Golden Days Music and Wine Festival Canberra 2026: A Lakeside Celebration of Live Music, Fine Wine and Summer Fun

Canberra is getting ready to turn up the volume and celebrate the arrival of summer with an exciting new festival combining great music, regional wines and delicious food. The inaugural Golden Days Music and Wine Festival will take place on Saturday 28 November 2026, bringing a full day of entertainment to the beautiful shores of Lake Burley Griffin.

Set against one of Australia's most picturesque capital city waterfronts, Golden Days promises a relaxed festival atmosphere where music lovers, wine enthusiasts and food lovers can enjoy a memorable day from sunshine through to sunset.

Taking place at Patrick White Lawns, this exciting new Canberra festival is set to become a highlight of the city's summer events calendar.

A Fantastic Lineup of Australian and International Music

Golden Days brings together an impressive collection of Australian and international dance, electronic and live music performers.

The announced lineup includes Hot Dub Time Machine, Rogue Traders, Dirty South, Miami Horror DJs, Touch Sensitive, Anna Lunoe, Mark Dynamix, Minx and Sgt Slick.

Local support acts Ashley Feraude, Cheese and Offtapia will also contribute to the festival soundtrack.

From familiar dance floor favourites to electronic music and energetic performances, the programme promises something for festivalgoers who enjoy music spanning different eras and styles.

Whether dancing with friends, relaxing on the lawns or enjoying the atmosphere as the afternoon moves towards evening, Golden Days is designed to celebrate the music and memories that bring people together.

Discover Canberra's Wonderful Regional Wines

Golden Days Music and Wine Festival

One of the festival's special attractions is its celebration of Canberra District wineries, bringing the cellar door experience directly to the city.

Visitors can explore a selection of regional wines while enjoying the lakeside setting and festival entertainment.

Featured wine producers include Poachers, Mada, Vino Friendo, Lerida Estate and Mount Majura.

From refreshing white wines and sparkling varieties to rosé and reds, the festival offers an opportunity to discover some of the flavours and craftsmanship of the Canberra wine region.

For visitors travelling to Canberra, this is a wonderful introduction to the region's growing reputation as an Australian food and wine destination.

Delicious Food and a Relaxed Lakeside Atmosphere

Golden Days is about more than music and wine. Quality food, hospitality and welcoming outdoor spaces will help create a complete summer festival experience.

Patrick White Lawns provides an attractive setting overlooking Lake Burley Griffin, making it an ideal location for a long afternoon with friends.

The festival is designed to begin as a relaxed daytime gathering before building towards an energetic evening of dancing and entertainment.

With the combination of lakeside scenery, regional produce and familiar music, visitors can enjoy a distinctly Canberra celebration.

Plan Your Canberra Festival Weekend

Golden Days Music and Wine Festival

Golden Days Music and Wine Festival takes place on Saturday 28 November 2026, from midday until 10 pm.

The event is an excellent reason to plan a weekend getaway to Canberra. Visitors can combine the festival with sightseeing around Lake Burley Griffin, exploring the National Gallery of Australia, visiting the National Museum of Australia or discovering the city's excellent restaurants and cafes.

The festival is an 18-plus event, and valid photographic identification is required for entry. Tickets and entry conditions should be checked before purchasing.

Golden Days Music and Wine Festival 2026

Date: Saturday 28 November 2026
Time: 12 pm to 10 pm
Venue: Patrick White Lawns, Lake Burley Griffin
Address: Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes, ACT 2600, Australia.
Entertainment: Australian and international music performers.
Wine: Selected Canberra District wineries.
Food: Quality festival food and hospitality.
Accessibility: Accessible facilities and assistance for visitors with access needs.
Tickets: General admission and VIP packages are available, subject to availability.

Golden Days Music and Wine Festival

Website: https://www.goldendays.dance/
Email: contact@decibelcreative.com.au
Phone: 0423 283 809
Ticket bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/goldendays
For more information about Canberra attractions, accommodation and other events, visit https://visitcanberra.com.au/

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Montana Food & Events: Bringing Exceptional New Zealand Food and Hospitality to Every Occasion

Montana Food & Events

From impressive conference catering and elegant gala dinners to memorable weddings and corporate celebrations, Montana Food & Events is helping make events across New Zealand's Waikato region truly special. Combining almost 20 years of catering experience, talented chefs, fresh seasonal ingredients and professional event management, this Hamilton-based company delivers memorable food and hospitality experiences for events of every size.

Based at Claudelands Events Centre in Hamilton, Montana Food & Events is a leading catering and event services provider, offering event organisers access to award-winning venues and experienced hospitality professionals.

The company was one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026, organised by Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA), where it showcased its catering expertise and event hospitality services to the business events industry.

Fresh Food and Exceptional Catering Across Waikato

Montana Food & Events

Montana Food & Events has built its reputation on delivering quality food, excellent service and attention to detail. With almost two decades of experience, the company specialises in conferences, corporate functions, private celebrations, weddings, gala dinners and large-scale events.

Its internationally experienced chefs take pride in preparing contemporary dishes using fresh, seasonal produce sourced locally wherever possible. By supporting New Zealand growers, small producers and local businesses, Montana Food & Events brings regional flavours and quality ingredients to its menus.

The company's commitment to sustainable sourcing and fresh food helps create dining experiences that are both memorable and reflective of New Zealand's outstanding produce.

Exclusive Access to Award-Winning Event Venues

One of the advantages of choosing Montana Food & Events is its association with some of Waikato's leading event destinations.

The company offers catering and event services at Claudelands Events Centre and FMG Stadium Waikato, two prominent Hamilton venues capable of hosting a wide range of occasions.

From major conferences and exhibitions to business dinners, sporting hospitality, celebrations and entertainment events, these venues provide versatile settings for organisers seeking professional event delivery.

Montana Food & Events also works with clients to develop catering and hospitality solutions suited to their event style, guest numbers and individual requirements.

Professional Event Management from Planning to Delivery

Montana Food & Events

Successful events require more than excellent food. Montana Food & Events understands the importance of coordinating every element, from initial discussions and menu planning to logistics, food preparation and attentive service on the day.

Its experienced team includes event management, operations, logistics and front-of-house specialists who work closely with organisers to bring their ideas to life.

Whether planning an intimate business gathering or a large corporate celebration, clients can rely on the team's experience and practical knowledge to help deliver a seamless occasion.

The company's kitchens have also achieved Qualmark Gold recognition, reflecting its commitment to quality, customer experience and responsible business practices.

Discover Montana Food & Events at Hamilton, New Zealand

For conference organisers, corporate planners, wedding couples and anyone arranging a special occasion in the Waikato region, Montana Food & Events offers an experienced catering partner with an impressive combination of fresh food, professional service and outstanding venue connections.

Its participation at MEETINGS 2026 further highlights the company's role in supporting New Zealand's business events and conference industry.

With a passion for hospitality and a commitment to making every occasion memorable, Montana Food & Events continues to bring people together through exceptional food and service.

Montana Food & Events

Contact person: Amardeep Khasariya
Position: General Manager, Montana Food & Events
Address: Gate 6, Claudelands Events Centre, Brooklyn Road, Hamilton 3240, New Zealand
Telephone: +64 7 839 3459
Additional contact telephone: +64 21 594 035
Email: info@montanafoodandevents.co.nz
Website: https://montanafoodandevents.co.nz/

For more travel, tourism and business events news from around the world, visit the daily online edition of The Holiday and Travel Magazine at https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/ .

That Luang Festival 2026: Experience Laos’ Most Important Buddhist Celebration in Vientiane

That Luang Festival

Visitors to the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) can experience one of Southeast Asia's most meaningful religious and cultural celebrations when the That Luang Festival returns to Vientiane from 21 to 24 November 2026.

Centred on the magnificent golden Pha That Luang stupa, the country's most important national and Buddhist monument, this annual celebration brings together thousands of Buddhist monks, pilgrims, local communities and international visitors.

Known locally as Boun Pha That Luang, the festival provides a fascinating opportunity to discover Laos' spiritual traditions, cultural heritage and community life through religious ceremonies, colourful processions, traditional entertainment and a lively trade fair.

Pha That Luang: The Golden Heart of Laos

That Luang Festival

Pha That Luang, meaning Great Sacred Stupa, is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Laos and an important symbol of the country's Buddhist faith and national identity.

Located in Vientiane, the impressive golden monument features a towering central stupa surrounded by smaller structures and beautifully arranged architectural terraces.

During the That Luang Festival, the monument becomes the focus of nationwide celebrations, attracting pilgrims who travel from different parts of Laos to pay their respects and participate in religious ceremonies.

For international visitors, the festival offers a rare opportunity to experience the importance of Buddhism in everyday Lao life while discovering one of the country's most treasured cultural landmarks.

Candlelit Processions and Traditional Wax Castles

One of the most memorable parts of the That Luang Festival is the colourful candlelit procession featuring traditional wax castles, known as Phasat Pheung.

Participants gather at Wat Si Muang before making their way towards Pha That Luang, carrying beautifully decorated wax offerings adorned with flowers, candles and banknotes.

The procession also features traditional music, dancing and participants dressed in colourful ethnic costumes.

These offerings hold religious significance, with devotees believing that presenting a wax castle at the sacred stupa brings merit and good fortune.

As evening approaches, the glow of candles and the atmosphere of devotion create a particularly memorable cultural experience.

Buddhist Ceremonies and Morning Almsgiving

That Luang Festival

Religious ceremonies are central to the festival, with one of the most significant events taking place early in the morning.

Thousands of Buddhist monks gather around Pha That Luang to receive alms from devotees and members of the community.

This traditional practice provides visitors with an opportunity to observe the generosity, respect and spiritual values that are deeply rooted in Lao Buddhist culture.

The final day of the festival coincides with the full moon, when worshippers return to the stupa for a candlelit procession, walking around the sacred monument as an expression of devotion.

Visitors are encouraged to observe quietly, dress modestly and respect religious customs.

Traditional Games, Entertainment and Trade Fair

Beyond the religious ceremonies, That Luang Festival offers a lively celebration of Lao culture and community life.

The surrounding grounds host a large trade fair where visitors can discover traditional handicrafts, textiles, local products and regional specialities.

Food stalls provide opportunities to sample Lao cuisine, while concerts, cultural performances and traditional entertainment add to the festive atmosphere.

One traditional sporting highlight is Ti Khee, a game played with a ball and long curved sticks, resembling hockey. It is an entertaining part of the wider celebrations and reflects the festival's connection with local customs.

Planning a Visit to That Luang Festival 2026

That Luang Festival

The That Luang Festival takes place from 21 to 24 November 2026 in Vientiane, the capital of Laos. The main full moon celebrations take place on 24 November.

November is an appealing time to explore Laos, with the rainy season generally coming to an end and conditions becoming more suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Visitors can combine the festival with exploring Vientiane's temples, traditional markets, riverside attractions and the beautiful Mekong River.

Accommodation should be arranged in advance, as the festival attracts visitors from across the country and overseas.

That Luang Festival is much more than a religious gathering. It is a wonderful introduction to the traditions, hospitality and cultural identity of Laos, making it an exceptional event for travellers seeking an authentic Southeast Asian experience.

Lao National Tourism Administration – Official Tourism Information

Website: https://www.tourismlaos.org/
Address: Lanexang Avenue, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
Telephone: +856 21 212 251

That Luang Festival – Event Information

Dates: 21–24 November 2026
Location: Pha That Luang, Vientiane, Lao PDR

Website: https://www.tourismlaos.org/event/that-luang-festival-and-trade-fair-in-vientiane-capital-2/For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Con Dao Celebrates 241st Ba Phi Yen Death Anniversary Festival in November 2026

Ba Phi Yen Festival

Visitors to Vietnam's historic Con Dao archipelago will have an opportunity to experience one of its most important cultural and spiritual traditions when the 241st Ba Phi Yen Death Anniversary Festival takes place from 24 to 26 November 2026.

Held at An Son Temple in Con Dao Special Zone, the annual festival commemorates Lady Phi Yen, a revered historical figure whose story remains deeply connected to the cultural identity and spiritual heritage of the local community.

The three-day celebration brings together residents, visitors and devotees to honour the past, preserve traditional customs and celebrate the enduring cultural values of Con Dao.

Honouring Lady Phi Yen and Her Legacy

The Ba Phi Yen Death Anniversary Festival is an important annual tradition for the people of Con Dao. It commemorates Lady Phi Yen and provides an opportunity for the community to express gratitude and pay their respects through traditional cultural and spiritual observances.

Her story has been passed down through generations and forms an important part of the island's historical memory and local identity.

The festival is more than a commemorative occasion. It represents the community's connection with its ancestors, its respect for traditional values and its commitment to preserving the cultural heritage that makes Con Dao such a distinctive destination.

Three Days of Traditional Cultural Celebrations

Ba Phi Yen Festival

The 241st Ba Phi Yen Death Anniversary Festival will run from 24 to 26 November 2026, corresponding to the 16th through 18th days of the tenth lunar month.

An Son Temple will provide the setting for the celebrations, welcoming local residents and visitors wishing to participate in this meaningful occasion.

The festival creates a special atmosphere where traditional customs, spiritual observances and community participation come together. Visitors will have an opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation of the traditions and values that continue to shape life on the islands.

Discover the Cultural Heritage of Con Dao

Con Dao is widely recognised for its important place in Vietnamese history, as well as its natural beauty and distinctive island atmosphere.

Beyond its coastal scenery, beaches and marine environment, the archipelago offers visitors opportunities to discover significant historical and cultural sites.

The Ba Phi Yen festival provides another reason to explore Con Dao, introducing travellers to the island's spiritual traditions and the importance of preserving its cultural identity.

For visitors interested in Vietnamese history, traditional festivals and meaningful cultural experiences, attending this annual commemoration offers a valuable insight into the local community.

Preserving Traditions for Future Generations

Ba Phi Yen Festival

An important purpose of the Ba Phi Yen Death Anniversary Festival is to ensure that historical and cultural values continue to be remembered and passed on to younger generations.

By bringing residents and visitors together, the celebration strengthens community connections while helping safeguard Con Dao's distinctive heritage.

It also provides an opportunity to introduce international visitors to Vietnam's traditions of remembrance, respect for ancestors and appreciation of cultural identity.

The 241st festival reinforces Con Dao's reputation as a destination where history, spirituality and community values remain an important part of everyday life.

Plan Your Visit to the 2026 Ba Phi Yen Festival

The 241st Ba Phi Yen Death Anniversary Festival offers visitors a meaningful opportunity to discover the history, traditions and community spirit of Con Dao while experiencing an important part of Vietnam's cultural heritage.

Travellers planning a November visit to Vietnam may wish to include Con Dao in their itinerary to experience this significant cultural event.

241st Ba Phi Yen Death Anniversary Festival 2026

Dates: 24–26 November 2026
Lunar Calendar: 16th–18th days of the tenth lunar month.
Venue: An Son Temple, Con Dao Special Zone, Vietnam.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Palm Cove’s Exciting Future: $40 Million Double Island Redevelopment and New Hilton Resort Set to Transform Tropical North Queensland

Palm Cove

Palm Cove, one of Tropical North Queensland's most beautiful coastal destinations, is preparing for an exciting new chapter, with major tourism developments set to strengthen its reputation as a luxury holiday destination and an attractive location for business events.

Two significant projects are on the horizon: the Morris Group's proposed $40 million redevelopment of Double Island and the upcoming Hilton Palm Cove Cairns Resort and Spa. Together, these developments promise to introduce new accommodation, dining experiences, boutique event spaces and enhanced facilities for visitors.

The investment is expected to further strengthen Palm Cove's appeal to Australian and international holidaymakers, as well as the meetings, incentives, conferences and events market.

Double Island Set for a $40 Million Transformation

One of the most anticipated developments is the Morris Group's $40 million redevelopment of Double Island, located just offshore from Palm Cove.

Double Island

The proposed four-stage transformation aims to revitalise the island and introduce a new collection of tourism and hospitality experiences.

Plans include luxury accommodation, new dining opportunities and boutique event spaces, creating additional reasons for visitors to explore this distinctive part of the Queensland coastline.

Double Island has long been recognised for its natural beauty and spectacular tropical setting. Its redevelopment represents an opportunity to create a distinctive destination experience while contributing to the wider tourism appeal of Palm Cove.

The project is expected to provide new opportunities for premium leisure tourism, private celebrations, corporate gatherings and incentive travel.

More information about the redevelopment is available through the Morris Group.

Hilton Palm Cove Cairns Resort and Spa Coming in 2027

Adding further momentum to Palm Cove's tourism growth is the upcoming Hilton Palm Cove Cairns Resort and Spa.

Hilton Palm Cove Cairns Resort and Spa

Scheduled to open in June 2027, the new resort is planned to feature 140 guest rooms together with meeting and event facilities.

The development will strengthen the accommodation offering in Palm Cove and provide additional options for travellers seeking internationally recognised hotel hospitality in a relaxed tropical environment.

The resort's meeting facilities are particularly significant for the business events sector, offering another venue for conferences, corporate retreats, incentive groups and professional gatherings.

Its Hilton association is also expected to increase Palm Cove's visibility among international travellers familiar with the global hotel brand.

Strengthening Palm Cove's Business Events Appeal

These developments represent an exciting opportunity for Palm Cove to strengthen its position as a destination for both leisure and business travel.

Palm Cove

Located approximately 25 kilometres north of Cairns, Palm Cove is renowned for its palm-fringed beachfront, tropical atmosphere, boutique accommodation and excellent dining.

The destination provides an appealing setting for incentive programs and corporate retreats, combining relaxed coastal surroundings with access to the natural attractions of Tropical North Queensland.

Visitors can explore the nearby Great Barrier Reef, discover the ancient Daintree Rainforest, enjoy the scenic beauty of the region or simply relax along Palm Cove's beautiful beachfront.

The addition of new luxury accommodation and boutique event spaces will provide further opportunities for event organisers seeking distinctive destinations for meetings and incentive experiences.

A Bright Future for Tropical North Queensland Tourism

With the Morris Group's Double Island redevelopment and the planned Hilton Palm Cove Cairns Resort and Spa, Palm Cove is preparing for an exciting period of tourism investment.

Palm Cove

The projects will complement the destination's established appeal, offering visitors more accommodation choices, new hospitality experiences and additional opportunities to combine business with leisure.

For Australian and international travellers, Palm Cove continues to offer an attractive tropical escape. For the tourism and business events industries, these developments signal exciting possibilities for the future of Tropical North Queensland.

Morris Group – Double Island Redevelopment

Website: https://www.morrisgroup.com.au/revitalising-double-island/

Hilton Palm Cove Cairns Resort and Spa

Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/cnspchi-hilton-palm-cove-cairns-resort-and-spa/
Expected opening: June 2027
Planned accommodation: 140 guest rooms
Location: Palm Cove, Tropical North Queensland, Queensland, Australia.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine"
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Set Sail for Summer at Cruise Public Bar: Fresh Flavours, Harbour Views and Sydney Dining

Cruise Public Bar

Sydney summer is calling, and Cruise Public Bar is celebrating the warmer season with a fresh new menu that brings together seasonal Australian produce, delicious seafood, contemporary pub favourites and refreshing summer cocktails. Perfectly suited to relaxed waterfront dining, this popular Sydney destination invites locals and visitors to enjoy good food, great company and spectacular harbour views.

With its welcoming atmosphere and enticing summer menu, Cruise Public Bar is an ideal place to come for sunset drinks, enjoy a leisurely lunch or settle in for dinner overlooking Sydney Harbour.

A Summer Menu Inspired by Australian Produce

Head Chef Han Chen, winner of the 2025 AHA Metro Chef of the Year, has created a menu celebrating the best of the Australian summer harvest. Fresh seasonal ingredients and native Australian botanicals bring distinctive flavours to dishes, with finger lime, lemon aspen, pepper berry and lemon myrtle featuring throughout.

The menu takes diners on a culinary journey from the raw bar to the grill, combining fresh ingredients with generous portions and contemporary interpretations of familiar favourites.

Fresh Seafood and Modern Pub Favourites

Cruise Public Bar

Seafood lovers will find plenty to tempt their tastebuds. Royal Miyagi oysters arrive with lemon aspen vinaigrette and finger lime pearls, while Vannella burrata is paired with heirloom tomatoes, charred pineapple and passionfruit dressing.

Grilled U6 king prawns are served with romesco and capsicum and tomato salsa, while the pan-seared Humpty Doo barramundi combines macadamia cream, bush tomato ragu and crispy saltbush.

Other menu highlights include blue swimmer crab rigatoni with lobster arrabbiata and lemon stracciatella, and steamed mussels prepared with either white wine and garlic or a bacon, celery and fennel broth, accompanied by confit garlic bread.

Traditional pub favourites have also received attention, including the Stone Axe Wagyu burger, cornflake fried chicken burger with hot honey, 250g chicken parmigiana and beer-battered flathead with chips.

For a special occasion or a memorable meal with friends, the 28-day dry-aged O'Connor rib eye on the bone and the Grande Cruise Seafood Tower provide impressive sharing options. The seafood tower features oysters, whole lobster, prawns, calamari and more.

Tropical Summer Cocktails

Cruise Public Bar

The new summer cocktail list introduces tropical flavours featuring passionfruit, lychee, mango and pineapple.

The signature Aperol Sunset combines calamansi and passionfruit, while the Yuzu Twist brings together Gordon's Gin, yuzu, lemon, mint and tonic.

For sharing, the Passionflower combines Smirnoff vodka, passionfruit, hibiscus and lime. The Strawberry Rosé features rosé, Chambord, strawberry and lemon.

Non-alcoholic choices include the Amalfi Spritz, made with Lyre's non-alcoholic Italian Spritz, and the Wild Berry, featuring seasonal berries, cranberry and lime.

Weekly Specials and Happy Hour

Cruise Public Bar

Cruise Public Bar offers something special throughout the working week, making it an appealing destination for casual Sydney dining.

Monday features steak and bottomless fries for $40, Tuesday offers parmi or schnitty for $25, and Wednesday brings $20 burgers. Thursday features bottomless wings for $30, while Friday offers fennel sausage orecchiette for $25. A 60-minute limit applies to the bottomless specials.

Happy Hour operates weekdays from 5pm to 7pm and Friday and Saturday from 10pm to midnight. Drinks specials include $12 Aperol Spritz, $16 classic or spicy margaritas, $10 pints and $8 house wines.

Enjoy a Sydney Summer at Cruise Public Bar

With its waterfront setting, fresh seasonal menu, Australian seafood, generous pub classics and tropical cocktails, Cruise Public Bar offers an inviting way to experience Sydney's summer dining scene.

Whether enjoying sunset drinks, catching up with friends or sharing a seafood feast, visitors can make the most of the warmer weather at this harbourside destination.

The summer menu is available now. Book your table and explore the menu at: https://www.cruisebar.com.au/menus .      Come for sunset. Stay for dinner.

Cruise Public Bar

Location: Overseaser Passeneger Terminal, Circular Quay W, NSW 2000
CRUISE PUBLIC BAR 7 days 11:30am – late
CRUISE PUBLIC BAR UPSTAIRS Wed to Sun 5:00pm - late
MELBA’S ROOFTOP Thur to Fri 4:00pm - late; Sat to Sun 12pm - late
Website: https://www.cruisebar.com.au/
Menus and bookings: https://www.cruisebar.com.au/menus

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Win a Luxury Gold Coast Escape with Virgin Australia Holidays

Dreaming of a relaxing Gold Coast holiday? Virgin Australia Holidays is giving one lucky traveller the opportunity to win an exciting getaway combining return flights, luxury accommodation and a delicious breakfast at one of Queensland's most prestigious waterfront resorts.

The latest Virgin Australia Holidays competition offers an opportunity to escape everyday life and enjoy a two-night stay at the beautiful InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, located in the exclusive Sanctuary Cove precinct on the Gold Coast.

For anyone dreaming of sunshine, relaxation and a little luxury, this competition could be the perfect reason to start planning a Queensland getaway.

Win Return Flights and a Luxury Resort Stay

The major prize includes a Virgin Australia Holidays package featuring return flights to the Gold Coast and two nights at the five-star InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort.

The lucky winner and their guest will stay in a Lagoon View Room, offering attractive views across the resort's beautiful lagoon surroundings.

Breakfast for two is also included, providing a relaxing start to each holiday morning before exploring the resort and the Gold Coast.

Combining air travel with luxury accommodation, the prize offers an opportunity to enjoy a memorable short break without having to organise every detail independently.

Discover InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort

InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort

Situated within the prestigious Sanctuary Cove precinct, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort is an appealing destination for travellers seeking a peaceful and luxurious Gold Coast escape.

The resort is known for its beautiful lagoon-style swimming pool, tropical landscaped gardens and relaxed waterfront atmosphere.

Its location provides access to the Sanctuary Cove village, where visitors can discover restaurants, cafes, boutique shopping and the surrounding marina.

The Gold Coast also offers a wonderful variety of attractions, including beautiful beaches, theme parks, shopping destinations, nature experiences and excellent dining.

Whether enjoying a relaxing resort stay or exploring the surrounding region, Sanctuary Cove provides an attractive setting for a Queensland holiday.

How to Enter the Virgin Australia Holidays Competition

Entering the competition is simple and gives participants an opportunity to demonstrate their creativity.

To enter:

1. Visit the official Virgin Australia Holidays competition entry page.
2. Complete the online entry form.
3. In 25 words or less, write an imaginative out-of-office message explaining why you deserve a Gold Coast getaway.

The competition encourages entrants to think creatively and come up with a memorable message that captures their excitement about escaping to the Gold Coast.

Entries close at 11.59 pm Australian Eastern Standard Time on 22 November 2026.

Plan Your Dream Gold Coast Getaway

The Gold Coast

The Gold Coast remains one of Australia's favourite holiday destinations, attracting visitors with its beautiful beaches, sunny climate, exciting attractions and excellent accommodation.

A stay at InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort offers a different experience from the busy beachfront holiday areas, combining resort luxury with a peaceful marina-side setting.

For couples seeking a relaxing break, the prize offers an appealing combination of return air travel, luxury accommodation and breakfast.

With the competition closing soon, interested travellers should visit the official entry website and submit their creative 25-word out-of-office message before the deadline.

A memorable Gold Coast holiday could be just one creative entry away!

Competition Details

Competition: Virgin Australia Holidays Gold Coast Getaway

Prize includes:

• Return Virgin Australia flights to the Gold Coast.
• Two-night accommodation at InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort.
• Lagoon View Room.
• Breakfast for two.

Entry requirement: Complete the entry form and submit an original out-of-office message in 25 words or less.

Closing date: 22 November 2026 at 11.59 pm AEST.

Virgin Australia Holidays

Website: https://www.virginaustralia.com/
Competition entry: https://t.e.virginaustralia.com/r/?id=h1fd0ac6a,433a32d7,379f2efb

InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort

Address: Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circle, Hope Island, Queensland 4212, Australia
Website: https://sanctuarycove.intercontinental.com/
Telephone: +61 7 5530 1234

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Sofitel Wellington: Discover French Luxury and New Zealand Charm in the Heart of the Capital

Sofitel Wellington

Experience the elegance of French hospitality combined with the natural beauty of New Zealand at Sofitel Wellington, a five-star luxury hotel offering sophisticated accommodation, exceptional dining and stylish business event facilities in the heart of Wellington.

Ideally positioned in the city's business and government precinct, Sofitel Wellington provides an inviting retreat for holidaymakers, international visitors, corporate travellers and conference delegates. Surrounded by lush botanicals and ideally located close to the Wellington Botanic Garden, the hotel combines the French joie de vivre with the distinctive character of New Zealand's capital.

A Luxurious Wellington Hotel in an Exceptional Location

Sofitel Wellington

Sofitel Wellington enjoys a prime position at 11 Bolton Street, placing guests within easy walking distance of many of Wellington's popular attractions, restaurants, cafes and shopping destinations.

The hotel's elegant accommodation reflects Sofitel's signature French-inspired style, with beautifully appointed rooms and suites featuring sophisticated furnishings, rich textures and contemporary comforts. Guests can enjoy a relaxing atmosphere while remaining close to the energy of the capital.

The surrounding landscape provides an appealing contrast between Wellington's vibrant city centre and its beautiful green hillsides. The nearby Botanic Garden offers a peaceful escape, while the famous Wellington Cable Car provides an enjoyable way to discover the city's spectacular views.

Dining, Relaxation and Wellington Experiences

Jardin Grill

Guests can enjoy French-inspired cuisine complemented by quality New Zealand produce and wines. The hotel's restaurant and cocktail bar provide attractive settings for breakfast, leisurely dining, evening drinks and business entertaining.

Additional facilities include a fitness centre, executive lounge, room service and valet parking, making Sofitel Wellington an appealing accommodation choice for both short visits and longer stays.

Its central location also makes exploring Wellington convenient. Visitors can discover the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, Parliament Buildings, the waterfront, local galleries and the city's renowned cafe culture.

An Elegant Destination for Meetings and Conferences

Sofitel Wellington

Sofitel Wellington is more than a luxury accommodation destination. It also offers an attractive setting for meetings, conferences, corporate functions and private events.

The hotel features three versatile meeting spaces, including the Lady Norwood Room, Rosa Room and Marsden Boardroom. With natural light, contemporary technology and dedicated event services, these facilities cater for everything from intimate executive meetings to larger corporate gatherings.

The Lady Norwood Room accommodates up to 80 delegates in theatre configuration, while the Rosa Room can host up to 50 guests in theatre style. The Marsden Boardroom provides an elegant environment for meetings of up to 12 participants.

Sofitel Wellington was one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026, the major business events trade exhibition organised by Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA). Its participation highlighted the hotel's position in New Zealand's business events industry and its appeal to meeting planners, conference organisers and incentive travel professionals seeking quality accommodation and event facilities in Wellington.

Discover the Sofitel Wellington Experience

Whether planning a New Zealand holiday, a romantic city escape, a corporate visit or a business conference, Sofitel Wellington offers a distinctive combination of French elegance, attentive hospitality and an outstanding central location.

For travellers seeking luxury Wellington accommodation and event organisers searching for an elegant Wellington conference venue, Sofitel Wellington is a destination worth discovering.

Hotel: Sofitel Wellington

Contact person: Evline Kumar
Address: 11 Bolton Street, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
Telephone: +64 4 472 2001
Contact mobile: +64 27 215 2880
Email: evline.kumar@sofitel.com
General hotel email: h9051@sofitel.com
Website: https://www.sofitel-wellington.com
Official Accor website: https://sofitel.accor.com/en/hotels/9051.html
Meetings and events: https://sofitel.accor.com/en/hotels/9051/meetings.html

For more travel, tourism and business events news from around the world, visit the daily online edition of The Holiday and Travel Magazine at https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/ .