Australia Fiesta

Ahh…..this post has transported me back to my trip Down Under. Though I couldn’t afford to stay at Australia’s most luxurious getaway at Lizard Island Resort, located in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, the Tangalooma Resort off Gold Coast wasn’t an inferior deal either. Of course by shelling out about $454,000 for five nights (all meals, drinks and activities included), it’s a sure heavenly destination. Located right on the Great Barrier Reef, there are 24 powdery-white beaches and 40 luxurious suites. Beautiful white beaches, fabulous snorkeling a few steps from the resort, amazing outer reef dives only an hour away plus five star accommodation, gourmet cuisine and wines and privacy that most A-list celebrities crave.

Global warming poses to be the most lethal threat to our planet today and is one of the most burning issues on the mind of any environmentalist around the globe. The harmful emissions and greenhouse gases being generated in humongous quantities on a daily basis is what damages the environment even further. Vehicles, airplanes, factories etc. are the culprits to be blamed for these emissions but they are an inevitable part of our lives post-industrialization and can’t be completely avoided. However, what irks most environmentalists is the amount of harmful gases emitted from flights that tourists take to globe trot. Tourism, according to them is an industry that contributes largely to the pollution around the world, hence adding to their woes and acting as a hindrance to their efforts to curb pollution.

The land down under got it’s name for a reason. If you care for snorkeling with Sting rays, living off $10 steak dinners, and craving for a view of the outback, come on down to Sydney, Australia to check things out for yourself. The only problem would be the long air travel: about 14 hours from U.S. to Australia.

Australia consists of hundreds of thousands of kilometers of empty space which is being put to apt use by its government. The glaring desert sun of this plain is soon to witness the world’s largest 18-hole golf course, stretching across 1,200 km.

It seems Australia has a fondness for big things. The pineapple in Gympie, the Giant Earthworm in South Gippsland and Ned Kelly in Glenrowan are some of the finest examples that prove this fondness. Now look at the picture above. Located on the northern outskirts of Coffs Harbour, it’s a huge structure known by the name the Big Banana.

With the aim to promote the new campaign that focuses on New Zealand as the youngest country on earth, Tourism New Zealand plans embrace new technology. It has signed a 24 hours contract with popular internet site YouTube. It’s a $US320,000 ($NZ450,000) deal according to which Tourism NZ will take over the paid video space on the YouTube homepage for 24 hours, starting at 4pm on September 18 and new 100% Pure New Zealand commercial will be shown on the homepage space of the site. Three months of a New Zealand branded channel will follow the 24 hour contract. Tourism NZ linked up with Wellington-based Weta Digital to animate the Maori legend of Maui hauling the North Island from the sea.

Source: Stuff

Are TV shows and movies enormously powerful tools for destination promotion? It seems, yes. In the recent past, the Australian tourism industry started Australian soap named Neighbours which was highly successful in flocking large number of British tourists to Australia. The success and popularity of this soap made Australian Tourism Minister, Fran Bailey to come up with new idea for a Japanese soap.

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Every traveler marvels at the natural beauty of New Zealand. The clear skies, snowy Alps, green pastures, rolling hills and lots more! It’s a country of rare beauty where glacial mountains, fast-flowing rivers, deep lakes and hissing geysers abound.

There are many ice caves around the world but did you know that the world’s largest ice caves are found in Austria? Eisriesenwelt Ice Caves are some of the largest known to man. The ice in Eisriesenwelt caves remains frozen throughout the year and you can see some spectacular ice formations such as waterfalls and glaciers.

Owned by the National Austrian Forestry Commission, it is a natural limestone ice cave that has a length of 42 km. Only the first kilometer is covered in ice and rest of the cave is formed of limestone. The caves are open during the summer months and closed during winters from November to April due to worse Alpine weather.

If you are heading to Austria and wish to visit the Eisriesenwelt Ice Caves warm yourself up. Usually the temperature remains under zero, so make sure to be prepared to save your-self from the cutting cold. The cave would provide you one of the most thrilling experiences during your Austria visit.

Location:

Eisriesenwelt Caves are situated near Village Werfen, about 40 km south of Salzburg city. Sitting at the height of 1640m, these caves have more than 40km (25mi) of explored passageways.

Getting There:

Eisriesenwelt Caves can be reached on the Tauern motorway, on the trunk road from Salzburg or by train. Local buses are also available from the Werfen village. People who are comfortable walking 5 km can reach on foot also. There are no electronic lights in the cave. One has to guide himself on his own with the help of carbide lamps provided.

Source: Gadling

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If you love to be in the laps of the Mother Nature Wanaka is just the right place. Lake Wanaka, the fourth largest lake in New Zealand is the ideal place to take a deep breath and relax. It’s a hidden paradise that is protected from the outside world by the grandeur of the mountains. The crystal-clear water of Lake Wanaka reflects the snow-capped peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park.

Lake Wanaka lies in a u-shaped valley formed by glacial erosion more than 10,000 years ago during the last ice age. In a parallel valley carved by a neighboring glacier eight km to the east lies Lake Hawea which is another wonderful lake. At their closest points, the lakes are only 1,000 meters apart.

In the southern end of the lake are numerous small islands. Rabbit Island, Stevensons Island and Harwich Island are the notable islands that are now serving as ecological sanctuaries.

The lake is a popular resort much used in the summer for fishing, boating and swimming. The nearby mountains and fast-flowing rivers allow for adventure tourism year-round. In all seasons, outdoor adventures beckon you can go for mountain biking, tramping and climbing. Wanaka is also one of New Zealand’s top ski destinations, with four ski and snowboarding areas close by.

When viewed, it looks as if the Lake is a picture and the mountains are the frame. Believe me, it’s one of the most scenic places in New Zealand.

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Source: nzonline

Nestled at the base of the Cardrona Valley on the outskirts of Lake Wanaka is Cardrona Terrace Estate, one of the most unique and amazing lodges in New Zealand. It’s a luxury retreat ideally suited to business or pleasure and is an ideal base to explore the Wanaka region.

Created by Dunedin-raised Sharon and Aucklander Kevin Alderson, Cardrona Terrace Estate is a dream house. It’s an Italian-style house set on a 20-hectare property above the Cardona River with views up the Matukituki Valley.

The five-star accommodation lodge is designed with eco-friendly thermopanel, which keeps it warm in winter and cool in summer. It has been designed to reflect the changing colors, the moods and the light of the Central Otago landscape. Set in a working vineyard planted in pinot noir and Riesling, the lodge has a special ambience of its own.

Clean mountain air, breathtaking scenery, the tranquility of the surrounds make this lodge an ideal retreat for those who want to take time out and relax or participate in the numerous outdoor activities Wanaka has to offer.

From outdoor heated spa pool, restaurant, private parking area to beauty therapy and aromatherapy massage, all facilities are available at Cardrona Terrace Estate. Take the time out away from the stresses and pressures of everyday life to witness the awe-inspiring scenery and rejuvenate your spirit and soul while you stay at the lodge.

Location:

84 Morris Rd, Wanaka

Charges:

Including breakfast, the rooms are available at $495-$895 double a night.

Click here to get more information about the lodge.

Scroll down for more pictures of the lodge.

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Source: Stuff

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How can anyone miss Ayers Rock while on trip to Australia? Ayers Rock also known as Uluru is the Australia’s most famous natural landmark and the world’s largest monolith. Sunset and sunrise at the Rock is perhaps the most magical scene.

South Australian premier Sir Henry lyres discovered this huge Rock. Apart from the size of Uluru that makes this viewing so memorable is the fact that this gigantic rock doesn’t have exactly the same hue. As each day passes, the rock changes color depending upon the atmospheric conditions and light.

Once at the rock, you can make the steep climb to the top along the marked walking track with handrail. It takes 90 minutes return. The 10km walk around the rock takes 5 hours. There are three semi-permanent pools from the water run off from the rock and there are aboriginal cave paintings in places.

Enjoy a spectacular show of color as the sun’s first rays strike the imposing face of Ayers Rock. It is most visited attraction of Australia with 400,000 visitors a year.

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Getting Around:

There are several shops within the resort, as well as the shops located at the cultural center in the National Park. You can purchase pieces from 20 Australian Dollars up to 10,000 Australian Dollars, depending on style and size.

Also, visit Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Center, which is dedicated to help visitors, learn more about the cultural value of the region.

Accommodation:

Ayers Rock Resort, Yulara: It’s just 12 miles from the Rock. Visitors can stay or camp at the resort. The resort provides excellent facilities and accommodation ranging from a campsite to five-star hotels. Its 13 sumptuous tents, each with an untrammeled view of the Rock, are well-known across Australia.

The Lost Camel Hotel with a designer ambience is also a good choice. Rooms are box-like and minimalist, but they’re air-conditioned and there’s a small pool. Charges: £172 for doubles.

Emu Walk offers bungalow-style serviced apartments that sleep up to six and is best for families.

Outback Pioneer Hotel has air-conditioned rooms Charges: Starting from £77 (budget, shared facilities) and £172 (double with en-suite).

Eat at:

The Kuniya Restaurant at Sails in the Desert, the DIY barbeque at the Outback Pioneer Hotel are the best places to dine at. You’ll find the cheaper eats on the shopping square. But, Sounds of Silence restaurant will give you the most exhilarating dining experience.

Getting There:

Travelmood offers a four-day Uluru, Kings Canyon and Alice Springs Highlights package. Including accommodation, transfers and tours, the charges are from £477 per person, with return flight to Sydney with Emirates from £782 and Qantas flights from Sydney to the Red Center from £312.

Source: Telegraph

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Hobart is one of the world’s most photogenic cities which is shaped and defined by the ocean, river and a majestic mountain. It has many early grand homes and public buildings, workers’ cottages and warehouses, heritage parks and gardens.

Hobart town has a thriving festival scene and a real sense of history. People at Hobart enjoy a great lifestyle with bustling markets, a flourishing arts scene, festivals and entertainment, numerous restaurants and bars to savor Tasmania’s superb cool-climate wines, famous beers, and delicious, fresh foods.

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Also, Hobart offers a wide range of outdoor activities including sailing, boating, fishing, horse-riding, surfing, kayaking and cycling. Visitors can take advantage of the numerous activities and attractions on offer in and around the city.

One can enjoy night life in Hobart but the real action takes place during the day, when nature beckons. The balmy wind blows on the Alpine terrain.

Places to see:

Salamanca Place: A palace which is the fine example of Australian colonial architecture lies in the heart of the city. There are house galleries, restaurants, nightspots and shops selling everything from vegetables to antiques. Each Saturday, Salamanca Place is the site for Salamanca Market which is popular with both tourists and locals. This palace is a ‘must see’ when in Hobart.

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Mt Wellington: It’s the main feature of Hobart’s skyline and has its own ecosystems. It is rich in biodiversity and plays a large part in determining the local weather. The hike to the top of Mt Wellington is very pleasant, with the spectacular views over Hobart and surrounding areas.

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The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens: A popular recreation area which is the second-oldest Botanic Garden in Australia and holds extensive significant plant collections.

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Cadbury Chocolate Factory: A tour to Cadbury chocolate factory is must for all the kids and those young at heart. It’s a rewarding and sweet experience. You’ll see how chocolate is being made and at the same time enjoy free samples. You can also buy chocolates from Cadbury Chocolate Shop to buy chocolate at factory prices with a huge range of Cadbury products available.

Make sure, you go to Fish Frenzy which is a casual and busy eatery right on the waterfront with fantastic fish and chips. This is not all; Hobart is a strangely exotic city which has lots in store for you.

Source: IHT

Hanging Rock, the setting for the novel and film ‘Picnic At Hanging Rock’is one of the most famous places in Central Victoria. It’s a place where you can see abundance of wildlife and native fauna.

The rock is a small steep-sided volcano known as a mamelon which was formed six million years ago. You’ll have to climb the rock if you wish to be rewarded with magnificent views and want to immerse yourself in the history and mystery of the rock. It can be as mysterious or magical as you want.

Harvest picnic at Hanging Rock:

No, doubt this is an event for food-lovers. It’s an outdoor food and wine event where you can discover new products or relish new flavors of the region. In the event the producers from all around Victoria gather to sample, sell and showcase their delicious array of goods. Cooking demonstrations, live music, and dance are the main features of the event.

Hanging Rock Winery:

The Hanging Rock Winery is a superb winery in Victoria that sits on the Jim Jim, a hill facing Hanging Rock. It has huge range of wines which all seem to be good value for money. This winery is open seven days a week. One of the best known of Hanging Rock’s wines is the Heathcote Shiraz.

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Hanging Rock Winery Retreat:

Hanging Rock Winery Retreat is a retreat known for its seclusion style and its cellar door. It is pleasingly secluded, away from the hub of wine making activity and overlooking a panoramic landscape of bush land, toward Hanging Rock and Mt Macedon.

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The retreat is perfectly suited to a group of friends. It’s an ideal space with privacy, an award-winning winery and a peaceful country setting.

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Source: Stuff