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Luxury Kimberley Cruise

Michael G Browne
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Luxury Kimberley Cruise

THE DEAL: Cruise Traveller’s exclusive, 12-night ‘Kingdom of the Kimberley’ fly, cruise and stay package. A 10-night, all-inclusive, expedition cruise as well as savings of A$7420 per couple, or almost half the fare for solo travellers – for bookings made by November 30, 2023. Yes, that’s soon.

THE APPEAL: Remote, billion-year-old landscapes, ancient rock art, colourful Dreamtime stories and abundant wildlife can be enjoyed in luxury aboard Ponant’s 184-guest exploration ship, Le Jacques Cartier, from Broome to Darwin and through the Kimberley in 2024. Four sailings are available from July to September, 2024.

Launched in 2020 and named after a 16th Century French maritime explorer, the sleek and stylish Le Jacques Cartier boasts a refined and intimate, French-styled elegance, fine dining restaurants, plush lounges, theatre, spectacular infinity pool, an expert expedition team and personalised service. All staterooms offer a private balcony or terrace.

Le Jacques Cartier will take adventure seekers on an in-depth exploration of the Kimberley’s spectacular gorges, thundering waterfalls and age-old rock art with colourful Dreamtime stories, migrating whales and pulse-quickening crocodiles adding to the allure and excitement.

The 10-night expedition voyage from Broome to Darwin boasts remarkable sights such as towering King George Falls, coral-filled Montgomery Reef and Horizontal Falls where the ocean surges at high tide through a narrow break in the cliffs.

The package includes two nights’ accommodation in Broome before the cruise and an included flight to Broome and back from Darwin ex Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide or Perth.

The voyage includes guided, complimentary excursions on Zodiacs and ashore. The cruise also includes the luxury of a daily open bar onboard Le Jacques Cartier.

Snapshot of inclusions and highlights – ‘Kingdom of the Kimberley’ package:
* 12 night package with four sailing dates from July to September, 2024

* Flight to Broome and back from Darwin, ex Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide or Perth

* Two-night hotel stay in Broome pre-cruise

* 10-night expedition cruise from Broome to Darwin aboard Ponant’s Le Jacques Cartier
* Zodiac excursions and an open bar are included in fares

The package is available from A$13,345 per person, twin-share, in a Deluxe Balcony stateroom – a saving of A$3710 each.  Solo travellers can enjoy even bigger savings, with the package available in a Deluxe Balcony stateroom from $A17,335 – a substantial saving of A$16,020, which is almost half price (very limited in spaces – early bookings recommended, subject to availability).  These fares are based on the September 7 and 27 departures in 2024. The savings apply to bookings made with Cruise Traveller by November 30, 2023.

To book, visit www.CruiseTraveller.com.au/kimberleykingdom24 (direct link) or call Cruise Traveller on 1800 507 777 or see www.cruisetraveller.com.au

The Langham Sydney

Michael G Browne
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The Langham Sydney

THE DEAL: Stay for 2 nights from A$899/room including taxes and fees, valued up to $2000, save up to 55%

THE APPEAL: Find yourself in the timeless elegance of the five-star The Langham, Sydney, a palatial sanctuary perfectly positioned on Kent Street, the city’s spectacular harbourside heart.

Residing within a beautiful Irish Georgian-style facade, this boutique hotel boasts 97 guest rooms and suites, a glittering indoor pool, state-of-the-art health club and the iconic Observatory Bar.

For a brief departure from reality, awaken your senses at The Day Spa by Chuan with bespoke treatments inspired by the elements of the earth. Lap up spectacular harbour views or use this central launchpad to explore the best of Australia’s harbour city.

Occupying an iconic corner in the heart of Sydney, this retreat raises the standard for global luxury accommodation. Boasting an enviable location on Kent Street in Millers Point, The Langham, Sydney is ideally located between the harbour-side playground of Barangaroo, gourmet Walsh Bay and the charismatic The Rocks.

When you’re ready to explore, Sydney’s countless delights are just a short walk (or ferry ride) away – you’ll be less than a 15-minute drive from the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and the Royal Botanic Garden.

Finish your day of exploration with a show at the Sydney Lyric Theatre or return to your boutique abode for regal afternoon tea.

For more information, including availability, prices and booking, CLICK HERE.

Luxuriate on the shores of the Kimberley wilderness

Michael G Browne
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Luxuriate on the shores of the Kimberley wilderness

The Kimberley is the farthest North you can go in the massive state of Western Australia and it’s not just far from just about anywhere, it holds a unique place in the human history of the continent. Australia’s first inhabitants landed here.

Its 12,000 kilometres of spectacular coastline are popular with cruise lovers and the spectacular wilderness inland is beloved of the rugged outdoorsy, know-how-to four-wheel-drive-for-real type of bush basher. It’s right in our own backyard geographically and if you like a backyard to lose yourself in, they don’t come any better.

Broome and Cable Beach are probably the best-known places in the Kimberley to get away from it all but we’ve got a suggestion that makes even those idyllic spots seem as crowded as Sydney Harbour on New Years Eve.

For starters, you can only get there by charter flight and once you’re there, the five star experience is even better than the star-filled night sky. Here’s what LuxuryEscapes has to say.

Truly get away from it all in this remote corner of Western Australia’s breathtaking Kimberley region, with a one-of-a-kind escape to Berkeley River Lodge.

Become one of the privileged few to experience the serenity of these incredible landscapes at this unique adults-only haven, with just 20 architecturally striking villas perched above the sapphire bay. With included roundtrip domestic flights from Darwin or Kununurra, it’s never been easier to find luxury in the heart of Australia’s spectacular bushland.

Experience barefoot luxury and outstanding service, with days spent exploring the secrets of the Australian bush, with complimentary outback experiences to enhance your stay, including fishing expeditions, guided hikes, stargazing nights and 4WD tours. Between adventures, spend time at your unique accommodation savouring gourmet food or simply relaxing poolside, overlooking the pristine coastline and deep red earth.

It’s an all-inclusive adults-only Kimberley outback escape with gourmet dining & roundtrip charter plane transfers. The deal is for 5 nights from A$9,499/room inclusive of fees and taxes, valued up to $A16,250.

For all the details and package options CLICK HERE

Kick back in kid-free Khao Lak luxury

Michael G Browne
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Kick back in kid-free Khao Lak luxury

If the idea of a relaxing kids-free holiday in a tropical paradise appeals – and we mean one where there are zero ankle-biters running around, rather than a place that lets the little blighters stay at no cost – the Haven Khao Lak in Thailand may be your cup of camomile tea.

And you can save up to 74% on an eight-night stay from A$999 per room, usually valued up to A$3,904.

And no, this opulent resort located in a tranquil spot on Khuk Khak Beach, “where privacy and comfort are valued above all else”, doesn’t allow kids under 12.

According to the description from Luxury Escapes, this secluded oasis features “an enormous 5,000sqm saltwater pool surrounded by verdant gardens, with the sapphire-blue ocean and a white-sand beach forming the backdrop to an indulgent escape.

“Pamper yourself with daily 30-minute massages at Aqua Spa or indulge in a cocktail or two at Angel Wing Bar or Vongole Swim Up Bar as you take in panoramic views of the Andaman Sea.

“After exploring every inch of this exquisite resort, take a romantic stroll down Khuk Khak Beach and visit the nearby night markets, local restaurants and bars.

“If you’re a watersports aficionado, practice your snorkelling skills at any of the neighbouring islands or at the impressive Phang Nga Bay (additional charges apply).

“Then, head back for a decadent dinner at the resort’s Vongole Restaurant, where you’ll be treated to the freshest daily catch of seafood creatively dished up in traditional Thai style or in classic Italian favourites.”

For more information, including availability, prices and booking, CLICK HERE

Somerset on the Pier, Hobart

Michael G Browne
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Somerset on the Pier, Hobart

THE DEAL: Two nights from A$399/room (inc. fees & taxes), self-Contained apartment on waterfront with local treat hamper provided, valued up to A$1,015 – a saving of up to 61%.

THE APPEAL: Treat yourself to a taste of Tasmania at Somerset on the Pier Hobart – a waterfront oasis where old-world charm meets modern comforts.

Housed in a beautifully converted 1930s pier building, this Hobart icon boasts a collection of contemporary apartments that are both spacious and stylish, with each offering serene vistas of the surrounding mountainscape or marina.

With Salamanca Market and the MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) ferry on your doorstep, you’ll be perfectly located to explore the very best of Hobart or to simply soak up the views with a glass of Tasmanian wine.

Whether you’re seeking a serene staycation on the shores of the Derwent or looking for the perfect place to base yourself for adventure, this is the ideal retreat for every traveller.

After you’ve explored everything on your list, enjoy a well-deserved drink at The Lounge by Frogmore Creek, perfectly paired with a charcuterie board housing the best local produce.

Limited time offer. For more details, availability and booking, CLICK HERE.

Best of Jordan small group tour

Michael G Browne
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Best of Jordan small group tour

THE DEAL: An 8 day, 8 places tour fromA$2,799 /person, twin room, valued up to A$3,376 – save up to 17% if you book by November.

THE APPEAL: through rocky canyons and sweeping deserts, journey across Jordan’s breathtaking landscapes on this spectacular small-group tour (max. 24 travellers).

Admire the historic hills and archaeological delights of Amman, then follow the footsteps of the Romans to old Jerash, known as the ‘City of One Thousand Pillars’ and explore the ‘Rose City’ of Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Travel comfortably with spacious private coach transport, airport transfers and your dedicated English-speaking tour director.

Get ready to embrace the otherworldly – you’ll travel out into the far reaches of desert in Wadi Rum and dine beneath innumerable stars at your well-appointed Bedouin camp and finally feel your troubles float away with a dip in the Dead Sea.

Your journey takes you to: Amman – Jerash – Madaba – Nebo – Shobak – Petra – Wadi Rum – Dead Sea – Salt – Amman.

For more details, availability and bookings, CLICK HERE

Grand Hyatt, Bali

Jimmy Thomson
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Grand Hyatt, Bali

THE DEAL: Luxury Escape’s bestselling Bali offer is back – Book 6 nights from A$2,499/room (Inc. taxes & fees), valued up to A$5,125 – a saving of up to 51%.

THE APPEAL: discover the ultimate in family-friendly five-star luxury at Grand Hyatt Bali, a resplendent beachfront retreat located on Nusa Dua’s iconic golden shores.

Boasting a seemingly endless array of prestigious facilities – including five shimmering pools, eight sumptuous restaurants and bars and a bespoke wellness sanctuary – this secluded oasis promises an unforgettable stay backed by Grand Hyatt Bali’s signature top-notch service.

Awake each morning among swaying banyan trees and enjoy exclusive Veranda Club perks, including a magnificent lagoon pool enclosed in cascading waterfalls and lush gardens.

Fun-filled adventures await – Grand Hyatt Bali neighbours the prestigious Bali Collection Mall, and the sweeping greens of Bali National Golf Club are just a five-minute drive away. Return to the comfort of the Veranda Club – reserved exclusively for guests from Luxury Escapes – or brand-new sports bar Lila Cita.

Wander through the resort’s flawless, fountain-filled estate, explore the region’s celebrated collection of restaurants and bars or dive into Nusa Dua’s balmy waters, blue beyond compare.

For more information, including availability, prices and booking, CLICK HERE

Sail to a safari, taking in 21 ports en route from Oz

Michael G Browne
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Sail to a safari, taking in 21 ports en route from Oz

Can’t decide between a see-the-world while it’s still there cruise or a big game experience on an African safari? You can do both with a life-changing package from Australian small ship specialist, Cruise Traveller.

They have paired a bucket-list stay in one of Africa’s great game reserves with a grand, 48-night voyage from Australia to South Africa.

Appealing to the culturally curious and animal-loving adventurers, the 52-night fly, cruise and safari package in 2024 also offers jumbo onboard bonuses for bookings made by November 30, 2023.

Cruise Traveller’s exclusive ‘From Sydney to Safari’ package features a luxury small-ship experience from Sydney to Cape Town aboard the 684-guest Oceania Cruises ship, Nautica. You’ll get five-star service, fine cuisine and country club elegance while you get ready to be up close and personal with lions, elephants and rhinos.

The holiday package begins on March 22, 2024, when guests will sail out of Sydney Harbour on an all encompassing, all points, 48-night voyage through Asia and across the Indian Ocean to Cape Town in South Africa.

The comprehensive itinerary takes in 21 ports including destinations in Malaysia, Thailand, Komodo Island, home to the dragons that are actually giant monitor lizards but where’s the magic in that?

There are also overnight stays in Bali, Singapore, cosmopolitan Colombo in Sri Lanka , and the Seychelles and stops at Kochi in southern India, the tropical lagoons and idyllic beaches of the Maldives, the Comoro Islands and also Mozambique. 

Disembarking in Cape Town, guests then fly to Kruger National Park for a memorable, four-night stay in a safari resort with daily wildlife tours, meals and beverages. One of Africa’s largest wildlife reserves, Kruger boasts a high density of wild animals including the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffalos. Guests will then fly back home from Kruger to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or Perth.

Snapshot of inclusions and features – ‘From Sydney to Safari’ package

  • 52 nights from March 22, 2024
  • 48-night cruise from Sydney to Cape Town aboard Nautica
  • Flight from Cape Town to Kruger for four-night safari resort experience inc tours, meals and beverages
  • Flight from Kruger back to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or Perth

The 52-night fly, cruise and safari package is available from A$27,995 per person, twin-share, in an Oceanview Stateroom.

Bookings made by November 30, 2023, will receive a raft of complimentary, onboard bonuses including US$2600 of free excursions per twin stateroom, a complimentary beverages package, free specialty dining , unlimited Wi-Fi and free onboard gratuities.

Visit www.CruiseTraveller.com.au/sydtosaf (direct link to package) or call Cruise Traveller on 1800 507 777. 

Wild and beautiful: Scotland’s unique creatures are calling

Michael G Browne
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Wild and beautiful: Scotland’s unique creatures are calling

Yes, we know Edinburgh Castle is the backdrop to many a must-take selfie but there is much more to Scotland’s tourist attractions than its tourist-trap capital, haggis, tartan and bagpipes.

About 20 per cent of Scotland is considered wilderness and it’s home to an incredible array of wildlife.

Right now, Scotland’s landscapes are putting on a show of glorious autumnal colours and it’s a perfect destination if you want to escape the Australia’s weather extremes and spot some animals in their natural habitat.

Or maybe add it to your must-see list for a trip to Europe next year.

Red Squirrels 

When: Best spotted in the winter months of December – January when their vibrant reddish coats will stand out against the snow.

Much smaller than their grey cousins, the fluffy red squirrel is an elusive addition to Scotland’s forests and woodlands. The UK has around 160,000 red squirrels, and approximately 75% of them live in Scotland’s woodlands, parks and gardens. To find these beautiful little mammals, visitors can keep an eye out for their red coat during a walk in Britain’s largest forest park, Galloway Forest Park. Sightings are also common when following the Devilla Forest Red Squirrel Trail, as the Scots Pine trees are a perfect habitat for red squirrels. 

The Scottish Wildlife Trust is working with NatureScot, Scottish Forestry, RSPB Scotland, Scottish Land & Estates and the Red Squirrel Survival Trust to protect these adorable creatures by asking people to report sightings.  

Red Deer

When: Red deer are best spotted during the autumn months of September – November. One of the most iconic animals associated with Scotland, the red deer is the UK’s largest land mammal and can be spotted in almost every region in the country. 

Beecraigs Country Park – nestled high in the Bathgate Hills near the historic town of Linlithgow, West Lothian. Herd of Red Deer.

These stunning animals can be seen in locations including the Isle of Arran, Isle of Jura, Lochaber, Torridon, Cairngorms National Park, and Queen Elizabeth Forest Park.

Visitors can stop by Aberfeldy, Perthshire and visit the Red Deer Centre to get up close and personal with these large mammals and learn about their unique traits.

Insider tip: The Cairngorms National Park is home to Britain’s only free-ranging herd of reindeer; Find out more about how to visit this beautiful reindeer herd here.

Seals

When: Seals are best spotted during the autumn months of September – November but can also be spotted during the summer.

Seals are very common inhabitants off the coastlines of Scotland. Visitors might be lucky enough in the autumn months to spot fluffy grey seal pups too. 

Seals are very common inhabitants off the coastlines of Scotland. Visitors might be lucky enough in the autumn months to spot fluffy grey seal pups too. 

These adorable creatures can be spotted all across Scotland, but in particular in the Moray Firth, Firth of Tay, Ythan Estuary, and on the Isle of May.

Basking Shark Scotland runs Seal and Lagoon tours throughout the year from Oban, Tobermory, or Isle of Mull, where visitors can swim in crystal clear water alongside seals.  Basking Shark Scotland also runs various other tours to allow visitors the chance to enjoy the special wildlife in Scotland, including basking shark tours (of course!), snorkelling experiences, scuba diving trips, and more.

The joys of Japan, according to a travel legend

Jimmy Thomson
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The joys of Japan, according to a travel legend

If you think of yourself as a traveller rather than a tourist, you’ve probably got a dog-eared Lonely Planet Guide tucked away in your olde worlde library. You may have been a fan of the Lonely Planet TV show (AKA Pilot Guides or Globetrekker) or a current devotee of their website, lonelyplanet.com but one thing is certain, they know their destinations inside out.

To get your imagination running riot, take a look at these Japanese travel tips, curated by Lonely Planet’s Destination Editor, Zara Sekhavati, with (unsponsored) links to Lonely Planet’s booking system.

You’ve heard all the clichés about Japan: the people are polite, it’s where old meets new, it’s a country of contrasts. Having lived there, I can wholeheartedly say that these clichés ring true. I’m thinking of the low bows of a pristine-looking bullet train conductor and the oldest temple in the capital, Sensō-ji, sitting so close to the modern Tokyo Skytree tower. One day you’re awash in the ferocious lights and loud cries of the Akihabara arcades, the next you’re taking a peaceful stroll in Hakone while gazing upon majestic and magnificent Mt Fuji. (My biggest regret from my time in Japan is not climbing it.)

But where to go in Japan? There are the all-time favorites of Kyoto, with its stunning temples such as Kiyomizu-dera, and Osaka, a pulsating city with edgy nightlife and an impressive culinary scene. Then there’s Tokyo, one of the most intoxicating places on earth, where I learned one of life’s greatest lessons: to really take in your surroundings and to be truly present.

To create your own unforgettable journey around Japan, meet Elsewhere by Lonely Planet’s local expert Venese Lau, who will help plan the perfect itinerary.

Mt Fuji, I’ll be back.

Here’s what to do in Japan

Zara Sekhavati

Destination Editor

Imagine your trip

Here are some of the things you’ll experience when Elsewhere by Lonely Planet’s local expert Venese Lau plans your trip.

  1. Enjoy a stroll in peaceful Nara Park where you will be greeted by some of its friendly deer population. Discover Tōdai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine in the ancient city of Nara.
  2. Visit the incredible wooden temple Kiyomizu-dera, a Unesco World Heritage Site. Located on a hillside, the temple offers magnificent views of the city below.
  3. Head to Dotonbori, an energetic street, in Osaka. Indulge in tasty local specialities such as takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).
  4. Visit the pretty coastal town of Ito, where you can enjoy the beach, beautiful views and hot springs. Wander through Ito’s historical district, home to traditional wooden buildings, local shops, boutiques and cafes. 
  5. Admire Kumano Nachi Taisha, an important shrine in the Kumano region. You may even see traditional ceremonies take place here at certain times of the year.

Plan with a local hero

Trip planning with a local like Venese Lau allows you to dig deeper into a destination. She will give you an insiders view of her home country, beyond its major cities. We asked her all about her homeland.

What are your basic tips for travellers to Japan?

Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto are fantastic places, but think about exploring other destinations too, such as the Izu Peninsula, which offers a beautiful coastline. When planning your trip, don’t limit yourself to cherry blossom season. It’s expensive and busy during this time. It’s undoubtedly beautiful, but so many different trees blossom at different times. No matter which season you come, there is something to do.

What attracts visitors to Japan?

Anyone interested in video games, manga and anime is instantly drawn to Japan. Then there’s the culture. Japan feels like its own planet as it’s so different to the rest of the world. And of course the food is what brings people to Japan. Everyone has to try proper Japanese food – the options are unlimited.

Book with Elsewhere by Lonely Planet

“The people are key to making Japan great” 
— Venese Lau

What can you expect on a visit to Japan?

Friendly people. Most people who go to Japan have an encounter with someone, and they’re like “woah”! Most of the time, when you look lost, people will help you find your way. The people are key to making Japan great, and they give it that extra oomph.

Can you describe the Japanese food scene?

A lot of guests who come to Japan want to go to expensive restaurants. My advice would be to book one or two high-end places, but then let yourself get lost in the city. Head to random places that you stumble across and try the amazing street food. There’s so much to try, from sushi to udon. In Japan, you can’t really go wrong with food.

Are there any cultural dos and don’ts?

Don’t talk on trains, everyone is quiet on them. (Unless it’s the last train of the day when everyone has been drinking!) Japanese people love that travelers love their culture, but, it goes without saying, do be respectful of it.

Explore more of Japan
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