Biodiversity at the Sydney Olympic Park

Bird Watching 

Sydney Olympic Park is a hotspot for all things natural, and protects habitats for hundreds of species of plants, birds, frogs, bats, reptiles and fish. There are over 35 kilometres of bike trails, walking paths and scenic boardwalkswithin the Park that can take you to parklands, rare salt-marshes, remnant woodlands, waterbird refuges and mangrove forest.

Among these protected wetlands and woodlands you can bird watch, photograph, spot lizards, visit the home of the endangered Green and Golden Bell frog, or just de-stress in the cool green calmness under the trees.

Sydney Olympic Park supports over 200 species of native birds, frogs, bats, possums and lizards, and contains over 300 hectares of threatened species habitat.

Life in the Park news:

Our resident White-bellied Sea Eagles are nesting and have two eggs. There will be an eager wait for eggs to hatch, after some 40 days incubation. Catch a birds eye view of their nest via EagleCAM.
Enjoy flowering wattles along the Louise Sauvage Pathway and Badu Mangroves during July. These plants form an important source of pollen for birds, small mammals and insects during the hard, cold months.

Bring your binoculars and watch Black Swans nesting on the main island in Lake Belvedere, Bicentennial Park and an island at the Waterbird Refuge in Badu Mangroves. Islands are an important refuge for nesting waterbirds, providing protection from foxes and other land-based predators.
See if you can catch a Black-shouldered Kite or Nankeen Kestrel hovering over the grassland of Woo-la-ra. These birds are searching for lizards and insects amongst the grasses

Learn more about life in the Park.

The Park is also for animals. Visitors can help to protect and conserve biodiversity by staying out of sensitive habitats, remaining on paths or mown grass and keeping their dog on a lead. Please keep your dog on lead except for in the designated ‘dog off lead’ areas.

Visitors are also asked not to feed birds and animals, this can encourage some species to become pests through changes in their behaviour. Feeding by visitors is not healthy for wild animals; it alters their diet and prevents them from performing their natural role in the environment.

Bird Watching 

Sydney Olympic Park provides excellent bird watching opportunities with its diverse habitats supporting migratory, nomadic and resident birds. More than 200 native species have been recorded. This is the season of migratory birds and the Park has lots of new visitors. Find out more about the birds or explore one of our bird walks!

Read more about Birds of the Armory walks and bird watching.

BirdLife Discovery Centre and EagleCam

Learn more about Australian birds and their habitats at the BirdLife Discovery Centre in Newington Armory. EagleCAM is a live remote feed operating out of the Discovery Centre close to the Parramatta River. Watch live action from our White-bellied Sea-eagle nest and see our Sea Eagle chicks via EagleCam as live and direct as they grow.

Mangrove Boardwalk

Experience the largest remaining stand of grey mangrove forest along the Parramatta River at Badu Mangroves in Bicentennial Park. Step into the dappled shade along the floating wooden boardwalk and look out for the abundant crabs and snails on the muddy shore below, as well as wading birds such as the White-faced Heron and the more secretive Mangrove Heron. Small birds such as the Yellow Thornbill, Silvereye and Grey Fantail may also be seen and heard as they flit through the forest, and Golden Orb-weaving Spiders are abundant in the autumn months when they build their webs in the mangrove canopy. Take a moment to imagine the time when such habitats dominated the rivers and bays of Sydney. More info

Brickpit Ring Walk

Enjoy a bird’s eye view of endangered frog habitat and other unique features of theBrickpit from the Ring Walk, an elevated circular walkway. You’ll see both naturally-formed and constructed ponds that the Green and Golden Bell Frog uses for breeding, with surrounding reeds, rock piles, long grass and weedy vegetation for shelter and foraging. Interpretive material around the Ring Walk explains the Brickpit’s industrial history and unique geology, the evolution of Green and Golden Bell Frog habitat, and the development and operation of the Park’s innovative water recycling scheme (WRAMS).

Narawang Boardwalk

Meander along walking paths and a reed-fringed boardwalk at Narawang Wetland. TheGreen and Golden Bell Frog and other frog species can be heard calling from the ponds during the warmer months, find a quiet shady spot and you may spot some of these web-toed residents. More info

Frog Walk

Take a walk of discovery through the Park's extensive freshwater wetlands and woodlands that support 7 frog species and learn about management of the endangered Green and Golden Bell Frog. There are 70 constructed frog habitat ponds around the Park, with 11 road underpasses and 6km of frog fencing that protect these important local residents. The Frog Walk takes you to the Brickpit Ring, where you have a bird’s eye view of frog habitats, and nearby Wentworth Common and Kronos Hill.

Heritage Railway

Jump aboard the heritage-listed narrow-gauge railway for a trip around the historic precinct of Newington Armory and learn about the Park’s remnant turpentine ironbark forest and the different bat species that inhabit some of the heritage buildings. This unique small-gauge electric railway tour includes a full commentary, taking in protected wetlands and remnant forest not usually accessible to visitors. More info

http://www.sydneyolympicpark.com.au/

ibtm world TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION WATCH AWARDS WITH EVENTMB

• RECORD ENTRIES FOR 2016

The ibtm world Technology & Innovation Watch Award in partnership with EventMBs has attracted record levels of entries this year. Open to innovators and talented entrepreneurs with original ideas to showcase the future of the industry through technology the award has generated over 60 entries with first time applications from Hong Kong, India, Tanzania, Turkey, Finland, Norway and Romania.

The value to the winner includes not only the opportunity to showcase their technology and innovations within the ibtm world Innovation Zone, but also exposure to thousands of international industry attendees at ibtm world as well as the international media, both before, during and after the event.

20% of entrants for the Technology and Innovation Watch Awardcompanies have entered previously and are doing so again this year. “The power of this award, established in 2000, is that every year it attracts new entries as well as repeat applications for those anxious to remain credible with their technology for the industry, so we are delighted that many individuals and companies enter year on year. This time the competitive nature of these award s has shown a really dynamic quality of entrant and the judging panel will have a tough job ahead”. Said Corbin Ball, Chair of the judging panel.

The top 10 finalists will be announced on the 10th October with the winner awarded at ibtm world on the 30th November.

WINGHAM PREPARES FOR AMAZING AKOOSTIK MUSIC FESTIVAL

The beautiful Manning Valley will be on show to thousands of visitors next month when some of Australia’s biggest acts, including Shannon Noll and Bill Chambers, take to the stage for a Regional NSW showcase.

Held on the North Coast, the Wingham Akoostik Festival is a three-day celebration of music, camping and market stalls, featuring local and handcrafted goods, food and more.

The Festival is renowned for its relaxed family friendly atmosphere. Visitors are invited to enjoy great music and fun experiences, including African drumming workshops and guitar tuning.

There's also the opportunity to explore the historic timber town of Wingham and picturesque countryside, home to several artists' retreats, guesthouses, cafes and shops selling fresh, local produce.

Destination NSW Chief Executive Officer Sandra Chipchase said the North Coast region has so much to offer visitors.

“I encourage all music fans to make plans to get to this incredible region for the Akoostik Music Festival, and make sure they take some time while there to experience everything the area has to offer," Ms Chipchase said.

The Wingham Akoostik Music Festival will be held from Friday 14 to Sunday 16 October and is proudly supported by Destination NSW through the Regional Flagship Events Program.

Visit the official Festival website for more information, and go to Visitnsw.com for more to see and do in the Manning Valley.

Top Notch Events Being Held in Moab Utah in October

October brings out a myriad of top-notch events in Moab. Participate as a competitor or vendor and enjoy an event as part of the audience, a volunteer, or as an attendee. Feel the crisper air temperatures of autumn in Moab for your own touring and contemplate including some time with one of the following October events in Moab.

Plein Air Moab with be head quartered out of the Moab Arts and Recreation Center, 111 E 100 N, Moab from October 1st to the 8th this year. Check out the schedule and swing by to purchase some great works of landscape and architectural art from around Moab. See the schedule of events on www.pleiairmoab.com.

For road cycling enthusiasts, join the Moab Century Tour on October 1st. Route options are 40, 60, or 100 mile lengths. All rides have support and the post-ride party is fun with live music, good food, beer and cycling icons. Sign up via www.skinnytireevents.com.

The Rock, Gem and Mineral Show shall be held at the Old Spanish Trail Arena (3641 S Hwy 191) October 6-9 2016. A wide variety of raw and polished gemstones are for sale, as well as other finished goods.

October 7 2016 the Moab Arts and Recreation Center is the spot for sharing poems, song, jokes with an audience. Get up and Rock that Mic! Begins 8 PM, come to watch or play.

Later on at the arena, Barrels 4 Bucks, compete. Free to sit in the audience to watch horses and rider compete during two weekends in October. Attend either October 14 – 16, 2016 or races again on October 28-30th. http://www.barrels4bucks.freehosting.net/

The Utah Avalanche Center will present the Banff Mountain Film Festival Radical Reels on October 8, 2016. Held at the Grand County High School , 608 East Fourth Street, at 7 PM, advance tickets are recommended. Get them for $10 at Canyon Voyages, Back of Beyond Bookstore, Poison Spider Bike Shop or Pagan Mountaineering in Moab. Tickets at the door will be $15.

A local favorite, the Gourd Festival, held in paralleling Castle Valley, is going on from 10 AM – 3 PM, Saturday October 15th. Go early to catch the parade. Bring a dish to pass, if you plan to stay for lunch. Lots of gourd art for sale and some activities for the children.

For Mountain Bike athletes, the Moab Epic Mountain Bike Race has a 20 or 50 mile course, where by competitors attain as many check points as possible in an allotted time person. It is held also on October 15th, see MoabEpic.com for registration.

The Moab Library presents a Free Film: Best of Enemies at Star Hall 159 E Center St. at 7 PM. Buckley vs. Vidal: 2 Men. 10 Debates. Television Would Never Be The Same. In the summer of 1968 television news changed forever when ABC hired William F. Buckly Jr. and Gore Vidal to debate during the national political convention.

Free Lectures at the Moab Information Center (MIC) presents: Sally Cole speaking about the art of Archaeologist Ann Axtell Morris during the 1920s and 30s. It will take place 6-7 PM in the MIC on the corner of Main and Center Street of Moab on October 20 2016.

Speaking of children, the Moab Music Festival brings the Fry Street Quartet to Star Hall, 159 E Center Street, Moab to raise funds for the local school music programs. Donations are accepted. The performance begins at 7 PM on October 21st.

Come dance to the music of the Community Dance Band at the monthly Contra Dance. It is held on October 22nd at the Moab Arts and Recreation Center, 111 E 100 N, at 8 PM. No experience or partner necessary. Plan to pay a $7 donation to benefit the Grand County School music programs.

The Other Half, half marathon, will be held out along Hwy 128 from Dewey Bridge to Sorrel River Ranch on Sunday October 23, 2016. It is a good morning to plan to visit all the many other places available to touring folks in Moab, rather than Fisher Towers or the scenic byway 128 to Interstate 70.

Free Lectures at the Moab Information Center (MIC) presents: Charmaine Thompson speaking on archaeology. It will take place 6-7 PM in the MIC on the corner of Main and Center Street of Moab on October 27 2016.

In town at the Chile Pepper Bikes Shop, the Ho Down will be headquartered there and is to occur from October 27 – 30. There is a mountain bike film festival. Have a short film to submit? Do it by October 15th. Or plan to attend October 28th 7 PM at Star Hall, 159 E Center Street. All the money from races, skills workshops, costume contest, film, and raffles go into maintaining the Moab Bike Park on 500 West.

Also this weekend, Climbers convene for the Moab Craggin' Classic, workshops, service project and the Reel Rock film are benefits of registering for this weekend of community during October 28-30, 2016.

At the end of October, the Moab Valley Multicultural Center shall host a one-day event and fund raiser on the 30th. The Day of the Dead Festival will have authentic cultural food and information with ample kid activities, Mariachi, and dancing. Be sure to participate in the raffle for $150 VISA gift card, Android tablet or ION portable Bluetooth speaker. Find the event at 156 North and 100 West taking place from 1-5 PM.

Then October 30th also kicks off the Moab Folk Camp. From October 30 – November 4 there are classes in voice, instruments, painting, photography, song writing and it is dappled with Folk Camp free concerts. The public may attend Tuesday November 1, 7 PM at the Moab Arts and Recreation Center (MARC), 111 E 100 N, the Staff Concert. Then again on Thursday November 3rd there is a free Student Concert at 7 PM at the MARC.

If you miss these this year, many are annual events, put a reminder on your new year calendar to be a part of one of these events next year instead.  www.DiscoverMoab.com/calendar.htm is the webpage to open to see the listings online.

Beach Polo Returns to Australian Shores on Adelaide's Glenelg Beach, 18 February 2017

The Australian Beach Polo Association Limited is pleased to announce the flourishing international sport of Beach Polo will return to Australian shores on 18 February 2017, to the white sands of Adelaide's Glenelg Beach, against the cerulean backdrop of St Vincent Gulf.

Presented by 'Pol Roger' Champagne, the project will be managed by Polo Events Australia Pty Limited (PEA). Janek Gazecki, who directed the introduction of Beach Polo to Australia in 2010, was in charge of producing the acclaimed Paspaley Beach Polo in 2010 and Broome Beach Polo in 2011, and founded the Australian Beach Polo Association Limited.

During a hiatus from the sport of Beach Polo over the past five years, Janek has been busy developing Urban Polo, which enters its eleventh year in 2016, into what is now the largest and most successful polo series in the world. Urban Polo events include the national 'Polo in the City' and 'Polo by the Sea' series. Says Geoff Gourley, Director at the Australian Beach Polo Association Limited

“This new and exciting venue will allow the resumption of this unique sport in this country, and integrate Australia into the growing prestigious international Beach Polo calendar, which includes exotic and prime locations such as Miami (USA), Goa (India), Ibiza (Spain) and Poole (UK), Rovinj (Croatia) to name a few.

We are also excited about the opportunity to work closely with Holdfast Bay Council, and use the event as a platform to promote state, national and international tourism to the region, and support local business.”

City of Holdfast Bay Mayor, Stephen Patterson said this first for South Australia would shine a national spotlight on Glenelg as Adelaide's premier seaside destination for large-scale events.

“We welcome this opportunity to add an exhilarating day of Beach Polo to Holdfast Bay's exciting summer events calendar, and we're sure that the opportunity to see Australia's elite polo players and their horses in action on beautiful Glenelg Beach will see a summertime surge in visitor numbers,” he said.

Pol Roger Beach Polo will be jointly administered by the Australian Beach Polo Association Limited and Urban Polo Association Limited. Positions for international polo players are available, as are hospitality options for international guests. Please direct all inquiries to info@poloenterprises.com.au

Australian Beach Polo Association Limited, Unit 4005, 343 Pitt Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000

W: www.beachpolo.com.au / E: info@poloenterprises.com.au / T: +61 412 245 762

The fastest way from A to B in Vienna – Wiener Linien

Vienna is one of the most important congress destinations worldwide. Hundreds of events attract numerous participants to the city every year. The Congress Ticket allows visitors to conveniently reach these events by public transport.

Vienna is an attractive event location not only due to its modern attractions but also due to the density of its public transport network consisting of 161 services. The city is renowned for the short intervals, cleanliness and reliability of its public transport. Whether by underground, tram or bus, all congress and event locations, the city centre and the many recreational sites on the outskirts are easily reachable. The night-time underground and bus services ensure that passengers can reach their hotels safely even after midnight.

The Wiener Linien Congress Ticket for congress organisers and participants provides access to the entire public transport network. The ticket costs EUR 16.40 for three days, and EUR 2.20 for every extra day.

For more information, please contact the Wiener Linien at: spezialtickets@wienerlinien.at

Mandurah in Top 50 Aussie Towns

Mandurah has been chosen as one of Australia's 50 Best Small Towns by online travel website Discount My Flights. The official announcement was made on 21st September on Discount My Flights' blog.

The company, which is an affiliate of Flight Network, ran a nationwide contest attracting 172 entries from around Australia. Mandurah and Peel Tourism Organisation (MAPTO) created and submitted the application for Mandurah that resulted in the town being chosen in the top rankings.

MAPTO CEO Karen Priest said the feedback received on Mandurah's entry highlighted its incredible waterways.

“If you live here or promote the region, you know what we have is very special. We have always known that Mandurah is one of Australia's best places, however now it's official. It's very gratifying to have this recognised by a respected global travel website from a national competition,” said Karen Priest.
Ms Priest said MAPTO would optimise Discount My Flight's promotional activity around the release of the Top 50 Towns.

“The selection of Mandurah on the Top 50 Towns list comes with marketing benefits such as access to Discount My Flight's email list of over 250,000 subscribers, publicity via coverage of the contest by travel and consumer media outlets including the Huffingtonpost.com and targeted website blogs,” she said.

Discount My Flights offer consumers best price airfares by aggregating all deals available through all of the largest online travel agencies across the world.

Founded in Calgary, Canada in 2014, the DiscountMyFlights Group has three main objectives: help travellers to find all of the good deals on airfare available online, to help them decide on when is and isn't a good time to buy and to help them understand what is and isn't a good deal for the route they would like to fly.

www.visitpeel.com.au/

What can you see on a two week tour of Vietnam?

This Vietnam Superior Tour Package of 16Days/15Nights provided by the Legend Travel Group AU is one example of a Vietnam Tour.

The highlights of this tour are:

• Hanoi: Sightseeing with a Local Guide; water puppets performance; visit Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Museum, Presidential Palace, and Temple of Literature; take a “cyclo” ride through the Old Quarter 
• Halong Bay: Overnight cruise in a traditional Junk boat, discover caves & fishing villages, explore the lagoon. 
• Hue: See stunning scenery en-route to Hue; Take a dragon boat to visit pagodas; Visit the Imperial Citadel. Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang. 
• Danang – Hoi An: See ancient sculpture in the Cham Museum, and tour Buddhist cave temples in the Marble Mountains. A walking tour through the UNESCO listed Old Quarter; Countryside bike ride, visit an old merchant house, the Hoi An Museum, and a Chinese assembly hall. 
• Nha Trang: Enjoy this seaside resort town known for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters, Swim, snorkel and explore coral 
• Ho Chi Minh City: City tour including entry to the War Remnants Museum 
• Mekong Delta: Take an excursion to Mekong Delta, with a boat trip on the Mekong River to visit Cat Be floating market.

The day itinerary is: 

Day 1: Arrival Hanoi Vietnam
Day 2: Hanoi Sightseeing full day (B, L)
Day 3: Excursion to Halong Bay and Stay overnight on Board. (B, L, D)
Day 4: Halong Bay Cruise – Depart for Hue Imperial City. (B, L)
Day 5: Full day sightseeing in Hue City - Old Imperial City. (B, L)
Day 6: Full day sightseeing in Hue City - Old Imperial City. (B, L)
Day 6: Thien Mu Pagoda/Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang. (B, L)
Day 7: Leave Hue to Danang/City Sightseeing. (B, L)
Day 8: Hoi An Excursion/Thun Bon River Boat Trip. (B, L)
Day 09: My Son Sanctuary half day Tour & free go shopping (B, L)
Day 10: Leave Hoi An to Nha Trang Beach City (B)
Day 11. Nha Trang Sightseeing (B, L)
Day 12. Nha Trang (B)
Day 13: Nha Trang (B)
Day 14: Leave Nha Trang to Saigon/City Sightseeing. (B, L)
Day 15: Full day to Mekong Delta/River Boat Trip. (B, L)
Day 16: Conclude Saigon/Ho Chi Minh City. (B)

The tour details are:

Day 1: Arrival Hanoi Vietnam
Today you’ll land in Hanoi. Warmly welcome by Tour Guide & Car Driver at airport then transfer to Hanoi Downtown, a city of lakes, shaded boulevards, public parks, and the capital of Vietnam. Check into your hotel. Stay overnight in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi Sightseeing full day (B, L)

Hanoi, a city of lakes, shaded boulevards and public parks, is the capital of Vietnam. It is a very attractive city with French-style architecture. You have a full day of sightseeing ahead, including a visit to One Pillar Pagoda, which was built by Ly Thai Tong and the Temple of Literature, founded by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong. Stop in the heart of Hanoi at Hoan Kiem Lake, which contains an islet with a tiny Tortoise Pagoda. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Opera House and St. Joseph Cathedral. Conclude with a visit to Bao Tang Lich, once the museum of l'Ecole Francaise d'Extreme Orient, which includes artifacts from Vietnam's turbulent history. Water Puppet Show, Cyclo visiting Old Quarter. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 3: Excursion to Halong Bay and Stay overnight on Board. (B, L, D)

Early this morning, we’ll drive from Hanoi to one of the most magnificent scenic environments in the world, Halong Bay. Covering 577 square miles, this vast bay is filled with more than 3,000 limestone “peaks” or karsts that jut from the deep blue water as far as the eye can see. We’ll spend a day and a half, including an overnight with dinner and breakfast onboard, exploring this overwhelming seascape from the decks of a traditional Vietnamese boat. Comfortable and intimate, your boat features hand-crafted wooden interiors including a dining room and pleasant air-conditioned cabins with private baths. Since we’re overnight on the water, we’ll be able to explore Ha Long Bay’s most beautiful spots with time to swim and even visit some of the largest rock formations and caves. This promises to be one of your most memorable travel experiences in Asia. Stay overnight on Boat.

Day 4: Halong Bay Cruise – Depart for Hue Imperial City. (B, L)

Rising to the sound of lapping bay waters, we have time for an early morning dip followed by breakfast. Sitting on the upper deck, you can relax while taking in the breath-taking beauty of the rocky islands rising from the emerald water of the bay.

After breakfast, explore Sung Sot cave, swim and relax. Cruises back to the jetty while brunch is served while you are cruising through the bay, along the way seeing more of the fascinating formations. Cruise check-out. Cruise check-out. Rejoin car drive to airport directly. Arrive Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi) at 3:00pm. Catching flight to Hue City. Arrive Hue City, transfer to hotel for check in. Overnight in Hue.

Day 5: Full day sightseeing in Hue City - Old Imperial City. (B, L)

Spend full day to visit Hue City, Vietnam's political capital from 1802 to 1945 under the 13 emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty. Traditionally, the city has been one of Vietnam's cultural, religious and educational centers. Visit the Imperial City, which is located in the Citadel. Modeled after the Forbidden City in Beijing, the Imperial City was built in the early 19th century. Explore the Thai Hoa Palace, with its spacious hall and ornate roof of huge timbers supported by 80 carved and lacquered columns. See the Halls of the Mandarins, the Nine Dynastic Urns and the site where the Forbidden Purple City once stood. Overnight in Hue City.

Day 6: Thien Mu Pagoda/Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang. (B, L)

Just outside Hue, visit the Thien Mu Pagoda on the bank of the Perfume River, which was a hotbed of anti-government protest during the early 1960s. Next, visit the complex of the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, built in 1840, which is known for its magnificent architecture and elaborate decorations and is considered one of Hue's most beautiful pagodas. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit Tu Duc Tomb, which was built for meditation, reading and theater performances in a tranquil setting of forested hills and lakes. Your final stop is at Khai Dinh, the last monument of the Nguyen dynasty. It has a remarkably long staircase flanked by dragons, ceiling murals and ceramic frescoes. Return to your hotel on the riverbank where your Art Deco inspired rooms are reminiscent of the 1920s and 1950s. Overnight in Hue City.

Day 7: Leave Hue to Danang/City Sightseeing. (B, L)

Today, journey south past the Hai Van Pass and Land Co, over a spur of the Truong Son Mountain Range that juts into the South East Sea, with spectacular views along the way. Upon arrival in Danang, visit the Cham Museum, which features a fine collection of openair sandstone carvings. Stop at My Khe Beach, made famous in the American TV series of the same name. It stretches for many miles north and south of the Marble Mountains. The Marble Mountains surrounding the area are five stone hillocks - once islands made of marble - and each is said to represent one of the five elements of the universe. There are many natural caves in which Buddhist sanctuaries have been built over the centuries. Transfer to Hoi An Ancient Town. Check in hotel & overnight in Hoi An.

Day 8: Hoi An Excursion/Thun Bon River Boat Trip. (B, L)

Enjoy a full-day excursion to Hoi An, a major trading center, once known as "Faifo" to the earliest Western traders. It was also an important port for the Dutch, Portuguese, Italian, Chinese, Japanese and other merchant vessels from the Far East. Visit a temple with partially gilded statues in the center, a pagoda dedicated to sailors and fishermen and a chapel with origins in the 1700s that reflects the influences of Chinese and Japanese styles. Stop at the Sa Huynh Museum, located near the Japanese Covered Bridge, which contains exhibitions from the earliest period of Hoi An's history. Late this afternoon, take a boat trip on the Thun Bon River to Kim Bing Village on Cam Kim Island to see the wood workers and shipbuilding families. Return to your haven on world-famous "Cua Dai Beach," with the evening at your leisure. Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 09: My Son Sanctuary half day Tour & free go shopping (B, L)

Leave hotel at 8:00am. Drive to My Son, a World Heritage, 50 km southwest of Hoi An. Located in a lush valley, My Son was a capital and religious center of Cham people, now remaining with red brick towers and sanctuaries. My Son, considered to be in the same league as some of Southeast Asia's greatest archaeological sites, including Angkor in Cambodia, Bagan in Myanmar, Ayutthaya in Thailand and Borobudur in Indonesia. These towers and sanctuaries was built from the 7 to 13 centuries. Return to Town for lunch. In afternoon, free go shopping in Hoi An Town. Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 10: Leave Hoi An to Nha Trang Beach City (B)

Free for leisure in the morning until transfer to Danang Airport to take flight to Nha Trang Beach City – one of the most beautiful Beaches in over the World. Pick up & transfer to hotel. Check in & overnight in Nha Trang City.

Day 11: Nha Trang Sightseeing (B, L)

In the morning you will transfer to Cau Da port for a cruise on the Nha Trang Bay to visit Tri Nguyen Aquarium on Mieu Island to enjoy hundreds of nice and precious marine creatures then continue the trip to Mun Island -the best island for snorkeling with lots of lives colorful corals and fish. Taking a fresh lunch at the Con Se Tre island and relax. Back to hotel. Overnight in Nha Trang.

Day 12: Nha Trang Beach leisure (B) 

Today is a free day at leisure in Nha Trang for relaxing and unwinding at the resort overlooking beautiful Bay. Snorkel or dive among the coral reefs in crystal blue waters, hike nature trails, cool off in your private plunge pool, indulge in spa treatments or just relax on the white sand beach and admire the unspoiled mountain and sea views. Overnight in Nha Trang.

Day 13: Nha Trang Beach leisure (B)

Enjoy your time on the one of the most beautiful beaches on the World! Overnight in Nha Trang.

Day 14: Leave Nha Trang to Saigon/City Sightseeing. (B, L)

Leave Nha Trang City in the morning. Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, Saigon, the largest Vietnamese city. There are street markets, sidewalk cafes and sleek new bars. This teeming metropolis offers 300 years of timeless traditions and the beauty of an ancient culture. To the west of the city is the huge Chinese neighborhood called Colon, which means "Big Market." Notre Dame Cathedral, in the heart of Saigon's government quarter, is of neo- Romanesque architecture with two high square tower and iron spires. The Central Post Office is French-style and City Hall, known as "Hotel de Ville," is typical of the French architecture that would be seen in any village in France. Visit the War Remnants Museum, featuring collections of weapons and photographs from the two Indochina wars. Stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 15: Full day to Mekong Delta/River Boat Trip. (B, L)

Today takes you to My Tho, the capital of Tien Giang Province. Situated on the Mekong River, 75 kilometers southeast of Ho Chi Minh City, the city is surrounded by orchards and rice fields, which produce grain for the entire country. Visit one or two of the islands that produce traditional handcrafts, coconut candy and bee farms. Visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda, the oldest one in the delta on your boat trip on the Mekong River. Return to Ho Chi Minh City. Check in hotel & stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 16: Conclude Saigon/Ho Chi Minh City. (B)

You have the morning free to relax before your return flight home. We will arrange the Transfers take you to Airport for your International flight! The unforgettable Vietnam Trip with Indochina Legend Travel will be finished at Airport! Good bye & see you in the next times!

The tour cost includes:

• 14 nights hotel accommodation on a twin-share basic with daily breakfast
• 1 night stay overnight on Board in Halong Bay in twin-share cabin.
• Internal flight tickets: Hanoi – Hue, Danang – Nha Trang, Nha Trang – Ho Chi Minh City (economy class) Vietnam Airlines including fuel charge & Airport taxes.
• Meals as mentioned in the itineraries: Vietnamese food, Asian Food basic.
• All landed transfers within the tour by air-conditioned vehicle, including pick-up and drop-off at airports on arrival and departure days
• English Speaking Tour guide.
• Boat trips in the Mekong Delta, Nha Trang, Hue & Hoi An
• All entrance and sightseeing fees
• Water Puppet Show & Cyclo Tour in Hanoi Old Quarter.
• Approval letter for landing visa to Vietnam: single entry, one month valid
• All taxes & services charge.

Tour Cost Not Included are:

International airfare and airport taxes in Vietnam
Beverages and other meals do not indicate in the program
Visa fees to Vietnam
Early check-in and late check-out at all hotels
Kayak, Massage onboard
Travel insurance
Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, shopping...)
Tipping/ Gratuities
Single supplement
Any additional expenses caused by reasons beyond our control such as natural calamities (typhoon, floods), flight delays, rescheduling or cancellations, any accidents, medical evacuations, riots, strikes etc.

Hotels:

Hanoi: Viet View Hotel
Hue: Alba Sapa Hotel
Hoi An: Lantern Hotel
Nha Trang: Majestic Hotel
Ho Chi Minh City: Liberty Park View Hotel

Price (Per Person)

1,518 US$ - Group 2Paxs
1,366 US$ -Group 3-4Paxs
1,260 US$ - Group 5-6Paxs
1,199 US$ - Group 7-10Paxs
Group 11Paxs - up: Requests!

See Details
Vietnam Superior Tour Package 16Days/15Nights
Sold by Legend Travel Group AU

LEGEND TRAVEL GROUP

Head Office: Suite 514 & 1312. 4F Building, Trung Hoa Street, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hochiminh City office: 2nd Floor, Thanh Nien Newspaper Building, 345/134 Tran Hung Dao St,
District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Phone : +84 - 936-500-733
Fax: +844 - 37834286
Email : sales@indochinalegend.com
Website: https://www.legendtravelgroup.com/

Ben Elton Movie is Being Filmed in the Peel Region of Western Australia

Filming of the first movie to be shot entirely in the Peel Region – Ben Elton's Three Summers – has started this month.

Written and directed by the award-winning novelist, playwright, television writer and lyricist, Three Summers is described as a fusion of romance, music and political satire inspired by the Fairbridge Festival. Production and post-production will also take place in WA. The feature film is the first project under the State Government's $16 million Western Australian Regional Film Fund, made possible by Royalties for Regions and Screenwest.

The international and domestic cast and crew, who will have every weekend free to explore and enjoy all there is to experience in the Peel Region, were welcomed with specially developed regional tourism kits provided by Mandurah and Peel Tourism Organisation (MAPTO).

Robert Sheehan (Misfits, Red Riding Trilogy) is already making the most of it and noted, “I have already been out and about enjoying the local restaurants and the food, atmosphere and the view of the Mandurah estuary at night is superb. People travel the world to find places like this. I am looking forward to exploring more of the surrounds in the Peel Region while I am here.”

MAPTO liaised with the local business community and many operators have put forward special offers in the welcome kits extending the cast and crew discounts on attractions, tours or meals.

The movie's international and domestic stars were very impressed by the diversity and quality of the visitor experiences highlighted in the visitor brochures.

www.visitpeel.com.au/

MT BULLER GUARANTEED SNOW FOR OPENING WEEKEND 2017

Mt Buller has created a buzz in the Australian ski industry promising snow for the first day of the snow season in 2017 at Victoria’s premier alpine resort.

Buller Ski Lifts General Manager Laurie Blampied shared the bold promise today as the resort closes for 2016, “We are getting rid of that age-old question ‘will there be snow for the Queen’s Birthday opening weekend?’ The answer at Mt Buller in 2017 is YES, we will be skiing on Bourke Street.”

No other resort in Australia can promise skiing and boarding for the opening weekend celebrations so many are curious to know how Mt Buller is able to give such an audacious snow guarantee.

Buller Ski Lifts, with support from Mt Buller Mt Stirling Resort Management, is adding an innovative Techno Alpin SF 220 “Snow Factory” to its already hefty snowmaking arsenal for the 2017 snow season. The new Snow Factory will continuously produce snow 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can do so at temperatures well above freezing. It is capable of generating 220 cubic metres of snow daily at 15 degrees Celsius.

“This investment is a real ‘game changer’ for Mt Buller and a very exciting development for anyone who wants to enjoy early season skiing and snowboarding and wants to plan their winter holiday with confidence,” explains Blampied.

The Snow Factory is part of a $1.6+ million investment at Mt Buller in additional snowmaking for the resort that will see more conventional snowguns also added to the Skyline racecourse.

Mt Buller Mt Stirling Resort Management is an important partner in this core resort investment and works closely with Buller Ski Lifts to improve and expand snowmaking for the benefit of all resort stakeholders and guests. “Snow is the centre-piece in the winter puzzle for an alpine resort so this investment is great news for skiers, snowboarders and all our resort operators who can now look forward to the opening of 2017 snow season with confidence,” said John Huber, Chief Executive Officer at Mt Buller Mt Stirling Resort Management.

Laurie Blampied explains, “We will commission the Snow Factory in April 2017 and start making snow in early May. We often have conditions to enable conventional snowmaking ahead of the snow season and will fire up our existing network of 244 snowmaking guns as soon as we have the temperatures to do so. What is exciting is the “Snow Factory” will provide a whole additional level of snowmaking that will go ahead regardless of the temperature. We can now guarantee to have snow on our main Bourke Street run for the first day of the season.”