last updated :   OCTOBER 27   2008......

 

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IMPORTANT :  These reports are a guide only and prepared from material supplied by operators and in most cases, from personal observations.  It is important that you check with operators of any product mentioned before taking further steps in regards to general enquiries, reservations and so on.   Prices, facilities and services may vary or be discontinued.  Whilst all care is taken in compiling these reports no responsibility will be accepted by the writer of these reports.

 

TRAVEL BRIEFS

By John Crook

Nothing like a train journey

This one travels through five countries departing April 9 2009.  It’s the 21-day Silk Road experience. Moscow to Beijing.   Cost for a silver class room, including accommodation with private en-suite and all meals from onboard chefs, private bar car, sightseeing guides, local transport and return transfers,  is from $28,454 per person twin share.  The journey can also be taken westbound from Beijing on April 12.  Contact 1300 363 554 or visit  www.beyondtravel.com.au

 

                             

New services ex Brisbane to Bali

Starting December 14, Garuda Indonesia is allowing children under 12 to travel free.  The offer includes free Australian government taxes and free fuel surcharges.  So any child up to 11 years of age, accompanied by two full fare paying adults, on year round fares, qualify.  The offer does not apply to passengers travelling on special promotional fares in ‘B’ and ‘Q’ subclasses.   The promotion is valid for passengers in economy and executive classes, travelling between December 14 2008 and January 31 2009, including Christmas. To check on conditions and payment requirements, telephone 1300 365 331.

 

Complimentary rail transfers

It is worth checking on how you can access one of the world’s best short train crossings in the world.  I refer to the extension of the complimentary transfer service which includes pickup and drop off at the TranzAlpine railway station and Huntley House.  The other option is to dp the transfer in a luxurious Mercedes Benz 8-seater people mover.  Either option takes you to paradise and to Christchurch’s boutique Huntley House, a member of Select Hotels and Resorts International.  Check it out by emailing enquiries@selecthotels.com or telephone (02) 8969 3900

 

UK August and the Tattoo

If your travel plans have you in the UK in August 2009 avoid the fight to book accommodation and instead, sail from Dover to Edinburgh, making the classic Saga Ruby your ‘Edinburgh hotel.’  It is a four-night mini-cruise departing Dover August 24.  Entry to the Tattoo is included in the price which also features all onboard dining, classic English afternoon teas daily, West End style entertainment each night, late release movies and dancing to a live band.  Telephone 1800 225 656 for your nearest   Price is from a reasonable $1,435 per person, twin share Cruiseco cruise specialist.

India by private car

Here’s the opportunity to tour north and south India on a 33-day Grand Indian Panorama package.  Villages, temples, wildlife sanctuaries even a deluxe houseboat cruise.  Priced from $7,189 per person twin share the package includes touring, sightseeing, rail travel, three game drives and 41 meals. Check it out on www.tempoholidays.com

Brisbane on your doorstep

Now is the time to ‘do’ Brisbane.  The climate at this time of the year is just terrific. Make plans to book a studio apartment at Mantra South Bank, from just $199 per night, and that places you within easy walking distance of the CBD, the galleries and the famous Brisbane lifestyle. The price tag is valid Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights to December 24 2008.  That includes  accommodation, breakfast and car parking.  For bookings telephone 1300 557 575.

Ever been to Orange?

What a stunning city is Orange, with its treelined boulevards, wonderful wines, excellent dining and just about the happiest people on earth.  Everyone, so it seems, is smiling. An offer from Clifton Gardens b&b will put a smile on your face.  John and Kay Gransden offer a two night package valued at $450, but on available to our readers for $370.  That includes superb accommodation, full country breakfast and a personalised wine tour of the district.  Telephone (02) 6365 1044 or visit www.cliftongardens.net.au

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages  and prices are subject to change and availability.  Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ?  We’re archived on  http://travellersgoodbuys.info

Adventure touring for more than 80 years

One of South Africa’s most exclusive game reserves, steeped in history and adventure, has designed an exclusive Cape Town and Londolozi program for high-end travellers. Check the inclusions and price tag for the ‘protector of all living things’ touring options created by Southern Africa’s oldest and largest travel company Rennies Travel.  Visit www.nemonic.com.au

Thai specials

A range of island escape packages which hook into Thai’s special Spring airfare, make Thailand a real option  if booked before November 1 with travel taken by November 20.There’s an eight-night deal to Phuket staying at the Sunset Beach Resort, priced from $1533 per person and that includes two free nights of accommodation.  The package includes return economy airfare from Sydney and taxes, accommodation, daily buffet breakfasts, complimentary late check out and return airport transfers. Check the other offerings and prices ex Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth,  by contacting 1300 369 747.

Linger longer on Gold Coast

Book and pay before December 15 2008   and travel before March 31 2009 to benefit from a hot deal which offers four nights for the price of three at BreakFree Acapulco.  The price is from just $224 per apartment per night but you stay for four and pay for just three.    For bookings and for news of other Gold Coast escapes telephone 132 007.

Italian elegance and luxury

The Costa Marina  is elegance afloat and if you travel peak season of June, July or August,  the eleven night cruise next year is priced from $2749 per person twin share  and that includes all meals, entertainment and onboard gratuities.   Sail out of Savona on the Italian Riviera for the Mediterranean, -  Greece, Israel, Egypt including Port Said and Cairo.  Real value with this one.  For details telephone 1300 369 848 or visit www.ecruising.travel   Airfares, taxes ands fuel surcharges are additional.

                                      

Stay at the Mansion

This Christmas and New year celebrate at the Sofitel Werribee Park Mansion Hotel & Spa.

Here’s news of a terrific package  which includes luxurious accommodation and a full buffet breakfast in Joseph’s Restaurant.   Check out the options which are on offer with this festive package.  A night in a classic room is from $99 per person per night.  Check on the other deals by visiting www.mansionhotel.com.au    Telephone (03) 9731.4000.

Virgin to Mildura

Daily flights from Melbourne to Mildura have been underway for a week or more.  Jet services have been introduced by Virgin Blue.  A 78-seater has been put into service and whilst initial flights are during the middle of the day, there may be changes pending results of surveys.  To check if these flights suit your travel plans check www.virginblue.com.au or telephone 136 789

Norfolk , here we come

The history unfolds before your eyes with NRMA Travel offering a series of 8-day tours to beautiful Norfolk Island.  This is a unique chance to learn more about the convict era through the Bounty Mutineers heritage.  The tours run between February 7 and June 10 next year.  Guided touring, a meet and greet with airport transfers, and a seven-night stay at the All Seasons Colonial Hotel, where cooked breakfasts are included each day.   This one deserves  a telephone call, if only to  check on the other extras which are historically tailored and costed into the tour price.    Prices are from $1799 per person, twin share ex Sydney.  Ring for prices ex Brisbane and Newcastle. Just a reminder there’s a $30 Norfolk Island tax payable on departing the island.  Call 1300 762 060 or visit www.nrmatravel.com.au

 

DOWN UNDER -  SOME IDEAS TO INCLUDE IN YOUR TRAVELS

first up -   DANDENONG - VICTORIA

From our earliest days of immigration, into this land down-under, settlers not only battled the elements but also to endure tensions associated with race.

Following the arrival of the British, with their band of  misfits, the floodgates were soon open.  The Chinese first introduced a change in our make-up via the gold fields.  These were followed by Italians, Greeks and a plethora of other ‘new Australians’, as part of a major immigration program.   Then, the Vietnamese and those from the Middle East joined the queue.  Without exception each ethnic group has had to break through the barriers of our brand of racism.

       

                                        

Ethnicity, with its strange languages, new cuisines and customs is forming a truly multi-cultural society and the latest changes which we are embracing are initially centred around food.

Those who are old enough will recall how bland was Aussie cuisine of the 40’s, 50’s and into the 60’.  The European kids with their strange meats were shunned by their school mates. Where they had a choice of continental style meats and breads, we were eating soggy tomato and cheese sandwiches.

All of a sudden it appeared there was change in the air. 

Perhaps credit should be directed to the Chinese and their restaurants,  the Greeks with their cafes, and was it the Italians who introduced us to enjoying a wine with a meal ?

 In the City of Greater Dandenong three ethnic groups are breaking down the barriers by creating quite specific  precincts.  In Springvale, Vietnamese are on the move with dozens of family based businesses being established.

In Dandenong itself the first branded precinct is Little India.  Not to be outdone, Afghani families have launched an Afghanistan precinct.   Early next year participating businesses will operate under the branded banner of the Afghan Bazaar.

                                 

Cultural tours already welcome guests who want to experience enchanting Afghan culture, fashion, food and music.

Currently the tours occur once a month and they are completely booked out well in advance.  The tours are free and provide tasting plates of traditional food.  They also include fashion, music, carpets, authentic spices and ingredients.

As they are constantly heavily booked (remember the tours are free) it is possible to do self guided tours of the precinct.

On the tours the tour leader reminds participants that  Afghan culture has been part of Australia since the earliest days of exploration, particularly in South Australia, the Northern Territory and south east Queensland where Afghans plied the trails with their camels. 

The precinct is a work in progress with preparations in place to face 2009 as a fully fledged precinct.  Greater Dandenong Council not only assists new settlers in establishing businesses but, as a joint partner helps to create a better understanding of different cultures.

The Afghan Bazaar operates in Dandenong’s Thomas Street, between Clow and Walker streets.  It’s here where one captivates the culture and hospitality of men and women proud of their culture as well as their Australian citizenship.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

 

and now, another slice of Oz

ORANGE CONCERT - OCTOBER 25 2008.

Let’s head towards Orange in New South Wales to put the spotlight on the Concert in the Vineyard which is scheduled October 25th at Windowrie Estate. 

The concert features the Macquarie Male Singers and takes place in the five-acre gardens of the vineyard.

For those who may be travelling in the Orange region, it could be just the event to slot in  as part of your travel plans. 

Gales open at 2.30 which allows time to inspect the gardens and to settle in for some great entertainment.

A good chance also to do a wine tasting.

The musical program ranges from classics, to ballads and the musicals.

Orange is an awakening wine region and when coupled with some jolly good entertainment, it becomes a real consideration.  The cost is $20 a head with profits going to the St Vincent de Paul Society. For more information email wine@windowrie.com.au

 

and how about this, -

THE TOWN OF EUROA NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT

A major company in this Victorian town has suffered a body blow with its closing of its doors. throwing about 90 people out of work.      Here's a chance to do your 'bit' for the lcoals of a terrific town.   GO VISIT AND STAY A NIGHT OR TWO,..that way your dollars spent in the town will help keep the place alive.

Food and wine do play an integral role with travel, and these are very important to me, as they tend to set the scene in a positive manner.

This most certainly has been the case with my visit into the beautiful Strathbogie Ranges of Victoria.

Two brilliant restaurants, and both in the service town of Euroa.

First night I sampled the cuisine of The Silver Spoon, operated by a young chef who was trained in Europe.  The Silver Spoon is the brainchild of Kaileb and Jaimie Gosewinckel

The cuisine is excellent and the prices at what I would see as being at the right level.

Night two, it was also in Euroa and on this occasion to the Pickled Olive.

My choice was the braised oxtail with a bed of soft polenta.

Another internationally trained chef, who delivered an outstanding cuisine,.. and with generous serves.

Craig Santo Mercuri is the first class owner / chef     Both restaurants have great local wines and quite frankly I’d give ‘9 out of 10’ in all areas, that is cuisine, service, prices.  Actually I think I could even go higher with my marks.

 

The latest Travel Briefs

By John Crook

Ann is award winner

Tour leader, author and ‘good time girl’ Ann Rickard has done it again.  Her latest hilarious travel book ‘Ooh La La’ is on book shelves right now.   Her first was an instant success, ‘Not another Book about Italy’, and pre the French romp, Ann won fans with her 2007 ‘Flash and Bash with Fries on the Side’.  Anyone with France in their sights should read ‘Oo La La’, available at most book shops. Check book availabilities and news of her next group tour of France by contacting ann@annrickard.com

 

                                                    

New Europe and Britain brochure

Globus has more than 80 tour options for its 2009 season, from Portugal to Turkey and Sicily to Lapland. If tours are booked by December 15, 2008, there’s a saving of  $450 per couple on tours of 10-15 days and $600 per couple on tours of 16 days or more.    With 80 years experience in European touring, Globus knows the routes, what to see and where to go.  Check out the full range which includes Globus Vignettes which offers a slower pace, more time in each city, through to the romance of European rail travel. Check it out with your travel agent.

 

Four nights for price of three

Do the Gold Coast without the high price tag, staying four nights at Mantra Circle on Cavill from just $189 per room, per night and pay for just three nights.  The deal is valid from December 15 2008 and for travel to March 31 2009.  The property features 403 luxuriously  appointed guest rooms and suites with private balconies.   There are also deals at Mantra Legends Hotel.  Get the facts by calling 13 15 17 or check www.mantra.com.au

 

The 10th Christmas Spectacular

If you get to see just one Christmas spectacular this year, try to make it the largest automated Christmas show in the world.  The location is Melbourne’s Crown.  A free show which runs every 30 minutes, plays between Sunday November 30 2008 through Monday January 5, 2009 – 1000hrs to 2400hrs.

More than a million visitors will make it to Crown this year for what is one of the most dazzling Christmas displays. The main feature is a six storey Christmas tree.

Go catch a Trevally

Join the crew of Haumana on Tahiti’s Rangiroa Lagoon and do a spot of game fishing, shark feeding, beach and bush walking, or just lazing about.  Packages start from $6699 per person twin share ex-Sydney.  The price includes return air and taxes, three nights at the Sofitel Tahiti Resort in Papeete, four nights on Haumana with all meals, entertainment and activities and airport transfers.  Dining includes a unique 5-star picnic at tables set in the waters of the lagoon with select wines with lunches and dinners and all non-alcoholic drinks.  More info by phoning 1300 137 727 or check www.talpacific.com.au

Kiss the bride

Here’s news of a wedding package in the quiet clifftop village of Oia on Santorini, Greece.  Accommodation for two is from $798 per room per night.  To plan the entire day check www.tempoholidays.com for the full details.  That price is available for travel April 1 to May 31 and again October 1 to 31 October 2009.  Supplements apply June to September 2009.  Telephone 1300 558 987.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages  and prices are subject to change and availability.  Block out periods may apply.

Need a holiday ?  We’re archived on  http://travellersgoodbuys.info

 

Now read on.  I will be growing the features most weeks so please do return for updates on why Canada should be included in your travel plans.

DURING 2008/09

thetravelman.net will be visiting :

Budapest

Paris

Croatia

Dubai

Vienna

Venice

and. heaps of Australiana recommendations.

 

If you have a tourism product in any of these areas, and you believe could be of interest, do make contact with John to arrange possible inclusion in his travel itineraries.     crookpr@bigpond.com  

 

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Now, before we say au revoir,.. please return to top of page and click on Travel Diary and also my Wine List page.

                                 Thanks for checking on   www.thetravelman.net