Scotland feels ‘Outlander effect’

As the first series of Outlander is released on DVD and blu-ray, Scottish locations associated with the hit television show are reporting a surge in visitor numbers.

The ‘Outlander effect’ has seen National Trust for Scotland (NTS) locations that either inspired author Diana Gabaldon’s books or were used as backdrops to the series enjoy big increases in day visits compared to 2014.

Outlander filming locations, such as Doune Castle near Stirling and Culross in Fife, are among the places being promoted in VisitScotland’s new publication, Set in Scotland: A Film Fan’s Odyssey, which was released this week.

NTS has reported the following increase in day visits (September 2014 to September 2015, compared to the previous 12-month period):

• Falkland – the Fife village which portrays 1940s Inverness in the first episode: 12% up
• Preston Mill – the doocot in East Lothian which features as a backdrop in several scenes: 26% up
• Culross – the Fife village used as the fictional village of Cranesmuir: 9% up
• Culloden – the historic Highlands battlefield which plays a key role in the books: 19% up

Meanwhile, Historic Scotland has already reported a 44 per cent surge in summer visitor numbers at Doune Castle, which has a starring role as Castle Leoch, while Blackness Castle in West Lothian, which stands in for the stronghold of Fort William, has seen a 31 per cent rise.

Anna Rathband, Filming Manager at National Trust for Scotland, said: “Outlander is an excellent example of how film tourism has benefited the Trust and the properties that either inspired the story or were used as backdrops have all seen an increase in visitors compared to last year. We worked closely with Sony to produce a digital guide to our properties that have Outlander connections and we hope this will continue to encourage visitors to explore the real places behind the series.”

Stephen Duncan, Director of Commercial and Tourism at Scotland’s new public heritage body, Historic Environment Scotland, said: “2015 has seen a record-breaking summer season for many of our fantastic heritage attractions and the ‘Outlander effect’ has certainly played a part, particularly at Doune Castle following its starring role as Castle Leoch in the TV series.

“Over the summer, Doune reported three back-to-back record breaking months and an overall surge of 44 per cent in visitors, whilst Blackness Castle, which stood in for the stronghold of Fort William, saw a 31 per cent rise. Other sites featured in filming have also seen increased footfall, and the response from the general public on our digital channels has been phenomenal – showcasing how Scotland’s history continues to enthral and engage people from around the world in new and different ways.”

Mike Cantlay, Chairman of VisitScotland, said: “These impressive figures show just what an impact the television series has had on these stunning locations as fans look to discover the land that inspired Outlander.

“The release of the DVD and blu-ray will showcase Outlander, and its amazing scenery, to an even wider audience, which will be more good news for locations around Scotland.”

A New Frontier in - First Steps Along the World's Edge: The Three Capes

When Lonely Planet rated Tasmania among the world's top regions to visit in 2015, there was one experience they said was not to be missed. A multi-day walk like no other – where dolerite chasms are crossed, tall eucalypts cast shadows and footprints are left along towering sea cliffs. It's been coined 'Australia's premier coastal bushwalking experience.' We would like to introduce you to the Three Capes Track, a walk that takes you along the world's edge.

Lace up your boots, breathe in the world's cleanest air and head for the Tasman Peninsula. Bookings have opened for the most anticipated walking experience in Australia. The newly launched www.threecapestrack.com.au is your portal to book and be one of the first to walk hand-carved steps that weave alongside some of Australia's highest sea cliffs while the three capes; Pillar, Hauy and Raoul are silent actresses in this dramatic play.

Lonely Planet Asia Pacific Sales & Marketing Director, Chris Zeiher said, “Giving access to some of the most dramatic coastal cliffs in all of Australia in a slightly more comfortable way for people to access, was a really important thing to get out to the global travel community.”

Some would consider it ethereal; others unattainable, but thanks to the meticulous work by Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service, this experience is accessible not only to the hardened bushwalker, but those with boots looking dashingly un-worn.

It's achievable, not only in the physical sense but also within the context of a short break. In just four days, it's possible to feel you've travelled to the furthest corner of the globe. All while staying connected to the world – ideal for far-flung updates via social media. For others, the opportunity to switch off and tune in to the constant rhythm of the wind and waves is the appeal.

The track links Denman's Cove, opposite the World Heritage-listed Port Arthur Historic Site, to Cape Hauy. But to get there, wisps of salt spray and towering cliffs from sea level are your first introduction; via a Pennicott Wilderness Journeys purpose-built boat. Described more as a natural pathway than a traditional bushwalking track, the mud-free Australian Standard Class 3 design is wide enough for walkers to enjoy side by side. What's more, those who prefer views of the Southern Ocean over their boot laces, will appreciate the meticulous construction.

Three environmentally-sensitive cabins are positioned at key locations and just like the track beneath one's feet, these cabins are brand spanking new. These warm, cosy havens with unsurpassed views offer comfy mattresses, heating and kitchen utensils, which mean less to carry on your back. Four days later walkers emerge at Fortescue Bay – where calm waters and cool white sand are a welcome refreshment for tired toes.

But it's not just walking that has Lonely Planet talking. It is Tasmania's subterranean Mona and other wild places like the Tarkine, Cradle Mountain, Franklin River and the Bay of Fires. This travel guide is taken by our flavours on Bruny Island and the diverse, remote and wild outdoor experiences' on offer across the island.

We have plenty more to tell Lonely Planet, like how you can come here and kiss a seal, almost within view of the Three Capes Track. How mountain biking trails in the far north east are slated to be among the country's most sought. But for now, we'll sit back and enjoy the accolades with a drop of the World's best whisky while others book into Australia's best boutique lodge and line up for Australia's premier coastal bushwalk. It is little wonder Tasmania is ripe for the picking in 2015.

For more information on Tasmania, visit www.discovertasmania.com.au.

Travel Oregon Encourages Aussies to Get on Their Bike and Explore the Great Outdoors

Forget convertibles for exploring the USA's great open roads and off the beaten tracks!

Travel Oregon is on a sales mission in Australia encouraging travel agents to share their vision of exploring the state in a healthy way via bicycle, surrounded only by fresh air and wide-open spaces.

As the first state in the USA to create bike friendly trails for tourism exploration, Oregon is home to an endless network of scenic byways that pass by rugged coastal headlands, deep old growth forests, high desert vistas and deep river canyons.

The gateway city of Portland adopts a cycling lifestyle with specific amenities like bike repair and designated places to park or store bikes when touring the city. Bike lanes are clearly marked on most major commuter routes, traffic signals are optimised for safer and faster bike travel, buses are equipped with bike racks and bikes are welcome aboard trains and streetcars.

Portland also lays claim to a number of crafty bike makers including Joseph Ahearne from Ahearne Cycles, who is visiting Australia with Travel Oregon to share the state's vision exploring it on two wheels in the great outdoors.

“Bikes are healthy, meditative and useful, and they bring out the best of people's personalities, said Ahearne.

“They help build community and promote environmental awareness, and they can help people explore the world around them in a way that is interactive and participatory.

“Exploring Oregon's epic landscapes offers expert and beginner cyclists' unimaginable diversity and travelling by bike gives you the chance to meet locals across diverse cultures.”

Ahearne will join Travel Oregon, Travel Portland, Washington Country Visitors Association, Mt. Hood Territory, The Jupiter Hotel, Pedal Bike Tours & Hawaiian Airlines for a tourism networking night with craft beer, wine and local cuisine in Sydney on Monday 21 September from 5.30pm till 8pm at The Locals Tap House 122 Flinders Street, Darlinghurst.

Tour operators Adventure World, Creative Holidays, Scenic, Evergreen, Driveaway Holidays, Ski Max and Intrepid Travel who all sell Oregon will have representatives attending and the invitation extends to retail agents wanting to learn more about the cycling state and all its tourism attributes. There will also be a competition for one visitor to win a hand crafted Oregon bike worth $5000 throughout the day at an Oregon Pop Up Activation Site at Martin Place from 11am to 3pm.

Join in on the celebration Monday 21 September, 5.30pm at The Locals Tap House at 122 Flinders Street, Darlinghurst, where Travel Oregon will have craft beer, wine and food event finishes at 8pm.

For further information visiting Oregon see www.traveloregon.com.

Ship Comes in for Tourism on the Fraser Coast

In a move that could make cruise tourism the next boom industry for the region, P&O has made the Fraser Coast an official port of call for its new sister ships Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden, starting with two visits next year followed by five in 2017.

Securing the forward cruise itineraries has been a joint initiative by Fraser Coast Opportunities (FCO) and Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ) with support from the Fraser Coast Regional Council and partnerships with key operators P&O Cruises (Carnival Corporation & PLC) and Kingfisher Bay Resort.

Fraser Coast Regional Councillor with the Tourism portfolio, Stuart Taylor, who has been heavily involved in attracting cruise ship markets for the last three years, said it would add an exciting new dimension to local tourism.

“We are very excited that P&O will soon be dropping anchor off the Fraser Coast, bringing a major influx of new visitors to the region.

“We look to forward to providing a very warm Fraser Coast welcome to the many thousands of cruise passengers who will be stepping ashore here in the coming years to enjoy our wonderful attractions and experiences.

“This is a fantastic example of the partnership between FCO, TEQ and FCRC working together with industry and local operators to deliver tangible results for the Fraser Coast.

"The cruise industry is growing rapidly in Queensland with 275 ships visiting state-wide in 2014-15. The Fraser Coast now has a foothold, and a positive partnership with a major player in Carnival,'' he said.

Queensland cruise data shows that the state welcomed 645,942 passengers during the 2014-15 year – up nearly 141,000 from the 505,130 the year before

The total economic contribution in 2014-15 was $749.7 million compared to $680.5 million for 2013-14, representing an economic growth of 10.2%.

Interim General Manager of Fraser Coast Opportunities, Leigh Bennett, said the economic benefits and opportunities to create new business would be quite significant.

"It is with a great deal of excitement that we are able to make this announcement which will continue to grow the Fraser Coast, in conjunction with fantastic partners; Carnival, TEQ, Kingfisher Bay Resort and FCRC.

"We will now work with operators to ensure they are well positioned to benefit from this news and importantly we must encourage the Fraser Coast to throw out the welcome mat in order to generate future repeat visitors,'' he said.

Fraser Coast Opportunities Board Director Greig Bolderrow said that many of the visitors will be based on Fraser Island, and many will also head into the mainland centres of Hervey Bay and Maryborough.

“It is pleasing to see this project come to fruition, and the future potential for the region with a Carnival relationship is exciting”, he said.

Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden will officially join the P&O cruise fleet on November 25 this year.

Both have a capacity of 1500 guests and have been recently fully refurbished to enter the Australian market. They are a suitable size to safely navigate and anchor at Fraser Island.

P&O Cruises Fraser Island calls have been scheduled for April 3 and December 12, 2016 and January 11, May 3, November 12, November 29 and December 13, 2017.

To learn more about the Fraser Coast, head to visitfrasercoast.com.au.

Fort Worth Holiday Checklist

Trot your way around Fort Worth before you feast at the YMCA Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day.

Kick off the holiday season at the XTO Energy Parade of Lights, presented by CHASE, followed by the Sundance Square Christmas Tree Lighting in Sundance Square Plaza (Nov 22).

Take a break from the hustle and bustle aboard the Historic Stockyards Christmas Wine Train (Dec 3).

Say howdy to Santa at his appearances in Sundance Square Plaza (Nov. 22-Dec. 23) and at Christmas in the Stockyards (Dec 5), including free Western holiday fun.

Start a new holiday tradition at Panther Island Ice, Fort Worth's outdoor ice skating rink (Nov 20-Jan 18).

Tap into the energy of the holiday season at The Starlight Symphony in West 7th, a music and light show synchronized to your favorite seasonal songs (Dec 6-Jan 6).

Grab a hot cocoa and cruise through over 2 million LED lights at Texas Motor Speedway Gift of Lights (Nov 26-Jan 1).

See a holiday show at Bass Performance Hall, including Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer the Musical (Nov 24-25) and Texas Ballet Theater's The Nutcracker (Dec 11-27).

Treat the kiddos to a holiday classic with Frosty the Snowman at Casa Manana Theater

Holiday shop til' you drop across the city, from Sundance Square, West 7th, Camp Bowie and the Stockyards.

Check out a Fort Worth tradition at the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowlat Amon G. Carter Stadium (Dec 29).

Ring in the New Year in the heart of downtown Fort Worth at the Sundance Square New Year's Eve Celebration (Dec 31).

For more holiday fun visit www.FortWorth.com/Holiday

www.FortWorth.com

Art Abounds in the Hunter Valley at Sculpture in the Vineyards

While the Hunter Valley might be synonymous with great wine, the region's outstanding art will be on show when Sculpture in the Vineyards takes over the wineries from 31 October to 29 November 2015.

The annual celebration of art, food and wine takes place in historic Wollombi village, with neighbouring vineyards and cellar doors showcasing over 100 outdoor sculptures in five temporary sculpture parks. Situated along the picturesque Wollombi Valley Wine Trail, visitors can enjoy a diverse range of art while sampling some of the fine wine and fresh produce for which the Hunter Valley is famous.

The month long program includes a range of events to suit all ages and tastes, including a family picnic day on Sunday 1st November and twilight tours throughout the month that highlight the history of the Aboriginal people in Wollombi. Located on the Great North Road, Wollombi's cultural significance is abundant with numerous well-preserved Aboriginal rock engravings and lookouts at Devils Rock, Flat Rock Lookout and Finchley Trig.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter and Central Coast Scot MacDonald said Sculpture in the Vineyards is supported by the NSW Government as part of its Regional Flagship Events Program.

“The Regional Flagship Events program is a fantastic initiative managed by our State's tourism and major events agency Destination NSW. The Program supports the marketing of events such as Sculpture in the Vineyards which are important contributors to driving overnight visitors to our beautiful region,” he said.

According to Destination NSW CEO Sandra Chipchase, “Events like Sculpture in the Vineyards showcase the creative diversity of the Hunter and encourage visitors to explore the variety of experiences the region has to offer.”

“While it's famous for its Semillon and Shiraz, Australia's oldest wine growing region has a strong arts scene which is celebrated through a year-round calendar of events, such as Sculpture in the Vineyards, Dungog Festival, Jazz in the Vines and the Christmas Lights Spectacular to name a few.”

From romantic retreats to wilderness getaways and self-contained cottages amongst the vines, the Wollombi area offers a wide range of unique accommodation options providing a great base for a visit to the area.

Here are some of the must-do arts experiences the Hunter has to offer:

• Be one of the first to experience this year's Sculpture in the Vineyard during their opening night celebrations at Wollombi Wines on Saturday 31 October. If you can't make opening night, a number of other exciting celebrations will be taking place throughout month including a family picnic day on Sunday 1 November and the Small Sculptures Show from the 14-30 November
• During Sculpture in the Vineyards experienced Ngurra Bu Aboriginal guideswill hold three Dreamtime story tours exploring the Yengo National Park in the Wollombi Valley. Join one of the tours on the 7, 14 or 21 November and discover the interesting Indigenous history of the region
• Well known Australian glass artist Setsuko Ogishi's studio is one of only a handful of glassblowing studios open to the public in Australia. Learn the art of glass blowing yourself in a studio workshop with Setsuko
• Meet the maker and pick-up locally made art as well as award-winning produce and artisan products at the Handmade Hunter Markets. Held at the stunning Kevin Sobels Wines in Pokolbin, these markets are held on the 2nd and 4th Saturday each month
• Visit a local gallery to enjoy original art and displays by local and Australian artists. Be sure to visit Emma's Cottage Vineyard Gallery the Greg Wilson Gallery , Old Fire Shed Gallery and Undercliff Winery and Gallery.

Share your favourite NSW art experience with Destination NSW @Visitnsw #NewSouthWales

For more ideas on arts and culture experiences in NSW go to visitnsw.com.

TCEB INAUGURATES ‘THAILAND CONNECT…OUR HEART YOUR WORLD’ BRAND COMMUNICATIONS CAMPAIGN FOR 2016

Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau or TCEB has spearheaded a response to the government direction of advancing key policy areas by announcing a campaign to reassert Thailand as a destination at the HEART of ASEAN among the international business community. Making the announcement at the IBTM World, the region’s premier MICE and travel industry event, TCEB introduced its ‘Thailand CONNECT….Our Heart Your World” brand communication campaign for the 2016 fiscal year. 

“Thailand CONNECT….Our Heart, Your World” highlights three key pillars of Thailand’s MICE industry: DESTINATIONS OF THAILAND : Your Heart’s Desire Diverse Destinations with Seamless Connections, Business in Thailand : At the heart of the world Helping you seize the opportunities across the globe, Asia and ASEAN, and PEOPLE OF THAILAND :Seamless Excellence, Passion Hearts.

Mr Nopparat Maythaveekulchai, president of TCEB revealed that, “The strategic direction to promote Thailand’s MICE industry is in response to the government policy of reinforcing international confidence in Thailand, and especially boosting the vibrancy of the country’s MICE industry. For business events, Thailand is not only a unique destination at the HEART of ASEAN and an unparalleled business hub at the HEART of both the emerging Asian region and the global marketplace, but also a thriving hub, where passionate people offer seamless service from the HEART, and with an unforgettable smile.

For 2016, TCEB has developed the “Thailand CONNECT…Our Heart Your World” brand communications campaign to capture the essence of Thailand’s unique position as a preferred global business events destination, highlighting how the country’s service-oriented translates into tangible opportunities for business travelers, with all elements working in perfect synergy.

The Thailand CONNECT…Our Heart Your World builds on the strong legacy of the three fundamental pillars of Thailand’s MICE industry including (1) Destinations (2) Businesses and (3) People, by showcasing the best of all three elements.

1.Destinations of Thailand: 

YOUR HEART’S DESIRE Diverse Destinations with Seamless Connections highlighting three key attributes, which include:

• Endless opportunities to create UNFORGETTABLE experiences7 magnificent themes5 MICE cities
• The Lifeblood of the AEC, connecting you to tomorrow’s profitable possibilitiesWorld-class infrastructure, leading MICE facilities as world-class hubs of airports, connect the world by train network expansion and increase facilities of seaports, and develop MICE facilities to support world’s businesses expansion
• Seamlessly more from our world to yours 24/7 digital connected infrastructure with fastest WiFi support since landing at Suvarnabhumi and enjoy high speed internet in all 6 international airports, keep on in-flight WiFi on Thai Airways and Nok Air and connect Thailand’s nationwide with 3G/4G LTE mobile network 

2. Business in Thailand: 

At the heart of the world Helping you seize the opportunities of tomorrow across the globe, Asia and ASEAN highlighting three key attributes, which include:

• The emerging global hub : A high potential market for global MICE businesses with our vibrant free-enterprise economy and pro-investment policies, World-leading 5 export industries (Automotive, Food & Agriculture, Infrastructure, Health & Wellness, Energy), International Festival and Events in key economic sectors (Cultural, Creative & Lifestyle, Entertainment, Tourism & Sports)
• The beating heart of Asia: the world’s rising economic powerhouse. Leader in regional partnerships (RCEP, BIMSTEC, APEC), Dynamic economic growth - Thailand illuminates the gateway to the continent
• The pulse of the AEC, driving innovation: Thailand is the leader to close ASEAN Collaboration (AEC+GMS, FTA agreement), Trailblazing role in strong regional tradeshows and industries, nurtured by Thai government policies

3. PEOPLE OF THAILAND: 

SEAMLESS EXCELLENCE, PASSIONATE HEARTS A truly unique blend of world-leading industry standards, partnerships and authentic hospitality highlighting three key attributes, which include:

• A passionate ASEAN MICE industry leader:Raising 6 MICE standards as a business trailblazer in ASEAN, 42 MICE certified venues
• An abundant ecosystem of talented business events professionals : Qualified people to support MICE businesses - International recognition, professionals, strong Thai team partnerships (Public – Private – People – Partnership)
• AN AUTHENTIC THAI WELCOME AND SERVICE WITH SEAMLESS EXCELLENCE: Seamless Service from MICE Professionals, 70 million hearts ready to welcome you with open arm

Under the “Thailand CONNECT…. Our Heart, Your World” campaign, TCEB is introducing several exciting promotional packages: 

• The Thailand Connect Ratchaprasong Square Trade Association (RSTA) Welcome Package, providing recipients with special hotel and retail discounts, as well as other benefits, right in the heart of vibrant Bangkok downtown. 
• The CONNECT Beyond The Capital Package, presenting international corporate clients to discover the diversity of Thailand with promotion from domestic partner airlines and 
• The CONNECT Business package, exclusive promotion for trade visitors achieving business matching at exhibitions in Thailand. All of these offer special privileges for overseas organizers and delegates alike.

The fiscal year 2016 also sees the thriving Thailand’s MICE industry attracting a host of world’s important events, including F6 Global Convention 2015 / Organo Gold Asia Convention 2015 /28th World Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) Council 2015 /2015 Special Convention of Jehovah's Witnesses/ One Young World 2015 /The 54th OSEAL Forum Program/ 3rd Asia Pacific Glaucoma Congress 2016 /Asia Fitness Conference and Expo 2015/Cosmex 2015/Exporail South East Asia 2016/TBEX Asia / Lighting Festival etc.

“The IBTM World will be a stage to boost confidence in Thailand within the international business community. It will also highlight Thailand’s myriad landscapes provide wondrous places to discover, and our destinations offer creatively curated experiences and untapped opportunities for organisers, delegates and visitors with a dynamic, fast-growing economy, Thailand is also a springboard to its rapidly emerging neighbours in ASEAN and the Greater Mekong Subregion as well as the country’s signature Thai service is renowned throughout the world, while high standards nationwide add seamless professionalism.” Mr Nopparat added.

This year it is expected that Thailand will welcome 1,036,300 business events visitors, earning the Thai economy a total of 106,780 million baht (US$3,029.20 million) and Thailand expects to robust Thai MICE industry to attract 1,089,000 business travellers in 2016, earning the Thai economy a total of 117,700 million baht (US$ 3.36 billion).

*ISSUED ON BEHALF OF THAILAND CONVENTION & EXHIBITION BUREAU (Public Organization) www.tceb.or.th

Fremantle is One of Lonely Planet's Top 10 Cities for 2016

Leading global travel authority Lonely Planet has chosen Fremantle as one of the world's Top 10 Cities for next year in LONELY PLANET'S BEST IN TRAVEL 2016, published today.

BEST IN TRAVEL 2016 is Lonely Planet's 11th eagerly-awaited annual collection of the best trends, destinations, journeys and experiences for the upcoming year.

Ranked seventh on the book's list of Top 10 Cities 2016, Fremantle is “a raffish harbour town with sea-salty soul to burn,” according to Lonely Planet.

“As in any port, the world washes in on the tide and washes out again, leaving the locals buzzing with global zeitgeist,” Lonely Planet says. “It's a delicious process, and nowhere in Australia does it better. Fremantle thrums with live-music rooms, hipster bars, boutique hotels, left-field bookshops, craft-beer breweries, Indian Ocean seafood shacks, buskers, beaches and students on the run from the books.”

“Fremantle dragged itself out of the economic doldrums in 1987, scrubbing itself up to host the America's Cup yachting race. Once the yachties left town the city faced the question of 'what now?'” Lonely Planet observes. “A process of reinvention began, with investment in the arts, the establishment of Notre Dame University and the consolidation of the city's waterfront at the fore. In 2016, Freo is bearing the fruits of this process, with thriving urban culture and a string of awesome arts events celebrating the city's essence.”

Lonely Planet's Top 10 Cities 2016 are:

• Kotor, Montenegro
• Quito, Ecuador
• Dublin, Ireland
• George Town, Malaysia
• Rotterdam, the Netherlands
• Mumbai, India
• Fremantle, Australia
• Manchester, UK
• Nashville, USA
• Rome, Italy

Each year, BEST IN TRAVEL's recommendations are drawn from hundreds of ideas submitted by Lonely Planet's staff, authors and extended community of travellers, bloggers and tweeters. Their suggestions are then refined by a panel of in-house travel experts, based on topicality, excitement, value and that special X-factor. Lonely Planet's focus is on the merits of each destination and the unique experiences they offer travellers.

Australia is also featured in 10 other lists published in LONELY PLANET'S BEST IN TRAVEL 2016 today, including being named as a Top 10 Country for next year:

Lonely Planet's Top 10 Countries 2016

#6) Australia: “Getting here usually involves folding yourself into a plane for 24 hours. But with 2016 shaping up as a defining year for several of Australia's key wilderness areas, it'll be 24 hours well spent. With the weak Australian dollar, anything you spend here this year will be value for money. Petrol prices are heading south too: perfect timing for your Great Australian Road Trip.” Botswana, Japan, USA, Palau, Latvia, Poland, Uruguay, Greenland, and Fiji complete Lonely Planet's Top 10 Countries list for 2016.

Best Value Destinations

#10) Western Australia: “The Australian dollar is a better deal for overseas visitors than it has been for a few years. This puts the dream-like landscapes of Western Australia, out of reach of some travellers thanks to the mining boom of the last few years, firmly back on the map.”

Most Accessible Destinations

#4) Melbourne: “With its highly accessible public transport system and compact city centre, Melbourne is one of the most accessible cities in the world.”

Best Places to Test Your Survival Skills

#5) Bob Cooper Outback Survival: “Where better to test your survival skills than in the Australian outback. And who better to teach you the bush skills you need to survive than Australia's most legendary survivalist, Bob Cooper.”

The World's Most Extraordinary Sleepovers

#6) Roar & Snore at Taronga Zoo, Sydney: “Nod off in luxury tented camps, complete with beds and wooden floors, with an astounding view of Sydney Opera House, the city and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.”

Best Animal Adventures for Families

#8) Walkabout Wildlife Park, New South Wales: “You can visit this park by day to see native Australian animals roaming free, but we recommend the Wild Night Out where you can camp in the park overnight.”

Super Sleeper Trains

#8) Darwin–Adelaide: “Reaching this big nation's belly by train allows a proper appreciation of its scale, and of the hardships endured by those who went before.”

Best Burger Experiences

#8) Burgers with Bounce and Bite, Darwin: “To try crocodile, emu, kangaroo, barramundi and other meats, Mindil Beach Sunset Market in Darwin is a hard spot to top.”

Most Iconic 20th Century Houses

#10) Rose Seidler House, Sydney: “Seidler's 'house of glass and legs' helped shape the future of Australian architecture.”

Best Places to Meet Mythical Beasts

#10) Bunyip: “Monsters, spirits and mythological creatures are widespread in Aboriginal Australian lore but one that entered the popular imagination Down Under is the bunyip, a terrifying monster with a bellowing cry that was said to inhabit inland swamps and waterholes called billabongs.”

Other BEST IN TRAVEL 2016 highlights include:

• Lonely Planet's Top 10 Regions to visit in 2016: Transylvania, West Iceland, Valle de Viñales, Friuli's wine regions, Waiheke Island, The Auvergne, Hawaii, Bavaria, Costa Verde, St Helena
• More than 35 events mapped out month by month in the 2016 Travel Planner.

LONELY PLANET'S BEST IN TRAVEL 2016
206pp, full colour, 180mm x 145mm, paperback, AU$24.99

www.lonelyplanet.com/best-in-travel includes details of a competition in which travellers have the chance to win a trip to the Best in Travel 2016 destination their choice (conditions apply). This year's global sponsor for Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2016 is Turkish Airlines, who have provided the competition prize of flights to a Best in Travel destination.

Tea Festival Thai Nguyen Viet Nam - in November 2015

On October 22, 2015, in Ha Noi, Thai Nguyen Provincial People’s Committee organized conference press on Tea Festival Thai Nguyen - Viet Nam 2015.

Photo - Conference press on Tea Festival Thai Nguyen - Viet Nam 2015 (Photo: Huong Le/TITC)

The Tea Festival Thai Nguyen provides an opportunity for Thai Nguyen and other provinces to promote tea products and tea culture. This economic and cultural event aims at promoting tangible, intangible cultural values of Thai Nguyen Tea, gradually expanding cultural exchanges, economic development and international integration, boosting development of the tea industry, improving the quality and value of tea products.

The Tea Festival Thai Nguyen is biennially held. The 1st and 2nd editions in 2011 and 2013 positively impacted on socio-economic development of Thai Nguyen Province.

Under the theme “Quintessence of Vietnamese tea”, Tea Festival Thai Nguyen - Viet Nam 2015 will take place from November 26 - 28 in Thai Nguyen City with 4 main activities including the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, Tea Cultural Festival, Miss Tea-land Contest and other activities such as Thai Nguyen Trade and Tourism Fair 2015, Exhibition of ornamental creatures, Photography Exhibition, Scientific conference for improving the quality and value of Thai Nguyen tea products, art performance, touring tea villages… Tea Festival Thai Nguyen - Viet Nam 2015 attracts participation of tea enterprises and villages in Thai Nguyen Province and other localities, international delegations from China, South Korea, Japan, Sri Lanka, Turkey, Laos, India…

The Opening ceremony of the Tea Festival Thai Nguyen - Viet Nam 2015 will take place on November 26, 2015 at Nui Coc Lake Tourism Area.

TFE Hotels Introduces Vibe Hotel Canberra Airport

• Creating a connection with first next generation Vibe property
• Rooms on sale now at TFEhotels.com/vibe

Travelling to and from Australia's Capital is set to become a whole lot more comfortable and convenient when Vibe Hotel Canberra Airport opens its doors to local and international travellers from 2 November 2015.

Vibe Hotel Canberra Airport is located just 50 metres from the door of the airport terminal, easing the stress sometimes associated with travel. With sweeping views of the city on one side and Lake Burley Griffin on the other, each of the 191 thoughtfully decorated and stylish sound-proof rooms come equipped with fantastic views, and all of the mod cons expected of a modern-day luxury hotel, including access to the Vibe Fit gym and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout.

The hotel includes 110 Lower Deck rooms (floors 1 to 3) and 60 Upper Deck rooms (floors 4 and 5). 12 First Class rooms (floors 4 and 5) and 9 one- and two- bedroom apartments (floor 6), all of which are centred around a unique soaring atrium, also host to the spacious and welcoming ground floor reception area, an inspired space designed as a hub for guests to connect with each other and with our Vibe Hosts. Convenience is very much on the menu throughout the hotel, particularly at the onsite restaurant Helix Bar & Dining, a modern European style bistro that incorporates culinary delights from the ACT with food options chosen exclusively by Executive Chef, Michael Chatto.

TFE Hotels Group Director of Marketing, Emma Fraser said, “Vibe Hotel Canberra Airport is everything we have been working towards, with the rollout of our next generation Vibe Hotels, so we're absolutely thrilled with this iconic new property. It has connection at its core from the local area through our Vibe hosts and local partnerships, to the social hubs of the lobby space where people can meet, work and feel inspired. We've combined those core values with the convenience of a central location, both to the airport and the civic, and we're sure that guests will find this hotel a valuable addition to the nation's Capital.”

While the hotel is ideal for leisure travellers, from regional drive areas and particularly for getaways from Sydney, the property is also incredibly convenient for business, with onsite conference facilities including six fully adaptable conference and event spaces catering for up to 200 guests, which include everything from complimentary Wi-Fi, audio-visual hire and Vibe Hotel's signature creative conferencing extras. The spaces are suitable for local businesses in the nearby Brindabella and Majura Business Park, or those coming from interstate and internationally.

Canberra has seen a huge boom in tourism over the past few years, with travellers from all over the world flocking to the city to sample its cultural and culinary delights. Whether the historical sights of Parliament House and the National Gallery of Australia, the infamous milkshakes at Pattisez or the childish delights of Questacon, the nation's Capital has something for everyone and Vibe Hotel encourages you to connect with Canberra. With the addition of Vibe Hotel Canberra Airport to the city, it's now more convenient than ever to sample the delights of Canberra, from wherever you are.

The hotel is offering an opening special for stays until 31 January 2016 including a 25% saving and breakfast. Book now at https://www.tfehotels.com/brands/vibe-hotels/vibe-hotel-canberra-airport.

About TFE Hotels:

A joint venture between Toga Group and Far East Hospitality Holdings, TFE Hotels (Toga Far East Hotels) is a leading hotel operator across Australia, NZ and Europe with strong Asian connections. Combining the strength of two international hospitality businesses, to operate 70 strategically located hotels across Australia, New Zealand and Europe. TFE Hotels' brands include: Adina Apartment Hotels, Medina Serviced Apartments, Rendezvous Hotels, Vibe Hotels, Travelodge Hotels and TFE Hotels Collection. These brands represent 10,000 apartments and hotel rooms which vary in price, location and design to meet a range of different accommodation needs.

• Adina Apartment Hotels in 28 locations (Australia and Europe). Other locations coming soon include Adina Apartment Hotel Auckland, Britomart (2015), Adina Apartment Hotel Frankfurt (2016), Adina Apartment Hotel Nuremburg (2016), Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane, George Street (2016), Adina Apartment Hotel Royal Randwick Racecourse (2017), Adina Apartment Hotel Hamburg Heights (2017), Adina Apartment Hotel Leipzig (2017) and Adina Apartment Hotel Sydney, George Street (2017) and Adina Apartment Hotel Munich Tower (2018).
• Medina Serviced Apartments in 5 locations (Australia).
• Vibe Hotels in 7 locations (Australia). Other locations coming soon include Vibe Hotel Canberra Airport (2015), Vibe Hotel North Sydney, Northpoint (2017) and Vibe Hotel Hobart (2018).
• Travelodge Hotels in 17 locations (Australia and New Zealand). Other locations coming soon include Travelodge Sydney Airport (2017).
• Rendezvous Hotels in 9 locations (Australia and New Zealand).
• TFE Hotels Collection including Hotel Kurrajong Canberra (Australia)