Home Blog Page 13

Cicada Luxury Resort Ubud, Bali

Michael G Browne
-
0
Cicada Luxury Resort Ubud, Bali

If your only visits to Bali have been for beach holidays, there are much cooler options (in all senses) to explore as you climb upwards to the mountain town of Ubud. Since I was last there, the cheap cds (recorded in the cinema with the occasional audience member walking across screen on the way for a toilet break) are probably less ubiquitous, but I bet you can still buy yourself a “genuine” Rolex at the street market.

For a more authentic experience there the Ubud Art Market as featured in the movie, Eat Pray Love, where you can haggle for silk scarves, lightweight shirts, statues, kites, handmade woven bags, baskets or hats and many other hand-crafted goods. 

The first time I stayed in Ubud was at a friend’s place and was avoiding getting too close to his ferocious looking pet monkey (which would have been happier in the local monkey forest sanctuary) when I glanced over the ankle-high garden wall to see a 100m sheer drop to a stream below. The Cicada Luxury Resort looks a much safer option and Luxury Escapes has lined up a good deal for you. A three night stay will cost you A$999/room, it’s valued at A$1,830 so you’ll save yourself up to 45% to help with cost of living stress. I’ll hand you over to Luxury Escapes now.

Renowned for its lush rainforests and serene bamboo-clad surroundings, Ubud is the perfect jungle setting for Cicada Luxury Resort Ubud. A place of verdant allure, the landscape is showcased through transitional indoor-outdoor design, from the open-air yoga shala and spa suites, to alfresco dining spaces. Savour the sounds of the wilderness over 15 courses at Tangelo a Contemporary Cuisine and tantalise your palate with exotic cocktails at Verdant Pool Lounge and Bar, best enjoyed to the soundtrack of nightly live music.

Cascading over the dense jungles of Tegalalang, this luxe reprieve is secluded in a world of its own, yet moments from the untouched rice terraces, sacred sights and temples of Sebatu village. Let the dedicated concierge team decide your day in Ubud’s mesmerising caves and monkey forests, or stay local to sip sacred spring water said to grant youthful vitality.

When you’re in need of pampering, whittle away hours at the spa – trust the healing hands of expert therapists, experience a soothing bath ritual soaking in flowers and herbs, and practise your flow in the elements, all framed by misty greenery.

Sebatu is located at the foothills of the famous Mount Batur, the area is rich with Balinese culture and tradition. To venture further afield, the resort’s complimentary shuttle to Ubud Centre is on hand for adventures to the Monkey Forest or leafy cafes, wellness studios and more.

Longer Stay Bonus: Stay five nights or more in the Puri Nadi Pool Villa to enjoy a magical floating breakfast, or stay seven nights or more in either room type to extend feelings of bliss with an additional 90-minute massage per person.

For all prices and the many inclusions and options from Luxury Escapes, CLICK HERE

Pullman Bunker Bay Resort, Margaret River

Michael G Browne
-
0
Pullman Bunker Bay Resort, Margaret River

THE DEAL: Stay two nights from A$699/villa, valued up to A$1,157 a saving of up to 40%

THE APPEAL: Experience five-star Pullman luxury in Western Australia’s Margaret River region at the exceptional Pullman Bunker Bay Resort.

Perched alongside the pristine sands of the near-private Bunker Bay, with direct access to the beach, this tranquil retreat is set among 35 acres of breathtaking native landscapes.

Indulge in an evening of culinary delight at Other Side of the Moon Restaurant and Bar, where Executive Chef Mo Arun showcases local and Indigenous flavours perfectly paired with the region’s applauded wines, and float away in the heated infinity-edge swimming pool.

With its serene beachfront setting and five-star facilities – including two tennis courts, a fitness centre, complimentary Saturday yoga classes and a world-class day spa – Pullman Bunker Bay Resort is the perfect launchpad for adventures in the spectacular surrounds of the Margaret River region.

Follow salt-licked walking trails to unearth Cape Naturaliste’s majestic coastline, savour the region’s gourmet food and wine scene at chef-hatted restaurants and cellar doors, and delve into the pristine landscapes of karri-tree forests and majestic caves.

For details and all pricing options, CLICK HERE

Young and restless – Sue’s award-winning article

Sue Williams
-
0
Young and restless – Sue’s award-winning article

Last weekend, our very own Sue Williams won an Australian Society of Travel Writers award for the Best Travel News Story of 2023 for this yarn, which first appeared in the SMH Traveller section, about how young people are starting to travel again.

They’re the generation that have missed out the most through the pandemic – that epic gap year wander around the world, those uni holidays discovering Southeast Asia and that precious breather, roaming Europe, before kicking off a career.

So has travel, as a result, lost its appeal forever for the young, or are they ready and raring to get back out there to see what life beyond Australia has to offer?  

All early signs are that they’re even keener to travel than even before. Youth travel specialists Contiki says it’s seen a 107 per cent increase in bookings in April to June, compared to the first three months of this year. “Similarly, 61 per cent of young Aussies committed to making international travel a priority for this year,” said managing director Toni Ambler.

“The European summer shaped up to be the most popular time to travel, with 64 per cent jetting off for some European sun. We are also seeing travellers make the most of their time abroad and book multi-destination trips including Amsterdam, France, Italy, UK, Germany, Austria, while beach escapes and island adventures has meant destinations like Greece and Croatia remain popular.”

Webjet has also just recorded a sizeable growth in the share of international flight bookings amongst 18 to 25-year-olds, particularly to Europe. “It seems that these travellers are the most eager to make up for two years’ worth of delayed gap years and university semester-break holidays,” said CEO David Galt. 

“[But] as increased airfares continue to impose on young price-savvy travellers, it’s  much more crucial to find the best deals available on the market, especially for those with flexible travel dates who can use the Price Calendar Tool to find the cheapest period to fly.”

At the Australian Institute of Foreign Study, managing director Wendi Aylward says they’ve had double the number of applications from young people to travel to the US to work as counsellors at Camp America, while school-leavers are currently increasingly calling at Flight Centre stores to ask about regulations and restrictions and whether travel is safe. 

“A lot of youth travellers have a lot more money saved up from their jobs and are deciding to do that dream trip to Europe they’ve been planning for at least three years,” said Nathan Varney, at a Flight centre store in Brisbane. “The most popular destinations are Europe and Fiji and Bali is currently resurging.”

Many others are after bragging rights for their friends. “And who wouldn’t?” asks Taree Flight Centre consultant Katrina Van Der Merwe. “They want the salt flats of Bolivia or a camel ride in Egypt or to hike the glaciers in the Rockies. We’re also seeing a lot joining up with groups and tours as winging it entirely on your own can be daunting in this day and age.”

Laura Suine, 19, Cabarita, Sydney

“I’m planning a big Europe trip for next year, going to Italy, Greece, Spain … and the rest to be decided. I’ll be on a semester break from the third year of my architecture degree at UTS, so will have two solid months away. 

“I’d originally planned this trip for 2021 with my family and friends and their families after we’d finished the HSC. At least it’s given me more time to save. I’m used to having big family holidays overseas, but we haven’t done that for three years. Now, looking forward to this trip, it’s: Yay! I feel like now I’m going to appreciate every little moment. Even the things we used to hate, like checking in and going through security, feel so exciting.

“I am a bit more nervous, though, about being in a country where I don’t speak the language in case I do get sick, or there is an outbreak of illness. I never thought about that before, but I love travel and I don’t want to wait any longer.”

Kit Swingler, 22, Northcote, Melbourne

“I left Melbourne at the start of April with my partner Georgia and have had a month in Nepal, a month in Vietnam and now we’re having two months in Bali.

I finished my science degree at the University of Melbourne at the end of 2020 and had planned this trip for 2021. But that couldn’t happen, so I did some hospitality work and received support payments which meant I didn’t have to touch my holiday savings. So, I’ll aim for post-grad medicine studies next year instead, and enjoy travel now.

“Sometimes, there’s a lot of COVID-related stuff around, certainly in airports and with mass transit but, outside, it feels pretty removed. Walking in the mountains in Nepal, you feel a world away from COVID and you can forget all about it for a little bit, although some of the routes are closed and teahouses, where you stay and get food, are shuttered. 

“I think I’m definitely enjoying travel more now. I was raring to go. It puts it all into perspective how lucky we are to be able to travel and see the world when it was shut off from us for so long. If anything, it’s made me even keener to travel, despite the fears, and I plan to travel as much as I can.”

Gaby Lioe, 22, Hurstville, Sydney

“Me and my friends – there’ll be five to six of us – are planning to go to Europe next year. We’ll go everywhere … England … Spain … Greece … Italy … France. We want to do the whole thing and we’ll have four to six weeks. I’m so excited. My parents are Indonesian, so I’ve been there a lot, but this will be my first time in Europe.

“I’m an actor and I graduated a year ago from my Bachelor of Performance at the University of Wollongong and I’ve been working in [menswear retail] Tarocash to save money for the trip. 

“I want to go over and sightsee and try different food and party. I’m so eager to go; I think COVID has made me even more keen. I’ve really built this trip up and think, and talk, about it all the time. I don’t feel worried at all. I want to travel to other places too, and eventually I want to go and to America to see if I can work there.”

Amelia Fuhr, 20, Coburg, Melbourne

“I’m studying international business, majoring in marketing, at Monash University and I’ve only one more semester to do next year. But the whole reason I did this course was that it has an overseas exchange program as part of it, but that was cancelled because of COVID. But I’ve reapplied so I’m hopeful I’ll be able to go in January. 

“I choose Colorado in the US because it has lots of outdoor activities and beautiful mountains, and it’s so different to Melbourne. I also want to experience US college life. I missed out on most of mine because of the pandemic. My dream is eventually to go and live and work overseas. 

“I now see travel as more of a luxury, something that we should no longer take for granted. It’s even more exciting than it was before and I’m going to appreciate it so much more. I definitely feel more cautious about it, however. I chose Colorado, for instance, over Boston because that’s more likely to have lockdowns. I’d hate to go over and end up locked down and the cost of quarantine in a hotel would be huge. There are risks, but in the end, you want to travel and you just think, Whatever!” 

Patrick Barnden, 23, Box Hill, Melbourne

“The last time I was overseas was in 2020, in Japan, right before COVID started, and lots of the attractions were closed and there were complications with flights. I just graduated last year with a commerce degree from Deakin University and am now in the first year of my full-time work as an accountant, so I haven’t planned any trips coming up. 

“I’m still young so I do want to get out and see different things and places and make new memories. I definitely have ground to make up but I haven’t had the chance yet. I did travel a lot when I was younger with my family to Europe and Asia and now I want to travel with friends or by myself 

“For my next trip, I’d like to go back to Europe as I love all the different cultures there and I’ve always liked Asia. I don’t think my attitude to travel has changed at all. Because I’m vaccinated, I think I’ll be pretty OK and while travel seems a lot more complicated now, I’m sure it’ll be easier later on.”

Grand Opening: Singapore Pan Pacific on Orchard Road

Michael G Browne
-
0
Grand Opening: Singapore Pan Pacific on Orchard Road

THE DEAL: Time limited offer, three nights from A$1,499/room. Valued up to A$3,000, save up to 50%.

THE APPEAL: Be one of the first to discover Pan Pacific Orchard, a sanctuary filled with lush flora across four uniquely designed layers on Singapore’s iconic Orchard Road.

Brought to life by esteemed designers WOHA, the sustainability-focused foliage-filled innovation has already claimed World Travel Awards Asia’s Leading New Hotel 2023 less than a year after its official unveiling.

When the sun is shining, take to the glittering emerald pool on the unique Beach Terrace, where the coast meets the sky and palm groves seemingly float above the busy pavement. Plus, revel in the hybrid indoor-outdoor lounge spaces and mirrored ceilings.

Explore Orchard Road’s renowned high-end shopping, eating and drinking district on your doorstep, or stroll to Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that provides a leafy refuge from the cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Back at the hotel, visit Florette, a trendy bar where bubbles and caviar bumps unite against a smouldering backdrop, or discover the wow factor at Mosella, where farm-to-table fare is served in a gilded setting.

Indulge in all the spoils of Pan Pacific Orchard – from impeccable modern design to its elite location and sparkling views of Singapore – as you relax in the Pacific Club Lounge, enjoying all-day refreshments and creative cocktails.

For all the details including a longer stay bonus, call Luxury Escapes on Call 1300 88 99 00 or CLICK HERE

Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, Thailand

Michael G Browne
-
0
Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, Thailand

THE DEAL: Stay three nights from A$699/room, valued up to A$3,108, a saving of up to 78%.

THE APPEAL: Discover Bangkok from a new angle with Luxury Escapes deal on a stay at the five-star Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, perfectly placed on the serene banks of the Chao Phraya River.

With Thailand’s shining capital on the horizon and the jungle by your side, it’s never been easier to discover Bangkok’s best – the hotel’s complimentary shuttle ferry service means you’re just a short hop from high-end shopping malls, ancient temples and vibrant marketplaces.

Return to signature Anantara hospitality steeped in an old-world Siam spirit and 10 extraordinary restaurants and bars, including international teppanyaki house Benihana, historic house of tiki tipples Trader Vic’s and waterfront Longtail by the River, the perfect place to kick back and watch the world drift lazily by.

With a rotating schedule of authentic experiences, including Buddhist ceremonies, longtail boat tours, yoga workshops and city tours, Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort is brimming with fresh discoveries.

Surrounded by 11 acres of lush greenery, this riverside oasis offers the rarest of Bangkok treasures – peace, privacy and undisturbed quiet.

Make the most of it by lazing by the magnificent central pool or sample Anantara Spa’s massive menu of wellness treatments, ranging from Himalayan thermal salt therapy to traditional Thai massages.

For all the details, pricing and available bonus deals from Luxury Escapes, CLICK HERE

Sail to Antarctica via a South American adventure

Michael G Browne
-
0
Sail to Antarctica via a South American adventure

Once in a lifetime is a phrase that gets thrown around like confetti but there are some holidays that it applies to for all the right reasons. I mean, how many of us actually see Antarctica in our lifetime? Let alone Christ the Redeemer embracing Rio De Janeiro, the Inca citadel atop the Andes at Machu Picchu, or the Iguaza Falls? Take this tour and cruise and you’ll be able to say you have.

Trip a Deal has come up with an itinerary where you can opt in to an extra week in South America so you can test your vertigo, cardiovascular system and sense of wonder. This option is before the ‘standard’ 28 day tour and takes you to the Andes Mountains on a Peruvian 7-day pre-tour extension visiting Lima, Machu Picchu & much more.

Travelling to the Antarctic Peninsula is a journey like no other. This frozen wilderness, at the southernmost tip of the Earth, boasts breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and a sense of isolation that is both humbling and inspiring. Combine this with an exciting tour of South America, discovering Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Iguazú Falls and more, and it becomes the adventure of a lifetime.

Start in Brazil, where you will experience the exuberant and vivacious culture of Rio de Janeiro, see the Christ the Redeemer Statue presiding over the city, and stroll along Ipanema Beach. Travel to amazing Iguazú Falls and experience the sheer brilliance of the 275 cascading waterfalls surrounded by jungle before reaching Buenos Aires, a city with a distinct European flavour. Witness traditional and picturesque neighbourhoods like San Telmo and La Boca before enjoying a magical evening of tango, with an included dinner and show.

Jump onboard the sumptuous ‘Sapphire Princess’ ship for a 17-day South America & Antarctica cruise with Princess Cruises. Enjoy your time onboard with casual dining at Trident Grill or Alfredo’s Pizzeria, speciality dining at Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria or Sterling Steakhouse, or relax at sea at one of the many rejuvenating spa retreats. You’ll be spoiled for choice as you cruise the seas. 

After cruising via Punta Arenas in Chile and Ushuaia in Argentina, you’ll enter a world where humans are rarely part of the landscape. Antarctica’s stunning scenery is dominated by towering glaciers, icebergs and icy fjords, all set against an otherworldly backdrop of snow-covered mountains. Penguins, whales, seals, and seabirds thrive in this region, providing endless photographic possibilities. Experience a moving connection with nature as you observe these creatures in their natural habitat.

Returning to South America, stop by the Falkland Islands before a visit to Uruguay’s capital, Montevideo, and disembarking in Buenos Aires for your journey home.

A trip to the Antarctic Peninsula is a life-changing experience. With return international full-service flights plus 2 internal flights, a 17-day South America & Antarctica Princess cruise, 8 nights in 4-star hotel accommodation and 59 meals, including a 3-course dinner & tango show, this will be an experience you will treasure forever. Prices start from (AUD) $9999 Per person twin share for the 28 day ‘standard’ tour.

Highlights of Itinerary 1:

  • Voyage through the southernmost seas to the land of ice and snow
  • Discover the highlights of Antarctica, Brazil, Argentina, Chile & Uruguay
  • Explore the sights of Rio De Janeiro with a local guide
  • Marvel at the grandiose Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
  • Enjoy a day at leisure in vibrant Rio de Janeiro
  • See Iguazú Falls, the world’s largest waterfall system
  • Discover the spectacular flora and fauna of the Iguazu National Park
  • Explore Buenos Aires on a locally guided tour
  • Visit the colourful San Telmo and La Boca districts in Buenos Aires
  • Enjoy a three-course dinner and tango show in Buenos Aires
  • Tread your own path with a day at leisure in Buenos Aires
  • Discover the vibrant city with rich history, Punta Arenas, Chile
  • Dock in Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world
  • Cruise the icy tundra of the Antarctic Peninsula
  • Marvel at ice floes, humpback whales, penguins, leopard seals, sea elephants and more
  • Journey to Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands
  • Delve into the eclectic culture of charming Montevideo, Uruguay

Highlights of 7 day pre tour, as above plus:

  • Discover the best of the Incan empire with time in Cusco, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu
  • Experience the highlights of Lima on a guided tour of the city, visiting the most popular districts
  • See the UNESCO Huaca Pucllana, the Plaza Mayor and more
  • Be amazed by Koricancha, also known as Temple of the Sun, one of the most sacred temples
  • Enjoy a guided tour through the former capital of the Great Inca Empire, Cusco
  • Witness the spectacular Andes Mountains
  • Explore the cobbled streets and terracotta tile roofs reminiscent of European villages, in Cusco

For all the flight, accommodation, meal deals and price options, call Tripadeal on 1300 731 527 or CLICK HERE

Reef View Hotel, Hamilton Island

Michael G Browne
-
0
Reef View Hotel, Hamilton Island

I like to think we rovers like a bit of historical context, so if you live only for the moment and the future, skip to the third paragraph. Was Hamilton Island the forerunner of the modern tourism industry in the Whitsundays? Probably. In the mid-1970s Queensland tourism entrepreneur, Keith Williams (Seaworld) was so impressed that Hamilton had one of the very few north-facing beaches to be found anywhere on the east coast of Australia that he bought the whole island.

Williams built the commercial airport, harbour and resort from scratch and by the early 1980s it was Australia’s premier tropical island resort destination. For sheer size, ease of access and facilities, and as a jumping off point to the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef it still is. Winemaker Bob Oatley and his family bought it in 2003 and continue to invest and improve it to this day.

Direct flights are always a bonus, as is the fact you can take your family and your golf clubs. Yes, there’s a golf course. A very good one. If you like a challenge “wicked winds; impenetrable bushland; people have even called the 14th hole, the ‘Valley of Death’” says the golf club’s website, then slap on plenty of sunscreen and go for it.

Fear not, there’s also a spa for those whose idea of a challenge is to see if it’s possible to be over-pampered.

Luxury Escapes is offering one of its most popular Hamilton Island time-limited offers, four nights in the Reef View Hotel with a Coral Sea View Upgrade starting at A$1,679/room. I’ll let them take over the prose for now. Overlooking Hamilton Island’s turquoise waters, the Reef View Hotel offers an iconic Whitsundays escape.

A tropical paradise where romantic seclusion and family fun exist side by side, this popular hotel is the perfect island break in proximity to one of Australia’s most spectacular and sought-after destinations, the Great Barrier Reef.

When it’s time to tear yourself away from the comfort of the hotel, you’ll find yourself just a moment away from the sugar-fine sands of Catseye Beach and within close reach of Hamilton Island’s vibrant shopping, dining and entertainment attractions.

Aquamarine underwater adventures in the limpid Coral Sea and iconic Whitehaven Beach are both just a short boat ride from this idyllic island paradise.

Back at the hotel, the Reef View Hotel is a destination that gets the tropical tick of approval. For those looking to relax and unwind, there’s Spa wumurdaylin (additional costs apply) but use your included A$100 credit, which you might choose to use towards a treatment of your choice.

There’s a sauna and several pools to choose from: the Reef View Hotel Pool, Bougainvillea Pool and the 35-metre, lagoon-style Main Pool with a swim-up bar.

Indulge in sumptuous fare at the Pool Terrace restaurant or laze on your private balcony and admire the spectacular sunset.

Highlights

Take a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef or nearby Whitehaven Beach for some of Australia’s most picturesque landscapes. Consider a scenic flight (not included) out to the reef, it’s the only way to see Heart Reef without having to use your imagination.

Enjoy access to the tranquil, child-friendly Catseye Beach, with complimentary use of all non-motorised watersport equipment and complimentary shuttle service to discover the island.

For family-friendly fun, journey to the nearby Passage Peak Scenic Trail or get your kids active at the Clownfish Club, a kids’ haven that caters for children six months up to 12 years of age (additional costs apply).

When you’re ready to tear yourself away from the resort, make use of the resort shuttle to explore the island’s shopping and fine dining.

Daily breakfast, guaranteed room upgrade, A$100 hotel credit and two kids play, stay and eat free

During your free time, take to the waters and test your balance with stand-up paddleboarding. Guests who want to dive below the waters will enjoy self-guided snorkelling tours.

To make the most of your Hamilton Island escape make use of the island shuttle to explore every corner of this idyllic paradise – and share every moment with complimentary Wi-Fi.

Whitehaven Beach Upgrade: Cruise through the scenic waterways connecting the picture-perfect isles of the Great Barrier Reef marine park and dipping your toes into the sandy swatch of Whitehaven Beach on this half-day tour.

With seven kilometres of beach to wander, find your perfect stretch of sand to unwind, then launch into the adventures to be had on this slice of paradise – it really is a stunning place.

Slip into the cool water for a swim, sprawl out on a beach towel or check out the Southern Whitehaven Beach Lookout for exceptional views of the archipelago where you can gaze out at silica sands and unbelievably blue water. Great for explorers of all ages, blend relaxation with adventure on Whitehaven Beach.

Longer Stay Bonus: Stay 6+ nights and you’ll receive A$150 hotel credit to spend on dining, spa and other services.

For all the options and prices, call Luxury Escapes on Call 1300 88 99 00 or CLICK HERE

Luxury Railway Tour of India, Delhi to Mumbai

Michael G Browne
-
0
Luxury Railway Tour of India, Delhi to Mumbai

India is a place that exerts a strong pull for those of us that love our scenery, food and fashion in glorious technicolor. Luxury Escapes Tours has come up with a great way to experience the sights, sounds and smells of the sub-continent, by railway, the mode of transport that opened up this vast country.

Step aboard for an unforgettable expedition and let the rhythm of the rails guide you to India’s brightest gems on this luxurious small-group train journey (max. 16 travellers).

Cross India’s striking landscape in the comfort of a cabin fit for royalty on the Deccan Odyssey, an elegant Wes Anderson-esque locomotive, (The Darjeeling Limited!) complete with an on-rails spa, Mumbai Hi bar carriage and all-inclusive dining. Prices start from A$9,499 /person in a twin room for this old fashioned but elegant way to travel.

During handpicked off-train excursions, you’ll have the chance to spot the elusive leopard on safari in Ranthambore, witness the white marble majesty of the inimitable Taj Mahal and dine on an unforgettable lunch prepared by the royal kitchens of the Lakshmi Vilas Palace.

Witness five centuries of Jain, Buddhist and Hindu coexistence in the humbling temples of the peaceful Ellora Caves complex, then discover the vibrant street life of bustling Mumbai.

Make the most of private airport transfers and valet service, and deepen your knowledge with guided tours at each city stop, led by expert English-speaking locals. From colourful Chandni Chowk bazaar in Old Delhi to the intricate Hawa Mahal in the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur, India’s greatest treasures are waiting to be found.

Your journey takes you to: Delhi – Deccan Odyssey – Ranthambore – Agra – Jaipur – Udaipur – Vadodara – Aurangabad – Mumbai.

Tour Highlights include;

  • Nine nights in handpicked accommodation, including seven spectacular nights aboard the acclaimed Deccan Odyssey luxury train
  • Daily breakfast and all-inclusive gourmet meals with complimentary soft drinks while aboard your train, as well as a lavish lunch of local delicacies prepared by the royal kitchens of Lakshmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara
  • Ride the rails in absolute comfort on the Deccan Odyssey and enjoy dedicated butler service, along with complimentary off-train excursions at each stop led by knowledgable, English-speaking guides
  • Spot elusive leopards, tigers and sloths in Ranthambore National Park
  • Witness five centuries of Hindu, Jain and Buddhist coexistence in the humbling temple complex of the Ellora Caves
  • Gaze in awe at the majestic marble dome of the Taj Mahal and the mirror of its reflecting pool
  • Study the glittering delights of the Crystal Gallery in Udaipur’s City Palace – one of the largest private collections of crystal in the world
  • Uncover layered cultural histories with tours through each city stop, including Delhi, Mumbai, Udaipur and Agra
  • Roundtrip airport transfers and comfortable, air-conditioned transfers during all off-train excursions
  • All taxes, entry fees and still camera fees as per the itinerary.

For the full details and pricing from Luxury Escapes, CLICK HERE or Call 1300 670 243

Spa suites at the Carlin Boutique Hotel, Queenstown NZ

Michael G Browne
-
0
Spa suites at the Carlin Boutique Hotel, Queenstown NZ

THE DEAL: Stay two nights from A$1,499/room, valued up to A$2,764 a saving of up to 46%

THE APPEAL: Soak in spectacular vistas of the shimmering Lake Wakatipu while cosying up in fireside comfort in one of just eight intimate suites at Queenstown’s award-winning, five-star The Carlin Boutique Hotel.

Offering dazzling new heights of opulence, this hillside refuge – a member of the exclusive Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection – promises to take your stay to new heights with top-notch service. Gastronomic delights await at the contemporary ORO restaurant, where expert chefs transform fresh local produce into a fine-dining feast.

Discover an abundance of natural wonder – and plenty of adrenaline-pumping activities – in Queenstown, the world’s adventure capital, before rewarding yourself with a glass of wine and a deluxe dinner overlooking the magnificent Lake Wakatipu.

For all the details from Luxury Escape CLICK HERE or Call 1300 860 454

Pullman Sea Temple Resort and Spa, Port Douglas

Michael G Browne
-
0
Pullman Sea Temple Resort and Spa, Port Douglas

THE DEAL: Five nights from A$1,399/room, valued up to A$2,005 save up to 30%

THE APPEAL: Luxury Escapes is calling this a Black Friday deal, so sun-worshippers and beach-lovers rejoice: your pathway to paradise awaits with a stay at tropical haven Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa, an iconic five-star retreat famed for its expansive lagoon pool, lush gardens and unswerving commitment to luxury.

With Cairns just an hour’s drive away, you’ll be all set for the adventure of a lifetime – make a splash on the golden sands of nearby Four Mile Beach, soak up the wonder of Mossman Gorge and the Daintree Rainforest, or explore the Great Barrier Reef’s vast underwater wonders.

Return to Pullman’s signature luxury, including a mirage-like central lagoon pool, easy-going all-day dining kissed by sunshine at Aluco and wellness treatments designed to restore inner joy at Vie Spa.

Ready to explore? Palm-swept Port Douglas has an abundance of sights and experiences in store for every kind of traveller.

Get up close and personal with Australia’s most famous local inhabitants at the Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas, explore Macrossan Street’s boutiques and cafe culture or hike Flagstaff Hill for unrivalled views over Four Mile Beach and surrounds.

For all the details from Luxury Escapes, CLICK HERE or Call 1300 88 99 00

1...121314...27Page 13 of 27