March 2008

PRODUCT UPDATE

WHAT’S NEW?
Aussie Adventures launches new tour
Aussie Adventure – Small Group Tours and Safaris, along with La belle Downs Cattle Station and Traditional Aboriginal owners, are excited to announce an all NEW 2 Day Litchfield Camping Experience. This tour is a fantastic opportunity for you or your clients to gain an insight into the Culture, Wildlife, Waterfalls and one of the Territory’s most famous big money earning industries – Cattle, all this a short drive from Darwin.
The tour includes all meals, comfortable beds in a secluded private tented camp, all bedding, iced water, tea and coffee, all touring and the fabulous cruise. This area has been kept a secret for a long time, and Aussie Adventure would like you to be one of our first guests to explore this amazing landscape that is our backyard. Please contact the team at APTC for further information and/or rates.

Port Lincoln Hotel
The Port Lincoln Hotel is the largest on the Eyre Peninsula, and for the first time, offers visitors to the Eyre Peninsula high quality hotel accommodation. Situated on the town’s northern foreshore and boasting uninterrupted waterfront views, the seven-story, 111-room hotel provides four-star luxury accommodation in an incredible location.

Mantra Pandanas
Mantra Pandanas, Darwin’s brand new deluxe property, is set to open in April 2008. This luxury property will comprise of 336 rooms including both apartment and hotel style accommodation and will feature a gym, lagoon pool, restaurant, bar and exclusive day spa.

Rum Jungle Bungalows
This bungalow accommodation bed and breakfast is located in Batchelor; the gateway to Litchfield National Park. This is a perfect location for a relaxing break and is an ideal base to explore the Park.
The six picturesque bungalows are set on an acre of tropical & native gardens, bounded by bird filled open woodland & tropical savanna. A delectable gourmet tropical breakfast, using regional seasonal produce, is served in the charming poolside breakfast room.

Crocosaurus Cove on target
Construction of Darwin’s latest major tourist attraction in the CBD- Crocosaurus Cove is on target for opening during this year’s peak season. The first stage of the A$29 million development has been completed. Stage 2, including a 2 storey fresh water aquarium, the giant adult Saltwater Crocodile pens with acrylic viewing panels and haul out areas, the juvenile interactive Croc tanks including nests and eggs and the North Australian reptile display, are all now nearing completion. Visitors can look forward to seeing massive Crocodiles up close and personal and, for the more adventurous, can try the ‘Swim with the Crocs’ feature as well as seeing them being fed.
Situated in the very heart of Darwin’s tourist precinct and within an easy walk from all major hotels, this development will very quickly become an essential part of most travellers itinerary’s to the Top End.

Darwin Reef ‘n’ Wrecks
Darwin Reef ‘n’ Wrecks have introduced a new product to their range of fishing trips in the Top End: The Ultimate Top End, an extended boat trip from 2-7 days! Darwin’s fishing specialists, Darwin Reef ‘n’ Wrecks Fishing Charters, is a locally owned and family operated professional tour company in Darwin, with many years experience offering exhilarating Top End expeditions from Darwin.

Mindil Beach Sunset Markets
Market patrons can enjoy the tastes of five continents all in the space of a leisurely walk along the stunning setting of Mindil Beach, Darwin.
The market is famed for the huge range and quality of its art and craftwork. Visitors to the market get a taste of tropical life as stallholders converge on Mindil to sell their hand made wares. Patrons can also book a tour, get a massage, have their palm read, Tarot readings, watch the buskers and performing artists, listen to the live bands or just kick back, eat great food and watch the sunset.

Oz Adventure Sailing
Oz Adventure Sailing is excited to announce the launch of Resort Sail Sand, our very own Sail and Stay Packages in a comprehensive brochure. Choose from four of the most luxurious vessels in the Whitsundays and combine it with Daydream Island, Peppers Palm Bay or Coral Sea Resort to create an easy to book, fully inclusive holiday to suit your client’s budget, time and desires.

Peppers Bale Salt, Kingscliff
Peppers Retreats, Resorts & Hotels has announced the launch of Peppers Balé Salt on the New Tweed Coast, heralding a fresh and exciting concept in style and luxury for Australian beach holidays.
Operating as Peppers Balé Salt from December 1, it will become only the second resort in Australia to bear the premium Balé name, following the launch of Peppers Balé Resort Port Douglas in May 2007.

Mantra Deep Blue
The Deep Water Baths and Spa facility at Mantra Deep Blue has been completed and open now for business. The Deep Water Baths & Spa is a unique day spa that takes advantage of the natural mineral aquifer located hundreds of meters below the resort. Deep Water Bath House comprises of a large indoor heated pool, spa facilities including 3 treatment rooms, 2 hydrotherapy spas, 4 individual private hot pool rooms and private spa therapy pool.

PRODUCT OF THE MONTH

Coral Tree Inn

The Coral Tree Inn is a new resort-style holiday accommodation in Cairns, Tropical North Queensland, Australia. Ideally located right in the heart of Cairns City across from the park and within a five minute walk to Cairns City Centre with its shops, restaurants, theatre, art galleries and casino. The Coral Tree Inn is close to all the reef departures for the spectacular Great Barrier Reef.
One Bedroom Suites - 3.5 Star Rating - are self-contained with separate bedroom boasting a queen size bed, double sofa pull-out, baths, iron/ironing board and also have private balcony and kitchen.

Standard Rooms - 3.5 Star Rating - contain all amenities, double bed and single bed, and are air-conditioned with private balconies. Existing in 3 configurations: Family Rooms consist of a double bed and two singles, Bunkrooms consist of a double bed and a set of bunks.
Disabled Rooms are also available, with wide doorways, a large bathroom designed with shower and toilet rails, mobile shower seat and moveable taps.
Every room comes standard with air-conditioning, ceiling fans, TV, radio, fridge, coffee, tea, etc.

Offering everything you would expect for a holiday visit in the tropics. The Coral Tree Inn features a large saltwater pool, barbeque area and guest laundry set amongst luscious tropically landscaped gardens for your perfect Australia holiday. Tropical continental buffet is served daily by the pool. The fully equipped kitchen facility is also available for guests to use free of charge.
With quiet tropical gardens, exceptional service and affordable rates; The Coral Tree Inn in Cairns Australia, will help to make your holiday in Cairns Australia an unforgettable one.

Coral Tree Inn Specials

Coral Tree Inn - B&B, Wine & Airport Transfer Package 0809:
Sale Period: 1/4/08 to 31/3/09
Travel Period: 1/10/08 to 31/3/09
3 Night Package includes:

• 3 nights in Standard Room
• Buy one breakfast, get 1 free
• Bottle of wine
• Return Airport Transfers

Coral Tree Inn - B&B, Wine, Airport Transfer & Green Island 0809:
Sale Period: 1/4/08 to 31/3/09
Travel Period: 1/10/08 to 31/3/09
3 Night Package includes:

• 3 nights in Standard Room
• Buy one breakfast, get 1 free
• Bottle of wine
• Return Airport Transfers
• ½ day Green Island Day Tour

SPECICAL INTEREST

Bamurru Plains

‘Wild Bush Luxury’ is a term Bamurru Plains have coined to encapsulate the style of experience at Bamurru. The focus of your stay at Bamurru is in the environment around you and the wildlife and birdlife for whom it is home. Each individual safari suite is designed to blend with the surrounding bush and as such exposes guests to the sights and sounds of the bush around you, whether it is the haunting call of a Whistling Kite, the raucous cacophony from the Blue-winged Kookaburras as dawn breaks or the sound of a full grown buffalo splashing its way through the floodplains just a short distance from your bed. The morning chorus of tens of thousands of Magpie Geese, after whom the camp is named, is an experience in itself.

With no telephones, TVs, CD players or the typical features of a hotel room to distract you; your focus turns to the surrounding environment. Their concept is simple – they have focussed on key creature comforts, a supremely comfortable bed, 100% cotton linen, large soft bath towels, a high pressure shower and providing lots of space. Meals in the lodge building are wholesome and innovative with a hint of native produce in many dishes. Your hosts will provide an informal level of attention that is only possible when you are one of a small number of guests. It is their knowledge of the area that brings the experience alive.
With just 9 safari suites built amongst the savannah bush fringing the floodplains, the camp is exclusive and guests will not see other tourists on the property.
Each safari suite is ensuite and raised on a timber platform, with space for sitting out the heat of day with a good book or watching the local wildlife.

Bamurru Plains has completed construction of 6 new safari bungalows (to bring the total to 9), which are ready for the new season commencing February 2008. Built specifically to expose guests to the surrounding wilderness, the new freestanding safari bungalows provide ‘rooms with views’ on three sides with floor to ceiling screening ensuring that there is nothing to interrupt the visual experience.

SPECIALS

Hot Island Escape Extension
Voyages are pleased to advise that they have extended their Hot Island Escapes special for both Voyages Heron and Brampton Island.

Angsana Resort & Spa
Angsana Resort &Spa are offering a special where you can choose from a 1, 2 or 3 Bedroom Suite looking over the pool or the beachfront. As a special, all rates will include the following:

• Spa Gift on arrival
• $25.00 voucher to spend in the restaurant

Valid –1 Jan –30 June 2008

Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas
Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas have several fabulous specials on offer! See below for details:
Stay 5 pay 4- Stay four nights in a Deluxe Lagoon, Superior Lagoon or Premium Mirage room and they will give you the fifth night for free. Value 4 with breakfast- Stay four nights in the room type of your choice and enjoy a sumptuous full buffet breakfast for two in Lagoons Restaurant each morning. Minimum four night stay.
Family package (Kids dine free)-

• Luxury accommodation in a Garden View Room
• Full buffet breakfast daily in Lagoons Restaurant
• Children dine free from kids menu, breakfast, lunch and dinner in any of our three restaurants
• Valet parking
• Daily newspaper
• Access to the gym and lap pool at Mirage Country Club

CHANGES & REFURBISHMENTS

Rendezvous Reef Resort Port Douglas
Rendezvous Reef Resort has commenced an 8-million dollar refurbishment. This process will see the Resort restored to its former glory but some impact will be felt during this time. The first part of the refurbishment programme is the full renovation of reception and the Restaurant and Bar. This will necessitate the closure of the current facility with completion of reception and the opening of the new Swish Restaurant and Bar expected in late April. The refurbishment of the entire Resort is due for completion by September 2008. Throughout the process the redevelopment has been planned in such a way that the impact felt by guests will be kept to a minimum.

El Questro Homestead
The highly acclaimed Homestead at El Questro Wilderness Park is currently undergoing a $1.9 million refurbishment and redesign.
The upgrade will see changes to all bathroom areas, new furniture for all rooms, a complete repaint and a new 24-hour self-service bar, similar to the style so popular at the award winning Bedarra Island.
The works will be completed in the off-season and be ready for the annual re-open date of April 1st.

Ayers Rock Resort
Voyages Hotels and Resorts can reveal plans to launch a $1.8 million full-service spa facility at Ayers Rock Resort.
Still in its initial construction stages, the spa will be built at Sails in the Desert Hotel. Provisional plans include the construction of four treatment rooms to include two wet rooms, with ensuite bathrooms, and two dry rooms. Therapies and massages will be consistent with the existing range of spas and treatments already offered throughout the Voyages’ spa portfolio, with an indigenous focus on products, reflecting the local environment at Uluru.

Rawnsley Park Station’s Eco-Villas
Rawnsley Park Station is about to carry out a one million expansion of its award-winning eco villas. The expansion will increase the number of eco-villas on the flinders ranges property from four to eight to accommodate increased demand.

Portee Station- Relaunched
Iconic Portee Station, located on the banks of the Murray River only 2 hours from Adelaide, is under new management.
The 8 ensuite rooms are currently being soft refurbished and a variety of new touring options are on offer, making Portee a true destination for guests. Guests can enjoy a hot air balloon, back water Murray River boat cruises, Barossa winery visits; sheep station tours, Southern Hairy Nosed wombat tours, local Aboriginal tribe demonstrations of ancient skills and massage treatments. The 3200 acre property also has its own private sandy beach for guests to relax and enjoy a very special dining experience.

Manly Pacific Sydney
Manly Pacific have decided to start a second phase of refurbishment, starting 1st April 2008.The second phase will be the redevelopment of the 1st floor conference terrace. Construction on the 1st floor conference terrace will be a 4 month project commencing on 1st April with a completion date of 1st August 2008. During this time there will be scaffolding erected across the entire length of the conference terrace and in front of hotel. Work will be limited to the first floor and will happen during the hours of 9am-5pm weekdays and 10am-1pm Saturdays.

Guide Accreditation
As of April 1, there will be a permit requirement for all commercial tour operators entering the Kakadu National Park, that their guides have completed the training. “Guides are the face of tourism in the Park, and improved training is critical to the success of the industry,” Natasha Smith, Tourism Services Officer for Kakadu National Park, says “It is important to the Traditional Owners that people are given accurate information – it’s their story.”

Crowne Plaza Darwin
Crowne Plaza Darwin is currently undergoing a $4 million dollar rooms refurbishment to complete a revitalization of Darwin’s leading CBD hotel. The 235 room refurbishment offers deluxe accommodation complete with large high definition LCD Televisions, excellent lighting and state of the art work space for the busy traveller. The sophisticated new rooms offer both comfort and convenience including pillow, quality linen, menus, high speed internet access and ‘Body and Soul’ concept in room dining. On completion of the refurbishment in late March, Crowne Plaza Darwin will not only provide guests with a premiere location and superb facilities but also luxuriously designed accommodation rooms.

Great Barrier Reef Cruise Consolidation
Traditional competitors on the Great Barrier Reef, Captain Cook Cruises and Coral Princess Cruises, have announced plans to join forces. They will form a partnership to operate a series of Great Barrier Reef Cruises, whereby initially Captain Cook will transfer their forward bookings over to Coral Princess vessels and departures. Captain Cook’s ‘Reef Endeavour’ is to be sold following its final Great Barrier Reef cruise on the 22nd FEB 08.

For the future there are joint plans for the design of a new state of the art purpose built small ship to operate their joint schedule of 3, 4 and 7 night Great Barrier Reef cruises.
Apart from the Great Barrier Reef, both companies will continue to operate their cruise programs independently from each other.
This new cruise partnership in the Great Barrier Reef operations sees two Australian family owned companies who share common philosophies co-operating to offer Australia’s most iconic destination cruising on a year round schedule.

Kings Canyon Resort
Bathrooms in the standard rooms at Kings Canyon Resort are scheduled to be completely refurbished and upgraded in the coming months. The refurbishment will take place in stages between the 15th November 2007 and the 31st March 2008 with 10 rooms to be completed at a time.
Construction work will take place during the day and buffer zones will be implemented to keep noise to a minimum.

Coral Sea Resort
Coral Sea Resort has refurbished the Clipper Restaurant Lounge area transforming the area into a stunning, stylish and relaxed venue to enjoy your favourite coffee or cocktail.
Utilising local interior design Suzie Beirne from Island Edge the sophisticated lounge area features sumptuous furnishings with rich chocolate, lime and aqua fabrics. Vivid Aqua feature walls compliment the natural beauty of the Coral Sea whilst seductive lighting sets a casual mood.

Urban St Kilda
We are pleased to advise Urban St. Kilda, managed by Accor, formally Marque Melbourne Hotel, as joined the network. It is an 80 room hotel located 4 kilometers from the CBD area and within walking distance of local attractions and the restaurant district. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar and lounge, gymnasium and spa. All rooms are equipped with wireless broadband, Foxtel and mini bar. Guests will also have access to the historic St. Kilda Sea Baths which include a heated indoor pool and steam rooms.

ACCOR Goes Green
Manly Pacific- was the winner of the “Water use Management Award” category at
the Manly Sustainable Business Award organized by Manly Council. This was celebrated by the hotel who has implemented water saving technologies throughout the hotel in an effort to save water.
Novotel Pacific Bay Resort- will save an estimated $30 000 by introducing a recycling program.
Ibis Little Burke Street- has helped reduce the city’s waste by almost 2500 tonnes in 2007 under a City of Melbourne environmental scheme. The Sydney Exhibition and Convention Centre have released a new brochure designed to help event planners reduce the impact of their event on the environment. The brochure offers a collection of practical strategies.

Red Bull Air Race
The Red Bull Air Races have been confirmed for 31 October- 2 November 2008.
Event surcharges, block out dates and minimum night stay restrictions are now applicable for the dates specified at many Perth properties.

Pacific International Re-branding to BreakFree
Stella Hospitality Group has recently announced that on Monday 21 January 2008 it has re-branded some of its Pacific International properties to BreakFree to better fit into the Stella portfolio of brands.

Leisure Inn & Park Regis expansion
Kusido Hospitality and Property Group Pty Ltd, which operates hotels under the Leisure Inn and Park Regis brands, have recently announced the purchase of four properties from the Oaks Group. The properties in the latest acquisition will be re-branded as Park Regis Concierge Apartments (Cremorne, Sydney), Park Regis Griffin Suites (Melbourne), Leisure Inn Pokolbin Hill (Hunter Valley) and Leisure Inn Spires (Blue Mountains). The addition of the four properties brings the group’s portfolio to a total of 23 which includes the most recent announcement – Leisure Inn Plaza Hotel in Townsville, as well as existing properties with locations including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Cairns, Hobart and Launceston.

Aboriginal Sacred Sites and Culture Tour – operated by Aurora
Please be advised that effective 1 April 2008 the standard tour option without lunch will no longer be available. As of April, two new options will be available with new departure dates:

• Tour with Taste of the Outback Lunch (no change to cost or tour), but days of departure are now: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday @ 10.00 am
• New Tour which includes a guided tour of the Mbantua Art Museum, but without lunch.

Departures on Monday 2pm, Thursday 9.30am & 2pm and Sunday 11.30am.

Outback Ballooning – change of breakfast location
Effective immediately Outback Ballooning will be operating their traditional chicken & champagne breakfast from a new location. The new breakfast location is outdoors at the grassed & shaded area alongside the Todd River at the Voyages Alice Springs Resort. The wholesome and satisfying breakfast menu will remain unchanged. This location will enable them to retain the entire ambiance of the traditional bush breakfast whist incorporating significant improvements expected by today’s discerning traveler. Improved features include access to power (for brewed coffee etc), bathroom facilities with running water, fly screening in summer and bigger trees for shade. Post flight transfer times and connections to other tours will also be significantly improved.

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