments. Designed by PTW Architects, growing commercial and retail district, to the tower is 33 storeys high with the first better accommodate business and holiday stage including 105 suites up to level 15, makers. A fresh accommodation option with the remaining 337 to open in January is what this market needs and wants,” Mr 2016, offering views of Sydney’s CBD, Thomas said. harbour and vast surrounds. Later this year a retail promenade will “With the opening of our newest open at the foot of the hotel offering an apartment hotel, our collection of serviced open pathway for both guests and the apartments has increased to more than public to access Chatswood’s transport 3,800 apartments (5,200+ rooms) in what interchange. is our 12th year of operation, showing that Meriton is set to open another four both local and international markets are new apartment hotels over the next 12 enthralled with what our product offers,” months including North Sydney, Mascot, said Matthew Thomas, National Manager. Parramatta and Southport, Gold Coast. Shopping hubs including Westfield Chatswood and Chatswood Chase, meritonapartments.com.au
20 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Property review
A spa room in the Sothea Suite Khmer King at the Anantara Angkor Resort BELINDA LUKSIC reviews the Anantara Angkor Resort & Spa in Cambodia.
There is an opulent, lord of the manor feel to Anantara Angkor Resort & Spa. Built in the style of a Royal Khmer villa, this charming five-star boutique retreat has all the elegance and grandeur of a country estate. overall effect, minimalist Zen at its best, is Deluxe and premium deluxe bedrooms It’s apparent on the walk to reception, quite grand and embraces you in its hushed face poolside and feature a king-size down a long, stately hallway of gleaming stillness. bed, outdoor shower and direct poolside white tiles and evenly spaced plinth-like Part of Asia’s Minor Hotel Group access for those lucky enough to be on the columns up-lit to startlingly white effect. portfolio, the Anantara Angkor Resort & ground floor. Bath lovers will swoon at the And again as you step out of the main Spa is centrally located an easy 10 minutes decadently deep claw foot tub. building into a rectangular courtyard from the airport and local late-night dining For those finding themselves in the redolent in frangipanis, palm trees and box and bar precinct, Pub Street. It’s also just luxury spa, the indigenous treatments du grass. 10 minutes from the UNESCO Angkor jour, a no-oil Khmer massage and Khmer Here, the main accommodation, a series Archaeological Park, an important detail herbal body scrub, are both winners. The of low-rise buildings with private wooden when getting up pre-dawn to watch the resort also offers unique experiences – balconies and rooms with floor to ceiling sun rise over the eighth Wonder Of The everything from traditional cooking classes glass, wraps around an elegant saltwater World, Angkor Wat. to cycling the temples and Vespa street pool. An abstract sculpture of a sleeping Rebranded in 2013, the hotel has just 39 eats tours. Dine by Design, private dining woman reclines sumptuously at one stylishly appointed suites, villas and rooms, with a personal chef, is the perfect excuse end, while a privacy perimeter of water each decorated in traditional Khmer style to experience the grace and beauty of a bath ‘hedges’ creates a thoughtful space with floorboards, wooden furnishings, traditional Apsara dance. between guest balconies and the pool. The indigenous artwork and red keynotes. angkor.anantara.com
Your Place to Stay Adina Apartment Hotels offer spacious studios, one, two and three bedroom apartments in central locations across Australia, New Zealand and Europe. The extra space of an apartment with the exceptional hotel service makes Adina the perfect choice for discerning travellers. Look out for the new Adina Apartment Hotel Auckland, Britomart now open and new hotels in Frankfurt, Nuremberg and Brisbane coming soon in 2016. TFEhotels.com/adina
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Traveltalk summer 2015 | 21 Propertytalk
Chatswood
Generous hotel staff keeping the homeless off the streets
Australia’s largest hotel company of AccorHotels Pacific, said the money Mission Australia for five years.” has raised $460,000 for Mission Australia raised for Mission Australia and the Kokoda AccorHotels have now raised close to $2 and $40,000 for the Kokoda Youth Youth Foundation will no doubt have a million for Mission Australia through their Foundation. lasting impact on helping Australians in ‘Race to Survive’ fundraising challenges. More than 200 Accor hotels around the need. The $460,000 raised from this year’s efforts country spent 10 months raising the money “Each night our hotels provide a will directly benefit services including which will be used to reduce homelessness comfortable and secure place for our guests Missionbeat (van patrols in NSW connecting in Australia. to sleep yet more than 100,000 people in people and combating homelessness), The fundraising efforts were capped off Australia sleep rough and are homeless a pilot of a homelessness program in by a gruelling three-day ‘Race to Survive’ every night. Queensland, and Charcoal Lane, a social adventure challenge held at Mercure Gold “We strongly believe that every enterprise restaurant in Victoria providing Coast Resort recently, in which more than Australian has the right to a bed and pathways to employment for indigenous 200 Accor staff took part. somewhere safe to lay their head and this is youth. Simon McGrath, Chief Operating Officer why we have been passionate supporters of accorhotels.com
THE VIBE IS JUST RIGHT AS AIRPORT HOTEL opens its doors in the nation’s capital
Travelling to and from Australia’s ground floor reception area, an inspired Chatswood Train station capital just become a whole lot more space designed as a hub for guests to comfortable and convenient with the connect with each other and with the opening of Vibe Hotel Canberra Airport. hotel’s Vibe Hosts. The property is located just 50 metres Convenience is very much on the menu
from the airport terminal, easing the stress throughout the hotel, particularly at Pa cific Highw sometimes associated with travel. Each of the onsite restaurant Helix Bar & Dining, the 191 thoughtfully decorated and stylish a modern European-style bistro that soundproof rooms have views of the city incorporates culinary delights from the ay on one side and Lake Burley Griffin on ACT with food options chosen exclusively the other. They come equipped with all by Executive Chef, Michael Chatto. of the mod cons expected of a modern- Ideal for leisure travellers, from regional day luxury hotel, including access to the drive areas and particularly for getaways Vibe Fit gym and complimentary Wi-Fi from Sydney, the hotel also offers onsite throughout. business facilities including six fully The hotel includes 110 lower deck adaptable conference and event spaces rooms and 60 upper deck rooms, 12 first catering for up to 200 guests. These class suites and nine one- and two- include everything from complimentary bedroom apartments, all of which are Wi-Fi, audio-visual hire and Vibe Hotel’s centred around a unique soaring atrium, signature creative conferencing extras. also host to the spacious and welcoming TFEhotels.com
22 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Chatswood
Chatswood Train station
Pa
cific Highw
ay Skytalk Airline flies back to the seventies to offer aid Generous Australians have helped Catriona Rowntree (centre) Qantas raise more than $114,000 for the with Qantas staff Western Queensland Drought Appeal, funding the coordination and distribution of much needed relief across the Longreach region. Qantas operated a one-off charity flight from Sydney to the Qantas Founders Museum (QFM) in Longreach last month using its ‘Retro Roo’ aircraft in 70s livery. Passengers got into the spirit with retro 70s outfits, a special Neil Perry-designed menu and cocktails, and entertainment from some musical icons of the era. Leo Sayer provided the pre-flight entertainment while Glenn Shorrock belted out Little River Band classics at the QFM. John Gissing, QantasLink CEO, said the national carrier was proud to lend its support to a region it first called home in the 1920s. “Qantas’ roots in Longreach are deeper help both through this charity flight and and flight crew who donated their time to than in any other part of Australia – and through ongoing support for the local operate the flight. Passengers paid $737 there has never been a more important tourism industry.” each for a seat on the service and bid for a time for us to give back to this wonderful The charity flight was made possible number of auction items, with all proceeds community,” Mr Gissing said. “We know by Caltex and Air BP who donated fuel, from both the flight itself and the in-flight these are difficult times for Longreach and Sydney and Longreach Airports who auction going directly to the appeal. we’re committed to playing our part to waived landing fees and Qantas cabin wqda.org.au
“To win Australasia’s leading airline FIRST THE RUGBY WORLD CUP, for the seventh year in a row is incredibly exciting,” said Carrie Hurihanganui, Air New Zealand General Manager Customer NOW THE KIWIS RULE THE SKIES Experience. “We’re continually looking at ways to enhance the customer experience at all stages of the journey and these awards are testament to that work and to the efforts of our 11,000 staff.” The awards for the Asia and Australasia region were announced recently at a ceremony in Hong Kong. All regional winners will compete for the World Travel Awards’ global awards to be announced at a gala ceremony on December 12. Meanwhile the company has also announced it will purchase 15 new ATR72- 600 aircraft to operate its regional services. Four of the new aircraft will allow for further growth on regional routes while 11 will replace the airline’s ATR72-500 fleet. The new planes will cost Air New Zealand an estimated $US375 million (approx. $AU5.32 billion) and will begin arriving next year. “The extra four 68 seat ATR72-600 that Air New Zealand has been named Christchurch International Airport. we are adding to our fleet will enable us to ‘Australasia’s Leading Airline’ for the The awards, now in their 22nd year, operate up to an additional 600,000 seats seventh consecutive year at the 2015 World recognise travel organisations that are into the New Zealand regional market Travel Awards. pushing the boundaries of industry annually,” commented Christopher Luxon, The airline also took out the award for excellence and are voted for annually by Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer. ‘Australasia’s Leading Airport Lounge’ for travel and tourism professionals around the third year running for its facility at the world. airnewzealand.com.au
24 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au 111515 TThorncliffehorncli e Park Park Driv Drivee DockeDocket:t: 63765 TTorontooronto OOntariontario ClienClient:t: 247 - Air Canada M4H 1M1M11 Job NameName:: InteInternationalrnational TTelel 416•696•2853 ProducProductiontion ConContact:tact: LaLarara VVanderheideanderheide
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Airline flies back to the seventies to offer aid THE DOOR TO NORTH AMERICA IS OFFICIALLY OPEN.
Daily non-stop to to Vancouver Vancouver with with same-plane same-plane service service to Toronto to Toronto and connectionsconnections to to over over 100 100 North North American American destinations. destinations. Air Canada has been voted the Best Airline in North America five years in a row by Skytrax and Fly our International Business Class and enjoy fully lie-flat beds, over 600 hours of in-flight for good reason. Fly our International Business Class and enjoy fully lie-flat beds, over 600 hours entertainment and access to our award-winning Maple Leaf™ Lounges and concierge of in-flight entertainment and access to our award-winning Maple Leaf™ Lounges and concierge services. All this is conveniently offered on daily non-stop flights from Sydney to Vancouver services. All this is conveniently offered on daily non-stop flights from Sydney to Vancouver with smooth connections to over 100 destinations in North America. with smooth connections to over 100 destinations in North America. For more information or to book a flight, contact your travel agent or visit aircanada.com For more information or to book a flight, contact your travel agent or visit aircanada.com. B:303 mm B:303 mm S:260 mm S:260 mm T:297 mm T:297 mm
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AC15-IN-M28_Travel_Talk.indd 1 2015-02-24 5:40 PM
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YELYELLOWLOW MMAGENTAAGENTA CCYANYAN BLBLACKACK Skytalk Skytalk: Advertorial NNewew fflightslights andNd ccabiabinsNs oofferffer a dredreamam ride The next 12 months are shaping up to be PERTH AIRPORT’S some of the most exciting in Air Canada’s history. North America’s leading airline will be WORLD CLASS launching its first non-stop Dreamliner flights from Brisbane and introducing a revamped on-board product – its first premium economy cabin – on its daily TRANSFORMATION Sydney-Vancouver route. Air Canada will be the only carrier to offer year-round, non-stop flights between Canada and Queensland when its new Brisbane-Vancouver flights take to the skies on June 1. The new Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft will incorporate 20 international business class lie-flat seat suites, 21 premium economy and 210 economy class seats, all offering an upgraded in-flight entertainment system (IFE). Paul McLean, Air Canada General Manager Australia and New Zealand, Perth airPort’s world-class traNsformatioN says the flights are timed to optimise connectivity to and from the airline’s PERTH AIRPORT’S $200 million T1 Domestic Terminal opened on 22 November and is now home to Virgin Australia’s extensive North American network interstatePerth Air andPort’ someS $200 regional million Terminal services. 1 (T1) Situated Domestic at the western end of T1 next to T2, the new Domestic Terminal allows through its Vancouver hub. for a memorable two-nation vacation.” entertainment screen and noise-cancelling Pier opened on November 22 and is now home to Virgin “Air Canada’s new service doesn’t simply In May, Air Canada will also bring its headsets. For the first time travellers VirginAustralia’s Australia’s domestic passengers services. to transfer seamlessly between regional, interstate and international services in one offer Queenslanders a much-needed direct latest world-class on-board product to its will also have the option of a premium convenientSituated at location.the western end of Terminal 1, the new route to British Columbia, it provides a non-stop Sydney-Vancouver service, with economy cabin offering expanded Domestic Pier allows Virgin Australia’s passengers to convenient way to explore more than 60 the airline’s B777-200 aircraft upgraded to legroom and recline, wider seats, premium T1transfer DOMESTIC seamlessly INCLUDES: between regional, interstate and Canadian cities and 52 destinations across offer the same in-flight service as its new meals, complimentary bar service and •international 28 domestic services check-in in one kiosks convenient and 14 hybridlocation. self-service bag the United States,” said Mr McLean. Dreamliner fleet. priority check-in and baggage delivery. drop desks incorporating a new fast-track check-in system, “This is particularly efficient for business Business class passengers will be The new-look B777-200 aircraft will also •t hea total new of 12 t1 aerobridges, DomeStic with Pier three inclu A330 DcapableeS: aircraft gates, travellers, who can now seamlessly able to relax in next generation, lie-flat offer a re-designed economy cabin, •• 22a centraldomestic retail check-in and diningdesks, asarea, well and as check-in kiosks pass through Canada and U.S. customs international business class product, offering an upgraded IFE system available and bag-drop technology, • a large Virgin Australia lounge. in Vancouver or Toronto. And for featuring an adjustable pneumatic free at every seat. • a total of 10 aerobridges, with three A330 capable holidaymakers it creates the opportunity cushion headrest, an 18-inch personal aircanada.com Theaircraft retail, gates, food and beverage hub located in the centre of the Terminal• a central offers retail and passengers dining area, an andextensive range of options in a comfortable• a large Virgin environment. Australia lounge.
News in brief The retail, food and beverage hub located in the Qatar Airways has announced it will fly Boeing 777-300ER. This will provide more the Gulf region, the Middle East, Africa centre of the Pier offers passengers an extensive range of daily direct services next year from Sydney customer options as well as additional and Europe. The new A380 will increase options in a comfortable environment. and Adelaide to 150 destinations via its seat capacity on the route with Melbourne the total number of two-way seats on the new fooD AnD beverAge outletS incluDe: international hub in Doha. From March 2, served twice-daily by an A380. With the Melbourne-Abu Dhabi route by 26 per • Hungry Jack’s, the airline will fly non-stop from Sydney addition of this service, Australia will sit cent to more than 11,500 seats per week. NEW FOOD AND BEVERAGE OUTLETS INCLUDE: and from May 2 non-stop from Adelaide. behind the UK and USA in terms of global etihad.com • specialist coffee shop – Toby’s Estate, • Hungry Jack’s, Currently, the carrier operates daily non- A380 destinations for Emirates with a total • NOOODLES, authentic Asian cuisine, stop flights from Melbourne and Perth of six daily flights from Dubai to four cities. Singapore Airlines and Lufthansa • Salsa’s Fresh Mex Grill, • specialist coffee shop – Toby’s Estate, with a total of 14 services each week. The emirates.com/au have signed a partnership agreement that • Long Neck, a bar and restaurant featuring a menu • NOOODLES, authentic Asian cuisine, daily Sydney-Doha flights will be operated will see them operate key routes between designed by local Chef Chris Taylor, and • Salsa’s Fresh Mex Grill, by Boeing 777-300 aircraft while the airline Etihad will commence daily A380 Singapore and Europe on a joint-venture • Hudsons Coffee, located in the arrivals area on the • Long Neck, a bar and restaurant featuring a menu designed by ground floor, which services both arriving and departing will fly its Airbus A350-900 from Adelaide. services between Abu Dhabi and basis, in addition to expanding codeshare local Chef Chris Taylor, and passengers as well as those waiting to meet and greet qatarairways.com/au Melbourne on June 1 next year. The ties and commercial co-operation. Flights • Hudsons Coffee, located in the arrivals area on the ground superjumbo will operate flights EY460/461, between Singapore and Frankfurt, Munich passengers. floor, which services both arriving and departing passengers Australia will become the third one of the airline’s twice-daily Abu Dhabi- and Düsseldorf, as well as flights between Directly adjacent to the central dining area is a as well as those waiting to meet and greet passengers. largest A380 destination for Emirates Melbourne services. It will replace one of Singapore and Zurich, are to be operated selection of specialty retail shops including Rip Curl, globally next year when the airline the three-class Boeing 777-300ER aircraft under revenue-sharing arrangements. Sunglass Hut, Amcal Pharmacy, WHSmith (News and Directly adjacent to the central dining area is a selection of Books) and the launches a sixth daily service. From March currently deployed on the route. The The two airline groups also intend to specialty retail shops including Rip Curl, Sunglass Hut, Amcal The Pier is also proving to be a great vantage point 1, EK404 and EK405 between Dubai and double daily service will provide travellers co-operate in key markets in Europe, Pharmacy, WHSmith (News and Books) and the Gadgetshop. Melbourne via Singapore will be operated from Victoria access to more than 900 Southeast Asia and Australia. for aviation enthusiasts with expansive view across the The Pier is also proving to be a great vantage point for aviation by an A380, replacing the existing weekly connections in 50 markets across singaporeair.com; lufthansa.com airfield to the city. enthusiasts with expansive view across the airfield to the city.
26 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au TravelT alk summer 2015 | 27 SSkykytalk: Advertorial NNewew fflightslights andNd ccabiabinsNs oofferffer a dredreamam ride PERTH AIRPORT’S WORLD CLASS TRANSFORMATION
Perth airPort’s world-class traNsformatioN
PERTH AIRPORT’S $200 million T1 Domestic Terminal opened on 22 November and is now home to Virgin Australia’s interstatePerth Air andPort’ someS $200 regional million Terminal services. 1 (T1) Situated Domestic at the western end of T1 next to T2, the new Domestic Terminal allows Pier opened on November 22 and is now home to Virgin VirginAustralia’s Australia’s domestic passengers services. to transfer seamlessly between regional, interstate and international services in one convenientSituated at location.the western end of Terminal 1, the new Domestic Pier allows Virgin Australia’s passengers to T1transfer DOMESTIC seamlessly INCLUDES: between regional, interstate and •international 28 domestic services check-in in one kiosks convenient and 14 hybridlocation. self-service bag drop desks incorporating a new fast-track check-in system, •t hea total new of 12 t1 aerobridges, DomeStic with Pier three inclu A330 DcapableeS: aircraft gates, •• 22a centraldomestic retail check-in and diningdesks, asarea, well and as check-in kiosks and bag-drop technology, • a large Virgin Australia lounge. • a total of 10 aerobridges, with three A330 capable Theaircraft retail, gates, food and beverage hub located in the centre of the Terminal• a central offers retail and passengers dining area, an andextensive range of options in a comfortable• a large Virgin environment. Australia lounge.
The retail, food and beverage hub located in the centre of the Pier offers passengers an extensive range of options in a comfortable environment.
new fooD AnD beverAge outletS incluDe: • Hungry Jack’s, • specialist coffee shop – Toby’s Estate, NEW FOOD AND BEVERAGE OUTLETS INCLUDE: • NOOODLES, authentic Asian cuisine, • Hungry Jack’s, • Salsa’s Fresh Mex Grill, • specialist coffee shop – Toby’s Estate, • Long Neck, a bar and restaurant featuring a menu • NOOODLES, authentic Asian cuisine, designed by local Chef Chris Taylor, and • Salsa’s Fresh Mex Grill, • Hudsons Coffee, located in the arrivals area on the • Long Neck, a bar and restaurant featuring a menu designed by ground floor, which services both arriving and departing local Chef Chris Taylor, and passengers as well as those waiting to meet and greet passengers. • Hudsons Coffee, located in the arrivals area on the ground Directly adjacent to the central dining area is a floor, which services both arriving and departing passengers selection of specialty retail shops including Rip Curl, as well as those waiting to meet and greet passengers. Sunglass Hut, Amcal Pharmacy, WHSmith (News and Directly adjacent to the central dining area is a selection of Books) and the specialty retail shops including Rip Curl, Sunglass Hut, Amcal The Pier is also proving to be a great vantage point for aviation enthusiasts with expansive view across the Pharmacy, WHSmith (News and Books) and the Gadgetshop. airfield to the city. The Pier is also proving to be a great vantage point for aviation enthusiasts with expansive view across the airfield to the city.
TraveltT alk summer 2015 | 27 Bali
The famous yellow suspension bridge between Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan
on island time
Indonesia is made up of more than 17,000 islands, an estimated 8,000 of them inhabited. But if you’re looking to switch into a lower gear, you need to venture beyond Bali’s tourist haunts, as JESSICA ZOITI reveals.
If you’re Australian, chances are you’ve looking at you Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, if you branch out to some of the outlying been to Bali at least once. You may have Jimbaran, Nusa Dua and Sanur). islands, you’ll unearth little slices of even been visiting the island since Kuta was Yet despite this chaos, Bali continues to Indonesian heaven. considered a cultural bolthole. be loved by many (including this writer). The Busy and brash, modern-day Bali offers as fragrant aromas, electric energy, incessant NUSA LEMBONGAN much solitude as a hawker who’s spied your tinkling of the gamelan and friendly Although getting more popular by the diamond engagement ring, unless you’ve bartering continue to woo. But as loyal as we day (especially with long-time Australian barricaded yourself inside a fortressed are to the island, surely it’s only natural to travellers looking for a change), Nusa villa or are trekking to the less populated lust after the odd deserted beach, unspoiled Lembongan, off the south east coast of Bali, northern shores. Today the island’s tourism natural beauty and a brush with just a is still often overshadowed by the main hot spots are a jumble of traffic jams, tooting smidgen more local culture? island and has a reputation for being a taxis, scooters and souvenir sellers (we’re You can still make Bali your base, but slower version of Bali.
28 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Bali
Its biggest drawcard is its water-based you can feed and water the whole family for activities – with perfect beaches and reliable $20 including a couple of Bintangs and ice swell, it’s one of the best places in Bali to creams all round, right through to beautiful snorkel, stand up paddleboard, surf, dive dining at a handful of fabulous restaurants,” and swim. Darriel explains. Better still, there’s very little traffic. You’ll encounter the odd motorcycle but to drive DARRIEL’S TIPS: Go snorkelling. Enjoy the a four-wheeled vehicle you need permission island’s Hindu culture and village life. Enjoy from the village elders so locals tend to yoga at Serenity Yoga. Take a surf lesson. Try either walk or cycle. fresh, authentic jacket fish at one of the small Darriel Collings from Perth is a long-time warungs and catch a sunset at Sandy Bay. visitor. He and his family of five have been traveling to the islands for the past 10 years GETTING THERE: Nusa Lembongan is easily and although they’ve stayed on Bali and accessible via a 30-minute tourist boat or a made trips to Lombok and the Gili Islands 90-minute slow boat for locals from Sanur or over the years, their firm favourite is Nusa Benoa Harbour. Lembongan. “For a family it is ideal,” he begins. “There NUSA CENINGAN are no busy roads, no spruiking and no This stony outcrop is often mistaken for part nightclubs. Kids can wander around, explore of Nusa Lembongan but is an island in its and have freedom without fear while mums own right and one that’s sure to appeal to and dads can relax.” adrenalin junkies. Always active, the Collings family is Its main claim to fame is Blue Lagoon, a especially drawn to the destination’s range coastal location popular with thrill-seekers of outdoor adventures. “Water activities looking to hurl themselves off the 12-metre are plentiful – there’s surfing, SUPing, cliff into the sea. The activity is discouraged, snorkelling, diving and fishing,” Darriel mind you. Swells here have been known to explains. reach the cliff’s top, so visitors are advised “The water surrounding the island is to exercise extreme caution if they climb up, clean and clear, and the fish and coral life is even if it is just to enjoy the view. abundant, and that’s coming from someone Nusa Ceningan offers an environment who has dived and snorkelled our Ningaloo that’s virtually untouched by tourism. There Reef, Great Barrier and the Maldives. are a couple of resorts, such as The Palms “There are great walks and mountain and Le Pirates Beach Club, but otherwise all bike riding as well, particularly on the small you’ll encounter are smiling locals, coconut adjoining island of Nusa Ceningan.” groves, temples, small jungle-covered Accommodation here is varied and hills and mangroves. Relaxation here is ranges from deluxe villas to beachside impossible to avoid. shanties. And while the food offering on Bali is increasingly cosmopolitan (a draw card, GETTING THERE: From Nusa Lembongan mind you), on Nusa Lembongan it’s genuine, (see above), visitors can simply cross the delicious and cheap. famous yellow suspension bridge to reach “There are authentic places to eat where Nusa Ceningan.
Sunrise on Nusa Lembongan
Traveltalk summer 2015 | 29 Bali
LOMBOK There’s a lot to love on Lombok. Located east of Bali, its best features include white sandy beaches, turquoise bays, rice paddies, forests, awesome surf breaks and a volcano (Indonesia’s second largest) with hot springs at its summit. Despite these brochure-worthy attractions, tourism on Lombok is still in its infancy. Those immaculate beaches are often empty and attract mainly surfers who come in search of perfect waves and the island’s slow, rustic lifestyle. The township of Senggigi on the island’s west coast boasts much of the tourism Trawangan Beach, Lombok development. But unlike its counterparts in Bali’s south, this town remains relatively underdeveloped and with jungle covered GETTING THERE: Flights from Bali’s Ngurah Bali will let you take your scooter with you, mountains as its backdrop, it blends well Rai International Airport take 40 minutes and meaning you have convenient transport with Lombok’s natural allure. Here you’ll are cheap (around $AU50). The drive from once you reach Lombok. find low-key restaurants and bars alongside the airport to Senggigi takes 90 minutes. accommodation ranging from budget to Alternatively, take a fast ferry from Serangan THE GILI ISLANDS luxury. or Benoa Harbour on Bali. Some fast ferry You’ll find the vehicle-free Gili Islands Other Lombok highlights include inland services travel via the neighbouring Gili following a 20-minute boat ride from trekking through the jungle to the waterfalls Islands. Lombok’s west coast. Comprising Gili of Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu, Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno, these tiny diving and snorkelling over coral reefs, TOP TIP: You can also take a slow public islets are extremely popular with travellers outrigger boat cruises, volcano climbs ferry from Padang Bai Harbour (Bali). The for snorkelling, swimming or simply relaxing, and a wide range of cultural day trips from journey takes between four and five hours, yet each one offers something entirely Senggigi. however many vehicle hire companies on different for visitors.
30 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Bali
Nusa Lembongan
Gili Trawangan Kristy and Darren Marshall are regulars to Bali but decided to try something different the last time they visited. They spent time on the largest and most cosmopolitan of the three ‘Gilis’, Gili Trawangan (or ‘Gili T’ as it is otherwise known), and loved the relaxed, laid-back vibe. “There are no cars there,” begins Darren. “You hire bikes and ride them around. Otherwise, there are simply donkeys and carts on the roads.” Despite the lack of motorised traffic, Gili T has a reputation for being a party island, attracting throngs of backpackers, especially from Europe. Eco tourism is rising rapidly and although new developments abound, most are tastefully designed to complement the local surroundings. “There are people who go to Gili T just to party – it offers something for everyone from backpackers to those looking for five-star luxury. But it’s still pretty laid back,” explains Darren. “We stayed on the opposite side of the island, which was much quieter, but if you’re looking for excitement there’s heaps of stuff going on the east coast – there’s a large market where you can get excellent street food and loads of little beach bars that range from proper shanties through to some that are quite up market. It really does have this amazing charm,” says Kristy, adding that affordability is another drawcard. “We booked this wonderful hotel that had a huge bathroom and it included breakfast and had a pool that overlooked the ocean. It was amazing and it was just $109 a night.” At just three kilometres long and two kilometres wide, the island can easily be walked. Other popular activities include hiking, bike and horse riding, kayaking, yoga, massage, diving, SUPing, swimming and snorkelling right off the beach.
Traveltalk summer 2015 | 31 Bali
Diving and various activities to be found on the Gili Islands
Gili Air barbecues particularly popular among it in about 90 minutes. Like all the Gilis, the With its handful of funky bars, bamboo cafes visitors. east coast boasts the lion’s share of excellent and an increasing number of up market Gili Air’s calm waters make it an ideal beaches and tourist facilities. Highlights accommodations, the quieter island of Gili destination to learn how to surf and dive elsewhere include white sandy beaches Air is a great choice for honeymooning while other popular activities include kite fringed by groves of coconut palms and couples and families. surfing, glass bottom boat rides, snorkelling excellent snorkelling off the western and Most of this development is along the and kayaking. north-western coasts. The north-west is east coast, which also boasts the island’s also home to large population of green, best swimming beaches. One of the Gili Meno leatherback and hawksbill turtles. most popular is The Beach Club Gili Air, With its desert island vibe and tiny local “If you are honeymooners or a couple which offers accommodation in eight population, Gili Meno is by far the quietest looking to completely get away, or if you air-conditioned bungalows with private of the three islets. love diving or snorkelling, then the Gili terraces and open-air bathrooms. Colourful Here you’ll find a few trendy villa Islands are ideal,” says Kristy. beanbags dot the beachfront and the properties, but there are no large resorts. restaurant screens free movies on the beach The intimate Reef Resort, operated by Karma GETTING THERE: Gili Getaway offers every evening (weather permitting). Resorts on the island’s east coast, offers daily fast boat services between Serangan Other restaurants in the area offer comfortable lumbung-style bungalows, Harbour (20 minutes from Kuta) and Gili everything from traditional Indonesian a restaurant and beach club on a prime T. From Gili T, travellers can transfer to dishes through to cosmopolitan beachfront location. Gili Air and Gili Meno (giligetaway.com). international cuisines with fresh seafood The island is so tiny you can walk around Alternatively, you can fly to Lombok and
32 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Bali
The Gili Islands Nusa Penida
then transfer from Senggigi to the Gilis by the northern shore visitors are treated to GETTING THERE: Fifty-minute speedboat boat. memorable views across the water to Bali. services operate from Benoa Harbour and Despite these drawcards, Nusa Penida Sanur on Bali to Nusa Penida numerous NUSA PENIDA is short on tourists and accommodation times daily. From Nusa Lembongan a Beyond Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan is – you’ll find simple bed and breakfasts in public boat service runs daily at 6am from Nusa Penida, the largest of Bali’s outlaying Toyopakeh in the north and Sampalan six the suspension bridge between Nusa islands and the best if you’re into scuba kilometres away on the east coast. Visitors Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. diving. dine in simple warungs and spend their days Along Nusa Penida’s south coast, chilling out, or diving, snorkelling and bird dramatic limestone cliffs plunge into the watching – the Nusa Penida Bird Sanctuary ocean while through the island’s core is a is home to hundreds of nearly extinct or tangle of hills, crops, traditional villages protected bird species. and temples. From the beaches along
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Traveltalk summer 2015 | 33 Wakatobi the perfect island escape
It would be hard to imagine a more Coral gardens begin right off the beach and can accommodate families as well idyllic destination for a private island at the famous House Reef, which has been as couples. Nanny service and children’s escape: A collection of charming named one of the world’s best shore dives. A programs are available along with a range bungalows and luxurious villas sit among fleet of custom-built boats provide exclusive of personalised services such as private a palm grove that overlooks a white-sand access to more than 40 additional dive sites guides, boat charters and private dinners. beach and some of the world’s most located within Wakatobi’s private marine Land activities include an on-site spa, nature pristine coral reefs. reserve. walks, island tours and cooking classes. This is Wakatobi Dive Resort, where Many of these sites include both At the resort’s beachside restaurant, barefoot-casual style blends with concierge- dramatic underwater walls to thrill divers internationally-trained chefs create a level service and five-star dining. Scuba and hectares of shallow and sheltered coral savoury array of Indonesian and continental divers put Wakatobi at the head of their list gardens that are ideal for snorkellers of all favourites, as well as special dietary of dream destinations, but so do a growing ages and abilities. In fact, Wakatobi is one requests. In-room dining, picnics and private number of savvy travellers looking for a of the few destinations in the world that is beachside table settings are also available. unique vacation experience that blends equally suited for divers, snorkellers and The staff can accommodate special requests nature, luxury and adventure. beach lovers. and stage memorable events for occasions Though far removed from the distractions Additional water sports offered at such as weddings, anniversaries and family of civilisation, the resort is easy to reach. the resort include kayaking, stand up reunions. Direct charter flights from Bali speed paddleboarding and the new kiteboarding From intimate sunrise ceremonies on guests to a private airstrip in under three program. the beach to sunset cruises with 20 close hours, with Wakatobi’s concierge staff in Guests relax in a collection of spacious friends, Wakatobi goes above and beyond Bali coordinating all details of arrival and beachside bungalows and waterfront villas the expected to create lasting vacation luggage transfer. Guests arrive at the resort that honour local Indonesian styles, but also memories. in time for a relaxing lunch and can be include a full range of modern comforts. swimming, snorkelling or diving soon after. Each is situated to ensure ample privacy wakatobi.com
34 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au An experience “All in all 5 stars! A fantastic and unique without equal location with some of the best dive sites we’ve ever At Wakatobi, getting away from it all couldn’t be experienced. The service easier. A private air charter speeds you directly and support was from Bali to our remote island paradise, where downright luxurious.” all the indulgences of a five-star resort await. From chef-prepared meals to an on-site spa T. Marshall Manson, Sept 2015 and concierge level service, your every need is anticipated and accommodated. The spectacular and pristine reefs of Wakatobi’s marine reserve are the resort’s signature claim to fame, but far from the only attraction. Divers and snorkellers are pampered aboard spacious, custom-built boats, and enjoy personal attention from our expert guides and dive center team. Ashore, a full range of water sports, resort amenities and activities await. This unmatched combination of world- renowned reefs, natural beauty and first-class luxuries put Wakatobi in a category all its own. www.wakatobi.com
Travel Talk Ad.indd 1 11/12/15 3:20 PM India the secret six Eric Finley, India Product Manager for Insider Journeys, shares some of his favourite places in the country that are often overlooked.
Varanasi at dawn
Eric Finley has clocked up countless rewarded with a city which retains a style region provides some of the best wildlife trips to India as a traveller, tour leader and and culture unlike any other in India. experiences in Asia. product manager since his first visit 25 years Kolkata’s streets heave with vehicular and It is home to a large population of Indian ago. Yet while he has visited most parts of pedestrian traffic but are alive with colour one-horned rhinoceroses, herds of Asian the country, there is still so much to explore. and history. elephant and swamp deer, gaur (Indian “People have no idea how much is hidden A heritage walking tour reveals some bison) and some of the last remaining wild away in every part of the subcontinent,” Mr of India’s most impressive British colonial water buffalo on the continent. Finley explains. “India’s history is remarkable, architecture, hidden temples, synagogues, Both common and clouded leopards as is the diversity, with most regions churches and other places of worship, as live in the park forests, as does a healthy featuring their own languages and dialects, well as the famous Marble Palace. tiger population. More than a hundred histories and cuisines.” species of birds can easily be seen in KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK a day, including the great hornbill and KOLKATA Due to its relative isolation in the far north- bar-headed geese visiting from their Few first-time visitors include Kolkata eastern state of Assam, Kaziranga is not on Himalayan breeding grounds, making this on their itinerary but those who do are many travel itineraries to India. However, this a great spot for ornithologists.
36 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au India
The streets of Kolkata
Fort Cochin
RURAL RAJASTHAN other trading communities, the little galleries LADAKH Varanasi at dawn Visitors who stick to the main cities miss and cafes alongside old street stalls, walk the Isolated in the Himalayas, Ladakh is a high the rich and iconic sights and experiences messy trading streets of Mattancherry where altitude desert, with snow-covered peaks that Rajasthan has to offer. Stay in one of aromas of pepper, cardamom, ginger and dropping into cold valleys, where locals the region’s heritage-inspired hotels or chilli almost bowl you over and head into Jew cultivate stone fruits, nuts and barley in the camps – many are refurbished country Town with its 17th century synagogue and short summertime when the region opens homes of local royalty, finely-restored and many curio shops. briefly to the outside world. Apart from its decorated to feature rich local fabrics and pristine mountain environment, it is the furnishings. Enjoy country cooking, meet VARANASI AT DAWN ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture which and learn about local people’s lives and gain Along the riverside steps known as ghats, makes this place so different. The ancient access to regional culture through the close Hindus gather to reflect, pray, bathe or just monasteries like Hemis and Thikse sit high relationships between most country lodges take in the atmosphere. As the sun rises, gulls on rocky peaks and to hear their horns being and nearby villages. scatter over the still waters and bells sound blown across silent valleys is to truly travel from surrounding temples. Explore the narrow into another time and world. COCHIN lanes winding into the chaotic old town; too Pictures courtesy Eric Finley. Kerala’s historic trading port is now a bustling narrow for cars but frequently blocked by modern city but the little peninsula of Fort cows, carts or a passing scooter. Stop for chai Insider Journeys offers trips to all these Cochin retains its own historic atmosphere. or lassi, explore a local market and see the city Indian destinations. For details, visit See the remnants of British, Jewish, Arab and come to life, as it has for centuries. insiderjourneys.com.au
Traveltalk summer 2015 | 37 India Chance to turn pages from the jungle book Village Ways has launched a new wildlife adventure in the jungles of Madhya The Forsyth Trail Pradesh, the setting for Rudyard Kipling’s timeless novel, The Jungle Book. The new itinerary has been launched to coincide with the upcoming 150th anniversary of Kipling’s birth (December 30) and the U.S release of Walt Disney’s remake of The Jungle Book (April 15, 2016). Disney’s update on their 1967 classic will feature a combination of live-action and computer animation, and features a star- studded cast of voices including Scarlett Johansson, Idris Elba and Bill Murray. Village Ways’ new 10-night ‘Forsyth Trail’ is a combination of forest walks, local villages and wildlife discovery in the heart of Madhya Pradesh. It follows the walking route taken by pioneer Captain James Forsyth, one of the first Europeans to explore Satpura. The adventure begins in Chopna where visitors walk along winding paths of the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve and relax into village life, staying in walk-in Swiss- style tents. The tour then moves on to Dehlia, a forest department checkpoint on the fringe of the Satpura National Park. This is wild India’s best kept secret and the only park where walking in tiger country is the setting of Kipling’s Jungle Book story, person twin share (less in a larger permitted. before moving onto Karmajhiri, from group) including eight nights’ full board From here, guests walk through the where it’s possible to enter the Pench Tiger accommodation, two overnight rail teak forests to discover the tranquil hill Reserve and enjoy a jeep safari through journeys, road transfers, jeep safaris in the station of Pachmarhi, the highest point in the jungle, looking for spotted deer, jackal, Pench Tiger Reserve and private guiding. Madhya Pradesh at 1,305 metres. A day’s wild dog, hyena, leopard and tiger. drive brings guests to the Seoni district, The tour is priced from $2,015 per villageways.com Scenic savings help visitors make discoveries
Scenic has launched its 2016/2017 India Highlights include a visit to the Taj Mahal, program with two new tours, expanded a game drive in Ranthambore National Enrich experiences and generous Earlybird Park (home to the elusive Bengal tiger), savings. Bylakuppe Monastery and a cruise along The 14-day ‘Southern India Discovery’ the Kerala backwaters. features new cities and destinations The 2016/2017 program also sees never visited before by Scenic, including the launch of a number of new Enrich Bangalore, Mysore, Kabini, Nagharhole experiences including traditional Indian National Park, Coorg and Hassan. wrestling at an akahara (wrestling ring) Some of the tour’s highlights include in Varanasi, high tea in the residence of the Tipu Sultan’s Palace, Zampa Vineyards the royal family of Jaipur and an exclusive and Rudraksha Farm Theatre in Bangalore. champagne evening walking tour of the There’s also a stay at Orange County Mehrangarh Fort. Resorts Kabini and a dinner in Mysore with Scenic is offering Earlybird offers on relations of the royal family. bookings made by March 31, 2016. Book The 26-day ‘Grand Discovery of India’ any journey to India of 21 days or longer combines two existing tours – ‘Colours of and fly free including taxes, a saving of up North India’ joined with ‘Southern India to $2,900 per couple. Or for journeys of 13- Discovery’, and travels from the ‘golden 15 days, receive partner fly free including triangle’ of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur in the taxes up to $855, a saving of up to $1,450 north down to Kochi in the country’s south. per couple. scenic.com.au
38 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au The Forsyth Trail
Scenic savings help visitors make discoveries Hawaii
Surfing on the North Shore. Picture courtesy Hawaii Tourism a sporting Authority/Kirk Lee Aeder chance
Running, passing and catching big waves will be the order of the day when Hawaii hosts some major sports tournaments in coming months.
Hawaiian Airlines Field. Picture courtesy Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson
40 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Hawaii
THE BIG RACE A buffet at the Pacific The 43rd Honolulu Marathon takes place Beach Hotel from 5am on December 13 with almost 30,000 runners expected to participate. There is also a non-competitive 10-kilometre fun run/walk that starts with the main event, follows the first 9.9 kilometres of the 42-kilometre marathon course and ends at the same finish line. The main race starts on Ala Moana Boulevard, which in Hawaiian means ‘path by the ocean’. This phrase is an appropriate description for the entire race course. Runners will assemble in Ala Moana Beach Park, a local recreation area encompassing more than 40 hectares of park, beaches, swimming and surfing spots. Along the course, runners pass by Honolulu Harbour, the historic Aloha Tower, Iolani Palace, Waikiki, Honolulu Zoo team from the Mountain West or Brigham World Cup of Surfing and the Billabong and Diamond Head. There are plenty of Young University (BYU). Traditionally Pipe Masters (December 8 to 20), the final spectator spots on the route before the played on Christmas Eve, the game saw event on the ASP Men’s World Tour. Held runners come past Sans Souci beach and Rice beat Fresno State last year by 30-6. at Ehukai Beach Park, the Masters centres the Waikiki Aquarium to the finish line near sheratonhawaiibowl.com around the Banzai Pipeline, an iconic and the bandstand in Kapiolani Park. historic wave often referred to as the best honolulumarathon.org SURF’S UP – and also one of the most dangerous – on Some of the most highly respected surfers the planet. FOOTBALL FEVER on the planet will be making their way to Australia’s Julian Wilson is the reigning Americans take their football seriously and Hawaii this festive season as the world tour Vans Triple Crown and Billabong Pipe the 2015 edition of the Hawaii Bowl will comes to a conclusion. Masters champion, while compatriot Mick be played on December 24 on Hawaiian With the sport tracing its origins back Fanning will be hoping for a good showing Airlines Field at Aloha Stadium in Halawa, a to the islands, it’s fitting that the North in Hawaii to wrap up his fourth world title. western suburb of Honolulu. Shore of Oahu remains the Mecca of vanstriplecrownofsurfing.com; Now in its 14th year, the bowl is professional surfing. The first international hawaiitourismauthority.org traditionally a high scoring game (the surfing contest in Hawaii was held in 1954 winning team has scored 40 or more and now the Vans Triple Crown, currently DIVE INTO THE ACTION points nine times) between two college in its 33rd year, continues this rich surfing Summer may come and go but at teams and is watched by millions across heritage. Outrigger Resorts, the days of splashing America. The match pits a team from the The Vans Triple Crown comprises three around at the beach, catching some surf or American Athletic Conference against a competitions: the Hawaiian Pro, the Vans taking in one of the island’s water sports
HAWAIIAN HAWAIIAN HAWAIIAN culture culinary ceremony
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Traveltalk summer 2015 | 41 Hawaii
Park Shore Waikiki
whom are accomplished surfers, Tony Windsurfers on Hawaii Island. Picture provides surf lessons, stand-up paddle courtesy Big Island Visitors Bureau/ board lessons and even canoe surfing. Kirk Lee Aeder After a long day of ocean adventure, guests can wind down at the iconic Duke’s Waikiki, where ‘beach boys’ and visitors alike come to relax and enjoy live Hawaiian music, food and memorable sunsets with Diamond Head as a backdrop. Just down the beach at Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, guests can enjoy inviting hospitality, timeless Hawaiian traditions and no shortage of exhilarating water sports. Guests will find the Faith Surf School on the beach fronting the resort, ready to provide lasting memories. Both classic beachfront resorts offer the perfect location to take in the ever-popular Duke’s OceanFest, one of Waikiki’s premier festivals are year-round favourites. part in a variety of ocean activities here; ocean sports festivals. Held every August, Whether your idea of adventure lessons taught by world-champion surfers, the festival pays tribute to legendary includes taking a stand-up paddle or a serene catamaran ride, the one-of-a-kind waterman Duke Paoa Kahanamoku during canoe surfing lesson on Waikiki Beach, or experience of surfing an outrigger canoe. his birthday month. Outrigger Resorts is a joining the cheering section to watch the On the white sand beach fronting the founding sponsor of the festival, giving its action at Duke’s OceanFest, you can rest resort, guests can experience an ocean guests a front row seat to the festivities. assured that a stay at one of Outrigger’s adventure with professional big wave With its 15th anniversary next August, two Waikiki beachfront properties puts rider Tony Moniz, the ‘Ambassador of Duke’s OceanFest will once again bring you at the heart of the action. Aloha’ and a perennial invitee to the hundreds of athletes, professional and Built on the site of the original Outrigger prestigious Quiksilver Eddie Aikau Big amateur, together to ‘duke’ it out in Canoe Club, the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Wave Invitational. Along with his team a variety of beachside competitions, Resort represents the essence of Hawaii’s of instructors at Faith Surf School, which including longboard surfing, stand-up nostalgic beach culture. Guests can take includes his sons and wife Tammy, all of paddleboard races, swimming, tandem
42 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Where will you find home in Hawai‘i?
At Hawaii Vacation Condos by Outrigger®, our one-, two-, and three-bedroom vacation condos offer guests spacious, family-style accommodations and a convenient base from which to explore paradise.
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Learn how to surf at Outrigger’s Waikiki Beach properties
The Pacific Beach Hotel
Surfboards on Oahu. Picture courtesy Hawaii Tourism Japan
Best of the Beach The Kāaanapali Beach Hotel is set on four hectares of tropical gardens and fronts one of the best beaches in Maui. The 432-room hotel offers daily surfing, surfboard water polo, sand to the adventure of their choice. cultural classes that include hula volleyball and more. Perfect for couples, families and lessons, ukulele classes, cultural garden Highlights include the Outrigger Resorts frequent travellers, Pacific Beach boasts walks, Hawaiian language lessons Lifeguard Competition, including a swim 839 comfortable rooms and suites with and free nightly hula shows. There’s relay, paddleboard relay and rescue paddle traditional Hawaiian décor, dramatic also a spa salon and whale-shaped event, and a sunrise birthday lei draping ocean views and unlimited access to all swimming pool. ceremony at the Duke Kahanamoku statue. the sun, surf, shopping and dining that With their ‘Best of the Beach’ outrigger.com make Honolulu so alluring. Amenities package, guests will receive four include private balcony, 37” HD flat-screen nights in an ocean view room, two WHERE ALOHA LIVES television with movies on-demand, buffet breakfasts for two at Tiki Terrace Pacific Beach is a beachfront Waikiki hotel fridge, coffee maker and wireless internet restaurant, daily compact rental car that exemplifies the ‘Aloha Spirit’. (included with daily amenity fee). with Budget and a lunch for two at Tiki Situated where Waikiki was founded The award-winning Oceanarium Grill. Guests will also receive a dinner and just steps to shopping, dining and restaurant offers crab legs, tender prime for two at Tiki Terrace, four bottles of local attractions, this property has been rib of beef, fresh island sashimi and nigiri water per stay, a keepsake logo cooler the perfect spot for locals and visitors for sushi along with a themed buffet every bag, two souvenir beach towels and generations. night. All served alongside views of nearly the choice of either snorkel gear or two Location is the key on any vacation 400 fish and more than 70 different species days of chaise lounge rentals for two. and Pacific Beach Hotel Waikiki puts of marine life from in and around Waikiki. The four-night package costs you right in the middle of all the action. If you’re looking for a quick bite and a $US1,287 (approx. $AU1,826), a saving The property is located right across the drink in an open-air setting, Aloha Center of $US266 (approx $AU377). It is valid street from Waikiki Beach and within Café offers the chance to enjoy freshly for travel until March 31, 2016 and is walking distance to boutiques, attractions, brewed coffee or happy hour with friends. based on single or double occupancy. restaurants, water sports and more. It serves smoothies, beer, sandwiches and Additional nights are available for Conveniently located in the lobby, the pastries, including the Croissada, a perfect booking. concierge is always ready to guide guests blend between a croissant and a Malasada kbhmaui.com
44 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Hawaii
Surfing on Oahu. Picture courtesy Hawaii filled with a Polynesian vanilla Bavarian Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson cream. pacificbeachhotel.com
HOSPITALITY MAKES WAVES It’s that time of the year when water sports enthusiasts have Hawaii in their sights and dream of jetting off to Oahu, Maui, Kauai or the Big Island just in time to catch the perfect swell and perhaps catch the wave of a lifetime. Surfers, paddlers, swimmers and diving enthusiasts alike are all assured of getting their fix of some big waves along with the chance to witness some of the most popular water sporting events in the world. True to its name, Aqua Hotels and Resorts are thinking up all sorts of unique ways for guests to play in the aqua and at the beach. For starters, all guests can make use of complimentary beach chairs and towels – perfect for spectating at the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing events, or just soaking up the sunshine in between dips.
Hang ten for the whole family Park Shore Waikiki, an Aqua boutique hotel, is known for providing comfort, convenience and fun at a great value. Located just steps from Waikiki Beach, this
Discover WHERE ALOHA LIVES
Pacifi c Beach is a beachfront Waikiki hotel BOOK YOUR exemplifying the “Aloha Spirit” NEXT ADVENTURE (808) 922-1233 • Steps away from dining, shopping and local attractions PacificBeachHotel.com • Iconic Oceanarium Restaurant • Concierge conveniently located in the lobby
Traveltalk summer 2015 | 45 Hawaii
Get out on the water at an Outrigger property
The Grand Ballroom at the Pacific Beach Hotel hotel allows families to experience all that this iconic destination has to offer. Designed for those who want to spend PASSENGERS TO HAWAII WILL GET time hanging ten with the family, the ‘Surf & Turf’ package includes surf instruction THE CHANCE TO TAKE IT LYING DOWN by the famed Hans Hedemann Surf School Hawaiian Airlines has announced plans to introduce new luxury design elements starting from $US219 (approx. $AU306) per and enhanced service options in its A330 premium cabins, including the addition of night. 180-degree lie-flat seats. The carrier has developed its new seats in partnership with Optimares, an Italian Surfboard nuptials manufacturer focused on traveller-centric design. What could be more romantic than saying “We have designed an experience that will usher in a new era in premium service ‘I do’ in the Pacific just off the coast of to Hawaii, one that resulted from a thorough review of guest feedback and intensive Hawaii? Aqua will be offering ‘surfboard research to develop a best-in-class product for our long-haul aircraft,” said Mark nuptials’ starting this autumn so lovebirds Dunkerley, President and CEO of Hawaiian Airlines. can paddle out with a celebrant and The 180-degree seats will use an innovative seat platform to fold into 76-inch beds, their wedding party to get married in the maximising living space for travellers while providing options for both privacy and a ocean. Packages can be customised to shared flight experience. They will also feature an advanced in-flight entertainment fit your own style and could include fun experience powered by the next generation of large-format tablets and equipped additions like wedding-ready swimming with a telescoping tablet arm that adjusts to optimise viewing angle and comfort. attire, photography and a Mai Tai toast. The first newly-outfitted aircraft is expected to enter Hawaiian’s long-haul network in the second quarter of 2016. The airline will begin installing lie-flat seats in the Inspired board meetings remaining 22 A330 aircraft in September next year. ‘Sweatworking’ – the growing practice of As part of the cabin redesign, Hawaiian has also announced it will add 28 additional connecting with a colleague or client over Extra Comfort seats on each A330 aircraft in response to growing demand for its a walk, run or other healthy endeavour – is popular premium economy service. The Extra Comfort option features 36 inches the new trend in the business world and of seat pitch, priority boarding at the gate, complimentary on-demand in-seat that also applies in Hawaii. Hotel Renew on entertainment and a personal power outlet. Oahu has even seen an increase in surfing hawaiianairlines.com.au meetings. “’Board Meetings’ enable business travellers to take advantage of the island water and spectacular setting at Hotel Renew overlooking Diamond Head while getting inspired by brainstorming with colleagues,” says Theresa van Greunen, Director of Promotions at Aqua-Aston Hospitality. “It’s a great breakaway option that guarantees a trip that’s all work, plus play.” Honolulu-based Aqua-Aston Hospitality manages more than 50 properties across five brands designed to suit any lifestyle, taste or budget – Aston Hotels & Resorts, Instinct Hotel Collection, Aqua Hotels and Resorts, Lite Hotels and Maui Condo & Home. aqua-aston.com
46 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au “Hotels For All” Travel Talk Property: AQAST Issue: Dec 2015 full page - full bleed 216mm w x 303mm h Due: 11.13.15
Strength in experience, diversity and partnerships. Aqua-Aston Hospitality manages over 50 properties and nearly 10,000 rooms across five distinct brands designed to suit any lifestyle, taste or budget. aqua-aston.com Aqua - 1.808.924.6453 | GDS QU Aston - 1.808.924.2924 | GDS AH
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YOUR PIECE OF PARADISE Africa
The Big Swing on the top of the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban
a natural high
On a recent trip to South Africa, JESSICA ZOITI embarked on adrenalin-pumping adventures that pushed her to the edge of her comfort zone.
A LEAP OF FAITH Different to traditional bungee where The view at the top of the Big Swing is Although not petrified of heights, I’m not jumpers dive head first into the abyss worth the climb alone, however standing particularly fond of them either, so when I below, the swing requires thrill-seekers to aloft this iconic Durban landmark I realised found myself harnessed and standing on simply walk, wooden plank-style, off the I was looking forward to the challenge top of Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium I ledge, sending them into a freefall before ahead, despite my raging nerves. felt more than a bit anxious. swinging out into a massive 220-metre arc Harnessed and standing on the grated I was here to experience The Big in the centre of the stadium. platform, the cord gripped between white- Rush – at 80 metres high it’s officially the Reaching the summit requires a knuckled hands, my game plan was to leap world’s tallest bungee swing and when the 15-minute climb up 350 stairs. For those not before I had the chance to rethink. Not grandstands aren’t filled with 56,000 soccer game to jump from the stadium’s edge, a daring to look down I did just that and as fans, raucous rugby crowds or concert SkyCar takes visitors up to its highest point my body hurtled towards the pitch below it goers, it is one of the stadium’s most to enjoy the panoramic city and ocean felt as though I’d left my stomach up on the popular attractions. views. platform. As I transitioned out of the freefall
48 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Africa and into a giant, pendulous swing I screamed. Not because I was scared but because I felt total jubilation. The Benchmark just got bigger The experience ends where it begins – up on the Adventure travel is the latest string to be added to the bow of Africa platform where jumpers are unhitched from the specialists, Bench International. swing before descending the stairs to the safety of “We are thrilled to offer these overland trips, run by Nomad Adventure solid ground. I can now say I’ve bungeed and will I Tours,” said Martin Edwards, General Manager. “They are already proving to be do it again? You betcha! very popular with people of all ages and backgrounds and offer a great way to The Big Swing is open from 10am until 4pm on get off the beaten track and really get up close and personal with Africa.” Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and weekends. It One of Bench’s best selling overland tours is their ‘Cape to Kruger’, which costs R695 (approx. $AU70) per person and children leaves from Cape Town, includes Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe before under 10 are not permitted. heading back to South Africa and ending up in Kruger National Park for the ultimate safari experience. CLIMB TO GREAT HEIGHTS This 26-day camping tour includes many highlights, such as a trip to Orange From its base, Lion’s Head doesn’t look too River, a visit to bustling Swakopmund and a safari in Etosha National Park. intimidating. It sits alongside Cape Town’s iconic From Etosha the trip heads to Botswana for a two-night adventure in the Table Mountain and is smaller by comparison, so I Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park where you can watch the sun set was full of bravado as my travel companions and I over the Chobe River, widely known for its elephant population. A visit to the approached our climb. iconic Victoria Falls precedes the journey back to South Africa and the start of Guided by Faisal, our local trekker, we began our the Kruger leg of the tour where you’ll be able to spot ‘the Big Five’ on safari steady 90-minute ascent and it wasn’t long before before returning to Johannesburg, visiting God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck the mountain began dishing out generous servings Potholes and Blyde River Canyon along the way. of humble pie. Most meals are included, as is the transport and camping equipment, with Starting near the base, the hike sets out along group sizes varying from four to 24. Wine tasting, bush and desert walks, a wide gravel pathway that gently snakes its way cultural experiences, game drives and boat cruises are just some of the extra around the lower section of mountain. But this activities on the itinerary, which costs from $3,450 per person twin share. gentle incline soon gives way to a far narrower pass, “If you are looking for fun, adventure and travel on a budget then there is no dotted with rocky outcrops and the odd vertical better way to see the continent of Africa than on an overland trip,” Mr Edwards climb as it continues to wind upwards. added. Lulled into a false sense of security I joined a benchinternational.com.au small group of hikers keen to forge ahead of the
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Tailor-Made Safaris | Honeymoons | Luxury Train Journeys | Small Group Tours | Family Safaris | Adventure Safaris | Specialist Safaris | Escorted Tours
Traveltalk summer 2015 | 49 Africa Catch the early bird savings Bunnik Tours have just launched their 2016 Africa program and to celebrate are offering a saving of $250 per person on early bird bookings. The program features a line-up of seven small group tour itineraries and a large range of extension and independent options. The itineraries range from 16 to 26 days in length and typically focus on two countries at a time, affording visitors the opportunity to get an in-depth look at the places they visit. “In Africa our maximum group size is limited to 12 people. This gives us flexibility to adapt to local conditions and means your clients get plenty of one-on-one time with our expert local Elephants in Samburu National Park guides,” says Dennis Bunnik, Managing Director. “In most cases we use seven- person 4WDs with six people in each so everyone gets a window seat.” The new 20-day ‘Tanzania & Rwanda’ tour includes Mt Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti plains, safari experiences to spot the ‘Big Five’ and a trek through the Virungas to watch the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Bunnik is also offering its popular 18-day ‘Kenya & Tanzania’ and 24-day ‘Namibia, Botswana & Victoria Falls’ small group tours again in 2016. The company is offering a $250 per person early bird saving when booked on the 2016/17 program before March 31, 2016. bunniktours.com.au
pack. Having committed to the cracking Either way, the last section is steep and DIVE TO TERRIFYING DEPTHS pace I was thankful for the series of chains requires endurance, stamina and strength. Off the Western Cape of South Africa and ladders that help hikers safely up the Standing aloft the summit, however, I you’ll encounter one of the world’s largest hairier sections. Occasionally we stopped would have trekked twice the distance populations of great whites, which makes for rehydration breaks (there is no water for the memorable views (and feeling of shark cave diving a must in the region. along the way so remember to BYO) and accomplishment). Based in the small harbour town of while catching our breath we admired the We conquered the beast a smidgen Kleinbaai, part of the Gansbaai region, incredible views over Cape Town, Table Bay, before sunset and lingered long enough to Marine Dynamics run one of the world’s the historic Robben Island and twinkling watch the sky turn from brilliant blue to a most reputable shark cage diving Atlantic Ocean. soft mauve then headed back down before enterprises, operating a custom-designed Closer to the summit the chains become darkness made the descent too dangerous. boat built with stability and safety in mind. constant companions, protecting climbers Faisal assured us that although a smaller “Shark cage diving is a bucket list from sheer drops and aiding them over mountain, Lion’s Head with its steep adventure and many travellers come to sizeable boulders. For added adventure, passes and narrow pathways is far more South Africa with this experience top of a fork in the path leads to a vertical climb challenging to climb than neighbouring mind,” began Marine Dynamics’ Brenda du straight to the top. Although this route Table Mountain. It’s a much more Toit. shaves at least 15 minutes from the ascent, interesting walk, is better for thrill-seekers “The area in which we operate, Gansbaai, it’s not for the faint of heart and adds a and has arguably better camera-worthy is known as a world hot spot for the great boost of adrenalin to the hike. views from the top. white with one of the most accessible
50 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Africa populations – it’s literally 20 minutes to the observation and cage diving site.” Overlooking Cape Town from Starting at the company’s Great White the summit of Lion’s Head House, visitors enjoy breakfast or lunch and an educational briefing before heading out for the two- to three-hour experience. “Shark cage diving with Marine Dynamics is a combination of thrills, education and relaxation on a luxury boat in the company of experienced experts and researchers. We have a dedicated marine biologist on board who will show you how to distinguish between a male and female shark and how to identify a specific shark by its unique dorsal fin and scars. “On any given day, we also usually see at least two or more members of the Marine Big Five – sharks, dolphins, whales, seals and penguins, as well as several bird species,” Brenda explains. The company is committed to marine conservation and works closely with a number of environmental bodies. On every shark cage dive guests receive a crash course in marine biology – they’re educated on the trends, traits and troubles with the wrong impression they walk dependent, cost R1,600 per person (approx that face the endangered great white and away in awe of the great white and in turn $AU160) and booking in advance is highly other marine species. become an ambassador for this species recommended. “The great white shark is a whose numbers could be as low as a few mysterious apex predator that has been thousand,” says Brenda. sharkwatchsa.com misrepresented and although many arrive Shark cage dives are weather
sMall GrouP tourinG Save africa 2016 $250* earlyBird Per Person *Book, pay a deposit and applicable sale airfare payment by 31 March 2016.
New 2016/17 Brochure out Now! Available from Tifs.
maximum group size Call us on 1300 125 007 ® email [email protected] 20 www.bunniktours.com.au
Traveltalk summer 2015 | 51 Romantic holidays
The Novotel Ningaloo Resort. Picture by Christine Glenister
love this place
Here, we look at a selection of special offers and idyllic destinations suited to courting couples.
The four-and-a-half star Novotel in the Marina Village right on Sunrise Beach A FAIRYTALE ROMANCE Ningaloo Resort, Exmouth, is currently provides a convenient, casual yet stylish There’s nothing more romantic than offering happy couples a ‘Romantic Escape base for visitors to explore this fascinating visiting a historic castle or chateau. Special’. area. Metres from the waterline, the resort Sometimes you can even stay the night. The package is priced at $1,350 and is built in harmony with the environment. Here, Tempo Holidays selects some top includes three nights’ accommodation in a During the whale shark season (late fairytale locations. one-bedroom beachfront bungalow, daily March – July), guests can take a swim breakfast for two served in Mantaray’s with these gentle giants of the ocean. Zbiroh Chateau, Czech Republic restaurant, gourmet antipasto and cheese You’ll need a full day to enjoy this bucket Standing atop a hill between the platter in your room on arrival and a bottle list experience (approx $390 per person). Křivoklátské and Brdy Forests since the 12th of sparkling wine. From August to November, take a sunset century, the Zbiroh Chateau is one of the Guests can add a little extra pampering cruise and sip champagne while watching largest in the country. Housing a labyrinth in their room with a treatment from humpback whales. While they are in the of treasures, this remarkable castle has Teanne Healing Massage. The 90-minute Gulf they slow down and love to play or just more than 200 rooms and it takes more treatments for two cost $120. You can glide by feeding their young. You might than four hours to open all the windows. also enjoy a cosy dinner for two on your even get a view of the whales from your private balcony, on the beach or poolside, private balcony. Mont Saint-Michel, France arranged through the resort chef (48 hours The Novotel Ningaloo scored a hat trick The medieval Mont Saint-Michel is a notice needed.) at the AccorHotels awards held at Uluru fortified island commune off the coast of Other romantic activities include recently. The resort was voted ‘Top Novotel Normandy and one of the most visited ordering a picnic hamper and drinks for a of the Year’, while Darren Cossill was a locations in France. The walled city contains trip to the lighthouse where you can watch joint winner of the highly coveted ‘General the first castle that Disney animators used the sunset while overlooking Ningaloo Manager of the Year’. The property also to model the fictional kingdom of Corona Reef. Or just finish the day with a walk took out ‘The Loyalty Award’ in recognition in Tangled. along the beach and a soothing soak in of its highly successful engagement with your room’s spa bath. AccorHotels loyalty programs AccorPlus Dunnottar Castle, Scotland The resort is at the gateway to the World and Le Club AccorHotels. When selecting a castle for Brave, Disney Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef and Cape searched for the most fairytale-esque Range National Park. Its enviable location novotelningaloo.com.au abodes in Scotland for ideas. Inspiration for
52 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Romantic holidays
Merida’s family coastal home came from remember it from the scene in Chamber of the International Festival of Ghosts and the impressive Dunnottar Castle. William Secrets where Harry and Ron went flying Spooks every year. Wallace, the Marquis of Montrose and Mary over the viaduct in a bid to return to school. Tempo has itineraries, tours, drives and Queen of Scots have all stayed here and rail tours covering every location:
despite now being in ruins, the castle still Bojnice Castle, Slovakia ‘Prague Castle Stay’, ‘Mont Saint-Michel
provides a great experience. The romantic medieval-stylenovotelningaloo.com.au palace of & Chateau Country’, ‘Scottish Castle Call 08 9949 0000
Bojnice in Slovakia stands on an 11th or email [email protected]’, ‘Paris & Versailles’, ‘Ionian
Palace of Versailles, France century site which was once owned by a Odyssey’, ‘The Jacobite Experience’,
otel Ningaloo Resort is the perfect place to getaway, anytime of the year.
Opulent decor, remarkable fountains and noble Hungarian family.Nov It is famous for its ‘Discover the Northern Highlands’, ‘Three
n ideal venue for weddings, conferences, workshops and employee incentives,
100 hectares of manicured gardens make chapel, towers and steepA roofs, and hosts Imperial Cities’. tempoholidays.com
ymnasium, private balconies and Gold Plate Award-winning Mantaray’s restaurant.
the Palace of Versailles a true fairytale g ilt just metres from the waterline guests can enjoy the swimming pools, a
experience that should be on every bucket Bu
Range National Park.
ylish base for visitors to explore the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef and Cape list. The castle is one of the largest in the Mont Saint-Michel st
nificent 4.5 Star Novotel Ningaloo Resort provides a convenient and casual yet
world and is known for its geometric mag
th an enviable location right on Sunrise Beach in the Marina Village, the
trees and flowerbeds, as well as its 2,143 Wi windows, 1,252 fireplaces, and 67 staircases.
Melissani Cave, Kefalonia, Greece Just outside of Sami in Greece is one of nature’s most ethereal beauties: the cave of Melissani. The lake inside twinkles under the noon sun and forests line its rocky rooftop. Melissani Cave is certainly an experience not to be missed: a place that is home to age-old legends and myths.
Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland Glenfinnan Viaduct, a filming location
for Harry Potter, is located on the West
RESORT EXMOUTH...
Highland line in Scotland. You may THE ONLY RESORT ON THE BEACH IN EXMOUTH NOVOTEL NINGALOO
CHECK WWW.NOVOTELNINGALOO.COM.AU NOVOTEL NINGALOO SUMMER BONUS SPECIAL RESORT EXMOUTH...
THE ONLY RESORT ON THE BEACH IN EXMOUTH
With an enviable location right on Sunrise Beach in the Marina Village, the magnificent 4.5 Star Novotel Ningaloo Resort provides a convenient and casual yet stylish base for visitors to explore the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park. Built just metres from the waterline guests can enjoy the swimming pools, a gymnasium, private balconies and Gold Plate Award-winning Mantaray’s restaurant.
An ideal venue for weddings, conferences, workshops and employee incentives, Novotel Ningaloo Resort is the perfect place to getaway, anytime of the year.
Call 08 9949 0000 or email [email protected] novotelningaloo.com.au
Traveltalk summer 2015 | 53 Romantic holidays: Samoa
Le Lagoto Resort & Spa in Samoa
natural beauty ROBIN BAYES explains why Samoa is the perfect destination for a romantic holiday.
It is early evening on the lush coast of houses and churches, blend unobtrusively or renewing their vows, the tradition of Fa’a Samoa’s big island Savai’i. The sunset – a into the groves of coconut trees and Samoa reveres weddings as truly sacred resplendent hue of pinks, reds, yellows gardens. It is a low impact, communal way unions. Brides are led to the altar by a troop and blues – ever-slowly recedes into a dark of life, known as Fa’a Samoa (the Samoan of Samoan warriors, are serenaded by a Pacific Ocean; a dramatic backdrop for Way) that has successfully harmonised with local choir and all backed by the fierce beat those gathered for the wedding ceremony nature for thousands of years – even in the of the Samoan drums. on the white-sanded beach. 21st century. There are a range of perfectly located A warm breeze drifts in from the ocean Fa’a Samoa has a strong focus on waterfront properties to choose from, such as does the distant roar of the reef, the welcoming visitors, so there is a genuine as Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa, Seabreeze beach is lined with rich tropical gardens Polynesian friendliness that is part of Resort Samoa, Le Lagoto Resort & Spa, and palms and candles glitter on white anyone’s visit here. There is the singing, Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge and Sheraton linen tables decorated in bouquets of fresh local cuisine, the traditional Samoa Aggie Grey’s Resort. Marriages in tropical flowers. Welcome to one of the Samoan dancing and the dramatic and Samoa are recognised worldwide, with an most romantic settings in the world. unforgettable FiaFia fire dancing. The FiaFia application for a marriage licence needing For weddings, renewal of vows, banquet is an energy filled evening of food, to be submitted up to 14 days before the commitment ceremonies, honeymoons dance and song with the FiaFia fire dance big day, which can be organised through or just unforgettable escapes, the islands the flaming finale. most Samoan travel specialists. of Samoa must rate as one of the most And for those thinking of tying the knot samoatourism.com.au beautiful, natural destinations in the world. Nature has run riot in Samoa – and been allowed to do so, with the local Polynesian Make savings a breeze culture blending in gently with the The romantic and intimate Seabreeze Resort has released two deals where guests can country’s beauty. There are vast slathers of save money on stays before March 31 next year. rainforest, coastlines etched with pristine Stay a minimum of five nights and receive a 350 Tala (approx. $AU187) food and white and black-sanded beaches, some beverage credit per villa, one 30-minute massage per person, champagne breakfast stretching for kilometres. There are crystal daily and one way arrival transfers for two people. blue lagoons, black volcanic plains, roaring Guests who stay a minimum of seven nights will receive a 500 Tala (approx. $AU267) blow-holes and sunsets to die for. food and beverage credit per villa, one 30-minute massage per person, champagne And amid this lush tropical landscape breakfast daily and one way arrival transfers for two people. which literally covers all the Samoan All deals are on sale until December 31. The deals are valid for travel until March 31, archipelago islands, the nu’u (local villages), 2016 with block-out dates from December 24 to January 2, 2016. seabreezesamoa.com with their traditional open fales, meeting
54 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Romantic holidays: Thailand
The sail roof garden FOLLOW IN THE 007 FOOTSTEPS OF JAMES BOND AT iconic resort
Prince Albert of Monaco, former French views over the white sand beach and the resort while high ceilings and glass façades president Jacques Chirac, Sir Peter Ustinov, Andaman Sea, a bespoke luxury spa and a work to integrate the beach and sea outside Rudolph Nureyev and Roger Moore. new pool. in a celebration of the environment. These are just some of the famous people “Importantly too we will be fully Other features include six dining venues who have stayed at the Nai Harn, formerly embracing southern Thai art and culture and including an all-day restaurant and a rooftop known as the Royal Phuket Yacht Club. The bringing it into the resort experience both deck, intimate meeting facilities and five luxurious beachfront resort will re-launch inside and outside the resort so that guests treatment rooms at the Nai Harn spa. with the new name in January next year. can feel relaxed, inspired and engaged The Nai Harn will be offering an opening An extensive 18-month remodelling by the history and natural context of the rate starting at THB8,000 (approx. $AU311) program has been undertaken at the iconic destination,” said Christoph Berger, Chief net per night until October 31, 2016. resort, the only hotel directly on the ocean Operations Officer. at Nai Harn beach. The property will offer Freeform sculptural furniture and art thenaiharn.com 130 guest rooms and suites with panoramic pieces add rich textures throughout the
In Samoa you’ll nd experiences to take your breath away. Stunning natural beauty and 3,000 year-old traditions you won’t nd anywhere else. Adventures off the beaten track and off the diving platform.
Traveltalk summer 2015 | 55 Romantic holidays: Tahiti
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora. Picture courtesy Chris McLennan polynesian pearl
When it comes to romantic destinations, Tahiti is right at the top of the list. Here are some must-do experiences in the islands.
SLEEP OVERWATER sunset. Also check out the seafood (look cultured pearl industry began. The most The idea of overwater bungalows began in out for mahi mahi, red tuna, parrotfish frequently visited atolls are Rangiroa, the Tahitian islands. Let yourself be rocked and coconut crab) and French-style Fakarava and Tikehau, all of which have to sleep by the water lapping against the boulangeries selling fresh baked baguettes. internationally-rated hotels. Other less well- stilts, watch fish dance through the glass A great experience for romantics is known atolls have family-run guest houses, pane in the floor, dive off your terrace into a Le Coco’s (lecocostahiti.com), one of the offering visitors a warm welcome. natural aquarium and wake up to breakfast premier dining establishments in Tahiti. brought by traditional dugout canoe. This place is an island institution and a BE A BORA BORA EXPLORER must-try for all foodies. Despite the development of tourism, the TAKE A DIVE ‘Pearl of the Pacific’ is still worthy of its Divers recognise Tahiti and the islands MARKET YOURSELF reputation. Explore the island’s interior and for their sites and passes with more fish The Papeete public market opens at the its history; see manta rays and the lagoon; than anywhere else in the world. For crack of dawn with fruit, vegetable, fish enjoy the luxury hotels and spas on the connoisseurs, Rangiroa, the largest atoll and flower stands. Handicraft stalls contain motu (islets), accessible only by boat. If you in the Tuamotus, Fakarava, the Mecca of products from the four archipelagos have plenty of time, don’t miss the island’s diving, and Tikehau are mythical places. (carvings, tifaifai patchwork quilts, untamed and unspoilt little sister, Maupiti, The Society Islands, the Marquesas and jewellery, sarongs or pareos and basketry). accessible by boat or plane from Bora Bora. the Austral Islands also offer perfect spots Here you can load up on souvenirs to take where you can see sharks, rays, dolphins back home (vanilla, crafts, monoi, musical A MARAE DAY and whales as well as thousands of instruments). Also not to be missed is a visit Found on most islands, the archaeological colourful reef fish. to the market on Sunday morning at 4am, remains of marae sites bear witness to the before mass. organisation of Polynesian society before the WHAT’S YOUR POISSON? arrival of missionaries in the 18th century. The No visit to Tahiti and its islands is complete LESS IS MOOREA first royal marae of Polynesia can be found on without trying the local speciality. Poisson Tahiti’s sister island, Moorea, is 17 kilometres Raiatea, while Huahine and the Marquesas Cru is raw tuna marinated in lime and from Papeete and reachable by fast ferry are also home to some of the most extensive coconut milk, served with a salad. Mobile in only 40 minutes. Things here are still and well-preserved archaeological remains food vans, known as roulettes, snack bars unspoiled and you’ll need a few days to fully you’ll find in the region. and restaurants all offer this speciality. The explore the delights of this island. fresh tropical fruits (such as mango, papaya DANCING UNDER THE STARS and pineapple) are delicious for breakfast ATOLLS IN THE TUAMOTUS Forbidden by missionaries, dancing or in a tropical cocktail as you watch the It was on these tiny islets that Tahiti’s is even more of an integral part of
56 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Romantic holidays: Tahiti
Polynesian culture today. The annual Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort. Heiva i Tahiti festivals in July, organised Picture courtesy David Kirkland in Tahiti and on most islands, is a chance to see a performance by the most famed professional dance troupes and schools. Major hotels regularly organise Polynesian evenings with song and dance during happy hour or themed buffet dinners.
AN INTERIOR EXAMINATION Whether by guided tour (in a 4X4, a quad bike or on foot) or in a rental car, the interior valleys and mountain peaks of the Society Islands, the Marquesas and the Austral Islands beg to be explored, offering up archaeological remains, lush vegetation, streams and waterfalls. the Austral Islands becomes a prime STOP PRESS MAKE LIKE A MISSIONARY observation platform for whale watching, Aranui Cruises’ new ship Aranui 5 has Follow in the footsteps of the first when they come to calve just off the coast. just arrived in Tahiti. The 126-metre long missionaries to the Gambier Islands. freighter cruised into Papeete to a traditional Mangareva, the largest island, is the site THE LAND OF MEN water jet welcome from local tug boats. of the first Catholic mission, established Visitors can get to the Marquesas by plane Aranui 5 will spend a month in port making in 1834, and abounds in the historic traces or travel by sea aboard Aranui Cruises’ final preparations for its maiden voyage on of the first missionaries. The splendour of mixed cargo/passenger vessel. Arriving December 12. The inaugural cruise coincides the cultured pearls found here has been here is like stepping back in time, with with the Marquesas Art Festival – held once bringing some economic prosperity to the guests able to witness some of the most every four years – providing guests with islands since the 1990s. naturally beautiful and untouched islands a rare double thrill of local ceremonies at in the world, while also discovering the each maiden port as well as a celebration of HAVING A WHALE OF A TIME community’s strong sense of culture. Polynesian culture and tradition during the From July to November, Rurutu in tahitinow.com.au ship’s call to Hiva Oa.
Traveltalk summer 2015 | 57 Europe going deutsch JENNY ROWLAND makes her first visit to Germany and falls in love with the country, the people and the beer.
A traditional brass band at the Munich Oktoberfest. Picture courtesy German National Tourist Office
58 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Europe
I always knew Germany was smart, Munich’s central park, the Englischer is a place well worth adding to your ordered, disciplined and famous for some Garten. In rain, hail and snow, surfers have European bucket list (if you’re travelling quality, world-class brands. I always knew been flocking here since the 70s to tackle on a river cruise, make sure it’s on the I would fall in love with the beer and the the waves. It’s quite spectacular to witness itinerary). And if you’re a Christmas addict, sausages but I had no idea that it was so this in the middle of the city. You may even visit the Käthe Wohlfahrt, a year-round big, bold, beautiful and bursting with great think you’re dreaming (or maybe that’s Christmas village and museum. landscape, culture, history and hospitality. just one too many beers). # To find out more about the history of From the financial hub of Frankfurt, the Munich’s Christmas Markets are also this destination, visit our website and take a beauty of Bavaria and the class of Berlin, legendary with more tinsel, lights and look at the ‘nightwatchman’s’ video. Germany should be on every bucket list. choirs in one place than anywhere else in the world. BUSTLING BERLIN MAGIC MUNICH I don’t know why they named New York I arrived on the eve of Oktoberfest and ROMANTIC ROTHENBURG twice – it should have been Berlin because the atmosphere was electric. Bavarians You cannot go to Germany and not it has double everything! National know how to party and they don’t do it by experience Rothenburg, which is only a galleries, zoos, opera houses and main halves. In fact, they do it in big beer steins! couple of hours drive from Frankfurt. This post offices. As the Germans themselves Giant tents are set up serving equally giant medieval town has been preserved exactly say, everything has a doppelgänger. beers for two weeks. as it was in the 13th century and is like This once divided city exudes an Costume parades and brass bands entering a Walt Disney movie set. abundance of life and energy. East make this one huge party where nearly Yet behind this fairytale facade lurks a ying meets west yang, resulting in a six million people drink more than seven dark past. The Nazis held Rothenburg up harmonious mix of what I would call ‘trad million litres of beer (Germans love their as the perfect German town containing bo-ho’. beer. Did you know Munich Airport the perfect German family and it became My new term – essentially where even has its own brewery?). Next year’s a symbol of Aryan perfection. Jews were traditional and modern sit comfortably Oktoberfest runs from September 17 until expelled in 1938 and it became a very alongside each other – applies to both October 2. popular holiday town for Hitler and his the people and architecture. The creative muenchen.de/veranstaltungen/oktoberfest cohorts. renaissance exploding in the east makes If you like surf with your beer then You can see why they came here. With Berlin’s rich cultural heritage even more head to the Eisbach, a small man-made historic architecture, vineyards, a castle dynamic and attracts a cosmopolitan channel of the Isar River that runs through and plenty of medieval magic, Rothenburg blend of both expats and tourists. People
Great scenery near Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Bavaria. Picture courtesy Storto
Traveltalk summer 2015 | 59 Conceptsv2a4 2015-11-16T14:47:53+11:00
Europe love life here and it’s infectious. This inclusive social scene was echoed organised tours. I had 48 hours in Berlin and that was on the banks of the River Spree at the The one thing you may find odd is really not enough to see everything, but regular Sunday afternoon tea dance where the lack of barriers and ticket machines. here are a few top tips. I watched dazzling couples – oldies and This is a system built on trust – buy your The German capital’s war torn past teenagers – dancing the tango to the ticket and travel stress free. Try to cheat is there for all to see and the best way crackling music of a bye-gone era against the system and get caught out – prepare to take in its historical landmarks is to the backdrop of a memorable sunset. yourself for a hefty fine. It’s a bit like take a ride on one the city’s many hop- For wonderfully traditional German drinking at an honesty bar – at the end of on, hop-off tourist buses. Stops include tucker, try Max und Moritz. The service the evening, you really do want to do the the imposing Brandenburg Gate, the and the sausages in this Kreuzberg right thing. Reichstag and Checkpoint Charlie, with its restaurant are equally outstanding, as is I found Berliners to be a friendly remnants of the Berlin Wall. the roast-smoked pork with sauerkraut and openhearted bunch. It was one of The Jewish museum was another and lashings of gravy, and the price. You those cities where I actually flirted with highlight and well worth visiting. I spent will query the bill here for all the right the possibility of living there. Cheating so much time here that I missed out on reasons. a cheap and trusting public transport Kreuzberg’s quirky ‘Museum of Things’. There are many boat trips along system which makes the lives of so many That might sound odd but that’s Berlin – a the river that will give you a different so much easier wouldn’t make me feel smorgasbord of all things innovative and perspective on the city. I went on a good. Berlin has so much to give – it inspirational with a healthy and respectful two-and-a-half-hour Eastside cruise and seems only right to give a bit back. nod to the past. supped wine in the sunshine as I took in Ask about the Berlin WelcomeCard as Once you have absorbed the culture the sights, but was equally tempted by the it gives you access to exclusive discounts you might be in need of some fun and evening cruise where you get to see the on museums, family excursions, spa Berlin has no shortage of hedonistic sun set over Berlin and the city erupt in treatments and much more. havens. I loved Quasimodo, a jazz club in lights. Feel a bit torn? Do both! Charlottenburg where young and old can But don’t think organised tours are the visitberlin.de boogie on down to an eclectic program only option – the public transport here rothenburg.de of live acts – fantastic music in an intimate is cheap and efficient. The U-Bahn and nightwatchman.de venue where the drinks are reasonably S-Bahn train system may overwhelm you munich-touristinfo.de priced. at first but it doesn’t take long to orientate lufthansa.com When I visited it was Eighties night and yourself and there are a multitude of buses germany.travel the band blew me away. A great night out traversing the city – namely the 100 and wohlfahrt.com that I will remember for a long time. 200 – which follow similar routes to the
A beer tent at the Oktoberfest. Picture courtesy German National Tourist Office
Flying made so easy, it’s child’s play.
Reach over 180 destinations in Europe via anyone of our multiple Asian gateways. Great connections from Australia via Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Shanghai, Bangkok or Delhi with fully combinable fares between Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa and SWISS.
60 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Conceptsv2a4 2015-11-16T14:47:53+11:00
Flying made so easy, it’s child’s play.
Reach over 180 destinations in Europe via anyone of our multiple Asian gateways. Great connections from Australia via Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Shanghai, Bangkok or Delhi with fully combinable fares between Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa and SWISS. Drive Holidays: Advertorial
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Ready for takeoff into the wilderness of the South Island. Picture by Jon Underwood
FIORD of the rings
JON UNDERWOOD travels deep into the wilderness on the South Island, checking out the untamed majesty of Fiordland.
64 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au New Zealand
Fiordland Lodge luxury at the lodge The Fjordland Lodge in Te Anau is the kind of hotel where you rock up… and immediately give thanks that you had the good sense to book here. From the moment you walk through the big timber doors, you instantly feel at home in a place that does luxury with a capital L. Set on 19 hectares, the Lodge is where you can really get away from it all and just relax, whether it’s in front of the impressively-built main fireplace or outside overlooking Lake Te Anau. Fine dining is part of the Lodge experience and after a sumptuous meal and some delicious New Zealand wines you can retire to your bedroom, tastefully decorated with elegance and style. They also have a couple of log cabins separate from the main lodge, ideal for families or romantic couples looking for some ‘private time’. The Lodge is currently running a ‘Scenic Fiordland Package’ including three nights’ accommodation and a cruise in both Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. fiordlandlodge.co.nz
Hiking is a popular pastime in Fiordland
Doubtful Sound. Picture courtesy Destination Fiordland/John Vale
I’LL ADMIT it’s somewhat unusual to start Dave Comer, who discovered many of the to truly absorb the might and grandeur of a travel story with a movie review. But locations used in the Lord of the Rings and this incredible place and that’s aboard an when you’re writing about a country now The Hobbit films. Sadly, Dave died of cancer overnight cruise into Doubtful Sound. This firmly on the world’s tourist map thanks to on Christmas Day in 2014, but the legacy is the ‘sound less travelled’ because unlike a certain Hobbit-fuelled franchise, it seems he has left behind is truly remarkable and a its illustrious neighbour, Milford Sound, somewhat appropriate. great starting point for any visit here. which can host 3,000 people a day, this is a So grab your popcorn and settle back Once you’ve got a feel for the place, place where you’re unlikely to see another into the plush seats at the Fiordland you can then decide the best way to get vessel the entire time you’re there. Cinema & Wine Bar in Te Anau on New out there and explore it. You can take The adventure begins with a cruise Zealand’s South Island. It was specially a jet boat down the Upper Waiau River on Lake Manapouri (New Zealand’s third designed and built to show the locally- which flows between Lake Te Anau and largest) before a coach takes you across filmed movie Ata Whenua – Shadowland, Lake Manapouri, covering three Lord of the Wilmot Pass to Doubtful Sound. Along which is the perfect introduction to this the Rings locations as you go. Operated by the way you’ll get the chance to see the pristine wilderness. And believe me, Luxmore Jet, this isn’t one of those ‘splash Manapouri Underground Power Station, when you’re talking about 12,000-square- and dash’ adrenalin-pumping rides: it’s New Zealand’s largest hydro-electric power kilometres of unspoilt national park (one of more appropriate to the location with the station. But that’s pretty much the end of the largest in the world), you need all the scenery providing all the thrills you’ll need. civilisation as you know it for a while as you help you can get. The Te Anau Glowworm Caves are fairly climb aboard the Fiordland Navigator for an The curved screen and state-of-the-art young in geological terms, being ‘only’ overnight journey deep into this virtually acoustics puts you right in the heart of the around 12,000 years old. That means uninhabited region. region as you plummet over waterfalls, there’s little of the impressive stalactite and Ask my colleagues and they’ll tell you glide down glacial valleys and watch stalagmite structures you find in other New I’m always railing against the use of words four seasons unfold before your eyes. Zealand caves. But there are glowworms, like ‘spectacular’, ‘breathtaking’ and As one movie critic enthused, the film so a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau ‘magnificent’ in articles and press releases. truly captures the aesthetics and physical followed by a silent exploration of the They are often superfluous and nugatory. enormity of Fiordland. limestone grottos is well worth the trip. When describing Fiordland, all three are The movie was directed and inspired by But for me, there’s really only one way totally apposite.
Traveltalk summer 2015 | 65 New Zealand
fast facts ///
GETTING THERE: Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia fly daily from all Australian capital cities to Queenstown. airnewzealand.com.au; virginaustralia.com
The Helicopter Line can arrange transfers from Queenstown Airport to Manapouri. It also offers scenic flights to discover national parks, glaciers, mountains and lakes. helicopter.co.nz
WHAT TO DO: Fiordland Cinema & Wine Bar. Ata Whenua screens daily Doubtful Sound. Picture courtesy and lasts 35 minutes. Tickets cost $10 Destination Fiordland/John Vale for adults, $5 for children. Mainstream and art house movies are also screened. fiordlandcinema.co.nz
Kayakers from the Fiordland Navigator. Luxmore Jet. Trips last one hour with Picture by Jon Underwood courtesy coach provided from Te Anau. Tickets cost $99 for adults, $49 for children (five to 15 inclusive). Trips run all year. luxmorejet.com
Te Anau Glowworm Caves. Real Journeys operates trips to the caves. Tickets cost $75 for adults (leaving from Te Anau) and the trip lasts two hours, 15 minutes. realjourneys.co.nz
Doubtful Sound. Overnight cruises on-board the Fiordland Navigator run from late September, October to mid-May. The tour departs from Manapouri at 12.30pm and returns midday the following day. Three- As we glide through these deep, still When night falls, we make our way up to course buffet dinner, cooked breakfast, waters, a kind of spiritual reverence washes the dining room for the three-course buffet accommodation and activities are across the boat, causing the passengers to dinner included in the price. A delicious included in the price. Tickets cost from talk in whispers. We’re all so wrapped up oriental pumpkin and coconut soup is $417 for adults. realjourneys.co.nz in the snow-capped mountains, gushing followed by a choice of meats, salads and waterfalls and towering cliffs that to try and desserts, with guests making good use of WHERE TO STAY: Fiordland Lodge has put it into words is almost futile. Even an the onboard bar. 10 luxury rooms with lake views, king/ ever present mist and occasional rain fails Dinner is followed by something of a twin beds and en-suite bathrooms. The to dampen the enthusiasm. social phenomenon. Without a TV or Wi-Fi, executive suite has a separate lounge A running commentary from the the passengers actually have to converse area for private entertaining and there onboard naturalist keeps us well informed with each other or pull out some traditional are two log cabins, sleeping four and on the local fauna and flora. We stop to see board games. And so we chug into the five respectively. fiordlandlodge.co.nz a group of New Zealand fur seals basking night, enjoying some good old fashioned on a small islet but there’s no sign of the camaraderie and wondering what the next For more information, fiordland.org.nz; Fiordland crested penguins or bottlenose day will bring. newzealand.com/au dolphins that often swim alongside visiting Sadly, all the next day brings is time boats. for us to vacate the Fiordland Navigator The area is also home to rare birds and return to civilisation. But for all such as the takahe, which was thought those onboard, the experience has been to be extinct, the whio (blue duck) and memorable, in every sense the epic the tawaki. Some of our group are brave adventure that Dave Comer would have enough to climb into kayaks but I’m happy hoped for. A greater epitaph than that I to lie on my bed and watch the scenery cannot imagine. pass by the open cabin door.
66 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au New Zealand
Kayaking in Doubtful Sound. Picture courtesy Rob Suisted
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Traveltalk summer 2015 | 67 Western Australia
An aerial view of Leighton beach in Fremantle
ship to shore
You’ve heard of Fremantle but what about neighbouring Rottnest Island? JESSICA ZOITI lifts the lid on some of Perth’s best-kept local secrets.
68 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Western Australia
Unbeknown to most Australians, there’s a little slice of paradise lying less Enjoying the water on Rottnest Island than 20 kilometres off the coast of Perth. Rottnest Island, or ‘Rotto’ as it’s known by the locals, has been a holiday haven for Perthites for decades with most cherishing childhood memories of barefooted weekends spent frolicking in postcard- perfect bays, fishing off jetties and cycling through the beachy settlement. Strangely (or some may say fortunately), Rotto’s aquamarine lagoons and white sand-fringed turquoise bays – 20 of them in total – have largely remained off the international radar. So perfect are these sandy shores they wouldn’t appear out of place in Ibiza or the Greek Isles. But the beaches are where these comparisons end because a pumped up, glamorous party island Rottnest is not. And that is exactly why West Australians love it. Classified as an A-class reserve, Rotto is a car-free zone. Visitors ditch four wheels in favour of two and spend days cycling around the 11-kilometre long island visiting lighthouses, lookouts, salt the quokka, the small furry marsupial that Accommodation on Rotto is varied, but lakes, beaches and a handful of historical inhabits the island by the thousands. Tours all is modest with most guests choosing attractions at their leisure. They surf some take around two-and-a-half hours and to stay in one-, two-, three- and even four- of the state’s best breaks without the fear run twice daily from Thompson Bay in the bedroom beach bungalows in the main of ‘drop-ins’, drop pots for sizeable crays, main settlement. settlement (Thompson Bay), Longreach fish for ‘dhuie’ and other top-shelf seafood Another new partnership between Bay and Geordie Bay. Convenience stores and relish days dressed in little more than Rottnest Fast Ferries and Rotorvation can that offer villa delivery enable guests a swimsuit and sunhat. see visitors arrive on the island in style via to stay fully self-contained if they wish, Through a new partnership between chopper. Departing from Jandakot Airport otherwise there’s the uber popular local companies Rottnest Express and in Perth’s south, the flights take around 40 Rottnest Hotel, undoubtedly the island’s Two Feet and a Heartbeat, visitors can minutes but also include three hours on most favoured meeting place. join guided cycling tours learning about the island to explore, swim or relax over a Also offering comfortable the island’s fascinating indigenous and leisurely lunch before ferrying back to the accommodation, the recently refurbished war-time histories, and the relevance of mainland. hotel spills over its front retaining wall
CaverSham Wildlife Park
Shows 3 times daily • Whiteman Park www.cavershamwildlife.com.au • Tel: 08 9248 1984
Traveltalk summer 2015 | 69 Western Australia
Fremantle Markets
and onto Thompson Bay. The beer garden Tourism industry glitters at gala is often packed to the rafters on summer weekends with revellers washing battered Elite members of the state’s tourism industry have been recognised at the 2015 Perth fries down with a pint or two of a boutique Airport WA Tourism Awards. brew. More than 750 guests attended a gala dinner to help celebrate the industry’s breadth The accommodation ante is about to be and diversity. upped on Rotto with Karma Royal Group “This year there are winners ranging from large operators, like Fremantle Prison and set to transform the Rottnest Lodge – an Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa, through to small, family-run operations such as Koomal old island stalwart – into a new luxury Dreaming and Coral Coast Tourist Park,” said Evan Hall, CEO of Tourism Council WA. eco resort with a day spa, kids’ club, “The great range of experiences WA has on offer has also been recognised. For conference facilities, restaurant and 80 example, adventure specialists Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures have been new holiday units. In line with the island’s acknowledged alongside unique events like the Argyle Diamonds Ord Valley Muster strict environmental policies, the resort and new and culturally significant attractions such as the National Anzac Centre.” will blend into its natural surroundings Gold, silver and bronze medals were awarded in 32 categories culminating in the while providing a premium experience to presentation of the Sir David Brand Award to Sandalford Wines, which also won gold in guests. Construction will commence in the ‘Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries’ category. April 2016. Other standout winners included Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures, which All this is just a short ferry ride from won gold in three categories – ‘Tourist Attractions’, ‘Adventure Tourism’ and ‘Unique the bohemian flair of Fremantle. But don’t Accommodation’. Fremantle Prison was awarded gold in the ‘Cultural Tourism’ and just pass through because the sights and ‘Major Tourist Attractions’ categories while Broome’s iconic Cable Beach Club Resort & sounds here are worth their weight in sea Spa won gold in the ‘Luxury Accommodation’ category. salt too, as agreed by Lonely Planet, which Most gold medalists now go on to represent WA at the national Qantas Australian recently named Fremantle among the Tourism Awards in Melbourne on February 5, 2016. world’s top 10 places to visit in 2016.
70 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au Western Australia
Staying beachside in Perth is always better
The Little Creatures Brewery. Picture courtesy Jarrad Seng
Located 19 kilometres south of the resident fashion designers, writers, artists migrants, Fremantle is also a multicultural Perth CBD, the city was established in and musicians who feed off the creative melting pot. The knock-on effect almost 1829 as a harbour and penal colony. Today vibe – each Easter the city closes the main two centuries later is that there’s now a it remains a bustling port but beyond street to motor traffic and celebrates its diverse and authentic café culture – along the silos, cranes and docklands is an bohemian zeitgeist during the colourful central South Terrace (otherwise known alternative urban centre that bulges with Fremantle Street Art Festival. More as the ‘Cappuccino Strip’) is a good range restaurants, historical buildings, retail recently an increasing number of young of Mediterranean eateries and here an outlets and shady parkland. professionals have moved in, forcing the excellent espresso is guaranteed. A famous busking culture has given the city to polish its edges and find a more But stray away from the centre through city an alternative, hippy edge that over sophisticated groove. the city’s carefully restored labyrinth of Beach front location the decades has attracted a population of As the first Australian port of call for Victorian and Edwardian buildings and
Choose from studio rooms and luxury 1 bed apartments with huge corner spa and ocean views. Also available are 2 and 3 bed apartments. There is an on site restaurant and it’s just 800m to Hillarys Marina, AQWA, restaurants, shops and Rottnest Ferry. StayingBook online for best beachside rates at www.sorrentobeach.com.au in Perth or call 08 9246 8100is always better Quality Resort Sorrento Beach | 1 Padbury Circle, Sorrento, Perth
Perth’s newest 5 star beachside accommodation provides 12 boutique, 2 and 3 bedroom suites. The perfect destination for the discerning corporate traveller - a romantic getaway - or a family holiday for up to 6.
Book online for best rates at www.mullaloobeach.com.au or call 08 9404 1200 Clarion Suites Mullaloo Beach | 10 Oceanside Promenade, Mullaloo, Perth Beach front location
Choose from studio rooms and luxury 1 bed apartments with huge corner spa and ocean views. Also available are 2 and 3 bed apartments. There is an on site restaurant and it’s just 800m to Hillarys Marina, AQWA, Ultimate ocean views restaurants, shops and Rottnest Ferry.
Book online for best rates at www.sorrentobeach.com.au or call 08 9246 8100 Quality Resort Sorrento Beach | 1 Padbury Circle, Sorrento, Perth
Traveltalk summer 2015 | 71
VisitPerth’s mullaloobeach.com.au newest 5 star beachside accommodation and www.sorrentobeach.com.au provides 12 boutique, to view the current specials 2 and 3 bedroom suites. The perfect destination for the discerning corporate traveller - a romantic getaway - or a family holiday for up to 6.
Book online for best rates at www.mullaloobeach.com.au or call 08 9404 1200 Clarion Suites Mullaloo Beach | 10 Oceanside Promenade, Mullaloo, Perth Ultimate ocean views
Visit mullaloobeach.com.au and www.sorrentobeach.com.au to view the current specials Western Australia
Port Beach in Fremantle Meeting a quokka on Rottnest LONELY PLANET PICKS FREMANTLE AS A 2016 ‘MUST SEE’ DESTINATION fast facts /// Western Australia’s port city of Fremantle has been named a “must see” destination for 2016 by one of the world’s GETTING THERE: Transfers to most respected international travel publishers. Ranked seventh on the book’s list of Top 10 Cities 2016, Fremantle Rottnest Island can be booked through Rottnest Express or Rottnest Fast was described by Lonely Planet as “a raffish harbour town with sea-salty soul to burn.” The eclectic and multicultural Ferries. The trip takes 90 minutes from city of Fremantle, famous for its music and arts scene, cafes and bars, boutique breweries and historic streetscapes, the Perth CBD or 25 minutes from is located just 30 minutes-drive or train ride from Perth city and is currently undergoing a once-in-a-generation Fremantle. rottnestexpress.com.au, revitalisation with more than $1.3 billion worth of development in the pipeline. westernaustralia.com/trade rottnestfastferries.com.au you’ll stumble across some of Perth’s range of boutique accommodation Contact Rotorvation if flying is more newest and most trendy restaurants, servicing overnight visitors to the city. your style. rotorvation.com.au like Bread in Common, The Mantle, Bib At the pointy end of Fishing Boat BEST TIME TO GO: Summer, of & Tucker, Propeller, The Raw Kitchen and Harbour are the four-and-a-half-star Be. course, but winter is pretty cool on Bather’s Beach House. Fremantle serviced apartments boasting Rottnest too if you enjoy rugging up They rub shoulders with boutiques one-, two- and three-bedroom options and watching the weather roll in across like Morrison – a local fashion success with unbeatable harbour or marina views, the ocean. story – and newcomer Bobby & Olive. free Wi-Fi and 24-hour reception. ACCOMMODATION AND TOURS: All And dotted between them all are The Quality Suites Fremantle offer 16 bookings, including private bike hire, some of Perth’s best art galleries and luxury one-bedroom suites and 14 hotel can be made through the Rottnest museums including the Moore’s Building rooms. And at the quirky Hougoumont Island Authority website, which 1. ACCOMMODATION 2. CAFES AND 3. EVENTS Contemporary Art Gallery, Fremantle Arts Hotel guests sleep in repurposed sea is a great source of all island info. Fremantle has experienced an influx of new RESTAURANTS Enjoy one of Fremantle’s many events Centre, the Western Australian Maritime containers, stacked behind an ultra Rottnest Express also offers bike hire. accommodation with more on the horizon. From fresh fish and chips straight off the boat and festivals throughout the year, like the and Shipwreck Galleries and numerous modern façade. There’s a small downstairs rottnestisland.com Literally steps to all the action in the heart of at Fishing Boat Harbour to enjoying a coffee Fremantle Street Arts Festival, the Community authentic Aboriginal art galleries. bar and complimentary wine and cheese Fremantle, The Hougoumont is the latest fresh and soaking up the atmosphere along the Fringe Festival, Fremantle Beerfest, and West new ‘boutique’ offering in this vibrant urban Live music venues, craft breweries on weeknights at 5pm. But the best part FREMANTLE famous ‘Cappuccino Strip, there is something Coast Blues and Roots Festival. On any day village. A new Seashells is due to open in early for everyone when it comes to eating and you can also experience live music at one of (none more famous than Little Creatures), is that guests can step out of both hotels GETTING THERE: Trains run every 15 2016, followed closely by DoubleTree by Hilton drinking. Sample great boutique beers at one the historic bars. salty stalwarts like the Sail & Anchor and and straight into the heart of Fremantle. minutes to Fremantle from the central set to open in 2017 located central to the port of the City’s microbreweries, such as Little the Norfolk, hip urban bars like Strange In fact, everything in Freo and on Rotto Perth Station in the CBD. The journey city’s cappuccino strip. Creatures and the Sail and Anchor. Company, Whisper Wine Bar and Mrs can be accessed by foot or bike, which is takes around 30 minutes. Self-driving Brown Bar, alternative bookstores and fitting considering the environmentally- also takes 30 minutes from the city. Perth’s iconic Fremantle Markets all add sensitive attitude of most who live and Alternatively you can enjoy a leisurely to the artistic, edgy and increasingly play there. ferry ride down the Swan River from cosmopolitan flavour. Barrack Street Jetty in the centre of And then there’s the ever-present CHANGES ARE AFOOT town. maritime influence. Freo will never shake In 2017 Hilton is scheduled to break ACCOMMODATION: The the shackles of its shipping past and it ground on its 150-room DoubleTree by Hougoumont. hougoumonthotel.com remains a commercial fishing centre with Hilton property overlooking Princess Quality Suites Fremantle. Fishing Boat Harbour at its core. Here May Park, not far from the Cappuccino qualitysuitesfremantle.com.au boardwalks wrap around weathered Strip. And as Fremantle heads towards Be. Serviced Apartments. fishing vessels and link famous local its bicentenary in 2029 the city is looking befremantle.com.au 4. CULTURE 5. TOURS AND 6. ROTTNEST ISLAND brewing company, Little Creatures, with towards its biggest transformation in 30 The Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Established in 1829 as a port for the fledgling ATTRACTIONS Use Fremantle as a base to explore Rottnest ice-creameries and seafood institutions years. Plans have recently been revealed Rydges. rydges.com Swan River Colony, Fremantle has a fascinating Cruise around the streets of Fremantle on a Island, just a 30 min ferry ride from Fremantle. Cicerellos and Kailis Fish Market Cafe. that will reconnect Victoria Quay with For more information, visit maritime and convict history. The Maritime scooter by checking out Scoot Freo. Potter Famous for its laid back atmosphere and Looking for somewhere to stay in the Fremantle CBD, expand Fishing Boat westernaustralia.com Museum at Victoria Quay is a must see, along through the fresh produce and quirky gifts beautiful beaches, visitors are spoilt for choice. Experience the unique ecosystem Fremantle? The Rydges’ Esplanade Hotel Harbour and redevelop central King’s with The Round House and Fremantle Prison. at the Freo Markets. If you are seeking a where the friendly local marsupial, the used to dominate as Fremantle’s only Square. Pictures courtesy Tourism Western Discover Fremantle’s history and present day more leisurely experience, follow the Swan culture on a complete guided walking tour with River downstream on a ferry from Barrack ‘quokka’ thrives. There is a range of tours or decent lodgings but now there’s a good Australia self-guide options for this day or overnight the new Two Feet and a Heartbeat tour. Seek out Street Jetty, Perth. Shopaholics won’t be retreat. the eclectic mix of craftsmen, musicians, artists disappointed with a huge range of designer and many other local characters that make up fashion, jewellery, crafts, original artworks and 72 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au the bohemian Fremantle culture. homewares. LONELY PLANET PICKS FREMANTLE AS A 2016 ‘MUST SEE’ DESTINATION
Western Australia’s port city of Fremantle has been named a “must see” destination for 2016 by one of the world’s most respected international travel publishers. Ranked seventh on the book’s list of Top 10 Cities 2016, Fremantle was described by Lonely Planet as “a raffish harbour town with sea-salty soul to burn.” The eclectic and multicultural city of Fremantle, famous for its music and arts scene, cafes and bars, boutique breweries and historic streetscapes, is located just 30 minutes-drive or train ride from Perth city and is currently undergoing a once-in-a-generation revitalisation with more than $1.3 billion worth of development in the pipeline. westernaustralia.com/trade
1. ACCOMMODATION 2. CAFES AND 3. EVENTS Fremantle has experienced an influx of new RESTAURANTS Enjoy one of Fremantle’s many events accommodation with more on the horizon. From fresh fish and chips straight off the boat and festivals throughout the year, like the Literally steps to all the action in the heart of at Fishing Boat Harbour to enjoying a coffee Fremantle Street Arts Festival, the Community Fremantle, The Hougoumont is the latest fresh and soaking up the atmosphere along the Fringe Festival, Fremantle Beerfest, and West new ‘boutique’ offering in this vibrant urban famous ‘Cappuccino Strip, there is something Coast Blues and Roots Festival. On any day village. A new Seashells is due to open in early for everyone when it comes to eating and you can also experience live music at one of 2016, followed closely by DoubleTree by Hilton drinking. Sample great boutique beers at one the historic bars. set to open in 2017 located central to the port of the City’s microbreweries, such as Little city’s cappuccino strip. Creatures and the Sail and Anchor.
4. CULTURE 5. TOURS AND 6. ROTTNEST ISLAND Established in 1829 as a port for the fledgling ATTRACTIONS Use Fremantle as a base to explore Rottnest Swan River Colony, Fremantle has a fascinating Cruise around the streets of Fremantle on a Island, just a 30 min ferry ride from Fremantle. maritime and convict history. The Maritime scooter by checking out Scoot Freo. Potter Famous for its laid back atmosphere and Museum at Victoria Quay is a must see, along through the fresh produce and quirky gifts beautiful beaches, visitors are spoilt for with The Round House and Fremantle Prison. at the Freo Markets. If you are seeking a choice. Experience the unique ecosystem Discover Fremantle’s history and present day more leisurely experience, follow the Swan where the friendly local marsupial, the culture on a complete guided walking tour with River downstream on a ferry from Barrack ‘quokka’ thrives. There is a range of tours or self-guide options for this day or overnight the new Two Feet and a Heartbeat tour. Seek out Street Jetty, Perth. Shopaholics won’t be retreat. the eclectic mix of craftsmen, musicians, artists disappointed with a huge range of designer and many other local characters that make up fashion, jewellery, crafts, original artworks and the bohemian Fremantle culture. homewares. Profile the travelling man
Over the past 26 years, Lloyd Davidson has explored every continent, visited 48 countries, taken 1,800 flights and accrued 10,000 hours in the air. Here, the 55-year-old founder of Hotel School shares his most memorable travel experiences.
Lloyd Davidson travelling with wife Diana
Q: Why are you able to travel so much? A: I use them for family trips with my wife, system that is impossible to turn off. I’ve A: My job allows me to travel. There is Diana, and our daughter. We’ve been to slept nights with lights on when I can’t great opportunity to see the world with a New York many times… our favourite master them. career in hotel management at the Hotel family destination School. I was instantly captured by the Q: What are the advantages and excitement and fast pace of the hospitality Q: What’s your craziest travel disadvantages of all this travel? industry. An ever-changing environment, experience? A: The advantage is the tremendous what other sector allows you the chance to A: The captain of Air Afrique announcing amount of education it offers, the combine travel and career growth? to the passengers at JFK in broken English disadvantages can be long delays and time that he was “unfamiliar with this aircraft away from your family and friends. Q: What are your must-have travel type and therefore, there would be a slight items and why? delay” before embarking on an eight-hour Q: How does your family cope with A: On long haul flights I always wear flight across the Atlantic. I’m sure this your absences? Icebreaker compression socks (100 per wasn’t what he meant but that was what A: We’ve made it work. I met my wife in cent New Zealand Merino wool), RM he communicated. the travel industry so it comes with the Williams pants, a polo shirt and usually On another trip I was sitting on an territory. a comfortable Icebreaker Merino wool aircraft at Johannesburg when three sweater. I always carry my own eye mask fire engines arrived with lights flashing and Bose headset. It’s a bit of a ritual and at our aircraft to mop up a spill. They what is the takes the stress out of travelling to always had overfilled the wing fuel tanks with have them available. When I reach my jet fuel… the passengers had already hotel school? Operating for 26 years, the Hotel destination I always buy a fresh shirt when boarded. School Sydney is a unique educational travelling for business. partnership between Southern Cross Q: What is your favourite destination University and Mulpha Australia. It Q: What’s it like living out of a suitcase? and why? delivers students with a Bachelor of A: My wife often comments that I have A: Must-see destinations are Dubai, Business in Hotel Management and everything done for me while I travel and Antarctica, Biarritz, Tuscany and a Masters of International Tourism expect the same treatment at home from Florence – they have all been standouts and Hotel Management. Since its too many hotel stays. I often place my for me, but Australia is still one of the inception, the school has developed towel in the bath rather than hanging it up most breathtaking places in the world. close working relationships with and I don’t make the bed, which doesn’t go Queensland is stunning – Hayman Island is many leading tourism organisations down well! particularly beautiful. in Australia and around the world. The Hotel School Melbourne launched in Q: How do you use your millions of Q: And your least favourite? October 2015. frequent flier miles? A: Any hotel with an electronic light
74 | www.traveltalkmag.com.au SHE BOOKED WITH AN ATAS ACCREDITED TRAVEL AGENT
Quality, trustworthy, experienced, industry accredited travel agents can be found at ATAS.com.au www.thailand.net.au