DRIVE SITE MAKES NORTHERN QUEENSLAND NAVIGATION EASY

A just launched web portal for all things self-drive in North Queensland makes it easy to navigate through the coastal tropics and outback: www.drivenorthqueensland.com.au

The site’s info and many links cater to visitors whether they’re driving by car, campervan, caravan or 4WD. Full of tips, guides and hints for NQ touring, it also offers the lowdown on four popular routes - the Great Tropical Drive, the Overlander’s Way, the Matilda Highway and the Savannah Way.



There’s the usual social media options to share the joys of a road trip - and even a YouTube channel showing some of the best highlights along the way. Drive North Queensland co-ordinator Russell Boswell says the website is an address for anything - from fishing and camping permits to where the best mobile phone coverage can be found.

“It’s about getting connected to the locality you’re entering in the best way. It’s also really easy to click onto the next level of information - from regional attractions say on a Tableland Visitor Information Centre’s site, through to a statewide trip planning site like RACQ, all the way up to a national weather information site,” said Russell Boswell.

For events, the Tourism Queensland funded portal pulls through Events Queensland listings comprehensively, and for accommodation and attractions the site links directly into regional tourism organisations. Travelers can sign up for an e-newsletter from the portal, and ‘ask ahead’ via the social media options.

Holiday Travel TV’s Dianne Costa, who created the video vignettes for the site’s YouTube channel, said the opportunity to film many of the wonderful and breathtaking destinations in North Queensland had been ‘life changing’.


“For two east coast people used to the spoils of city life about to embark on an unknown journey west to the 'dry dusty outback', we were understandably hesitant and unsure as to what lay ahead. But thank goodness we did it! What an amazing and life changing experience. We had never encountered so many friendly and happy people who were all too happy to welcome us and proudly show us their way of life,” she said.

Dianne said the drive experience was incredible, especially for two non-grey nomads in their 30s who were unsure what to expect. “We started to notice a pattern in the tourist parks each day too - 5pm happy hour. No matter which outback van park you stay at, at about 5pm many of the visitors would venture out to their outdoor setting with a beer or wine in hand and enjoy their afternoon and reminisce. If you were new to the van park, it wouldn't be long before someone came over and invited you back to their 'place' and next thing there would be a mini party with everyone talking about their adventures and recommending new places to visit.”

Dianne often heard the comment "We were meant to go 'here' but ended up 'there' because everyone kept recommending us to somewhere else and we have loved it".

“For someone like me who always flew to a destination and stayed in nice hotels, I have never enjoyed a travel experience as much as my drive experience through the Queensland outback. It has been a life changing experience and I have met many wonderful new friends (who I still bump in to along the way) and I can't wait until the next time we are back on the road again.

You don't need to be a grey nomad to enjoy life on the road, it could and should be done at any age, young and old, and you will have the most incredible and wonderful memories for a lifetime. So watch the videos to see how you could have these amazing experiences and let the road west and north captivate your senses also.

Read More

Brisbane edges out Melbourne and Sydney as the most expensive domestic city for holidaymakers

Brisbane

Expedia reveals which Australian city provides the best value holiday items

Despite the strength of the Australian Dollar making the decision between an international or domestic holiday difficult, getting the best value for money is still the number one priority for savvy Aussie travellers. For those planning a trip within Australia this year, it is important to know that the costs of common holiday items can vary across the country.

To help travellers make informed decisions about costs, online travel company Expedia.com.au has compiled its inaugural Australian Expedia Travel Value Tracker*. Accompanying Expedia's international Travel Value Tracker, the annual index lists 10 typical every day holiday items purchased in hotels in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide.

Surprisingly, 'Brisvegas' proved to be the most expensive Australian city coming in at $116.05 for the 10 items followed by Melbourne ($112.60), Sydney ($104.80) and Perth ($102.20). Adelaide was the cheapest city for the ten items, coming in well under $100 at $92.90.

Despite Melbourne being the second most expensive city in Australia, it had the cheapest prices for a coffee, schooner of beer, can of coke, hamburger and chips, and internet access. However, a trip to your hotel from the airport by taxi could burn a hole through your wallet as Melbourne has the most expensive taxi fare in the country at $53.35, one of the highest in the world. London is the most expensive, followed by Paris.

Australian cities also proved to be pricey for having jeans laundered, with all capital cities revealed among the most expensive in the world. Sydney has the honour of being Australia's most expensive city in which to get a pair of jeans laundered.

In addition to these on-the-ground costs catching travellers by surprise, Aussies are also often stung by domestic flight booking fees of up to $30, charged by some online travel websites. By booking through Expedia.com.au, which does not charge a booking fee, Sydney visitors could make better use of the savings to purchase a cup of coffee and a bottle of water while having their jeans laundered and spending 30 minutes online. In Melbourne, travellers could dine on a hamburger and chips, wash it down with cleansing ale before jumping on the internet to reconfirm their flight; all for under $30.

Joana Barros, Senior Manager Marketing at Expedia.com.au, said: "We know holiday budgets can be tight and these necessities can add up to make a serious dent in your spending money.

"By pocketing the savings from no booking fees at Expedia, Australians will have more choice to purchase the things they really want, as well as what they need when on holiday," she said.

Prices are correct as at 15:00 on 9 June 2011. (Click to enlarge)

*About the Expedia Travel Value Tracker

The prices were obtained using an average charged by three, four and five star hotels in each city for each listed item.

Read More

School holiday strikes for Qantas

TD breaking news:

Qantas engineers to strike next week

Qantas has just confirmed a notification by the Australian LIcenced Aircraft Engineers Association that its members will take industrial action next week, as part of their ongoing dispute with the carrier over pay and conditions.

The action will include rolling two hour stoppages in Melbourne next Mon, as well as a ban on overtime for all QF licensed engineers for the foreseeable future.

QF Group Executive Operations, Lyell Strambi, said the carrier was "currently assessing our contingency plans to minimise the disruptions to our customers".

He said union leaders had "shown their true colours by calling industrial action over the school holidays and then making a blatantly cynical offer for Qantas licensed engineers who are on strike to return to work for four times their normal pay.

"This reckless action comes on the day that Qantas normal flight operations have resumed and Qantas passengers are finally getting to their destinations following the disruptions caused by the volcanic ash from the Puyehue-Cordon Caulle volcano in Chile," Strambi added.

Qantas is calling on the union to stop threatening to disrupt Qantas passengers and take part in a Fair Work Australia mediation tomorrow "to negotiate a realistic outcome".

More details in tomorrow's Travel Daily.

Read More

THAI Scores Sky High @ Skytrax World Airline Awards 2011

THAI named Top 5 Airline Worldwide and Wins Skytrax Best Airline Economy Class Onboard Catering and Best Airline Economy Class Seat

Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) was honoured at the 2011 Skytrax World Airline Awards in two categories, winning the title of Best Airline Economy Class Onboard Catering and also picking up the title for Best Airline Economy Class seat. THAI also placed 5th worldwide in the 2011 World’s Best Airlines category, moving up from 9th place in last year.

Mr. Piyasvasti Amranand, THAI President, said, “THAI is honored to receive the top awards in these two categories and having moved up to 5th place in the World’s Best Airlines category.” THAI has been implementing ongoing retrofitting projects of a number of aircraft to create higher customer satisfaction and to improve THAI’s overall competitiveness.

"In addition to collecting these category Awards, it was pleasing to see Thai Airways moving up the global rankings, into 5th place worldwide for 2011, improved from 9th place last year. With these awards directly reflecting customer opinions, it is a clear sign that Thai Airways is now delivering a better overall product and service quality to their passengers," said Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax."

Over 18.8 million airline passengers from 100 different nationalities voted in the World Airline Awards. A total of 200 airlines were featured and awards reflected customer satisfaction levels across 38 different items of airline front-line product and service.

In photo: (Left) Mr. Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax, (Right) Mr. Jesada Chandrema, THAI.

About THAI:
THAI celebrates its 51st Anniversary during 2011 and 40 years of flights between Australia and Thailand. THAI currently flies 46 times a week from Australia to Thailand with connections to over 70 destinations in 36 countries across 5 continents. All aircraft operating on the Australian route are equipped with the latest in-seat personal entertainment systems for all passengers - and a generous 32-33 inch seat pitch for extra comfort in Economy class. There's a choice of main meals, french wines and cognac for all travellers. For more information log on to www.thaiairways.com.au or contact travel agents; to contact THAI in Australia 1300 651 960.

Read More

Paris to New York in 90 minutes?

EADS, the parent company of Airbus, is to unveil plans for a “hypersonic” plane that can fly twice the speed of Concorde on biofuel made from seaweed, and takes less than 90 minutes to fly from Paris to New York.

The 3,125 mph jet known as ZEHST, standing for Zero Emission Hypersonic Transportation, will transport up to 100 passengers at more than four times the speed of sound, with a cruising altitude of 20 miles above the Earth – just outside its atmosphere.

A 16ft replica of the plane, which is being built in collaboration with Japanese engineers, will be inspected by French President Nicolas Sarkozy at Le Bourget airport in Paris.

It will take just 90 minutes to fly from Paris to New York, compared to three and a half hours for Concorde and almost eight hours in a normal passenger jet. Paris to Toyko could be completed in under two and a half hours.

EADS expects ZEHST’s first commercial flight to take place in 2050, with the first non-manned test flight scheduled for 2020.

Read More

Thailand tourism arrivals surge

International visitor arrivals to Thailand surged 24.4 percent to 8.2 million in the first five months of the year, according to new figures from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

The figures are somewhat distorted as they compare to a period of civil unrest in 2010 when anti-government protests gathered in the centre of Bangkok, however they do point to a remarkable recovery of the country in the 12 months since the troubles.

The results have caused the TAT to raise its arrivals forecast for 2011 from 15.5 million to 16.8 million. Tourism receipts are expected to total approximately THB600 billion (US$19.6 billion) for 2011.

The kingdom also enjoyed 12 percent growth in foreign visitors in 2010, which not only proved its resilience but also its forward-thinking attitude towards developing new markets, and sport tourism in particular.

In September Thailand will be playing host to the World Travel Awards, which will be hosting its Asia and Australasia Ceremony in Bangkok. The event is expected to attract the who’s who of travel and tourism.

Read Full Report

Read More

TSA to Launch Trial Run of Trusted Traveler Program

The U.S. plans on launching a trial run of the trusted traveler program later this year, John Pistole, head of the Transportation Security Administration, told the U.S. Senate’s Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee.

The TSA has been under pressure to provide a security screening program for business travelers and frequent flyers that would allow them to undergo security backgrounds screenings so they could move quickly through airport checkpoints.

Pistole said the TSA would work first with U.S. carriers and expects to start a trial process this fall. Pistole also said that the TSA was reviewing screening procedures for children after a video of a 6-year-old being patted down went viral, with many questioning whether young children truly present a security risk.

The U.S. Travel Association, which has been lobbying for a trusted traveler program, praised the initiative. This is a risk-based trusted traveler program where travelers can opt in and voluntarily provide background information to qualify for expedited screening, similar to trusted traveler programs operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

"We are extremely pleased to hear Administrator Pistole plans to implement a trial trusted traveler program as early as this fall," said Roger Dow, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. "U.S. travelers will greatly appreciate TSA's responsiveness on this issue." For more information, visit www.tsa.gov.

Read More

LAN AIRLINES ANNOUNCES TEMPORARY FLIGHT SCHEDULE FOR AUSTRALIA - CHILE SERVICES

LAN Airlines has confirmed a temporary flight schedule between Australia and Chile until next Monday, 27 June, in response to continuing uncertainty about volcanic ash cloud in New Zealand airspace.

From now until Monday, 27 June, LAN will suspend flight LA 800, its daily Sydney-Auckland-Santiago service.

Instead, it will operate an alternative flight, LA 804, from Sydney to Santiago, via Papeete, French Polynesia. This service will depart Sydney at 2.50pm on Saturday 25 June and Monday 27 June, arriving in Santiago at 9.20pm local time the same day. Flights beyond these dates will be advised as soon as possible.

For passengers travelling from Chile to Australia, LAN also will suspend flight LA 801, its daily Santiago – Auckland-Sydney service until Saturday evening, 25 June, Santiago time.

Instead, the airline will operate temporary flight LA 805 from Santiago to Sydney via Papeete, departing at 10.50pm on Thursday , 23 June and Saturday, 25 June, arriving in Sydney at 10.50am  on Saturday 25 June and Monday 27 June.

Papeete will be used for a technical stop only. Passengers cannot disembark or join the flight there.

Passengers seeking to fly on the services via Papeete must have either an Australian passport or a current Australian visa.

LAN apologises for the disruption to passengers' travel plans, and will advise as soon as possible when normal services will resume.

For further information in Australia, consumers should call 1 800 558 129.

Read More

TD breaking news - Qantas revamps domestic fares

New fare structure for Qantas domestic

Qantas has just revealed details of a new domestic fare structure, saying the change provides customers with "greater simplicity, flexibility and further Qantas Frequent Flyer benefits".

The previous four economy fare families have been reduced to three and now include Red eDeal, Flexi Saver and Fully Flexible fares - all with included meals or refreshment, inflight entertainment (except on QantasLink services) and a checked baggage allowance of one piece of luggage up to 23 kg.

Qantas Frequent Flyer ceo Simon Hickey also detailed changes to the frequent flyer arrangements, with all QF domestic fares - including Red eDeals - becoming eligible for Domestic Flight Upgrade Awards to business class using Qantas Frequent Flyer points where available.

"In addition all flexible domestic fares will be classed as 'Economy' resulting in improved Status credit earn and upgrade rates for members on more fares," he said.

QF Group Executive Commercial Rob Gurney said the new fare structure would be valid for tickets booked from Thu 07 Jul.

"Qantas remains committed to ensuring it is best for business and accordingly we are very pleased to be making these changes to strengthen our domestic and regional offering," he said.

More details in today's Travel Daily.

Read More

ASH CHAOS PROVES VALUE OF TRAVEL AGENTS

As Australians continue to struggle with the impact of the Chilean ash cloud, Australia's leading premium travel agency group, Travelscene American Express, is confident the chaos is helping to highlight the many benefits of dealing with a licensed travel agent.

While travel agents are working hard to help those caught up in the current travel delays, Travelscene American Express CEO and Chair of the Australian Federation of Travel Agents Mike Thompson says times like these showcase the importance of travel agents.

"It's when things go wrong, when flights are cancelled and you need to find an alternate way home, or an interim solution, that a good travel agent really comes into their own," Mr Thompson says.

"Not only will a good travel agent help you choose the right fare, the right insurance, and the right travel solution, but when you're stuck, a good travel agent can make the world of difference."

"Without a travel agent, you really are on your own"

"Our Member agencies, both retail and corporate, are working around the clock to help their clients in many different ways – from keeping them updated to helping them work around those destinations shut, or likely to close due to the ash cloud, through to working with them to find interim solutions from accommodation to hire cars."

"Travelscene American Express also enjoys very strong relationships with major airlines, and the leading hotel chains, and car rental businesses so our Member Agencies are able to take advantage of those strong ties to ensure their clients are at the front of the line."

Mr Thompson said travel agents were also a good source of knowledge on choosing the right travel insurance policy with the most appropriate cover.

"This is a genuine opportunity to remind the travelling public that you need to make sure that you have the right travel insurance policy for your travel arrangements and that you understand what exactly you're covered for and what you need to do to access that support when your travel doesn't work out as planned.  Your travel agent is ideally placed to help you make that decision."

Read More

Ash Cloud Claims ANZPHIC and Serviced Apartment Summit

POSTPONED
Stay tuned for new dates

BY JAMES WILKINSON

Tomorrow's (June 22) Serviced Apartments Summit and Thursday's (June 23) ANZPHIC 2011 conference have been postponed indefinitely due to the cancellation of Sydney flights as a result of the ash cloud from Chile's Puyehue-Cordon Caulle volcano.

While Sydney flights were expected to resume by tomorrow, Horwath HTL Australia's Managing Director John Smith said "as with previous disruptions to airline services it is likely that even after services resume, there will be backlogs and further delays to deal with".

"In the circumstances we feel we have no choice but to defer both the Serviced Apartment Summit that was due to take place tomorrow and ANZPHIC 2011 that was due to commence tomorrow night and run through to 1pm Friday," he said in an email to delegates this afternoon (June 21).

"We have over 150 interstate and international delegates amongst the 400-plus registered delegates for these events and of course we also have many international and interstate speakers and sponsors.

"In 11 years of running ANZPHIC we have never had to consider such a drastic move as postponing the event and whilst we are firm believers in the principle that 'the show must go on' we don't think the present circumstances allow us any choice but to defer both events and re-schedule them for a future date when we can deliver two events to the standard we know all of our stakeholders expect.

"We will urgently review potential dates and will be in touch again in a few days time, but for now we wanted to let you know at the earliest possible time about this unavoidable decision and extend our apologies for any inconvenience."

The ash cloud forced Tiger to cancel all flights across the airline's network, and Qantas and Jetstar to cancel all domestic Sydney services from 3pm today. Virgin's Sydney and Melbourne flights have also been suspended from 4pm onwards.

Read More

Quest signals WA expansion with new Port Hedland development

Quest Serviced Apartments has identified Port Hedland as its next West Australian location, committing to a 20 year lease (with two ten year add-on options) for a new 120-apartment development.

Quest, which has more than 140 serviced apartment properties in Australia, New Zealand and Fiji has a national growth agenda of 8-10 new properties each year, the majority of which are likely to be in booming regional locations like Port Hedland.

Paul Constantinou, Chairman, Quest Serviced Apartments said the Port Hedland development will ease undersupply and support future growth in the resources-rich Pilbara region.

"Port Hedland is entering a period of unprecedented growth as the resources sector invests in construction and development of port and mining infrastructure. There is currently no quality accommodation to support businesses throughout this growth," he said.

"West Australia and more immediately, the Pilbara region are in our sights as being severely undersupplied with flexible, quality accommodation for the specific needs of business travellers, particularly those travelling for extended periods for projects," said Mr Constantinou.

The Port Hedland Quest development will not only ease the accommodation shortage, but provide a solid long-term opportunity for investors. 

Conray Passaris, Director, Realmark Commercial said, "Research reveals that private investors are actively seeking this type of investment, over and above alternate property investment opportunities.

"This is due to the physical nature of the product, the opportunity for personal tax offset benefits and stability of investment returns via long-term leases to proven operators.

"Over the past 25 years the serviced apartment property sector has become a very established market segment that is out-performing other asset classes in the provision of traveller accommodation," said Mr Passaris.

Chris Adams, General Manager of the State Government's Pilbara Cities project welcomes the Quest development, saying "Investment in high quality accommodation projects like this one will assist in alleviating the current accommodation shortage and go a long way towards turning Port Hedland into a regional city of the North," said Mr Adams.

Over the past 23 years, Quest Serviced Apartments, which pioneered the serviced apartment industry, has established itself as a trusted national brand with business travellers and corporate clients. 

Quest's focus on the business traveller and its ability to quickly develop in emerging growth areas, has allowed it to maintain a strong growth agenda and achieve ongoing year on year revenue growth. Over the past six years, Quest has grown its revenue by double digit percentages each year – even through the GFC.

Construction of the 120-apartment Quest Port Hedland is expected to commence towards the end of 2011.

Sale of a select number of the leased strata titled apartments will commence shortly through joint selling agents Hedland First National and Realmark Commercial, Special Projects.

 http://www.questapartments.com.au/

Read More

AHA (NSW) Accommodation Awards for Excellence Winners List

Hilton Hotel Sydney

The Hilton Sydney scooped the pool at the 14th Annual AHA (NSW) Accommodation Awards For Excellence last night, winning seven awards in the Hotel Achievement and People Award categories.

Sheraton on the Park also won four awards – including the coveted induction into the Hall of Fame for Function Venue of the Year, while the Shangri-La Hotel Sydney won the prestigious Deluxe Hotel Accommodation of the year Award.


More than 450 political, business and community leaders – including NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell – filled the ballroom at the Westin, Sydney for the glittering Awards Ceremony.

A total of 32 awards were presented to winners from a field of more than 140 finalists.

AHA (NSW) Accommodation Division Chair Peter Tudehope said the industry had excelled itself on its night of nights.

“To see so many political and business leaders out in force supporting our accommodation industry is an achievement in itself,” he said.

“There’s no doubt the annual AHA (NSW) Accommodation Awards For Excellence is the highlight of the industry’s social calendar - we can see from the high quality of all the finalists that the accommodation industry is the real winner here.

“I would like to congratulate all winners in each of the categories – they really are world-class venues staffed by the best in the business.”


Key winners include:

· Hilton Sydney: Seven Awards including Outstanding Achievement in Training, Apprentice/Trainee Employee of the Year (Carol Nazha), Chef of the Year (Gary Johnson) and Employee Excellence in Service (Mamdoh Kiriakos).

· Sheraton on the Park: Four Awards including Hall of Fame Function Venue of the Year, Occupational Health and Safety Hotel of the Year and Front of House Employee of the Year (Evan Burns).

· Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Sydney: Two Awards including Restaurant of the Year (Bilson’s) and Housekeeper of the Year (Maureen Jolowicz).

· Bayview Boulevard Sydney: Outstanding Community Service and Achievement.

· Hunter Valley Steakhouse, Mercure Hunter Valley: Regional Restaurant of the Year.

· Loxley, Bellbird Hill: Hall of Fame Inductee: Regional Mid-Range Accommodation Hotel of the Year.

· Four Points by Sheraton: Superior Hotel Accommodation of the Year.

· Lillianfels Blue Mountains Resort and Spa: Regional Deluxe Hotel Accommodation of the Year.

AHA (NSW) CEO Sally Fielke said the Awards night gala capped off a big year for the accommodation industry.

“We have seen a new Board chairman elected in Peter Tudehope as well as the establishment of Tourism Accommodation Australia – the nation’s peak accommodation body.

“There are great things ahead for the industry and I think we can see that by the calibre of tonight’s winners.”

Read More

Quest opens in Bondi Junction

Quest Serviced Apartments has opened its newest property in Bondi Junction, New South Wales. The property opened on 3 June and is the first new quality accommodation offering to open in the area for at least five years.

The serviced apartment property offers flexible, comfortable and spacious serviced apartment accommodation for business and leisure travellers visiting Bondi Junction for short and extended periods of time.

Paul Constantinou, Chairman Quest Serviced Apartments says the new Quest Bondi Junction is a much needed addition to the area which has experienced limited accommodation options for many years.

"There is significant corporate investment being made in Bondi Junction and increasing interest in the area for events. With only a few accommodation players in the area, demand currently far outweighs supply, which in the long run may stifle the area's potential to grow as a business and events hub," he says.

"No longer do we see high demand for corporate accommodation confined to metropolitan business districts. Bondi Junction is home to retail, health, finance and insurance industries and the addition of Quest Bondi Junction's 82 studios apartments will go some way to filling the accommodation gap."

Quest Bondi Junction is located at 28 Spring Street, Bondi Junction within walking distance from Westfield Shopping Centre and Centennial Park and just 5km from Sydney's CBD.

The contemporary property features 82 spacious studio apartments and is anticipated to be 4.5 star AAA Tourism rated. Each studio apartment is stylishly appointed and features kitchenette facilities, a separate work desk, living and dining areas, a mini bar, broadband internet access and Foxtel.

In addition, the property offers daily room servicing^; business administration services: local restaurant chargeback arrangements and a pantry shopping service*.

"The tailored services and facilities offered by Quest Bondi Junction provide all of the business and leisure amenities desired by the modern traveller, so they can complete their business in comfort and with ease," says Mr Constantinou.

For reservations call 1800 334 033 or visit www.questbondijunction.com.au

Read More

InterContinental Melbourne picked as a world best

InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto has received another validation as one of the world's best hotels, with its inauguration into the prestigious Kiwi Collection.

Offering the world's largest independent selection of hotels, Kiwi Collection assembles the very best places to stay for its clientele of discerning international travellers.

The inclusion strengthens InterContinental Melbourne's reputation as a top luxury hotel, adding to such achievements as being named Australasia's Leading Business Hotel by World Travel Awards 2010 and recognised as one of the world's best new hotels by both Conde Nast Traveler and Wallpaper*.

"Our inclusion by Kiwi Collection among the best luxury hotel destinations from around the globe is yet another example that InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto's offering – our people, facilities and experiences – is world class," InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto general manager Joerg Boeckeler said.

The only international high-end hotel in the city's financial business district, InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto is built within the impressive 19th Century Victorian Rialto building on Collins Street, surrounded by the laneways, attractions and experiences that give Melbourne its international appeal.

Behind its Gothic façade, InterContinental Melbourne is a sleek yet intimate luxury hotel, home to a unique suite collection, exclusive Club accommodation and Club lounge, the indulgent East Day Spa and a Scandinavian-inspired rooftop swimming pool.

In addition to its variety of dining experiences and bars, including Alluvial Restaurant and Guy Grossi's newest venture, Merchant, the hotel is surrounded by some of Melbourne's best restaurants, including Shannon Bennett's new Vue de monde on the 55th floor of the adjacent Rialto building.

For more information InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto, visit www.intercontinental.com/melbourne.

Read More

Combine ultimate retail therapy with sheer luxury on a Bangkok shopfest, staying at Tower Club at lebua Hotels & Resorts

For a truly decadent dose of retail therapy, jet off to Bangkok and check in to Tower Club at lebua for an ultra-luxury shopping break to enjoy designer discounts and savings on eclectic handmade items during the Amazing Thailand Grand Sale (15 June to 15 August 2011).

And the soaring Australian dollar means there's never been a better time to make the most of Thailand's acclaimed hospitality.

Thailand's annual retail spectacular has been attracting both bargain hunters and the style savvy for 14 years. This year, more than 15,000 boutiques, department stores, day spas and more will offer mark downs of up to 80% off everything from deluxe high-end brands to local handicrafts, jewellery to electronics.

With days spent exploring the city's swish malls, international flagship stores, cultural precincts and bustling bazaars, you'll look forward to resting your retail-weary feet at the deluxe and spacious all-suite Tower Club at lebua. Unwind and rejuvenate in the deep water open-air swimming featuring massaging Jacuzzi jet nozzles for aching backs and tired toes.  Spoil yourself with exclusive Bvlgari amenities, enjoy a cocktail on the balcony overlooking the city's glittering skyline and the breathtaking Chao Phraya River below, or retire to Tower Club Lounge where you'll be treated to complimentary canapés, beverages and glamorous high tea.

When the sun goes down, there's no need to venture far to enjoy Bangkok's most coveted dining and nightlife hotspots – they're all under the one roof at The Dome – a haven of creative cuisine and sophistication taking over the top levels of State Tower which is home to three chic restaurants and two fabulous bars, including Sirocco – the world's highest al fresco restaurant and Sky Bar – open-air and irresistible.

Whether you stay for a weekend or a week, Bangkok offers a truly diverse and world-class shopping experience. Whether you love to wander the streets seeking out unique local craft and curios, marvel at the latest mega malls or peruse the traditional wet markets – the Amazing Thailand Grand Sale appeals – and so does Tower Club at lebua. 

For a truly indulgent package, enjoy the Tower Club Prestige Experience from AUS $265*++ per night (exchange rate on 14 June - price based on US$279) until 31 October 2011 (*min 3 nights per stay).


The package includes:

ü  Accommodation in the Tower Club River View Suite
ü  Daily buffet breakfast at Café Mozu for two persons or daily continental breakfast at Tower Club Lounge
ü  Daily Sky Bar drink voucher for up to 2 registered guests
ü  Daily Sky train tickets for up to 2 registered guests
ü  Roundtrip airport transfers (max 3 people)
ü  Set dinner at Café Mozu for 2 registered guests
ü  In room mini bar (non alcoholic)
ü  Welcome fruit and flowers
ü  Late checkout
ü  Video on Demand
ü  Upgraded BVLGARI amenities
ü  Nespresso coffee machines in the suite
ü  Tower Club Lounge access privileges which entitles guests to a light lunch (12-3pm), afternoon high tea (3-6pm), complimentary alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks from 6am – 6pm and wireless internet acces

For reservations, log onto www.lebua.com or contact reservations on +66 2 624 9555.

*Min 3 nights consecutive stay is required and twin share. Rates are single/double occupancy, subject to 10% service charges, and applicable government taxes per room per night. Rates and reservations are subject to space availability.

 

Read More

New tourism and training venture for Nimtiluk Tours in Katherine

Nitmiluk Tours has taken over management of the Cycad Gardens and Cafe in Katherine in a move aimed at extending its tourism portfolio, but also at creating a platform for tourism and hospitality training opportunities for the local community.

"Taking over management of this facility provides some long term planning and development opportunities for Nitmiluk Tours", said CEO of the Nitmiluk Group, Mr Clive Pollack.

"The gardens contain the biggest collection of cycad plants in the southern hemisphere. It was originally planned as a conservation resource as well as a display collection of rare cycads. In itself, this is a tourism venture which fits well with the nature-based philosophy of Nitmiluk Tours

"More significantly for both Nitmiluk Tours and the Katherine region, the coffee shop and facilities within the Gardens also provide the opportunity to work with Charles Darwin University to develop hands on training programs in hospitality and tourism – opportunities which are lacking in the area.

"Through this facility we can now support training programs and apprenticeships up to Certificate Level III in Hospitality as well as a number of apprenticeships.

"Visitor numbers into this area continue to grow as awareness of the unique qualities of the region grows Training opportunities for local Katherine youth have not matched that growth.  With the development of the training facility through Cycad Gardens we are creating a resource for the community, as well as creating a strong employment pool for local tourism", said Mr Pollack.

The Cycad Gardens contain more than 200 different species of plants from the ancient cycad family, all nestled among a visually striking and prehistoric rocky landscape. The owners have collected seeds from various habitats all around the globe and developed the site over a 23 year period, culminating in a stunning property housing around 40,000 cycads. Apart from this amazing collection, the property also includes an assortment of succulents and cacti, as well as rare and endangered plants from around the world. Visitors can take an informative self-guided tour around the property, via 1.4 kilometres of walking paths with interpretive signage.

The gardens coffee shop seats about 40 people and offers espresso coffee, cakes, cold drinks, light meals and snacks. Outside features gazebo's with tables and chairs surrounded by lush lawns and tropical gardens for visitor comfort.

For bookings and enquiries please contact Nitmiluk Tours Ph: 1300 146 743 (Australia), Ph: +618 8971 0877 (international) or  www.nitmiluktours.com.au

 

Read More

Voyager of the Seas for Australia

Royal Caribbean Cruises has just announced that its "megaliner" Voyager of the Seas will be based in Asia and Australasia from 2012 - including a five month season based in Sydney from November 2012.

The 3840-passenger vessel will also cruise in China between June and October 2012, and will be the fifth Royal Caribbean Cruises Limited ship sailing in the region in 2012/13 - alongside Rhapsody of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Millennium.

"There are clear opportunities in the China and Australia markets, which are key areas for Royal Caribbean International's global development," said ceo Adam Goldstein at a press conference in Shanghai.

Royal Caribbean Australia md Gavin Smith said the positioning of Voyager down under "demonstrates our company's tremendous belief in the future of this region and we are extremely honoured to shape the future of cruising in Australia".

Voyager of the Seas has 1556 staterooms and will introduce a host of innovations including its 'Royal Promenade' indoor main street, an ice rink, skating track, golf simulator and inside cabins with a view.

She will operate 12 New Zealand, South Pacific and Australian itineraries ranging from one to 18 nights, sailing from Sydney and Fremantle.

Royal Caribbean said the cruises were due to open for sale early next month.

More information in tomorrow's Travel Daily and Cruise Weekly.

Read More

Travel Daily: Adventure World to encompass Coral Seas, Value Tours and Creative Cruising

NRMA Tourism and Leisure has just announced that products offered by its Value Tours, Coral Seas and Creative Cruising brands will be "presented under the Adventure World banner" effective 01 Jul.

The move aims to consolidate products across the company under "one market leading brand," according to ceo Keith Stanley.

"By operating under one brand we can truly harness and leverage our message as the destination experts by having a series of strong reservation teams who are devoted to their area of expertise," he said.

Stanley said that while the sub-brands would continue exist, the main focus of the company's marketing will be aligned to Adventure World.

"The streamlining of systems, processes and services offered to our valuable partners will improve our effectiveness," Stanley said.

More information in tomorrow's Travel Daily.

Read More

Lion Attack Prompts Safari Warning

File Picture

Australia's biggest online travel insurer has warned travellers to take greater care on safari in Africa as this year's prime game-viewing season approaches.

Travel Insurance Direct (www.travelinsurancedirect.com.au) General Manager Ian Jackson said a lion attack on an American tourist near Victoria Falls last month provided a timely reminder of the dangers of African wildlife.

"Now that the dream of an African safari has become more commonplace, we're hearing occasional reports that travellers aren't always paying full attention to their safety," Mr Jackson said. "A safari is generally a very safe and rewarding experience, but it's vital that travellers take precautions and follow the instructions of their guides."

Travel Insurance Direct provides five key tips for Australians taking safari expeditions in Africa:

• Always stay in the vehicle  - unless directed by a guide, travellers should never stray from the safety of their van, truck or four-wheel-drive.
• Never turn your back – watch and listen at all times.  When on a walking safari, always remember the adage that the only thing in Africa that turns and runs is prey.
• Listen to your guide – always pay attention and never stray. If a guide instructs you to move on or to back away, do so.
• Keep your voice down – animals scare easily and are less predictable when startled.
• Ensure you're protected – only travel with a licensed safari guide and ensure you have adequate travel insurance.

Mr Jackson said the best game-viewing seasons in many African countries fell between June and October, making these the most popular months for travellers.

He said animal attacks on tourists were still extremely rare, but the growing popularity of African tourism meant increasing contact between animals and humans in some areas.

"No photograph is ever worth the risk of an animal attack," Mr Jackson said. "Never try to get closer and remember to put the camera down and be aware of your surroundings."

Mr Jackson said safari travellers were covered by most travel insurers as long as they travelled with a licensed guide and did not behave recklessly or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Travel Insurance Direct is Australia's number one online travel insurer.  For more information see www.travelinsurancedirect.com.au

Read More

New South African Airways international and regional menu

Africa's leading airline, South African Airways has released details of new in-flight dining menus for international and regional long-haul flights.

According to SAA's Head of Australasia and India, Thevan Krishna, the new menu will "delight our customers' palates and further enhance SAA's onboard product offering."

"After detailed research into global trends in dining and cuisine, we have designed a healthy new menu to tantalise our passengers' tastebuds," Thevan said. "We have also taken into account the desire of a large number of passengers who want to consume meals when they want to."

"On all international sectors, SAA will now offer a selection of canapés to accompany the "first beverage" service in business class with international and long haul regional flights having an option of a fresh seafood starter or hot soup. This is followed by an aperitif that includes a glass of one of France's most famous champagnes, Moet & Chandon Brut Impérial."  

"A basket filled with an assortment of warm fresh breads and pastries with butter and preserves will be offered before the four main course options to include poultry, red meat, fish and non-meat dishes. The new poultry choice is a lighter, healthier option of grilled lemon and herb chicken breast served with steamed baby potatoes, Parisienne butternut and mange touts."

"SAA is also offering a traditional South African specialty – Kingklip caught off the South African coast, accompanied by cumin-scented yellow basmati rice, grilled mixed vegetables and lightly curried Cape Malay sauce. For a sweet finale, premium class customers will enjoy a cake of the day."

"A selection of fine South African cheeses, crackers and preserves will follow, served with beverages from the full bar. SAA's wine selection is one of the best of any global airline and includes hand-picked wines from the best vineyards in South Africa, France, Australia, Italy and the US."

"For the convenience of our business class passengers, SAA now offers a new Express Service, giving customers more time to work or relax while onboard. SAA's Express Breakfast consists of natural or flavoured yoghurt, cereal, sliced seasonal fresh fruit and a selection of bread. Upon customer request, this meal will be served 90 minutes before landing."

Thevan said that in economy class, there will now be a selection of three main courses instead of two with a healthy salad starter, followed by a red meat dish, chicken or fish and a non-meat option. Dessert is followed by cheese and crackers, with a full bar offered.

"To enhance the travel experience of our customers, we will ensure that ingredients relevant to a particular route in all classes are served," Thevan said.

"Our menus within South Africa have also been upgraded, with business class passengers enjoying the choice of a hot English breakfast or health-conscious menus comprising fruit, yoghurt and muesli. "

"On both long and shorter routes at different times of the day we will offer delectable snacks including meat and non-meat options, fruit salad or desserts as an afternoon option." 

"In economy class on shorter routes, passengers will be delighted by fresh sandwiches, healthy wraps and picnic baskets with savoury and sweet components."

SAA's new menu will be served using re-usable or biodegradable bamboo packaging, in line with its carbon offset program.

Read More