Hot Deals
Winter wonderland special
Christmas has come early to Cradle Mountain Lodge this year, with eggnog, mince pies and festive carols all included in a magical winter deal.
From just $114 per person per night, you can enjoy a winter wilderness retreat at Voyages Cradle Mountain Resort in Tasmania. After a day of brisk walks around Lake St. Clair National Park, where a dusting of snow is all but guaranteed, you can return to the warmth of the cosy lodge, with roaring log fires comfy chairs and fantastic local food on offer.
Available until 30 September 2009, the Winter Wonderland Special offers great value at 15% off standard rates and includes:
accommodation in a Pencil Pine Cabin
full buffet breakfast daily
lodge activities
native animal briefing
20 self guided walks to chose from
Making this even better value for a family Christmas getaway is children under 12 stay and eat free.
For more information and bookings, visit Cradle Mountain Lodge.
Tahiti holiday deals
Travel packages from Air Tahiti Nui and Travelscene make your holiday dollars go further in tropical Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora.
A holiday on one of the French Polynesian islands is a great way to beat the winter and budget blues. With all package including airfares, taxes, transfers and accommodation, budgeting for your trip is simple and all packages offer a little something extra.
· Papeete’s Newest Resort package: from $1499 per person:
stay nights for the price of four at the Manava Suite Resort Tahiti, conveniently located five minutes from the international airport.
· Jewels of Moorea package: from $2169 per person:
enjoy two nights at the Intercontinental Resort Tahiti on arrival and departure, and five nights for the price of three at the Intercontinental Resort and Spa Moorea.
· Affordable Bora Bora package: from $2429 per person:
first and last night at the Manava Suite Resort Tahiti and five nights at Le Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora.
· Luxury at its Best package: from $3649 per person:
stay two nights at Le Meridien Tahiti and three nights in an overwater bungalow at Le Meridien Bora Bora, plus receive a bonus breakfast and dinner daily in Bora Bora.
Find out more about Tahiti and her islands, visit Tahiti Now. To book one of these great deals, visit Travelscene.
Romance on a budget
Imagine, three nights in London, first class travel on the Eurostar to Paris, then three nights in the romance capital of the world, all for $766 per person*.
Qantas Holidays are cutting the cost of romancing a loved one with a first class holiday package in London and Paris. Valid for travel between 10 July and 31 August 2009, this offer must be booked before 17 July 2009.
Price includes:
· three nights accommodation at the Royal National Hotel, London
· one-way ticket on the Eurostar, travelling Leisure Select 1st Class, with complementary fine food and champagne served to your seat
· three nights accommodation at Citadines Place D’italie, Paris.
* flights are not included
For more information or to book, visit Qantas Holidays.
GSR Motorail deal
About Seniors subscriber, Brett, is keen to know of any concessions on the Indian Pacific Rail for his car.
Q. Brett
A friend of ours intimated that over 55’s receive a discount for freight of their vehicle and caravan on the Indian Pacific Rail, is this true?
A. The discounts offered for motorail service are not limited by age. GSR offer great deal to guests travelling on either The Ghan or the Indian Pacific for them to take their car with them when they travel in Gold Service or Platinum Service on either train. These special deals are only available when the car travels with the guest and GSR currently have a special offer on this service. You can take your car with you from just $99 to $299, valid until 31 March 2010.
GSR do offer an un-accompanied motorail service and have often found this to be a more cost effective option than standard car transport. This service has limited availability with space being made available to travelling guests as a priority.
The other point noted from your question was the mention of taking a caravan with the motorail. Unfortunately due to height and width restrictions on motorail wagons, you are not able to transport caravans. However, in some instances, the correct style and size camper trailers are accepted.
For more information, call 31 21 47 or visit GSR.
$10 beds on Philip Island
Stay Monday to Thursday at the Silverwater Resort on Philip Island and pay only $10 per night per room!
From 25 June to 12 July you can enjoy the spectacular view from the hills above San Remo over Philip Island. Only 90 minutes from Melbourne, Philip Island offers a range of attractions from surf beaches to the famous Penguin Parade.
Silverwater is a luxury resort with indoor pool, gym and steam room to help you relax after taking in all the area’s attractions.
For more information, visit Silverwater Resort.
THAI’s 49th birthday sale
Help THAI Airways celebrate their 49th birthday with fares to Thailand from only $753 return including taxes and Europe from just $1508 return!
THAI’s 49th Anniversary global sale is on now so plan your mid-year escape with one of the best value travel promotions for 2009. Book and ticket by 14 June for travel to 25 June or 06 July to 17 September 2009 to take advantage of the following fares:
Thailand from $753 return
Saigon, Hanoi, Phnom Penh, Vientiane or Yangon from $894 return
India, Pakistan and Nepal from $1,142 return
Europe (choice of 13 cities) from $1,508 return
Special offer is available via travel agents only. If you’d like to download a flyer to send or take to your travel agent, click here for the latest special offers.
Cruise Norway with no single supplement
MyPlanet is introducing cabins without the single supplement for those preferring to sail solo on select cruises between April and September on the famed Hurtigruten’s Norwegian Coastal Voyage. If travelling with a companion MyPlanet’s special “2 passenger for the price of 1’is available for bookings made by June 30.
Hurtigruten journey is known as one of the most beautiful cruises in the world due to the breathtaking scenery along the route Norwegian fjords.
Each day of the year a Hurtigruten vessel leaves the southern port town of Bergen sailing to the far north port of Kirkenes to deliver mail and supplies to towns and small settlements right along the Norwegian coastline. On-board facilities include spacious panorama viewing lounges, large sundecks, restaurant, bar and first class cabins with private facilities.
The ‘Single Cabins without Supplement offer” is valid for all new bookings on the full Bergen/Kirkenes/Bergen round trip as well as half round trip on departures that are booked by 30 June. Prices start from $3,450 for round trip total and $2,415 for half round voyage total for 1 person for Bergen to Kirkenes and $1,895 total for 1 person for Kirkenes to Bergen in D, L and I cabin grade. Sailing dates for selected departures until September 2009 subject to availability.
The ‘2 for the price of 1 offer is valid for all new bookings on the full Bergen/Kirkenes/Bergen round trip as well as half round trip that are booked 30 June. Prices start from $3,700 for round trip total for 2 people and $2,590 for half round voyage total for 2 people for Bergen to Kirkenes and $2,040 total for 2 people for Kirkenes to Bergen in D cabin grade. Sailing dates for selected departures between July and September 2009 subject to availability. A range of special discounts on cabins is also available throughout the year.
For more information please call 1800 221 712 or visit www.myplanetaustralia.com.au.
Ski for free
Hire a vehicle from JUCY Rentals in New Zealand and enjoy a free adult lift day pass for each day the vehicle is hired.
Ski for free on Treble Cone Ski field between 1 July and 30 September 2009. One of New Zealand’s most exciting ski destinations, Treble Cone is located in Wanaka, South Island. Thanks to this deal from JUCY rentals, you can drive around New Zealand’s South Island and ski for free from $25 per day.
For more information or to book, visit JUCY rentals.
Afternoon Tea at 1865 prices
The Langham London may be Europe’s first Grand Hotel but it is far away. Thanks to Langham, Melbourne, you can enjoy the hotel’s signature afternoon tea for just 20 cents.
To celebrate the relaunch of it’s London sister, the first 40 people to book, can go back in time to a more refined era and be part of the global tea party on 10 June 2009. 20 cents in today’s money is the equivalent of 1 shilling and six pence, the cost of afternoon tea in 1865 when the Langham London first served afternoon tea to it’s guests.
Guest will be required to wear an elegant hat or headdress and must book from 7.05pm on Monday 1 July 2009. Bookings can be made online at ariabar.com.au.
Sunshine deals
One area of Australia almost always guaranteed winter sun is Queensland and with some hot deals on offer, enjoy some much needed fun in the sun.
Sea World Resort and Water Park – Gold Coast
Stay from Sunday to Thursday before 22 June 2009 and pay only $105 per room per night. Each room accommodates two adults and two children and all bookings receive one free adult ticket to the Australian Outback Spectacular and a free ticket for a Sea World Cruise. Find our more here!
Rydges Sabaya Resort – Port Douglas
Enjoy free breakfast daily or stay two nights and get the third free, with rooms from $90 per person. Kids stay and eat breakfast free. Valid until 30 June 2009. Find our more here!
Long Island Resort – Whitsundays
Enjoy dinner, bed and breakfast from $180 for two people per night. A three night minimum stay is required and rate includes upgrade to a beachfront room and free activities. Valid until 31 July 2009. Find our more here!
Great Value Gold Coast
Whether you’re planning a family holiday or a romantic escape, the Gold Coast has something for everyone with 3 nights from $164!
Price includes:
• 3 nights accommodation at Mantra Legends Hotel (4 star)
For more information and other Gold Coast offers click here
Two as cheap as one
Enjoying the sights and sounds of Sydney has just got more affordable with a new scheme allowing you to take a friend for free.
Simply download your free Enliven your senses card and take advantage of these great “free friend” offers;
Downunder Jet – get a free 35 minute thrill ride around Sydney Harbour when you purchase an equal trip.
Adult - $60 valid until 31 July 2009
Sydney Showboat – purchase one adult ticket and get another free
Adult $180 valid until 31 July 2009
Parkside Restaurant – The Menzies, Sydney – enjoy a free main course when another main course is purchased
Main course from $32.50 valid until 31 July 2009
Ayurve Beauty Wellness Day Spa – enjoy a complimentary spa treatment when you purchase a spa treatment.
Treatments from $95 valid until 31 July 2009
For more details and to claim your Enliven your senses card, visit Tourism NSW .
Tassie at kids prices
Enjoy the glory of Tasmania in winter for less on the Spirit of Tasmania, with adults travelling for kids prices.
Passage on an Ocean View Recliner starts from $109 per person each way or upgrade to a cabin from just $28 extra per person, twin share.
This offer is perfect for those wishing to enjoy a getaway for less and is valid for travel between 2 May and 13 September and must be booked by 16 May 2009.
Travelling by sea is the relaxing way to get to Tasmania, with no luggage restrictions or long delays and you get to have your car at the other end.
Take advantage of this deal by calling 13 20 10 or save a further $5 per person by booking online at spiritoftasmania.com.au
$1 campervan deals
If you have ever dreamed of heading off in a campervan to visit family or friends, or just wanted to explore Australia, $1 campervan relocations make it incredibly affordable.
Can you go on holiday at anytime and love the idea of hitting the open road? Then why not take advantage of a $1 campervan relocations, a great way of making travel affordable.
Campervans are usually booked to be driven from A to B and from time to time they need to be relocated ready for the next pickup. Occasionally, Apollo need people to collect their Campervans from various locations across Australia and drive them to where they need them, giving you the opportunity to enjoy accommodation and car hire for only $1 per day.
These offers are updated randomly but regularly, so check every couple of days and grab yourself a cheap beak away.
Start planning your next trip and see what Apollo have to offer.
Save$640 on the Indian Pacific
The Indian Pacific gives you two oceans on one of the world’s longest and greatest train journeys and now you can enjoy the journey in luxury with a free upgrade to Gold Service.
Book your rail holiday package on the Indian Pacific in Red Sleeper Service before 31 May 2009, and you can save up to $640 per person with a free upgrade to Gold Service. Gold Service includes:
· private cabin
· a la carte dining for all meals on board
· cabin steward service
· unlimited access to the Gold Service lounge car
Take in some of the most spectacular sights in Australia, from the spectacular Blue Mountains to the treeless plains of The Nullarbor desert, where the train travels the world’s longest straight stretch of railway track (478 kilometres). See unique landscapes unfold and spot a fascinating array of wildlife from the comfort of the lounge or your cabin.
Get up close and see the sights of some of Australia’s most famous outback towns when you enjoy an optional off-train sightseeing tour. The great train offers these tours during scheduled stops at Broken Hill, Adelaide and gold rich Kalgoorlie. A remote outpost on the Nullarbor Plain called Cook presents a further opportunity to stretch your legs.
For more information on the Indian Pacific, free Gold Service upograde or to make a booking, visit GSR.
Stay longer, get more
There are more reasons than the Royal Show to be in Sydney this Easter and the longer you stay at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, the more you get.
Until 30 April 2009, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth are offering four, five, six and seven night packages with a slight twist to each one. The comment these is the longer you stay, the better holiday value you get. The packages consists of:
· stay four nights – and receive four nights accommodation in a king Sofitel Mybed, two Sofitel cocktails in the Lobby Lounge Bar with nibbles, one complimentary in-house movie and a welcome bottle of sparkling wine
· stay five nights - and receive five nights accommodation in a king bed Sofitel Mybed plus an elegant Afternoon Tea at the Wentworth experience for two
· stay six nights – and receive six nights accommodation in a in a king bed Sofitel Mybed in addition to two tickets to the Royal Easter Show (valued at $32 per adult) and transfers. Go to the show on the city’s public transport system, and Sofitel will organise a private transfer back to the city from Olympic Park
· stay seven nights - and enjoy seven nights accommodation in a king bed Sofitel Mybed with daily complimentary car parking beneath the hotel
All packages are valid until 30 April 2009, with the exception of the six-night Easter Show package which is limited to the show dates of 9-22 April.
For full details, conditions and bookings contact Sofitel Sydney Wentworth on 02 9230 0700 or visit sofitelsydney.com.au.
*Subject to conditions and availability. Two children under 12 can stay for free in a room with parents, provided existing bedding is used.
Free public transport in SA
From 1 July 2009, holder of a State Seniors Card in South Australia can enjoy free public transportation on Adelaide Metro during off-peak periods.
Announced by Permier, Mike Rann, the initiative is to recognise the growing hardship being felt by pensioners and self-funded retirees.
For more information, visit Adelaide Metro InfoCentre.
Historic manor
Bungunyah Manor at Tamourine Mountain is renowned for its old world charm and this Easter, guests can enjoy a three-night getaway with great savings.
Positioned on two acres of lush gardens and offering Victorian themed rooms, swimming pool, sauna and tennis court, Bungunyah Manor is an idyllic place to spend Easter. Special rates mean that guests can stay three nights from 10-12 April, with continental breakfast daily and an a la carte dinner in the Jaques manor Restaurant for $585 for two people.
Just 45 minutes from Coolnagatta Airport, a relaxing Easter break is within easy reach.
For more details, email
Free night at Rydges, Port Douglas
Rydges Sabaya Resort in Port Douglas has released a range of sizzling hot summer deals that well and truly beat the credit crunch.
Valid for travel until 30 June 2009, visitors can resort to the ‘laid-back’ life with a value-packed three night stay and pay for only two nights. There are also amazing bed and breakfast rates across all rooms and, added to the resort’s family bonus (kids stay and eat breakfast for free)Rydges Sabaya Resort offers a value for money family getaway.
Situated in cosmopolitan Port Douglas, Sabaya Resort offers relief from the daily grind. Offers available include:
Stay three, pay two
While taking advantage of unbelievable summer rates with bonus inclusions, visitors can add real weight to their savings by participating in Rydges Sabaya Resort’s Stay three, pay two deal.
In effect, guests who stay two nights, will receive the third night FREE in their choice of Rydges Sabaya Resort’s accommodation - be it resort rooms or one and two bedroom apartments.
This offer cannot be combined with any other package and is available now until June 30, 2009.
Sizzling Summer Rates at Rydges Sabaya Resort
- Resort Room: from $90 per adult, per night
Bonus inclusions: Breakfast for two adults daily.
- One Bedroom Apartment: from $115 per adult, per night
Bonus inclusions: Breakfast for two adults and one child daily
- Two Bedroom Apartment: from $160 per adult, per night
Bonus inclusions: Breakfast for two adults and two Kids daily
For more information or to book, visit Rydges.
Ibis hotels for $99
Book early and enjoy accommodation rates of only $99, at all Ibis hotels, or for those more last-minute travelers, take a bite of breakfast for a buck!
Be prepared for your next trip in Australia by reserving your Ibis hotel room 30 days in advance and stay for only $99 in May and June.
For those taking advantage of the rate of the day at Ibis hotels, you can enjoy breakfast for a buck, valid for stays between 1 April and 30 June 2009.
With 14 Ibis hotels across Australia, you’ll be able to take advantage of this recession busting rate and boost the economy with the money you’ve saved.
For more details or to book, visit Ibis Hotels.
$100 camper cash back
Head off on your own self-drive holiday in a Britz campervan and use the $100 cash back for a special holiday treat.
For all Britz campervan hire booked for travel between 1 April 2009 and 31 March 2010 through DriveNow, you can enjoy $100 cash back. Simply book a two berth “Rookie” campervan, a deluxe Frontier six berth campervan or anything in between for at least 14 nights before 31 March 2009 to take advantage of this offer.
“Rookie” campervans start from $40 hire per day and are an affordable way to travel and stay around Australia, wherever your heart desires. Enjoy the freedom a campervan holiday offers, without breaking the bank.
For more information or to take advantage of this offer, visit DriveNow.
Stay five, pay four
Enjoy a tropical autumn break in beautiful Broome and take advantage of free offers from Cable Beach Club Resort
Stay at the Cable Beach Club Resort in April or May and make your money go further with free offers to enjoy during your stay. With this fantastic offer you get one night free, plus free airport transfers, free breakfast and a free welcome drink for two adults. And if you have children or grandchildren under 12, they can stay and eat for free.
With prices from $638 per person, based on twin share, you get
· 5 nights twin share accommodation for the price of 4 at Cable Beach Club Resort
· Complimentary full buffet breakfast daily at the Sunset Bar & Grill overlooking the stunning Cable Beach
· Complimentary welcome drink at the Sunset Bar and Grill for two adults
· Complimentary return Broome Airport transfers
· Kids eat free *conditions apply
For more information, visit travel.com.au.
More than 25 nature parks
The Mid North Coast of NSW is home to some of the countries most stunning beaches and nature areas and with special attraction offers, you can make the most of your time there.
With Coff’s Coast, the Great Lakes and Nambucca Valley on your door step, visiting the Mid North Coast of NSW will keep you busy your whole trip. With unspoilt beaches and more than 25 nature parks and reserves, it’s a great place for families and couples to have the great Australian holiday they crave.
There are plenty of offers on the areas attractions, which can be access via the website and include:
· Twilight Dinner Cruise of Nelson Bay – two adults for $99, save $31
· Clarendon Forest Horse riding – two for the price of one
· Coffs Coast - champagne sunset canoe tour or half day guided tour – 10% off
· Australian Shark and Ray Centre – free shark feed with every entry
For more information on the area, accommodation and offers, visit Mid North Coast NSW
Cruising offers exclusive to over 55s
If you’ve ever dreamt of cruising around Australia and South Pacific, Royal Caribbean has two sensational cruises coming up on its beautiful Rhapsody of the Seas ship, with interior cabins starting at as little as $105 per person per night including taxes and gratuities, offering incredible value for money.
17 Night Circumnavigation of Australia Cruise
16 Night South Pacific Cruise
Tour, dine and stay
Enjoy the beauty and calmness of Kingfisher Island with this exclusive two night tour, dine and stay package.
Situated at the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef, Fraser Island is a World Heritage-listed island. The untamed wilderness and natural calm provides a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. On this amazing island, the highway is straight along the beach and through the sub-tropical rainforests, allowing you adventure and excitement on your 4WD adventure which is included in the package.
As part of this package, two nights at the eco-friendly Kingfisher Bay Resort will cost from $424 per person and include:
· two nights twin share accommodation
· return airport transfers
· daily continental breakfast
· daily buffet dinner
· full day ranger guided 4WD tour of the island including morning tea, lunch and National Park fees.
Valid until 31 March 2009, for more information, visit Travel.com.au.
Free Gold upgrade
Enjoy a free upgrade to Gold Service on Australia’s favourite train journeys. Travel in luxury on the Ghan or the Indian Pacific and save $$$.
Book your 2009 rail holiday package in Red Sleeper Service on The Ghan or Indian Pacific and receive a free upgrade to the classic comfort of Gold Service^.
Save up to $675 per person as you upgrade to more space, more comfort, more facilities and more inclusions such as a private cabin, restaurant service for all meals, unlimited lounge bar access and much more.
Treat yourself with one of Australia’s legendary train journeys – and a holiday that starts the moment you board. With some of Australia’s most unforgettable landscapes on show with this unforgettable offer, it’s time to see Australia.
For more information, visit Great Southern Railways.
Declutter and detox
Once you’ve decluttered your home, and hopefully made a few dollars selling on your treasure, why not detox your body and mind at Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat in Queensland, and enjoy a special birthday offer of 50% off.
Set in the beautiful and calming Gold Coast hinterland, the Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, recently voted the “Favourite Spa in Australia” by SPA Finder Inc, is celebrating its third birthday by offering two people sharing the same accommodation 50% off regular rates.
Relax and unwind as you are treated to nurturing spa treatments, seminars and delicious organic food, which will have you de-stressed, detoxed and delighted. Enjoy a two-night retreat between 22 January and 23 March 2009, priced from $790 per person, fully inclusive.
For more information, call Gwinganna on 1800 219 272 or visit www.gwinganna.com.
Senior cruise specials
With cruising it’s about the journey just as much as the destination. Travelling between destinations is a breeze, as days at sea give you the opportunity to explore the ship’s fantastic facilities and excellent entertainment. Rhapsody of the Seas offers great senior specials for cruises from Australia to New Zealand and the South Pacific.
• 10 night New Caledonia and South Pacific cruise package starts from US $951.00**
• 11 night Great Barrier Reef cruise package starts from US $1510.00**
• 13 night New Caledonia and South Pacific cruise package starts from US $1062.00**
• 7 night Melbourne and Tasmania cruise package starts from US $945.00**
For more information, contact your local travel agent, remember to advise that you are over 55 to receive these amazing specials* or visit Royal Caribbean.
*Terms and conditions apply
Friday fare madness
Christmas is on its way and people are watching their pennies, which may be good news for those with a few extra dollars to spend on travel.
Jetstar have launched Friday Fare Frenzy and every Friday between now and Christmas, from 4pm-8pm (AEDT), they will release a series of low fares, on different routes each time.
For more information, visit Jetstar and sign up for their newsletters, or visit their site Friday between 4pm and 8pm.
Two-for-one with Club Med
Escape for a peace of mind vacation and the second person stays free at selected Club Med Resorts in Asia-Pacific, happiness is on the horizon.
Ask for a quote today for your hassle-free, All-Inclusive Holiday.
Club Med has a large selection of Resorts for an incomparable All-Inclusive Holiday, where you can do as much or as little as you choose! Visit Club Med to discover more about the new experiences Club med has to offer.
Please note that this offer is valid for travel until 30th of April 09 and is even applicable during the school holidays*. No credit card fee for online bookings.
Club Med
Phone number: 1300 855 052
Email:
Website: www.clubmed.com.au
PS: Win a week of All-Inclusive Happiness at the new Club Med Nusa Dua. Enter now
Tropical North Queensland on sale
Enjoy a pre-Christmas break in Tropical North Queensland, before summer holidaymakers hit the beach, and save.
Wotif.com have Tropical North Queensland on sale, making it a perfect destination to escape colder southern climes. Examples of accomodation offers are:
· Cairns Colonial Club Resort, from $94 per night, including complimentary airport transfers
· Cairns Sunshine Tower Hotel, from $80, two night minimum stay, including free bottle of sparkling wine and free parking
· Beach Front Apartments on Trinity Beach, from $115, minimum three nights stay
· Turtle Cove Resort, Port Douglas, from $110, minimum two night stay, tropical breakfast included
For more offer, visit Wotif.com
Tassie tour discounts
Enjoy double the discount on APT Tasmanian tours next year, making holidaying in Australia a more attractive option.
For passengers booking selected 12 day Royal Tasman tours between January and April 2009, APT has doubled its discount to $350 per person, lowering the price to $3795 per person. And those wishing to travel on the ten day Gourmet Adventurer can take advantage of an increase in the discount on offer from $200 to $250. The new discounted price of $3545 is available on three departures between January and March.
In both cases, prices include touring, most meals, cruising accommodation, national park fees and entrance fees, with flights to Launceston extra.
For more information on discounts, tour itineraries and departure dates, visit
APT.
Turtle voyage
From the beginning of October, green and loggerhead turtles are heading to Herron Island to start breeding. With this free night offer from Voyages Resorts, you could be joining them.
Some of these wonderful turtles will have travelled over 2,000km from their nesting ground to lay their eggs on the beach and by early November, you can witness the hatchlings running for the safety of the water.
Voyages Hotels and Resorts are offering guests two nights free accommodation if they book six. This represents a saving of 33%, achieving a nightly rate of $128 per person, per night (twin share) and includes a full buffet breakfast daily and island activities such as snorkelling and guided reef and birdlife walks.
For more information or to make a booking, visit Voyages.
Free camping
A few nights in a tent may not be your idea of a perfect holiday but you never know until you try and with BIG4 Holiday Parks offering a free night camping, now is as good a time as any.
Come Camp with Big4 is offering you the chance to stay at one of over 130 holiday parks around Australia on 7 November 2008 for free. All you have to do is bring along your tent, camping equipment and a sense of fun and adventure. This year, the event will support the Humour Foundation’s Clown Doctors by selling Clown Doctor dolls to raise money and donating money from the sale of BIG4 memberships.
Everyone needs some laughter in their life so head along to your nearest BIG4 park. For more information or to book you spot, visit Big4.
Tassie tour discounts
It may be an island at the very bottom of Australia, but Tasmania is very much part of this great nation. Bow you can save up to $100 per couple on a spectacular Tasmanian tour.
Evergreen Tours are offering a 10 day “Tasmanian Spectacular” tour, with up to $100 off per couple. Visiting Launceston, overnighting at Port Arthur, two Nights in Hobart, Burnie and the Tamar Valley. Included in this escorted tour are first class accommodation, all breakfasts, most dinners, all major sightseeing and attractions. Some of the other highlights on offer are Salamanca Markets, Gordon River Cruise, Cradle Mountain, Woolmers Estate & National Rose Garden and Anvers Chocolates. Priced from only $2419 pp, seats are limited and conditions apply. Call 1300 364 414 or visit Evergreen Tours.
$100 road trips
The price of fuel may be at an all time high but $100 can take you further than you think in a fuel-efficient car.
Hire a fuel efficient car from Vroom Vroom Vroom for the weekend and $100 can take you up to 875km. Even factoring in the average cost of hiring a vehicle for the weekend, which can vary from state to state and depending on the time of year, you can get further by car than you can with the cheapest of airline fares. Some suggested weekend road trips are:
Sydney to Shellharbour via “Paradise”
A favourite with day-trippers since the railway brought the first tourists to town in 1887, Shellharbour is just an hour’s drive south of Sydney but some of the memorable sites along the way make it an unforgettable journey.
London Bridge to the Goldfields of Sovereign Hill
Drive the 800km of the Great Southern Touring Route and save yourself a trip to the UK to see the London Bridge. All that remains of the natural double span bridge is the arch but the Twelve Apostles and the Great Ocean Road make it a journey worth taking.
Perth to Kalgoorlie
This journey will take you approximately six and a half hours, about 595km, allowing you to take your time, visit the quaint country towns en route, and enjoy the best of local hospitality with a farmstay.
For more information on car hire, visit Vroom Vroom Vroom.
Canada Motorhome
18 days from $2199* per person twin share, departing Australia 01 Feb to 21 May 09
*Includes airfares ex Sydney. Taxes extra.
Contact Adventure Destinations on 1300 136 330 or visit www.adventuredestinations.com.au
Japan rail pass discounts
One of the easiest ways to get around Japan is by rail and thanks to discounts on Japan Rail passes by HIS, this is now even cheaper.
Offered in two classes, Ordinary and the superior Green class, discounts apply to all seven, 14 and 21 consecutive day rail passes. Orindary passes start from $295 for a seven-day pass, $638 for a 14-day pass and $830 for a 21-day pass.
To understand the true value these passes represent to visitors, a seven-day pass is equivalent in cost to a return ticket between Tokyo and Osaka. An added benefit of the pass is that it can also be used on Japan’s extensive national network of buses and ferries.
Passes must be pre-booked and are only available to international visitors. For more information, visit Travel Japan.
Rail Explorer Pass
International travellers can now enjoy the best of Australian rail travel for a budget $690.
Non-Australian passport holders can enjoy unlimited travel, with Red Daynighter Seat service over a period of six months, on the Ghan, Indian Pacific and the Overland train services for $690. Great news for family and friends making the trip down under.
Red Daynighter Seats are comfortable and affordable, making them ideal for the more budget conscious traveller. All guests can access the Lounge Car, to meet other guests and enjoy affordable light meals snacks and drinks. Towels and soap are provided for every guest with showers and toilets located at the end of each carriage.
If you’re looking for a way to wow your visitors from overseas, the spectacular landscapes and wildlife that can be seen as these trains glide across Australia, will leave them with memories of their trip which will last a lifetime.
For more information on any of these train journeys or the Rail Explorer Pass, visit Great Southern Railways.
Free fuel alerts
The name isn’t too glamorous, but motormouth is a site we like very much. A running list of the best fuel prices in major locations plus free email updates are too good to ignore.
The site is still in its infancy, so it doesn’t cover all major cities, but for many capital city residents or visitors it does offer a useful way of comparing fuel prices and saving hard-earned dollars when buying petrol or diesel.
Find out more here
Campus accomodation
Ever wondered what happened to student accommodation on campus once the kids have headed home for the holidays? Enjoy urban short stays in campus accommodation for as little as $55.
Campus Living Villages offers quality, apartment-style accommodation at eight locations throughout Australia and New Zealand from $55 per night. Properties and stylishly furnished and range from studios to mutli-share apartments. Facilities differ from location to location but most include a secure on-site business center, conference venue and function rooms, internet and laundry service.
Available from the end of the academic year in November, until February, staying on campus gives you full access to sporting and leisure facilities that really are impressive.
Take advantage of truly affordable accommodation and relive your student life.
All about you
Pamper yourself in five-star luxury on the island of Koh Lanta, Thailand, with these great value All About Me packages.
Langham Place Eco Resort and Spa, Krabi have introduced a series of packages aimed at meeting the needs of travellers looking to relax in five-star luxury on this beautiful island. The Buy Me, Place Me, Indulge Me and Surprise Me packages offer exceptional value in picturesque setting.
Starting at only $215 (approx) for two people sharing, the packages include three nights accommodation, breakfast, a fresh fruit basket daily and a late check out of 4pm, as well as additional extras depending on your package.
Packages on offer include:
Buy me from $215 (approx)
As above with roundtrip transfer to/from Krabi airport
Place me from $340 (approx)
As Buy me plus one Thai style set dinner
Indulge me from $482 (approx)
As Place me plus 60-minute Chuan Spa massage
Surprise me from $632 (approx)
As Indulge me plus
· One Thai set lunch
· Full-day sightseeing tour around Koh Lanta
· All you can drink mini bar
For more information, or to make a booking, visit www.langhamplacehotels.com
Spirit of Tasmania
Spirit of Tasmania provides grandparents with a wide variety of accommodation and onboard entertainment facilities to make sailing with their grandchildren extremely convenient, comfortable and enjoyable, including the Children’s Room on Deck Seven. For more information, call 13 20 10 or click here
Travel and learn
Odyssey Ed-Ventures are educational travel programs designed with those over-45 in mind. They offer 41 programs which go to Europe, the Middle east, Africa, Asia and the Americas, as well as eight programs in Australia. Operated by the Australian & New Zealand College for Seniors, Ed-Ventures will broaden your knowledge and incease your understanding of wherever you visit. For more information, click here
Tours for all the family
Travel with kidz can help work out the best possible itinerary for you and your family. They know all the destinations and accommodation that cater for the needs of different family members, which as we all know, can vary quite a bit. To find out more click here
Family experiences in the U.S.
Family Experiences tours are designed especially with cross-generational travel needs in mind. They provide affordable and hassle-free holiday options in America. The tours balance group activities, free time and child-focused activities with the more broad-appeal sightseeing. Find out more
55 per cent off The Ghan
Government funding, combined with the Great Southern Rail discount, will provide pensioners with a saving of up to 55 per cent off the adult fare in Red Kangaroo Daynighter Seats and up to 32 per cent off the adult Gold Kangaroo Service fare. Special Veterans will now receive a reduction of up to 90 per cent off The Ghan, which runs between Alice Springs and Darwin.
If you have always dreamt of travelling on The Ghan to the Northern Territory, that dream is now much more affordable. Find out more
Farmstay fun
For only $125.00 - $150 a night, you can experience life at Brindabella Station, a turn of the century homestead which was the childhood home of Miles Franklin, author of My Brilliant Career. This beautiful working farm offers fishing, canoeing, horse riding, bushwalking, viewing of native animals and birds in the valley. Located in the high country, Brindabella runs both sheep and Murray Grey cattle. Accommodation is restricted to non-smoking guests. (Adults only in the homestead, children only catered for in the cottage.) For more information, phone (02) 6236 2121 or click here
The London Pass
This pass gives access to London’s museums, historic buildings and locations!
The London Pass is museum/attractions pass which bills itself as the ‘Passport to London’ allowing free entry into over 60 London attractions. The Pass is valid for 1, 2, 3, or 6 consecutive days.
The prices range from 1-day adult $89 to 6 days $200, with children (5 - 15 years) receiving a further discount.
Enjoy free priority admission into over 60 London attractions including the London Zoo, The Tower of London and Windsor Castle, a free 128 page colour guidebook and discounted offers at selected restaurants and attractions.
Find out more at Rail Plus’ website, including the full list of attractions.
Beach beauty
South Australia’s beaches are this country’s best kept travel secret. Whether you want spectacular dunes, crashing waves or calmer waters, the Yorke Peninsula’s unspoilt national parks offer great fishing, surfing, snorkelling and diving, as well as bushwalking, birdwatching and fascinating history.
For the marine-minded, there are two underwater trails for the beginner and the experienced diver, as well as historical jetties which provide excellent opportunities to see historical shipwrecks.
Yorke Peninsula can accommodate you in a range of fashions – from beach shack getaways to romantic bed and breakfasts. Walk Innes National Park or take in the history of the natural resources museums and mining communities.
For more information or download the visitor guide.
