Office News

E-vouchers

• APTC is proud to introduce e-vouchers!

• We are now able to tailor make vouchers and itineraries with our agents’ own logo, which we will send by e-mail prior to clients’ arrival.

• Please contact our office for further details.

Product of the Month

‘TALOFA  LAVA’  and welcome to Samoa, found in the heart of the Pacific  Ocean below the Equator!

  

APTC Fiji is delighted to introduce Samoa from now on in their portfolio.

Thinking of Samoa - an exotic island somewhere out in the South Pacific, surrounded by stunning blue lagoons and white sandy beaches. But this volcanic Island has so much more to offer and we are happy to operate there with our services now. 

Samoa as known for its natural beauty, gentle pace of life and consisting of ten islands, is just a 2 hour flight from Fiji and therefore the perfect extension after your Fiji holiday!

                                           

Samoa’s Capital Apia and the International Airport Faleolo are both located to the main Island of Upolu. Traditional villages with their open fales are spread out along the stunning coastal highways of Upolu and Savaii, Samoa’s largest islands. 

Coming further inland you can find craters, lava fields, ancient archaeological sites and forest reserves yet to be unexplored. The islands varieties, the cultural traditions of the islanders, upfront people of the Polynesian nation with a catching and genuine rhythm who are so fascinating and have held onto their ancient customs that you wish never waking up from your dream!

Let us spoil you and realize this dream, experience the light and easygoing lifestyle in a great holiday.

Stevenson at Manase                              

Stevenson at Manase, situated at one of the most beautiful beaches of Savaii Island, guests are immersed in a unique experience. Home to people proud of their strong Fa’a Samoa cultural heritage they experience the typical traditional culture of the island combined with European convenience. Providing so called ‘Euro - Open Fales’ for their guest rooms, Stevenson at Manase still holds on to the Samoan Way using Traditional materials  to create a rustic appeal. Open Fales have open sides with coconut blinds lowered for privacy or raised for the sea breeze to pass through, and tarpaulin security blinds in case of heavy rain. Although fales are squashed together with limited privacy, this is one of the few places where you sleep in a fale right on the beachfront and have your very own private ensuite bathroom at the back of your fale – what a romantic way to experience the real Samoan way of life!

What’s New

New South Wales

Opera Australia   

• In May, Opera Australia launched “Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour – La Traviata’’ for the industry.
• Expected to gain international attention as it is presented for the first time in the Botanical Gardens on a tailor made floating stage, with Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and city skyline providing the backdrop. This event is in line with international opera events such as the Bregenz Festival in Austria, and production will be steered by the internationally acclaimed and multi-award winning Francesca Zambello.
• Showing for 3 weeks only in 2012 from 24^th March to 15^th April, and are now open to accepting group bookings (10+).

  

Victoria

 Hepburn at Hepburn 

• 8 Hotels have opened Hepburn at Hepburn Luxury Villas in Melbourne.
• ‘Hepburn at Hepburn’ is uniquely nestled in the picturesque bush land of Hepburn Springs and located opposite the world renowned Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa.
• Designed and developed in 2010 by award winning architect David Edelman, these spacious one bedroom 5 star villas offer every conceivable luxury for those seeking the very best accommodation.

 

Queensland

 

The Sunlander 

• The new and improved trains will be faster and deliver unrivalled comfort.
• They will deliver six return services a week between Brisbane and Cairns, providing improved options for tourists and local residents. 
• Queensland Rail Travel is pleased to announce an additional weekly Queenslander Class service on The Sunlander from Tuesday 31 May 2011.

 All Seasons Cairns Colonial

• Effective 9^th May 2011, Cairns Colonial Club has been rebranded All Seasons Cairns Colonial.

 The Beach Club, Hamilton Island

• As of 17 May 2011 Wireless internet access is complimentary for all guests at the Beach Club.

 Rainforestation National Park

• The new canopy for the Pamagirri Rainforest Amphitheatre at Rainforestation has reopened.
• The canopy was damaged during Cyclone Yasi, and the Dance Show had been temporarily relocated to the Cultural Centre.

 Sailaway Sunset Sailing

• Sailaway Sunset Sailing will now be operating 7 evenings a week, due to popular demand.
• Sailaway Sunset Sailing will commence the additional scheduled departures of Saturday and Sunday evenings in June.

 Lizard Island

• The Queensland Parks & Wildlife Service will be carrying out a controlled burn on Lizard Island from June 6 to 10 2011.
• The controlled burn is necessary as a fire prevention method and to conserve natural eco-systems on the island.
• During this time all resort services and activities will remain fully operational, however, guests who would like to change their dates of travel can do so without any cancellation fees.  

 Cruise Whitsundays

• Cruise Whitsundays now offers four different cruise options to choose from and they all include a visit to spectacular Whitehaven Beach.
• Another addition is the inclusion of South Molle Island in their Island Escapes range of day cruises with National Park covering the majority of South Molle there are excellent walks offering stunning views of the Whitsunday region.

 Cairns Beach Resort

• Constellation Hotels has added Cairns Beach Resort to its rapidly expanding hotel network.
• Operating under the Australis Hotels & Resorts brand, hotel guests will enjoy the same relaxed holiday atmosphere that Australis is renowned for Australia-wide.
• Australis Cairns Beach Resort is the closest beachfront accommodation to Cairns CBD, offering self-contained one bedroom apartments with large balconies overlooking Holloways Beach or the tropical surrounds.
• The resort is set in spacious, beautifully landscaped gardens, with an oasis pool setting, beachfront restaurant and bar, and guest BBQ facilities for do-it-yourself meals alfresco-style.

  

Northern Territory

The Aurora Group and Ayal Aboriginal Tours Kakadu

• The Aurora Group and Ayal Aboriginal Tours Kakadu have a new jointly operated package: Overnight Kakadu with Aboriginal Art & Cultural Tour.
• Staying in a Superior room at Aurora Kakadu in the heart of the Kakadu National Park, experience the natural and cultural wonders of Kakadu National Park with Aboriginal owned and operated Ayal Aboriginal Tours Kakadu.

 Bamurru Plains

• Barramundi fishing by airboat is a highlight for any fisherman at Bamurru Plains is fishing on the Swim Creek floodplain by airboat.
• The camp’s airboats are fitted with casting decks to maximize the experience of fishing the floodplain in spots that are accessible to camp guests only.
• Use of tackle equipment and services of a Bamurru Plains fishing guide are included.

 Australian Pacific Touring

• Due to the new flights that currently fly into Ayers Rock, APT – VIP touring will now provide a free transfer service from Ayers Rock Airport to meet up with the afternoon tour for clients who arrive too late to meet the pickup from Ayers Rock Resort.

To receive this free transfer service, flights details must be advised at time of booking.

Specials

Queensland

Thala Beach Lodge

• Stay 4 nights in a Coral Sea or Eucalypt Bungalow and receive A free of charge Cairns transfers & breakfast daily
• Stay 4, pay 3 nights in a Coral Sea Bungalows or Eucalypt Bungalows!
• Offers are non-combinable
• Unlimited bonus nights
• Not valid for Jungle Walk Bungalows
• Normal Thala inclusions apply (guided onsite tours etc)
• Valid for sale: to 31 March 2012.
• Valid for travel: to 31 March 2012.

Lizard Island

      •  Book a minimum five night stay on Lizard Island and receive complimentary return flights to Lizard Island from Cairns for two  

• Sale period: 01May 2011to 30 June 2011
• Travel period: 01 May 2011 to 18 December 2011
• Black out dates apply: 09 to 31 August 2011 and 01 to 08October 2011.
• This offer cannot be combined with any other offer and is only applied to new bookings.
• Private charter flights are not included. Please quote ‘FREEFLIGHTS’ at time of booking.

Paradise Resort Gold Coast

• The central areas at Paradise Resort Gold Coast are undergoing major construction work while they build the biggest Resort Aqua Play Water Park in Australia, but Zone 4 Kids is still open and 2 sessions daily are included, plus kids stay free!
• Package includes: Free Zone 4 Kids club daily, 4 hours supervised care daily for babies & toddlers through to 12 year olds, Kids Stay Free, Free daily activity program - 5 or more daily
• Based on a resort room for 2 adults and up to 2 children (0-12yrs). Must book by 30 June 2011. Valid for travel from 1 June - 31 August 2011. Upgrades to other room types available - fees apply.

Victoria

All Seasons Kingsgate

• Stay minimum 3 nights and receive a complimentary upgrade to the new superior rooms.
• Valid for sale: until 31 August 2011.
• Valid for Travel: until 31 August 2011.
• Subject to availability.

New South Wales

The Grace Hotel

• The Grace Hotel offers complimentary internet for guests staying until September 30^th 2011.

Captain Cook: Murray River

• Winter Warmer: 25% off 2011/12 Cruises.
• Valid for sale:01 April 2011 to 28 February 2012.
• Valid for travel: 03 June to 29 August 2011.
• Bonus: Christmas in July - 15th & 18th July 2011 departures.
• Special Code:A25.
• Summer Sun: 25% off 2011/12 Cruises.
• Valid for sale:01 April 2011 to 28 February 2012.
• Valid for travel: 02 December 2011 to 27 February 2012.
• Excludes Renmark, Christmas & New Years Eve cruises.
• Special Code:A25.

Captain Cook: Sydney Harbour

• Winter Warmer 25% off 2011/12 Cruises.
• Valid for sale: 01 April 2011 to 26 August 2011.
• Valid for travel: 17 June, 22 July & 26 August 2011 departures only.
• Bonus: Christmas In July to 22nd July 2011.
• Special Code: A25.

Park Royal Darling Harbour

• Special rates for group bookings for 5 or more rooms before 30^th September 2011.
• Overnight accommodation including taxes and daily buffet breakfast for two adults.
• Complimentary porterage.
• 1x complimentary room per 10 rooms materialised.

Sea Sydney Cruises

• Sea Sydney Cruises will be offering a “2 for 1″ deal throughout the month of September 2011, valid for travel September through to end May 2012.
• For every 1 Cruise Like aLocal seat the 2^nd is absolutely free.

• For every Cruise Like a Local seat sold throughout the month of September, guests will receive a FREE Half Day City Sights tour with Mount N’ Beach Safaris.

This promotion runs from 1^st to 30^th September 2011, valid for travel 1^st September to 31^st May 2012.

Changes & Refurbishment

Northern Territory 

Alice Wanderer

• Alice Wanderer have removed both the Cattle Station Homestead Tour and Santa Teresa Community Tour from sale effective immediately.

 Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia

• The sale of Voyages Hotels & Resorts is completed and is now known as Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia Pty Ltd.
• All current Voyages Sales, Marketing and Reservations staff will continue in their current positions with Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia and contact details will remain the same.

 Queensland  Mantra at Circle on Cavill

• Mantra Circle on Cavill is now called Mantra at Circle on Cavill.

 Sun-Air Bus Service

• Due to airport renovations, the collection up point at Brisbane Domestic airport will be changed until further notice.
• The stop is now located directly in front of the usual pick up point, on Road 2.

 Paradise Resort Gold Coast

• Sinbads Restaurant will no longer offer a buffet dinner and will introduce a range of delicious new Al a carte meals. 

• Dinner is open daily from 5.30pm - 8.30pm.

• Due to the pool renovations the Polynesian Dance Show and Fire Show has also been cancelled until further notice.  The resort entertainment crew will still offer other an array of other activities and entertainment including their newly introduced cupcake making for the kids and cocktail making for the parents.

 Daydream Island Resort & Spa

• A soft refurbishment commenced in January 2011 starting with the Coral Wing and followed by the Rainforest Wing and finally the Garden rooms which are expected to be completed by the end of June.
• All rooms have new linen, runners, cushions and valances.
• Suites have new under–lays and duvets with new mattresses on the way. All suites will now include some extra touches such as complimentary bottled water, daily newspaper and coffee plunger with complimentary coffee.
• All rooms also have fluffy new towels and 100 new flat screen TV´s have been installed with more to come!

 Breakfree French Quarter

• Major refurbishment of guest rooms including up to 10 units being renovated at any one time from 23 May 2011 to 24 Jun 2011.
• Impact on guests might be excessive noise in the initial 2 weeks of the date ranges eg jack hammering tiles. Once the initial demolition works are completed, noise is restricted to general construction noise such as hammers, saws etc.

 Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

• In light of the NAIDOC celebrations, Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park is holding a special celebration day on Tuesday 5^th July 2011. The park will be open from 9.00am to 5.00pm and admission is free for all.
• NAIDOC celebrations are held around Australia in July each year to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC Week 2011 celebrates “Change: the next step is ours”

 RnR Adventures

• RnR Adventures’ insurance company is dealing with complications; therefore RnR Adventures will not be working with them at this moment.
• Passengers are carried by Raging Thunder until further notice.

 Hyatt Regency Coolum

• Hyatt Regency Coolum has finalised the refurbishments and is opened for guest.
• The update includes new Dune Beach Club, fully refurbished Golf and Lake Front Villas and new Garden/Golf King Rooms have been completely gutted with new bathrooms and complete fit out, creating a new room type (Golf or Garden King).

 Challenge Cairns

• Cairns is hosting the Challenge Cairns from the Friday 3rd of June to the Sunday 5th of June 2011.
• Several tour operators have advised of new pickup locations and/or change of days of operation.
• Please contact our office for further information.

  Sheraton Mirage Gold Coast

• Due to unforeseen circumstances, the main Resort Pool and Lobby & Central Lagoon will be closed for urgent repairs to rectify a serious leak which is resulting in the loss of water.
• The main Resort Pool will be reopened on Saturday 11^th June whilst the Central Lagoon repairs will be completed by Tuesday 14^th June 2011.
• Please note that the lagoons bordering guest accommodation will not be affected. 

 Cruise Whitsundays

• Due to a recent schedule change, please note that a new Resort Connections timetable is valid from 1^st June 2011 to 30^th June 2011.  
• The new schedule affects the timings of the Island Escape Day Cruises.
• Please contact out office for more details.

 Quicksilver

• On the 17^th, 19^th, 21^st, 24^th, 26^th and 28^th of November and the 3^rd,5^th,  8^th, 10^th, 12^th & 15^th of December Quicksilver V a powered vessel will be running to Low Isles not Wavedancer. This is not a sailing vessel.

 Hamilton Island

• Hamilton Island has recently conducted a review of inclusions for both Hotels and Holiday Homes.
• To increase guests satisfaction and value for money, please note the following changes:
• Palm Bungalows: Complimentary use of the gym, spa, sauna, tennis and squash court hire (effective immediately).
• Beach Club: Complimentary wireless internet access for all Beach Club guests – effective immediately.
• Holiday Homes: Complimentary use of catamarans, paddle skis, windsurfers and snorkelling equipment (non-motorised watersports).
• This will be available for all Holiday Home bookings travelling from 1 July 2011.

 Hinterland Aviation

• As a result of the high costs of fuel Hinterland Aviation will increase their fuel surcharge effective 16 May 2011.
• This increase will apply to the current 2011/12 scheduled Hinterland air transfers and private charter rates to/from Lizard Island.

  New South Wales  Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney

• As of 1^st May 2011 Radisson Plaza Hotel Sydney will be renamed Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney.
• Radisson Blu represents a first-class full service hotel brand that focuses on design and leading-edge style.
• Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney is the first hotel in the Australia/Pacific region to transition and in doing so a number of touch points will also change including the logo, hotel signage, brochures, website and the like.

 Mercure Sydney

• In June 2011, Mercure Sydney will commence a refurbishment of the bedrooms: New carpet, new bathroom flooring, painting in the bedroom, mirrors and pictures added, new chair, new pillows, change blinds and shower screen instead of curtain.
• Minor disruption to guests expected
• End of refurbishment in June 2012.

  ACTThe Marque Hotel Canberra

• As of 30 November 2011 The Marque Hotel Canberra will be closed.

  Victoria  All Seasons Kingsgate

• Built in 1926, and refurbished in 2010, the All Season’s Kingsgate Hotel Melbourne offers economic, comfortable, convenient and value for money accommodation, in a friendly, relaxed, yet professional atmosphere.
• The hotels renovation program included 65 brand new superior rooms with en suites with soft furnishings to the remaining rooms together with internet facilities and digital LCD TV’s. 
• All Seasons Kingsgate offers a great central location with quality services sure to please both business and leisure travellers alike.

 Western Australia The Pearle of Cable Beach

• The main infinity pool will be closed for repair from 22^nd May to 5^th June 2011.
• Access to one of the superior Pavilion 10m pools will be offered to guest room patrons for use during this time. 
• Pavilions will still have their own private pool.

 Holiday Inn Perth 

• Burswood Entertainment Complex has taken over Holiday Inn Perth from IHG, effective 1 July 2011.
• There will be no change to the current management structure at the hotel as it will remain part of the IHG portfolio and will continue trading under the existing IHG brand.
• Further, there will be no changes to sales and marketing teams or arrangements, or current contract terms or conditions relating to IHG customers.

 Australian Pacific Touring

• Pinnacles, Koala’s & Sand boarding 4WD Adventure (Tour code: P4+L)
• This tour now visits the Ocean Lobster Factory in Cervantes, where clients will view an introductory DVD describing the history surrounding the Lobster industry and then take a self-guided tour.

 Rottnest Island

• Due to higher than normal winter tides on the Swan River, affecting the operation of vessels travelling under the Fremantle Traffic Bridge, Rottnest Express will not be operating its ferry service depart Barrack Street Jetty Perth (between 7 June to 31 August).
• They provide a complimentary bus transfer from Barrack Street Jetty to Fremantle, connecting with our ferry service ex Fremantle.
• Essentially all hotel pick-up times will remain as per the current schedule, and passengers will continue to be collected either from their hotel or from our office at Barrack Street Jetty.

The host will also be travelling with the passengers onboard the bus and will provide a full commentary on sights of interest along the way.