Turbulence | Issue 15 | May 2016 by Sean Simmons Travel

ISSUE 15 2016

TURBULENCE

FINALIST: 2013, 2014, 2015 & 2016

win a 3-piece Antler luggage set

worth $500!

Foodies tour Eat your way though Spain, france and italy

SKI OZ Awesome ski packages for the 2016 season

escape the winter to the

cook islands

Welcome to another exciting edition of Turbulence. Firstly, a huge thank-you to everyone who voted for Sean Simmons Travel in the AFTA National Travel Industry Awards ((and we hope one of you are lucky enough to win the grand prize of a Mekong River Cruise sponsored by APT).

FROM THE EDITOR

FINALIST 2016

We very proudly announce that Sean Simmons Travel have once again reached the finals, for a 4th consecutive year. We could not have done this without your incredible support. The categories we have been successful in reaching are – Category 14: Best Travel Agency Manager (Corporate - Single Location) for our esteemed leader, Sean Simmons And Category 37: The Emirates Travel Consultant Scholarship – for Brett Kappler, who has been with us for just over 2 years, on a journey of learning and exploration. The winners of each category will be announced at a star studded event at The Pavillion - Darling Harbour, Sydney, on Saturday 16 July. The Pavillion, a temporary structure in the shadow of the new Sydney Convention Centre, will play host to over 1200 guests from the industry, on a “night of nights”! We will update you closer to the time, but please excuse us if our excitement overwhelms us in the lead up to this event! In Turbulence this month, join us on a culinary journey through Europe, where we showcase a number of exclusive Sean Simmons Travel “Foodies Packages”, covering Spain, France and Italy. These packages have been designed to give you the freedom to explore at your own pace; you can indulge in truly authentic Spanish, French and Italian cuisine, and enjoy a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. And

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we show you how to do all of this with a Eurorail train pass, journeying from city to city, on your way from Madrid to Rome. For those in Australia and New Zealand, the chill of winter is fast approaching, so, come with us as we show you how to escape the winter blues, with fantastic last minute deals to the tropical warmth of The Cook Islands that will have you radiating a warm summer glow. (Air New Zealand now offers direct flights from Sydney to the Cook Islands capital of Rarotonga, so no excuses for not maximising your time away!) However, if you relish the thought of cold days and colder nights, our deals to the Australian ski fields of Victoria and New South Wales including Thredbo and Mount Buller may just whet your appetite and get you excited to hit the piste! And in case you didn’t know, the official ski season down-under runs from June through to late September. And the experts say, it’s going to be a fantastic season!!

WIN a 3-piece Antler luggage set

worth $500!

We want to provide you with relevant travel information so that you can plan your next holiday, whether it be that dream holiday, or an escape away for a couple of week, with our expert advice and knowledge.

CLICK HERE

To complete the short survey online and be in the chance to win a high quality Antler luggage 3 piece set!

Don’t forget to have your say, and go into the prize draw, by completing our online survey. Simply click on the survey link to let us know where you would like to go for your next holiday, what you want to see in Turbulence, and anything else you want to share with us, and be entered into our competition, for your chance to win $500 worth of Antler luggage compliments of Sean Simmons Travel. At the end of April we bid a fond farewell to our wonderful finance manager, Celia Fan, who is now on maternity leave, preparing for the arrival of the terrible twosome – YES TWINS – sometime in June. We send her off with our best wishes and great affection as she embarks on this new path of motherhood, something we KNOW she will do very well (Ask Sean – she mothered him all the time). And on that note, Sean will be taking over the finance manager role, with Sharni’s assistance, so please, don’t be too hard on him!! So, without any more flip flam, we give to you, our wonderful reader, the new issue of Turbulence.

THE SEAN SIMMONS TEAM OF TRAVEL EXPERTS Phone

+61 3 9429 3294 (local)

Phone

1300 391 590 (interstate)

Fax

+61 3 9429 3293

enquiries@seanstravel.com.au seansimmons travel.com.au Suite 6, 53 Coppin Street Richmond VIC 3121 ABN 48153795129 | AFTA 10216 | ATAS A10436

Go on, turn the page. You know you want to!!

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16 In this issue 6

Eat your way through spain, France & Italy

Travellers Guide

8 Spain 16 France 24 Italy

spain, France & Italy by rail

32 34 36

Cook islands

5 star journey 4 star journey 4 star journey

42 LEONA EDMISTON & THE LANGHAM SYDNEY TEAM UP FOR A MONTH OF FASHION 44

Oz ski packages

46 thredbo 47 perisher 48 falls creek 49 Mount buller 50 Mount hotham

Planet of the apps

LIVETREKKER - Your total travel experience

Seanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s travel tips

THE ULTIMATE GOLD COAST THEME PARK SURVIVAL GUIDE

55 #myseanstravel

Hot fares

Qantas airways on sale

Hot Escape

SOUTHERN Ocean Lodge

57 GET THE MOST OUT YOUR HARD-EARNED velocity POINTS 58

Top 25 Restaurants in Asia

Part 2 of a 5 part series

61 AGRICulture

Heart of Victoria Gala Dinner

Flight deck

Travel information & Industry News

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EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH SPAIN, FRANCE & ITALY!

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Take a month off and experience the ultimate ‘Foodies Tour’ across Spain, France and Italy. These exclusive packages have been designed with gourmet food, wine, and relaxation in mind and offer a range of accommodation styles to suit every travellers budget. There are also some fantastic experiences available including wine and tapas tours, or classes to create the perfect hand-made pasta. Haven’t got a whole month? One of our experts can tailor a holiday to suit your time, tastes and budget.

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enjoy a food fiesta in Spain

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If you ask avid travellers to draw up a list of their top 10 dream holiday destinations, Spain would feature prominently. Home to an unbelievable 43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Spain also boasts a glorious array of sun-soaked beaches and resorts. An idyllic climate, friendly locals, a famously vibrant nightlife, and world-class shopping opportunities only add to the incredible attraction that is Spain. With so much to see and do, visitors will have a delightful time planning their holiday itineraries. Whether they head straight to gorgeous Barcelona to admire the architectural feats of Gehry and Gaudi, or to the capital Madrid to check out the cultural treasures of the Prado Gallery, visitors to Spain are ensured a holiday that they will treasure in memory for the rest of their lives.

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Madrid Unquestionably one of Europe’s great urban destinations, Madrid is a lively, sexy city which beguiles visitors as much with its vibrant soul as its many cultural treasures. Madrid’s glorious art scene and nightlife are the two main reasons to choose a holiday in Spain’s energetic capital city. With many art galleries containing such a wealth of great artworks that anyone would be hard put to see them all, visitors will enjoy exploring the fascinating museums, grand palaces, historical monuments and a renowned restaurant scene. Art lovers are enthralled by Madrid’s Golden Triangle of world-class art museums: The Reina Sofia, The Prado, and Thyssen-Bornemisza. Nightlife in Madrid is varied and exciting with many pubs, tascas (cheap bars), theatres, movie houses and nightclubs to keep visitors entertained. El terraceo (terracehopping) is a way of life in Madrid. Most people only start partying at 10 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 15 | 2016

around 11pm and few locals enter a nightclub before 1am. Many places stay open past dawn. Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol, Gran Vía and Chueca are some of the trendiest nightlife areas.

What to see in Madrid • Learn about Spain’s rich history at the National Archaeological Museum in Madrid. • See the Plaza Mayor, Madrid’s arcaded central square, dating back to 1619. • Marvel at Goya’s famous fresco and tomb in the Glorieta de San Antonio de la Florida. • Visit the Sorolla Museum, the former home of another beloved Spanish master artist.

What to do in Madrid • Stroll and picnic in the beautiful and lush Parque del Buen Retiro. • Tour the massive, oppulently decorated Royal Palace. • Treat the kids to a whirlwind of fun at the Parque de Atracciones amusement park. • Explore the Royal Botanical Garden, one of the oldest of its kind in Europe.

Madrid experience

Spanish Cuisine Class

Expand your cooking repertoire with traditional Spanish cuisine class in Madrid. You’ll learn to create traditional Spanish dishes including Paella,Tortilla, Sangria, and more Spanish food and then enjoy lunch with wine. You’ll also have recipes to take home with you! Optional add on

Duration of tour: 3 Hours $228.00 for 2 people.

Restaurants in Madrid Traditional tapas or a gastrobar? Roast suckling pig or tuna tataki? Madrid has gone gourmet with a vengeance, but is somehow hanging on to its roots and updating favourite dishes with a few foreign influences. If you like good quality, no-nonsense food, be sure to have a meal at one of the classic restaurants near the Plaza Mayor. For a lively evening, embark on a tapas crawl down Cava Baja or around Plaza Santa Ana.

DIVERXO $$$$$ | Contemporary Spanish

FIASCHETTERIA LA SALETTA $$ | Italian

EUROPA DECO $$$$ | Mediterranean

Recently, Madrid celebrated the granting of the third star to DiverXO, the first restaurant in the city to receive such an award. The creations of Chef David Muñoz have impressed gourmets worldwide and are much more than food, they are art. To book in DiverXO you have to pay a ticket of €60, which is deducted from the bill.

Once a big restaurant in Madrid center they have decided to move to a smaller place. Something that allowed them to do what they love (cook amazing food) but with more life quality (meaning more spare time). They chose Mercado Antón Martín to establish the new concept: much smaller but equally fine. The food? A superb combination of Italian flavors made by charming chefs.

The décor is contemporary with a distinct ethnic undertone. The cuisine is a mix between Mediterranean and ethnic flavours and is prepared using fresh and exotic produce. There is a particularly interesting wine list

Calle de Padre Damián, 23. 28036, Madrid. www.diverxo.com

Carrera de San Jerónimo 34, 28014, Madrid

Mercado de Antón Martin, Callé santa Isabel 5, 28012 Madrid

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Seville Combining Spanish history, romance and picturesque scenery, Seville offers a laid-back Spanish experience. Spainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great southern city of Seville has a romantic past and a rich Moorish heritage. Seville is the perfect setting for high culture and romantic operas like Carmen, Don Juan and Figaro, and the romance is not just cultural: the poet Byron famously rated Seville for its women and oranges. Modern visitors might add Flamenco, tapas and bull fighting to the list of attractions. Seville has an impressive collection of historical sights, including its cathedral, which is one of the largest Gothic buildings in the world. Having been occupied by the Moors for 500 years, the city also has a legacy left by the Arab kings in the form of the Alcazar, a palace-fortress that is regarded as one of the finest surviving examples of Moorish architecture. Seville is the regional capital of Andalucia, which contains the densely populated beach resorts of

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the Costa del Sol along its southern reaches, and the mountain villages of the Sierra Nevada range further inland, about 40km from the coast. The area around Seville itself does not provide much in the way of tourist attractions, except for the rural villages of the Sierra Morena to the north, which offer some perfect walking trails between the modest mountain peaks, particularly in spring when the area is carpeted with wild flowers.

What to see in Seville Visit Alcazar, one of the most famous attractions in Spain. The palace complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What to do in Seville Take a day trip out to Gibraltar. This large lump of limestone to the end of the Iberian Peninsula is as famous for its bizarre geology as it is for its over-friendly furry friends. Easily conquered by cable car, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worthwhile to hire a guide to explain

the countless caves and mites, and to coax the wild monkeys to give a toothy grin while atop your head.

Seville experience

Seville Tapas Tour

Seville is famous for the tapas. On this route you will discover those bars that are part of the gastronomic culture of the people of Seville and that each tapa shall be accompanied by a local wine. Optional add on

Duration of tour: 1 hr 30 mins $81.00 for 2 people

Restaurants in Seville Eating out in Seville is approached with the same laid-back simplicity that characterises the city’s approach to life in general. Dishes are uncomplicated and honest, and ingredients are fresh, flavourful and tasty. Like the architectural and historical roots of the Andalusian region, cuisine in Seville is a mix of Mediterranean and Moorish traditions. Main ingredients include olive oil, garlic and wine; but a strong Muslim influence has also infused recipes with a handful of mint, a pinch of spice or fragrant citrus and almond elements. Many visitors are surprised to learn that the city lays claim to Spain’s most well-known culinary legacy - tapas. Sampling one of the 4,000 odd tapas bars in Seville is a must; or, if you’re in the mood for something more substantial, the city has an assortment of impressive restaurants suitable for a variety of budgets. Over lunchtime ask about the menu del dia (menu of the day); this normally includes a choice of soup or salad, a main course, and a dessert, and often proves a delicious and economic way to make your way through Seville. Keep in mind that the Spanish eat late: most restaurants only open at 8pm; though the locals will filter in between 9pm and 11pm.

EL RINCONCILLO |$$$$ | Spanish El Rinconcillo has the kind of oldworld charm that other restaurants merely aspire to. As one of the most famous tapas bars in the city, the venue not only claims a rich history, but also remains true to its Andalusian roots and the accompanying relaxed regional demeanor. Visitors can enjoy a full meal or a few light tapas portions. Open daily 1pm to 1.30am.

C/Gerona 40 y a 2 www.elrinconcillo.es

RESTAURANTE SAN MARCO $$$ | Italian Styled as a 12th-century Arab bath house, the lively atmosphere and delicious Italian cuisine make this a favourite for locals and tourists. This venue is tucked away among the alleyways of Barrio Santa Cruz, but 3 other options - each uniquely designed - appear in different areas of the city. Reservations are crucial. Dinner is served from 8pm until midnight.

Calle Meson del Moro www.sanmarcorestaurante.net

BARBIANA |$$$ | Seafood One of Seville’s top restaurant listings. The chefs go out of their way to source a fresh selection of succulent shrimp, squid, sea bass and white fish all the way from the coastal town of Cadiz. The restaurant is set in the heart of Seville, adjacent to the Plaza Neuve. Those pressed for time can enjoy an abbreviated version of the menu at the tapas bar in front.

Calle Albaredo 11 www.restaurantebarbiana.com TURBULENCE | ISSUE 15 |2016 | 13

Barcelona Barcelona promises legendary architecture, delicious Catalan cookery, a festive beach culture, and plenty for party animals: Barcelona is a thrillingly unique city, home to some of the most famous and bizarre architecture in the world, and the playground of exciting modern artists like Joan Miro, Picasso and, of course, Antonio Gaudi. Travel to Barcelona and you will land in sunny Spain’s major holiday city, cosmopolitan and lively, with superb shopping, a great climate, beautiful beaches, a fun nightlife, and plenty of Spanish pizzazz. The city is the gateway to the Costa Brava and Costa Dorada, with their many popular beach resorts, but the interesting sightseeing and the treasures of centuries, not to mention the great restaurants and vivacious locals, will keep visitors happily occupied within the city itself. A visit to Spain is not quite complete without a stroll down the iconic Las Ramblas pedestrian street in Barcelona.

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What to see in Barcelona • Catch a football match and take a tour at the famous FC Barcelona Museum and Stadium. • Admire the bizarre and beautiful work of Antonio Gaudi at La Sagrada Familia and Guell Park. • Visit the Joan Miro Foundation to see the colourful art of another iconic Catalan artist. • Marvel at the views of Barcelona from the hills of Montjuic and Tibidabo, which boast many other attractions.

What to do in Barcelona • Take the kids into the enthralling underwater world of the Barcelona Aquarium. • Enjoy the sun, sand and sea, as well as the festive atmosphere, on Barcelona’s beaches. • Explore the Museum of Contemporary Art. • Picnic and stroll in the lovely Parc de la Ciutadella in the city centre.

Barcelona experience

Barcelona Gourmet Walking Tour

Optional add on

Discover some of the most famous gastronomic spots in the city and experience the great Spanish culture Barcelona has to offer. Duration of tour: 2 hours $72.00 for 2 people

Restaurants in Barcelona In 2002 Barcelona was awarded the title of most gourmand city in Europe by the prestigious Le Guide des Gourmands, the first non-French city so named in the 15 years of the publication’s run. Barcelona’s restaurants specialise in the delicious Catalan cuisine, typically flaunting the extensive use of garlic, olive oil and fish for many kinds of meals. It is not uncommon to find fish mixed with red meat in a stew. The pa amb tomàquet (bread smeared in tomato and seasoned with olive oil and salt) is a signature Catalonian delicacy served with every meal in most restaurants. Tapas, now popular worldwide, originated in Spain, and these bite-sized treats are a firm favourite in the city of Barcelona. Catalonia is a premier wine region for Spain and the birthplace of Cava sparkling wine. Dark red grapes in the region make for the darker ‘black’ wine, or vi negre, a stronger red concoction. Dry white wines come second to the Cava in popularity among tourists and locals alike. Barcelona’s restaurants usually open around 8am (if they are open for breakfast that is) and typically remain open until midnight. Supper hours are very late, with most residents opting to dine between 9pm and 10pm.

ABAC | $$$$$ | Spanish

CAN MAJO | $$$$ | Spanish

CAN RAVELL | $$$$ | International

The only 1-star Michelin restaurant in Barcelona, ABAC is “el bulli” style, but you can actually get a reservation. The tasting menu (without wine) is about €125-175 per person. The sensory experience and the amazing meal is well worth digging a little deeper into the wallet.

On the beachfront, Can Majó serves delicious seafood that can be enjoyed on the outdoor terrace overlooking the Mediterranean. Specialities include paella, but the fish is also superb. Reservations required. Closed Monday. No dinner Sundays.

Some serious eating goes on in the unpretentious room at the back of a delicatessen food store. Despite a city-wide reputation, the tiny restaurant feels like a guarded secret. Open from 10am to 9pm on Tuesday and Wednesday and closes an hour later from Thursday to Saturday. Sundays lunch 10am to 4pm. Closed Mondays.

Av. Tibidabo 1 www.abacbarcelona.com

Almirall Aixada 23, Barceloneta www.canmajo.es

Carrer Arago 313 www.ravell.com

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France, Simply Magnifique!

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Dreams of French holidays involve champagne on the Eiffel Tower, cruises on The Seine, tours through wine country and of course, French cuisine. A holiday in France offers a wide variety of attractions for all travellers, whether interested in culture and history or just having a good time. While Paris is famous for its sophistication, there are more than 40,000 castles and chateaus dotting the countryside, dozens of ski resorts in the French Alps, holiday towns along the coast and countless cities and villages hidden around every hill. Whether looking for a city break in Paris or exploring the lesserknown delights of Alsace-Lorraine, a holiday in France is the dream vacation for many.

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Marseille Frances most ancient city offers travellers a destination rich in French history and architecture without pretention. Marseille is France’s second largest and most ancient city. It was founded by the Greeks in 600 BC and was later conquered by the Romans after becoming a thriving port and centre for trade. Today it is littered with ancient sites and artefacts; mostly Roman additions to the original Greek settlement. Marseille is very down to earth and lacks the pretension of most other French cities, with plenty of attractions and pedestrianised squares to explore. The city is also divided into arrondissements in the style of Paris, which makes it relatively easy to get around on the metro. The Old Port area is filled with restaurants, bars, hotels, office blocks and a daily fish market at the Belgian Quay, giving it a lively and sophisticated air. There are also a number of decent museums, galleries, theatres and shops dotted about the city that are worth visiting. Marseille is also famed for its Opéra: an Art Deco opera house, situated 18 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 15 | 2016

in the heart of the city, which still hosts performances even though it was all but destroyed by fire in 1920. La Plaine is a trendy area filled with cafes, bookstores and fountains, with a bustling market on Thursdays and Saturdays, while Noailles’ bazaar is a multi-ethnic area filled with Indo-Chinese and Arabic shops. The outgoing, friendly inhabitants of Marseille are a cosmopolitan bunch, with diverse backgrounds including a number of Italian, Spanish, and North African communities. There is far less of the style and image consciousness evident in the rest of the Cote d’Azur, creating a more North African flavour and a vibrant atmosphere. Marseilles also acts as a good base for exploring the nearby natural beauty of the calanques (or Mediterranean fjords) and some excellent beaches. Marseille comes alive for three weeks each summer, positively buzzing with arts and culture in the Marseille Festival which celebrates dance, theatre, music, cinema, art, literature, and the multicultural face of Marseille itself.

What to see in Marseille • Enjoy the Plage des Catalans, the most popular beach in Marseille. • Visit one of Marseille’s most scenic buildings is the Palais Longchamp

What to do in Marseille • Take a ferry to the infamous prison, Château d’If, which is best known as the penal setting for Alexandre Dumas’ famous book The Count of Monte Cristo. • Explore the famous Massif des Calanques, deep limestone fjords which make for a dramatic and spectacularly beautiful coastline that attracts climbers, divers and hikers

Restaurants in Marseille Marseille was announced as the European Capital of Culture in 2013 and underwent some transformative improvements to prepare for this well-deserved honour. A number of wonderful new restaurants and bars have opened and many others have been renovated and improved. There is an impressive variety of restaurants in Marseille and it is easy to find great places to eat out. The Vieux Port is a wonderful area for dining out in Marseille but be aware that restaurants and bars in this charming area range from the extremely posh to the extremely seedy. It is a lovely place for sundowners and people watching. The delightful pedestrian area of Cours Julien has numerous good restaurants and a great mix of cuisines ranging from Indian to Lebanese. The Panier is the oldest part of the city and is fast becoming a chic bohemian area with a maze of narrow streets that hide some original and interesting eateries. The Panier is not a bad area to trawl if you’re eating on a budget; other good areas for those watching their wallets are Cours Belsunce and Rue Pavilion. Marseille is famous for its bouillabaisse, a fish soup with many variations that usually includes squid and crab as well as a variety of fish. This is the must-try dish for the city, but other specialties to look out for include ratatouille, tapenade and mechoui. Fresh seafood is always a good choice in Marseille. The city has some great wine bars and the best thing to order is rosé, which is becoming increasingly renowned in Provence. The drink most associated with Marseille, however, is pastis, an anise-flavoured liqueur worth sampling while in the city.

UNE TABLE AU SUD | $$$$$ | Fusion

LE RUHL | $$$$ | French

LA KAHENA | $ | African

This Michelin-starred restaurant is tucked away above the tourist traps of the Old Port, but it is vastly different than its neighbours, lacking many of the clichéd trappings of many local restaurants. The menu is focused on fresh haute cuisine in the style of top London restaurants, presenting trendy updated versions of Provençal cuisine that change seasonally. The restaurant itself enjoys scenic harbour views from the sleek dining room.

Marseille is famous for its bouillabaisse, and one of the most popular places to get this regional dish is at Le Ruhl. In fact the restaurant serves several kinds of bouillabaisse, all complying to exacting requirements. Located along a rocky stretch of the French Riviera, every seat in the house has a sea view, and is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.

La Kahena is a popular Tunisian restaurant in a diverse city filled with North African competition. While the decor isn’t anything special, the food is, with ten different kinds of couscous on the menu to complement dishes like mechouia (roasted lamb) and fish tagine. The eatery has become something of a lunchtime hotspot, and is open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 6pm.

269 Corniche Président-J.F.-Kennedy www.lerhul.fr

2 rue de la République Telephone: (04) 9190 6193

2 Quai du Port www.unetableausud.com

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Lyon The gastronomic capital of the world, Lyon is an exciting hub of exquisite cuisine, opera, and history. Lyon is a city synonymous with the silk industry, the French Resistance, and is located between the Rhone and the Saône rivers in the southwest of France. Lyon is home to some of the finest restaurants and chefs in the country and forms the second largest metropolitan area in France, after Paris. Besides the many restaurants, bistros and cafés that entice people to this endearing city, Lyon boasts three large city parks, some 30 museums and countless monuments symbolising Lyon’s development through the ages. It is home to the world-famous Lyon Opera House, whose orchestra’s reputation has travelled far beyond French borders. UNESCO lists Lyon as a World Heritage site due to its rich and diverse 2,000-year history, evident in the awe-inspiring Romanesque architecture and medieval buildings in Old Lyon, including the Primatiale St-Jean Cathedral, and the 16thcentury Hôtel du Chamarier. To the west, Fourviere Hill offers panoramic views of the city, and its own attractions include the Ancient Theatre of Fourvière, and the Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine. 20 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 15 | 2016

By day Lyon can be viewed by boat on a trip down its rivers, and at night dinner cruises add an element of fantasy to the city. Lyon is a city rich in food, history and culture, making it a hidden treasure in the French landscape; it certainly lives up to its Roman name, Lugdunum, meaning ‘the hill of light’.

What to see in Lyon • Explore the ancient Theatre of Fourvière is the oldest in France dating back to year 17 BC • Visit the historical Gadagne Museum housing paints, sculptures and furniture from the middle ages. • The International Puppet Museum is a must see, displaying hand puppets, stick puppets, marionette puppets and sliding bar puppets.

What to do in Lyon • Visit the Lyon National Opera House, a 300 year old structure with a glass dome that has become a landmark attraction in Lyon. Some opera shows are award winning, with unreal acoustics.

Lyon experience

Gourmet Self-Guided Walking Tour

Optional add ons

Through this original walking lunch tour, from the peninsula to the Old Lyon, you will learn about the local specialities of Lyon. Discover renowned shops, gourmet addresses as well as the not-to-be-missed “Bouchons Lyonnais”! Duration of tour: 2 hours 30 mins $226.00 for 2 people

Wine making workshop Ever wanted to become a winemaker? This is your chance! The two hours of this hands-on workshop fly by as you create your very own bottle, from the very wine to the label. All this in a royal cellar in central Paris! Absolutely unforgettable (and delicious). Duration of tour: 2 hours $250.00 for 2 people

Beaujolais wine tour Take this opportunity to enjoy a private half day excursion in the Beaujolais wine region with your own driver guide. Duration of tour: 4 hours 30 mins $726.00 for 2 people

Restaurants in Lyon The city is known as the gastronomic capital of the world for good reason and visitors will be overwhelmed by the variety and quality of restaurants in Lyon. There are more than 1,800 places to eat out in Lyon and the city boasts about 16 Michelin-starred restaurants. This foodie paradise’s culinary tradition was crystalised in the first half of the 20th century, when many bourgeois families fired their in-house cooks. These women went on to revolutionise Lyon’s cuisine by setting up their own restaurants and cooking for some of the finest French dignitaries of their time. Traditionally, restaurants serving Lyonnaise cuisine are called bouchons but the term has come to describe a certain kind of restaurant in Lyon: small, family-run eateries which are delightfully informal and which must be investigated by visitors to gain an idea of the authentic Lyon culinary tradition. Lyon’s cuisine owes its fame at least in part to the quality of its local produce. There are several great markets where food stalls of every kind can be found: Quai Saint-Antoine has a glorious Sunday morning market; and Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse is a permanent market and tribute to the culinary king of Lyon, Paul Bocuse, whose eponymous three-star restaurant is just to the north of the city. Lyon is full to bursting with great places to eat but some of the best areas to seek out restaurants include La Rue Merciere and La Rue des Marronniers, which are streets dedicated exclusively to food and have a wonderful, festive atmosphere. The Lyon Old Town is also full of lovely places to dine out. Meal specialties in Lyon often involve offal and pork of all kinds is a favourite on Lyonnaise menus. The food is rich and creative. The cheese produced in the region is fantastic: ‘Saint-Marcelin’ and ‘Saint-Felicien’ are two of the best varieties.

L’AUBERGE DE L’ILE | $$$$ | French

CHEZ MOUNIER | $$ | French

BRASSERIE GEORGES | $$$ | French

This Michelin-starred restaurant is near to the heart of Lyon, located in a charming 17th-century inn on the tiny island of Île Barbe. It has a pretty ivycovered courtyard and more intimate indoor dining area where you can sample dishes like meat stew mille feuille or red tuna tartare with quail and salmon eggs.

This restaurant seems tiny from the street, but there is plenty of room inside. Chez Mounier has the traditional atmosphere of a Lyonnais bouchon, with regional dishes like quenelle de brochet (dumpling in crayfish sauce) and herring salad. Locals and tourists alike love Chez Mounier for its unpretentious atmosphere and cheap food. Open Monday to Saturday, 9am-6pm.

The oldest brasserie in Lyon, La Georges has been serving Lyonnais delicacies since 1836. Its location can appear a bit seedy, but it has hosted notable celebrities like Edith Piaf, Jean-Paul Sartre, Ernest Hemingway, and the Dalai Lama. The restaurant also brews its own beer. The large dining area means you can usually get a table without reservation unless dining on the weekend. Open weekdays 11:30am-11:15pm, and Fridays, Saturdays 11:30am-12:15am.

Place Notre Dame, Île Barbe www.aubergedelile.com

3 rue des Marronniers

30 cours de Verdun www.brasseriegeorges.com TURBULENCE | ISSUE 15 |2016 | 21

Paris One of the top tourist destinations in the world, the city of Paris is glamorous, romantic and full of great restaurants and beautiful things: A vacation in Paris has always headed the must-do list for anyone contemplating a European holiday because the city embodies style and charm and offers a variety of unique attractions, both ancient and modern. Paris brings out the romance in every soul. Art lovers, style buffs and gourmets are particularly well catered for if they holiday in Paris, while sightseers can indulge in worldfamous attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame. Paris has a thrilling nightlife and the shopping is some of the best in the world. Paris is also a great city to visit for those travelling with children as families can enjoy the delights of Disneyland Paris and amusement parks like Parc Asterix, which are within easy reach of the city. 22 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 15 | 2016

What to see in Paris • Wander through the awe-inspiring galleries of The Louvre. • See the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte under the dome of Les Invalides. • Visit the Pompidou Centre, the city’s most popular attraction. • Explore the magnificent palace of Versailles just outside of Paris.

What to do in Paris • Stroll through the Jardin des Plantes and discover the many attractions of Paris’s main botanical garden. • Take an excursion to the palace of Fontainebleau. • Marvel at the art in the incomparable Musee d’Orsay. • Splash with the kids at Aquaboulevard on a hot day.

Paris experience Optional add on

Bustronome Gastronomic Dinner Tour

The first concept to combine Travelling and Fine Cuisine, an original gourmet way to Discover Paris. City tour and 6 courses meal with drinks Duration of tour: 2 hours 50 mins $491.00 for 2 people

Restaurants in Paris The French, always appreciative of the finer things in life, have a unique tradition of famous restaurants and great chefs and anyone with a love of good food and deep pockets will find true happiness in this city. The style of cooking known as ‘la Grande Cuisine’ comes from Paris and it’s hard to walk the streets without being tempted into every restaurant by its formidable aroma. Paris is home to more than 5,000 restaurants, with traditional French bistros being the best value for money for those on a budget. Cafés and dive bars are an almost obligatory stop on the way to or from work for most Parisians, where an ordinary lunch can be enjoyed at a reasonable price. Grab a newspaper, order a glass of fine French wine and, while soaking up the picturesque surroundings, observe the city passing by.

LA TOUR D’ARGENT | $$$$$ | French

GOUMARD | $$$ | Seafood

LE JULES VERNE | $$$$ | French

Serving up mouth-watering dishes, but also has wonderful views over the Seine. Dining here is still an event. A jacket and tie is required in the evening.

One of the finest seafood restaurants in Paris, the food at Goumard is influenced by Mediterranean and Asian cuisines, served with subtle and delicate sauces.

Located on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower and has spectacular views of the city.

15-17 Quai de la Tournelle (Latin Quarter) www.tourdargent.com

9 Rue Duphot (Madeleine) www.goumard.com

BUDDHA BAR | $$$ | Fusion

AU PIED DE COCHON | $$$ | French

The exotic Buddha Bar remains trendy with Parisians and foreigners in the know. Book well in advance.

All-day Brasserie serving authentic French fare. The long benches and brass fittings echo the authenticity of the food for a truly Parisian experience.

8 Rue Boissy d’Anglais (Champs-Élysées) www.buddha-bar.com

6 rue Coquillière www.pieddecochon.com

Eiffel Tower, second floor www.lejulesverne-paris.com

KONG RESTAURANT AND BAR $$$ | International Set in an Art Deco building on the banks of the Seine, Kong has beautiful views of the city and is full of surprises. 1 Rue du Pont Neuf www.kong.fr TURBULENCE | ISSUE 15 |2016 | 23

Discover the indulgent side of Italy

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Italy boasts more cultural sights and attractions than you could ever hope to see in a single visit. In fact, Italy lays claim to more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country in the world (47 in total), often casually located amid the hustle and bustle of modern city-life. From the Leaning Tower of Pisa, to the almost obscene wealth of artwork housed in the galleries of Tuscany, a holiday in Italy is nothing short of a compulsory experience. Of course, Italy’s culture does not only belong in the past - the country remains on the cutting-edge of haute couture, and watching the stylish locals clip along cobblestoned streets in six-inch stiletto heels is a wonder in itself. Shopaholics will feel as though they’ve found paradise; while gastronomes should prepare themselves for a holiday punctuated by unforgettable meals. The world-famous Italian cuisine is, naturally, even more delicious when prepared in its homeland - and visitors to Italy can look forward to trying interesting regional variations of their favourite pizza and pasta dishes. your holiday in Italy will be an experience you won’t soon forget.

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MILAN Travel to Milan to discover the ‘alternative’ Italy, for the city embodies everything that is chic and sophisticated in Italian culture, far removed from quaint Tuscan villages or warbling gondoliers. Milan is the home of haute couture and haute cuisine, world-class shopping, supreme opera, elegant skyscrapers, tasteful galleries and museums, and spacious piazzas. The proud denizens of this city seem to do everything with style and they know how to have fun: Milan has an energetic nightlife and a sophisticated clubbing scene. Fashionistas, shopaholics and anyone who enjoys the finer things in life (and can afford to pay for them) will revel in a visit to Milan. This is not to say there are no archaeological or historical treasures in the city; sightseers searching out the ancient and historic will find plenty of diversions. Art-lovers are drawn to Milan to see many masterpieces in its leading galleries and the piece de resistance, da Vinci’s The Last Supper, is in the refectory of the Santa Maria delle Grazie. 26 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 15 | 2016

What to see in Milan • Marvel at the breathtaking Duomo di Milano, the world’s largest Gothic cathedral. • See Leonardo da Vinci’s legendary designs and inventions in the National Science and Technology Museum. • Seek out the peaceful beauty of the old botanical gardens at Orto Botanico di Brera. • Gaze upon da Vinci’s The Last Supper in the UNESCO-listed Santa Maria delle Grazie.

What to do in Milan • Visit the fascinating Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio, one of the oldest churches in Milan. • Explore the vast Sforzesco Castle, one of the city’s most iconic monuments. • Catch an opera at the worldfamous La Scala Theatre.

milan experience

Milan food tasting experience

Optional add on

Enjoy a delicious Italian food tasting experience in the heart of Milan, a pleasant walk through the old shops and the new trendy ones. Duration of tour: 3 hours $211.00 for 2 people

Restaurants in Milan Milan is almost as famous for its cuisine as for its fashion scene, and foodies will be in paradise in this city. Milan’s restaurants serve everything from traditional local fare to exotic international cuisine; however, the city is known to be less keen on pasta than the rest of Italy and although there are still pasta dishes available there are also more rice-based dishes than you may expect. Many traditional Milanese restaurants and trattorias (casual Italian eateries) can be found in the Brera, Navigli and city-centre areas. For good pizza when eating out in Milan, try one of the restaurants on Via Palermo. Porta Venezia, Via Victor Hugo and Via Manzoni have more international options, serving Mediterranean, Asian and fusion cuisine. While there will always be restaurants open to diners, it is best to call ahead for reservations if you are visiting one of the more popular restaurants. Some establishments add a service charge to the bill and if not, a 10 percent gratuity is an acceptable tip. Dining out in Milan can be expensive, but it is extremely rewarding to the palette.

DA CLAUDIO | $$$ | Seafood

PREMIATA PIZZERIA | $$ | Pizzeria

Milan manages to get some of the freshest seafood in the country and Da Claudio knows how to prepare it! Affordable and stylish, this is one of Milan’s finest fish eateries.

The restaurant has a wonderfully rustic ambience with rooms filled with laughter at the long, raucous tables. The wood oven pizzas are excellent while the menu of pastas and meat dishes is equally as appetising.

Via Cusani www.pescheriadaclaudio.it

IL VERD | $$ | Italian This trendy Milan eatery earned itself the distinction of spawning the city’s first yuppie scene in the 90s. The clientele are still young but the menu is much more diverse. Piazza Mirabello 5 www.ilverdi.it

Via E. De Amicis www.premiatapizzeriamilano.it

DA GIACOMO | $$$$ | Italian Giorgio Armani and other trendy fashionistas frequent its elegant dining area. The menu features a selection of traditional Tuscan cuisine. Via Pascale Sottocorno, 6 www.giacomomilano.com

CRACCO PECK $$$$ | International With masterchef Carlo Cracco at the helm, this is a fantastic choice for a night of fine dining. Voted in the world’s top 50 by Restaurant Magazine. Via Victor Hugo 4 www.ristorantecracco.it

ARMANI/NOBU | $$$$ | Asian The place to be seen! This is where trendoids can sample such famous dishes as black cod in misu sauce, as well as sushi and sashimi, while sipping on sake with gold leaf. Armani World, Via Manzoni 31 www.noburestaurants.com/milan/ experience TURBULENCE | ISSUE 15 |2016 | 27

Florence Seemingly eternal in its allure, Florence is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and a treasure trove of Renaissance art and culture: People continue to flock to holiday in Florence, an artistic, architectural and cultural gem. In a relatively small area, Florence contains a wealth of Renaissance art treasures on streets that were once walked by great artists like Michelangelo, Boticelli and Leonardo da Vinci. The entire historic old town of Florence is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also known for its good shopping and great Tuscan cuisine. Florence is the launching pad for the stunning countryside, wine routes, Etruscan sites, and medieval hill villages of Tuscany, one of the most popular tourist region’s in Italy. No self-respecting European tourist can miss out on a holiday in Florence, which ranks as one of the must-see Italian destinations. Serious art-lovers, who are out to do more than just tick the destination boxes, also rank a holiday in Florence at the very top of their itineraries. 28 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 15 | 2016

What to see in Florence • View an unrivalled panorama of the city from the cupola of the Cathedral of Florence. • See the tombs of Michelangelo and Galileo in the beautiful Gothic church of Santa Croce. • Marvel at the Renaissance sculpture collection in The Bargello, Italy’s first national museum. • Admire the art in The Uffizi, one of the world’s greatest art galleries.

What to do in Florence • Explore the many museums and landscaped gardens of Palazzo Pitti, the Medici family headquarters. • Visit the world-famous Florence Accademia to see Michelangelo’s statue of David. • Wander by the quaint shops on Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in Florence. • Tour the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte, a superb example of Tuscan Romanesque architecture.

florence experience Optional add on

Cooking Class with Market Tour and Lunch

A tour of the central market with a professional chef selecting the best ingredients for a cookery lesson which will give you an insight into Tuscan cuisine and enjoy the results accompanied by a selection of Chianti wines. You will learn to make sumptuous dishes including handmade pasta. Duration of tour: 5 hours 30 mins $289.00 for 2 people

Restaurants in Florence Florentine cuisine is, quite simply, good old-fashioned, home-cooked fare that we all know and love. Stemming from a more peasant-type style of eating, there is a strong emphasis on meat. Although the meats, cheeses and breads are often incredible, fish is not a feature of Tuscan cuisine and ordering seafood in Florence may lead to disappointment. Expect to see antipasti like sliced rounds of bread topped with chicken-liver pâté or sliced meats, known as crostini toscani, as well as soup served with saltless Tuscan bread in dishes like ribollita and pappa al pomodoro. The various Tuscan varieties of Pecorino cheese are still arguably the region’s finest product so be sure to sample some. Dining out in Florence can be a tiring affair. With so many eateries abounding on just about every street corner and around every major tourist attraction, travellers wary of tourist-traps might have a hard time deciding where to begin. Head to the Santa Croce and Oltrarno areas, where the highest concentration of authentic and quality restaurants can be found. Although eating out in Florence can be expensive, it is possible to find cheaper restaurants - lookout for places frequented by locals. Visitors should note that it is customary for a 15 percent service charge to be added to the bill - or, if it isn’t, that they should tip this amount.

ENOTECA PINCHIORRI $$$$$ | Italian

TRATTORIA IL CONTADINO $$$$$ | Italian

DA TITO I PECCATI DI GOLA PIZZERIA $$$$$ | Pizzeria

Innovative Tuscan cuisine intertwined with subtle notes of French cuisine make dining here an experience to remember. Start with a poached egg with cauliflower, crispy bread and pancetta with black truffle before moving on to a mouth-watering rack of lamb with garlic and herbs served with Jerusalem artichokes and mint. Open for lunch and dinner. Bookings recommended.

One of Florence’s little treasures, this family-run trattoria has been serving local Florentines for over 30 years. Try the pesto spaghetti or spinach ravioli to start, before diving into the tasty beef stefado with potatoes and Osso Buco (veal crosscut shin) cooked in tomato and served with mashed potato, or the tender stewed rabbit with a side of grilled vegetables. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

No trip to Italy is complete without pizza. Florence has a wide selection of pizzerias but Da Tito I Peccati di Gola Pizzeria takes the cake. This funky restaurant has a vast selection of pizzas and a piping hot clay oven. Be sure to try the simple Amon with porcini and prosciutto or the Caprese with buffalo mozzarella and rocket leaves.

Via Ghibellina 87 www.enotecapinchiorri.it

69/71 Via Palazzulol www.trattoriailcontadino.com

Via Baracca www.datitoipeccatidigola.it TURBULENCE | ISSUE 15 |2016 | 29

ROME Rome, known as the Eternal City, is an ancient and fascinating travel destination, which tops the bucket list of many a historical sightseer and Catholic pilgrim. Hundreds of thousands of visitors travel to Rome on holiday every year to steep themselves in the remnants of the ancient Roman Empire, glory in the artistic treasures of the Vatican City, and gorge on pasta and pizza in pretty piazzas. Rome boasts possibly the best historical sightseeing in the world, with priceless ancient attractions strewn all over the city. Gems like the Pantheon and the Colosseum can single-handedly justify a trip to Rome. Though it may feel eternal, the Italian capital also offers some modern thrills, with a stylish fashion scene and good shopping, sumptuous restaurants, a proud and lively population, and a laid-back, fun nightlife. Art-lovers will find marvel at some of the most astounding galleries, museums and churches on earth. 30 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 15 | 2016

What to see in Rome • Marvel at the museums and views of Capitoline Hill, seat of power in Ancient Rome. • Visit the 4th-century Basilica Di San Giovanni, the first church built in Rome. • Imagine fierce gladiatorial battles within the iconic Colosseum. • Stroll through the winding, romantic streets of Trastavere, searching out coffee and gelato.

What to do in Rome • Explore the thrilling remains of Ancient Rome’s political centre at the Roman Forum. • Take a tour of St Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Necropolis where the saint is entombed. • Toss a coin over your shoulder into the beautiful Trevi Fountain. • Picnic in the peaceful Villa Doria Pamphili Park, a green haven in a busy city.

Rome experience

Pizza Making Course

Prepare and indulge in the most iconic Italian food with the best teachers! Discover the secrets of the perfect Italian Pizza! Optional add on

Duration of tour: 5 hours $228.00 for 2 people

Restaurants in Rome Rome is delicious and affordable when it comes to dining out, and while everyone in the world may claim to ‘love’ Italian food, you cannot really compare ‘ordinary’ pizza and pasta to the wonderful dishes you can sample in the nation’s capital. The typical meal is accompanied by a bruschetta ammazzavampiri (garlic canapé) and grated cheeses. Not surprisingly, pastas and pizzas are provided in abundance, the local varieties of which are not to be missed. Red meat and seafood dishes in the international tradition are also on offer but are more expensive and come in less generous servings. There are three main types of restaurant in Rome: an osteria is an informal gathering-spot, serving basic spaghetti meals and some wine; trattorie are more languid, bistro-style affairs, offering large meals in a homely setting; and ristorante offer the more fancy and lavish silver spoon and wine-list dining experience. All three can be found in the popular districts of Centro Storico, along Via Cavour and around Stazione Termini. The Borgo district near the Vatican offers some of the cheapest dining options. Breakfasts in Rome, as in most of Italy, are minimal, and people rarely leave the house for their first meal of the day. The main event is lunch, which sees restaurants open between 1pm and 3pm - most locals enjoy their lunch breaks in three courses!

LA ROSETTA | $$$$$ | Seafood

AGATA E ROMEO | $$$$ | Italian

AI TRE SCALINi | $$$ | Italian

Possibly the best seafood restaurant in Rome. The menu includes almost every type of Mediterranean fish, grilled or roasted to perfection, and desserts such as the ricotta cheesecake with honey are worth saving space for. Reservations essential. Open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday.

For a gourmet treat, this charming restaurant is elegant yet relaxed, and produces outstanding Roman ‘nouvelle cuisine’. An Agata e Romeo taster menu allows one to sample a variety of specialities, and includes wine. Closed weekends. Reservations recommended.

Small, unpretentious and serving topquality Roman cuisine, Ai Tre Scalini is one of the nicest restaurants in the area close to the Colosseum. The small menu is a gourmet experience, from the cheeses and salamis to porchetta, complemented by the wide variety of wines on offer. Reservations required. Closed Mondays. Open from 6pm.

Via della Rosetta 8 (Piazza Navona) www.larosetta.com

Via Carlo Alberto 45 (Termini) www.agataeromeo.it

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Spain, France & Italy by rail An entire month travelling through Europe experiencing authentic local cuisine may seem like an unaffordable dream to many. Well, at Sean Simmons Travel, we make travel dreams come true! We have put together exclusive Travel packages giving you the luxury of a month travelling through Spain, France and Italy at your own leisurely pace,. We also have accommodation and restaurant recommendations that will suit different budgets and tastes, yet still offer exceptionally comfortable holiday that will leave you relaxed! Travelling between cities will be by rail using your Europass, offering you scenic views of the country and giving you the flexibility to travel to the next city at your leisure. Starting in Madrid you will travel up the east coast of Spain crossing the border into France, then onwards to Marseille, Lyon, and Paris. YOu will then fly down to Milan, ending your tour in Rome.

Day 1-3 | Madrid, Spain

Day 8-11 | Barcelona, Spain

3 Nights at Hesperia Madrid

4 Nights staying at Bagues

• Breakfast daily

Deluxe room with breakfast

Superior room with full breakfast

• Less than $250 AUD per person per day!

Day 4-7 | Seville, Spain

Day 12-13 | Marseille, France

4 Nights staying at Alfonso XIII

2 Nights at Intercontinental

Deluxe room with full breakfast

Deluxe double with full breakfast

30 NIGHTS - 5 STAR PACKAGE

TOTAL PACKAGE PRICE STARTING FROM $7,428 PP TWIN SHARE • Includes 30 nights at luxury 5 stars boutique hotels • 7 days flexible rail pass • Flexibility & free time to roam the cities at your leisure

• Free Children Rail Offer! Two children aged 4-11 years travel free with paying adults.

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Day 14-15 | Lyon, France

Day 20-22 | Milan, Italy

Day 27-30 | Rome, Italy

2 Nights at Hotel Le Royal Lyon

3 Nights staying at Carlton Baglioni

4 Nights staying at Aleph

Classic room with full breakfast

Classic double with full breakfast

Superior queen with full breakfast

Day 16-19 | Paris, France

Day 23-26 | Florence, Italy

4 Nights staying at Banke Opera

4 Nights staying at Regency

•P rices are correct as at 6 May 2016 and are subject to availability and change without notice • Does not include flights into Madrid and out of Rome • Does not include flight from Paris to Milan • Prices may be subject to credit card and booking fees • Prices based on twin share accommodation •H otel: Mandatory municipal tax to be paid directly by guest per person per night. Valid from 12 Dec 2015 •R ail: The flexi pass lets you travel by train on a specific number of days that you choose to travel on during the validity of the pass. Travel days do not have to be consecutive and you decide during your trip when you use them. Prices will be subject to change on a weekly basis unless paid in full. High Speed and premier trains require seat reservations. To obtain seat reservations we highly recommend that you prepurchase your seats as far in advance of your travel date as possible. Pass holder seat reservations are limited

Standard double with full breakfast

Classic double with full breakfast

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Spain, France & Italy by rail Day 1-3 | Madrid, Spain

Day 8-11 | Barcelona, Spain

3 Nights staying at Emperador

4 Nights at Tryp Barcelona Apolo

• Flexibility & free time to roam the cities at your leisure

Standard room with full breakfast

• Less than $130 AUD per person per day!!!

Day 4-7 | Seville, Spain

Day 12-13 | Marseille, France

4 Nights at Nh Collection Sevilla

2 Nights staying at Mgallery by Sofitel Grand Hotel

30 NIGHTS - 4 STAR PACKAGE

TOTAL PACKAGE PRICE STARTING FROM $3,844 PP TWIN SHARE • Includes 30 nights at 4 stars boutique hotels • 7 days flexible rail pass • Breakfast daily

• Free Children Rail Offer! Two children aged 4-11 years travel free with paying adults.

Standard room with full breakfast

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Luxury double harbour view with full breakfast

Day 14-15 | Lyon, France

Day 20-22 | Milan, Italy

Day 27-30 | Rome, Italy

2 Nights staying at Charlemagne

3 Nights staying at Adi Doria Grand

4 Nights staying at San Carlo Suite

Standard double with full breakfast

Day 16-19 | Paris, France

Day 23-26 | Florence, Italy

Classic junior suite with continental breakfast

4 Nights staying at L’Echiquier Opera Paris Mgall

4 Nights staying at Bernini Palace

Classic queen room with full breakfast

Standard double with full breakfast

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Spain, France & Italy by rail 30 NIGHTS - 3 STAR PACKAGE

TOTAL PACKAGE PRICE STARTING FROM $3,204 PP TWIN SHARE

Day 1-3 | Madrid, Spain

Day 8-11 | Barcelona, Spain

3 Nights at Principe Pio, Madrid

4 Nights staying at H10 Catalunya Plaza Boutique

• Includes 30 nights at 3 stars clean & comfortable hotels • Central locations • 7 days flexible rail pass • Flexibility & free time to roam the cities at your leisure • Less than $110 AUD per person per day! • Free Children Rail Offer! Two children aged 4-11 years travel free with paying adults.

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Superior Room Royal Palace View with full breakfast

Standard room with full breakfast

Day 4-7 | Seville, Spain

Day 12-13 | Marseille, France

4 Nights aat Hesperia Sevilla

2 Nights staying at Residhome

Standard room with full breakfast

Standard studio - room only

Day 14-15 | Lyon, France

Day 20-22 | Milan, Italy

Day 27-30 | Rome, Italy

2 Nights staying at Axotel Perrache

3 Nights at Ibis Milano Centro

4 Nights staying at San Remo

Standard double with full breakfast

Standard double with continental breakfast

Day 23-26 | Florence, Italy

Day 16-19 | Paris, France 4 Nights staying at Residhome

Standard double with full breakfast

4 Nights staying at Mediterraneo

Classic double with full breakfast

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e h t o t e p a c s e d n a r a e y s i h t s l l i h c r e t n i w e h t Escape

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Hurry though! Book by 31 May 2016! With unbeatable deals to Rarotonga and Aitutaki, you can spoil yourself, and the family with a week soaking up the sun at one of the selected resorts we have for you. This deals include flights, accommodation and some wonderful experiences to leave you relaxed, and stress free! Contact a Sean Simmons Travel expert to book. TURBULENCE | ISSUE 15 |2016 | 39

Rarotonga Rarotonga is the largest of the Cook Islands and home to nearly three quarters of the archipelago’s 20,000 citizens, most of whom live in settlements along the coast. The island is home to the capital, Avarua, and is also the most popular tourist destination in the Cook Islands. Avarua is the only major town, and with a population of only 5,000 even that is small and contains a few restaurants, bars and shops. Explore the spectacular natural beauty of the island a stunning mixture of jagged mountains and lush green jungles that give way to the sparkling white sand beaches before meeting the clear blue waters of the South Pacific. Snorkelling and scuba diving, along with other watersports, are the most popular activities in Rarotonga, although a healthy dtose of relaxing and enjoying the beautiful beaches balances out the more physical activities. The circular island is nearly surrounded by coral reefs that contain tropical fish, octopi, eels, and other colourful marine life. The Cook Islands are a year round destination because the weather ensures it is almost always suitable for swimming and beach lounging.

Aitutaki A 45-minute flight from Rarotonga, Aitutaki is the ultimate getaway destination for those who want to leave the world behind. With views that look like an artist’s depiction of an ideal beach, filled with swaying palm trees, clear turquoise water and sparkling white sand, it’s no wonder that Aitutaki is quickly becoming the most popular holiday destination in the Cook. The infrastructure on the island is basic, including all the necessary amenities without crossing the line into crass commercialism. Man-made attractions in Aitutaki include a golf course, spa, and the bars and restaurants attached to the various resorts on the island. The popular Island Nights are a great way to experience Cook Islands culture, with traditional music, food and dancing. However, the most popular attractions in Aitutaki are of course its natural ones. Scuba diving, fishing, windsurfing and swimming, as well as excursions to various lagoons and small islands in the reef, are the main reasons to visit this tropical haven. Aitutaki is small, and a popular way to see it is to rent a scooter. In no time you’ll find yourself zipping along the picturesque roads to picnic at secluded lagoons and tranquil beaches.

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TE MANAVA LUXURY VILLAS AND SPA 5 STAR 5 NIGHTS FROM $2,159 PP TWIN SHARE, EX SYDNEY

• Return Economy airfares with Air New Zealand from Sydney to the Cook Islands ( Rarotonga) including 23 kg checked luggage • 5 nights at Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa In a Pool Villa Suite • Snorkelling Cruise for two people on the Pacific Resort Rarotonga’s Moana Roa glass bottom lagoon cruiser • Bottle of wine on arrival • Use of kayaks, snorkelling gear, beach towels and sun loungers. • Introductory scuba diving sessions at Pacific Resort Rarotonga pool • Garden Tour at Pacific Resort Rarotonga • Scheduled daily activities at the Beach Hut at Pacific Resort Rarotonga • Return Airport transfers Packages depart from Sydney. Flights from other Australian hubs are available at an additional cost. Valid for sale: until 31 May 16 or until sold out. Prices are per person twin share in Australian Dollars and are subject to availability. Prices & conditions current at time of printing & subject to change without notice. Discounts & free nights included in total stay if applicable. Maximum room capacity is applicable. Return airfare based on the best available economy class Seat & Bag fare with Air New Zealand from Sydney to Rarotonga. Seasonal surcharges & blackout dates may apply depending on date of travel. Additional fees, including surcharges specific to your departure date or flight routing may apply. All flight routings are subject to change, direct routes will be taken where possible, however this may vary depending upon travel season and destination; please confirm your routing at time of booking.

2 resort combo package

PACIFIC RESORT

4 STAR 5 NIGHTS FROM $1729 PP TWIN SHARE, EX SYDNEY • Return Economy airfares with Air New Zealand from Sydney to the Cook Islands ( Rarotonga) including 23 kg checked luggage

SUNSET RESORT RAROTONGA 3 STAR 7 NIGHTS FROM $2,095 PP TWIN SHARE, EX SYDNEY

• Round trip economy Virgin Australia flights from Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne including all taxes and 23kg checked luggage

THE EDGEWATER RESORT & SPA, RAROTONGA & TAMANU BEACH RESORT, AITUTAKI 3.5 STAR 10 NIGHTS FROM $2,929 PP TWIN SHARE, EX SYDNEY

• Ex-Melbourne from $2,115* per person

• Round trip economy Virgin Australia flights from Sydney, Brisbane or Melbourne including all taxes and 23kg checked luggage

• Ex-Brisbane from $2,135* per person

• FREE Return Rarotonga to Aitutaki flights

• 7 nights at The Sunset Resort in a Poolside/Garden Studio

• Return airport transfers in Rarotonga & Aitutaki

• Return Airport transfers

• Round trip airport-resort transfers

Packages depart from Sydney. Flights from other Australian hubs are available at an additional cost. Valid for sale 8 Apr – 31 May 16 or until sold out. Prices are per person twin share in Australian Dollars and are subject to availability. Prices & conditions current at time of printing & subject to change without notice. Discounts & free nights included in total stay if applicable. Maximum room capacity is applicable. Return airfare based on the best available economy class Seat & Bag fare with Air New Zealand from Sydney to Rarotonga. Seasonal surcharges & blackout dates may apply depending on date of travel. Additional fees, including surcharges specific to your departure date or flight routing may apply. All flight routings are subject to change, direct routes will be taken where possible, however this may vary depending upon travel season and destination; please confirm your routing at time of booking.

• Daily tropical breakfast

• 5 nights at The Edgewater Resort & Spa in a Beachfront Deluxe Suite

• 5 nights at Pacific Resort Rarotonga in a Standard Studio Room • Light breakfast daily • NZD50.00 resort food and beverage credit per room, per night

• Free use of snorkelling gear & DVDs • Full Day Aitutaki Day Tour ex-Raro • Upgrade to a Beachfront Studio at a surcharge of $300 per person. Packages depart from Sydney. Flights from other Australian hubs are available at an additional cost. Valid for sale: until 31 May 16. Valid for travel: 01 April 2016 * Prices quoted are in AUD, per person twin share and are correct as at 13/04/16. Valid for sale until 30 JUNE 2016 (unless sold out prior) and travel 01APR16-30NOV16 and 01FEB17-31MAR17, subject to availability. An accommodation surcharge of $130 per person applies to stays 01JUL16-31OCT16. International flights are based on “TBAGRA” fares excluding food & beverage. Seats allocated to this fare type are strictly limited and may not be available for your preferred travel dates, particularly during peak travel periods such as school holidays. Please contact us for an exact quote for your preferred travel dates. All prices are subject to change without notice due to currency fluctuations. Conditions apply.

• 5 nights at Tamanu Beach Resort in a One Bedroom Lagoon Bungalow • Tropical breakfast daily at both resorts • Bonus NZ$100 Food & Beverage credit per room at both resorts Packages depart from Sydney. Flights from other Australian hubs are available at an additional cost. Prices quoted are in AUD, per person twin share and are correct as at 31/03/16. Valid for sale until 31 MAY 2016 (unless sold out prior) and travel 01APR16-30NOV16 and 01FEB17-31MAR17, subject to availability. An accommodation surcharge of $114 per person applies to stays 01JUL16-31OCT16. International flights are based on “TBAGRA” fares excluding food & beverage. Seats allocated to this fare type are strictly limited and may not be available for your preferred travel dates, particularly during peak travel periods such as school holidays.

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FOR THE MONTH OF MAY ONLY!

LEONA EDMISTON & THE LANGHAM SYDNEY TEAM UP FOR A MONTH OF FASHION

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Celebrate the Month of Fashion at The Langham, Sydney, with a series of stylish afternoon tea sittings with renowned Australian Designer, Leona Edmiston. With all events hosted in the chic Parisian tea parlour, Palm Court; guests are treated to an exclusive experience, inspired by the designer herself. The sitting is complete with the current “it” fabric swatch inspired macarons from Leona’s collection, whilst hostesses swan around in signature dresses from the current collection to a vibrant jazz playlist. “Every girl needs a reason to throw on a fabulous frock and attend a high tea with her girlfriends” – Leona Edmiston Served on stunning Wedgwood china and elegant tiered stands, Afternoon Tea with Leona includes exclusive sweet and savoury delicacies designed and hand-made by Langham Lead Patissier, Chef Miguel Jocson; a personalised menu signed by Leona Edmiston and an exclusive gift card valued at $20, to spend at any Leona Edmiston store, as a special gift to Sydney fashionistas. Bookings are essential. Weekday sittings from $65 pp, or $75 on weekends.

Staying in Sydney this month? Why not speak to the Sean Simmons Travel team about putting your package together, with options from as little as $495. e

Terms and conditions: Valid until 31 May 2016. Price based on a prepaid rate for a standard room, plus a weekday High Tea sitting. Prices subject to availability and can change without notice. Credit card and booking fees may apply.

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I K S OZ ES G A K C PA For the ultimate Australian ski experience, Victoria and New South Wales offers the greatest range of ski fields for everyone from the budding enthusiast to the most experienced powder hound. The official 2016 ski season will kick off in the first week of June, and run through until mid-late September.

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THREDBO Thredbo Village and Ski Resort is renowned for its unique village atmosphere, family friendly facilities, après ambience and its host of activities off the slopes. Combine this with superb on mountain facilities, long runs, a well-established snowmaking system and a variety of terrain parks you have the ingredients for a perfect ski getaway. Thredbo ticks all the snow holiday boxes, the mountain is the playground for snow lovers and the vibrant village located right at the base of the mountain looks after the social, family and party scene.

WHAT’S NEW!

THREDBO COOL DEALS

• A new Snow Play area for Tobogganing and Tubing

THREDBO ALPINE HOTEL

• A Larger beginners area ‘Friday Flat’ making learning easier and more fun • A new long terrain park • A child is now 17 years and under.

SNOW BUNNY STATS Highest Elevation: Base Elevation: Village Height: Downhill Skiable Area: Downhill Longest Run: Uphill Lifting Capacity: Terrain Parks: Beginner Runs: Intermediate Runs: Advanced/Expert Runs:

2037 m 1365 m 1365 m 480 ha 5.9 km 18,000/hr Yes 16% 67% 17%

FROM $280 PP PER NIGHT

• Twin share Standard Room at Thredbo Alpine Hotel • One day Thredbo Lift Pass • Breakfast included *Conditions apply: Valid for travel arriving Sudney only between 10-25 June and 28 August – 3 October 2016. Surcharges may apply for travel during peak periods and school holidays. Prices subject to change and availability. Book and pay by 31 May 2016.

THREDBO ALPINE APARTMENTS

FROM $777 PP FOR 5 NIGHTS OR $2,757 PER FAMILY FOR 5 NIGHTS • 5 nights quad share in Two Bedroom Apartment • 5 Day Thredbo Ski Pass *Conditions apply: Valid for travel arriving Sudney only between 10-25 June and 28 August – 3 October 2016. Surcharges may apply for travel during peak periods and school holidays. A family consists of 2 adults and 2 kids (aged 5-17 years). Prices subject to change and availability. Book and pay by 31 May 2016.

ALPENHORN LODGE

FROM $1,545 PP FOR 5 NIGHTS • 5 nights twin share, Double Room • 5 day Thredbo Lift Pass • Breakfast buffet included + two dinners Conditions apply: Valid for travel arriving Sunday only between 17 July – 27 August 2016. Surcharges may apply for travel during peak periods and school holidays. Prices subject to change and availability. Book & pay by 31 May 2016.

CANDLELIGHT LODGE

FROM $1,795 PP TWIN SHARE • 5 nights twin share, Lodge Room • 5 day Thredbo Lift Pass • Daily breakfast and three dinners per person Conditions apply: Valid for travel arriving Sunday only between 18 July – 27 August 2016. Surcharges may apply for travel during peak periods and school holidays. Prices subject to change and availability. Book & pay by 31 May 2016.

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PERISHER Situated in the Kosciusko National Park, Perisher consists of Perisher, Smiggins, Guthega and Blue Cow and is Australia’s biggest ski resort with plenty of room to move around. Perisher is located well above the snow line with an enormous spread that offers great boarding and skiing boasting a massive grooming fleet, (the largest in Australia), state of the art equipment and experienced, service focused staff that understand the importance of a properly groomed mountain. There is 54.3 ha of snowmaking at Perisher, so when Mother Nature holds back they have it covered.

SNOW BUNNY STATS Highest Elevation: Base Elevation: Village Height: Downhill Skiable Area: Downhill Longest Run: Terrain Parks: Total Lifts: Beginner Runs: Intermediate Runs: Advanced/Expert Runs:

PERISHER COOL DEALS 2034 m 1605 m 1680 m 1250 ha 3 km 4 47 22% 60% 18%

MAN FROM SNOWY RIVER HOTEL FROM $2,255 PP FOR 5 NIGHTS

• 5 nights twin share in a Standard Room • 5 day Perisher Lift Pass • Daily breakfast and dinner included *Conditions apply. Valid for travel arriving Sunday only, 18 July-28 August 2016. Surcharges may apply for travel during peak periods and school holidays. Prices subject to change and availability. Book and pay by 31 May 2016.

THE STABLES

FROM $4,530 PER FAMILY FOR 5 NIGHTS • 7 nights in a Family Chalet • 7 day Perisher Lift Pass for two adults and two children (5-14 years) *Conditions apply. Valid for travel arriving Sunday only, 17-24 June and 12-30 September 2016. Surcharges may apply for travel during peak periods and school holidays. Prices subject to change and availability. Book and pay by 31 May 2016.

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FALLS CREEK At Falls Creek, you can let your holiday wrap itself around you, and entirely surround yourself with beauty and pristine white snow. No cars, no hassles. You are in the heart of the Australian Alps in North East Victoria in one of the world’s best places for a snow holiday. During a normal winter, Falls Creek’s classic alpine village offers ski-to-your door convenience wherever you stay. Mountain views wherever you look, no cars wherever you walk. From the moment you arrive, you’re surrounded by the beauty and character that brings people back to Falls Creek again and again and again.

SNOW BUNNY STATS Highest Elevation: Base Elevation: Village Height: Downhill Capacity: Downhill Longest Run: Terrain Parks: On Mountain Car Spaces: Beginner Runs: Intermediate Runs: Advanced/Expert Runs:

FALLS CREEK COOL DEALS 1842 m 1600 m 1650 m 25,000 3 km Yes 2000+ 17% 60% 23%

SNOW SKI APARTMENTS

FROM $2,773 PER FAMILY FOR 5 NIGHTS • 5 nights in Two Bedroom Apartment for 5 nights • 5 day Falls Creek Pass for 2 adults and 2 children 6-17 years old *Conditions apply. Valid for travel between 17-24 June and 9 September-2 October 2016. Surcharges may apply for travel during peak periods and school holidays. Prices subject to change and availability.

TRACKERS MOUNTAIN LODGE

FROM $1,461 PP TWIN SHARE FOR 5 NIGHTS • 5 nights in a Standard Room • 5 days Falls Creek Lift Pass • Daily breakfast, afternoon tea and dinner *Conditions apply: valid for travel between 26 June – 1 July and 9 September – 2 October 2016. Surcharges may apply for travel during peak periods and school holidays. Prices subject to change and availability.

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MOUNT BULLER Mount Buller is the most accessible ski resort in Australia. Located just 248km from Melbourne, no Australian snow resort is closer to a capital city or to an International airport. Vast and varied, the slopes are amazing in their variety from gentle and groomed to gladed tree runs and steep and deep. The views are as spectacular as they are inspirational. With the most extensive snowmaking system in the Southern Hemisphere, Mt Buller is a natural playground and perfect for a package ski holiday.

SNOW BUNNY STATS Highest Elevation: Base Elevation: Village Height: Downhill Skiable Area: Downhill Longest Run: Snowboard Park: On Mountain Car Spaces: Beginner Runs: Intermediate Runs: Advanced/Expert Runs:

MOUNT BULLER COOL DEALS 1780 m 1390 m 1600 m 300 ha 2.5km Yes 2000 20% 45% 35%

ALBERG HOTEL

FROM $939 PP FOR 5 NIGHTS • 5 nights twin share – book a Fernery Room and get a FREE upgrade to an Alpine Room • 5 Day Mt Buller Lift Pass *Conditions apply: Valid for travel between 10-25 June and 5-30 September 2016. Surcharges may apply for travel during peak periods and school holidays. Prices subject to change and availability.

BULLER CENTRAL HOTEL

FROM $1,205 PP TWIN SHARE FOR 5 NIGHTS • 5 nights twin share in a Standard Room • 5 day Mt Buller Lift Pass *Conditions apply: Valid for travel 1 July-27 August 2016. Valid for midweek stays only (check in Sunday, checkout Friday). Prices are subject to change and availability.

MT BULLER CHALET

FROM $1,706 PP FOR 5 NIGHTS • 5 nights twin share – book a King Bourke St Room and get a FREE upgrade to a King Valley Room • Ski in/ski out in style • 5 day Mt Buller Lift Pass *Conditions apply: Valid for travel between 10 July – 19 August 2016. Surcharges may apply for travel during peak periods and school holidays. Prices subject to change and availabilty

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MOUNT HOTHAM Head to Hotham Alpine Resort, Victoria’s highest alpine village, for an amazing winter experience on top of the mountains. From pillow to powder in seconds… and then to après, massage or home – your day at Hotham has something for everyone with a unique range of winter activities on offer. Australia’s ‘Powder Capital’ has 13 lifts and more than 80 downhill runs, ranging from walk-on beginner slopes to challenging steeps. The snowmaking system ensures you can book with confidence for school holidays and enjoy more terrain for longer. Hotham’s Snowsports School caters to all ages and levels, plus there is a combined day care and ski program for the little ones. The perfect place for a skiing holiday with lots of packages available.

Want to customise your ski vacation? Our experts can help tailor a great package. 1. We have access to many lodges, hotels, self-contained apartments and luxurious chalets 2. W e have plenty of variety to suit every budget and lifestyle 3. W e can organise lift passes, lessons, meals, activities and transfers Contact a Sean Simmons Travel Expert to customise your ski trip today!

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SNOW BUNNY STATS Highest Elevation: Base Elevation: Village Height: Downhill Skiable Area: Downhill Longest Run: Terrain Parks: On Mountain Car Spaces: Beginner Runs: Intermediate Runs: Advanced/Expert Runs:

MT HOTHAM COOL DEALS 1861 m 1450 m 1750 m 320 ha 2.5 km 3 1500 20% 40% 40%

ALBERG RESORT

FROM $3,133 PER FAMILY FOR 5 NIGHTS • 5 nights in a Two Bedroom Apartment • 5 day Falls Creek Pass for 2 adults and 2 children 6-17 years old *Conditions apply: Valid for travel between 10-24 June and 29 August – 25 September 2016. Surcharges may apply for travel during peak periods and school holidays. Prices subject to change and availability.

WHITE CRYSTAL APARTMENTS

FROM $1,146 PP TWIN SHARE FOR 5 NIGHTS • 5 nights twin share in a Stuido • 5 day Mt Hothan Lift Pass *Conditions apply: Valid for travel between 19-24June and 5-25 Sept 2016. Surcharges may apply for travel during peak periods and school holidays. Prices are subject to change and availability.

LIVETREKKER Your total travel experience Have your best journeys come to life on gorgeous maps. Does anyone remember sitting around the lounge room while your parents or perhaps your grandparents showed you slideshows of their vacations? Welcome to sharing your holiday experiences in a digital world. LiveTrekker is the ultimate solution to consolidating all the digital media you accumulate on a journey, allowing you to build the perfect souvenirs to keep forever, access anytime and share with loved ones. This ambitious app creates a digital journal of your travels so you can look back on your trips on an interactive map. The app tracks you as you go, marking a red line along a map on the exact route you take; the app also monitors your speed and altitude, making it great for adventure travellers, though it’s just as fun to look back at your route around a city. You can add pictures, video, audio and text along the way, creating a multimedia travel diary you can share. • Track your steps through GPS. • Record everything around you. Take photos, video and add trip notes as you go • Combine all those elements together for a unique and vivid illustration of your trips. • Store and access your most exciting experiences safely in the Cloud. • Email and publish your journey to social networks, to friends or family • Avoid roaming costs by using LiveTrekker in disconnected mode, and synchronise data only when connected to wi-fi • Use LiveTrekker on your phone, tablet and on the web, completely free • Perfect for all travellers, especially adventure types, travel writers, hikers, backpackers and even student exchanges With LiveTrekker, you are the storyteller. So go ahead and travel to Shanghai or Paris, trek in the South African wild, visit the temples of Cambodia, shop at the pearl market in Dubai, fly over the Grand Canyon, enjoy the Carnival in Rio – or simply take a walk in a nearby forest. www.livetrekker.com Available on Google play HERE Available on iTunes HERE

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Sean’s TRAVEL

TIPS

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THE ULTIMATE GOLD COAST THEME PARK SURVIVAL GUIDE

Welcome to the Gold Coast – idyllic beaches, a surfer’s paradise and the biggest attraction of all - Australia’s most wondrous theme parks offering days, if not weeks, of endless entertainment. For some it is a different story. Forget nuclear war, zombies and other post-apocalyptic landscapes. Crowds, lines, and the seemingly endless hidden expenses can turn a memorable family holiday into a chaotic and stressful nightmare. Lucky for you, our team of travel experts have compiled a Gold Coast Survival Guide that will ensure you can enjoy as much quality time with the kids as possible.

EXPERT TIP #1: Devise a budget It’s true that a family trip to the Gold Coast is going to put a dent in your credit card. By the time you’ve booked flights, accommodation, car hire, travel insurance and theme park tickets, you can easily spend a few thousand before you’ve even blinked. Put together an easily adhered to daily budget including what you intend to spend on food. To avoid having to tighten the straps on the essentials, set aside a certain amount of ‘frivolous’ money that can be spent on those unexpected extras and impulse purchases.

EXPERT TIP #2: Call us as soon as you start planning your trip Many travellers are doing the research before calling their travel agent. It’s a little like cleaning the house before the cleaner comes. By calling us straight away, we can do all the legwork on your behalf and find a great deal. Plus, while you research a bit here and there, alongside other priorities like work and running the kids to lessons, airfares are on the rise. With us you are the priority, so we will spend the time to make sure you get the best deal before things get expensive – allowing you to spend more money on the fun stuff!

EXPERT TIP #3: Pre-purchase as many of your activities as possible No doubt about it, you are going to spend a lot of time waiting in line. To reduce the number of queues there are plenty of things you can book beforehand. While it might look like a much larger initial outlay, booking your experience in advance can save a lot of time, and the end amount is still going to be the same. You will be able to relax knowing you have the tickets in your pocket before you walk through the gates. So whether it is a poolside cabana at Wet’n’Wild or riding the rides at Dream World, speak to us about making the arrangements on your behalf before you go. For some things, we might even be able to save you some money by booking in advance.

EXPERT TIP #4: Choose family-oriented accommodation If you are going to the Gold Coast for anything more than a week, or you have a larger family we highly recommend booking apartment-style accommodation that has plenty of family activities on site. The reasons for this are simple. After days of walking and throwing off your centre of balance on every thrill ride imaginable, you will want a day off to reenergise and prepare for the next round.

There are plenty of resorts that really have the family in mind. On-site facilities like a games room, pool, kids’ club and playgrounds will make all the difference, making it easy for your kids to continue having fun while you get some well-deserved time to just sit by the pool and relax. Expert recommendation: Turtle Beach Resort on the Gold Coast has all the facilities listed above, plus a 22seat cinema with multiple show times a day, four separate swimming areas (including an adults only retreat), water slides, a 15-hole mini golf course and a day spa so you can rejuvenate. There are one to four bedroom apartments available, making it the perfect family resort for longer stays and larger families. Staying here is like having a holiday within a holiday. Book with us and save!

EXPERT TIP #5: Have a plan of attack Going in blind and hoping for the best is not an option. Firstly, have all your tickets downloaded to your smartphone for easy access. Over breakfast, check out park maps, ride descriptions and show times and devise a rough guide for what you want to do for that day. Dreamworld has an awesome app where you can use the interactive map made to easily suss things out. Plan to arrive at least 15-30 minutes before the gates open. Movie World and See World open at 9.30am, and Dreamworld WhiteWater World and Wet’n’Wild open at 10am. Go on the larger rides in the morning, before lunch. Trust us, G-forces and full stomachs are never going to be

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Sean’s TRAVEL

TIPS

friends. Plan to spend the hottest parts of the day in the more shaded areas of the parks – see a live show, duck into the Dreamworld Cinema, or just park yourself under a tree for a while.

EXPERT TIP 6#: Safety first Keep your sunscreen topped up and drink plenty of water. That’s probably the key to ensuring that you’ll still be comfortable getting out there again the following day! While lifeguards are on duty at the water parks, they are not omnipotent, so keep one eye on your kids at all times. If you decide to divide and conquer or if someone should get separated - ensure you have a prearranged meeting spot. For example, an excellent meeting place at Dreamworld is the mobile recharging station located in the outside eatery at Central Café next to the Kodak Shop.

EXPERT TIP #7: Allow yourself some post-Coast wind down time Our final tip is the importance of post-Coast relaxation. A week on the Gold Coast isn’t exactly the same as a week on a remote island in Thailand. If you are going to be hitting a park every day - it’s going to be full on. Aim to arrive home with at least one full day before returning to work or school so you can just flop on the couch, maybe do some light chores, but nothing too stressful. The kids’ will probably take the opportunity for an early night – and so should you!

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l e v a r t s n a

e s y m #

#myseanstravel – because it’s all about you. This year we aim to personalise your travel experience even further than before. To kick things off, we are inviting you to share your photos, experiences and feedback with us and the rest of the Sean Simmons Travel community across all our social media platforms. When you post about your travel to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram – let your travel expert and fellow travellers know by using the hashtag #myseanstravel You are our biggest inspiration, and we are striving to create a unique and personal travelling community. With your involvement, not only are you inspiring others with your travel experiences, you are helping us hone our tailored services so we can better meet your travel needs. If that isn’t enough, we may have a few surprises coming up exclusively for our social media community – so join us and get tagging. How do you find us? there are many different ways for you to connect WITH us online. Simply click the links below to be taken directly to our social media profiles.

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HOT air FARES Hurry! These wont last long!

Qantas worlwide sale RETURN FARE TO:

HOT Escape spoil yourself

SOUTHERN Ocean Lodge Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island is offering a fourth night free when booking its Remarkable Retreat package between 01 May and 30 September 2016. The Remarkable Retreat offers the chance to experience the coastal glamour of Kangaroo Island and indulge in treats designed to reward and relax. Experience four unforgettable nights with a bonus night (Stay 4 Pay 3) deal.

MEL

SYD

BNE

ADL

Economy

831.62

879.88

843.46

860.31

Business Class

3791.62

3604.88

3803.46

3820.31

Economy

1058.93

1030.68

1064.19

1069.43

Business Class

3868.93

4040.68

3874.19

3879.43

Prices for the deal start at $3,300pp twin share, which includes $50 credit for a spa treatment

Economy

775.52

788.78

787.36

823.33

Business Class

4112.52

5665.78

4324.36

4160.33

Economy

1077.73

999.48

997.26

1088.23

Business Class

4960.73

4932.48

4442.26

4971.23

Economy

2122.33

2094.08

2127.59

2123.83

Business Class

5892.33

5864.08

5897.59

5902.89

Economy

925.73

897.48

940.99

956.23

Business Class

2619.73

2591.48

2624.99

2145.23

Southern Ocean Lodge offers guests a complete all inclusive, Kangaroo Island experience for our guests. With selected guided island experiences included in the tariff, all guests enjoy a personalised experiential touring itinerary of the Island’s unique natural attractions. A range of signature activities are offered daily allowing guests to indulge in worldclass food and wine, encounter rich and varied wildlife and discover the Island’s unique natural attractions, often with exclusive access and always with a touch of luxe. Rates include Signature Lodge Experiences. A menu of Bespoke Experiences provides further opportunity for exploration and excellent private charters are also available at additional cost.

Economy

1100.52

1113.78

1032.36

1206.67

Premium Economy

3279.52

3192.78

2591.36

3478.67

Business Class

6681.52

5694.78

6193.36

6917.67

SINGAPORE

BANGKOK

HONG KONG

TOKYO

JOHANNESBURG

JAKARTA

LOS ANGELES

01 - 30 October 2016. Non Direct flights may include a Qantas Codeshare Partnership including Emirates, American Airlines and Vietnam Airlines, Fares must be ticketed by 31 May 2016

For these and other great deals please call a Sean Simmons travel professional or mail enquiries@seanstravel.com.au

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The resort offers 21 contemporary suites cantilever along the curve of the limestone cliffs, each with unbroken views of the Southern Ocean and dramatic coastal wilderness. The suites come with custom designed furniture, island-inspired textiles and soft furnishings offer luxurious lounging, while Kangaroo Island artists’ works offer an inspiration. All suites feature lavish king beds, dramatic glass-surround bathroom, a sunken lounge, and outdoor terrace with occasional seating and daybed. Other features include complimentary room bar, optional climate control, heated floors, wireless internet and premium amenities. Bathrobes, slippers are provided along with twice-daily housekeeping and signature evening turndown service. Terms and Conditions: Limited validity 1 May – 30 September 2016 • Four nights’ luxury accommodation including all dining, premium beverages, in-suite bar, signature experiences and airport transfers • One bonus night valued up to $4,200 per couple• Selection of gourmet treats, sourced from the island’s producers • Southern Spa and Bespoke Experience credits to the value of $50 per voucher (maximum value per suite; conditions apply)

GET THE MOST OUT YOUR HARD-EARNED velocity POINTS Got more Velocity points than you know what to do with? Lucky you! Here are our top three suggestions to make your travel infinitely more comfortable…and why not? After all, you’ve earned it.

Upgrade to ‘The Business’ on East-West flights For less than 10’000 points (9’900 to be exact), you can upgrade your flexible ticket from Melbourne, Brisbane or Sydney to Perth (or vice versa) and experience Virgin Australia’s flagship business class seat – ‘The Business’. Some of the features you will enjoy include aisle access from every seat, fresh Nespresso coffee, plenty of storage and room for the workaholics among you and – best of all – the fully flat-bed for those pesky but sometimes necessary red-eye flights.

Experience Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class Sadly Virgin Atlantic no longer flies to Australia, but don’t let that deter you. They are still a Virgin Australia partner and with some clever itinerary planning with your Sean Simmons Travel expert, you can unlock some amazing reward flights. For example, you can fly between London and New York in Upper Class for just 47,800 points in each direction – a fantastic way to extend a holiday if you are visiting either city. Or if you want an option a little closer to home, why not surprise your friends and drop by London from Hong Kong in Upper Class for just 82,000 points each way – complete with access to the Clubhouse Lounge on the ground, plus the in-flight bar after take-off.

Travel in Ultimate Luxury with Etihad Business Studios & First Class Apartments If you have been saving your points for something truly unique, this might just be the reward you have been searching for. Etihad’s luxury offerings go way beyond First Class. You can travel between Sydney to London in Etihad’s Business Studio for a mere 125,000 Velocity Points. Or for a taste of true luxury, why not part with 187,500 points and experience the First Class Apartment.

Travelling on a Saver fare? You can still upgrade to The Business, but it will cost you a far more exorbitant 30’000 points. TURBULENCE | ISSUE 15 |2016 | 57

Top 25 Restaurants

in Asia (20-16)

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Last month we embarked on a journey counting down the Top 25 Restaurants in the Asia region. From Bangkok to Seoul, Toyko to Colombo, we highlighted the top 21-25 restaurants. This month we countdown 20 – 16 giving you a highlight of sumptuous sought after cuisine from chefs that have earned their reputations. No.20 – Quintessence, Tokyo, Japan

No.19 – Issaya Siamese Club, Bangkok, Thailand

No. 18 – Fu He Hui, Shanghai, China

Impeccable Modern French cuisine with precision and passion

Modern Thai dining by celebrity chef Ian Kittichai

Zen temple of haute vegetarian cuisine that offers a discovery of China’s exotic fungi

One of the most talented chefs in Japan, Shuzo Kishida offers an inspired modern French twist to his multi-course menus, highlighting his own superlative technique and premium seasonal ingredients. Quintessence opened in 2005 to great acclaim after Kishida spent five years in France training with legendary chef Pascal Barbot L’Astrance in Paris. In 2013 he took over sole ownership of the restaurants, moving it to its present Shinagawa location, offering both a main and private dining room. Style of food: Modern French Stand out dish: Goat milk bavarois with lily bub, sea salt and olive oil. On the pass: Shuzo Kishida Address: 141-0001 Shinagawa-ku Kitashinagawa 6-7-29 Garden City Shinagawa Gotenyama 1F, Tokyo

Issaya Siamese Club’s Head chef Ian Kittichai has a long history with incredible ingredients and great food. From a young age, he would wake at 3am to accompany his mother to the wet market to select produce for her grocery store. After school he would then push a cart through the neighbourhood selling his mother’s different curries. Today he is involved in 13 food and beverage outlets covering different cuisines in four countries. Issaya Siamese Club in Bangkok offers some outstanding signature dishes, however the most unmissable is Yum Hua Plee, or Kittichai’s ‘broken bucket’ dessert of Kanon Tung Taek – a cold coconut crepe soufflé with Thai condiments. Style of Food: Modern Thai Standout dish: Yum Hua Plee: Bannana blossom and heart of palm salad, crispy shallots and roasted peanuts in a chilli jam dressing.

Whether you are a vegetarian or a carnivore, you will love the grilled porcini smoked in a jar with a wand of grape vine, and served in a shallow pond of mushroom dip with shallots accompanied by a shot of palate cleansing fruit vinegar. Fu He Hui is a widely acclaimed new restaurant that debuted at in at No.19 in the 2015 Asia’s Best restaurants list. Tony Lu leads four restaurants in the Fu Group, with Fu He Hui offering a journey in understanding China’s diverse supply of Fungi, some of which are extremely exotic. Style of food: Vegetarian Shanghainese Standout dish: Lotus seeds, honey pea, black fungus On the Pass: Tony Lu Address: 1037 Yuyuan Road, Changning District, Shanghai

On the Pass: Ian Kittichai Address: 4 Soi Sri Aksorn, Chua Ploeng Road, Sathorn,, Bangkok, 10120

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No. 17 – Corner House, Singapore

Botanical-centric fine dining in the heart of Singapore Botanic Gardens Corner House offers sophisticated modern French Cuisine, with the restaurants set in the heart of the lush Singapore Botanical Gardens, which was conferred with UNESCO World Heritage site status in July 2015. Talented Chef Jason Tan has made a name for himself around many prominent fine dining establishments in Singapore and Macau, and recently hosted Chinese President Xi Jin Ping and his wife at the restaurant in November 2015. The best dish in the house would be the Cevennes onion done four ways, a sweet onion puree with sous vide egg topped with grated manjumup black truffle; a crisp onion chip, a wafer thin onion tart crowned with onion confit Parmesan and onion tea with an emulsion of onion confit. Style of food: Modern French Standout dish: Carabinero prawn; varieties of best season tomato, vintage sherry, Kristal de Chine caviar On the pass: Jason Tan Address: 1 Cluny Road, EJH Corner House, Sinapore Botanical Gardens (Nassum Gate Entrance), Singapore, 259569

No. 16 – L’Effervescenece, Tokyo, Japan

Seriously fun French food with Japanese Ingredients L’Effervescence is all about the harmonious flavours created with fresh produce then playfully plated. An exceptional stand-out service amplifies the entire experience. Starting out with a law degree in 1996, Chef Shinobu Namae soon decided to turn his hand to cooking. His topnotch tutelage included a year with Heston Blumenthal at The Fat Duck in Bray after half a decade at Michel Bras Toya Japon in Hokkaido. In 2010 he finally opened his own kitchen, gaining his first Michelin star in 2011 and a second in 2015. Namae’s chic take on fast-food apple pie comes with a different filling depending on seasonality, and is served in a red takeaway box. Other poetically named dishes include ‘Longing for spring to come’ and ‘Hearth in a quiet night’ – The whole experience ends with ‘World Peace’. Style of food: Modern French Standout dish: A fixed point four-hour cooked Tokyo turnip parsley, Basque ham and brioche On the pass: Shinobu Namae Address: 2-26-4 Nishi-asabu, Minatoku, Tokyo, 1060031

Be sure to see who is the top 11-15 next month! 60 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 15 | 2016

It’s back for 2016! The AGRICulture: Heart of Victoria Gala Dinner celebrates the Victorian Agriculture sector and all it has to offer.

Tickets are available online at $155.00 + GST for RASV and VFF members and $190.00 + GST for non-members.

Jointly presented by VFF (Victorian Farmers Federation) and RASV (Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria), and proudly sponsored by Coles, Rural Finance and Agriculture Victoria, this year the event has been capped at 750 seats at Peninsula in the Docklands.

Giaan Rooney will be the MC for the night andKevin Sheedy will be the guest speaker discussing the vision he has for the AFL Country Round using footy to help rebuild the metro rural divide. Other entertainment includes a Fashion Parade supported by AWI and music by local acoustic soloist Nat Pike.

The evening is shaping up to be a sensational night with fashion parade, Flowers Victoria table arrangements and floral displays, local entertainment and great speakers… of course let’s not forget the sensational Victorian Produce!

For tickets and more information: www.heartofvic.com.au

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FLIGHT DECK Travel information & Industry News Canberra Airport to offer lounge-like facilities for all passengers Canberra Airport says the design of its international departures and arrivals hall will offer lounge-like facilities for every passenger. Normally lounges are provided by airlines for their VIP travelers, however every passenger who travels internationally, in and out of Canberra will be treated as club lounge members, with the best of design, furnishings and amenities in the general public areas. The new $18 million facility consists of a 2,750 square metre departure lounge and 2,400 square metre arrival hall capable of handling one million passengers a year and concurrent operations by a widebody and narrowbody aircraft. Singapore Airlines (SIA) announced it would serve the Australian capital four times a week with Boeing 777-200s on a Singapore – Canberra – Wellington rotation with the inaugural flight touching down on September 21.

Lufthansa cuts First Class Lufthansa has announced that it will be removing some of its First class cabins and transitioning to a three-class service (Business Class, Premium Economy and Economy) on selected routes out of Munich. The affected routes use A330-300s and some A340-600s

Malaysia Airlines’ rolls out new business class seat Malaysia Airlines’ has introduced its new business class seats on its Airbus A330-300 fleet choosing Sydney as the inaugural route to feature the Thompson Vantage seat, which coverts into a fully flat bed and is a significant upgrade from the previous angled lie-flat offering. The first flight was on March 23. The refits of all 15 Airbus A330-300s were expected to be completed by September, with the business class cabin cut from 36 seats to 27 seats in the new 1-2-1 and 1-2-2 configuration. The 43-inch seat pitch coverts into a 76inch flat bed. A version of the Malaysia Airlines’ Thompson Vantage seat was also found on airlines such as Austrian, Delta and India’s Jet Airways. There we no changes to the economy cabin. This is the start of an exciting roll-out of new, innovative and personalised products and services by the Malaysian carrier. 62 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 15 | 2016

Jetgo to start nonstop Albury – Brisbane service Regional carrier Jetgo plans to offer nonstop flights between Albury and Brisbane from June 20, four times a week. The route will be serviced with 36-seat Embraer ERJ-135 jets, saving travellers two hours on flights to Brisbane because as the jets are 50 to 60 per cent faster than the turboprop aircraft that currently service Albury. The direct services also eliminate the time and inconvenience of changing aircraft in Sydney. Albury is the airline’s third destination in regional NSW alongside Dubbo and Tamworth, and was identified as a market with potential to grow, given its close location to the snow. Currently, Virgin Australia and QantasLink serve Albury from Sydney, while Regional Express offers flights from Sydney and Melbourne.

Qantas introduced “Status Hold” for parents Qantas have announced that Qantas frequent flyers will be able to maintain their status level for 18 months should they take time off with the addition of a new family member such as a newborn, foster child or adopted child. Qantas’s “Status Hold” will allow parents who are taking at least six months off work to care for the new addition to the family, to continue to receive the benefits of their silver, gold or platinum status even if they do not fly enough to re-qualify for another year of elite status. The new initiative was one of several changes to the program alongside increased limits for families transferring points from one member to another and allowing members to make an unlimited number of points transfers in a 12-month period, from a maximum of four previously. Status Hold will apply to men and women and those welcoming a foster or adopted child.

Air Canada’s Premium Economy available a week early Air Canada’s Premium Economy class product will be available one week earlier than originally expected. With more legroom and recline, wider seats and an enhanced definition touch personal entertainment screen, the Premium Economy offering will now be available on the daily SydneyVancouver route from 11 May 2016. Air Canada’s Boeing 777-200’s will have 40 seats in International Business Class with lie-flat ‘Executive Pods’ and 236 seats in Economy Class with an upgraded in-flight entertainment system.

“When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money.” Susan Heller

QATAR arrives into Adelaide Qatar Airways began its daily non-stop services between Adelaide and Doha on 03 May flying the first A350-900 into Australia. The A350 is one of the world’s most technologically advanced twin-engine aircraft. Flights will arrive from Doha at 4.25pm and depart at 9.30pm. The airline already flies from Sydney, Melbourne and Perth using larger Boeing 777s on those routes. But the world’s newest commercial jet is its aircraft of choice for Adelaide. The flights will inject $41 million a year to the economy, creating 228 jobs.

Air NZ to increase domestic capacity Air New Zealand has announced it will be rolling out schedule changes across its domestic network from 30 Oct, with several routes seeing more capacity with the introduction of larger aircraft due to the retirement of Beechcraft 1900s. The Auckland- Dunedin route will increase from 14 to 17 flights per week, with Christchurch-Rotorua increasing from 15-20 flights per week. Wellington-Queenstown will also see a new daily operation.

Virgin Australia’s new A330 Business Class has launched Virgin Australia’s long awaited new Business class product has been introduced into service on aboard its Boeing 777-300ERs. The first of the new retro-fitted 777’s took flight between Sydney and Los Angeles, equipped with 37 of the spacious ‘The Business’ seats in a 1-2-1 configuration.

New Gaungzhou to Toronto Direct Service A new non-stop direct serviced between Guangzhou and Toronto by China Southern Airlines has opened for bookings and with a scheduled debut of 03 August 2016. China Southern will be using a Boeing 777-300ER to service the route

A MESSAGE FROM AFTA: The Australian Federation of Travel Agents wishes to congratulate ATAS-accredited travel agency Sean Simmons Travel on two of their travel experts reaching finalist status in the 2016 National Travel Industry Awards (NTIA). Their Managing Director, Sean Simmons, has displayed consistent excellence having been a Finalist for the last several years in the Category Best Travel Agency Manager – Corporate Single Location. This year we also congratulate Brett Kappler who is a Finalist in the Emirates Travel Consultant Scholarship category. This award recognises an individual who personifies excellence in their role and demonstrates best practice and individual achievement. The AFTA NTIA is the premier event in the travel industry calendar and celebrates and rewards excellence across 38 categories. It is a true honour to reach Finalist status. ATAS accredited travel agencies are quality, trusted and professional industry accredited businesses. Always look for the ATAS symbol when booking travel.

Travel Agents to lodge Passport Applications Under new plans by DFAT, Travel Agencies across Australia could become official passport lodgement points. Australia Post currently provides the service, however DFAT is seeking bids for an expression of interest to replace the current application process. The Visa Machine Global Director Luke Crawford has invited agents to provide letters of support for his plan which would see the creation of an organisation called ROTAA - Representatives of Travel Agents Australia. Crawford says he believes the DFAT EoI is a “monumental opportunity” for the industry which could potentially bring thousands of customers through agency doors. In 2015, Australia Post received 1.7 million passport lodgements via its 4,000 locations across Australia. The current contract ends in 2017. Crawford has written an open letter to the industry inviting their support which would be used as the basis for a national response to the EoI, in the hope this would see ROTAA able to participate in a formal tender process. TURBULENCE | ISSUE 15 |2016 | 63