LET’S GET LOST Throughout the year, it can be easy to get lost in the demands of work life. While we love what we do, there’s a real joy to be had in stimulating mind and body with a jaunt to an inspiring place, wherever that may be. These are the places we like to visit, whether in person or in our memories, that help us to recharge, renew, and refresh. Our moments here might motivate you to visit them when you’re next in the area, or at least give you a little mental break from the sometimes stressful festive season. Thanks for another successful year. We hope our favourite escapes can inspire a creative spark in you, just like they do for us. Happy travels!
52 40
30 38
22
18
44 56
4 8 28
36
60
42
48
THAILAND 10
62
54
14
34
12
26
46
10
64 58
24
32
16 50
20
26
6
“It’s apparently perfectly normal to bar hop your way through town, nibbling on a few pinxtos...” Melissa Howarth, Business Analyst 4
PinxtoS & Endless Wine
San Sebastian
PINXTOS TOUR San Sebastian, SPAIN If you appreciate your food and drink and want to soak up some culture, San Sebastian is the town for you. A year ago, I spent 3 days with my husband and two sons in San Sebastian (or Donostia in the local Basque language), a coastal town in northern Spain. They have more Michelin Stars per square metre than anywhere else in the world! When in the area, take a tour to learn about the Basque culture and people. Top off your cultural adventure with a wander through the markets, perfect beaches, and the Old Town. For food, you have to try a pintxos (small plates of local delicacies) crawl. It’s apparently perfectly normal to come into the city to meet family and friends and bar hop your way through town, nibbling on a few pintxos at each place. Full meals aren’t as fun as moving from bar to bar and getting a taste of each new delicacy. Order a glass of Txakoli, a local sparkling wine that’s dramatically poured high above the glass to bring out the fizz, with some non-alcoholic ciders for the kids. Take the opportunity to stretch your legs. You won’t need a car in San Sebastian, so get out and walk. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for a stop at this little coastal gem! Baliando Enrique Iglesias I found some of our best pinxtos by reading reviews on the TripAdvisor app. Take a 30 minute walk up to Monte Urgull and check out the free museum and giant statue of Jesus. 5
OVERLAND TRACK HIKE Central Highlands, TASMANIA If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, the Overland Track Hike across Cradle MountainLake St Clair National Park in the Central Highlands of Tasmania will take you away from it all for five days. The hike is about 90km of spectacular scenery that you won’t be able to find anywhere else in Australia. You and your buddies will be carrying everything you need for the week, except water. Get ready to discover a real appreciation for instant porridge, noodles and muesli bars! The variety of scenery is amazing, including glacial valleys, waterfalls, rainforest, eucalyptus forest, moorland and alpine meadow. If a five day hike isn’t enough and you want more time to be at one with nature, there are lots of shorter sidewalks on the Overland Track. Cradle Mountain and Mount Ossa summits are a must. Climb Barn Bluff, go for a swim at Old Pelion Hut or check out the Ferguson Falls. Rarely will you enjoy the sense of achievement you’ll feel when you walk out of the park, exhausted at the end of the week. You can enjoy a delicious cocktail or warming single malt at the Lake St Clair visitor centre to celebrate! Remember, if you leave your car at the end and catch the hiker’s bus service to the starting point, it will be exactly where you want it when you finally cross the finish line.
Shake It Off Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox Book your National Park passes and walks online at parks.tas.gov.au A full hike might be too much for kids, but day walks like Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake would be great for families.
6
Lost
in the
Wilderness “Get ready to discover a real appreciation for instant porridge...� Matthew Finn, Mobile Developer
7
“It’s impossible to comprehend just how big it actually is...” Jonathan Wood, Web Developer
Welcome to the
Danger Zone 8
GRAND CANYON Arizona, USA What better way to get to the majestic Grand Canyon than by helicopter. Get your best Arnie impression ready and cue the obligatory “Get to the choppa!” Predator quotes ad infinitum in the days leading up to the flight. Catch your ride from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon for amazing views. Our pilot took us over Lake Mead, the Hoover Dam and (spoiler alert) the scene from the finale of Thelma and Louise where they drive off the edge of the Grand Canyon (which isn’t actually in the Canyon itself, or so our pilot told us. The movie facts come complimentary). Descending to the floor of the canyon, the pilot put ‘Highway to the Danger Zone’ on over the PA, tipping the experience into the freakin’ epic! From the floor of the Grand Canyon, it’s impossible to comprehend just how big it actually is. What looked like bushes on the other side of the Colorado River were actually tall trees, and the river itself was a mile wide but looked like you could swim across it in a few minutes. Enjoy a final flyby of the Las Vegas strip just as the neon lights of the hotels come on and watch the party start. Speaking of parties, spirits aren’t measured in the US, so you’re getting doubles by Aussie standards. In related news, Burger King has a Quad Stacker. That’s right, four burgers, one bun, truly a sight to behold. To check out the rest of Las Vegas, rent a sports car and cruise the strip at night pretending you’re a high roller. Luck Be A Lady Frank Sinatra Download the Vegas.com app to get tips on shows, taxi stands, bars and more. The rides on top of The Stratosphere Hotel are a must - especially after a cocktail or two.
Arizona
9
PATARA ELEPHANT FARM Chiang Mai, THAILAND I spent many hours researching the numerous elephant parks in the Chiang Mai region to find an eco-friendly, sustainable place with rescued working elephants. Patara Elephant Farm fits the bill. You make your reservation online and join travelers arriving from all over the world to become an elephant owner for a day. The Mahouts (elephant owners) observe how the individual elephants respond to each traveler excitedly feeding them morning treats. I later realised it was during this session the Mahouts matched us to the personalities of their elephants. We were put to work doing all the work the Mahouts would usually do themselves to care for their elephant (including smelling fresh elephant poo for signs of poor health). The walk to exercise the elephants was rocky, muddy and slippery. Though it’s reassuring to realise the elephants are surefooted and have been through the jungle many times. After a couple of hours we came out to a little clearing where a Thai lady had prepared us a traditional banquet. It was a delicious spread, and even the elephants agreed as we fed our leftovers to them! While taking the elephants for a bath in the river I began to understand how much they loved to play in the water. It was wonderful to actively contribute to a cause that not only rescues and rehabilitates the animals, but a place that allows elephants to just enjoy being elephants.
Chiang Mai
Moves Like Jagger Maroon 5 At your hotel, drop a pin on your maps app to make sure you can always find your way back. When catching taxis, request a meter instead of agreeing on a set price. 10
Walk like an
Elephant
“It’s wonderful to actively contribute to a cause...” Chantelle McPharlin, Client Leader 11
“Drop anchor and dive into the crystal clear, turquoise waters...� Jenni Kelakios, Studio Manager 12
ST PAUL’S BAY Lindos, GREECE If you’re after beaches to die for, you can’t miss St Paul’s Bay in Lindos. To truly experience this watery wonder, hire a boat from another beach village named Kalathos. You don’t need a boat licence, or any licence for that matter. The locals go on trust and face value. It’s only about a 20 minute cruise along the Aegean Sea to the bay. When you reach your destination, drop anchor and dive into the crystal clear, turquoise waters - you can literally see the bottom of the bay. If you’re into snorkeling, this is an excellent chance to meet all kinds of aquatic life.
Holiday Madonna Be prepared to pay an arm and a leg (around 12 euros) per GB of internet here! Visit Psinthos and grab a home cooked meal at Taverna to Stolidi tis Psinthos - a family run business where the mother ushers you in from the street.
Swim to shore and find a great table at the open air Garden Café, set in terraced gardens with an overhanging canopy of fresh Greek produce. You can catch a glimpse of the Acropolis perched up on the mountain. We were even lucky enough to witness a gorgeous wedding in the little chapel dedicated to St Paul’s. But Lindos isn’t just pristine beaches. Catch the traditional local taxi service - a donkey ride up to Lindos castle will get you amongst the renowned Greek history.
13
KIYOMIZU-DERA TEMPLE Kyoto, JAPAN If you’re going to Japan, you need to visit the city of Kyoto! Take one of the futuristic Shinkansen (bullet trains) from Tokyo, in just over 3 hours it’ll whiz you to this fascinating destination, speeding along at 320km/hour while jaw-dropping scenery like Mt Fuji flashes past. Kyoto is beautiful and packed so full of culture and history that during World War II, it was decided that no air raids would be conducted there. The city was then taken off the list of possible atomic bomb drop sites. If you only visit one of Kyoto’s temples, it should be the Kiyomizu-dera. It’s a 380-year-old Buddhist temple built into the side of a hill with a huge pillared verandah facing out to endless views over Kyoto. The entire structure was built without using a single nail and the dark wood floor has been polished to a fine sheen by thousands of feet over the years. The name of the temple, Kiyomizu, means pure water and a waterfall flows down the hill and is channeled through the temple. The Japanese believe that drinking this water will grant wishes and while I’m still waiting on mine to come true, this was the best tasting, most refreshing, crystal clear water I’ve ever had.
Kryptonite 3 Doors Down Tech geeks, be sure to check out Akihabara in Tokyo which is famous for its electronics shops. “Sumimasen” = excuse me (very useful in crowds) “Arigato gozaimasu” = thank you very much “Eigo o hanashimasuka?” = do you speak English? 14
“The Japanese believe that drinking this water will grant wishes...� Ellen Papadothomakos, Resource Planner 15
“Think half-lobster half-woman creatures, man-sized gambling rats and a giant mountain of what looks like raw meat...� 16
Nick Bray, Digital Designer
CHINES CHINESE
HAW PAR VILLA Pasir Panjang, SINGAPORE
Got a taste for kitsch? Intrigued by Chinese mythology? Wondering what punishments await you in the afterlife for wasting food? Haw Par Villa is the place for you. This unusual theme park was built in the 30’s by the millionaire inventors of Tiger Balm to teach the public about Chinese folklore and values. You can explore a concrete jungle populated by giant fiberglass dioramas depicting traditional stories, like Journey to the West (AKA Monkey Magic, if you grew up on ABC kids TV in the 80’s). Think half-lobster half-woman creatures, man-sized gambling rats and a giant mountain of what appears to be raw meat. Each statue’s stare is just a bit too blank, their smile a little too wide. Everything is just a little bit off.
AND
MONKEYIC MAG
SINGAPORE
Finish off your day-trip by going through The Ten Courts – an extremely graphic series of displays detailing all the torturous punishments awaiting naughty people in the afterlife, with jolly names likes The Hill of Knives. It’s dark, creepy and more than a little disturbing, so maybe leave the small kids outside to feed the turtles for that one. Nowadays, the park is largely abandoned and in various stages of dilapidation, which only adds to the surreal atmosphere. My partner and I have been twice and each time we were the only people there. There’s rumours that it will be permanently closed and bulldozed, so catch this unique experience while you can.
Singapore Tom Waits You’re on holiday. Put the iPad away, switch off your phone and go get lost. Pick a random Mandopop or Cantopop nightclub in Clarke Quay for a synchronised and emotive dance experience. 17
“The more underground Banksy. Less mainstream Banky. Hipster Banksy...” Kate York, Web Developer 18
Spray Away GRAFFITI TUNNEL London, UK London might be one of the most well-documented tourist destinations in the world, but the old girl still has some secrets up her sleeve. If you’re more Camden than Kensington and more Rolling Stones than The Beatles, take a peek at Leake Street graffiti tunnel. My friends and I discovered this tunnel by accident while heading towards the London Eye. It’s 100% legal to graffiti there, so there were no awkward “we promise not to call the cops” moments as we walked past the artists at work. There weren’t any Banksy pieces when we went there, but there was something of a shrine to Banksy’s nemesis/mate Robbo (the more underground Banksy. Less mainstream Banksy. Hipster Banksy?). Other artists have their work covered with new creative artwork as part of the natural changing environment of the tunnel but Robbo’s works were left alone. That’s a pretty clear mark of respect in the graffiti community. The best way to check out Leake Street graffiti tunnel is as part of a big London walking tour. Walking anywhere in London is great because there’s so much history on every corner. You can see beautiful old buildings like the Globe Theatre surrounded by more modern, striking buildings. And that’s not to mention the huge variety of traditional British pubs ready and waiting to soothe your aching feet and thirsty mouth.
London Calling The Clash
LONDON
Utilise the hotel wifi and download maps from TripAdvisor to use offline. Buy a special visitors Oyster card before you enter the country: it’s the cheapest and most flexible way to travel around London. 19
The
World
Is Your
Oyster
“The perfect place to reconnect to nature with the kids” Rhys Lloyd, Tech Lead 20
YANERBIE BEACH Streaky Bay, SOUTH AUSTRALIA Sometimes the best places to holiday are just beyond your own backyard. Streaky Bay is only an 8 hour drive from Adelaide, although you can also jump on a short flight to Ceduna which is just an hour up the road from the bay.
Streaky Bay
There are many places to stay locally, but it’s hard to go past the Streaky Bay Foreshore Tourist Park. There aren’t many caravan parks that open right onto the beach! If you have a 4WD, head out to Yanerbie beach at Sceale Bay and go for a play in the Yanerbie sand dunes. Cast a fishing line to catch some fresh Whiting, or just enjoy the vast white sandy beach and clear water. For something a little more exclusive, follow the coastline east. You’ll come across some hidden gems, seemingly untouched by anyone. This is the perfect place to reconnect to nature with the kids. Stop by Evans Oysters up the hill on Woodlawn Rd, have a chat to Paul for some local beach secrets, and pick yourself up a dozen fresh oysters. Grab some hot fish and chips from the local takeaway, and enjoy a fresh seafood feast on the grass foreshore watching the sunset.
Better Together Jack Johnson Download an app called Memory Map to plan and track your day trips. Stay at the Streaky Bay Foreshore Tourist Park it’s right on the beach and central to everything.
21
MAGNIFICENT MILE Chicago, USA The Magnificent Mile in Chicago is a must for those on a time budget. On the spur of the moment, while my dad and I were in Iowa, we decided to hire a car, drive the 3.5 hours to Chicago, and stay overnight. Follow in our footsteps and arrive via the intimidating spaghetti maze of the interstate highway to reach the heart of the Magnificent Mile. As a prominent starting point, John Hancock Center provides one of the best views in Chicago – you can pay to go right up to the observatory, but the view from the café one floor down is priceless… literally. FREE! Cloud Gate is a massive shiny kidney in Millennium Park that attracts millions of people, so make sure you get a snap here. For exhibits, rides and attractions, be sure to check out Navy Pier. You can take in the views of the city from the Ferris wheel and grab some tucker at Bubba Gump’s. If you’d like something a little more up-market, the world famous Art Institute of Chicago is also in Millennium Park, where you’ll be instantly immersed in wall-to-wall classic artwork. Everything from Vincent Van Gogh’s 1887 Self Portrait and Georges Seurat’s A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte, to Grant Wood’s American Gothic are within your sights. All this within one mile a condensed look at American culture!
Today Smashing Pumpkins Follow artists @CShimala and @PaulOctavious on Instagram to get a unique artist perspective of Chicago. Try a Whiskey Vanilla Punch at The Berghoff the first establishment granted a liquor licence after prohibition was repealed in 1933.
22
Chicago
Magnificent
Mile “A condensed look at American culture...� Timothy Downing, Digital Designer
23
Sunsets + Gnocchi
“I know it’s weird to suggest Italian food in a Balinese place, they must have a little Italian lady in the kitchen...” Rosyn Murphy, Digital Designer 24
LA LUCCIOLA Seminyak, BALI You have to go to La Lucciola when in Seminyak. It may sound strange to suggest Italian food in a Balinese town, but they must have a little Italian lady in the kitchen cooking up a storm because it’s the best Italian food I’ve ever tasted. Make sure you book ahead because this place gets busy. We asked our villa manager to reserve a spot for us. If you dine around 5:30pm, you’ll catch the sunset, and it’s unbelievable. Ask for a table upstairs. Order the scampi for entrée, gnocchi ragu for main course, and if you can squeeze in dessert, try the share platter. For drinks, try the lychee lime granita if you’ve got a sweet tooth, the banana dream cocktail, or otherwise a glass of Matua Sauvignon Blanc will really complement your food. Remember, wine isn’t cheap in Bali - surprisingly, cocktails are cheaper. There are often people flying kites down at the beach in front of La Lucciola, but not always someone selling them. If you have kids with you, find a kite at the market before you go so they can join in the fun!
Island in the Sun Weezer Follow @thebalibible and @thebaliguideline on Instagram to get hot tips on secret places to visit. Bring a few bottles of white wine with you, it’s expensive and hard to find in Bali.
Seminyak
25
TraveL at HOME “Be a tourist without having to pack...� Ben Frost, Mobile Developer
26
ADVENTURE ROOMS Adelaide, SOUTH AUSTRALIA Travel is cool and all, but what if you want to have an adventure without worrying about traveler’s cheques or insulting people with your poor grasp of their language and customs? Luckily, nerds have you covered. The concept of escaping a room within a limited time frame has long been a staple of early noughties Flash games, and now you can experience these thrills in real-life with 1 to 6 other friends, here in good ol’ Radelaide. Adventure Rooms will see your party locked in one of two rooms, and the only way to escape is to solve a number of ingeniously crafted puzzles. Some of these puzzles require you to find hidden clues, some require clever interpretation of said clues, and solving them feels like flipping off the creepy puppet man from the Saw films with both hands. I highly recommend that you enjoy a delicious pizza from the Union Hotel as part of the pre-game ritual. This will ensure you have enough brain fuel to burn while you consider how to become uncuffed from a radiator. There are often multiple ways of solving puzzles, and no prior knowledge is required. Adventure Rooms can provide an experience for any group of players, so be a tourist without having to pack, and try it out!
She Blinded Me With Science Thomas Dolby Turn your phone off otherwise you’ll instinctively reach for it when you need illumination. Hot tip, bring children - they are small and will see things you won’t see.
Adelaide 27
Sea, Vines
& Colourful Towns “It’s amazing to stroll on a track that’s been underfoot for centuries...” Karen Wille, General Manager 28
WALK ABOUT Cinque Terre, ITALY If you go to the Cinque Terra villages, you have to do the walk from Manarolo to Cortona. It’s amazing to stroll on a track that’s been underfoot for centuries. Walking this high trail gives you an amazing view of the sea, the villages perched on the cliffs and a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals. Venturing past vines and an abundance of tomatoes clinging to the steep cliff, it’s difficult to imagine the hard work it must have taken to get them established.
Cinque Terre
Feeling very chuffed that you are going down while others are struggling up, end the walk with a hot slice of pizza and a delicious gelati after wandering the little streets of Cortona. When you need a break from walking with the crowds, catch the ferry to Port Venere. At the end of the ferry ride, another cute little town that people sometimes miss is waiting for you. You must make sure to grab a seafood plate and a crisp glass of the local white or a ruby red Campari cocktail. Want to go more native? Pick up some cheese, meat, and bread and have your own gourmet picnic by the sea. Gorgeous colours, houses, food and drink - Cinque Terra is highly recommended. Birdy Wings Read the reviews on TripAdvisor prior to booking accommodation – they rang true. A Swiss army knife is essential for days where we picked up some local produce to picnic by the sea.
29
NUIT BLANCHE GUESTHOUSE Bruges, BELGIUM Bruges is known to be like a fairytale, so if you’re looking for something a little more whimsical when traveling, this is the European city for you. I stayed in a medieval guesthouse called Nuit Blanche, which was an echo of the past and gave a true sense of the city’s heritage. The guesthouse is owned by artist David De Graef whose surreal paintings adorn the ground level of the house, and over the years has hosted guests such as Winston Churchill and the current King and Queen of Belgium. Our room looked over the cathedral and gothic garden, which immediately lead onto a canal full of swans and boats. Our host David was wonderful, so be sure to ask him for advice on where to eat, drink and explore. He’s full of fun facts and countless stories about the history of the building and Bruges – who needs a tour-guide? Did I mention he’s got mad cooking skills? Be sure to fill up on his exceptional 3 course breakfast before you head out for the day. And don’t forget, Belgium is one of the best places in the world for a beer lover, producing over 1000 different varieties of beer. It’s home to the famous wall of beer which has all of the country’s varieties out on display. Santé! Minor Swing Django Reinhardt Pack an Australian powerboard with a European adapter to make recharging easier. Drop by The Markt and pick up some chocolate, handmade lace and a bite to eat.
30
The
Venice of the North “Belgium is one of the best places in the world for a beer lover...� Ben Newsome, Web Developer
31
Paddle to PARADISE “Visions of palm-fringed, turquoise gems sprinkled across the vastness of the Pacific blue...” Mark Cox, Digital Strategist 32
MURI LAGOON Rarotonga, COOK ISLANDS Ever since I was a young lad growing up in the middle of England, my inner Robinson Crusoe longed for an exotic escapade. Gazing at the world map on my bedroom wall, I’d conjure up visions of palm-fringed, turquoise gems sprinkled across the vastness of the Pacific blue. For a fraction of the cost of a magazinespread location like Bora Bora, a voyage to the Cook Islands can satisfy the craving for castaway life. The main island in the Cook chain is Rarotonga, a mere dot in the ocean encircled by a coral reef. On the southeastern edge of Rarotonga lies Muri Lagoon, and along its shores my beachcomber fantasies came true. Out in the lagoon are little motu (reef islets) that you can head out to with your chosen means of exploration. I love the simplicity of a stand up paddleboard - you’re powered by your own stead and there’s very little to learning how to use one. The water is crystal clear and it’s easy to distract yourself with the aquatic life moving about underneath your board. Beneath the tropical sun, the sparkling colours of the lagoon, beach and palms becomes a heady mix. When it’s all getting a bit too much, dive underwater with your snorkel and potter around the coral reefs pretending you’re in your own Jacques Cousteau doco. While the sun dips behind the peaks of the old volcano on mainland Raro, make your way back across the lagoon with the entire island as a backdrop to your adventure. Kia Orana!* * the traditional greeting on Rarotonga, it means ‘may you live long’ in Cook Islands Maori
Return to Paradise The Out Islanders
Muri Lagoon
Download Paul Theroux’s ‘The Happy Isles of Oceania’ as the ideal South Seas travelogue. Try a Mahi Mahi fresh fish burger from The Mooring Cafe in between excursions on the lagoon. You can paddle straight up to their jetty! 33
Beautiful CHAOS STREETS OF HO CHI MINH Ho Chi Minh City, VIETNAM
“I love the smell of pho soup in the morning…” With the compulsory Apocalypse Now reference out of the way, I need to tell you about my favorite place in Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh City is absolute and utter chaos, but only to the naked eye. Crossing the roads in Vietnam is enough to make you think twice about getting that 42¢ beer from the bar opposite. There’s literally an endless, relentless flow of scooters, all with different places to be and all honking at one another. There’s no break in the traffic – ever. I mean, walking is great for getting around, but at some point you’ll need to cross the road. You just need to go for it. Take a deep breath, walk out into traffic, and the hundreds of scooters will flow around you! This might sound like a strange ‘favourite place’, but ´ Thành sitting on a tiny plastic stool next to the Bên Market roundabout will keep you occupied for hours, simply by witnessing the chaos. After a while, you realize there is some sort of order. This is the busiest intersection I have ever seen, yet no one is fazed. This is business as usual for these people. I love spending time on this intersection with my partner and just watching thousands of people pass you by.
Get Lucky Daft Punk Take a shock proof and water resistant camera. When it rains, it pours in ’Nam. Plan a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels used in the Vietnam War - walk the tiny passages, see the booby traps and shoot some old weapons. 34
Ho Chi Minh City
“Crossing the roads in Vietnam is enough to make you think twice about getting that 42¢ beer from the bar opposite...” Scott Schubert, Client Leader
35
The
Simple Life “There are few better places to enjoy a relaxing afternoon lunch by the sea...” John Chaplin, Director 36
DA ADOLFO RESTAURANT Positano, ITALY Think about everything you could ever want from a lazy summer lunch in Italy. You can get it all in one place on the Amalfi Coast. Bright sunshine, stunning coastal views, simple yet delicious Italian cuisine, gorgeous wine, and what seems like endless time to enjoy it. All you need to do is add friends. A wooden boat, boasting the Da Adolfo moniker, picks you up from the picturesque Positano Marina and transports you along the rugged coastline to a pocket-sized bay nestled amongst the cliffs. You’ll find the restaurant perched on a small pebbled beach with crystal clear water. Take some time to enjoy the beach and a quick swim before heading to your table for lunch. The food is simple Italian and mostly seafood based, but is fresh and delicious and always served with never-ending baskets of fresh Italian bread. The kitchen sits further up the mountain, so the waiters are continually running up and down a set of stairs carved into the rocks to deliver your food. You might feel a little guilty, but it quickly passes. This part of the world enjoys the simple life and there are few better places than here to enjoy a relaxing afternoon lunch by the sea.
That’s Amore Dean Martin Store all your important travel documents on Dropbox so they are accessible anywhere, even if you lose your luggage! In Italy, waiters won’t take your order until all menus are closed on the table.
Positano
37
High Speed
“This is one that all motor enthusiasts need to drive to believe...” Anthony O’Leary, Digital Designer 38
SILVERSTONE CIRCUIT Towcester, UK Having the opportunity to drive a Ferrari is one thing, but being able to smash it flat out around one of the most famous race tracks in the world is another. Silverstone Circuit, a regular fixture on the Formula 1 and MotoGP calendar, is around 130km from Central London and well worth the drive. For my 30th, my wife bought me the opportunity to experience 11 laps of the circuit. This is one that all motor enthusiasts need to drive to believe. You get five laps behind the wheel of a Lotus Exige with a traditional gearbox and clutch, and five behind the wheel of a Ferrari F430 Scuderia with a 6 speed ‘F1’ electrohydraulic manual paddle shift gearbox. The 11th lap is as the passenger of a pro racecar driver in the Lotus, which was truly full throttle and on the edge. As good as that was, it didn’t quite top the feeling of having a 4.3L V8 Ferrari engine with 490 bhp and top speed of 196mph (315kmh) in my control around the world famous circuit. The car is so smooth, handling is superb, and the sound of the Ferrari engine performing with ease will give you chills. To say the drive back to London in a Ford Festiva (with a 0—62 mph time of 10.3 seconds) was dull is a bit of an understatement. Motorbreath Metallica Don’t check your phone or attempt any selfies while driving, obviously! When you finish up, head to Gordon Ramsey’s Petrus in London for the best meal of your life.
Silverstone 39
Thawing Beauty
“This place is for people out on the street...� Oliver Boermans, Web Developer 40
JORDAAN AREA Amsterdam, NETHERLANDS Pack your thermals, warm up your cycling legs, and explore winter in the Jordaan area in Amsterdam. Arriving on a chilly January 1st, my fiancé and I were greeted by subdued and beautiful streets – festooned with the wrappings of the previous night’s fireworks. It’s best to base yourself where you want to spend the day. Aside from a few short tram trips, your travel needs can be covered on foot. Any other way of getting around mean missing out on the delightful architectural and incidental details this area is made of. Although it’ll no doubt be cold, you’ll likely be treated to nothing more challenging than the odd rain shower. Short winter queues will enable you to get up close to the colour in the Van Gogh Museum and enjoy a leisurely pace taking in the stories of the Anne Frank House. Between famous spots, thaw your fingers with tea, hot chocolates, and the most fantastic cakes and pastries. For a special treat, try the apple tart from Espressobar Puccini. A generous layer of apple cooked just so in a biscuity thin crust hinted with amaretto. With relatively few tourists around, it’s easy to feel like a local. What I remember most vividly is how right being in this city felt. This place is for people out on the street. Jordan streets are not built for going places they are the place.
Such Great Heights The Postal Service An iPad compatible memory card reader will allow you to review, off load and share photos. Daylight is short, so get up early. Be sure to wear good thermals and carry an umbrella in winter!
Amsterdam
MACHU PICCHU Cusco, PERU If you find yourself in Cusco, high up in the Peruvian Andes, then you’re no doubt on your way to the amazing Incan ruins of Machu Picchu. You have a number of options to get from Cusco to Machu Picchu, but do yourself a favour by avoiding the one day train trip and book yourself in for the three or four day trek instead. You won’t regret it! I made a last minute booking on a four day adventure trek the night before and it was the highlight of my South American experience, so don’t stress if you miss out on a place on the official trail. Some of the activities you can look forward to include a 50km bike ride amongst snowcapped mountains, white water rafting, hiking through jungle, sampling local produce (including roasting our own fresh coffee beans), not to mention relaxing in picturesque hot springs. It’s about an hour climb in the dark up a steep winding path to get to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The site opens at 6am, and being one of the first people through the gates to see the ancient city perched high above the morning clouds as the sun’s rays peek over the mountains is simply incredible. It’s only made more special by the sense of achievement for all the hard work that got us there. Choosing that four day trek over the one day train ride is definitely one of the better travel decisions I’ve made!
Younger Us Japandroids It’s easy to lose track of where you are, so use photo geotagging to co-ordinate your snaps.
Try an alpaca steak - most restaurants will serve it!
42
Machu Picchu
Incan Adventure “Do yourself a favour by avoiding the one day train trip and book yourself in for the three or four day trek instead...� Andrew Roberts, Network Administrator
43
Soaked with Seafood! ` and
Sun
Sipping
“When visiting France you don’t want to stick to Paris...” Amandine Saille, Client Leader 44
Bordeaux SAINT EMILLION & CAP FERRET Bordeaux, FRANCE When visiting France you don’t want to stick to Paris. Yes, it lives up to its title of the ‘City of Love’, but there is so much more to France. For amazing wine, gorgeous countryside, and some of the most famous wineries in the world, I recommend exploring the Bordeaux region. In Bordeaux itself, you can hire a free bike to visit all the monuments and the old city centre, or stop for shopping at Quai des Marques. There are also wine bars where you can enjoy beautiful wines perfectly matched with cured meats, cheese platters and other French delights. Plan a journey to Saint Emilion, this old village is full of beauty. Have lunch in the sun at a terrace and then amble through the small alleys. On your way back, stop for tastings at Chateau Yquem (for white wine lovers) and Chateau Pavie (for red wine enthusiasts). If you have the unfortunate luck of being in one of the world’s favourite wine regions and not enjoying wine, kick back and relax by the water at Cap Ferret in Bassin d’Arcachon. You can soak up rays at the beaches, stop by the market, or learn about local culture in the city centre while enjoying an ice cream. End the day in the fishermen neighbourhood and experience local seafood with amazing views courtesy of Chez Boulan.
Douce France Charles Trenet Be sure to pack a portable music system for all your picnic trips to the beach. Discover the region from the sky by booking a ULM tour – the experience is unforgettable. 45
PILAR SPORTFISHING Siargao Island, PHILIPPINES If you enjoy a bit more action than lazily dangling a rod into crystal waters when you’re fishing, then I highly recommend heading to Siargao Island and taking a charter with Pilar Sportfishing. Renowned as the best game fishermen in the Philippines, they helped me net my fish of a lifetime - a 2m Blue Marlin that took me 20 minutes to bring onto the boat. And that was on my first trip out! They are exceptionally friendly and professional with lots of advice for a relative beginner (like me) and will do their best to get your dream catch into the boat. The prices are very cheap for a game fishing experience, although you may end up splitting the catch with the operators to compensate. Still, the experience is well worth it. Not much will taste better than fresh fish, caught by yourself, skillfully cooked to order and eaten on the beachfront. Other than fishing, there are many small islands around that are great fun to visit. Most of the beaches in the area are protected by a large reef system, making it perfect for kids (and snorkeling). Either hire a boat and play captain or go on an island-hopping tour. Some will have remote beaches for you to get some alone time, so you can relax on the beach with some fresh buko (coconut).
46
Siargo Island
Oh My God Kaiser Chiefs Travel adapters are a must - grab a universal two-pin USA style adapter before you go. Ask a local if you can help them collect buko (coconuts) - nothing beats fresh coconut juice.
GET A BITE
“They helped me net my fish of a lifetime...” David Vickers, Network Administrator 47
The
Night is
Young
“Plan for spontaneity, anything and everything can happen...� Juan Vaamonde, UX Designer 48
RECOLETA Buenos Aires, ARGENTINA In Buenos Aires, the night is always young. Imagine this: Wandering the welcoming, old-fashioned streets of Recoleta on a warm summer night, aromas of Argentinean cuisine start to seduce your senses, tempting you, drawing you into one restaurant or another. Accents and languages from around the world mingle as people discuss where to satiate their hunger. Later on, hungry for a delicious chilled treat, you end up at Freddo, gazing lovingly at the plethora of gelato flavours on offer. Then off you go once more, into the streets of Recoleta, gelato in hand, following your feet, eager to discover what’s around the corner. Sounds pretty good, doesn’t it? Buenos Aires is one of the most romantic cities you can have the pleasure of experiencing. Plan for spontaneity - make friends with people who can lead you, and try meat-based meals you haven’t tried before with a glass of Argentinian Malbec. On a night in Buenos Aires, anything and everything can happen. Luna Tucumana Mercedes Sosa For a great insight into the city, check out the Youtube channel of an American living in Buenos Aires by Dustin Luke. Have Google Maps open in taxis - the drivers often try to take you the longest way possible.
Buenos Aires
49
SERENITY IN
SURFERS
“If you’re lucky, you’ll see some migrating whales frolicking just off shore like we did...” Cez Wieczorek, Creative Director 50
SEAWORLD RESORT Gold Coast, QUEENSLAND Located on Main Beach, Seaworld Resort escapes the hustle and bustle of nearby Surfers Paradise. It’s nice and quiet, so it’s perfect to visit with the kids. The water playground and pool keeps them busy while you knock back a few Tequila Sunrises and soak up the sun. The view of the Broadwater from the balcony was tranquil but if you prefer listening to screaming kids and watching psychedelic chaos (and who doesn’t?) then the daily SpongeBob light show is for you. The synchronised water fountains coupled with light and sound were pretty speccy (especially after the tequilas). The kids’ ability to dodge hospitalisation was equally impressive. Don’t forget your ear muffs! As a guest, you get unlimited entry into Seaworld, the water park next door, as well as exclusive access to behind-the-scenes dolphin training sessions. If you want to swim with the dolphins, remember to book in advance! The main beach is only a short stroll from the resort and if you’re lucky, you’ll see some migrating whales frolicking just off shore like we did. For great meal time value, try the Shoreline Restaurant buffet. Kids only cost $1 per year of age. I’m not sure if it was the fact we were on holidays but the prawns were the best we’ve ever had.
Like Wow-Wipeout The Clarks Buy a Freedom Pass for unlimited door to door airport, hotel and theme park transfers, as well as 24/7 access to all public transport. Best time to go is mid to late October and in particular just after Queensland school holidays.
Gold Coast
Swimming in the
Alps
“Jump out of the warm pool and roll in the fresh snow for 30 seconds...� Brendan Shanahan, Digital Analyst 52
ALPENBAD LEUTASCH Leutasch, AUSTRIA A swimming pool?! In the Austrian Alps!? In WINTER!? Yes, you read that right! The Alpenbad Leutasch is one of the town’s most popular attractions, and with good reason. Besides an Olympic sized lap pool, they also have a pool that is half inside and outside! Thanks to its heated water, you can be sitting in the warmth of the pool while the snow falls around you. But if you really want to get the blood pumping, jump out of the warm pool and roll in the fresh snow for 30 seconds. Then, quickly jump back into the water to get every bone in your body tingling. It’s brilliantly invigorating, and great fun as a dare! Because it’s a wintertime attraction, you can experience a White Christmas while you’re there. Everyone needs to have one once in their lives. It’s cold, magical, cold, enlightening, cold and did I mention cold? The Christmas markets are something to behold, with hot chestnuts and popcorn, handmade wooden clocks and ornaments, and all manner of festive things that make you feel like you’ve accidentally wandered onto a film set. As it’s winter, you’ll want to find food and drink that gives you that inner warmth. A nice warm cider or local beer can take the real edge off those cold winter nights. A drop of eggnog doesn’t go astray either...
O Tannenbaum The Vince Guaraldi Trio Download the Tripwolf app to find best eateries, walking trails and attractions. Take the train into town and enjoy the Harry-Potter-esque views from the windows.
Leatasch 53
The Track Less Travelled FUKUURA ISLAND Matsushima, JAPAN
Matsushima is known as one of the three quintessential views of Japan, famed for leaving the 16th Century poet Matsuo Basho lost for words with its beauty. You might think escaping from the crowds in one of the busiest countries on earth would be difficult, but if you’re after a solitary beach to relax and contemplate the beautiful islands in the bay, Matsushima is the place to be. Cross the red bridge to Fukuura island and take the first track on your left. When you find the signpost directing you to the centre or further around the island, take the unmarked track behind it instead. A few seconds later, you’ll find yourself on a shady, white sand beach with unrestricted views over the bay. After the hustle and bustle of modern Japan, it’s a refreshing experience to visit a place that hasn’t changed since the time of the samurai. Once you’re back on the mainland, visit the waterfront stalls to buy some gyutan. It’s a local speciality of the region made from grilled beef tongue with spices. If you strike up a conversation with the locals, they’ll let you in on their secrets for preparing and seasoning the dish. They’re proud to use Australian beef, so if you let them know you’re an Aussie, you might just get treated to some of the more reserved cuts.
54
Matsushima
The Travel Song TZU Head to hyperdia.com to plan your Japanese travels on public transport to the minute it will give you potential itineraries and costs. Stop in at the teahouse on the island’s southern end for some of their homemade Amazake, a traditional fermented porridge.
“After the hustle and bustle of modern Japan, it’s a refreshing experience to visit a place that hasn’t changed since the time of the samurai...” Brendan Dennis, Mobile Developer
55
Get Your
Hot Slice
“Watch out for joggers, don’t let them make you feel guilty for being leisurely...” Andrew Mazzarolo, Client Leader 56
IGNAZIO’S PIZZA Brooklyn, USA Need a great time in Brooklyn? Let me lead you. Start by working up an appetite with a late morning walk from Manhattan across the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s a fairly long walk that will give you some stunning views of the city. Watch out for joggers. Don’t let them make you feel guilty for being leisurely. Once you’re in Brooklyn, head to Ignazio’s pizza bar for lunch. They serve literally the biggest and tastiest pizzas I’ve had in my entire life. It’s nothing particularly fancy or exotic (we ordered the meat-lovers and margherita), but it’s damn good. And huge. It’s worth re-emphasising that. You won’t need dinner, trust me. Now that dinner’s out of the question, why not fill that vacant spot in your evening by heading out for a drink? There are small bars hidden all over Brooklyn. Wander around until you find one that tickles your fancy. We wound up at a random Mexican bar sharing tequila, great food, music and (of course) more tequila. Needless to say, I can’t remember its name. So, I recommend finding your own secret spot and trying the local brews.
New York New York Frank Sinatra If you’re bringing kids, make sure you download plenty of games on your iPad. Everyone tips in America so make sure you’ve always got plenty of change!
New York
57
PHRA NANG BEACH Krabi, THAILAND I’ve traveled all over the world but the place I found most stunning is a spot in Thailand called Phra Nang Beach. It’s in a town called Railay and features high rocky outcrops and breathtaking islands scattered around the coast. The sand is white and the water is crystal clear. Early in the morning and at night it’s almost empty, but it can get busy during tourist season.
Impress the locals and download the Learn Thai app - you can listen to how phrases are pronounced correctly. Shopping is cheap in Thailand. A bartering tip is to at least halve the price they first quote.
To get there, you’ll need to take a longtail boat from nearby Krabi. Once there, you can take your pick of adventures from fantastic rock climbing, exploring the surrounding jungle with monkeys, local cave tours and another large beautiful beach that you can watch the spectacular sunsets from. There’s rock climbing for all levels of experience, and with all the natural scenery, you’ll feel compelled to get up close to it. Alternatively, after a rigorous day of lounging on the beach, wind down at one of the many beachfront restaurants. Just one warning: I first planned to stay a couple of weeks there but ended up staying a few months. It’s addictively wonderful. Just remember, everything is cheap here, so pack light!
Phra Nang Beach
58
Nightlight Little Dragon
Another Day in
Paradise
“I first planned to stay a couple of weeks there but ended up staying a few months...� Ben Wilkinson, Web Developer 59
Day of the DEAD
“Life is short and to be enjoyed...” Tessa Chaplin, Payroll & Accounts 60
AZTOMPA CEMETERY Oaxaca, MEXICO Dia de los Muertos, Day of the Dead, is one of Mexico’s most important religious holidays. Far from being a morbid, sad or scary event, Day of the Dead is about remembrance of past lives and a celebration of the continuity of life. Families gather around the grave and share time together. People eat special food and make altars in their homes. The graves are decorated with candles to light the way for their loved ones and are adorned with the Flor de Muerto, Flower of the Dead, which is a gold coloured marigold. From the 31 October to 2 November, the families sit vigil at the graveside all night waiting for their departed to return. Each night has a different theme, depending on which area of Mexico you are in. On 31 October and 1 November families wait for their beloved, then on 2 November, the deceased are farewelled until the following year. You will see the images of caterpillars and butterflies everywhere, reminding you that life is short and to be enjoyed. The atmosphere over the three days is exciting and fun with street parades and music around every corner. It is also a very different way to view the dead and the connection between the living and the deceased. This is a time to celebrate family, so you can feel comfortable bringing the kids along! Yeh! Yeh! Georgie Fame and The Blue Fames A Spanish translating app is a must for Mexico particularly for deciphering menus. Mezcal is the drink of Oaxaca and is drunk straight or with a chaser of spicy tomato juice!
OaXaca
SNOWBOARDING Hakuba, JAPAN If you’re looking for some fairytale snow adventure, then Hakuba Valley with its eleven ski resorts and awesome snowfall track record is where you’ll want to be. Found in Nagano Prefecture, home to the 1998 Winter Olympics, Hakuba is filled with classic wooden lofts and majestic fir trees. Take the Shinkansen from Narita Airport through to Nagano, then the local bus up to Hakuba (it’s cheaper and faster this way). Hakuba’s growing popularity will drive the powderhounds out of bed early to reach the recently dumped powder, which is usually out by Kourchina, a northerly resort. Although you will find plenty of signage telling you not to stray from the marked trails, it’s common practice in Hakuba to go off piste. It’s best to take a guide or someone who knows the terrain to avoid getting lost in the snowy slopes. There are many onsens (hot springs) in Japan, which are the perfect remedy for sore muscles after a long day of snowboarding, and luckily, there are a few to pick from in Hakuba. They’re generally gender segregated, but occasionally you’ll find a touristfriendly mixed onsen or a private onsen for a more secluded moment. For those looking for somewhere quiet and cozy, find the restaurant on the southwestern corner of Hakuba Train Station Square, 2nd floor. There’s a great selection of freshly prepared bento. This is a place where you can experience a more natural and colder side to Japan, so rug up and get going.
62
Aqueous Transmission Incubus Google Maps specificity is amazing in Japan, so rent a wifi router from Docomo or Yahoo. Soba Shubo Zen is a must when in Hakuba. Best soba noodles and extensive range of sake.
Hakuba
Winter Wonderland “Although you will find plenty of signage telling you not to stray from the marked trails, it’s common practice in Hakuba to go off piste...” Zeno Jiricek, Web Developer
63
Solace For All
“Traveling outside of Australia with your kids is always a great opportunity to immerse them in new experiences and cultures...� 64
Damien Mair, Director
CASTAWAY ISLAND Qalito, FIJI As a parent of pre-tween kids, when looking to escape for a week or so I need to find something compelling for them, as well as a place that gives my wife and I an escape from the kids too. Otherwise it’s just the challenges of parenting as usual, albeit in a new location. Traveling outside of Australia with your kids is always a great opportunity to engage them in new experiences and cultures, and provides opportunities to show them how other children live. Qalito (Castaway Island) in Fiji provides you with the best of all worlds: Exotic climes tempered with an immersive back-to-nature kids club, as well as local cultural experiences to remind us all how simple life could be if we choose to slow down a touch. A typical day on Qalito begins with enjoying time together: Snorkeling the dramatic tropical reef, kayaking the island, or taking a catamaran out to sea. The afternoon wind-down is ideal for snoozing in beachside hammocks while our kids investigate what’s inside coconuts, or how far they can climb up a palm tree, or how big a drawing they can make in the sand. By evening it’s time to wave goodbye, as the youngsters head off to kids club. Leaving us to sit back and sigh with cocktails outside our beachfront bure. An ice cold mojito always does the trick, enhancing the stunning sunsets over the coral atoll. This is the time to take in the balmy dusk and lapping seas in peace and quiet, knowing that our kids are fully engaged in crabbing, taking part in Fijian fire ceremonies, racing frogs, learning traditional dance or how to speak the local language. Qalito is a special place for everyone. Turquazure Groovecatcher If you really need it, Qalito has a free (but flaky) wi-fi in two spots on the island. Take the 20 minute seaplane trip to Castaway - there’s nothing like an exhilarating water landing coupled with eye-popping views.
Qalito
65