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Explore wild Tasmania from a deluxe small ship  

Michael G Browne
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Explore wild Tasmania from a deluxe small ship  

Here’s a home grown hero of a cruise, getting you up close in comfort to some of Australia’s wildest coastline and spectacular scenery.

The award-winning Australian pioneer in small ship expedition travel, Aurora Expeditions, will launch a new, state of the art expedition ship in late 2025.

Douglas Mawson’s maiden voyage in December, 2025, will take adventure seekers on a nine-night, wild-nature themed circumnavigation of Tasmania embracing wild, deserted coastlines, spectacular scenery, rich wildlife and far-flung islands, with Tasmania’s long December daylight hours enhancing the experience.

Aurora Expeditions’ new  ship, named after the legendary Antarctic explorer, and will sport the revolutionary Ulstein X-BOW® with enhanced sustainability features.

Also part of this grand design is a sea-level Zodiac launching platform, a pool and two Jacuzzis on the top deck, expansive observation decks, lounges and a gym, with all staterooms offering ocean views.

The ship will also boast the line’s first dedicated solo guest staterooms to meet growing demand from solo travellers.

The ship will act as a moving, floating base camp from which guests will go ashore regularly to explore on foot wild and pristine regions of Tasmania and its surrounding islands.

Revel in the opportunity to tread some of Tasmania’s greatest coastal tracks while you circumnavigate this island state by sea.

Land on remote pristine beaches; trek through coastal heath, buttongrass moorlands, lush temperate rainforests and tall eucalypt woodlands; and drink in the stunning vistas from towering dolerite peaks.

Discover far-flung archipelagos and explore islands whose only permanent inhabitants include Bennett’s wallabies, wombats, potoroos, possums and pademelons.

Cruise the wild, storm-swept coastlines and sheltered, shimmering bays. Experience a variety of trekking treasures on Bruny, Flinders and Maria Islands.

Delight in the raucousness of fur seal colonies and the majesty of soaring shy albatross or gannets in the skies.

Create and collate a treasured suite of memories – on foot or by sea – with extraordinary adventures on offer each day.

To help Australians be amongst the first aboard, Australian small ship cruise specialist, Cruise Traveller, has launched an exclusive fly, stay and sail package.

Cruise Traveller is offering the journey as part of its new 10-night package – ‘Tasmania Temptations’ – which begins on December 1, 2025.

It offers free flights and savings of A$6360 per couple and A$3950 for solos for bookings made by September 30, 2024 from Sydney, Melbourne or Adelaide to Hobart for a night’s stay in a hotel before guests board Douglas Mawson the next day.

From Hobart,  the shiny , new Douglas Mawson will chart a course to beautiful Bruny Island, the remote Maatsuyker Islands south of Tasmania – home to Australia’s southern-most lighthouse – and right along Tasmania’s wild west coast to the Hunter and Kent Islands in Bass Strait – places rich in birdlife.

The sapphire waters, untouched beaches, rocky peaks and tiny villages of Flinders Island are next on the journey as well as the iridescent-blue waters and pristine white beaches of the Freycinet Peninsula and the fur seal colonies around the Schouten Islands.

Spectacular Cape Pillar and the historic convict ruins of Port Arthur complete the adventure before guests disembark in Hobart and take a free flight back to Sydney, Melbourne or Adelaide. Return flights to Hobart from Perth and Brisbane are also available for a surcharge. 

The fly, stay and sail package is available from A$12,315 per person, twin-share, in an ocean-view Aurora Stateroom – a saving of A$3180 per person. For solos, fares are available in a single, ocean-view Aurora Stateroom from A$15,835 – a saving of A$3950.  For the free flights and savings, book by September 30, 2024.

For all bookings, inclusions and options CLICK HERE for Cruise Traveller or call 1800 507 777

Paradox Singapore Merchant Court at Clarke Quay

Michael G Browne
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Paradox Singapore Merchant Court at Clarke Quay

THE DEAL: Time limited offer, stay three nights from A$999 /room (A$919 /room for Luxe Plus members) valued up to A$3,039 a Merlion sized saving of 67%

THE APPEAL: Experience Singapore’s old-world charm alongside the city’s glamour at this urban resort in Clarke Quay.

The ultimate base for exploring everything the Garden City has to offer, this sophisticated property offers heritage features and contemporary comforts in equal measure.

Perched along the riverbank, Ellenborough Market Cafe serves up time-honoured Peranakan classics and international flavours, while Blue Potato invites you to indulge in Western favourites by the outdoor pool.

Strategically located by the Singapore River, Crossroads Bar invites with grand floor-to-ceiling windows, a sophisticated ambiance and well-crafted drinks

Although only steps from Singapore’s bustling bars, eateries and nightlife, this resort is still blissfully serene.

Retreat to Aramsa Spa for rejuvenating treatments with natural, botanical and herb-based products, creating exclusive treatments and experiences with balance in mind.

Longer Stay Bonus: Stay five nights to enjoy guaranteed 2pm late checkout. Extend to seven nights or more and savour a buffet dinner for two at Ellenborough Market Cafe.

Longer Stay Room Upgrade: Stay for seven nights or more and have your Executive King Room upgraded to a luxurious Select Clarke Quay Room boasting Executive Lounge access with nightly high tea and free-flow happy hour.

For bookings with Luxury Escapes, CLICK HERE or call 1300 88 99 00

Spring into a fly-cruise package, Japan, Alaska and Canada

Michael G Browne
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Spring into a fly-cruise package, Japan, Alaska and Canada

We’re always on the lookout for a cruise that’s a bit different and Cruise Traveller has come up with just that. And as we always say, you had us at private butler.

If you’re thinking you can finally see what all the fuss is about with Cherry Blossom Season, the cruise starts a bit late to see them in Tokyo but the ship will be stopping off in Hokkaido where they flower later. It’s not mentioned in the itinerary but you if you have no expectations there’s always the chance you’ll be surprised.

You’ll have a couple of days to enjoy all that Tokyo offers before you sail and the first port you’ll visit is Hakodate in Oshima, which is the largest southern city in Hokkaido.

Fort Goryōkaku, Hokkaido

It’s the home of Fort Goryōkaku, Japan’s first western-style fortress. You can get a good view from the nearby Goryōkaku Tower, a 90-meter viewing platform with views of the star-shaped fort and dioramas describing the Enomoto and Ezo Republic.

It’s just the start of a luxurious, all-inclusive voyage from Japan to Alaska and Canada aboard Silversea’s Silver Nova has been packaged by Australian small ship cruise specialist, Cruise Traveller, with everything included from flights, the cruise, gourmet dining and drinks to excursions, tips, executive transfers from home and even a private butler.

Cruise Traveller’s new, 16-night fly-cruise package begins on April 22, 2025, with an executive, private car transfer from home/hotel to the airport (within 80km) and a flight to Tokyo from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide or Perth.

In Tokyo guests will board Silversea’s boutique 728-guest ship Silver Nova, for an indulgent 16-night voyage to Vancouver.

Launched just a year ago in August, 2023, the elegant Silver Nova offers glass balconies overlooking the sea from every suite as well as a spectacular asymmetrical pool deck, eight fine dining restaurants and glass elevators facing the ocean. Silver Nova ranks as one of the world’s most environmentally conscious cruise ships, with advanced hybrid technology that utilises fuel cells, batteries and shoreside power to be totally emission-free while in compatible ports – an industry first.

The 16-night voyage from Japan to Canada takes in the Japanese island of Hokkaido and then the beautiful Alaskan ports of Unalaska, Sitka and Ketchikan before Silver Nova traverses the pristine Inside Passage to journey’s end in Vancouver.

After disembarking in Vancouver, guests fly back home to Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide or Perth, with a final, executive, private car transfer from the airport (within 80km) to end the luxe-filled trip on a high.

Whilst travelling on the ultra-luxury Silversea voyage, guests will enjoy suite accommodation with intuitive butler service, a complimentary shore excursion in every port, plus gourmet dining, premium drinks, a personalised mini-bar and unlimited Wi-Fi all included.

Alaskan Highlights

Sitka, Alaska’s historic Russian-American island city, is on the west side of Baranof Island. Its main feature is Mt. Edgecumbe, a dormant volcano that looks like Japan’s Mt. Fujiyama, and dominates the horizon.

Once called “the Paris of the Pacific,” Sitka was built on the empire of Russian fur trade and is now more famous for its sport fishing.Sitka’s two harbours are dotted with brightly colored boats that look out over the pine-covered islands of the Tongass National Forest.

At Sitka National Historical Park (Totem Park), visitors can recapture Sitka’s Native and Russian history and see a collection of totem poles, a fort site and the battleground of 1804.

The Inside Passage of the Alaska Panhandle has breathtaking scenery with pristine water, snow capped mountains, deep fjords and forested islands. It is also prime habitat for bald eagles, sea lions, porpoise and whales.

Glacier Bay National park has 16 active tidewater glaciers and Misty Fiords National Monument near Ketchikan has 3,000-foot cliffs rising directly from pristine ocean channels.

The picturesque coastal communities are rich in history. Russian influence is well preserved in churches and other historical structures.

The Native cultures of Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian Indians dominate this area. Ancient totem poles are abundant in many communities and the art of totem carving is preserved along with traditional dance and music.

The 16-night fly/cruise package is available from A$12,400 per person, twin-share in a Veranda Suite. As an exclusive offer, Cruise Traveller is also extending a future cruise credit of A$400 per twin suite for any subsequent Silversea voyage booked through Cruise Traveller.  

To book with Cruise Traveller and score some tempting offers, CLICK HERE by October 31, 2024 or give them a call on 1800 507 777

Save the planet (and budget) on Euro trains

Jimmy Thomson
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Save the planet (and budget) on Euro trains

Europeans love their trains.  Whether it’s the glamour of the Orient Express or the pragmatic functionality of local commuter lines, trains are on the right track for many travellers.

In recent years there was even a move in France to ban domestic flights on routes that would take less than two hours by high-speed train – not a restriction that would ever affect Australians – but that seems to have been shunted into a siding for the time being.

Even so, with Aussies flocking to Europe, and having used a lot of their carbon (and karma) credits to get there, the appeal of going by environmentally friendly rail is as great as it’s ever been.

With at in mind, when it comes to travelling through Europe, savings are welcome especially when not compromising on comfort or convenience. So Rail Europe has provided some handy hints on how to save your centimes while racking up the rail Ks.

  • To save up to 70% off tickets, book in advance and travel during off peak times. Set up booking alerts to be notified of tickets being released.
  • For multiple trips over a few days, especially when involving a few countries, consider a Eurail Pass over point-to-point tickets.
  • Where flexibility isn’t required, opt for non-flexible tickets.
  • Where possible, opt for slower regional trains where seat reservations aren’t usually required – they are often more scenic anyway.
  • Enjoy savings with railcard reductions. In the UK, most railcards offer 1/3 off tickets; and in Spain, the Carné Joven railcard offers youth discounts on fully-flexible tickets. Travellers under 27yo in Germany save 50% on the BahnCard 50, while those under 30 or over 60 in Italy can enjoy 50% discounts with the CartaFRECCIA.
  • Where available, save on a night’s hotel accommodation and travel on night sleeper trains.
  • Note that children 4-11 travel for free with parents using the Eurail Pass, and children under 16 travel for free with guardians using the Swiss Travel Pass.

Apart from the above basic ways to save on train journeys, Rail Europe also has some hot tips on how to save on train tickets by region.

Germany’s Deutsche Bahn’s Sparpreis tickets

Deutsche Bahn’s Sparpreis tickets apply to many cross-border trips to almost any city in Germany, as well as trips that traverse the country from different start and end points internationally. The Sparpreis Europa offers more flexibility than the Super Sparpreis Europa; and while these fares often come with no views, certain tickets include a ‘City Ticket’ granting free access on Germany’s public transportation network to/from the departure/arrival station.

France via TGV, TGV Lyria, Frecciarossa and OUIGO

The TGVoffers great value fares called Prem’s that must be booked in advance. While tickets typically come on sale three months in advance, this is extended during the summer months. Discounted tickets are also available on the international TGV Lyria services to Italy and Switzerland, and can be booked up to 120 days in advance. If using the Frecciarossaservice, then bookings can be made up to 180 days in advance. When travelling from Spain, consider jumping on a night train to save a night’s accommodation aboard the budget-friendly OUIGO service.

Switzerland’s Swiss Half Fare Pass

A great alternative for the Swiss Travel Pass is the Swiss Half Fare Pass, which is great for longer stays as it’s valid for one month. While the former provides holders unlimited access to all of the country’s public transportation system and up to 50% off mountain rail and cableways and free entry to 500+ museums, the latter grants holders 50% off public transportation tickets across the country and on most mountain rails.

Eurostar services

Aside from booking in advance, travellers should note that return fares can often be cheaper than one-way fares; and early morning or mid-week departures tend to be priced more favourably. When travelling from London to French destinations beyond Paris, it’s also often cheaper to combine the Eurostar ticket with an onward TGV service.

Italy’s Super Economy fares

To score cheap train tickets in Italy, select a ‘Super Economy’ fare, which covers all domestic Trenitalia trains. Note also the ‘Bimbi Gratis’ family offer allows children under 15 to travel for free in groups of 2-5 people, with at least one adult. This discount is available on Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Frecciabianca and Intercity trains for travel within Italy.

Spain’s Ouigo and Renfe trains

Spain’s ‘Basico’ fares are the cheapest train ticket on Renfe services. Consider also travelling aboard Ouigo, the budget provider that connects the most popular destinations in Spain via high-speed train for less. In terms of booking horizons, Renfe tickets are released 75 days in advance and Ouigo trains can be booked up to a year in advance.

www.raileurope.com

Dine-in chef-hatted UMA, Pan Pacific Perth

Michael G Browne
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Dine-in chef-hatted UMA, Pan Pacific Perth

THE DEAL: Stay for two nights A$499 /room (A$469 /room for Luxe Plus members) valued up to A$2,210 a mouthwatering 77% saving

OFFER ENDS IN 4 DAYS!

THE APPEAL: Discover the endless sunny skies, pristine beaches and buzzing city streets of Western Australia’s capital at this newly refurbished five-star oasis offering an unparralled experience.

Its Adelaide Terrace address, just moments from the Swan River and Langley Park, encourages guests to effortlessly explore Perth on foot and discover nearby streets lined with bustling eateries and bars scattered among trendy boutiques and must-see galleries.

For adventures beyond the comfort of your stylish hotel, venture to Kings Park (home to the impressive Western Australian Botanic Garden), or take a refreshing dip at Cottesloe Beach.

Hop between the multitude of wineries and breweries in the Swan Valley, all within easy reach of your doorstep.

Retire to your urban sanctuary at the end of each day and recharge in total comfort or make a splash in the glimmering outdoor pool, heated year-round to perfection.

When hunger strikes, be sure to head to one of the onsite eateries, including UMA Restaurant for Peruvian fare, the new Más Vino for an exciting lineup of local wines and international vintages, and the casual Monty’s for delicious breakfast bites.

UMA is Australian Good Food Guide 2024 & 2023 Chef Hat Award Winner.

For bookings via Luxury Escapes CLICK HERE or call on 1300 88 99 00

Central Coast eco-lodge wins top tourism award

Jimmy Thomson
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Central Coast eco-lodge wins top tourism award

Just a few month after being recognised as an Eco Certified business by Ecotourism Australia, Bells at Killcare has won the NSW trophy in the Accommodation Australia Awards for Excellence

In February this year, Bells at Killcare introduced four new luxury lodges within their eco-wilderness sanctuary, leading to the Eco-Tourism recognition.

These tri-level lodges are designed to blend seamlessly with the coastal tree canopy and offer panoramic ocean views as well as private heated magnesium plunge pools.

They are designed for four guests in two king bedrooms, each with an ensuite that opens to an outdoor rain-room and double day bed.

The upper levels feature multiple living and outdoor areas, ideal for families, or small groups.

Bells at Killcare is located about an hour north of Sydney on an Ironstone ridge, surrounded by sandstone escarpments, overlooking the ocean.

The design of the lodges incorporates earthy colors and textures, with green tones inspired by the surrounding Eucalypts, including ancient Angophora trees. The exterior features natural stone and timber, with painted cladding.

These new lodges are in addition to the existing 25 cottages and suites on the property.

“We are thrilled to receive this award, which fills us with pride and gratitude. We thank Accommodation Australia for the recognition and all the entrants who excel in the sector,” says Karina Barry, owner and founder.

“We aim to create a world-class retreat and build on our strengths each year. We are grateful to our dedicated team for their hard work and passion. This award is the cherry on top!”

Since the lodges opened in February, Bells at Killcare has received consistent praise and positive feedback from guests. The NSW Accommodation Australia Awards for Excellence are highly regarded in the hospitality and tourism industry in NSW, recognizing outstanding achievements across various categories.

For more information about Bells at Killcare Boutique Hotel, Restaurant & Spa, visit bellsatkillcare.com.au.

Hunter Valley studios at the Lane Retreat

Michael G Browne
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Hunter Valley studios at the Lane Retreat

THE DEAL: Sip for two nights from A$499 /studio, A$469 /studio with Luxe Plus, valued up to A$1,180 a smooth saving of 57%

THE APPEAL: Embrace the serenity of the Hunter Valley’s renowned wine region with a stay at this cosy retreat.

Be enveloped by a world of countryside charm at this unique escape, home to 60 beautifully appointed studio accommodations, each with breathtaking views of the vine-laced landscape and towering Broken Back Range.

Wandering kangaroos, singing kookaburras and mountains as far as the eye can see are some of the attractions that make this sanctuary, just two hours from Sydney, such a special escape to reconnect, recharge and relax.

Fine wine and relaxation devotees will fall head over heels for this gorgeous rural sojourn amid the world-famous Hunter Valley wine country.

Less than five minutes down the road, guests can find Bimbagden Winery, home to award-winning dining at onsite Esca restaurant, Bimbadgen Pizzeria and Bimbadgen Cellar Door.

Sitting on 37 acres of expansive vineyard and native bushland, with a tranquil outdoor pool and The Lane Pantry offering a selection of gourmet provisions, The Lane Retreat is your gateway to the quintessential Hunter Valley experience, where comfort meets the authentic Australian countryside.

For a Luxe Plus booking experience with Luxury Escapes CLICK HERE or call 1300 88 99 00

Glamp it up at Discovery Parks Byron Bay

Michael G Browne
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Glamp it up at Discovery Parks Byron Bay

THE DEAL: Glamp for two nights from A$269 /tent, A$249 /tent with limited time Luxe Plus exclusive, valued up to A$570, an eco friendly saving of 52%

THE APPEAL: Nestled on the dramatic New South Wales coast just moments from Belongil Creek is a secluded, hinterland-fringed oasis just waiting to be discovered.

Tucked away in a quiet corner of this dreamy surf destination — yet only a five-minute drive from Byron Bay’s town centre — this relaxing spot is perfect for a romantic retreat or family-friendly escape.

Sleep (almost) under the stars in a safari-style tent featuring a kitchenette, private deck and ensuite, and embrace laidback Byron living with unlimited access to Discovery Park Byron Bay’s waterpark, swimming pool and BBQ facilities.

It’s no secret that Byron is famed for its spectacular beaches, and you’ll be perfectly placed to explore Belongil Beach, Main Beach, The Pass and Tallow Beach.

Beyond the many flawless sandy stretches in the area, be sure to wind your way through the hinterland to Minyon Falls, hit the Byron Bay markets or walk the Three Sisters track.

To book with Luxury Escapes and sign up for Luxe Plus if you like the idea, CLICK HERE or call on 1300 88 99 00

Serious walk in the footsteps of Hannibal (not that one)

Jimmy Thomson
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Serious walk in the footsteps of Hannibal (not that one)

Sweeping mountain views, remote paths, rural villages, fabulous regional food and drink, finishing with a dip in the sea – if these are all on your wish list for a walking holiday, then you need look no further than On Foot’s Ligurian Hills route in northwest Italy.

This is an area steeped in history – Hannibal passed through with his elephants during the 2nd Punic War on his way to Rome in 218BC, and the land has been fought over many times, well into the 20th century.

The Via del Sale (salt road) which you will follow for much of the time, was trodden for centuries by mule trains taking sacks of salt northwards from Genoa to the Po Valley, and returning with salami, ham, cereals and cheese.

Set out from Montalto Pavese through vineyards and woods in the foothills of the western Apennines, to reach the historic valley town of Varzi. From here you’ll climb above the 1000m mark, hiking along ridges with expansive views and stopping in remote villages. 

This is bucolic Italy, fiercely proud of local traditions and in particular local food and wine (vegan and vegetarian walkers will find good menu choices in most places). Finally you’ll drop down to the sea at the pastel-coloured town of Camogli, for a swim in the ocean and a restorative beer.

This is a route for the seasoned walker, with some long days and substantial ascents and descents. The rewards however are well worth the effort – and there are some shortening options, so do talk to us about your expectations. 

Where to get the best bang for your travel buck

Jimmy Thomson
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Where to get the best bang for your travel buck

It doesn’t matter how far you go on your travels, you are always happy if your dollar goes a bit farther.

With more bang for your budget in mind, leading travel app Expedia® recently released its Holiday Value Guide, showcasing popular overseas destinations offering the best value for Aussie winter travel.

And we’re not talking about the cheapest places to visit – just those that offer the best exchange rates combined with good value accommodation and and costs.

The Expedia Holiday Value Guide features international destinations across Asia, Europe, and Oceania. Combining the top international destinations for Australian travellers with average accommodation daily rates under $300, the guide also looks at other considerations including accessibility, experiences and activities.

This is big news for the 35 per cent of Australians who planned to travel internationally this year, with a whopping 81 per cent favouring destinations that offered good value for money and generous exchange rates (69%).

Japan topped the Holiday Value Guide, with its favourable exchange rate, culture, culinary delights, and incredible natural beauty, followed by Indonesia and Thailand.

Most destinations featured on the list also offer wallet-friendly exchange rates for Aussie travellers, but the top 10 also includes destinations with accommodation rates from $105 to $293 per night.

Expedia’s Holiday Value Guide

JapanOsaka priced at $222 offers the best value accommodation, followed by $252 in Kyoto and $293 in Tokyo
IndonesiaLombok with rates at $173 beats its sister island Bali with accommodation prices at $189, which is still extremely competitive
ThailandThe northern city of Chiang Mai priced at $105 offers the best value accommodation, followed by $182 in Phuket and $282 in Koh Samui
VietnamThe capital city of Hanoi with rates at $135 offers the best value destination within, followed by $144 in Saigon and $158 in Da Nang
South KoreaThe capital city of Seoul with rates at $240 offers the best value destination
MalaysiaLangkawi with rates of $123 offers the best value accommodation, followed by $164 in Kuala Lumpur and $187 on Penang
New ZealandAuckland is the best value destination priced at $223
PhilippinesThe capital city of Manila with rates at $151 offers the best value destination, followed by $229 in Boracay Island
TurkeyThe capital city of Istanbul offers the best value with rates at $215
GreeceThe Cyclades islands including destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, and Paros with rates at $255 offer the best value destination

“As we go into the second half of the year, we’re seeing an appetite for international travel, however, Aussies are being savvy with their holiday choices and prioritising value for money and wallet-friendly destinations,” Sarah King, Expedia Travel Expert said.

“Destinations like Japan, Malaysia, and Vietnam offering unique experiences without breaking the budget.

“One tip to make planning a holiday even easier is by bundling the flight and hotel booking on Expedia, which will save time and could knock nearly $250 on average off the trip.”

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