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Welcome to our March/April issue of the Inspiring Vacations magazine. This issue we’re taking you to one of our most popular destinations, Japan! It really is a country full of surprises and has something for everyone, namely the famed cherry blossoms! If you’re unable to travel during the season, don’t fret. As our story explains, Japan blooms all year long, be it wisteria, plum blossom and more, so there really never is a bad time to visit.
Back in the Southern Hemisphere (and while it’s still summer), we head to South Australia to take in the state’s best wildlife experiences.
As always, I love to hear your feedback so please get in touch through magazine@ inspiringvacations.com and remember to tag #inspiringvacations on your social media for the chance to win a $100 e-gift card.
Wishing you a March and April full of adventure and travel – see you next issue!
Paul Ryan CEO
01 03 05 07 09 11
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WELCOME
A note from our CEO
WHAT’S ON March/April events, online & offline
IN THE KNOW
Travel news from around the world
TOUR SPOTLIGHT
Blue Train, Sri Lanka
FIVE OF THE BEST Relics of Jordan
CUSTOMER TRAVELS
Lyn & Kristy Dallinger travel to Egypt
CONTENTS 07 19 14
ROAD TRIPPER
SA’s best wildlife encounters
HOLIDAY AT HOME
NZ’s most romantic spots
Globetrotter
Japan's cherry blossom season
Q&A Theatre musical star, Henry Rollo
ARMCHAIR TRAVELLER
24
MAGAZINE
Editor
Vanessa Mulquiney
Art Director
SIXTWO Creative
Contributors
Emma Calley, Scott Forth, Alexis Ong
Marketing & Advertising
Laura Coop
Contact
those
We love our customers sharing their travel photos and memories with us. Use #InspiringVacations when posting your photos on social media and you could appear on this page and be in the running to win a $100 gift card!
Vietnam
our Egypt and Jordan tour. Carved out of sandstone cliffs thousands of years ago, lost, then rediscovered, the ancient city of Petra is definitely a bucket list highlight.
This photo was taken at the Golden Bridge near
An in Vietnam in November 2022. We felt we were walking in the clouds as it was a drizzly day, it was magical.
— Lynette B living Inca village alongside the Urubamba River, on our Inspiring South America tour. This village, founded in 1432, has well preserved Inca ruins and is known for its Sun Temple. — Judy C Peru Jordan HoiMARCH 8, HOLI FESTIVAL
A celebration of the end of winter and the coming of spring, symbolic of good overcoming evil, Holi is a lively ancient tradition held during the last full moon of the Hindu calendar. Revellers throw around coloured powder, light bonfires, and let their inhibitions run free for one day and one night of fun.
APRIL 13-15, SONGKRAN
A grand festival celebrating the Thai New Year, Songkran is a three-day public holiday featuring a Kingdom-wide water fight. In Thai culture the pouring of water over oneself during Songkran is a form of spiritual purification, giving everyone, both young and old, the perfect opportunity to playfully splash each other in central streets across the country.
MARCH 11, ST. PATRICK'S DAY
Kick off St. Patrick Day early with the iconic dyeing of the Chicago River. This beloved tradition sees their central river transform into a beautiful bright green hue. Lasting only a few hours in the morning, celebrations continue throughout the day with a variety of festive parades and events to enjoy.
MARCH 15–19, LAS FALLAS FESTIVAL,
This long-standing Valencian tradition sees the construction and destruction of giant puppets (ninots) in celebration of Saint Joseph and the coming of spring. Hundreds of enormous ninots are set up around the city while a myriad of celebrations take place, including parades, flower offerings and fireworks displays.
MARCH 30–APRIL 2, AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX, Formula 1 returns to Melbourne for another adrenaline-filled four days of speedy fun. Taking place along the famed Albert Park Circuit, this year also marks the first time the lower tiered Formula 2 and Formula 3 championships battle it out on the tarmac.
APRIL 27, KONINGSDAG
Get your orange clothes, wigs and flags ready for Koningsdag, Holland’s largest countrywide party. Translated to King’s Day in English, this all-day King’s birthday celebration sees millions of Dutch residents wearing orange gear while attending one of the many flea markets, DJ booths, street-corner gigs and parties held all across the country.
MARCH 20–21, SPRING EQUINOX
The Mayan archaeological sites of Chichén Itzá and Teotihuacan are flooded with visitors for the morning of the Spring Equinox. Dressed in white with red accessories, huge crowds raise their arms up to the sky in unison as they welcome in the spiritual energy brought in from the sun.
No matter where you are in the world, there’s plenty of events—both online and offline—to enjoy
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Tour
SWITZERLAND Zurich 2 Lucerne St. Moritz Zermatt Montreux Wilderswil Tirano Lugano Flüelen 1 1 2 2 2 2
discovery of Vietnam’s must-see sights and authentic experiences. Tour Ho Chi Minh City, explore Hanoi and marvel at Halong Bay’s beauty. Optional tours include a cruise along the Mekong Delta and a tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels.
A
• Premium accommodation in 4-star hotels
• Overnight cruise on UNESCO-listed Halong Bay
• Escorted by expert, English-speaking guides
• Breakfast daily, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
Fancy a sun-soaked Mediterranean adventure through Croatia? Hoping to explore the stunning Adriatic coastline? Travelling through this Balkan beauty just became a whole lot easier as Croatia is now an official member of the Schengen Zone. Joining 26 other European countries in the zone, travellers can now enjoy hassle free travel when moving between these countries by land, sea or air.
Fans of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit have been immersing themselves in the lush rolling hills of The Shire for over two decades. Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, the iconic film set recently offered visitors the chance to stay in their own personal Hobbit Hole. Celebrating 10 years since the release of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, the Alexander Farm has never before welcomed fans with their very own Hobbiton residence. Hosting up to four Middle Earth enthusiasts, fans lucky enough to secure a booking via Airbnb will also receive an exclusive tour of the property, as well as an evening banquet at The Green Dragon Inn.
Flowing through the centre of Paris is the famous River Seine. Lined with iconic landmarks such as the Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower, Parisians are currently banned from swimming in the Seine due to heavy pollution. The Paris government recently unveiled an ambitious plan to make the Seine swimmable by 2024. Hoping to make the river swimmable in time for the 2024 Olympic Games, Paris authorities have set aside one billion euros in an attempt to clean up the river. Should they reach their goal, Parisians will finally be able to swim in their river for the first time in 100 years.
Norway’s capital is set to be the first city in the world to have a fully electric transport system with plans now firmly set in place to remove their remaining 450 diesel-fueled buses. The initiative hopes to complete Oslo’s already extensive network of electric vehicles, including a range of trains, trams and ferries. Oslo’s local government hopes the reduction in air pollution and noise as a result of the shift makes the nation's capital an even more attractive destination to live and visit. The complete removal of the remaining buses is set to take place sometime before the end of 2023.
The Chateau Royal, an innovative new boutique hotel, has recently opened its doors following years of meticulous renovation. Located in the heart of Berlin, the hotel comprises two separately listed buildings, each dating all the way back to 1850 and 1910. The interior is heavily influenced by 19th-century German design, with contemporary artwork mixed in to create a unique blend of old and new. Interestingly the building was once used as a Cold War Stasi spy base. Although it was officially listed as a publishing company at the time, a variety of spy paraphernalia was discovered during the renovations. Across from the hotel sits the former location of the US embassy, making it the perfect location to gather intel on unsuspecting Americans.
• 11 nights in 3 to 5-star hotels, including 2 nights at the 5-star Sigiriya Jungles hotel
• Breakfast daily, 1 cooking demonstration with lunch and a memorable group dinner
• Iconic train between Nuwara Eliya and Kandy
• Fully escorted, with English-speaking guide and private transportation
• Embark on safari game drives, climb the magnificent rock fortress of Sigiriya, see the famous Nine Arch Bridge and enjoy a tea experience in Nuwara Eliya
TRAVEL FROM MAY 2023 TO NOV 2024
I have just returned from a sensational tour of Sri Lanka with Inspiring Vacations at the helm guiding me through the new regulations of international travel which was reassuring as this was my first international tour in quite a while.
WORDS BY SCOTT FORTH
Sri Lanka’s unmatched natural beauty is some of the best in the world. Rolling green hills, lush tea plantations and stunning mountain views; experiencing this country’s scenic charm is nothing short of spectacular.
Chugging through Sri Lanka’s picturesque green centre, the Nuwara Eliya to Kandy train journey, which is just one section of the country’s expansive train network, is said to be one of the most beautiful in the world. Originally built in the mid-19th century during colonial rule, the country’s train network was initially used to transport tea and coffee from plantations to the capital of Colombo. The journey has since become a popular route for tourists and locals alike, with many Sri Lankans also using the train to move between cities.
Famous for its open doors and windows, passengers can move between the cabins freely and chat to fellow travellers. Painted a distinctive blue, the old fashioned carriages typically move at a leisurely pace, making settling in and taking in the sweeping natural vistas and quaint villages an absolute joy. The train often stops at small towns along the way, giving hawkers the opportunity to hop on board to sell their local snacks.
The journey from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy takes about four hours. For the best possible views, it’s recommended to sit on the left side of the train, although both sides offer breathtaking scenery.
Hailed as one of the most spectacular train rides in the world, Sri Lanka tea country awaits
KOTA KINABALU • KINABATANGAN • SEPILOK • SANDAKAN • MANTANANI RESORT
10 DAY AMAZING BORNEO
Spot endangered orangutans and sun bears, embark on multiple boat safaris along the Kinabatangan River, take short jungle treks into untouched rainforest and relax on white-sand beaches.
Small group tour, no more than 16
• Central 4-star accommodation, comfortable lodges and 2 nights in a 4-star island resort
• Escorted by expert, English-speaking local guides
• Breakfast daily, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
• Comfortable, dedicated transport
TRAVEL FROM JUL 2023 TO NOV 2024
ALSO AVAILABLE: 15 DAY INSPIRING BORNEO
BORNEO (MALAYSIA)
$1,599*AUD
10 days per person twin share from 7-DAY COOLING OFF PERIOD
Great value for money holiday! Fascinating country, excellent accommodation and knowledgeable and helpful guides. Very satisfied with customer service experience.
KUCHING • MULU NATIONAL PARK • KOTA KINABALU • SANDAKAN • SEPILOK • KINABATANGAN • MANTANANI
Explore the caves and jungles of Borneo’s national parks, journey south to include the highlights of Sarawak and be amazed by multiple unforgettable wildlife encounters on this in-depth adventure.
• Small group tour, no more than 16
• Central 4-star accommodation, comfortable lodges and 2 nights in a 4-star island resort
• Escorted by expert, English-speaking local guides
• Breakfast daily, 6 lunches, 4 dinners
• Comfortable, dedicated transport TRAVEL FROM JUL 2023 TO NOV 2024
$2,799*
15 days per person twin share from just 7-DAY COOLING OFF PERIOD
AUD
Best known for its well-preserved Roman city ruins, Jerash is an archaeology buff’s dream. Enter the city through the unfinished, unique majesty of Hadrian’s Arch – built to commemorate the Emperor’s visit in 129 BC – and explore the stunning remains of the Nymphaeum Fountain, Temple of Artemis, and the Jerash Archaeology Museum. If you have a full day to devote to Jerash, take in the surrounding area – a lovely landscape of olive and fig groves, pine forests, and smaller historical structures.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and iconic part of Jordanian identity, Petra represents the finest remains of the Nabataean Empire, which originated in nomadic tribes associated with both Arabic and Aramaic cultures. Petra’s most iconic feature is the façade of the Al-Khazneh (or The Treasury), made world-famous by Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade – but there is far more to explore, including the Petra Amphitheatre, Qasr-al-Bint Temple, the Street of Facades, the High Place of Sacrifice, the Monastery, and the Royal Tombs.
Wadi Rum’s incredible desert has played host to some of Hollywood’s biggest movies, including Rogue One, The Martian, Prometheus, Transformers 2, and Lawrence of Arabia. Be prepared to immerse yourself in otherworldly landscapes; the sand is a startling shade of red. Wadi Rum has around 25,000 petroglyphs and inscriptions in several North Arabian languages, making it a critical research site for historians, archaeologists, and linguists. Adrenaline junkies might look into quad biking, skydiving, or hot air ballooning over the desert.
Arguably one of the most famous natural oddities in the world, the Dead Sea is one of the saltiest lakes in the world, making it possible for visitors to float easily on its surface. New swimmers might be surprised at how oily the water feels – due to its intense salinity – but rest assured, this is called the Dead Sea for a reason, because nothing can live within it. We recommend wearing sandals in the water – the hardened, rocky salt surface is murder on bare feet. Bring bottles of fresh water to wash your hands and face after your dip.
There are six Crusader castles in Jordan, so named for their role in the mediaeval religious wars between old Christendom and the Muslim Saracens. Jordan’s most prominent Crusader castle is Kerak Castle, a 12th-century stronghold that was the site of several sieges by Saladin. Also worth a visit is Shobak Castle, sometimes called Montreal (from its original name, Krak de Montreal) – while not much remains of the original Crusade-era structures, this was also the site of a historical siege by Saladin, and still contains ancient Arabic inscriptions, stone tablets, a reconstructed Mamluk watchtower, and the remains of the Crusader church.
This stunning country is overflowing with historical sites to visit
What prompted you to book your tour to Egypt? This trip was chosen for us by my daughter Kristy. She studied ancient history at high school and fell in love with all things Egypt the first time she read about King Tut. This trip is 25 years in the making.
Did your expectations meet reality?
The reality of Egypt was far greater than our expectations. The history and the sights were just amazing.
Any surprises?
The number of markets and crazy vendors everywhere we went.
What were the highlights of this tour for you?
Hard to go past the incredible ancient architecture: the grandeur of the pyramids, the temples, the tombs in Valley of the Kings and Abu Simbel, which was a definite highlight. Others were being on the Nile at sunset, and seeing the sights at sunrise from the hot air balloon flight.
What do you say to those pondering whether or not to book?
This is a must-see country and has adventure for everyone. Do not miss it!
Any advice for future travellers?
Do a little research on the history of the pharaohs, so you are clued in to the guide's explanation and discussion.
In South Australia, unique Australian wildlife is abundant. Thanks to Australia’s island isolation, so much of our wildlife can’t be found anywhere else in the world and with expanses of untamed wilderness right here, South Australia is one of the best places to get up close. From swimming with Australian Sea Lions to shark cage diving, having lunch with a kangaroo or taking selfies with a koala, here’s our wildlife lover’s guide to South Australia.
The turquoise waters off the Eyre Peninsula are the only place in Australia you can (safely) dive into the deep with Great White Sharks. The most iconic shark species in the world, Great Whites can grow up to seven metres long, and reach speeds of up to 32kph, making for unforgettable encounters from the safety of an impenetrable steel cage.
In fact, it was in South Australia that the very first shark cage expedition took place when shark attack survivorturned-researcher Rodney Fox was recruited in 1976 by the producers of Jaws to use his custom-built cage to film live footage for the movie. Now, the pristine waters off the coast of Port Lincoln are one of only two places in the world where you can shark cage dive with Great Whites. Wildlife lovers will appreciate that each operator is eco-certified.
A real-life David Attenborough documentary from June to September, the annual migration of Southern Right Whales along the South Australian coastline is a nature show of epic proportions. South Australia’s waters offer some of the best whale viewing opportunities in the world, and some of the most unique experiences to get up close with these gentle giants of the deep.
On the Eyre Peninsula, take a boat tour through a whale nursery with EP Cruises and spot newly-born calves learn how to swim and breach, or take to the sky for a bird’s eye view of these majestic marine mammals with Chinta Air. At the Head of Bight, a protected marine park, these waters are a safe haven for over a hundred Southern Right Whales to give birth and raise their calves every year. Stroll along the purpose-built boardwalk to get so close you’ll hear their blowhole take deep breaths. The waters along the Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island welcome whales on their annual migration.
The waters around the Eyre Peninsula and Kangaroo Island also play host to one of the most unique swimming lessons, and sea lions are the instructor. Quite possibly the ocean’s most charismatic residents and often referred to as the puppies of the sea, swimming with these playful pups makes for unforgettable underwater encounters. Swim with Australian Sea Lions just off Port Lincoln or head west to Baird Bay where the waters are a little more protected.
Kangaroo Island is also home to a colony of endangered Australian Sea Lions, who can be found lounging at the aptly named Seal Bay. Here, you can watch sea lions in their natural habitat from a 900-metre-long wheelchair accessible boardwalk, meandering through the dunes to impressive coastal lookouts or get even closer with a guided beach tour. Afterwards, join them in their watery playground on a sea lion swimming tour with Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari or KI Marine Adventures.
From the wilds of the outback to the sandy shores of the coast, you won’t have to roam far for a close encounter with this Australian icon. Kangaroos are so prolific in South Australia that they have even been spotted bounding down city streets in Adelaide – seriously. You’ll find skippy hopping wild through rolling vineyards in the Adelaide Hills, Clare Valley and the Barossa, beachside on the Yorke and Fleurieu peninsulas, along the banks of the Murray River…and just about everywhere in between. Further afield, the Flinders Ranges provides some of the best opportunities for kangaroo and wildlife spotting. Explore Rawnsley Park Station, Arkaroola and Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park for guaranteed kangaroo encounters and a chance to spot the elusive Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby. Always dreamed of hand feeding kangaroos? Head to Cleland Wildlife Park, Gorge Wildlife Park or Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary in the Adelaide Hills, Urimbirra on the Fleurieu Peninsula or Mikkira Station on the Eyre Peninsula (private tours only).
Always dreamt of swimming with wild dolphins? A bucket list item for many wildlife lovers, joining these curious and incredibly intelligent mammals in their natural environment is a once-ina-lifetime experience. Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures offers charters from Kingscote and Emu Bay to remote coastal beaches where you can swim with wild Bottlenose dolphins and frolic with seals. Or just minutes from Adelaide, sail from Glenelg beach on a catamaran with Temptation Sailing, which offers dolphin viewing and swimming experiences. Thousands of common and bottlenose dolphins call the Gulf St Vincent home, so sightings are virtually guaranteed. A short drive away, you can also kayak in Port Adelaide’s Dolphin Sanctuary. With a 10,000-year-old mangrove forest, this river system is home to around 40 resident bottlenose dolphins, while another 400 transient dolphins also frequent the river to feed, play and nurse their young.
The Eyre Peninsula is also home to one of the most weird and wonderful animal encounters. The annual migration of Giant Australian Cuttlefish is one of the most spectacular events under the water – and is unique to South Australia. Between May and August, cuttlefish gather in their thousands to mate and spawn. Weighing up to 10kg and known as the chameleons of the sea, cuttlefish change their colours and patterns wildly as they swim around, making for a kaleidoscopic spectacular that draws snorkelers and divers each year.
South Australia is a haven for birds, and avid twitchers (that’s serious birdwatchers for the uninitiated) will tell you our backyard is one of the best places to spot rare species. With a vast and varied landscape, almost 500 different bird species thrive across a dramatic array of habitats including woodlands, bush, coast, desert and wetlands. A walk through one of South Australia’s best national parks will reward eagle-eyed twitchers, a trip to the outback comes paired with guaranteed Wedge-tailed Eagle sightings, while just minutes from the city you can spot species from all over the world at the Adelaide International Bird Sanctuary. Each year, more than 27,000 birds stop at this coastal wetland to rest and feed on their annual migration from countries as far as Alaska and Siberia.
For coastal bird species, head for Coorong National Park and Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park, while the banks of the Murray River offer some of the best waterbird watching opportunities with over 200 species in the area.
8 DAY PACKAGE WITH MAJESTIC CRUISING EXPERIENCE ALONG THE MIGHTY MURRAY
YOUR 8 DAY SOUTH AUSTRALIAN DEAL INCLUDES:
• 4 nights aboard PS Murray Princess from the historic river port of Mannum to Blanchetown, with daily port stops
• 3 nights in quality, 4-star accommodation
• Breakfast daily, 5 lunches, 4 dinners including memorable dining experiences on board Murray River cruise
• In-depth, fully guided day tours of the Barossa Valley and Kangaroo Island
Discover South Australia’s finest on a delightful journey blending natural beauty, rich culture and premium travel experiences. Admire stunning landscapes and wildlife as you take to the Murray River on a four-night paddlewheeler cruise. Stop at charming towns, take a bushwalk with the Captain and visit a boutique winery, woodshed and wildlife shelter. You’ll even tour Ngaut Ngaut Aboriginal Reserve.
TRAVEL FROM APR 2023 TO DEC 2023
Back on land, discover Australia’s richest and bestknown winemaking region, the Barossa.
To round out this adventure of relaxation and rejuvenation, a day tour to Kangaroo Island reveals rugged coastlines, serene beaches and abundant wildlife, including a guided walk on the beach among a colony of rare and wild Australian sea lions. Unforgettable.
The Inspiring Vacations team were so knowledgeable and helpful guiding me through the process. The price is also excellent for the trip as I had done many comparisons.
8 days per person twin share from 7-DAY COOLING OFF PERIOD
$2,899*AUD
15 DAY SOUTH ISLAND DELUXE ROAD TRIP
Cruise Abel Tasman National Park, go whale watching o the coast of Kaikoura, hike in Mt Cook National Park and visit New Zealand’s famous glaciers and national parks at your own pace.
• Experience the TranzAlpine rail journey from Christchurch to Greymouth • 14 nights in premium, 4-star hotels • 13 days car rental (auto, nil excess, unlimited km)
The service from the team is excellent from the beginning. Phone is answered quickly, you are not on hold forever and the team you talk to are very helpful and friendly.
This is by far the best travel company I have used and look forward to many more holidays with them.
ALSO AVAILABLE: 11 DAY NORTH ISLAND DELUXE ROAD TRIP AUCKLAND • PAIHIA • BAY OF ISLANDS • WAITOMO • OTOROHANGA • ROTORUA • HOBBITON
Discover Paihia and cruise the Bay of Islands for a full day, visit Hole in the Rock, see the mesmerising Waitomo glowworm caves and Rotorua’s geothermal wonders.
• 10 nights in mostly 4-star hotels
• 9 days car rental (unlimited km, nil excess)
• Breakfast daily
• Flexibility of independent travel with guided day tours, including a winery day in Kumeu wine country
TRAVEL FROM APR 2023 TO JUL 2024
just
Home to rugged white and black sand beaches, dramatic lakes and landscapes and secluded islands, New Zealand is a magical destination to fall in love
New Zealand is not just for adventure seekers! A romantic getaway to the Land Of The Long White Cloud could be just what you need.
Northland is known as 'the winterless north.'
Head to the very tip of the North Island to Cape Reinga Lighthouse. This is a spiritual place for Māori and where you can see the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean meet together in a visible line.
The Bay of Islands is the ultimate place to play. You can dive the reef and protected marine reserves, swim with dolphins, take a boat trip through the Hole in the Rock and swim in coves.
End the day with a romantic sunset over the ocean.
Visit Tāne Mahuta (a giant Kauri tree) in the Waipoua Forest and the treaty grounds at Waitangi to learn about an important part of New Zealand's history.
Local tip: check out the public toilets in Kawakawa, they were created by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. These unique loos are a work of art, with bright colours and intricate mosaic artwork throughout.
The Coromandel is a nature lover's dream and a popular holiday spot for Kiwis. Coromandel town is known for its laid back lifestyle, great beaches and local artists' work including paintings, pottery and crafts.
The area is so diverse, you could be swimming at sunrise, trekking the pinnacles, paddleboarding at Whangamata or kayaking out to Donut Island during the day, then watching the sunset over the ocean.
Head to the world-famous Cathedral Cove for beautiful photographs together and if you judge the tides right you could be relaxing in your hand-dug hot pool on Hot Water Beach.
Taupō is a bustling town on the edge of Lake Taupō, which is New Zealand's largest lake (it's almost the size of Singapore).
The area is known for excellent trout fishing, paragliding, jet boating, mountain biking, and many natural thermal attractions including thermal hot pools and spa treatments.
You can head out to see Huka Falls and hear 220,000 litres of water per second rumble over the rocks at an intense speed. Or bring out your adventurous side by skydiving, bungy jumping or rafting down the river.
The 'adventure capital of the world' needs no introduction. Queenstown is one of New Zealand's most beautiful places and a popular year-round honeymoon destination. If you're feeling brave, try bungee jumping, skydiving or a canyon swing, or zip lining.
It's not just for thrill-seekers, Queenstown is also a place for relaxation and exploring natural beauty. Queenstown centre is lively and you are spoilt with excellent dining options and drinking spots.
Head to Arrowtown and try your luck at panning for gold and explore the mining history.
The home of Mt Aspiring National Park, Wanaka is one of the most picturesque regions of New Zealand. You can trek to the top of Coromandel Peak and Roys Peak for stunning views over Lake Wanaka. For the ultimate adventure you can via ferrata by a huge waterfall or skydive over the lakes, mountains, glaciers and the Upper Clutha River.
Wind down with a trip to a lavender farm, visit the worldfamous 'that Wanaka tree' or sample local produce at the many excellent restaurants.
The Nelson Tasman region is most famous for the Abel Tasman National Park which is one of New Zealand's 10 Great Walks. Find the gateway to the park between Marahau and Kaiteriteri.
Split Apple Rock (Toka Ngawhā) and Golden Bay are great day trips and can be accessed by boat. They are great spots for kayaking and swimming. Nelson is a bustling little city and the weekend markets and the live music scene bring in people from neighbouring areas.
Head to Takaka, which is a small town with a big dose of character, you'll find interesting shops and friendly locals who love an alternative lifestyle. You can stock up on supplies here before venturing into Kahurangu National Park.
This is a year-round honeymoon destination that has turquoise waters, golden sand and excellent weather.
The Marlborough region is at the very top of the South Island, you can take a passenger and car ferry over the beautiful Cook Strait from Wellington to the Marlborough Sounds, keep a look out for dolphins and whales. Outdoors enthusiasts can enjoy trekking the Queen Charlotte Track and kayaking the many secluded bays.
Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is world-famous and is thanks to the fertile soils, good weather conditions and perfect terroir of the region. Head to Blenheim, Renwick and Hawkesbury for gourmet food and wine at the many vineyard cellar doors.
WE KNOW AND LOVE JAPAN!
This is a land where tradition and modernity intersect for a rich travel experience. We’ll show you the best of this beautiful country, from kitsch neighbourhoods of buzzing Tokyo to the torii-lined streets of traditional Kyoto and iconic treasures like Mount Fuji. Our escorted tours are comfortable, value-laden journeys bursting with must-see sights and authentic experiences.
See Kenrokuen Garden, Mount Fuji, the deer of Nara, Miyajima Island’s iconic floating torii gate, Takayama Old Town and UNESCO sites Shirakawa-gõ Village and White Heron Castle.
• 14 nights in well-located hotels
• 1 night in a traditional Ryokan
• Ride the iconic Japanese bullet train
• Breakfast daily, 1 dinner
• Fully escorted by professional, expert, English-speaking guide
TRAVEL MAY 2023 TO NOV 2024
Japan’s icons and sights, including Mount Fuji, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and beautiful temples, and UNESCO-listed Golden Pavilion and Itsukushima Shrine.
• 14 nights in quality 3 and 4-star hotels
• Experience the iconic, exhilarating Japanese bullet train
• Breakfast daily, 1 dinner
• Fully escorted by professional, expert, English-speaking guide
TRAVEL APR 2023 TO NOV 2024
Explore delights like feudal relic Himeji Castle and Takayama Old Town. Plus, time to explore the beauty of northern Japan, including Hakodate, Sapporo and a scenic cruise around the islands of Matsushima Bay.
• Centrally located, 3 and 4-star hotels including 1 night in a traditional Ryokan
• Ride the famed shinkansen bullet train
• Explore northern Japan with both independent travel and guided tours
• Expert, English-speaking guides
TRAVEL APR 2023 TO NOV 2024
Dreaming of sakura season? Japan’s iconic landscapes and sights are even more magical drenched in petals, including Kyoto’s Heian Jingu Shrine and Philosopher’s Path, Tokyo’s Ueno Park and Lake Kawaguchiko.
• 12 nights in 3 and 4-star accommodation
• All coach, rail and ferry transport including the Japanese bullet train
• Breakfast daily, 1 dinner
• Fully escorted by professional, expert, English-speaking guide
TRAVEL MAR 2023 TO APR 2024
The annual blooming of sakura (cherry blossom) trees in Japan is a sacred occurrence that has been celebrated for over 1,000 years. While its origins are somewhat disputed, with some sources pointing to the 3rd century and others to the 9th, it’s generally agreed that the earliest hanami (flower viewing) parties were reserved for imperial aristocrats and later, the samurai class. By the turn of the 17th century, cherry blossom season was widely celebrated by ordinary folk and today, millions of international visitors flock to Japan in March and April to see the blooms and join the locals in the sakura festivities.
These days, tourists visit Japan during sakura season to see the country’s most famous sights showered in delicate petals. But for the Japanese, the season has a much deeper significance. In addition to being appreciated for its splendid appearance, it has also come to symbolise the ephemeral nature of life and its fleeting beauty.
In Japan, Shinto and Buddhism are the dominant religions, with many people identifying as both. While the beliefs differ in some areas, many of the main ideas are shared between Shintoists and Buddhists, including the worship of nature and life’s impermanence. The short-lived bloom of sakura embodies this principle; it is a stunning yet temporary sight that, at the height of its beauty, quickly vanishes.
From March to April every year, millions head to Japan to see their famed cherry trees shower the landscape in pink and white petals
Cherry blossom season is an annual event that occurs every spring, however the exact dates of the bloom vary from year to year, based on weather conditions. A warm spring often leads to early kaika (flowering), while cold temperatures might lead to late blooms. The one thing that’s guaranteed is the pattern of blooming, with the sakura zensen (cherry blossom front) starting in the southern islands near the beginning of the year and heading north, as late as May. For visitors wanting to see the deciduous trees flower in Japan’s most popular cities, Kyoto and Tokyo typically bloom in the last week of March and first two of April.
As the cherry blossom season is big business in Japan, its prediction has become a suitably grand affair, involving scientists, mathematic equations and many of the country’s leading meteorologists. For those wanting up-to-date information, the Sakura Navi app – developed by the Japan Meteorological Corporation – allows people to track the cherry blossom zensen in real time, alerts them when they’re near a viewing spot and contains blooming forecasts for the entire country.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Chiyoda in Tokyo; Wagashi, traditional confectionery eaten during sakura season; Hirano Jinjya Temple in Kyoto, Kitanomaru Park in Tokyo; Hanami festival at Maruyama Park
Traverse Japan in early April and you’re in with a great chance of seeing cherry trees in bloom, however the best spot to bask in their beauty requires a detour. Yoshino, a relatively quiet town east of Osaka, explodes in population when the sakura zensen arrives. The town has long been one of the most popular to visit during spring as it’s home to 30,000 cherry blossom trees, which blanket the mountainous region in pink and white.
In Tokyo, there are many places to spot sakura. Head to Chiyoda in central Tokyo, where hundreds of sakura trees line the edge of the Chidorigafuchi Moat, beside the imperial palace. Those looking for a perspective away from the crowds should rent a boat and paddle down the waterway.
Just as Kyoto is known for its beautiful temples and shrines, it’s also renowned for its blossom displays. Ditch the crowds at Kiyomizu-dera and set up your own hanami on the sakura-lined banks of the Kamo-gawa River, or visit the oftenoverlooked Konkai Komyo-ji Temple.
Which events
Japanese people love a celebration, with hundreds of thousands of matsuri (festivals) taking place around the country every year. From giving thanks, to praying for a good harvest, there’s a festival to commemorate any occasion and when March arrives, the matsuris turn their focus to all things pink and floral.
Travel anywhere with flowering sakura trees and you’re bound to find people partaking in hanami celebrations, so grab a bento box and set up camp under a blossoming tree to bask in the beauty of the season. If you’re interested in a larger event, Tokyo’s Ueno Park hosts one of Japan’s largest cherry blossom festivals. With over 1,000 trees, food stalls and night-time illumination, it’s no wonder the park is a popular hanami spot for locals and visitors alike.
Japanese food is heavily centred around the seasons, with offerings dependent on fresh produce and seasonal flavours. The arrival of spring brings all manner of sakura-flavoured treats, from Kit Kats to soft-serve ice cream and yatsuhashi (a chewy rice flour triangle filled with sweet paste).
For some delicious sakura-flavoured wagashi (Japanese sweets), head to the iconic yet tiny Gion Manju Factory (103 Ooidecho, Sanjo
Shirakawabashi-dori Nishi-iru, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture) in the centre of Kyoto, which has been serving up mochi (rice cakes), dango (rice dumplings on a skewer) and other traditional treats for almost 200 years.
the rainy season. The petals of the plant react to the acidity level of the soil and can switch between inky blue, pink, purple and white accordingly – a trait that made ‘fickleness’ another symbolic meaning of the ajisai
The water-loving hydrangea is considered at its most beautiful after a rainfall, when the clustered flower heads are beaded with droplets.
In bloom: January–March
The flowering of the ume is a welcome harbinger of the oncoming spring. The blossoms of the Japanese plum (also known as the Japanese apricot) were the original inspiration for the Japanese pastime of hanami (flower viewing) before cherry blossoms won favour in the 8th-century during the Heian Period. Ume festivals, or ume matsuri, are still beloved events that draw crowds out of winter hibernation to picnic under boughs laden with fragrant pink and white petals.
Where to see them: One of the most scenic ume matsuri is the Odawara Plum Festival in Kanagawa Prefecture, where 35,000 plum trees bloom against the silhouette of Mt Fuji.
In bloom: April–May
Wisteria is a common motif in Japanese arts and culture, and retains noble connotations harking back to feudal times when commoners were forbidden to wear purple. Today the Japanese wisteria’s dangling strings of mauve, pink and white blossoms bring people from far and wide flocking to specialty parks each season to see hypnotic displays of the vine trained into tunnels and over trellises.
Where to see them: Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi Prefecture, north of Tokyo, boasts more than 350 wisteria vines. Among the most stunning sights is an 80 metre-long wisteria tunnel dripping in flowers, and the nearly 150-year-old Great Miracle Wisteria with its gnarled trunk and impossibly wide canopy.
In bloom: May–July
As the rainy season engulfs Japan, hydrangeas start to bloom in parks, temples and shrines nationwide. It is thought that this highly ornamental flower originated in Japan, where it is the symbol of
Where to see them: Kamakura city is a serene temple town south of Tokyo in Kanagawa prefecture renowned for its annual hydrangea displays. Hase-dera and Meigetsu-in temples are particularly breathtaking, where pathways are lined with clouds of blue-tinged blooms.
In bloom: July–August
With the sun in Japan comes that sunniest of flowers. At their most glorious in the peak of summer, sunflowers are fittingly seen as a symbol of radiance, but also of hope. Sunflowers can help filter radioactive contamination out of soil, and so a community-driven project saw vast fields of sunflowers planted around Fukushima after the devastating nuclear disaster. They’ve become a physical sign of healing in the slowly recovering region.
Where to see them: Every season more than a million sunflowers unfurl at Himawari-no-Sato, a flower farm north of Sapporo in Hokkaido. During its famed Hokuryu sunflower festival, visitors wander mazes plotted into the fields and explore by tractor and bicycle.
In bloom: September–November
The kiku is a symbol of the Japanese monarchy – also known as the ‘Chrysanthemum Throne’ – and is a deeply revered bloom. In a show of mastery over nature, artisan growers spend all year selectively breeding, pruning and fastidiously training chrysanthemum plants before the autumn flowering. These meticulous displays are shown off in public spaces, with the most accomplished holding pride of place at kiku matsuri (chrysanthemum festivals).
Where to see them: Yushima Tenjin Shrine and Daienji Temple in Tokyo are the settings for two of the city’s most popular kiku matsuri. Look closely to appreciate the great skill that has gone into each display. After the peak of the bloom has passed, the grower will cut down their creations and begin the painstaking process anew for the next season.
There are some other blooming beauties to see while you’re touring Japan, no matter the season.
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I’m most excited for the diehard fans to see this 50th anniversary production. It’s a beautiful mix of what people know and love, sprinkled with new interpretations from this exciting and unique cast.
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I’ve focused on my vocal stamina by singing Time Warp multiple times a day since being cast.
O’Brien, The Rocky Horror Show has become one of the world’s favourite musicals and the only contemporary rock musical to celebrate 50 years on stage. Melbourne’s Henry Rollo stars as Riff Raff. Here, we chat to him about his role, his favourite Melbourne hotspots and where he is travelling next
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It’s simple but I love walking The Tan, just outside of the city.
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My favourite coffee place is Human Beans cafe in Southbank for its amazing coffee and friendly staff. If it’s a sunny day and you’re after something a little stronger, I’d recommend Arbory Afloat on the Yarra.
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