India as You've Never Seen It: National Parks & Luxury Safaris with Insider Journeys

India is home to some of Asia's most spectacular landscapes as well as some of the most incredible – yet little known – experiences.

Filled with deserts, spice hills, tranquil backwaters, thriving cities, dramatic forts and snow-capped Himalayan peaks, India an unparalleled kaleidoscope of remarkable experiences. It's also home to incredible safaris and luxury desert glamping.

Asia travel experts Insider Journeys set the record straight.

Move aside, Africa. India is the new luxury safari destination.

According to Insider Journeys' Senior Product Manager, Eric Finley, India has had a long history of luxury tented camps, and with wildlife to rival any African safari, it is fast-emerging as a leader in the luxury safari stakes.

“As the land of the Maharajas, Rajasthan not only has forts and palaces befitting a king or queen, but is also home to India's wild treasures within splendid national parks and sanctuaries,” says Finley.

“There's no need to skimp on the finer things in life in order to get back to nature. In fact, with five-star luxury and the chance to spot wild tigers on your doorstep, we predict safari experiences in India will be the next big thing on everyone's to-do list.”

Finley shares a few insights into luxury camping in India, with Insider Journeys' pick of some of the top camp accommodation for private or group touring.

Chhatra Sagar, Rajasthan

Chhatra Sagar is a lush oasis in the heart of Rajasthan. The camp owes its existence to the vision of nineteenth century noble Thakur Chhatra Singh of Nimaj, who turned once dry scrubland into a verdant paradise by creating a vast reservoir.

Keen not to detract from the natural beauty of the site, permanent construction was banned and instead luxe safari-style tents were built to house his many guests. With so many visiting nobles and dignitaries, Chhatra Sagar soon become legendary for opulent parties, exotic dinners, high teas and, of course, its luxurious tented accommodation.

That spirit of opulence continues to this day, with the camp now run by his great grandchildren who welcome guests from all over the world. Its eleven luxurious marquee-style tents exude historic charm and each one faces east, allowing spectacular views over the lake. The camp is famous for its evening birdwatching walks, where guests can observe some of the 200 species found on the lake.

Manvar Desert Camp, Rajasthan

Manvar Desert Camp, sitting majestically amongst the sand dunes of the Thar Desert, prides itself on beauty, tranquillity and solitude. While there is no shortage of five star resorts in India, few blend so seamlessly into their surroundings or have the same dedication to protecting local heritage, culture and wildlife as Manvar Desert Camp.

Opportunities to interact with wildlife are aplenty here. Not only can you take a camel trek across the Thar Desert, spotting local wildlife like Chinkara – Indian gazelle -, but just short drive from camp is the village of Khichan, famous for its hordes of migratory Siberian Cranes. The birds get through 600kg of grain a day, lovingly spread out by local villagers who have rallied to protect the species.

After a busy day of birdwatching and wildlife spotting, guests can retire to one of Manvar's thirty opulent safari tents. Set back a staggering 6km from the main resort, they offer guests a true taste of the wilderness without compromising on luxury; each room is kitted out in heritage fabrics, teak furniture and ensuite bathrooms.

Khem Villas, Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

From the porch of your lavish tent, it is not uncommon to spot crocodile, jackals, hyenas, desert fox and jungle cats amongst the camp's wild grasslands. Yet the real highlight of a stay at Khem Villas is the chance to spot the elusive Bengal Tiger. With twice daily trips from the resort, you have every chance of seeing these magnificent big cats in the wild.

After a day in the jungle, guests can retire to their well-appointed tents. Chic, comfortable and full of rustic charm, each tent is built using natural local materials like bamboo, to blend in seamlessly with the surrounding grasslands.

Osian Desert Camp, Rajasthan

For a truly authentic tented camp experience, head to Osian Desert Camp in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan. Osian was once a key trading post on the silk route between the 8th and 12th centuries, and the resort carefully recreates the original fortress-style layout and authentic feel.

The highlight of a stay at Osian is of course a safari, and the resort offers both camel-back and jeep varieties to spot desert wildlife, as well as village safaris to see local life. After a day amongst the dunes, dinner is served in the fortress-style main camp, with traditional entertainment like Rajasthani dancing and music laid on for guests.

A stay at a luxury desert or safari camp is a must-do while in India and can be arranged as part of a private tour, or as an extension to one of Insider Journeys' popular India small group journeys.

A stay at Manvar Desert Camp is included on Insider Journeys' 14-Day Highlights of Rajasthan Tour.

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Special offer

Insider Journeys is offering 10% off all Small Group Journey tours and a selection of private travel itineraries booked and deposited by 30 September 2016.

Insider Journeys is also giving readers the chance to win a spectacular 14-day Highlights of Rajasthan tour including return flights with Malaysia Airlines. To enter visit http://www.insiderpromo.com.au/.

VIVID SYDNEY INJECTS $110 MILLION INTO NSW ECONOMY

Figures released today confirm that Vivid Sydney 2016 injected a phenomenal $110 million of visitor spend into the State’s economy according to NSW Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events Stuart Ayres.

In 2016 the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW made the strategic decision to extend the festival from 18 to 23 nights.

“This year’s festival included an extra five nights and three new precincts which helped drive this phenomenal result and extend the positive benefits Vivid Sydney brings to the State’s visitor economy,” Mr Ayres said.

“$110 million in visitor spend is a huge result and is up 75 per cent on last year’s figure. Not only did we smash visitor expenditure, we became Australia’s largest event with 2.31 million attendees experiencing the spectacular Vivid Sydney.

“Of these attendees, almost 184,000 were visitors who travelled to Sydney specifically for the festival, generating more than 621,000 visitor nights for the NSW visitor economy.

“Vivid Sydney continues to shine bright on the State’s events calendar. I congratulate the dedicated team at Destination NSW and the many Government agencies involved in delivering another sensational event and look forward to a brilliant return of the festival in 2017.”

Destination NSW Chief Executive Officer and Vivid Sydney Executive Producer Sandra Chipchase, said the results were driven by exceptional marketing, partnership campaigns and outstanding programming.

“Our biggest ever program of light, music and ideas saw Vivid Sydney expand into new precincts including the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney and Taronga Zoo and present over 190 Music and 180 Ideas events. These initiatives supported by our marketing and partnership campaigns were instrumental in increasing both visitor numbers and the length of stay.”

Vivid Sydney 2017 will be held from Friday 26 May to Saturday 17 June.

Overwhelming Public Support for Arabian Peninsula

Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) is inviting travel industry professionals to help influence consumer travel habits by changing the way they refer to the location of Abu Dhabi: from the Middle East to the Arabian Peninsula.

A recent TCA Abu Dhabi survey to determine if people would be more inspired to visit Abu Dhabi if it was described as being in the Arabian Peninsula or Middle East, found that 62% felt more inspired by the Arabian Peninsula to just 4% support for the Middle East, while 34% of people felt geographical renaming didn't matter.

“The Middle East is a vast region with a range of associations and the Arabian Peninsula encapsulates the exotic and captivating nature of Abu Dhabi and a more appropriate sense of place,” said Ola Kay, TCA Abu Dhabi Country Manager.

“We are calling on all travel professionals, from agents through to content creators of OTA and travel websites, to consider changing their terminology to the Arabian Peninsula.

“Perception is a powerful driver of decision and we believe that a more inspiring name may have a significant impact in travel to Abu Dhabi.

“Abu Dhabi as a destination is truly surprising, with its captivating culture, breath taking luxury and exhilarating adventure, there really is something for everyone.

“The azure blue beaches of Abu Dhabi are frequented by dolphins, hawksbill turtles and dugongs and the ever-changing sand dunes of the Empty Quarter desert are something out of Arabian Nights”, said Ola Kay.

Attracting 64,068 visitors from Australia and New Zealand in 2015, Abu Dhabi is becoming an increasingly popular leisure, cruise, business and stopover destination. Multiple daily flights from Etihad Airways and their equity partner Virgin Australia now deliver more Australians to Abu Dhabi than ever before.

And the move is expected to bolster destination awareness for other Arabian Peninsula destinations. Tourism Oman Country Manager Mona Tannous joins the regional TCA Abu Dhabi team in supporting the movement.

“Oman Tourism's tag line has been the “best kept secret of Arabia” since 2010 as it conjures up the old world charm of what the destination embodies. The countries of the Arabian Peninsula such as the United Arab Emirates and Oman provide an unparalleled richness of experience for travellers as either a stand-alone destination or as a wider regional holiday,” said Mona Tannous.

Spring into action these School Holidays at Eureka Skydeck!

Make Eureka Skydeck your go-to destination for the September school holidays with daily activities for kids and thrilling views.

From September 17th – October 2nd between 11am – 3pm, all Eureka Skydeck Explorers will receive a FREE Skydeck Scratchy

Quiz. Our friends at Crayola have a Colour Alive pack for every lucky quiz winner to continue the school holiday fun at home.

For those who dare, the world’s only Edge experience is also available at Eureka Skydeck. Guests will be suspended 285m above ground in a 3m by 3m transparent glass cube, sliding out of the building to give a 360 degree view of Melbourne and beyond.

Those looking for the ultimate virtual experience can take part in Eureka Skydeck’s current green screen activation, The Walk Experience. The specially constructed green screen allows guests to imagine what it’s like to tightrope walk from one point of Eureka Tower to the other as they cross a simulated tightrope – suspended high above the city of Melbourne.

Patrons can get creative and capture their own unique The Walk Experience photo. A 9” x 6” photograph, including a digital copy, will ensure each guests’ attempt to capture the most realistic and compelling shot of their daring feat is ready to share on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Located beside the Yarra River in Southbank and open from 10am – 10pm daily, Eureka Skydeck is one of Melbourne’s most spectacular tourist destinations and a top spot to take the family to during the school holidays.

The Walk and Edge experience will cost patrons between $8 - $15, plus entry to Eureka Skydeck.

About Eureka Skydeck:

Eureka Skydeck is the highest public vantage point in the Southern Hemisphere. Located on the 88th floor of Eureka Tower, the observation deck provides patrons with 360 degree floor-to-ceiling views of Melbourne and beyond. During the school holidays guests will also be able to take full advantage of:

 The Outdoor Terrace - Enclosed by a wire grid, the Outdoor Terrace exposes guests to the elements on Level 88. The Terrace is right next to the Edge, so family and friends can view those inside.

For further information about Eureka Skydeck, visit www.eurekaskydeck.melbourne or call 03 9693 8888.

Victoria's High Country Launches Into Spring with New Glamping, Ballooning, Cycling Experiences

Hello Spring!

High Country launches into new season with glamping, ballooning & sensational cycling

With the wattles blooming and the vine buds set to burst, Victoria's High Country is celebrating the arrival of Spring 2016 with the launch of a suite of new experiences that highlight the region's stunning scenery, renowned food and wine and sensational cycling trails.

Luxury glamping, on the mountain at Falls Creek and in the grapevines at Rutherglen, combined hot air ballooning and gourmet experiences in Mansfield, gourmet girls' getaways and twilight electric bike rides along the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail from Bright that finish with a Margarita and Mexican feast in Porepunkah are the Top 6 highlights of Victoria's High Country's new and must-do experiences this Spring 2016.

• Grapevine Glamping - Cofield Wines and The Pickled Sisters Cafe, Wahgunyah near Rutherglen are offering luxury camping in the very vines that produce the welcoming bottle of vino on arrival. Gourmet hampers, Cofield wines, fully kitted out tents with King-sized beds, luxe bedding, board games. magazines, fishing gear, local maps, bikes, a fire pit with marshmallows. http://www.victoriashighcountry.com.au/accommodation/grapevine-glamping
• Alpine Glamping Retreat - Falls Creek. Three or five day Green Season experience featuring lodge accommodation at Diana Lodge or Frueauf Village. Cycle, walk (or be driven) with a packed lunch to the gorgeous, fully equipped glamping tent set up at the back of a High Country cattlemen's hut. Includes all meals, books, telescope for gazing at the astonishing night sky.
• Beans above the Hops - Mansfield, a hands-on tour including sunrise flight with Gold Rush Ballooning followed by gourmet breakfast and coffee education at Mansfield Coffee Merchant, microbrewery experience, tasting and wood fired pizza lunch at Social Bandit and farm stay accommodation at Traquair Estate www.beansabovethehops.com.au
• Sunsets & Sombreros Twilight Tour - eBike adventure and Mexican feastteaming Bright Electric Bikes & the Rail Trail Cafe, Porepunkah. Cruise out of Bright on the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail to Porepunkah where a sombrero, Margarita and Mexican themed feast awaits.
• One for the girls, Beauty and the Bike (pictured). An Alpine Escapes Girls' getaway in Bright including deluxe accommodation, ­ gourmet hampers, gorgeous pink bikes for riding to the fabulous Feathertop and Ringer Reef wineries for lunch and tastings.
• Also relaunching this Spring is Pedal to Produce, a self-guided, themed food, wine and cycling experience focused around the sensational Murray to Mountains (M2M) Rail Trail. Starting with Rutherglen this September, new maps offering self-guided tours of the food and wine hubs of Beechworth, Milawa, Myrtleford and Bright will roll out in 2017.

www.victoriashighcountry.com.au

ibtm world 2016 KICKS OFF AT CAMP NOU FC BARCELONA

• JMIC Profile and Power Award
• IAPCO Collaboration Award
• Both presented at Meetings Leadership Summit

This year the ibtm world Meetings Leadership Summit which, annually precedes the opening day of the exhibition, will be staged at the largest stadium in Europe – Camp Nou, home to FC Barcelona

Describing this year’s venue Graeme Barnett Senior Exhibition Director ibtm world said: “It’s iconic in every sense and is part of brand Barcelona’s face map. Now it has been announced that the stadium is to undergo a €200m renovation ready for the 2021 season, we are being given a privileged tour for this year’s Meetings Leadership Summit. Not only has this venue staged 2 UEFA Champions League finals, the 1982 FIFA World Cup semi-final match, 2 UEFA Champion League finals and the football in the 1992 Summer Olympics, but it is probably the most recognizable football venue in the world”.

The Meetings Leadership Summit is the high-profile, invitation only event that kicks off ibtm world and has been staged at several of Barcelona’s iconic venues over the years. The evening provides an opportunity for some 200 guests to network with fellow CEO’s Presidents, Senior Directors, Senior Decision Makers and Entrepreneurs whilst having a personal introduction to one of the City’s key industry venues.

This year there will be a unique tour of the exclusive zones and behind-the-scenes areas of Camp Nou accompanied by an FC Barcelona official guide.

Starting with a cocktail reception in the FC Barcelona museum, guests can network as well as take in the long history of the club via interactive, state-of-the-art, audio-visual displays as well as viewing the club’s trophy collection and most important memorabilia. Guests will then visit to the team’s changing rooms before heading down the tunnel, following in the footsteps of some of the most famous names in football, out towards the pitch to take in the 360 degree view. Moving on to the chapel to see where players pray before games, then the TV room, press room, and presidential box, where royal figures, politicians and other famous faces watch the matches, before being seated for the Meetings Leadership Summit dinner.

The evening will conclude with the presentation of the ibtm world Lifetime Achievement Award, the AIPC Power & Profile Award and, for the first time, the IAPCO Collaboration Award.

***Please note attendance for the Meetings Leadership Summit is by invitation only – should you wish to apply, please email Jo Rago - jo.rago@reedexpo.co.uk

ibtm world is part of ibtm events (www.ibtmevents.com) organised by Reed Travel Exhibitions along with ibtm america (www.ibtmamerica.com), ibtm china (www.cibtm.com) ibtm india (www.ibtmindia.com), ibtm africa (www.ibtmafrica.com), ibtm arabia (www.ibtmarabia.com), AIME (www.aime.com.au) and ibtm latin america (www.ibtmlatinamerica.com)

Hiking is the New Running

A growing trend is seeing fitness fiends trade their runners for hiking boots and head out into the wilderness to experience nature at its finest. From coastal trails to mountainous terrain, Victoria has a landscape to suit all tastes, time frames and fitness levels. With a network of more than 2000 trails totalling a length of 8000 kilometres, there are plenty of hiking tracks to follow:

Gippsland

East Gippsland is a mecca for hikers with nine National Parks throughout the region, all with an array of walking trails. Recommended for the hard core hiker, the 45 kilometre, one-way Croajingolong Wilderness Coastal Walk takes up to four days to complete and runs from Point Hicks to Mallacoota. Traversing the length of the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, it enables walkers to experience nature at its best.

Further south, Wilsons Promontory Southern Circuit is Victoria's most popular multi-day bushwalk. The 59 kilometre trail weaves its way around one of Australia's most loved National Parks - from Mount Oberon to the southernmost light station of mainland Australia (where visitors can stay), through Tidal River and onto Oberon Bay. Rainforest, beaches, heathlands and coastal tea-trees make for picturesque terrain.

The Mitchell River Walking Track is a 22 kilometre trail from Angusvale to Echo Bend Caravan Park and passes through the Den of Nargun, a place of great cultural significance to the local Gunai Kurnai people. During the Australian Adventure Festival (21-23 October, 2016) competitors run the length of this trail in the flagship Half Marathon event.

Two hours east of Melbourne, the Grand Strzelecki Track enables hikers to venture through the Strzelecki Ranges, home to the tallest flowering plants and hardwood trees on earth. There are a number of loop walks that take one to two days to complete ranging from 18 to 25 kilometres in length. Alternatively, the loops can become a continuous circuit of three to five days, with Mountain Ash forests, a variety of short rainforest walks, waterfalls and picnic areas.

Grampians

The first stage of the Grampians Peaks Trail is now complete enabling hikers to venture through some of the Grampians' most popular areas. Highlights include the ancient rock features of the Grand Canyon, views from the Pinnacle Lookout and the spectacular view of mountain peaks from the top of Mt Rosea. This is a one-way three day/two night loop walk from Halls Gap to Borough Huts and back, covering a total of 33 kilometres. Once complete, the entire Grampians Peaks Trail will be a 144 kilometre, 13 day, 12 night (one-way) walk, rich in Aboriginal culture. The journey will provide an insight into the Jardwadjali and Djab Wurrung people who have lived in these ranges they have called Gariwerd for thousands of years. Hiking Tour Guides are available through Grampians Peaks Walking Company while those after a little luxury can opt for Royal Mail Hotel's luxury package which incorporates hiking with Grampians Eco Tours.

Elsewhere in the Grampians, the two kilometre hike to The Pinnacle rewards walkers with spectacular views, passing Grand Canyon and Silent Street on the way. The 9.6 kilometre Wonderland Loop takes walkers from Halls Gap to Venus Baths, Splitters Falls and onto Grand Canyon, Silent Street and Pinnacle Lookout. The 2.4 kilometre Piccaninny track, near Dunkeld, will reopen following an upgrade in September 2016 and is a great option for families while Hollow Mountain is a 2.2 kilometre climb with views overlooking Mount Stapylton and the Wimmera plains.

Goldfields

In central Victoria, a network of tracks and trails enable hikers to journey through ancient forests, connecting the region's historic towns. The 210 kilometre Goldfields Track follows the old miners trail from Ballarat to Bendigo and the newly opened O'Keefe Rail Trail takes hikers the 50 kilometres from Bendigo to Heathcote. Two new trails are set to open later in 2016, including a 17 kilometre track that will connect Castlemaine and Maldon as well as a new Ballarat to Maryborough Heritage Trail.

An hour's drive west of Ballarat, in the Pyrenees, the 21 kilometre Beeripmo Walk is a hidden gem for hikers. The walk winds through the state forest and Mt Buangor State Park and takes two days to complete, with the option to camp at the Beeripmo Campground on the way. This trail offers a genuine bush-walking experience with cool fern gullies and alpine plateaus, and a night spent surrounded by the smell of eucalyptus and the sound of the Australian bush.

High Country

The trails of the 7 Peaks Run, taking in Mt Baw Baw, Mt Buller, Mt Buffalo, Dinner Plain, Mt Hotham, Falls Creek and Lake Mountain, make for a rewarding hike. The spectacular mountain trails are graded and marked Green (less than 5 kilometres, moderate easy terrain), Blue (5-10 kilometres, moderately challenging terrain) and Black (10 - 15 kilometres, difficult terrain).

Offering an abridged taste of the epic 650 kilometre Australian Alpine Walking Track, the 40 kilometre Great Walhalla Alpine Trail links the historic township of Walhalla to the pristine snowgum environs of the Baw Baw National Park. Hikers can choose a 'downhill' or 'uphill' end-to-end itinerary, enjoying a two-day journey through alpine plains. Private tours are available, starting at Mt Baw Baw Resort and finishing at Walhalla's Star Hotel.

The pristine sub-alpine Mount Buffalo National Park is home to more than 90 kilometres of trails ranging from one to 18 kilometres in length. Most are well defined and signposted, making it easy to take a self-guided hike through the park. Walkers can enjoy varied scenery, sublime vistas and carpets of wildflowers from spring to autumn.

Mornington Peninsula

The 100 kilometre Mornington Peninsula Walk links four established trails along the state's southern peninsula. The triangular route takes hikers through the historic fort at Point Nepean, foreshore townships, Arthurs Seat, and Cape Schanck and its lighthouse. The terrain ranges from ferny glens to cliff tops, coastal tea-tree forests and golden-sand beaches and the walk can be broken into shorter hikes, or enjoyed in one go.

Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Walk is the state's premier multi-day bushwalking experience. This 100 kilometre iconic walk stretches along the state's south-western coastline from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles. The trail can be broken into short works or day hikes, or experienced in its entirety over eight-days and seven-nights. The Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk offers a three-night, four-day guided experience along the western half of the Great Ocean Walk. The experience includes transfers to and from Melbourne, eco-lodge accommodation, gourmet meals, snacks and walking gear and finishes with a helicopter flight over the Twelve Apostles.

The 44 kilometre Surf Coast Walk runs from Point Impossible to Fairhaven along the Great Ocean Road. The trail passes through renowned beaches near Australia's surf capital, Torquay, including the iconic Bells Beach. With 12 easy to access trail heads, it can be enjoyed as a day walk or multi-day experience. Along the way, visitors can learn about the Aboriginal way of life with he Koorie Cultural Walk, where interpretive signs provide information.

The Great South West Walk can be broken into two-hour loop walks or day walks, while the intrepid can walk the entire 250 kilometre loop that begins and ends in Portland in South West Victoria. From forest to beaches and the banks of the Glenelg River, the trail takes in a diverse landscape and boasts swimming holes, sand dunes, blow holes and seal colonies along the way.

Geelong and the Bellarine

From coastal paths to rugged bush trails, there is an impressive selection of walks and hikes in Geelong and The Bellarine. Walkers can take a beachside hike from Point Lonsdale to the mouth of the Barwon River, or walk the one hour round trip from Ocean Grove to Barwon Heads along the sand or via the inland track. Views overlooking The Rip and Point Nepean can be enjoyed on the six kilometre coastal walk from Queenscliff to Point Lonsdale.

Edwards Point Nature Conservation Reserve is home to multiple walking trails, abundant wildlife, pristine sandy beaches and cool coastal woodlands. The mostly flat, 35 kilometre Bellarine Rail Trail winds from South Geelong to Queenscliff and is an excellent track for walkers and riders. Nearer Geelong, there are bush trails in the You Yang Ranges and river strolls around the Barwon River.

Murray

Hiking in the Koondrook Red Gum Forest Walk is interspersed with DELWP Forest Notes and interpretive information boards, enabling hikers to learn about the landscape and its cultural significance. Two half day walks provide the opportunity to see a variety of vegetation, wetlands, wildlife and birdlife on Gunbower Island. The walks are easily accessed on the edge of the Koondrook township.

Surrounded by hills, Albury offers a variety of trails for both the beginner and intermediate hike. The five kilometre Wagirra and Yindyamarra Sculpture Trails feature eleven Indigenous sculptures and follows the Murray River to Wonga Wetlands.

Multi-region hiking tours:

Park Trek walks range from two to seven days in duration and take place across the state including in The Grampians, Great Ocean Road, Victorian Alps and Wilsons Promontory. Private walking tours are also available along the Croajingalong Wilderness Coastal Walk, Mount Buffalo and Great Southwest Walk.

Good Times Tours specialises in small group weekend adventures with two day tours to the Grampians, Wilsons Promontory, Great Ocean Walk and the Victorian Alps.

AusWalk offers a range of guided walks around the state, including the Grampians, the Victoria Alps and Wilson's Promontory. The company also offers inn-to-inn self-guided packages.

Hedonistic Hiking organises weekend hikes at Mount Buffalo, Falls Creek and along the Great Ocean Walk. Their focus is on combining walking with delicious food and fine wine.

Enter to win a SNOW HOLIDAY with return flights for TWO from Australia to Japan!

JAPAN WINTER MAGIC TRAVEL GIVEAWAY 2016-17

Towards the Northeast end of Japan's mainland are three areas that are fast becoming some of the most versatile snow holiday destinations in the country. These are Appi-Hachimantai and Hakkoda!

These ski areas are a family friendly destination that provides the fluffy, snowy goods for snow lovers of all ages and skill levels. On top of that, the surrounding natural landscape also provide great conditions for backcountry ski.

Enter this fantastic giveaway by simply answering our survey and you could win a luxurious snow resort holiday for two in Japan!

• EXPERIENCE THE WARM HOSPITALITY AND VAST SCALE OF JAPAN’S UNFORGETTABLE NORTHEASTERN SNOW COUNTRY

Metres upon metres of fluffy ‘aspirin powder’ snow, ‘hitō’ hidden hot springs, and surreal snow monsters are just some of the amazing winter highlights of the Appi, Hachimantai and Hakkoda ski areas.

Located inland from the abundant fishing grounds of the Sanriku Coast and surrounded by rich farmland, they are one of the best places to experience the natural bounty of northeast Japan. With old-growth beech forest and high-altitude wetlands, their biodiverse environment is also an immensely rewarding place for outdoor activities such as snow shoe trekking, ice fishing, and backcountry skiing, which feature in well-coordinated tours for visitors.

Excellent facilities for families, quality equipment rentals and an enormous variety of slopes to choose from make them a blast to visit for all ages, and they are the ultimate all-round winter destination.

Just fill out the survey form below to enter, and you could be on your way to experience this amazing area of Japan for yourself with a guest of your choice during the 2016-17 season!

PRIZE DETAILS 

• RETURN AIR TRAVEL FOR TWO

International flights: Sydney to Tokyo (Haneda Airport)
Domestic flights: Haneda Airport to Odate-Noshiro Airport or Aomori Airport

• ACCOMMODATION

HOTEL APPI GRAND & TOWER

HOTEL APPI GRAND & TOWER

With ski-in, ski-out access to the slopes, fine-dining restaurants and hot spring baths, Hotel APPI Grand & Tower provides its guests with luxury and convenience.

The hotel is a creation of pioneering Japanese designer Yusaku Kamekura, and with an eye-catching lemon-coloured exterior, is an up-market European-style resort hotel with a Japanese twist.

All rooms are Western style with free Wi-Fi, and its range includes twin rooms, family rooms and suites, with magnificent views of the slopes and surrounding countryside.

Included: 4 nights’ accommodation and 3-day lift passes for two, ¥20,000 restaurant gift voucher

HAKKODA RESORT & SPA

The well-appointed Western and Japanese-style rooms inside Hakkoda Resort & Spa enjoy lovely views of deep beech forest, and ski-in, ski-out access to the slopes of the resort.

HAKKODA RESORT & SPA

Situated deep in the natural wilderness area of Hakkoda, the sky above glitters with millions of stars on clear nights; this is a haven for visitors looking to relax and unwind, and be at one with nature. After-ski highlights include the mineral-rich hot springs of Kansuizawa Onsen, and beautifully presented Japanese banquets featuring delicious seasonal produce.

Included: 2 nights’ accommodation and 1-day lift passes for two

Know before you go: the rooms available at Hakkoda Resort & Spa for this giveaway are Japanese-style, and don’t have en suite showers; instead, guests will enjoy soaking in the resort’s enormous natural hot spring bath!

• ¥20,000 APPI RESTAURANT GIFT VOUCHER

• 2 X 3-DAY APPI SKI OR SNOWBOARD RENTAL VOUCHERS (SKIS OR SNOWBOARD + WEAR + ACCESSORIES)

• 1 X HALF-DAY APPI PRIVATE SKI OR SNOWBOARD LESSON VOUCHER (1-3 STUDENTS)

• 2 X 2-WEEK JAPAN WIRELESS POCKET WI-FI PACKAGES

*The winner and their chosen guest may travel during the period from 1 January to 28 February, 2017.
*Entries close on the 31th of October.

Further information:

http://www.hakkouda-resort.jp/
http://www.appi-japan.com/welcome-to-appi/

For your chance to become that one lucky winner follow the link below:
http://www.gdayjapan.com.au/japan-winter-magic-travel-giveaway-2016-17/?utm_source=gj&utm_medium=banner&utm_campaign=appi-hakkoda2016

Restaurant 317 for delicious Italian cuisine

Restaurant 317

Usually on my visits to Sydney I just find somewhere to eat in the CBD area around Town Hall or Circular Quay. However, on my most recent visit, I discovered an amazing restaurant in "Eat Street", the name given to the collection of restaurants and cafes on Church Street Parramatta's dining precinct, near the Parramatta River.

Restaurant 317 has grown from one original single shopfront established 10 years ago, and now extends into the adjoining historic Oyster Laneway and the next shop. It also flows out onto the footpath. 

Restaurant 317 creates delicious Italian cuisine with Mediterranean influences. It is good to know that they use only the freshest seasonal produce and ingredients. In the kitchen they have discovered the knack of combining traditional dishes with modern techniques.

I was impressed with the very extensive menu of Restaurant 317. It includes bread and starter pizzas, entrees, sizzling hot pots, pizzas, seafood, home-made pasta, salads, risotto, veal, chicken, grills, slow roasts and even burgers. I noted their platters for two, including mezze, antipasta and seafood which all looked mouthwatering.

It is a gluten free restaurant, with over 90% of its meals suitable for those with coeliac disease or those who avoid eating gluten for health reasons.

slow roasted veal osso buco

On our recent visit to Restaurant 317 we were seated in the lovely covered footpath dining area warmed by the gas flame heaters. Mt wife chose the slow roasted veal osso buco finished with sweet red wine and rosemary jus. It was very tender and mouth watering and was served with potato mash and broccolini. 

I chose the spinach and ricotta ravioli napoletana with a traditional Italian sauce made with fresh Roma tomatoes, that was cooked using their special homemade recipe. I liked the large squares of pasta with plentiful fillings and the delicious sauce.

Having a sweet tooth  my mouth drooled over the extensive dessert menu at Restaurant 317. It was hard to make a choice - they all looked so good. If the main course was not so filling I would have chosen several desserts to eat. However, common sense prevailed and I only chose one. The strawberry crepes I chose were delectable. They were rolled and stood like cones on the plate. These were filled with fresh strawberries, whipped cream and vanilla bean gelato and were topped with strawberry coulis.

delicious desserts

My wife chose the chocolate lava mudcake that was served with vanilla bean gelato and cream. This was exquisite. I know, because I pinched some of it from her plate.

Restaurant 317 features a hand-selected wine and innovative cocktail menu. They also offer a wide variety of beers, spirits and non-alcoholic drink options. On our visit I enjoyed my cappuccino. There are two qualities that make a good cappuccino - the taste and the appearance. I liked the strong coffee flavour and its smooth creaminess and the artwork on the chocolate sprinkled crema.

I was impressed with the team of waiters. It was a very busy night for Restaurant 317, but the staff took the time to chat and were very helpful with their menu suggestions. They were both friendly and professional.

There is a special kids menu, and each Sunday lunch time is Family Sunday where on offer is complimentary kids face painting, balloon animals as well as competitions and giveaways from 12pm-4pm.

my cappuccino

Every Tuesday night Restaurant 317 offers a stellar lineup of musicians performing from 6pm-9pm, offering free live entertainment in the Melbourne style laneway and streamed throughout the restaurant. The finest musicians perform a range of soul, funk, indie, folk and rock sets each week for the listening pleasure of the diners.

The Biz Lunch Express Menu is offered from 11.30am – 4pm every Monday to Friday. Here they offer a fantastic and affordable lunch menu featuring delicious, healthy and substantial meal options quickly. Restaurant 317 caters for functions with various menus for groups of people.

Restaurant 317 is one of those rare restaurants that I will definitely return to and sample more of the amazing menu. I would also go as far as recommending Restaurant 317 to my friends and relatives for their dining enjoyment.

Restaurant 317

Restaurant 317

Address: 317 Church Street Parramatta NSW 2150

Opening Hours: Mon-Thu: 11:30 am - 10:00 pm
                           Fri-Sat: 11:30 am - 11:00 pm
                           Sun: 11:30 am - 10:00 pm

Phone: 1300 317 317
Email: enquiries@317.com.au
Web: https://317.com.au/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restaurant317

The new extended PARKROYAL Parramatta unveiled

PARKROYAL Parramatta

There is nothing better than staying in a brand new hotel. That's what was so good about the recent stay my wife & I had in the PARKROYAL Parramatta.

Even though it has been there for quite some time, it has just opened its new seven story tower and has renovated its original hotel rooms. The redevelopment has cost more than $25 million, so it is just like staying in a brand new hotel. There has been the addition of new guest rooms, meeting and event spaces and leisure facilities. The new extensions feature earthy timber, stone and glass that are very pleasing on the eye. It is stylish, modern and a wonderful addition to the hotel scene in Sydney.

PARKROYAL Parramatta lobby

Apart from the  new hotel building, I was very impressed with the warm and welcoming staff. The staff we met were exceptional. We appreciated that they all took the time to talk and listen to us. Whether it was the people at reception checking us in, the attendant in the Club Lounge who arranged the delivery of a newspaper to my room, or the breakfast staff who obliged with my wife's request for a special hot drink, they were all only too eager to help. They offered suggestions on where to eat, what to do, and how to travel by the RiverCat ferry. The assistant Manager not only took time out to meet us, but I observed him chatting to other hotel guests as well. The staff are a wonderful team of people that are there to please the hotel guests in all they do.

What was a 192 room hotel is now a 286 room hotel. It is now the largest hotel in Parramatta. Its outside appearance is stunning. There are 40 new Club Rooms and 50 new Premier Rooms. We were fortunate to stay in one of the brand new Club Rooms.

Club Room

Our guest room was immaculately clean and fresh. No dust, no flaking paint, no worn carpets. It was accessed by a secure key-card. It was stylish and very relaxing to stay in. The chocolates were delicious!

The king-sized bed was very comfy with a good range of pillows to choose from. A restful nights sleep was enjoyed in the very quiet room which we had warmed with the air-conditioner.

Our room had a 48” LCD television which had a wide selection of local and cable channels for our enjoyment. There was a nice executive desk and complimentary unlimited fast Wi-Fi Internet access, personal digital safe, clock radio, iron and ironing board, and a fully-stocked minibar.

The ensuite bathroom was pristine, complete with fluffy towels and premium St. Gregory bath amenities. Bathrobe, slippers and hairdryer were supplied. The shower rose had adjustable water spray settings and provided plenty of hot water. 

Club Lounge

Our Club Room gave us access to the Club Lounge. This is the first Club Lounge to open in a hotel in Western Sydney. We, just like the other Club guests, enjoyed privileges such as priority check-in and late check-out, laundry services and access to a brand new gymnasium with state-of-the-art exercise equipment. There is an outdoor swimming pool to enjoy in the warmer weather.

The spacious PARKROYAL Club Lounge, located on level seven, is distinctively styled with contemporary furnishings and thoughtfully appointed amenities. It offers an upscale experience and a range of privileges that we were able to enjoy. The host of benefits included regular refreshments throughout the day,  twilight drinks and canapés from 5:30pm to 7:00pm.

We enjoyed the complimentary breakfast which provided a range of quality cereals, yoghurts, breads, cheese, hot and cold dishes, freshly squeezed juices, pancakes, and various styles of coffee and tea. It was pointed out that special breakfast items could be requested and brought up to the Club Lounge.

Bathroom

The BAR:30 restaurant and bar has now been extended out to Phillip Street to introduce an alfresco dining element to the hotel. This new addition fits in well with the the nearby vibrant Eat Street.

The PARKROYAL Parramatta has had five new meeting spaces added, which now means there a thirteen conference and meeting spaces in total. It is now the largest meetings and events hotel in Parramatta making it the perfect location for any business gathering.

The PARKROYAL Parramatta is close to the Parramatta River, the huge Westfield shopping centre, and the nearby Eat Street with its many wonderful restaurants and cafes. Travel to the PARKROYAL Parramatta is easy either by car, the RiverCat ferry service, or train. After we checked out we took the leisurely RiverCat ferry service to Circular Quay. This was an enjoyable way to travel to the city. As we glided down the river under the many bridges we passed mangroves, parks, old mansions and modern houses. It was like the Australian version of a European river cruise.

Club Lounge breakfast

Parramatta is now the geographical centre of greater Sydney. Many new developments are popping up to make this suburb world class. Events such as Tropfest, and attractions such as the Powerhouse Museum, are relocating to Parramatta in the near future.

Our stay at the PARKROYAL Parramatta was not just an average hotel stay, it was a memorable experience. Next time you too would like a memorable hotel stay, consider the PARKROYAL Parramatta.

PARKROYAL Parramatta

PARKROYAL Parramatta

Address: 30 Phillip St, Parramatta NSW 2150, Australia

Telephone: +61 2 9689 3333 Toll-Free1800 192 144 

Fax+61 2 9689 3959

Email: enquiry.prsyp@parkroyalhotels.com

Website:  https://www.parkroyalhotels.com/en/hotels-resorts/australia/parramatta.html