A Brief Update of News Around Arizona Winter 2021

Culinary

New tasting room opens in Old Town Cottonwood

Old Town Cottonwood's newest tasting room, Provisioner Wines & General Store is now open on the Verde Valley Wine Trail. During the frontier days, the General Store was used as a social hub and lifeline for the pioneers that settled the American Southwest. Representing the soul of Arizona in the spirit of the old-time General Store, Provisioner Wines are “Wine for the People!” The tasting room is open Monday through Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Hotel in Downtown Phoenix unveils new dining, take-out and market concept

The FOUND:RE Phoenix Hotel's new signature dining, take-out and market concept, Match Market and Bar (MMB), opened on Oct. 12,. MMB's concept combines an artisan market with a restaurant and bar. The market features grab-and-go items, pantry staples, and specialty gifts from local vendors. MMB serves breakfast, lunch and dinner for in-restaurant dining and take-out. The bar and lounge area features a sprawling patio with nightly happy hour and an extensive list of craft cocktails and wine. The Market and Kitchen is open from 5:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily; the Espresso Bar is open from 5:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily; and the Bar opens for service at 11:00 a.m.

Attractions

Taliesin West announces new self-guided audio tour
UNESCO World Heritage Site, Taliesin West, reopened on Oct. 15, 2020 in Scottsdale with a new self-guided audio tour. The new tour allows visitors a safe and interactive experience that can be accessed through their personal smartphone device. The highlight of the audio tour is hearing Wright's own spoken words firsthand through original audio recordings. Wright discusses his work and sources of inspiration at Taliesin West and across the United States.

Hotel News

New hotel in Uptown Phoenix
ARRIVE Phoenix, the $25M boutique hotel spanning two restored mid-century modern towers is now open. The property has 79 hotel rooms, featuring king beds, bath products, custom vanities and wardrobes, concrete sinks, and mid-century-inspired fireplaces in select rooms. A record collection curated by local institution Stinkweeds is available for guests to cue up on their in-room record player.

ARRIVE's registration desk/popsicle stand, called The Pop Stand, offers hotel guests complimentary handcrafted paletas-style popsicles while completing their check-in process. The popsicle menu is ever-changing, made from fresh fruit, luxurious cream or booze, such as strawberries con crema, chile mango, pink lemonade, and frozen margarita. The hotel has an onsite coffee shop, featuring Cartel Coffee Lab. Cartel Uptown Phoenix, housed in a 600 square-foot space, offers fresh baked goods and grab-and-go meals, and offers their full coffee program, complete with single origin beans, canned cold brew, plus the classic six-ounce cappuccino. Lylo Swim Club, pronounced lie-low, is the hotel's mid-century style poolside bar led by Ross Simon of Great Minds Drink Alike, known best for his globally-awarded cocktail bars Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour and Little Rituals in Phoenix . Lylo offers craft cocktails, such as rotating sorbet bellinis, fresh fruit Caipirinhas and other reworked poolside favorites, like a rum-spiked version of the classic Dole Whip frozen pineapple drink. Lylo also features an all-day menu of light, Hawaiian-Japanese influenced bites, such as made-to-order musubi, stunning poke bowls and Japanese-style fried chicken. ARRIVE's bon vivant-style penthouse cocktail lounge, Don Woods' Say When, is scheduled to open Nov. 15. The lounge will be a true step back to the '60s and '70s with retro-modern cocktails and throwback bar bites such as Fondue for Two or Chilled Shrimp Cocktail and chef-crafted canapes. As for Don Woods? A longtime Arizona real estate developer active in the 1950s and beyond, Don held an office inside the building for decades, and the bar is a tribute to his work and his legacy in Arizona.

Canopy by Hilton opens in Old Town Scottsdale
Designed as a natural extension of the surrounding arts district, Canopy by Hilton Scottsdale Old Town, the new 177 room hotel at the northeast corner of First Street and Marshall Way, boasts spacious guestrooms and suites and features approximately 2,000 square-feet of meeting space. Cobre Kitchen +

Cocktails, the hotel's signature restaurant, is an American brasserie inspired by the Southwest and features small and shareable plates highlighting local flavors. Within the bar is a grab-n-go counter offering locally roasted coffee and artisanal breakfast treats and pastries. Outrider Rooftop Lounge, Old Town's newest rooftop pool and bar perched atop the hotel's seventh floor, focuses on delivering locally inspired dishes and cocktails. Offering 180-degree panoramas of the surrounding vistas, guests can enjoy casual seating, private cabanas, a roaring fire pit, and social spaces.

First Dark Sky Zone Resort opens in Scottsdale
ADERO Scottsdale, an Autograph Collection Hotel, opened on Oct. 15, 2020, is Scottsdale's only Dark Sky Zone resort. The summits of the Four Peaks wilderness frame the view from the resort. The six-story, newly developed resort offers 177-rooms including 16 oversized suites, outfitted with the latest technology, and expansive balconies. The majority of accommodations are positioned to take in the panoramic mountain vistas. The resort also maintains an exclusive sustainability trail with indigenous flora. ADERO Scottsdale's Adventure Concierge, in partnership with REI Co-op, offers offsite guided excursions including hiking, mountain biking and kayaking, direct access to golf offerings in partnership with SunRidge Canyon Golf Club, and telescope tours led by official 'Dark Sky Zone' guides. ADERO Scottsdale features a boutique spa, two heated pools and sundecks, and a 5,000 square-foot wellness studio. The wellness studio offers daily classes, such as yoga, stretch, sculpt and Pilates, as well as an indoor cycling studio with Peloton bikes. ADERO Scottsdale is equipped with more than 16,800 square-feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space, and offers team building experiences for groups consisting of volunteer trail work and wildlife habitat renewal. The resort's signature restaurant, CIELO meaning 'sky,' offers a curated selection of craft cocktails. The menu includes inventive cuisine created with regionally sourced ingredients, as well as partnerships with local companies including Bone Haus Brewing.

Accolades

Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopter ranked No. 1 Best Helicopter Tour in North America
Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters received the No. 1 ranking in the 2020 USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice travel award contest for Best Helicopter Tour in North America. A panel of industry experts partnered with 10Best editors to pick the initial nominees and then top 10 winners were determined by popular vote. Earlier this year, Papillon received two Diamond Awards from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for excellence in maintenance and compliance, the highest industry honors within the William O'Brien Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Awards program.

Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain is awarded as one of the top destination spa resorts in the country
Condé Nast Traveler has announced the results of its annual Readers' Choice Awards, naming Scottsdale's Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa among the top 20 destination spa resorts in the United States. The Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards are the longest-running and among the most prestigious recognition of excellence in the travel industry.

Verde Valley ranked in the Top 10 Wine Region in USA Today Reader's Choice Poll
The Verde Valley was ranked tenth in the USA Today's Readers' Choice Poll of the nation's top wine regions. Praised for its dry climate, dramatic temperature changes, and volcanic soil, Verde Valley winemakers are winning accolades and gaining national recognition for improving their art to reflect the Valley's unique conditions. The Valley is also on the verge of government recognition as an American Viticultural Area, a term reserved for highly distinctive wine growing regions.

General

Virtual activities every week for families to enjoy throughout the fall
Great Wolf Lodge has partnered with crafting expert Lynn Lilly of Craft Box Girls, to develop Paws 'N Play, an online content hub where families can access new recess activities every week. Paws 'N Play recess activities are designed for families to refresh and reset, featuring quick, lighthearted projects composed of DIY games, interactive crafts, snack recipes and more. Paws 'N Play recess activities will be updated weekly, and encourage families to move around, go outside and take a mental break from the school curriculum.

New 'Meet the Maker' video series reveals authentic, only-in-Arizona experiences
To see a true Arizona talent at work, look no further than Watson's Hat Shop of Cave Creek, Ariz., which is featured in the first episode of the Arizona Office of Tourism's new “Meet the Maker” short film series. Whether it's stitching hats, rolling tamales or weaving baskets, the series highlights Arizona's robust maker culture by providing audiences a front-row seat to watch creators at work. Click here to take a step back in time and watch master craftsman Eric Watson of Watson's Hat Shop build custom-fitted hats for modern customers with antique machinery.

2020 Work and Play Hotel Packages

Work From Here, Learn From Here package at Amara Resort and Spa
Amara Resort and Spa in Sedona introduces the program, Work From Here, Learn From Here. The new program is included within the resort fee and provides guests with an ideal space for a workation. The 750 square-foot-space is set up like a private classroom or office and is complete with classroom-style seating, whiteboards, a speakerphone, a printing station, shelves stocked with school supplies and a screen or projector is available upon request. Guests also have access to an on-call executive assistant or teacher's aide who can assist with day-to-day tasks like sending faxes, shipping assignments and setting up audio and video connections while on-site tutors or nannies can be reserved two weeks in advance for $50 per hour. Amara has also tapped locally-owned concierge service RemoteWell, to curate on and off-site experiences for guests looking to prioritize their health and wellness while working remotely. Daily rates start at $188, the resort fee is $33 plus tax and also includes valet parking, Wi-Fi, and unlimited local and toll-free calls.

Virtual Tours

The following are a few virtual tours from throughout the state, for more please visit our website.

London Bridge, Lake Havasu
Learn how England's London Bridge ended up in Western Arizona during a virtual tour of the rehomed bridge and surrounding area, courtesy of Go Lake Havasu.

Virtual Tour: https://www.londonbridgetour.com/

Arizona Science Center, Phoenix
The center provides videos on insight, tips and tricks to maintaining your health and wellness, a collection of articles that allow you to plan accordingly and crafts and experiments for kid-friendly science at home.
Website: https://www.azscience.org/pieceofmind#

OdySea Aquarium, Scottsdale
Your oceanic adventure from home. OdySea Aquarium shares weekly educational content and animal updates for kids and adults.
Website: https://www.odyseaaquarium.com/adventure-animals/

The Nash, Phoenix
Downtown Phoenix jazz club and community center posts near-weekly videos of local jazz musicians and ensembles.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/TheNashJazzClub

COVID-19 Updates in Arizona
For visitor guidance due to COVID-19 such as mask-wearing, a list of tourism-related reopenings or closures, and a link to public health guidelines, click here: https://www.visitarizona.com/covid-19/ . Some attractions are open year-round and some are open seasonally or move to seasonal hours. To ensure the places you want to see are open on your travel dates, please check their website for hours of operation.

Connect

Official State Travelers Guide: http://digital.milespartnership.com/view/arizona-official-travel-guide/arizona-official-state-travel-guide/arizona-2020-21
Website: www.VisitArizona.com

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Making the World Smile with Bamboo

On the banks of the river in the Hozucho neighborhood of Kameoka, Kyoto, stands the studio of the bamboo fence specialists at Nagaoka Meichiku.

Headquartered in Mukou City, with studios in Ooyamazaki-cho and Kameoka, Nagaoka Meichiku is a company that specializes in building and maintaining bamboo fences using materials of the finest quality and with the highest technical finesse. The company has built and maintained the fences at many historical temples and shrines in the Kyoto area.

Headquartered in Mukou City, with studios in Ooyamazaki-cho and Kameoka, Nagaoka Meichiku is a company that specializes in building and maintaining bamboo fences using materials of the finest quality and with the highest technical finesse. The company has built and maintained the fences at many historical temples and shrines in the Kyoto area.

In this installment, we sat down and talked with one of the company's craftsmen, Akihiro Mashimo.

Nagaoka Meichiku Akihiro Mashimo.
https://www.harvestjourney.com/ja/spot/199/

A Fateful Meeting with Bamboo

Mashimo has been an employee of Nagaoka Meichiku for over 20 years, working as a craftsman as well as in advertising and sales. We asked him just how he came to be involved with bamboo.

“After graduating high school, at first I wanted to work in pottery; so I attended an open campus event at a technical arts university. There were a lot of different art courses there, but for some reason, bamboo looked really cool and interesting to me. Why bamboo appealed so strongly to me at that time, I still don't know. ”

Taken with the charm of bamboo, he declared on the spot to the school staff, “I want to study bamboo!”

Just as he had declared on that fateful day, he did a two-year course at the Kyoto Traditional Technical Arts University in Nantan, Kyoto. Ever since that day, he has remained devoted to bamboo without any interest in other arts. During his two years at school, he studied how to make things like flower vases, tea ceremony utensils, and bamboo fences; all the while, he became more and more interested in bamboo.

After graduating from university, Mashimo soon began working at the company run by his bamboo-working professor, Nagaoka Meichiku. More than 20 years have passed since then, and he is still working with bamboo and continuing to contribute to the company.

Unexpected Ways to Use Bamboo Fences

Nagaoka Meichiku makes everything from bamboo garden fences, outer walls, sake bottles and cups, and chopsticks to more modern items like bamboo aroma diffusers.

While the bamboo fences that Nagaoka Meichiku specializes in are most often seen in the Japanese gardens of temples or Japanese-style inns, surprisingly, many of the orders that the company receives are from regular residential houses.

“Bamboo fences are great for hiding things that you don't want people to see, like your home's gas meter or a clothes line. Once more people become aware of these practical applications, I think there will be more demand for this kind of fence . ”

It's true: if the number of houses with bamboo fences were to increase, the scenery would likely be better, and the town would be more eco-friendly.

Mashimo is spreading the word about bamboo's appeal in the hopes that people will feel comfortable about using it in their homes.

Posting on Social Media Has an Unexpected Result

Mashimo has been actively promoting bamboo craftsmanship on social media.

“The other day I was working on a style of bamboo fence called inuyarai . Afterwards, I uploaded some pictures of the fence, and got a message from someone who saw the post. This person asked about using the inuyarai style of fence to prevent children from climbing over the railings on verandas and falling down. ”

This person was contacting him on behalf of an organization that works to prevent accidental falling deaths.

“The call made me realize that inuyarai fences could stop children from reaching the railing of a veranda, and in turn, prevent falling accidents.

They look nice, too. It's really something how these kinds of connections come about through social media. ”

All the posts he has made of his work have led to a steady stream of new jobs. This episode showed Mashimo the possibilities of bamboo fences in a new era.

Making QR Codes From Bamboo

“I made the bamboo QR code based on an idea I got from Mr. Kobayashi at Woodland Kyoto DMO. Using something analogue made from bamboo to jump to a digital website on your smart phone makes for an interesting story.”

However, he said the weave wasn't tight enough at first. Cell phones couldn't read the codes due to the gaps in the bamboo. After some trial and error, he was able to make it work. That gave him a great sense of achievement.

Adding Something Extra to Products

Mashimo didn't want to just sell things; he wanted to offer items that had something “extra.” After consulting with some of his friends and colleagues, he became aware of “SDGs.”

“SDGs” (Sustainable Development Goals) were adopted and propagated in 2015 by the United Nations General Assembly with the hope that all nations would work together to make them possible. The goals address problems such as poverty, education, and maintaining responsible consumption and production , along with many other areas. In all, there are 17 interlinked goals that the UN would like all countries to achieve by the year 2030.

Bamboo decomposes and returns to the soil. From that soil, the bamboo grows again and may once again be used. This cycle has been a central theme of our lifestyles since olden times.

Mashimo feels like this feature of bamboo perfectly meets the aims of the SDGs, and he decided to sell bamboo QR codes to businesses that are also striving to meet the guidelines set out by the SDGs.

“Because bamboo is kind to the environment and has a deep connection to the SDGs, I thought that a company that displays this bamboo QR code can point to it as proof that they are also contributing to the achievement of SDGs.”

In 2019, the bamboo QR codes were featured on Yahoo! News and they soon became a topic of conversation. The company received an order for the QR code from Adventure World, a theme park in Wakayama.

Adventure World is also working towards achieving SDGs in many other ways. When looking at Adventure World, we can catch a glimpse of what a company that works hand in hand with nature looks like.

If you go to Adventure World, please keep an eye out for this QR code!

Making the World Smile with Bamboo

We asked Mashimo about his plans for the future.

“We have always taken the phrase'make the world smile with bamboo' as our goal. Any way that achieves this goal is good; bamboo fences, small bamboo accessories, or events that use bamboo. Anything is okay!”

Because he knows more about bamboo's appeal and possibilities than anyone, Mashimo is able to say with confidence that bamboo can make people's lives brighter and put a smile on their faces.

Among the things the company offers to get more people to personally connect with bamboo is an experience where you can make a small bamboo accessory.

At the Nagaoka Meichiku studios, you can also have the experience of making your own pair of chopsticks.

The experience includes the following:

You're provided with a surface plane and sandpaper, which you use to file down and shave the bamboo to your desired size.

The ends of bamboo chopsticks can be filed down to fine points, which makes it easy to pick up even a single grain of rice. Also, they are very light and easy to pick up.

Hear about the special characteristics of kyomeichiku, the varieties of bamboo grown in Kyoto, and take a tour of the shop.

By feeling the warmth of Mashimo's personality, and by working with the bamboo yourself, you too will begin to understand the unique charm of bamboo.

By all means, make your way to Nagaoka Meichiku and feel it for yourself!

Kameoka Agritourism Promotion Council
General Incorporated Association
Mori no Kyoto Regional Promotion Company
(Mori no Kyoto DMO)

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

How Vietjet airline stood out amidst the global pandemic

All flights aligned with the safety standards of WHO, IATA and Vietnam’s Ministry of Health.

Aviation is among one of the industries that have been hit the hardest by the 2020 global pandemic. One Vietnamese airline, Vietjet, has persevered through the obstacles and achieved several milestones with its determination and adaptable business decisions. Here are some of the key milestones achieved in 2020:

1. 100 million passengers transported

Vietjet has achieved the milestone of receiving 100 million passengers on board in 2020, showcasing its rapid and sustainable development focused on its passengers. The airline has quickly expanded its international flight network from Vietnam, Thailand to India, Japan, China, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, Cambodia and Hong Kong.

2. Repatriation flights from the world to Vietnam

Once the COVID-19 pandemic started spreading globally, Vietjet collaborated with the relevant authorities to launch repatriation flights. The airline strictly adhered to all health regulations, collecting testing samples, sterilization process and organizing quarantine facilities and immigration zones at the airports. Vietjet’s ‘heroes with no capes’ at the time rushed round the clock to prepare for an important and urgent mission: to enable repatriation flights to take off. These were done in tandem to enhance domestic operations for summer when the first wave of the pandemic was tamed in Vietnam.

3. Launching a series of new services

In response to the pandemic, Vietjet has flexibly shifted to air cargo to deliver essential goods, medical equipment and medicine to assist medical workers in the frontline. Air cargo had soon become one of Vietjet’s core businesses, generating considerable revenue for the carrier. It was the first airline in Vietnam to be approved to deploy cargo operations in the passenger cabin (CIPC). Vietjet introduced an unlimited flight pass known as the Power Pass and an upgraded Power Pass SkyBoss to improve passengers’ convenience and flexibility during the difficult times. The airline also launched a brand-new Deluxe ticket class and an enhanced version of the Skyboss class on its flight network by introducing attractive deals.

4. Hundreds of relief flights on the way

Typhoons landed in the Central of Vietnam in October 2020, which caused significant casualties and damages. Many provinces and cities in the region, especially Hue City, were isolated without electricity, food and clean water. Vietjet decided to operate several flights transporting hundreds of thousands of tons of food, essential goods and medical equipment together with dozens of delegations of relief workers and officers to the Central region for free to provide timely support to those who were stranded. Vietjet’s staff were also present in airports across the city busy receiving relief goods while flight crew flew nonstop towards the Central region despite the challenging weather conditions. Vietjet also launched a program named “Fly with Vietjet-joining hands to donate VND10,000 (US43 cents) per ticket to people of Central Vietnam”. All of Vietjet’s employees made their donations through the various channels of donating cash, payroll giving, offering free hours of flying or sending relief goods.

5. Domestic operation resumed; new routes launched

To continue flying while keeping passengers in mind, Vietjet announced eight new routes connecting the tourist destinations of Da Nang to Phu Quoc, Da Lat, Buon Ma Thuot (Dak Lak Province), Vinh and Thanh Hoa; the capital Hanoi to Dong Hoi; Hai Phong to Quy Nhon (Binh Dinh Province); and Vinh to Phu Quoc island. The airline also kicked off several promotions in partnership with localities looking to stir up travel demand for the economy while keeping the disease under control.

6. Ground Services Center opened

Vietjet Ground Services Center (VJGS) began operating in late September at the Noi Bai International Airport. The launch of the self-handled ground services has helped the airline better manage its operating costs while improving brand recognition and increasing each flight's service quality. Equipped with high-quality employees and modern infrastructure, VJGS was deemed one of the airline's most prominent projects in 2020.

7. Engaging in philanthropic activity

Besides maintaining repatriation flights to bring more than 15,000 Vietnamese back home, Vietjet has been involved in many other philanthropic activities like transporting relief goods for free and donating VND10,000 from each ticket sold to support the people in the flooded Central region. It also kicked off an annual charity program called “A Cosy Tet for You” offering gifts and scholarships to children in remote mountainous areas. More than 2.5 million masks were given to the people in the United Kingdom, France, Germany and the United States. The one who has started this community spirit and kept it burning is no one else but Vietjet’s President & CEO, Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao. She is honoured as one of the top 100 figures in Asia in terms of philanthropic activities in 2020.

8. Thai Vietjet continued to experience growth

With endless efforts to stay afloat in the pandemic, Thai Vietjet became one of the fastest-growing low-cost airlines in Thailand last year. It has rapidly expanded its network by opening new routes to Chiang Mai, Surat Thani, Khon Kaen, Ubon Ratchathani and Nakhon Si Thammarat. In Vietnam, Vietjet has continued to utilize the advantages of a low-cost carrier model to stand firm in the pandemic with positive financial reports. It is expected to be among very few airlines in the world reporting positive consolidated financial statement in 2020 while managing to sustain jobs for more than 6,000 employees from over 50 countries and keeping the number of employee infection at zero. Throughout 2020 and looking towards 2021, Vietjet has invested time and capital to improve its high-quality personnel, enhancing its maintenance system and training for pilots and cabin crews while accelerating the digitalization process. The airline is ready to return to international skies as soon as the ban on international flights is lifted while striving to meet increasing domestic demand in the upcoming peak periods.

Vietjet’s achievements in 2020

• The world’s Top 10 Safest & Best Low-Cost Airlines by Airlines Rating
• “The Low-Cost Carrier of the Year’ and ‘the Belly Carrier of the Year’ by Payload Asia
• Technical Reliability rate at 99.64%
• Highest safety score with 7 out of 7 stars
• Load factor at 88%
• On-Time Performance (OTP) at 90%
• All flights aligned with the safety standards of WHO, IATA and Vietnam’s Ministry of Health

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Take a romantic stroll along a candlelit canal in winter

Held every February, the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival sprinkles the area of Otaru Canal with warm flickers of candlelight. 

The frozen canal is illuminated by candles lit within glass buoys that represent Otaru’s herring fishing heritage, while glowing snow and ice art line the promenade along the canal and the old Temiya railway line. 

The snowy town and the glittering lanterns creates a romantic setting for a winter fairytale.
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Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)
Facebook Visit Japan Now https://www.facebook.com/visitjapan2010

Facebook: Australia https://www.facebook.com/VisitJapanAU/

Website: https://www.japan.travel/en/

Website: https://www.japan.go.jp/japan/visit/

10 Ways to Stay, Play and Save in Perth

There's even more reason for West Aussies to stay and play in Perth, with a $200 discount being offered at up to 80 city hotels. As part of Tourism WA's Stay, Play and Save mid-week promotion, locals can receive the discount when spending $400, on a minimum two-night stay, Sunday to Thursday.

Here's some inspiration for how you can Stay, Play and Save, so you can start booking right away.

1) Experience one of the city's new hotel offerings. 

Perth offers some of the best hotel and short-stay accommodation in Australia, following an abundance of new and refurbished properties that have opened in the CBD and surrounding urban and coastal areas. All offer a range of in-house experiences, such as restaurants, events, high teas, rooftop bars and wellness centres.

2) Event season. 

It's event season in Perth, and with Fringe World already underway until February 14, there's something on every night of the week in the city, Northbridge and at Fringe's suburban hubs. Perth Festival, the Southern Hemisphere's oldest arts festival, runs from February 5 to 28, followed by Sculpture by the Sea at Cottesloe Beach – from March 5 to 22. It's also outdoor cinema season – Rooftop Movies in Northbridge, Moonlight Cinema in Kings Park and Perth Festival's Lotterywest Films at the Somerville Auditorium are a few of the options. Pick a couple of shows, and a hotel conveniently nearby.

3) Coastal vibes. 

Perth is renowned around the world for its coastline, and with 19 metropolitan beaches on our doorstep, along with our famous Indian Ocean sunsets, summer and autumn is the ultimate time to spend some extended time by the sea. Book a hotel by the coast, and enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner with a view. Keen to get a little further out of the city? Head to Rockingham and snorkel your way around the Shoalwater Marine Park, visit Penguin Island and take a tour to swim alongside wild dolphins with Perth Wildlife Encounters. Or, staycay in Mandurah and cruise the canals, take a seafood cruise or cycle on water around Mandjar Bay. Keep an eye out for local events at Hillarys Boat Harbour, or Scarborough, such as the Scarborough Sunset Markets, held every Thursday night.

4) See the city like you've never seen it before. 

Think you know Perth city, and Northbridge? Think again. There are a number of guided walking tours that take in the city's past, present and future. Explore laneways, architecture, street art, bars, cafes, and restaurants – as well as tours themed around cheese, beer, wine, whisky and gin. There's something for everyone, and you'll probably want to book more than one! Check out Two Feet And A Heartbeat, Oh Hey WA, or Eat The Street. Choose a hotel in the city or Northbridge and be the ultimate tourist in your own town.

5) Culture vulture. 

The spectacular new WA Museum Boola Bardip located in the Perth Cultural Centre is something every West Aussie should explore. With 6,000 square metres of gallery space and stories from across the State, you'll want to visit more than once. Be sure to also check out what's on at the Art Gallery of WA – its collection has grown into the finest public art collection in the State. Need more? PICA (the Perth Institute of Contemporary Art) has its summer exhibitions opening on February 7, with a series of exhibitions on show in association with the Perth Festival. Never checked out the city's established attractions such as The Bell Tower or the Perth Mint? A staycay is the perfect time to watch a gold pour at the Mint, and see the famous bells from London' St Martins in the Fields at The Bell Tower.

6) Check out the Burswood Peninsula and climb the city's newest attractions.

Situated on the Swan River, the Burswood Peninsula is another part of Perth which has had a huge makeover. With Optus Stadium as the centrepiece, the next big thing for locals is the Matagarup Zip & Climb. The bridge climb is officially open, and once at the top, admire the 360-degree views from the 72-metre high platform. Climbs operate during the day, at night and even during a full moon. The zip-line experience is on its way, which will take zippers 400 metres across the Swan River to Burswood Park. Time your stay to include an event at Optus Stadium. The AFL season kicks on Sunday March 21, and make sure you get behind-the-scenes on a stadium tour or see it from above on the stadium's brand new rooftop experience – HALO. Visitors will be able to see the sights of Perth 42 metres above the turf at Optus Stadium. Don't miss Warrang Bridil's Aboriginal Cultural Tours – a guided walking tour along the shores of the Derbal Yerrigan (Swan River) where you can see Nyoongar cultural influence in the development of the precinct and Matagarup Bridge. Lastly, there's heaps of spots to walk, run or picnic by the river, and restaurants and bars for a bite to eat.

7) Get on the Swan. 

It's fine to just admire the Swan River from your hotel room, but an even better idea during Perth's spectacular warmer months is to get on it. Locals can experience the river from a fun and unique perspective, thanks to the introduction of two new waterbike tours - Perth Waterbike Adventures, which depart from Matilda Bay, and Perth Waterbike Co, departing from South Perth. Guests can safely pedal and glide across the Swan River, with a range of different tours on offer. Looking for something less active? Check out Gondolas On The Swan, Little Ferry Co, Wild West Charters, Adventure Charter Group, Captain Cook Cruises and Crystal Swan Cruises' cultural cruise, who all operate a range of tours taking in the best of the city, river, Swan Valley and surrounds. Further afield, GoGo Active Tours' offer a new Cliffs and Caves Kayak tour, which paddle along the riverbanks and cliff face of East Fremantle and Bicton Bay.

8) Eat and drink your way around Perth and the Swan Valley.

Got a list of restaurants in Perth you've always wanted to dine at, or bars you've always wanted to visit? Pull that out, book yourself a room, and make it happen. Some of the city's newest hotels are also home to some of the most talked about restaurants, such as Hearth at The Ritz Carlton, Santini Bar & Grill at QT Perth and Wildflower at COMO The Treasury. Other new and trending dining options include Fleur, Double Rainbow, Le Rebelle, Ten Acre Block, Wines of While, and Cooee. The warmer months mean it's the perfect time to find yourself on a rooftop bar. Some of the newer venues include 18 Knots at the new DoubleTree by Hilton Perth Waterfront, and Hello at The Rechabite. And for the ultimate in food and drink indulgence, the Swan Valley is the place to be – WA's oldest wine region is home to more than 40 wineries, six boutique breweries, cideries and distilleries, many of which have on-site restaurants or offer 'foodie' experiences.

9) Check out Fremantle's renaissance. 

While Perth city has undergone a massive transformation in recent years, Freo is experiencing its own renaissance. There's plenty of hotels located within the port city, ranging from self-contained apartments, to boutique properties, to large-scale hotels. Take a walking, cycling or foodie tour with the likes of Fremantle Tours, Two Feet And A Heartbeat or Fremantle Food Tours, check out the new restaurants or bars, and settle into the Freo 'vibe'.

10) Just, relax. 

Feel a bit undone by 2021 already? Having a staycay in your own city is the ultimate chance to just stop, and chill. A comfy bed, with someone to make it each morning, food delivered to your room, in-house movies, cocktails by the pool…..bliss. If you're really in need of some extra pampering, find a hotel with an on-site day spa.

Bookings can be made from this Friday January 29 until February 19, with travel up until the end of April.

Bookings available at www.experienceperth.com/stayplaysave

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Website: www.westernaustralia.com

BANYAN TREE GROUP CONTINUES WINNING STREAK WITH SIX “BEST IN THAILAND” ACCOLADES AT INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY AWARDS 2020

In a show of strength for the region’s finest integrated resort complex, Banyan Tree Group picked up six prestigious International Property Awards accolades for its property developments in Laguna Phuket, including project development and marketing awards.

Skypark Phuket, Angsana Oceanview Residences, and Laguna Park 2 Phuket were all recognized with “Best in Thailand” awards in the International Property Awards 2020-2021.

“Over the past 3 years, we have won 20 awards across all our Laguna Phuket properties, and we are extremely proud to receive recognition from our industry peers for building a thriving resort and residential community on Phuket,” said Mr. Roy Lau, Senior Assistant Vice President of Banyan Tree Group Property,

The biggest winner for the group in the latest International Property Awards was Skypark Phuket, which scooped three “Best in Thailand” awards, including in the Residential Interior Show Home for Thailand, Apartment/Condominium for Thailand, and Development Marketing for Thailand categories.

Launched in 2019, Skypark Phuket offers affordable residential and investment apartments ranging from studios to two-bedroom suites, with a choice of fit-out and furnishing options. Connecting the development’s low-rise buildings are unique rooftop “sky” parks with al fresco swimming pools, gardens, and recreation areas including yoga lawn, jogging track and BBQ area.

“Over the past 3 years, we have won 20 awards across all our Laguna Phuket properties, and we are extremely proud to receive recognition from our industry peers for building a thriving resort and residential community on Phuket,” said Mr. Roy Lau, Senior Assistant Vice President of Banyan Tree Group Property,

Sharing the same address within the 1,000 acres of tropical parkland fronting pristine Bang Tao Beach is Angsana Oceanview Residences, which also picked up a Best Apartment/Condominium for Thailand award.

The resort residence development comprises contemporary-styled two-bedroom apartments and penthouses, plus hotel rooms at Angsana Laguna Phuket. The investment properties, housed in three low-rise buildings overlooking a lagoon and the Andaman Sea, are professionally managed by Angsana Laguna Phuket and offer an attractive return on investment.

Adjacent to the world-famous Laguna Phuket is Laguna Park 2 Phuket, a landed residential development which was also awarded a “Best in Thailand” recognition in the Residential Development for Thailand category.

Nestled in a secure gated estate, Laguna Park 2 comprises affordable two- to three-bedroom town homes and four- to five-bedroom villas which combine stylish, modern living with the tranquillity of a relaxed island lifestyle.

The recently redesigned Banyan Tree Residences website (BanyanTreeResidences.com) was also recognized as one of the Best Developer Website for Thailand.

“As testament to our global project development team, our projects in Bintan and Brisbane have also received similar esteemed awards in recent years,” added Mr. Stuart Reading, Head of Banyan Tree Group Property. “Our team does a fantastic job creating properties for a global community of primary residents and investors, but the true test of our success is the thriving community of over 1,000 happy homeowners who now call Laguna Phuket home.”

For a limited time only, Banyan Tree Group Property is offering an exclusive invitation to become part of Phuket’s largest growing residential resort community. As part of the special Preview Trip Offer, interested buyers can secure their future home with an off-site reservation fee of just THB 50,000, after which they can enjoy a complimentary inspection trip to Phuket within three months along with other perks and privileges.

For more information, or to book a private virtual tour, please contact info@lagunaproperty.com.

To learn more, please visit www.banyanthailand.com

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group launches “Inner Strength – Outer Strength” wellness initiative

Reflecting on the unprecedented challenges of 2020 and starting the new year with renewed energy, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has launched the “Inner Strength – Outer Strength” wellness initiative across all its spas worldwide to assist guests in using this time of disruption to create positive changes and build strength both physically and mentally.

“The adversity in 2020 has led all of us to re-prioritize personal wellness. Developing our reserves of strength during times of uncertainty is crucial to avoid illness, manage stress and be better able to support others,” said Jeremy McCarthy, Group Director of Spa & Wellness. “Entering 2021 with hopes for a brighter future ahead, we are proud to offer our new Inner Strength – Outer Strength initiative, delivered by our diverse teams of wellness experts, massage therapists, fitness trainers and meditation teachers from across our Spas.”

Each Spa at Mandarin Oriental ensures the modern luxuries of silence, calm, separation from technology, and nurturing touch from professionally trained therapists in a tranquil environment. Through this initiative, guests can focus on their ‘Inner Strength’ development by taking time for silence, contemplation and mindfulness, while building ‘Outer Strength’ through boosting physical vitality with exercise, movement and healthy nutrition.

The ‘Inner Strength – Outer Strength’ experience is tailored to the specific needs of each guest, who can access expert trainers and practitioners to help define new goals and routines, or to motivate them towards the goals they have already established. A series of virtual assessments and tip sheets have also been developed to support guests remotely. Specialty offerings at The Spas at Mandarin Oriental include:

• Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong is offering a series of singing bowl workshops along with tailored fitness programmes based on a full body composition analysis.
• Mandarin Oriental, Macau is featuring a relaxing ‘Inner Strength’ spa treatment combined with a variety of fitness classes including yoga and personal training.
• Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok is pairing advanced yoga nidra techniques such as pranayama (breathwork) and mantra chanting alongside intense fitness activities, including guided runs and boot camp sessions.
• Mandarin Oriental Milan is presenting yoga and singing bowl sessions along with private AquaGym and stretching classes.
• Mandarin Oriental Marrakech is running workshops on essential oils along with complimentary fitness assessments with their certified coach.
• Mandarin Oriental, Canouan is offering yoga and guided meditation alongside active outdoor activities such as kayaking and hiking.

The course’s three core areas focus on: Physical Strength (Vitality), Mental Strength (Mindfulness) and Character Strength (Authenticity) and the expert team includes:

• Master Hu – Kung Fu Master at Mandarin Oriental, Sanya
• Andrew Johnson - Meditation Teacher at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London
• Cristina Mclauchlan - Yoga Teacher at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong
• Tony Reed - Massage Therapist at Mandarin Oriental, Boston
• Newman Chen – Traditional Chinese Medicine Specialist at Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is renowned for ground-breaking signature concepts, products and treatments that deliver the most bespoke experiences tailored to the preferences of guests. These have established the Group’s spas as some of the best in the world, with more Forbes ‘Five-Star Spas’ than any other hotel company.

The group recognises the unprecedented levels of stress and anxiety faced by colleagues amid the challenges brought by the pandemic and has also launched a virtual Inner Strength – Outer Strength course alongside myriad local wellness activities to support the global team in adopting new wellness habits into their lifestyle.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

ADAM SPENCER SHARES HIS FIRST EVER NSW AUSSIE ROAD TRIP IN NEW ONLINE VIDEO SERIES

Australia’s most loved maths geek, author and comic, Adam Spencer, will share his first-ever road trip experience around NSW, in a new online video series that celebrates the Australian spirit as we head into Australia Day on 26 January.

With COVID-19 changing the way we travel, the NSW Government and Australia Day Council of NSW is getting behind regional communities in NSW to encourage people to start planning their visits to amazing destinations across our state.

The new 10-part series, Love an Aussie Road Trip, with Adam and his family, is designed to showcase the best of regional NSW, taking viewers through a number of iconic towns, including Mudgee, Parkes, Dubbo, Wellington, Gloucester, Port Macquarie and South West Rocks – just to name a few.

Australia Day Council of NSW Chair Andrew Parker recognised the incredible experiences available to all Australians in our own backyard.

“Australians love a road trip and this summer, we’re bringing the iconic road trip to the community. After a challenging year, we’re celebrating our Australian regional communities, which have so much to offer, from fresh produce, inspiring landscapes, adventure to sporting experiences.

“The humble road trip is embedded in our Australian identity, it’s responsible for a lifetime of memories, connecting with different people and endless stories. Adam’s road trip series through regional NSW provides some much-needed humour and new perspectives for when we can all safely hit the road again,” Mr Parker said.

Episodes will be released through to Australia Day exclusively here.

The website is full of handy tips to assist road trippers, both new and experienced, to plan their next adventure with plenty of ideas for the future when it’s safe to get out and embrace our communities.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Destination NSW
https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/

COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS EASED IN NSW, BORDERS OPEN

NSW has eased COVID-19 restrictions on Friday in line with updated health advice following no community transmission of the virus for 12 days.

The new measures, specific to Sydney, will allow for greater numbers at household and outdoor gatherings, no upper limit on the number of guests at venues (but observing the one person per four sqm rule) and a relaxation of compulsory mask wearing in retail shopping centres. Masks remain mandatory on public transport, places of worship, hairdressers, beauticians, in gaming rooms and for front-of-house hospitality staff.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian commended the community for the combined effort to contain the recent outbreak.

“We must remain vigilant – it is critical we are getting tested with the mildest of symptoms, follow the health advice and continue to be COVID-safe right across the state.”

See the latest health advice and current restrictions at www.nsw.gov.au/COVID-19.

In response to the lack of community transmission in NSW, Queensland has also confirmed it will reopen the border to all of NSW on Monday 1 February allowing for travel between states once again. Victoria has also updated its travel advice regarding Sydney and from 6pm this evening anyone from NSW can enter Victoria with a permit. All areas of Greater Sydney are now green zones, except Cumberland LGA which is an orange zone. South Australia has also indicated it will ease travel restrictions on visitors from Greater Sydney from 12.01am Sunday 31 January, pending no further cases being identified. For the latest information on border restrictions, visit the NSW Government website.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Destination NSW
https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/

Lots to Love About Valentine's Day at Hyatt Regency Sydney

Hyatt Regency Sydney plays host to romantic Valentine's Day celebrations.

February is around the corner and love is in the air! No gesture is as romantic as a surprise dinner date with your loved one to celebrate.

Hyatt Regency Sydney, Australia's largest hotel, offers exciting Valentine's Day dining experiences to suit every taste, from seafood dinners, adventurous high teas with a twist and sunset, sky high cocktails. 

It's rare that Valentine's Day takes place on a weekend so guest can extend the celebrations and enjoy the latest Staycation with breakfast package and enjoy a night in a luxe room with breakfast and late check out. Here are the special Valentine's Day events on offer this February 14th.

Valentine's Seafood Dinner at Sailmaker Restaurant

Treat your special someone to Sailmaker Restaurant's Signature Seafood Table. With fish delivered from Sydney's iconic Fish Market, you will enjoy a delicious array of oysters, prawns, crab, octopus, salads and more. Accompanied by seasonal mains and sides and topped off with indulgent desserts ...all the Valentine's Day favourites.

$99 per person. Optional beverage package available to buy on the day for $26 per person (includes Australian sparkling, white wines, red wines or lager).

Jackalberry Traveller's High Tea

Give the gift of flavour and adventure this Valentine's Day and treat your loved one to Jackalberry Bar's Traveller's High Tea. Three tiers of delectable high tea items from around the world, paired with Mr Black Cocktails - the perfect surprise for wannabe travellers and sweet treat lovers.

$79 per person, available from 2pm- 5pm on Sunday 14 February 2021.

Celebrate Valentine's Day Sky High at Zephyr Rooftop Bar

Why not celebrate Valentine's Day in luxury at Zephyr, alfresco rooftop bar. Let the romance flow and enjoy a Valentine's Day exclusive cocktail as the sun sets over the water. Choose from Zephyr's 'Romance of the Sky' or 'Cupid's Arrow' V Day cocktails or indulge in an array of signature cocktails, spirits, beers, wines and seasonal food (minimum spend and booking fees apply).

Spend the night in 5-star luxury, fantastic packages and specials on offer

Make the most of Valentine's Day falling on the weekend and enjoy a Sydney Staycation with breakfast and late check out. Hyatt Regency Sydney's staycation package is a fantastic choice to treat loved ones to over the Valentine's weekend. This package is available on both the Saturday (13th Feb) and Sunday (14th Feb) so a great option to wake up to on Valentine's Day or to extend your night.

Visit https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/australia/hyatt-regency-sydney/sydrs/news-events for information and to book Valentine's Day dining options.

Visit https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/australia/hyatt-regency-sydney/sydrs/offers for the latest accommodation deals and packages.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Tags: Valentine, Valentine's Day, Valentine's Day ideas, hotel packages