30 July 2012

Top Ten Tips for a Good Flight

  1. Check your ticket and check your departure time online prior to getting to the airport to ensure the planes are running on time.
  1. Have a pair of socks to stay warm for those cold airplanes.
  1. To avoid a neck cramp maybe invest in a neck rest cushion. Those wierd looking u-shape cushions or something similar.
  1. Have all your documentation i.e. ticket, itinerary, passport in one place. Maybe a separate little wallet for them.
  1. Bring some gum or some lollies to chew or suck for those who suffer from ears popping on take-off or decent.
  1. Walk or move around the cabin as much as you can during the flight to avoid getting stiff and suffering from inflamed/bloated legs.
  1. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated as cabin air is generally dehydrating.
  1. Wear comfortable clothing and foot wear i.e. so you do not need to do up 500 buttons or undo zips in difficult places.
  1. Take some wet wipes to refresh yourself during the flight or to wipe/sanitise your hands.
  1. Most importantly take some interesting reading material as those plane magazines can only be read a few times before you know all the offers off by heart.

24 July 2012

Get your heart pumping around Australia

Skydiving in Cairns, Queensland
Cairns is one the most popular destinations in Queensland known for its beautiful beaches and of course holds one of the great wonders of the world - The Great Barrier Reef.

Imagine experiencing and seeing all of Cairns' attractions at once by completing a Tandem Skydive and seeing a full birds eye view of the region's attractions. Get the adrenaline rushing by  jumping 15, 000 ft and free falling for over 60 seconds. It is the fastest human powered sport on earth, reaching speeds of up to 200 kph. An experienced Tandem Master travels with you all the way, providing a 20 minute debrief, training and instructions prior to the departure. Anyone can participate, no experience necessary.

Skydiving in Cairns, Queensland
Skydiving in Cairns, Queensland
Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney
Want to follow in the footsteps of celebrities including Oprah Winfrey and Will Smith? Then a Sydney Harbour Bridge climb could be for you. It is 3.5 hour journey to the top of one of the most famous bridges in the world. A full 360 degrees view of this breath taking city spanning from the Sydney Opera House to the Blue Mountains. Travel with a group of 12 plus an instructor any time of the day, from the early sunrise tour to the magic dusk tours where the city lights sparkle. Upon reaching the summit you can have your photo taken of this unforgettable experience.

Concurring the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb, Sydney
Concurring the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb, Sydney
Jet Boat Thrill Ride, Sydney
Don’t mind getting a bit wet and wild then Oz Jet Boating is the experience for you. Set in the famous Sydney Harbour this thrilling ride will combine both sight seeing of iconic landmarks such as Sydney Harbour Bridge and Taronga Zoo plus a range of spins, slides and power break stops on the renowned Red Shark Boat. The 30 minute adventure will fulfil your need for speed as well having a unique experience of Sydney from the water.

Red Shark Boat on Sydney Harbour, Sydney
Red Shark Boat on Sydney Harbour, Sydney
Otway Fly Treetops Adventures, Melbourne
Located less than 2.5 hours from Melbourne Otway Fly Treetops Adventures is a fun, adventurous ride fit for the whole family. Choose between walking amongst the treetops canopy or for the more daring abseil your way through Mountain Ash. These 30 metre high structures are a lovely way to experience and observe the forest from another angle. For 3.5 hours you can leave your fear behind and absorb the fresh air of the beautiful Otway forest. This is perfect for group bookings and family outings.

Family Friendly Otway Fly Treetops Adventures, Melbourne
Family Friendly Otway Fly Treetops Adventures, Melbourne

Hot Air Ballooning, Brisbane
Up, Up and Away…  See Brisbane and all its beauty at the awakening morning with a Hot Air Balloon ride. Starting at 5am this is a unique experience floating over the Gold Coast hinterland which spectacular sights of beautiful forests and beaches. After your flight the team will whist you away to an exclusive champagne breakfast at O'Reilly's Grand Homestead & Vineyard. This is the perfect balance of thrills and frills to start a magical day. 

Hot Air Ballooning in the Gold Coast hinterland. Brisbane
Hot Air Ballooning in the Gold Coast hinterland. Brisbane





22 July 2012

Quiet Summer Retreats Around Australia

Hatchers Richmond Manor
Located 20 minutes from Hobart, Hatchers Richmond Manor is a modern day old fashioned hideaway. This family run business which is settled on 100 acre working farm and orchard is just remarkable and truly an insight into the process of fresh produce to the finished good. You can sample the domestic wines and witness the harvesting process in January. Take a horse-drawn carriage around the property on the famous Clydesdale horses. With a variety of comfy home style rooms on the panoramic acreage it is perfect for the family to relax and enjoy what nature has to offer.

Clydesdale Horses at Hatcher Richmond Manor, Tasmania
Clydesdale Horses at Hatcher Richmond Manor, Tasmania
Cradle Mountain Chateau
Cradle Mountain Chateau is an absolutely breathtaking destination situated in the serene alpine woodland setting of Cradle Mountain. Near is the world-heritage Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair National Park which has some spectacular bush walks and look outs to explore that lead to the gorgeous Dove Lake. You can explore the surroundings and local cuisines by participating in regional beer tasting and complimentary foods, Tasmania’s Tiger exhibition and Night time Animal exploration. Onsite there are multiple dining areas including The Grey Gum, Quoll’s Restaurant and Brushtails Bar which provide warm hearty meals all from local produce to match the rugged atmosphere. You will definitely find a warm burning fireplace to rug up next to and enjoy the spectacular views. 

Picturesque Cradle Mountain Chateau, Tasmania
Picturesque Cradle Mountain Chateau, Tasmania
Chardonnay Lodge
For the fine food and wine lover you need to enter paradise at Chardonnay Lodge in the heart of the Coonawarra Vineyards midway between Adelaide and Melbourne is the pinnacle to places to go. With a modern and modest feel and ample landscape ground to wonder it is perfect for families and anyone who needs a quite and relaxed getaway. Some attractions and facilities include a pool, the world heritage listed Naracoorte Caves, Blue Lake, Penola and the Mary MacKillop Centre.


Across the road is The Poplars Cellar Door Precinct which is an enjoyable location featuring a cheese bar and local produce store. It has an award winning onsite art gallery which displays the works of Australia born artist Jenny Johnson and others. This is an easy going, relaxing destination perfect to unwind and appreciate the local produce and wine. 

Chardony Lodge, South Australia
Chardony Lodge, South Australia
Bloomfield Lodge
If you want to experience Cairns in a picturesque, quiet sanctuary then Bloomfield Lodge is the place to escape. Located 140m north of Cairns, in the world heritage listed Daintree Forest also boarder line with The Great Barrier Reef this is a match made in heaven. You can indulge in the breathtaking scenery of either water or wilderness and experience all the beauty Cairns has to offer. With ample relaxation facilities and actractions to discover including the secluded Kangaji Beach, it has something for everyone.

The 17 individual retreats all built from local timber with colonial-style elegance and first class amenities really embraces and displays the natural heavenly surroundings. 

View from balcony at Bloomfield Lodge, Cairns
View from balcony at Bloomfield Lodge, Queensland
Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris
If you want to experience nature it is natural form and to learn and enjoy Australia’s history then Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris is a great destination. Situated in an exclusive area of the Northern Territory on the sacred Arnhemland it is truly an escape from the busy city and  allow yourself to unwind. This national treasure chest has countless experiences and activities including guided tours through ancestral caves with stunning original rock paintings and carving. It also accommodates for the more adventurous by providing bushwalks, 4WD adventures, wildlife spotting through the adjacent Kakadu National Park as well as fishing and swimming.

There is a variety of accommodation from luxury to earthly options of campfire cabins. No matter where you are you will see and appreciate the beautiful wilderness and atmosphere of this sacred land. 

Cabins at Davidson's Arnhemland Safari Lodge, Northern Territory
Cabins at Davidson's Arnhemland Safari Lodge, Northern Territory
Eco Beach Broome
Eco Beach Broome is a lovely quite escape hidden at the top of Wester Australia near Broome. This award winning resort is the perfect blend of beach and bush referred to as an ‘accessible wilderness’.

The modern and stylish accommodation located right on the beach front and a backyard of bushland really captures all of Northern Territory’s beauty. You can explore the remarkable wilderness by participating in turtle and whale spotting and talking, multiple bushwalks, kayaking and end the day with yoga or a Kimberly Taste where you try some local delicacies. Another unique and fun activity is the Mud ‘n’ Fun which is a natural local treatment comprising of sand exfoliation and covering yourself in mud crab mud.

Beach and Bush blend at Eco Beach, Western Australia
Beach and Bush blend at Eco Beach, Western Australia
After a long day of adventure and exploring you can reenergise at Jack’s Bar & Restaurant. It is an onsite water coastline restaurant providing outstanding cuisine looking at a picturesque view. 
Outstanding Cuisine at Jack's Bar & Restaurant
Outstanding Cuisine at Jack's Bar & Restaurant


For assistance booking your Australian holiday call Sunlover Holidays on 13 88 33.

21 July 2012

Quirky places to stay in Australia

Gagudju Crocodile Holiday Inn – Kakadu, Northern Territory
The Gagudju Holiday Inn at Jabiru is situated in the heart of Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory, and is one of the few World Heritage areas listed for both cultural and natural heritage.

What’s quirky about this hotel is its unique structure - in the shape of a big green crocodile. The crocodile jaws make the hotel entrance, which leads to a billabong like foyer.
Gagudju Crocodile Holiday Inn is situated just two and a half hours from Darwin, and is the ideal base to explore Ubirr and Nourlangie rock art galleries plus view the towering sandstone escarpment of Arnhem Land. 

Gagudju Crocodile Holiday Inn - Kakadu
Desert Cave Hotel – Coober Pedy, South Australia
The Desert Cave Hotel, situated in Coober Pedy, is best known for offering the opportunity to sleep in an underground hotel. You can enjoy the surrounds of the beautifully formed natural sandstone surrounds as you stay in this oasis in the desert.

Since 1915 Coober Pedy became famous for those seeking the elusive opal, but the locals found it more comfortable living in dugouts or underground homes to escape the sweltering all temperature above ground. The earth gives natural temperature control for cool, quiet living in this semi desert area of outback South Australia. 

Desert Cave Hotel - Coober Pedy
The Henry Jones Art Hotel – Hobart, Tasmania
The Henry Jones Art Hotel is Australia’s first and only dedicated art hotel. The hotel, situated neatly upon Hobart’s glorious waterfront, is a former IXL jam factory dating from the 1820’s that has been transformed into a luxurious first class hotel showcasing the work of Tasmania’s finest artists.

Located on Hobart’s Victoria dock, most of the 56 rooms have water views, and the hotel's decor offers an ingenious mix of contemporary design elements with traditional building structures and artworks, designed by award winning architects.

The Henry Jones Art Hotel - Hobart
Reefworld – The Great Barrier Reef
Don't miss the chance to stay overnight on Australia’s most remarkable natural landmark, The Great Barrier Reef with Reefsleep, located on Cruise Whitsundays Reefworld pontoon.

The Reefsleep features two types of air-conditioned accommodation, both with ensuite bathrooms: a luxurious king-size room ideal for couples or honeymooners and a bunk-style quad room for friends, family or other guests. Accommodation also includes sunset beverages, gourmet al fresco dinner with wine, full breakfast, buffet lunch, scuba dive or guided snorkelling safari. Optional activities include the underwater viewing chamber, waterslide, helicopter tours and massages.

This unique and unforgettable experience allows guests to enjoy the unique solitude and tranquillity of this World Heritage listed site over two days and one night. 

Reefsleep - Reefworld Pontoon

Peppers Convent – Hunter Valley, New South Wales
Peppers Convent in Australia’s world famous Hunter Valley wine country in New South Wales, is a romantic retreat that was once home to the Brigidine Order of Nuns.

Built in 1909, Peppers Convent offers 17 deluxe rooms, restored to reflect the buildings charming heritage and character. The buildings interior has been infused with a French Baroque flavour, illuminated through the constant symbol of cherubs, angels, gilt and toils du jour window furnishings, mixed with a distinctive character of an Australian country guest house.

Peppers Convent is surrounded by some of the best boutique wineries and restaurants the Hunter Valley has on offer, specifically the Pepper Tree wine tasting barn and renowned Roberts Restaurant.

Peppers Convent – Hunter Valley 

Leisure Inn Penny Royal Hotel – Launceston, Tasmania
The Penny Royal Hotel is a boutique property that offers modern facilities just a 5 minute walk to Launceston's city centre. Originally built as a corn mill in 1840, it was moved 54 kilometres to Launceston and was rebuilt as a hotel over 130 years later.

This unique traditional style hotel offers motel rooms as well as apartments, all with a distinctive heritage atmosphere. The rooms have recently been fully refurbished and are well appointed with all the modern comforts, while still retaining a unique heritage atmosphere. 

Leisure Inn Penny Royal Hotel – Launceston



19 July 2012

Australia's best suburbs for shopping

Richmond, Melbourne
If you are after a hit of cosmopolitan culture, then you best make your way to Bridge Road, Melbourne. Only a short distance from the city, Bridge Road is regarded as Melbourne’s best shopping strip. It is renowned for its abundance of clothing factory outlets, and also many stores of up-and-coming local fashion designers. The road is always buzzing with bargain hungry shoppers who are after the best deals on shoes, clothing, accessories and gifts. You can find some of Melbourne’s most successful retail stores warehouses on Bridge Road, selling the latest fashion items at clearance prices.
Must visit:
Anthea Crawford – Outlet
Country Road – Outlet
Green with Envy
Metalicus – Outlet
Bridge Road, Richmond
Bridge Road, Richmond
South Yarra, Melbourne
Chapel Street in South Yarra is well known as Melbourne’s most vibrant fashion and food strip. Here designer labels go hand in hand with fancy bistros. Luckily, there are just as many eateries to sit and regenerate in between bursts of shopping. The stores range from exclusive Australian designers, high street chains to second-hand shops. The Jam Factory is one of the main focal points. An actual jam factory at one time, it is now a modern shopping complex.
Must visit:
Metta Scents
Bleecker Street
Alannah Hill
Shappere
Zara
Topshop
Chapel Street, South Yarra
Chapel Street, South Yarra

Paddington, Sydney 
Known as Sydney’s ‘Style Mile’, Oxford Street in Paddington is packed with hip fashion boutiques and home ware stores. You can enjoy two kilometres of funky boutiques and high-end street fashion. If you are on Oxford Street on a Saturday you can visit the famous Paddington Markets, which has over 250 stalls selling a range of goods from handmade jewellery and fashion items to gifts and home wares. Don't forget to wonder down the small streets off Oxford Street, where you will find designer boutiques inside former Terrace homes.
Must visit:
Camilla Boutique
Pink Zebra
Morgan Barret Fashion
Kate Sylvester
William Street, off Oxford Street, Paddington
William Street, off Oxford Street, Paddington

Paddington, Brisbane 
Just a couple kilometres from  Brisbane's city centre, you can find quaint Queenslander cottages turned into beautiful stores along La Trobe Terrace in the trendy suburb of Paddington. This area is a treasure trove for vintage fashion and wares, quirky keepsakes, fashion boutiques, antiques, eco friendly products and retro goodies.
Must visit:
Retro Metro
Thousand Island Dressing
La La Latrobe
Petrol
Brisbane River
Brisbane River

James Street, Fortitude Valley
This unique and trendy street close to the city is a hub for the best brands and boutiques Brisbane has to offer. The street does not have tonnes of stores, but will definitely fulfil your shopping urges with its great assortment of high fashion stores. James Street is a must visit for serious fashionistas and foodies with cash to burn.
Must visit:
Zomp
Sass & Bide
Mimco
Ksubi
Jules & Roc
James Street, Fortitude Valley
James Street, Fortitude Valley

18 July 2012

Strange Australian Towns

St Helena Island
St Helena Island is Queensland’s most historic island. This National Park is located four kilometres from the mouth of the Brisbane River in Moreton Bay. St Helena Island was once a quarantine station which then became home to colonial Queensland’s foremost maximum security prison for men, where severe punishment - the lash, the dreaded dark underground cells, the gag, and energy-sapping shot drill once took place. The toughest years on St Helena were undoubtedly the early ones, and the ruins on the island testify to the hard work that the prisoners had to do. While on St Helena Island, why not take a ghost tour by night?

Moreton Bay, Brisbane
Moreton Bay, Brisbane                                                                                                   
White Cliffs
Situated in the north-west area of New South Wales, White Cliffs, like Coober Pedy, is an underground town, due to the searing temperatures reaching around 47 degrees in summer. During an opal mining boom, White Cliffs had a population of 4,500, which has now depleted to a mere 150. Upon your visit to this underground town you can fossick on the old mine dumps by day, or visit the town’s main focal point, the Dugout Underground Motel.

Nimbin
Nimbin is a village in New South Wales, near Lismore. This small town is known as the ‘Rainbow Region’, and has been described by many as ‘the alternative capital of Australia’ and a ‘social experiment’. Nimbin has a high tolerance for alternative lifestyle. Here you will find an abundance of hippies, living alternate lifestyles, particularly in communes. Nimbin celebrates their unique culture annually with the Mardi Grass Festival.  


Northern NSW scenery
Northern NSW scenery
Tully
The town of Tully, situated midway between Townsville and Cairns in Queensland, is known as the wettest town in Australia, but also holds the title of Australia’s most popular UFO hotspot. This small town is ranked number 1 in Australia and Asia as a UFO hotspot, with a number of ‘close encounters’. Many Tully residents have confessed to seeing extraterrestrial activity for sometime, dating back to the early 1960’s. The world’s original crop circle, the so-called ‘Tully Saucer Nest’ was discovered here in 1966.

Zeehan
Zeehan is a small town on the west coast of Tasmania, near Queenstown. Once known as the thriving ‘Silver City’ at the turn of the century, the once silver rich mining town had a population of 10,000 (with 27 pubs) but has since declined to 800 due to a depletion of silver. Left remaining is an array of historic buildings still used regularly by townsfolk.

Zeehan, Tasmania
Zeehan, Tasmania

Tantanoola
Tantanoola is a small town situated near Mount Gambier in South Australia. Many areas of Australia have their stories about panthers and tigers roaming in the bush but this one is a bit different in that there is some basis in fact. In the 1890’s a man named Tom Donovan shot the mysterious predator, which turned out to be a Eurasian wolf - equally out of place in the Australian environment. The creature now resides in a glass case in the Tantanoola Hotel.

Principality of Hutt River
The Principality of Hutt River is located north of Perth, near Geraldton. In 1970, after ongoing disputes with the Australian Government over wheat quotas, Leonard George Casley, one of the residents of this town succeeded from Australia and created a separate country, declaring himself ‘King Leonard’. Thousands flock to this historically strange place each year, but there are only 30 permanent residents. This ‘micronation’ is not officially recognised by Australia or any other country. 



14 July 2012

Top 5 hikes and walks in Australia

Bondi to Bronte
It’s no wonder this walk has been rated as one of the world’s most picturesque walks, as it will have you gazing across beautiful beaches, parks and spectacular views. This unique walk includes Bondi, Tamarama and Bronte Beach plus a medium gradient cliff-top path from Bondi to Tamarama, with occasional seating and several staircases.

The beachside parks offer picnic shelters, coin-operated barbecues, play areas, kiosks, toilets and change-rooms. Good for short walks or a day trip, this walk will show you the best of Sydney’s coastline.

Ocean Baths, Bondi Beach
Ocean Baths - Bondi Beach
                                                                                           
Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
On a walk through Cradle Mountain you are able to witness the wild landscape of Australia’s natural beauty at its best. This area is one of the most popular natural areas in Tasmania, and for good reason. A part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Cradle Mountain’s jagged contours, ancient rainforest, alpine heathlands, buttongrass and the colours of the deciduous beech provide a range of environments to explore. 

The park contains an extensive network of walking tracks to suit everyone's tastes. Walks through Cradle Mountain are good for day trips and short walks (under 2 hours).

Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
Cradle Mountain - Tasmania
Kimberley’s
If you want to explore the Kimberley’s, then head to Purnululu. This World Heritage listed park contains the famous Bungle Bungles, which is seen as one of the scenic jewels of outback Australia. Famous for its 45 000 hectare range, walks through the Purnululu will reveal natural formations that are millions of years old. You will see huge banded beehive structures, sandstone cliffs and towers. On the northern side of the Bungle Bungle range is Echidna Chasm. This unspoiled scenic area is considered as one of Australia’s most amazing walking destinations and is relatively easy going. 

Walks can be done in a day or you can camp overnight depending on the season.

Purunulu National Park - Bungle Bungles
Purunululu National Park - Bungle Bungles

Blue Mountains
There are so many amazing bushwalking tracks to explore throughout the stunning World Heritage listed Blue Mountains region. There are walks for all ages and fitness levels. The Blue Mountains boasts one of the most complex track systems of any national park in Australia. Dating from as early as 1825, many of the constructed tracks have national, state and regional significance, and several are named to commemorate significant periods or events in our history.

While walking the Blue Mountains you can hike down the Giant Stairway past the Three Sisters, retrace the route of early mountain explorers or check out the recent discovery of the prehistoric Wollemi Pine.

Three Sisters, Blue Mountains
Three Sisters - Blue Mountains
Victoria
There is an extensive network of tracks and trails around Victoria’s High Country where you can admire the stunning scenery of Victoria’s highest peaks. Alpine National Park is Victorias largest National Park. One of the Parks most impressive features is Bryces Gorge, which is reached via a 7.5 km excellent family walking trail, providing good views of the gorge and also of two waterfalls along the route. 

When walking along the panoramic alpine plains around Falls Creek, or trek along Mount Buffalo’s walking tracks, make sure you keep an eye out for kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, possums or falcons.

Another fantastic day walk is around the coastline of Victoria - particularly Great Ocean Road. Short walks (under 1 hour) to day walk are available, along stunning coastline, rugged cliffs and sandy beaches.

Hiking in Victoria
Hiking in Victoria

11 July 2012

Six Tree Top Retreats

Want to get away from the fast, busy and structured lifestyle of the city then a stay is well overdue at Australia’s tranquil hotels hiding amongst the tree tops. With relaxing facilities and natural attractions to relieve the mind and de-stress the body you will never want to leave. The hidden gems are scatted all over Australia particularly in Queensland, New South Wales and Tasmania.

Thala Beach Lodge, Port Douglas Queensland
Hidden away in the forests canopy 10 minutes from Port Douglas, Thala Beach Lodge is a tranquil oasis. With a 5 star luxury rating due to its panoramic views from the onsite world class restaurant Ospreys of the coastal lines and the earthiness of the timber bungalows Thala is at one with nature. You can bequeath yourself in the local nature by experiencing bird watching, star gazing, turtle spotting, enjoying the garden walks and many more. The cool and spacious stilt built bungalows will accommodate all your needs and the paths to the main building and sandy beaches weave amid organic eucalyptus tress. It is a highly accredited eco friendly through its awareness and sustainable practice.

Bungalow, Thala Beach Lodge, Port Douglas, Queensland
Bungalow, Thala Beach Lodge, Port Douglas

Silky Oaks Lodge & Healing Water Spa
Luxury and nature are each others yin and yang at Silky Oaks Lodge & Healing Water Spa. The boutique hotel lodge is spread out along the Mossman River in contemporarily designed Treehouses surrounded by stunning rainforest adjoining national treasures including Daintree National Park and nearby Great Barrier Reef. There are countless activities including yoga, helicopter rides, drop off picnics, jungle surfing canopy tours to explore the spectacular environment.

Treehouse Silky Oaks Lodge & Healing Water Spa, Queensland
Treehouse Silky Oaks Lodge & Healing Water Spa, Queensland
The Healing Water Spa is one of a kind, inspired by ancient wisdom to harness the power of nature. The treatments are designed to nature and nurture the mind, body and spirit incorporating the surrounding rainforest. Winner of the 2011 Spa Award you will feel rejuvenated and revitalised.

Healing Water Spa, Silky Oaks Lodge, Queensland
Healing Water Spa, Silky Oaks Lodge
Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa
If you want to appreciate nature and all it has to offer with the immersion of aboriginal culture then Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa is your destination. With only 15 exclusive “bayans” (houses) nestled in the Daintree Rain Forest you are definitely at one with mother nature. It is an Ecolodge with the most pampering through its spa facilities which utilises the water from the nearby waterfall and incorporates Aboriginal culture and techniques. You can immerse yourself in local surroundings by participating in horse riding, Daintree river cruises and Rainforest safaris. The native Aboriginal culture is fused into all the aspects of the lodge and can be fully experienced by joining one of the tours or an Aboriginal art workshop.


"Bayans" at Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa, Queensland
"Bayans" at Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa, Queensland
Eaglereach Wilderness Resort, Barrington Tops- NSW
Eaglereach Wilderness Resort is the perfect place to see nature in its natural form, observe wildlife and captivate the Australian essence only 2 hours from Sydney. Placed in the Hunter Valley every room has a picturesque view spreading from either the Barrington Tops to the Pacific Ocean constantly providing breathtaking scenery to just relax and unwind. On the 1000 acres there is plenty of Australian wildlife to see including kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas to the majestic wedge tailed eagle. Kayaking, mountain bikes and many more activities are complementary, perfect for the tight budget and not impeding on any enjoyment.    

Eagle Wilderness Resort, New South Wales
Eagle Wilderness Resort, New South Wales
Stewarts Bay Lodge, Port Arthur
Located next to Port Arthur Historic Site Stewart Bay Lodge unites the water and forest into the perfect fusion accommodating every ones interests. Each day can be a new adventure either snorkeling in one of the nearby bays to bushwalking the Tasmanian Peninsular. It has a variety of facilities including Taylor’s Waterfront Restaurant which uses local sourced produce and flavours. There are countless natural attractions to explore including the nearby cascading Waterfall Bay, a remarkable cave and a riding ranch. Perfect for the active holiday.

View from cabin at Stewart bay Lodge, Tasmania
View from cabin at Stewart Bay Lodge, Tasmania

Huon Bush Retreats, Tasmania
A lovely retreat placed in the centre of Huon Valley, Tasmania which is ideal for the person with a love of wine and a forest wonderland. The valley is home to vineyards which can be explored through the seasonal trails which let you discover high quality local produce to tantalise your taste buds. The rooms provide a warm feeling with a fireplace making you feel at home whilst enjoying the beautiful and peaceful surroundings. Very private though close to all attractions including the picturesque Huon Trail Touring Route, Hartz Mountain National Park and Recherché Bay Nature Recreation Area.
  
Treehouse at Huon Bust Retreats, Tasmania
Tree house at Huon Bust Retreats, Tasmania


Tangalooma Island Resort - Moreton Bay


Australia has many outstanding and treasured islands, but non as well-kept and interesting as Moreton Island. 
What makes Moreton Island so special is that it has one of the least polluted and least disturbed coastal environments along the Queensland-New South Wales coastline, and is the third largest sand island in the world with a list of very unique and protected wildlife. 

Aerial View of Tangalooma Island Resort
If you are looking for the perfect stay to experience this natural dime, then Tangalooma Island Resort is where to take yourself. Tangalooma Island Resort is located on Moreton Island, approximately 40 kilometres off the coast from Brisbane, Queensland. 

The resort nestles on Moreton Bay Marine Park, which was established in 1993 to protect the ecologically significant habitats of Moreton Bay. Moreton Bay Marine Park is the only place in the world where significant populations of dugongs and turtles can still be found close to a major metropolitan centre. 

Tangalooma Island Resort has over 80 tours and activities, the most popular being its whale watching cruises, where you are 100% guaranteed to see a whale or you get your money back! Encounter the majestic humpback whales and their playful calves as they breach and play in the winter waters of the bay between June and October. 

Whale watching
Tangalooma also has Dolphin viewing and feeding tours, where you can get up close and personal and feed the wild bottlenose dolphin’s that come ashore to Tangalooma each evening at sunset.

If Tangalooma’s abundant wildlife can’t keep you busy enough, then the resort has many other activities on offer such as beach volleyball, ATV quad bike touring, catamaran hire, kayak hire, guided snorkelling tours of the Tangalooma wrecks, parasailing, desert safari tour, sand boarding on the desert, helicopter joy flights, archery, banana boating, beach cricket, putt putt golf, segways and plenty more.  

Sand tobogganing
Bound by perfect waters and untouched national parks, Tangalooma Island Resort is the perfect destination for your next escape.

Right now you can experience Tangalooma Island Resort for the hot price of $399 per person twin share. The package includes 2 nights in a Hotel Room, buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, return launch transfers and dolphin feeding on one night of the stay. Valid for sale and travel until 21 September 2012. To book click here or call 13 88 33.