Family Holiday Destinations - Issue 5

Issue 5

We Tested Australia’s Best Family Resort

PARADISE RESORT Camping for Active Kids

THUNDERBIRD PARK Nothing Beats

FRASER ISLAND Snow vs Tropical Islands

JAPAN The Weird, Wild & Wonderful of

NEVADA ROAD TRIPS Five Fantastic Experiences

THE MALDIVES Australia

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USA

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Japan

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Maldives

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Camping

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Luxury

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Cover Image of Eli Creek is courtesy of Tourism & Events Queensland

THIS ISSUE ...

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WHAT’S UP The latest news and offers from around Australia and international.

WE TESTED OUT AUSTRALIA’S BEST FAMILY RESORT This is what happens at Paradise Resort

MOTHER & DAUGHTER RETREATS IN THE TOP END OF THE NT A brand new weekend retreat to help kids & parents manage stress

TopL: Z4K Water Park.

Credit: Paradise Resort.

TopR: Jellurgal Cultural Centre.

Credit: Destination Gold Coast.

Above: The Cathedrals K’Gari.

Credit: Tourism & Events QLD Left: Yoga Session Dundee Beach.

Credit: Balance for Life FarL: Seven Magic Mountains.

Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada

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© Jessica Palmer/Family Holiday Destinations No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written consent. No responsibility is accepted for accuracy of advertisements or information. Whilst every care has been taken in the research and preparation of Family Holiday Destinations, we cannot accept responsibility for any loss, hardship or injury arriving from any attempt to follow any of the stories, however caused. When it comes to travel, things change daily and we cannot rake responsibility for changes that occur subsequent to publishing.

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CANBERRA ENLIGHTEN FESTIVAL Culture & creativity will shine when the

Enlighten Festival

returns to Canberra in 2021 INTRODUCING JELLURGAL CULTURAL CENTRE An amazing family

friendly indigenous

experience in the Gold Coast’s Burleigh Heads

CAMPING CORNER

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SPOTLIGHT ON THUNDERBIRD PARK The best camping destination for active kids

www.familyholidaydestinations.com

EPIC WATERFALLS, WILD SWIMMING & WORLD WONDER The ultimate list of sure-fire fun in Cairns

NOTHING COMPARES TO FRASER ISLAND Make 2021 your year for camping on the world’s largest sand island.

Click HERE to join our mailing list!

LUX GETAWAYS

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FANTASTIC EXPERIENCES Try new fantastic experiences at five jaw-dropping resorts in the Maldives

PICNIC ISLAND Grab your friends & family for an exlusive stay on a private island in Tasmania’s stunning Freycinet National Park

DREAM NOW TRAVEL LATER

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SENSATIONAL SNOW vs TROPICAL ISLAND Double the fun and do both in Japan

ROAD TRIPS DONE RIGHT THROUGH UNBELIEVABLY WEIRD, WILD NEVADA It’s time to bring back the epic family road trip. Here are three surprisingly different road trips to inspire your family to travel when it’s safe to get back out there.

This magazine includes affiliate links. This means that I receive a small commission if you make a purchase using the link. You may also find links to websites operated by third parties. I do not control these linked websites and are therefore not responsible for the content of any linked websites. I provide the links for my readers convenience only. Linked websites are visited at your own risk. For more information on sponsored posts or PR samples, please see: www.familyholidaydestinations.com/disclosure-statement/

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Editor’s Letter

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his edition welcomes a new regular feature on great camping and caravan destinations. We headed to Thunderbird Park in the Gold Coast Hinterlands and reminisced about a recent trip to Fraser Island/ K’Gari, which I have visited many times over the years.

We checked out Paradise Resort on the Gold Coast and discovered why it deserves the title of ‘‘Best Hotel/Resort in Australia’’, as voted by readers of Out & About With Kids magazine.

After a great time visiting the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre on the Gold Coast on a walkabout tour with the kids, I am super excited for more indigenous experiences around Australia. Read more about this experience in this issue!

The Maldives and a lesser known island off the east coast of Tasmania feature in the luxury section and we also have a great list of things to do in Cairns, an area which you can visit either on a budget or with a fat wallet.

International Destinations (dream or plan now for travel later) include three amazing road trips through Nevada in the USA and a luxe Japan getaway that includes both snow and warm tropical island bliss.

As usual, I’d love to hear your thoughts on the magazine - what you enjoyed reading and what you would like to see less of. Feel free to join our mailing list so you don’t miss out on the next edition and any content that doesn’t make it into the magazine.

POPULAR POSTS ON THE FAMILY HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS WEBSITE THIS MONTH As Victoria were able to ease up on restrictions, readers flocked to our post on Luxe Glamping at the Marriott Melbourne. Our blog on an easy Tasmania itinerary has been getting a lot of hits since Tasmania let us all back in again!

Jessica Palmer - travelwithjess@hotmail.com

www.familyholidaydestinations.com

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Have you liked our Instagram page yet?

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WHAT’S UP - AUSTRALIA

What’s Up? NEWS & OFFERS

All Ages Event BASSINTHEGRASS Announces 2021 Line-Up Traditionally a great day out for families, BASSINTHEGRASS music festival has announced their line-up for 2021. Taking place at Darwin’s iconic Mindil Beach on 15 May 2021, the newly announced line-up includes Boo Seeka, ChillinIT, DMA’s, G Flip, Hayden James, ILLY, Jack River, The Jungle Giants, Lime Cordiale, Missy Higgins, Ocean Alley, Peking Duk, The Rubens, SAFIA, Thelma Plum & Violent Soho. What a great way to experience the Top End’s famous sunsets and warm, tropical weather! www.bassinthegrass.com.au 8

Image: BASSINTHEGRASS festival. Credit: BASSINTHEGRASS.

WHAT’S UP - AUSTRALIA

Learn What it Takes to be an Animal Keeper at SEA LIFE Melbourne Learn what it takes to be an animal keeper these school holidays with SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium’s Junior Keeper activity!

As kids locate each keeper on screens placed throughout the aquarium and listen to them talk about their responsibilities, they can fill in a worksheet to create a list of what’s involved in a keeper’s daily life. The Junior Keeper activity runs from 19 Dec. 2020 to 26 Jan. 2021 and kids who complete their Junior Keeper worksheet will be presented with a certificate. www.sealifemelbourne.com.au/ junior-keepers

Rock Out Troll Style at The LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Pop divas and rock superstars will be thrilled with LEGOLAND Discovery Centre’s Troll-tastic Adventure. From 19 Dec. 2020 - 27 Jan. 2021, kids can learn how to perfect their air guitar, dance like a diva, build a lego instrument and even star in their very own LEGO Trolls music video using stop motion. Tickets must be prebooked online. www.legolanddiscoverycentre.com. au Top: Penguin Keeper at SEALIFE Melbourne. Credit: SEALIFE Melbourne.

Bottom: Legoland’s Trolltastic adventure. Credit: LEGOLAND Discovery Centre.

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WHAT’S UP - AUSTRALIA

Element Melbourne Offers The Ultimate Sleepover Element Melbourne Richmond launched a one-of-a-kind Ultimate Sleepover Experience to celebrate the easing of lockdown in Melbourne. Available until early 2021 at this stage, families can have fun in eight rooms on the hotel’s top floor which have been transformed with karaoke mics, retro arcade games, air hockey and foosball tables, pop-up cinema and even a Nintendo room. Don’t miss the opportunity to chill out in the hotel’s igloos! www.marriottgifts.com.au/hotel-offers/australia/element-melbournerichmond-fun-floor

Don’t Miss Disney’s Frozen The Broadway Musical Frozen fans will love Disney’s Frozen – The Broadway Musical at the Sydney Capitol Theatre.

An inspiring story of sisterhood, you’ve never seen Frozen like this before! www.frozenthemusical.com.au 10

Top: Super Mario Room. Credit: Element Melbourne Richmond. Bottom: Frozen the Broadway Musical. Credit: Lisa Tomasetti.

WHAT’S UP - AUSTRALIA

Kids Eat Free at Wilpena Pound Resort Kids up to 12 years staying with their families at Wilpena Pound Resort, Ikara Safari Camp or the campground eat free in the resort’s restaurants up until Mar. 31, 2020. A road trip to South Australia’s spectacular Flinders Ranges has never looked better! www.wilpenapound.com.au/special-offers/194/kids-eat-free-promotion/

Luxury Family Glamping at Marriott Melbourne Enjoy family time with a luxe glamping experience in the city at Marriott Melbourne. Your 5-star room will feature a private courtyard with a glamping tepee for the kids and all the necessities like sleeping bags, outdoor chairs and pillows. You can even bring the dog along! www.marriott.com.au Top: Ikara Safari Camp. Credit: Wilpena Pound Resort. Bottom: Glamping at the Marriott Melbourne. Credit: The Marriott Melbourne.

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WHAT’S UP - AUSTRALIA

Experience the Ultimate Day Out at The Sydney Tower Eye With the launch of Sydney Tower Eye and SkyFeast’s new Tower VIP Experience, families with kids 10 years and over can now indulge in the ultimate day out on top of Sydney’s tallest building. Begin at the Sydney Tower Eye Observation Deck before ascending to the outdoor SKYWALk where you will circumnavigate the outside of the iconic Sydney Tower. You will then ‘‘walk on air’’ by standing on a transparent platform 268m above the ground! The experience includes a photo pack and a feast at the recently relaunched SkyFeast restaurant with 360-degree revolving views of the harbour and city. www.sydneytowereye.com.au/tickets/sydney-tower-vip-experience

Accor Launches Great Value, Flexible Deals Across Oz Accor is offering travellers the chance to ‘‘Take Two’’ on their missed holiday plans with great value, flexible deals on over 340 ALLSAFE hotels, resorts & apartments across Oz. Valid for bookings made between 12 Oct. 2020 - 31 Jan. 2021 for until 13 months from the booking date. www.all.accor.com 12

Top: VIP experience Sydney Eye Tower. Credit: Merlin Entertainment. Bottom: Mantra Hervey Bay. Credit: Accor.

WHAT’S UP - AUSTRALIA

Visit Frankie The Rescue Numbat at WILD LIFE Sydney Frankie the well-known rescue numbat journeyed from Perth Zoo to his new home at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo where he has settled in, leaping over branches and climbing small tree stumps.

Frankie is the only numbat in a Sydney zoo and will play an important role educating visitors on his endagered status. www.wildlifesydney.com.au

Let The Kids Loose on a Junior Mountain Bike Clinic This Summer at Thredbo Thredbo offers a range of mountain bike clinics to suit all levels, including a Junior clinic for kids aged 7 - 14 years. Kids will learn the fundamentals of riding in a controlled area, including the importance of balance, braking and body position. School Holiday camps run over December and January! www.thredbo.com.au/activities/kids-family/ Top: Frankie the Numbat. Credit: WILDLIFE Sydney Zoo. Bottom: Junior Mountain Bike Clinic. Credit: Thredbo Resort.

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AUSTRALIA

We Tested Out The

Best Family Resort In Australia

by Jessica Palmer

This Is What Happens At Paradise Resort Gold Coast

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aradise Resort has won the accolade of ‘‘Best Family Hotel or Resort in Australia for Families’’ for the third year running by readers of family travel magazine, Out & About With Kids.

Having never stayed there before, this of course, caught my attention. Is it really heaven for kids and paradise for parents?

Does it really live up to the hype? Well, we put Paradise Resort Gold Coast to the test!

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CHECKING IN A recent multi-million dollar upgrade welcomes the edition of an oversized fish tank behind the check-in counter and of course, Dusty’s playground, an indoor jungle gym located beside. Both the fish tank and jungle gym ensure you can check in with minimal interruption.

Top: Poolside at Paradise Resort. Credit: Paradise Resort. Bottom: Checking in. Credit: Paradise Resort.

AUSTRALIA

THE ROOMS Some hotels and resorts tell you that they’re family friendly, but Paradise Resort really proves it with nice little touches.

Expect to find foot stools in the bathroom so that younger kids can reach the taps and free WiFi that actually works. A fairy godmother (housekeeping) sneaks into your room daily while you’re out having fun to make your bed, vacuum up the kid’s crumbs and change your towels if required.

The resort offers a range of rooms to suit families of up to eight.

The Bunkhouses are amazing, taking Paradise Resort’s kids-first philosophy a step further.

Families will enjoy bright bunk beds, a TV and gaming console for the kids and a microwave.

The Resort Rooms are Paradise Resort’s most affordable rooms. Guests can expect the usual comforts of a private bathroom, balcony with tables & chairs and airconditioning.

The Family Rooms have a second bedroom off the main room so everyone can still enjoy their own space and the exclusive Family Spa Suite even features an in-room spa bath!

Top: Waiting for the movie to start at Paradise Resort. Credit: Paradise Resort.

BottomL: Junior Bunkhouse Suite. Credit: Jessica Palmer. BottomR: Superior Resort Room. Credit: Paradise Resort.

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THE WATER PLAY AREA “Mum this is the BEST!” squealed Trillian as she raced up to me, waving her arms around excitedly. I had placed myself in prime position on a shaded pool lounger directly beside the large Z4K (Zone 4 Kids) waterpark. The water play area is loads of fun with a lagoon pool and spa and two separate Z4K areas for under five years of age and over five years of age.

Z4K features fun slides and various dumping buckets and water flows.

KIDS CLUB The kids clubs at Paradise Resort Gold Coast is nothing short of epic. Featuring various themed rooms both indoor and outdoor, kids can also chill and watch a movie, play a video game or join in guided activities run by the experienced staff.

ICE-SKATING Planet Chill is where you will find Paradise Resort’s very own ice-skating rink. Lit up with bright colours and featuring sturdy penguins that kids can hold onto to keep their balance while learning, this area is just pure fun. Parents can skate as well but if they don’t feel like it, there are plenty of chairs to rest on while the kids burn off some energy.

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Top: Z4K water play area. Credit: Paradise Resort.

Middle: Space themed room at Kids Club. Credit: Paradise Resort. Bottom: Ice-Skating at Planet Chill. Credit: Paradise Resort.

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OTHER FUN STUFF With a slogan of ”Heaven for Kids, Paradise for Parents”, the list of fun stuff at Paradise Resort is long. Families can also expect to enjoy virtual reality, laser tag, climbing wall, dunk tank, trampolines, giant chess board, outdoor and indoor playground and daily activities such as dance competitions and night-time movies around the pool area.

FOOD AND DRINK Choose from Penguin’s Restaurant, Poolside Cafe & Bar, Deb’s Pizza Shack and Jerry’s Burgers, all of which have children’s options.

Make sure to try out the Giant Jerry at Jerry’s Burgers, Paradise Resort’s newest and larger alternative to the Big Mac and Big Jack.

Having now tried all three, I can confidently say the Giant Jerry is by far the best!

TopL: Deb’s Pizza Shack. Credit: Paradise Resort. TopR: Experiencing virtual reality. Credit: Jessica Palmer.

Bottom: Z4K water play area and The Giant Jerry. Credit: Paradise Resort.

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PEACE OF MIND In light of Covid-19, Paradise Resort have taken a number of additional steps to ensure your family has a safe and enjoyable holiday. Read about them >>here<<.

... THE VERDICT ...

DOES PARADISE RESORT LIVE UP TO THE HYPE?

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aradise Resort is the kind of place where you don’t have to worry about your child squealing too loudly or about the fact that you haven’t looked good in bathers since they were born …. even though your youngest is now five (guilty as charged!)

Where a request for just tomato sauce and cheese on the pizza is not considered weird and the staff don’t serve the kids drinks in a glass, instead they are served in

a sensible, sturdy unbreakable one.

Kids can be kids at Paradise Resort and parents can be parents. Yes, Paradise Resort Gold Coast absolutely lives up to the hype for both parents and children and we will definitely be staying here again!

Book your stay at Paradise Resort Gold Coast >> HERE << .

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Background Lagoon Pool and Spa at Paradise Resort. Credit: Paradise Resort.

AUSTRALIA

Mother & Daughter Retreats in The Top End Located 90 minutes drive from Darwin at the idyllic Dundee Beach, Balance for Life is offering brand new Mother and Daughter Retreats to help kids (and adults) become more confident and manage stress.

An iconic Darwin beach sunset with pristine waters, this is a weekend getaway with learning to benefit your family for years to come.

Carole is a qualified Meditation Teacher with a teaching methodology of ‘‘keeping it simple.’’ Learn mindfulness, Yoga and Essential Oils to support your daughter’s health. Go on beach and bush walks to reconnect with nature, learn some arts and crafts or enjoy the free time to bond with your daughter.

Balance for Life Retreats provide healthy and balanced meals for guests. Carole is also a qualified Food Coach and will teach you ways to present healthy food choices in a fun way.

Itinerary, costs and booking details for the two night retreat can be found at: www.balanceforlife.com.au/events/mums-daughters-retreat-2

Time & Location: 5 Feb. 2021– 7 Feb. 2021 Balance for Life Yoga & Wellness Retreat 392 Mermaid Circuit, Dundee Beach NT 0840, Australia

Top: Mother and daughter. Credit: Photo by Daria Obymaha from Pexels. Bottom: Yoga Sessions at Dundee. Credit: Balance for WLife.

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Spotlight on THUNDERBIRD PARK The BEST Camping Destination for Active Kids

by Jessica Palmer

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Photo: Ziplining on the Juniors Tree Top Challenge. Credit: Jessica Palmer.

AUSTRALIA

Jessica Palmer heads to Thunderbird Park in the beautiful Gold Coast Hinterlands and discovers an amazing camping destination just perfect for kids on the go.

‘’C’mon baby girl, you can do this,’’ I think to myself, willing the thought in her direction.

The seconds tick by and we wait, silent, holding our breaths. The course attendant, Kirby, clips his safety harness to the cable and makes his way over to assist.

But she wants to do this on her own, so digging deep, she finds the courage and y five year old daughter is frozen to the reaches out her left hand, grabbing hold of spot. She looks down at her feet, almost one of the bright yellow supports and quickly as if willing them to move. They don’t. steps onto a red one with her left foot. I let ‘’You can do it, Trillian!’’ her seven year old out my breath in relief. brother says to her enthusiastically. ‘’Ready, With sturdy legs shaking, she moves across three, two, one … Go!’’ he says. the wall with determination, rebutting her Her feet still don’t move. I look up at her, brother’s suggestions by yelling, ‘’Stop it, holding on to her harness and standing on Ripley!’’ in annoyance when he yells out a purpose built platform around a large tree suggestions of which colour support to stand around three metres above the ground. They on. have both been excited to take on the Tree Her big brother follows behind and Top Challenge Juniors course at Thunderbird they congratulate each other, harnessed Park for weeks. in safely and standing on a platform high After mastering the first three levels, this among the rainforest trees in the beautiful challenge of stepping from the comfort of the Mt Tamborine area of the Gold Coast platform and onto a climbing wall nestled Hinterlands. among the tree tops appears that it might beat her.

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TopL: Mastering the climbing wall high among the trees. Credit: Jessica Palmer. TopR: Safety gear on and ready to go. Credit: Jessica Palmer.

Bottom: Lake Waterlilly at Thunderbird Park. Credit: Cedar Creek Lodges & Thunderbird Park

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They conquer the last few challenges and end the course by ziplining back down to the starting point, landing on a net and giggling.

The new spring of confidence in their step is unmistakable and as a parent, I love seeing this transformation.

Tree Top Challenge Juniors The Tree Top Challenge Juniors at Thunderbird Park in the Gold Coast Hinterlands is an amazing experience for kids ages 3-7 years. The course has four sections, with the initial two starting low.

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This gives kids the chance to build confidence before moving on to the more challenging sections. Completely harnessed in with an overhead cable which remains clipped on the entire time, kids can balance their way across planks, nets, zig-zag bridges and much more between the rainforest trees before zip-lining to the finish line of every challenge. ‘‘Wouldn’t it be fun if there was one for adults?’’ I said to the attendant, Kirby. ‘’That looks like heaps of fun!’’. ‘’Oh there is, it’s just over there,’’ he says, pointing off to my right through the rainforest.

Top: FunFair paddle boats. Credit: Cedar Creek Lodges & Thunderbird Park. BottomL: Junior High Ropes Course. Credit: Jessica Palmer.

BottomR: Resident Kookaburras Credit: Cedar Creek Lodges & Thunderbird Park.

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The Adventure Park at Thunderbird Park is designed for the entire family aged 7 years and up.

Kirby tells me it’s a lot of fun and I later learn that it’s Australia’s largest High Ropes Adventure Park with over 120 TreeTop activities, including 10 flying foxes. No experience is required and the courses range from easy to extreme, traversing through nine acres of bushland and rainforest.

Although I don’t have time to tackle this today, nor is the dress I am wearing appropriate for standing above people who may be looking upwards, I vow to come back next holidays to experience it.

Thunderegg Fossicking After a break for lunch, we make our way over to the Thunderegg Mine and Crystal Panning rock shop.

After learning how to successfully fossick for Sapphires in Rubyvale the previous year, I was sure we would all love fossicking for thundereggs.

A thunderegg is a kind of rough looking, roundish rock that when cut into two sections, reveals a hidden star shaped mineral inside. They are a 200 million year old mystery!

It’s thought they are formed by a volcanic upheaval millions of years ago, whereby bubbles formed in the silica-rich rock. As it cooled off, shrinkage of the materials produced a star shaped cavity which was eventually filled with minerals such as jasper, quartz, agate and others.

I fail at suppressing a giggle as I imagine myself, hair unkempt, squatting down in the dirt and picking up a thunderegg, likening the image to Gollum in the famous Lord of the Rings ‘’my precious’’ scene.

TopL: Thunderegg Crystal Mine Rock Shop. Credit: Cedar Creek Lodges & Thunderbird Park. TopR: Crystal Mining. Credit: Jessica Palmer.

Bottom: Lake Waterlilly. Credit: Cedar Creek Lodges & Thunderbird Park.

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Thunderbird Park is actually home to the world’s largest thunderegg mine! Finding one is surprisingly easy and the instructions given on where to dig and what to listen for when the pick hits the rock is spot on. Families get to keep what they dig up, providing it fits in the supplied buckets, and both kids and adult pick axes are supplied.

The kids trudge on up to the mine without too much complaint, although obviously tired after the Junior Tree Top Challenge. We all sit down to dig, making use of a hole that someone else has already started. I tell the kids we are digging smart and not hard, but really I am just tired.

‘’Is this a thunderegg,’’ Trillian asks, picking up a rough egg shaped rock. ‘’I have no idea, we don’t know until it’s cut open,’’ I reply. She gives it a little whack with her pickaxe, and satisfied with the ‘’clink’’ sound, tosses it in her bucket.

Being the youngest, she is first to run out of steam, preferring to just pick up rocks found on the surface and throw them in her bucket rather than exert any more energy with her pick.

Trudging back, I find myself carrying not just my own, but two extra buckets of rocks, two extra pickaxes and the backpack containing our drinks.

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Top: Afternoon Sunshine at Thunderbird Park. Credit: Cedar Creek Lodges & Thunderbird Park.

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As a mum, I’m no stranger to being a pack mule but this was too much. “If I carry them back, I’m keeping them,’’ I say. Strangely enough, they find a burst of energy to carry their own buckets!

Tipping our potential thundereggs onto the counter, Quenn, the extremely knowledgeable guy behind the counter, picked out a few he was confident would be good thundereggs and went out back to cut them in half for us.

The thundereggs on display are magnificent, ranging in size from golf balls to extremely large watermelons, each with a variety of colours contained within its star

shaped core and each polished to perfection, showcasing the wonderful minerals contained within.

I wonder how they managed to cart the larger ones from the mine back to here. Do they just roll them for the downhill parts?

Once again, I fail at suppressing a laugh when a memory resurfaces from over 30 years ago of my mother mortified, when at the top of an escalator, our watermelon escaped from the bottom tray of the trolley and rolled all the way down to splat at the bottom.

I doubt the thunderegg would splat though.

TopL: FunFair Paddle Bikes. Credit: Cedar Creek Lodges & Thunderbird Park. TopR: Digging for Thundereggss. Credit: Jessica Palmer.

Bottom: Cedar Creek. Credit: Cedar Creek Lodges & Thunderbird Park.

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AUSTRALIA More likely it would act as a bowling ball, creating carnage for the human leg pins on its speedy journey down the hill. On second thoughts, they probably just use a tractor or something.

Returning with our loot, Quenn uncovers six thundereggs with varying colours and minerals and explains how to polish them at home. We bag our remaining uncut treasure to take home with the intention of finding someone to show us how to cut them open.

However, before heading home, we have to try just one more thing!

Crystal Mining The kids each grab a bag of sand and head over to the crystal panning area. Water is channelled through long, narrow troughs, allowing you to add a few handfuls of sand to the supplied sieve, which you then dunk gently into the water to wash away the sand and reveal the hidden crystals.

This is a great activity for younger kids as the sand bag is guaranteed to contain crystals, thus avoiding disappointment. Even I am surprised by how many beautiful coloured sparkly gems the kids uncover.

Acutely aware of the time, I stare longingly back towards the camp grounds as we head towards the car.

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Camping Bliss Families can bring their caravan, tent or camper and set up in either a powered or unpowered spacious site, nestled along the boundary of Tamborine National Park, a natural oasis featuring rock pools along Cedar Creek which flows through the property.

A rock-boarded circular fire pit is available at every van and camp site and comfortable amenity blocks with a great communal camp kitchen are also available on site.

For families staying longer in the lush campgrounds, or perhaps living it up in one of the bush cabins or lodges, there are plenty more family friendly activities on offer at Thunderbird Park.

Other Fun Activities Swim in the natural rock pools, join in the daily bird feeding, go on a hike, play laser skirmish or spend a day at Thunderbird Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest attraction, Fun Fair. Here you can scoot along the water in pedal boats and water bikes, zoom around on pedal go karts and let the kids loose in the jumping castles.

Thunderbird Park is great for active kids!

Image: FunFair jumping castles. Credit: Cedar Creek Lodges & Thunderbird Park.

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Thunderbird Park is the PERFECT camping getaway to ensure an epic, outdoors family holiday that the whole family can enjoy! www.thunderbirdpark.com

Image: Cedar Creek. Credit: Cedar Creek Lodges & Thunderbird Park.

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AUSTRALIA

Make 2021 Your Year For Camping on The Largest Sand Island in The World ...

Nothing Compares to Kâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Gari /Fraser Island

by Jessica Palmer

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Image: The Cathedrals along Seventy File Mile Beach on Fraser Island. OppPage: Lake Wabby. Credits: Tourism & Events QLD

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After spending most of her childhood school holidays camping on Fraser Island, Jessica Palmer reflects on her last trip with her own kids and how after all this time, nothing compares to World Heritage Listed K’Gari.

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n typical Aussie style, the group of six men beside me are using boogie boards as a drink float. Every single one of them are looking towards the top of the sand dune that borders one side of the emerald green lake we are standing in. The other sides of the lake are bordered by thick green forest.

I also look up to see what all the fuss is about and at first, I don’t see anything but the impossibly steep sand dune.

Suddenly, a teenager appears on a boogie board, riding it much like a surf board and hurtling down the dune towards the lake at an alarming speed. There are signs warning not to do this, but the thrill of the ride is clearly far to appealing.

A great cheer of encouragement is given by the men in the lake. He holds steady until the last few metres and just before he hits the water, the board flies out from under his feet, landing somewhere in the middle of the lake. He expertly army rolls the last few metres into the water. It seems he has done this before.

“Nearly made it this time, mate”, his dad yells out. A younger boy with bright pink hair passes him the board in awe, and off he trudges up the sand dune for another attempt. Not before sneaking a backwards glance at a nearby group of young, mostly female, backpackers to make sure they were watching.

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Backpackers and energetic young men aren’t the only visitors here at Lake Wabby on Fraser Island. There is a spattering of families, couples and singles of various ages.

Lake Wabby can be enjoyed by anyone who can manage the trek in through the forest and over the sand dunes.

Lake Wabby could possibly be one of the most unique opportunities for wild swimming around. Located on the eastern side of World Heritage Listed Fraser Island (aka K’gari), it’s known as both a window lake and a barrage lake.

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A window lake occurs when the ground level falls below the water table. A barrage lake occurs when the water that flows from a natural spring is blocked by a sand mass.

In this case, the sand mass is the gigantic Hammerstone Sandblow, which is slowly taking over the lake. It is estimated that one hundred years from now, there is a good chance that Lake Wabby will no longer exist.

Touching the bottom of Lake Wabby is easier said than done. At a maximum depth of just under 12 metres, it’s only a few steps in before the water is up around my chin.

Top: Lake McKenzie. Credit: Tourism & Events QLD. BottomL: Floating down Eli Creek. Credit: Jessica Palmer.

BottomR: Fraser Island beach. Credit: Tourism & Events QLD.

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My kids are playing at the edges of the water, enthralled by the older kids sliding down the sand dunes into the lake.

To be honest, I wasn’t even sure if they would go in. Unlike the majority of other lakes on Fraser Island, which are too acidic to support much life, Lake Wabby provides habitat to several species of fish.

My son wasn’t too keen on the tiny fish that seem to nibble on your skin if you stop moving around and float peacefully for longer than a minute. However, after watching his younger sister take a flying leap from the edge of the water to land on her belly, smack in the middle of a school of fish and come up giggling, he soon forgets his earlier fears.

Lake Wabby isn’t the only unique feature on this fascinating island. K’gari is home to half of the worlds freshwater perched lakes, including Lake Boomanjin, the world’s largest, with its deep red tannin stained waters.

A perched lake is formed when organic matter, such as leaves, bark and dead plants, gradually builds up and hardens in a depression, forming a sort of giant swimming pool filled with rain and water run-off.

I would confidently say that it has the most beautiful perched lakes in the world with Lake McKenzie and Lake Birrabeen being hot contenders. Both of these lakes feature dazzling white sand and impossibly clear water that fades into a deep blue.

TopL: Driving 75-mile beach. Credit: Tourism & Events QLD. TopR: Champagne Pools. Credit: Jessica Palmer.

Bottom: Jumping into Eli Creek. Credit: Jessica Palmer.

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AUSTRALIA

K’gari is also where rainforests grow out of the sand, ancient dune systems are still evolving, and where a large section of the eastern beach is considered an official ‘highway’. There is an 80km per hour speed limit, the usual road rules, and a complete and utter lack of any bitumen or gravel.

Don’t let the beautiful surrounds lull you into a false sense of security though. Extra care needs to be taken due to the incoming tide, planes landing, freshwater creeks that flow out into the ocean, and people playing on and fishing off the sand.

We set up for the day at the largest of these freshwater creeks, Eli Creek. Finding the perfect spot can be tricky unless you arrive early, but we timed it right, reversed our 4WD up to the creek, and rolled out the awning. The group next to us placed their camp chairs in the creek, which is no deeper than my knees along this stretch.

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ThisPage: The Maheno Wreck. Credit: Tourism & Events QLD.

Whilst the mums in the group were slathering sunscreen on the little ones, all of the men were staring at something behind our car. They were watching the progress of a couple that thought it would be a good idea to tow a regular caravan up the beach and had subsequently, bogged themselves in the soft sand behind us.

A high clearance four wheel drive is recommended here. A stock standard fourwheel drive will suffice, but a low clearance caravan doesn’t stand a chance. They probably should have left it back over on the mainland and opted for a tent or a hotel.

As is the nature of the residents and visitors on Fraser Island, the men quickly assisted when it was realised they weren’t getting themselves out anytime soon.

“We come here every year after Christmas”, one of the mums informs me as we chit chat in our camp chairs, our feet in the creek.

AUSTRALIA

Despite the warm weather, the water is a little chilly. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so cold, that a few people have pushed the base of their water bottles and soft drink cans into the sand under their chairs to ensure they are kept at optimal chilled temperature.

This seems like a genius idea to me and I also use the cold water as an alternative to the esky. Also, I now donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to keep getting up when the kids are thirsty.

This well-known beach highway is officially known as seventy-five-mile beach.

There are plenty of other unique features along this sandy stretch including the Maheno Shipwreck and the Pinnacles.

Further up are the Champagne Pools, a natural swimming hole created by rocks, and the rugged northern section of Fraser Island.

The northern point is referred to as the Sandy Cape and features a lighthouse and some interesting relics from WWII. Inland tracks lead to the many different lakes, scenic drives, Central Station and ancient rainforests.

Top: Floating down Eli Creek. Credit: Tourism & Events QLD. BottomL: Lake McKenzie. Credit: Tourism & Events QLD. BottomMiddle: Fishing on 75-mile beach. Credit: Jessica Palmer. BottomR: Sandy Cape. Credit: Jessica Palmer.

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AUSTRALIA A lot of visitors take the opportunity to explore the island by 4WD, preferring to camp and experience the great outdoors. If this isn’t your style, don’t feel disheartened.

There is resort style accommodation offerings on the island as well as private house rentals.

Kingfisher Bay is popular for resort style accommodation and is the main landing point for the barge service. However, there is great accommodation at both Eurong Beach Resort and Happy Valley as well.

If you don’t have your own 4WD, there are plenty of 4WD tours available. Tours are available either as a passenger on a 4WD bus, or in a tag-a-long tour where you do the driving.

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There are not many places in this world that I will visit time and time again, but Fraser Island is one of those special places. From the friendly barman who offered up his own fishing gear when we broke a rod at Happy Valley, to the wild swimming in stunning lakes and the magic of standing amidst an ancient rainforest literally growing in sand.

From the large goannas that would casually stroll through the camp site after breakfast, to the curious turtles at lake Allom and the blissful 15 minutes at the Champagne Pools where we were the only people there.

This place is truly special and touches your soul in a way that very few places in the world can.

ThisPage: The Inland 4WD tracks on Fraser Island. Credit: Jessica Palmer. OppPage: Dingo on the beach. Credit: Tourism & Events QLD.

AUSTRALIA

GETTING TO K’GARI / FRASER ISLAND Located 360km north of Brisbane in QLD, K’Gari is just a short 40-minute boat ride from Hervey Bay.

REQUIRED VEHICLE AND CAMPING PERMITS QLD National Parks Website

NEED TO KNOW Fraser Island Barges Camping areas on Fraser Island with Dingo fences How to be Dingo safe

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JAPAN

Sensational Snow vs. Tantalizing Tropical Island

! h t o B o D d n A n ... Double The Fu

W

ell-renowned for its cleanliness, Japan is emerging as a sought after destination for when the international borders lift ...

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With more emphasis placed on hygiene when choosing a travel destination than ever before, Japan is looking more appealing than ever when its safe to travel again.

I mean, Japan installed automatic no-touch taxi doors years ago and have even created an Anti-Coronavirus Robot Squad, in which autonomous robots disperse disinfectant to public areas.

Top: Ice Village at TOMAMU Hoshimo Resorts. Credit: ŠHoshino Resorts TOMAMU.

JAPAN

Covid-19 meant that instead of enjoying a beach getaway or hitting the slopes, many families forgoed travel to protect themselves and comply with travel restrictions.

When the opportunity arises to travel again, take advantage of Japanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diversity to both ski and surf in one holiday and make up for the missed opportunities!

Japan is an archipelago, with a climate that ranges from subtropical in the south to subarctic in the north. This means you can

ski, slide or just enjoy the masses of fluffy powder snow in the northern-most island of Hokkaido with only a 4-hour affordable domestic flight separating you from the Okinawa Prefecture, an array of islands in the south that enjoy long summers and warm temperatures.

Late March is an ideal time to visit both when Hokkaido still offers lush snow and Okinawa sits comfortably in the mid-twenties throughout the day.

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JAPAN

Experience a Winter Wonderland at Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU Hokkaido, the northernmost of Japan’s main islands, is known for its powdery snow, volcanoes, natural hot springs and ski areas. TOMAMU is regarded as Japan’s most family-friendly resort and is one of the largest, with world-class facilities and convenient ski-in ski-out accommodation.

The resort caters to skiers and snowboarders of all levels and offers a plethora of family-friendly activities.

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Enjoy a snow sled park, tandem and kids snowmobiles, ice fishing on Tomamu pond, snow picnics and more.

Make sure you visit Ice Village! This magical ice town appears in Hokkaido TOMAMU’s Winter nights and is built with a single piece of ice. Its temperature gets as low as -30°C and includes an ice slide, ice sweets shop, ice hotel, ice chapel and more.

Head to Mina-Mina Beach where Summer never ends in this building made of glass.

This man-made indoor beach is popular with families and features one of the largest wave pools in Japan. ‘’Mina’’ means ‘’smile’’ in the Ainu language!

TopL: Terrace of Frost Trees. Credit: ©Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU. TopR: The Ice Village. Credit: ©Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU Above: Mina-Mina Beach - Japan’s largest indoor wave pool. Credit: ©Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU.

JAPAN

Get a Dose of Vitamin-Sea in Okinawa at HOSHINOYA Okinawa Okinawa Island and the chain of islands that make up the Okinawa Prefecture might well be Japan’s best-kept secret, as is the secret as to why Okinawan residents live longer than almost anyone else on earth.

Dazzling blues and greens dotted with tropical islands, Okinawa is known for its distinct culture and even has its own version of the ‘’Hawaii’’ shirt.

Families staying at HOSHINOYA Okinawa will enjoy the warm weather and the west coast beaches of Yomitan Village, with Gima beach - natural and untouched by the resort directly in front of the guest rooms.

The resort pool area is the place to be to watch the sunset, featuring a kids area, infinity pool that overlooks the ocean and poolside lounges.

When you finally drag yourself away from the resort, families can snorkel the reef, enjoy the pristine waters, go on a morning horse rise, take a traditional dance or karate lesson, or explore the cultural sites of Yomitan.

Top: HOSHINOYA Okinawa Pool Sunset. Credit: ©HOSHINOYA. AboveL: Okinawa Banta Cafe treat. Credit: ©HOSHINOYA. AboveR: HOSHINOA Okinawa guest rooms. Credit: ©HOSHINOYA.

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AUSTRALIA

Epic Waterfalls, Wild Swimming and World Wonders f o t s i L e t a m i t l U e h T s n r i a C n i n u F e r i F e Sur

by Jessica Palmer

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Image: Mossman Gorge. Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland.

OppPageTop.: The Cairns Lagoon. OppePageBottom: Palm Cove. Credits: Jessica Palmer.

AUSTRALIA

The Ultimate List Of Things To See And Do In Cairns With Kids Cairns in Tropical North Queensland has long been touted as family-friendly and I wholeheartedly agree! The multitude of things to do in Cairns with kids is amazing and its proximity to two wonderful World Heritage Listed attractions in the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest make it an ideal base for getting out and exploring some of the best that Australia has to offer.

Swim in the Cairns Lagoon The Cairns Lagoon is a winner for all ages. Situated on the foreshore in Cairns, the salt-water filtered lagoon provides safe swimming all year round. Younger kids can play in the shallow water and sand and all ages can enjoy splashing around under the fountains. There is plenty of grass to spread out on and the toilet and shower facilities are close by and excellent. Entry is free !

Hit the Road and Visit the Northern Beaches Although the beach in Cairns itself is â&#x20AC;Ś well, yuck â&#x20AC;Ś the Northern Beaches make up for it! Choose from Holloways Beach, Yorkeys Knob, Trinity Beach, Palm Cove, Kewarra Beach, Newell Beach, Ellis Beach and Four Mile Beach. Four Mile Beach and Palm Cove are both popular choices.

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AUSTRALIA

Ride the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Scenic Railway to Kuranda Ride the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway on a day trip to Kuranda and return via the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Alternatively, make the trip by rail and return by skyrail. Kuranda is known as the ”Village in the Rainforest” and there are plenty of things to do while you’re there. Check out the Rainforestation Nature Park, Tjupakai Aboriginal Cultural Park, Koala Gardens, Butterfly Sanctuary and have lunch at one of the cafes.

Book your tickets >>HERE<<

Spend a Day on Stunning Green Island Only 45 minutes from Cairns, Green Island is an amazing day trip. Families can expect great snorkelling, shallow waters for the kids, rainforest walks and great facilities and restaurants. Read about our day trip to Green Island with Great Adventures >>HERE<<..

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Top: The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Credit: Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.

Bottom. Aerial View from the Jetty at Green Island. Credit: Jemma Craig / Tourism & Events QLD

AUSTRALIA

Enjoy Mossman Gorge and Visit the Mossman Gorge Centre Located 80km north of Cairns in the southern part of the World Heritage Listed Daintree National Park, Mossman Gorge is just stunning. This is a ”must do” when it comes to nature-based activities in Cairns with kids! Families can stroll the self-guided walks in the Daintree National Park at their own pace before relaxing around the edges of the Mossman River.

Shop for Gifts at the Cairns Night Market Every night when the sun sets, the Cairns Night Market springs to life with over seventy retail outlets and plenty of yummy food options. ​The outlets range from bargain bracelets to authentic indigenous artwork to having your feet nibbled on by fish! Located opposite the Cairns Lagoon, the Cairns Night Market is a great stop to grab some last-minute gifts.

Swim and Picnic at Babinda Boulders Located 65 km south of Cairns, Babinda Boulders is a great day out for a picnic and freshwater swim.

The boulders are a popular swimming hole and are just perfect for beating the tropical heat. The creek is lined with massive boulders and the water is crystal clear, surrounded by lush rainforest.

Top: Climbing over the rocks at Mossman Gorge. Credit: Jessica Palmer. Middle: Cairns Night Market. Credit: Andrew Watson / Tourism & Events QLD. Bottom: Babinda Boulders. Credit: Tourism & Events QLD.

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AUSTRALIA

Zipline Over a Crocodile at Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome Located in Cairns city above the Reef Hotel Casino, The Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome features a challenging ropes course set in a wildlife park. Try out the ropes and a 15-metre power jump or zip line over Goliath the crocodile! Families can also cuddle a koala, watch the keepers feed Goliath and hold a snake. Kids need to be at least six years of age and at least 120cm tall to join in the Zoom activities.

Get your tickets >>HERE<<.

Visit the Daintree Discovery Centre Located 120km north of Cairns, the Daintree Discovery Centre is a wonderful way for families to learn about and experience the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest rainforest. Kids will love the Jurassic Forest which features animated dinosaurs and megafauna that roamed the ancient rainforests of Australia. Read more about our visit to the Daintree Discovery Centre >>HERE<<.

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Top: Cairns Zoom & Wildlife Dome. Credit: Tourism & Events QLD. Bottom: Strolling the aerial walkway at the Daintree Discovery Centre. Credit: Jessica Palmer.

AUSTRALIA

Go Snorkelling on a Great Barrier Reef Tour With Great Adventures Great Adventures will take you out to their stable reef activity platform where you can snorkel directly from the platform (gear supplied). There is also a semisubmersible coral viewing tour that departs regularly and an underwater observatory thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s open throughout the day for coral and fish viewing. A hot and cold lunch is included and when you need a break from snorkeling, just relax on the sundeck and take in the views.

Swim at Josephine Falls Located 75km south of Cairns, Josephine Falls is a popular swimming hole for both locals and visitors. After a 1.2km walk to the viewing platform at the top of the waterfall, families can then backtrack to swim in the clear water, surrounded by rainforest with a cascading tiered waterfall in the background.

Top: Snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef. Credit: Tourism & Events QLD. Bottom: A swimming hole at Josephine Falls. Credit: Jessica Palmer

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AUSTRALIA

Skim Stones and Swim at Crystal Cascades Only 20km from Cairns CBD, Crystal Cascades is a series of water holes and waterfalls in a section of Freshwater Creek.

The swimming holes are surrounded by rainforest and large granite boulders and are accessible via a 1.5km paved walking path.

Like most of the other freshwater swimming holes in Tropical North Queensland, the water is cool!

Stroll the Cairns Esplanade At some point during your visit to Cairns, you will find yourself strolling the Cairns Esplanade. It’s just lovely! Buzzing with activity, the esplanade is suitable for families with a wide, even footpath. Here is where you will find the Cairns Lagoon, playgrounds, exercise equipment, grassy areas and Muddy’s playground, a popular spot for families.

Experience the Collision of Two UNESCO World Heritage Listed Sites Cape Tribulation is particularly special as it’s where the Wet Tropics Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef collide, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites! Located 142km north of Cairns, visitors will find two interpretive walks in the Dubuji Boardwalk and the Madja Botanical Walk.

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Top: Crystal Cascades. Middle: Cairns Esplanade. Bottom: Myall Beach Cape Tribulation. Credits: Jessica Palmer.

Enjoy an Underwater World at The Cairns Aquarium

AUSTRALIA

Families visiting the Cairns Aquarium will be guided through ten amazing North Queensland ecosystems as they follow the journey of a drop of rain as it descends from the Cairns mountain ranges into the rainforest, lagoons and finally into the Coral Sea. This aquarium is the only one in the world dedicated to the habitats of tropical North Queensland.

Get your tickets >>HERE<<.

Go on an Adventure With Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures Located 40km north of Cairns, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is the best place to see crocodiles and local wildlife in Far North Queensland. The best part? A crocodile spotting boat cruise is included as part of the admission fee! It’s not all about the crocodiles though.

There are koalas, kangaroos, wombats, colourful snakes and lizards, cassowaries, a komodo dragon and much more. Get your tickets >>HERE<<.

Top: Cairns Aquarium. Credit: Tourism & Events QLD. Bottom: Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. Credit: Tourism & Events QLD.

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AUSTRALIA

Discover the Living History of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Indigenous People Located only 15km from Cairns, a visit to the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park will provide families with an insight into the traditional way of life as told by the Aboriginal people. Listen to their stories of earthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creation that have been passed down through the generations and watch the music and dance performances. Learn how to play a didgeridoo, throw a spear and even catch a boomerang! This is a great way for kids to learn about and experience the local Aboriginal culture. Get your tickets >>HERE<<.

WHERE TO STAY IN CAIRNS Budget-conscious families will love the Cairns Central YHA. The YHA allows you to self-cater in a shared kitchen and enjoy a family room with en-suite and free WiFi.

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Top: Tjapukai Credtion Story. Credit: Adam Bruzzone.

Five-Star families will love Riley a Crystalbrook Collection, which has a great location close by to the Cairns Lagoon.

AUSTRALIA

CANBERRA

ENLIGHTEN FESTIVAL 2021

Culture and creativity will shine when the Enlighten Festival returns to Canberra in 2021, bringing five epic events across 17 days.

The Parliamentary Triangle precinct will be brought to life with Enlighten Illuminations from 26 Feb. - 8 March. Snap a family selfie with art installations and check out the large scale projections onto some of the capitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most iconic buildings.

Wake up to hot air balloons floating across the sky during the Canberra Balloon Spectacular from 6 March - 14 March and enjoy Symphony in the Park on 7th March, when the Canberra Symphony Orchestra will perform new interpretations of music we all know and love. Check out Lights! Canberra! Action! on 5 March and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss Canberra Day on 8 March when Canberra celebrates turning 107 years old!

Entry is free but families will need to book experiences in advance. Bookings for Enlighten Festival will open in January 2021.

www.enlightencanberra.com

Top: Enlighten Festival. Credit: VisitCanberra. Bottom: Canberra Balloon Spectacular. Credit: VisitCanberra

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AUSTRALIA

Introducing Jellurgal cultural centre

With international borders closed, this is now the perfect opportunity to embrace Australia’s culture and explore our own backyard like we would if we were travelling overseas. The Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre is an authentic, world-class experience and I wish we had visited sooner!

C

lack, Clack, Clack, Clack. The rhythm of the Bilmi sticks and the resounding echo from each beat as the sticks make contact is mesmerizing. After around 16 beats, Anthony begins singing a traditional goodbye song. It’s more of a chant really and the beautiful deep resonance of his voice in perfect time with the clapping sticks makes me feel a little emotional.

We have been on the Walkabout Tour at Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre and now that the tour is finished, our guide Anthony is singing us a thank you and goodbye song.

It is a truly wonderful experience and I close my eyes for a while so that I can hear it without distraction.

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The tour began at the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre, located at the renowned Burleigh Headland on the Gold Coast, right next door to the popular family swimming spot at Tallebudgera Creek. Anthony greeted us and it wasn’t long before we headed out on our guided walk around Jellurgal, the Aboriginal name for the Burleigh Heads National Park headland.

We set out on the popular ocean view track and Anthony engaged the kids with Dreamtime stories associated with the creation of Jellurgal. The kids loved one that featured a dolphin and it wasn’t long before we found ourselves with our feet in the shallows of Tallebudgera Creek.

Top: An experience at the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Credit: Destination Gold Coast

AUSTRALIA

Anthony showed us where to collect the ochre and we squatted down on the waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s edge to make paint in the palm of our hands by mixing the ochre with the ocean water.

The kids chickened out having the ochre mixture spread on their own faces but happily spread it on their arms before washing it off in the water.

Ocean views of the famous Gold Coast skyline framed by pandanus on one side and the greenery of the Burleigh Heads headland on the other, I could see why this particular walk is loved by locals and visitors alike.

We heard of more Dreamtime stories and learnt facts about the traditional lives of the Yugambeh speaking people who have been here for thousands of years.

We spotted wildlife, found the geographical features told in the Dreamtime stories and just enjoyed the magic of the mountain that is Jellurgal.

The Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre with its beach side location provides a oneof-a-kind experience on the Gold Coast, whilst preserving, promoting and sharing the Aboriginal culture.

Top: Making paint with ochre. Credit: Tourism & Events QLD. BottomL: Views from the track Credit: Jessica Palmer. BottomR: Aerial view of Tallebudgera Creek. Credit: Destination Gold Coast.

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AUSTRALIA

J

ellurgal offers three main tours in the Jellurgal Little Explorers, Jellurgal Walkabout and the Jellurgal Journey.

Jellurgal little explorers

Jellurgal Little Explorers is a new tour designed for kids and goes for around 1.5 hours. Children can explore the magic of the ‘’Dreaming Mountain’’, Jellurgal with an art workshop and guided walk and activities.

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This tour runs through the school holidays and is perfect for primary school children aged from 5 - 12 years of age.

Kids will love meeting a traditional custodian and hearing the Dreamtime stories associated with Jellurgal. The tour includes an activity book for the kids to fill in on their walk which they get to take home at the end of the tour, along with the art they create in the art workshop.

Top: An experience at the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Credit: Tourism & Events QLD. BottomL: A Dreamtime story by Tallebudgera Creek. Credit: Tourism & Events QLD. BottomR: Dancers in action. Credit: Tourism & Events QLD.

AUSTRALIA Jellurgal walkabout The Jellurgal Walkabout tour takes around two hours and is an engaging walking tour of the renowned Burleigh Headland. The tour starts with an audio/visual presentation followed by an Ochre Ceremony with ochre sourced from the mountain before heading out on a guided walk around the ‘’Dreaming Mountain’’, Jellurgal.

Visitors will meet a traditional custodian, hear the Dreamtime stories associated with the creation of Jellurgal and discover facts about traditional life.

Jellurgal journey The Jellurgal Journey is available for private group bookings with a minimum of four adults. Immerse yourself in Aboriginal culture with a guided tour followed by a live Aboriginal dance performance.

Learn about the Aboriginal history and culture of the Gold Coast, meet a traditional custodian and hear the local Dreamtime stories. The tour concludes in the Dreaming Amphitheatre where you will see Aboriginal dancers tell stories through song and movement.

For more info or to book A tour with the Jellurgal Cultural Centre, visit their website direct

www.jellurgal.com.au

Bottom: Ochre painting on skin. Credit: Destination Gold Coast.

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MALDIVES

Try New Fantastic Experiences at

Five Jaw-Dropping Island Resorts in The Maldives

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Above: The ‘‘Coralarium’’ at Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi.. Credit: Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi.

MALDIVES

Visit the Maldives Only ‘‘Coralaium’’ at Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi Glistening like a pearl in the Indian Ocean, the Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi is located on the Shaviyani Atoll. The resort is home to the longest infinity pool in the Maldives and leads to the Coralarium, the Maldive’s first and only underwater art coral regeneration project. Eco-artist, Jason deCaires Taylor has created a unique collection of 14 abstract sculptures in which guests can explore on a daily snorkelling tour led by the resort’s marine biologist.

Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi is what dreams are made of with pictureperfect white sand beaches and swaying palms that meet the turquoise water of a 600-hectare lagoon that gives way to the blues of the Indian Ocean. Families can also sail away to a nearby deserted island, join a sunset dolphin cruise, attend a cooking class, swim, experience an array of water sports and relax in the evening by their opulent Beach Villa, decadent Over Water Villa or luxury Tented Jungle Villa.

Top: Family movie night at the Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi. BottomL: Arriving by seaplane. BottomM: Beautiful accommodation.

BottomR: Kayaking the incredible lagoon surrounding the Coralarium. Credits: Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi.

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MALDIVES

Explore the Underwater World With a Marine Butler at Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort The Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort is located on Gaafu Alifu, one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most remote and pristine atolls, found at the southernmost reach of The Maldives. This resort is a rare haven and the butler service allows guests to live their best life in new levels of luxury, with a dedicated Marine Butler who will introduce explorers to a world of underwater wonders.

The Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s remote location and unparalleled luxury make it the ultimate escape. Families can snorkel the crystal-clear waters of the two-house reefs and your Marine Butler can even act as your personal underwater photographer. Go dolphin watching, relax on the beach, paddle out on a glass bottom kayak, jet ski explore the underwater life and relax in the evening in your luxurious beach or overwater villa.

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TopL: Glass bottom kayaking. TopMiddle: Stunning bathroom with a view. TopR: Aerial view of Maldives Meradhoo Resort.

Bottom: Barefoot dining in style. Credits: Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort.

MALDIVES

Work & Play from Paradise at Pullman Maldives Maamutaa The Pullman Maldives all-inclusive resort hotel is tucked away between a mini-forest and a natural lake on the island of Maamutaa. Combining lifestyle and design for both business and pleasure, the Pullman Maldives is a unique opportunity to work remotely from the stunning Maldives while balancing your wellbeing.

There is plenty to keep families occupied during their stay from tennis, golf, water sports, beach activities and more. Explore the underwater world between calls, keep up your performance with a fitness program and relax with a spa treatment after a productive day in paradise.

Top: Beautiful sunset at the Pullman Maldives Maamutaa Resort. BottomL: Beach Villas. BottomMiddle: Relaxing at the Pullman Maldives Maamuttaa Resort. BottomR: Stand up Paddleboarding the stunning lagoon. Credits: Pullman Maldives Maamutaa Resort

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MALDIVES

Savour Chocolate Hour at Movenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives Movenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives is a pristine sanctuary and tropical oasis nestled in the Noonu Atoll. Savour Chocolate Hour daily between 4pm and 5pm where guests come together to try out handmade Swiss chocolates, truffles, cakes, brownies and bite sized treats while they get ready to enjoy the unforgettable tropical sunset.

Families will enjoy their own private plunge pool, powder-white beaches, beautiful house reef, diving and water sports centre, Sun Spa by Esthederm and family-friendly activities, meals and kids’ club.

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Top: Private plunge pool at Movenpick Resort Kuredhavaru Maldives. BottomL: Romance & relax while the kids enjoy kids’ club.

BottomM: Relax to the ocean breeze. BottomR: Dining with a view. Credits: Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives.

MALDIVES

Swim With Whale Sharks at Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort on Kooddoo Island is where adventurous guests can head out into the Indian Ocean to encounter the gentle, giant whale sharks. The resort is ideal for travellers looking for local and authentic experiences .

Families will enjoy either a beach or overwater villa in the pristine waters of the Maldives and all that it has to offer such as snorkelling, diving, dolphin watching, jet skiing and stand up paddle boarding. On-land activities range from learning how to cook regional specialties making your own towel art, futsal, beach volleyball and relaxing under palms along the white sandy beach.

TopL: Snorkel the pristine waters. TopMiddle: Overwater villas with private pool. TopR: Jet Skiing.

Bottom: Beach villa with private pool. Credits: Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort.

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AUSTRALIA

PICNIC ISLAND

Grab Your Friends and Family For an Exclusive Stay On A Private Island In Tasmaniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Stunning Freycinet National Park

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Image: Aerial view of Picnic Island. Credits: Luke Tsharke. OppPageTop: Communal living area with fireplace. Credits: Carmel Boyd.

OppPageMiddle: Sunset at Picnic Island. Credits: Luke Tsharke. OppPageBottom: Interior of a guest room. Credits: Carmel Boyd.

AUSTRALIA Picnic Island is a back to nature luxe experience for up to 10 people. The whole island will be yours! Located within Tasmaniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Freycinet National Park with a majestic backdrop of the pink granite Hazards mountain range.

Dolphins and seals visit regularly and when night falls, families will love watching the resident penguins return to their burrows to feed their chicks.

There is even a hidden treasure chest for kids to find in a sea cave!

The five guest rooms are all under one roof, with a separate well fitted out communal kitchen, BBQ, living area and amenities. All of the rooms are designed to take advantage of the stunning ocean views and a single sand-stone block left behind by convicts nearly 200 years ago now sits as a hearth by the suspended fire place.

www.picnicisland.com.au

Interstate visitors can fly into Hobart or Launceston. Travel a little over 2 hours to reach Coles Bay, where Freycinet Adventures will transport you 10 minutes to Picnic Island by boat. Alternatively, arrive in style direct to the island by seaplane from Hobart with Above & Beyond Flights.

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UNITED STATES

Road Trips Done Right

Through Unbelievably Weird, Wild NEVADA

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to bring back the epic family road trip! From great lakes to beautiful gems to the weird and wonderful, Nevada has something for everyone.

Here are three surprisingly different road-trips to inspire your family to get out there when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s safe to do so again.

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Image this page and next: Seven Magic Mountains. Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada.

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Road Trip Idea #1 Quirky Nevada

The Weird & Wonderful From Bottom to Top

Nevada has never been ordinary and as a state frequented by modern freedom seekers, founded by cowboys and gold miners and built by casino heavyweights ... itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no wonder that it contains a lot of quirky features. From a forest of junk cars to a haunted clown-themed motel to the Extraterrestrial Highway, exploring Nevadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s weird and wonderful side from bottom to top (or vice-versa) is sure to create some great family memories and insta worthy photos.

Seven Magic Mountains

South Nevada - Las Vegas Visible across the desert landscape along Interstate 15 just south of Las Vegas, Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone has created Seven Magic Mountains, a fun, neon-coloured art installation.

According to Rondinone, the location is both symbolically and physically mid-way between the natural and the artificial with the natural expressed by the landscape and the artificial expressed by the constant flow of traffic on the highway between Los Angeles and Las Vegas 63

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The Neon Museum

South Nevada - Las Vegas Las Vegas and Neon signs go hand in hand right? But where does all that Neon go when it’s no longer needed? The Neon Museum, a non-profit dedicated to collecting, preserving and exhibiting the most iconic neon signs of Las Vegas. Although you can visit during the day, it’s best to visit at night with a guided tour to get the full effect of the neon.

The Clown Museum

Central Nevada - Tonopah Dubbed ‘’America’s Scariest Motel’’ due to its clown theme and proximity to the cemetery where many miners were laid to rest after the Tonopah-Belmont Mine Fire of 1911, The Clown Motel is a unique experience. According to The Clown Motel website, ‘’We’ll do everything to make your stay comfortable, but what happens after dark is out of our hands ... ‘’

Alien Research Centre

Central Nevada - Hiko The Alien Research Centre is the gateway to Area 51 and the Extraterrestrial Highway, a road trip in its own right! Enter the silver Quonset hut with the giant twostory silver alien at the door to get the inside scoop on where to spot a UFO, chat with locals and of course, get your mitts on some alien themed souvenirs.

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International Car Forest of The Last Church

Central Nevada - Goldfield Found just outside Goldfield, the International Car Forest of the Last Church is a quirky sculpture garden of various cars, vans and trucks. If you have spray paint, bring it along as the vehicles invite new paint jobs from visiting ‘’churchgoers.’’

Families will marvel at how some cars have been forced into the ground while others are carefully balanced atop each other.

OppPageTop: Neon Museum. Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada. OppPageMiddle: Clown Museum. Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada.

OppPageBottom: Alien Research Centre. Credit: TravelNevada. ThisPage: International Car Forest. Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada.

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Goldfield Historic Cemetery

Central Nevada - Goldfield Goldfield was one of the largest mining communities in the Western US and as a result, the Goldfield Cemetery is chock full of some of Nevada’s most interesting history. It even drew in famed westerners such as Virgil and Wyatt Earp! For families who aren’t directly connected to Goldfield’s history, there are plenty of noteworthy graves to check out in the historical section, which can be found all the way at the back on the left. Marked by large white stones used as grave markers, expect to find some interesting causes of death inscribed on the grave markers such as ‘’Man Died Eating Library Paste.’’ The cemetery is still in use today so visitors should take care to be respectful.

Coffinwood

Central Nevada - Pahrump Coffinwood is a genuine weird and wonderful experience in Nevada! After experiencing tragedy himself, owner Bryan decided to take up coffin making, starting the business ‘’Coffin It Up’’. An artist and a cabinetmaker professionally, he also has a passion for working with Obsidian and creates coffin furniture, jewelry, storage boxes as well as actual burial coffins. Being that Coffinwood is also a private home, tours of Coffinwood are strictly by appointment only.

E.T. Fresh Jerky

Central Nevada - Hiko Quirky character, clean restrooms and Alien jerky … only in Nevada! E.T. Jerky is not the only treasure to be found at this iconic rest stop though. Expect to find a range of quirky souvenirs, candy, dried fruit, nuts, gourmet olives and even Martian Poop flavoured soda. Don’t miss the great family photo opps with the life-size alien murals.

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Top: Goldfield Cemetery. Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada. Middle: Coffinwood. Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada.

Bottom: E.T. Fresh Jerky Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada.

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Thunder Mountain

Northern Nevada - Winnemucca Created by the late Fran Van Zant, aka Chief Thunder, Thunder Mountain will leave you scratching your head. The oddly shaped, handmade structure was created over several decades using artifacts and other items found in the Nevada desert, including bottles and hubcaps all patched together with concrete. Chief Thunder believed the Great Spirit was keeping him there and that building and running Thunder Mountain was his destiny. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unsafe to explore the interior but families can peruse the grounds and any donations help to maintain the quirky structures that have called Nevada home for decades.

Republic of Molossia

North Central Nevada - Dayton Just 30 minutes north-east of Carson City, a weird and wonderful sovereign nation can be found. The Republic of Molossia has been an official independent, sovereign nation for forty years! President Kevin Baugh and his wife declared a micronation back in 1977 and covering 6.3 acres of land, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the smallest of the Molossia Territories. The other territories are located in Pennsylvania, Southern California, the bottom of the Pacific Ocean and apparently, even on a small chunk of the planet Venus. Although lacking a hospital or airport, the Republic of Molossia has currency and laws. Visitors must make an appointment to visit and go through customs just like anywhere else! Official holidays in Molossia include the Moonpie Festival in September and Kickassia Invasion Victory Day in April.

Top: Thunder Mountain. Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada. Bottom: The Republic of Molossia. Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada.

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Road Trip Idea #2

The Lake Tahoe Loop Massive, crystal-clear and encircled by towering peaks, Lake Tahoe has deservedly earned its title as the ‘’Jewel of the Sierra Nevada’’. The Lake Tahoe Loop road trip begins and ends in Reno, checking in around scenic spots on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, Carson Valley, Carson City and the wonderfully wild and western historic Virginia City.

Begin The Lake Tahoe Loop

by Exploring Reno

R

eno has come a long way from its casino town days and is now also known for its obsession with public art, bohemian shops and epic events.

Adventure … Adventurous families will love the world’s tallest artificial climbing wall and 7,000-square-foot indoor bouldering park at the Whitney Peak Hotel. You don’t need to stay at this smoke and gambling free hotel to make use of this fun attraction and the hotel is easily found right near the well known Reno Arch.

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Art … Public art knows no end in Reno! A stroll along the Reno Riverwalk or the plaza outside of the Nevada Museum of Art will delight both young and old with public art ranging from murals to retired Burning Man sculptures. The Museum of Art also offers innovative kids, teens and families programs so make sure to check out their website beforehand.

Atmosphere ... Located alongside the picturesque Truckee River, the Reno Riverwalk is enjoyable for all that take the time to stroll. Families will find shopping, restaurants, entertainment and even a whitewater park.

Top: Lake Tahoe. Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada. BottomL: Reno Arch. Credit: Visit Reno Tahoe/TravelNevada.

BottomMiddle: Great food along the Reno Riverwalk. BottomR: Climbing boulders at Whitney Peak Hotel. Credits: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada.

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Drive from Reno to Lake Tahoe 37mi / 60km Lake Tahoe straddles the Nevada-California borders and being the largest alpine lake in North America, is popular for SUP-boarding, kayaking, and beach-bumming. The water is considered brisk in the middle of summer but only the brave take the plunge in winter!

Head to Incline Village in the north as your introduction to the stunning Lake Tahoe. A rustic hamlet with luxurious lodging and old Tahoe charm, this is where you will find the Tahoe Science centre. The interactive exhibits allow families looking for fun and learning to dive into Lake Tahoe without getting wet! Learn about the lake’s ecosystem, why it’s changing and how you can keep Tahoe blue.

Heading south 5mi/8km, Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park is the place to be and there is no better place to experience Tahoe’s range of stunning scenery. Sandy Harbour is popular with families, sunbathers, SUP-boarders, boaters and even sleigh riders in the wintertime. Shakespeare lovers won’t want to miss the annual summertime Shakespeare Fest held each July through August.

Off-grid bliss is found by hikers, mountain bikers, anglers and lovers of the outdoors at Spooner Lake and the Marlette-Hobart Backcountry. Home to the cliff-hugging Flume Trail, the track is carved into a steep granite spire overlooking Lake Tahoe with Instagram worthy views. Although popular with mountain bike riders, the hiking trail is just as spectacular.

TopL: Flume trail. Credit: TravelNevada. TopR: Borges Sleigh Rides. Credit: Borges Sleigh Rides/TravelNevada.

Bottom: MS Dixie. Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada.

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Along this Highway 28 Corridor, road tripping families can find secluded beaches accessible only by a hike in or over the water. Secret Cove and Chimney Beach are picturesque favourites!

Cave Rock, only 14mi/22km south of Sandy Beach, is of spiritual significance to American Indian tribes in the region and features three picnic areas with tables and BBQ pits. Fishing, swimming and hiking is popular here.

Heading further south 5mi/8km to Zephyr Cove, don’t miss your chance to cruise Lake Tahoe on the M.S. Dixie II. Dixie is a 500-passenger paddle wheeler and a local favourite, running daytime cruises, dinner cruises and private charters.

The 2.5 hour daytime cruise is a great photo opportunity for treasured family memories in the sunshine and fresh Lake Tahoe air. Cruise Emerald Bay and learn of its history and how it was formed. Beautiful scenery is guaranteed!

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Top: Carson Valley. Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada.

Bottom: Genoa Bar. Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada.

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Say Goodbye to Lake Tahoe and Hello to Carson Valley and City 33mi/53km (via Genoa) Scenic ranchlands and charming small towns with old fashioned hospitality are a welcomed feature of Carson Valley.

Make sure you visit Genoa Bar & Saloon in Genoa, only 20mi/32km from Zephyr Cove via Kingsbury Grade Rd and Foothill Rd. Dating back to 1853, it’s the oldest one in Nevada! Quirky relics in this saloon include Willie Nelson’s hat and Raquel Welch’s bra.

It’s not hard to find delicious cafes in Genoa either!

If you have time to linger in Carson Valley, the town of Gardnerville was designed for strolling. Set against the backdrop of the Eastern Sierra in the heart of Carson Valley, Gardnerville is a wonderful place to amble among century old buildings filled with local art, crafts and antiques.

When you arrive in Carson City, head to the Carson City Visitors Centre to pick up your Kit Carson Trail map. Families can follow along a 2.5mi/4km self-guided walking tour through the historical district.

Carson City is also a haven for museum lovers with the Nevada State Museum, the Nevada State Railroad Museum, the Virginia and Truckee Railroad and the Stewart Indian School Cultural Center & Museum.

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Head to Virginia and Back to Reno to Complete the Loop 41mi/66km

Families will love visiting the Chollar Mine on a tour and some may even love touring the haunted buildings around town, of which some experts claim are the most paranormally active places in the USA, The 1850â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s-era mining town of Virginia City particularly the Mackay Mansion, Washoe is just 15mi/24km along the Lincoln Highway Club and the Silver Queen. from Carson City. Virginia was built above All ages will love visiting the Virginia & the Comstock Lode silver mines where one Truckee Railroad for the opportunity to ride of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest silver booms occurred, 100 year-old steam engines and heritage attracting 25,000 hopeful fortune-seekers in diesel locomotives. Ride the lines through its heyday. famous bonanza Comstock mines and you Today, only around 1,000 residents call may even spot bands of wild horses, raptors Virginia home and the entire town has and other native animals! earned a spot on the National Register of Reno is a further 26mi/42km to complete Historic Places with beautifully preserved your epic Lake Tahoe Loop family road trip! churches, homes, cemeteries and saloons.

TopL: Virginia & Truckee Railroad. Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada. BottomL: Shakespeare Fest. Credit: Strotz Photogrpahy/TravelNevada BottomR: Chollar Mine. Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada.

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Road Trip Idea #3 All That Glitters Rockhounding in Nevada

Rockhounding, fossicking, prospecting ... whatever you choose to call it, Nevada is an absolute paradise for finding pretty rocks and minerals!

Mine For Turquoise

Central Nevada - Tonopah If you only have time for one rockhounding adventure in Central Nevada, make it this one!

Visit the Otteson Brothers in Tonopah and head out on their Turquoise Mine Tour through the Royston Turquoise Mine, famous for the specific shade of raw turquoise it produces.

Spend a half or full day mining alongside thirdgeneration Otteson family, who at the end of the day will cut and polish your most valuable piece.

Reservations are required and tours are held April through to November.

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Top: Garnet Hill. Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada. Bottom: Otteson Brothers turquoise. Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada.

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Search For Fossils

Central Nevada - Caliente Located just outside of Caliente in the southeast corner of Nevada, the Oak Springs Trilobite area features six types of trilobites in the shale deposits.

In case youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re wondering, a trilobite is a group of extinct fossil arthropods that existed as marine animals over 500 million years ago. The fossils have been exposed at the south end of the property in a trench and this is the area you should start searching.

Rockhound For Gems

Central Nevada - Goldfield Some of the best rockhounding lies just outside Goldfield in a lesser known place called Gemfield. A variety of rocks and minerals can be found in the one area here such as chalcedony, agate, jasper and quartz.

Pick Up Some Garnets

North Central Nevada - Ely Garnet Hill in the Ely district is the only designated rockhounding area for garnet collectors.

Ruby red semi-precious gems are found buried within the hillside in the rocky volcanic outcrops through either rock breaking or searching the surface. While itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recommended to bring gloves, a rock hammer and a shovel, many are visible on the surface!

Top: Oak Springs Trilobite area. Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada. Bottom: Garnet Hill. Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada.

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Fall In Love With Opals

Northern Nevada - Denio Denio is where a multitude of opal action is when it comes to rockhounding in Northern Nevada! The Royal Peacock Opal Mine opened for business in 1981 and has been a family affair ever since, producing extremely rare and stunningly beautiful specimens. The Black Fire Opals found in this region are so unique that Nevada has claimed them as the state gemstone. Formerly operating as a commercial mine, the Royal Peacock is open to hobbyist rockhounders these days and has its own RV Park onsite. The mine is open from around May to October weather permitting. Other Opal Mines in the area include Bonanza Opal Mines and Rainbow Ridge Opal Mines.

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Top: Royal Peackock Opal Mine. BottomL: Digging at Royal Peackock Opal Mine. BottomR: Royal Peackock Opal Mine.

Credit: Sydney Martinez/TravelNevada. OppPageTop: Rye Patch State Recreation Area. Credit: Nevada State Parks /TravelNevada

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Try Your Hand at Gold Prospecting

Northern Nevada - Rye Patch State Recreation Area Heading away from Denio and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beautiful opals, Rye Patch State Recreation Area is a popular base camp for gold prospecting. Open year round, Rye Patch is situated on a 22-mile long reservoir with 72mi/116km of shoreline and 11,000 acres of water surface when full. Families can camp here and also enjoy swimming, fishing, picnicking and ghost town exploration.

NEVADA ROAD TRIPS NEED TO KNOW Confirm before departing as some accommodation providers and activities are seasonal and/or temporarily closed or operating reduced hours due to Covid-10 Covid-19 Health & Safety Travel Information RV Parks in Nevada RV Hire

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