Princess Cruises big in Europe for 2012

PRINCESS Cruises will host its biggest ever European program in 2012, with a grand total of 57 itinerary choices on offer across the Mediterranean, Holy Land, Northern Europe, Scandinavia and Russia.
The EU season will see seven ships sail on more than 125 departures between April and December, taking in 116 destinations including two brand new ports: Korcula in Croatia and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nessebar in Bulgaria.

Highlights of the season include the European debut of Caribbean Princess and a new 14-day Baltic Heritage itinerary which offers extended time in the ports of Scandinavia and Russia.  The season will also see a smattering of itineraries which feature two-day experiences in Istanbul, St. Petersburg, Egypt, and Israel;
as well as overnight stays in Venice on all 12- day Mediterranean and Greek Isles cruises.
Five ships will sail itineraries in the Mediterranean: Ruby Princess, Ocean Princess, Pacific Princess, Crown Princess and Grand Princess; whilst Emerald Princess and Grand Princess will cruise itineraries in Scandinavia, Russia and Norway; and Caribbean Princess, Grand Princess and Ocean Princess will take
guests around the British Isles, Iceland and Canary Islands.
See your travel agent - TravelManagers Karen Waples for more information

Egypt the land where it all began

Land of Egypt the cradle of the world .... Beauty and awe will meet you there Egypt the land where it all began
Click the link and enjoy

Awesome sights that really rock

THEY'RE big, bold lumps of rock, yes but they're also sacred sites, colonial outposts and even home to lost worlds. From Lonely Planet's new book, 1000 Ultimate Sights, released this month Uluru, Australia An iceberg in the Outback, Uluru is 378m high above ground but there's twice that bulk beneath it. Still, the surface portion of this monster in the Northern Territory is impressive enough. It's a 10km walk around the rock, and a two-hour climb up though the local Anangu people ask you not to; Uluru is sacred, and key to their Dreamtime stories. One legend asserts it is the outcome of warring tribes as the leaders fought, Earth herself, racked with grief, created Uluru as bloodshed made stone. It's a plausible story when you watch the rock turn from eye-scalding orange to mellowing red as the setting sun moves across its sides.
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, 445km from Alice Springs, is open daily from just before sunrise to sunset.See environment.gov.au/parks/uluru

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Sigiriya, Sri Lanka Sigiriya Lion Rock is an impressive volcanic nub rearing 200m above landscaped gardens in the heart of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle. As a geological feature, it's nice enough, but since AD477, when coup-fearing Prince Kasyapa decided to make it his stronghold, it's been so much more. Atop this strategic boulder you'll see remnants of Kasyapa's lofty fortress, a masterpiece of construction accessed through the Lion Gate, the huge stone paws of which can still be seen. The lower reaches are decorated with frescoes depicting his 500 comely concubines.Sigiriya is 10km east of the main road between Dambulla and Habarana. Frequent buses run from Dambulla from about 7am.

Torres del Paine, Chile Like the sharpened prongs of a devil's trident, the three spiky namesake towers of Torres del Paine comprise the iconic image of Chilean Patagonia. They are as magnificent as they are hostile when you look at these great granite shards, glacially eroded over tens of thousands of years, you feel that you might have entered a land where only llama-like guanacos should roam the peaks are hard-edged, and the wilderness truly wild. In fact, with comfy refuges and well-marked trails, the park is well set up for visitors though this doesn't detract from the landscape's fearsome air.December to February is the best time to trek in Torres del Paine, when the weather is more clement.

Ben Amera, Mauritania It's almost as massive as Uluru, but have you ever heard of it? Ben Amera sits squat, solitary and largely ignored in the barren desert of North Africa, a long, long way from the eyes of, well, pretty much anyone. It's plonked 5km from the small village of Tmeimichat, and the best way to catch a glimpse of this little-known, 400m-high mass is by riding the desert train between Nouadhibou and Zouerate the longest train in the world, a 3km-long, 220-car monster of rolling stock that grinds slowly through the sandscape, delivering iron ore across Mauritania's empty interior.
Ben Amera is about 400km west of Nouadhibou; some tour operators arrange camping by the rock for a night.

Savandurga, Karnataka, India Bald and bold as an elephant's rump, Savandurga two separate hills, one black, one white bulges up amid the forest of the Deccan Plateau. Pilgrims are drawn to the temples in its foothills, but hardy climbers ascend the mass to investigate its crevices and explore the fort upon its flanks. It's not an easy hike up though some arrows mark the way, a guide is a safer option but it's worth it to marvel at the architectural remains, to scramble between boulders and to stand by the shrine on the lofty summit.
Savandurga is 60km from Bangalore; the climb (two to three hours) should not be attempted during rains, when it becomes very slippery.

Rock of Gibraltar, United Kingdom No other monolith can claim such a curious mix: Spanish sunshine, mischievous monkeys, Mediterranean guardianship and good ol' British boozers round the corner. The 426m-high slab of stone watching over the Straits of Gibraltar at the mouth of the Med is the centrepoint of this small British enclave off southern Spain. A troupe of Barbary macaques runs amok in the rock-top nature reserve, while caves made swiss cheese of the limestone beneath. Explore these to see where Neolithic man sheltered 30,000 years ago, and where centuries of army generals have hacked strategic defensive tunnels to ensure the Iberian rock keeps the Union Jack flying. The Spain-Gibraltar border is open 24 hours and is free ignore touts trying to sell entry "tickets".
See gibraltar.gi
Roraima, Venezuela Mist-shrouded, flat-topped, mysterious: Tepuis are the venerable old men of the South American rainforest, imposing mesas dating back two billion years they're some of the oldest geological formations on the planet. And Roraima is king of them all, with its near-vertical, waterfall-dripped sides rising to 2810m and, seemingly, to another world. On top a hidden ecosystem awaits, developed in utter isolation unique frogs, flowers and carnivorous plants have evolved unusual habits in their Venezuelan eyrie, which was first climbed by European explorers in 1884 and subsequently inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle to pen the tale of a dinosaur-tramped Lost World.
Roraima is 22km northeast of Paraitepui; tours can be arranged in Santa Elena, the nearest major town.
Devils Tower, Wyoming, USA Impressive 386m-high protrusion of igneous rock, or alien landing pad? Since Steven Spielberg gave Devils Tower a starring role in Close Encounters of the Third Kind, many have pondered whether the monolith is indeed calling to extraterrestrial beings. There's certainly plenty of life here. It sits in a park of ponderosa pine, deer, prairie dogs and bears (the tower's native name translates as Bear Lodge). While ET has yet to appear, the place is still special it's been worshipped by Northern Plains tribes throughout the ages, and in 1906 was declared the first National Monument of the US.There's no public transport to Devils Tower. Drivers should take the scenic route via the town of Hulett.
See nps.gov/deto
This is an extract from Lonely Planet's 1000 Ultimate Sights

Read more: http://www.news.com.au/travel/awesome-sights-that-really-rock/story-e6frfqor-1226153488716#ixzz1ZfWFeiE3

Prattling around Prague

Prague Castle is the biggest castle in the world.  Did you know that?  It’s also where the Bohemian Crown Jewels are kept, and is, in fact, a collection of buildings, not just one big stone fort topped with flags.  These buildings include a riding school, ball game hall, and something called the Powder Tower – a stumpy column topped with a conical hat which looks like a rocket that might launch at any moment.

In short, it is an interesting place indeed.

But the city has plenty else to offer, along with a plethora of Prague hotels that ensure there’s a place for people of every age and disposition to rest their head.  Charles Bridge, for example, is a romantic half-kilometre stretch that connects Prague’s east to its west, crammed with hawkers and buskers vying frantically for the patronage of tourists who swarm the attraction every day.  Completed around 1400, the bridge was commissioned by Charles IV in 1357, and has straddled the Vltava river resolutely ever since.

The Astronomical Clock that sits in Prague’s Old Town Square is a sublime example of an art that has been in existence for centuries: clock making.  The first mechanical clocks can be traced back to around 1300, while the first known mention of the term ‘clockmaker’ occurred in 1390, which, coincidently, falls shortly before Prague’s masterpiece was created.  The Astronomical Clock’s dials represent, among a variety of astronomical constellations, the sun and moon, and, rather delightfully, 12 apostolic statues make an appearance on the hour, every hour, creating a quaint spectacle that never fails to impress gaping tourists.

It’s difficult to visit Prague and miss Wenceslas Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that began life as a horse market, before being transformed into the impressive expanse we see today in the late 18th century.  An imposing horse statue presides over the square, which was named after Saint Wenceslas, the patron saint of Bohemia, and was, fittingly, the site of the proclamation of independence of Czechoslovakia in 1918.

And there is, of course, plenty of food and drink in Prague to sate the appetite of weary tourists and locals alike.  Be sure to try cabbage soup (sounds gruesome, tastes delightful), sirloin of beef (classic dish with a Czech twist), and a hefty helping of apple strudel (have you ever met someone who doesn’t like strudel?), as well as a selection of squidgy dumplings.  Wash the lot down with the national drink: beer (try Kozel, which is Czech for ‘he-goat’, a beverage which rather polarises opinion!).

Experience Holidays

Experience holidays are doing whatever we love to do, but doing it somewhere else. Generally they’re active holidays, not necessarily physical, and because everyone’s interests are different, Experience holidays are often tailor made or ‘special interest’ packages.

Maybe you’re a fan of Mexican food. How about a cooking tour in Oaxaca? You like to hike? Consider a trekking holiday through Nepal. How about a cycling tour of Vietnam? Shopaholics could do much worse than a dedicated shopping tour of Hong Kong, or what about a trip along Route 66 on the back of a Harley?

The possibilities are endless, so let’s get together  and plan your own personal Experience holiday.

It doesn’t have to be all go go go. Wouldn’t you love to trundle down the Canal du Midi at a sedate 4kmh, sipping champagne and watching the world drift past? Or cruise through Alaska’s iconic Inside Passage while bidding for fantastic artwork at auction on your luxury cruise ship? A more sublime experience perhaps? Think about a relaxing and renewing spa holiday in a luxury island getaway. Or a literary tour of Ireland, an escorted coach tour of Europe’s historical cities, a skiing holiday in the Rockies, or a garden tour of England’s Lake District.

Some people hanker for a villa in Tuscany, others yearn for a tent in the wilds of the Amazon, still others might choose an edgy TriBeca hotel and a week cruising New York’s galleries and museums. What about a lodge based safari in the Serengeti, or a spice tour of the souks of Morocco, a winery tour of Moldavia or a roundup on an Argentinean cattle ranch? Every experience holiday is unique and is a reflection of our own dreams and desires.

Tennyson was spot on when he said “All experience is an arch wherethrough gleams that untravelled world whose margin fades forever when I move”.

Visit Lomani Island Resort in Fiji

“Lomani” is the Fijian word for love, and you will be sure to fall in love with this idyllic Fiji Island paradise. The crystal blue waters that lap gently onto the shores of Lomani Island’s beach provide a haven for tropical marine life and vibrant corals. The island was once home to a copra plantation and thus boasts thousands of towering coconut palms, interspersed with frangipani, hibiscus and bougainvillea flowers.

With only 12 luxury suites and 5 beachfront bures in the resort, you will feel well and truly like an honoured, pampered guest. Our dedicated Fijian staff will cater to your every need, allowing you to unwind and enjoy Lomani’s peaceful atmosphere. Lomani is an adults only property, and has a year round policy of only catering to children 16 years and over.

Five Photographic spots in Auckland - thanks to P & O Cruises

Five photogenic spots in Auckland

by P&O Cruises on May 2, 2011 · View Comments

Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, is often associated with shopping, sailing and its busy skyline – but there are some stunning natural wonders in and around the city to explore.
We asked Shereen Moloney  –  Auckland resident and writer, director and producer in the New Zealand film industry for more than 20 years – to nominate her five most photogenic spots around Auckland.

1. Mt Eden crater

Photo by jemsweb, available under an Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic license

Mt Eden, or Maungawhau, is one of over 50 dormant volcanos scattered across the Auckland isthmus. It is the highest, and has a great view of the entire city, including the two harbours that border Auckland – the Waitamata and Manukau harbours, the inner city, the Harbour Bridge and many of the other volcanos that dot the landscape. It’s also a valued archaeological site showing the land formations of Maori occupation over the last 1000 years. From the top you have a unique view of the huge crater left in the mountain by the last eruption 20,000–30,000 years ago, a view that’s particularly special when someone has climbed down and spelled out ‘I Love You’ with the rocks at the bottom of the crater.

2. North Head, Devonport

Photo by Daniel Ngu, available under an Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic license

Just over a 10-minute ferry ride from the city, North Head is another volcano that provides sweeping views over the harbour and the Hauraki Gulf. After a walk through historic Devonport and the lovely old streets of Cheltenam, a climb up the mountain delivers views of the islands of the Gulf to the south, the city to the west, the many beaches and coves curving up the coastline to the north and a close-up view of Rangitoto, Auckland’s largest and most recent volcano, to the east. Rangitoto, Maori for ‘Bloody Sky’, formed through eruptions as recently as 600 to 700 years ago. Within North Head there is a tunnel system leading to gun emplacements built during World War II, which can be explored by torchlight.

3. War Memorial Museum, Auckland Domain

The museum is set against the sky as Auckland’s ‘Acropolis’ and is one of New Zealand’s finest heritage buildings. It was built in the neo-classicist style in 1929, high on the rim ofthe dormant Pukekawa volcano within what is now the Auckland Domain. The Domainis Auckland’s oldest park and is made up of 75 hectares of beautiful walks, duck ponds,greenhouses of exotic plants, woodland and grassy picnic areas. There are also lovely views of the harbour and the city from the museum hilltop.

4. Cable Bay vineyard

Cable Bay, Auckland, Photo by Nick Jacobs

Cable Bay vineyard on Waiheke Island is a gorgeous 35-minute ferry ride from Auckland city. The experience of sitting on the terrace of the Cable Bay wine bar at sunset, with some of New Zealand’s best wine and food, a spectacular view across the islands of the Hauraki Gulf to the sun setting behind Auckland city in the distance is one of the highlights of a visit
to Auckland. Of course, this is after a day exploring the many beautiful beaches and views that the rest of Waiheke Island has to offer.

5. Kare Kare beach

Kare Kare Beach, Auckland, Photo courtesy of Tourism New Zealand

Kare Kare is the smallest, but most perfectly formed of Auckland’s magnificent west coast beaches. While Auckland’s east coast is characterised by languid stretches of sparkling white sand and calm waters, the west coast is anything but. On the edge of the dense bush of the Waitakere Ranges, the coastline here is raw and wild, with a primeval feel, with huge, dark volcanic cliffs towering over glistening black ironsand. The water boils in from the Tasman Sea, crashing onto the beaches in spectacular surf displays. The area is very popular with Aucklanders, but swimming should be strictly in patrolled areas as there are many vicious rips. While it is about a 40-minute drive from the central city, it is well worth the effort for the adventurous.

P&O Cruises launches 2012/13 voyages

Top 10 places to visit in Australia

Australia has something for just about everyone. From simple holidays to culture filled excitement, there are all sorts of options to enjoy. Here are ten of the must see places and events around Australia that you can consider for your next holiday.

1. Sydney

Sydney is Australia’s number one travel destination in terms of number of visitors. The Sydney Opera House was completed in the 1960's. The unique design for the facility, coupled with the excellent acoustics, make this cultural icon a must see stop that even persons who are not interested in opera will enjoy.

One of the great things about Sydney is there is both culture and lots of fun activities as well. The beaches provide some of the most beautiful ocean side playgrounds in the entire world. Visitors can spend endless hours enjoying the sun and pristine sands, then enjoy tours into some of the surrounding bush areas. Later, a night out on the town is easy to manage, with an array of night spots that will accommodate just about every interest. While in town, don't forget to admire the spectacular Harbour Bridge.

2 and 3. Cairns & the Great Barrier Reef

Far North Queensland is a wonderful tropical paradise. Cairns is the main entry point and from there you can travel north or south and out to beautiful island resorts. Luxury holiday homes are a great accommodation option in this part of Australia.

The Great Barrier Reef is known as the world's largest coral reef, the Great Barrier Reef stretches along the Queensland coast for a distance of approximately 35 million hectares. Many varieties of fish and other forms of sea life make the Reef home, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn about and observe. As a family opportunity, the Great Barrier Reef is an activity that will fascinate even the most jaded of travelers.

4. Brisbane

While visiting along the Great Barrier Reef, Brisbane is the place to go when you need a taste of the big city. Located in Queensland, the city is known for spectacular night spots that offer a little something for everyone, as well as a range of cuisine that is considered to be the best in Australia by many visitors.

5. Melbourne

Considered by many to be the emotional heart of Australia, Melbourne offers a mix of modern architecture and amenities along with some of the most beautiful examples of Victorian architecture in the world. Shopping and food that ranges from fine cuisine to guilty pleasures can easily be found at Federation Square and the New Quay.

6. The Great Ocean Road

No visit to Australia is complete without enjoying the view from the Great Ocean Road. Running for over two hundred miles along the coastline in the area of Victoria, the view is breathtaking any time of the year. There are plenty of interesting local restaurants to try along the way, as well as several great places to stop and enjoy a beer. The Great Ocean Road is a wonderful drive over a weekend or stay a little longer at a holiday rental property.

7. The Red Centre including Uluru-Tjuta National Park

Found in the Northern Territory, the Red Centre is considered to be the physical center spot of Australia. Tourists will enjoy viewing the Ayers Rock, which is also known as Uluru. Viewing Uluru is considered to be an ideal activity at sunrise and sunset, when the range of colors across the red rock seem to waver and change in fascinating patterns.

Uluru-Tjuta National Park is an area that functions as both a wildlife preserve and a national park. Along with the Ayers Rock, the part also encompasses such sites as Alice Springs and the Olgas.

8. Canberra

Canberra is the Capital of Australia and a fascinating place to see. Visit Parliament House, the National Gallery of Australia, the National Library, National Archives which feature old movies, records, books and artifacts as well as the War Memorial. Four days is Canberra is adequate to see most of the attractions.

9. Adelaide

Considered to be the doorway into the Outback, Adelaide is a thriving city that includes some of the most prestigious vineyards in the country. There are a number of places around the city that are ideal for getting away from it all for a few days, as well as enjoying a night life that is low key but very active.

10. Tasmania

Tasmania offers breathtaking scenery, hiking and camping. Just off the coast, the main land you can reach Tasmania by car ferry or by short flight. Hobart is a stunning town on the Derwent river and features colonial architecture. The local food produce is deliciously fresh and restaurants reasonably priced.

Strangest Town names in Australia

FANCY getting stranded in Dismal Swamp, or making a stopover in Tittybong? How about spending a night in Pussycat Flat, or straining to reach Bust-Me-Gall Hill? Well the good news is you won't have to travel far to visit any of these places. These are just some of the quirky, unique and downright unusual towns in Australia.

There's the notoriously dangerous Hell's Gates on the West Coast of Tasmania, and Xantippe in Western Australia, the only town in the country starting with an X.

For an action-packed escape you might want to stop by Diehard in New South Wales - you may even bump into  Bruce Willis while you're there.

If you're hungry, amble down to the Territory's Tortilla Flats, Tasmania's Egg and Bacon Bay or Milkshake Hills.

Repetition is also a regular feature in town titles, with Wagga Wagga, Bong Bong, Grong Grong, Walla Walla and Goonoo Goonoo all in NSW, Bubble Bubble Springs in the Northern Territory, and the likes of Vite Vite in Victoria.

You can't go past some of the tongue-twisting delights like Jimcumbilly in NSW, D'Entrecasteaux Channel in Tassie, Ubobo in Queensland and Victoria's Manangatang and Upotipotpon.
Tourism New South Wale's Lauren O'Neil says: "Woolloomooloo seems to catch everyone, and you'll find plenty of British backpackers looking for 'Cooh-gee', instead of 'Cudg-gee'.

If symbolism is your thing, why not check out Uki in NSW, which means 'fern with edible roots' in the Aboriginal dialect of the area, Ozenkadnook in South Australia, which means 'very fat kangaroo', or NSW's Binnaway, which is derived from a word meaning 'peppermint tree wollybutt'.
Or you could just resort to toilet humour with the likes of Dunnedoo, Diapur, Mount Buggery, Burrumbuttock, Poowong and Fannie Bay.

According to Tourism Tasmania's Marianne Miles, Break-Me-Neck Hill "was named after an exclamation uttered by a wagoner during his first experience of the hill.”

The origin of the name of the Northern Territory's Humpty Doo is unknown, but Tourism Northern Territory's Liz McCouaig has three theories: that it's from an Aboriginal term 'Umdidu', which meant a popular resting place; from "a colloquialism to describe everything done wrong or upside down"; or that it's derived from the term "umpty", which was "the Army slang term used for the dash when reading Morse Code".

(courtesy of Escape.com.au)

Las Vegas

Lost Wages, Sin City, Entertainment Capital of the World, City of Lights, Glitter Gulch, The Strip. Call it what you will, Las Vegas is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and we can see why. Here is the low-down on the desert city.

         DISCOVER WORLD-CLASS ENTERTAINMENT
Shows

There's a good reason why Las Vegas is called the "Entertainment Capital of the World." Since its Rat Pack days, Las Vegas has been inextricably associated with legendary shows and entertainers. Say "Las Vegas" and it's likely that showgirls in elaborate headdresses and Elvis impersonators will come to mind.

Today, the Las Vegas entertainment scene still has plenty of its classic glamour, but it has evolved to include so much more. In addition to the iconic Las Vegas entertainment staples, the destination offers a lineup of ward winning magicians, Broadway caliber productions, world renowned concert headliners and unique to Las Vegas production shows.

What's new

Viva ELVIS by Cirque du Soleil has opened at ARIA Hotel & casino at CityCenter. This harmonious fusion of dance, acrobatics and live music is a tribute to the life and music of Elvis Presley. Created in the image of The King of Rock 'n' Roll, the show highlights an American icon who transformed popular music and features significant moments in his life and selections of his timeless music.

Broadway

In 2006, The Venetian debuted "Phantom ‐ The Las Vegas Spectacular." The show is permanently housed in a $40 million theater. The 95 minute production includes neverbefore seen special effects, a jaw‐dropping reproduction of the Parisian opera house where the story takes place, and all the beloved songs from the original Andrew Lloyd Webber production.
Disney Theatrical Productions and Mandalay Bay have opened the award‐winning Broadway phenomenon THE LION KING at the Mandalay Bay Theatre. Mandalay Bay's production of THE LION KING is virtually identical to the other companies seen around the globe and staged with all of the same spectacular music, sets, and costumes that have made it a worldwide phenomenon.

Cirque du Soleil

Cirque du Soleil and its ethereal combination of acrobats and special effects dazzle audiences all along the Strip. The group produces shows for a variety of properties including "Mystere" at Treasure Island, which recently celebrated 15 years on the Las Vegas Strip. Bellagio's "O" is the troupe's first foray into aquatic theater, featuring a cast of 81 artists performing in and above a pool containing 1.5 million gallons of water.
Cirque du Soleil's "Zumanity" opened September 2003 at New York New York Hotel & Casino. In 2005, the fourth Cirque du Soleil show, "KA," debuted at MGM Grand. In June 2006 "LOVE" opened at The Mirage. Based on the music of The Beatles, the project was begun by the late George Harrison and Guy Laliberté, Cirque's founder. "LOVE" is presented in a custom built theater featuring 360‐degree seating, high definition projections with 100 foot high digital, moving images in addition to a panoramic sound system.
"Criss Angel: BELIEVE," a partnership between the master illusionist and Cirque du Soleil, debuted their much‐anticipated production show last year at Luxor. Fusing together revolutionary illusions and mystical artistry with acrobatics, dance, puppetry,music and poetry, Angel reinvents the traditional magic show.

        GET HITCHED

Las Vegas is known as much for its weddings as it is for its casinos. With an average of more than 100,000 marriage licenses issued annually, Las Vegas is recognised as the world's wedding capital. Whether it's eloping on a secret rendezvous, or planning an elaborate ceremony for hundreds of your family and friends, there is no place quite like Vegas to make it official.

Part of the allure of getting married in Las Vegas is that it offers the ultimate freedom of choice, ranging from Elvis presiding over a 24‐hour, drive‐through chapel to a lavish soiree at one of the world's premier resorts. In addition, Las Vegas has minimal requirements and no waiting period, making "quickie" weddings an attractive possibility.

Since its early history, Las Vegas has been the wedding destination for a multitude of celebrity couples including Elvis Presley and Priscilla Beaulieu, Frank Sinatra and Mia Farrow, Jane Fonda and Roger Vadim, Bruce Willis and Demi Moore, Cindy Crawford and Richard Gere, Britney Spears and Jason Alexander, and Billy Bob Thornton and Angelina Jolie. Others who have tied the knot in Las Vegas include Brigitte Bardot, Billy Martin, Joan Collins, Judy Garland, Vic Damone, Jon Bon Jovi, Charisma Carpenter, Tony Curtis, Mickey Rooney (several times), Mary Tyler Moore, Sammy Davis, Jr., Bing Crosby,Joan Crawford, Michael Jordan, and Dennis Rodman.

     GO SHOPPING

If you want it, Vegas has it. From designer splurges to bargain deals, Las Vegas has become a one‐stop shopping Mecca. Everything from colorful souvenir shops to haute couture boutiques can be found in retail centers along the Las Vegas Strip and surrounding areas.

Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino is the 1.2‐mile retail/entertainment complex at the heart of Las Vegas Boulevard. Miracle Mile Shops features 15 restaurants, live entertainment and 170 specialty stores including retail brands such as H&M, Urban Outfitters, Ben Sherman, Quiksilver, bebe, Sephora, French Connection, Betsey Johnson, Frederick's of Hollywood and True Religion Brand Jeans. Recently, Miracle Mile Shops welcomed Las Vegas' only Club Tattoo, founded by Linkin Park front man Chester Bennington and long time friend Sean Dowdell. Rock & Roll Religion is the Los Angeles‐based company's only Las Vegas outpost featuring brands such as English Laundry, Fender: The Clothing Collection; Jimi Hendrix: The Experience,and Da Vinci. DC Shoes, the California‐based retailer, features men's, women's and children's footwear inspired by an extreme sports lifestyle. American Apparel showcases a wide range of clothing items for men and women.

Anchored by a flagship, 85,000‐square‐foot Barneys New York, The Shoppes at The Palazzo offers more than 60 luxury boutiques. In addition to Barneys New York, 20 remarkable stores and luxury brands have made their Las Vegas debuts at The Palazzo.They include Chloe, Tory Burch, Christian Louboutin, Diane Von Furstenberg, Van Cleef & Arpels, Catherine Malandrino, Anya Hindmarch, Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Jimmy Choo, Piaget, Burberry, Salvatore Ferragamo, Fendi, Bottega Veneta and Montblanc to present one of the most upscale retail destinations under one roof in the United States. Las Vegas‐based Elton's men's store has recently received some important accolades.The store was named 2008 Retailer of the Year by designer Mark Nason and is now the boutique of Choice for Scott Kay jewelry in Las Vegas. Last summer, Elton's was named 2008 Best Retailer of the Year for Best Contemporary Store in the United States by MR Magazine, the industry's leading publication for men's retail.

 

        EAT LIKE THE KING

Once known for its all you can eat buffets and bargain shrimp cocktails, Las Vegas has transformed itself into a top culinary destination. Within a decade, Las Vegas has redefined the culinary and wine experience by offering the most comprehensive collection of celebrity chefs and world‐class restaurants, more Master Sommeliers than any other city in the world and more wine sold per capita than in any other destination.

Bon Appétit magazine, a leading authority in the culinary world, cemented Las Vegas'place among U.S. dining capitals by declaring the destination as one of the nation's top five restaurant cities. In fact, the publication has partnered with the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, and Las Vegas resorts, to host an annual epicurean event called Vegas Uncork'd. This four‐day event in May provides an intimate connection with legendary chefs, along with grand tastings of their delectable creations.

Welkam tu d'Werl d' Norf'k - Welcome to the World of Norfolk

Last night I had the opportunity to meet with some wonderful people from Norfolk Island.  I know that a lot of people are of the opinion that Norfolk Island is for the seniors only.  Well let me tell you, that they are very wrong.  Yes, the seniors will enjoy the tranquility of the island and the slow place and the beauty, but, we can enjoy that too, along with a multitude of other things that will test the senses and adventure for people of all ages.        


This is a world where you can be as laid back (or busy) as you want to be.  Where the only fast food is pulled fresh from the soil or sea.  Where there are no traffic lights.  Where strangers wave as you pass by.  Time moves slowly here.

The four pillars that make up Norfolk Island are, Nature, Marine, Lifestyle and Well Being and History and Culture.

For centuries, plants and animals have made this a temperate refuge in the middle of the Pacific.  The rainforests are home to the world's tallest tree fern.  There are forty unique plant species and over twenty species of birdlife.  No snakes, poison spiders, leeches or mosquitoes.  You can bike, horse-ride, carriage ride, bird watch, walking trails or visit one of the two close islands that are just a short boat ride away.

Tours and experiences:  Behind the Hedges Tour, Breakfast Bushwalks, Edible Garden Tours, Photographic Tours and Classes.

The pristine Pacific is central to Norfolk's life and it encircles the island.  Immense schools of fish journey there on currents from its deepest regions.  With no commercial fishing, the waters are always teeming.  There are sheltered bays for swimming, diving, and boating.  Grab some snorkelling gear and take the plunge or take a tour with a sea scooter... the fastest way to get around under the surface. There are several prime surfing spots around the island and beyond the reef, you can hire a board there.

Feel as if your body and mind are being born anew.  Do nothing at all, or pack it all in - from yoga to paintball; deep sea diving to mountain climbing.  Explore the history and culture, or seek out the unusual wildlife, or hunt for bargains.  There are over 30 places to eat on the island, from cafes to restaurants serving amazing beef and sea food. Farmers markets are available on Saturdays, for those in self catering accommodation.  Visit the Galleries or have a spa.  Read a book under a tall Norfolk Pine.  Amble around the shopping precinct for tax free bargains.

More Tours and Experiences:  Cliff Top BBQ Breakfast , Local Chocolate making (very delicious Chocolates - I have tried them), Hosted Wine Tastings, Helen Reddy Aquaponics.

Norfolk have a unique people, who are descendants of the legendary Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian wives, who bequeathed their culture, language and approach to life.  The time frame of arrivals span from First Inhabitants of the East Polynesians to the European Discovery by Captain Cook, to the Convict era and the Bounty Mutineers

Tours for history and culture:  Cemetary Tour, Convict Settlement Tour, Ghost tour and dinner, History in the Making, and much more.

Many events happen though out the year from, Opera in Paradise, Line Dancing Festival, International Triathlon, Country Music Festival, Bounty Day, Tour de Norfolk, Triple Bowls tournament, Quilters getaway, Holistic Living Festival and Jazz in the Pines.  Many more events do happen, just ask.

How to get there:  Flights from Australia: Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne and also from Auckland.

Climate:  Subtropical with temps ranging from 19-28 in summer and 12 - 31 in Winter.

Ask your personal Travel Manager about Norfolk Island soon

.10 Reasons to River Cruise

by TravelManagers - Karen Waples

 

1. UNPACK ONCE - after settling into the cabin there is no more lugging around of bags, packing or unpacking, and no more coaches, trains, airports or traffic.  The hassles of getting from A to B evaporate.

2. NO ROUGH SEAS  - Guests will enjoy a very smooth ride as the ships have been designed with flat bottoms, so the is no need to worry about motion sickness, unlike ocean cruising.

3.  NIGHT SAILING - Every morning you wake up rested and refreshed, with a new vista and a new destination to explore.

4.  A RELAXING PACE - There is no rush.  The landscapes gently pass by as you have breakfast while you cruise, and there is plenty of time to enjoy shore excursions or simply roam through towns independently

5. DINING - All meals and drinks are included.  Onboard chefs often create special gourmet menus and local fresh ingredients are used.

6.  JOURNEY TO THE HEART - River cruises typically dock in the very centre of some of Europe's greatest cities, which means passengers simply walk off the ship, right into the centre of town.  Essentially, they spend more time being here, rather than getting there.

7.  GET OFF THE BEATEN TRACK  - The smaller size fo river cruise vessels means they can access many lively and colourful towns that large cruise ships cannot access, making for a more memorable trip.

8.  AN INTIMATE EXPERIENCE - Most river cruises ships are designed to carry around 150 to 300 passengers, so it is a far more intimate and friendly experience that travelling on a big cruise liner.  There are no long waiting lines to embark or disembark and it's easy to meet people and make new friends.

9.  PRIVATE BALCONIES - What better way to watch the European countryside pass by that from you own private balcony?  Invite a fre friends over for a dringk, lounge around with a good book or simply snooze - it's you private outdoor space.

10.  CRUISE SERVICES  -An experienced cruise manager and attentive English specaking staff are on hand to help passengers with shore excursions or any other needs.  They are there to make the cruise as comfortable and hassle-free as possible
(Travel Weekly)

Ask about the many Cruise companies on the River, - Scenic, APT, Viking, Avalon, Uniworld.  There will be a cruise to suit you.

Bali - Shop, surf, Explore, Relax

Bali has long been a travellers’ paradise with visitors to the island literally spoilt for choice with an abundance of shopping, cultural and natural attractions and outdoor activities all on offer with your Bali accommodation. For the avid shopper, you cannot go past the bargains  at the local markets present in  Kuta and Legian, or for a modern mall experience head to Discovery Kartika Mall right on the beach in South Kuta or head over to Seminyak for trendy boutiques. To leave the hectic fast paced life behind, head to the mountains of Bali – Ubud or north to Candi Dasa and treat yourself with spa retreats and cooking schools whilst enjoying Bali’s stunning surrounds. If you seek true relaxation, head to the Gili Islands or Lombok and enjoy its unspoilt beaches. The list is endless and the choices never ending whether you are a surfer, golfer, shopper, nature lover, artist, adventurer, Bali simply is the perfect paradise for all.

Bali is considered an ideal tropical holiday destination all year round, with the average temperature ranging between 29-31 degrees celsius . Rainfall occurs mostly during the monsoonal months from November to March.

Some of my favorite places to stay in Bali are:
* Bali Garden Hotel in Tuban which is on the border of Kuta and right on the beach.  You can Shop next door at the Kartika Plaza or Centro Plaza, which has some great dining.  Or walk to Kuta Square, passing great market shopping on the way, or walk across the road to Waterbom Park, for a wet Experience. If staying here always book the Deluxe Rooms as they are at the rear of the hotel, away from the noisy road, and overlooking the gardens.

* A little luxury in Seminyak at the Sun Island Villas with your own pool and close to the great dining.

*  Nov0tel Bali Benoa in the Tropical Terrace rooms.  Set amidst the tropical gardens, with an outside shower, and onsite restaurant.

* Komaneka Monkey Forest - in Ubud.  I love the view overlooking the rice paddies.  This place is walking distance to markets, meals and monkeys.

* More Luxury at the Royal Pita Maha, with its amazing vistas, be pampered at the riverside spa, or relax around your own villa pool.

* For a different experience try the Bali Safari and Marine Park about 30 mins from Kuta.  Stay in the Twiga Suite and overlook the African type savannah.  Or spot the lion in the ladies toilets in the restaurant.

Rhapsody of the Seas

Yesterday I had the priviledge of doing a ship inspection of the RCI ship Rhapsody of the Seas, as it was berthed in Brisbane for the day.  I have cruise on this ship about 3 years ago, and was interested to see if my memories were the same now.  The main foyer is a spectuclar 4 level atrium with swirling stairs  and a nice flat glass waterfall.  At the base of the stairs a beautiful white Grand Piano stands, which is used during the nightly entertainment in the Champagne lounge prior to dinner.  On the next floor up is the cruise shopping mecca which has many thing to choose from.  I purchased a few rings last time I cruises.

The main pool deck had 4 outdoor spa pools and a 2 pools, one for children.  A bar services this area where people can relax on under the shade or in the sun.

Adults and children alike can participate in the Raock Wall climb, and for those who want to, a walking track is up the top to enjoy the view, while you walk of all the kilojoules from the great meals on board.

One of my favorite places in the Windjammer Buffet, where surrounded by 3/4 glass windows, you can dine on the most various buffet, with the menu changing daily.  In the morning there is a Omlete Bar, which is great.

The Main Dining room is a two storey affair, with set menus each night, which to you check out on the menu boards each day, so that you can choose where to eat.

If you are wanting a quiet place to sit and read or just wile away the hours, check out the 12 level.  Just fantastic.

For those in Australia, the Rhapsody of the Seas will return here in November, after doing the Alaska Run for the US season.