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Kube Hotel, near Montmarte District, Paris

Michael G Browne
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Kube Hotel, near Montmarte District, Paris

THE DEAL: Stay two nights from A$499 /room, valued up to A$1,010, a saving of up to 51%

THE APPEAL: Unearth a hidden gem in the heart of Paris with a stay at the avant-garde Kube Paris Hotel.

A chic retreat situated between the bohemian charm of Montmartre and the vibrant Canal Saint-Martin, wander the impressive culinary scenes and boutique shopping of these neighbourhoods with ease.

Indulge at the hotel’s Festive Restaurant with a focus on high-quality, vegetable-focused dishes served within the lush leafy courtyard or relax into comfortable couches in the stylish hotel bar with one of six emblematic cocktails in hand.

Relive your favourite scenes from Amélie! The hotel is a stone’s throw away from the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica, the best view of Paris in my humble opinion.

Wander down the hill to the real Moulin Rouge theatre.

Iconic Parisian attractions like The Louvre Museum and the Eiffel Tower are within a 20-minute drive. 

For all the details and pricing from Luxury Escapes CLICK HERE or call 1300 88 99 00

A little wild but mostly mild in Tassie

Michael G Browne
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A little wild but mostly mild in Tassie

We’re taking you off the beaten track this week, to a very stylish cabin in the Tassie Wilderness. If you’ve been spooked by the chilling murder mystery books, TV series and spy thrillers (like the excellent Mole Creek by James Dunbar, a friend of all Mildrovers) coming out of the Spooky Isle, fear not, this cabin is not too far off the grid. There’ll be no duelling banjos. Almost certainly.

Tourism Australia has put this secluded gem 2024 Hotlist so the The Croft is clearly worth your consideration for your next escape from traffic jams and overpriced parking meters.

This is what the property’s website says:

The Croft is boutique cabin style accommodation for individuals, couples or families set in quiet bushland on the outskirts of Richmond, in Southern Tasmania. Rejuvenate in peace, or wine, dine and explore the sights of the historic village of Richmond, wineries of the Coal River Valley and nearby Hobart city and Mona museum.

The Peppermint and Blue Gums provide habitat to many native animals:  a wedge-tailed eagles nest is home to two striking wedgies and, from time to time, their chicks; echidna; spotted quoll; kookaburras; ducks; blue tongue lizards; the odd wombat; many many wallabies, possums and bird varieties, and apparently, Tasmanian Devils

The architectural design ensures the space naturally adjusts to perfectly accommodate singles, couples or a family. The primary pavilion consists of main bedroom, with king bed, open plan living and kitchen and bathroom. The second bedroom is linked via the atrium-style entrance. 

Although only 5 minutes from the village of Richmond, and 30 minutes from Hobart, The Croft encourages disconnection and stillness, contrasting the constant hubbub of the day to day.

Set amongst Peppermint and Blue Gums, The Croft is thoughtfully curated so you can make the most of the private and natural surrounds.  Whether it be lazy mornings in the king bed, where block out blinds will ensure you are not up with the sun; soaking up the outdoors in the woodfired hot tub; lounging in your bubble bath; or curled up with a book in the sun drenched day bed – your relaxation may be just what dreams are made of. 

Or experience The Croft with your family.  Instead of basquing in the stillness, fill it with play, stories and laughter.  The wide open spaces are yours to explore.  Play old school games, toast marshmallows on the outdoor fire, and go spotlighting at dusk.

Breakfast provisions, including eggs from our chickens and homemade jams, are provided along with other essentials.  A selection of meals, local produce and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.  If you wish to stay put, all your needs are catered for. 

If you choose to venture out, to wine, dine or explore the village of Richmond and Coal River Valley region, you will find a range of experiences for all ages and interests. 

For all the details and to book with Arden CLICK HERE

Mercure Kooindah Waters, NSW Central Coast

Michael G Browne
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Mercure Kooindah Waters, NSW Central Coast

THE DEAL: Stay for two nights from A$399 /room, valued up to A$986, save up to 60%

THE APPEAL: Relax and rejuvenate at Mercure Kooindah Waters Central Coast, just a 90-minute drive north of Sydney.

Ideally located on the beautiful New South Wales Central Coast, this retreat provides a peaceful escape and boasts an 18-hole championship golf course, recognised among the top 100 golf courses in Australia.

Sit back in the blissful sunshine with a glass of wine in hand while enjoying the manicured grounds, take a stroll around the tranquil lake in the heart of the property and enjoy the friendly competition on the tennis court.

From the moment the sun rises to the second it sets, spend your days hopping from one pristine beach to another and bask in the calmness of the region.

Feel refreshed with a few laps in the outdoor or indoor pool, explore the beauty of the surrounding wetlands and national parks or spot passing dolphins and whales in the winter months.

Work out at the fully equipped fitness centre, lounge by the sun-kissed swimming pool, serve up a session at the tennis courts or work on your handicap at the 18-hole championship golf course.

Forget all your troubles at Wildlife Day Spa, pampering your body and mind with massages, facials, body scrubs and nail treatments.

Treat yourself to unbelievably delicious and modern dining at Karinyas Restaurant, showcasing the highest quality local produce, paired with the perfect glass of wine.

No matter where you are on the property, the views will take your breath away. Succumb to the quiet luxury of this laidback resort and make the most of your launchpad to the beautiful Central Coast.

For all the pricing details and to book CLICK HERE or call Luxury Escapes on 1300 88 99 00

No kids cruise around the Greek Islands and Croatia

Michael G Browne
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No kids cruise around the Greek Islands and Croatia

We’re aware from the feedback we get from empty nesting Mildrovers (plus yet to procreate ones) and cashed-up same-sex couples, that the words “kids stay free” can be the most dreaded words on a travel website.

You’re entitled to spoil yourself without Childrovers spilling their red cordial down your brand-spanking new holiday shorts or spewing over your boat shoes. I was carefree like you once… sniff, sigh. Maybe Luxury Escapes gets the same feedback because they’ve revealed a Virgin Voyages Adults-Only Cruise that’ll have you as giddy as a kipper, happy as a lark and loose as a goose.

Athens, Greece

Sail to past worlds scattered across the sparkling blue Mediterranean Sea on this 14-night adventure from Athens onboard the ultimate adults-only playground, Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady.

Embarking on two back-to-back seven-night sailings, discover the magic of the Greek Isles and Adriatic Sea. With five-star Radisson Blu Park Hotel, Athens stays to bookend your journey, you’re all set to kick back and let the good times roll while embracing hijinks on the high seas.

Depart the port of Piraeus and discover how the Resilient Lady is more than a cruise ship – it’s an ultra-cool sensation on the seas, with more high-concept dining venues and nightly, festival-inspired entertainment options than you could ever before experience in a single journey.

With a range of onboard entertainment available, there is no shortage of ways to fill your day. Let the Resilient Lady entertain you as Broadway classics are swapped for first-to-sea productions.

Immersive and modern fun awaits in The Red Room where boundary-pushing performances entertain. Choose what to watch from a festival-like lineup developed by the world’s most-talked-about directors, choreographers, and artists showcasing their talents across all decks from night to day.

Let last night’s choices melt away by the poolside Aquatic Club, realign your chakras with unlimited access to group fitness programming or get dirty in the mudroom at the transformative Redemption Spa before hitting the casino and onboard nightclub, where you can carry on celebrating into the late hours of the evening.

Bodrum, Turkiye

Island hop between Santorini, Rhodes and Mykonos and pause in beachside Bodrum before returning to Athens. The second leg of your cruising adventure begins as you head north to the Croatian coast with stops in Split and Dubrovnik. Marvel at the UNESCO-World Heritage city of Kotor and drink in island bliss on Corfu. Then soak up your last rays of sunshine with a post-cruise stay at Radisson Blu Park Hotel, Athens before your included return flight.

Your Aegean to Adriatic Sea voyage begins on 20 July 2024, after your included economy-class Emirates or Qatar Airways flight from select Australian cities touches down for your one-night stay in Athens.

To gaze longingly at the places you could visit and for all the pricing details, CLICK HERE or call Luxury Escapes on 1300 820 853

Adults-only escape in the shadow of a live volcano

Michael G Browne
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Adults-only escape in the shadow of a live volcano

Sorrento, Italy, is one of this Mildrover’s favourite places in the world and I’d love to go again so don’t be surprised if you bump into me when you’re there. It’s a gorgeous town with a busy centre full of places to eat, drink, and indulge in la dolce vita, while staring out at the sunset over the Mediterranean. I combined my last trip there with a few days in Rome which was also outstanding but I leave that extra detail up to you.

The Bay Of Naples itself is stunning, with Mount Vesuvius poking majestically and menacingly behind the curve of the bay, the only active volcano on the European mainland. It last erupted in 1944 and vulcanologists believe it’s overdue another. This is what our tour guide informed us after we’d stared into the wide open mouth of the slumbering giant a few years ago.

We all know what Vesuvius did to Pompeii (less than an hour’s drive from the hotel) and it is one of the most mind-blowing, caught-in-the-moment, surprisingly intact ruins, you’ll ever visit. If you want. I mean, we have warned you about the volcano next door. I better throw to Luxury Escapes’ prose now, with some interjections!

Your gateway to Italy’s breathtaking Sorrentine Peninsula and the Amalfi Coast is here at the Grand Hotel La Pace Sorrento. This adults-only escape will transport you to a bygone era of sparkling marble lobbies, grand staircases and quintessential Italian flair. Fully indulge in seaside delicacies with all meals included, sip free-flow drinks all day, enjoy nightly entertainment and take in breathtaking mountain views from the outdoor pool.

Occupying a peaceful location just five minutes from the centre of Sorrento, guests are perfectly primed for day trips to nearby Positano and Naples, and a speedy 20-minute ferry ride away from the island of Capri. It’s beautiful and it’s where the rich and famous try to hide from us but take the funicular to the top and you never know who you might bump into up there.

Trace the awe-inspiring Amalfi coastline to Positano and Ravello on a full-day sightseeing tour when you upgrade your package with the Amalfi Coast Day Tour Upgrade. Visit Positano, Amalfi and Ravello in an air-conditioned minibus with an insider, expert guide and enjoy free time to explore local boutiques, beaches and churches. I’ve regretted not doing this for years, it’s just around the corner, or rather quite a few hair-raising mountainous bends and every time I see it on TV I kick myself.

Deals start from A$1,999/room for five nights, a 50% saving and for all the details and room choices, CLICK HERE or call Luxury Escapes on 1300 88 99 00

Grecotel LuxMe White Palace, Crete

Michael G Browne
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Grecotel LuxMe White Palace, Crete

THE DEAL: Stay for five nights from A$1,999/room, valued up to A$3,600, save up to 45%

THE APPEAL: Discover the opulence of the Mediterranean with a stay at the Grecotel LuxMe White Palace, a five-star haven nestled on the azure shores of Crete.

This all-inclusive resort offers sensational, panoramic views of the coast, which can be enjoyed right throughout the resort, including from the comfort of your room.

Savour an array of gastronomic delights at the hotel’s exquisite dining venues, including The White restaurant, where the views provide the perfect backdrop to the French, Italian and Greek fine dining on offer.

For the freshest seafood paired with sparkling wine, look no further than Lobsteria restaurant, with its stunning terrace for dinner under the stars.

As the Cretan sun shines bright, explore the island’s rich history, charming villages and vibrant markets.

The island is home to some spectacular beaches, spanning every inch of the rugged coastal landscape, including Platanes Beach and the resort’s Blue Flag beach.

The hotel is a short drive from the historic city of Rethymno and from historic attractions peppered throughout the many island villages, such as the Palace of Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, both an hour away

Enjoy the luxuries of 22 resort pools, or take in a therapeutic treatment at the onsite Hippie Spa to completely unwind on your Crete vacation.

For all the details we don’t have room for, CLICK HERE or call Luxury Escapes on 1300 88 99 00

Grand Circle Pacific, sail the Ring of Fire in 2026

Michael G Browne
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Grand Circle Pacific, sail the Ring of Fire in 2026

Got any plans for 2026? If you’re one of the lucky Mildrovers anticipating a life of leisure, with the SMSF to match, you could start the year with a very cruisy 131 day sail around the Pacific and the Ring of Fire. It’s a Grey Nomad timescale but instead of setting up your camper and boiling your billy, you just unpack your clothes for all seasons in your stateroom and you’re set. Over four months at sea aboard a luxury ship exploring every nook and cranny of the Pacific Ocean and 63 destinations in 14 countries in ultimate style. The campsites and red dust can wait.

Australian small ship cruise specialist, Cruise Traveller, has just released one of its longest packages yet – a luxe, live-it-up, 131-night holiday in 2026 with premium line, Seabourn, that offers earlybirds 10 per cent savings, free Business Class flights, a bonus US$3000 in onboard spending money per person and an exclusive A$1000 per stateroom saving on any future Seabourn cruise.

Cruise Traveller’s new, five-star ‘Grand Circle Pacific – Ring of Fire’ package begins in style on January 4, 2026, with a Business Class flight from Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide or Perth to Los Angeles where guests will spend two, complimentary nights in a hotel before boarding the plush and elegant 458-guest Seabourn Sojourn  for an epic and indulgent 129-night voyage that circles the world’s biggest ocean, taking in destinations across the Pacific Ocean, Australia, Asia and Alaska before ending in Vancouver back in North America in the middle of May, 2026.

The spaciously sleek Seabourn Sojourn boasts sleek teak decks, deluxe bars and lounges, European-style cafes, fine dining restaurants, pools and jacuzzis, wellness centre and show theatre. Pampered guests also enjoy complimentary beverages onboard as well as luxury bathroom products including an exclusive signature scent created for Seabourn by Molten Brown London.

From Los Angeles, the grand journey will take in beautiful islands in Hawaii, Tahiti, Fiji and Vanuatu before exploring New Zealand, semi-circling Australia – including spectacular coastal cruising in the Kimberley – and then heading north to Bali, The Philippines, Hong Kong and a string of ports in Japan. The once-in-a-lifetime journey then heads east to the glaciers and frontier hamlets of Alaska before ending in Vancouver, Canada, for the free Business Class flight back to Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth or Sydney.

‘Grand Circle Pacific – Ring of Fire’ – three highlights

  • Overnight stays in port in Auckland, Sydney, Melbourne, Hong Kong, Busan, (Pusan) (South Korea), Kanazawa, Yokohama (Japan).
  • Ringside seat to spectacular scenery in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand, Inside Passage, Alaska and many many other stunning islands and coastlines.
  • A tipping-free environment onboard where gratuities are neither required or expected. This is very reassuring for Aussies on a US ship!

‘Grand Circle Pacific – Ring of Fire’ – the basic bits

  • Begins January 4, 2026, with a Business Class flight from Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide or Perth to Los Angeles
  • Two free nights in Los Angeles pre-cruise
  •  129-night voyage from Los Angeles to Vancouver, circling the Pacific aboard Seabourn Sojourn
  •  Includes onboard, complimentary, premium spirits and fine wines, world-class dining, onboard WiFi and free onboard spending money of between US$3000 and US$5000 per guest, depending on cabin
  • Two special Grand Voyage events and pillow gifts plus unlimited laundry and pressing onboard
  • Business Class flight from Vancouver to Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth or Sydney
  • Exclusive offer of A$1000 per stateroom future booking credit on any subsequent Seabourn cruise booked through Cruise Traveller

The 131-night package is available from A$101,880 per person, twin-share, in an Oceanview Suite – a saving of 10 per cent.  The savings, free Business Class flights, onboard spending bonus and future cruise credit are for bookings made with Cruise Traveller by February 29, 2024 (unless sold out or withdrawn).

For all the juicy details CLICK HERE or call Cruise Traveller on 1800 507 777

India and Sri Lanka best exotic small group tour

Michael G Browne
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India and Sri Lanka best exotic small group tour

Our last Indian suggestion was a decadent small group rail tour and this gem lets you stray off the tracks and really get up close and personal with the glorious sights, sounds and flavours of not only India but also it’s Southern neighbour, Sri Lanka.

From Tripadeal, this two for one tour invites you to ignite your spirit of discovery as you embark on this life-changing 15-day small group tour. This remarkable itinerary takes you and a friend to iconic UNESCO-listed wonders, presents centuries’ old traditions, mouthwatering cuisine, captivating wildlife and more.

Start with a journey through Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, India’s Golden Triangle of history, colour and culture. The buzzing capital of Delhi is first with a city tour that includes the Red Fort, India Gate, Raj Ghat memorial to Mahatma Ghandi and more before a ride through Chandni Chowk bazaar by rickshaw. Sounds a bit like the days of the Raj but pith helmet NOT preferred.

After breakfast, travel to royal Jaipur’s unique pink-washed city to explore the imposing UNESCO-listed white-marbled Amber Fort and the intricately ornate designs displayed by the Hawa Mahal’s ‘Palace of Winds’ and more. Visit the enigmatic Chand Baori Stepwell on your way to marvel at the UNESCO-listed Agra Fort and Agra’s most beautiful testament to love, the Taj Mahal. Fans of The Crown and the real Princess Di can try recreating THAT photograph.

Return to Delhi for your flight to Negombo and the lush landscapes of Sri Lanka. Journey deep into tropical rainforests to discover the 5th-century UNESCO-listed Lion’s Rock Fortress of Sigiriya. Step through the colossal ‘Lion Paws’ into a world of imposing ramparts, meticulously designed royal gardens and ancient artworks adorning the sheer rock surface. In your free time, you can choose an optional jeep safari to spot wildlife in Minneriya National Park before visiting the Dambulla Rock Cave Temple, which flanks an exquisite golden temple and gigantic golden Buddha statue. 

Enjoy a city tour of historic royal Kandy, then experience the beat of traditional Sri Lankan music and a captivating cultural evening of dance and colour. Depart for Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka’s highest town, set among the lush heart of breathtaking tea plantations. Gain an insight into the creation of the perfect cup of Ceylon Tea before a heartwarming experience with wild baby elephants at Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, dedicated to the rehabilitation and care of these orphaned animals. 

In your final days of this unforgettable adventure, discover the famous 17th-century Galle Fort and the pretty coastal town of Koggala to unwind and rejuvenate in style on Sri Lanka’s tropical beaches. 

Don’t miss this unique 2 for 1 small group discovery of India & Sri Lanka promises a dynamic fusion of colourful adventure and includes return international full-service flights & 1 internal flight, 13 nights of 3-4 star accommodation, 14 meals, with daily breakfast and return airport transfers with meet & greet included.

For all the details CLICK HERE or call Tripadeal on 1300 842 918

SCHLOSS Roxburghe, Kelso, Scotland

Michael G Browne
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SCHLOSS Roxburghe, Kelso, Scotland

THE DEAL: Stay two nights from A$779/room, valued up to A$1,669 a saving of up to 53%.

THE APPEAL: Step back in time and discover Scottish countryside elegance with an escape to SCHLOSS Roxburghe, part of Destination by Hyatt in Kelso — an imposing Georgian mansion formerly owned by the Duke of Roxburghe.

Surrounded by beautifully kept gardens, mature woodland and manicured lawns, this laidback luxury hotel exudes elegance: from the grand open fireplaces and lofty ceilings to the natural stone and oak panelling and decorative stucco on the ceilings and walls.

Facilities include restaurants and bars serving sustainable fare and old-world wines, an immaculate 18-hole, championship golf course, and countless outdoor activities, from country sports to fly-fishing.

When you’re not making the most of the stunning hotel and its grounds, embrace the charms of market town Kelso and the Scottish Borders.

If you’re planning a multi-destination visit to Scotland, SCHLOSS Roxburghe is a 70-minute drive from Edinburgh Airport (EDI). Transfers are not included.

For all pricing and options CLICK HERE or call Luxury Escapes on 1800 88 99 00

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