Turbulence | Issue 19

ISSUE 19 2016

TURBULENCE

FINALIST: 2013, 2014, FINALIST 2016 2015 & 2016

READERS CHOICE

TOP THREE

destinations

Welcome to another exciting edition of Turbulence Another month has flown by, and the weather is slowing starting to heat up.

This means you can break out the summer wardrobe and start planning those warmer weekend getaways – with our help, of course.

FROM THE EDITOR

With the early birds soon to be in full swing, now is the time to look at booking that trip of a lifetime. If you’re even thinking about taking a European vacation next year, you should give us a call and see what we can do for you.

In business news, we have some fantastic announcements coming – I won’t say too much as we’re still hammering out the details, but definitely watch this space.

A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to our reader survey – we got some amazing feedback, and some great ideas for future editions. It is with pleasure that we kick off this edition with the results of our survey – the three hottest international destinations as voted by you!

We have specials galore this edition, including some amazing deals from Big Yellow Suitcase, Malaysia Airlines, World Journey’s and more. Also, make sure you check out Sean’s Travel Tips this months, as our crew reveal their biggest travel secrets.

As always, we would love to hear from you. If you have a story to tell about your trip of a lifetime, why not send it through – we might just publish it and there are some fantastic surprises in store for those who put in the effort.

In the meantime, I must get back to work.

This is me signing off – happy reading!

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In this issue 4 Readers choice top 3 destinations 6 Readers choice top 3 / #1

Greece & Greek islands

12 Readers choice top 3 / # 2 Canada

16

Readers choice top 3 / # 2

France

23 BUSINESS travel UNLIKE ANY OTHER…

Virgin Australia Business Class

24

Go out on a limb

Stay in an unique tree house

30 More AUSSIE destinations not TO MISS

ECO RESORTS & LODGES

35

MALAYSIA AIRLINES HOT DEALS

LONDON on sale

36

Gourmet Italy & France

3 tours for the foodie

38

Sean’s Travel Tips

Your sean simmons travel experts share their tips and secrets for you to take with you on your next vacation

39

Planet of the apps

SPOTIFY – it’s the world of music in your hand

40 CROWDFUNDED TRAVEL PRODUCTS EVERY TRAVELLER NEEDS to own 42 Flight deck

Travel information & Industry News

Share your journey with Sean Simmons Travel We are more than just travel agents, we are an entire community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for the world and all its intricate secrets.

PHONE US ON 1300 391 590 VISIT OUR WEBSITE EMAIL A TRAVEL EXPERT CONNECT WITH US ON LINKEDIN LIKE US ON FACEBOOK FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

That’s why we would like to offer you the chance to share your recent adventures around the globe. Don’t just tell your friends, relatives or the boys at the pub, put them in writing and share them with passionate wanderers just like yourself.

Not only will you be helping improve the travel experiences of your fellow jetsetters, but we have plenty of surprises in store for the lucky subscribers who are chosen to be published.

Email your story (of 1000 words or less) to

INFO@SEANSTRAVEL.COM.AU

ABN 48153795129 | AFTA 10216 | ATAS A10436

TURBULENCE | ISSUE 19 |2016 | 3

Readers choice

3

TOP Destinations

Over the last few months Sean Simmons Travel asked for your feedback.As part of our survey, we asked you what your dream destination would be.

Well, we have to say the question has been asked and answered, and a huge thanks to the 274 people who voted. There were three clear winners, which we present to you in this special Reader’s Choice Edition.

So, without further ado, here are the top three hottest international destinations as voted by YOU!

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Greece & the Greek Islands

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Greece has captured the world’s imagination with its ancient culture and fantastical myths. Visions of vengeful gods and goddesses, massive armies led by generals riding in chariots, and great philosophers discussing ground-breaking ideas dance in the heads of the millions of tourists who flock to the country each year to visit world-famous sites like the Parthenon in Athens, the Acropolis of Rhodes, the churches of Thessaloniki, and the Oracle of Delphi.

A holiday in Greece isn’t all about the past, however, as the region’s warm weather gives it an ideal climate for a holiday on the beach. Greek islands like Santorini, Crete, Mykonos and Corfu are popular cruise destinations in the Mediterranean, taking advantage of the roughly 200 days of sunshine each year for tourists to enjoy their pebbled beaches, seaside tavernas and lively nightlife.

Tourists can venture beyond the basic Greek salad to enjoy meze staples like saganaki (fried haloumi cheese), kleftiko (lamb slow-baked on the bone), and souvlaki (shaved pork wrapped in a pita). No holiday in Greece is complete without a taste of the local spirits, and the friendly and voluble locals are always ready to welcome visitors for an unforgettable experience in the ‘birthplace of civilisation’.

What to know before you go ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR AUSTRALIANS Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Greece. No visa is required for a touristic stay of up to 90 days.

LANGUAGE Greek is the national language, but English is widely spoken.

TRAVEL HEALTH There are no specific health risks associated with travel to Greece, but visitors who plan to walk through forested areas are advised to consider vaccination against tickborne encephalitis. Yellow fever vaccination certificates are required for those arriving from infected areas. A hepatitis A vaccination may be recommended by some doctors for extended travel in rural areas.

Medical facilities in Greece vary: those in major cities are excellent but many of the islands are some distance from a decent hospital. For this reason, it is best to take along any prescription medication you may require. Food

and water are safe, but those visiting for short periods should consider sticking to bottled water. UK nationals are entitled to a refund on emergency hospital treatment under a reciprocal agreement between the UK and Greece, and a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) should be taken on holiday for this purpose. Despite this, all visitors are advised to take out medical insurance.

TIPPING A service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants in Greece; it is best to see if this is the case before tipping. If no service charge has been included, leave between 10 to 15 percent. For drinks at cafes, round the bill up to the nearest euro. Taxis expect change as do cloak room attendants and porters.

SAFETY INFORMATION There is a safety risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks and visitors are urged to be vigilant in public places, including tourist sites. Recent austerity strikes have been widespread and can bring the country to a halt - transport networks particularly suffer during strikes. Thus far, strikes in Greece have inconvenienced travellers without turning violent; however, tourists are advised to stay away from political gatherings as there have been clashes between police and protesters. Greece is otherwise considered a safe destination, but the height of the tourist season does

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usually see an increase in petty theft cases, particularly in crowded areas. Visitors are advised not to carry valuables on them and to make use of hotel safes for valuables.

Do not display conspicuous wealth and make sure your valuable possessions are not easily accessible to pickpockets. Violent crime is infrequent, but there have been incidents on some Greek islands and lone visitors are advised not to accept lifts from strangers.

LOCAL CUSTOMS Indecent behaviour is not tolerated and the police will not hesitate to arrest or fine offenders. Some form of official identification should be carried at all times.

common in social circumstances though not necessarily in business. Business hours are generally 8.30am to 1pm and 3pm to 6pm Monday to Friday.

DUTY FREE Travellers from non-EU countries do not pay duty when entering Greece for 200 cigarettes, or 100 cigarillos, or 50 cigars, or 250g tobacco; 1 litre of spirits with alcohol volume over 22%, or 2 litres of dessert wine not exceeding 22% alcohol volume and sparkling wine, and 2 litres of table wine; 50g perfume or 250ml eau de toilette; and other goods for non-commercial value to the value of €175 for adults and €90 for children under 15 years.

BUSINESS Business in Greece is conducted in a similar fashion to Italy or Spain rather than their northern European counterparts. A formal dress style is adhered to: dark, conservative suits for men and women are best.

Punctuality is not often practiced in Greece and often hosts arrive late to meetings. A firm handshake with eye contact is the norm for greeting men and women for the first time. Business cards should be printed in both Greek and English, although there is no ritual surrounding the exchange. Greeks like to get to know their business colleagues before conducting any serious business so don’t expect to close a deal at the first meeting. Greek culture adheres to a hierarchical structure and respect should be shown accordingly. The giving of gifts is

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ECONOMY SALE TO Athens - QATAR AIRWAYS MELBOURNE SYDNEY PERTH ADELAIDE

Athens $1266.46 $1283.44 $1265.56 $1272.15

Terms and conditions | Tickets must be issued on or before 30SEP16. Minimum stay of five days and maximum stay of twelve months. Valid for travel 18SEP16-24NOV16 or 13JAN17-28MAR17. Prices are correct as at 17 September. Prices are subject to availability and can change without notice. Changes, cancellations or no show will incur fees. Credit card and bookings fees may apply.

Sailing Greece 8 DAYS FROM $1549

Highlights A yacht adventure is the ultimate way to experience what many consider the world’s most beautiful islands, the Greek Islands. Sail aboard a 15m (52 ft) yacht, with time for hiking, snorkelling, and relaxing. Explore ancient archaeological sites and taverna-lined harbours, dine on fresh seafood and don’t forget to try the Ouzo!

All itineraries include • Sailing of the Greek Islands • Fully licensed skipper • Snorkelling equipment Not included - basic items on board covered by a food kitty for small items, such as ice, water, coffee, tea, milk, snacks, drinks, and so on amount varies on your itinerary.

Is this tour for me?

Travel Style: Marine. Small-ship adventures on the world’s great seas and other places accessible by boat.

Service Level: Standard. Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.

Trip Type: Small group experience; Max 8 Physical Rating: 2 - Light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels. Nothing too challenging.

Choose from one of the following itineraries.

Mykonos to Santorini 8 Days from $1549 per person twin share ** Explore the beautiful southern Cyclades by sailboat, stop at small off-the-beaten-path islands along the way, relax on white-sand beaches, try your hand at sailing (or just relax on the deck) and stroll through local villages.

Santorini to Athens 15 Days from $2599 per person twin share ** Relax on white-sand beaches, swim in turquoise water, wander through whitewashed villages, taste traditional Greek food and wine, hike to spectacular viewpoints.

Myokonos to Athens 8 Days from $1549 per person twin share Enjoy the nightlife of Mykonos, marvel at the Cyclades Islands, discover historic ruins in Athens.

Santorini to Santorini 10 Days from $1899 per person twin share This ten-day round trip will give you the chance to explore some of the treasures of the Greek Islands. Sail through the pristine waters of the Greek Islands, capture the ultimate Greek snapshot on Santorini, wander through whitewashed villages on Paros, enjoy the party on Mykonos, discover Venetian architecture on Naxos.

Terms and conditions. ** Itineraries available in reverse. Sailing tours offered by G Adventures and subject to their terms and conditions. International flights, meals and travel insurance not included.

Credit card and booking fees may apply.

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Greek island hopping 12 NIGHTS FROM $2,780 PER PERSON TWIN SHARE FINAL DEPARTURES FOR 2016 BOARDING NOW The Cyclades epitomise every dream of the perfect Greek Island; glittering seas, miles of peaceful olive groves, mountain slopes covered in sweet smelling herbs, beautiful golden beaches, whitewashed houses gleaming in an endless summer sun combined with a heady mix of ancient culture and a lively local scene.

The islands get their name from the circle they form around the ancient site of Delos and we have selected an eclectic itinerary to include the best of the best.

From the craggy peaks of Naxos to the breathtaking views over the caldera of Santorini, from the colourful fishing harbour of Paros to the restaurants and nightlife of Mykonos, we invite you to sample the Greek Islands at their best.

includeS • 12 nights accommodation in the hotel category of your choice • 12 breakfasts • Transfers in private vehicles throughout • First class ferry or hydro tickets Pireaus > Mykonos > Paris > Naxos > Santorini > Pireaus

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Day 1: Arrive Athens On arrival in Athens you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Athens is dominated by the view of the Acropolis site of the Parthenon, one of the most famous classical monuments in the world. The centre of the modern city, particularly chic Kolonaki, has designer boutiques, restaurants and upmarket hotels galore. Athens has always exuded a unique charm, its street markets, vinecovered taverns and ancient monuments all adding up to make this special city what it is.

Day 2: Athens > Mykonos You will be collected from your hotel and transferred to Pireaus port for your first class ferry or hydrofoil to Mykonos. On arrival you will be transferred to your hotel.

Days 3 & 4: Mykonos You have two days at leisure. The perfect example of cycladic architecture set around a picturesque fishingvillage bay, Mykonos has organic whitewashed buildings jumbled into a haphazard maze of narrow alleys and streets. The surrounding bare hills reflect starkly against the bluest of skies and an every deeper azure sea. Churches and windmills abound and along with a vigorous nightlife, it is no wonder Mykonos has often been named “the jewel” of the Aegean Sea.

Day 5: Mykonos > Paros

Day 9: Naxos > Santorini

You will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the port for your first class ferry or hydrofoil to Paros. On arrival you will be transferred to your hotel.

You will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the port for your first class ferry or hydrofoil to Santorini.

On arrival you will be transferred to your hotel.

Day 6: Paros

Days 10 & 11: Santorini

At leisure today.

You have two days at leisure.

Paros is known for its exquisite sandy beaches and crystal waters while charming traditional villages of whitewashed houses highlighted with bougainvillea crowd narrow alleys and restaurants are abuzz with life.

The island faces the Caldera, the famous submerged volcano crater situated in the middle of the water. From the imposing cliffs, one can admire some of the most stunning little villages that seem suspended in the sky.

These are made of white typical Cycladic houses with blue painted windows facing the black volcanic rock of the Caldera: an arresting sight.

Day 7: Paros > Naxos You will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the port for your first class ferry or hydrofoil to Naxos. On arrival you will be transferred to your hotel.

Day 8: Naxos At leisure on Naxos.

Naxos is the largest island in the group and is the mythical home to Bacchus (Dionysus) and Ariadne.

Ariadne was the daughter of the cretan king Minos who helped Theseaus slay the Minotaur. Theseus abandoned Ariadne on Naxos and she eventually found solace in the arms of Bacchus. Naxos has always been a magnet for archaeologists, historians, scholars and artists alike drawn by the culture that has flourished here for centuries.

Day 12: Santorini > Athens You will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the port for your first class ferry or hydrofoil back to Pireaus. On arrival you will be transferred to your hotel for your final night in Greece.

Day 13: Depart Athens Transfer to the airport where arrangements conclude.

Terms and conditions | This tour is designed by World Journeys and is subject to their terms and conditions. Prices subject to availability at time of booking and can change at any time without notice. From price based on 4-star twin share accommodation. Surcharge applies for single traveller or upgrade to five-star accommodation. The order of the islands may vary and please note arrangements may change for bookings very early or very late in the season. This itinerary is flexible and may be altered or extended as you wish. Credit card and booking fees may apply. Please contact your travel expert for more details. 

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Canada

The vast country of Canada is a land of windswept prairies, towering mountains, fields of glaciers, pristine lakes and rocky coastlines. Filled with diverse wildlife and equally diverse wilderness landscapes, the Canadian great outdoors is its greatest draw card as a travel destination. Canada’s wild allure is magnetic for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts, with ample opportunity for activities like hiking, canoeing, fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, and even dog sledding.

While the image of Canada in most people’s minds is one of untouched wilderness, Canada’s cities are also extremely worthwhile, and the country’s urban destinations are attracting ever more attention. Whether you’d like to attend a rodeo in Calgary, marvel at the museums in Ottawa, browse the restaurants and art galleries of Toronto’s Distillery District, or have a picnic in Vancouver’s Stanley Park, the cosmopolitan cities spread across Canada offer a high quality of life and a range of sightseeing attractions that will please any traveller.

Much like the US, Canada is vast, and each province or territory has developed a distinct cultural character.

Some travellers will be enthralled by the French charm and historic fortifications of Quebec, while others will rave about the Scottish flavour and rich seafaring history of Nova Scotia. Canada could fill a lifetime of holidays.

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What to know before you go ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR AUSTRALIANS Australians must hold passports valid for period of intended stay. A visa is not required for a stay of up to six months.

LANGUAGE The official languages are English and French (spoken predominantly in Quebec).

TRAVEL HEALTH No vaccinations are necessary for travel to Canada.

Medical care is excellent, but expensive, so medical insurance is advised.

TIPPING There is no service charge added to restaurant bills in Canada and staff expect a tip of around 15 percent.

Hairdressers and taxi drivers are also usually tipped at the same rate, while bellhops, doormen, porters and similar service providers at hotels, airports and stations are generally paid at the customer’s discretion. It has become more common for places with counter service to display ‘tip jars’, but in such cases tipping is not necessary.

SAFETY INFORMATION Most visits to Canada are trouble-free. The country is politically stable, but does share the common international risk of terrorism. There have been no recent terrorism events. The crime rate is low, but travellers are advised to take sensible precautions to safeguard their belongings, as they would anywhere. Canada is prone to tornadoes between May and September.

LOCAL CUSTOMS Smoking bans have been implemented in Canada in enclosed public places such as restaurants, bars and shopping malls.

BUSINESS Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary and Montreal are the main business centres. English is the language of business except in French-speaking Quebec, where all written material and business cards should be in French.

Business cards are not traditionally exchanged during an initial meeting, but at some appropriate time thereafter; it is best to wait for the host to offer theirs first.

A firm handshake is used by way of greeting, and meetings tend to begin on time so punctuality should be taken seriously, as should appearance. Canadians dress conservatively and smartly for business meetings and suits are the norm. Gifts can be given in conclusion

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to celebrate a deal, but should be understated; taking someone out for a meal is a popular way to conclude business dealings. Canadians are reserved and frown on emotional outbursts. Business is based on facts and figures rather than relationships, so it is best to be as prepared as possible for meetings. Hours of business are usually 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.

DUTY FREE Travellers to Canada are allowed to enter the country with the following items without incurring custom duties: gifts to the value of C$60 per recipient (excluding advertising material, tobacco and alcoholic beverages); 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or cigarillos and 200g of tobacco or 200 tobacco sticks; 1.14 litres of liquor or wine or 24 x 355ml bottles or cans of beer or ale. There are strict regulations governing the import of the following: explosives, endangered animal and plant species, items of heritage, fresh foodstuffs and weapons. The plant Qhat (Khat) is illegal in Canada and prison sentences are heavy.

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ECONOMY SALE TO CANADA - QANTAS AIRWAYS MELBOURNE SYDNEY BRISBANE PERTH ADELAIDE

Toronto $1829.91 $1822.80 $1818.40 $1951.42 $1950.64

Vancouver $1802.42 $1865.50 $1811.10 $1982.73 $1993.34

Terms and conditions | Tickets must be issued on or before 30NOV16. No minimum stay. Maximum stay of twelve months. Valid for travel 4OCT16 – 8DEC16, 10JAN1730MAR, 14APR17-22JUN17, 11JUL17-8SEP17, 26SEP17-07DEC17, 18JAN185APR18. Prices are correct as at 17 September. Prices are subject to availability and can change without notice. Changes, cancellations or no show will incur fees. Credit card and bookings fees may apply.

with Butchart Gardens and more exhilarating whale watching.

Great 4-star accommodation options and a choice of rental cars, Great accommodation options and the a choice cars, plus the4-star excellent roads of Canada, make mostofofrental this truly plusexperience. the excellent roads of Canada, make the most of this truly BC BC experience.

particularly the charming French Quarter.

The walled city of Quebec is in a highlight, and is the heart of Canada at almost of Quebec is a highlight, and is the heart of Canada at almost 400 years old!

400 years old!

Grizzlies, orcas & black bears

Capitals & Eastern Canada

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The walled city of Quebec is a highlight, and is the heart Terms and conditions. Various car rental related fees are additional. Prices vary seasonally. Departs of Canada at almost 400 years old! daily April through to mid October.

Blachford Lake Blachford Lake LodgeLodge ©Martina Gebrovska 4Blachford DAYS FROM $3515 TWIN SHRE LakePP Lodge ©Martina Gebrovska This remote lodge, accessible only by bush-plane, offers BLACHFORD LAKE LODGE 4 DAYS superb Aurora Borealis viewing in inky |black skies well BLACHFORD LAKE |there’s 4viewing DAYS away fromlodge any urban lights.•LODGE In summer fishing, Wilderness experience Aurora Borealis canoeing, watching or even swimming in the lake, Wildernessbird • Aurora Borealis viewing This remote lodge lodge,experience accessible only by bush-plane, offers superb and winter offers snow-shoeing, cross-country skiing, Aurora Borealis viewing in inky black well away from any This remote lodge, accessible only by skies bush-plane, offers superb ice-skating, ice-fishing, snow-sculpting, igloo-building or urban In summer fishing, bird watching Auroralights.

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Terms and conditions. Daily departures, prices vary seasonally.

Western explorer with Sonora Resort SonoraResort Sonora Resort SILVERLEAF 11 DAYS FROM $6520 PP TWIN SHRE

WESTERN EXPLORER WITH SONORA British Columbia offers a wildly beautiful coast lined with WESTERN EXPLORER WITH SONORA RESORT | 11 DAYS lush rainforest, and the jaw-dropping Canadian Rockies— RESORT | 11 DAYS Vancouver • Sonora Resort • Kamloops • Rocky towering snow-capped peaks and charming alpine towns.

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Travel the scenic Icefields Parkway to a spectacular rail journey through the Rockies into Alberta and Terms and conditions. Departs May to October, prices vary seasonally. picture perfect Lake Louise, and where a highlight will Jasper National Park.

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Calgary, this is the very best of the west! (Tour also operates in reverse).

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France

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There isn’t a single travel destination that has the romantic pull of France. Idealised by millions all over the world, dreams of French holidays involve champagne on the Eiffel Tower, cruises on the Seine, bicycling through wine country and exploring the resorts of the Côte d’Azur.

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 providing never-ending opportunities to explore for millions of tourists each year.

French culture is known for its effortless sophistication, including the gastronomic delights of French cuisine, museums dedicated to centuries of French art, and the sought-after haute couture creations of French fashion designers. Whether looking for a city break in Paris or exploring the lesser-known delights of Alsace-Lorraine, a holiday in France is the dream vacation for many.

What to know before you go

Safety information

France has four distinct seasons and each season offers delights for travellers, but arguably the best time to visit is in late spring (May) and early autumn (September), to avoid the crowds of summer and the harshly cold winters.

Having said that, summer (June to August) remains the most popular season to visit France.

Security is at an all-time high in France following the Paris attacks, especially in the transport sector. Unattended luggage left in public places will be removed or destroyed by security staff. While generally safe, visitors to France are advised to take precautions against petty theft and to ensure their personal safety. Thieves and pickpockets operate on the metro and around airports. Theft from cars is prevalent, particularly in the south, around Marseilles, and in Corsica. Tourists are advised to conceal bags and purses even when driving, and to never leave valuables unattended in the car. Bag snatching is also common, particularly on public transport and in shopping centres, and visitors should also be vigilant of luggage while loading bags into and out of hire cars at airports. Violent crime against tourists is rare and holidays in France are generally trouble-free.

Tipping

Local customs

Most restaurants and hotels automatically add a 15 percent service charge so a tip is not necessary, although another two to three percent is customary if the service has been good. If service is not included, then 15 percent is customary. Taxi drivers expect 10 to 15 percent of the fare, and hairdressers about 10 percent. Hotel staff generally receive about â‚Ź1.50 a day and tips of about â‚Ź1 are given to washroom and cloakroom attendants and museum tour guides. Tour bus drivers and guides are also tipped.

French culture is of paramount importance to the French and in an increasingly Americanised world they feel dutybound to protect it. It is appreciated if visitors can speak a few words of French; locals do not respond well to being shouted at in English. While the food is second to none, foreigners may find the service in many restaurants sloppy; waiters can appear rude (particularly in Paris) and take their time. This is just the way they are. Traditional games such as pĂŠtanque (similar to lawn bowling but

Entry requirements for Australians Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months after their intended stay in France. No visa is required for a stay of up to three months.

Best time to visitFrance

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played on gravel) are popular in village squares, but the national sports are soccer, rugby and cycling. Smoking in public places is not allowed and will incur heavy fines.

Business Business etiquette is important in France. A smart, fashionable, sense of dress is common as the nation prides itself on haut couture. Punctuality is not always observed though and the ‘fashionably late’ tactic may be applied. A handshake is the common form of greeting for men and women upon first introductions.

Titles are important and the person is to be referred to as ‘monsieur’ (Mr.), ‘madame’ (Mrs.), or ‘mademoiselle’ (Ms.). Meetings usually occur over lunches, and the French are known to enjoy food. Business hours are generally 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.

Duty free

Travellers from non-EU countries over 17 years entering France can bring in the following items duty-free: 200 cigarettes, or 100 cigarillos, or 50 cigars, or 250g tobacco; 1 litre of spirits with alcohol content 22% and over, or 2 litres of dessert wine or sparkling wine not exceeding 22% alcohol volume, and 2 litres of table wine; 50g perfume or 250ml eau de toilette and other goods to the value of €175 per adult or €90 for children under 15 years.

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ECONOMY SALE TO Paris - QATAR AIRWAYS MELBOURNE SYDNEY PERTH ADELAIDE

Paris $1280.96 $1297.94 $1280.06 $1286.65

Terms and conditions | Tickets must be issued on or before 30SEP16. Minimum stay of five days and maximum stay of twelve months. Valid for travel 18SEP16-24NOV16 or 13JAN17-28MAR17. Prices are correct as at 17 September. Prices are subject to availability and can change without notice. Changes, cancellations or no show will incur fees. Credit card and bookings fees may apply.

Walking the french riviera «««

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8 DAYS FROM $2615 PP TWIN SHRE

Located on the Franco‐Italian border, on the edge of the warm Mediterranean sea, Menton is a delight for any visitor. It is easy to see how it earned its nickname ‘The Pearl of France,’ combining a city of gardens, seaport and beach resort with its own mild microclimate. With the Alpine chain dropping into the sea, it is also an ideal location for walking; many of the trails start directly from the town and quickly gain altitude, offering some of the finest views of the Riviera.

Day 1 Our start point is a comfortable 3‐star hotel in Menton.

Situated just a short stroll from the train station, beach and shops, it is ideally located for a week of centre‐based walking. In the evening our guide will hold a welcome meeting to discuss the week ahead, give advice on the local area and answer any questions.

Day 2 ‐ Cap Martin ‐Roquebrune Today we discover the region. Starting from the hotel we walk around the beautiful Cap Martin Peninsula, passing through the perched village of Roquebrune Cap Martin. Located between Menton and Monaco it enjoys spectacular views the Mediterranean sea. An old village

dominated by a charming 10th century fort, it’s narrow, stepped streets, deep vaulted passages are perfect to explore on foot.

Walk: Distance 12 km Ascent 350 m Descent 350 m Time: 4 to 5 hours (Breakfast) Day 3 ‐ Sospel ‐ Mercantour National Park We begin our day by bus, taking a 45 minute journey to Sospel. With the feel of a mountain town it is a peaceful village located very near to the Italian border and was once an important staging post on the royal road from Nice to Turin. Its cobbled streets, gothic houses and baroque cathedral make a picturesque starting point from which to begin our walk. From here we enjoy a walk at the border of the Mercantour National Park before heading back to our hotel by bus where we can enjoy an aperitif on the sun terrace or perhaps a stroll along the coastal path before dinner.

Walk: Distance 9 km Ascent 460 m Descent 460 m Time: 5 to 6 hours (Breakfast) Day 4 ‐ Free Day On your free day you could choose to explore Menton old town. During the 19th century, the British and Russian aristocracy met here in fabulous palaces and villas. The architecture is stunning with the unique baroque style of the Saint‐Michel and Conception squares as well as the Saint‐Michel Basilica façade. Alternatively you could visit one or more of the 8 gardens of Menton or head further

TURBULENCE | ISSUE 19 |2016 | 19

afield to Nice by train or bus and visit its renowned market as well as the ‘Promenade des Anglais’. Monaco also has much to offer, particularly its exotic garden which is hanging over the ‘Rocher’ giving a beautiful view over the city and the sea. (Breakfast) Day 5 ‐ Monaco ‐ Eze Today we take a train or bus to La Turbie via Monaco.

From here we have impressive views down over the famous principality and begin our walk on to the village of Eze. A pretty little 14th century village, Eze is famous for its production of clove and orange fruit. Built on a hill, it offers magnificent views France of the•coast.

Walking The French Riviera Walk: Distance 9 km Ascent 470 m Descent 775 m Time: 5 to 6 hours (Breakfast)

Day 7 ‐ Saint Jean Cap Ferrat For our last walk of the week we will enjoy another coastal walk around Saint Jean Cap Ferrat. After a transfer by train, we will walk along one of the most beautiful Cap of the French Riviera. Along the route we will see beautifully tended gardens flourishing with a mix or flora and fauna as our track follows limestone cliffs and near along the shoreline. To finish the afternoon, we will have time to visit Villefranche sur Mer with its citadelle of the XVI century and the Saint Pierre Chapel decorated by the famous French writer/cineast Jean Cocteau.

Walk: Distance 11 km Ascent 50 m Descent 50 m Time: 4 Page 2 France • Walking The French Riviera to 5 hours (Breakfast) Day 8 ‐ End Menton See Highlights of Provnce Walking Tour for Terms and conditions.

Day 6 ‐ Menton ‐ Castellar Taking the public bus we reach perched village ofRiviera Francethe • Walking The French Castellar. Dating back to the 15th century, it is situated on the French Italian border and made up of winding cobbled streets, quaint shops and gives an insight into traditional mountain living. From here we walk up to the Italian border, those with the energy can walk all the way back principality and begina ourmore walk on to gentle the village of Eze. A pretty to Menton whilst those looking for day can little 14th century village, Eze is famous for its production of hop on the public bus. clove and orange fruit. Built on a hill, it offers magnificent views

The en include

Page 4

France • Walking The French Riviera

of the coast.

Hotel Balmoral (3‐star)

Day 6 ‐ Menton ‐ Castellar

and a picturesque terrace. All rooms are en suite, fully air‐ Leisurely/Moderate conditioned and have a TV and telephone. Wi‐Fi is available in communal areas. Rooms with a seaview are available for a supplement.

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Our sta just a ideally evenin week a questio Day 2

Walk: Distance 13 km Ascent 180 m Descent 550 m Time:Located just a short distance from the town centre and train Walk: Distance 9 km Ascent 470 m Descent 775 m Time: 5 to 6 station, this seafront hotel makes the perfect base for a week of hours (Breakfast) 5 to 6 hours (Breakfast) walking. Facilities include a drinks bar, restaurant with sea views Taking the public bus we reach the perched village of Castellar.

Dating back to the 15th century, it is situated on the French Italian border and made up of winding cobbled streets, quaint shops and gives an insight into traditional mountain living. From here we walk up to the Italian border, those with the energy can walk all the way back to Menton whilst those looking for a more gentle day can hop on the public bus.

Day 1

‐ Level 2

Although the pace of the walks is leisurely and there is plenty of time to rest and enjoy the views, we place this itinerary at the Single Accommodation tougher end of the leisurely/moderate scale due to several of the Vaccinations and Health Double rooms for single occupancy and seaview room upgrades walks heading to or descending from hilltop villages. You should Tourism can be a real help to local communities, providing are available on request (subject to availability). Please ask your expect some ascent andbefore descent and read theand daily itinerary income, positive cultural exchanges a financial incentive to about Travel health can often be something people forget sales consultant at the time of booking. protect their natural environment. Ours is vary a 'totalfrom approach' to carefully.

The terrain and type of path/track will Tourism can be a real help to local communities, providing going away, but a little preparation and knowledge can go a long Walk: Distance 13 km Ascent 180 m Descent 550 m Time: 5 to 6 responsible tourism, covering everything from the way we plan manmade paved tracks (which toa tarmac. income, positive cultural exchanges and a financial incentive to way to help you stay fit and healthy while abroad.

(Breakfast) hours and operate ourare tripsoccasionally to the practices ofrocky) Exodus as company. protect their natural environment. Ours is a 'total approach' to All walks take between 4 and 6 hours including lunch stops and Throughout this walking holiday we visit small mountain cafes for Day 7 ‐ Saint Jean Cap Ferrat responsible tourism, covering everything from the way we plan There are no specific health risks on this trip. require a moderate level of fitness. Public transport can be

Today around perche Mento Medite centur are pe

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Walk:

hours Travel hea( going awa way to he Day 3

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Highlights of Provence walking tour

«««

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8 DAYS FROM $2615 PP TWIN SHRE

A stunning part of Provence and relatively untouched by tourism, Greoux‐les‐Bains is the perfect base for a week of gentle daywalks. From our comfortable 3‐star hotel, we explore the region with a mixture of walks from the door or following a short private bus transfer.

With the bustling market town of Forcalquier, the dramatic Verdon Gorge and depending on the season, fields of lavender or poppies just a short drive away, there is much to be explored.

Day 1 Start at the Hotel des Alpes, Greoux‐les‐Bains. (Dinner) Day 2 ‐ Saint Martin de Bromes Today we walk directly from the hotel and initially follow the banks of Verdon river. From here we ascend a hill and follow the ridge with spectacular views of the turquoise waters of the Esparron Lake. From here we head to the pleasant village of Saint Martin de Bromes where we will stop for lunch. Leaving the village we will climb up to the plateau of Pauron on a good GR track (Grande randonnée).

Distance: 13km Ascent: 434m (Breakfast)

Day 3 ‐ Forcalquier In the morning we take a private transfer to the bustling hilltop town of Forcalquier. One of the largest of its kind in France, the weekly market is bursting with both new and tradional french goods including olive oil, breads and cheeses. After time for exploring the myriad of stalls, we will head on to the see the Mourres plateau. A site of geological interest the plateau is covered with strange limestone concentrations that sometimes look like faces, which is how the area earned its name, ‘Mourres’ meaning faces in Provencal.

Distance: 11km Ascent: 372m (Breakfast) Day 4 ‐ Quinson ‐ Lower Verdon Gorges After a private transfer in the morning to the lovely village of Quison, today’s walk will take us to a superb walkway along the lower Verdon Gorges. This walkway follows an old canal previously used to carry drinking water to Aix en Provence. The views of the Turquoise Verdon are truly amazing. The the walk continues up to the chapel Saint Maxime ideal spot for lunch.

Distance: 9,5 km Ascent: 400 m (Breakfast) Day 5 ‐ Free Day Today is free too either relax by the pool, visit the nearby shops or take a bus trip to the beautiful town of Aix en Provence. (Breakfast)

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Highlights Of Provence France

France • Highlights Of Provence

16 MIN AGE

Day 6 ‐ Ridges above Moustiers St Marie After a private transfer in the morning to Moustiers St Marie we climb up to the craggy ridge of l’Ourbes with great views over the lake of St Croix. After crossing the summit and descending to a dry riverbed the terrain becomes more open before the final descent toFrance • Highlights Of Provence France • Highlights Of Provence Moustiers on an old roman road.On our return journey we take a slight detour to enjoy an alternative view of the Verdon Gorge.

Distance: 11km Ascent: 505m (Breakfast)

Distance: 11km Ascent: 281m (Breakfast) Day 8 End Greoux‐les‐Bains. (Breakfast)

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2 8 DAYS LAND ONLY

TEA

TRIP COD

Page 2

Day 1

Start at the Hotel des Alpes, Greoux‐les‐Bai

Day 7 ‐ Plateau between Greoux and Valensole

Day 7 ‐ Plateau between Greoux and Valensole Leaving on foot directly from our hotel we head to the Valensole plateau. The surrounding countryside all is beautiful, especially in the spring when the almond trees are in bloom. In the summer, aromas of lavender and thyme waft through the air confirming the fact that Valensole is one of the most important producers of lavender in Provence. Valensole comes from the Latin ‘vallis’ and ‘solis’ meaning the valley of sun. We return to Greoux following a pleasant track alongside the ‘Laval’ stream.

Page 8 DAYS FLIGHT INC.

specialises in traditional Provencal recipes often using fresh seafood and local produces. The restaurant is member of the Summary At a glance Leaving on foot directly from our hotel we head to the Valensole 'Charter Flavors and Day Fragrances in Pays Martin de Haute‐Provence' and 2 ‐ Saint de Bromes 5 days centre‐based walkin producers. plateau. The surrounding countryside all is beautiful, especially helps A stunning part of Provence and support relativelylocal untouched by tourism, day Greoux‐les‐Bains is the perfect base for a week of gentle in the spring when the almond trees are in bloom.

In the Well‐marked trails and path occasionally rocky and daywalks.

3‐star hotel, we Today explore thewe walk directly from the hotel Transport summer, aromas of lavender and thyme waft through theFrom air our comfortable Altitude maximum 1300m, region with a mixture of walks from the door or following a short confirming the fact that Valensole is one of the most important 700m banks of Verdon river.

From here we ascend private bus transfer. With the bustling market town of from the All transport mentioned in the itinerary is included, exceptGroup for normally 5 to 15, plu producers of lavender in Provence. Valensole comes Min age 16 yrs Forcalquier, the dramatic Verdon Gorge and depending on the ridge with spectacular views of the turquois Latin 'vallis' and 'solis' meaning the valley of sun.season, We return where nights in 3‐star hotel, all of lavenderoptional or poppiesexcursions just a shortor drive away,a client may choose to curtail7 a fields to suite Greoux following a pleasant track alongside the there 'Laval'is stream. group walk. Airport and daily transfers willFrom be by private much to be explored.

Esparron Lake. herecoach we head included to the p All breakfasts (some days will involve walking directly from the hotel andTrip can be combined with Saint Martin de Bromes where we Riviera will stop the French Distance: 11km Ascent: 281m (Breakfast) transport will not be needed).

village we will climb up to the plateau of P Highlights track (Grande randonnée).See the beautiful Verdon G

Day 8

Explore local markets and v

Day 7 ‐ Plateau between Greoux and Valensole End Greoux‐les‐Bains.

(Breakfast)

specialises in traditional Provencal recipes often using Enjoyfresh relaxed daywalks

summer, Hotel des Alpes ‐ aromas 3‐star of lavender and thyme waft through the air confirming the fact that Valensole is one of the most important comes from the producers of lavender Provence.

Valensole This family‐run hotel is ideally in located in the pretty Provencal Latin 'vallis' and 'solis' the valley offacilities, sun. We return village of Greoux‐les‐Bains.

Allmeaning rooms have en suite air to Greoux a pleasant trackhotel alongside 'Laval' stream.

Wi‐Fi. The has anthe outdoor conditioning, a following hairdryer and

Transport

seafood andsubject local produces.

The restaurant member(Breakfast) of the Terms and conditions | Packages offered by Exodus Tours and are to their terms and is 434m Distance: 13km Ascent: Leaving on footAdirectly from level our hotel we headistoexpected the Valensole 'Charter Flavors andare Fragrances conditions. moderate of fitness to participate.

Prices correctinasPays at de 13Haute‐Provence' and producers. plateau.

The surrounding all availability is beautiful, especially helpswithout support local September.

Prices arecountryside subject to and can change notice.

Credit card and in the spring when the apply. almond trees are in bloom. In the Day 3 ‐ Forcalquier booking fees may

heated swimming pool with an adjacent restaurant serving 11km Ascent: 281m (Breakfast) deliciousDistance: local specialties.

the morning we take a private transfer to All transport In mentioned in the itinerary is included, except for optional excursions a client may choose to curtail a town orofwhere Forcalquier.

One of the largest of i group walk. Airport and daily transfers will be by private coach weekly is bursting both new an (some days will involve market walking directly from the with hotel and transport willgoods not be needed). including olive oil, breads and cheese

exploring the myriad of stalls, we will head Mourres plateau. A site of geological intere Leisurely/Moderate ‐ Level(Breakfast) 2 are available on request End Greoux‐les‐Bains.

Double rooms for single occupancy covered with strange limestone concentrati (subject to availability). Please ask your sales consultant at the look like faces, which is how the area earne time of booking.

Although the pace of the walks is leisurely and there is plenty of Weather in Aix‐en‐Provence is good throughout the year thanks to meaning faces in Provencal. time to rest and enjoy the views, we place this itinerary its at mildthe Mediterranean climate. The region welcomes hot, dry Hotel des Alpes ‐ 3‐star summers tougher end of the leisurely/moderate scale due to several of(June the to September) averaging around 30 ºC, whilst 11km Ascent: (Breakfast) winters (December toDistance: February) are cool around 12 to372m 15 ºC but walksFood heading to or descending from hilltop villages.

You should This family‐run hotel is ideally located in the pretty Provencal rarely cold, with lows rarely below 10 ºC. Spring (March to May) village of Greoux‐les‐Bains.

All and roomsread have en suite facilities, air autumn (October to November) are cool and balmy and and expect some ascent and descent the daily itinerary Thewe hotel anatoutdoor conditioning, a hairdryer perfect for trekking. Day 4 ‐ Quinson ‐ Lower Verdon Gorges All breakfasts are included in the and trip.Wi‐Fi. Each day willhas stop a carefully. The terrain and type of path track willserving vary from heated withlunch an adjacent restaurant are plenty of bakery or store swimming for you to pool buy your and there delicious local specialties. manmade paved tracks (which are from occasionally rocky) to tarmac. restaurant choices in the town to choose in the evenings.

If After a private transfer in the morning to th you fancy close to 4home restaurant is run lunch by All walks takestaying between andthe6 hotel hours including stops and Single Accommodation Quison, today's walk will take us to a superb Chef Olivier Gaillard who has worked there for 20 years and require a moderate level of fitness. lower Verdon Gorges. This walkway follows Double rooms for single occupancy are available on request previously used to carry drinking water to A (subject to availability). Please ask your sales consultant at the All walks are optional. time of booking. views of the Turquoise Verdon are truly am Weather in Aix‐en‐Provence is good throughout the year thanks to continues up to chapel Saint Maxime id its mild Mediterranean climate.

Thethe region welcomes hot, dry Day 8 Single Accommodation

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Relish in the surrounds of The Bar as you enjoy a drink with other guests from ‘The Business’. Dedicated Cabin Crew are on hand to ensure that you are taken care of, as Virgin Australia believe the journey is every bit as important as the destination.

From the welcome champagne to the Nespresso coffee and bespoke Luke Mangan designed cuisine including A La Carte dining options, every need is

catered for – with the finest glassware and crockery enhancing a restaurant style, on-demand experience.

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Go out on a limb 24 | TURBULENCE | ISSUE 19 | 2016

SEAN SIMMONS TRAVEL | UNIQUE DESTINATIONS |

Stay somewhere extraordinary and experience a holiday in the treetops

Out & About Treehouse Resort, Oregon If you want to feel like you’re living in an Ewok village for the weekend, there’s no better place than the Out’n’About Treehouse Treesort.

Proprietor Michael Garnier is an expert in building tree houses, and he claims to have the world’s largest concentration of tree houses on his property in Cave Junction, Ore. The tallest tree house on site is located 37 feet (11.3 meters) above the ground, but visitors can also opt to stay in Garnier’s “Cavaltree” fort, the aptly named Swiss Family Robinson Complex or the Treezebo. In all, there are at least 18 tree houses on the 36acre resort, several of which feature electricity and plumbing.

Ariau Amazon Towers Hotel, Brazil

Sanya Nanshan Treehouse Resort, China

The one essential building block for a large tree house is a big, sturdy tree to support it. So it stands to reason that Brazil, which is home to the world’s largest rainforest, would be a pretty good place to build a tree house.

And that’s exactly where you’ll find the Ariau Amazon Towers Hotel. It’s a large rainforest retreat that consists of eight wooden towers with 268 rooms that have views of the surrounding treetops. But it’s the tree houses that we’re interested in. In addition, Ariau features several rustic tree houses that are suspended in the trees above the river. The tallest tree house is the Tarzan House, which is located about 21.95 meters above the ground in a mahogany tree and has its own its own private balcony and hot tub.

Located in the Nanshan Cultural Tourist Zone of China’s Hainan Province, the Sanya Nanshan Treehouse Resort is one of the most impressive tree house resorts in the world. Four very large and elaborate tree houses are suspended in the branches of large, old tamarind trees.

The largest tree house on site is the Big Beach in the Sky, a two-story tree house that sleeps six and is only accessible via a rope bridge that is connected to another large tree house.

On the beach, there are more tree house accommodations for up to 20 people.

ENQUIRE WITH SEAN SIMMONS TRAVEL ABOUT THESE DESTINATIONS.

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SEAN SIMMONS TRAVEL | UNIQUE DESTINATIONS |

Camping will never quite feel the same again…

Free Spirit Spheres, Vancouver Island Tree houses truly come in all shapes and sizes. But a spherical tree house -- is that even possible? Where there’s a will, there is a way, but it takes a truly free spirit to develop a series of spherical tree houses in the forest of Vancouver Island. Enter Tom Chudleigh, the designer of the Free Spirit Spheres. Chudleigh builds his bubble-shaped tree houses using a 10.5-foot (3.2-meter) fiberglass sphere that is coated with light, local wood.

Each sphere features four attachment points on the top and four on the bottom, so the structure is supported by a web of support ropes and cables that help to stabilize it and prevent it from falling. You can rent one of the three eco spheres, which each feature a bed, a table and chairs, and some storage space (sorry, no bathroom), for a rate of $135 to $275 per night.

Finca Bellavista, Cost Rica Finca Bellavista in Costa Rica is easily one of the most ambitious tree house developments in the world. As the story goes, founders Matt and Erica Hogan fell in love with a more than 300-acre parcel of rainforest when visiting Costa Rica in 2006. They purchased the property and got to work developing what they describe as a sustainable tree house community.

Although it isn’t technically a resort, the tree houses at Finca Bellavista are almost always available for rent at rates ranging from $96 per night for the rustic Cabina Colibri “jungalow” to $212 per night for the impressive El Castillo Mastate, a 1,300-square-foot octagonal tree house that is located an astounding 90 feet (27.43 meters) off the ground.

Cedar Creek Treehouse, Washington State With an abundance of tall coniferous trees, the Pacific Northwest is a perfect place to build a tree house, and not surprisingly, the region is home to some of the most innovative tree houses in the world. Perched about 50 feet (15.24 meters) above ground in a more than 200-year-old red cedar, the Cedar Creek Treehouse is one of the best examples in the area. The lofty, two-level bed and breakfast has enough space to sleep five, and it features a sunroom, a small kitchen, and stunning views of Mount Rainier and Sawtooth Ridge.

But for the best views, guests can take the “stairway to heaven,” a rainbowcolored bridge that takes you up to an observation platform located 100 feet (30.48 meters) off the ground.

The solar-powered tree house is completely off the grid, and in the colder months it uses propane heat.

Rates start at $300 per night for two people.

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SEAN SIMMONS TRAVEL | UNIQUE DESTINATIONS |

“Tree houses are the ultimate return to nature”– Pete Nelson

The Gibbon Experience, Laos

Treehotel, Sweden

Spending the night in a tree can be exhilarating by itself, but if you’re looking for a true adventure, the Gibbon Experience is the tree house for you. After arriving in the Bokeo Nature Preserve in Laos, guides will fit you with a climbing harness, and you’ll travel with them by zip line to your tree house. There are two different tree houses in the preserve; the waterfall tree house is located above a swimming hole, while the other one overlooks several valleys and has excellent sunset views. The thatchedroof tree houses are rustic, open-air structures without much in the way of amenities, but they’re located high in the jungle canopy, an excellent spot to view the gibbons, small Laotian apes.

When we think of tree houses, we tend to expect something resembling a ramshackle tree fort, but they don’t necessarily have to look like that.

Case in point: Treehotel, a slick, sleek, modernist tree house resort located in a mature pine forest in Harads, Sweden with all the trappings of an upscale hotel. Treehotel features a variety of striking tree houses, ranging from the Mirrorcube, a 258-squarefoot (24-square-meter) cube that is camouflaged with its mirrored exterior walls, to the UFO, a flying saucershaped tree house that looks like it’s straight out of the movie “E.T.” The Treehotel includes a total of 24 tree houses, each of which contains an eco-friendly combustion toilet and a water-efficient sink, and it even features a 12-person sauna raised off the forest floor.

Green Magic Treehouse Resort, India India is a country that Westerners tend to visit in search of new experiences that are completely foreign from their lives at home, and few hotels embody that romantic ideal more than the Green Magic Treehouse Resort. Located in the middle of the rainforest in Kerala, India, there are three different tree houses at the resort. The first is located 60 feet (18.29 meters) above ground, and it’s reached by “water lift” -- one person stands in a cage-like structure, while another person, aided by a water counterweight, hoists them up with ropes. The second tree house is located 70 feet (21.34 meters) above ground, and the third is at an impressive height of 115 feet (35.05 meters). The tree houses each have two bedrooms, and they feature fullservice bathrooms, thatched roofs and wraparound balconies.

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AUSSIE destinations not TO MISS ECO RESORTS & LODGES

What is an eco-resort, exactly? An eco-resort, by loose definition, would be a hotel that takes steps to reduce its carbon footprint while giving back to its local community. They are designed to allow their guests to share in the wonder of nature while at the same time protecting and conserving it for generations to come.

Australia has some of the most fantastic eco-lodges the world has to offer – including high-end luxury camps such as Sal Salis in Western Australia, to family-friendly marine paradises such as Lady Elliot Island in Queensland.

Let Sean Simmons Travel design your next green getaway, and truly get away from it all!

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O’REILLY’S RAINFOREST LODGE, QUEENSLAND From $253 per night Located in the heart of world heritage listed Lamington National Park, a 2-hour drive from Brisbane and 1.5 hours from the Gold Coast, O’Reilly’s provides a true nature-lovers paradise.

Owned and operated by the O’Reilly’s family, O’Reilly’s has provided traditional Australian hospitality for over 80 years. At 903 metres above sea level, O’Reilly’s enjoys cool mountain air and spectacular views where guests can

immerse themselves in nature, relax and enjoy the rainforests and spectacular natural setting.

A full ‘Discovery Program’ of guided tours operates daily. The Dining Room offers meals daily plus there is the Rainforest Bar and cafe. Facilities include heated plunge pool, spa, sauna, games room, guesthouse lounge/library, theatre, conference, wedding, reception and business facilities.

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FARAWAY BAY, WESTERN AUSTRALIA Packages tailored upon request Located 280kms north west of Kununurra, Faraway Bay is a soulenriching hideaway on Western Australia’s remote and spectacular Kimberley coastline – otherwise known as Australia’s Diamond Coast.

Accessible only by air, a maximum of just 16 guests share this isolated and immaculate wilderness in secluded clifftop cabins, with uninterrupted views of the Timor Sea. The camp’s location features a relatively unexplored landscape, giving guests a rare opportunity to experience outback Australia at its finest. Here, the natural wonders will take your breath away.

The marine, bird and wildlife will amaze

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you. And the excitement and tranquillity of being on the edge of forever is an experience you will never forget.

7-NIGHT 2017 EARLY BIRD SPECIAL FROM $7,392 per person twin share (normally $10,560) All inclusive, including tours, food and beverage, one free night, flights ex-Kununurra and one-night accommodation in Kununurra before your stay. Must book my 15 October, 2016. Speak to your Sean Simmons Travel expert for full details.

BAMuRRU PLAINS, NORTHERN TERRITORY Packages tailored upon request Bamurru Plains is the ultimate outback Australian safari experience.

thousands of Magpie Geese, after whom the camp is named, is an experience in itself.

The focus of your stay at Bamurru is in the environment around you and the wildlife and birdlife for whom it is home.

Each individual safari suite is designed to blend with the surrounding bush and as such exposes guests to the sights and sounds of the bush around you, whether it is the haunting call of a Whistling Kite, the raucous cacophony from the Blue-winged Kookaburras as dawn breaks or the sound of a full grown buffalo splashing its way through the floodplains just a short distance from your bed. The morning chorus of tens of

2016 Season ends 31 October, after which it is closed for the summer due to the extreme heat. 2017 season begins 1 May.

Bamurru Plains is located on Swim Creek Station, a coastal buffalo pastoral property near Point Stuart in the Mary River Region. The station is 10 kms from Kakadu’s western boundary. The property is situated just over 100 kms east of Darwin and 100 kms from Jabiru in Kakadu National Park. Access by plane, chopper or dirt road (so not for hire cars!)

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PAPERBARK CAMP, NEW SOUTH WALES From $331 per night twin share including breakfast Architect designed with both the environment and guest in mind, Paperbark Camp luxury camping is ecotourism at its best, managing to provide a beautiful and comfortable base from which to explore the local area and to enjoy the tranquillity of this natural Australian bushland setting. Located on the banks of the Currambene Creek, Jervis Bay, Paperbark Camp is ideal for those who love being close to nature, but appreciate life’s little luxuries, not to mention wonderful food prepared daily by the camps chefs using local produce.

Paperbark Camp luxury camping accommodation consists of eight

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elevated safari style tents that have their own open-air ensuite bathroom, queen size beds, luxury 100% cotton linen and towels, locally made furniture as well as a wrap-around verandah for sitting and enjoying the sounds of the bush. Or for the ultimate camping experience guests can indulge themselves staying in one of our four luxury safari tents, complete with its own bush bath with a view.

The Gunyah provides a central communal area for eating and relaxing with outside dining on the verandah during the warmer months, and in the colder months an open fire creates a cosy atmosphere for reading, playing games or sharing travel adventures with other guests.

LONDON on sale MALAYSIA AIRLINES HOT DEALS TO LONDON

A few things you can do while you’re there:

England’s historic capital was the centre of the British Empire for generations, and is imbued with an incredible sense of history; visitors to London often feel that the city is familiar because of all the iconic landmarks and famous buildings!

Modern London has moved with the times and in addition to its proud ancient heritage it is a truly cosmopolitan city which continues to host prestigious world events. Anyone wishing to understand and explore the origins of Western culture will revel in a holiday in London, where traditional attractions still amaze and astound, but they will also be entertained by contemporary London, with its excellent restaurants, energetic nightlife, and enjoy world-class shopping.

• Spend a few hours getting lost among the myriad treasures of the British Museum.

• Visit Madame Tussauds to meet all your favourite celebrities.

• Gawp at the magnificence of St Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey.

• Get a sense of the city’s rich history and see the crown jewels in the Tower of London.

• Take a tour of the state rooms and Queen’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace.

• Sample punk culture at the fun and feisty Camden Market.

• Explore UNESCO-listed Greenwich, famous for its meridian and many museums.

• Visit the South Bank, and marvel at the breathtaking views from the London Eye.

The best time to holiday in London is during spring (April and May) when its famous parks erupt in a profusion of flowering bulbs, early autumn (September and October) when the trees turn into golden hues and skies are often blue, or summer (July and August) when the long evenings are a joy. Winters can gloomy, dark and cold but the cosy pubs and brilliant museums still beckon.

A holiday in London is enjoyable for anyone and everyone.

Families will find plenty to intrigue and delight children; couples can wallow in romance and ‘olde worlde’ glamour; and culture vultures will be in heaven.

ON SALE UNTIL 31 OCTOBER! Economy

Business

Sydney

$1,277

$5,482

Adelaide

$1,236

$5,470

Melbourne Perth

Darwin

$1,260

$1,230

$1,225

$5,465

$5,464

$5,460

PACK MORE WITH A GENEROUS 30KG ECONOMY BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE! Terms and conditions | Fares valid for sale until 31 Oct’16. Fares are for Economy Class or Business Class return travel ex AU city stated per person & include taxes, fees & fuel surcharges, correct as at 13 September 2016.

Prices subject to change and subject to seasonal surcharges. We reserve the right to alter or extend this offer without notice. Prices may fluctuate due to changes in currency exchange, fees & taxes. Fares are quoted in Australian Dollars. Limited seats available and may not be available on every day/flight throughout the travel period and subject to availability. Scheduling is subject to change. Codeshare flights NOT permitted. Min & Max stay applies. Change fees apply. Economy Class: Non-refundable. Business Class: Before/After departure cancellation fees apply. Where permitted by law, the refund if any will be reassessed at the applicable fare for the journey travelled, plus applicable cancellation fee will apply. A mandatory stopover may be required at Kuala Lumpur International Airport for some connecting flights. Two voluntary stopovers are permitted in Kuala Lumpur; additional taxes may apply. Additional stopovers will cost $150 per stopover, per person. All voluntary stopovers will incur additional taxes. Local taxes may also apply. Other costs associated with voluntary stopovers are also at passenger’s own expense. Other conditions apply. Credit card and booking fees may apply.

TURBULENCE | ISSUE 19 |2016 | 35

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SEAN SIMMONS TRAVEL | FOODIE DESTINATIONS |

Gourmet Italy & France With Big Yellow Suitcase, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to private homes, gardens, and palaces.

Enjoy fine food and wine, learn how to cook the local specialties, meet the producers and local artisans and artists.

If you want to stay longer in each place, pack and move less often and enjoy a greater depth of experience, then Big Yellow Suitcase itineraries are designed specifically with you in mind. Plus, to celebrate the launch of the Early Bird Fares to Europe – enjoy 200 EURO off all France and Italy tours with Big Yellow Suitcase.

Simply book and deposit before 31 October, 2016.

The Sumptuous Palaces and Gourmet Delights Tour of Northern Italy 19 – 30 September 2017 $8,900 per person twin share You’ve visited the must see sights of Venice, Florence and Rome and now discover what makes Northern Italy so very special. Ferrara provides the perfect base and as we’ll be staying here for 7 nights you’ll have plenty of opportunity to soak up the ambience and discover your own favourite areas of this stunning UNESCO World Heritage city. We’ll also go further afield to explore the Po River Delta where we’ll discover the home of Balsamic vinegar, Parmesan cheese, Parma Ham and traditional pastas from Bologna. Then head north and spend a few days in Bellagio, dramatically located at the mid-point of stunning Lake Como.

The Heel of Italy – Puglia, A Feast for the Senses 15 May to 23 May 2017 $6,900 per person twin share Jutting out between the sparking emerald green and soft blues of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, Puglia’s coastline still bears the marks of its many invaders. You’ll find Baroque towns, white-walled trulli, olive groves, picturesque seascapes, memorable hill-top and coastal towns and plenty of sunshine. Puglia’s peasant cuisine (cucina povera) is legendary and features locally sourced olives, tomatoes, eggplants, artichokes and plentiful seafood. Its wines are among the best that Italy has to offer. This is slow travel at its best.

From the Mountains to the Sea – A gourmet and cultural experience in Southern France 28 April – 10 May 2017 & 1 September to 13 September 2017 $5,600 per person twin share A 12 night, 13 day fully escorted gourmet and cultural tour stretching from the ‘Pink City’ of Toulouse to the remarkable Albi and some of the most beautiful hilltop villages in France.

We’ll travel down to Sete, the ‘Venice of France’ and up into the mountains to the citadels of the Cathars before heading over the border into Catalonia.

Terms and conditions | Prices are based on individual travellers.

Reductions available for twin share. International flights not included. Tours can be customised to operate on any date with a minimum group size – enquire with your travel expert. Tours designed by Big Yellow Suitcase and are subject to their terms and conditions. Prices correct as at 26 September and are subject to currency fluctuations. Prices subject to availability and can change without notice. Credit card and booking fees may apply.

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| SEAN SIMMONS TRAVEL | SEAN’S TRAVEL TIPS

Your sean simmons travel Sean’s TRAVEL experts share their tips and secrets for you to take with you on your next vacation

TIPS Sean: Managing Director

Kat: Senior Leisure Consultant

Always have an emergency stash of essentials in your carryon luggage, including toiletries and a change of clothes (including undies!).

I’ve had luggage go AWOL too many times to get caught out.

If you’re travelling via Singapore and are going to be awhile in transit, pack your swimmers in your carry on and take advantage of the outdoor rooftop pool at Changi.

My biggest tip is to let go and enjoy yourself. Eat the local food, drink the local drinks, and truly immerse yourself wherever you may be. Travel is about new and exciting experiences. If you’re going to fly 20’000kms to have a Big Mac, you might as well stay home.

Because air travel can wreak havoc on your skin, I always carry moisturiser, face mist and eye cream to ensure I will look and feel a lot fresher at the other end. I also carry an extra blanket that is light but warm, as the ones on the plane just don’t seem to cut it.

Lizz: Operations Manager

Brett: Junior Travel Consultant

Always have some local money on you before you land. You never know what you might need it for, be it a bottle of water, a taxi, or in the case of some countries like South Africa, to ‘spend a penny’.

Firstly, learn how to use chopsticks. Nothing will make a local Asian food vendor roll their eyes faster than the tourist asking for a fork. It took me a while but I got there, and if I can do it, anyone can!

On the plane, wear comfortable, close-toed shoes – like sneakers. I say close-toed because in the (however unlikely) event of an emergency where we have to land in water I don’t want the fish eating my toes.

Definitely don’t wear cowboy boots, no matter how well they go with your outfit, because if you retain fluid you might find yourself wearing them for three days until the swelling goes down.

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Seriously, my all-time biggest tip for travellers is to learn how to take a decent photo. Doesn’t matter if it’s just for you, social media, or your photo album – being able to really capture a moment will bring you years of pleasure long after the journey has ended. A selfie with a landmark in the background only goes so far. With smartphones and filter applications these days, you have as close to professional equipment in your pocket that you can get without actually buying professional equipment. Experiment and have fun with it – never be afraid to be a bit creative.

SEAN SIMMONS TRAVEL | APPS |

SPOTIFY – it’s the world of music in your hand Not sure what your holiday mixtape will be? Download Spotify and listen to songs on a whim without having to make the tough decisions before you go.

With Spotify, you can: • Listen to your favourite artists • Sync music to your phone for offline listening (great for places with no wi-fi) • Explore new music, or tune in to themed Spotify radio stations • Share what you are listening to across social media – introduce your friends to your favourite music!

The best part is, because you are using a streaming service, you’re not taking up valuable space on your

phone that will eventually slow your device down. If you listen to an album offline ou can create more space by ‘deleting’ the album you are no longer listening to – and go back to it later when you are back online.

Be careful with your data though, as you can easily chew through if you are walking the streets of Rome with your headphones in all day. Unless you have an amazing overseas data plan, make sure you are only streaming when connected to the internet. Many hotels have free wi-fi in the communal areas, so lying by the pool with your favourite album shouldn’t be a problem.

good for those longer trips. Spotify premium user can use it abroad as much as they like. It is well worth the investment, especially since Spotify now have family accounts for about $18 per month – a great price for you and the kids to have a massive library of music at your fingertips.

Get it on iTunes HERE Get it on Google Play HERE

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CROWDFUNDED TRAVEL PRODUCTS EVERY TRAVELLER NEEDS to own The last few years have seen crowdfunded technology and fashion skyrocket. In particular, there have been a number of innovations designed specifically with the traveller in mind.

This month, our gadget geek Brett went into a frenzy, trawling Indiegogo and Kickstarter to find the best crowdfunded travel products that have gone from prototype to reality.

PICTAR BY MIGGO The newest creation by Miggo is the latest in a series of successfully crowdfunded camera technology and accessories. It is also their most ambitious – giving photographers the ability to harness the high megapixel count of the modern smartphones with the easy to access controls and grip of a DSLR camera. It even comes with easy connections for a tripod and other DSLR camera accessories, such as a flash or microphone.

While other smartphone camera accessories utilise battery-draining Bluetooth, Pictar operates using an app on your phone and high frequency sounds that your mic can pick up but is beyond what humans can hear. Not quite sure what your dog will have to say about it though.

While the world prepares to receive the final iPhone version, Miggo’s Indiegogo campaign is still open to reach their funding goal that will enable them to bring this amazing camera technology to Android users.

CHECK IT OUT HERE.

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FACECRADLE

THE NOMATIC TRAVEL BAG

While probably not the most fashion forward item on the list, long haul travel in cattle class just became a lot more comfortable with this adjustable neck pillow that has five different positions to help you get the most sleep on those horrible 14+ hour flights.

In creating the funky Nomatic Travel Bag, the team combined the best elements of a backpack, duffel bag and carry-on luggage to create “the world’s most functional travel bag.”

That’s four more positions that a normal neck pillow. It is also similar in size, shape and weight to a normal foam neck pillow, so you’re not packing anything extra.

They’ve reached their funding goal, but there are still a few rewards left before their campaign finishes, so

CHECK THEM OUT HERE AND UPGRADE TO SLEEPING CLASS.

The Nomatic Travel Bag has 20 features, ranging from multiple compartments designed to carry laptops, notebooks and water bottles, to sections that will keep shoes and soiled garments separated from clean clothes. It even comes with a built in RFID pocket or ‘mini-safe’ for your scannables.

Raising nearly $2 million dollars, their initial fundraising goal has been reached many times over, and they are now in the pre-order stages.

GET YOURS HERE.

SMART CLOTHING by HALLAM P NEW YORK Smart clothing is becoming a real thing, and Hallam New York have created some of the most sophisticated casual wear on the market today.

Their completely customised line of clothing that including caps, rings and jackets work on both iOS and Android platforms, and including over 40 different features, including built in travel pillows and eye shades, buttons on your clothing to control your music and camera, alerts for when you’ve left your phone behind, and much more.

And they look amazing – and come in a huge range of styles.

CHECK THEM OUT HERE.

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FLIGHT DECK Travel information & Industry News

AIR NEW ZEALAND TO INCREASE ITS PREMIUM SEATING OFFERING Air New Zealand is to spend more than $100 million increasing the number of premium seats on its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and refurbishing its Boeing 777-300 fleet in response to customer trends.

Increasing demand for premium travel means the three Dreamliners scheduled to be delivered from October 2017 will arrive with a fresh new cabin configuration that will increase the number of Business Premier seats from 18 to 27 and Premium Economy seats from 21 to 33.

From February 2017, all seven of the airline’s Boeing 777-300s will also progressively complete a refurbishment programme, including the installation of the Panasonic eX3 in-flight entertainment system customers already enjoy on the Dreamliner fleet, and refreshed seating options.

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Each of the 777-300s’ interiors will be completely refurbished as part of the project. The refurbished aircraft will feature refreshed Business Premier and Economy seats as well as Air New Zealand’s luxury leather Premium Economy seat which debuted on the 787-9 Dreamliner in July 2014. These will replace the Spaceseat and take the number of Premium Economy seats on this aircraft from 44 to 54.

The Boeing 777-300 refurbishment programme is expected to be completed by late November 2017.

Air New Zealand’s General Manager Customer Experience Carrie Hurihanganui says since its introduction on the Dreamliner, the new ink coloured luxury leather Premium Economy seat has become extremely popular with customers.

“When we unveiled the Spaceseat in 2010, it was revolutionary and clearly the best option in the market at the time, as a string of international awards has proven. However, seating

technology and materials have come a long way since then and our customer research now shows consistently higher satisfaction scores for our newest Premium Economy offering so it’s time to continue Air New Zealand’s evolution in this space,” Ms Hurihanganui says.

“With these changes, we look forward to being able to offer our customers a consistent Premium Economy product across our long haul fleet and being able to welcome even more customers into our premium cabins with the expanded premium footprint on our Dreamliners.”

“The reconfiguration of our Dreamliners and refurbishment of our 777-300s signal a clear commitment by the airline to continue to deliver the best onboard customer experience into the future.”

SEAN SIMMONS TRAVEL | FLIGHT DECK |

“Of all the books in the world, the best stories are found between the pages of a passport” Unknown

Sydney. Flight EK418 will depart Dubai at 08:55 hours and arrive in Auckland at 15:55 hours the following day (local time). The return service, via Sydney and Bangkok, operating as flight EK419, will depart Auckland at 16:30 hours and arrive in Dubai the following morning at 06:45 hours.

Emirates is the only airline offering year-round scheduled A380 services to and from New Zealand.

The introduction of the new service will also mean Sydney-based travellers will have a wider choice of routings and timings on A380 flights, with the Christchurch A380 in addition to two current daily Emirates A380 services plus partner Qantas’ A380 service to Dubai.

EMIRATES TO OFFER FIRST A380 CHRISTCHURCH SERVICES Excellent news for our New Zealand clients as Emirates offers non-stop Auckland flights and South Island flights from 30 October.

Emirates A380s will fly between Dubai and New Zealand five times daily from 30 October with the introduction of the airline’s double-decker flagship aircraft on Christchurch services.

Emirates will be the first airline to offer regular scheduled A380 services to and from Christchurch with the upgrade of the current daily Christchurch service from Boeing 777-300ERs, along with the removal of the en-route stop in Bangkok which will enable passengers to travel all the way between Christchurch and Dubai, with just one stop in Sydney.

The launch of the Christchurch A380 flights will coincide with the introduction of the A380 on Emirates’ daily non-stop route between Dubai and Auckland. Emirates currently

also operates three other daily A380 services between Auckland and Dubai and beyond via Australia (Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane).

Outbound EK412 will depart Dubai at 10:15 hours, seamlessly connecting with southbound services from European destinations such as Amsterdam, Barcelona, London, Manchester and many more of Emirates’ 38 Europe services. EK412 will stop only in Sydney before arriving in Christchurch at 13:50 hours the next day (local time). The return flight EK413 will depart Christchurch at 18:45 hours, touching down in Dubai at 05:15 hours the next day after its stop in Sydney, reducing the journey time to Dubai and Europe by about two hours in each direction.

At the same time, the Dubai service to Auckland via Sydney, will feature the opportunity for travellers to explore Southeast Asia or Australia en route as this service, EK418, will operate via the popular hub that is Bangkok, as well as

All New Zealand services will continue to offer three classes of travel – First, Business and Economy, with generous free baggage allowance (up to 35kg in Economy, 40kg in Business and 50kg in First Class).

On Emirates‘ A380s, First Class passengers can look forward to quiet luxury in the comfort of their private suites and enjoy the industry’s only Onboard Shower Spa. First Class and Business Class passengers can socialise and sample canapes and cocktails at the popular Onboard Lounge and passengers in all classes can enjoy the gourmet cuisine, Emirates‘ award-winning inflight entertainment, ice, with more than 2,500 channels and free Wi-Fi, which is available on all of Emirates’ A380s.

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| SEAN SIMMONS TRAVEL | FLIGHT DECK

“We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.”

TS Eliot

QANTAS ADDS NEW ROUTE TO JAPAN TO MEET GROWING DEMAND Air New Zealand is to spend more Qantas will launch daily direct flights between Melbourne and Tokyo’s Narita Airport from 16th December 2016, responding to growing demand and marking the next step in its Asian growth strategy.

The new route will be operated by an upgraded, two-class A330-300 with 297 seats – the aircraft widely seen as best in class for the business market.

It adds to Qantas’ popular SydneyTokyo (Haneda) and Brisbane -Tokyo (Narita) services, launched in 2015, and will connect travellers with the broader Qantas Group network – including Jetstar’s extensive domestic network within Japan and the Group’s services across the Tasman.

Qantas and Jetstar will both operate flights from Melbourne to Tokyo (Narita) during the December 2016-February 2017 holiday peak.

Jetstar will then cease flights on the direct route after the 25th February, 2017.

Chief Executive Officer of Qantas International and Freight, Gareth Evans, said the new service built on Qantas’ long history of flying to Japan and significant expansion in the market over the past year.

“We’re delighted to be stepping up our commitment to the Japanese market at a boom time for tourism and business travel,” Mr Evans said.

“The Qantas Group is perfectly placed to support the resurgent growth we’re seeing, with the biggest AustraliaJapan network, the biggest domestic network in Australia, and the biggest low-cost carrier network in Japan through Jetstar.

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“Our dual-brand strategy and the size of our fleet means we have the ability to move quickly to meet demand where it’s strongest, putting the right aircraft on the right route. We have received great feedback on the worldclass product we’ve created for our Airbus A330 fleet, and now even more customers flying to Japan will be able to enjoy the reconfigured aircraft.

“We lifted Qantas’ capacity on Asian routes by 17 per cent last financial year, so this is very much part of a larger pivot to Asia.”

Fares for Qantas’ new MelbourneTokyo (Narita) service are currently available for sale for travel from 16th December 2016.

Jetstar customers who are booked on Melbourne-Tokyo (Narita) flights from 26th February, 2017 onwards will be reaccommodated on Qantas’ Melbourne-Tokyo (Narita) flights.

Jetstar continues to operate direct international services from the Gold Coast and Cairns to Tokyo (Narita) and Cairns to Osaka.

Melbourne to Narita from $1064.32 return including taxes. *Prices correct as at 27 September and can change without notice. Prices subject to availability at the time of booking. Credit card and bookings fees may apply.

VIRGIN AUSTRALIA ANNOUNCES MELBOURNE TO LOS ANGELES & PERTH TO ABU DHABI FLIGHTS IN 2017 – NOW FOR PURCHASE Virgin Australia are launching new services from Melbourne to Los Angeles and Perth to Abu Dhabi in 2017, increasing competition and choice for Australian travellers.

On 4 April 2017, Virgin Australia will introduce five services each week between Melbourne and Los Angeles

using Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.

On 9 June 2017, Virgin Australia will introduce three services each week between Perth and Abu Dhabi using Airbus A330-200 aircraft.

Virgin Australia Group CEO John Borghetti said: “The United States is a key market for Virgin Australia and this enables us to service Los Angeles from the three biggest gateways in Australia – Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.

“In partnership with Delta Air Lines, we will soon offer 25 services each week from Australia to Los Angeles and remain the only trans-Pacific alliance to offer Business Class guests lie flat beds with direct aisle access on all services.

“Our A330 aircraft will be deployed on a long-haul international route for the first time on flights between Perth and Abu Dhabi, which increases the number of services offered on the route from seven to 10 per week through our alliance with Etihad Airways.”

To enable the introduction of services between Melbourne and Los Angeles, Virgin Australia will cease its three times weekly Sydney-Abu Dhabi flights after 4 February 2017 and will reduce Brisbane-Los Angeles flights from seven per week to six per week from 7 April 2017.

Virgin Australia customers will continue to have the option of twice daily flights between Sydney and Abu Dhabi, with alliance partner Etihad Airways to add three new weekly services on the route in February 2017.

Melbourne to Los Angeles from $1772.75 return including taxes.

Perth to Abu Dhabi from $1902.76 return including taxes. *Prices correct as at 27 September and can change without notice. Prices subject to availability at the time of booking.

Credit card and bookings fees may apply.