Udyanotsav – Into the Mughal Gardens

Mughal gardens

The Mughal gardens built on the sprawling grounds of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the Indian president, are a true spectacle, rarely accessible to the public at large. But every year, the gardens are thrown open to the public for a month, for the annual Udyanotsav.

When: 6th February to 9th March 2019

Where: Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi

What’s Special: Tulips are the one of the main attractions here, with nearly 10,000 bulbs of eight varieties, imported from Netherlands. There are also over 250 varieties of roses, including the unique green and black ones; six spectacular lotus-shaped fountains; and one of the best collections of Bonsais in the country.

Source: https://creativelyyours.creative.travel

MAJOR ACCOR REFURBISHMENTS & NEW PRODUCT

SOFITEL FIJI RESORT AND SPA

MAJOR REJUVENATION UNDERWAY AT SOFITEL FIJI RESORT AND SPA: Situated on Denarau Island Fiji, Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa is in the midst of a multi-million dollar refurbishment project including expansion plans for the resort's exclusive adults-only, Waitui Beach Club. To enhance the overall guest experience, the rejuvenation project centres around increasing the footprint of the resort's popular Waitui Beach Club, with the addition of 24 new beach cabanas, a welcoming arrivals area, a new beach side cocktail bar to capture Fiji's famous sunsets, and an undercover dining space for up to 40 guests. Waitui Beach Club's guestrooms and suites will also undergo an entire refresh as well as its restaurant space. In addition, a new offering for children will see the development of an “Adolescent Zone” and a Waitui Beach Club for Kids.  The multi-million rejuvenation of the resort includes the upgrade of all five restaurants and four bar outlets with new and exciting concepts, soon to be announced. Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa's main restaurant Lagoon will undergo a revamp to a fully interactive experience for both breakfast and dinner. The project is scheduled for completion at the end of 2019.

BREAKFREE ON GEORGE HOTEL RECEIVES A $3M MAKEOVER: BreakFree on George, Sydney completed its $3-million renovation in May 2018. All 160 studios and one and two bedroom apartments boast beautiful new furnishings and modern furniture, with the hallways and foyer re-dressed in dark charcoal timbers, as well as contemporary wallpaper and alternating colour schemes. With impressive views of the CBD, the refurbishment has added the stunning final touches to BreakFree on George so guests can now experience only the best finishes and contemporary-style furniture. The lounge areas in each apartment feature comfortable new wraparound sofas, towering floor-to-ceiling windows and beautiful Asian-inspired artwork. The hotel's location at 653 George Street, Sydney, is just a block from bustling Chinatown, The Capitol Theatre and in close proximity to Sydney's major office buildings, making it a smart choice for both business and leisure travellers alike. Visit www.mantrahotels.com/breakfree-on-george

NEW SPA OPENS AT FAIRMONT RESORT & SPA BLUE MOUNTAINS, MGALLERY BY SOFITEL: The long-awaited Ubika Day Spa is Fairmont Resort & Spa Blue Mountains brand new grand, two-storey spa. Boasting 16 treatment rooms, each with its own shower, featuring four couples rooms including one deluxe couples room with private spa bath, double vichy shower room, a zen room to relax pre and post treatment in front of a fireplace in the World Heritage-listed National Park, complimented by Australian-made iKOU spa products.

 HARBOUR ROCKS HOTEL SYDNEY

TAYIM, HARBOUR ROCKS HOTEL SYDNEY, MGALLERY BY SOFITEL'S NEW RESTAURANT: Formerly known as Scarlett, Harbour Rocks Hotels Sydney's restaurant has received a new name, Tayim, and dramatic redesign including an expansion of the former venue into a larger bar and dining area, with design and interiors by Sydney Architects, Welsh + Major. In keeping with the historical features of the heritage building built in 1887, the sandstone walls have been lovingly restored to create an inviting space with a relaxed atmosphere. Contemporary furnishings feature lightened marble, wood, and bespoke wall coverings to complement a colour palate of earthy tones. The Middle-Eastern inspired Tayim menu, designed by Head Chef Ran Kimelfeld (former Head Chef, Nour), showcases the region's most flavoursome dishes; focusing on bold, exotic share plates cooked using traditional methods on the open grill.

NEW CONVENTION CENTRE AT NOVOTEL TWIN WATERS RESORT: Following its $100 million purchase of the Novotel Twin Waters Resort in September 2018, The Shakespeare property group has announced a new, purpose-built convention centre build at the resort. The $8 million Convention Centre will be the destination's pre-eminent event venue when it opens in April 2019. Shakespeare Property Group are planning to invest a total of $10 million dollars in further upgrades to the resort and Convention Centre at the resort over the next couple of years.

GUESTROOM REFRESH AT NOVOTEL SYDNEY ON DARLING HARBOUR: A $15 million guestroom refresh has just been completed at Novotel Sydney Darling Harbour across each of the hotel's 525 guestrooms. Offering five room types from the Superior Rooms to the Executive Loft Suites the spacious rooms feature beautiful views of Darling Harbour and the Sydney City Skyline, providing ample opportunity to take advantage of the stunning iconic location. The refreshed design is both aesthetic and functional, modern and timeless, featuring warm colours, new lighting concepts, heavenly new King Koil beds by A.H.Beard, state of the art Wi-Fi connections, 48-inch HD smart TV's and media hubs including comfortable working and dining areas.   

NOVOTEL GEELONG

MAJOR RENOVATION COMPLETE AT NOVOTEL GEELONG: A $3.5 million refurbishment has been completed at Novotel Geelong, its first major renovation project since opening in 2001. Boasting one of the best locations in Geelong right on the waterfront and in the heart of the CBD, Novotel Geelong is the city's premier conferencing hotel. The refurbishment has involved a full upgrade of all 109 guestrooms with a new paint scheme, carpet, curtains, furniture, and smart TVs. The bathrooms have also been updated with a fresh and modern look.

Website: www.accorhotels.com

Malolo Island Resort Wins Best Quality Accommodation Award Once Again

Ahura Resorts is delighted to announce that its Malolo Island Resort was awarded the Best Quality Accommodation 2018 award at the annual ANZ Fiji Tourism Excellence in Tourism Awards on February 16th.

Already multi award-winning and 100% Fijian-owned, Malolo Island Resort is an idyllic Fiji island paradise where guests escape the stress of modern living and relax amongst golden sandy beaches, abundant coral reefs, swaying coconut palms and azure seas. This is the 6th time Malolo has won this prestigious award since 2010. 

The Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards are judged by local and international business and tourism professionals. More than 500 people from the Fiji travel industry, including major hotels, airlines, tour operators and tourism service providers, were present at this year's Awards event.

Ahura Group General Manager Steve Anstey said, ”We are once again honoured that Malolo has won this award again.    This is a significant continued achievement that demonstrates the consistency, passion and hard work of the whole Malolo team – both on the island and in our mainland and international offices, and who are all dedicated to giving guests an exceptional resort experience.   

“Malolo, with its friendly service, quality cuisine and the happiest of kids clubs, is a unique destination, but it's the people at Malolo who truly make the difference. I'd like to thank everyone for helping create a starring product that is adored by so many.

“I'd also like to thank our guests, 25% of whom come back year after year to relax, recharge and experience the magic of Malolo” said Anstey.

Ahura Fijian owner and Managing Director, Tony Whitton, adds:  “Receiving this award is especially auspicious as we celebrate our 20th anniversary later this year.   We would once again like to thank the Fijian and greater travel and tourism industry, our loyal guests, and our amazing team who continue to work towards creating “magical Malolo memories” to last a lifetime. We are a Fijian family business and through hard work and having a remarkable team we are very happy to see Malolo continue to shine.”

Further information on Malolo Island Resort including special offers:

http://maloloisland.com/

Enlighten Festival Returns to Canberra from 1 March

Eat, see and explore as Canberra transforms for the annual Enlighten Festival, presented by Singapore Airlines! Held over 17 days from Friday March 1, the city will be a hive of activity with a range of free and ticketed events combining to make the Enlighten Festival a highlight on Canberra's 2019 events calendar.

Most commonly associated with the Enlighten Illuminations, the Enlighten Festival is now a true celebration of culture and creativity bringing together six hero events:

Enlighten Illuminations  || 1-11 March

See the Parliamentary Triangle and city precinct come to life as the Illuminations light up after dark. Witness thought provoking large-scale projections on some of the capital's most loved and iconic buildings including the National Portrait Gallery, National Library of Australia, Australian Parliament House, Questacon, plus the Sydney and Melbourne buildings in the city. Visit the food offerings at Enlighten Alley, enjoy roving entertainers, art installations, live music and enchanting performances or treat your taste buds at the Canberra Night Noodle Markets (1-10 March) in Reconciliation Place.

Canberra Balloon Spectacular  || 9-17 March

Wake up to the view of hot air balloons floating across the city during the Canberra Balloon Spectacular. This mesmerising view is best appreciated from the lawns of Old Parliament House. Held over nine days, the Canberra skyline will be full of hot air balloons from across the globe.

Lights! Canberra! Action!  || 8 March

Enlighten Festival is shining a spotlight on Canberra's talented film-makers as competition sparks creativity. This year's theme has been chosen to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the moon landing with an outdoor screening in the Senate Rose Gardens at the Museum of Australian Democracy. Bring your chair, bean bag or blanket and settle in for a great night of film viewing. Picnics are welcome and foodies will be on site dishing up movie snacks and delicious dinners.

Symphony in the Park  || 10 March

We guarantee this is not your standard symphony experience. Framed by the tree-lined landscape of the iconic Commonwealth Park, sit back and relax as the Canberra Symphony Orchestra fills the air with music. The Canberra Symphony Orchestra have outdone themselves this year, perfecting a new interpretation of music we all know and love. Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a bite to eat from the traders as you watch the sun set.

Canberra Day  || 11 March

Canberra is turning 106 this year! Join in the celebrations with a program bursting to the seams with live music and entertainment for all. The stunning landscape of Commonwealth Park will provide the perfect backdrop for your family day out. Enjoy the thrill of amusement park rides or indulge in a tasty treat from local traders. Relax with a picnic to the sound of live music or join in the children's activities. There's something for everyone this Canberra Day.

Hit 104.7 Skyfire  || 16 March

Canberra lights up from the shores of Lake Burley Griffin as HIT 104.7 SKYFIRE returns for its 31st year. Look to the sky to take in a dazzling display of aerial acrobatics and spectacular fireworks set to a soundtrack simultaneously broadcast on HIT 104.7.

Still after more? The capital's major attractions are waiting to be explored as they open their doors to host an array of exclusive after-dark ticketed events at the National Gallery of Australia, National Film and Sound Archives, National Zoo and Aquarium, the Australian National Botanic Gardens, Australian Parliament House, the Royal Australian Mint and more. Tickets are on sale now.

Book your stay with AccorHotels today. For more information, the full Enlighten Festival 2019 program and ticketing information, visit www.enlightencanberra.com

Location	Event	Description	Dates
Australian National Botanic Gardens	Luminous Botanicus IV: shade of trees	Luminous Botanicus IV: shade of trees‚ brings to life plants, habitat, culture, conservation and science. Explore and say 'hello' to iconic animals after dark.	1 March 2 March 9 March 10 March
Questacon	The Moon is Made of Cheese	Cheese, Space, and Drinking. The story of space exploration told through pairings of beverages and cheese.	8March 9 March
National Zoo & Aquarium	ZooFest	Set amongst the beautiful Savannah grounds, Zoofest will provide entertainment for the whole family, with a number of activities such as face-painting, air tattoos, stalls and entertainers, as well as opportunities to meet some of our friendly residents and explore some of the zoo by twilight.	7 March 14 March
National Gallery of Australia	Fields of Love: Enlighten at the NGA	Tony Albert's I AM VISIBLE and Electric Fields will light up the NGA.  Enjoy exhibitions and activities about love and respect for family and community.	1 March
National Gallery of Australia	Fujiko Nakaya Artist Talk	Join Japanese artist Fujiko Nakaya for an illustrated presentation of her work and to celebrate her much-loved work Foggy wake in a desert: An ecosphere.	9 March
Museum of Australian Democracy	33 Revolutions: The power of music	Music and politics collide in 33 Revolutions – a collaborative artwork celebrating songs of protest. Let the transformative power of music guide you as you decorate recycled vinyl records with lyrics and symbols.	1 March 2 March 8 March 9 March

Tourism New Zealand Taps Into National Geographic to Experience Manaakitanga

In the first global campaign of its kind, Tourism New Zealand is leveraging the advocacy and influence of past visitors, travel advisors, New Zealanders, and National Geographic Travel Explorers to encourage consumers to plan and book a New Zealand holiday.

“New Zealand has long been known for its stunning landscapes,” says Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive Stephen England-Hall.

“What we hear from visitors, however, is that it's the local people and warm sense of welcome they receive that makes it such a memorable place.

“This is often referred to in New Zealand as manaakitanga, an indigenous Māori concept representing a unique style of hospitality, generosity, and kindness”.

In a new digital content series from National Geographic Travel, viewers will see and hear from Contributing Editor Heather Greenwood Davis, Photographer Erika Larsen and Illustrator Christoph Niemann as they experience manaakitanga and explore the connections between New Zealand's people, land, and culture. 

“We are thrilled to continue our creative partnership with Tourism New Zealand for the second year,” says Deborah Armstrong, EVP, National Geographic Partners.

“We began an exciting digital campaign last year with Bryce Dallas Howard as Tourism New Zealand's spokesperson and have now expanded our New Zealand story telling by featuring an illustrator, photographer and family travel expert.

“Each captured the spirit of New Zealand and it's people through their own unique lens and will share their experiences with our Nat Geo audience across this global campaign.”

The global partnership will leverage more than 100 pieces of content across National Geographic Travel's digital, social, and print properties in the U.S., Canada, Brazil, Germany, the U.K, Australia, and India. The five-month global campaign will be further amplified across Tourism New Zealand's digital channels.

National Geographic Travel Content: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/mynewzealandstory

For more information please visit https://www.newzealand.com/au/campaign/your-new-zealand-story   

Website: newzealand.com

Glamping, Farm to Plate and Wine Tasting Good Times in the Capital This Autumn

Four Winds, Contentious Character, 

Nishi's Grand Stair, Naked Cubby Collective

With Canberra firmly cementing its presence in the Australian and global wine scene, we're now making way for fresh winemakers and innovators in the field. And in no season does the Canberra district sparkle more than during its harvest season over autumn. With more than 30 wineries within 35 minutes' drive of the city, the Canberra region wine scene is ripe for exploring.

Meet the new wave of Canberra wine events, vineyards and cellar doors.

1. Four Winds Vineyard: Come for the wine, stay for the wood fired pizza. Relax in this vineyard, with Sarah Collingwood, Australian Women in Wine Owner/Operator of the Year 2017, at the helm. Pick up a bottle for the art lover in your life, with each bottle's label playing on the theme of 'wind'. Open 10am – 4pm Thursday to Monday, Murrumbateman.
2. Brindabella Hills: Set against the stunning vistas of the Brindabella Hills, this winery offers up sensational cool climate wines with beautiful views to match. Open 10am – 5pm Saturday to Sunday, Hall.
3. Canberra District Wine Week: Whether you think you know all there is to know about Canberra Wines, or you've never ventured out into the region, this year's Canberra District Wine Week will bring you some surprising and delightful experiences. The Festival will be the perfect excuse to grab your friends and blend your own wine event, enjoy a gallery launch and exhibition, meet wine makers and tour their vineyards, experience vertical wine tastings, enjoy live music in the vines, go on a secret wine tour and more. 5-14 April.
4. Canberra District Wine Week Tasting Festival: Canberra wines come to the city in this launch event for wine week. It's a chance to sample wines from a cross section of the Canberra district in NewActon – there will be 50 wines to try. Entry is $30 on the day and you will receive a reusable glass to take home. From 2-6pm on 30 March.
5. Hot Dub Time Machine: Take one part the hottest musical acts (think The Presets and Hayden James), one part sensational food and wine offerings at the picturesque Lake George Winery and you've got yourself the best party ever. 13 April.
6. Cellar Door: Can't get out to explore the region's 'liquid geography'? Find this wine market at the Nishi building (home to Ovolo Nishi hotel) Grand Stair, where each weekend different local district wineries will set up shop to sell their (delicious) wares. 3-6pm Saturdays, NewActon.
7. Contentious Character: Contentious Character are bringing their farm to plate philosophy to the table by incorporating their wines with seriously good food. Contentious Character builds on the Lambert Estate's reputation for award-winning boutique wines. The first plantings were made in 1990, and the 20 acre vineyard became known for producing complex wines, with distinctive 'old-world' character with 'new-world' elegance. Open 10am-5pm Wednesday – Sunday, Wamboin (open until 9pm on Fridays).
8. Naked Cubby Collective: Mount Majura Vineyard welcomes you to 'sip wine and sleep amongst the vines' with two bespoke glamping tents. Edgar, the first of the two cubbies to call this vineyard home, summons cosy autumn vibes with a touch of luxury, paired with panoramic views of the vineyard. Frank, the latest addition to the glamping family, is nestled in a tranquil spot, surrounded by vines, a fruit orchard and The Truffle Farm. Complete your stay with a hamper of local Three Mills Bakery goodies, or with a picnic courtesy of Schmicnics and a wine tasting at the Cellar Door. Open year round, Mount Majura.

Website: visitcanberra.com.au

World Book Day - Tucan Travel's Best Books that Inspire Travel

Australian company and adventure travel specialists, Tucan Travel have been operating group tours for over 30 years, and have offices full of wanderlust-stricken travellers with constant itchy feet. The global team understand how the right book can influence your next travel destination so in celebration of World Book Day on the 7th March 2019, Tucan Travel have compiled a list of the best travel books to inspire your next adventure!  

Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts - India

An epic story depicting the high and lows of an Australian, Gregory, who escapes a high security prison and flees to India on a fake passport. From getting robbed to falling in love, drug-use to opening a clinic in the Bombay slums, Gregory experiences a rollercoaster of struggles while adjusting to his new life in India and the book successfully makes readers eager to visit this tantalising country.

Experience India for yourself on a Tucan Travel Spiritual India tour:

Spiritual India / 14 Days / From AUS$1073 plus local payment of US$160.  

Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert - Italy, India and Bali

Elizabeth seemingly has it all: the great job, great husband, great apartment. But something is missing, and she feels an overwhelming sense of entrapment in her life, so she quits it all and spends a year travelling. She starts in Italy, where she discovers the true meaning of good food, before moving onto India where she meets a guru and searches for god. Ending her journey in Bali, she makes lifelong friends and finally finds true love. The story definitely tugs on the heartstrings, with a rollercoaster of emotions as you follow Elizabeth's journey to finding herself.

Eat your way around Italy on a Tucan Travel Italy tour:

Italy in a week / 7 Days / From AUS$1341 plus local payment of €170.

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho - Egypt

An inspiring story that encourages you to follow your dreams - no matter how far away they may seem. Santiago is a humble shepherd living in Spain, seemingly content with his flock of sheep and a good book. A recurring dream of him uncovering treasure at the base of a pyramid inspires him to leave behind the simple life and head for Egypt. The book emphasises that the journey is just as important as the final destination, and the story is full of philosophical musings.

Experience the magical pyramids for yourself on a Tucan Travel Egypt tour:

Egypt Adventure / 9 Days / From AUS$959 plus local payment of US$100

The fault in our stars by John Green - Amsterdam

A real tear jerker, this story follows Hazel, a 17 year old with terminal cancer. She falls for Augustus and she shares with him her favourite book, which happens to be set in Amsterdam. Using the “Make a Wish Foundation” Augustus takes Hazel on a whirlwind adventure to the city of canals, meeting the author and exploring Amsterdam. You will have to read the book if you want to know the ending, but we can promise the story is sad, happy and inspiring all in one.

Explore the unique culture in Amsterdam for yourself on a Tucan Travel group tour:

Paris to Berlin / 6 Days / From AUS$1442 plus local payment of €170

As I walked out one midsummer morning by Laurie Lee - Spain

A truly inspiring tale of a British poet, Laurie Lee, who leaves behind his comfortable life in the Cotswold for an an epic solo adventure. He first walks to London, where he spends a year playing the violin while labouring in the bid to build a city life. After picking up the simple phrase of “Will you please give me a glass of water” in Spanish, he embarks on the ultimate challenge and moves to Spain. He lives a simple life here, continuing to play his violin for a little cash and sleeping under the stars. Over the period of a year, he walks from Vigo in the north to the south coast. The story is authentic and raw, describing the author's journey and the locals who help him along the way. It is truly inspiring for anyone who wants to get out there and see the world!

Experience a beautiful corner of Spain on a hiking adventure in the Picos de Europa:

Hike the Picos de Europa / 8 Days / From AUS$1478

Long way round by Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman - World Travel

Long Way Round follows the epic journey of Ewan McGregor, fellow actor Charley Boorman and their crew, as they travel on motorbike from London to New York, through Europe, Russia, Asia and eventually reaching Alaska and Canada. The book is a series of diary entries, overall creating the ultimate picture of adventure as they tackle breakdowns, border control and the wilderness of Mongolia.

See Russia and the Baltics on an exciting two week tour:

Moscow to Warsaw / 14 Days / From AUS$1741 plus local payment of €1180

Vagabonding by Rolf Potts - World Travel

Something a little different, Vagabonding is a popular guide for those who are eager to get out and start exploring the world but don't know where to begin. It's a bible of long term travel, providing tips for everything from financing, adjusting to life on the road and how to find work abroad. Author Rolf Potts shows how anyone can achieve the dream of travel and take time off from everyday life. It takes the dreaming out of travel and breaks down the reality of how you can make it happen!

Not sure where to start? Explore Tucan Travel's group adventures here!   

THE CURE - DISINTEGRATION 30th ANNIVERSARY ANNOUNCED AS FIRST VIVID LIVE 2019

Iconic alternative rock band The Cure will perform their legendary album Disintegration on its 30th anniversary in a world premiere and Australian exclusive at Vivid LIVE at the Sydney Opera House.

Since 2009, Vivid LIVE has welcomed some of the most innovative artists to the nation’s most famous stages and The Cure’s Robert Smith will take to the Concert Hall stage with full band for four nights only in May, performing the melancholic and undeniably influential album Disintegration in full, alongside moving tracks from their extensive back catalogue.

The Cure’s Robert Smith said “Vivid LIVE is a wonderful international event. Our Reflections shows in 2011 were truly memorable experiences, and with the excitement surrounding those early album performances in mind, we are more than delighted to be announcing our return in May 2019 to present the world premiere of Disintegration - 30th Anniversary.”

Disintegration was The Cure’s eighth studio album and cemented them as a cultural phenomenon, pioneering a new era of dark pop thrillers, which influenced countless musicians. Disintegration, which included hits such as Lovesong and Pictures of You, remains The Cure's highest selling record to date selling over three million copies globally.

The Cure – Disintegration 30th Anniversary, 8pm, Friday 24 May, Saturday 25 May, Monday 27 May and Tuesday 28 May, at the Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House.

Efforts made to preserve ethnic minority attire

Illustrative image (Photo: VNA)

Students of ethnic minority backgrounds or those attending ethnic minority boarding schools will wear traditional costumes two days per week and during festivals, under a project approved by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism.

The project to preserve and promote the traditional costumes of Vietnamese ethnic minorities has a total funding of 222.9 billion VND (9.58 million USD), with 51.2 billion VND (2.2 million USD) sourced from the state budget and the rest from the local coffer.

It is expected to contribute to the sustainable cultural development of Vietnamese ethnic minorities, and raise public awareness of the importance of preserving and protecting the traditional clothes and customs of ethnic minority groups.

The project, to last from 2019 to 2030, will also compile a list of the costumes and outfits, honouring outstanding artisans in this field.

According to the Museum of Vietnamese Ethnic Groups’ Culture, 40 of the 54 ethnic groups across the country no longer wear their traditional costumes on a daily basis.

Instead, there is a growing tendency to adorn ready-to-wear mass-produced clothes, it said.
Source: VNA

Gold Coast's Biggest Tourism Campaign Set to Focus on Families

The Gold Coast will be promoted as the ultimate family-friendly destination to 'come and play' as part of a $2.5m marketing campaign designed to entice Aussie families this Easter and beyond.

Destination Gold Coast CEO Annaliese Battista said the campaign launching February 24 will position the Gold Coast as a must-visit for families from key visitor markets of Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

“Destination Gold Coast has partnered with Tourism and Events Queensland, Village Roadshow and Dreamworld owner Ardent Leisure to deliver a targeted campaign, which will tell the rest of Australia what we already know – that there is no better destination for a family holiday than the Gold Coast,” she said.

The promotion is the biggest marketing initiative for the Gold Coast in 2019.

 “It's designed to capitalise on 2018 Commonwealth Games momentum and convert the awareness created during the Games into booking a holiday on the Gold Coast, the home of iconic theme parks and a plethora of family-centric attractions and activities,” said Ms Battista.

“By positioning the Gold Coast as Australia's playground, the campaign highlights the many different ways families can 'play' on the Gold Coast – from theme parks, to the iconic beaches, the lush tropical rainforest and the casual outdoor family-friendly dining scene.

“This campaign is a testament to the strong collaboration within Gold Coast's tourism sector.

“We are being unapologetic and bold in playing to Gold Coast's strength as Australia's best holiday destination for families, with an offering that's second to none.”

Village Roadshow Theme Parks CEO, Clark Kirby said this campaign is a wonderful initiative to showcase the Gold Coast as Australia's holiday playground and reiterates our ongoing commitment to the tourism industry.

“Our theme parks are an iconic part of the Gold Coast and we are proud to work with Tourism and Events Queensland, Destination Gold Coast and Ardent Leisure on this campaign which we know will bring visitors to the Coast,” he said.

“At Village Roadshow Theme Parks, we are Australia's leading theme park operator and there is something on offer for the whole family across Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, Wet'n'Wild Gold Coast and Paradise Country. With 115 world-class rides, shows and attractions across our portfolio, our parks are a must-do for locals and visitors.”

“Dreamworld is the most diverse theme park on the Gold Coast for families, with rides, slides, wildlife and a showcase of Indigenous history and culture all in one location,” said new Dreamworld CEO John Osborne.

“We will soon welcome our newest family attraction which is the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, delivering a brand-new experience to the Australian theme park industry.

“Sky Voyager - the world-class flying theatre features state-of-the-art technology and complements our traditional attractions that have long been family-favourites,” he said.

View the 30 second TVC here on Youtube: https://youtu.be/3SAP4fbusMo

THEME PARK FAMILY DEALS OFFER

Village Roadshow Theme Parks

GOLD COAST OFFER	Village Roadshow Locals One Pass - $149 or 4 easy payments of $37.25. Unlimited entry to Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, Wet'n'Wild Gold Coast and Paradise Country for 12 months. 1 Free entry to White Christmas and Carnivale.
INTERSTATE OFFER	Four Park Play Pass - $139 - On sale until 30 April 2019 – Available online only. 4 days unlimited entry to Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, Wet'n'Wild Gold Coast and Paradise Country with bonus. $50 Sea World Resort Voucher + $50 Animal Adventures Voucher.

Ardent Leisure Offer

GOLD COAST OFFER	12 Months Unlimited entry to Dreamworld, WhiteWater World and SkyPoint from just $109       + Bonus month FREE.
INTERSTATE OFFER	3 Days for the price of 1 -  ($95 Adult / $85 Child) For a limited time only, get 3 days unlimited entry to Dreamworld, WhiteWater World for the price on one.