Saturday 30 April 2022

VIRGIN VOYAGES TO CALL AUSTRALIA HOME

Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages, Richard Branson’s award-winning cruise line that hit the high seas in 2021, is now setting its sights on Australia and New Zealand, today announcing its plans to make its new home port in Melbourne in 2023.

Resilient Lady, the newest ship in Virgin Voyages’ third ship in a four-ship fleet, is inviting Aussie adults to experience the glamour and unmatched service and experience synonymous with the Virgin brand.

Resilient Lady will make her way on a 44-night trans-continental voyage, giving Aussies the chance to sail the high seas from Athens to Sydney in style. After this epic journey home, the ship will arrive at Station Pier in Port Melbourne, Victoria.

Fellow Australian and Virgin Voyages’ President and Chief Experience Officer, Nirmal Saverimuttu, said: “Australia and New Zealand are without question the most beautiful countries in the world, and we knew that these destinations, paired with the Virgin Voyages experience, will make it the most incredible holiday for our Sailors. The Virgin brand is known and adored by Australians and New Zealanders and we are committed to delivering a holiday experience you will love and memories that will last a lifetime.”

Exclusively adult, the voyages will take a ‘superyacht style’ that have been imagined by a creative collective of the world’s most renowned interior designers and travel to destinations across Australia including Hobart and Burnie, along with Sydney. New Zealand itineraries feature port stops in Picton, Napier, Tauranga, Auckland, Christchurch and Dunedin.

Virgin Group Founder Sir Richard Branson described it as an exciting milestone for the brand: “Australia has a very special place in my heart and we can’t wait for Australians and New Zealanders to meet our Resilient Lady and experience all that she has to offer in true Virgin style,” Sir Richard said.

“For more than 50 years, Virgin companies have been innovating and making industries better for our customers. Virgin Voyages is very much charting its own path, offering a fresh perspective on cruise travel with all the elements of the Virgin experience that people love.”

Ranging from 2 to 14 nights with a mix of itineraries, Sailors will experience Michelin starred chef-driven culinary offerings at six signature restaurants and more than 14 other eateries (all included). HIIT and bungee classes are on offer as well as festival-style entertainment.

Resilient Lady will sail through Australia and New Zealand from 11th December 2023 to 27th March 2024. Reservations are now open, and Sailors can save up to 30% off voyage fares.

For bookings or for more information on the unique itineraries, go to www.VirginVoyages.com.

Opening of KAI Yufuin in Oita Prefecture on August 3, 2022

  • A hot spring ryokan with a sculpted landscape painted with nature’s brush

Hoshino Resorts KAI Yufuin will be the 20th property operated by Hoshino Resorts under the hot spring ryokan brand, KAI, and is scheduled to open on 3 August 2022. It will be the fourth property in Kyushu, following KAI Aso and KAI Beppu in Oita Prefecture and KAI Kirishima in Kagoshima Prefecture. Its concept is a hot spring ryokan with a sculpted landscape painted with nature’s brush, where the cascading rice terraces with Mount Yufu as a dramatic backdrop can be captured. Relax at this hot spring ryokan where the change in season can be felt through the change in the appearance of the views of the rice terraces.

About KAI Yufuin
Nestled in a quiet location surrounded by the nature of Mt. Yufu, this is a hot spring ryokan where the seasonal scenery of cascading rice terraces can be enjoyed. For example, the reflection of the clear blue sky on the water before planting rice, the fresh green leaves just after planting, the golden color of the ear of rice that spreads, and the rice straw in late autumn, etc. KAI Yufuin, built around the rice terraces was designed by Kengo Kuma, following KAI Beppu. A relaxing hot spring stay can be enjoyed as one feels the charms of Yufuin such as its rich nature and rural village landscapes.

Characteristics of KAI Yufuin
Characteristic 1) Views of cascading rice terraces with the change in season
Before the rice planting in spring, the rice terraces are filled with water, where the clear blue sky and the surrounding landscape are reflected on its surface. After rice planting, the fresh green of young plants spreads, and in the summer, the grown rice moves with the wind, producing a refreshing tone. In autumn, the ears of rice grow in abundance, turning rice terraces into gold. The landscape of rice terraces with rice straws after harvest is a familiar scene of Yufuin in winter. Guests can also enjoy a mystical landscape view of the rice terrace surrounded by the morning mist from autumn through winter. There is a terrace within the premise where guests look out into the rice terraces and feel the change in season.

Characteristic 2) KAI Signature Rooms
KAI signature rooms are unique to the KAI brand, where regional culture can be appreciated from within the guest rooms. KAI Yufuin will have 6 room types, where all are signature rooms. One characteristic is the inclusion of a ceiling light that was inspired by firefly baskets, which were once used as sources of light by keeping fireflies in straw baskets. The lighting in the room uses rare shichito matgrass which is grown in the Kunisaki Peninsula of Oita Prefecture, and its unique texture and light aroma can be enjoyed in the rooms. Moreover, Oita Prefecture produces the largest amount of giant timber bamboo in Japan, and bamboo crafts made from these bamboo materials are famous as traditional crafts. The bamboo is used for the headboards and sofa in the rooms for guests to be in close proximity to the traditional crafts and culture of this region.

Characteristic 3) KAI Local flavors – Kaiseki course to enjoy nature’s blessing from the mountains
Kaiseki dinner course that incorporates local food culture is served in a semi-private dining room. The meal makes use of nature’s blessings from the mountains such that for starters, wild boar meat and shitake mushroom pate sandwiched in monaka wafer is served along with watercress salad with a dressing of kabosu citrus, a signature agricultural product of Oita Prefecture. For the special kaiseki course, shabu-shabu style hot pot of thinly sliced beef, wild boar meat, deer meat, and bear meat using can be enjoyed. Dipping sauce for each type of meat is prepared so that different flavors can be savored.

Details of KAI Yufuin
Property Name: Hoshino Resorts KAI Yufuin
Address: 398 Kawakami, Yufuin-cho, Yufu, Oita
Price: Starts from 35,000 JPY per night (per person in a 2 person room, includes tax and service charge, breakfast, and dinner)
Number of Rooms: 45
Facilities: lobby, dining area, travel library, shop, public hot springs, yuagari lounge, rice terrace
Directions: Approximately 10 minutes by car from JR Yufuin Station, approximately 60 mins by car from Oita Airport
Opening date: August 3, 2022

Details of the project
Floors: Public building with 2 floors, Guest room building with 3 floors, and an annex
Main design and supervision: Kengo Kuma and Associates
Construction: Fujita and Kensei Kensetsu
Completion of construction: April 28, 2022 (tentative)

About KAI Brand

”Japanese Auberge” in classic hot spring regions
KAI is a leading brand of hot spring ryokan where every establishment offers a contemporary take on traditional Japanese inn whilst keeping Western comforts. KAI invites one to discover the multifaceted aspects of Japan through natural hot springs, exploration of local arts and entertainment, and classic Kaiseki-style course meals using local and seasonal flavors. Experience Washoku, Japanese cuisine, presented on carefully selected ceramics for full exposure to culinary sensations.

Sydney Harbour Marriott's Mother's Day Soiree

Treat your Mum like a queen this Mother’s Day by taking her to an indulgent lunch at the award-winning restaurant, Silvester’s.
  • For $128 pp, your Mum can enjoy a limited-edition Mother’s Day lunch menu, specially curated by Sydney Harbour Marriott’s Michelin Star-trained chef. A modern take on Australia cuisine, the menu showcases locally sourced fresh produce and an intriguing and unexpected blend of flavours.
  • Upon arrival Mums will be welcomed with a cocktail from local distillery Manly Spirits, who will showcase their famous pink gin with a DIY garnish station, enabling your Mum to create her own special G&T garnished with a choice of herbs, botanicals, fresh fruits, and flowers.
  • Mums will be able to sit relax and enjoy their lunch as they listen to the soothing sounds of live music.
  • Diners will also be in with a chance to win a Gin Making Class at Manly Spirit’s distillery.
  • Finally, each guest can take home a treat, receiving a gift of Silvester’s chocolate truffles.
  • Book your seat today here

This will be an amazing experience for all the well-deserving Mums out there to be absolutely spoiled!

Full details on the menu below here.

Silvester’s Mother’s Day Lunch Menu
  • Menu curated by Chef Raphael Szurek & his team
  • $128 pp – including one cocktail on arrival

To Start
  • Vannella Stracciatella with Figs, Argan oil, soba cha Or
  • Rockliff Spanner Crab with Avocado, finger lime Or
  • Chicken liver pate with Quince chutney, brioche

To Continue
  • Glacier 51 Toothfish with X.O Sauce, artichokes, and bisque Or
  • Tajima Wagyu Striploin MB4+ with Confit garlic, miso eggplant, bone marrow jus Or
  • Aged Carnaroli Risotto with Celeriac, mushrooms, hazelnuts

To Finish
  • Special Mother’s Day Dessert consisting of Buddha hand, meringue, and coconut

ADD SILVESTER’S BOILERPLATE

About Sydney Harbour Marriott at Circular Quay
Sydney Harbour Marriott provides a five-star experience at the heart of the harbour and city. The hotel features spectacular Opera House and Harbour Bridge views as well as multiple award-winning bars and restaurants. Sydney Harbour Marriott is a stone’s throw from the city’s business, dining, arts, shopping, and cultural districts, as well as most major attractions and transportation options. The hotel features some of the Sydney's most robust indoor-outdoor function spaces with state-of-the art AV and world-class catering. Combining comfort, luxury, convenience, quality and more; Sydney Harbour Marriott offers unparalleled excellence -- the perfect home away from home for professionals, tourists, families, and transient workers alike.

VNAT’s Chairman Nguyen Trung Khanh attends the opening ceremony of Ba Vi Tourism 2022 “Green, safe Experience”

Performance at the opening ceremony of Ba Vi tourism in 2022
(Photo: Kinh te do thi news)
On 16th April, at Ao Vua - Tan Linh Tourist Area, the People’s Committee of Ba Vi District held the opening ceremony of Ba Vi tourism in 2022 with the theme "Ba Vi tourism - Green, safe experience". Mr. Nguyen Trung Khanh, Chairman of Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT), attended the ceremony.

Located in the west of Ha Noi Capital, Ba Vi District owns rich natural and cultural tourist resources. According Mr. Nguyen Manh Quyen, Vice Chairman of the People’s Committee of Ha Noi, Ba Vi District is one of the active units in implementing solutions to restore and develop tourism, ensure effective control of the Covid-19 pandemic and gradually strive to turn tourism into a spearhead economic sector of Ba Vi District.

Mr. Do Manh Hung - Chairman of the People’s Committee of Ba Vi District stated, in order to gradually resume Ba Vi tourism activities with ensuring safety and efficiency, contributing to the recovery and development of the Capital's tourism industry, in recent years, Ba Vi District has promoted propaganda and awareness activities, introduced and promoted tourism products; focused on speeding up traffic infrastructure construction, service facilities, tourism and culture; coordinated with tourism units to embellish, upgrade tourism products and prepare the best conditions to build the image of Ba Vi tourism as a safe and attractive destination for domestic and foreign visitors.

Mr. Quyen suggested that city departments, agencies and branches pay attention and support Ba Vi District in investing and upgrading infrastructure, especially traffic infrastructure, to ensure the most favourable conditions for visitors coming to Ba Vi. At the same time, it is necessary to strengthen communication, expand the scope of promotion and publicity so that Ba Vi tourism and the capital can develop properly.

In the occasion of opening ceremony, besides enjoying the scenery of Ba Vi mountains and forests, visitors have the opportunity to experience some new tourism products at Ao Vua tourist area such as: Healthcare tourism; herbal bath; consulting, diagnosis, health care of Southern medicine, Eastern medicine; immersing in the "Ba Vi Muong - Dao ethnic market” Festival; “New Rice Festival” at Ban Coc tourist area, Minh Quang Commune. Besides, there are spiritual and cultural tourism activities at Uncle Ho's Temple, K9 Da Chong relic site; visiting the Lower Temple, the Middle Temple, and the Upper Temple worshipping Tan Vien Mountain God; Relaxing at Thien Son - Suoi Nga Resort, Tan Da Resort, Melia Resort; Visiting the Rose Garden at Paragon Resort. After this series of events, in 2022, in Ba Vi District, a series of exciting activities will take place, notably the Agricultural Product Festival, the Hot Air Balloon Festival associated with the experience and display of wild flowers in Ba Vi National Park.

Tourism Information Technology Center
Tags: #VNAT, #VNAT’s Chairman, #Nguyen Trung Khanh, #opening ceremony, #Ba Vi tourism, #Ha Noi,

The Holiday and Travel Magazine
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Vietnam National Administration of Tourism
https://vietnamtourism.gov.vn/english/

VINES, WHALES AND COSY COASTAL STAYS: ESCAPE TO A WINTER WONDERLAND IN THE SHOALHAVEN

From once-in-a-lifetime encounters swimming with majestic humpback whales, to award-winning winery adventures, and cosy accommodation with in-house fine dining, Shoalhaven is the ultimate destination for travellers looking for a unique escape this winter. Just two hours from Sydney and Canberra!

From May to November each year, the Shoalhaven coast comes alive with the annual whale migration. The Shoalhaven, with its restful bays is a favoured spot for whales and their calves to take a break as they travel along the ‘Humpback Highway’, making the Shoalhaven one of the best spots for a guaranteed sighting or up-close encounter.

Book a whale watching eco-cruise with Jervis Bay Wild or Dolphin Watch to get up close with humpback whales, or try a ‘Swim with the Whales’ experience with Dive Jervis Bay or Woebegone Freedive, two of only a few licensed to do so in Australia. A unique way to have an in-water experience with the humpbacks. Travellers who have embarked on a swim with whales’ experience have described it as ‘life-changing’ and ‘unforgettable’ with curious whales often coming over for a closer look at swimmers; and with small capacity charters, it is a boutique and intimate experience you’re not soon to forget.

“Shoalhaven has some of the best whale watching experiences along the east coast, with a season that lasts from May to November. There is a huge variety of experiences including eco cruises inside Jervis Bay along white sand beaches and in calm, clear waters. Pair that with the rugged coastline combined with the green rolling hills of the south coast and nine cellar doors make for an excellent cosy stay,” said Coralie Bell, Tourism Manager, Shoalhaven City Council.

For the lovers of wine, the Shoalhaven's temperate climate and lush soil produces some of the world's most highly acclaimed drops. The region is home to nine cellars doors including award-winning Silos Estate, Mountain Ridge Wines, Coolangatta Estate, and Cupitt’s Estate. Those looking for something unique can choose from a range of activities and locations including High Tea in a giant teacup to horseback rides through the vines, meeting miniature animals as you sip and perching up with a wine upon a hill overlooking 360 views of the Shoalhaven River or Kangaroo Valley escarpment.

Brett Richardson, President, Shoalhaven Wine Coast says: “The Shoalhaven Wine Coast is now a well-established wine region that offers visitors a diverse range of delicious award winning wines, premium dining options and unique visitor experiences. The wineries in our region offer everything from cellar door tastings to fine dining, boutique accommodation and high teas; fromageries and breweries; historic buildings and the most amazing views you can imagine".

The winter weather makes you want to savour mouthwatering local produce in relaxing and cosy surrounds which is available at one of the Shoalhaven’s many opulent dine-in accommodation offerings. From luxury accommodation pods and a farm to table menu at Cupitt’s Estate; pair an overnight stay with ocean view rooms and fine dining at Bannisters Pavilion or Bannister’s By the Sea featuring Rick Stein’s award-winning seafood restaurant; enjoy the rustic beauty of Mountain Ridge Wines family run farm-stay and locally sourced menu featuring monthly market dinners; unique outdoor safari tents and a three course bush tucker meal await at Paperbark Camp; sustainable gourmet eats and a coastal view at Bangalay Dining and Villas on Seven Mile Beach; and casual dining meets charming 18th century accommodation at Coolangatta Estate.

Your next cosy escape awaits on the South Coast, just two hours from Sydney and Canberra.

Cherry Trees Along the Meguro River

cherry trees line 2.2.km along the Meguro River
About 800 cherry trees line 2.2.km along the Meguro River in Tokyo, and the 1km of the stretch is illuminated during the annual light up of the trees!
 
The light up usually happens from late March till early April each year, around 5pm till 9pm each night.

Red lanterns are placed on both sides of the river, and there are festival stalls set up for Sakura-themed food and drinks!

Mary Poppins Comes to the Sydney Stage in May


Mary Poppins will hit the stage at Sydney Lyric Theatre on 15 May 2022.

ABOUT MARY POPPINS
Seen by tens of millions of people worldwide, the original Tony and Olivier award-winning production was hugely successful in Australia, breaking box office records and winning a record-breaking eight Helpmann Awards. Now, a new generation of theatregoers have the chance to experience this magical stage adaptation of the wonderful stories by Australian author PL Travers.

The original music and lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman include the classic songs Jolly Holiday, Step in Time, Feed the Birds and Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. New songs and additional music are by the Olivier award-winning British team of George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. Book is by Academy Award®-winning screenwriter and Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes, and this production is co-created by Cameron Mackintosh. The producer for Disney Theatrical Productions is Thomas Schumacher.

This production of MARY POPPINS has orchestrations by William David Brohn with dance and vocal arrangements by George Stiles. It has a new sound design by Paul Gatehouse and new lighting by Hugh Vanstone and Natasha Katz. Co-choreography is by Stephen Mear. The reimagined set and costume designs are by Bob Crowley. Co-direction and choreography is by Matthew Bourne and direction by Richard Eyre.

MARY POPPINS is produced in Australia by Cameron Mackintosh, The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand, and Michael Cassel Group.

The Australian premiere of MARY POPPINS is supported by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW.

ABOUT CAMERON MACKINTOSH
With LES MISÉRABLES, HAMILTON, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA and MARY POPPINS now open in London, OLIVER! open in Japan, MISS SAIGON open in Austria, and MARY POPPINS opening in Tokyo and Sydney this year, Cameron remains the world’s most prolific producer of musicals, with over 50 shows either on or in pre-production internationally.

Cameron’s Original productions include LES MISÉRABLES, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA and CATS - the three longest running musicals of all time, now in their 4th decades - MISS SAIGON, MARY POPPINS (co-produced with Disney), LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, SONG AND DANCE, TOMFOOLERY, MARTIN GUERRE, THE WITHCES OF EASTWICK, FIVE GUYS NAMED MOE and SIDE BY SIDE BY SONDHEIM. He also reinvented modern versions of OLIVER!, FOLLIES, HALF A SIXPENCE, BARNUM, and MY FAIR LADY. His new versions of LES MISÉRABLES, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, MISS SAIGON, and OLIVER! are now proving as successful as the original productions.

Azerai Welcomes Back Overseas Visitors to Vietnam with Exclusive New Offerings

Azerai Ke Ga Bay launched2020 as the
brand's first oceanfront resort.
As Vietnam lifts the last of its travel restrictions for international visitors, one of Southeast Asia’s most ambitious new luxury hotel groups is rolling out a welcome mat that leads to new accommodation, pursuits and packages.

Vietnam announced the end of travel restrictions on March 16 after being closed for two years due to COVID-19. International visitors now only need to present a negative RT-PCR issued within 72 hours before departure for Vietnam or a negative rapid antigen test within 24 hours of departure and certified by a competent authority in the issuing country.

Azerai Ke Ga Bay, an elegant and secluded oceanfront retreat in southeastern Vietnam, launched in November 2020 while the country’s borders were closed due to the pandemic.

Now that Vietnam has announced the end of quarantine and other restrictions, overseas visitors can experience the 46-key resort and its pristine five-kilometer white sand beach for the first time. Azerai Ke Ga Bay is located 180 kilometers east of Ho Chi Minh City and features a mix of contemporary suites and private-pool suites set amid lush gardens.

All three of Azerai Resorts’ properties in Vietnam—the others include Azerai Can Tho in the Mekong Delta and Azerai La Residence, Hue in the former imperial capital—have rolled out special offerings that cater to travelers’ renewed desire for privacy, exclusivity and space.

The properties have also each unveiled a suite of unique experiences to explore the local surroundings and be more fully immersed in the culture.

Azerai Can Tho earlier this year introduced one- and two-bedroom private pool villas to complement the resort’s existing three-, four- and five-bedroom villas, offering spacious and private new accommodation options for groups of all sizes, from couples to extended families.

The villas range from 636sqm (Pool Villas) to 784sqm (River Pool Villa) to an expansive 1,583 sqm (Mekong Pool Villa) and include dedicated villa hosts who can help to personalize the guest experience. And, of course, villa guests have access to all of the resort’s world-class amenities and culinary offerings, in addition to private luxury boat cruises in the Mekong Delta, lavish picnics under the resort’s mature banyan trees and other local excursions and activities.

Azerai La Residence, Hue debuted an elegant 55-foot (17-meter) cruise boat in 2021, offering guests one of the most stylish and sophisticated ways to experience the Perfume River in central Vietnam. With its classic hardwood trim and bright red accents, as well as spacious private lounge areas in the front and back, the new boat provides a stark contrast to the crowded and noisy dragon boats so commonly seen in Hue.

Azerai Can Tho introduced 1- and 2-bedroom
 private pool villas earlier this year.
The new vessel, locally built, accommodates up to 16 passengers and embarks on three types of excursions: an afternoon tea cruise, a sunset cocktail cruise and a dinner cruise. The covered middle section of the boat serves as a dining room by night and sightseeing deck by day.

For more information on applying for an e-visa visit ​​https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/. Citizens of 13 countries qualify for visa exemptions and can visit for up to 15 days regardless of passport type and entry purpose.

The latest conditions for entry into Vietnam should be confirmed with the nearest Vietnamese consulate and/or through a booking agent to ensure compatibility.

ABOUT AZERAI RESORTS
Azerai is a new story and brand of resorts offering guests simple elegance, refined design, and discreet and attentive service in places of unique beauty and cultural interest. The brand was formed by hotelier Adrian Zecha, and the name is derived from Zecha’s initials and the latter part of a Persian word, caravanserai, which references the storied old inns of the Middle East.

Tatts Finke Desert Race in Alice Springs

One of the biggest annual sporting events in the Northern Territory is back in 2022 when the Tatts Finke Desert Race returns to Alice Springs.

Held on Queens Birthday Long Weekend (June 9 – June 13, 2022) the 2022 Tatts Finke Desert Race is an off road, multi terrain two-day race for bikes, cars, buggies and quads through desert country from Alice Springs to the small Aputula (Finke) community.

With 650 bikes & quads and 150 buggies & trophy trucks competing annually, there is little wonder why Finke Desert Race has the reputation of being one of the most difficult offroad courses in the world.

Putting the helmet on for the 2022 Tatts Finke Desert Race includes six-time winner Shannon Rentsch who is back competing after a couple years off and back to retain their status of reigning King of the Desert are 2021 Car category winner Toby Price and 2021 Bike category winner and NT local hero David Walsh.

Finke is unique and the most fun you can have this June long weekend!  

Find out more at: https://www.finkedesertrace.com.au/

Hidden Accommodation Gems in the Rocky Mountains

Second Breakfast Hideaway
From Canadian country escapes and mountain getaways to treehouse stargazing and hobbit-themed lodges, think outside the accommodation box for unique stays that offer a new perspective on exploring Canada in 2022. Read on for six of the best.

Second Breakfast Hideaway: This authentic earth house and hobbit-themed fantasy escape is located in the verdant Okanagan Highlands of British Columbia. Straight out of Lord of the Rings, the hobbit house is surrounded by acres of backcountry, an ideal spot for travellers seeking an atmospheric hideaway. Note: you won’t find TV or Wi-Fi here – this is the place to come when you’re ready for that digital detox.
Gateway: Fly into Kelowna from Vancouver and take the scenic two-hour drive.
What’s cool: The incredible architecture takes centre stage, with charming homages to Middle Earth amplified in the design work, including Elvish script and a crackling fireplace.

Theobald Island
Theobald Island
: Imagine stepping onto your own 3.5-acre island, where a quaint property is backdropped by lush greenery and sapphire ocean. Welcome to Theobald Island on Lake Muskoka, Ontario, where guests are welcomed down a path of fragrant pine trees leading from the boathouse to the main cottage. Here, you can unwind in comfortable accommodations, and spend languid days and nights kayaking, diving off the dock, and soaking in the outdoor hot tub.
Gateway: A two-hour drive from Toronto.
What’s cool: Relax around the fire pit – which extends into the lake – to roast marshmallows, stargaze and swap ghost stories.

Strong’s Tickle: In the Atlantic province of Newfoundland and Labrador, shack up on the island of Strong's Tickle, a private oasis marked by leafy forests and miles of ocean. Upon arrival, guests can relax on the dock, paddle the waters in a traditional Newfoundland dory, or dine under the stars. Accommodations are in a glamping pod built over the water, featuring a camp stove, eco-friendly toilet, and freshwater for washing. Enhance the experience with boat tours, kayaking, or a picnic in the serene surroundings.
Gateway: Reach Strong’s Tickle from Clarenville, a 1.5-hour drive from Gander International Airport.
What’s cool: Add on the Zodiac Cave Adventure experience for a day-long journey exploring hidden quarries, gold mines and fishing villages around Strong’s Tickle.

Centre de l’Hêtre
Centre de l’Hêtre:
Sleep in a magical dome or yurt in the middle of the sprawling wilderness in beautiful Quebec. Made for two, the accommodations are ideal for a romantic sojourn, or a solitary retreat where you can unplug and enjoy alone time. Amenities include a wood stove, compolette (odorless composting toilet), firewood, and kitchen equipment.
Gateway: A half-hour drive from Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport. What’s cool: The rental includes a canoe, which you can take onto Lake Poulin, a private lake for local residents.

Charmed Family Resorts:
In Crowsnest Pass, Alberta, Charmed Family Resorts brings fairytales to life with life-sized reimaginings of ethereal accommodations. Midsummer Cottage, inspired by Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream features a dreamy stone and wood façade, and is decked out with a fire pit, barbecue, and separate bathroom.
Gateway: A 2.5-hour drive from Calgary International Airport.
What’s cool: The wood-fire hot tub beckons with a secluded soak in an enchanting woodscape.

The Birdhouse
The Birdhouse:
This passion project was crafted exclusively for relaxation, seclusion and connection with the land. Designed as a lofty treehouse, The Birdhouse sits on a private acre in British Columbia complete with a campfire area, wildlife and lawn games. Guests enter by crossing a cable suspension bridge to the front door, where a cozy kitchen awaits. In the back, French doors open to a cedar deck boasting panoramic mountain views – an ideal spot to stargaze at night and sip coffee in the morning.
Gateway: Chilliwack, British Columbia, is an easy 1.5-hour drive from Vancouver. What’s cool: The bed is located at the top of the treehouse, where soothing views of stars and tree branches lull you to sleep.

Friday 29 April 2022

See Vivid Sydney for yourself!

After a two-year hiatus, Vivid Sydney returns to flood the city’s glorious harbour with seemingly infinite shades of colour and light.

Vivid Sydney is back from 27 May–18 June 2022.
While many Vivid Sydney visitors remain on dry land, insiders know that some of the best views can be gleaned from aboard a boat. And there’s no better way to get out on the water than by joining Journey Beyond Cruise Sydney.

The three-hour Vivid cruise takes place from the comfort of our luxury cruiser which has an epic roof deck and full views from the indoor main cabin. Following a light-up cocktail on arrival, you can expect a lavish three-course dinner including fresh local seafood, contemporary mains, exciting vegetarian options and a classic pavlova to finish, plus premium Champagne and wine.

Journey Beyond Cruise Sydney - 20% off Vivid Cruise

To celebrate we are offering Journey Beyond Travel Club Members with 20% off Journey Beyond Cruise Sydney dinner bookings*!

FIND OUT MORE


Calling All Cyclists: Avani+ Khao Lak Resort Is the Official Partner of L’Étape Thailand 2022

Avani+ Khao Lak Resort
Competitor? Cheer squad? Aficionado? Avani+ Khao Lak Resort, the official hotel partner for the 3rd L’Étape Thailand by Tour de France Phang Nga in May 2022 welcomes guests to immerse in this unique competition with unmissable packages.

The L’Étape Thailand 2022 VIP Edition package ensures participants can fully prepare for the ride of a lifetime with all the arrangements covered from kit delivery, start line transfers and nutritious breakfast boxes, so riders can concentrate solely on pedalling.

The L’Étape Thailand 2022 VIP Edition package includes:
• Accommodation in a Deluxe Room

• Daily buffet breakfast for 2 persons at Elements restaurant

• One VIP Ticket: BIB Race Kit, VIP Jersey

• Round-trip airport transfer between Avani+ Khao Lak and Phuket International Airport

• One-way transfer from hotel to event start point

• Special breakfast box on 15 May 2022 event date

• Additional night special deal THB 4,000 net per night

• 25% off dining, excluding in-room dining and minibar

• 25% off spa treatments, excluding other promotional offers

• Enjoy an early check-in from 10:00 am and late check-out until 6:00 pm, subject to availability

Prices start at THB 9,800 nett per room per night for 2 persons. Available for reservation until 15 May for all stays during 11 - 16 May 2022.

Fans and supporters of “L’Étape Thailand 2022” can also benefit from exclusive rates if they book by 30th April 2022. Enjoy insider rates inclusive of breakfast for two starting from THB 3,000 per room, per night. Perfect for supporting cheerleaders and L’Étape fans looking to combine a thrilling tournament with a beach front holiday.

Don’t miss out, experience a taste of the legendary Tour De France in the tropics with L’Étape Thailand by Tour de France Phang Nga 2022 hosted by Avani+ Khao Lak Resort.

Hanoi to organize Tourism Gift Festival on occasion of 30 April

Hanoi to organize Tourism Gift Festival on occasion of 30 April.
Photo VOV
Hanoi Tourism Department will hold Tourism Gift Festival from April 29 to May 1, at pedestrian zone surrounding Hoan Kiem Lake.

The event aims at gradually recovering the Capital's tourism activities post-pandemic as well as responding to the 31st SEA Games and the Visit Vietnam Year - Quang Nam 2022.

In the frame of the festival, many exciting events will take place including street performance; booths displaying products of Hanoi craft villages, localities and businesses; spaces to experience of craft village culture, virtual tourism, innovative young enterprise products, "Old street market” and Hanoi tourism art photos.

Besides, the festival also has themed photography zones for visitors to check-in; the launching of Hanoi tourism photo contest 2022 with the theme "Hanoi through the perspective of tourists"; the launching of contest “Designing samples of Hanoi gift products in 2022” and other social activities like exchanging books for trees, old batteries for trees, books for fruits...

Tourism Information Technology Center
Tags: #Hanoi, #Tourism Gift Festival, #30 April,

The Holiday and Travel Magazine
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Vietnam National Administration of Tourism
https://vietnamtourism.gov.vn/english/

5 Ways to spoil mum while you're on a bareboat charter

Mother's Day is just around the corner. For those who don't know, like the husband of the person writing this article, it's Sunday the 8th of May!

But who needs a day when every holiday, especially something as unique as a bareboat holiday, is an opportunity to spoil Mum.

Add some special touches to your bareboat charter with these simple ideas:

1 - Order a welcome seafood platter and bubbles through a local provisioning company
2 - Find a secluded beach, pack a book and picnic, taking it ashore where mum can have some "me time" in paradise
3 - Treat mum to a day spa at Hamilton Island. (you will need to book the spa ahead, due to Covid, places are limited)
4 - Instead of serving breakfast in bed, why not have breakfast on deck?!
5 - Mum's love photos. Make a photo book of your bareboat holiday and gift it to her after the trip.

Please note that extra services will need to be booked directly with the suppliers.

The Ultimate Guide to Bareboating
Bareboating can be an unusual concept for those who haven't done it before, and it can be a little overwhelming.

To make researching and planning simple, we've created the Ultimate Guide to Bareboating, bringing everything you need to know & loads of useful content into one place.

Get the Ultimate Guide to Bareboating

Introducing Sisu
Introducing the newest Leopard 40 to join our fleet, Sisu.

Sisu has two bathrooms and four cabins; the forward cabins have fore-peak bunks perfect for the kids - she can sleep 8 - 10.

Sisu has a fair amount of availability in 2022, which wont last long due to the demands we're seeing for catamarans.

Sisu
24th May - 7th June
3rd - 21s July
30th July - 31st August
20th October - 1st December
10th December onwards

Book Sisu

Find availability & rates through our website's booking system or give us a call to book your bareboating adventure.
1800 075 000

Whitsunday Rent A Yacht
Phone: +61 (7) 4946 9232
6 Bay Terrace, Shute Harbour Q 4802
PO Box 357 Airlie Beach Q 4802
https://www.rentayacht.com.au/

Blooming Azaleas Fill Park in Tatebayashi City

Tsutsujigaoka Park in Tatebayashi City
From early April till early May at Tsutsujigaoka Park in Tatebayashi City, Gunma Prefecture, the blooming azaleas fill the entire area with bright and robust colours.
 
The azaleas in the park are known to be around 800 years old and among them, the Space Azaleas are especially popular as they were sprouted from seeds that Japanese astronaut Chiaki Mukai brought into space. 

As a prominent spot for viewing azaleas, the park attracts as many as 100,000 visitors each year!

Vivid Sydney 2022 program unveiled

  • Longest continuous light walk in Vivid Sydney history; 
  • global storytellers Aaron Sorkin, Gretchen Carlson & Troye Sivan headline Vivid Ideas; 
  • world premiere of “The Gospel According to Marcia”, 
  • UK’s Spiritualized & Baxter Dury to rock Vivid Music; 
  • First Nations artwork Yarrkalpa - hunting ground,
  • 2021 animated for Sydney Opera House Lighting of the Sails; 
  •  plus, first ever Vivid Sydney Dinner.

Vivid Sydney 2022 will transform the Harbour City into an illuminating fusion of creativity, innovation and technology from Friday 27 May to Saturday 18 June, with more than 200+ events celebrating the essence of Sydney’s soul including its diversity, beauty, resilience, First Nations culture, and vibrant creative community.

Minister for Enterprise, Investment and Trade, Minister for Tourism and Sport and Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said: “The Vivid Sydney 2022 program is bursting with new events, venues, performances, and experiences, providing even more reasons to visit time and time again. This year we are celebrating the festival’s 12th anniversary, with a bigger, brighter and more brilliant line-up than ever before.

“Audiences will feel energised and invigorated by a number of festival firsts. This includes the longest ever continuous Light Walk winding all the way from the Sydney Opera House to Central Station, the Vivid Sydney Dinner, Vivid Sydney Supper Club and more, as well as all the innovative light-art installations, projections, eclectic music performances, and thought-provoking talks we all know and love.

“Vivid Sydney is an open invitation for Sydneysiders and visitors from Australia and the world, to come and experience Sydney at its creative best after dark. The 2022 festival has been two years in the making and is not to be missed,” Mr Ayres said.

Festival Director Gill Minervini, who will deliver her first Vivid Sydney in 2022, said this year's program captures the essence of Sydney’s soul, exploring what makes the city so unique. “Vivid Sydney tells a compelling story of creativity, innovation, and technology through light, music, and ideas that is distinguishably Sydney, yet authentically universal. The 2022 program delivers fresh and engaging content, bringing feelings of joy, excitement, wonder, inspiration and hope to all who are innately drawn to it,” she said.

In 2022, 11 Sydney CBD locations will ignite, two of which are new, with Circular Quay, Sydney CBD, The Rocks, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, Darling Square, Darling Quarter, The Goods Line, Central Station, Luna Park and Taronga Zoo, all coming to life with a mesmerising kaleidoscope of light artworks to wow visitors and locals alike.

Staged over 23 nights, the festival will deliver mesmerising art displays, 3D light projections, uplifting live music performances and deep-dive discussions from the world’s brightest minds. Plus, in a festival first, the renowned Light Walk will stretch continuously for 8km, linking the Sydney Opera House to Central Station, with more than 200 LED sculptural birds guiding the way as part of the Future Natives installation.

The Vivid Sydney 2022 Program includes:

THE VIVID SYDNEY DINNER

Great food, talks, music, wine and light collide at the very first Vivid Sydney Dinner – a celebration of all things Sydney. Join host Justine Clarke at Merivale’s Ivy Ballroom, which will be completely transformed into an effervescent feast for the senses on Saturday 4 June, featuring “love letters to Sydney” from renowned artist Ken Done and journalist/author Julia Baird. With music by the Vivid Sydney Brass Band, James Morrison, Ngaiire, Virginia Gay and Kate Monroe, a NSW inspired feast created by chefs Dan Hong and Mike Eggert, and a bespoke lighting experience.

VIVID LIGHT
Visitors will connect with powerful stories of Sydney’s soul after dark, as more than 50 light installations and projection artworks designed to explore and define the city’s character come to life.

Gill Minervini, who curated the 2022 Vivid Light program, said: “I am incredibly proud the Vivid Light program showcases 25 Sydney-based artists delivering a true representation of how Sydney makes us feel: vibrant, awe-inspired, mischievous, uplifted and curious”.

“Vivid Sydney’s Light collection features work from a vast array of artists, from the renowned Ken Done and Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran, to Luca French, an 11-year-old boy and the youngest artist ever to participate in the Light Walk. It’s very exciting to deliver a refreshed and surprising program that will enthral audiences.”

Revealing the various artistic interpretations of the “soul of the city” creative vision, the spectacular Light Walk will host the works of 62 light collaborators and 114 light artists from 5 countries, with street installations re-shaping old sights, surprising projection sites, large-scale immersive experiences and never-before-lit buildings adding new sparkle to the city skyline.

Works expressing their love story to Sydney include legendary Australian artist Ken Done. In collaboration with Spinifex Group, Done’s work For Sydney with Love will be projected onto the façade of landmark Customs House. Michaela Gleave’s large-scale illuminated text work will see the phrase Endless Love arching over Circular Quay in what will be an Instagram favourite. Temple, by Leila Jeffreys, is a large-scale work in Circular Quay paying homage to Sydney’s bird life and our relationship with them.

Celebrating Australia’s rich First Nations culture, the Sails of the Sydney Opera House will be transformed into an impressive new digital artwork, Yarrkalpa - Hunting Ground, 2021 by the Martu Artists and creative technologists Curiious, with soundtrack by Electric Fields and Martu Artists (inspired by Yarrkalpa – Always Walking Country 2014). The bold projection is inspired by the vibrant, Martumili collective painting, Yarrkalpa- Hunting Ground, Parnngurr Area, 2013, created by eight female artists of the Pilbara region.

First Light, a moving Welcome to Country ceremony and performance is another first for Vivid Sydney 2022, celebrating the Gadigal people and Country. Opening the festival on Friday 27 May, audiences will be captivated with a smoking ceremony, stunning performances by NAISDA students, a pyrotechnic display and Sharing the Same Life Essence Sydney Harbour Bridge pylon projections. Rhoda Roberts AO is the Creative Advisor for First Light.

Mandylights’ Our Connected City will shine new light on the city’s landmarks, with over 200 searchlights beaming across Sydney Harbour, CBD buildings and the Cahill Expressway, while also linking the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge in riotous colour. Between them, at Circular Quay, the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia will morph into a kinetic, visual journey of the work of acclaimed Australian artist Helen Eager, who has collaborated with artists Rico and Julian Reinhold from H0rse, to create New York Sunday. Be transported on a visual journey through Eager’s work, with colour, light, and geometric fortified by a soundtrack from electro-pop musician Paul Mac.

In two festival firsts, the waters of Cockle Bay in Darling Harbour, will dance with the showstopping Sydney Infinity by Oracle Liquid, an epic water sculpture in a scale never seen before in Australia. Featuring dynamic jets, 12 x 80m high water shooters and dramatic lighting supported by a Sydney inspired soundtrack from DJ Pee Wee Ferris, this is set to be an audience favourite.

Also on water, Walsh Bay will come alive with a 100m floating Light Walk incorporating the large-scale artwork Ephemeral Oceanic. Produced by Sydney’s own Atelier Sisu, visitors are invited to walk under more than 200 giant, bubble-like spheres hovering eight metres in the air.

VIVID IDEAS

Vivid Ideas brings together the world’s brightest minds and fearless global storytellers, exploring the forces that shape not only Sydney’s unique society, but all great cities around the world. With more than 85 intriguing talks and workshops on offer, Vivid Ideas explores the forces shaping our society, and starting conversations that continue long after the festival has ended.

Headlining the Ideas Program are Global Storytellers including Oscar and Emmy award-winning theatre and film director, screenwriter and playwright Aaron Sorkin, renowned for film and TV shows such as The West Wing, The Social Network, A Few Good Men and The Trial of the Chicago 7. Aaron will discuss politics and drama with renowned Australian broadcast journalist Leigh Sales at Sydney’s State Theatre.

A fearless advocate for women’s rights, American broadcast journalist, author and television personality Gretchen Carlson shares her story that inspired the blockbuster movie Bombshell with The Project’s Lisa Wilkinson. Gretchen will reveal how she helped to pave the way for the global #MeToo movement and advocated to end the silencing of harassment victims through forced arbitration and non-disclosure agreements.

Be inspired as global superstar musician, record label owner, multi –award-winning artist and actor Troye Sivan, compares notes with Patrick Abboud, the Walkley nominated journalist, TV presenter, broadcaster, and documentary maker at Sydney Town Hall. The pair will discuss new models of masculinity, non-conformity, being young and queer, as well as Troye’s creative collaborations.

Other great storytellers in Ideas program include James Valentine and H.G Nelson with their hilarious show the Even Greater Sydney Committee at Parliament House, Brigid Delaney and Ben Law talking about Sydney’s obsession with the wellness industry at the Australian Museum, and Jonathan Biggins, Kate McClymont, Leah Purcell, Stephen Page, Sara Mansour from Bankstown Poetry Slam sharing their tales of Sydney.

This year’s Vivid Ideas Exchange will see over 60 events hosted at The Great Hall at The University of Technology Sydney – with talks, seminars, film screenings and special events designed to spark debate amongst the creative community. Sessions will be presented by Audible with Marc Fennell, Melissa Doyle, and Adam Liaw and Squarespace.

For the first time, Vivid Ideas Up Late will be hosted at Sydney’s renowned cultural institutions for a series of free, playful nights that mix talks, performances, fashion, music and food at the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Australian Museum, the Powerhouse Museum and the National Maritime Museum.

Vivid Ideas Curator Tory Loudon said “Vivid Ideas brings together the greatest minds and creative leaders who set the agenda and strive for change. The Ideas program celebrates storytellers that are the beating heart of the city – the artists, the creatives and the innovators who bring a sense of joy and discovery to the everyday. There are talks, workshops and hands on experiences where you can participate and have fun as well as being stimulated. Come and join the conversation.”

VIVID MUSIC

Taking a deep dive into Sydney's diverse and dynamic music communities, Vivid Music 2022 showcases a line-up of Sydney’s most potent artist talent. In a Vivid Music exclusive, legendary Australian music icon Marcia Hines who will enliven audiences with The Gospel according to Marcia, in a world-premiere show for two-nights only in the uplifting surrounds of St Stephen's Uniting Church. Marcia will be joined by a 12-piece band and choir set against an atmospheric bespoke lighting backdrop, celebrating the sounds of her gospel roots.

Paying homage to artists from other great world cities, Vivid Music welcomes highly influential UK space rock band Spiritualized, delivering their unmistakable sound live at Luna Park’s Big Top, with Indie Rock cult singer Baxter Dury, making his debut Australian performance at The Metro Theatre. Emerging New York rapper Cakes Da Killa’s fusion of hip hop, house and electronic dance music will take the Oxford Art Factory by storm.

In a festival first, Tumbalong Nights presents an astonishing line-up of free live music events and short film screenings in Darling Harbour’s Tumbalong Park. Young and old can groove the night away to Stevan, a rising young R&B multi-instrumentalist and band, True Vibenation’s party vibes and uplifting afrobeat and Donny Benet with his undeniably fun disco and funk. DJs at The Goods Line will pay homage to Sydney’s vibrant DJ heritage, with a free line-up of DJs every night including Ebony Boadu, Stereogamous and Soul of Sydney DJs, in another new addition to the program.

Reinvigorating Sydney’s live music industry as it rebuilds, Vivid Music 2022 will flip the script on traditional performance, hosting more than 150 music events at surprising venues across Sydney to offer one-of-a-kind experiences. In fact, Central Station’s Grand Central Concourse, Darling Harbour’s Tumbalong Park, Phoenix Central Park, The Calyx – Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, The Bearded Tit, Cell Block Theatre, National Art School and Luna Park will all pull back the curtains to host life-affirming musical performances.

Iconic music venue Mary’s Underground is the venue for the inaugural Vivid Sydney Supper Club, every Friday and Saturday night during the festival, featuring a variety style show incorporating musical theatre acts, cabaret, dance, drag, comedy, surprise guests, acoustic pop-ups, jazz, DJs and more. Curated by beloved actor, cabaret performer, and drag artist, Trevor Ashley, the event is headlined by talents such as Mahalia Barnes, Emma Pask, Bob Downe and Tim Freedman.

In Sydney’s urban cultural precinct at Eveleigh, Carriageworks will present its seventh Vivid Music program, bringing together artists from all four corners of the globe. Estonian rapper and visual artist Tommy Cash will excite with his raucous and wild show in a Sydney exclusive, alongside American indie Queer artist Perfume Genius, Japanese all female rock band Chai, and Perth’s Alter Boy queerlectro pop band also enlivening audiences.

Vivid Music Curator Joe Muller said: “For Vivid Music 2022, we amplify what is unique and memorable about Sydney’s soul, examining the co-dependant relationship between artist and audience that sits amidst the DNA of any dynamic global city.

“Spanning trailblazers, icons and future local and international stars, the Vivid Music program celebrates diversity and inclusion both on stage and off, inviting a wide range of audiences to join us in a journey of discovery into the beating of heart of Sydney - our hidden spaces, our iconic stages, our city, our soul.”

VIVID LIVE AT SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

Curated by the Sydney Opera House’s Head of Contemporary Music Ben Marshall, Vivid LIVE will transform the world-famous building inside and out, celebrating artists at the forefront of their genres, with more than 70 Australian and international artists presented across seven Opera House venues.

Beloved Australian rock royalty, Paul Kelly will be joined by Gamilaraay singer-songwriter and ARIA Award winner Thelma Plum and band members Vika and Linda Bull, Bill McDonald, Peter Luscombe, Ash Naylor, Cameron Bruce and Dan Kelly for Time And Tide: Four Decades of Song live under the stars on the Northern Boardwalk. Kelly has curated a catalogue of his award-winning songs for this special one-off event across four nights.

Zambian-born singer, poet and visual artist, Sampa Tembo Рbetter known as Sampa The Great - will debut her long-awaited new show An Afro Future, performing the four-time ARIA award-winning debut album The Return with her epic band, dancers, singers and special guests Mwanj̩, KYE and C.FIRM.

Berlin-based piano prodigy, producer and composer Nils Frahm will captivate audiences with new music in the world premiere of his new live show, Music for Sydney. Multi-faceted African-Australian rock-star, rapper, singer and producer BLESSED will present Aussie Blackstar, a curated evening with appearances by Maina Doe, Baby Prince and Chirine with more to be announced.

In the Joan Sutherland Theatre, Australian-Zambian singer-rapper Tkay Maidza will make her return to the Australian stage, for a night of powerful hip-hop and soul. Meanwhile, local collective Astral People have curated a significant line-up for a decade-defining outdoor weekender on the Broadwalk featuring Hiatus Kaiyote, Barkaa, Briggs, Arno Faraji and more in an Australian exclusive that celebrates their 10 + 1 birthday.

Vivid LIVE Studio Parties also return in 2022 with Future Classic, Picnic Party and Mad Racket and Astral People presents John Talabot. There will also be performances in the Studio from Low Life, RVG and Japanese doom metal titans Boris with special guest guitarist, Toki.

VIVID SYDNEY SPONSORS

Vivid Sydney thanks its sponsors for their support of Vivid Sydney 2022.

American Express returns as major partner for a fourth year presenting the American Express Light Lounge at Cruise Bar, available to their card members.

Major partners include Bombay Sapphire presenting the House of Bombay immersive bar experience at Darling Quarter, ‘pop-ups’ at Vivid Ideas events at the Powerhouse Museum, and are Supporter of House of Vivid light installation, with Kia Australia delivering the optical illusion, Kia-morphia, at Circular Quay.

Vivid Ideas major partner Squarespace presents two Ideas sessions launching their ‘Make it Awards’ initiative in Australia.

Supporting Partners include City of Sydney, Commonwealth Bank, Crown Sydney and Transgrid.

Collaborators include Cinewav, Event Engineering, Mandylights, Technical Direction Company, Kennards Hire and University of Technology, Sydney.

The Local Business Program Partner is Red Balloon Group. Official charity partner is The Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation (ALNF).

International diving locations to tick off every bucket list

(Credit: PADI)
With borders are now well and truly open, and Aussies finally thinking about travel again, world leaders in diving training, PADI are calling on locals to visit their list of must-see diving sites across the globe.

From the pristine, rainbow painted reefs of the Fijian Islands, through to deep-water, cave-filled waters of Mexico, PADI’s ‘Bucket List’ collection of diverse international dive locations promises eye-capturing moments for any appetite – and includes options suitable for all levels and abilities!

As the colder weather nears for Australia, this could be the perfect time to think about how you can escape to warmer water this Winter for the ultimate solo-trip, couples getaway or family holiday.

1. Fiji and the Bahamas in April
Fiji and the Bahamas have great visibility and exciting marine animal action in their mild waters in April.

Bega Lagoon, one of 333 Fijian islands, is a shark haven where bull sharks, whitetip reef sharks, blacktip reef sharks, nurse sharks, and tiger sharks gather in mass numbers among the vibrant hues of healthy coral. The ‘soft coral’ capital of the world,

Fiji’s pristine reefs, including the famous dive location Rainbow Reef, are frequently visited by blue ribbon eels, manta rays, bumphead parrotfish and pilot whales.

A recent study of over 3000 shark dives in Fiji’s Shark Reef Marine Reserve, located in the Bega Channel off the southern coast of Viti Levu, found that bull sharks form tight friendships. Look out for a pair of BFFs!

Book a dive experience in Fiji at 42 PADI Dive Centres.

The Bahamas in the Caribbean is home to some of world’s most spectacular mega-fauna at its trifecta of popular destinations – Bimini, Gran Bahamas, and Tiger Beach.

Visiting Bimini is to travel back in time to a place before commercial development; where dives happen with bull sharks, hammerhead sharks, dolphin pods and schools of eagle rays. Large schools of colourful fish swarm the artificial shipwreck reefs at Honeymoon Beach.

Grand Bahamas has a larger island vibe with incredible shark dives, gorgeous coral structures, turtles by the dozens and plenty of reef fish. There’s also a freshwater cavern and cave system that is still being explored.

The most spectacular tiger shark gatherings and greatest shark diving in the world happens at Tiger Beach. Tiger, lemon, hammerhead and whitetip reef sharks are abundant in crystal-clear azure waters topped only in visibility by an aquarium!

A Bahamas diving experience can be booked with 19 PADI Dive Centres.

(Credit: Neil Andrea) 
2. Galapagos Islands, Ecquador in May

The Galapagos off the coast of Equador is teeming with large schools of hammerhead sharks and manta rays, as well as sea horses, turtles, penguins, sea lions and marine iguanas, especially in May, when the water is calmer, warmer and clearer.

The Ecuadorian government has established over 60,000+ kilometers of new marine reserves in the Galapagos, and industrial fishing has been banned by Ecuador, Colombia, Panama and Costa Rica, providing an additional 500,000 square kilometers of protected waters for seal life. A trip here 2022 not only helps Ecuador's eco-tourism efforts, but also supports the expansion of protections at this world heritage site.

Book a Galapagos diving experience with 5 PADI Dive Centres.

3. Cozumel, Mexico in June
(Image provided by PADI)
The underwater nirvana of lush coral walls, dramatic caverns and blossoming reefs in Cozumel make it a top place to dive at any time of the year. But the magic happens in June when the official great gathering season begins for groups of up to 30-40 whale sharks and dancing manta rays. Diving with whale sharks is only legal between May to September and divers can have a more intimate experience early in the season.

Book a dive in Cozumel at 42 PADI Dive Centres.