Final Chance to Make History at Scenic World

Blue Mountains visitors have only one week dig through their shoeboxes and photo albums and join other Australians who are making history at Scenic World.

The Make History competition is part of a $30 million redevelopment of the iconic Scenic Railway which has transported passengers down to the Jurassic Jamison Valley rainforest floor for the past 67 years.

Visitors past and present are being asked to share their memories of Scenic World and the Blue Mountains through moving and still imagery. The best memories will find a permanent home onsite as part of the reimagining of the Scenic Railway.  

The major upgrade of the site will include a new train, new top and bottom platforms with historical interpretation, and a new track.

Scenic Railway

Scenic World is offering five double tickets from anywhere in Australia to share in the official launch event, experiencing first hand the new train which will continue to be the steepest railway decent in the world at 52 degrees.

Scenic World’s Joint Managing Directors, Anthea and David Hammon, said submissions received so far have become an intriguing time capsule of Australian travel.

“Capturing and documenting written memories, photographs and video, has given us a wonderful opportunity to see Scenic World from our visitors’ perspective over many decades,” they said.

“We’ve been moved by the beautiful and personal memories that our visitors have shared.

“We’ve learnt that Scenic World is a life-long experience and we have been a part of many Australian childhood memories. We have also found our service is a major highlight and we are viewed as an international-standard attraction.”

Submissions will be displayed on Scenic World’s Facebook timeline and viewed by more than 100,000 friends. Some of the entries will also be placed on the attraction’s website with curator’s selecting the best entries for a permanent onsite gallery.

Scenic Walkway

Competition winners, judged on entries from each decade, will experience the new Swiss-made railway first hand, with the competition winners receiving return domestic flights, transfers, two nights at Lilianfels Resort and Spa, double pass to the exclusive railway launch party, and annual passes.

To enter, participants can upload images and videos, along with a short description, on a custom-built tab on the Scenic World’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ScenicWorld and enter via the website www.scenicworld.com.au.

Mount Wilson/Mount Tomah - Blooming Lovely

Windyridge Garden

Step back in time and imagine yourself as Jay Gatsby or Daisy Buchanan while exploring the many privately-owned cool climate exotic gardens for which Mt Wilson in the Blue Mountains region of NSW Australia is renown:

Merry Garth, Davies Lane, Mt Wilson: 9am to 6pm daily, $5 adults, children free.
Details: 4756 2121.

Windyridge Garden, Queens Ave, Mt Wilson: 9am to 5pm daily, $9 adults, $3 children includes refreshments. Details: (02) 4756 2019, www.windyridge.com.au

Yengo Sculpture Garden, Queens Ave, Mt Wilson: 10am to 6pm weekends, $7 adults. Details: (02) 4756 2002, www.yengo-sculpture-garden-welcome.com.

Breenhold Gardens, The Avenue, Mt Wilson: 10am to 4pm weekends, $7.50 adults, $2 children. Details: (02) 9968 1232, www.breenhold.com.au.

Nooroo, Church Lane, Mt Wilson: 10am to 4pm, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from September 3 to November 13; $8 adults, $2 children. Details: (02) 4756 2018.

Bebeah, The Avenue, Mt Wilson: 10am to 5pm daily, $8 adults, $2 children. Details: (02) 4756 2014.

Of course you cannot drive up the Bells Line of Road without stopping in at Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mount Tomah. Garden entry is free.

Yengo Sculpture Garden

Home to thousands of species of cool climate and southern hemisphere plants, the 252 ha garden is a year-round delight with beautiful gardens, rainforest walks and an interesting round of events and workshops for all ages including Wild about Waratahs in September.

Contact Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah on (02) 4567 3000, tomah@rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au or visit www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au for details.

Go to www.visitbluemountains.com.au for more garden and other nature-based spring activities.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament’s New Show Opens To Rave Reviews

Earlier this summer, Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, North America’s longest running dinner attraction, invited guests to travel back to the 11th Century with the premiere of the dinner theater’s first new show since 2007.  The new show has boosted attendance and has received rave reviews from both domestic and international guests.

 “Our new live performance is giving guests a one-of-a-kind experience that is keeping first-time visitors and returning fans on the edge of their seats,” said Medieval Times Florida Castle’s General Manager Jose Lopez.  “Also, our food consistently ranked among the best dinner theater menus in the country.”  The updated show, which debuted in late June, offers many new elements while retaining some of the most popular traditions. The live show still features two- and four-legged performers (knights and horses) with a utensil-free meal served in a castle-inspired arena.

The Media Reviews

Medieval Times hosted many members of the media and VIPs for the premiere of the show.  Following are some of their reviews:

“I can’t say much of anything because I was screaming and cheering so much that I lost my voice.  I highly recommend everyone make a stop at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament when you are in Orlando. Your family will have an amazing time and eat some delicious food … without utensils!”

~ Jennifer Mercurio, Double Duty Mommy

 “I came away impressed again with the amount of choreography required with not only horses and riders but also the “squires” who rearrange props and sets. It requires cooperation and timing, down to the second.  Another thing I appreciated: Medieval Times is committed to its theme. The knights are not modern and the king does not implore guests to “make some noise.” Crowd participation is encouraged by the action.”

~ Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel

 “I really enjoyed the feast; it was scrumptious and to our delight the roasted chicken was moist and meaty, the soup was hot and the pastry served at the end was light and tasty. Several of the portions are bigger and the potatoes are now easier to eat. One new delight for me personally was the Medieval Village where you get a glimpse of what life was like back then including a medieval torture display. Needless to say, we had a lot of fun and are looking forward to going back again soon.”

~ Beverly Martinez-Collins, Places Around Florida

The New Show

Almost two years in the making, the new live production presents even more audience favorites such as live jousting, sword fights, horsemanship and falconry. Guests are taken back in time and encouraged to cheer for one of six “Knights of the Realm.” In addition to a new story, the production includes new lighting, choreography and battle scenes, costumes, new horse dressage elements, and a new musical score custom created for Medieval Times and recorded in Kiev, Ukraine.

“In a sense, we went back to the basics,” said Leigh Cordner, Medieval Times creative director. “Guests will see a celebration of the horses along with more action and elements of high drama. The streamlined plot allows more concentration on the action. When we started to put pen to paper, we knew from the start we wanted to grab guests’ attention from the moment they take their seats. This led us to the creation of the opening moment, when Liberty Horse enters the arena.”

With authentic weaponry and enhanced armor, the new production presents non-stop action timed to the tempo of the music. And while there’s still a general theme of “good versus evil” throughout the show, guests will see much more of what they like most about the show – fight scenes that maintain the highest quality and safety standards.

The Horses

While almost all of the royal subjects at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament stand on their own two feet, the most celebrated members of the Kingdom are best known for their trot, gallop and canter.

“Audiences will witness authentic jousting and equine presentations that would not be possible without four special breeds of horses,” said Victor de Lara, a veteran horse trainer at Medieval Times. Pure Spanish Horses, Quarter Horses, Friesians and Menorcan – from the Mediterranean island for which it is named – complete the mix of horses at each of Medieval Times’ nine North American Castles.

For the new production, de Lara and Baker worked with all of the horses and knights to incorporate authentic dressage elements.  “Each horse is unique,” said de Lara. “Like any of the actors and actresses in our show, each horse has its own personality, so with our new production, we started the training process several months in advance to develop new routines that are exciting for the horses, their riders and, especially, the audience.”

The Music

Audiences may sense a familiar note behind every clash of swords. For the third time, award-winning IMAX and feature film score composer Daniel May has provided all of the dramatic musical elements that complete the Florida Castle experience.

“Creating music to build the best possible 11th Century experience provides many challenges, but the reward comes in knowing that millions of people are hearing my creation over the next few years,” said May.  Highly acclaimed musicians in Kiev, Ukraine, recorded the new score in one day. “The vibe of the city is classic medieval with a strong artistic soul. It was the ideal location and group of musicians to ensure the score was a perfect match for Leigh’s script,” said May.

The Feast

Guests will enjoy an upgraded menu for the utensil-free meal during the new show.  The menu includes:

- Tomato Bisque

- Garlic Bread

- Oven Roasted Chicken

- Larger BBQ Spare Rib

- Herb-Basted Potato Split into Quarters

- Braided Apple Strudel

- Larger Beverage Servings and Coffee

Get Tickets

Guests can purchase tickets online at www.medievaltimes.com or by calling 1-888-WE-JOUST. For show times, visit www.medievaltimes.com

Guests also can find Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament on Facebook and Twitter,

Highlights of the TAT Action Plan 2013

The Tourism Authority of Thailand has unveiled a series of strategies designed to maintain Thailand’s brand image, marketing profile and visitor arrivals in a world of unprecedented change.

Announced today after the conclusion of the TAT’s annual action planning meeting, the strategies are designed to ensure that the travel and tourism industry takes advantage of all the emerging opportunities while preparing itself to deal with any threats and challenges, both external and internal.

The TAT has set a 2013 target of 22.22 million international tourist arrivals, generating estimated foreign exchange revenues of 966 billion baht (USD 30.62 billion, based on the exchange rate of 31.54 baht to the dollar).

Said TAT Governor Suraphon Svetasreni, “Tourism is now recognised as Thailand’s most important service industry. Its contribution to job creation, income distribution and foreign exchange earnings is well above par. While the industry has been doing well so far, it cannot rest on its laurels in an unstable and unpredictable world.” 

The primary determinant of how travel and tourism performs in future will be global economic and geopolitical stability. If this continues, there will be no shortage of opportunities, technologies and activities to capitalize on demand.

By far the most important opportunity is the emergence of the ASEAN Economic Community and prospects of free movement of products and people by 2015. These opportunities increase manifold when the nearly 600 million strong population of the 10 ASEAN countries is expanded to include ASEAN +3 (China, Japan and South Korea) and beyond by another three countries to include ASEAN +6 (Russia, India and Australia).

To capitalize on this, the TAT has crafted the “Thailand and Beyond Strategy” to be ready for AEC in 2015.

At the same time, some traditional source markets such as Europe are slowing down while other new markets such as Africa are emerging. It is also becoming an increasingly competitive market as just about every global destination joins the tourism promotion bandwagon.

Thailand

Meanwhile, global demographics are also changing with ageing populations in some countries and more young populations in others. Either way, Thailand is fortunate to have a range of products, both natural and man-made, that are well suited to meeting demand.

Overall, the TAT has to ensure creativity and visibility by highlighting Thailand’s unique strengths, and undertake campaigns that target the right customer with the right message and right product at the right place at the right time. 

 Here are some of the highlights of the 2013 Action Plan:

- The core theme of the 2013 TAT Action Plan is “Higher Revenue through Thainess”. The TAT will attract tourists with the Charm of Thainess which includes Thai Experience, Thai Way of Life, and Thai Culture.

- The marketing messages will emphasize Creative Tourism, where tourists can participate in and learn about unique Thai experiences, such as Thai boxing, Thai massage, Thai cooking, and Thai classical dancing. Thai food and Thai local wisdom will also be used as unique selling propositions.

- One campaign, known as "Discover The Other You" will be especially important in order to promote experiential travel––which taps into a global desire among visitors to learn something new and acquire a new experience.

- Some key aspects of Thai lifestyles include basic things such as rice farming, massage and meditation techniques, will also be used. For the first time images for visitors participating in a rice harvest and ploughing the fields behind a water buffalo will be used in Thai marketing campaigns. 

- TAT will put more effort to increase first-time visitors and high spenders (luxury markets). Four niche products used to attract high-spenders will be Golf, Health & Wellness, Wedding & Honeymoon, and Green Tourism.

- TAT will try to increase charter and low-cost carrier flights to destinations where there is no direct access. LCC’s will also be used to broaden the base for mainstream tourists.

- A Partner on Demand strategy will be used to increase the number of strategic alliances and enhance the add-on impact of marketing efforts.

- Trade shows and road shows will be extensively used in both main markets and new potential markets.

- All the major global media will be used, especially sports and special-interest TV channels. The same strategy will be used in the print media, especially to reach business executives.

- The new digital media will be a special focus of attention. Partnerships will also be forged with hotel partners to produce and show special interest videos such as those highlighting weddings and honeymoons.

Thailand

- Celebrity marketing will require linking up with famous people who can act as brand ambassadors.

- The TAT will also put considerable emphasis on a tourism intelligence unit and a crisis management centre. These will be designed to sharpen research skills in order to identify emerging trends and opportunities, and also react efficiently and promptly to the increasing number of global crises.

Fun September Events in Queensland

 

Dawson River Festival

WHAT’S ON IN SEPTEMBER 2012

These are some of the events in Queensland during September 2012.  For more events during this period please refer to www.queenslandholidays.com.au/events

Dawson River Festival
1 - 30 September
Where: Baralaba, Moura, Theodore and Taroom
Web: www.dawsonvalley.net

If you've never heard of Baralaba, Moura, Theodore and Taroom, then you wouldn't know that they're authentic, if tiny, Queensland towns on the banks of the Dawson River, in the Gladstone region. These warm hearted communities welcome visitors at all times but especially during the month of September, when each town will host community events to be enjoyed by all. 

MAJOR EVENT: Hamburg Season: International QPAC Series
23 August – 4 September
Where: Brisbane
Web: www.qpac.com.auIn 2012, QPAC’s International Series takes on a new dimension showcasing the creative legacy of Germany’s historic port city of Hamburg. Making their Australian debut, and marking the first time in more than four decades that the three companies have toured together, the season comprises the Hamburg Ballet, the Hamburg Philharmonic Orchestra and the Hamburg State Opera.

Over two weeks, four Australian premieres will be presented exclusively in Brisbane, including two performances of Wagner’s Ring Cycle opera Das Rheingold, a one-off concert of Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 The Resurrection, three performances of John Neumeier’s celebrated ballet Nijinsky, and a one week season of The Hamburg Ballet’s hugely popular A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

This once in a lifetime cultural celebration will delight, entertain and inspire audiences from across Australia as QPAC brings Hamburg and the world to Brisbane.

Reggaetown Festival
1 September
Where: Cairns
Web: www.reggaetown.com.auCelebrating ten years in 2012, the award-winning Reggaetown World Music festival is Australia's premier reggae festival, and a well loved icon in the local arts circle. Set in lush tropical surroundings, the festival presents multicultural funky rhythms and great vibes for the whole family.

Bloomin Beautiful Blackbutt Festival
1 – 9 September Where: BlackbuttWeb: 
http://www.bloominbeautifulblackbuttfestival.com.au
The award-winning Bloomin' Beautiful Blackbutt Festival focuses on and highlights the agricultural and historical assets of the Blackbutt community and is supported by artistic and cultural activities. Held annually, the festival is a display of art and culture with art exhibitions and workshops, performances by local and national musicians and performers. Local wine, cheese and products add to the festival experience. The garden is also showcased with beautiful displays and market stalls.

Rock & Roll in the Vineyard at Lucas Estate
2 September
Where: Stanthorpe
Web: www.lucasestate.com.auMany talented musicians call the Granite Belt home, and you can hear them play at the beautiful Lucas Estate at Stanthorpe. The annual rock and roll event is hugely popular, and when you can have delicious food and wine with great music, all while looking out across the vineyards below, why would you settle for less? It’s a whole day of entertainment that’s even suited to the kids.

Rockstock
4 September
Where: Helidon
Web: www.helidon.org/RockStock.htmlAt RockStock, enjoy the music, dance and fashions from the 50s and 60s that shaped an entire generation and still draw crowds of all ages to this day. From Rock n Roll to the Go-Go, bryl cream to beehives and big skirts to minis, there's a smorgasbord of colour, style and memories to relive or experience for the first time.

Stroll through the sensational classic car display and treat Dad and Grandad to the best Father’s Day he's ever had. Retro stalls, kiddie korner, gourmet food, coffee and more- there's something for everyone!

OUTBACK EVENTURES FEATURE EVENT
Bedourie Ute and Travellers Muster
7-8 September
Where: Bedourie
Web: www.diamantina.qld.gov.auHeld in conjunction with the Bedourie Races, the Bedourie Outback Ute and Traveller's Muster is a great event for all to attend. Come and show your ute or travelling vehicle off to be in the running to win great prize money and trophies. Vehicle nominations will be taken during the Friday night rodeo at the Race Course, with judging on Saturday morning.

MAJOR EVENT: Brisbane Festival

8 – 29 September
Where: Brisbane
Web: www.brisbanefestival.com.auBrisbane Festival celebrates the diversity, energy and optimism of the vibrant city of Brisbane. A highlight this year will be the Santos GLNG City of Lights; a laser light show which will light up the Brisbane skyline. Restaurants, cafes, cultural centres and community spaces all join in this wonderful annual celebration.

Gourmet in Gundy
8-9 September
Where: Goondiwindi
Web: http://goondiwindi.qld.au/?page_id=62The Annual Gourmet in Gundy festival showcases regional activities and events such as Gourmet Art Exhibition, Macintyre Club Fly In, Goondiwindi Open Gun Shoot, The Spring Cup Races and Dragon Boat Races. The festival on Sunday is set in the beautiful Community Centre gardens on the Macintyre River, featuring fine food, award winning wines, and talented local artists to the sounds of great live music. The event theme, Paddock to Plate, relates to the relaxed lifestyle in rural regions. Gourmet in Gundy is the most popular social weekend in the region's calendar year.

Yeppoon to Bundaberg Cycle Queensland
8-16 September
Where: Capricorn Coast
Web: http://cycleqld.bq.org.au/Pedal away from the everyday on Cycle Queensland 2012. This two-wheel adventure holiday will take you through citrus fruit groves along some of Queensland's most spectacular coastline, and gives you the chance to meet some of Hervey Bay's world famous whales. All your needs are taken care of by the Cycle Queensland team - the event is designed to let you have fun and enjoy your cycling. Their tent city has first aid, mechanics, bike shops, masseurs, a general store, tourist information, licensed café, toilets and hot showers. They serve up three generous meals a day and even transport your luggage. All you have to do after a day on the bike is collect your bags and put up your tent. In the afternoons and evenings there is plenty to do and see: take a tour, party-on at the local inn or just chill out at the picturesque campsites. Life is better on a bike.

Coal to Coast Festival
8 September
Where: Mackay
Web: www.coaltocoastfestival.com.auThe annual Coal to Coast Festival is a celebration showcasing the Sarina region and attracting people all across the country with its quality headline acts and large range of activities and attractions. The Sarina Showground will be host for the Coal Games when up to ten teams will be vying for the honour of winning the Coal Games Cup. Teams will be asked to work together to lift, carry, throw or shift loose and bagged coal in a fun filled course of thrills & spills. There will also be wonderful food, a licensed bar and amusements and many acts catering for parents with young children. 

Tastes of the Tablelands
9 September
Where: Port Douglas
Web: www.tastesofthetablelands.comGrab your seat at this round table for a feast of delectable cuisine matched with tropical and boutique wines accompanied by tunes from North Qld’s rising stars of music. True to the regions cultural makeup – the Taste of the Tablelands covers a weekend of treats for all senses. And what could be more appropriate then butchers from around the region presenting their best sausage creation! The Tastes of the Tablelands festival is to be held this year in the grounds of the Chinese Temple. It is a showcase of all the best the region has to offer in the way of food, wines, music and arts and crafts. It is also a great stepping stone for new, small producers to introduce their wares to a wide market. It’s a fun day for the whole family, with entertainment for the adults on the main stage and in the Chef's marquee, plus a great children's area.

Townsville Triathlon Festival
14-16 September
Where: Townsville
Web: www.townsvilletrifestival.org.au
The Townsville Triathlon Festival is an annual, three day, action-packed sporting festival with events that cater to every age, fitness level and competitive level. This is North Queensland's largest triathlon festival, attracting competitors from all over Australia. The festival has grown in size and has had to change locations twice due to its popularity. Experience the beautiful scenery of The Strand, with stunning views of Magnetic Island just from the shore, while racing along the professional and flat course that this festival has to offer. Whether you're a high-level competitor or just want to get out and have some fun, there’s a race for you. The five events include a School's Junior Triathlon, Go Troppo Sprint Distance Triathlon, Olympic Distance Triathlon, Criterium Cycle Race, and the TP Human Capital Corporate Triathlon.

Swell Sculpture Festival

14-23 September
Where: Gold Coast
Web: www.swellsculpture.com.auExperience a wondrous display of sculptures built by artists from Australia and abroad in the annual Swell Sculpture Festival atCurrumbin Beach. The free exhibition, staged along one kilometre of coastline, is open all hours with a selection of sculptures revealing a new verve as they are lit up under the southern sky. Over 10 days, around 175,000 visitors will experience the sculptures, enjoy twilight walks, informative artist talks, discover new perspectives at the Public Art Forum, wander through the Swell Smalls Gallery, and participate in artist master classes and children's workshops. Swell Sculpture Festival inspires, amuses, uplifts and captures the hearts and minds of all who visit.

Mission Beach Film Festival
14 - 16 September
Where: Mission Beach
Web: www.missionbeachfilmfestival.com.auImagine a beachfront film festival lying between World Heritage Rainforest, the Great Barrier Reef and island studded Coral Sea. Now picture a program of films, discussions, workshops and events that entertain and inspire us to protect the natural world we live in. Quirky stories, incredible individuals and inspired communities are celebrated at Australia?s #1 Sustainability Film Festival. The 2012 festival program will encourage consideration of alternative, more sustainable solutions and perspectives on how we live, play, do business and function as a community.

Straddie Salute Multisport Festival
15 – 16 September
Where: Stradbroke Island
Web: www.weekendwarriorevents.com.au/our-events/the-straddie-salute.htmlThe Straddie Salute Multisport Festival has become a 'must-do' weekend on Queensland's multisport calendar. Set on NorthStradbroke Island, the Straddie Salute offers three events over two days in one big weekend of adventure. Swim the crystal clear waters in the Straddie 1000 Ocean Swim, jog along one of Queensland's most beautiful coastal trails in the eight kilometre Adventure Run/Walk or take up the ultimate off-road challenge, the Straddie Salute Off-road Triathlon. It's the perfect weekend away. North Stradbroke Island boasts some of the best surfing, whale watching, snorkelling, diving and four wheel driving in Queensland so be sure to make time to sample all that the island has to offer.

Maryborough Technology Challenge
15-16 September
Where: Maryborough
Web: www.technologychallenge.com.auSmells like green spirit: These kids reckon they know how to save the planet, at top speed. Every September over 2000 students from schools throughout Queensland race human powered vehicles, smilie pushcarts, CO2 Dragsters, solar boats and cars for four state titles across one energy-busting weekend. Months of planning and intense physical training will come to fruition as students are challenged in futuristic, hands-on state championship events. Others will lead tiny robots in dance, rescue and race. So start exploring!

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers

21-30 September
Where: Toowoomba
Web: www.tcof.com.auThe Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers has been growing bigger, brighter and more colourful each year. As the longest running floral event of its kind in Australia, it's the premiere celebration of flowers, food, wine, culture, entertainment and all things spring. Join them for what promises to be a wonderful line up of attractions, and exceptional entertainment: the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers has something for everyone!

Bowen Family Fishing Classic & Wet Weekend
22 – 23 September
Where: Bowen
Web: www.bowenfamilyfishingclassic.comNow in its 21st year, the 2012 Bowen Family Fishing Classic and Wet Weekend is the biggest family fishing competition in the country. Held along Bowen's Front Beach at the new Soundshell and Festival Park, the event not only offers anglers the chance to compete for a host of fantastic prizes, but it provides the whole family with the opportunity to play and be entertained over an entire weekend at the top of the Whitsundays. The Classic, as it is rather affectionately known, has become an icon in fishing, entertainment, and family fun. This is a weekend to remember.

 Kenilworth Celebrates!

22-29 September
Where: Kenilworth
Web: www.kenilworthcelebrates.org.au
Kenilworth Celebrates! is Kenilworth’s annual Town Festival, incorporating a visual arts extravaganza and set in the beautiful MaryValley. The street comes alive with street theatre, buskers, drummers and musicians. A poets breakfast, various art exhibitions and workshops, Sunshine Coast Symphony Orchestra performance and dinner, fence painting and Masters at Work are also on during the week, so there’s something for everyone. The Festival is in close proximity to rainforests, national parks, the Mary River and the Andy Goldsworthy sculpture in the Conondale Great Walk. There is also plenty of camping available. Visit the Cheese Factory, Galleries and Art shops, all set in a very small rural town. Kenilworth Celebrates! is a great time to visit the Mary Valley, with the Scarecrow Festival, the annual Kenilworth Show and Rodeo also on in September.

Texas Country Round Up
24-30 September
Where: Texas
Web: www.texasqld4385.com.auTexas comes alive each year on the last weekend in September with the sound of country music. An annual event, the Texas Country Music Roundup boasts walk up concerts followed by an old time dance, bush poets breakfasts and a fantastic line up of artists all weekend. Come along and check it out.

Ancient Arts Revival
27-30 September
Where: Darlington
Web: http://ancientartsrevival.wordpress.com/There's a sense of mystery around the ancient arts of blacksmithing, wool dyeing and horning, so it's fitting to experience these intriguing old disciplines in a rich historical setting. Garden Hill's Ancient Arts Revival will be housed in the gallery and museum's spectacular collection of traditional rural sheds, nestled in the Lost World Valley and set against the mountains of the LamingtonNational Park. The professionally-led workshops - including blacksmithing: horn and pewter; spinning, dyeing and weaving; bookbinding; whip making; drawing and sandstone sculpture - are an exceptional extended opportunity to explore these old arts. Classes will culminate in a collectors and artist's exhibition on Saturday. Everyone is welcome on this day to enjoy gallery sales, demonstrations and displays of ancient arts and bush crafts, memorabilia and old farm tools, as well as food and market stalls and a walk in the country garden.

Tablelands Folk Festival

27 September – 1 October
Where: Yungaburra
Web: www.tablelandsfolkfestival.orgCombining the beautiful heritage village of Yungaburra with the mesmerising music of Australia’s best singers and songwriters, and traditional airs that carry you away to another time. Don't miss Queensland’s longest established Folk Festival. The Tablelands Folk Festival is the only event on the Atherton Tablelands with genuine national standing. Performers come from worldwide to perform here, and it's talked about in every major city in Australia. It’s been running for 31 years, and the 32nd Festival in 2012 looks to be better than ever! But beware… the warm welcome will bring you back again and again!

Caloundra Music Festival "Sun, Surf & Soul"
28-30 September
Where: Caloundra
Web: www.caloundramusicfestival.com.auThe sixth annual Caloundra Music Festival is a not for profit, family-friendly community event celebrating the environment, cultural achievements and community pride of the Caloundra area. Beautiful Kings Beach will come alive to the diverse sounds of the high quality Australian and international artists. Roving performers, beach-side carnival, buskers and free children's entertainment add to the experience. This event is one of the top music festivals in Queensland and is quickly developing a national reputation. Come along
 in late September where people of all ages soak up the music and party in the sun by the beach.

Tin Can Seafood Festival

29 September
Where: Tin Can Bay
Web: www.tincanbaytourism.org.auHeld on the beautiful Tin Can Bay foreshore, the Festival is a popular and entertaining family event. Strong music lineups create a fantastic soundtrack for a day of free activities amidst beautiful parklands.

A Phantasmagoria of Costumes, Props Aad Vehicles.

 

Do you need any other reasons to visit Cairns in the cooler months?  If world heritage rainforests and coral reefs are not enough to entice you to the far north, consider coming for the Cairns Festival. With over 100 events scheduled for the 16 day program it is impossible to name them all but go to www.cairnsfest.com.au for a program. 

The Cairns Festival kicked off on 17th August with the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair, showcasing local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander visual arts, dance, discussion and music at the newly refurbished Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal over three days. The second day of the program saw the Grand Parade wind through the streets of the city.  A procession of 58 floats entered and each supported by community groups displaying a phantasmagoria of costumes, props and vehicles. The people of cairns were not missing out on such a spectacular event with approximately 20,000 lining the streets early to get the best viewing positions.  Afterwards a family concert featuring local entertainers and a spectacular fireworks display over the esplanade closes the evening.

 A Village is set up on the cairns foreshore to resemble a carnival atmosphere for the duration of the festival. Featuring vaudevillian, retro-futuristic, sideshow romp with a quirky and unusual style The Village is planned to entertain audiences throughout the day and night of the festival.

More highlight events include the Tropical Pride Festival at the Tanks Arts Centre precinct, Reggaetown World Music concert featuring a whole day of reggae, roots, dub, ska and solid rhythms at the Kuranda Amphitheatre. Other major events include performances by the Australian Ballet’s Don Quixote, Music Botanica under the stars featuring Sarah Blasko, Colin Hay, The Big Laugh Comedy Gala, Jonathan Brilliant Resident Artist, Frank Yamma and The McMenamins, Grace Knight and the Secrets of Spice Spring Feast. 

The Carnival on Collins wraps up the festival on the last day of the program. Usually held on Father’s Day and the beginning of September, the Carnival was first inspired by the arrival of spring to the far north. It is held on Collins Avenue, in and around the Cairns Botanic Gardens and attracts thousands of people to the various and exciting program of entertainment, activities and market stalls for the whole family.

If you have not been to Cairns during the Cairns Festival, consider this your invitation to include it on your itinerary

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*Written by Guest Writer Ms Cath Brown

Vietnam More Popular With Russian Tourists

 

Vietnam has become a popular destination for Russian tourists not only in winter but also during the summer season.

According to statistics, the number of Russian tourists to Vietnam recorded a year-on-year increase of over 56 percent in May, bringing the figure for the first five months of the year to 86,681.

With between 18,000-19,000 Russian holiday makers visiting Vietnam each month, Russia is now in the top ten countries with most visitors to Vietnam .

Phan Thiet and Nha Trang have always been popular with Russians, but this summer, other central coastal provinces are attracting large numbers of Russian tourists.

Travel agents say that each day, Da Nang airport receives one charter flight from Russia with almost 200 passengers on board.

Da Nang expects to receive around 12,000 Russian tourists between the end of May and August this year.

Blue Mountains - Blooming Lovely

Leura Garden Festival

Witness nature burst forth after a long winter when the Blue Mountains region of NSW Australia transforms with spring blooms from September to November.

Blue Mountains Tourism chairman Randall Walker said each area was unique in its breathtaking display of spring flowers.

“The region at any time of year is a wonderful place to visit but in spring it is truly glorious. The Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon areas each have very different characters so I urge visitors to take a few days to explore each one separately. What a fantastic opportunity to also try the range of world-class accommodation and dining experiences we have in this region.''

LEURA

The famous Leura Garden Festival will welcome three new open gardens into the fold and an exciting events program in September.

Visitors can glean advice from some of the 11 garden owners, snap up native and exotic bargains at the festival nursery and take part in the inaugural events program at the Fairmont Resort MGallery on October 3 and 4 including Judy Horton (gardening author, Yates Garden Guide editor and ABC and 2UE regular).

Topics to be covered include the art of bonsai (Clinton Nesci), camellias (Bill Grattan) and roses (Doug and Glynis Hayne), with Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust executive director Professor David Mabberley to be keynote speaker.

The Leura Gardens Festival will open from 9.30am to 4.30pm from September 29 to October 7, culminating in the transformation of Leura village into an open market during the last two days of the festival. Garden entry: $20 all gardens, $5 single gardens. Under the Marquee events: $2 all gardens ticketholders or $5 per session. A hop-on hop-off shuttle bus will run from Leura station to all gardens including The Fairmont Resort (tickets: $5 per day).

Leura Garden Festival

Visit www.leuragardensfestival.com, info@leuragardensfestival.com or phone 0431 095 279 for more information.

Go to www.visitbluemountains.com.au for more garden and other nature-based spring activities.

U.S. A. Travel Industry on Pace for Record-Setting Year

According to new numbers released by the Commerce Department today, the travel industry is on track for another record-setting year. International visitors have spent an estimated $82.2 billion on U.S.A. travel and tourism-related goods and services - an increase of 11 percent when compared to the same period last year.

"America's economic recovery is being driven largely by the travel industry," said Roger Dow, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. "Each international visitor we welcome to the U.S. helps to support local communities and small businesses across our country. This is a tremendous opportunity; more can be done, and our industry stands ready to continue to encourage growth in international travel to the U.S."

The U.S. Travel Association is the national, non-profit organization representing all components of the travel industry that generates $1.9 trillion in economic output and supports 14.4 million jobs. U.S. Travel's mission is to increase travel to and within the United States.
Visit www.ustravel.org.

Bangkok to Host World Spa & Well-being Convention in September

World Spa & Well-being Convention 

Global professionals and experts in spa management and health & wellness sector will be meeting in Bangkok for the World Spa & Well-being Convention between 19 — 21 September 2012

Organised by the Thai Spa Association, with sponsorship support from the Tourism Authority of Thailand and the Thailand Exhibition and Convention Bureau, the event is being billed the “only gateway offering a myriad of opportunities to network, build business connections and be inspired with industry people across the region.”

The gathering is expected to give yet another boost to the spa, health and wellness sector, one of the fastest growing niche-market segments of the Thai travel & tourism industry.

Including both prevention and curative sides, the health and wellness sector is attracting millions of visitors annually ranging from medical tourists seeking treatment for various kinds of ailments to stressed-out executives seeking relaxation-therapies and industry practitioners seeking to learn the fine art of Thai massage.

Last available research shows that in 2010 alone, Thailand was visited by an estimated 1.4 million medical tourists, up from 500,000 in 2001.

The research shows that average length of stay for medical tourists ranges from a brief three days for a routine check-up to three weeks or more for plastic surgery. The average expenditure of patients seeking plastic surgery is estimated at 130,000 baht per head, (40% for treatment, 60% for travelling expenses).

The spa and wellness industry has also helped generate millions of jobs at the grassroots level, especially among women. Many of the organic and herbal products used by Thai spas are being exported worldwide.

However, the growth and opportunities is also accompanied by numerous challenges which will be discussed at the World Spa & Well-being Convention. In addition to the exhibition and congress, the event at the IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Center will be highlighted by the Thailand Spa & Well-being Awards.

Attendance is projected at 3,000 trade visitors at the exhibition, 400 congress delegates and 5,000 general public, including amongst others, travel agents, spa consumers, hotel operators, spa operators, spa suppliers, spa therapists, developers and investors.

According to the organisers, “The event is designed to enhance the image of Thailand in the world spa market, upgrade quality standards and innovation of services and showcase the latest products, technology and methods to highly targeted key decision makers.

World Spa & Well-being Convention

Speakers at the congress will highlight Asian industry trends. One of the main topics of discussion will focus on helping Thai spa operators and manufacturers to prepare for the ASEAN Economic Community 2015.

The Thai Spa Association was set up in 2003 and boasts roughly 450 spa businesses in Thailand and 15 countries around the globe. For registration and inquiries on exhibiting and participating, please click here: http://worldspawellbeing.com