This has inspired the travel enthusiasts to come up with a new and innovative reason to travel which is caring for nature and getting close to it. This kind of travel can be called eco-travel where the traveler makes the maximum effort on his part to reduce the amount of pollution generated by his traveling by opting for greener fuels which is offered by some airlines, staying at hotels which offer the most eco-friendly options and sightseeing the natural way too. As weird and far-fetched it sounds, it is being considered by those who want to travel to the exotic destinations though with a guilt free conscience of being eco-friendly. These eco-friendly travelers do make it a point to interact with the local cultures thus, in the process, preserving and saving many cultures which would otherwise become extinct leaving behind no records of their existence.

The hotels these travelers stay in are mostly located in the forests, staying true to their eco-friendliness and offer a variety of environment friendly features to attract environmentally conscious traveler. The bulbs and geysers are powered with solar energy and the food is cooked the traditional way on charcoal thus saving lots of precious fuels. The travel agents which take the tourists for sightseeing have also started cashing in on this trend by offering hiking and rappelling the traditional way thus not harming nature and being eco-friendly.

Helping the planet or not, these little eco-friendly steps are sure helping those in the business and also keeping the traveler busy by providing new reasons to travel the same destination again and that too guilt-free.

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Via: nytimes

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.

After the long and tiring flight, the view of the Great barrier reef is just fascinating. The blue penguins, sting rays and black swans are very welcoming indeed. They are there to greet the tired visitor to the land down under. The author of the MSNBC article and his wife never really got to Australia during their career as editors on board the ship. Now, the author and his wife Betty are on a mission to visit and explore Australia.

If the city gets old fast, try some adventure activities in Sydney. For a price tag of Aus $1150, you can climb up the Sydney harbor bridge arch from the safety of your harness. Downtown, you can gear up for the Sydney skywalk. I am talking about a walk on the roof of a tower, 800 feet above the city. Whew! That’s like walking in the clouds.

If you are a water person, you can opt for a round trip ferry ride which will cost you about nine bucks. The ride is worth $9. The view of the Sydney opera house will make you speechless. Right outside the city limits, where the cane plantations end, the Kuranda range rises. You can opt for a train ride as well as a north-south flight to Melbourne. Make sure you visit the Botanical garden. Last but not the least, you can go for nude or semi nude bungee jumping. Just don’t look at where you are headed and your vacation will be great!

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This golf course is rather an unconventional one, with each hole being located at a different town along the course. Looks like golf players would be needing long distance transportation.

A hole course that might start at Kalgoorlie may end up at Ceduna.
To add more to it, one of the holes isn’t even located in a town, it’s at a secluded, out of the way sheep farm.

Via: Gadling

Image: Nullarbor Desert

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.

It is 40 year old giant structure which is probably the most photographed object in Australia. Believe me it’s so gigantic that you can walk through. It is indeed one of the most famous man-made tourist attractions of Australia.

Whichever time of the day you go, you’ll find cameras clicking away, individuals, couples, honeymooners, small groups, families and loads of people recording their visit to the Big Banana.

Even if you fall short of time when you are on a visit to the Big Banana, I suggest you not to miss taking a short walk up the big banana sky-walk. It’s an elevated walkway through the banana plantation that provides access to Coffs’ coast lookout offering spectacular views over Coffs Harbour City Centre. If you plan your trip to Australia between July and October, you can view the annual migration of whales.

Even the thrill seeker won’t be disappointed. Half a kilometer downhill you can take a Toboggan ride that guarantees adrenalin rush and fun for all. Also, there is a Big Banana ice rink that offers wonderful opportunity for ice-skating. With lots of recreational activities, a variety of food experiences and several retail outlets, the Big Banana is a family place that has something for everyone.

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Source: Stuff

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.

The show starring Japanese actor Yoshino Kimura will feature major tourist icons such as Uluru, the Great Ocean Road and the Sydney Opera House. It is anticipated that the new soap will help luring large number of Japanese tourists and strengthening of the Australian dollar against the yen.

The economic value graph of international tourism to Australia is continuously rising and tourism industry expects further increase with this TV soap. Time only will show how far this effort helps encourage Japanese travelers to choose Australia as a relaxing break destination.

Source: Stuff

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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.

Two well known islands of New Zealand are North and South island. Often we see people raving about the South Island. One may think why people are biased about their opinions when they make comparison between the North and the South. You need to visit this wonderful island to get the answer of this question.

Well-known for its natural beauty, the South Island is a place blessed with tranquil lakes, massive glaciers, bizarre landscapes, rugged mountains, wild rivers and lush forest. All these are the treasures of South island.

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Nelson Lakes, Christchurch, Fox Glacier, Queenstown, Fiordland, Mount Hutt, Buller, Catlins, Central Otago, Kahurangi National Park, Kaikoura, Arthur’s Pass, Westland Mount Aspiring and Mckenzie Country are few such places that are worth visit while on trip to South Island. It’s a long list of places which have majestic wilderness and wonderful landscapes.

The island has such beautiful landscapes you can hike them, jump off them or just stare at them with your mouth open. You’ll be rewarded with is the spectacular panorama. A visit to South Island is sure to make your New Zealand trip worthwhile.

Have a look the stunning pictures of South Island.

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Source: USA Today

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

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