Discount for Cruise Passengers at Metro Apartments Darling Harbour

As another Australian summer draws near and thousands of Australians prepare for the annual cruise season, Metro Apartments Darling Harbour is offering cruise passengers a special 10 per cent discount off the best available rate for the length of their stay, to ensure their time in Sydney is as enjoyable as their time at sea.

With more than 80 cruises departing Sydney between September 1st and December 30, 2013, thousands of passengers will pass through Sydney before being carried off to intriguing destinations around the globe in ships such as Pacific Pearl, Radiance of the Seas, Carnival Spirit and Sun Princess. Sydney Harbour will be transformed into floating apartment hotels as these majestic cruise liners of the world prepare to pamper their multitude of guests.

Many interstate and regional guests will arrive in Sydney over the next few months to embark on a cruise, with cruises departing from the International Passenger Terminal in Circular Quay and from the White Bay Terminal at Rozelle. Located close to both departure points, Metro Apartments Darling Harbour is perfect for a pre- and post-cruise stay, just a short taxi trip away from both terminals.

Metro Apartments Darling Harbour offers a selection of 32 recently renovated loft-style one-bedroom apartments, each with a queen sized bed and sofa bed and offering all the comforts of a ‘home away from home’ with the convenience of a perfect city location. Located in two separate buildings in Sussex and King Streets, guests can choose from the larger, contemporary-styled Sussex St apartments with views over Darling Harbour or a New York styled King Street apartment with access to rooftop pool.

Apartments have full kitchen and laundry facilities, spacious living rooms with cathedral windows and have been designed as a ‘home away from home’ where families can relax at the end of a long day’s sightseeing, or just have a break before venturing out again to explore more of Sydney. Discount parking of $30 for 24 hours is provided nearby at 170 Sussex St Secure Car Parking.

To access the special offer, cruise passengers can book online at http://www.metrohotels.com.au/sydney-hotels/metro-apartments-on-darling-harbour-4; http://www.metrohotels.com.au/sydney-hotels/metro-apartments-on-king-17

On these websites you will get the best available packages and rate and use the word CRUISE when prompted for a discount code. Alternately they can ring the toll free Central Reservations line on 1800 004 321.

PATA awards bid to New Zealand Māori Tourism to host Pacific Asia Indigenous Tourism Conference 2014

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has accepted the New Zealand Māori Tourism's exceptional bid to host the second Pacific Asia Indigenous Tourism Conference (PAITC) and PATA Board Meetings in Rotorua, New Zealand from April 4-9, 2014.

The objective of the PAITC is to promote awareness, enhance and protect the increasingly important tourism role of Asia Pacific's Indigenous peoples such as hill tribes, forest dwellers, sea faring groups and Aboriginal people.

"PATA is pleased to partner with New Zealand Māori Tourism to host this significant Indigenous event, driven by Indigenous peoples, for the sustainable development of Indigenous tourism," said Martin Craigs, PATA Chief Executive Officer. "We expect to draw participation from Indigenous leaders, government agencies, associations, operators, NGOs, universities, research bodies and media from around the globe, to discuss and share issues, challenges and solutions on how to best preserve Indigenous heritage and culture as part of the complete visitor economy."

The PAITC is an opportunity to showcase the success of Māori tourism driving Māori economic growth, while holding a dialogue and sharing best practices from Indigenous groups around the world.

"We pride ourselves on being able offer a truly unique experience to visitors through our people, our stories and our landscapes, we look forward to welcoming delegates to the land of engaging faces and intriguing places, Aotearoa New Zealand," said Pania Tyson-Nathan CEO of New Zealand Māori Tourism.

In addition to the PATA Executive Board and Board Meetings, the conference programme will incorporate activities that ensure the critical role of Indigenous tourism and the need to protect and enhance the authentic visitor experience are better understood and communicated to the wider tourism community.

The Conference agenda will be based on the principles adopted in the Larrakia Declaration on the Development of Indigenous Tourism, which was established during the first Pacific Asia Indigenous Conference, held in Darwin, Australia in March 2012. The Declaration aims to uphold and respect traditional laws, knowledge, land, and heritage in all tourism decisions, while ensuring that Indigenous peoples play a significant role in the decision-making of public policy and programs in the development of Indigenous tourism.

Bringing Harmony To Chinatown's Heart

Thousands of Chinatown pedestrians will soon have more space to walk and brilliant new artworks, thanks to a City of Sydney plan for a new public plaza.

The second stage of the City of Sydney's Chinatown Public Domain Plan will create a gateway of dramatic circular shade sculptures suspended above Thomas Street, with a 'moongate' of splashed bronze in the pavement, iconic 'scholar' rocks and unique stone seating.

Award-winning artist Lindy Lee will provide unique public art and visitors will benefit from a soothing green canopy of newly planted trees, widened footpaths and new street lights.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the transformation of Thomas Street would bring more people to Chinatown.

"We want to make Chinatown an even more attractive, enjoyable and interesting place for the many thousands of people who walk through our city every day," the Lord Mayor said.

"Our plans for Thomas Street will create more space for pedestrians in the heart of Chinatown and give people a reason to stop, take a moment out of their busy day and enjoy the area.

"When we consulted local residents and businesses earlier this year about the proposal, more than 95 per cent supported the work."

The improvements will be accompanied by traffic changes in the area to give pedestrians priority, including making Thomas Street a 10km/h shared zone with timed closures between Ultimo Road and Thomas Lane.

"The City's plans for the upgrade of Thomas Street will continue to reinforce Sydney's Chinatown as one of the best in the world," the President of the Haymarket Chamber of Commerce, Brad Chan, said.

"The focus on improving pedestrian movements around the area and reinvigorating the public domain are exciting developments for an already vibrant precinct. I look forward to seeing the benefits of the upgrade extend into surrounding businesses and strengthening the local economy in Haymarket."

Landscape architect Jane Irwin and architect Philip Thalis have worked with Chinese-Australian artist Lindy Lee and a team of designers - including a feng shui expert - over the past 12 months to develop the plans.

The Chinatown Public Domain Plan was launched in 2010 after comprehensive community consultation. It proposes a suite of improvements to support the rich local program of events, cultural experiences and public life on Chinatown's streets.

The first stage of works was completed in early 2012. These included a $5 million makeover of three laneways in the heart of Haymarket - Little Hay Street, Factory Street and Kimber Lane - as well as the transformation of a disused pagoda at the northern end of Dixon Street Mall into a new information kiosk.

The City is now developing detailed design plans for the Thomas Street transformation, with construction set to begin in mid-2014.

Asia Pacific on Track For Another Record Year in International Visitor Arrivals

International visitor arrivals into Asia Pacific destinations have expanded at better than eight per cent over the first part of the year according to preliminary estimates released by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) today. Across the 31 destinations for which data is currently available, this translates into more than eight million additional arrivals over and above those received for the corresponding periods of last year.

These results are consistent with the growth predictions made by the PATA forecasts of visitor demand and place the region well on target to achieve an expected international inbound volume of around 495 million for the full 2013 calendar year.

First half results for 2013 are available for 16 of the Asia Pacific destinations - which incidentally also account for 84 per cent of the inbound arrivals volume so far this year - and at close to 145 million foreign arrivals, are within three per cent of the predictions as made in the PATA forecast report.

"Forecasts with this degree of accuracy, detail and a timely quarterly update are essential if we are to effectively respond to opportunities as they emerge," said Martin J. Craigs, Chief Executive Officer of PATA. "Additionally, numbers such as these alert investors to the risks, and of course the many rewards offered by Asia Pacific's world-leading visitor economy."

A number of these destinations are performing well above expectations. Japan in particular is rebounding at a much faster rate than predicted with an inbound volume of around five million as of June this year. Thailand, a rapidly growing source market for Japan, has generated growth in arrivals of almost 53 per cent so far this year, and that is expected to grow even more strongly since the visa exemption took effect on July 1, 2013.

The Maldives is another destination that is performing well above predicted expectations with continued growth coming out of the China market, but also with substantial gains from a number of other areas including Central & Eastern Europe and West Asia.

A total of 41 destinations are covered in PATA's Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2013-17 report, with predicted volume flows by origin given quarterly over a five-year horizon until 2017.

For more information about the PATA Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2013-17 report, please contact PATA at sic@PATA.org. Additionally forecast data may be accessed easily and quickly through PATA's online database at www.PATAmPower.org.

Singapore Is Revving Up For The 2013 Grand Prix Season

The 2013 Formula 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix will be ready, set, go at Marina Bay Street Circuit in downtown Singapore, this 20th – 22nd September. As the sun sets on this island city, the action heats up on the streets, with the only night race included within the global Formula 1 circuit.

Locals have long known the vibrant city is best experienced after dark thanks to a diverse range of cutting edge bars, clubs and restaurants coupled with late night operating hours. From 13 to 23 September the Grand Prix Season Singapore (GPSS) challenges Aussie visitors to hold on for the ride of their life, with eleven days of round-the-clock entertainment at both official race sites and across the city.

This year’s entertainment line-up promises to take the adrenaline-pumping action to the next gear, with stellar in-circuit headliners ranging from The Killers, Tom Jones, global superstars Rihanna and Justin Bieber, and Asian chart-topper Big Bang. In addition, English illusionist Dynamo will surprise and delight unsuspecting strangers with his jaw-dropping tricks, whilst quirky cabaret star Ennio Marchetto will channel famous personalities such as Marilyn Monroe and Cher.

Fill your itinerary from start to finish with an unrivalled line-up of experiences, no matter what your interests are. Highlights include:

• To satisfy testosterone-filled racing fans, Artichoke’s resident chef – Bjorn Shen – is creating a one-off menu of over-the-top ‘dude’ food dishes called ‘Dude, Where’s My Food? A Week of Food Deviance’. Shen will serve up an indulgent menu that includes steak, sausages, fried chicken and locally crafted beers.
• Involve yourself in Bed SupperClub’s cutting-edge concept at Tanjong Beach Club – the unique mix of restaurant, club, art gallery and theatre. Themed to the glitz of 1950’s Miami (think white palm trees and pink lawn flamingos), there will be an all-day carnival with circus acts, international DJs, fire dancers and an all-night party.
• For a splash of nostalgia, celebrate Grand Prix’s 1950’s origins with a vintage twist, by watching the race in black and white atOCF’s Racing of Yesteryears nights. Dress the part with a tall hat, masquerade mask or a pillbox hat.
• Need to re-fuel during all the excitement? Take a pit stop and try new and exciting dining concepts every day of the race thanks toThe Bacchanalia Brunch Series who will be located just outside the circuit area at Coleman Street.
• Discover trendy Haji Lane within the Arab quarter, by sipping on a bespoke race inspired cocktail at Singapore’s leading artisanal cocktail bar, Off Your Tracks.

In the middle of the shopping district, Brix brings the glitz and glamour of the carnival to the city with Parc Ferme 2013 – a carnival themed party that pulsates with live international entertainment on every stage, every night.

Packages start from AUD$2,595 per person including a 3 day Grandstand race ticket, Singapore F1 Race Preview Lunch, return airfares, airport transfers and 4 nights accommodation. Specific dates apply.

For full details, please visit:
http://www.sportsnetholidays.com/events/formula-one/formula-1-singapore-grand-prix/

For information on how you can make the most of your visit to Singapore during the Grand Prix Season Singapore, please visit www.yoursingapore.com/gpss

Chinese Arrivals to Cambodia up 55% over Previous Year

About 231,000 Chinese visited Cambodia in the first six months of the year, up 55 percent over the previous year. Cambodia received 334,000 Chinese visitors in 2012, up 35 percent year-on-year, Xinhua news agency quoted Cambodia’s Tourism Ministry saying in a report.

Kong Sopheareak, head of Statistics and Planning Department from the ministry, attributed the latest growth to direct flight connections, popular tourist attractions and cordial ties between both countries.

“Close relationships between the Cambodian and Chinese government have encouraged more Chinese tourists, investors and businesspeople to visit Cambodia,” he said on Monday.

In June, the Tourism Ministry unveiled a five-year plan targetting at least 1.3 million Chinese visitors by 2018.

As part of the plan, the government will conduct studies to establish China towns and train more Chinese speaking tour guides.

Entry and exit application forms and announcements at airports will be provided in Chinese language, and main roads will carry signs in Chinese.

China is the third largest tourist source to Cambodia after Vietnam and South Korea.

Wildlife Fun for the School Holidays at Wonderland Fun Park Docklands

In the heart of Harbour Town Shopping Centre, Docklands, sits Wonderland Fun Park and Spiegeltent - one of Melbourne's best interactive attractions for children aged 4 - 12 years, filled with fantastic rides for the kids and live shows for the whole family.

And with the Spring school holidays coming up, Wonderland Fun Park has you covered with its two-week exclusive season of Wildlife Down Under, starring ABC TV's Chris Humfrey and his Zoo Keepers who bring their Wild Action Show each day through the September break.

With 24 shows across two weeks, your kids can take a ride on the wild side as everybody's favourite TV zoologist will let them experience close encounters with wild action and meet all their favourite Aussie animals, live in the Wonderland Spiegeltent.

In this amazing Wild Action Show you can meet and interact with all the beautiful Australian animals: Hop like a wallaby, meet an adorable koala, kiss a frog, talk to a turtle, pat a possum, chat with a lorikeet, laugh with a kookaburra, smile at a crocodile, say g'day to a giant python, a dingo and more.

The exhilarating takes you for a walk on the wild side, in a fun, action-packed 75-minutes of unforgettable entertainment combined with environmental education.

Wild Action Shows instill a positive wonderment in nature for all participants, encouraging people to explore the natural world of Australia.

Show-Only tickets are $15 or purchase a Super Unlimited Rides Pass for unlimited rides and the show for $35. Bookings can be made on line (www.wonderlandfunpark.com.au) or phone +61 3 9602 1311.

Wonderland Fun Park is the entertainment hub of Docklands, offering different rides and attractions throughout the year as well as family favorite's such as Dodgem Cars, The Grand Carousel, Dragon Flyer, Tea Cups, Magic Train, Bungee Trampoline, The Wacky Worm Rollercoaster, Crazy Wave and the new extreme attraction, Drop Zone.

Chris Humfrey is the presenter of ABC TV's "Chris Humfrey's Wild Life". Chris is a zoologist who lives with his young family and really BIG dog in country Victoria. But the Humfreys also share their home with a few other pets - more than 2000 of them! And each one needs special care and attention.

Accor Hotels To Dazzle At Luxperience 2013

Accor Hotels is pleased to confirm its attendance at luxury travel event, Luxperience from 2-4 September, held at the Overseas Passenger Terminal in Sydney.

As a Hotel Partner of Luxperience 2013, Accor will showcase its luxury and upper upscale brands including Sofitel Luxury Hotels, Pullman, MGallery and The Sebel, both nationally and abroad from the Asia Pacific region.

Accor representatives attending Luxperience will be available for one-on-one meetings with a selection of international and domestic agencies and operators from the luxury and experiential travel and events sector over the three day event.

The 5-star Pullman Sydney Quay Grand Sydney Harbour is the venue for Luxperience networking post the Official Welcome function held at Sydney Opera House on Monday 2 September. Delegates will mix and mingle in Pullman's vibrant ECQ Bar which overlooks the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Circular Quay.

As well as the networking function, Accor hotels will accommodate more than 100 Luxperience hosted buyers at Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, Pullman Sydney Quay Grand, Pullman Sydney Hyde Park, The Harbour Rocks Hotel - MGallery and The Sebel Pier One.

Director of Sales and Distribution Accor Australia, Henrik Berglind, said "Accor's upper upscale portfolio has grown exponentially over the last year and now having Australia's largest 5-star hotel brand - Pullman - we're really excited to showcase our newly upgraded hotels at Luxperience.

"Our distinctive collection of boutique hotels - MGallery - is also growing in Australia and we've just welcomed an icon from the Adelaide Hills, Mount Lofty House to the brand. In becoming part of the Collection, Mount Lofty House joins a number of nationally and internationally revered hotels, including The Como in Melbourne, Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains, Harbour Rocks Hotel in Sydney as well as Hotel St Mortiz in Queenstown, Hotel Muse Bangkok and The Baltimore in Paris.

"Subtly blending French touches with local styles and a passion for gastronomy, our four Sofitel Luxury hotels, including Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne and Sydney each offer a genuine experience of French luxury and the best of local culture.

"Accor is now a major player in the luxury hotel space and we look forward to showcasing our exceptional hotel product to inspire suppliers and travel buyers when booking their next luxury holiday. We look forward to showcasing our portfolio of Luxury by Accor properties at Luxperience."

CEO of Luxperience Helen Logas said "We are delighted to partner with Accor Hotels and welcome their involvement specifically to promote their luxury brands. Luxperience not only services and highlights a niche market but highlights the growing importance of this market to the travel industry both in Australia and around the world. The Australia and Pacific region now has product that can rival some of the best in the world"

World Bog Snorkelling Championships Attracts Global Enthusiasts to Britain

Waen Rhydd peat bog on the outskirts of the smallest town in Britain, Llanwrtyd Wells, is home to now-world-famous event World Bog Snorkelling Championships. Taking place on August 25 and August 26, the aim of the championships is to swim two lengths (about 115 metres) of a peaty, murky trench, which has been dug out of the Waen Rhydd peat bog, in the quickest time possible.

Competitors come from as far afield as Australia, America and Europe as well as from Britain for the pleasure of taking part.

The snorkeller with the fastest time wins a small cash prize. Organised by ‘Green Events’, the novel event was originally thought up by a local pub landlord Gordon Green in 1986 in a bid to boost tourism to the area.

A Taste Of 'Nam This September At Grand Hyatt Melbourne

Grand Hyatt Melbourne is adding a kick of flavour and a spoonful of imagination as your taste buds take a trip to Vietnam this September 17 - September 21.

Chefs from Hyatt Regency Da Nang will be joining our culinary brigade and have created the ultimate hawker-style lunch ($40pp) and a la carte dinner menu, plus a Saturday night finale ($75pp) with oodles of noodles, fragrant local favourites and a tangy twist on surf 'n' turf.

Get your fingers dirty with this cuisine of cool and sample fried soft shell tamarind crab or fresh flavoured seafood spring rolls. For those that are a little more adventurous, trial tantalising tongue twisters such as Vietnamese chilli pork spare

ribs and everyone's signature staple - pho! Nam is the Chef Du Jour at the helm of the kitchen, transporting these southern Vietnamese sensations to our plates. Hailing originally from Hanoi, Nam has mastered coastal cuisine, boasting the best Banh Xeo spring rolls in the country! Be sure to bring a group as you eat your way through his menu of palate pleasers perfectly designed for sharing.

PLUS, go in the draw to WIN A 3-DAY GOURMET GETAWAY TO VIETNAM for two, thanks to Vietnam Air and Hyatt Regency Da Nang valued at over $4,000.