Sailing into a Croatian sunset

Cruising, Destinations, Inspiration

Dreaming of the European sunshine kissing your skin as you lay on the deck of your yacht, champagne in hand? Thinking you would have to win the lottery for this to become a reality?

What if we were to let you in on one of our best kept secrets?

You could be sailing along the Dalmatian Coast, enjoying the treasures of Croatia, this time next year, and all you need to do is give our team a call.

With a sublime stretch of coast on the Adriatic Sea studded with hundreds of picturesque islands, Croatia’s most popular attraction is sailing. Fringed with pristine turquoise waters, beautiful beaches and hidden coves, the islands also offer charming fishing villages, historical marina ports and countryside carpeted with acres of vineyards, all waiting to be discovered.

Here @ Hamilton Harbour we have the perfect Croatian Sailing package for every type of traveller.

From jam-packed, fun-filled, sun soaked, Island Hopping adventures – 8 Days from $919.00 pp (ONLY $899.00 pp for Students!) to luxurious, first class, private sailing getaways – 8 Days from $1999.00 pp . . . and everything in between.

With perfect weather conditions their main priority, a small window of dates apply, with limited departures available – Don’t miss out on your slice of paradise, get in quick and lock in your European adventure for 2015!

Call us on (07) 3338 8400 to discuss your options and we will find the perfect fit for your Croatian Sailing dreams.

 

New Zealand – Our Neighbouring Paradise

Adventure Travel, Destinations, Inspiration

Adrenalin Junkies, looking for your next thrill?

Amateur Photographers, on the search for the next winning shot?

Wine Lovers, looking for the next fine drop for your collection?

We can get you there!

Give the team a call on (07) 3338 8400 for the best available airfares and an fact-filled chat about the splendors of our exciting neighbour, New Zealand.

The many faces of Italy – Which one would you choose?

Destinations, Inspiration

Escape to paradise: Dreamy Port Douglas

Hot Deals, Inspiration

 

A holiday destination that exceeds all expectations; time spent in Port Douglas is all about relaxation and indulgence. This refreshingly low-rise resort town boasts a superb tropical climate all year round, and is the perfect place to treat yourself to all the spoils of a tropical holiday.

One of the main attractions of ‘Port’ is that, despite the highly developed tourist infrastructure and stead stream of eager holidaymakers, the township resonates an old-fashioned charm, retaining its seaside character and relaxed atmosphere.

Take a walk along beautiful Four Mile Beach, or enjoy the view from Flagstaff Hill; visit the world-class Marina Mirage, play a round of golf, browse an art gallery or enjoy the tropical, social atmosphere of alfresco dining and lively bars. Shoppers won’t want to miss the exclusive boutiques along Marcossan Street or the fabulous seaside markets showcasing the talents of local artisans and selling fresh, tropical fare.

Port Douglas is also a great place to base yourself to indulge in extended trips to the Great Barrier Reef where you can experience the great range of diving, snorkeling and fishing tours available. It is also a great starting point for four-wheel drive safaris to the Daintree and Cape Tribulation national parks, as well as the beautiful and serene Mossman Gorge.

Sounds like your idea of paradise?

Can you already feel the sand between your toes?

DO WE HAVE A HOT DEAL FOR YOU!!

 

During the month of August we are offering a luxury Port Douglas Escape package staying at the gorgeous 5 Star QT Port Douglas Resort & Spa, with the following inclusions:

  • Accommodation at QT Port Douglas (Minimum 4 Nights required)
  • Return Domestic flights
  • Transfers
  • $150.00 Resort credit, per room.
  • Free WiFi
  • Price Drop Protection (Please call us for more information)

Pricing will vary depending on availability during chosen travel dates and personal preferences.

CONDITIONS APPLY – please call us for finer details, restrictions & blackout dates.

To take advantage of this amazing offer, contact us on (07) 3338 8400.

 

25 things to do in NYC that won’t cost a dime!

Destinations, Travel Tips

New York City is the beating heart of its namesake state. A bulging metropolis that never sleeps, it is home to more people than the entire population of Australia. This is the epitome of ‘City life’, and where the world turns for new trends in fashion, the arts and style. The Big Apple, as it is colloquially known, is home to hundreds of museums, galleries and centres of learning, and politically, is a cornerstone of global diplomacy, being home to the United Nations and one of the world’s most influential stock markets.

Be tempted by the lights of Broadway, the skyline to end all skylines, the views, the history, the aromas and the art, which are the core of the Big Apple. New York is jam-packed with attractions – The Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Times Square, Central Park, Wall Street, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building, the Rockefeller Centre, Columbia University, Chinatown – the list is literally endless.

Visiting the City that Never Sleeps can certainly cost a pretty penny, known as one of the world’s most expensive cities. However,  there are lots of things you can do that don’t cost a dime!

We have put together a list of 25 FREE things to do in New York City that will leave you feeling frugally fulfilled after your vacation is over.

1. VISIT CENTRAL PARK

Central Park spans 843 acres and is beautifully designed. It’s more than just an escape from the city; it’s like a separate world. Watch numerous performers, visit the Imagine mosaic dedicated to John Lennon, see architecture, picnic in one of the many green spaces, or visit areas seen in movies (like Home Alone II, Enchanted, or When Harry Met Sally).

2. TOUR BROOKLYN BREWERY

Located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, this brewery brews craft beer and distributes in 25 states and 20 countries. Take a tour on Saturdays and Sundays to see how this brewery operates.

3. NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY

Even if there were no books in this building, it would still be something of wonder to stroll through. The building itself is gorgeous (and huge) and holds over 51 million items. See lots of ongoing exhibits and collections and make sure to stop by the Reading Room, an absolutely beautiful space (that stretches the length of two city blocks) with 52-foot tall ceilings, bronze lamps, and captivating murals.

4. ART GALLERIES IN CHELSEA

Have a hankering to see some art? Head to Chelsea where art galleries flow freely between 10th and 11th avenues. They are free and some galleries will even host events like wine and cheese tastings.

5. CHELSEA MARKET

While you’re in Chelsea, visit Chelsea Market, a huge space known for housing some of the best food vendors in the city. Of course, buying food wouldn’t be free, but the whole market is worth seeing, plus you can catch events like art exhibits, flea markets, and more.

6. WINDOW SHOP ON 5TH AVENUE

Famed 5th Avenue hosts stores to some of the most luxurious brands on the planet and, while not all of us can buy those items, it can be really fun to look at them. Plus, lots of the stores put tons of effort into the window displays, making them exquisitely charming or eccentric (make sure to check out the windows of Saks Fifth Avenue and Lord & Taylor).

7. BRYANT PARK

There’s something magical about parks nestled in NYC and Bryant Park is no exception. See beautiful flowers and gardens and have lunch on the green or at one of the park’s quintessential green cafe tables. See a free concert or catch a film screening in the evenings.

8. WALK THE BROOKLYN BRIDGE

One of the oldest suspension bridges in the United States, this bridge connects the boroughs of Brooklyn and Manhattan by spanning the East River. Take a stroll across the bridge to see each side from a different perspective. Plus, the bridge itself is a National Historic Landmark and really neat to look at.

9. THE FRIENDS APARTMENT BUILDING

If you are a fan of the show Friends, head to the corner of Grove and Bedford streets in Greenwich Village to see the the building that was used for exterior shots of the characters’ apartment building.

10. FAO SCHWARZ

Visit the oldest toy store in America to see life-sized stuffed animals, take a picture with the iconic real-life toy soldier doorman, and play a tune and dance in your sock feet on the big piano.

11.  STATEN ISLAND FERRY

If you’re wanting to catch a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty, but don’t want to pay a fee, check out the Staten Island Ferry. It’s designed to take commuters to and from Staten Island and Manhattan, but it’s completely free and you’ll be able to get a good photograph of Lady Liberty. Once you get to Staten Island, you can hop right back on to get back to Manhattan.

12. THE TODAY SHOW

Design a fun poster and head to Rockefeller Plaza for your chance to be seen on the Today Show. This daily morning show lets guests be part of the experience and you’ll be able to see your favorite anchors and maybe catch a concert. Arrive early (before 6 AM) to get a good spot.

13. LISTEN TO JAZZ

Head to Arthur’s Tavern in the Village to catch some live jazz starting at 7 PM with no cover charge. Plus, if you go on a Monday, you can hear the same jazz band that’s been playing there for 35 years.

14. BROOKLYN BOTANICAL GARDEN

See beautiful trees and flowers for free on Tuesdays. Right now you can catch an exhibit on the history of their children’s garden or see a tree house made of trees that fell during hurricane Sandy.

15. BRONX ZOO

You can enter the Bronx Zoo on Wednesdays without an admission fee (though there is a suggested donation). See a dinosaur safari, the children’s zoo, or Komodo dragons.

16. EXPLORE CHINATOWN

Make sure you hit Chinatown at least once to see really neat and exotic veggie and fruit stands, shop for inexpensive souvenirs, smell the delicious scents from the dim sum restaurants. or play at Hester Street playground.

17. MOMA

Head to the Museum of Modern Art on Fridays between 4:00 and 8:00 to get in for free. See original paintings from Van Gogh, over 10,000 drawings in different mediums, or catch a film screening.

18. THE DOWNTOWN BOATHOUSE

If everyone in your group is 18 years or older, you can take advantage of free kayaking in the Hudson River on select weekends! The trips are run by experienced volunteers and you’ll get a brief run-down before heading out. This would be such a neat way to get a new perspective on the city.

19. THE MUSEUM AT FIT

The Fashion Institute of Technology hosts a free museum with a permanent collection of garments and accessories from the 18th century to the present. There are new exhibits every six months and also a whole section dedicated to student and faculty work.

20. GRAND CENTRAL TERMINAL

If you’re riding the subway during your trip, chances are that you’ll have a transfer in Grand Central, but if not, you’ve gotta head there anyway. The building is massive and absolutely beautiful. There are shops and restaurants to explore, but you can stroll through just to see the mural on the ceiling, the huge windows, and the breathtaking architecture.

21. VISIT TIMES SQUARE

Times Square at all times of the day is bustling with people, lit with bright lights, and there’s always something to see. Visit the huge Toys R Us store, see historic theaters, and visit the Times Square Museum (where you can learn some really neat history of the area).

22. ST. PATRICK’S CATHEDRAL

This historic cathedral that began construction 1858 is located in midtown Manhattan and boasts beautiful stained glass, organs with a total of 9,838 pipes, and a massive vaulted ceiling. Guided tours are free of charge.

23. FEDERAL HALL

Located on Wall street, this building that is now a museum was once home to the first Congress, Supreme Court, and Executive Branch offices of our nation. Stand in the spot where George Washington was first inaugurated and see the Bible he placed his hand upon when he recited the oath of office.

24. STEP INSIDE TIFFANY’S

Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, take a quick visit to Tiffany & Co. to see some of the most beautiful displays of diamonds, china, and crystal. Make sure you see the 128 karat Tiffany Diamond on display on the main floor before you leave.

25. EXPLORE OTHER BOROUGHS

Sure Manhattan is fun and exciting, but the surrounding boroughs have a ton to offer, too. Visit Williamsburg in Brooklyn to explore a hip neighborhood, head to Astoria, Queens to the Museum of the Moving Image (it’s free on Fridays from 4:00-8:00), or take a trip on the Bronx Culture Trolley.

Now all you need is some great value airfares! Give us a call and we’ll get you locked in and strolling down Broadway in no time.

How do you like your food?

Adventure Travel, Touring

How do you like your food?

If your answer is ‘EPIC’ then Contiki’s Latin American Adventure ticks all the boxes.

Trying flavour sensations from all around the world can be one of the most memorable elements of travel, and for some, new and exciting foods are their main motivation for visiting a particular city or country.

It is a known fact that Latin America does not disappoint when it comes to all things delicious. The geniuses behind the tantalising taco, mind-blowing burrito and (our personal favourite) the sweet, sweet Sangria, this colourful little slice of the world certainly knows how to show your tastebuds a great time.

With this being said, can you think of a travel company better equipped for adventure and straight-up fun than Contiki?

I think Not!

Come and see us for the latest tour itineraries and have a chat to Danielle, our resident Mexico expert.

#NOREGRETS

Part of a food loving crew? Want to share the experience? Get everyone together and save some money . . .

4 or more Everyone saves 5%
7 or more Everyone saves 7.5%
10 or more Everyone saves 10%.
Or invite an 11th person for free. It’s up to you.

http://www.contiki.com/destinations/latin-america