Let's Travel Aug Sep 2015

ISSUE 37 AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2015

ISSUE 37 AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015

Let’s Travel THE MAGAZINE FOR CORPORATE AND LEISURE TRAVELLERS

Stunning SAMOA

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Lions of INDIA HONG KONG Havens BOLIVIA’S Heavenly Gate

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Let’s Travel THE MAGAZINE FOR CORPORATE AND LEISURE TRAVELLERS

Let’s Travel: is published by LT Media Ltd PO Box 55199, EastRidge, Auckland 1146. New Zealand Ph: + 64 9 521 4879 www.letstravelmag.com Editor-In-Chief: Gary Dickson gary@letstravelmag.com Mob: + 64 21 523 421 Editor at Large: Shane Boocock shane@letstravelmag.com Mob: + 64 21 142 7040 Editor at Large Gayle Dickson gayle@letstravelmag.com Mob: + 64 21 281 7699 Sales and Marketing: Gary Dickson gary@letstravelmag.com Mob: + 64 21 523 421

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readers.

Over the past six years we have increased our love of this publication through print, digital, Facebook, Twitter and on our ever increasingly popular website, to showcase some of this planet’s magnificent locations.

But we’ve hardly scratched the surface! There are so many places yet to be explored.

So, in this issue, we thought we’d spice things up a bit and bring you, not one, but two massive features, over and above our normal collection of amazing things to see and do.

One of the features is on one of my favourite destinations…Samoa, and one on all you need to know about Cruising.

We hope we inspire you to search out different places to go and to relive old places that perhaps you haven’t been to for a while. We also welcome any thoughts on places you’d like us to feature in future issues.

Happy Anniversary to us!!!

Live long and prosper!

ISSUE 37 AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2015

ISSUE 37 AUGUST - SEPTEMBER 2015

www.twitter.com/letstravelmag ISSN Number 1176 – 4619

The crew at Let’s Travel Magazine travel with the confidence of being insured with QBE Insurance.

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Stunning SAMOA Lions of INDIA HONG KONG Havens BOLIVIA’S Heavenly Gate

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Let’s Travel

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Contributors: Nadia Ansell, Shane Boocock, Gary Dickson, Gayle Dickson, Jessica Harkins, Rob McFarland, Julie Miller, Kevin Pilley, Mark William Sheehan, Megan Singleton and Pamela Wade

L

ike birthdays, anniversaries seem to come around all too soon.

And believe it or not this bumper issue of Let’s Travel magazine celebrates our 6th anniversary of bringing some of the best travel destinations from here and around the globe to you…our loyal

Gary Dickson EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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EDITOR'S

Design and Production: Element Design Limited Monique@element.co.nz Ph: + 64 9 636 0558

from the editor

Wind Spirit moored off Santorini

“I have found out that there ain’t no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them.” – Mark Twain (1835 – 1910)

Effortlessly travel between unforgettable destinations with our collection of Great Train Journeys of the World.

Great Train Journeys Of The WOrld 2015

09 377 5420

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EUROPE | ASIA | NORTH & SOUTH AMERICA | AFRICA | INDIA | RUSSIA | AUSTRALIA

Where in the world would you rather be?

RELAX | DIVE | SAIL | GOLF | LIVE | PLAY | HAMILTONISLAND.COM.AU

contents 93

NEW ZEALAND 30 Blanket Bay 90 Stamford Auckland AUSTRALIA 38 Frasers Hospitality 42 Hamilton Island 82 Noosa 120 Daydream Island PACIFIC ISLANDS 12 Fiji

CONTENTS

45 Samoa Insert U.S.A. 8 New York 78 Mall of America 86 Denver

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ASIA 18 India 70 Hong Kong

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74 Best Hotels 126 Malaysia BEYOND 22 Bolivia 26 South Africa 34 England 122 African Adrenaline OTHERS

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69 Etihad Airways 84 Travel Associates 93 Cruising Insert

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119 New Products/Giveaways 124 Cathay Pacific

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Explore lush rainforests or tee off on a world-class golf course. Whether you’re going white water rafting or unwinding with spectacular snorkelling and a quiet swim, it’s all here. In Fiji, you just do what makes you happy.

Destination ➜ New York

The only thing better than singing, is more singing

U.S.A. | NEW YORK

By Nadia Ansell

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T

ONLY

Ages 6-17

114 89

$

$

42% 6 famous attractions

U.S.A. | NEW YORK

ake the New York Subway just a few stops north of slick and sleek Manhattan, and you emerge into a land of plenty…Harlem. This may sound strange in a neighbourhood not recognised for having much in worldly terms; but these people have soul by the bucketful, and a sense of neighbourly harmony that Manhattan often lacks.

Not sure where to start exploring this neck of the woods, we met up with Neal Shoemaker, owner and founder of Harlem Heritage Tours, a tall, effervescent character that everyone greeted with a “Hey brother, how ya doin’ today?”.

What Neal didn’t know about Harlem probably isn’t worth knowing. Our walking tour included the spot where Malcolm X and other famous American civil rights activists made history during the mid 20th century and the converted theatre where Rev. Wyatt T. Walker used to preach and which is now a church. We walked around the very basketball court where the Harlem Shake began, and even introduced us to a young lad he described as the next Lebron James!

But what is Harlem without music…both gospel and jazz! So next stop was the famous Minton’s Playhouse. This establishment is to modern jazz what New Orleans is to traditional; it’s the birthplace of jazz. In the 1930s Henry Minton, the original owner of the club, began encouraging jazz musicians to drop in and play. Monday nights, in particular, were popular, as visiting musicians from the big bands and small combos would come in to jam on their night off. The day we visited they were closed, as they are every Monday nowadays, but they opened up just for us – talk about the royal treatment! Christopher Stewart made us feel right at home, showing us around both Minton’s and adjacent restaurant. It was at The Cecil (pronounced See Sal) where she (Christopher is ‘her’ real name) invited us to sample some of the great cuisine on offer. Well, I say “some”, but the food just kept on coming! This was eclectic cuisine at its best - full of flavour and nothing short of amazing! We munched our way through a Collard Green Salad, Citrus Jerk Wild Bass and the Bone-in Short Ribs, a fusion of Asian, American and Caribbean flavours. For me, the piece de resistance was the Macaroni and Cheese Casserole with rosemary, shallots and pepper ham - I have never experienced flavour like that in a good old pot sticker of a dish!

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• Empire State Building Experience • American Museum of Natural History • The Metropolitan Museum of Art • Your choice of Top of the Rock® OR Guggenheim Museum • Your choice of Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island OR Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise • Your choice of 9/11 Memorial & Museum OR Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum Buy at these attractions Connect with CityPASS

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Barely able to stand after all that food, Christopher ushered us through a hidden door into Mintons. She let us stand on the hallowed stage, the famous mural creating a colourful backdrop for our selfies. Gayle even had a tinkle on the old ivories! It was rather humbling to tread the floorboards of that stage and run ones fingers over those piano keys knowing just who had preceded you!

Henry Minton himself was a tenor saxophonist, famous as the first Black delegate to the American Federation of Musicians, Local 802, and for opening the Club in 1938. At first the club was just a favourite spot for jazz musicians and those who loved the music; it was possible to listen to established soloists of the era, like Lester Young, Ben Webster, Roy Eldridge, Don Byas and Coleman Hawkins amongst others.

The Jewel of the Upper West Side

Gradually though, the pioneers of the new modern jazz began experimenting, literally on the bandstand, trying out new chord structures and rhythmic changes, and developing a style of jazz that came to be known as bebop.

It started with the rhythm section. The house band at this time consisted of Nick Fenton on bass, Thelonious Monk at the piano and Kenny Clarke on drums.

The latter two were both pioneers on their instruments Monk producing weird chords and a very cool, far-out sound that frightened many of the more traditional musicians; and Clarke, the first drummer to transfer the beat from the snare drum to the ride cymbal and play a fast, rhythmic accompaniment that featured complex cross rhythms.

Guitarist, Charlie Christian, was doing similar experimental work on his instrument, and there were jam sessions and cutting contests with top soloists trying to outplay each other!

Trumpeter, Roy Eldridge, played fierce battles with Dizzy Gillespie, the modern upstart eventually ‘cutting’ him in music battles and earning the audience’s accolade. The two became firm friends and even recorded together.

What an exciting time it must have been, with established trumpet players like Roy Eldridge, sparring up to technicallyadvanced new boys like Dizzy Gillespie and the saxophonists playing with, or listening carefully to, Charlie Parker. Avid fan, Jerry Newman, would take his portable recorder down to Minton’s and record the new music. Oddly, he didn’t like Charlie Parker, and turned off his recorder whenever the man most consider as the father of modern jazz was playing!

One has to wonder how much great new music from the master was lost to record companies and to the annals of history! Mintons was a haven for jazz lovers and remained an experimental jazz club for two decades, and today is as vibrant a jazz club as it was ever reported to be.

Harlem has many fascinations…from the people and way of life here, to the food and the music. No matter which street or avenue you find yourself on, people smile warmly.

Music rules – you’ll hear gospel singing as you pass by the numerous churches, or the notes of soul music sneaking through an open kitchen window, and jazz still rules the airwaves around here.

2130 Broadway at 75th Street • New York, NY 10023 Tel: 001+1+212.787.1100 • Fax: 001+1+212.787.8119 www.beaconhotel.com • reservations@beaconhotel.com

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This neighbourhood of wide streets, and a dizzying assortment of housing options, wears its history on its sleeve. From its roots as a farming town in the 1700s to its reincarnation as a resort for wealthy Manhattans to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, through the Martin Luther King Jnr and civil rights era of the mid-20th century to the gentrification in the late 1990s…all you need to do to see much of this history is open your eyes…and then open your ears to the music.

The beautiful Ella Fitzgerald once said: “The only thing better than singing, is more singing”, and the people of Harlem sing beautifully.

facts: We travelled with Hawaiian Airlines who offer a one-stop connection in Honolulu when travelling between Auckland and NYC.

U.S.A. | NEW YORK

➜ www.hawaiianairlines.com

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We stayed at: The London NYC: ➜ www.thelondonnyc.com The Pierre: ➜ www.tajhotels.com Beacon Hotel NYC: ➜ www.beaconhotel.com We toured Harlem with Harlem Heritage Tours: ➜ www.harlemheritage.com

We explored New York on a Metro Card at US$2.75 per ride: ➜ http://web.mta.info/metrocard

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➜ www.nycgo.com

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Destination ➜ Fiji

Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort

PACIFIC ISLANDS | FIJI

By Megan Singleton

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The resort The Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort is built to resemble a Fijian village as it sprawls over 16 hectares with individual

Pamper time I’m a sucker for a great massage so when I discovered Bebe (pronounced Ben-bey) spa perched high up on the hill behind the resort with treatment rooms that open on to the view, I jumped in the golf cart and had the guys take me up there.

What’s also up here is the wedding chapel and even higher above is Kalo Kalo Bar serving cocktails, tapas and the sunset.

If your kids are ensconced in the kids’ club – or you’re travelling sans children – then the adult’s only pool and Vahavu Bistro is where you might want to relax. With a swim-up bar and a café serving lunches, you could quite easily wile away a few hours here.

PACIFIC ISLANDS | FIJI

thatched-roof bures dotted on the lawns and a three-level hotel that stretches like a backbone along the ridge overlooking the property with the beach and lagoon in the distance.

Pathways covered in bamboo awnings wind down beside a creek, past the swimming pool and divide across bridges while local women come in from the villages to sell their wares along it. Some of it is handcrafted, some they buy in to enthral those of us in need of a bling fix – and run a little business.

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t’s winter so that must mean one thing…Fiji!

Fiji is the quintessential fly and flop destination. After three hours winging away from the winter chill you land in Nadi and typically taxi to one of the many resorts standing shoulder-to-swimming-pool on Denarau Island where your daily spot on the water’s edge awaits.

But, believe it or not, there is more to Fiji than Denarau!

Last month I drove up the Coral Coast to do my flopping at the Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort on the lagoon and learned there is a lot more going on here than what lies between the covers of my book.

The hour-and-a-half drive winds along the coastal road through Sigatoka, past farms and villages, schools and roadside stalls. This is the real Fiji. This is where kids run on school fields playing viri – a chasing game of tag where boys and girls start the art of ducking and weaving, rugby sevens style. It’s where visiting the produce markets for fresh fruit, veges and handmade clothing and accessories is part of the charm.

PACIFIC ISLANDS | FIJI

Eating and Drinking There are five restaurants and a café, so there’s something to please even the fussiest of junior eaters. Families will love the huge open plan buffet bure Vala Ni Kana. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the day starts with freshly squeezed juices and smoothies, a large bread and pastry section, an egg station and hot and cold food – as much as you like. Evening meals are themed and might include seafood, Italian, Fijian dinners and every night there is a live entertainment show.

But if you’re not travelling with hungry little mouths and desire something more low-key, Ivi restaurant is where you go for adults-only fine dining by candlelight. Executive chef, Shailesh Naidu, is president of the Fiji Chef’s Association and has a passion for seeing local Fijian kids take up a career in the kitchen. So much so, he runs Master Chef competitions in the nearby schools that are yielding great results – and better prizes than on the pro circuit. My husband and I treated ourselves to a deconstructed lobster mornay here on our last night, which has become one of my favourite dishes of all time.

I dined at Baravi one night with it’s glass-front kitchen serving up Asian cuisine in a small restaurant beside the sports bar and the pool. You can’t go wrong with a butter chicken – and I didn’t! Or try the Sundowner Bar and Grill, right on the lagoon edge and great for a tipple before dinner, or stay for a meal. It’s open for casual breakfast, lunch and dinners.

Community projects The highlight for me was spending time working on one of Outrigger’s community projects. The staff have been doing this for years, each department working one day a month in a local village. A few years ago guests began asking if they could join in, so now on Tuesdays and Thursdays they can.

My job was to paint planks that will become the eaves on the new hall Outrigger guests are building for Conua District School. It’s a really great day out for people of all ages (kids can play with the local children on the school grounds!) and abilities.

Megan Singleton

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Sigatoka Markets

Kalo Kalo Bar

You’ll finish the day with a kava ceremony hosted by the men of the village to thank you for your involvement…and that in itself is worth going for.

Let the resort staff know when you check in if you’d like to be involved. They need at least 24 hours notice and you will be hosted by a staff member. Bring a hat, covered shoes, sunscreen, gifts for the kids if you’d like (things like pens, books, stickers, balls are good). Lunch is provided and you’ll also get a sight-seeing tour of a nearby ancient fort with amazing river views.

Cost: $100FJ ($70NZ) per adult/$60FJ per child (aged 5-15). About 30% of this covers your expenses for the day and 70% goes into the project to cover materials.

facts: Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort ➜ www.outrigger.com

Megan travelled as a guest of Outrigger Resorts.

Your gateway to fiji and beyond

WELLINGTON

Direct flights to Fiji from 3 gateways in New Zealand: Auckland to Nadi Daily / Auckland to Suva Fridays and Mondays Wellington to Nadi twice weekly from 25 June 2015, Thursdays and Sundays Christchurch to Nadi twice weekly from 23 June 2015, Tuesdays and Saturdays For more information call 0800 800 178 or visit FIJIAIRWAYS.COM

WelcoMe tO oUr Home

Destination ➜ Fiji

PACIFIC ISLANDS | FIJI

Volivoli Beach Resort

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W

elcome to Volivoli, the Heart of Fiji! It first opened to welcome travellers from across the globe in November 2005 and has been extending their list of vacationers ever since.

The Darling family (Steve Snr, wife Gail and sons, Steve and Nick) came to Fiji on a project to finish the construction of the Kings Rd. The boys attended school in the local village of Rakiraki where they developed what has become a life long love for Fiji, its culture and of course the Fijian people.

The family’s vision was to open a dive resort and what started with Ra Divers has evolved into the relaxed luxury resort that you will find today.

Diving and fishing are still passions but the property has grown into an exquisite resort where guests can also experience the Day Spa, Live-a-board diving on the Fiji Siren and a relaxing vacation.

The whole family is actively involved in the daily operation to ensure everyone who visits receives the same personal service and gets the opportunity to share in their love of the Fijian culture.

PACIFIC ISLANDS | FIJI

From the lush tropical gardens to the high-end quality accommodation, the resort has evolved into what is one of the best boutique family run resorts in Fiji with Nick and Steve being the onsite Managing Directors driving the business with a hands on approach.

Volivoli Beach Resort is located
15 minutes drive from the town of Rakiraki, on the very north tip the island of Viti Levu. It is situated on a headland, offering lush tropical gardens, high-end quality accommodation, its own private beach and a stunning 80mtr sand spit extending out in to the ocean.

All accommodation offers guests ocean views. With a fleet of dedicated dive and fishing boats, an onsite fully equipped dive shop and training school all the elements of beachside living come together at Volivoli.

A perfect blend of relaxation, water sports, nightly entertainment, Cultural activities and world-class diving. An onsite Restaurant, Swim up Pool Bar, Day Spa and Beach Bar complete the true Fijian Vacation. ➜ www.volivoli.com

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Destination ➜ India

In search of the Savaj

ASIA | INDIA

By Kevin Pilley

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C

onservation areas are bad for the sacral regions. The Gir Forest in Gujarat, western India, is the last remaining home for Asiatic or Persian lions. It also has the largest number of marsh crocodiles, leopards and speed bumps, as well as a highly successful breeding programme of potholes…their numbers grow every night.

If you go on an Indian lion safari you will be in for a bumpy ride. The Gir is 400 partially sealed kilometres from Ahmedabad..

Deciding to forgo some of the unique on-site attractions of the family-friendly “Fern Resort ” in Sasan Gir - kite flying (seasonal), jiggery making, beginners’ kabaddi, lemon and egg racing, “Kho Kho” (tag), musical chairs and “Make Your Own Lion Pug Mask”, I went on a three-hour, £120 early morning jeep safari to spot a rare gene pool.

“Isn’t he handsome,“ said my English-speaking guide Mr Bhikku. “A really good-looking fellow.” Ten yards from us a lion was dozing off his early morning meal and, although we remained up wind, audibly suffering from unneutralised stomach acid.

Under a nearby flame tree, a group of lionesses picked at the carcass of their breakfast…a spotted Chital deer.

A crested serpent eagle circled overhead. Vultures queued in the treetops. A boar scurried into the undergrowth. “ We are all vegetarians here,“ smiled Mr Bhikku. “There is no dearth of bush meat for the king of the jungle!” He tilted his head. “The jackals and hyenas will be close by.”

It was 7am and already 40 degrees. There were four of us on the dawn tour. A fat-tailed, rufous-faced American, a thick-kneed German couple and bandy-legged, bald-headed me. The American couldn’t close his aperture and went on and on about preventing motion blur and how he was on

ASIA | INDIA 19

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evaluative metre mode and in JPG format and trusting the horizontal stabilisation. He thrust his oversized lense past my nose. He was eager, he said, to add to his wildlife portfolio.

He asked me what I was using. I said “O2”. To reduce camera shakes I had invested in a tourist alcohol licence.

Gujarat is India’s one dry state.

We bumped up and down through the scrub. Every tree root tested the coccyx. Our guide spoke of rock pythons and spectacle cobras. “Tigers are found across seventeen Indian states but lions only in one. The dry deciduous forests of northwest India, a one hour flight from Mumbai, are the last remaining habitat of the Asiatic or Persian lion. It is the only place in the world where you can see “Panthera Leo Persica” in the wild.

We stopped. Bhikku put his finger to his lips and shushed. “Babbar sher!” Another bloated lion panted in front of us.

“Gir Forest Management has become a model for the study of human-wildlife management,” he whispered. “We have lady rangers who look after the lions. They trust them more than men. We have just had our lion census. It happens every five years. There are no issues, only good news. The lions are surviving and thriving.”

Begun in 1962, the “Gir Lion Project” is a conservation success story. The first count was undertaken in 1880 by a Colonel Watson. He recorded twelve lions. The first Forest Service tally was in 1963 (285). In 2010, 411 lions or “Vanrajs” were recorded (97 males, 162 females and 152 cubs). This May’s census – the 14th – revealed a 27% increase in lion numbers (109 males were counted, 210 females and 213 cubs).

A lioness sprawled under a tree. They live separately from males. Once lions were widespread from the Middle East to Greece and north and east India.

ASIA | INDIA

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They died out in Europe two thousand years ago, but they were hunted near to extinction in India by princes, maharajahs and British Nabobs on “shikars” (hunts), until the Nawab of Junagadh banned hunting at the end of the 19th century.

There are now 48 official tiger reserves in India and the tiger, with its 2,000 wild population might bring in more tourism revenue but the lion, thanks to Indian PM Narendra Modi, has been reinstated as the national animal. In 2007 Modi, who was born in Gujarat, started a programme to involve more female villagers in conservation work.

“Poaching and forbidden grazing and timber felling is a problem. And dry riverbeds because of illegal stone mining.“ explained Bikkhu. He introduced us to one of the “Blue Caps” or “Behens” (sisters). “One of the famous cat women of Gir” he laughed.

“We are preserving our heritage,” said Sonal. She was sitting astride her “Honda Hero” motorbike. She held a walkie-talkie and she was dressed in khaki. “ The lion is the symbol of Indian sovereignty. The four-headed lion is on our bank notes. The Persian lions are the last remaining descendants of the lions of Daniel, Androcles and the Roman gladiators. They are our pride. But Gir also has the largest population of leopards in India.“ A sambar deer raced past. She smiled. “The menu!” A boar disappeared into the bushes. Asiatic “savaj” lions were removed for the Critically Endangered species list in 2005.

A breeding centre has been established at Sakkarbaug Zoo in Junadagh.

A lion yawned and stretched in front of us. So did the Germans. The American kept clicking.

Back at the Fern, I birdwatched from my balcony ticking off black drongos, tailor birds, sunbirds, green bee eaters, rose-ringed parakeets and the charming and very helpful hotel GM, Mr. Debasish Muduli. He asked me if I was enjoying the aviculture.

“They are our most important guests. But the Savaj is the king of the jungle here. Long live the lion king!”

We heard a camera click and looked over at the American’s room. The GM smiled and handed me a leaflet.

“Photography points within the resort attract a lot of birds offering complete content to the greedy lenses of enthusiastic camera.” Blurb never lies. Shooting things is still a popular pastime in India.

facts:

The Fern Gir Forest Resort Sasan P: + 91 990 990 7777 E: info@ferngirforestresort.com ➜ www.ferngirforestresort.com ➜ www.girnationalpark.in

Helping travellers find the paths less travelled for 40 years.

Let us help find yours.

For more information visit: www.worldexpeditions.co.nz Phone: 0800 350 354 enquiries@worldexpeditions.co.nz

Destination ➜ Bolivia

La Paz - Bolivia’s Heavenly Gate

BEYOND | BOLIVIA

Words and images by Shane Boocock

Military Parade

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Calle Jaen (old town)

“

T

here is perhaps no other major city in the world that has evoked more eloquent descriptions from its visitors than La Paz, Bolivia, and as likely there are none that more nearly deserve it. Situated at some 12,500 feet (3,800 m) above sea level, it occupies both sides of a deep ravine (quebrada) that, at its greatest depth is approximately 1,300 feet (400 m) below the level, high plain that surrounds it.” So wrote, Olen E. Leonard, in the American Sociological Review, in August 1948. Believe me, not much has changed in La Paz in the last 67 years…except the size of the population.

On my first morning in the city I headed out on a self-guided walking tour to take in some of the La Paz city sights. La Paz was built in a canyon created by the Choqueyapu River (now mostly built over), which runs northwest to southeast. The city’s main thoroughfare, which roughly follows the river, changes names over its length, but the central tree-lined section running through downtown is called ‘Paseo El Prado’, but known by most as just, El Prado.

La Paz from El Alto

Street Vendors

facts: Shane Boocock travelled to La Paz courtesy of World Expeditions. For more information about their ‘Best of Peru and Bolivia’ and other worldwide tour programs including visit: ➜ www.worldexpeditions.co.nz For lightweight sturdy travelling cases look at the new range of American Tourister products that are available in New Zealand at all Briscoes retail stores: ➜ www.americantourister.com or www.briscoes.co.nz

LAN Airlines operates seven non-stop flights each week from Auckland to Santiago, Chile, with onward connections to La Paz, Bolivia. For more information or to make a booking call LAN reservations on 0800 700 647, visit your local travel agent or ➜ www.lan.com I tried out a great new App in Peru called TripRider.

It’s a smart travel notebook for organising, managing, sharing and keeping trip details in one place. Designed for iPhones and iPads by travellers for travellers, it’s easy to use and works offline. It’s what you might call the Swiss Army knife of travel apps. Lite version is Free. Full version is US $4.99 ➜ www.triprider.com Night time food vendors

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San Francisco Church

As I sat in my hotel in the Prado I looked up at the surrounding hills plastered with makeshift brick houses, where families struggle to survive with the hope of one day living in the lower part of the city – strange as it may seem. La Paz geography, in particular the altitude, reflects the city’s society: the lower you go, the more affluent it becomes. While many middle-class paceños live in high-rise condos near the centre, the really expensive houses are located in the lower neighborhoods southwest of the Prado.

The reason for this division is that the lower you go in the city the milder the weather is.

“According to existing literature,” Leonard wrote, “the site of the present city of La Paz was occupied as early as 1185 to 1190, when Maita-Capac, fourth head of the Inca dynasty, entered in pursuit of the recalcitrant Aymara Indians who had consistently resisted efforts to be incorporated into the Empire.” He further went on to write, “Records indicate that the first Spaniard to visit La Paz (then known as Chuquiapu) was Captain Juan de Saavedra in 1535.”

La Paz holds a number of world records that reflect its location. It boasts the highest national capital city in the world. El Alto is also the world’s highest international airport; at 13,313 feet (4,058 m above sea level), it’s almost half as high as a jetliner’s cruising altitude, and takeoffs require a longer runway due to the thin air. The satellite city of El Alto, in which the airport is located, is spread over a broad area to the west of the canyon, on the Altiplano.

Today La Paz harbours a multi-cultural society where the population, both young and elderly co-exist in harmony, where rich and poor shop side by side in a city with a metropolitan area of over 2.3 million inhabitants. For first time visitors keep your eyes wide open, savour the local culture and the diversity of the cuisine whilst taking pleasure in wandering about in one of South America’s greatest cities – it really isn’t that far off heaven’s gate.

Top Tips When Visiting La Paz: Visit The Witches’ Market: Located at Calle Linares between Sagarnaga and Santa Cruz.

Vendors sell llama fetuses and dried frogs for Aymara rituals, as well as soapstone figurines and aphrodisiac formulas. This street is also the best place to pick up a charango or other Bolivian musical instruments.

BEYOND | BOLIVIA

Take a cable car ride: Jump on the “Teleferico” from the Estación Central, “Taypi Uta” (close to the bus terminal) for a spectacular ride with a view up to Cemeterio “Ajayuni,” better known as El Alto. It started operating on 30th May 2014 and is open between 5:30 am - 22:30 pm. In the future they will open two more lines around Alto Obrajes.

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Buying Handicrafts: Not surprisingly handicrafts and tourist souvenirs can be bought on most street corners in La Paz with items for sale from ordinary consumer goods in street markets to better quality items in fancy main street stores. Prices are not that expensive for alpaca clothing, ceramics, native textiles, table cloths, greeting cards and even a range of electronics. Probably the most expensive goods are to be found in the many outdoor stores that sell everything from down jackets, to boots, packs and tents.

View from the Prado Downtown

Museums are a Must: There are at least a dozen museums in La Paz that are worth visiting but with limited time buy one ticket for three within a week! With the aim of promoting the cultural and historical heritage of La Paz and Bolivia, a single ticket gives you access to three Museums: the San Francisco Museum: a Catholic-indigenous face, the National Ethnographic and Folk Museum: a trip through Bolivian Cultures, and the National Museum of Art: offering unique exhibitions, collections and an evolving history, Take in the views: La Paz is a city that is a sight in itself, and there are several viewing places or miradores offering impressive panoramas. Mirador Killi Killi, (from Avenida Sucre take Avenida La Bandera and then walk straight up). You can get the best view of La Paz from here. Mirador Monticulo is next to Plaza España. This small park has a church and lots of trees, which block much of the city, but the clear view of Mt. Illimani makes it an evening hotspot for couples. Parque Laikacota is at the top of Av. Ejercito west of the city centre and offers the best panorama, with good views of the city and the rugged terrain to the east all the way to Mt. Illimani. Av. Camacho is in the heart of downtown and points straight to Illimani, and from the intersection with the Prado it offers an interesting juxtaposition.

Visit a traditional Andean music club: One of the most recognisable aspects of Andean culture is its folk music, which you can enjoy at a number of peñas, or music clubs. Try Huari at Calle Sagarnaga 329. Its location makes it the convenient choice for foreign tourists, so be prepared for outrageous prices and slightly tacky décor; nonetheless, the music and dance performances are excellent. Otherwise head to Marka Tambo, Calle Jaen 710, considered among the best for serious fans of Andean music.

Wandering the city: Go and seek out the oldest pebble-stoned street in La Paz, known as the “Qawra” before Colonial times, meaning Llamas Market. Nearby visit Calle Jaen, one of the few places in the city with preserved colonial buildings, currently housing several interesting museums. Many people hang out at Plaza San Francisco on La Paz’ main tourist strip.

It’s mainly a market street with artesano and souvenir stores, but you’ll also find budget hostels, tour and travel agencies, cafes and lots of backpackers.

Government Buildings and Churches: In the back streets off the El Prado there are many Spanish-style buildings of architectural importance with guards standing at attention outside. To get acquainted with some of them start with the Legislative Palace, then move onto the Government Palace, the Prefecture and Cathedral and Santo Domingo Church.

On my walk I ended up at Murillio Square and the San Francisco Church. The one thing La Paz has an abundance of is churches…of all shapes and sizes.

Food and Drink: This is a city chock full of great food in a range of restaurants, bistros, cafes, and bars, however be a bit wary of the food vendors sell from street carts. On my visit I dined at a local Bolivian café, ate tacos at a Mexican restaurant, devoured a meat dish at a Lebanese cafe, watched soccer and had a warm beer or two in an English pub that served pizzas. I also took great pleasure in slowly eating a spicy goulash broth in a German-style bohemian tavern.

SOUTH AMERICA HAS NEVER BEEN CLOSER DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF BOLIVIA

L T. LA PAZ, BO E K R A M T F A CR

IVIA

LAN Airlines and TAM Airlines form LATAM Airlines Group which serves over 130 destinations in 22 countries.

LAN Airlines offers seven flights per week direct from Auckland to Santiago, Chile.

From Santiago, LAN offers connections to the most exotic destinations in Bolivia.

CONTACT US:

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LAN 09 3083352

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Destination ➜ South Africa

South African Trike Tour BEYOND | SOUTH AFRICA

Words and images by Rob McFarland

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BEST OF SOUTHERN AFRICA 18 DAY SMALL GROUP HOSTED JOURNEY • South Africa’s Cape Town, Winelands, Kruger NP safari, and the luxury Blue Train • Namibia’s Sossusvlei dunes • Botswana’s Chobe NP safari and river cruise • Magnificent Victoria Falls

AFRICA

See your travel agent or call

0800 11 73 11 www.worldjourneys.co.nz

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From here we continue through an undulating landscape of wheat fields and orchards until a refreshing sea breeze heralds the approaching coast.

Once a busy fishing village and whaling centre, Hermanus was originally called Hermanuspietersfontein, but they wisely decided to shorten the name as it was too long for the postal service. Today it’s a buzzy seaside town of holiday homes, shops and outdoor cafes and is one of the best places to see southern right whales during their annual migration between July and November.

We have lunch in Bientang’s Cave, a popular seafood restaurant carved into the cliff, and enjoy mussels washed down with a glass of sauvignon blanc (at least I do, Willem sensibly orders a Coke) while admiring a colony of seals basking on nearby rocks.

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ost guests staying at Cape Town’s five-star Cape Grace Hotel arrive and depart by chauffeurdriven limousine. So you can imagine the raised eyebrows when I’m picked up by a leather-clad man-mountain on a Mad Max-esque mustard-coloured trike.

I don my helmet, gingerly climb aboard and sheepishly wave goodbye to a bemused crowd of onlookers. There’ll be disapproving murmurs during afternoon tea for sure.

At the helm of this outlandish machine is Willem Mulder.

A keen biker, he imported the $55,000 custom-built trike from Boom Trikes in Germany. It’s the only one of its kind in the country and he uses it for tours into the stunning scenery surrounding Cape Town.

Options include a trip to Cape Point, a spectacular finger of land south of the city famous for its sweeping views and endemic flora; a romantic ascent of Signal Hill to watch the sunset with a glass of bubbles and a wine-tasting tour through the picturesque vineyards of Franschoek and Stellenbosch.

Today, we’re off to Hermanus, an historic fishing village 115 kilometres southeast of Cape Town.

After an exhilarating 45-minute blast along the N2 motorway, we reach Sir Lowry’s Pass, where the road climbs up and over the Hottentots-Holland mountain range. It’s a snaking, wind-buffeted ascent but it’s worth it for the sweeping views over Cape Town from the lookout at the top.

As will happen repeatedly today, the focus of attention when we stop is not the impressive panorama; instead, it’s our mode of transport. For a while I feel like a celebrity, until I realise everyone is really only interested in the bright yellow trike and not the helmet-clad tourist perched on the back.

Our next stop is at the 18th-century Houw Hoek Inn, a delightful old pub which boasts one of the largest blue gum trees in the country, a 750-year-old specimen that towers over the premises.

BEYOND | SOUTH AFRICA

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Getting there: Emirates flies to Cape Town via Dubai.

See www.emirates.com Staying there: Ideally located on the V&A Waterfront, the Cape Grace boutique luxury hotel stylishly combines Philippe Starck modernism with Cape Dutch antiquities. See www.capegrace.com Touring there: Cape Trike’s Hermanus tour lasts eight hours and costs ZAR 3,000 (approx. NZ$ 360) for two people. See www.capetriketours.co.za ➜ www.southafrica.net

In addition to a craft market and whaling museum, Hermanus boasts the curious claim of having a train station but no tracks. After building the station the town’s founders decided not to lay any tracks for fear of attracting too many visitors and it becoming too commercial. One can only wonder what they would have made of Willem’s trike.

After dispersing another group of snap-happy tourists, we start the return journey via Clarence Drive, a spectacular coastal route that squirms its way between the towering Kogelberg Mountains and the pounding surf of False Bay. To my untrained eye, this scrub-covered landscape looks barren and unfertile but it transpires we’re passing through the Kogelberg Biosphere, a UNESCO registered reserve of extraordinary diversity.

This 100,000 hectare region is home to more than 1,880 species of plants, 77 of which are endemic, meaning they occur nowhere else in the world. By comparison there are only 22 endemic species in the whole of the United Kingdom.

We make one last stop at the Drummond Arms, a popular biker pub in the tiny hamlet of Rooi Els. Willem explains that in winter it’s customary for bikers to have an Obie – a small glass of Old Brown Sedgwicks sherry to warm themselves up. Even though it’s 35 degrees and I’m drenched in sweat, it seems rude not to honour this tradition, so we say cheers and down the nutty, sweet concoction in one.

The route serves up more stunning scenery as we continue to hug the coast, passing quaint seaside towns and bustling holiday parks, before we rejoin the motorway for the final 50-kilometre charge back into Cape Town.

To the credit of the hotel staff, no one bats an eyelid when I stumble in wild-eyed and helmet-haired raving about endemic species and biospheres. I’m sure they’ve seen it all before.

s u o r u t n e v d A So Explore the hidden paradise of the South Pacific archipelago, comprising of a vast group of 922 breathtaking tropical islands. Diving in the Solomon Islands has gained an enviable worldwide reputation that is unsurpassed.

Experience the abundance of World War II history, via the Solomons numerous wreck dives. Get up close to the extraordinary array of differing reef structures and bio-assemblage.

If you are not a diver, but interested in learning, there could be no better place to discover this completely new world, than the warm crystal clear waters around the Solomon Islands.Throughout these magic islands is an endless variety of dive sites to suit all tastes and levels of experience.

With worldclass dive sites in Honiara, The Floridas, Iron Bottom Sound, Gizo, Munda, Western Marovo and Eastern Marovo the Solomon Islands are sure to provide a dive experience like no other.

For more inFormation contact: Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau Head Office PO Box 321, Mendana Avenue, Honiara, Solomon Islands call (677) 22442 or email info@sivb.com.sb

SO www.visitsolomons.com.sb SOLOMONS, SO DIFFERENT! visitsolomons.com.sb

Destination ➜ Queenstown, New Zealand

Luxury, Adventure and Cuisine NEW ZEALAND | BLANKET BAY

By Jessica Harkins

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“

ll you have to do is pick your lines,” says the Dart River Jet driver casually as we glide across the winding Dart River on a moody Sunday morning in April.

He makes it sound almost mundane, he’s probably shot along this river hundreds of times, but for us, skimming over mere inches of frigid water is exhilarating. Asking ‘how the hell do you drive this thing?’ elicits the above response.

We’re in the jump seat so have the privilege of being able to chat with the driver as he guides the hulking jet boat over the beautiful braided Dart River.

The two-hour jet boat ride is punctuated by sorties up rivulets that stem from the main river, where we are taught about the mountain peaks that soar over the water on either side, the rocks that sink into the turquoise and the beech trees that rise up from the banks and the hills.

It’s a hugely enjoyable trip, taking us further into the region that Blanket Bay calls home…closer to Mother Nature.

NEW ZEALAND | BLANKET BAY

It was a walk along the beach that reminded Hume that ‘all the good things’ about his life were about food.

This revelation sent him down a culinary path towards the all-inspiring Blanket Bay kitchen, as well as a seat on the board of Bocuse D’Or—‘the most rigorous culinary competition in the world’.

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Dart River Jet’s seamless operation sees Blanket Bay guests picked up by private shuttle and taken to Glenorchy, joining the rest of the tour group from Queenstown on the bus trip into Mount Aspiring National Park, the home of the Dart River and the soaring peaks that surround its namesake mountain.

If the conditions are right, guests are dropped off at the lodge’s private jetty on the shore of the lake in front of the main building—greeted with a roaring fire in the Great Room, and a steaming hot coffee.

The Dart River Jet boat trip is just one of the swathe of activities available in the region to guests of the lodge.

Helicopters can be chartered to take travellers to Milford Sound on a day trip, and skiers can be picked up and dropped off at a snowy summit for heli-skiing.

Of course it wouldn’t be a luxury lodge in the heart of New Zealand’s wild fishing environments without the option to don the waders in the dedicated gear room and trot out across the front lawn to a waiting helicopter for a day spent deep in the wilderness. Up to their waist in the flowing Greenstone River, casting for trout to their heart’s content, guests can make the most of the pristine surrounds with the services of a local guide to find the ideal spot.

The rural location of Blanket Bay from Queenstown means guests returning to the lodge after a day’s exploring will rely on the cosy restaurant for varied sustenance…on the food and drink front.

Cocktails in the lounge are followed by a five-course dinner produced by a crack team of chefs, headed by Corey Hume.

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That’s a good thing, as Hume and his team of chefs toil every day to create entirely new menus for guests, for both lunch and dinner services. That’s a total of eight or nine new courses each day, continuously.

“We’re the last of the fine-dining lodges that practice that level of craft,” he says. “We’re on an international stage; we’re not catering for locals, but having said that we will be focusing more on what’s immediately around us.”

Hume claims the Blanket Bay team tries to avoid clichés in food trends, having been down every path in the past.

It takes advantage of small New Zealand producers, from Kerikeri cheese to local beef and lamb, and twists this offering into its nightly menu.

It’s this combination of more than 100 suppliers and ‘getting back to good solid cooking’—there aren’t foams, gels and pastes in the Blanket Bay menu—that brings heartiness to the Blanket Bay dining room. “[Blanket Bay owners] Tom and Pauline Tusher are really supportive of development in the kitchen,” says Hume. “Our chefs go through more menu changes in their time here than most chefs would in a lifetime, it’s a real challenge for them.”

They say the kitchen is the heart of the home, and the number of beats the Blanket Bay kitchen takes each day just proves that it’s a key part of the soul of Blanket Bay too. ➜ www.blanketbay.com

Destination ➜ Milton Keynes, England

Milton Keynes

BEYOND | ENGLAND

In our final build-up to Rugby World Cup 2015 we focus on host cities and what they can offer in order for you to maximise your time in the UK. Here are a few ideas for our final host city…Milton Keynes.

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View of Xscape

S

ituated just 45 minutes north of London, is England’s newest town at just 47 years old. It has a young and vibrant feel about it with a can do attitude. It is home to StadiumMK which is the base for Milton Keynes Dons Football Club, and has the longest shopping mall in Europe. Plus its historical side, Bletchley Park, is just 10 minutes from the centre, made famous as the site of breaking the ‘unbreakable’ German Enigma code in WW2.

DAY ONE: AM – Central Milton Keynes: The central part of Milton Keynes offers everything from shopping to the most successful theatre outside the West End and a renowned modern art gallery, through to indoor skydiving and snowboarding. Head to the Xscape complex to see the vibrancy of the town first hand with a mix of restaurants and adrenalin activities plus the largest casino outside London.

Bletchley Park

Large covered shopping malls form the heart of the town centre, with a mix of over 400 shops to choose from. Milton Keynes Theatre offers some of the best productions touring the country right now, showing musicals, drama, opera, dance, comedy and more. The widely acclaimed Milton Keynes Gallery presents changing exhibitions of international contemporary art including sculpture, photography and painting. The centre is also a living breathing art gallery with over 200 pieces of public art placed throughout the town. Finish off your morning with lunch in one of the many restaurants or al fresco cafes available.

BEYOND | ENGLAND

PM – StadiumMK & Bletchley Park: Milton Keynes is sport mad and nothing shows this off better than StadiumMK, home of the Milton Keynes Dons Football Club. This imposing state-ofthe-art stadium will host three Rugby World Cup matches and seats up to 31,000 people. Next to the stadium is ArenaMK - a purpose-built indoor facility for up to 3,000 people.

Next on to Bletchley Park, home to the famous and legendary WW2 Code-breakers. The vital work undertaken there shortened the war by an estimated two years saving millions of lives. The site is now a heritage museum featuring exhibitions and activities for the whole family. You can also visit The National Museum of Computing on the same site, which houses Colossus, the world’s first semi-programmable computer.

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DAY TWO: AM – Woburn Abbey/Safari Park: Located just 15 minutes from Milton Keynes, Woburn Abbey, home to the Duke of Bedford, is a stunning ancestral estate full of history, ancient tales and beautiful grounds. It is set in a majestic 3,000 acre deer park and houses one of the most important private collections of art, furniture and porcelain on public view today.

Woburn Safari Park is Britain’s largest drive through safari park and is part of the main Woburn estate. You can get up close (though, not too close) and personal to lions, tigers, wolves, bears and much more.

The Peace Pagoda

Rugby World Cup 2015. England.

11 host cities, 48 matches, 20 nations, over 44 days.

September 18 - October 31, 2015

Visit England and be part of the game. www.VisitEngland.com/RugbyWorldcup

Milton Keynes boasts over 5,000 acres of parkland, rivers, lakes and woodland, including over 20 million trees.

The abundance of green space gives it a truly wide-open feel. Head to Campbell Park, the centre’s very own ‘Central Park’, which is an easy walk of the main shopping areas.

Full of sculptures, formal gardens, water features and woodland – this will also be the site for the main ‘Fan Fest’ during the Rugby World Cup. The Grand Union Canal winds its way through the town, so why not finish your visit with a leisurely narrow boat trip to discover another different side to Milton Keynes.

facts:

BEYOND | ENGLAND

Restaurant/pub options: There are a number of restaurant options for groups and independent travellers alike and to suit all budgets:

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The Swan Inn – Milton Keynes Village Traditional 17th century pub ➜ www.theswan-mkvillage.co.uk

Campbell Park

PM – Market towns & Green spaces: Milton Keynes is surrounded by old market towns and pretty villages and none is better than Stony Stratford. Set on the old Roman Watling Street, it still keeps much of its old world charm housing traditional shops from charming individual craft stores, butcher’s shops and warm cosy pubs. It is also the birthplace of the ‘Cock ‘n’ Bull story’, with The Cock Inn and The Bull Pub being favourite haunts of some famous highwaymen, who used to tell each other some very tall tales.

Calcutta Brasserie – Stony Stratford Award-winning Indian cuisine set in a 13th century chapel ➜ www.calcuttabrasserie.co.uk Aqua Italia – The Hub, Central MK Modern Italian food in the heart of the town centre – good access to hotels/transport ➜ www.aqua-restaurant.com Giraffe – thecentre:mk World cuisine chain restaurant – family friendly ➜ www.giraffe.net Paris House – Woburn Village (10 mins from centre) Michelin-starred restaurant ➜ www.parishouse.co.uk

AUSTRALIA | ACCOMMODATION

Frasers Hospitality

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F

rasers Hospitality, the hospitality arm of Frasers Centrepoint Limited, is a global serviced residence operator with luxurious residences across Europe, North Asia, Southeast Asia, Middle East and Australia.

Frasers Hospitality commits to “meeting the unique needs of executive travellers through continuous innovation”, and providing its customers with space, family and community away from home.

Frasers’ series of properties is a proud collection of Fraser Suites, Fraser Place, Fraser Residence, Modena

by Fraser and Capri by Fraser and the global portfolio, including those in the pipeline, stands at 92 properties in 49 key gateway cities making up more than 16,000 apartments worldwide.

Frasers Hospitality owns and operates four hotels in Australia including Fraser Suites Sydney, Fraser Suites Perth, Fraser Place Melbourne and Capri by Fraser, Brisbane.

1 Fraser Place Melbourne Tucked away on Exploration Lane, Fraser Place Melbourne is a business and leisure haven offering travellers boutique accommodation in the heart of Melbourne’s vibrant entertainment quarter.

The stylishly designed Fraser Place Melbourne offers 112 spaciously laid-out studios with integrated living, dining and kitchen areas. The property is enviably located close to the CBD and some of the country’s most notable bars, designer boutiques and trendy cafes are set right on its doorstep. With its close proximity to Bennett’s Jazz Club as well as Her Majesty’s and Princess Theatres, Fraser Place is also a perfect base for theatre-goers and jazz aficionados.

Blending contemporary design with chic and luxurious living environments, the studio apartments are light, bright and sleek, featuring sumptuous designer furnishings and modern art work. Fraser Place Melbourne offers three types of residences - Deluxe, Executive or Premier studios. Each studio features striking street art work captured by local photographers and modern comforts including a spacious work desk, fully equipped kitchen, state-of-the-art home entertainment system and high speed complimentary Wi-Fi. Those with an eye for design will spot the European modernist touches in the furnishings. Herman Miller and Hans J. Wegner’s infamous wishbone chairs can be found at reception, Eames collaborative designs in the breakfast space and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe-designed Knoll chairs in the waiting area.

AUSTRALIA | ACCOMMODATION

The suites are complemented by outstanding leisure facilities featuring a sensational glass-floored swimming pool looking to shoppers in the mall below, tranquil spa, sauna and 200sqm gymnasium. Fraser Suites Sydney has also partnered with Better Being, on-site health and fitness experts who offer guests full health and wellbeing support whilst staying at the hotel – an added service following the recent $150,000 gym refurbishment, making it one of the largest hotel gyms in Sydney.

Constructed with an exterior of glass, the 42-level tower has become an impressive city landmark. The Manhattan style exterior leads to a striking foyer featuring a spectacular rainfall chandelier suspended from a silver leaf ceiling. The foyer also features polished travertine marble floors, an 8-metre high mirror installation and warm timber finishes with polished stucco walls.

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2 Fraser Suites Sydney Fraser Suites Sydney is a five-star hotel that offers stunningly designed studios, apartments and penthouses in the heart of the city.

Featuring one and two bedroom suites as well as studios and spectacular duplex penthouses, Fraser Suites is just a stone’s throw away from all that Sydney has to offer. The hotel, set next to historical Town Hall is a short walking distance from Hyde Park, Darling Harbour and the heartland of Sydney’s entertainment district on the fringe of Chinatown. Located close to David Jones, the exclusive boutiques on Castlereagh Street and Sydney’s newest upmarket shopping plaza, Regent Place, it is also a perfect base for shopaholics.

Each suite features separate living, a king-size bed, generous bathrooms with L’Occitane amenities, iPod docking station, complimentary high-speed wireless Internet, Philips Smart TV’s and Nespresso machines.

3 Fraser Suites Perth Fraser Suites Perth is a stylish, five-star hotel with world-class facilities and a design to appeal to the most discerning traveller, the newly built property overlooking the Swan River opened in May 2013.

The impressive 19-storey new-build in East Perth was the third opening in Australia for Frasers Hospitality and boasts 236 studios and one-bedroom apartments.

AUSTRALIA | ACCOMMODATION

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Each apartment offers floor to ceiling windows and many include separate living, dining and kitchen areas in a variety of configurations. Captivated by the abundance of natural light, each guest room features a king-size bed, generous bathrooms with L’Occitane amenities, iPod docking station, complimentary high-speed wireless Internet and full kitchen facilities in the one-bedroom apartments.

Like the other stylish hotels in the group in Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney, Fraser Suites Perth is situated in a prime location close to the city’s Central Business District and major tourist attractions including the world-famous WACA cricket ground and Langley Park. The hotel also occupies an enviable spot within the Free-Transit Zone and is just a stroll away from Adelaide Terrace, the leading Crowne Entertainment Complex and Perth Convention Exhibition Centre.

The hotel’s facilities include a 24-hour gym, pool, sauna, a lobby lounge as well as the in-house restaurant, Heirloom. Heirloom, which only opened in 2014, is a joint partnership with chef Pete Evans, Frasers Hospitality’s consultant chef and chief menu designer across all aspects of hotel dining.

Heirloom serves fresh, seasonal and sustainable local WA with a focus on delicious, nourishing food.

4 Capri by Fraser, Brisbane The new Capri by Fraser, Brisbane has officially opened its doors, heralding the arrival of a new kind of design-led accommodation from Frasers Hospitality Australia.

Construction work began early last year on the property, transforming the CBD office tower in to a sleek new apartment hotel.

The hotel residence offers a range of e-efficiencies including iPad-activated check-ins, e-Concierge, e-Print facilities, fast and free wireless Internet to keep guests constantly connected.

Travellers can choose from 239 designer suites, each fully furnished with integrated living, kitchenette and bedroom areas. Amenities include a Nespresso machine, microwave, ergonomically designed desk and Herman Miller work chairs, Malin & Goetz bath amenities, an iPod docking station and 48” LED TV. Capri Club Room guests enjoy access to the exclusive Capri Club Lounge, complimentary breakfast each morning and evening drinks and canapés. The One-Bedroom Executive rooms are also fully equipped with cook top, convection oven and washing facilities.

Capri by Fraser, Brisbane provides a range of leisure facilities including a 24/7 fully equipped gym, indoor swimming pool, steam and sauna, Capri Club Lounge, a Hot Spot mac station and 24/7 Spin and Play launderette with interactive games rooms where guests are fully entertained with foosball and Xbox Kinect between spin cycles.

It also recently launched its in-house restaurant, Asana.

The second restaurant in the Fraser group to open in partnership with consultant chef, Pete Evans.

Pete’s role as the hotel’s chief menu designer has allowed this influence to be incorporated into all aspects of hotel dining extending to menu selections for conferences and events, 24/7 in room dining and the grab and go cafe.

Pete’s thoughtfully constructed menus allow guests to enjoy a variety of delicious Paleo inspired selections and tapas style share plates, with an emphasis on high quality, seasonal and local produce. ➜ www.frasershospitality.com

Tourism Authority of Thailand, 137 Sunnybrae Road, Glenfield, Auckland. P: + 64 9 444 2298 W: www.tourismthailand.org

Destination ➜ Hamilton Island

AUSTRALIA | HAMILTON ISLAND

Whitsundays Wonderland

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43 Manta Ray

Bommie

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coca chu Offering mouth-watering South-East Asian cuisine, a sleek contemporary interior, and amazing views, coca chu is one of the most exciting places to eat on Hamilton Island. The innovative and inviting menu from Executive Chef Adam Woodfield is inspired by hawker-style street food and fuses bold Asian flavours with relaxed Australian style.

Paired with the beautiful location overlooking Catseye Beach, it is the perfect place for guests to enjoy the relaxed vibe.

Mariners For fresh, local seafood, you can’t go past the renowned Mariners, in the heart of Hamilton Island’s Marina. Sample some of the Whitsundays’ finest seafood, such as fresh fish, local prawns, oysters and generous platters, whilst enjoying the laid-back vibe and beautiful view.

AUSTRALIA | HAMILTON ISLAND

hether you’re looking to do plenty or absolutely nothing at all, Hamilton Island is the ultimate getaway. In the middle of the Whitsundays, it’s on the very edge of one of the natural Wonders of the World…The Great Barrier Reef.

As the ultimate Great Barrier Reef holiday destination, Hamilton Island is the perfect getaway to explore the unique tropical environment of the Whitsundays. You’ll be spoiled for choice with more than enough activities to keep you entertained for weeks, including snorkelling the reef, sea kayaking and scenic helicopter flights. Or perhaps you’d just prefer to do nothing at all and simply laze around one of six pools or on relaxing Catseye Beach. In fact doing nothing could become one of your favourite activities.

When it comes to accommodation there’s everything from freestanding bungalows to amazing views from the Reef View Hotel and the absolute luxury of qualia. If self-catering is more your style, choose one of the privately owned Holiday Homes.

Dining options are as many as the views from around the island. Below we focus on four options that will enhance your next stay on ‘Hammo’.

AUSTRALIA | HAMILTON ISLAND

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coca chu

General F&B The diversity of restaurants and bars on Hamilton Island mean guests are spoilt for choice when dining out during their stay, with something to appeal to every taste. Guests can choose to enjoy a South-East Asian inspired meal at the popular coca-chu, a fine-dining experience at the Bommie restaurant, or a wood-fired pizza by the marina at the recently renovated Manta Ray. Plus there is a variety of bars, such as the One Tree Hill lookout, which is the perfect setting to enjoy a cocktail whilst watching the sun set.

Sails Steak and Seafood Grill

Mariners

 Manta Ray The fun and family-friendly Manta Ray, over-looking the Hamilton Island Marina, serves up a delicious menu from morning until late. Best known for its gourmet pizzas and local seafood, Manta Ray is popular with Hamilton Island guests providing the perfect setting to enjoy an evening drinking watching the sunset over the Marina or to take the family for a low-key meal. ➜ www.hamiltonisland.com.au.

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PACIFIC ISLANDS | SAMOA

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DELUXE 30 Le Lagoto Resort 31 Siufaga Beach Resort SUPERIOR 32 Jet Over Hotel 33 Savaii Lagoon Resort STANDARD 34 Auga Seaside 35 Bayview Resort 36 Lusia’s Lagoon Chalets 37 Savaiian Hotel 38 Stevenson’s @ Manase 39 Vaisala Beach Hotel

MANONO ACCOMMODATION BUDGET & BEACH FALES 40 Aganoa Beach Resort 41 Falealupo Beach Fales 42 Jane’s Beach Fales 43 Lauiula Beach Fales 44 Le Rosalote Guest Fales 45 Regina Beach Fales 46 Salafai Backpackers Inn 47 Satuiatua Beach Fales 48 Tailua Beach Fales 49 Tanu Beach Fales 50 Vacations Beach Fales 51 Va-i-Moana Seaside Lodge

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA

HAWAIIAN ISLANDS

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International Date Line

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Manono Island

International Date Line

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DELUXE 1 Aga Reef Resort 2 Coconuts Beach Club, Resort & Spa 3 Le Vasa Resort 4 Return to Paradise Resort & Spa 5 Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa 6 Seabreeze Resort 7 Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Resort 8 Sinalei Resort & Spa

Pasefika Inn Samoa Marina Hotel Sebrina’s Lodge Tatiana Motel Tanugamanono The Pacific Pearl Vaea Hotel Wesley Motel

SUPERIOR Amanaki Hotel Hotel Elisa Hotel Millenia Insel Fehmarn Hotel Le Alaimoana Hotel Le Manumea Hotel Tatiana Apartments – Apaula Heights

BUDGET Aniva’s Place Hennie’s Motel Livingstone Rita’s Lodge Samoan Outrigger Hotel Tatania Motel – Fugalei Treasure Garden Hotel Vaiala Beach Cottages Valentine’s Motel

STANDARD Amau Apartments Apia Central Hotel Eden’s Edge Enne’s Lodge Greenridge Motel Moanalisa Hotel

SUPERIOR 9 Orator Hotel 10 Sa’Moana Resort STANDARD 11 Galusina Village Resort 12 Le Uaina Seaside Resort 13 Salani Surf Resort 14 Samoa Holiday Homes

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BUDGET & BEACH FALES 15 Airport Lodge 16 Anita’s B&B Bungalows 17 Dave Parker’s Eco-Lodge 18 Eteline’s Homestay 19 Faofao Beach Fales 20 Litia Sini Beach Fales 21 Maninoa Surf Camp 22 Manusina Beach Fales 23 Riverside Bed & Breakfast 24 Samoa Hideaway Beach Resort 25 Sataoa Beach Fales 26 Talanoa Fales 27 Taufua Beach Fales 28 The Mangrove Garden Restaurant & Accommodation 29 Virgin Cove

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UPOLU ACCOMMODATION

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APIA ACCOMMODATION

Namua Island

Nuutele Island Nu’ulua Island

PACIFIC ISLANDS | SAMOA

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Talofa lava!

F

rom relaxed adventure to the type that would raise the heartbeat, Samoa has great offerings for travellers of all types of fitness levels. Many activities are nature related involving Samoa’s pristine land and seascapes.

The lagoons and reefs around the islands are home to some 900 species of fish and over 200 varieties of coral, so if snorkelling or diving is your passion, you will discover unique and colourful corals, fish and sea caves. Turtles are regular visitors to Samoa’s warm waters and you can share an amazing experience by swimming with them on Savai’i and off Namu’a Island. With its waters teeming with marine life, Samoa has gained international acclaim for its deep sea fishing, with an international tournament held annually.

Beyond the reefs are fantastic breaks and Samoa’s un-crowded surf spots are the best kept secrets in the South Pacific region. For golfers, the championship course Le Penina at Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Resort hosts the annual Samoan Open.

Designed for golfers who love a challenge, it’s built on a former US military base used in WWII and features several historical landmarks.

Much has been invested in the development of sport in Samoa and the facilities are considered one of the best in the South Pacific. Housing state-of-the-art facilities for rugby, swimming, volleyball, cricket and weightlifting to name a few, the facilities are on par with other international sporting venues and are the perfect off season training or host destination for teams.

If it’s local sport you’re after, join in a village Kirikiti (cricket) game and see if you can handle the fast paced bowling and triangular shaped bats!

Welcome to Samoa!

Escape the ordinary Connect with family and friends and create lasting memorable experiences with the new Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Resort.

Find out more at www.sheratonsamoaaggiegreysresort.com, call (+685) 45663 or email reservations.samoaresort@sheraton.com.

Š2012 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Preferred Guest, SPG, Sheraton and their logos are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates.

For full terms and conditions, visit sheraton.com/samoaresort

PACIFIC ISLANDS | SAMOA

History of Samoa

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T

he Fa’a Samoa culture is over 3,000 years old and Samoan mythology and legends say they descended from the gods and heavens to inhabit these islands.

Guided by the stars, the Polynesian ancestors made their way across the Pacific in ocean-faring canoes thousands of years ago.

Samoa’s oldest known site of human occupation is Mulifanua on the island of Upolu, which dates back to about 1,000 BC. Stonework ‘pyramids’ and mounds in star formation found throughout the islands have inspired various theories from archaeologists about this stage of Samoan history.

Over the millennia, the Samoan people engaged in trade, battles and intermarriage of nobility with the neighbouring islands of Fiji and Tonga. The interweaving of the cultures and bloodlines has helped strengthen the ties of these South Pacific nations. European whalers and traders started to arrive in the late 1700s. By far the most important agents of change in Samoa were the western missionaries, converting the people from belief in Gods for the sun, earth, heavens and sea to a one God. Dutchman, Jacob Roggeveen was the first European to sight the islands in 1722, but it wasn’t until 1830 when the Reverend John Williams arrived in Savai’i that the Christian gospel had an impact on Samoan life. Visitors to Samoa may be shown the monuments to John Williams on both main islands. Samoans are now a devoutly religious people with much time devoted to church activities. For many Samoans,

Christianity and Fa‘a Samoa are inextricably interwoven.

In 1899 after years of civil war, the islands of the Samoan archipelago were divided – the Germans taking the islands to the west and the Americans taking the islands to the east, now known as American Samoa.

After the outbreak of the First World War, New Zealand captured Western Samoa from the small German company stationed on the islands, and following the end of the war took administrative control on behalf of the United Nations from 1918 until independence on 1st January 1962. Western Samoa became the first Pacific nation to gain Independence.

From 1962 to 1997, the nation was known as Western Samoa, until it dropped the title ‘Western’ from its name to become the Independent State of Samoa. Samoa celebrates its independence each June.

PACIFIC ISLANDS | SAMOA

Fa’a Samoa…Samoan Culture

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S

amoa is a traditional society governed by Fa’a Samoa (the Samoan way) – where family is all important, respect of elders is strictly adhered to, and being of service to your family is your duty.

The Samoan culture and way of life is over 3,000 years old and you will no doubt be introduced to this complex cultural code during your visit to Samoa.

Fa’a Samoa is a guideline for every Samoan on how to lead their lives by celebrating and embracing traditional values, their culture and environment. It is an integral part of Samoan life, evident in the time-honoured traditions, warm hospitality, as well as the cultural practices and customs of the Samoan people.

Fa’a Samoa has three key structural elements to it – the matai (chiefs), aiga (extended family), and the church. Matai are the heads of the extended family unit and their role is very complex; covering family, civic and political duties in the village. There are 362 nu’u or villages found throughout the islands with a total of 18,000 matai. The aiga or extended family is made up of parents, brothers and sisters, children, grandparents, cousins, nephews and nieces living together within the village. When family members marry partners in other villages, the in-laws become part of the extended family unit and in times of happiness or sadness all come together to pitch in. It is the duty of a Samoan to be of service to their aiga for life. Christianity has been one of the few western influences that has been accepted into Fa’a Samoa. John Williams from the London Missionary

Society arrived in Savai’i in 1830 with eight Tahitian and Rarotongan teachers to spread the word. Today the motto on Samoa’s crest reads, Fa’avae I Le Atua Samoa – ‘Samoa is founded on God’, and found in every village are churches of various denominations. Samoans are devoted Christians and Sunday is a day of worship and spending time with family and no physical work is done. Fa’a Samoa culture has a strong focus on welcoming visitors, however, it is important that visitors follow protocol when entering villages and family homes as well as using and accessing village resources.

PACIFIC ISLANDS | SAMOA

Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa

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Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa truly embodies all that is unique and wonderful about culturally-rich Samoa.

Coconuts offers Samoan-inspired accommodation, including Samoa’s only Over-the-Water Fales, and is ideally situated on Upolu’s southern coast, boasting amazing sunrise and sunset views.

There are no high rises, no phones and no TVs. Perfectly located to explore all of the island’s sites and experiences, Coconuts offers many of the facilities and services you would expect from a much larger resort, with the heart and soul of a small, intimate retreat. With a warm and friendly staff, and surrounded by a traditional village, Coconuts provides a true taste of Samoa.

There is simply nothing more romantic than a stay in an Overwater Bungalow in the tropical South Pacific.

Coconuts Beach Club features Samoa’s only, exclusive, Over-the-Water Fales. These six Fales are unique in design and fully embrace the seamless indoor/outdoor living experience that is so popular throughout Samoa.

Many travel guides and magazines have recognised Mika’s Restaurant as the finest dining experience in Samoa, if not the entire South Pacific, and the raves from our guests are non-stop. As well as providing the freshest of local ingredients, combined with culinary expertise, Mika’s Restaurant boasts one of the finest locations and views of any restaurant in the world.

Whether you choose to dine in the spacious and airy traditional Samoan dining room, on the open-air Palm Terrace, or at a table in the sand under the stars, you will surely join the large and growing list of guests who consider Mika’s Restaurant to be a highlight of your Coconuts Experience.

Indulge in a relaxing and recharging spa therapy session at Samoa’s finest dedicated spa facility - The Coco Beach Spa at Coconuts Beach Club. A full range of massage, therapy and beauty treatments are all available at The Coco Beach Spa, performed by trained spa therapists.

Whether you are visiting for a Wedding or Honeymoon, a surf or dive adventure, a look into the ancient and exotic local culture, or a simple sun and sand holiday, Coconuts delivers a distinctive, relaxing, and casually elegant experience.

Coconuts truly is Samoa! ➜ www.cbcsamoa.com

PACIFIC ISLANDS | SAMOA

Le Lagoto Resort

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10 air conditioned Beach Front and Ocean View Bungalows 1 restaurant and 1 bar 1 resort pool. Day Spa available TV in all accommodations (local stations only) WiFi internet access available throughout the resort.

Locally purchased internet access cards required • Inclusions: Tropical breakfast, a 15 minute massage on arrival and use of kayaks during stay. Meal plans available • Max. 4 people in bungalows • Honeymoon Bonus: Complimentary bottle of wine and fruit basket in bungalow on arrival (min 3 nights) Children’s Policy: Children are welcome year round however they do not offer a Kids Club. Babysitting available (charged) All bungalows feature a balcony offering stunning ocean or beach views, outdoor furniture and sun loungers. A small refrigerator and a TV are also provided in each bungalow.

Mosquito nets are available upon request.

Relax with a massage or body scrubs at Sunset Spa, or unwind in one of the hammocks surrounded by tropical gardens. You can experience local activities via the tour desk which books scuba diving, island tours and swimming with turtles.

Le Lagoto’s Vailili Restaurant offers fresh, exotic cuisine each day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Han’s Bar serves local Vailima beer and a range of imported wine and beer.

Located on the northern coast of Savai’i, Le Lagoto Resort is 300 metres from Fagamalo village. The Lava Fields at Saleaula are 3 minutes drive away. It is 5 minutes drive from Mauga village, which is built around an extinct volcanic crater. ➜ www.lelagoto.ws

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Le Lagoto Resort & Spa is located on the big island of Savai’i, on a secluded white sand beach fringed by coconut palms and crystal clear waters. They are a boutique resort with only 10 bungalow rooms and 2 family rooms, which offer the modern conveniences of a large resort in an intimate, idyllic setting!

The ultimate one-stop relaxation spot in Savai’i, where you can spend hours soaking up the sun and tropical views, or refresh your body in the infinity pool. Let the sand tickle your feet as you stroll along the beach just a stone’s throw away, then get their friendly staff to treat you to a thirst quenching cocktail, or treat your palate with the scrumptious restaurant fare. At night, fall asleep to the sound of palms swaying in the breeze in your Samoa style bungalow. It is with good reason that the resort is named Le Lagoto – Samoan for ‘sunsets’. The sunsets are simply sensational!

Offering some of the highest standard of accommodation on Savai’i, and with friendly, welcoming staff and a beach that is swimmable in all tides, Le Lagoto is a great resort choice.

The bungalows comfortably sleep a family of four, dining is a pleasure (try the outstanding lobster if it is on the menu) and its stretch of white sand beach is beautiful. Le Lagoto is the perfect spot to explore Savai’i from – visit the waterfalls, lava fields or the blowhole, swim with the turtles, go snorkelling and diving and visit the rainforest preserve and its canopy walk. If your budget permits stay in the beach front bungalows if for no other reason than the uninterrupted views of their fabulous sunsets.

Location: Savai’I – a 75 minute ferry ride from Apia to Savaii followed by a 45 minute coastal drive

PACIFIC ISLANDS | SAMOA

Return to Paradise Resort

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Sitting on the sparkling white beach at Return to Paradise Resort, you could be forgiven for “accidentally” missing your flight home. Gone are the traffic jams, the incessantly ringing cellphones and rainy mornings to be replaced by leisurely strolls along the sand to breakfast, harmonious laughter of Samoan staff and yet another warm, sunny tropical day.

Located just 30 minutes from the airport, Return to Paradise Resort is Samoa’s newest four star property, designed specifically to make guests feel as if they are enjoying the hospitality of a traditional Samoan village, yet with all the modern luxuries of a four star resort.

Set on over 1.5 kilometres of absolute beachfront, you have the feeling of being on a remote island, yet the township of Apia is only a 40 minute drive away. Days can be spent snorkelling, swimming (including with turtles), kayaking over the giant clam reserve, fishing, surfing, learning the local culture, playing golf or simply enjoying a book.

If you can drag yourself away from the beach, rental cars are available for a day of exploring. Perhaps visit the markets in Apia, Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, Palolo Deep National Marine Reserve, Piula Cave Pools, Papase’ea Sliding Rocks or the famous To Sua Trench.

After a day of exploring, swimming or relaxing, enjoying coming home to a luxurious, air-conditioned room. Accommodation at Return to Paradise is varied with something to suit all budgets from Ocean Breeze Rooms through to 3 Bedroom Self-Contained Beachfront Villas or the Royal Suite. There is a Honeymoon Suite and Premiere Rooms for adults only. Decorated with authentic Samoan architecture on the outside, yet with all the luxuries on the inside, all rooms are spacious and very comfortable with private decks. The Villas and beachfront rooms open up to the white sandy beach – perfect for an early morning swim!

Traditional Samoan massage has been practised for centuries, and the dedicated team at Return to Paradise can provide guests with a wonderfully soothing and therapeutic experience, the memory of which will last forever.

For details of special prices and bonus offers please contact the New Zealand representatives Hogan & Associates Ltd on 09 4897844, or mike@hoganreps.co.nz. ➜ www.returntoparadiseresort.com

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Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa combines luxury and comfort with the natural splendour of the beautiful island of Upolu.

A golden sandy beach and breath-taking, tranquil blue waters provide the perfect setting for this stunning boutique retreat surrounded by exotic tropical flowers and lush greenery. Nestled within a secluded sheltered bay just over one hour’s drive from Faleolo International Airport on the South East Coast of Upolu, guests can relax and rejuvenate in the beauty of Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa or explore some of Samoa’s best attractions, located nearby.

The resort features 25 standalone spacious Villa’s complete with modern luxuries and inspired by Fa’Samoa, where outdoor living is integral to daily life. Each villa is complete with an indoor and outdoor shower, TV with DVD, tea & coffee making facilities, a ceiling fan and air-conditioning. The Villas are surrounded by tropical gardens and meandering pathways where you can relax on your large balcony to the sound of the waves and choose from partial views of the ocean and pool or panoramic beachfront views. Family Villas accommodating up to five people are popular, featuring a separate room for children and disabled facilities are available.

The restaurant at Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa prides itself on using a blend of fresh local flavours with international cuisine, with regular changing menus that will have you coming back for more. Admire stunning views of the ocean and reef as you sample a wide selection of international wines and beers or refreshing cocktails. For more casual dining or during the day enjoy a delicious wood fire pizza poolside or choose from our daily snack menu.

Spend your days snorkeling, kayaking, and lazing around the pool, swimming in the tranquil lagoon or pampering yourself at the Saletoga Spa. If you are looking for adventure try surfing, scuba diving, game fishing or explore the local natural attractions with a personalized tour or rental car.

PACIFIC ISLANDS | SAMOA

Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa

With intimate personalised service and a high attention to detail, Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa is the perfect setting for a family holiday, romantic escape or wedding celebration.

P: + 685 41 212 E: reservations@saletogasands.com ➜ www.saletogasands.com

PACIFIC ISLANDS | SAMOA

Seabreeze Resort

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The award winning 4.5 star Seabreeze Resort is the ultimate in boutique luxury. Gently nestled into a private secluded bay, this ‘Adults Only’ resort provides the ideal romantic getaway for honeymooners and couples or those seeking luxury and intimacy.

Winning accolades around the world since its re-opening in July 2011, Seabreeze has become one of the most sought after resorts for total exclusivity in Samoa.

Seabreeze Resort is situated on Samoa’s famous south east coast of Upolu, in the village of Aufaga, and is surrounded by some of the most picturesque tropical landscapes on Upolu. It is 50km from Faleolo International Airport and 35km away from Apia Township.

Seabreeze’s 11, spacious air-conditioned villas, including the ultimate Honeymoon Point House, all have ocean, lagoon or reef views and are designed to provide guests with a sense of relaxation and tranquillity. Villas can accommodate two to four people and ocean view suites feature a separate bedroom.

With the focus on outdoor living, villas have been designed with Samoan flair and furnished and decorated by the best in interior design. Each villa features a private lava rock bathroom, outside deck and large thatched pavilion with outdoor furnishings, a cosy double hammock, air-conditioning and a fan.

The luxurious and exclusive Honeymoon Point House is a must for honeymooners or just true romantics and is a “Villa with a View”. Nestled into the cliffs right above the ocean on a rock buttress, The House boasts uninterrupted views of the resort, bay and coastline, is surrounded by the sounds of breaking surf and lapping waves and features its own tropical rock courtyard, large deck with daybeds and private plunge pool.

With quality, innovative cuisine and outstanding customer service paramount, Seabreeze Resort offers three dining options. The Waterfront Bar & Restaurant serves a la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner and is situated right on the water with unsurpassed lagoon and reef views. Cbreeza Pizzeria serves genuine wood-fired breads and pizza with Mediterranean flavours and a pacific flair and Paulini’s Pool Bar serves a variety of food and beverages pool side including the Big Matt’s Must Have pool burger.

Every Friday night Seabreeze guests are treated to a

traditional Samoan Fia Fia show and a set menu Samoan dinner featuring local cuisine and traditional delights that have had flavours adapted to suit the western palate.

From the time guests wake there is always something to experience at Seabreeze Resort. Relax by the infinity pool while enjoying cocktails, laze on the private beach or take a dip within the protection of the pristine lagoon. Enjoy the use of complimentary glass bottom kayaks and snorkelling equipment to view the beautiful coral and marine life or kayak along the historic coastline.

A country so rich in culture, Seabreeze believes every guest should see and experience the real Samoa. So every Friday afternoon guests can partake in free, interactive cultural activities that give them an insight into Samoan life.

Activities include an Ava ceremony and a weaving session, which explains how the coconut palm became known as “the tree of life”.

For those wanting to venture outside the resort, Seabreeze facilitates a tour desk and activities include surfing, charter fishing, trekking, golf or trips to Lalomanu Beach, Togitogiga Falls & National Park, Piula Cave Pool, Vavau Beach, To Sua Trench or Apia Township.

Seabreeze Resort has a recipe for relaxation, “when hungry you eat, when thirsty you drink, when tired you sleep and be pampered at every opportunity”. With this motto in mind, guests will be treated to a range of totally indulgent and nurturing massages and facials. With the focus on natural, age-old techniques handed down through generations, guests will experience treatments unique to Seabreeze.

At Seabreeze Resort romance is intrinsic to the spirit of the resort, so there is no better place to celebrating a wedding, honeymoon or special anniversary. Offering wedding programs from the simplest to the most elaborate of occasions, an experienced wedding coordinator will tailor a ceremony that not only meets individual needs but surpasses their expectations.

Although wedding packages are available, Seabreeze believes no two weddings are exactly the same and will do anything to create the bride and grooms perfect wedding day.

P: + 685 41 391 E: bookings@seabreezesamoa.com ➜ www.seabreezesamoa.com

PACIFIC ISLANDS | SAMOA

Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Resort

Located along beautiful lush tropical land and adjacent to the sparkling Pacific Ocean, Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Resort welcomes guests with gracious Samoan hospitality.

Tropical Relaxation Located on Mulifanua’s finest stretch of beach and lagoon, Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Resort sets the stage for tropical memories in the making. Relax in the sun along the shores of the Pacific Ocean and join in Samoa’s colourful culture.

Offering everything you need for your holiday or business travels. They are within a short drive from the international Faleolo airport. This waterfront resort will create unforgettable experiences, with an array of amenities and spaces everywhere for you to gather and reconnect with people who are important to you. Whatever you are looking for, the resort team will be there to assist you.

Sunny Days Splash your way along the large Lagoon Pool to the swim up bars. Play a game of doubles on our two tennis courts.

Or team up with lady luck at the adjacent casino. Why not play a round of golf on the Le Penina Golf Course or enjoy a day at Manaia Polynesian Spa. Go snorkelling, sailing or kayaking, or take your pick from a full array of non-motorised water sports.

Gather over a meal Enjoy authentic Samoan cuisine and memories in the making at Apolima Fale on Friday nights with a traditional Fia Fia buffet and show with fire dancing. Exchange stories over tropical drinks at Lobby Bar, or sample traditional Samoan and international fare at South Pacific Restaurant.

With access to five restaurants and bars at Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Resort, ranging from casual to fine dining, there are plenty of cuisines to explore.

• 133 guestrooms and suites, each with the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper™ Bed and a large private balcony or patio, all with ocean views • Acres of lush tropical landscape featuring Le Penina 18 hole golf course, Manaia Polynesian Spa and oversized Lagoon Pool • The Link@SheratonSM; fitness centre; tennis courts; full array of non-motorised water sports equipment for snorkelling, kayaking and sailing • The Conference Fale, featuring traditional Samoan Fale style setting and carvings and private Palm Pier and Lagoon Bay; the ideal settings to say “I do” • Complimentary Sheraton Kids Club with all the toys and games you need to entertain children aged 4-12 years, 9am - 5pm, seven days a week ➜ www.sheratonsamoaaggiegreysresort.com

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PACIFIC ISLANDS | SAMOA

Tanoa Tusitala Hotel

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Tanoa Tusitala Hotel is set on 15 acres of lush tropical gardens, just metres from Apia’s waterfront and a few moments walk from the central business district. The hotel reflects key elements of Samoan architecture and culture.

The central courtyard is dominated by hand-tied fales (traditional Samoan houses), housing the lobby, restaurant and bar.

Tanoa Tusitala Hotel offers a full range of guest services and facilities, for your comfort and enjoyment. They have a large outdoor pool for guests to enjoy, a children’s swimming pool located next to the main pool, as well as a playground for children to enjoy. There are two flood-lid tennis courts and a modest fitness centre on site. There are a range of tours available and these can be organised for you at the onsite Discovery Tours office in the lobby. Enjoy the full use of their facilities when you stay at the hotel. As the hotel is based in Apia, which is about an hour’s drive from the airport, they highly recommend that you add on the airport transfers at the time of booking, as it will save you a lot of time, and potentially money, when you arrive.

Tanoa Tusitala Hotel offers spacious, modern rooms to help you relax and unwind. There are 95 rooms for you to choose from, all with air conditioning for your comfort and either a balcony or self-contained patio area for those beautiful balmy evenings. Your room has either two double beds or one king size bed and all rooms have spacious modern bathrooms and separate dressing areas. Two children under 13 years of age can share the room for free.

Tanoa Tusitala Hotel has an onsite restaurant and bar which serves local delicacies to international cuisine. Many of the fruit and vegetables used in the kitchen are grown onsite in the hotels gardens.

Tanoa Tusitala Hotel can cater for all your event needs.

Whether it’s a conference, business meeting, special event or celebration, they have it covered. To ensure your event is a resounding success the team will ensure the highest level of attention to every detail, from the moment your guests or delegates arrive until it’s time to leave.

Their dedicated Events Services Manager will liaise between you and the various departments of the hotel, ensuring a smooth, hassle-free and successful event. All meeting rooms are fully equipped with the latest technology and supported by a range of audio-visual systems, including wide screen LCD televisions, cordless microphones, electronic whiteboards and wireless broadband internet.

P: + 685 21 122 E: tusitala@tanoahotels.com ➜ www.tanoatusitala.com

Samoa…Must Do’s

PACIFIC ISLANDS | SAMOA

Make sure you tick off some of these must-see attractions in Samoa

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PACIFIC ISLANDS | SAMOA

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On Upolu, must-see sites within easy reach of Apia include: • • • •

Robert Louis Stevenson Museum Palolo Deep National Marine Reserve Piula Cave Pools The Papase’ea Sliding Rocks

The famous Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson, famed for classic books such as Treasure Island and The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, spent his final years in Samoa. He was known by the local people as Tusitala – Samoan for ‘teller of tales’. His beautiful mansion, Vailima, has been converted into a museum set within lush gardens and is open to the public. Visitors can also visit his grave located at the top of Mt Vaea, along a trail named by the locals as “The Road of the Loving Heart”.

For those more adventurous, take a trip to the village of Lotofaga on the south coast and experience the To Sua Trench. This idyllic spot is what South Pacific dreams are made of! The hero-shot of many brochures and travel articles about Samoa, this 30-metre deep crater is filled with seawater and to reach its clear waters you must scramble down a long stepladder. An underwater tunnel – only diveable at low and calm tide – connects the trench with the sea and is surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens that are a popular picnic spot for Samoans.

Savai’i is Samoa’s largest island and is known for its gentle and traditional way of life and pristine scenery. The island’s many natural attractions include lush rainforests, secluded beaches and mountainous interior.

Must-see sites on Savai’i are the stunning Afu Aau Waterfalls, the spectacular Alofaaga Blowholes near Taga village and the opportunity to swim with turtles at the turtle sanctuary at Satoalepai.

Weddings in Samoa

PACIFIC ISLANDS | SAMOA

Alofa is the Samoan word for Love, and you will fall in love with Samoa for a wedding or honeymoon destination.

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Weddings: The scent of frangipani wafts through the air, the ocean laps onto the beach and the sun is setting over the horizon. You have come to these beautiful islands to marry, and beside you is your soul mate and true love, saying the words ‘I do’.

Samoa’s stunning natural features provide numerous magical settings for your ceremony - from a secluded beach to a cascading waterfall or even a lush tropical rainforest or garden. You can enjoy your special day on a private, uninhabited island or experience a traditional-style wedding in a century-old church as a Samoan choir sings.

According to Fa’a Samoa, marriage is a sacred union to be honoured and respected, so expect your wedding day to be a memorable and hassle-free event. There are many suitable resorts that are able to cater for your wedding and honeymoon. Traditionally, weddings are a grand celebration

in Samoa. Samoan brides wear a pale (head-dress) and the groom wears an ula (floral necklace). Brides are led to the groom by a troop of Samoan warriors and serenaded in song or backed by the fierce beats of the Samoan drums.

While none of these cultural touches are mandatory for your wedding, they will provide a unique touch to your tropical nuptials.

For couples who wish to plan their special day themselves, there is a wide range of caterers, reception and function centres, hire cars, florists, wedding cake specialists, photographers and videographers to make your big day memorable. If you prefer someone else to do the organising and worrying, then a number of hotels, resorts and inbound tour operators can cater for all your needs.

Or there are a number of hotels, resorts and tour operators who can organise everything for you.

Who to contact: Samoan contact: For your marriage licence, you can apply directly to the Ministry of Justice in Apia. P: + 685 22 671 F: + 685 21 050 or E: ceojustice@ samoa.ws Home Country contact: To obtain all necessary documents, such as your Certificate of No Impediment to Get Married, contact the relevant Government agency in your home country.

Honeymoons: Your honeymoon is the start of your new life together, so take some precious time with your loved one and make some memories to treasure in the treasured islands.

Treat yourselves to a honeymoon suite at a resort by the beach and lie poolside or beachside and watch the day go by while sipping on a tropical cocktail. There are many dreamy superior hotels and deluxe resorts to choose from.

If you prefer the nightlife, take a suite at one of the hotels in Apia and pamper yourselves with a spa or traditional massage.

Take a sunset cruise on a boat and enjoy the refreshing sea air or simply lie on the beach and be waited upon by the friendly resort staff.

For the more adventurous, hire a car and explore the islands and stay at a traditional beach fale.

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What you need to know about getting married in Samoa: Marriages in Samoa are legally recognised worldwide.

To marry in Samoa you will need to fill in an application for a marriage license at least 14 days prior (but no more than 3 months in advance) to your wedding day with the Ministry of Justice in Apia.

A fee of ST$14 applies (subject to change).

You will be required to provide a photocopy of your passport, birth certificates, death certificate (of past spouses – if necessary) or a copy of the Decree Absolute if divorced, and a Certificate of No Impediment to Get Married (from your country of origin).

PACIFIC ISLANDS | SAMOA

Marriages in Samoa are legally recognised worldwide and application forms for a marriage licence must be filed 14 days prior to the wedding day with the Justice Department in Apia.

PACIFIC ISLANDS | SAMOA

Aga Reef Resort Nestled between a glorious tropical backdrop and the shimmering ocean on the South East coast of Upolu, Aga Reef Resort offers a luxurious tranquil retreat combined with warm Polynesian hospitality. This 4-star boutique resort is a stylish mix of private waterfront villas and comfortable hotel rooms all offering contemporary décor and stylish amenities. All accommodation is air-conditioned and if it’s absolute luxury you’re after try out the exclusive VIP villa with stunning lagoon views and a private plunge pool.

The fresh water horizon swimming pool is a great place to enjoy a refreshing dip or sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery. The clear, calm waters of the lagoon host an array of colourful fish, other marine life and provide a great spot for swimming and snorkelling.

The resort restaurant sets a warm, natural atmosphere with fabulous ocean views and a large expanse of deck so that you can also enjoy alfresco dining with the warmth of the sun on your back or under a moonlit sky. Food really matters at Aga Reef Resort and guests enjoy a first class menu offering quality local and international cuisine. Aga Reef’s chef has put a lot of time and effort into ensuring that dining is a taste sensation and that over the course of your holiday you will be able to enjoy a variety of food utilising the finest fresh local produce.

Aga Reef’s unique location also provides the perfect setting for a romantic wedding or honeymoon. It may be just the two of you wanting to escape to a beautiful tropical

island to exchange vows, or a ceremony celebrated with your friends and family. They can provide you with a day that will be everything and more than you ever dreamed of.

At Aga Reef Resort you are invited to come explore and adore life in Samoa. Whether it’s a romantic escape, a relaxing holiday or a family retreat you are looking for, Aga Reef Resort is sure to please. ➜ www.agareefresort.com

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Samoa Scenic Samoa Scenic is a fully Samoan-owned company, founded by the esteemed Grey family over 45 years ago. As the most experienced Tour Operator and Destination Management Company in the country, they are leaders in the industry. They are, for many people, the first interaction visitors have with Samoa. Samoa Scenic aims to enrich visitors with Fa’a Samoa (the Samoan way) and guide them through the many rewarding experiences and rich sensations to be found in these treasured islands.

Along with professional transfer services, they offer a great range of both full day tours and half day tours across the islands of Upolu and Savai’i. This is the perfect way to truly learn about Samoa and its fascinating culture and remarkable history. Sit back, relax and let your Samoa Scenic tour guide take you on a journey of discovery and insight. The popular half day Apia and Surrounding areas tour visits sites of historical and cultural significance including Mulinu’u Peninsula home, the sacred burial grounds of the chiefly families of Samoa, the site of Parliament House, the German Monument where the German flag was raised during Samoa’s time as a colony and the landing site of the first Catholic Missionary to Samoa.

The tour ends at legendary novelist Robert Louis Stevenson’s former home, Vailima, now a fascinating museum displaying his personal artefacts and preserved as it appeared during the time he was in residence.

For those with a little more time a full day tour along the scenic Le Mafa Pass to the South East Coast and back along the Cross Island pass gives an overview of the

stunning beauty of Samoa including lush green forests, waterfalls, plantations and traditional Samoan villages.

Samoa Scenic make a stop at the famous To Sua Trench water hole and spend time at idyllic white sand beaches.

Not to be missed is a trip to the big island of Savai’i where Samoa Scenic offers a Northern or Southern Tour each showcasing the uniqueness of this treasured island. ➜ www.samoascenic.com

PACIFIC ISLANDS | SAMOA

Vailima…the beer of Samoa

The word Vailima literally means “water in the hand”. Its origins date back to a legend about a couple crossing the mountain range that spans the Samoan island of Upolu.

When they finally reached the spot where the Vailima village is now, the man was nearly dying of thirst.

Having no other means of fetching water (vai), the

woman used her hands (lima) to collect water from a nearby stream, from which her husband drank…thus restoring his health.

Consequently, the Vailima brand is considered as one of the finest beer in the South Pacific and international markets…because of its refreshing taste.

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PACIFIC ISLANDS | SAMOA

Useful Information on Samoa

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When visiting any destination it’s always good to prepare for your holiday.

Samoa is one of the safest destinations to visit with a low crime rate, however it’s recommended that you take out travel insurance for peace of mind. Like travelling anywhere, lock away valuables.

The islands are free of major tropical diseases and no vaccinations are required, unless you are arriving from, or transiting through an area infected with yellow fever within 6 days of arrival.

It’s also recommended to purchase bottled water for drinking and if you are going to drink the tap water in your hotel room (which is generally safe), boil it first and chill in the fridge.

Just like any tropical destination, Samoa has mosquitos.

There is no risk of catching malaria in Samoa, but Dengue Fever outbreaks have occurred on odd occasions and to keep the mosquitos at bay, it’s recommended you use a good insect branded repellant.

Airlines and Airports: The main entry point into Samoa is Faleolo International Airport, 35km from Apia on the island of Upolu.

Alcohol: Samoa has two breweries, Vailima Breweries and Samoa Beverage Company. Vailima is Samoa’s local brew and can be found almost everywhere. Originally set up by the Germans, Vailima now produces one of the finest lagers in the South Pacific. Samoa Beverage Company is a new manufacturing beverage company locally producing and marketing a range of beverages.

Beer can be purchased almost anywhere on the islands throughout the week, although on Sundays alcohol is strictly prohibited for sale except for in hotels and restaurants.

Bars & Nightclubs: There are many bars and nightclubs to provide a good night out and are mostly in and around Apia. Doors close at 12am.

Banks: ANZ and Westpac are the two international banks found in Samoa. Both have branches at the international airport, in Apia and at Salelologa on Savai’i.

National Bank of Samoa and Samoa Commercial Bank provide services, currency exchange and ATMs. ATMs are located in and around Apia and on the island of Savai’i. Travellers can use credit cards in the machines but you are required to have a PIN number to withdraw cash. Westpac ATMs allow American Express cards to be used.

Business Hours: Government offices and shops usually open from 9am–5pm (Mon – Fri). Saturday shopping hours are from 8am–12.30pm.

Currency: The Samoa decimal currency is the Tala (dollar) and Sene (cent): 100 Sene = ST$1 (Tala). All major foreign currencies are exchangeable in Samoa.

NZ$1 = ST$1.7 (approx.)

Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Diners & JCB) are widely accepted in the major hotels, restaurants and stores. Travellers’ cheques are also widely accepted at major banks and hotels.

Eftpos machines are found throughout Upolu and Savai’i in major hotels, resorts and supermarkets and accept the following cards – Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Amex, JCB & Plus Cards and Access International Debit Card.

Departure Tax: The departure tax for Samoa is included in your airfares.

Doctors and Health: There are many medical clinics in Apia should you require a doctor and the Tupua Tamasese Meaole II National Hospital is located in Apia. In 2015, the Tupua Tamasese Memorial Hospital completed the first stage of redevelopment with all-new air-conditioned facilities, including an onsite pharmacy. There are private dental clinics and pharmacies mostly located in Apia.

Tupua Tamasese Memorial Hospital, Mootootua, Apia P: 21 212 For an emergency in Samoa, dial the following numbers: Medical: 996, Police: 995, Fire: 994 Dress: Just like its Pacific neighbours, Samoa’s climate is tropical and warm all year round. Light summer clothing is appropriate all year round. As Samoa has a strong cultural structure and Christian faith, tourists are asked not to wear bathing suits in Apia or in villages.

Internet cafes: Staying connected with family and friends, and maybe sharing a status update or photos of your Samoan stay is easy with eight broadband internet cafes to be found around Apia and one on the island of Savai’i. Major hotels and resorts also offer internet terminals for guests in their business centres. WiFi is also available at many locations.

Mobile Phones: There are two main telecommunications providers in Samoa: Digicel and Bluesky Samoa. Both providers offer extensive coverage. Prepaid SIM cards are available at Faleolo International Airport and at outlets in Apia.

Post Office: The main Samoa Post branch is located in the Central Business District in Apia, across from the main branch of the ANZ Bank.

Religion: Samoa is a Christian nation and the main denominations are – Congregational, Anglican, Catholic, Methodist, Assembly of God, Seven Day Adventist, Bahai, Latter Day Saints and Jehovah’s Witness. Visitors are welcome to attend church. Check with your hotel reception for service times Time Zone: In 2011, Samoa changed time zone, moving west of the dateline. This puts Samoa 12 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.

Tipping: Tipping is not practised or expected in Samoa.

However, if a guest wishes to leave a gift for good service then you are welcome to do so directly with the employee or the hotel reception.

Discover Samoa‌

Let us take you on a journey of discovery. Samoa Scenic offer a range of tours and transfers that allow you to sit back, relax and enjoy the view. Our talented tour guides will enrich your experience with local knowledge and information about Fa’a Samoa (The Samoan way). You will view majestic scenery and learn about the history and culture of our treasured islands.

It will be our pleasure to welcome you onboard.

www.samoascenic.com

Escape the Madness Set beside a tranquil lagoon in a lush tropical location on the South East Coast of Upolu, Aga Reef Resort, Samoa offers a relaxing retreat with 4 star quality accommodation and services.

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The nine First Apartments in First Class are private living spaces featuring a reclining lounge chair and an ottoman, upholstered in Poltrona Frau leather, which opens up to become a separate 80.5 inch long fully flat bed. Each First Apartment offers a 74 per cent increase in space over the airline’s current award-winning First Class Suites, a 24” LCD TV monitor and personal vanity unit. A fully equipped shower room is available for the exclusive use of First Class guests.

Seventy Business Studios are located on the upper deck of the A380, all offering direct aisle access, a fully flat bed of up to 80.5 inches long, and an increase of 20 per cent in personal space. Upholstered in Poltrona Frau leather, the Business Studio is equipped with an in-seat massage and a pneumatic cushion control system. The Lobby, a luxurious lounge located between the First Class and Business Class cabins, features two comfortable leather sofas and a staffed bar serving a selection of snacks and refreshments.

The main deck features 417 Economy Smart Seats, which provide enhanced comfort with a unique ‘fixed wing’ headrest on each seat, adjustable lumbar support, a seat width of approximately 19 inches, and an 11.1” personal TV monitor.

Etihad Airways has introduced the latest Panasonic eX3 entertainment system on its A380 fleet, providing more than 750 hours of on-demand entertainment, improved gaming, and high definition screens across all cabins. The A380 has full mobile and Wi-Fi service, with USB and power points at every seat. ➜ www.etihad.com

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Etihad Airways much anticipated A380 has arrived in Sydney, beginning an exciting new era of luxury travel on the Sydney-Abu Dhabi and Sydney-London routes.

The A380 features The Residence by EtihadTM, the airline’s luxurious private three-room suite in the sky, a first in commercial aviation, as well as groundbreaking innovations in all cabins.

The A380 will now operate one of the airline’s two daily services between Sydney and Abu Dhabi. The airline’s additional four weekly Airbus A340-600 flights will be upgraded to a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. The new daily A380 service, together with an upgrade to a B777-300ER from the current A340-600 for the airline’s other four weekly flights, will increase the total number of two-way seats on the route by 30 per cent to 9,568 seats per week.

James Hogan said: “In 2014, we achieved an 88 per cent seat load factor on our Sydney route. The A380 will provide us with much-needed additional capacity, particularly in business class, where we consistently enjoy high levels of demand for our services. This capacity increase is particularly good news for our premium guests and for high-end leisure and business tourism at both ends of the Sydney-London route.”

Sydney Airport Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kerrie Mather, said: “Sydney Airport is thrilled to be the first and only airport in Australia and one of only two destinations in the world to welcome Etihad’s new flagship A380 service.

“The upgrade will bolster Sydney Airport’s status as the leading airport globally for next-generation aircraft and boost tourism to Sydney and NSW by increasing seat capacity.”

Etihad Airways’ new A380 cabins offer an unprecedented level of luxury, space and privacy in the most highly customised commercial cabin interior ever. The Residence by Etihad™, the world’s only private three-room cabin on a commercial aircraft, features a living room, separate ensuite shower room, double bedroom and a dedicated Savoy-trained Butler. It features a large 32” LCD monitor in the living room and a separate 24” version in bedroom. Measuring 125 square feet in total, The Residence by Etihad™ is located on the forward upper deck of the A380 and is available for single or double occupancy.

AIRLINE | ETIHAD

Etihad Airways commences luxurious A380 services to Sydney

Destination ➜ Hong Kong

Hong Kong Havens

ASIA | HONG KONG

By Gayle Dickson

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Langham Place, Mongkok On my recent jaunt to the bustling metropolis of Hong Kong, I had the pleasure of unpacking my bags at two very different hotels.

Arriving well into the evening, my driver navigated the journey to the Langham Place in the heart of Kowloon in no time at all. While my bags were whisked away, I was able to quickly scout the surrounding area – perfect; we were in the heart of the action; there was shopping and more right on my doorstep! This Langham is like no other I’ve experienced – it’s funky, trendy, very contemporary and has a really upbeat vibe about it. Artworks are a standout and the décor is a winner.

The usual paperwork was completed over a freshly brewed coffee (my preference over bubbly after a long flight) in the luxurious confines of the Club Lounge. I returned to the Lounge a few times during my visit for

afternoon tea, evening cocktails and even a late night nightcap. During my stay I discovered that Club guests could avail themselves of a dedicated lobby desk, enjoy a late 2pm check out, and make use of the HK$150 minibar credit per night. There was unlimited WiFi access, complimentary pressing service of three garments on arrival and a free half hour spa treatment with any 60-minute service booked.

Thanks to the typical attentiveness and diligence of Langham Hotels globally, there was a delicious box of handmade chocolates and a personalised birthday card signed by the GM waiting for me in my spacious suite; and it was very spacious in a city where real estate runs at a premium! The marbled ensuite was massive with separate bath and rain shower. The oversized Langham Blissful bed was flanked by side tables, and there was a comfortable seating area as well as a good sized desk.

➜ www.langhamhotels.com

ASIA | HONG KONG

Langham Place offers some 665 room keys over 42 floors, in a range of categories from studio to penthouse.

Perched on the rooftop is the 20m heated pool, which boasts underwater music! A range of cabanas and deckchairs make this a fab place to wile away a few hours unwinding. Not that I’m a gym bunny, by any means, but there is one, and it’s modern, well-equipped and open 24/7.

This floor is also where you’ll discover the luxurious confines of Chuan Spa. Over and above the nine treatment and two relaxation rooms, there’s also a sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and oriental hot tub. The services include: body as well as hand and foot massages, hydrotherapy treatments, scrubs and wraps, facials, manis and pedis.

Dining at Langham Place is yet another opportunity to indulge with five eating establishments offering a good variety of cuisine. The Backyard is a great spot for pizza and cold beer; Ming Court is renowned for both the food and contemporary Cantonese kitchen; Alibi is a great place to see and be seen and where the mixologist will vie with the wine wall for your attention; breakfast, lunch and dinner are served at The Place where the buffet-style facilities can cope with up to 250 indoor and alfresco; and finally there’s Tokoro with its private dining rooms, robatayaki grill and sushi bar.

With direct access to shopping as well as the MTR, and only a short Ding Ding or taxi ride from the Star Ferry terminal, Langham Place Mongkok, is a winner, no matter which way you look at it, and I’d have absolutely no reservations about visiting again!

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➜ www.hongkong.langhamplacehotels.com

ASIA | HONG KONG

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The Park Lane, Hong Kong This delightful addition to the Pullman collection (the 50th in Asia) lies in the heart of Causeway Bay, making it exceptionally central to the business and financial districts.

It is literally minutes from the MTR and plenty of exceptional shopping – in fact, Ikea is situated in the basement and is open till late at night.

The views of Victoria Harbour, Victoria Park and the skyscrapers are breathtaking, especially from the alfresco The Deck or the rooftop garden, which at 350sqm, is the ideal location for a wedding or business event.

Yet again, the sheer scale of the accommodation in a city where every square centimetre counts delighted me. My room overlooked Victoria Park where I watched locals partake in Thai Chi early every morning and families strolling or kicking a ball around at dusk. Victoria Park hosts many events annually and I can imagine how incredible the view must be during the marathon or glowing lantern show.

My Executive Floor room had very recently undergone a refurbishment. In fact, by the time this goes to print, just about each one of the 833 rooms will have been redone.

The style overall is contemporary yet elegant. A glass and chrome writing desk sat comfortably alongside a lounge chair complete with footrest and side table. The ensuite was a visual masterpiece of chrome, glass and wood. It could be opened to the view or the curtains drawn for privacy.

Oh, and there are free movies on demand…and I loved the Molten Brown amenities!

The Presidential Suite has it’s own steam room and sauna as well as massage chair, table and tub. Book in here and you’ll enjoy the core exercise trainer and Jojoba bathroom amenities.

Executive floor guests enjoy a range of complimentary services, including two pieces pressed on arrival, shoeshine, international newspapers and unlimited device hookup to the WiFi. There’s also an extended late checkout, subject to availability. Furthermore, discounts are offered on laundry and dry cleaning, as well as on all food and beverage consumption in all hotel outlets. If dining in style is your preference, you can’t go past Riva and The Deck. The ambiance is one of exclusivity and the food was sensational.

To make life easier, I opted for the a-la-carte menu – four courses that were sublime! The wine offerings are out of this world, too, with rare and exceptional vintages on offer.

Our meal was accompanied by the soft tinkling sounds of a piano inside Riva, while outside on The Deck many gathered for a social drink while taking in the amazing view. Café One provides for all day dining, while George & Co is perfect for refreshing cocktails and catching up on sports coverage during their extended happy hour.

To cap off the facilities, there’s a 24-hour fitness centre offering cardio and strength training machines by Life Fitness, as well as a sauna, steam room and a range of massages. And let’s not forget the 14 very adaptable function venues.

Whether you’re staying here for business or leisure, you’ll find the staff professional, diligent and warmly attentive. ➜ www.pullmanhotels.com | www.parklane.com.hk

The Hamilton Island Endurance Series spans five endurance events from May through to November 2015. The Hamilton Half Marathon, Clash of the Paddles, Great Whitehaven Beach Run, Hamilton Island Triathlon and Whitehaven Beach Ocean Swim will test athletes on every level. Do them all or just do one. This the perfect opportunity to challenge yourself in the ultimate location! www.hamiltonisland.com.au

Best Breakfasts in Asia

ASIA | TOP FIVE

Dinner inspires all the glamour, and lunch is often a great adventure, but breakfast, lowly breakfast, is so often taken for granted that hotels routinely just fold it into the cost of a single night’s accommodation. But these days, all across Asia, people are waking up to breakfast in more ways than one. From Tokyo to Bali, from Taipei to Bangkok, chefs are seizing an opportunity to make a statement at dawn, with inventive new dishes in settings all the more inspiring for the morning light. Here are five of the best places in Asia to enjoy breakfast.

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Grand Hyatt Taipei

1 Grand Hyatt Taipei However prosaic the name of the Grand Hyatt Taipei’s ground floor eatery, the Café is one epic poem of a place for orange juice and then some. From the rain wall at the restaurant’s lobby-side entrance, to not one but two open show kitchens, to the great banks of windows and a cornucopia of marble buffets, there’s as much for the eyes to feast on as the palate. The Café seats 306 on two levels of dining, and the low-level buzz of people at work in the morning on their omelettes and coffee is a welcome jump-start on the day. You can indulge traditional Western fare here, from the Continent, from the Americas, and from Japan to boot. But the mindful traveller knows that this hotel is also home to two of Taipei’s premier Chinese eateries — Pearl Liang (Cantonese) and Yun Jin (pan-China) — and that, by osmosis, the dim sum is going to be inspired.

And it is, from the shrimp dumplings and sui mai to the steamed rice cakes. And if pancakes have to be part of your breakfast fare in Taipei, try the pan-fried pork Chinese pancakes. www.taipei.grand.hyatt.com

Grand Hyatt Taipei

ASIA | TOP FIVE

Palace Hotel Tokyo

Palace Hotel Tokyo

2 Palace Hotel Tokyo The moat outside the Palace Hotel Tokyo wasn’t built to safeguard the guests, but diners on the terrace of the Grand Kitchen are nevertheless beneficiaries of this watery oasis on the edge of the Imperial Palace gardens. It seems fitting, given the view, to choose a local breakfast from the variety of food stations peppered throughout the restaurant.

The authentic spread features fresh and light grilled fish, flavourful yet not salty miso soup, and tamago-yaki (sweet omelette) cooked to perfection, along with special rice called yume-gokochi -- which fittingly translates as “a dreamy state of mind”. www.en.palacehoteltokyo.com 3 Reverie Saigon The European flair of Saigon’s newest luxury hotel isn’t limited to the décor. Here dining menus demand as much attention as the mosaics and marble that furnish the restaurants. It all begins at breakfast with Café Cardinal’s buffet spread. With a French chef at the helm the Parisianquality baguettes are a must, and best enjoyed with a selection of imported cheese and prosciutto. But don’t forget to sample Vietnamese favourites like ice coffee over condensed milk or bo kho (slow-braised beef stew), then sit back and take in the view of a resort-style pool terrace that wouldn’t be out of place in Versailles. www.thereveriesaigon.com

Reverie Saigon

Reverie Saigon

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ASIA | TOP FIVE 76

Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit

4 Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit While the venue of the moment at Sofitel’s flagship property in Southeast Asia is a sparkling new art gallery — the only art gallery inside a hotel in Bangkok — no guest should overlook the culinary masterpiece directly above, on the mezzanine level.

That’s where you’ll find Voila!, which boasts a breakfast buffet to remember thanks in a large part to a kitchen crew that’s committed to baking the best croissants this side of the Rhine. Throw in eight action stations — including a detox smoothie station designed to get the juices flowing — and the option to order gourmet oven-baked, free-range eggs topped with tom yung hollandaise sauce, and you have the recipe for a divine way to start the day in the City of Angels.

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www.sofitel-bangkok-sukhumvit.com

The Legian Bali

5 The Legian Bali Although the beach in Seminyak achieves its greatest glory at sunset, with the great orb melting into the horizon, breakfast at The Legian Bali is no less spectacular, especially if the surf is up and the waves are thumping the tawny brown sand below your breakfast spread. Set upon a deck above a terrace of pools, The Restaurant is the domain of Luke Macleod, a young Australian chef with a name that’s already rippling beyond Bali’s shores. For breakfast at The Legian, make room for a buttered brioche loaf, heaping with strawberries and mascarpone. If that’s not enough, call for a sorbet flavored by mixed tropical fruits and sprayed with a yoghurt foam. www.ghmhotels.com/en/legian-bali

Be spoilt on the way to unspoilt Fly Auckland to New Caledonia in less than 3 hours

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4 stages, 4 days: GreymouthKumara-Cowboy ParadiseHokitika-Ross.

Spin your own story.

Hokitika i-Site 03 755 6166 enquiries@hokitikainfo.co.nz Greymouth i-Site 03 768 7080 info@westcoasttravel.co.nz

westcoastwildernesstrail.co.nz

Destination ➜ Minnesota

Marvellous Mall

U.S.A. | MINNESOTA

By Mark William Sheehan

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t should come as no surprise, that over the past 30 years, international visitors to the USA have consistently listed shopping as their “number one activity”, and the list of ‘must have’ items on hand at the massive ‘Mall of America’ (MoA) lures more than four in ten consumers annually. Sixteen million tourists visit MoA each year and spend over US $500 million in the process. The ‘Mall’ is Minnesota’s number one tourist attraction, and a big part of the draw is that there is no sales tax on clothing…and the great thing is everything is under one gigantic roof.

Like felines to catnip visitors flock to the ‘Mall’. The total number of visitors annually to MoA exceeds the combined populations of North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Canada. The bottom-line is that the Mall is marvellous! So bring plenty of greenbacks or plenty of plastic and wear very comfy walking shoes!

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Location, Location and Location! The Mall Is Marvellously In The Middle. MoA is perfectly placed for a shopping spree in America’s ‘heartland’ and the mid-west of the USA. The airport is within a baseball toss away, from where shopper shuttles run hourly, while the fabulous Radisson Blu Hotel boasts a short causeway into the retail action of over 520 storefronts. Other hotels surround the Mall, but why let your family stay away from all the action, when you can be bedding-down close to all those fashion designer-racks, specialty shops and indoor attractions?

Lingering Longer Is Lovely: When this writer was invited to spend a whopping three full days at the Mall, I had my doubts. How could a shopping venue require a full three days to cover and conquer? By the time I’d used up some serious shoe-leather at this delightful shopping and entertainment Mecca, I could have easily used another two days of meandering on site.

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With another day of leisure, visitors can comfortably take a second run at the 25 rain, snow or shine, indoor rides, roller-coasters and attractions at Nickelodeon™ Amusement Park. Or revisit the aquarium and feed the sharks, rack-up a few more ‘strikes and spares’ at the neon lit 10-pin bowling alley or even enjoy a dozen films in the monstrous theatre and entertainment corridors.

Measured Strides: There are many MoA ‘Walker’s Clubs,’ sponsored by the famous Mayo Clinic that tread three fabulous floors of the Mall on well-sign-posted one mile, five mile and 10 mile circuits. Yikes! The MoA features seven kilometres of storefronts and over eight acres of skylights, which allow for almost 70% of the natural light in, helping to maintain a constant 70-degree temperature. So no matter what the weather is outdoors, it is always comfortable indoors whether it’s spring, summer, winter or autumn.

If you’re keen on comparisons you might be able to put the magnitude of the Mall into perspective when I enlighten you to the fact that 32 Boeing 747s could easily fit inside the megastructure without a shoe-horn or that seven entire Yankee Stadiums would be right at home indoors here.

Someone measured this interesting statistic: there is room to place 258 Statue of Libertys side-by-side lying down inside the MoA with plenty of room for additional oversized pillows.

Plan In Advance: So that people can make the most of a visit to MoA, somebody took the time to determine, that if a shopper intended to visit every store for only 10 minutes, they’d need 11, eight-hour days to accomplish the mission.

My suggestion is to arrive near-naked, and buy a large second suitcase for all the new purchases, and remember to ask the locals for directions. Folks from Minnesota are fabulously friendly and love engaging overseas visitors.

Service is king in the USA so you’ll find miles of smiles from behind the counters or from the bartenders at The Hard Rock Café or one of the Mall’s many entertainment areas.

One of the Mall’s first anchor tenants was Macy’s, which boasts an “International Shoppers’ Card”, which is not available to Americans. Just present your passport and a good overseas accent at the shopper’s services desk and you’re away laughing with a further 10% savings.

Get Married at the MoA: More than 7,000 marriages have been performed there, and guests of the bride and groom have over 13,000 parking places to choose from when they arrive for the festivities. A ‘walk in the park’ for newly-weds provides plenty of backdrops for memorable photographs among over 300 live plants and 400 significant trees. To look after shoppers and guests, the Mall employs over 11,000 people year-round…unless it’s the festive season when the head-count leaps to over 14,000 staff.

Wrap It Up Please! There are thousands of good reasons to stop in ‘Marvellous Minnesota’ beyond the shopping, but I’ve got to admit, with the Mall of America dangling such a delightful consumer carrot, planning a stop-over in America’s heartland, rubbing elbows with the locals and filling a suitcase or two with bountiful bargains is a great idea.

When you next visit this part of America plan your trip in advance by first ‘letting your mouse do the walking’, and take full advantage of an extended stay in the “Land of 10,000 Lakes!”

My final reminder: pack lightly, as you’re going to need all the room you can muster!

facts:

Mall of America P: + 1 952 883 8800 ➜ www.mallofamerica.com

Radisson Blu Hotel P: + 1 952 881 5258 ➜ www.radissonblu.com/hotel-mall-of-america

Hard Rock Café: P: + 1 952 853 7000 ➜ www.hardrock.com/cafes/mall-of-america

About the Author: Mark William Sheehan is the author of the best selling ‘Know Before You Go Guide – America Over Easy’. He has also written for major magazines and newspapers, and penned trip notes and brochure copy for professional tour guides to his beloved America for over 40 years.

ANTARCTICA

BY AIR The Highest New Year’s Celebration in the World!

Join us for New Years Eve from Melbourne 31 December 2015

Contact us today for departures from Sydney or Melbourne in 2016.

It’s one minute to midnight on the last day of the year over the world’s last great wilderness. Although it’s the dead of night, the light dazzles bright as a star. You savour this moment to yourself, knowing you’re among the first people in the world to welcome the New Year.

Starting from AUD$1,199 per person in Economy Class Centre.

Antarctica… it’s closer than you think.

Freecall 0800 000 766 antarcticaflights.co.nz

Destination ➜ Queensland

AUSTRALIA | QUEENSLAND

What’s new in Noosa?

Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas

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1 Noosa Welcomes Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas: Outrigger Little Hastings Street Resort & Spa Noosa has now been rebranded as Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas.

Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas combines a relaxed natural setting in the tranquil surrounds of Noosa National Park with luxuriously appointed accommodation at one of Noosa’s most sought after addresses on Hastings Street.

There are two tiers of accommodation available - stylish studio, one and two bedroom apartments or three bedroom penthouses in the main resort; or deluxe two, three and four bedroom treetop villas offering a superior level of luxury.

Situated high on the escarpment, the villas provide the best views of Noosa Main Beach and hinterland.

All accommodation options have access to the on-site facilities including heated lagoon pool with pool bar, 25 metre lap pool, fitness centre and steam room; and the on-site Stephanie’s Ocean Day Spa provides a full selection of therapies and massages.

All day dining can be enjoyed at View on Little Hastings restaurant situated in a loft style setting with spectacular views across Laguna Bay. The vibrant Hastings Street café strip, Main Beach and Noosa National Park are all within walking distance from the resort or electric bikes can also be hired for exploring further afield.

Stay in a One Bedroom Apartment from A$259 per night including breakfast daily; or in a luxurious Three Bedroom Villa from A$719 per night (room only and two night minimum stay). ➜ www.peppers.com.au/noosa

2 Noosa Jazz Festival: One of Australia’s leading music events, the Noosa Jazz Festival, has released its first round of performers to grace the stage in the Festival Village (Noosa Lions Park) during the four-day event. The Festival is a great reason to escape the cold and enjoy fabulous music in the Queensland springtime sun.

Running from Thursday 3rd September to Sunday 6th September 2015, the schedule is already packed with some of the greatest names in jazz and some amazing performers.

The first round of artists announced to appear at the 24th annual Noosa Jazz Festival are Emma Pask, Darren Percival, Todd Hardy and Anita Spring, Berardi/Foran/ Karlen, Jan Preston, Clayton Doley, The Lachy Doley Group, Feel the Manouche with George Washingmachine, Ingrid James and Louise Denson’s “Wild Silk Strings Project”

3 Seahaven Noosa: Located on Noosa’s famed Hastings Street, Seahaven Noosa has recently undergone a nine month $16 million renovation in which every element of the property was remodelled and modernised. Seahaven Noosa is home to 68 rooms made up of four rooftop penthouse apartments, which boast 180 degree ocean views, one and two bedroom beachfront apartments, studio rooms and Hasting Street suites. All beachfront self catering apartments boast full kitchens, laundry facilities, spa-baths, barbeques, Foxtel, free in room Wi-Fi, secure parking, luxury furnishings and fittings and direct beach access.

As well as this, Seahaven Noosa’s amenities and services include four heated pools and spa, covered beachfront barbeque area, grassed courtyards, onsite gymnasium, daily servicing and a concierge desk, which can assist with guest dining and tour bookings.

➜ www.thediscoverygroup.com.au ➜ www.visitnoosa.com.au

AUSTRALIA | QUEENSLAND

➜ www.noosajazz.com.au

4 Fraser Island Day Tour Direct from Noosa: Queensland’s multi award winning tour operator, The Discovery Group, have revamped their flagship Fraser Island tour product, The Fraser Day Tour, with menu changes and an extended rainforest walk with more time to experience the island’s most pristine areas.

The tour, direct from Noosa will see guests travelling the ‘Beach Highway’ in a purpose built 4X4 Warrior and the day includes discovering the Cooloola National Park and majestic Coloured Sands before heading to Fraser Island. On the Island guests can swim relax and soak up the beauty that is Lake McKenzie, explore historic Central Station and after lunch guests are guided deep into the rainforest on an extended walk along Wangoolooba Creek and into the Pile Valley.

The new itinerary has specifically been designed as an interactive and intimate nature focused experience showcasing ecologically sustainable tourism as its very best. The revamped lunch includes healthy, delicious cold meat and salad selections as well as beer, wine and soft drinks for purchase.

Tours depart Noosa daily with a courtesy shuttle service from most Noosa accommodation.

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featuring: Andrew Shaw, Paul Hudson, Miroslav Bukovsky, John Mackey, Michael Patterson, Courtenay Lind and Eugenie Costello, Jazz Singers Jam Session and more.

The Festival Village, seen as the home and heart of the Noosa Jazz Festival, will offer multiple stages with more than 45 performances as well as workshops, master classes, jazz river cruises, the legends lunch series, big bands, swing bands, soul bands, jazz bands and Australian Jazz royalty.

Taking on the laid back lifestyle of the Noosa region, the 2015 Noosa Jazz Festival will embrace a picnic theme providing patrons with a stylish alfresco experience featuring the expected rugs and lounge chairs where they can sip on a glass of their favourite drink whilst relaxing and enjoying the sounds of jazz by the Noosa River.

What better reason to cross ‘the ditch’ for an Aussie break with ‘Stay and Play’ accommodation packages available, and a range of ticket options including family passes and group discounts now available for purchase via the Noosa Jazz Festival website.

➜ www.seahavennoosa.com.au

Seahaven Noosa

Travel Associates

GENERAL | TRAVEL ASSOCIATES

Welcome to Travel Associates, a boutique travel agency where experience lies at the heart of everything they do. From industry expertise, to offering the widest range of travel options, and creating holidays with a difference…they offer a truly exceptional service designed just for you.

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ravel Associates isn’t your average travel agency. Far removed from the traditional agency environment, the majority of consultations are appointment based. Their experts are happy to meet either in their offices, at your home, office, café or via email or phone.

Travel Associates brings together the most knowledgeable and well-travelled consultants throughout New Zealand. With stores in Auckland, Blenheim, Dunedin, Wellington, and soon to be Albany, each consultant averages over 10 years industry experience and has a genuine passion for travel.

Travel Associates know it’s the little things that make all the difference. Experienced travellers themselves they’ve been on the unfortunate side of a stressful holiday. Lugging heavy suitcases through Rome’s cobble stone streets rather than having a driver, a French train strike resulting in missed flights and waiting hours in a questionable train station… they’ve been there.

The inclusion of a private vehicle awaiting your arrival at the airport, a dinner reservation in Paris, or an upgraded flight so you arrive home with a good night’s sleep can make the world of difference to your holiday, and at Travel Associates it’s these often overlooked details that their exceptional level of service provides.

From domestic travel or short breaks, to grand tours of the world, river and ocean cruising and luxury retreats, to romantic getaways, coach touring, grand rail journeys and exotic escapes, there’s nowhere in the world Travel Associates can’t take you.

Experience a new level of professionalism, excellence and attention to detail in travel planning and make an appointment to discuss your travel plans with their team today. They’d love to create an unforgettable holiday experience for you!

Freephone 0800 840 787 ➜ www.travel-associates.co.nz

DENVER, COLORADO Top five reasons to visit Denver during your Colorado winter holiday!

1

EAT, DRINK AND PLAY.

Explore art galleries, boutiques, farm-to-table restaurants and craft breweries in Denver’s hip, urban neighborhoods like LoDo (Lower Downtown), Highlands or RiNo (River North Art District). After dark, check out the city’s unique live music venues and rooftop bars.

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STEP BACK IN TIME.

Denver’s historic Union Station is the place to experience old-fashioned elegance and some of the best chefs Denver has to offer. Make a restaurant reservation, sip a cocktail at Cooper Lounge or sample a craft beer at the Terminal Bar.

ENJOY URBAN ADVENTURES. From dinosaurs at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science and the Asian elephant exhibit at the Denver Zoo to a virtual ski jump at History Colorado Center there is no shortage of family fun in The Mile High City, even during the winter.

SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP.

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Cherry Creek Shopping Center and the Cherry Creek North neighborhood are a shopper’s paradise filled with art galleries, boutiques, restaurants and hundreds of stores including Macy's, Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom.

5

FIND YOUR CREATIVE SIDE.

Visit the Denver Art Museum with its bold art inside and out and take time to see the “only in Denver” Clyfford Still Museum featuring the works of this acclaimed Abstract Expressionist.

Stroll through neighborhood galleries and enjoy the ever-changing exhibits at MCA Denver.

Find all this and more at VISITDENVER.com

Destination ➜ Colorado

The Mile High City…by Night

U.S.A. | COLORADO

By Julie Miller Images courtesy of Visit Denver

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Ophelia

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nce a hub, always a hub! Originally the terminus for transport in and out of the central-western states of the US, Denver’s historic Union Station has been reinvented and is now the focal point for a new type of adventure – a journey into The Mile High City’s vibrant and lively social scene.

After two years and a $54 million renovation, Union Station revealed its new look on July 11, 2014, with the unveiling of the boutique, 112-room Crawford Hotel, new retail outlets and a revamped train waiting room for a light-rail service. In September, a variety of bars and restaurants – from casual dining at the much-lauded Acme Burger and Brat Corporation to fine ‘farm-to-table’ fare at chef Alex Seidel’s latest offering, Mercantile dining & provision – opened, transforming the complex into a hotspot affectionately known as “Denver’s Living Room”.

This is a venue of many moods: from the hip buzz of the always-packed downstairs Terminal Bar, to the prohibition-era glamour of Cooper Lounge.

Linger

U.S.A. | COLORADO

Offering mesmerising downtown views through massive arched windows, this upstairs cocktail bar has rapidly become the place to be seen in Denver, and is so popular that bookings are recommended, even for a seat at the bar.

Overseeing Union Station’s revitalisation is a woman regarded as the saviour of downtown Denver – historic preservationist, Dana Crawford (for whom the Crawford Hotel is named). Back in 1963, this passionate visionary was responsible for redeveloping LoDo’s Larimer Square, creating a lively shopping and dining area from the neglected buildings of Denver’s original main street.

Festooned with fairy lights, this gorgeous district is today prime real estate and home to some of the city’s best restaurants, bars and clubs. Kick off the night at innovative restaurants such as Rioja and TAG (offering Pan-Asian small plates including sushi rolls and delectable caramelised butterfish as well as fresh seafood entrees); then settle in until the wee hours at cocktail lounges Roosevelt, Corridor 44 or The Crimson Room.

A personal favourite is the quirky Green Russell, a subterranean ‘speakeasy’ hidden behind a pie shop.

Named after a famous gold miner from the 1850s, this prohibition-era joint offers hand-crafted cocktails based on personal preferences or an intriguing menu of house specialties made from fresh ingredients and home-infused liquors.

While Downtown Denver continues to lure locals and tourists alike, a renaissance is also taking place further afield, with some intriguing new venues broadening the scope for entertainment options.

In the downtown corridor, Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox is a new restaurant, bar and music venue, occupying a Victorian building that once served as a brothel, peep show and sex shop. Trading on its notorious past with

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Cooper Lounge

Latimer Square

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El Chapultesec

U.S.A. | COLORADO

racy artworks and old photographs of a buxom madame (the eponymous Ophelia), this venue – owned by the same company responsible for popular restaurant Linger, located in a former mortuary in the Highlands district – features a cavernous central stage area overlooked by mezzanine seating and a pumping bar and dining area. Live performances are held from Thursday to Sunday brunch.

Denver’s reputation as a mecca for jazz is largely due to one institution – El Chapultepec (or The ‘Pec, as it’s locally known). This nightclub, a few blocks from Union Station in LoDo, has been a landmark since 1933, starting life as a Mexican cantina before jazz took over from mariachi.

Frequented by legendary barflys such as Jack Kerouac, the club has, over the years, showcased the talents of artists such as Count Basie, Doc Severinsen, Frank Sinantra and Wynton Marsalis; even Bill Clinton played an impromptu set here during his presidential campaign in 1991.

A more recent arrival on the jazz scene is Nocturne, a 1940s-style supper club described as “Gatsby meets Harlem Jazz”. Located in the River North Art District (RiNo), this venue aims at marrying the arts of gastronomy and music as well as supporting local community groups with education-based performances, workshops and rehearsal space.

facts: The boutique Hotel Teatro is perfectly positioned to take in the nightlife on Larimer Square and Downtown Denver, and offers a courtesy car to venues within a three-mile radius. www.hotelteatro.com Venues: Union Station: www.unionstationindenver.com Larimer Square: www.larimersquare.com Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox: www.opheliasdenver.com El Chapultepec: www.thepeclodo.com

Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club: www.nocturnejazz.com Syntax: Physic Opera: www.physicopera.com www.visitdenver.com

Julie Miller was assisted by Visit Denver.

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Sotic & Genuine Cocktail

Nocturne

Tag Restaurant

Pushing the boundaries of performance art is the curiously monikered Syntax: Physic Opera. A multi-sensory jazz and art venue, this venue is becoming a staple for hipster South Broadway creatives, with songwriter open-mic and comedy nights, after-supper jazz and even burlesque shows. Its website describes it as a “medicine show… a love poem to 1860’s Denver. A living museum.” But really, you just need to experience it to get some idea of its complexities!

A night out in Denver is incomplete, however, without a visit to the grungy soul of the city, Colfax Avenue. The longest business street in America, it was also once coined “the wickedest”, owing to the number of bars, clubs and seedy joints along its 42 kilometre length.

This is ‘dive bar’ central – where the liquor is cheap and the clientele as genuine as the 1970s jukeboxes. A pub crawl is likely to take in the Nob Hill Inn (frequented, according to the barman, by John Mellencamp when he’s in town); Satire Lounge, a popular late-night noshery; and my personal favourite, the 1Up – a bar featuring vintage arcade games and pinball machines. A guaranteed way to end a great night out in a really fun town.

CHECK OUT WHAT’S NEW IN THE MODERN WEST.

No airport is like Denver International Airport, because no place is like the Colorado Region. We bring our relaxed way of life at every corner: warm welcomes, casual comforts, and an atmosphere that embraces innovation and independence.

With over 1500 daily flights from more than 170 cities, it’s easy for you to visit Denver.

FLYDENVER.COM

NEW ZEALAND | STAMFORD PLAZA

Stamford Plaza, Albert Street I remember staying at the Stamford Plaza in its previous guise many years ago, but had not stayed there for a couple of years. So what would this visit be like?

The property has gone through a major internal fit-out and there is more to come.

So, in this first look at her, we focus on four of the Premier Room configurations.

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Governors Suite

Governors Suite: The epitome of luxury! Indulge in exclusive amenities and services making this your very own haven in the heart of the city. Located on Level 9, this hotel suite can be made into a two-bedroom option by booking an additional interconnecting guest room.

This contemporary metropolitan suite has been designed with urban living in mind. The master bedroom showcases a walk-in wardrobe and a luxury bathroom featuring a bath, separate shower, dual vanity and toilet.

The Governors Suite’s extensive living space is accented by original artwork and includes a dual aspect lounge, dining area, full service kitchen, boardroom, study nook and separate guest bathroom facilities.

When you stay in The Governors Suite, you’ll enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and local calls, L’Occitane bathroom amenities, bottled water replenished daily and an extensive Minibar. You are also invited to make use of complimentary valet parking and enjoy breakfast and welcome drinks for two in the Lobby Bar. Stamford Suite: Refined elegance. This spacious new 133sqm luxury hotel suite, with a private living area, two bathrooms and exclusive services is perfect for business or leisure travellers.

Governors Suite

Governors Suite

facts: Stamford Plaza Auckland 22-26 Albert Street P: + 64 9 309 8888 ➜ www.stamford.com.au/spak

Raffles Suites

Executive Suite: Relax in sophisticated elegance in the centre of Auckland.

These spacious new 66sqm Executive Suites feature Auckland city views, private living space and executive services; perfect for business or leisure stays. Executive Suites feature large panoramic windows and a separate living area.

These suites are ideal for hosting guests, holding small business meetings or simply relaxing.

When you book to stay in one of an Executive Suite, you’ll not only enjoy a spacious suite, but also complimentary Wi-Fi and local calls, L’Occitane bathroom amenities and bottled water replenished daily.

Next Issue: Dining

NEW ZEALAND | STAMFORD PLAZA

Raffles Suites: Sophisticated elegance in the heart of Auckland! These spacious new 97sqm Raffles Suites feature private living area, two bathrooms and exclusive services - perfect for business or leisure stays.

Ideally located on Levels 8 and 9, these suites can be extended into a two-bedroom suite by booking an additional interconnecting guest room. The master bedroom features a spacious bathroom with a separate bath, shower, dual vanity and toilet. Raffles Suites’ living space is accented by original artworks and includes a lounge, dining area, balcony and separate guest washroom facilities.

When you book to stay in one of our Raffles Suites, you’ll enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and local calls, L’Occitane bathroom amenities, bottled water replenished daily and an extensive minibar. You are also invited to make use of complimentary valet parking and enjoy breakfast and welcome drinks for two in the Lobby Bar.

Raffles Suites

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Located on Level 10, this suite can be made into a two-bedroom option by booking an additional interconnecting guest room. The Stamford Suite has been beautifully refurbished with the utmost care and consideration.

The master bedroom features a luxury black marble bathroom with a spa bath, separate shower, dual vanity, toilet and bidet. Stamford’s ample living space includes a lounge, dining area, balcony and separate guest washroom facilities accented by original artwork.

When you stay in the Stamford Suite, you’ll enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and local calls, L’Occitane bathroom amenities, bottled water replenished daily and an extensive minibar. You are also invited to make use of complimentary valet parking and enjoy breakfast and welcome drinks for two in the Lobby Bar.

Discover endless fun at Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa. Located just steps from the beach and minutes from the Disneyland ResortÂŽ and other area attractions, this resort is your vacation destination. Perfect for the whole family, enjoy our pools & waterslides, surf lessons, shopping, dining, live entertainment, a worldclass spa and more.

For reservations, visit huntingtonbeach.hyatt.com or call 714 698 1234.

Hyatt. You’re More Than Welcome.

HYATT REGENCY HUNTINGTON BEACH RESORT & SPA 21500 Pacific Coast Highway Huntington Beach, CA 92648

CRUISING | AVALON WATERWAYS

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Along the Seine and back again

By Pamela Wade

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s it turns out, it’s a good thing that my stateroom on Avalon Waterways’ Tapestry II is 30% bigger than the standard for river cruisers. It’s the food, you see. Three breakfasts, morning tea, three courses for lunch, afternoon tea, chef’s special dinners with five or more courses, supper! Virtuous resolutions beforehand are all very well, but they soon crumble in the face of so much choice and temptation, eagerly offered by friendly servers like Tiago who takes attempts at moderation as a personal rejection.

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It doesn’t help that the route for this luxurious ship, newly-launched in April, is along the Seine towards Normandy, through a region where the three Cs are at least as important as the three Rs. Cider, cream and Camembert underpin the cuisine, and chef Olivier beavers away in his galley to present us with dishes that celebrate these ingredients and other local specialties like salt-marsh lamb from the coastal grazings. His Bistro dinners are a dégustation of ten tasting plates, small but intenselyflavoured, and beautifully presented.

Fortunately, for our figures, a river cruise gives plenty of opportunity for exercise of the best sort: incidental.

Every day brings one or two stops along the river and walks around the towns or villages guided by locals full of information, humour and gossip. Following Estelle, or Élodie, or Stéphanie, we trail along cobbled streets between outrageously pretty half-timbered buildings or thatched cottages, or around the harbour of a fishing port, or up and down the stairs of a stately home full of treasures and, without even noticing, both work off yesterday’s indulgences and work up an appetite for today’s.

This is an 8-day cruise, from Paris northwards along the winding course of the Seine – the origin of the name means ‘snake’, for good reason – through Normandy as far as Rouen, and then back to Paris again. There are choices of excursion at each day’s stops, but at Vernon on the first day nearly everybody goes to Giverny. This is Monet’s famous garden, immediately recognisable from his many paintings of the lily ponds. It’s June, and the roses are in full bloom, there are hollyhocks, poppies, foxgloves, cascades of wisteria over the pergola on the Japanese bridges over the ponds, and the lilies themselves are about to break from the bud. Viewed from the upstairs window of Monet’s bedroom, it’s an inspiring sight, and understandable that he considered the garden his greatest masterpiece.

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As at every other stop, at the end of the guided tour, we’re free to wander and explore by ourselves, and while many try to reproduce with a camera what Monet did with his paintbrush, others take the chance for a coffee and something dainty to eat at one of the several cafés in this very pretty village.

At Les Andélys, there’s a medieval castle on top of the hill, the stone gleaming white in the sunshine, poppies nodding in the breeze. From the ramparts, there’s a wide view over the Norman countryside, the river’s course through lush green fields marked by avenues of trees. It’s a leisurely route, and there is nothing more relaxing than reclining on a lounger on the Tapestry II’s sun deck, or in our staterooms with the sliding doors wide open, as it glides quietly along the water. We can hear the birdsong in the trees, see swans, geese and herons, even cows knee-deep in the river. Villages come and go, stone and brick buildings clustered around their churches, fishermen standing on the green banks, waving back as we pass.

We see more of the countryside on coach tours to other places of interest. Pont-Audemer has canals, coffee served with a brimful Calvados shot, and a market selling craft Camembert made from unpasteurised milk. Honfleur is a fabulously pretty fishing port, even on a rainy day, its harbour surrounded by tall half-timbered houses with restaurants and crèperies on the ground floor, their patrons looking across the water through a forest of masts.

The main focus of this cruise for most is the long day spent visiting the Normandy landing beaches, learning on-site about the events of D-Day and going to either the Allied or the American memorials and cemeteries. It’s inevitably an emotional experience, and the lighter option is to spend the day getting a taste of the region, some of it literal. In Bayeux, with its famous tapestry, all 70 metres of it, there are water mills on the little river running through the town. At Beuvron-en-Auge, which must be Normandy’s prettiest village, Madame serves delicious homemade pâté and quiche, three local cheeses and a six-hour rice pudding, all washed down with cider. There’s more to drink at a family-firm distillery: sweet cider, sherry-like pommeau, and scarily strong Calvados – each starting off as innocent apple juice.

Rouen brings Joan of Arc, Richard the Lionheart, an ancient cathedral and narrow alleyways between leaning half-timbered buildings. There’s history, literature, war and peace, and a tasteful MacDonald’s in the city’s oldest building.

Versailles takes opulence and ornamentation to the ultimate level, the Hall of Mirrors its greatest glory – although the grandness of the gardens takes some beating. On a smaller scale, the Chateau of Malmaison has many treasures of its own: here, Napoleon’s Josephine ruled the roost, and huge portraits of the two look down on us as we wander through, admiring the clocks, huge jewellery box, and the carved swans on the chairs as Audrey tells tales about this “nineteenth-century cougar” who owned an orang-utan which wore a dress to afternoon tea.

Finally, there’s Paris. A night tour shows us the Eiffel Tower, sparkling in the warm darkness. There are walking tours, a coach tour, free time to explore the galleries and museums – or hit the shops. And then, on the last night, there’s the Moulin Rouge. Energetic, colourful, astonishing, professional, unexpected, unforgettable, the show is the perfect high point on which to end a cruise that’s been all of that.

facts:

Avalon Waterways: Avalon Waterways’ new Suite Ship Avalon Tapestry II offers an eight-day river cruise on the Seine, Paris to Normandy’s Landing Beaches. Departures in 2016 are available from NZ$ 3,075 per person twin share, including a 15 per cent earlybird discount if booked before September 15, 2015. Avalon Waterways fares include all on board meals, wine and beer at dinner, expert guides and a daily selection of activities and excursions. ➜ www.avalonwaterways.co.nz

Cathay Pacific: Cathay Pacific offers a daily connection from New Zealand to Paris via Hong Kong. ➜ www.cathaypacific.com Pamela Wade was a guest of Avalon Waterways and flew to Paris with assistance from Cathay Pacific.

RIVER CRUISING FROM A

UNIQUE POINT OF VIEW

At Avalon, we share your unique point of view. That’s why we’ve designed a cruise experience that’s just a bit different. Spaces are bigger. Views are more epic. Excursions are more enriching. It’s a step beyond the ordinary, but knowing you, we think you’ll feel at home here. Welcome aboard.

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Paris to Normandy Landing Beaches 8 days Paris to Paris NOW from $3,075 per person twin share (based on 26 Mar 16 departure)

MAGNIFICENT EUROPE 15 days Amsterdam to Budapest NOW from $6,145 per person twin share (based on 28 Oct 16 departure)

For more information and to book See your Travel Agent | Visit avalonwaterways.co.nz *Terms and conditions: Prices shown are based on per person, twin share in a Category E stateroom including port charges, gratuities and discount. Magnifi cent Europe based on 28/10/16; Paris to Normandy Landing Beaches based on 26 March 2016. Prices correct as of 5/06/15 and are subject to availability.Save 15% valid on all 2016 Avalon Waterways France only cruise itineraries and departures. Save 10% on all 2016 Avalon Waterways Europe and South East Asia cruise itineraries and departures. Valid for new bookings made and deposited up to 15 September 2015. Discount is based on Category E (Europe) or Category B (South East Asia) twin share price, excluding extra night accommodations, extension programs, port charges, upgrades and single supplements. Valid for singles-single supplement applies. Cannot be combined with any other offers except Journey’s Club member discounts (standard Journey’s Club discount conditions apply). Offer not applicable on Avalon/Royal Suite (Jnr Suite). Non-refundable, non-transferable deposit of $500pp/per cruise required within 7 days of booking to secure. Offers can be withdrawn or amended at any time. Additional restrictions may apply. For full terms and conditions see the 2016 Avalon Waterways brochure or visit avalonwaterways.co.nz.

Riding the Rhone

CRUISING | UNIWORLD

By Pamela Wade

www.letstravelmag.com

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here’s clearly a lot of money in candy floss. Judging by the flash trailers parked along the riverbank of the Rhône at Arles. Life on the road is a cushy affair for the travelling funfair people. Even so, it’s nowhere near as luxurious as life on the river, I find as I travel upstream to Lyon.

I’m spending seven nights aboard Uniworld’s new Super Ship Catherine, home for just 159 guests as it cruises along this ancient highway through Provence and Burgundy. Wine is naturally going to be an important feature, as a focus for excursions into the surrounding countryside as well, of course, as in the restaurant, where cheese in its many versions will also be a major feature: three different varieties every evening, in fact. The greatest joy for me, though, will

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be the glorious scenery of France, dotted with historic towns and villages, each seemingly vying to be more picturesque than the last.

Arles, a downriver excursion from the beginning of the cruise in Avignon, sets the standard high right from the start. Centred on a Roman arena of cream-coloured stone weathered by millennia, narrow cobbled streets fan out between tall terraced houses with painted wooden shutters and luxuriant window boxes. This is Van Gogh territory — all of his famous paintings were done here, and their subjects are easily identified on a wander around the town. His was a sad story, we learn in an illustrated lecture before the guided walk that takes us through the town’s art, history and commerce (the souvenir shops here are loaded with irresistibly pretty things, most notably Provence’s distinctive printed fabrics).

This is to be the pattern of our days: cruise director Laurent and hotel manager Eric explain at our welcome briefing that each town will bring the chance of a walking tour as well as excursions by coach and other activities.

The ship will mostly be mooring right in the centre of each settlement, since rivers are Europe’s original thoroughfares, and historically centres of population grew up along them.

This is highly convenient for modern-day cruise passengers, meaning that we will only have to step ashore to be right in the middle of things.

It’s entirely possible, then, to explore by ourselves; but the guided walks are the ideal introduction to the towns and villages along the river. Radio headsets mean we can amble along behind the local host at our own pace, getting all the insider details while still able to be side-tracked by a patisserie window full of jewel-like tarts, or displays of scented pouches of mixed thyme, marjoram, sage, rosemary and oregano.

Lamb from the Camargue further south, flavoured with these Herbes de Provence, is just one of the delights of a sinfully seductive menu throughout the cruise, which features local produce from along the route. Restraint is not aided by the waiters learning our names and preferences overnight, and at each meal Todor murmurs new suggestions that are impossible to refuse. The staff on the Catherine are definitely one of its assets: friendly, helpful, cheerful and informative, nothing is too much trouble for them.

Though my suite is gorgeous, from the l’Occitane toiletries in the marble bathroom, to the soft bed and the balcony window framing a view in which there is always something to enjoy, I spend most time on board upstairs

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in the lounge. Here there’s a 360-degree view and the company of the other cruisers, mostly English and American retirees with a relaxed outlook on life.

Some of them are more adventurous than they look, and take the kayaking option at our next stop, Avignon, a walled city once home to Popes. The bridge famous from the children’s song is just along from the Catherine’s mooring, and it’s only a short walk to the still-intact city wall. Inside, the Palace of the Popes dominates our walking tour, all towers and turrets, built over a vast wine cellar that proves these men of God also enjoyed more earthly pleasures.

Meanwhile, the kayakers claim life-long bragging rights by paddling along the nearby Gardon River beneath the magnificent three-tiered Pont du Gard aqueduct, built 2,000 years ago by the Romans and still standing strong.

The cruise continues: Viviers, a medieval village full of cats where we enjoy an organ concert of Bach and Handel in the church at the top of the hill; the twin towns of Tain l’Hermitage and Tournon, where we have a chance to taste Côtes du Rhône wines — or chocolate at the Valrhona factory. There are wooded hills, steep vineyards, a sinister nuclear power plant belching steam…and then comes Lyon.

There’s a tour for everyone here, whether they want food, or fabrics, or fresh air on a bike tour. Some do their own thing and head straight for the restaurant of Paul Bocuse, others go to the Resistance Museum, or the famous Les Halles market, or the ornate Basilica overlooking the city.

I find a quirky museum of animated puppets, featuring a remarkably handsome Captain Nemo and a Pinocchio with a retractable nose.

Sadly, this is where the cruise ends — but there’s a last excursion to Chalon-sur-Saône and the nearby town of Beaune where, opposite the busy market, stands the gorgeously decorated 15th century charity hospital, a rich man’s calculated bid to ensure his entry into heaven.

Quite honestly, that’s pretty much where I’ve spent the last week.

facts:

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises’ 8-day Burgundy & Provence itinerary from Avignon to Lyon cruises through the heart of a region renowned for its cuisine, fine wine, art and scenery. Highlights include Côtes du Rhône wine tasting in Tain l’Hermitage, shopping at open-air food markets, a Crêpes-making demonstration as well as a special wine and food pairing dinner. Departure dates are available year round between March and November. Priced from $4,095 per person twin share. Includes luxury stateroom, all meals and drinks on board, excursions and transfers. ➜ www.uniworldcruises.co.nz, Freephone 0800 872 325 or ask your travel agent.

Getting there: Etihad Airways codeshares with both Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia on flights across the Tasman to connect with its own regular services from Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney to Abu Dhabi and beyond. Etihad serves 22 European destinations including Paris. Ask your travel agent or visit ➜ www.etihad.com/nz.

Pamela Wade travelled through Burgundy and Provence courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises and Etihad Airways

Step away from the crowds.. Step into amazing places..

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Contact Travel Associates today to book your River Cruise holiday, in the manner of service you deserve.

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CRUISING | STATISTICS

The Stats

M

ore New Zealanders than ever before chose to embark on a cruise holiday in 2014, with passenger numbers swelling 10.6 per cent to a record high of 65,609. New Zealand was one of only three international markets to record a double-digit increase, ranking third in the world for growth in 2014 behind Australia (20.4 per cent) and France (13.6 per cent).

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Asia Africa Caribbean Adriatic Mediterranean Greece & Turkey Northern Europe & The Baltic Pacific & Oceania Ocean Voyages Latin America Alaska Antarctica Arctic Russia

Much more than a cruise... a unique experience...

5-star sophisticated à la française lifestyle on board with exploration and discovery

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Francis Travel Marketing - 0800 422 784 | reservations@ftmcruise.co.nz

The number of New Zealand cruisers has more than doubled over the past five years, with the market delivering an annual average increase in passenger numbers of 17.3 per cent since 2009.

Although the overall size of the New Zealand cruise market remains modest by international standards, the proportion of the country’s population experiencing a cruise continues to grow. In 2014, market penetration reached 1.4 per cent (up 0.1 per cent from 2013), placing New Zealand ahead of much larger traditional source markets such as Spain and France, and on par with Italy.

New Zealand is well positioned for further growth as a source market in 2015 as cruise capacity is bolstered across Australia and the South Pacific, and cruise lines position more ships in key Asian ports.

Other key findings: • The South Pacific once again secured the largest proportion of passengers (31.4 per cent), with the region posting 12.7 per cent growth • A 45 per cent increase in New Zealanders cruising domestic waters saw the local market recover from a dip in 2013 • European ocean cruising remained the leading long-haul destination, accounting for 18.3 per cent of all New Zealand cruisers • River cruising’s rise continued unabated with passenger numbers increasing 31.2 per cent to pass the 5000 mark for the first time.

A 10.6 per cent surge pushed New Zealand cruise passenger numbers past the 60,000 mark for the first time in 2014 to reach a new record of 65,609.

New Zealand passenger numbers have increased by almost 150 per cent since figures were first compiled in 2006, with the country registering an average annual growth rate of 13.8 per cent since that time.

The 2014 result was achieved largely as a result of solid growth in the number of New Zealanders cruising local waters and the South Pacific, as well as those experiencing the Mediterranean and river cruise voyages around the world.

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*Fares are cruise only, per person in NZD in complete quad or twin room as specified, based on lead categories at publication date (21 June 2015), inclusive of all discounts, charges and taxes (which are subject to change). Supplements apply for other room categories. Savings of up to $1,000 per room are based on 10 night Melanesian Discovery cruise departing Auckland on 14 March 2016. Comparison “WAS” fares based on Pricebreaker fares launched into market from April 2013. Valid for new bookings and not combinable with any other offer. Offer ends 16 Sep 2015 unless sold out prior. Once this offer ends, fares may revert to a higher fare but also may be further discounted. Offers subject to availability. Some oceanview rooms have obstructed views. Fare based on specified departure dates. Different fares apply to other dates listed. #Onboard credit is per room, in AUD and applies to selected cruises. Onboard credit amount varies by room type and itinerary duration, and applies to the first 2 guests only per room. Credit is not transferable, not redeemable for cash and cannot be used at the medical centre or casino. ΔRoom upgrade offer is available on selected advertised cruises based on the price difference between the lead interior to lead oceanview for quad and twin rooms. Upgrades at the prices shown are subject to availability of rooms in the higher grade. ˚50% reduction off the standard adult deposit applies to selected cruises. Pay only half the standard deposit amount upfront and pay the rest on final payment of the booking. ‡Free Soft Drink Package includes unlimited Coca Cola, Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite and Lift per person during the cruise. The Soft Drink will be served by the glass, one drink per order, per eligible guest. Soft drinks package does not apply to orders made through room service. To be read in conjunction with the P&O Cruises New Zealand Booking and Passage Conditions available at www.pocruises.co.nz which passengers will be bound by. Whilst all information is correct at time of publication, offers are subject to change or withdrawal. Carnival plc trading as P&O Cruises Australia. ABN 23 107 998 443.

CRUISING | HOLLAND AMERICA LINE

Holland America Line

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ifteen Holland America Line ships sparkle in harbours around the world, with their gracious crews standing ready and magnificent itineraries planned.

From exotic adventures that reveal new landscapes and cultures, to cruises offering sun, family fun and welcome escape, Holland America Lines’ mid-sized ships are large enough to provide diverse restaurants and activities, yet small enough to feel elegant and refined. Expect excellence at every turn, “Consistently Among the Highest-Rated Cruise Lines” - Condé Nast Traveller prestigious Readers’ Choice Awards and Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards are among the accolades and awards bestowed on the line.

Holland America Line’s fleet of 15 ships offer more than 500 cruises to 415 ports in all seven continents. Highlights include Antarctica, South America, Australia/New Zealand and Asia voyages; four annual Grand Voyages; and popular sailings to ports in the Caribbean, Alaska, Mexico, Canada/ New England, Europe and the Panama Canal. A new 2,650-guest ship, ms Koningsdam, is debuting in April 2016, with a second ship due for delivery in November 2018.

Fleetwide, the ships feature Signature of Excellence enhancements, showcasing the Culinary Arts Centre presented by Food & Wine magazine — a state-of-the-art onboard show kitchen where more than 60 celebrated guest chefs and culinary experts provide cooking demonstrations and classes; Explorations Café powered

by The New York Times; Digital Workshop powered by Windows; Teens-only activity areas and all-new stateroom amenities highlighted by flat-panel TVs and plush Euro-top Mariner’s Dream Beds.

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The mid-sized ships serve as luxurious hotels and home base, featuring expansive public spaces, award-winning restaurants and elegant staterooms. Always at the heart of the Holland America cruise experience is warm, award-winning service that is never in the way and never out of reach - ships sail with nearly one crew member for every two guests, providing intuitive, gracious service.

The elegant staterooms feature refined amenities, with an abundance of conveniences, including: Elemis Aromapure bath products; Flat-panel TV and DVD player; a Safe; Fresh fruit, delivered upon request; Nightly turndown service; Complimentary shoe-shine; and mini-bar.

On board a host of activities and indulgences await, including: Casino; Spa services; Culinary Arts Centre classes; Dancing with the Stars: At Sea; Art gallery exhibitions and auctions; Sports courts; Religious services; Movies; and a fresh schedule with new activities daily.

Evenings on board glitter with choices - Thrilling shows on stage, Martinis in the Mix bar, sing-alongs in the Piano Bar - endless entertainment choices. Youth facilities exclusively for kids provide rewarding programmes and activities for ages 3 to 17; supervised fun for kids, tweens and teens in a safe, nurturing and empowering environment with activities ranging from treasure hunts to dance classes. Every day on board brings a wealth of activities and new things to do, along with the freedom to partake in as many — or as few — as guests please. Plus in every port, extensive Shore Excursion programmes are offered.

Holland America Line ships offer a wide range of exquisite food and dining options. Guests may dine “As You Wish®” to savour Italian cuisine one night and a perfectly grilled porterhouse steak the next to take their place in the Dining Room at a specific seating time or be spontaneous, following desires. On board a Holland America Line ship, there are restaurants to suit every mood.

Included in the cruise fare are meals in the magnificent two-tiered main Dining Room, serving elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch or unforgettable five-course dinners, prepared by chefs who have been inducted into the prestigious Confrérie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs™. The Lido Restaurant at the top of the cruise ships offers relaxed dining with a variety of selections. And there’s nothing better than alfresco dining by the pool at Dive-In at the Terrace Grill and Slice offering gourmet pizza poolside.

There’s almost always a complimentary “little something” being served on board. Tea is offered every afternoon in the main Dining Room, elevated to Royal Dutch High Tea once each cruise. Afternoon ice cream treats in the Lido; hors d’oeuvres during every evening’s cocktail hour; snacks available late into the night for after-dinner cravings, and complimentary In-Room Dining is only a phone call away.

For a nominal fee, guests may dine in the refined and luxurious, Pinnacle Grill exceptional cruise dining, serving intimate lunch and dinners. For at least one night per voyage, guests may experience the illustrious Le Cirque restaurant. Master Chef Rudi Sodamin worked with Le Cirque’s Executive Chef to re-create the legendary eatery’s whimsical ambiance and award-winning cruise dining experience in the Pinnacle Grill. Canaletto restaurant’s menu is designed around authentic Italian experiences.

And onboard ms Eurodam and ms Nieuw Amsterdam, guests can delight in the stunning panoramic views and tantalizing food evoking the rich culinary traditions of Southeast Asian, China and Japan in the Tamarind restaurant.

On board the ships of Holland America Line, guests will discover a cruise experience that is modern, fresh and appealing — in an ambiance that is timeless and refined. Holland America Line’s mission is as simple as it is bold: “Through excellence we create once-in-a-lifetime experiences, every time”. ➜ www.hollandamerica.com

CRUISING | P&O CRUISES

P&O Cruises

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ew Zealand…are you ready? Your biggest cruise season is around the corner, thanks to P&O Cruises. In 2016 and 2017, P&O has stretched your cruising opportunities to five months. That includes a shiny new Pacific Pearl. She’ll arrive with exciting new features, including New Zealand’s largest adventure park at sea, P&O Edge. Keep your eyes peeled for luxury finishes, contemporary designs and chic comfort across her bars and dining areas.

And with Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden joining the fleet, you can enjoy even more variety. Although cruising exclusively from Australia, thanks to P&O Cruise Air, you won’t miss out: P&O can book your cruise, flights and transfers, so all you have to worry about is where to go.

So, where would you like to go? If you’re seeking paradise, you’ll find it in the Pacific Islands, and a P&O cruise from Auckland is the best way to get there. From the Isle of Pines’ perfect waters and the lush forests of Santo to Noumea’s French culinary offerings, you’ll feel a million miles away.

In between islands, why not kick back pub-style at The Orient and enjoy ciders and beer on tap? Or let P&O’s mixologists work their magic at MIX Cocktail Bar. P&O is also showing some local love with Pacific Pearl getting a great selection of New Zealand beer and wine on board for her 2016 and 2017 cruise seasons.

➜ www.pocruises.co.nz

CRUISING | P&O CRUISES

There’s even celebrity chef restaurant Salt grill by Luke Mangan.

You see, when it comes to food, P&O do things differently. Forget everything you know about traditional cruise dining and say hello to unique and fresh dining experiences. Like The Pantry, coming to Pacific Jewel, Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden by November 2015. It’s where you can order freshly made food from a selection of individual dining outlets like Hook’s Fish & Chips, Mexicana and Kettle & Bun, to name a few.

If you think it’s time to relax once the sun goes down, think again, because the fun is just getting started, with some of the best production shows you’ll ever see. Catch The Velvet Rope, choreographed by a leading Australian production company and a P&O Cruises exclusive. Or buckle up for their unforgettable viZion laser light show. We all know Kiwi’s have a distinct sense of humour, so we’re bringing back your favourite Kiwi entertainers including Cal Wilson and Brendhan Lovegrove, alongside some of New Zealand’s most popular acts. And if you simply just want to unwind after a long day of lounging in the sun in the day spa or sink into the cushioned day beds of The Oasis, the child-free retreat, and not lift a finger, you can do that too.

On a P&O holiday, it’s all up to you.

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If it’s comic relief you’re after, P&O’s Comedy cruises know how to crack a smile. Rub shoulders with headline acts at the Comedy Wave Gala or catch a cheeky adults-only show in the Sit Down Comedy Club. Food and wine more your game? Get your fill of both on board a Food & Wine cruise. Watch celebrity chefs perform live demonstrations, learn from viticulturists and discover what makes cheese great at a master class.

A P&O holiday is also the best way to explore Australia - from the Great Barrier Reef to Cable Beach. Or explore your own backyard. Navigate The Bay of Islands, see New Zealand’s largest kauri tree, or explore Napier’s award-winning vineyards. As for New Zealand’s star attraction, Fiordland National Park, cruising into Milford Sound is bound to create a chorus of ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ as you drift by soaring snow-capped peaks and tumbling waterfalls.

Back on deck, why not check out new-look Luna’s Japanese menu and taste the delicate flavours in the Tataki-seared wagyu beef shavings in soy and honey marmalade, or share the pork belly and watermelon dish with hoisin and lime. Tempted? Don’t be surprised. P&O Cruises is famous for its food. With a minimum of eight dining experiences onboard, P&O plates up everything from casual to connoisseur, everyday to gourmet.

CRUISING | PONANT

Ponant

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onant Yacht Cruises and Expeditions is a modern, luxury fleet, with five moderately-sized yachts, ranging from 32 to 132 oceanview cabins.

The fleet consists of four high-tech yachts: Anti-vibration systems, stabilisers, high quality materials, Cleanship label; and one traditional ship, a majestic and intimate three-mast yacht. The only cruise company in the world sailing under the French flag; the Captains and Chefs are French, the crew is French-speaking (everybody on board also speaks English). Prestigious French partners: The Sothys™ beauty house, Pierre Frey fabrics, room fragrances by Fragonard, cosmetics from L’Occitane and more feature throughout the fleet. The 5-star service and comfort onboard is worthy of the best hotels. Guests are treated to luxurious facilities, peace and quiet in their staterooms, and quite simply the magic of being at sea.

With more than 25 years experience, the line have fine-tuned exceptional destinations and truly original itineraries for their guests. The size and technical features of their ships allow access to the most secret ports, far from mass-tourism destinations. Ponant visits more than 80 countries and 400 ports each year; a new port of call, a new landscape each morning, with guests only having to unpack once.

Ponant’s itineraries combine dream destinations and authenticity, new cultures and rich natural experiences.

Destinations include: The Arctic, Alaska, Caribbean, Latin America, Antarctica, Northern Europe and The Baltic Sea, Southern Europe and Mediterranean Sea, Adriatic, Greek Islands and Turkey, Western Africa, Asia and Indonesia, Russia, Oceania and Pacific. Ponant are N°1 for Polar Expedition Cruises, with 15 years of experience.

Ponant offer a variety of cruises, Culture and Relaxation cruises, or Expedition cruises and Theme cruises.

Theme Cruises are designed for guests looking to indulge a passion or a hobby - golf, diving, classical music, opera, well-being, gastronomy or jazz, with internationally renowned artists, recognised specialists, top level sports managers, Michelin-starred chefs and more! On board and on land, the programmes have been meticulously planned around each theme, particularly with regard to the best choice of golf courses, concert halls, museums and other venues.

➜ www.ponant.com

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Attention to detail and refinement are at the heart of Ponant’s philosophy which aims for upmarket cuisine on every cruise. All ships have two or three restaurants looking out to sea, where gourmet dishes and fine wines are the guests of honour. The Restaurant Managers are only too happy to assist people with special diets and Ponant have also thought about the “early or late risers”, with an assortment of pastries, fruit juices, tea and coffee available outside restaurant hours.

Bar drinks are included in the cruise fare. From the moment passengers board, and throughout the duration of their cruise, drinks will be available at any time onboard. The Open Bar applies to a wide selection of drinks, including mineral waters, cold drinks, coffee and tea, beer, pouring wines, house champagne, spirits (except premium brands... list available upon request).

Onboard a Ponant ship guests are borne along from port to port, in the hushed ambiance of ocean-view staterooms and suites, which provide an ideal retreat, and are equipped with all the facilities required for total peace of mind…Le Ponant: Experience the privilege of a relaxing cruise aboard the 32-cabin Le Ponant, crafted to the tradition of famous sailing yachts. Under full sail, guests will fall under Le Ponant’s spell. Le Boréal, L’Austral and Le Soléal: These superb mega-yachts with 132 staterooms and suites, remain faithful to Ponant’s philosophy - to create a unique atmosphere with a subtle blend of luxury, intimacy and well-being. Le Lyrial: This magnificent yacht of only 122 staterooms and suites, with balconies, joined the fleet in April 2015.

From the auditorium to the beauty salon, the library to the deckchairs by the pool, sundeck, pool, water sports facilities, wellness areas with gym, spa and hammam, the cruise will not be long enough for guests to enjoy them all!

Cruise fare includes: All meals while on board the ship; Captain’s welcome cocktail and gala dinner; mineral water, tea, filter coffee, a selection of white, red and rosé wines offered during meals; Evening entertainment and events; Luggage transfer from pier to the ship (and v.v); 24hr Room service; English speaking lecturer on selected sailings; Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment; Open Bar (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands...list available upon request).

Ponant smaller capacity ships enables guests to maintain their privacy and enjoy the unique feeling of sailing aboard a private yacht. On board guests live at their own pace, and are free to enjoy their holiday in total tranquillity, or take part in the many activities that are offered. Bilingual staff members are attentive and accessible, seeing to every little personalised detail.

Equally, the Captain will take every opportunity to invite passengers to the bridge and also to his table. During Ponant cruises, guests experience the French way of life, a subtle blend of relaxed elegance and conviviality.

CRUISING | ROYAL CARIBBEAN

Royal Caribbean International

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oyal Caribbean International has confirmed that the USD$1 billion engineering marvel, Ovation of the Seas, will make its first visit to Auckland City on the 24th December, 2016.

Ovation of the Seas will be the largest cruise ship to sail New Zealand waters. At 348 metres long, if stood up end to end she would be more than 20 metres taller than the Sky Tower. With almost 6,500 guests and crew, Ovation of the Seas carries more than the total population of some of the towns that it will visit such as Paihia or Picton, and with 2,090 staterooms onboard she has six times the rooms of the SkyCity Hotel.

Ovation of the Seas is the third ship in the groundbreaking Quantum Class. She will introduce a new set of first-at-sea onboard experiences to New Zealand including the Ripcord by iFLY, a heart-pounding skydiving experience; North Star, a thrilling adventure that will transport guests as high as the Sydney Harbour Bridge; cutting-edge transformative venues including SeaPlex, the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with bumper cars, a circus school and more; and the robotic Bionic Bar. Ovation has also reimagined dining onboard with the introduction of “Dynamic Dining” where guests can choose from 18 unique restaurant concepts, including a Jamie Oliver’s Italian, a Gastro Pub, the enchanting Wonderland and Royal Caribbean favourites including Chops Grille steakhouse, Izumi Japanese and Johnny Rockets.

Technology has also been amped up on Ovation of the Seas with high speed internet offering more bandwidth than all other cruise ships combined so guests can stream, video call and more as fast as they would onshore. New radio frequency smart bands also mean you can get into your stateroom and make onboard purchases without the need for the cruise card. While the Royal iQ app makes keeping track of your onboard schedule simple with all bookings and cruise details stored and updated automatically.

➜ www.cruiseworld.co.nz

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The brand new ship will depart from Sydney on 15 December 2016, headed to New Zealand shores. The first New Zealand port that she visits is Dunedin, followed by Wellington, Picton, Tauranga, and Auckland.

With only four local cruises, Ovation of the Seas’ maiden season is expected to sell out fast. Fares start from just NZD$2,827 per person for the 10-night New Zealand New Year cruise departing Sydney on 30 December 2016.

Ovation of the Seas will offer four sailings from Sydney during her summer season starting from 15 December 2016, including: A 15-night New Zealand cruise beginning with an overnight in Sydney on 15 December 2016 followed by calls at Hobart, the Milford Sound region, Dunedin, Wellington, Picton, Tauranga and Auckland.

A 10-night New Year cruise around New Zealand departing 30 December 2016, with calls at the Milford Sound region, Dunedin, Wellington, Napier and Picton.

A 14-night cruise during the January school holidays with visits to Bay of Islands, Tauranga, Auckland, Wellington, Picton, Dunedin, and the Milford Sound region.

Ovation of the Seas leaves Australia on 23 January 2017 with a 14-night Sydney to Singapore cruise visiting Brisbane, Darwin and Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang).

Ovation of the Seas will be the fifth ship in the Royal Caribbean Australian fleet for summer 2016/17, joining four other superliners –Voyager of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas in Sydney and Legend of the Seas in Brisbane – offering an expansive range of the newest, most modern and exciting style of cruising Kiwis have ever experienced.

For further information on any of Royal Caribbean International’s 2015/16 season, contact your local travel agent or Cruise World on 0800 500 732

CRUISING | SEABOURN

Seabourn

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eabourn offers a voyage unlike any other. An award winning cruise line renowned for intimate, 5 star plus luxury cruising. With a casual but refined atmosphere on board, Seabourn delivers consistently high standards of on board service and facilities.

All accommodations are spacious suites with included amenities like walk-in wardrobes and complimentary mini bars. Guests enjoy a selection of included fine dining restaurants and complimentary wines served at lunch and dinner. Along with key ports of call, it’s the hidden gems where big ships cannot go which gives Seabourn their reputation for unique itineraries and authentic discovery.

Experience the Difference • Award winning cruise line • Intimate, ultra-luxury small ships with 450 guest capacity • Spacious, all suite accommodations with sweeping ocean views – many with verandas • Complimentary welcome champagne and in-suite bar stocked with your preferences • Open bars throughout the ship and fine wines poured at lunch and dinner • Unrivalled service - tipping is neither required nor expected – service simply to delight you • A choice of dining venues all of which are complimentary • Dine where, when and with whom you wish

➜ www.cruiseworld.co.nz

CRUISING | SEABOURN

Introducing Seabourn’s new- bourns!

The newest addition to join the ultra-luxury, small ship cruise line Seabourn Encore will expand and build on the line’s award-winning and highly acclaimed Odyssey-class ships, which revolutionised ultra-luxury cruising with enhanced accommodations and innovative amenities when they were introduced between 2009 and 2011. Seabourn Encore will maintain the line’s high ratio of space per guest, enabling highly personalised service by close to one staff member for each guest on board. A sister ship, Seabourn Ovation, will join the fleet in 2018 and, with the addition of the two new ships, Seabourn will have the youngest and most modern ultra-luxury fleet in the industry.

On January 7, 2017, Seabourn Encore will make its official debut with a gala naming ceremony in the vibrant Asian city-state of Singapore. Following the naming, the vessel will embark on its 10-day official inaugural voyage to Bali, including stops in Surabaya, Java; Celukan Bawang, Bali; and Slawi Bay, Komodo, Indonesia. Seabourn Encore will go on to spend its maiden season operating a series of 16-day voyages cruising the Pacific Rim in Australia and New Zealand, calling at Sydney and Melbourne and exploring both the North & South Islands of New Zealand.

The ship will visit popular ports, such as Auckland and Wellington, while exploring other picturesque towns, including New Zealand’s southernmost town, Oban on Stewart Island, and the charming port of Picton, the gateway to the stunning scenery of the Marlborough Sounds.

In April 2017, Seabourn Encore will return to Europe with two 16- and 18-day Arabia and India voyages. The ship will spend the summer in the waters of the eastern Mediterranean with a series of seven-day voyages.

Introducing “Ventures by Seabourn” Ventures by Seabourn is a new series of Zodiac and kayak shore excursions available at select ports, offering exceptional opportunities to enhance and extend how guests experience destinations. It is an informative and educational way for guests to enhance their cruise with optional shore excursions guided by knowledgeable and experienced expedition teams of scientists, scholars and naturalists. These accomplished experts will be part of the Seabourn Conversations enrichment program, providing guests with in-depth insights into the history, ecology, wildlife and culture of each of the destinations they visit.

The first wave of Ventures by Seabourn will be offered on three Northern Europe cruises aboard Seabourn Quest through the summer of 2015, including: • 14-Day Majestic Fjords and North Cape – Two voyages departing June 13 and July 11 from Copenhagen, Denmark • 24-Day Route of the Vikings – Departing August 8 • Seabourn plans to expand Ventures by Seabourn fleet-wide over time, including adding kayaking tours to the Antarctica sailings.

For further information and the latest Seabourn brochure please contact the New Zealand Seabourn office - Cruise World – 0800 500732 or info@cruiseworld.co.nz

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• Gourmet dining that rivals the finest restaurants anywhere.

• Program of Seabourn Signature Delights® including ship sports marina and complimentary events (subject to itinerary) • Unique and interesting ports of call to must-see cities and hidden gems where larger ships cannot go

CRUISING | WINDSTAR CRUISES

Windstar Cruises

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tep away from the crowds, away from towering decks and a thousand people, or more. Away from lines, from waiting, and step into amazing places, to relish cultural experiences, and connect with the world.

Welcome to the world of small ship cruising — to Windstar’s graceful yachts, each one welcoming fewer than 300 guests.

Recently voted the World’s Best Small Ship Cruise Line by Condé Nast Traveller prestigious Readers’ Choice Awards, Windstar Cruises’ small ships are exactly the right size — large enough to pamper and entertain, yet small enough to tuck into the tiny harbours and hidden coves others can’t reach.

See more, linger longer, have the kind of adventure that defines the difference between tourism and true travel. Windstar voyages are designed to connect guests with the world, the place, to broaden their vision and open their heart. Stunning itineraries have been compiled for the following destinations: the Caribbean; Mediterranean; Greek Isles, Turkey & the Black Sea; Italy; Northern Europe; Panama Canal & Costa Rica; Tahiti and leisurely days at sea on Ocean Crossings. Windstar also offers Themed Cruises, providing intimate access to some of the world’s most exclusive destinations and events. From the exhilaration of watching Monte Carlo’s Grand Prix…to Europe’s best seafood in Spain’s Galicia region and world-famous wines in Bordeaux.

➜ www.windstarcruises.com

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A destination proving popular with New Zealanders is Windstar’s 7-night cruise in Tahiti - also voted “Best Cruise to Book Right Now” - Condé Nast Traveller. A graceful sailing yacht is the perfect way to experience the legendary islands of Tahiti. Wind Spirit’s round-trip from Papeete takes in Moorea, Tahaa, Raiatea, Bora Bora and Huahine, staying overnight in most to give guests time to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons, meander through lush rainforests, and experience the fascinating culture. Windstar’s Private Event treats guests to a private beach feast on a secluded motu, complete with a dazzling traditional performance from Polynesian fire dancers!

Each day is infused with magic, but on every voyage one day stands out for special memories…Windstars’ Exclusive Private Events. From a private reception in the Catherine Palace to a 5-course, white-gloveservice dinner in the courtyard of the Celsus Library of Ephesus accompanied by a trio from the Aegean Chamber Orchestra; or fine sherry tasting at González Byass Bodega followed by an Equestrian Ballet at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian in Spain; guests are treated to meticulously planned, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Travel + Leisure magazine readers named Windstar the Best Value in Luxury Travel. Windstar’s cruise fare gives guests all of the following…all meals in all venues at all times onboard, including a spectacular deck barbecue and a room service menu available 24 hours. All non-alcoholic beverages, including cappuccino, espresso, and other specialty non-alcoholic drinks.

Guests are treated to a Champagne Welcome reception and a Windstar Exclusive Private Event. Unlimited use of the Fitness Centre and water sports equipment; all onboard entertainment and informative port lectures and destination briefings. Access to the open bridge and at every port a memorable sail away to the majestic strains of Vangelis’ stirring “1492: Conquest of Paradise”!

All the beautifully appointed staterooms and suites are oceanview and feature marble-finished baths and flat-screen TV and DVD players. Guests will always find fresh flowers and fruit in their stateroom and plush bathrobes and slippers.

The world’s largest sailing yacht, Wind Surf, always draws admiring looks as she glides majestically into port, her tall sails billowing. The 310-guest flagship sailing yacht features all new finishes and furnishings in suites and staterooms, including 31 suites with ‘his and her’ bathrooms, plus renovations that now boasts some of the most beautiful public spaces at sea.

Wind Star and Wind Spirit are the essence of Small Ship Sailing sleek, 4-masted sailing yachts accommodating 148 guests. They feature wide open, teak decks, which is quite unusual for small ships, and give a feeling of being on a private veranda. All staterooms are oceanview with queen beds, flat-screen TV with DVD player, and Bose SoundDock speakers for iPods, the Owner’s Suite includes a sitting area. These ships offer two main dining venues AmphorA restaurant serving gourmet, course-by-course cuisine in the evenings and Veranda restaurant, a casual buffet with full-service dining for breakfast and lunch. And, for dining under the stars, make a reservation at Candles.

Windstars’ small, sleek, all suite 212-guest yacht’s, Star Pride, Star Breeze and Star Legend, feel like a private yacht. The latest additions to Windstar’s luxurious fleet, Star Breeze and Star Legend underwent a comprehensive $8.5 million stem-to-stern transformation before their inaugural voyages in May 2015. The ships feature a club, casino, library and lounges, pool, fitness centre and the tranquil WindSpa. 180 from ordinary - broad teak decks, beautiful interior spaces, exclusive access to hidden places and legendary landmarks, award-winning service - this is life on a private yacht. Windstar style.

THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME AWAITS YOU When it comes to pioneering firsts at sea, there’s only one rule: Anything is Possible.

Royal Caribbean pushes the limits of imagination to exceed your expectations each and every time you sail with them, taking you to a destination that can’t be found on any map

– Destination WOW.

It’s these incredible experiences that build lifelong memories and keep guests coming back time and again.

Asia & East Coast Treasures Voyager of the Seas 14 nights, Singapore to Sydney Departing 22 Oct 2015 From NZ$2369* pp share twin (category Q Inside)

Pacific Island Fusion

Australia’s Top End

From NZ$2549 pp share twin (category N Inside)

From NZ$3245 pp share twin (category Z Inside)

Voyager of the Seas 13 nights Sydney return Departing 05 Nov 2015

Radiance of the Seas 16 nights Perth to Sydney Departing 17 Nov 2015

For further information see your cruise agent or contact Cruise World on 0800 500 732 or info@cruiseworld.co.nz or www.cruiseworld.co.nz Terms & Conditions: From fares are NZD per person, share twin, cruise only, based on promotional fares and availability and subject to change without notice. Payment and cancellation conditions apply. For full terms and conditions, see your travel agent, or contact Cruise World. Refer to Royal Caribbean current 2015/2016 brochure for full cruise line conditions.

SEABOURN ANTARCTICA

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“A VOYAGE NOTHING SHORT OF MAGICAL”

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Combining Seabourn’s luxury and style with Chilean Fjords, Andean Peaks and Antarctica’s abundant wildlife and awe inspiring scenery. This is an adventure of a lifetime.

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21 Night Antarctica Cruise Aboard Seabourn Quest

From US$11,759* per person Buenos Aires, Argentina to Valparaiso, Chile or v.v.

2015: 29 Nov, 20 Dec 2016: 13 Jan, 03 Feb, 28 Nov, 19 Dec

*Based on 29 November 2015 departure Christmas cruise - Itinerary varies - 24 nights and includes South Georgia

Expedition includes Zodiac expeditions Ice Landings Experienced expedition team Complimentary polar parker All-suite accommodation Open-seating dining Complimentary wines & spirits Open bar onboard Tipping is neither required nor expected

Contact your cruise agent or go to cruiseworld.co.nz / 0800 500 732 for further information

Conditions: Sales until further notice or Sold Out. Offer based on promotional fares which can be changed or removed at anytime without notice. “From” fares, are USD per person twin share/double based on (A) Oceanview Suite. Prices correct as at July 2015 and may vary. Airfares are not included and are additional. Deposit of 25% is required within 5 days to secure this offer. Balance due 120 days prior to departure. For full terms & conditions of package see Seabourn Cruise Collection 2015-2016 brochure or your Travel agent

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Christmas market in Vienna

ALL-INCLUSIVE LUXURY HOLIDAY SEASON CRUISES With the motto “no request too large, no detail too small”, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is the leader of luxury river cruising in Europe, offering an all-inclusive holiday experience. Cruising Europe’s greatest rivers in comfort and luxury, you will receive the highest standards of excellence in expertise, service, unique ships, exquisite cuisine and a choice of innovative shore excursions.

Uniworld cordially invites you to discover the timeless traditions, breathtaking pageantry and seasonal magic of a European holiday. Revel in the delights of an old-fashioned Christmas as you sail along the majestic waterways of Europe to cities and villages that sparkle with lights and echo with carols. Each of our seven holiday season cruises offers its own distinctive take on the season’s charms.

Danube Holiday Markets BUDAPEST TO PASSAU | 8 DAYS Priced from $4,310* pp

Classic Christmas Markets NUREMBERG TO FRANKFURT | 8 DAYS Priced from $3,820* pp

European Holiday Markets NUREMBERG TO VIENNA | 8 DAYS Priced from $4,125* pp

uniworldcruises.co.nz | 0800 872 325 | #ExploreUniworld *Conditions apply: Advertised prices are based on per person twin share on select 2016 departures in lead-in category including port charges. Category upgrades and single supplement charges apply. Bookings subject to availability and capacity controlled. For full itinerary, payment and booking conditions visit uniworldcruises.co.nz.

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#ExploreUniworld

Build up your immune system to keep healthy, productive and enjoy every day. Silberhorn, one of New Zealand’s longest established, family owned health supplement manufacturers, have created the perfect ‘Winter Wellness Pack’ containing a potent combination of Silberhorn EchnaMune Pluss, Garlic Oil Capsules and Vitamin C Pluss. www.silberhorn.co.nz WIN: We have one pack to give away. Email your details to Silberhorn@letstravelmag.com by no later than 5 Sept 2015.

Nordic Naturals Arctic-D Cod Liver Oil from Natural Meds is a fish oil supplement made from 100% sustainably caught wild Arctic cod, designed to provide a daily dose of omega-3, as well as Vitamin A, to support your immune system and Vitamin D. Keep the winter blues at bay and fuel your body with sunshine from the inside out. www.naturalmeds.co.nz WIN: We have one bottle to give away. Email your details to Nordic@letstravelmag.com by no later than 5 Sept 2015.

Lifestream Natural Vitamin C powder makes it easy to naturally stay healthy and full of energy during winter – a natural immune booster made from certified organic acerola berries, it is an ideal alternative to synthetic ascorbic acid. www.lifestream.co.nz

REGULAR | GIVEAWAYS

New Products + Giveaways

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With the Current by Martin Keats is a true-life adventure that will make you laugh and make you cry. A funny and engaging account of a surfer’s four-year adventure in the South Pacific. It will appeal to surfers and those who enjoy personal accounts of experiences in a different culture. www.martinkeats.com

It can be very stressful boarding that plane, embarking on a new adventure and spending time with unfamiliar people.

GO Healthy Mood Support supports a positive outlook and relaxed state of mind, as well as mental clarity and focus. www.gohealthy.co.nz

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New Zealand Mountaineering – A history in photographs by John Wilson boasts over 200 fantastic photos in a large format book, capturing NZ’s mountaineering past and present, from 1800s to today. www.batemanpublishing.co.nz

Ceres Organics recently rolled out their new range of Ceres Organics RAW GOODNESS food bars wrapped in Convex Econic® film – a biodegradable and compostable packaging material. Ceres Organics RAW GOODNESS food bars are packed with organic raw ingredients such as almonds, figs, chia seeds, cacao, mango and dates. They come in four delicious and nutrient-packed flavours: Cacao Almond Fig, Cacao Protein, Maca Gold, and Tropical Fruit. www.ceres.co.nz WIN: We have two boxes to give away. Email your details to Ceres@letstravelmag.com by no later than 5 Sept 2015.

Destination ➜ Queensland

Daydream Island Five reasons this is one of Australia’s top snorkelling spots

AUSTRALIA | QUEENSLAND

1 Easy Access: The island is easily accessible to travellers and is only a 30-minute ferry trip from the Great Barrier Reef Airport on Hamilton Island (which has direct flights daily to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Cairns). Travellers can also fly to the Whitsunday Coast Airport in Proserpine on the mainland.

From the airport, there is a 30-minute transfer to the Abel Point Marina in Airlie Beach, where a connecting ferry transfers guests to Daydream in 30 minutes. Once you get to the island, you can immediately go snorkelling off one of the island’s most popular locations, Lovers Cove.

2 You can see Nemo’s Cousin: Ever since the Disney movie, Finding Nemo, children and adults alike have been fascinated by the striking orange Clownfish or ‘Nemo’. At Daydream Island, snorkellers can see Nemo’s cousin, the gorgeous Red-And-Black Anemonefish.

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f snorkelling with the marine life of the Great Barrier Reef is on your bucket list, you may want to book a trip to Daydream Island immediately. Located in the Whitsundays, Daydream Island is one of the most naturally beautiful islands in Australia with white coral beaches and turquoise seas. The island is also a snorkeller’s paradise.

John Gaskell, Manager of Daydream Island’s Living Reef attraction, and resident marine biologist, said the waters surrounding the island were teeming with fish and coral.

“The diversity of fish and corals found around Daydream Island is comparable to even the most dense parts of the Great Barrier Reef,” he said. The coral reefs, particularly those around popular Lovers Cove, allow people to snorkel in a safe environment that boast many of the region’s marine wonders. Here are five great reasons you should snorkel at Daydream Island:

➜ www.daydreamisland.com

AUSTRALIA | QUEENSLAND

5 Education: Want to learn more about the Great Barrier Reef? Daydream Island is also home to one of the world’s largest man-made living coral reef lagoons, the Living Reef. It features more than 140 species of marine fish and 80 species of coral and guests have the opportunity to hand feed resident stingrays, sharks and barramundi. There’s also the Living Reef Ranger program for those guests who want an extended hands-on Living Reef experience and become more educated about the Great Barrier Reef ecosystem and the animals that live within it.

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They can also see five other Anemonefish from the same genus in this part of the Great Barrier Reef.

“Evidence of breeding Red-and-Black Anemonefish is an indicator of the health of the fringing reef habitat that surrounds Daydream Island,” said Mr Gaskell.

3 Great variety: Daydream Island has a diverse and extensive marine ecosystem. Just a few metres off the shore of popular Lovers Cove, snorkellers can see a variety of colourful fish including the aforementioned Red-And-Black- Anemone Fish, the colourful Surf Parrot fish, the Blue Tuskfish, Fusiliers and Sergeant Majors.

4 The Fish Come to You: If snorkelling is a bit too much effort, you can just sit in the shallows and wait for the fish to come to you! A staff member will simply throw fish pellets into the water and before you know it, the fish will be swimming around your feet. Easy!

Adrenaline and Adventure in Africa BEYOND | AFRICA

Get your pulse racing at SunLux’s collection of five properties

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1 What: Hot Air Balloon Safari Where: The Palace of the Lost City, South Africa Take an exclusive hot air balloon ride over the nearby malaria-free Pilanesberg Game Reserve to see cheetahs, wild dogs and zebras as well as the Big 5: lions, elephants, leopards, rhino and buffalo.

2 What: Devil’s Pool, Victoria Falls Where: The Royal Livingstone, Zambia Swim in the Devil’s Pool at the edge of the Victoria Falls, more than 100m high from the river below. The Pool can only be accessed from the Zambian side, and can be visited during the dry season – May to October. Ordinarily, the sheer force of the water would drag people over the edge, but during these months the natural rock walls form a pocket of tranquillity.

BEYOND | AFRICA

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3 What: Gorge Swing Where: The Royal Livingstone, Zambia Not for the faint-hearted, this activity requires you to go against all your instincts and take a running jump off the edge of a cliff! After a 50m freefall you will then swing out into the middle of the gorge, 75m above the ground, before being lowered gently to the ground to recover.

4 What: Micro-light flight over Victoria Falls Where: The Royal Livingstone, Zambia Gain a unique perspective of this Wonder of the World as you fly through the mist created by the tallest waterfall

on the planet. Unlike on a helicopter tour, this experience allows you to get much closer to the breathtaking falls.

5 What: Shark Cage Diving Where: The Table Bay Hotel, Cape Town Dive with Cape Town’s biggest shark and one of the most feared animals on the planet…the Great White. You will literally be inches away from the most famous set of jaws on the plant as the crew lure the sharks right up to the edge of the cage. ➜ www.suninternational.com

www.letstravelmag.com AIRLINE | CATHAY PACIFIC

Up, Up and Away

By Gayle Dickson

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➜ www.cathaypacific.co.nz

AIRLINE | CATHAY PACIFIC

I flicked out the screen and enjoyed some music with my dinner, served shortly after takeoff. I started with hot smoked creole salmon with roasted kipfler potatoes and a kalamata olive salad, which was followed by a choice of halibut, lamb chops, chilli linguine or chicken breast. I opted for the roasted chicken breast that was served with black truffle port wine sauce and accompanied by creamy Parmesan polenta, carrot, turnip and parsnip. To finish, I indulged. I passed on the lemon meringue pie as the cheese platter sounded incredible – Shropshire blue, Royalp Tilsit, Camembert Le Pere, crackers and an apple and rosemary paste. The coffee-holic in me loved the freshly brewed coffee, too! The drinks menu didn’t disappoint either, featuring a healthy dose of NZ wines including an Otago pinot noir and a Marlborough sauvignon blanc. An international beer selection mingled with port, aperitifs, whiskies and cognac…and let’s not forget their signature drinks!

I then settled in for a movie before making full use of that bed and grabbing a few hours sleep, and a great sleep it was. Before I knew it, breakfast aromas filled the cabin – a delicious mango and passionfruit smoothie, fresh fruit and Greek yoghurt compote. This was followed by a scrumptious cheddar cheese and caramelised onion omelette accompanied by back bacon, button mushrooms, a pork sausage and tomato. What a way to start the day!

Cathay Pacific fly direct to Hong Kong from New Zealand, currently offering a year round daily service plus an additional daily service over the summer peak period, and the airline recently announced that it will introduce a B777-300 ER aircraft next summer when it operates those double daily services on the New Zealand-Hong Kong route. This will add a further 13,500 seats on the route during the peak summer period. Cathay is one of the largest operators of B777 and will be a launch customer for the B777X aircraft, too.

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wo firsts for me on this trip … a lengthy stay in Hong Kong rather than a mere stopover, and boarding Cathay Pacific. Yup, this was my first flight with the renowned airline, and I hope it won’t be my last!

The fairly full flight on the way up to Hong Kong saw me elevated to Premium Economy. Not that Economy is anything to pull your nose up at with this airline … there’s a good recline on the seats, four-way adjustable headrests, and quite a bit of legroom. I liked the cup holder and coat hook, and the amenity storage for things like your reading glasses and a pen is very handy.

The seats also offered USB connectability, AC power supply, full on-demand entertainment and being able to play your own movies from your i-Devices is a great idea!

In Premium Economy the seats are that little bit wider with a full 8-inches of recline. If you’re in the front row, there’s a leg rest while the other rows have a 3-position footrest, and the armrest between seats was wide enough that you aren’t constantly elbowing the passenger next to you. A lovely hot towel and refreshing drink were provided before take off. The amenity kit and noise-cancelling headset were a nice bonus. The lunch menu looked enticing, and proved to be delicious.

On my trip back to Auckland from Hong Kong, I was upgraded to Business Class. There’s just nothing like looking at your boarding pass as seeing those single-digit rows! My seat was window and first row. I enjoyed the angled positioning that afforded wonderful privacy, although it did preclude any view out the window – but that didn’t really matter, as it was an overnight flight. I also enjoyed the footrest that I was able to use long before takeoff.

One reclined, the seat was lengthy and very comfortable, and the linen was quite snuggly. The personal reading light came in handy as I could set the brightness level to suit.

Destination ➜ Malaysia

Let there by light

ASIA | MALAYSIA

By Gayle Dickson

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uring my recent trip to Kuala Lumpur for dental work, I checked out the services on offer in regards to eye care. To say it was an ‘eye-opener’ would be far too cheesy…but it truly was.

As a background for those who missed the initial story, I’d been quoted close to NZ$4,000 for dental work in New Zealand, and ended up with a week in Malaysia plus the work for less – even with my shopping spree, I didn’t spend the equivalent!

The Malaysian Government has long recognised the role of medical tourism and a minister from the Prime Minister’s office recently pointed out that “Malaysia will continue to strengthen its medical standards and quality of health care”.

Malaysia offers high quality care at an affordable cost with expertise in Lasik, cosmetic surgery, IVFs, full body scans as well as dentistry. There is transparency in medical costs and, most importantly for offshore visitors, stringent quality control by the Malaysian Government.

My visits to just a few of the clinics specialising in cosmetic, Lasik and dental surgery resulted in an impression of efficiency yet warmth, clean and clinical facilities, highly qualified practitioners, and a fantastic command of English.

The International Specialist Eye Centre (ISEC) provides a full range of tertiary speciality services in ophthalmology, ranging from sophisticated laser eye surgery (LASIK) to the most complex vitreoretinal, orbital reconstruction and complex corneal transplantation surgeries.

More than 5,000 major eye operations are performed here each year, with a large number of patients travelling from offshore to seek consultations and services.

As I was to learn during my visit, the first step with LASIK is to create a thin corneal flap; this reveals the tissue that will be reshaped to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. Two methods are used to create the flap – a metal blade or laser.

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Next issue: Cosmetic Surgery

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The VisuMax is a bladeless procedure whereby a very accurately focused laser beam is guided through to the cornea in a computerised treatment that is unique to each patient. It prevents any intraocular pressure and stress on the eyes, provides maximum comfort and allows you to see throughout the entire procedure. It’s described as like inserting a soft contact lens.

The surgery, including preparation time, takes about half an hour‌numbing drops help with any discomfort. Eyes can feel a little scratchy afterwards, so you should wear the eye patch until instructed otherwise.

LASIK in NZ can set you back around NZ$ 6,000 for both eyes. I priced treatments in Malaysia that started at around RM4,400 (approx.. NZ$ 1,600), depending on the specific package opted for.

Other treatments performed at ISEC include double eyelid sutures, eye bag correction and dealing to droopy eyelids.

Prince Court Medical Centre (PCMC) offers comprehensive eye care under a highly skilled team of ophthalmologists and allied health personnel to deal with glaucoma and uveitis, cataract surgery, LASIK (using VisuMax). At PCMC they also specialise in pediatric ophthalmology, as well as offering advanced diagnostics in the form of tomography, analysers and photography.

facts: Gayle travelled with the assistance of Malaysia Tourism, flew Business Class with Malaysian Airlines and stayed at the Prince Hotel & Residence in Kuala Lumpur.

MHTC: www.mhtc.org.my Medical Tourism: www.medicaltourism.com.my Malaysia Tourism: www.tourism.gov.my Malaysia Airlines: www.malaysiaairlines.com Prince Hotel & Residence: www.princehotelkl.com DEMC Specialist Hospital: www.demc.com.my Prince Court Medical Centre: www.princecourt.com International Specialist Eye Centre: www.isec.my Beverly Wilshire Medical Centre: www.beverlywilshiremedical.com Costs: Hotel and meals – 6 nights/5 days: RM1,900/approx. NZ$ 650 Airfares: fluctuate, but bank on around NZ$ 1,400 return ex Auckland Dental work: RM1,000/approx. NZ$300…quote in NZ was NZ$ 3,900.

Implantable contact lenses (ICL) which are done under local anaesthesia, start at around RM7,000 per eye.

Services: When would you visit Malaysia for eye care? It’s not likely that you’ll head there just to pick up a new set of spectacles. You’re more likely to consider a visit if you’re near or far sighted and are considering laser correction, or if you’re on the waiting list or facing the costs of going private for the treatment of glaucoma. Perhaps you’re considering a facelift or tummy tuck as well, in which case your trip would definitely save you a penny or two.

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Prices I saw for LASIK started at around RM4,400 for both eyes - approx NZ$,1500 - while something like Supracor is more expensive at around RM5,800 per eye.

DEMC Specialist Hospital This healthcare group offers a combined spectrum of primary care, specialist services and wellness programs.

Their services include everything from simple teeth whitening through to cardiology or hip and knee replacements, and everything in between. The current 9–storey building offers an A&E facility, wellness clinics, dialysis, nutrition counselling and more. I enjoyed the facilities of the Sutera Lounge where you can await your appointment in serenity and avail yourself of drinks and nibbles from the buffet, much like a business class lounge at the airport. Surgical patients can avail themselves of the on-site suites with cable TV, private bathrooms, toiletries, kitchenettes and even butler service, starting from as little as RM250 per day.

Beverly Wilshire Medical Centre offers a full range of dental solutions, from aesthetic and restorative through to oral surgery and sports dentistry, as well as aesthetics, cosmetic surgery and healthy ageing. They employ highly skilled specialists who offer state-of-the-art technology and world-class techniques in five star facilities. From tummy tucks and hair transplants, to breast augmentation and face lifts, BWMC has a proven track record of quality and service. Their surgeons are all board-certified and their facilities are sleek and contemporary.

Prince Court Medical Centre is a 300-bed private hospital with an accredited medical safety rating. The second floor has been set up specifically to cater to the needs of international patients, like travel and hotel arrangements.

Their modern facilities in the heart of Kuala Lumpur offer services from dentistry to ophthalmology, through orthopedics and breast surgery.

International Specialist Eye Centre (ISEC) is the largest private tertiary eye care provider in Malaysia, with doctors seeing over 8,000 patients a year for everything to do with eyes - from Lasik to reconstructive surgery to cataracts, lens implants and optometry. Their fellowship-trained eye surgeons are amongst the best in the world while their equipment is the latest generation housed in a state-of-the-art facility.

The Malaysian Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) was set up to promote and position Malaysia as a unique destination for healthcare services, under the umbrella of the Ministry of Health. While there are over 250 private hospitals in Malaysia, only those that are well-equipped and pass stringent evaluations are approved and registered, and they must adhere to those standards at all times. To ensure your quality of care, visit their website and check out the list of MHTC approved and registered medical providers. At both Kuala Lumpur and Penang International Airports, there’s an MHTC Lounge for facilitate the arrival of health tourists.

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