Family Travel #5 (winter 2019)

Issue 05 | Winter 2019

ONE LAST HURRAH

Planning the best babymoon

Snow much fun at Mt Baw Baw Amazing Africa

Luxury meets adventure in Botswana

FUN THINGS TO DO AT STAR WARS: GALAXY’S EDGE

Discover Egypt A family tour to remember

AUST $7.95

ISSN 2209-4237

9 772209 423003 >

05

Camping Challenge

Keeping kids sane without wifi

MEET the team

JANEECE KELLER CEO Janeece is the CEO of Bound Round, the parent company of Family Travel magazine. She’s been travelling since she was a toddler, has visited more than 50 countries (with a couple of new ones to be added this year) and has lived all across the world, including in Germany, England, Ghana and Switzerland. Janeece became a mum this year and is looking forward to showing her daughter, Evie, the world – finally getting to live the experiences she’s spent more than eight years writing about from an aunty’s perspective. When travelling, Janeece loves to get off the beaten track, taste-test local flavours and sometimes lap up a little luxury.

NATASHA KELLER COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Natasha looks after all things marketing for Family Travel magazine. Canadian by birth, with parents who were born in Holland, a sister born in South Africa, and an Australian-born brother, she comes by her love for travel honestly.

Having visited every inhabited continent in the world, Natasha loves nothing more than to explore the world with her two primary-school-aged kids in tow. Whether it’s the park around the corner, a roadtrip somewhere new or a bucket-list international escapade, she firmly believes there’s nothing better than getting out and exploring as a family, irrespective of what the current budget looks like, to create memories that will last a lifetime.

JULIE JONES ACCESS & INCLUSION SPECIALIST Julie is a mum of two children: son Braeden, who lives with cerebral palsy, and daughter Amelia. She is passionate about access and inclusion, and is keen to share stories that will assist other families living with disability to travel and enjoy time together. In her role as a disability advocate, she works on Sydney Festival’s access and inclusion advisory panel and a local council’s social inclusion panel, and has contributed as a panelist to the NSW Government’s ‘Everyone Can Play’ guidelines. Julie believes family time spent on holiday has connected Braeden and Amelia as siblings and makes wonderful lifetime memories for the whole family.

FAMILY

$

TROPICAL GETAWAY

439

FOR 3 NIGHTS FOR 2 WITH HOT BUFFET BREAKFAST

CHILL OUT

IN THE 3 LAGOON STYLE POOLS

ENJOY

SPACIOUS, AIR-CONDITIONED STUDIO ROOM WITH KITCHENETTE KIDS 12 & UNDER STAY AND EAT FOR FREE *CONDITIONS APPLY

Call 4053 8800 to book your family getaway!

Quote "FT" to get this special rate reservations@cairnscolonialclub.com.au

Relax & unwind at the... cairnscolonialclub.com.au

The Family Travel team familytravel.com.au CEO Janeece Keller Communications manager Natasha Keller Editor Tatyana Leonov tatyana@boundround.com Digital editor Alison Godfrey alison@boundround.com Contributors Jacqueline Alwill Jase Andrews Kate Armstrong Suzan Dickson Sarah Friggieri Alison Godfrey Zoey Goto Amelia Jones Julie Jones

Janeece Keller Natasha Keller Grace Koelma Tatyana Leonov Bethany Plint Nicola Rennie Caroline Riches Tiana Templeman Sue White Melanie Whyte

Art director Jon Wolfgang Miller Advertising enquiries salesmanager@boundround.com 02 9904 4111 Published by Bound Round Pty Ltd 431 Warringah Rd Frenchs Forest NSW 2086

Cover image Eric Koelma Back cover image Harriniva Hotels & Safaris Disclaimer The opinions expressed in the editorials are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Publisher and Family Travel. Information provided was believed to be correct at the time of publication.

Copyright © Bound Round Pty Ltd 2019 Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders.

Bound Round Pty Ltd cannot accept unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. If such items are sent to the magazine, they will be returned.

Image: Eunice Konan

Sub-editor Sarah Friggieri

WELCOME

Here we are again – another issue, another holiday to plan, kids a little older, maybe a new baby on the way… I find as life gets busier, I crave holiday time even more. Regardless of whether we are on an active holiday, camping in the bush or simply relaxing somewhere with waves lapping at our feet, reconnecting with each other as a family while exploring the world is one of life’s greatest pleasures.

In fact, I love travelling so much that I’ve decided to do more of it; I’m stepping down from the role of Editor and CEO Janeece Keller will be taking the reins. I’ll still be around and writing regularly as the toddler specialist, contributing with destination features and offering plenty of tips and advice, but this is such a special time in our little one’s life that my husband and I want to cherish every single moment together.

These past few weeks, my goal has been to make my final issue – the winter edition – as amazing as possible for you. It’s bursting at the seams, and not just with snowmen and ski slopes!

Our wanderlust feature (page 48) is all about out-of-the-ordinary adventures – journeys that ignite the soul and come with huge bragging rights. We’ll

transport you on a safari through Botswana (page 93) and an Alaskan cruise (page 58), then zoom you into space with a visit to Kennedy Space Center (page 82), which this year is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its Apollo Program. We’ll also take you to Japan (page 74), a favourite destination among families; with one year until the Tokyo Olympics, it’s time to start planning your visit.

Of course, our home turf is also spectacular, so we’ve once again highlighted the Australian destinations that have stolen our hearts. New mum Janeece worked tirelessly to put together the babymoon story (read: had the best time ever with hubbie and bump) – you can find it on page 64. I worked pretty hard too… at keeping my skis parallel as I traversed Mt Baw Baw. There’s so much for families to do there – flick to page 70 to read the story and start planning your next snow getaway.

Speaking of planning, we’ve got everything from events and expert advice to reviews and revelations.

It’s time to go on a journey.

Tatyana Leonov and the Family Travel team

FAMILYTRAVEL.COM.AU WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

5

Readers’ letters Winner

Dear Family Travel team, What a great idea using real families on the cover instead of models! Don’t get me wrong, Matilda and Lisa are just gorgeous, but it was also nice to read about their actual adventures across the world. It makes the whole ‘full-time travel’ concept seem so much more achievable for us mere mortals. Thank you for bringing truth back to magazines.

A. Fontana

Hi Family Travel mag team, I love that I’m always surprised whenever I open a new issue of Family Travel. I’ve always considered myself well-travelled, but there are so many places I never would have thought to take my kids that you have now introduced me to. Bordeaux to me has always been just a place for adults, but you shared the Disney-like castles and treasurehunt ideas with us. And Hong Kong is now on our list just so we can see some pink dolphins! Also, who would’ve known Whistler Blackcomb is just as good in summer as it is in winter? It’ll probably be cheaper to visit then too. Thank you for the great tips!

L. Stevens Hi Family Travel mag, I just want to write in to thank you for shining a spotlight on Penrith! It’s a really great suburb that is often wrongly tarnished with the ‘bogan’ brush. I’ve been on the Nepean Belle – it’s a bit outdated, but it’s a nice day out nonetheless. I haven’t been to Cables Aqua Park, but that’s only because I’m not really the type who likes to get her gear off in front of strangers. There are so many developments in the area now, I encourage everybody to give it a go.

M. Smith

6

Hi Tatyana and magazine team, I read my daughter-in-law’s copy of Family Travel when I last visited. I was so pleased to see you using a grandmother as an expert! I could relate to everything Suzan Dickson wrote.

The complex baby seats around these days, which slip through my fingers even easier when I’m rushing to get the iPad ready.

Trying to remember the lyrics to the same nursery rhymes my son and I used to sing together in the car. Thank you for bringing back all of those memories and for making sure I don’t feel too lost on this journey.

H. Finley Hi Family Travel, Thanks for all the great stuff in your magazine last month.

When I saw the ‘Wine country with kids’ headline on the cover, my ears pricked up. I wondered how on earth I could manage to add wineries to our kids’ list of dream destinations. I’m happy to say I was pleasantly surprised.

Who knew there were so many kid-friendly wine regions? The article was really well written and I agree that family holidays shouldn’t always be about waterparks and zoos. Why shouldn’t us parents be able to enjoy the finer things in life too?

Shenee

Win

“They grow up so fast!” Parents have been saying this for generations. When video cameras came along, it became so much easier to hold on to treasured moments and milestones. The only difference is, nowadays, home movies don’t have to sit in an old box collecting dust – they can be shared instantly with family, friends and the rest of the world.

For travelling families, finding the right camera to capture those special holiday moments can be tricky – but we’ve taken out the guesswork. The Sony AX33 4K Handycam is compact and won’t take up too much room in your suitcase. It has advanced stabilisation technology to keep footage blur-free, even when you’re bouncing about on a boat or taking on a 4WD track. Share your videos instantly with friends and family back home, and record all of your experiences in crisp 4K image quality (that’s four times more detail than full HD!).

We’re giving readers the chance to win a Sony AX33 4K Handycam (valued at $1099) so you can live in the moment while capturing it for the future. To go in the draw, tell us what you think of the magazine by emailing editorial@boundround.com.

QUIZ Think you know it all? Take the quiz below to find out how worldly you really are, then flick to page 9 for the answers.

01 Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is located on which island?

02 The Rabbit Proof Fence was erected to keep agricultural pests out of which Australian state?

03 Brazil is the largest producer of coffee in the world.

What is the second-largest producer?

04 Which city is further south: Cairo, Mumbai or Hong Kong?

05 In what country is Leonardo da Vinci buried?

06 In what country did the smorgasbord originate?

07 Transylvania is a region in what country?

08 Where would you find Happy Valley Racecourse?

09 The Galapagos Islands are located in which South American country?

10 What is the former name of Ho Chi Minh City?

70

90

44

80

86

114

48

Plan

93 AMAZING AFRICA

Our ‘wanderlist’ of the most unique places

...and feel more alive than ever

15 PACKING LIST 16 COVER STAR

58 THE INSIDE TRACK

18 PERFECT PAIR

64 ONE LAST HURRAH

The story behind the photo

A once-in-a-lifetime adventure in Alaska

The father-and-son team of Exceptional Kangaroo Island

Exploring Byron Bay on a babymoon

20 OUR EXPERTS

The Force will be with you

Advice on choosing the right destination

24 NEWS & VIEWS

The latest and greatest from across the world

36 JUNIOR SPORTS STARS

68 STAR OF THE SHOW

70 SNOW MUCH MORE THAN SKIING Winter fun with the whole family

74 JAPAN-BOUND

Why 2020 is the best time to visit

The lucky kids who get to travel while doing what they love

80 A FRESH ADVENTURE

38 OPINION

82 REACH FOR THE STARS

The secret to keeping kids sane without wifi

40 TRAVEL WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

Adventures on New Zealand’s South Island

44 PLAY

Spotlight on Abu Dhabi, Macao and Lucerne

CONTENTS

Holidays

48 THE WORLD AWAITS

Packing for a roadtrip

58

ISSUE 5

Push past Japan’s crowds for even greater beauty It’s one giant leap to Kennedy Space Center

86 HIT THE ROAD, JACK

Taking in Western Australia behind the wheel

90 A GUIDE TO PARIS WITH KIDS

Rediscover the world through their eyes

The myriad surprises of Botswana

98 DISCOVER EGYPT

102 WORLD WONDERS Photo essay inspiration

110 HOW TO

Win at winter adventures

NAVIGATE 112 THE MAGIC OF VIDEO

There’s no better way to reminisce

114 TALK TO THE EXPERT

Jacqueline Alwill chats about nutrition

118 WE REVIEW

LEGOLAND Castle Hotel, GLO Hotel Kluuvi, Crowne Plaza Changi Airport, Finnair

123 WHAT’S ON

Events across the world

128 KIDS’ PICKS

Six young travellers share their most treasured holiday highlights WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

7

ISSUE 5

WORLD MAP 58

THE INSIDE TRACK Stand in awe of the Alaskan wilderness on a kid-friendly cruise.

82

REACH FOR THE STARS Once you’re at Kennedy Space Center, you’ll feel as though you’re on another planet.

8

93

AMAZING AFRICA There’s more than lions and tigers and bears in Botswana.

74

JAPANBOUND Why you should visit in 2020.

98

DISCOVER EGYPT It’ll leave you feeling more alive than ever!

70

SNOW MUCH MORE THAN SKIING Mt Baw Baw is full of surprises!

64

ONE LAST HURRAH A babymoon in Byron Bay.

86

HIT THE ROAD, JACK Exploring WA by car (and in the ocean) spells adventure.

QUIZ ANSWERS

Keen to see how many of the questions you got right? Here are the answers...

01 Honshu 02 Western Australia 03 Vietnam 04 Mumbai 05 France 06 Sweden 07 Romania 08 Hong Kong 09 Ecuador 10 Saigon

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

9

Take me there Whether you opt for a wildlife safari in Zimbabwe (pictured), a gorilla trek in Rwanda or a cruise along the Nile in Egypt, Africa offers an authentic, educational and meaningful way to discover the world together as a family.

It takes a combination of expertise and attention to detail to tailor-make a truly inspirational family adventure, and with 50 years’ experience, Bench Africa sets the benchmark. benchafrica.com.au

10

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

11

family travel awards 2019

Win

WIN A GLAMOROUS HOLIDAY AT CLUB MED BALI Want to spend a relaxing week at Club Med Bali with the whole family? Go in the draw by voting in the 2019 Family Travel Awards.

We want to get to know you… Where do you holiday and why? Does the whole family come along? What about pets?

Do you stay in hotels, camp or cruise? How many holidays do you take a year? Are they in Australia or overseas?

We want you to nominate your favourite travel experiences and tell us what influences you when you booking your holidays. Have your say and you’ll go in the draw to win a dream family holiday at the luxurious Club Med Bali on the shores of Nusa Dua.

TO ENTER

Visit familytravel.com.au/awards and follow the instructions to complete the survey.

THE PRIZE

The winner of this competition will receive: • S even nights’ accommodation for two adults and two children in a Superior Room at Club Med Bali.

• For those travelling with young ones, a complimentary in-room Baby & Mini Welcome pack, which includes a crib, steriliser, potty, baby bath, mini robe and bedtime story, plus access to a Bugaboo pram.

• All-day gourmet dining at two resort restaurants, featuring mouth-watering local cuisine and international favourites.

• Premium open bar for adults to enjoy poolside at the main bar or with the sand between their toes at the new beach bar. Young ones can select their choice of mocktail, soda, juice or milkshake from the dedicated Kids’ Bar Menu, with stairs to the bar counter allowing little guests to order on their own.

• Kids’ Club access for children aged 4 to 17, staffed by highly trained English-speaking carers. (Kids’ Club services for children 4 months to 3 years are available at an additional cost.)

• Access to a wide range of activities, including yoga, tennis, golf, Balinese dance classes and trapeze, as well as the new Amazing Family activities program for the whole family to enjoy together – get involved in kite-making and kite-flying competitions, cooking classes, giant board games, bubble parties and interactive treasure hunts.

Terms and conditions apply. To read them, and for more information, visit familytravel.com.au/awards.

12

44

38

16

36

Plan NEWS BITES & TRAVEL IDEAS

15 16 18

PACKING LIST Best luggage and roadtrip items

COVER STAR The story behind the photo

PERFECT PAIR The father-and-son team of Exceptional Kangaroo Island

20

OUR EXPERTS Advice on choosing the right destination for your family

24

40

36

44

NEWS & VIEWS The latest and greatest from across the world

JUNIOR SPORTS STARS The lucky kids who get to travel while doing what they love

38

TRAVEL WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Adventures on New Zealand’s South Island

PLAY Spotlight on Abu Dhabi, Macao and Lucerne

OPINION The secret to keeping kids sane without wifi

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

13

SUBSCRIBE NOW ONLY $24.95 FOR 12 MONTHS

SUBSCRIBE NOW and save up to 25% My details

I would like to subscribe to Family Travel for: 12 months (4 issues) for only $24.95 24 months (8 issues) for only $47.70

Mrs / Ms / Miss / Mr (circle one)

Payment details Cheque/money order for $__________________ is enclosed, made payable to Bound Round Pty. Ltd. OR card number:

Given name: ___________________________________ Family name: __________________________________ Address: ______________________________________ ______________________________________________

Expiry date: _________ / _________ CCV/CCV2: _______________

_______________________ Postcode: _____________

Cardholder’s name: ___________________________________________________ Telephone: ____________________________________ Cardholder’s signature: ________________________________________________ Email: ________________________________________

HOW TO 1. CALL 1300 404 606 2. ONLINE familytravel.com.au/magazine-subscriptions SUBSCRIBE 3. POST 431 Warringah Rd Frenchs Forest NSW 2087 Terms and conditions: offer valid to 31 Dec 2018

Plan

02 03

01

06

08

05 04

07

Packing for a roadtrip

01 dFENCE ePOD emergency kit; $149.95; dfence.co

03 Bose noise-masking Sleepbuds; $379.95; bose.com.au

05 Muck Boots Kids Hale Gumboots; $89.95; swanndri.com.au

02 Rocketbook Color; $39.95; getrocketbook. com.au

04 BlackWolf Sync 30 Daypack; $129.99; blackwolf.com.au

06 BOOSTCHARGE Power Bank with Lightning Connector; $69.95; belkin.com

07 The Cord Roll; $75; afternoonswithalbert.com 08 The Plog; $169; crumpler.com

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

15

Plan

Image: Eric Koelma

Image: Roy Meredith

Image: Eric Koelma

cover star

the story behind the photo Aussies Grace, Eric and Leo have been travelling through Asia, Europe and North America for more than two years.

Grace is pictured on the cover with 3-year-old Leo on the historic Canmore Engine Bridge in Alberta, Canada; nestled in magnificent mountains, it’s one of the secret spots adored by locals. We spoke with Grace to learn more about the family’s adventures.

What inspired you to travel full time as a family?

We caught the travel bug before our son came along, but life got busy with building our careers and a mortgage, so travel was put on the backburner.

When our son was 1, we decided to take the leap and leave our house (with a white picket fence!) to travel full time.

Before we packed it all up and left in 2017, my husband and I were craving a broader experience of life; we wanted to open our minds to see the beauty in all worldviews, traditions and cultural experiences. While there is so much that makes each culture fascinatingly unique, we as humans are the same, wherever we live, whatever language we speak, regardless of political orientation or religion. We all want to fall in love, find meaningful work, laugh with our friends and crush our goals. We all experience heartbreak, failure and grief. Through our travels, we've learnt that we are more alike than we are different.

16

What's life like on the road?

We’ve experienced travel in a few different forms. We did Airbnb-hopping in Asia and Europe, which meant a lot of transition days, sometimes catching a bus, tuk tuk, taxi, plane and boat all in one day. Then, in 2018, we bought and renovated an old RV in Canada and lived in it for five months, travelling to the Rocky Mountains and down the US west coast. RV life meant we were constantly road-tripping and freecamping. We had no idea where we’d end up every night and enjoyed simple things like meals cooked in our tiny oven, gorgeous beaches and the luxury of hot showers (few and far between when you live on the road!). We vlogged a lot about our daily life as we travelled – you can check out the vlogs on our YouTube channel, Dare List Family.

What have been some of the travel highlights you've experienced?

We have seen natural beauty in so many forms: colossal cacti in the Saguaro Desert of Arizona, centuriesold buildings in Rome, drinking cappuccinos in sleepy Italian villages, bathing in pools at cleansing temples with our Balinese hosts, catching fireflies on a rickety boat in the pitch black in Malaysia, standing in awe of the magnificent peaks in Yosemite National Park… We also loved living at the foot of

the Canadian Rockies and seeing how they change throughout the seasons.

How did you and Eric make this travel dream a reality?

When we quit our corporate jobs (four months before jetting off), we started freelancing in website design and social-media marketing. For the first year of travel, those clients kept us going, which meant we could travel to some incredible places – but eventually we found keeping up across multiple timezones too difficult. So we launched a photography course through our Instagram (@darelist.family). Off the back of our first course’s success, we launched our company CourseFolk, which partners with industry experts and leaders to produce and launch high-quality online courses.

What are your future goals?

We want to continue to expand our business and live in other cultures while our son is still young and doesn’t need to be in school. We don’t know whether we will ever fully settle down again, but we do know that we want to keep saying yes to opportunities for now.

For #vanlife vlogs, RV renovation tips and the free ‘Photography for awkward Instagram husbands’ course, visit darelist.family and follow @darelist. family on Instagram.

Image: Eric Koelma

Plan

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

17

Plan

perfect pair

Blair and Craig Wickham of Exceptional Kangaroo Island WORDS SUE WHITE

CRAIG WICKHAM, 53

Craig Wickham moved to Kangaroo Island as an infant, and he’s the first to admit that it was a fairly extraordinary upbringing.

“Dad got a job as Farm Manager for a large property in a spectacular setting. It was owned by Sir James and Lady Holden from Holden cars. They’d retired so they ended up being a third set of grandparents for myself and my sisters,” he says.

Nonetheless, what Craig remembers most about growing up is the outdoors.

“There were thousands of acres of bush and pasture on rolling hills with a massive escarpment that hit the cliffs just above where we lived. We would fish out the front door and we had the island to roam out the back,” he recalls.

But while it was idyllic, it wasn’t always easy.

“We went to school by tractor or by horse in winter as the roads then were quite basic bush tracks; they had low bridge crossings and didn’t take much to flood.”

Although the transport added to the sense of adventure and isolation, Craig also grew up at a unique time in Kangaroo Island’s history. The school had 350 children, due to a land settlement scheme for returned World War II soldiers.

“There were a lot more students then than there are now,” he says.

His parents moved into tourism in the 1970s (they started with self-contained units) – this, as well as his father’s involvement in the Rotary Service Club, added an international focus to Craig’s upbringing.

When combined with his studies in wildlife management and his love of natural history, it’s unsurprising that Craig now spends his days in the family business, Exceptional Kangaroo Island, showing others around the home he loves.

“On reflection, I’ve always known the privilege we’d had growing up in a place like Kangaroo Island…

I’ve felt a responsibility to share that,” he says.

18

Plan

BLAIR WICKHAM, 22

Like his father, Blair Wickham grew up on Kangaroo Island, but for him turning 15 brought change.

“I went to Adelaide to boarding school to finish high school. It was a quick decision as a spot opened up and three weeks later I was there. I didn’t have time to worry about it,” he says.

Like many island-born children, Blair knows both the value of what he has and the opportunities that exist outside of it. Luckily, Exceptional Kangaroo Island is giving him the chance to enjoy both.

Blair focuses on social media and market development, which not only means he gets to put the skills he learnt in his Bachelor of Marketing into action, but also that he gets to travel the world telling others about Kangaroo Island.

“Late last year I took on my first role in marketing the family business when I went to the USA. Dad couldn’t attend the industry event, so I did; nothing compared to talking about where I grew up and what we can do on Kangaroo Island,” says Blair.

Like many adults, Blair can see he may have taken Kangaroo Island’s wildlife and open spaces for granted as a young person.

“It was all I knew, but now I’m increasingly appreciating it,” he says.

Given his growing involvement in the family business (Blair recently developed its new website, in part to showcase extended options for families), he is always being asked when he will move back to Kangaroo Island for good.

Like his father before him, he sees it as a great place to raise a family, but it’s a bit early for that.

“Age 30 will be more around the mark!” he laughs.

Visit exceptionalkangarooisland.com for more.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

19

Plan

holiday mode

leading the pack

Seven experts reveal how they choose the right holiday destination for their family.

Teenager

AMELIA JONES

20

The city that never sleeps will wake teenagers up. Walking through the freezing streets in December offers a sense of relief as someone opens the door to a pizza shop or Starbucks and you are enveloped with warmth and the smell of fresh dough or coffee.

For teenagers who never stop eating, New York has all the food they could – and would want to – eat. One of my favourite places is Ellen’s Stardust Diner.

Although the classic American diner food was amazing and served in big portions, the stars were the singing waitresses who happily performed around the tables.

When in New York, you can’t not get a big slice of the traditional street pizza – it’s cheap, filling and delicious.

If you’re looking for somewhere that caters for fussy eaters, Eataly should be high on your list. It is right beside the Flatiron Building and features more than a dozen eateries. You will be able to find something for everyone to eat here.

One of my favourite things we did was go ice-skating; most teenagers enjoy ice-skating because it’s both active and social. Over the recent winter, there

were four outdoor ice rinks to enjoy.

My favourite one was at Rockefeller Center, because it had beautiful statues and a stunning Christmas tree as the backdrop. And they allow patrons with better skills to do tricks on the ice. FYI, Rockefeller Center is famous for its views from up top.

New York has been host to a range of pop-up events over the years that are engaging and fun for teenagers.

There were two events on while I was there that I had lots of fun walking through. Candytopia was filled with candy artwork and candy to eat. There were lots of great photo opportunities with hosts who were filled with overthe-top energy. The other exhibit was Mickey: The True Original Exhibition, which celebrated Mickey Mouse’s 90th birthday. Like Candytopia, it had great photo opportunities and taught the history of Mickey Mouse, which was interesting. We were able to walk through it at our own pace and could take as many photos as we wanted.

Amelia Jones is a teenager who loves to travel. Follow her on Instagram (@travelswithamelia).

Plan

When is our next holiday?

Where are we going? How long do we get to be there?

These three questions usually exist synonymously and are on regular repeat in most family homes. School holidays and public holidays are often the trigger, but if you live in a house like mine, any book, TV show or person with an accent are causes for the questions to be raised.

So how do we choose where we go? Budget is by far the most obvious consideration. Unless you’re flush with cash like the Kardashians, this is probably at the top of your list of criteria too. We like to focus on a big-ticket holiday once per year and smaller minibreaks scattered throughout.

When it comes to planning a big holiday, there’s one simple thing you can do to reduce the cost: travel outside of school holidays.

The costs for flights and accommodation are lower, the crowds are fewer, and it means you’ll get better bang for your buck. Most schools will allow students to be absent during term time (up to two weeks) if given enough notice. This makes most destinations affordable as you can jump on flight and accommodation sales that

Parent of schoolaged children

Parent of teenagers

NATASHA KELLER

NICOLA RENNIE

occur outside of schoolholiday timeframes.

As a family, we look to rotate between international and domestic destinations, which gives us all a great balance between long and short journeys. A Fraser Island escape one year and a US discovery the following.

A New Zealand campervan roadtrip is superseded by a Whitsundays aquatic adventure. The quality of the personal experiences in each location is what makes each holiday amazing.

The one common element among all of our holidays is balance. We try to make sure that all members of the family get to experience something they deeply enjoy.

That means blending active adventure for our energetic son with culture and the arts for our daughter – balancing time to relax and unwind with busy social and engaging activities. Making sure we listen to the needs of each member of the family means we all get our own wishes fulfilled as well as our horizons broadened by doing something for each other.

Natasha Keller is a mum of two and Head of Online, Marketing and Communications at Bound Round.

Choosing the right destination for your family holiday is a very personal thing, as every family likes to spend time together in different ways. We love a weekend away that revolves around doing very little other than relaxing, eating and chatting. However, when it comes to the big family holidays, a bit more action is usually on the agenda.

Where we choose to holiday has to tick a few boxes. Whether it be overseas or in Australia, we always want to spend as much time outdoors and doing things together. We also like to make sure we get out and experience local culture; even if the kids are not that keen, they always participate and end up enjoying the experience. It could be visiting villages off the beaten track in Fiji or a roadtrip to national parks in Nevada, markets in Asia or art galleries in Europe. Travel is such a great way to enrich your teenagers’ education when you take the time to seek out what is not always in the travel brochures.

As children become teens, travel becomes easier; eating out is a breeze, there’s less luggage for you to lug around, and they seek out

their own entertainment in the local surrounds – surfing, swimming, walking, shopping. Airbnb is our favourite accommodation source; we no longer require the facilities in hotels and prefer space and being in a quieter location.

The destination needs to have something for the whole family. Teenagers are not always easy to please, but if your destination has something for them – sport, art galleries, music venues, shops, cities, beaches – you’re off to a good start. We usually seek out destinations with a bit of everything – a town with a beach or mountains, a good vibe, cute boutiques, good restaurants and some live music.

We have had camping trips to the Australian coast that have been equally as enjoyable as the huge trips to European cities, for different reasons. Getting out and exploring new places and experiencing new food and culture are the key ingredients to enjoying holidays with your teens.

Nicola Rennie is a mum of three and Owner of Standard Goods Co (standardsockco.com).

Follow her on Instagram (@renniejournal).

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

21

Plan

Life with our energetic and temperamental toddler is all about parks, books and playtime, so in reality anywhere in the world is a great place to visit as long as we take it slow and make time to ensure all her busymind needs are met. She’s deliriously happy when her father and I are both around – and, thankfully, this is almost always the case when it comes to holidaying.

Where do we holiday?

Well, snow season is just around the corner (or, by the time you’re reading this, probably in full swing). I’ve skied Perisher and Thredbo many times, so this time we’re off to Mt Baw Baw for a quick weekend getaway.

This Victorian snowfield is just a three-hour drive from Melbourne and great for families thanks to its mainly beginner to intermediate ski runs and plenty of non-ski activities (like husky tours) to break up the day.

Later this year we will travel to Argentina and possibly some of the neighbouring countries.

Why Argentina? We snagged a great sale fare with Air New Zealand (its Skycouch offering looks very appealing). I’m picturing my husband and

22

Parent of a toddler

Parent of a baby

TATYANA LEONOV

JANEECE KELLER

I alternating serene sleeps with our daughter cocooned comfortably beside whoever is asleep… We will see!

In all seriousness, how we get to a destination is a big factor, and when it comes to long-haul destinations, flight times and seating arrangements matter.

Toddlers are free in your lap until two years of age, so it’s a great time to fly – but planning ahead makes a world of difference. Simple things like flying out of school holidays means there is often a spare seat available to stretch out.

Our daughter is too young to care whether she visits a zoo or a theme park or the playground one block from our home.

All she wants to do to play with both parents watching, read the same book over and over again, and eat something (as long as she can do so without sitting in the highchair!). For us, we go wherever takes our fancy, and we just ensure that we travel slower (read: take the time to stop and smell the roses) – it’s a blissful way to see the world.

Tatyana Leonov is the Editor of Family Travel magazine.

Follow her on Instagram (@tatyanaleonov).

We’re heading to Hamilton Island for our first family holiday. While that’s easy to say, the truth is Adam and I spent many hours discussing the decision while feeding and settling our newborn, Evie. I’ve been to Hamilton Island before and we like to try new places, so many alternatives were dismissed (including getting sidetracked thanks to some of the incredible deals that regularly land in our inboxes) before we finally decided to book. On reflection, our decision was made around three core elements: 1. When to go and for how long. I love the sun and we usually escape winter for a week each year, so we decided to stick to that tradition and head north from New South Wales. Evie will be four months old then and hopefully in some sort of routine (although we will still be on a steep learning curve), so we think five nights will feel like a holiday without leaving us away from the security blanket of home for too long.

2. The ease of getting there. We’ve never discussed holiday logistics as much as we have for this trip. We wanted it to be a single flight of less than three hours so

we only have to manage one sleep-feed-play cycle in the air, and we wanted to fly in a larger aircraft so the air time is as comfortable and quiet as possible. Those criteria ruled out Western Australia, the Northern Territory and a lot of regional NSW. And Evie doesn’t have a passport yet, so Fiji was out too.

3. What to do once we are there. We used to be active holidaymakers, but for our first family holiday we wanted a resort or hotel with plenty of options for activities so that we can unashamedly catch up on sleep if needed, or be more active if Evie sleeps really well and we have loads of energy. It was Hamilton Island’s ‘Baby’s First Holiday’ package, which includes having things like a high chair, bouncer and baby bath all available in your room at no extra cost, that swayed us to book Reef View Hotel.

We’re so excited about the possibility of doing nothing one day and snorkelling the next that we’ve convinced my husband’s parents, sister and teenage nieces to join us. Evie’s first holiday is shaping up to be a family extravaganza!

Janeece Keller is the CEO of Bound Round.

Plan

Grandmother

SUZAN DICKSON

Parent of children with special needs

MELANIE WHYTE

We’ve been entrusted to take our two grandchildren, aged almost four and 17 months, on a holiday. The destination is up to us, and the choices are many.

What about a trip overseas to broaden their minds? Or an island resort? A cruise? Camping? We list pros and cons for each and agree that the overriding pro is that we spend quality time with our grandchildren and continue to build our already strong bonds.

The overseas trip is quickly discarded.

Not only would we have passports, vaccinations, flights, accommodation and in-country travel to organise, we are unable to erase the vision of dealing with a sick child in an unfamiliar environment. We also realise that the children are too young at present to appreciate travel in another country.

Similarly, a visit to a capital city, with its museums, galleries and public buildings, would be best kept until they are older.

An island resort or cruise holiday, on the other hand, is more appealing. Each provides a wide variety of activities for both children and adults. And, if we need a break, we can take advantage of childcare facilities, and medical facilities

are nearby, if required. We would be able to spend lots of quality time with the grandchildren as our basic needs, such as meal preparation, laundry and housework, would be taken care of.

Despite these two positive options, we decide on a camping holiday, the benefits of which include helping with problem-solving, increasing self-confidence and promoting family bonding. However, camping in a tent conjures up visions of rain-soaked bedding, constant supervision around the campfire and shared facilities, so we opt for cabin camping. A cabin with comfortable beds, our own facilities and sufficient living space in case of rain is the perfect introduction to the joys of camping. Limited or no access to TV or internet means we can concentrate on having fun together while making meals, collecting wood, fishing, playing hide-and-seek, going on scavenger hunts and creating our own special area.

In addition, we don’t have to go far from home and we can take the car with as much gear as we need. Perfect!

Suzan Dickson is a doting grandmother to three grandchildren.

With the world becoming more and more socially aware, I’m a firm believer that you can holiday anywhere in the world with special-needs babes, but there are places that make it that much easier – Fiji, for one.

Fijians by their very nature are so beautiful, unassuming and generous of spirit that most children will feel at ease with them – but they have taken it a few steps further now. There is a special school in Sigatoka that caters for all manner of disabilities, ranging from mild autism and Down syndrome to the most profound of physical and mental challenges. Recently, a walkathon was held to raise money for the special school; it raised more than FJD$61,000.

Last year they raised FJD$42,000, which enabled them to purchase a 4WD to service the remote communities where these children often lived unaided by anyone except their parents. Caring for special-needs children has become such an important matter to the people of Fiji that even the Prime Minister himself took part in the walkathon.

All resorts in Fiji that accept children have kids’ club facilities and babysitting,

but Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort takes it even further with its Meimei private nanny service. Even better, many of the staff have undertaken extra training to work with special-needs children. Most are now certified in first aid, including the use and administration of EpiPens, as well as food-allergy training.

I think perhaps the biggest drawcard to a country like Fiji is just their inclusiveness. My children have always been welcomed with open arms into spontaneous games of pool volleyball, always given a high-five and been greeted by name as the staff walk past them, and, most importantly, never been made to feel any different. Their skill levels are well catered for, which is by no means unimportant when your two children lay at opposing ends of the spectrum, and at the end of every day when their tired little bodies hit the pillow, the smiles on their face say it all.

Vinaka, Fiji!

Melanie Whyte is a mum of two autistic tweens and has been in the travel industry for 20 years. Visit her profile page (travelmanagers.com. au/melaniewhyte).

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

23

Plan

news & views

A whaley good time!

There’s something so intriguing about whales; they’re the largest creatures that simmer below sea level, yet they’re certainly not kings of the deep. Winter is the perfect time to spot them migrating – here’s where to meet up with them.

WARRNAMBOOL, VIC Between May and October, female southern right whales set up camp in the sheltered waters of Lady

A humpback whale dances in the ocean off Hervey Bay, Queensland.

24

Bay – along the famed Great Ocean Road – to give birth and raise their calves in a safe environment.

PORT STEPHENS, NSW It’s said that about 20,000 humpback whales pass here between May and August each year.

EXMOUTH, WA It’ll be easy to spot the world’s largest fish here – whale sharks,

which adore Australia’s Coral Coast, can grow up to 16m in length!

VICTOR HARBOR, SA Southern right whales love this town, particularly since jetskis and the like are prohibited inside the Encounter Bay Restriction Zone during the season.

HERVEY BAY, QLD Humpacks often spend up to

10 days here between July and November, using the calm, protected waters as a calf kindergarten, teaching their young how to make it in the wild.

BRUNY ISLAND, TAS Humpacks, southern right whales, killer whales and blue whales frolic off the rugged southern coastline.

For the best chance of seeing them, head out on a boat tour.

Plan

Marine life in Malaysia

LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort opened its first interactive LEGO-themed aquarium in May. Located in the southern state of Johor, it spotlights unique local marine life in an exclusive Malaysian habitat that includes local themes, such as the Wanli shipwreck, alongside LEGO elements.

The fun and educational centre took a lot of planning, with a team of experts and aquarists working tirelessly to ensure all of the marine animals settled in well to their new homes before the opening, and that the aquarium offerings met the international SEA LIFE brand standard.

Now all that’s left is for families to go and enjoy SEA LIFE Malaysia, conveniently located alongside the LEGOLAND waterpark, theme park and hotel. legoland.com.my

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

25

Plan

It’s snow season!

Winter in Australia is unique: while the sun shines on beaches in the north, it’s snow time down south. New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania have plenty of activities and adventures on offer while snow is in abundance – you can slide down the slopes, take a walk through the pristine wilderness and revel in the festivities that only a snowy winter can bring.

If you’re keen to hit the slopes in New South Wales, be sure to check out Thredbo (home to Australia’s longest ski run and highest lift-served point), Perisher (featuring Australia’s only superpipe, at Perisher Valley, and splendid views of the mountain range at Guthega), Selwyn Snowfields (a small family friendly resort that’s ideal

Skiing fun at Perisher.

26

for skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing and snow tubing) and Charlotte Pass (Australia’s highest snow resort, with a great selection of cross-country trails and runs for all levels, a freestyle terrain park and night skiing options).

In Victoria, head to Mt Buller (with more than 300ha of terrain and sleddog tours), Mt Stirling (perfect for intermediate to advanced skiers, and there are snowshoe trails too), Falls Creek (ski-in, ski-out accommodation and 65km of free cross-country trails), Mt Baw Baw (complete with toboggan parks and a 15m cushion behind a 2m jump) and Dinner Plain (featuring Australia’s first indoor/outdoor alpine retreat and spa). Editor Tatyana and her family recently returned from an

escape to Mt Baw Baw – flick to page 70 to read about their adventures.

Further south, in Tasmania, are the ski areas of Ben Lomond (where you can ski, walk or rockclimb past wallabies and wombats) and Mt Mawson (4km of slopes for skiing and snowboarding).

All of these resorts – and more – offer a range of accommodation options, including self-contained apartments, hotels, lodges and bed-and-breakfast.

If skiing isn’t your thing, that’s no reason to steer clear of the snow!

Find a beautiful cosy lodge (with an open fire, of course) and settle in to a relaxing getaway with a marshmallowtopped hot chocolate.

Plan

Striking lanterns at a shop in Hoi An, Vietnam.

THERE’S A NEW FAMILY TOUR IN TOWN National Geographic Family Journeys with G Adventures is a new line of trips for adventure-loving families who are in search of a meaningful way to discover the world together.

Specially designed for travellers aged 7-plus, each itinerary features unique interactive activities inspired

by National Geographic’s expertise in photography and storytelling, wildlife, culture, history and geography to

encourage kids and adults alike to connect with the world around them.

Already on the agenda are trips to Morocco, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Vietnam, Cambodia, France, Italy, Iceland, Peru, Costa Rica, the US and Japan.

Families will enjoy the enlightening experiences, the freedom to explore and, when they return home, a renewed sense of wonder. gadventures.com.au

NOW OPEN Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre

King Edward Terrace, Canberra.

OUTDOOR PREPPERS If your family is full of adventure types, head on over to Outdoria, Australia’s largest marketplace dedicated to outdoor experiences.

It offers holidays and experiences as well as equipment such as campervans, RVs, mountain bikes and fishing gear. It also harnesses geofencing technologies to deliver app-based planningand booking-on-the-go functionalities, including real-time weather forecasts, map and safety updates, as well as extensive travel tips and local points of interest. outdoria.com.au

www.questacon.edu.au

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

27

Plan

KYOTO FOR KIDS Earlier this year, Kyoto City Tourism Association launched a series of ‘edutaining’ experiences aimed at the family travel market. Founded

by Family Experience Japan (FEJ), a venture started by Kyoto mothers, the ‘Kids Experience’ series is the city’s first ‘edutainment’ program exclusively designed for overseas families visiting Kyoto.

Local and cultural experiences are at the heart of the program, with activities aiming to create close relationships with locals and allowing children to connect with the very essence of the destination.

Kyoto is renowned for its beautiful temples, world-class restaurants and fascinating neighbourhoods, and this program provides a great opportunity for parents to explore the cultural capital of Japan knowing their children are taken care of and enjoying their own valuable Kyoto experiences. They’re sure to have the best time learning about the city’s fascinating culture while bonding with like-minded children and locals.

The program prides itself on nothing but the best of quality, with the FEJ team coming from a wide variety of professions, such as education, tourism, hospitality, design and art, allowing them to bring a rich and fulfilling base of local knowledge to their programs. familyexperience.jp

28

Intrepid: the adventure experts Ever wondered about the top tourism destination for Australians and the hottest trends in the travel market? How about handy ways to get your money’s worth across the world? If you’re into adventure travel, download your free copy of Intrepid’s Adventure Travel Index 2019. It’s full of incredible insights and inspiration!

This year, the research team saw China and Egypt enter its list of the 10 most popular family destinations. Up more than 360 per cent, Egypt’s spike in popularity has shown that Australians’ appetite for more adventurous family trips has increased.

Meanwhile, the introduction of trips designed specifically for solo-parent families in 2018 has helped more single parents and their kids see the world. The fave destinations among the bunch? Northern India, followed by Thailand, Vietnam, Egypt and Morocco. intrepidtravel.com/au/adventure-index

ADVERTISING FEATURE

01

03

02

04

05

BALI’S WILD CARD With no barriers, cages or gates, Bali Safari & Marine Park offers a true taste of the wild. It’s so good that the 40ha park, about an hour’s drive from Kuta Beach, has been voted Indonesia’s leading amusement park four times since 2010. It’s where you’ll find more than 1000 animals and 140 species, including Komodo dragons, orangutan, Bali myna and Sumatran elephants.

“It’s not a zoo – you’re on safari,” says Thomas Colbert, General Manager of Bali Safari & Marine Park, which is proudly owned by Taman Safari Indonesia Group, a name known for both its creative animal exhibits and its tireless efforts in nature conservation and the recreational field.

Now it’s time to learn about the ways your family can go wild there!

01 SAFARI JOURNEY Capture the rhythm of Tanzania’s Lake Manyara and feel the heartbeat of the mighty lions as you take a ride through the open-zone animal exhibit. The safari journey winds through Africa, India and Indonesia. Keep a lookout for elephants, herds of antelope and unique babirusa!

02 TSAVO LION RESTAURANT Have breakfast with the lions at Bali Safari & Marine Park – glass is all that separates you from the majestic creatures at this unique Africa-themed fine-dining restaurant. This is a culinary experience not to be missed!

03 MARA RIVER SAFARI LODGE Why not stay, sleep and awaken to the lions’ roars too? Mara River Safari Lodge evokes the mystery of the African wilderness in a beautifully designed resort, with each room offering a panoramic view of the African savannah.

Experience the thrill and excitement of living close to such fantastic wildlife within their own home range.

04 WATERPARK & FUNZONE Get wet and wild at the waterpark.

Young ones will love running under sprinkles, sliding down the slides and taking on the amusement rides. It’s a great way to cool down after a day of searching for animals.

05 NIGHT SAFARI You’ll want to keep the kids awake for

06

07

this one. This night-time adventure takes you into the middle of the jungle to see animals face-to-face. If you are lucky and brave enough, you may even have the chance to feed some of these nocturnal creatures.

06 HARIMAU: FROM PREDATOR TO PREY This presentation puts a spotlight on the world’s vanishing tiger population. Learn about the important role of tigers in Balinese history and mythology and also how these big cats play, hunt, climb and even swim.

07 ELEPHANT SAFARI Head to the African savannah to see Bali’s largest herd of Sumatran elephants (there are 33 in total!). Families can get close to these giants, hand feed them and watch them being bathed by their mahouts, for a truly unique and memorable experience.

Bali Safari & Marine Park is open weekdays from 9am to 5pm and weekends from 8.30am to 5pm. balisafarimarinepark.com WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

29

Plan

The best Quest in Australia’s capital Get ready to experience science in extraordinary ways at Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre, Canberra. With more than 200 interactive exhibits to explore across eight themed galleries, there’s something for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

Explore the increasingly blurry line between humanity and technology in Questacon’s newest exhibition, Born or Built?. As machines become more humanlike and we continue to incorporate technology into our lives, important questions and choices will be raised. How we answer them will help create our future, but what will that future be? In Born or Built?, you can use your brain’s signals to create unique artworks in real time or assemble DNA in different configurations to see what kind of human results. Then explore the amazing array of technologies we can implant or replace in the human body.

The mind-bending excitement will continue as you explore the rest of the facility. Bend your mind and muscles in Excite@Q as

you free-fall down a six-metre slide, battle a robot in a game of air hockey or test your reflex speed against a friend.

Inspire your inner scientist with Q Lab’s ever-changing array of intriguing experiments, explosive demonstrations and interesting displays. Younger scientists will enjoy Mini Q as they play, discover and learn in a gallery specifically designed for 0- to 6-year-olds.

No visit to Questacon is complete without watching – or even starring in – a Spectacular Science Show. These entertaining events change daily and feature explosive demonstrations and audience participation that will have you on the edge of your seat.

It’s true: at Questacon, you’ll discover the smarter way to have fun. And if you’d like to continue the Questacon experience at home, Q Shop offers a range of science-themed toys, gifts and souvenirs.

Questacon is open daily (except December 25) from 9am to 5pm.

Admission fees apply. questacon.edu.au

SMOOTH SAILING AHEAD FOR AQUA EXPEDITIONS Boutique luxury cruise line Aqua Expeditions recently unveiled two new additions to its fleet: Aqua Blu and Aqua Nera, which will sail three key coastal destinations in East Indonesia.

Aqua Blu is Aqua Expeditions’ first coastal ship and the first long-range expedition-class yacht to be permanently based in the East Indonesian archipelago.

Beginning service on November 16, 2019, the beautifully refurbished vessel will offer seven-day coastal cruise itineraries visiting Raja Ampat, Bali and Komodo National Park as well as Ambon and Maluku islands year-round.

30

Aqua Nera, on the other hand, is a new-build river-cruise boat set to navigate the Peruvian Amazon from August 1, 2020. Using dark-hued sustainably sourced wood as the key interior material, Aqua Nera’s 20 spacious river-facing suites will convey a welcoming and stylish sense of Amazonian tranquility. Aqua Nera will also feature a river-facing plunge pool and gym. Designed to be the most luxurious vessel to sail the Amazon, a family trip on this will be one to reminisce about for years to come. aquaexpeditions.com

Plan

THE MAGNIFICENCE OF MELBA On the podium level of Langham Melbourne, with floor-to-ceiling views over the Yarra River, sits a restaurant that has stood the test of time in a city that sees hundreds of new eateries opening every year.

And though you may think a fivestar hotel is no place for children to be eating, Melba Restaurant proves differently. Here are three reasons your family should be eating here.

01 At least five different international cuisines appear at lunch and dinner (think Japanese sushi, Indian curries, Chinese dumplings and Italian pastas) – the perfect spread for fussy eaters!

Better yet, 70 per cent of all produce served is Victorian.

02 As a special treat for birthdays, those celebrating are presented with their very own cupcake. Just be sure to mention it when you book at least 24 hours before.

03 Children aged 4 to 12 dine for half price, and children aged 3 and under dine for free! melbarestaurant.com.au

All about the airlines Collingwood fans will be happy to hear EMIRATES (emirates.com) has renewed its partnership with the AFL club, marking 20 years as Premier Partner. And that’s not the only way the Dubaibased airline is supporting the community – overall, it has invested more than $100 million in Australian arts, community and sports.

Speaking of money, those who have some to splurge should take a look at QATAR AIRWAYS’ (qatarairways.com) Qsuite. With movable panels, it can be transformed into a private quad so you can still eat meals together even when in the air!

When it’s time to snooze, the middle suites can be converted into a double bed – perfect for weary young flyers who need to be cuddled to sleep.

And a huge congratulations to HAWAIIAN AIRLINES (hawaiianairlines.com.au), which in May celebrated 15 years of its nonstop service between Sydney and Honolulu!

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

31

Plan

Kids will love making jelly...

...and heading out on the vegetable trail...

...then striking a few yoga poses...

...and even snorkelling!

It’s a sixth sense Six Senses Zighy Bay is now taking guests on an incredible experience that will unquestionably enrich their six dimensions of learning. As the Grow With Six Senses kids’ program comes into its own, parents can now plan their holiday knowing their little ones will be entertained in the most holistic, enriching and fun-filled ways – and in touch with nature. Here are five enticing reasons your family should visit this stunning resort in Oman:

32

01 You can interact with animals and plants at Six Senses Zighy Bay’s own farm and organic garden (it houses baby goats and camels!).

02 You’ll learn how to prepare healthy food and be taught the correct meaning of ‘organic’.

03 You’ll be taken to Earth Lab to learn about recycling and upcycling (there’s even the chance to make your own soap with different herbs and botanicals).

04 You can make organic and sustainable scrubs and masks, and practise animal yoga poses at Alchemy Bar. 05 You’ll meet the wonderfully unique underwater residents while snorkelling in the calm Gulf of Oman, and you’ll learn heaps – like ocean clean-ups and how to conserve our friends under the sea – from the resident marine biologist. sixsenses.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

BE STILL MY BALI HEART

Looking for affordable luxury in Bali that’s away from the hustle and bustle? Beachfront resort Hotel Nikko Bali Benoa Beach boasts a large lagoon-style pool with swim-up bar, kids’ club and spa, and is located in the enclave of Tanjung Benoa, on the south-west tip of Nusa Dua. Tanjung Benoa has plenty of restaurants, shops and outdoor activities, but has a more relaxed feel when compared to the the southern coast; it’s how Bali was meant to be.

Located 30 minutes by car from the airport and 40 minutes from Kuta, Hotel Nikko Bali Benoa Beach is the ideal place to escape, unwind and enjoy peace of mind. It’s particularly friendly for families, with larger rooms, family rooms and suites and complimentary wifi throughout the resort. The 45sqm Family Room fits two adults and two kids, and the 106sqm Family Suite with ocean views has a bunk bed that fits three kids (ideal for bigger families!). For families with older children (aged 12 and up), interconnecting Deluxe rooms are available.

Expect the kids to spend a lot of time in the palm-fringed lagoon-style pool while you grab a cool cocktail from the swim-up Aloha Pool Bar and laze away under the balmy Balinese sun.

Cening Kids’ Club is just steps from the poolside. Kids can battle it out over board games, foosball tables and PlayStation consoles. If it all gets too much, they can take a nap on the comfortable bunk beds. The kids' club runs eight fun activities every day, including Balinese dance lessons, Indonesian language classes and origami sessions. All of the activities are supervised and most of them are free.

Hotel Nikko Bali Benoa Beach offers diverse dining options.

The relaxing resort has several restaurants, each with a distinct speciality and cheerful kids’ meals.

Giorgio Italian Ristorante Pizzeria is the place for an elegant dinner, Bali Luna Restaurant offers health-conscious meals, and the newly opened Nagisa serves easy and tempting Japanese bites.

Make sure you visit The Spa, where professionally trained therapists will pamper you with a mix of traditional and modern treatments. We highly recommend the Family and Mum & Me packages.

Feeling energetic? Hotel Nikko Bali Benoa Beach has you covered for that, too, with a 24-hour gym access, sunrise yoga classes and plenty of watersports.

Hotel Nikko Bali Benoa Beach offers absolute relaxation and value for money. If you want to do Bali but don’t want the tourist traffic, this is the place for you.

Family Travel winter deal Book direct at hotelnikkobali-benoabeach.com and enter the code FTWINTER19. Children under 12 eat free (including buffets and kids’ menu options at in-house restaurants) when dining with adults. Each child will also receive one 30-minute spa experience (choice of manicure, pedicure or Balinese massage). Valid for stays between June 24 2019 and March 31 2020.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

33

Plan

CLUB MED IS MAKING AMAZING FAMILY MEMORIES A TOP PRIORITY Club Med has introduced its new Amazing Family program, which includes a fun-filled weekly agenda of activities from five different categories, to encourage families to enjoy time together.

TIME TO MOVE Stay energised while you enjoy active activities such as soccer bumper, kite making and flying, Olympic games, slip and slide, and a castle competition.

TIME TO CARE Participate in activities such as arts and crafts, yoga, wildlife walks and cooking, to learn about the environment and culture, and support wellbeing.

TIME TO QUEST Unleash your inner explorer on an interactive treasure hunt to discover local culture, flora and fauna.

TIME TO PLAY Disconnect from your digital devices and take the time to bond over giant board games such as Jenga, Molkky, Twister and Connect 5.

TIME TO CELEBRATE Complete your family holiday with a party you’ll never forget, in themes

such as colour, bubbles, inflatable castle or family snack market.

Included in Club Med’s all-inclusive package, the program is available at Club Med Bali (Indonesia), Club Med La Pointe aux Canonniers (Mauritius), Sanya (China) and Guilin (China). It will also be rolled out across Phuket (Thailand), Bintan Island (Indonesia) and Cherating Beach (Malaysia) by July 2019. clubmed.com.au/l/ amazing-family-holiday

Kylo Ren, in real life.

Millennium Falcon is simply stunning.

34

For more than four decades, Star Wars fans have imagined what it’d be like to blast across the galaxy inside the Millennium Falcon – and now they can actually do it! Phase one of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opened to excited crowds at Disneyland Resort in California on May 31.

Disney’s fully immersive Star Warsthemed land transports guests to the remote planet of Batuu, where they can take control of the most famous hunk of junk in the galaxy aboard Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. Then head over to the Milk Stand to try two space favourites: blue milk and green milk. Blue milk was first seen in Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope when Luke Skywalker sat down for a family meal, and green milk was introduced in Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi.

The marketplace is where to find exclusive Star Wars merchandise.

At Droid Depot, guests can pick parts off a conveyor belt to build one of two core models (R-series

or BB-series). Once brought to life, the droids can interact with the land around them.

Phase two – Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, the “most ambitious, immersive and advanced attraction ever imagined” – will open later this year. Guests can expect to land in the middle of a climactic battle between the First Order and the Resistance, and may even need to pick a side!

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is the first land within a Disney park designed to integrate with the Play Disney Parks app. The app, which debuted in 2018, offers interactive experiences that bring surrounding environments to life. Inside Galaxy’s Edge, guests can use the app to translate a galactic language, learn what’s hidden inside crates and containers, and accomplish certain tasks by participating in jobs.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will also open at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida this year, on August 29. disneyland.com.au

Image: ©Disney/SWGE

In a galaxy not so far away...

ADVERTISING FEATURE

THE HOLIDAY PARK THAT HAS IT ALL Looking for a family holiday destination? Look no further than BIG4 Easts Beach, where there really is something for the whole family.

01 Sunny’s Aquaventure Park features multilevel platforms with three water slides and a giant tipping bucket, an ocean-themed splash pad with interactive features, plus a shaded water journey for babies and toddlers. There is also a partially shaded sunlounge area for you to relax in while your children are having the time of their lives.

01

02 Little Monkeys Play Corner and Games Room will provide hours of entertainment for the whole family. Challenge yourselves as a family or play individually with the various games to choose from. Young ones will love the designated play corner, which features a fantastic indoor playground.

03 The relaxing massage studio is designed to offer privacy and tranquility, allowing you to be fully pampered by our professional and experienced massage therapists. The massage studio is located inside the park and offers a peaceful environment in which you can relax and unwind. Go on – spoil yourself or surprise a loved one.

02

04 The exciting brand-new pool complex has two pool areas: a heated lounge pool with children’s play area and plunge pool, plus a large main pool with two lap lanes and a disability ramp.

05 Whether you enjoy swimming, diving,

03

04

fishing, body-boarding or just splashing about, you can do it all at Easts Beach, where the sapphire-blue ocean waves lap onto golden sands. This 400m beach offers a chance to relax, unwind and bask in the sun while your children build sandcastles. Easts Beach offers the complete package, from dancing waves at sunrise to a moonlit evening stroll.

Visit eastsbeach.com.au for more.

05

35

Plan

Junior

sports stars

For these lucky young performers, their favourite pastime takes them all across the world.

ELLIE HARRISON When and how did you get into the surfing? I got into surfing when I was about 4, with my three older brothers, Tom, Billy and Joey. What do you love most about surfing? When you get out in the water, it’s quiet and relaxing. And I love surfing with my friends! What’s your next major surfing goal? I want to get into the ISA World Surfing Games and go well in it if I don’t win it. How much travel do you do each year for surfing? I travel quite a bit, mainly in Queensland and NSW because I have heaps of comps there and I’m also in the Talent ID program for the High Performance Centre. Where’s your favourite place to go and why? That would be

36

PRO SURFER, 13 Snapper Rocks in Queensland because it’s really easy to get a wave there. I love how it is so long and you can sometimes take your wave from behind the rock to Greenmount.

I also like Bells Beach in Victoria.

What’s the most interesting place you’ve visited and why? G-Land in Java because I loved the waves and all the nature around. When you’re travelling, what are three things you never leave home without? My phone, my boards and my laptop (so I can still do schoolwork). Where will your next surfing trip take you? Possibly on an all-girls trip to Sumatra – fingers crossed it happens! I’m really excited to go because the waves are so good

there. When you’re not competing or training, what do you do to relax? I hang with my friends or go shopping or play footy. What’s been your favourite family holiday and why?

When we went to Canggu in Bali, Lakey Peak in Sumbawa and G-Land in Java in one trip. It was so fun hanging with fam and surfing! If you could travel anywhere in the world for a holiday, where would you go and why? The west coast of America because the waves are so sick and so is the American lifestyle. Who’s your favourite travel companion and why?

My brother Billy because he’s so much fun, and if there’s a tricky surf break he will take me out and help me.

Plan

RYAN TEAGUE

CAPTAIN OF THE JOEYS (AUSTRALIA’S UNDER-17 SOCCER TEAM), 17 When and how did you get into soccer?

I started playing soccer for Maroubra United at the age of 5, but I always had a ball at my feet as a kid, so informally I started when I was much younger. What do you love most about it? I love a lot of things about soccer, but when you represent Australia and hear the national anthem, that is spine-tingling. Most of all, I love the team spirit – be that when playing for club or country. What’s your next major sporting goal? To make Australia’s squad for the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Brazil. How much travel do you do each year for soccer? I have travelled overseas quite a lot over the past few years, including to Malaysia, Mongolia and Turkey. We travel for friendly and qualification tournaments. Where’s your favourite place to compete and why?

Probably my favourite experience so far in my career was in Malaysia when we played Indonesia last year. There were 15,000 fans in the stadium, most supporting Indonesia, and it was a game that we had to win to qualify for this year’s FIFA U-17 World Cup in Brazil. The atmosphere was intense, but we managed to win and qualify for the tournament.

What’s the most interesting place you’ve visited and why? I have been to a few interesting places, but I really enjoyed travelling to Spain with Sydney Olympic a few years ago. The soccer culture is fantastic there, and we got to spend time visiting both Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid. When you’re travelling, what are three things you never leave home without? My soccer boots, headphones and – an obvious one – my passport!

Where will your next soccer trip take you? I am aiming to make Australia’s squad for this year’s FIFA U-17 World Cup in Brazil. When you’re not competing or training, what do you do to relax? I love going to the beach and enjoying a round of golf. What’s been your favourite family holiday and why? My family often travels to Avoca Beach on the NSW Central Coast. We love the beach, so it’s a fantastic place to get away. If you could travel anywhere in the world for a holiday, where would you go and why?

Hawai‘i – again, for the beaches! Who’s your favourite travel companion and why? Two Australia teammates I love to travel with are Adam Pavlesic and Jordan Courtney.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

37

Plan

opinion

Disconnected: a survival guide The secret to keeping kids sane (and excited) without wifi.

Getting the whole family excited about a week out in the bush for an off-road trip is one thing, but keeping the kids both entertained and happy around the campsite without wifi is another art form – one that, as a father of two, I’ve had to get pretty good at. I’m not saying it’s going to be easy for you to do the same, just that it will be worth it, for everyone involved. Here are a few tips to help get you started…

INCLUDE THEM IN THE PLANNING PROCESS

JASE ANDREWS Host of All 4 Adventure (all4adventure.com)

I involve my kids in the planning process right from the start and discuss with them the places we could go and why.

Are there any unique landmarks, flora or fauna to be seen and experienced? Are there waterfalls, mountains to climb, rapids to surf or even dangers to navigate? I have to get them curious and to buy into the idea early. On top of this, I get them excited about the upcoming activities, be it fishing rapids, quad-biking, horseriding, discovering caves or the like.

The important thing is that I try to make it an all-inclusive decision-making process, as that will help them feel like they have ownership and makes them more invested in the trip.

PACK TOGETHER

Now that we have the blueprint in place, it’s time to get them involved in the ‘What do we need?’ discussion. We sit down as a family and brainstorm all of the essentials (food, water and warm clothes) as well as a few luxury items. That way, when it comes time to load up the rig and set off, they’ll each head into the trip as less of a passenger and more of a copilot on the road.

LISTEN TO THEIR NEEDS

Before we hit the road, we check in with everyone about what they want and need, then load the car up with snacks, drinks, neck pillows, books – you name it! Technology provides a lot of engagement and can do so for hours on end, but balancing this out with real time, real people and real places is important for a child’s social development. So the car is an excellent place for my kids to easily transition off technology (and the internet) and get ready for going completely off the grid.

That said, when faced with seemingly endless hours

38

along dusty roads, you can end up dealing with some very bored kids. So we do let them have an offline gaming device, like the Nintendo Switch – but only in the car. I let them know that once we get to our destination it’s time for a break from the screen. We also play classic car games – guessing games, trivia, riddles – without technology. These are great fun for all and also help me stay alert behind the wheel.

KEEP THEM BUSY

Once we’re on location, I keep my kids busy – and I mean busy. I get them up early on the first couple of days and really amp up the activities to ensure they are tired at night and can actually fall asleep without longing for their screen and the usual pre-bed browse. That means planning out a full and exciting itinerary for each day.

Start with the fun stuff. In the past I have organised epic scavenger hunts for my kids. Be sure to let them figure things out, like counting the rocks that line the creek crossing, types of trees to be identified and spotting native animals. We also have a competition for who can first spot a kangaroo or wallaby or find a specific plant or bush tucker.

But the fun activities won’t fill up their day. The next step is giving your kids, like I do mine, daily tasks. Rather than calling them chores, I let them know that their tasks are integral to the running of the campsite – this works particularly well with the younger crowd. Teenagers, on the other hand, might be tougher to motivate. Nonetheless, tasks like gathering firewood, starting the evening fire and prepping for breakfast, lunch and dinner are essential for the day-to-day in the outback.

As time goes on, they won’t even be thinking about the internet. Be sure to point out why being in nature is a wonderful thing whenever you can. Let them know they can be as loud as they like, and teach them the joy of exploring.

This really helps them to appreciate that they are no longer in suburbia or the city.

Whether it’s paddling down the creek, going fishing, hunting for bush tucker or quad-biking through the bush, the key is for activities and games to rule over technology.

With a bit of luck, your kids will be running and climbing all over the place, just like you used to do.

Happy wifi-free camping!

Plan

images

Clockwise from top: You won’t believe how many stars you can see out here; me with my wife and kids; a solid 4WD is perfect for traversing rugged terrain; I take a camp oven wherever I go; there’s nothing better than being in nature!

WE HAVE A COMPETITION FOR WHO CAN FIRST SPOT A KANGAROO OR WALLABY OR FIND A SPECIFIC PLANT OR BUSH TUCKER.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

39

Plan

accessible travel

Southern hospitality The diversity of experiences and friendliness of locals made this one of our best holidays to date.

Images: Julie Jones

WORDS JULIE JONES

40

images

Main: Skiing in a chair is possible at Franz Josef glacier!

Right: Kayaking was an easy pastime.

Plan

Clicking the first of a series of photos of our kids looking ridiculously happy, I wonder why it has taken us so long to plan a holiday to New Zealand.

I conclude, like many people, that we’d overlooked it because it’s on our doorstep when, in fact, New Zealand’s proximity to home is one of the many reasons it was the perfect getaway for our family.

Classic images of New Zealand often show people hiking mountains and taking part in many of the adrenalinfuelled sports on offer, so it’s easy to assume it’s not an accessible destination. But after skiing with an adapted wheelchair on a glacier, kayaking on a lake, off-roading in a buggy and driving the scenic roads, we know New Zealand caters well to visitors with access needs.

QUEENSTOWN MAGIC

Preferring to base ourselves in one place as much as possible, we chose Queenstown as our first stop.

Surrounded by snow-tipped mountains, even in summer, this lakeside town is popular with backpackers, families and couples alike. It is brimming with activities, and its location makes it an ideal gateway to many surrounding areas. Our two-bedroom Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa Lakeside Residences apartment had plenty of room for our family, and with views of the lake we were entertained even when staying in on a drizzly day.

SKYLINE GONDOLA

Skyline Gondola – the steepest cablecar lift in the southern hemisphere – effortlessly carries visitors 450m into the sky to enjoy spectacular views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and the bustling town below.

Although the scenery alone is worth the trip, most visitors don’t leave without trying the Skyline Luge, a fun and exhilarating downhill ride. We knew our adrenalin-loving son would enjoy the experience, but being unable to ride alone we had to negotiate a way to double him on a cart. With his orangutan-length limbs scrunched up in front of my husband, we proved to staff that the brakes could still be used.

A thumbs-up from the supervisor saw us luge as a family, and the smile did

family travel tip There’s always a queue in front of Fergburger in Queenstown, but the wait is worth it – a delicious burger by the lake is a great end to the day!

not leave our son’s face as he whizzed by me at great speed. Once is never enough on this ride, so it’s handy that there’s a chair lift to transport eager riders back to the top.

Being able to enjoy this as a family made the access challenges worthwhile.

The stairs and steep incline make the luge ride only accessible to visitors with some mobility or younger children who can be carried. The gondolas, however, can accommodate wheelchairs (some restrictions apply), but it’s advisable to check directly with Skyline to ensure your needs will be met.

BELOW ZERO ICE BAR

After daytripping, we enjoyed visiting Below Zero Ice Bar, a fun family friendly place with a winning novelty value.

Incorporating interactive elements, it kept even our most active family member engaged and happy. The icesculpture hockey table was the scene of a fiercely competitive game; moving around to protect our respective goals helped us keep the cold at bay. The ice-sculpture photobooth kept the kids entertained – posing with the dress-up props just added to the fun! Non-

alcoholic drinks are served to children in their own ice cup.

EXPLORING BEYOND QUEENSTOWN

In stark contrast to the effort required at Skyline, many of our daytrips delivered incredible scenery that could be enjoyed without even leaving the car. At every turn in the road we were greeted with spectacular mountain and lake views while we toured between Queenstown and Glenorchy and Queenstown and Wanaka.

While driving to Wanaka, we stopped for morning tea in the quaint old goldmining town of Arrowtown, where we reminded the kids there was once a time when people didn’t carry a mobile phone and had to use a phone box.

Unimaginable it would seem.

Continuing on to Wanaka, we visited the photogenic #ThatWanakaTree, a lone tree standing in the lake, which became Insta-famous after appearing in a local tourism campaign. We took the obligatory photos before making our way to Puzzling World for a funfilled afternoon. As promised the many bizarre buildings, rooms of illusion and  WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

41

Plan

Below Zero Ice Bar is made from 20 tonnes of hand-sculpted ice.

visual trickery messed with our minds and challenged our thinking. Puzzling World’s outdoor maze is not accessible, so wheelchair users receive a reduced entry price.

Images: Julie Jones

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER

42

The promise of an accessible helicopter experience to Franz Josef glacier was the main motivation for our stay. A partnership between The Helicopter Line and Makingtrax enabled our son to get out of the helicopter to enjoy being on the glacier in a specially designed wheelchair.

Take-off is weather-dependent, and we waited three days for the right conditions for a flight. We filled our days with a series of unplanned adventures, including a kayaking tour on Lake Mapourika and a quad-biking and buggy tour by Waiho River – our daughter is now a quad-biking convert!

On our final day, when the weather cleared and we spotted the glacier from the helicopter, we decided the anticipation and uncertainty in the lead-up had made the experience that much sweeter.

Watching our son as my husband

Meet our daughter, the quad-biking queen!

glided him across the glacier in the adapted wheelchair, I could see his smile growing until it illuminated his whole face. At that moment, being non-verbal was no issue – his joyous expression said it all. The experience was the highlight of his time in New Zealand, which made it my favourite too.

Puzzling World really is Wanaka’s ‘Wonderful World of Weirdness’!

Go to travelwithspecialneeds.com.au for travel inspiration, ideas and tips to turn your travel dreams into reality.

Be sure to sign up to the e-newsletter to receive the best accessible travel content direct to your inbox.

Making travel possible for people of all abilities and needs. Travel Without Limits makes what you’ve dreamt about possible.

Tested Packages

Value for Money

Specialist Team

travelwithoutlimits.com.au

Plan

ABU DHABI

Play

Yas Island, Abu Dhabi’s entertainment precinct, is home to three of the best theme parks in the region: Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld and the newly opened (in July 2018) Warner Bros World. Get ready for fast and furious fun for all ages at Ferrari World, monstrous aquatic entertainment at Yas Waterworld (it spans an area of about 15 football fields), and themed play in Bedrock, Gotham City and Metropolis at Warner Bros World. Buy a Yas Parks pass to get the most out of them all. wbworldabudhabi.com

44

Eat

Still at Yas Island, and just a stone’s throw from Ferrari World, is Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes. This place will take you back to the days when you were a kid enjoying a cheeseburger and a milkshake – but it’s all amped up a notch or two here.

Kids will love the burgers and over-the-top ‘crazy shakes’, and adults are offered a good selection of craft beers to choose from, all in a setting that harks back to old-school hip-hop and pop. Get there early to nab ‘The Cake Shake’ – there’s a limited quantity. blacktapme.com

Sleep

Guaranteed to please the adults as much as the kids, Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas – with its 9km stretch of pristine white beach on Abu Dhabi’s breathtaking Saadiyat Island – is the place to stay.

Young guests are in for a treat at Aladdin’s Cave, a kids’ club for children aged 4 to 16.

Educational indoor activities (books and board games), outdoor games and extensive facilities (a lazy river, splash pool, cinema zone, teen zone, gaming area and waterslide, to name a few) guarantee non-stop entertainment. rotana.com

Glitzy and glamorous Abu Dhabi is the perfect stopover city for families to explore.

Do

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is regularly voted in the top three by TripAdvisor as one of the most amazing landmarks in the world. It’s not just incredibly stunning to look at, it’s also hugely important for future generations who want to learn about and experience the beauty of other religions.

Join one of the free tours so the kids can learn while they are taking in the mosque’s beauty. As it’s a place of worship, you can’t eat inside, but there is a coffee shop at the North Gate entrance where you can refuel. visitabudhabi.ae/en

Plan

MACAO

Play

Families from all over the world are making a splash at Galaxy Hotel’s Grand Resort Deck, a giant waterpark complete with a white-sand beach, wave pool and adventure river ride that’ll see you lying back and floating on a stream that meanders 575m.

The manmade outdoor Skytop Garden, which spans 75,000sqm, also boasts waterslides, geysers, waterfalls and an aquatic zone for the younger guests. And, for good measure, there are poolside restaurants and lounges with enticing names like Surf Bar and Breeze Cafe. galaxymacau.com/en/grandresort-deck

Eat

For casual dining or a snack on the run, Taipa Village and its fascinating maze of narrow lanes and mix of eateries fits the bill.

From colourfully decorated sweets stores and an ice-creamery with a Michelin-quality rating (Mok Yee Kei) to dim sum Chinese eateries and a Portuguese tapas-style restaurant, this tiny former fishing village is a magnet for families from morning ’til after dark.

Our popular pick is Cafe Tai Lei Loi Kei, famous for its delicious Macanese-style crispy pork-chop bun. If you prefer to eat on the run, the cafe also has a takeaway outlet nearby. taipavillagemacau.com

It’s child’s play wherever you venture in the former Portuguese colony of Macao.

Sleep

Bonjour, and welcome to The Parisian Macao, a tiny piece of France where many of the rooms boast a view of the resort’s very own Eiffel Tower. Here, families with young children can book a ‘famille’ room furnished with a double bunk bed among beautifully themed decor. There’s also access to a range of family movies. When you want to venture from your room, there’s Qube Kingdom, a kids’ play zone with slides and plenty of games, and Aqua World, which boasts a pirate ship. An elevator ride to the observation decks of the Eiffel Tower should also be on the cards! parisianmacao.com

Do

To get a good feel of the real Macao, grab the Step Out, Experience Macao’s Communities guide book; it boasts eight suggested self-guided walks, so lace up your walking shoes and explore at your own pace. From the famous Ruins of St Paul’s to A-Ma Temple, you will soon appreciate the centre’s many ‘east meets west’ characteristics.

For a bit of fun, catch a cab to Coloane Island to meet the four playful residents of the Giant Panda Pavilion and be entertained by their antics. Entry costs just AU$1.80 for adults and is free for children under 12. visitmacao.com.au

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

45

Plan

LUCERNE

Play

A mountain excursion is a must when holidaying in Switzerland – and a visit to Lucerne (myswitzerland. com/lucerne) is not complete without a side trip up to Titlis via the world’s first revolving cable car, Titlis Rotair. Once on Titlis, the whole family can enjoy an adrenalin-inducing walk across Europe’s highest suspension bridge before exploring the glacier cave or jumping on the Ice Flyer.

Spend time walking around Trubsee and feeding the cows if you’re there in summer – it’s simply spectacular! titlis.ch/en

46

Eat

It doesn’t get more Swiss than feasting on a pot of gooey cheese fondue with the family. One fun and stylish way to indulge in this delicious tradition is on an ‘all you can eat’ fondue cruise.

The kids will find it hard to say no to dipping their bread or potatoes into all of that steamy, creamy goodness. To complement the experience, you will be surrounded by stunning views as you cruise around Lake Lucerne. Good food, great vibes! lakelucerne.ch/en/offers/ culinary-cruises/cheesefondue-and-raclette-cruise

Sleep

The historic and picturesque lakeside city of Lucerne is an ideal playground for both the young and old.

There’ are a lot of boutique and quirky hotels around Lucerne – most of them are located close to the old town square, while others are along the lakeside. One of our favourites is Ameron Luzern Hotel Flora. We love it for many reasons, including its central location, premium rooms with connecting doors, and fun and vibrant decor. Equipped with all the mod-cons you will need, here you’re also just a short stroll from the train station, old town, ferry wharf and lake. ameronhotels.com/en/ luzern-hotel-flora

Do

It is quite impossible to avoid chocolate in Switzerland – it is everywhere, and there’s so much choice! So for a fun activity, we recommend tasting and making your own chocolate to bring home. One of the best places to do this is Max Chocolatier, where you can book the whole family in for a workshop. You will also be able to take home the chocolate from the class.

Better yet, learn about the types of chocolate and flavours available before creating your family masterpiece! maxchocolatier.com/en/page/ tasting-and-making

93 74

98

82

64

Holidays LOCAL & OVERSEAS ADVENTURES

48

THE WORLD AWAITS Our ‘wanderlist’ of the most unique places

58

THE INSIDE TRACK A once-in-a-lifetime adventure in Alaska

64

ONE LAST HURRAH Exploring Byron Bay on a babymoon

68

STAR OF THE SHOW The Force will be with you

70

82

74

86

HIT THE ROAD, JACK Taking in Western Australia behind the wheel

90

A GUIDE TO PARIS WITH KIDS Rediscover the world through their eyes

SNOW MUCH MORE THAN SKIING Winter fun with the whole family

JAPAN-BOUND Why 2020 is the best time to visit

80

A FRESH ADVENTURE Push past Japan’s crowds for even greater beauty

REACH FOR THE STARS It’s one giant leap to Kennedy Space Center

93

AMAZING AFRICA The myriad surprises of Botswana

98

DISCOVER EGYPT ...and feel more alive than ever

102 110

WORLD WONDERS Photo essay inspiration

HOW TO Win at winter adventures WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

47

HOLIDAYS: WANDERLUST

Clockwise: Meeting real-life Santa is a higlight for kids; dress in layers – it’s cold out; reindeer safaris are perfect for little ones.

world awaits THE

CONSIDER YOURSELVES AN INTREPID FAMILY? HERE’S WHERE TO GO FOR A TASTE OF SOMETHING OUT OF THE ORDINARY. WORDS BETHANY PLINT 48

HOLIDAYS: WANDERLUST

BEST TIME TO GO If you want to meet Santa, go in December. For snow activities, December to March is a great time.

Otherwise, Finland is a great year-round destination.

BEST FOR KIDS AGED There’s something to suit every age!

The Scandinavian countries know a thing or two about keeping families happy, so it’s no surprise this applies to travel too.

Finland is a firm family favourite, especially in the cooler months when tumbling snowflakes make for a magical escape.

Visiting Santa is a highlight for every kid (and every kid at heart).

Travel to his wooden cabin deep in the pine forest to meet the man himself; Christmas after this will feel even more special.

Staying in a glass igloo is another one of those experiences that will be talked about for years to come.

The new-in-2018 Arctic Fox Igloos in Ranua are some of the biggest in Finland (they can fit two adults and a toddler in a travel cot), and watching the magnificent spectacle that is the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed is truly mesmerising.

Active types have a plethora or activities to choose from at various resorts – Ranua Wildlife Park and Harriniva Hotels & Safaris, to name a couple – with everything from snowshoeing and cross-country skiing to snow go-karting and fat-tyre biking on offer. Many of the snow sports are designed with the whole family in mind, so resorts stock gear (shoes and warm clothing) for even the tiniest tots.

Arctic wildlife is another huge drawcard. Ranua Wildlife Park is home to massive enclosures that house a wide variety of them. Elsewhere, older kids can join a husky safari and be whisked through a snow-drenched forest on a sleigh by the spirited dogs. Reindeer safaris are a little more low-key and can be ideal for toddlers.

Reindeers and the indigenous Sami people have sustained each other for thousands of years; tours that involve them and their history are a must-do.

If you need a hand with planning, travel specialists 50 Degrees North (au.fiftydegreesnorth.com) can tailor the perfect family holiday for you.

Images: mjvalokuvia.kuvat.fi

01

LAPLAND, FINLAND

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

49

HOLIDAYS: WANDERLUST

02

CALIFORNIA, USA

If you own a MacBook, there’s a high chance you’re familiar with Yosemite National Park’s striking natural beauty. The park’s centerpiece, El Capitan, already looks enormous in photos, casting a shadow over the clusters of giant sequoias below, but standing at the base and staring almost a kilometre straight up the sheer granite cliff will remind you just how small you really are.

Yosemite was recently thrust into the spotlight after famous free-climber Tommy Caldwell successfully climbed the thoughtto-be-impossible Dawn Wall, El Capitan’s most challenging climbing route. If kids are keen to follow Tommy’s footsteps, they can start small at Yosemite Mountaineering School & Guide Service; it offers a halfday course that teaches basic climbing and safety skills, and lets kids put them to the test. Any

climbers over the age of four are encouraged to give it a go.

If you’re more comfortable with your feet on solid ground, try a few of the park’s hiking trails. The short nature loop to Yosemite Falls is great for little legs, while the Mist Track is more challenging but so worth it to feel the spray of Nevada Fall.

Yosemite is known for its groves of giant sequoia trees. Their height is staggering, but their width is what will truly blow you away – kids look like miniature figurines when they try to wrap their arms around the base! Head to Mariposa Grove to wander the newly built boardwalks through the forest.

During the warmer months, families of campers and glampers base themselves around Merced River, a popular watering hole where hikers cool off after a day of exploring.

Above: Mariposa Grove is the largest sequoia grove in Yosemite.

Left: Native Americans named El Capitan ‘Totock-ah-noo-lah’, which means ‘rock chief’ or ‘captain’.

BEST TIME TO GO Wildflowers and waterfalls are at their best in April and May – visiting at this time means you’ll miss the summer crowds, too.

BEST FOR KIDS AGED Some of Yosemite’s walking trails are pramfriendly, so families with babies and toddlers can explore with ease.

50

HOLIDAYS: WANDERLUST Canoeing on Bow Lake is a favourite pastime...

Inset: ...as is hiking alongside Herbert Lake.

BEST TIME TO GO Avoid the hardcore skiing crowds by visiting during February and March.

You’ll also have a good chance of catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights during this time.

The Canadian Rockies cut through some of the country’s most breathtaking national parks – Jasper and Banff in particular both look like screensavers.

Emerald lakes glisten with reflections of the snowcapped mountains above.

The locals take great pride in their wilderness spaces, so, when you visit, expect perfectly maintained walking trails, pristine barbecue facilities and spectacular picnic spots.

If you want to soak up the scenery from a high vantage point, step out onto the glass platform suspended high above the Columbia Icefield. Or soar down the mountainside and across Kicking Horse River. You can also canoe, stand-up paddleboard, zipline, mountain-bike and hike through the wilderness for wonderfully different perspectives.

In the national parks, it’s not uncommon to cross paths with native wildlife, but it can be pretty daunting if you’re not used to looking a moose in the eyes. Expect to see elk, deer and bighorn sheep out in force during calving season (May and June). Keep an eye out for the more elusive bears, mountain lions and mountain goats too. And don’t forget the little guys – you’re likely to come across squirrels, chipmunks and rabbits, even in the bigger towns. As with all wildlife encounters, exercise caution and avoid getting too close.

When it comes to getting around, driving offers flexibility and convenience.

Keep in mind, though, that road conditions in winter can be hazardous, so you may be better off using public transport, guided tours or taxis.

03

BEST FOR KIDS AGED No matter your age, you’re bound to find something you love in the Canadian Rockies region – but kids who are comfortable with adventure activities and animal encounters will get the most out of this trip.

Images: Banff Lake Louise Tourism / Noel Hendrickson

ALBERTA, CANADA

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

51

HOLIDAYS: WANDERLUST

COSTA RICA, CENTRAL AMERICA Spectacular waterfalls, steaming hot springs and overgrown rainforests with every shade of green, Costa Rica is the definition of natural beauty. But it’s not just pretty to look at – this Central American paradise is an adventure hub for families who love to get out into the wild.

One activity to add to your bucket list is The Original Canopy Tour in Monteverde, where kids and adults can channel their inner Tarzan and zip through the rainforest on a series of cables, flying foxes and suspension bridges.

Back on solid ground, lace up your walking shoes and hit the Lava Trail to Arenal Volcano.

Apart from a few stairs and the odd slippery section, the walk is achievable for young kids.

If you still have energy to burn, head to Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges

52

Park, where you’ll cross 16 swinging bridges weaving through an overgrown jungle. Keep your eyes peeled for sloths, monkeys and glamorous multi-coloured birds. Not great with heights? Book a self-guided tour so you can go at your own pace.

For a taste of the traditional, knock over two highlights in one day, starting at La Fortuna Waterfall then heading to the Don Olivo Chocolate Tour. The base of the waterfall is pretty rough during the rainy season, so head around the bend to swim in the clear, calm stream. The walk back up is a little challenging – 500 steps later, you’ll have worked up an appetite and be ready to devour some rich Costa Rican chocolate. At the Don Olivo plantation, you’ll get to taste papaya, pineapples, lychees, sugarcane juice and, of course, chocolate.

Above: Amphibians like this gladiator tree frog abound in Costa Rican rainforests.

BEST TIME TO GO Costa Rica’s dry season runs from December to April. If you visit during the rainy season (May to November), expect heavy morning showers and clear afternoons.

BEST FOR KIDS AGED Costa Rica is all about wildlife-spotting and adrenalin-pumping activities, so tweens and teens with a taste for adventure will get the most out of this trip.

HOLIDAYS: WANDERLUST

King Ludwig II built Neuschwanstein so he could retreat from public life, and just seven weeks after his death it was opened to visitors.

Inset: Hohenschwangau Castle was the king’s childhood home.

BEST TIME TO GO Germany is a year-round destination, but for a truly magical experience, visit when the snow is falling between November and February.

05

BAVARIA, GERMANY

There are few places more magical than Neuschwanstein Castle in winter. Perched atop a hill in the Bavarian Alps, this fairytale castle is one of Europe’s most well-known landmarks. It even inspired Walt Disney’s Magic Kingdom!

On a frosty day, the castle’s snow-capped spires stretch high above the Hohenschwangau valley, and the pathway up to the front gates is covered in a thick powder so dry it squeaks underfoot.

Commissioned by an extravagant Bavarian king, Ludwig II, the ornately decorated rooms and manicured gardens are just as spectacular as the outer facade. Every surface of the two-storey throne room is adorned with shimmering gold artwork. But, ironically, there is no throne – King Ludwig II died before its completion. In fact, he only slept 11 nights in his half-built castle before passing away in a cloud of suspicion; royal gossip and declarations of insanity lead to King Ludwig II’s downfall. Half the fun of touring the castle grounds is speculating about the drama of it all, the other half is playing princes and princesses in the royal lodging.

Another castle worth visiting lives in the shadow of Neuschwanstein. Further down the valley, the distinctly yellow-hued Hohenschwangau Castle enjoys a lakeside position. Dating back to the 12th century, this was the childhood home of King Ludwig II. Visitors will enjoy more flexible access to this stately fortress; the castle is open every day besides Christmas and provides exciting guided tours in multiple languages.

BEST FOR KIDS AGED Imaginative kids going through the Disney phase will get the most out of this experience.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

53

HOLIDAYS: WANDERLUST

06 BORNEO, EAST MALAYSIA

54

Meanwhile, in the northern state of Sabah, a visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is an absolute must. Sheltering misplaced orangutan, this not-for-profit works to strengthen and release these charismatic creatures back into the wild. The sanctuary’s success led to the opening of both the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre and Rainforest Discovery Centre nearby. For a chance to spot Bornean fauna in the wild, explore the treetop canopy walkway at Borneo Rainforest Lodge or join a four-wheel-drive evening safari to spot civets, deer and bearded pigs.

Costa Rica is home to hundreds of wildlife and nature-conservation projects, and tourism plays a huge role in supporting them. Our most prudent piece of advice is to thoroughly research the facility you plan to visit to ensure you’re supporting wildlife protection, not exploitation.

BEST TIME TO GO Visiting between March and October gives you the best chance to avoid the rainy season and enjoy comfortable warm temperatures.

BEST FOR KIDS AGED The state of Sabah has fun, eye-opening experiences for children of all ages, and older kids will get more out of Sarawak.

Image: Tsen Lip Kai

Blessed with a tropical climate and rich equatorial soil, Borneo is a kaleidoscope of glistening green. Perhaps the only thing more breathtaking than the island’s jungles and sanctuaries is what lives inside; cheeky orangutans swing from vine to vine, Bornean bearded pigs sniff around for their next meal, and pint-size sun bears gnaw on cobs of corn. Borneo has always been a top destination for enchanting wildlife encounters, but decades of deforestation have seen the destruction of more than half of the island’s forests. The damage has pushed dozens of Bornean species to the brink of extinction – that’s why responsible tourism is ever so critical.

The island of Borneo is split into three distinct regions belonging to Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia.

Malaysian Borneo is where families will find the most memorable wildlife and nature experiences. It is split into two states. Sarawak is better suited to older kids – they’ll find plenty of high-energy adventures, but it’s the cultural experiences that will resonate most. Something they won’t soon forget is the opportunity to spend the night with an Iban tribe. The longboat journey up Lemanak River gives teens a taste of what’s in store, passing wooden longhouses and Malay wildlife. Learning traditional cooking methods, dances and tribal stories by the campfire will be an eye-opening experience for all.

Proboscis monkeys are protected from hunting or capture in Borneo; it’s estimated there are just 1000 left in the wild.

Image: Ramble and Wander

Image: Marriott Bonvoy & Manchester United

HOLIDAYS: WANDERLUST

07

MANCHESTER, UK When kids rattle off their bucket-list destinations, Manchester may not be what you’d expect to hear – but for soccer fans it’s number one.

Manchester is home to two rival clubs: Manchester City, the flashy new kids on the block, and Manchester United, the original team.

Watching a match at Old Trafford is essential; if you happen to be there when the two Manchester teams go head to head, you’re in for a real treat. The atmosphere is electric, and recent crackdowns on crowd behaviour help make it a family friendly affair.

If being a spectator isn’t enough, a new partnership between Manchester United and Marriott Bonvoy has opened up a range of VIP experiences for families.

Kids can actually meet the players, play kit manager for a day and learn the ropes as a stadium announcer.

In the heart of the city, football fans won’t want to miss a trip to the National Football Museum. Kids can work on their penalty kick and draw some inspiration from the shiny trophy cabinet. While you’re in museum mode, head to Manchester Museum to meet a fossilised T-Rex named Stan and watch the frogs leap through a lush vivarium.

Dedicate at least half a day to LEGOLAND Discovery Centre. Jump aboard the Kingdom Quest ride, catch a flick at the 4D cinema and build something unique with the almost two million LEGO bricks at your disposal. Sweeten

the deal with afternoon tea at Home Sweet Home, a charming dessert bar in the Northern Quarter. Try the Birthday Cakeshake, even if it’s not your birthday!

BEST TIME TO GO The English Premier League runs from August to May with a break over Christmas, with nail-biters going down towards the end of the season.

BEST FOR KIDS AGED Soccer-obsessed kids over five will get the most out of Manchester. Games tend to run late, so try to slip in a day sleep to help them stay awake to the final whistle.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

55

HOLIDAYS: WANDERLUST

08

For a Disney fan, Walt Disney World in Orlando is as good as it gets. It has four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom and Epcot) and two waterparks (Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach). Each park will take at least a day to explore.

Magic Kingdom is home to Cinderella’s castle, Ariel’s grotto and Space Mountain, a rollercoaster that twists and turns through darkness.

Animal Kingdom is where you’ll find Pandora – The World of Avatar.

Hop aboard Flight of Passage, a 3D ride that takes you swooping and soaring through the world

BEST TIME TO GO All year, but avoid holidays if you can as Walt Disney World gets packed!

BEST FOR KIDS AGED Walt Disney World has something to delight every age group.

NORTHERN TERRITORY, AUSTRALIA

A visit to Uluru should be on everyone’s bucket list. The staggering size of this iconic natural landmark can only truly be appreciated in person.

Though it emits a striking red colour at midday, the best time to photograph Uluru is during sunrise or sunset. Watch as the sky changes colour and shadows dance over the rock face – it will have you all captivated!

You can walk around the base of Uluru, but the 15km round trip may be a stretch for little legs. Instead, hire some bikes from the Cultural Centre. You’ll be stopping for photos and snack breaks regularly, so allow

56

of Pandora as you ride on your genetically matched banshee. Thrill-seeking teens will love Expedition Everest, a rollercoaster that takes you up a mountain and back down again… backwards!

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will open at Hollywood Studios in August 2019; download the Play Disney Parks app to fully experience this land. Little ones will love Toy Story Land, where you’ll be made to feel like you’ve shrunk to the size of a toy.

Epcot is known as the World Showcase. If your kids love Frozen, head to the Norway Pavilion, where Anna and Elsa make regular appearances.

about three hours for this activity. Younger kids can jump on a tag-along bike or kick back in an attachable toddler seat.

Still haven’t had your fill of magnificent red rocks?

Set off on a guided walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole or head to Kata Tjuta National Park. Here, you’ll discover 36 impressive red domes, one of which (Kata Tjuta itself) is 200m taller than Uluru.

For the days when you just want to chill, Ayers Rock Resort hosts a number of free activities for families – you could join a bush tucker demonstration and listen to dreamtime stories at the bush yarn session.

BEST TIME TO GO Early or late winter, while a bit chilly at night, is the best time to go – you’ll catch a reasonable 7.30am sunrise over Uluru and enjoy dry, mild days.

BEST FOR KIDS AGED An Uluru sunrise is essential, so make sure your kids are okay with early wake-ups. If they’re not, schedule some time for a nap later in the day.

Image: Tourism NT/David Hill

09

ORLANDO, FLORIDA

10

The chance to see some of the world’s most ferocious and unique animals in the wild is something most of us dream about, but there’s more to Africa than vast savannahs and marshy deltas – and South Africa is proof of that. Visitors will find built-up cities, world-class surfing beaches, acclaimed wineries and successful whale-watching tours in this part of the country.

The legislative capital, Cape Town, sits at the foot of Table Mountain. Ride the cable car to the top and soak up the sweeping views of the city, looking out to the Atlantic Ocean.

South-east of Cape Town, Hermanus is the place to go for whale- and dolphin-watching. If you miss migration

HOLIDAYS: WANDERLUST

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA season (June to November), you can still see a full-size whale skeleton hanging high in Whale House Museum.

Animal lovers will want to make a trip to Boulders Beach to visit the resident African penguin colony – the freeroaming birds happily share the sandy shores with friendly tourists.

Most people don’t immediately think of South Africa for its wineries, but it’s actually the eighth-largest wine producer in the world. The town of Stellenbosch in the Western Cape is quickly building a global reputation for its peppery cabernet sauvignon and citrusy sauvignon blanc. Be sure to include a tasting session at one of the family friendly wineries.

Few places offer as remarkable a viewing point of African penguins as Boulders Beach.

BEST TIME TO GO The dry season, from May to September, is best for wildlife-spotting.

BEST FOR KIDS AGED Many safari lodges can only accommodate kids over the age of 12, so we recommend saving South Africa for tweens and teens.

Go to familytravel.com.au for travel inspiration, ideas and tips to turn your travel dreams into reality. Be sure to sign up to the e-newsletter to receive the best family content direct to your inbox.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

57

HOLIDAYS: ALASKA

THE INSIDE TRACK

IF EVER YOU’RE IN SEARCH OF A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME ADVENTURE, THIS IS THE TRIP TO BOOK. WORDS KATE ARMSTRONG 58

HOLIDAYS: ALASKA Madeline after the glacier ridge walk and preparing for the polar plunge.

Madeline and Katy admiring Lamplugh Glacier.

Images: Kate Armstrong

“I feel so small,” says 12-year-old Katy. She’s not talking about her size, nor her age among the 10 or so children on the trip. Rather, she is in awe of the Alaskan wilderness that lies before her: vast mountains with jagged snow caps, glaciers and waterfalls, forests covered in evergreen Sitka spruce, yellow-cedar and western hemlock.

I’m on a cruise with UnCruise Adventures, heading from Sitka to Juneau through a network of channels and forested islands along Alaska’s 1600km-long Inside Passage. And, thanks to the friendly children onboard who bonded early in the trip, I’ve become an honorary kid.

Our home for eight days is the SS Legacy, a replica of a historic steamer that’s comfortable and easy for children to navigate. The public areas have a spacious lounge-cum-bar and a saloon, plus two hot tubs and gym equipment. Cabins are simple yet pleasant, with a small bathroom and beds for two. Sleep comes easily – the constant activities (mainly off board) assure solid slumbers.

My trip is not one of UnCruise Adventures’ special ‘kids and family’ itineraries (one or two of which are offered each season), but, thanks to careful – though flexible – orchestration and a fabulous kid-friendly routine, the regular cruise suits children aged 8 upwards. The ship moves overnight, so every day we wake up to new scenery. Two daily activities take place off the boat; these range from easy to difficult and focus on wilderness and wildlife.

Erin Kirkland, the company’s guest Youth Adventurist who participates in the special ‘kids and family’ trips, explains the itinerary’s appeal: “Families who want to bring kids to Alaska want them to experience another nature, want them to experience the grandeur of what they have heard about. But there’s more to the experience than seeing it – they become part of where they are.”

We – kids and adults – become more curious than Alice in Wonderland herself. We taste and touch, listen and marvel, ogle and cry at everything from chunks of ice breaking off the edge of the extraordinary Margerie Glacier in Glacier Bay to pods of killer whales that swim past the ship – and it doesn’t stop there. From the sturdy watersports platform attached to the ship’s stern, we climb aboard skiffs and race off in search of eagles, otters and even bears that sometimes forage on the shoreline. We paddle along the Alaskan waters in kayaks, exclaiming excitedly when a sea lion pops up unexpectedly. We head off on shore walks to explore life beneath the beach rocks, which welcomes sea snails, baby barnacles, sea cucumbers and anemones.

By the second day, the kids have settled into a routine – they are unstoppable. They drop into icy waters during the celebratory ‘polar plunge’ activity, and on one of the walks they even kiss 

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

59

HOLIDAYS: ALASKA

images

Left to right: Owen inspecting a channel; Elizabeth (left) with daughter Katy and Madeline (right), resting at the top of the glacier ridge walk; bushwhacking with guide Meg, Madeline, Katy and another guest; the view from the ridge over Glacier Bay.

a banana slug. (This rite of passage of UnCruise Adventurers is among the kids’ favourite activities; they are the first of SS Legacy’s slug club inductees).

Each afternoon, back on board, the children race to the hot tub on the compact top deck before gathering in the lounge room to play word games, watch kid-friendly movies or curl up with a nature book from the ship’s small library.

While the wildlife and activities are wonderful, the captain and guides are exemplary. Their connection is real, their friendships genuine. They remind us that no question is silly, and the kids fire away enthusiastically.

Images: Kate Armstrong

13-YEAR-OLD MADELINE’S TIPS FOR KIDS WHO CRUISE

60

01 Form a kids’ table early on – don’t leave it until the last day.

02 Don’t miss the polar plunge.

03 BYO rubber boots – you’ll definitely need them and the vessels don’t carry kid-size boots or rain gear.

04 Pack an extra pair of gloves.

05 Take naps when you can between activities.

But by far the younger passengers’ favourite activity is the bushwhacking adventure – an open-ended journey into the unknown. In reality, the guides have plugged coordinates into a GPS, carry bear spray and two-way radios, and are fully versed on emergency procedures. When guide Hannah announces “We’re going where no one has been before”, the kids respond “Wow!” and “Really cool!”.

The kids invite me to join them, and together we follow the guides in Pied Piper fashion. We slowly make our way through thick forest on Chichagof Island, part of the Tongass National Forest. Hannah asks “What is Chichagof Island’s claim to fame?”. 11-year-old Owen nails it: “It has the highest number of brown bears in the world.”

“Right on!” we cry, and whoop with excitement.

To ward off any potentially inquisitive bears, the guides chat loudly while the kids join in the chorus of “He-ey, bear!” before falling into moments of contented silence.

For the next three hours, we crawl under logs, slide down small embankments and sniff flowers, identifying their aromas. “The chocolate lily smells like wet laundry!” Katy exclaims.

The next day, I join the kids on a trek through muskeg bog. Guide Meg points out a large cushion-like mass of tiny and exquisite mosses

HOLIDAYS: ALASKA

and lichens. When 15-year-old Gabby announces “I kind of want to do a belly flop on this!”, Meg enthusiastically responds “You can totally do a belly flop!” Giggling madly, we throw ourselves on nature’s delightful squishy pillow.

The mosses are not the only sponges – by now, the kids can identify many plants: bog cranberry, crowberry and bog rosemary, to name a few. On making our way back to the skiff, we laugh at the squelching sounds; we’re all victims of BSM (bootsucking mud).

Back onboard, we head to the attractive dining room where meals are served. Though kids’ options are available, most children choose from the daily gourmet menu, and the chef happily caters to all preferences and allergies. By now the young group is sitting together for at least one meal per day.

After lunch there are more activities. My favourite is the hike along the ridge of Lamplugh Glacier; light refractions render it an amazing turquoise blue. Along the way, the kids hang off Hannah’s every word.

“Alaska is made out of big chunks of land called terrains. These have been carried in by plate tectonics real slowly and have rubbed off along the coast of Alaska, kind of like when you take an Oreo cookie and rub the cream off. A lot of people 

Precious land Alaska is home to the two largest national forests in the US: Tongass and Chugach.

Defying the norm Margerie Glacier has been growing about 9m per year for the past few decades.

Alaska

Symbols at Sitka The totem pole collection at Sitka National Historical Park have been standing strong since 1906.

There’s a bear in there...

Grizzly bears love the dense rainforests of Chichagof Island.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

61

Image: ©Disney

HOLIDAYS: ALASKA

NOT JUST A ONE-HIT WONDER

GETTING THERE Qantas flies to Seattle, where you can connect with Alaska Airlines to either Juneau or Sitka (depending where the cruise starts).

WHEN TO GO UnCruise Adventures’ season in Alaska runs from April to September with departure ports in Sitka, Juneau, Ketchikan and Petersburg. It offers cruises to other locations (including Hawai‘i and Mexico) throughout the year. uncruise.com

BEST FOR KIDS AGED Kids aged from 8 can travel on any UnCruise Adventures trip. Travel during US school holidays to find families onboard.

The Family Discoveries program, for kids up to 13, offers a reduced cruise fare. Each year (specific dates only), there are ‘kids and family’ cruises, on which an UnCruise Youth Adventurist leads kids’ groups in activities and adventures.

62

Image: Kate Armstrong

NEED TO KNOW

call Alaska a… terrain wreck.” The kids groan with delight at the pun.

She continues: “We’re walking over raw earth – inorganic in nature with crazy rock and ice. But the beautiful thing is that it is a living laboratory for the return of life after ice because of the plants and animals that return when the ice leaves. It’s exciting to think about the power of life.”

It’s the kids who are nodding. Wisely.

Knowingly. Like the future caretakers they will most certainly become.

Erin sums it up perfectly: “There is no place like this place left on Earth. When we expose kids to a sensory explosion such as this, they leave different people to when they got here.”

But for now they’re just kids having fun. Back at the bottom of the glacier, they race off, their rubber boots kicking up small pebbles as they jostle each other. Their objective? To lick a massive iceberg that is propped up on the beach, and to paint stripes on their faces with glacial mud.

Go to familytravel.com.au for travel inspiration, ideas and tips to turn your travel dreams into reality. Be sure to sign up to the e-newsletter to receive the best family content direct to your inbox.

Think your young ones may need a little more convincing about a cruise through the blustery cold? Book a trip with Disney Cruise Line and let them know they can warm up onboard after big adventures with their favourite characters.

Disney Cruise Line sailings to Alaska combine the natural splendor and adventurous spirit of Alaska with Disney’s world-class service and accommodations. Departing from Vancouver, Canada, Disney Wonder sails five-, seven- and nine-night cruises to Alaska that feature fun and adventure onboard and in each destination – from majestic wildlife and stunning scenery to one-ofa-kind port adventures and special Disney touches for everyone in the family to enjoy.

Many shore excursions include distinctly Disney touches, beloved characters and rich storytelling to help bring local culture and customs to life. Some of the incredible adventures include: GOLD-PANNING IN SKAGWAY Explore Liarsville Gold Rush Trail, a camp nestled beside a waterfall where live music, puppetry and panning for gold with classic Disney characters allow guests to be part of the gold rush era.

MUSH WITH DOGS IN JUNEAU Be transported by helicopter over the massive Juneau Icefield, then help feed and harness the dogs before embarking on an unforgettable day of mushing across the pristine snow-capped glacier.

ADMIRE THE BERING SEA IN KETCHIKAN Look on as professional fishermen haul in the catch of the day in 700-pound king crab pots. After a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship, Disney Cruise Line guests have an exclusive opportunity to dine with the crew and listen to stories about life on the Bering Sea over freshly caught king crab and dungeness crab.

While every port offers excursions for families to enjoy together, many tours integrate separate activities for children and adults. So while kids are engaged in age-appropriate activities with youth counsellors, parents can have time on their own. disneycruise.disney.go.com

BABYMOON

Get Away Enjoy your last moments of sleep and serenity together at Yarra Valley Lodge with everything you need to relax and enjoy.

Our Babymoon Package Includes: Two nights’ accommodation Daily breakfast for two Couples 45 minutes massage $50 voucher for our food and beverage outlets Unlimited movie package Late check out From $599

YA R R AVA L L E Y LO D G E .C O M

Ph: +61 3 9760 3333 Heritage Avenue, Chirnside Park 3116 Australia Black-out dates may apply.

HOLIDAYS: BABYMOON

ONE LAST

Hurrah Don’t think twice – just say yes to spending quality time together as a couple before your first bub arrives.

WORDS JANEECE KELLER

My heart sank as I heard the words “I’d strongly recommend you don’t fly anymore during this pregnancy” from my obstetrician. I was 20 weeks pregnant and we had spent weeks brainstorming where we would go on a babymoon at the start of my third trimester. An extra passport stamp was going to have to wait, but we weren’t going to forego one last holiday as a couple. It was time to change tack and plan a trip within driving distance of our home in Sydney.

When my husband Adam suggested Byron Bay – one of my favourite places in the world – it was almost as if our earlier plans overseas had never existed. Over the years, I’ve spent a lot of time in and around Byron Bay – days spent bodysurfing long, rolling waves at The Pass, enjoying lunch at Beach at Clarkes Beach, weekend trips to the farmers’ market in Bangalow, breakfast at Top Shop… Adam, on the other hand, prefers not to return to the same places, as he’d rather try somewhere new. So, to ensure there was something for both of us, we decided to stay at a few different places. Here’s the rundown on where we stayed and what we loved about each of the different accommodations.

64

HOLIDAYS: BABYMOON

BLACKBIRD High in the hills of the Byron hinterland, with sweeping views from Brunswick Heads to Cape Byron Lighthouse, the three-room Blackbird is a boutique hotel gem. Both Adam and I were keen for a couple of days of disconnecting from social media and our phones, and Blackbird was the perfect place to do this. The property, run by husband-and-wife team James and Stella, champions the great outdoors; the highlight for us was the alfresco area and magnesium mineral pool. Our room – the shape of a shipping container – was constructed largely of upcycled glass, timber and steel to create a minimalist yet cosy sanctuary. And the view over the valley from the bed was as spectacular at night as during the day. What I loved most about Blackbird was the low-key luxury, and that while we weren’t the only guests, we didn’t see any of the others during our entire stay – even at mealtimes when we ate in the communal dining area adjacent to the pool. One night we enjoyed gourmet pizza whipped up by James, and the second night we used the restaurant-standard kitchen to make our own dinner with ingredients purchased from the organic supermarket in Mullumbimby.

WHAT WE LOVED • The spectacular views over the hills to the coast, and catching sight of beautiful black cockatoos circling above.

• Sitting on our private patio and trying to identify constellations using the binoculars and star charts from the room.

• How smooth our skin felt after swimming in the magnesium mineral pool. blackbirdbyron.com.au

MISTERE AT URLIUP Mistere at Urliup is a luxury three-cabin property in the hills behind Murwillumbah, about a 30-minute drive from Gold Coast Airport. While Halcyon House at Cabarita Beach put boutique accommodation in the Tweed on the map, Mistere offers a secluded rainforest getaway for those who prefer the serenity of the hills and rainforest to a beachy vibe.

We made the most of our two nights in the Mountain View Villa, with uninterrupted views of Mt Warning from our king-size bed, private hot tub and sauna, as well as from the deck and alfresco dining area. We were grateful for the well-appointed kitchen and BBQ, eating in for breakfast both mornings and dinner one night.

Self-catering was made simple thanks to the fresh produce basket that was thoughtfully provided upon our arrival. It was full of local organic produce and more than enough food for the two of us for breakfast for two mornings and the majority of a dinner (although we did pick up some local steaks to add into the mix).

WHAT WE LOVED • Zenning out in simple luxury among the rainforest.

• The easy graded walks through the rainforest that were scattered with sculptures.

• The in-villa massages (including the best pregnancy massage I’d had all pregnancy!). misterespaandretreat.com

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

65

HOLIDAYS: BABYMOON

ELEMENTS OF BYRON Elements of Byron has direct beach access at Belongil, and its location has become even more convenient since the opening of the Byron Solar Train, which connects North Beach with the town centre in a 10-minute journey.

Our one-night stay was not long enough to make the most of all the resort facilities, largely because I spent a couple of hours soaking in our private bath house and finishing my novel. While I relaxed in our private naturallight-filled and stylishly appointed two-bedroom villa, Adam was more active, taking the opportunity to explore the bushwalking trails that run through the resort, then hitting the gym to ensure he’d earned a couple of beers from the swim-up bar at the adults-only pool.

WHAT WE LOVED • The buffet breakfast of fresh juices, pastries, granola and yoghurt, and being able to select from an interesting a la carte menu that included a palm-sugar cured prawn omelette and chipotle cornbread with chorizo, charred sweet corn and avocado.

• Sunrise yoga by the beach near mainland Australia’s most easterly point.

• The king-size bed (which provided plenty of space for my pregnant belly) with lots of extra pillows. elementsofbyron.com.au

66

HOLIDAYS: BABYMOON

Go east Cape Byron Lighthouse sits on Australia’s most easterly point.

Choo choo!

Travel between North Beach and the town centre on the heritage Byron Solar Train.

Pretty as a picture Murwillumbah, by the beautiful Tweed River, boasts so much natural beauty.

A feast fit for a queen In Byron Bay, get ready for restaurants, cafes and gelato bars aplenty.

Byron Bay

Other great babymoon accommodation options across the country YARRA VALLEY LODGE, CHIRNSIDE PARK, VIC A hidden gem located at the gateway to the Yarra Valley, Yarra Valley Lodge (pictured above) boasts a 120ha heritage estate with everything you’ll need for the perfect escape at your fingertips. The hotel is set among lush bushland and features a 10km walking trail, on-site bar and restaurant, spa and two golf courses.

Wake up in complete bliss and be treated to a buffet breakfast of fresh local produce. yarravalleylodge.com

TOP SHOP STUDIO There are so many holiday rentals in Byron that it can be tough to know which one to pick. Top Shop Studio has become my new favourite. Located under the house adjacent to Byron Bay’s famous Top Shop cafe, this Airbnb studio apartment was the smallest place we stayed – but what it lacked in size, it made up for in convenience. I could ask Adam to grab me a fresh juice, iced decaf coffee or fresh croissant, and he could conjure it up within minutes with no forethought. And it’s just a 700m walk down a single street on a gentle slope to the beach and the beachfront Beach restaurant. The apartment itself is compact, private and comfortable with all the amenities you’ll need in a place without a full kitchen, including a

fridge, toaster and kettle. There’s no airconditioning, but there are fans and an outdoor shower. To get into the centre of Byron Bay, it’s a flat 1km walk or a threeminute drive, where there are restaurants, cafes, gelato bars and shopping aplenty.

WHAT WE LOVED • Cooling off in the outdoor shower.

• Breakfast at Top Shop.

• Location, location, location! airbnb.com.au/rooms/13630029 Go to familytravel.com.au for travel inspiration, ideas and tips to turn your travel dreams into reality. Be sure to sign up to the e-newsletter to receive the best family content direct to your inbox.

THE PEARLE, BROOME, WA The Insta-worthy sunsets over the ocean of Cable Beach are a short stroll from The Pearle. The villas are spacious and air-conditioned, and come with a full kitchen, alfresco dining, king-size beds and a private pool. There’s no cafe or restaurant on site, but it’s a just short walk or drive to The Zookeepers Store for a morning coffee or to the beachfront restaurants for mocktails at the end of the day. thepearle.com.au QUALIA, HAMILTON ISLAND, QLD This ultra-lux option on family friendly Hamilton Island doesn’t accept children under the age of 16, including infants. Take the opportunity before baby arrives to wake up in your own private pavilion to postcard-perfect views of the Whitsundays or spectacular tropical bushland. Select from a package that includes breakfast only or breakfast and dinner. qualia.com.au

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

67

HOLIDAYS: DISNEY

STAR OF THE SHOW

Images: ©Disney/SWGE

THE FORCE WILL BE WITH YOU. ALWAYS. WORDS ALISON GODFREY

68

“Your role for this mission is on the ticket,” the Resistance member says as he hands me an orange slab. I look down at the card. It reads ‘Ohnaka Transport Solutions – Pilot’. I’m about to become the pilot of the Millenium Falcon, the fastest hunk of junk in the universe!

Our group of six – two pilots, two gunners and two engineers – is hustled towards the flight deck. The Falcon is prepped and ready to take off. It shakes beneath our feet and rumbles as we rush to secure our seatbelts and make the jump to hyperspace.

This is a smuggling run. Our mission is to find a train and secure a cable to it so we can loot the goods. My role is to move the Falcon left and right; my co-pilot will make the ship move up and down; the gunners must target and shoot down the enemy ships; the engineers must restore all damage sustained in the mission.

It’s harder than it looks – the controls are extremely sensitive. Sometimes we successfully navigate down deep ravines, through narrow industrial structures and over mountains. Other times, we bump and crash our way through the ride. Everyone in our crew is screaming, bashing buttons and doing everything they can to ensure we secure the cargo. We all completely believe we are on this mission.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is set on the fictional planet Batuu; Disney designed Batuu to look and feel exactly like it does in the films, but steered away from making it an exact replica of any scene. The result is that it is eerily familiar.

Every single detail inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is deliberate and perfect. The paint has worn on the yellow railings on the way up to the Millenium Falcon, exposing the metal underneath in imperfect patches. The stamped concrete walls look like they have seen years of battles. In the cantina, tubes of blue, yellow and purple liquids bubble in glass containers surrounded by industrial metal and piping. If you look closely enough, you can find bullet holes in the walls – signs of previous battles between scum and villainy.

At Droid Depot, guests can design, assemble and activate their own droid from parts that circulate on a conveyer belt. Look up and you will see legs, arms and pieces of scrap metal travelling around the room.

The cast members are always in character.

Ask one to take a photo and they will tell you they like your “transmitting device”. If you ask a First Order member about where to find lightsabres, they won’t tell you, but ask the right person and this land reveals many secrets.

Two Stormtroopers check a woman’s papers as I walk towards the Batuu marketplace. I hug the wall and chat with a couple of characters standing in front of a door. One of them is holding a strange green lizard-like animal. They tell me I should avoid trouble up ahead and instead go inside to see some antiques.

Inside is Savi’s Workshop, a clandestine lightsabre outlet. I’ve been chosen to work with the Resistance. They ask me which lightsabre is calling to me. I choose blue and head to the middle of the room to practise my lightsabre skills. Wielding the weapon left and right, I find one certain spot is incredibly strong with The Force. I can’t tell you too much about it – that’s a secret you will have to find out for yourself.

The first stage of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opened at Disneyland Resort on May 31. Later in the year, Disney will add a second attraction: Rise of the Resistance.

“There was a lot of pressure on us to make sure we brought the Star Wars franchise to life in a way that made sense to the world,” says Disneyland Resort President Josh D’Amaro.

On opening day, D’Amaro spotted a 501st Legion member in Batuu (the 501st Legion is a group of die-hard Star Wars fans who dress like Stormtroopers and present a united front in public). Needless to say, D’Amaro was nervous.

“I walked up to the gentleman. He was standing in front of the lightsabre shop and I said ‘How’s it going, what do you think?’,” recalls D’Amaro. “This 6-foot-4 guy started to cry and said ‘You have overdelivered on our expectations in terms of delivering an immersive storytelling experience that lives up to everything I thought Star Wars was going to be’.”

NEED TO KNOW

GETTING THERE Disneyland Resort is in Anaheim, about 30 minutes from Los Angeles International Airport.

STAYING THERE Disneyland Hotel is just steps from Downtown Disney.

Visit disneyland.com.au for more.

Go to familytravel.com.au for travel inspiration, ideas and tips to turn your travel dreams into reality. Be sure to sign up to the e-newsletter to receive the best family content direct to your inbox.

Batuu is eerily familiar.

HOLIDAYS: DISNEY Stormtroopers abound!

On a mission inside the Millennium Falcon.

FAMILY TRAVEL TIP Be sure to taste the blue milk and the green milk at the Milk Stand. The drinks, made famous in the films, have a rice and coconut base rather than dairy.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

69

HOLIDAYS: MT BAW BAW

More

SNOW MUCH

THAN SKIING

Melbourne’s nearest downhill ski resort sets the scene for the perfect winter getaway.

WORDS TATYANA LEONOV | PHOTOS EVAN DICKSON 70

HOLIDAYS: MT BAW BAW

W

hen one husky howls, the others join in.

I know this now as the ski lifts I’m using are located right next to the husky enclosure. It starts with one song-like holler, then a second chimes in, then a third. Eventually you’ve got a husky choir in the making – albeit one that only performs in rounds.

My daughter has been to visit the huskies twice today, but I know she won’t tire of it – we’ll be seeing the energetic critters again in a couple of hours. We’ll probably also go back tomorrow, and the day after that…

At any given time at Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort, there are between 25 and 35 huskies (managed by private operator Howling Huskys) for guests to get to know. You can meet and greet them, enjoy a husky sled ride or simply hang out nearby watching them go about their daily business.

There’s an on-snow casual eatery located right next to them, so when I do take a break from skiing I enjoy my chai latte while watching the playful canines.

The huskies are not the only animals that guests can get close to; in late 2017, the resort introduced two dingoes to the resort in partnership with Dingo Discovery Sanctuary and Research Centre: an alpine dingo named Warragul and an alpine-desert dingo cross named Rowdy.

There are plans in the works to initiate a breeding program soon too to help alpine dingo numbers grow (the species is near extinct).

For our daughter, Ariana, this is a dream holiday. We’ve taken her overseas multiple times, but it’s here at Mt Baw Baw that she is truly in her element. When Marketing & Event Coordinator Emma takes us on a personal dingo meet-andgreet, she almost can’t contain her excitement, continually patting Warragul and shadowing him very closely while Emma lets him explore on a lead. With three days at the resort, we have to plan our time well. There is so much to see and do, and with Ariana’s yearning to see the huskies and dingoes daily, time is of the essence.

On day two, we hire a toboggan and join other families rocketing down the toboggan-only hill.

Our first go is a success – I plop Ariana in the front of the toboggan, jump in behind her, and then we hurtle down the hill, passing kids left, right and luckily not centre! When we reach the bottom, we’re both laughing. I’m reminiscing about the times my parents used to take me and my siblings tobogganing and how much joy it brought to all of us. Ariana is laughing because she is simply having fun. To be honest, she finds the 

The Holden Equinox is full of surprises.

Mt Baw Baw’s amazing sled-dog tour!

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

71

HOLIDAYS: MT BAW BAW

FAMILY TRAVEL TIP Hungry en route? The Drouin Family Hotel is a small detour but well worth it. The play room here – the biggest we’ve seen in a pub – is kitted out with jumping castles, climbing equipment and gaming consoles. It’s epic! drouinfamilyhotel.com.au

NEED TO KNOW

BEST TIME TO VISIT For snow play, visit in winter; the resort opens from the June long weekend to early October (snow dependant).

Summer is a great time to visit if you enjoy hiking and sightseeing.

BEST FOR KIDS AGED Anywhere from 1 to teen and everything in between.

GETTING THERE Mt Baw Baw is located two-and-a-half hours’ drive from Melbourne.

72

slow-moving magic carpet (a conveyer belt that pulls people up the hill) just as thrilling. Toddlers!

I’m told that as kids get older they become fussier, and perhaps a little less thrilled at every single thing their parents do and suggest. Mt Baw Baw has this stage of life covered too, with a huge range of activities for the whole family to enjoy: snow-shoe tours with Powder Pups (retired huskies), meeting the dingoes at NUTRO Dingo Resource Centre, skiing and snowboarding lessons (including free first-try lessons for kids under 6) and Japanese snowball-throwing, to name a few. I watch a few teens get involved in the latter (properly known as yukigassen) and conclude it’s a bit like laser tag but with snowballs.

We cut our last day a little short; overnight rain has diminished the snow cover and we’re keen to hit the road with time up our sleeves as we make our way back to Melbourne. Our morning involves a quick ski and a goodbye visit to both the huskies and dingoes, then we’re ready for our oversnow (a special machine that’s designed to easily traverse the snow) to take us straight to our Holden Equinox (holden.com.au) for the drive ahead.

There are a number of routes to Mt Baw Baw, each offering different sights and activities along

the way. We opt for a meandering drive along Mt Baw Baw Tourist Road before stopping at Noojee for lunch and a visit to Noojee Trestle Bridge.

Our initial journey from Melbourne to Mt Baw Baw was more about the drive and less about the stops. Our daughter was comfortable and cosy in her car seat (she slept for more than half of the journey!), so we just cruised along in our smooth ride, with a Spotify soundtrack taking us from bigcity smoke to fresh country air.

This time we are taking it slow, jumping out of the Equinox to snap photos of snow-drenched trees sparkling in the sunlight, stopping to admire Highland cattle in meadows that glisten thanks to the recent rainfall, and just taking it easy all-round to soak up the surrounds. Our daughter is wide awake for this leg of the journey, so I alternate between sitting in the front and back. In both seats I have plenty of room to move, and when it’s time to move even more we just make a pitstop.

Noojee is a pretty little town (formerly a major timber area) that’s popular thanks it’s easy access to and from Mt Baw Baw. A few minutes out of town, you’ll find Noojee Trestle Bridge, legacy of the old railway that ran through the region in the timber-mill days. Thought to have been

HOLIDAYS: MT BAW BAW Walk on The Noojee Trestle Bridge is well worth a visit.

MELBOURNE

It’s breathtaking!

Head to the summit of Mt Baw Baw for stunning views of West Gippsland.

MT BAW BAW

Making mates You won’t want to leave the friendly huskies here.

Victoria images

Clockwise from far left: Ariana and I could not stop giggling on – and after – our toboggan ride; families love skiing here; Noojee Trestle Bridge has an incredible history; huskies make the best snow friends; Ariana was so excited to meet resident alpine dingo Warragul.

constructed in 1919 and rebuilt in 1939 after it was burnt down, this towering wooden bridge sitting high amid ferns and eucalyptus trees is the tallest surviving wooden trestle bridge in Victoria.

We make our way to the top and cross the restored artefact a few times to find that all-important perfect photo opportunity.

The drive for the next half hour is spectacular as we soar past rolling verdant fields and thick forests. To give you a taste of what we’re experiencing, the Equinox features leatherappointed seats that are easy to clean, heated seats and steering wheel – a bonus that kept us cosy in the cool, and active noise cancellation that kept cabin noise at bay. Plus it comes in two-wheel or all-wheel drive to perfectly traverse any terrain.

The smooth journey lulls my daughter to sleep, and if it weren’t for the magnificent views, I would join her too.

Visit mountbawbaw.com.au for more.

Go to familytravel.com.au for travel inspiration, ideas and tips to turn your travel dreams into reality. Be sure to sign up to the e-newsletter to receive the best family content direct to your inbox.

5 TOP TODDLER ROADTRIPPING TIPS 01 PLAN AHEAD Longer trips often mean discomfort for little people who like to stretch their limbs and move about. For our family, two hours straight is generally enough, and when drives are longer we plan stops to break them up. If your toddler likes to nap in the car, try to time your drive to coincide with nap time.

02 USE THE RIGHT CAR SEAT Toddlers grow quickly, so ensure their car seat is set up correctly to keep them safe and comfortable. We check our car seat routinely as our daughter grows for this very reason. When travelling interstate, we often use a local car seat company (with appropriately trained staff) to fit and install it.

03 TALK TO THEM Toddlers might only be able to say a few words, but they can understand a whole lot more. Tell them where you are going, how long you will be driving, where you will be stopping and the like.

Including your child in the journey’s ins and outs will not only increase their interest in the holiday, it’ll do the same for the car trip too.

04 STOP EN ROUTE Longer car journeys call for interesting breaks along the way, and stops that involve movement and laughter will go down well. Playgrounds are ideal for little people to run around and burn off energy. Parks with no equipment will also work, as they’ll be able to run freely. If you’re stopping for a meal, try to find a restaurant with a play area so your toddler can be kept entertained while waiting for food.

05 ORGANISE DISTRACTIONS Sometimes toddlers get super cranky and inconsolable. If you’re driving and unable to stop while dealing with a backseat sulk, try to find something to distract them – sing a song, make a silly noise, tell a story... Just ensure that whatever it is doesn’t distract you too.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

73

Japan WHY 2020 IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT

Whether planning to watch the Tokyo Olympics or aiming to visit sooner, Japan will keep families entertained with countless activities and hotspots. Here are the top 10 reasons you need to get your clan there, as chosen by the experts at Tourist Japan.

HOLIDAYS: JAPAN

01

IT IS EXTREMELY KID-FRIENDLY

A perfect destination for children of all ages and adults who are still young at heart, Japan offers endless activities and destinations that are specially designed for kids.

KidZania (kidzania.jp/tokyo/en) is an entire centre designed for children, creating a unique mini-world where kids can actively learn about and contribute to society through playbased activities. Beyond this, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (kaiyukan.com/ language/eng) is not only one of the best aquariums in Japan but in the world, and is an ideal place for families. Upon entering, children will be in awe of the eight-level facility that showcases marine life including sharks, whales and stingrays.

02

IT’S CLEAN AND SAFE

Japan is one of the cleanest countries in the world, which can be observed both in the streets and the culture. In most Japanese cities, there is very little graffiti or street art, and it is uncommon to see garbage strewn in the streets. The notion of cleanliness starts at a young age in Japan, where schoolchildren are responsible for cleaning up after themselves and, in some cases, tidying the school itself. Having respect for the physical space and a collective understanding of the importance of cleanliness and responsibility is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. As a result, the crime rate is very low; Japan is often referred to as one of the safest destinations for travellers, so parents can rest assured when travelling with children that there are minimal risks involved.

03

IT HAS A DYNAMIC HISTORY

One of the most exciting elements of exploring Japan is taking a look into its vibrant history. Sites like the famous Meiji Shrine, Senso-ji Temple and Himeji Castle are all fascinating to learn about and admire together. Families will find Japanese gardens surrounding almost every cultural site, offering the perfect chance for a quick rest or picnic. Near the famed Senso-ji Temple, families can also enjoy a stroll along Nakamise-dori, a pedestrian-only shopping walkway. There’s also Lake Ashinoko in the Hakone region; with a view of the iconic Mount Fuji, it’s where real-life pirate ships offer boat tours along the water so you can admire the Edo-era warships.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

75

HOLIDAYS: JAPAN

04

IT’S TEEMING WITH NATURAL BEAUTY

In Tokyo, places like Yoyogi Park offer endless green space with plenty of room to roam. From bike rides along the paths to games on the grassy fields, Yoyogi Park is a perfect place for families looking to enjoy a quiet break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Ueno Park is another great outdoor area for families, complete with the National Museum of Nature and Science and Ueno Zoo. But by far one of the most popular outdoor spaces for families is Nara Park in Nara – it’s filled with friendly wild deer that frolic throughout the grounds.

05

IT HAS FAMILY FRIENDLY FOOD

Japan is known for its culinary advancements; cooks use innovative modern techniques as well as traditional recipes and ingredients.

There are many ways for families to eat well in Japan without breaking the bank. Plus, many restaurants and cafes offer kids’ menus that are thoughtfully created and fun.

For quick and easy meals on the go, families can shop in the many Japanese convenience stores to purchase bento boxes (premade meals served in a lunchbox-style package). Bento boxes are often fresh, healthy and packed with cute shapes, and make feeding children on the go much easier.

When dining out, Organic Cafe Lulu, situated near Toshi Ryokka Botanical Gardens, is popular among local families and tourists alike.

Another great family friendly dining experience is conveyor-belt sushi – a fun and interactive way to enjoy authentic and delicious sushi. Kids will love watching the sushi pass by the tables, and parents will enjoy the variety and affordability. Check out Nemuro Hanamaru in Tokyo.

06

THERE ARE ARCADES, COMICS AND MORE

Known for bright neon lights and colourful flashy signs, Tokyo is a sensory experience.

Beyond that, it offers endless arcade experiences – a dream for any gamer. The best part is that many arcades are designed to please a variety of ages, so parents can enjoy some nostalgic games as well. There is a multitude of comic shops, arcades and even shopping centres dedicated to manga and anime.

Toyota Mega Web (megaweb.gr.jp/about/ english) in Tokyo offers a mini racetrack and simulated driving experiences that are fun for the whole family.

For an even more intense experience, visit the Akihabara district in Tokyo to find endless arcade options, including entire department stores dedicated to video games, toys, cards and collectibles.

HOLIDAYS: JAPAN

09 07

THERE ARE THEMED ACTIVITIES

From cat or owl cafes to the famous Robot Restaurant, there are endless experiences. Themed restaurants and cafes provide a fun interactive experience that encourages children to interact respectfully with animals rather than viewing them behind glass walls or cages. Cat cafes can be found all throughout Tokyo and are a great place to enjoy a quick coffee break – parents can relax while children enjoy the cute kitties. Owl cafes also offer an exciting look at the majestic creatures in a respectful and meaningful way. It is important to note that many animal cafes have a minimum age requirement of 12, so they’re not suitable for very young children.

Beyond this, places like Alice in Wonderland Cafe and Hello Kitty Cafe feature specially designed creative dishes – you won't know what to pick!

08

…AND GREAT FAMILY FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION

Whether you choose a hotel or an Airbnb rental, there are many family friendly options in Japan that are comfortable and affordable.

Those booking an Airbnb can rest assured it will be up to standard; the Japanese government recently tightened the ropes on renters, ensuring that all rental units are approved and meet certain requirements. Apartments offer a kitchen and laundry, and provide a more local experience.

Alternatively, there are many family friendly hotels, some of which actually offer free shuttles to the airport and Disney theme parks (read on to learn about those), as well as complimentary kids’ meals and kids’ clubs. Choosing to stay at a more traditional hotel often means Japanese mattresses can be added to rooms, creating an authentic experience.

IT HAS AMAZING THEME PARKS

Japan is home to two Disney parks (tokyodisneyresort.jp/en), both of which provide families with days of fun.

Tokyo Disney pays homage to American culture in many ways, notably during Halloween and Christmas, when large parades and parties take place.

Next door, Tokyo DisneySea caters to a more grown-up crowd, with a focus on culture, bigger rides and higher-scale dining options.

Universal Studios Japan (usj.co.jp/e) in Osaka is another great option for families, offering plenty of experiences for all ages. Visitors will feel as though they are stepping right into Universal’s movies, with rides and attractions based on Hollywood hits.

In Nikko, families can visit the well-known and very popular Edo Wonderland (edowonderland.net/en) for a wonderful cultural experience. The park exhibits history and culture in the Edo period and provides exciting insight into the past.

LEGOLAND Japan (legoland.jp/en) in Nagoya is another popular attraction for families – it offers an extensive LEGO-themed world and a wonderful interactive experience.

Meanwhile, Tokyo Dome City (tokyodome.co.jp/en) is an extensive and interactive amusement park located in the city, for families who are looking for more local experiences closer to the centre of town.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

77

HOLIDAYS: JAPAN

Fuji fact Rising to 3776m, Mt Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan.

Japan

Sports are a vibrant part of Japanese culture and identity, from more traditional sports like sumowrestling and puroresu (Japanese professional wrestling) to martial arts. Japan also participates in western sports, such as soccer, baseball and automotive racing.

Observing a sumo-wrestling practise is a rare opportunity for families to see some of the country’s famous wrestlers prepare, and gain insight into their training methods.

Marine life Safely watch stingrays in the world's largest aquarium, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.

A chip off the old block LEGOLAND Japan has seven exciting zones to explore.

10

A visit to Shin-Toyosu Brillia Running Stadium (running-stadium.tokyo/en/about-en), an indoor racing track that has been built for Tokyo 2020, is a sneak peek at events to come and a great place to enjoy some jogging or running activities.

Size matters Modelled on the Eiffel Tower, Tokyo Tower sits 9m taller than the popular Paris drawcard.

THE ATTRACTIONS ARE ‘MUST-SEE’

Even casually walking through neighbourhoods in Tokyo – like Harajuku and Shibuya – can be exciting and awe-inspiring. Tokyo Skytree Town offers one of the most breathtaking views of the city, which is impressive to anyone regardless of their age. The famous Tokyo Tower should also be on your must-visit list – it features a glass-floor observation deck that makes looking both up and down exciting.

Visit touristjapan.com for more information about Japan.

Go to familytravel.com.au for travel inspiration, ideas and tips to turn your travel dreams into reality. Be sure to sign up to the e-newsletter to receive the best family content direct to your inbox.

78

Channel your inner Olympian

Odaiba Marine Park is a gorgeous outdoor arena that will host the aquatic and triathlon swimming events of the upcoming Olympics. Families will adore a picnic in the quiet cove filled with lush greenery, or simply spending a day outside enjoying the view of the famous Rainbow Bridge in the distance.

KIDS TRAVEL CHANNEL

FAMILIES OF AUSTRALIA YouTube - FamilyTravel

Image: Alison Godfrey

Misasakan in Misasa is a ryokan-style hotel.

Image: Misasakan

HOLIDAYS: WESTERN JAPAN

There are many soft-serve icecream flavours to try in Japan.

adventure A FRESH

JAPAN IS NOT JUST ABOUT TOKYO, OSAKA AND KYOTO. VENTURE PAST THE CROWDS TO EXPERIENCE THE CULTURE’S TRULY UNIQUE LIFESTYLE. WORDS ALISON GODFREY The delicious scent of rose wafts into the air as I sit, naked, in an outdoor wooden onsen overlooking a tumbling waterfall. A cool breeze swirls steam upwards towards the starry night sky.

I’m the only one in this secret hot-spring bath filled with roses, chrysanthemums and camellia flowers.

I’ve come to spend a night at Misasakan, a traditional ryokan-style hotel in Misasa, Tottori Prefecture, Japan. Misasa is surrounded by forest and a crystal-like river. Famed in Japan for radium-rich hot springs, it’s relatively unexplored by westerners even though it’s just hours from Osaka and Hiroshima, two big tourist hotspots.

“In Japan, we love hot springs,” my genki Japanese tour guide Kieko tells me. “When we stay at a hot-springs resort, we always go to the onsen –

80

before dinner, after dinner and even before breakfast.”

I’ve followed her directions and the strict onsen rules and now I can feel all the stress melting off my shoulders. No wonder the Japanese love this place!

You don’t have to stay at a ryokan to experience the hot springs here. If you’re really bold, you can strip down and enter Kawaraburo, a free outdoor mixed-sex bath with a view of the villagers walking across Misasa Bridge.

The area also has several hot-springs foot baths available for travellers to rest their feet. Grab a snack, pull off your shoes and relax before you start walking again.

Misasa is just one of many delightful Japanese towns I’ve discovered on my way through Western Japan – towns few westerners visit but the locals love.

I’m travelling from Tokyo to Fukuoka then Yamaguchi, Hiroshima, Shimane, Tottori, Okayama and finally Osaka.

Tottori is the biggest surprise – who knew Japan had sand dunes? Sand dunes so large they have an oasis in the middle. They are part of Sanin Kaigan National Park and cover 16km of coastline along the Sea of Japan. Each dune is up to 2km wide and 50m high.

Inside the information centre, you can watch a clever wind-tunnel experiment that explains how the ripples on sand dunes form.

I arrive at the sand dunes on the one day it decides to rain on my trip. No matter – armed with an umbrella and some rented gumboots, we set off to explore. Once inside the dune system, it’s possible to imagine you’re in the middle of the desert. The oasis in the

HOLIDAYS: WESTERN JAPAN

Japan One for the ages There’s nothing that’ll keep Kintai Bridge down!

GETTING THERE Qantas and Jetstar fly to Osaka from Sydney and Cairns, respectively. From there, take the JP Rail to Tottori.

Setting records Boasting naturally created art, Akiyoshido Cave is the Orient’s largest limestone cavern.

Better for the bod Radium-rich hot springs are said to boost the body’s immunity.

middle is filled with water and we have to climb and climb to reach the top of the last dune for a breathtaking view of the Sea of Japan.

Like Tottori, few westerners have heard of the limestone Akiyoshido Cave in Yamaguchi Prefecture. But when I posted a photo of the stunning blue lagoon cave entrance to my Instagram, a Japanese friend wrote “OMG, you guys went to Akiyoshido! I’ve always wanted to go there!”.

If your kids like geography, Akiyoshido Cave will blow their minds.

About 300 million years ago, its plateau was a coral reef. These days, its lush green plains are dotted with limestone pinnacles, worn by years of rain and wind, and you can hike the trails that criss-cross the plains, which are particularly beautiful in spring and autumn. Akiyoshido Cave is the largest and longest limestone cave in Japan.

It has terrace pools filled with water, underground waterfalls and limestone formations with “very Japanese” names such as ‘jellyfish climbing up a wall’.

But it’s the cobalt-blue waterfall and the covered bridge at the entrance that most people can’t get enough of. It is simply magical!

Not far from Akiyoshido you’ll find the village of Iwakuni and the Kintai Bridge, a five-arch wooden bridge made

NEED TO KNOW

STAYING THERE Misasakan in Misasa is a traditional ryokan-style hotel with tatami-mat floors, futon beds and onsen bathhouses. misasakan.co.jp Empty oasis Unexpected sand dunes add a ‘desert adventure’ element.

GETTING AROUND It is easy and safe to hire a car and drive around Japan. Or you can buy Japan rail passes and access most of the country on high-speed rail.

famous thanks to hundreds of Japanese artworks. Hiroyoshi Kikkawa, the third Lord of Iwakuni, wanted to make a bridge across the river that would never wash away, and after meeting a Chinese monk he decided on a design with five arches. His first attempt washed away due to riverbed subsidence in 1673. It was reconstructed after the riverbed had been reinforced, and it remained invincible against the elements for 276 years, until it too was washed away by the floods of Typhoon Kijiya in 1950.

The bridge you see today is another reconstruction finished in 2004.

One thing you need to try in Japan is soft-serve ice-cream, and Iwakuni – sprawled over both banks of Nishiki River, overlooked by a castle on nearby Mount Yokoyama – has loads of stalls with hundreds of unique flavours to try, including wasabi, garlic and chilli.

I settle for a less-ambitious yet still strange coffee-strawberry combination, and I am pleasantly surprised. The next time we visit, we’ll each choose a flavour and share.

Go to familytravel.com.au for travel inspiration, ideas and tips to turn your travel dreams into reality. Be sure to sign up to the e-newsletter to receive the best family content direct to your inbox.

Foods to try WAGYU BEEF Japanese Wagyu beef is tender and delicious, and will melt in your mouth.

MOMIJI MANJU The maple leaf-shaped cake filled with chocolate or red bean is a Miyajima Island speciality.

OKONOMIYAKI Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki (savoury pancake) has cabbage, bacon, noodles, prawns and egg.

Osaka-style okonomiyaki is made with eggs, shredded cabbage and flour topped with bacon. Both are served with mayonnaise and sweet brown sauce.

SHABU-SHABU Thinly sliced meat and vegetables cooked instantly in boiling hot-pot broth – delectable!

FUGU Remember that Simpsons episode? Yes, pufferfish (also called fugu or blowfish) can kill you – but, when sliced correctly, it’s actually safe and delicious.

SASHIMI AND SUSHI Sashimi is thin slices of raw meat, usually fish such as salmon or tuna. Sushi is vinegared rice mixed with other ingredients – often fish, but not necessarily.

SNOW CRAB Best eaten in winter, snow crab comes from the deepest and coldest waters of the Sea of Japan. The best place to eat them is in Shimane, a coastal region on Japan’s west coast.

SOFT-SERVE ICE-CREAM Delicious, creamy and so many flavours – you really must experiment with them!

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

81

HOLIDAYS: AMERICA

Reach Stars FOR THE

Rocket Garden at sunset.

82

It’s one giant leap to Kennedy Space Center, and once you land you’ll feel as though you’re on another planet.

WORDS TIANA TEMPLEMAN

HOLIDAYS: AMERICA

S

pace missions seldom go entirely to plan, and neither does our family’s visit to Kennedy Space Center (kennedyspacecenter.com). We can’t believe our luck when a SpaceX rocket launch is scheduled for the day of our visit, but our 15-year-old son Tex sums it up when we arrive to discover the mission has been aborted.

“Be careful what you wish for,” he sighs, when we discover our pre-booked and highly anticipated Cape Canaveral Early Space Tour won’t be going ahead either. The area this tour explores remains an active launch site, even though today’s was cancelled.

Staff suggest we switch our additional paid activity to Dine With An Astronaut instead of the tour. We don’t have much choice – it’s our only option – but luck is on our side again, and this time it’s for real.

Today’s astronaut happens to be Apollo 15 command module pilot Al Worden, one of just 24 people to have flown to the moon. We walk to the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibition hall with a spring in our step to see our first exhibit, the Atlantis shuttle, which flew more than 30 successful space missions.

Our experience begins with a short film showing a re-creation of the early days of the space shuttle program. We were hoping to head straight to Atlantis to save time, but there is no escape, or at least not one we could see.

“This movie contains more cheese than a Hawai‘ian pizza,” says Tex under his breath as the actors struggle to build dramatic suspense while wearing bad ’80s fashion.

He’s right, but the film is still informative and

Apollo astronaut suits at Apollo/Saturn V Center.

builds suspense as we wait for the famous shuttle to be revealed.

We are expecting a door to open, so it’s a surprise when the movie screen rises to reveal Atlantis, suspended in mid-orbit inside the huge hangar that had to be constructed around it. Cargo bays are open and a robotic arm extends towards an imaginary satellite. The 68-tonne shuttle is magnificent and wears the burns and scars of its successful missions like badges of honour.

“Wow…” our son gasps, revealing just how impressive Atlantis is. 

B L A S T O F F F O R M O R E U S A S PA C E A D V E N T U R E S

STEVEN F. UDVAR-HAZY CENTER, CHANTILLY, VIRGINIA See space shuttle Discovery, Neil Armstrong’s spacesuit, Soviet space food, an Apollo 15 space helmet and much more. If you’re travelling with older kids, don’t miss the free tours led by former NASA employees, pilots and aeronautical engineers. airandspace.si.edu

SPACE CENTER HOUSTON, HOUSTON, TEXAS View the Apollo 17 command module and a Skylab training module, touch a real moon rock and walk inside a replica space shuttle mounted on top of the original NASA 905 shuttle carrier (the world’s only shuttle mounted on a shuttle carrier aircraft that the public can enter). spacecenter.org

THE MUSEUM OF FLIGHT, SEATTLE, WASHINGTON Spread across six hectares, this Seattle museum houses more than 100 aircraft and spacecraft, including a full-scale NASA Full Fuselage Trainer.

It can be explored on a paid tour that includes access to both levels of the crew compartment. museumofflight.org

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

83

HOLIDAYS: AMERICA

It is not often teens are lost for words!

There are more than 60 interactive exhibits celebrating the history and technology of NASA’s Space Shuttle program inside this hangar, but we only have time to see a few of them before lunch. Our son tries his hand at flying a shuttle using a simulator before we make our way to Forever Remembered, a memorial honouring the astronauts who died in the Challenger and Columbia disasters. This display has none of the razzle-dazzle found in other parts of the Space Center, and has been designed to remove any distress for younger (and older) visitors. It is a poignant reminder that space exploration is exciting but also involves significant risk for those who reach for the stars.

Over at the Heroes & Legends hall, we are seated with local families at one of many round tables in a function room that hosts the Dine With An Astronaut experience. The buffet is nothing to write home about, but the talk by Al certainly is. His entertaining presentation is filled with original images taken from Apollo 15 and peppered with humorous anecdotes.

“I’m glad I flew when I did – there weren’t so many forms to fill out back then,” he quips with the impeccable timing of an experienced speaker.

At the end of the talk, everyone is invited to line up for a photo with the spritely and generous 87-year-old, who shakes visitors’ hands and poses again and again until everyone has had their photo taken with him.

“That was a great talk!” says Tex when we take our places beside him.

84

HOLIDAYS: AMERICA

images

Clockwise from top: Saturn V rocket at Apollo/ Saturn V Center; Atlantis orbiter at Space Shuttle Atlantis; Space Shuttle Atlantis exterior; Apollo/ Saturn V Center; a holiday here is every space-fan family’s dream!

NEED TO KNOW

Al smiles and says he’s glad he enjoyed it, before turning to the camera. Tex is still beaming when the staff member takes our photo. Professional photographs can be purchased and autographed

by Al later that afternoon, but to our surprise and delight a staff member also takes a photo using everyone’s iPhone.

“I wish we had more time,” Tex says as we hurry towards the bus tour that will take us to the Apollo/Saturn V Center. “It would be great to go back and see more of the Atlantis stuff.”

It’s easy to see why many visitors pay the extra $20 for multi-day admission – we barely have time to go on the bus tour before it’s time to leave. We now highly recommend this option!

Our family switches to the right-hand side of the bus for the best view (a tip from the locals we met at lunch) and we drive past the Vehicle Assembly Building, Apollo 8 launch site, launch complex 39B and other sites during the 45-minute tour that features recorded commentary.

When we enter the Apollo/Saturn V Center exhibition hall, all eyes are immediately drawn to the massive Saturn V, the tallest rocket to ever fly. There is also a lunar module, real moon rock (which we get to touch), space suits dating back to the early days of space exploration, and newspaper front pages from across the globe reporting how man first walked on the moon on July 20, 1969.

We rush from one exhibit to another, determined to see everything before we leave.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of this historic day, which, judging by the number of enthralled visitors surrounding us, is just as important now as it was back then.

Go to familytravel.com.au for travel inspiration, ideas and tips to turn your travel dreams into reality. Be sure to sign up to the e-newsletter to receive the best family content direct to your inbox.

GETTING THERE Virgin Australia flies from Sydney to Orlando via Los Angeles. Kennedy Space Center is an easy 50-minute drive from Orlando.

PLAYING THERE Kennedy Space Center is located 20 minutes from Titusville, which is home to the excellent Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum.

STAYING THERE TownePlace Suites by Marriott Titusville Kennedy Space Center offers well-priced self-catering accommodation with complimentary buffet breakfast.

BEST TIME TO GO Any time of year is a good time to visit, but 2019 is extra special, with loads of events celebrating the 50th anniversary of man landing on the moon.

BEST FOR KIDS AGED Eight and over.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

85

HOLIDAYS: WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Road, Jack HIT THE

To truly appreciate the magnificence of Western Australia’s coastal landscapes and sweeping horizons, pack your family into the car for a roadtrip. Soak up the rugged scenery, azure waters and radiating sunsets while experiencing the freedom, flexibility and fun of life on the open road.

WORDS STEPHANIE WILLIAMS

A local guide takes the family on a Didgeridoo dreaming tour near Little Lagoon in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area.

86

HOLIDAYS: WESTERN AUSTRALIA

TURQUOISE B AY

Image: Australia’s Coral Coast

CAPE RANGE N AT I O N A L PA R K

N

Images: Tourism Western Australia

ow this feels remote. Having been out of bed at a time not seen since the days of having a newborn, travelling from Sydney, we’re flying into Exmouth over the swirling turquoise and grey river mouth, pretty pink-salt pans and dusty red cliffs. Exmouth is on the far tip of Western Australia (about halfway up if you’re looking at a map), just over 1200km from Perth. It’s postcard stuff as we descend into Exmouth, ready to start our roadtrip adventure south to Kalbarri.

If you were to drive straight to Kalbarri it would take eight hours, but we’re planning to explore the region over 10 days, with a couple of nights in each town to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

We pick up our hire car at the airport – a fourwheel drive with a car seat for our 3-year-old.

Driving into Exmouth, it’s flat, expansive and sits at the gateway to Ningaloo Reef, the world’s largest fringing coral reef, rivalling its more famous eastern cousin in the stakes for Australia’s best reef. It’s where you can swim with whale sharks from mid-March until July, and where emus rule – they have right of way on the streets.

But we’re here to see the reef, so after coffee at The Social Society Exmouth, we’re on our way to Cape Range National Park. Our son is too young to snorkel, so it’s a tag-team effort in the water. We’ve snorkelled before, so we head for the Turquoise Bay Drift snorkel, where the 

MONKEY MIA Western Australia is the home of Aussie outback adventures. Whether you’re dancing along the coast or trekking through the country, you’re sure to be left with the most incredible memories.

SHARK B AY

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

87

HOLIDAYS: WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Experience of a lifetime World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef is the best place to swim with gentle whale sharks.

current pushes me across vibrant coral gardens with colourful reef fish popping out to say hello.

Beginners will be happy in the bay area, and our little man loved running in and out of the clear water, chasing the occasional fish.

Lakeside is a more challenging snorkel, and I’m rewarded with a graceful turtle and much bigger fish. Sunset at Vlaming Head Lighthouse is a must on the return leg. Back in Exmouth, we enjoy an early dinner at Whalers Restaurant, but not too early to miss the live music. Hubby is a diver, so before we leave town he slips out for the Exmouth Navy Pier dive, often described as an aquarium without glass.

Burning down the highway, with cliched tumbleweed and termite stacks lining the way, I begin to really unwind – the red dust is getting under my skin (and nails). Coral Bay is a tiny hamlet 150km south of Exmouth, but it’s well worth the diversion. We check into Ningaloo Reef Resort, then spend the day exploring Bill’s Bay, a lagoon-like beach right across from our hotel.

Our little guy gets in on the underwater action in the glass-bottomed boat, and Daddy skips out in the afternoon to explore the dunes on a quad bike. Back on dry land, we head to the only pub in town for pub fare in the grassy beer garden with a sunset view to die for.

We stop in Carnarvon, the food bowl of Western Australia, to pick up supplies. More than half of Western Australia’s bananas come from here, so it’s a feast of local fruit and fruit leathers (awesome roadtrip snacks) for us. We take a look at One Mile Jetty, which dates back to 1897, and in the afternoon take a side trip to the famed Carnarvon Blowholes to watch the seawater rip through holes in the craggy red cliffs to shoot 20m into the air – today they’re raging, an incredible show of force from the Indian Ocean.

The promise of dolphins has lured us to Monkey Mia. Dolphins are the stars at RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort – they swim into the beach to say hello up to three times a day. We join the morning session and I’m chosen, along with our son, to hand-feed one of the friendly dolphins. Score!

After lolling around the beach most of the day, we book a Wula Gura Nyinda Eco Adventure in the evening, with ‘Capes’ as our guide. Around the campfire, we eat red mullet cooked over the coals by Capes and listen to the history of the traditional owners of the Gutharraguda (Shark Bay) land. Shark Bay offers plenty of exploration – particularly of the Hamelin Pool stromatolites,

88

Wild cards Always wanted to interact with wild dolphins? Monkey Mia is the place to do it!

Let there be light Vlaming Head Lighthouse, on one of the most dangerous coastlines in the world, has saved many a sailor’s life.

What a catch!

Whether you fish from the shore or the boat, you’re sure to reel in tailor, mulloway, gardie or samson.

Western Australia which are the largest deposits of living fossils in the world. You can see them from a series of boardwalks and viewing platforms (young kids might not take in the wow factor here, but explaining that these have been around longer than dinosaurs might help!).

The last stop on our epic red-dust roadtrip is Kalbarri, an adventure hub and old fishing town.

Laying our heads at Kalbarri Edge Resort marks our roadtrip being on its last legs. Older kids will enjoy abseiling in Kalbarri National Park, and all kids will love the maze and animals at Rainbow Jungle and Kalbarri Family Entertainment Centre.

Unfortunately, I get struck down with a mystery infection and roadtest the local medical services, which are basic but effective. When back on track, we head to the national park to hike to the natural rock arch of Nature’s Window and Z Bend, a beautiful lookout over the gorge with a 150m drop. The coastline north and south of town is littered with craggy ocean lookouts and breathtaking views, and Red Bluff is where we decide to spend the final sunset of our roadtrip – with local fish and chips and a glass of local wine, of course. Cheers!

Visit westernaustralia.com for more.

Go to familytravel.com.au for travel inspiration, ideas and tips to turn your travel dreams into reality. Be sure to sign up to the e-newsletter to receive the best family content direct to your inbox.

NEED TO KNOW

BEST TIME TO VISIT Summer temperatures can soar, so the weather the remainder of the year makes ideal travelling conditions.

March to June is your best chance to see whale sharks, while winter is the time to spot manta rays and humpbacks.

BEST FOR KIDS AGED Kids of all ages will enjoy the sunshine and wide open spaces – but with so many water-based activities, kids should be able to swim confidently.

GETTING THERE Qantas flies from Perth to Exmouth twice daily.

HOLIDAYS: WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Darren Jew

02 SURF SYDNEY TO MELBOURNE VIA THE COAST ROAD Even though there’s a more direct route along the Hume Highway, driving the coast road will take your family on a journey through coastal towns, national parks and surf reserves, with a few tasty treats along the way. Head south from Sydney towards Shellharbour and stop at Killalea Reserve for a swim or surf. Explore the quaint towns of Berry and Milton, then head to Batemans Bay for tasty fish – fresh from the ocean – at Innes Boatshed or Clyde River oysters – shucked for you on the spot – at Oyster Shed. There’s more excellent surfing to be had at Moruya, Broulee and pretty much all along the coast to Eden. Hitting the border, a diversion to Mallacoota will offer quality fishing, kayaking and more beautiful beaches. Within reach of the city, the coastline is dotted with weekend holiday spots, like the tiny fishing village of Metung and the pretty agricultural town of Maffra. Getting close to the big smoke, Traralgon is Latrobe Valley’s largest city, where little kids will love a ride on the local miniature railway in Newman Park, while bigger kids will enjoy exploring the numerous state and national parks in the surrounding area.

Image: Hugh Stewart; Destination NSW

01 TASTE YOUR WAY FROM DEVONPORT TO HOBART If you’re travelling to Tasmania on the ferry, you’ll arrive in Devonport. Discover the maritime history at Bass Strait Maritime Centre and follow it up with a leg-stretching session at Bluff Park.

Head towards Launceston, stopping to taste local chocolate at House of Anvers in Latrobe, cheese and milkshakes at Ashgrove Tasmanian Farm in Elizabeth Town, and raspberries and ice-cream at Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm in Elizabeth Town. Stop at Launceston to hike or swim at Cataract Gorge, then forge further south to the historic colonial town of Evandale for lunch (if you can fit it in!); Clarendon Arms Hotel has a cosy wood fire and Ingleside Bakery Cafe is famous for its swagmans lunch. Closer to Hobart, call in at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary – it’s a little off the main highway but well worth it to cuddle Tasmanian wildlife and support endangered animals. Once you reach the Tassie capital, you can take your pick of places that serve quality local produce – it may have been overlooked in the past, but this city is fast becoming a mustvisit hotspot for foodies from all over the world.

Image: Visit Victoria

Image: Adam Gibson

FOUR MORE AMAZING AUSSIE ROADTRIPS

03 HIT THE THEME PARKS FROM BRISBANE TO BYRON BAY Set the compass south from Brisbane towards Byron Bay, stopping at the theme parks along the way. The first stop on this short roadtrip is Dreamworld, the largest theme park on the Gold Coast.

Little kids will love ABC Kids World (where they can hop in another car: the Wiggles’ Big Red Car!) and the DreamWorks Experience.

Then hit up Wet’n’Wild to squeal on the thrillseeking rides or splash about in the family friendly pools. Licenced drivers and their passengers can get muddy in the Buggy area, a purpose-built adventure park for mud-loving buggies. Bring the pace back a little and feel the sand between your toes at Main Beach on the Gold Coast, and stop at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary to get up close and cuddly with Australian animals. Be sure to leave time to explore Byron Bay – there’s so much to do there, like trekking the Lighthouse Walk, surfing like a local, exploring the hinterland towns of Federal and Bangalow, and getting your hippie on at the markets.

04 DRIVE 75 MILE BEACH ON FRASER ISLAND The sandy highway of 75 Mile Beach would have to be one of the most unique roadtrips. You can only drive the road in a four-wheel drive, and your tyres must be let down in order to cope with the terrain. The speed limit is 80km and the rules are the same as on normal roads. Enter the island via ferry from Inskip Point to make the most of the highway, which runs along the eastern side of the island. At 122km long, World Heritage-listed Fraser Island is Australia’s largest sand island, and it offers so much for families to do. Along the sand highway you’ll find shipwrecks to explore, swimming holes, coloured sandy cliffs and loads of significant indigenous and maritime sites. You can camp at one of the beachside campsites or trek the length of the sand highway to reach the top of the island, far from the crowds. If camping isn’t your thing, stay at Kingfisher Bay Resort. Just watch out for the locals – dingoes are active here, so food and children need to be protected.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

89

HOLIDAYS: PARIS

Paris WITH KIDS A GUIDE TO

Having spent quite a considerable amount of time in Paris in my twenties, I had a feeling the things I enjoyed about the city might not have the same appeal to my 9-year-old or my 13-year-old.

But, several weeks into our European adventure, my husband and I relished the opportunity to relax and let the kids take control of the itinerary. Turns out the bucket-list items in Paris transcend generational barriers.

FINDING YOUR WAY

With the standard traffic troubles of every major metropolis and the sprawling nature of the city, public transport is the best way to explore.

The metro stops have handy maps to look at, so you can work out where you

90

REDISCOVERING TREASURED MEMORIES THROUGH THE WONDERFILLED EYES OF CHILDREN CAN PAVE THE WAY TO DISCOVERING A WHOLE NEW CITY, AND MAKE MEMORIES EVERY BIT AS MAGICAL.

are and what’s around you. No matter which arrondissement (meaning suburb or zone) you find yourself in, there is always something interesting to see within easy walking distance.

NOTRE DAME

I had forgotten just how beautiful and impressive this cathedral is – its colossal size and gothic carvings on the outside are breathtaking! I was pleasantly surprised to find that it was not only free to enter, but the queue moved very quickly. After we’d learnt about the building’s construction, our children gave a coin donation to the nuns who worked with the poor as we left. The photos we took just don’t do the building justice.

WORDS NIKI BUSH

LOUVRE MUSEUM

After a quick lunch in the Latin Quarter lanes, we walked along the Seine and came across the famous Pont des Arts footbridge, which takes you into the back entrance to the Louvre.

Being one of the most famous museums in the world, you’d be hard pressed to get in without having to line up, but the wait is worth it! If you’re on a tight schedule, however, and don’t have a good five hours to dedicate to exploring this iconic museum, snapping a few photos of the stunning glass pyramid at the entrance is an absolute must.

After collecting our reel of typical tourist photos, we moved on towards Tuileries Garden to enjoy the magnificent weather in a beautiful setting.

HOLIDAYS: PARIS

Making history The Arc de Triomphe was ordered in 1806 by French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte.

Love is in the air The stunning Tuileries Garden backdrop inspires romance to bloom.

Paris

NEED TO KNOW

WHEN TO GO Spring and summer provide ideal sightseeing weather, but it can get busy with tourists, and many places close during August.

Autumn and winter offer more affordable rates and shorter queues.

BEST FOR KIDS AGED Kids from 4 can enjoy this very walkable city, while younger ones will benefit from a pram on standby.

Plan ahead Pack a jacket when visiting the Eiffel Tower – the winds at the summit can leave you feeling quite chilly.

TUILERIES GARDEN

Tuileries Garden (or the Jardin des Tuileries in French) forms an avenue of sculptures, ponds and perfectly kept greenery between Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde. Here, you’ll find Parisians relaxing on sun chairs (free for public use) around the ornamental pond. Even in the middle of a bustling city, these gardens house a true sense of joy and love – perhaps even a little too much, as my daughter was a little grossed out by the couples smooching on benches. But you’ve got to remember that Paris is the city of love, and the French certainly aren’t afraid to show their passion!

PLACE DE LA CONCORDE

The largest public square in Paris, Place de la Concorde separates Tuileries Garden from the start of ChampsElysees. A classic French car was parked at the end near the Luxor Obelisk, so while my husband and I marvelled at the monument’s huge size, the kids marvelled at the strange headlights on the old Citroen 2CV.

SHOPPING & FAST CARS My kids love shopping (sports shops in particular), so they were in for a real treat. Both our kids had euros that

Louvre Museum Head to the Louvre Museum for a glimpse of Leonardo da Vinci’s famed Mona Lisa.

were burning a hole in their pockets, and because it was low season, there were sales everywhere! My 13-year-old son shot some hoops in the indoor basketball area in the Nike shop, and my daughter tried on lots of shoes. After wandering through numerous shops, we went on to check out the expensive cars that lined the Champs-Elysees.

ARC DE TRIOMPHE

At the top of the Champs-Elysees, the Arc de Triomphe stands in line with the Louvre. In the distance is the new modern arch, La Defense. Set in the middle of a very busy roundabout, we learnt first-hand that you should avoid visiting the Arc de Triomphe during peak hour. The kids were determined to climb to the top, so we jumped in the queue and waited about an hour for a view that was unquestionably worth it. When we arrived at the top, the sun was setting, creating the perfect lighting to capture the stunning sunset, with the Eiffel Tower peeping out in the distance.

EIFFEL TOWER

Walking from the Arc de Triomphe, we made our way towards Paris’ most iconic monument, the Eiffel Tower, in the hopes of getting the perfect night shot of this enormous steel pillar. After

GETTING THERE Nearly all major airlines fly out of Australia, most with just one stopover.

navigating the crowds and numerous street vendors selling mini Eiffel Tower souvenirs, we got the money shot of the kids picking up the Eiffel Tower in their fingers. The following day, we went up to the top floor after enjoying a fairly fast-moving queue, thanks to a recommendation to visit mid-week and not during school holidays. After experiencing the notorious strong winds at the summit, we stopped off on level one for a hot drink and to enjoy a view of Paris slightly closer to the ground.

SEINE

A 24-hour boat ticket, with a jump-on jump-off concept that stops along the Seine river at the main tourist sites, was a perfect way to relax undercover and take in the beautiful architecture of the bustling city. The kids enjoyed not having to walk so much, and it also gave us another perspective of the city. It was interesting to see so many large working barges still using the river among all of the tourist boats.

Go to familytravel.com.au for travel inspiration, ideas and tips to turn your travel dreams into reality. Be sure to sign up to the e-newsletter to receive the best family content direct to your inbox.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

91

Tired of searching for a great family deal amongst a sea of holiday options that don’t cater for the kids?

Check out familytravel.com.au where we put families first.

familytravel.com.au Search by destination, kids ages, family size and holiday style

HOLIDAYS: SAFARI

Amazing Africa When it comes to Botswana, in the south, it’s not just a case of lions and tigers and bears…

WORDS & PHOTOS ZOEY GOTO

HOLIDAYS: SAFARI

n our debut safari night in Botswana, I was awoken twice – first by a roaring lion outside our safari tent and then by a boisterous monkey jumping around on the balcony. Meanwhile, my 7-year-old daughter slept soundly beside me, blissfully unaware of Mother Earth’s soundtrack playing just feet from our bed. It was the perfect introduction to our first family safari, which brought us impressively close to nature at its most wild.

My animal-loving daughter Summer and I had decided to spend six nights exploring the Okavango Delta region in Botswana, an area blessed with some of the most impressive and diverse wildlife on earth. We picked out three camps run by Wilderness Safaris, swayed by their reputation for offering experiences that are both sustainable and family friendly.

Any concerns that I may have had about taking

images

Clockwise from left: Summer with her ‘Bush Buddy’ Keity; a leopard never changes its spots; we were made precious lily necklaces at Vumbura Plains; Vumbura Plains at sunset is just spectacular.

94

HOLIDAYS: SAFARI

my child on such a far-flung adventure quickly evaporated as soon as we touched down at Botswana’s Maun Airport. A friendly team from Wilderness Safaris were there to greet us, steering us across the tarmac to the tiny 10-seat plane that took us on an intrepid flight, low over the African bush.

Our first stop was Tubu Tree, a boutique camp with just eight tents built into the treetops. Our elevated room, complete with an elegant fourposter bed, provided spectacular views across the floodplains, which were teeming with buffalos, giraffes and antelopes. As our previous interaction with animals had mainly been at urban zoos, I had somehow imagined there to be more boundaries between us and the animals. It took me a few days to acclimatise to seeing huge elephants and hippos wandering freely near the camps, which we viewed from the raised walkways that connect the guestrooms to the communal areas. This close proximity only resulted in one slightly hairy encounter when a nearby baboon bore his teeth at us – but thankfully a safari guide stepped in to escort us to breakfast safely.

Our typical safari day started at sunrise with a morning game drive, bounding through the African bush in the back of an open-sided Jeep while spotting an abundance of animals. For a safari with kids, it’s worth paying a little extra for

private activities so you can go at the kids’ pace.

Following lunch back at camp, afternoon activities included walking safaris and bush cookery lessons. For a truly unique view of the wildlife, low-flying hot-air balloon rides can be arranged.

Between activities, Summer spent time with her ‘Bush Buddy’, a dedicated mentor who organised educational activities to enhance her safari experience. This was one of the highlights of Summer’s trip, as she learnt to make beaded African jewellery and play the traditional game of Morabaraba with marbles, which she has since taught her classmates back home.

Following our restorative stay at Tubu Tree, where we soaked up the tranquil atmosphere and acclimatised to the enforced digital detox (all of our camps were wifi-free zones), we hopped onto a propeller plane for the 15-minute micro journey to Seba camp.

When we touched down at Seba, we were greeted by Kitso, our charismatic safari guide who managed to expertly tailor our activities to my daughter’s interests. Safari checklist in hand, Summer was soon spotting and ticking off the animals. On our second day at Seba, she spotted a magnificent leopard hiding in a tree before Kitso even had a chance!

Between activities, we relaxed in our spacious family lodge, which came complete with a box  WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

95

HOLIDAYS: SAFARI

NEED TO KNOW

GETTING THERE Africa Odyssey can arrange your trip (two nights at Wilderness Safaris’ Tubu Tree, two nights at Seba and two nights at Vumbura Plains) from AU$9600 per person including internal flights.

International flights cost about AU$2400 per person. africaodyssey.com

BEST TIME TO GO There isn’t a bad time to visit Africa on safari, as each season has its own unique charm. The wet season can offer more in terms of waterborne activities and is particularly scenic, while the dry season is better for wildlifeviewing. Easter is a good time for spotting baby animals, which is always a hit with children!

BEST FOR KIDS AGED This experience is best for natureloving children aged 7-plus, as the game drives can be long and they will need to exercise some control around the wild animals. However, many camps allow babies and toddlers, and some offer childminding facilities.

images

Main: A beautiful leopard pops up for a look-see.

Opposite (clockwise from left): Elephants are such majestic creatures; here we are exploring in a mokoro (canoe); our camp at Tubu Tree.

HOLIDAYS: SAFARI

of safari-related children’s toys and a private pool overlooking a herd of zebras. As evening fell, we put a small dent in the extensive healthy buffet before being treated to a performance of traditional African singing and dancing around the campfire against a dramatic sunset over the dusty plains. The guests soon joined in with the dancing and Summer was whisked up to dance at the front of the procession, with the women making a chorus of high-pitched ululation – a distinctive noise made with the tongue to celebrate and express strong emotions.

Our final few days were rounded off in style at Vumbura Plains, one of the most exclusive safari camps in southern Africa. The five-star camp offered a la carte dining and luxurious glassfronted guestrooms. As Vumbura Plains is located in marshland, it also offers a variety of water- and land-based activities, allowing us to spend our afternoons exploring the picturesque waterways by mokoro (canoe) and speedboat, as Summer got up close with the local reed frogs and our guide made us necklaces from the delicate floating lilies.

Heading back home at the end of our epic week, it occurred to me that there must be few places left on Earth that are so utterly remote and wild, which made this such an incredibly enriching experience.

I returned with a head full of memories, a camera full of wildlife shots and a daughter who now wants to be a conservationist.

Go to familytravel.com.au for travel inspiration, ideas and tips to turn your travel dreams into reality. Be sure to sign up to the e-newsletter to receive the best family content direct to your inbox.

Double duty The wildlife at Vumbura Plains is so diverse, you’ll want to explore on land and water!

Fostering life Okavango Delta features a maze of sparking lagoons in Kalahari Desert.

Botswana Reach for the stars Say hello to friendly giraffes from your raised Tubu Tree campsite.

Caring for the world Seba camp is run on 100 per cent solar, ensuring as light an environmental footprint as possible.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

97

HOLIDAYS: EGYPT

Discover

Egypt This historic country will leave you feeling more alive than ever.

Image: Patrick O’Neill Intrepid

WORDS CAROLINE RICHES

Riding camels in the Sahara.

98

HOLIDAYS: EGYPT

Mummies, sarcophagi, pyramids and tombs – when we think about the Ancient Egyptians, we picture their afterlives. It’s hardly surprising; this bygone civilisation spent their entire lives preparing for their demise.

Surrounded by death, Valley of the Kings is a dusty valley between dry brown mountains, where the ancient city of Waset (what we know as Luxor) gives way to the mighty Sahara. It’s one of the hottest – and quietest – places on Earth.

While the adults fan themselves in the meagre shade available, the kids gabble excitedly about, well, death.

“Once you died, they kept your heart in your body so it could travel with you to the afterlife,” 10-year-old Brady tells us. “Then the god of the dead weighed the heart, and if it weighed more than the feather you were considered more wicked than good, so you wouldn’t even be granted an afterlife.”

Our Intrepid guide Walid seems to smile with pride: “Some children are so intelligent, they often know more about Ancient Egypt than the grown-ups. I really appreciate how they teach our ancient civilisation in your countries.”

Certainly, all six kids – ranging in age from 5 to 14 – on our Egypt Family Holiday for Solo Parents tour seem well versed in the morbid process of mummification.

During our eight-day trip, Walid has made sure to explain his country’s ancient history in an entertaining way for the little ones.

“We let kids take part as the pharaohs and the queens and be part of the story,” he says.

“They love the mummies and the pyramids and Tutankhamun, the golden boy.”

As far as we’re aware, Tutankhamun is the only pharaoh left in the Valley of the Kings.

Hidden by sand and rock for thousands of years, his tomb was only discovered in 1922 

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

99

Images: Patrick O’Neill Intrepid

HOLIDAYS: EGYPT

images

Clockwise from top: The iconic Egypt shot of us sitting on a camel in front of the Pyramids of Giza; Walid was an incredibly patient and knowledgeable guide; our tour group at Abu Simbel; Valley of the Kings; hieroglyphs at Abu Simbel.

100

HOLIDAYS: EGYPT Abu Simbel was carved out of a sandstone cliff.

Great guardian The Great Sphinx of Giza was built to ward off evil spirits.

Survival instincts Camels’ humps are made up of stored fat that they can metabolise when food and water is scarce.

when British archaeologist Howard Carter first held a candle inside, claiming he saw “wonderful things”. The dazzling collection of treasures found in his chamber are now housed at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, along with some of the Valley’s famous former residents, including Ramses II-IV and the female pharaoh Hatshepsut. The museum’s Royal Mummies Hall, which boasts the most important collection of mummified royalty anywhere in the world, has mummies going back 4500 years – a mesmerising attraction for kids and adults alike!

But seeing an ancient king in his own tomb is even more intriguing. Tutankhamun was just 19 when he died, and his stunted body looks sad and vulnerable. As the children take in the boy king’s wisps of hair, his toes with jagged nails, his open mouth and his peaceful resting face, they can hardly believe they’re staring at a body that’s more than 3300 years old.

He’s a spring chicken, however, compared to the Pyramids of Giza – one of which, the Great Pyramid of Giza, is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing. The fact they’re still around isn’t hard to believe – what’s actually difficult to imagine is how they got there in the first place. We gaze at the stone slabs, so huge and perfectly carved. Back in 2575BC, how did they move them?

Walid is full of fascinating facts.

“If the Great Pyramid was chopped into 12-inch cubes and laid out in a line, there’d be enough to circle the moon three times,” he tells us.

Despite that, you’ll only need a few hours to walk around the three pyramids, climb down inside them (at an extra fee), take a camel ride around them or just sit and stare at them.

Our week in Egypt also takes us to ancient temples such as Abu Simbel, which was carved

Head start The nemes headdress symbolises that a pharaoh has left his physical life and begun his spiritual afterlife.

Egypt

out of the mountainside during the 13th-century reign of Ramses II to impress those entering Egypt from the south. Walid helps the children decipher the stories of love, death and war splashed across its walls in stunning hieroglyphs.

All of Intrepid’s guides in Egypt are locals with a thorough knowledge of both Egyptology and Islam. They patiently answer endless questions from the children on topics from the women’s hijabs to the meaning of the call to prayer and what on earth the men are smoking in the shisha cafes. It’s an appreciation of Islam we hope they will take home with them.

While wandering the souks, bunking down on night trains and drifting along the Nile on a felucca, Intrepid ensures a safe and informative opportunity to understand both ancient and modern Egypt. One of the best ways to do so is to drop in on some locals for dinner – a common feature on Intrepid’s itineraries. We’re lucky enough to enjoy an evening with a Nubian family in their brightly painted home on the banks of the Nile in Aswan. We eat amazing stews, moussaka and sticky baklavas, then dance while the kids play football.

Aswan is one of the world’s hottest, sunniest and driest cities; some of the young kids here may never have felt rain. Locals rely on the Nile and its irrigation for life, as Egyptians have always done.

Life and death are Egypt’s yin and yang. Here, living is always done in the shadow of death.

Sometimes, however, that’s the best way to know you’re alive.

Go to familytravel.com.au for travel inspiration, ideas and tips to turn your travel dreams into reality. Be sure to sign up to the e-newsletter to receive the best family content direct to your inbox.

Making history The oldest papyri ever discovered was uncovered in 2013. It features journal entries by the men who helped build the Great Pyramid of Giza and Pharaoh Khufu’s tomb.

NEED TO KNOW

BEST TIME TO VISIT The best time to visit is from October to April, when temperatures are slightly cooler. Keep in mind, however, that December and January constitute peak season, so sights like the Pyramids of Giza, Valley of the Kings and Abu Simbel can get quite crowded.

TOURING THERE Visiting on a family group tour is a great way to experience Egypt. See intrepidtravel.com for more.

BEST FOR KIDS AGED Primary-school aged and above. The little ones will enjoy the hotel pools, while older kids will get a lot more out of Egypt’s fascinating history and colourful culture.

GETTING THERE Emirates flies to Cairo via Dubai.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

101

HOLIDAYS: INSPIRATION

blue city, morocco Near the northern tip of Morocco sits Chefchaouen, a city that was blessed with a beautiful hue when the Sephardic Jewish community settled there in 1492 (the colour of the sky reminds them of God).

102

HOLIDAYS: INSPIRATION

World

Wonders

EVERYWHERE YOU TURN, THERE’S ANOTHER DESTINATION TO STAND IN AWE OF. HERE ARE THE BEST OF THE BEST. WORDS SARAH FRIGGIERI

02

01 01 ANGKOR WAT, CAMBODIA This archaeological site reflects the prosperity of the Khmer Empire.

02 EIFFEL TOWER, FRANCE Built to commemmorate the the centennial of the French Revolution, it now receives more than 300 million visitors.

03 SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE, ABU DHABI Its open-door policy encourages tourists of all faiths.

03 WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

103

HOLIDAYS: INSPIRATION 01 RICE TERRACES, BALI The cultural landscape of Bali (including five rice terraces and their water temples) were awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 2012.

02 EASTER ISLAND The renowned statues are believed to represent significant ancestors – so please practise respect when taking selfies with them.

03 MACHU PICCHU, PERU On the two equinoxes, the sun stands directly above the Intihuatana stone, creating no shadow whatsoever.

02 01 03

104

HOLIDAYS: INSPIRATION

taj mahal, india

This stunning mausoleum was built to honour – and house – Shah Jahan’s third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away after giving birth to their 14th child.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

105

HOLIDAYS: INSPIRATION

great wall of china, china Did you know that the sections built during the Ming dynasty cannot grow weeds, thanks to a mixture of glutinous rice flour and slaked lime that still binds the bricks tightly together to this day?

106

HOLIDAYS: INSPIRATION

01 PETRA, JORDAN Known as the ‘Lost City’, Petra sat empty, in near ruin, for more than 600 years until 1812, when Swiss explorer Jean Louis Burckhardt rediscovered it and described it as “one of the most elegant remains of antiquity existing”.

02 PYRAMIDS OF GIZA, EGYPT The limestone trio are such incredible feats of engineering that experts still can’t be sure how they were built!

03 ED-DUR, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Surrounded by a series of high sand dunes, this site is the only known place between Qatar peninsula and the Hormuz that witnessed a temple from the first century.

01

02

03 WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

107

HOLIDAYS: INSPIRATION

01 ARC DE TRIOMPHE, FRANCE The popular monument, which contains the French tomb of an unknown soldier, was recently restored after it was ransacked during an anti-government protest last year.

02 CAPPADOCIA, TURKEY It’s believed that the first signs of monastic activity in Cappadocia date back to the 4th century.

01

02

03

108

03 NAGOYA JAPAN In 2008, this city – home to the dazzling Nabana No Sato light show – was appointed a UNESCO Creative City of Design.

HOLIDAYS: INSPIRATION

st basil’s cathedral, russia

The brilliantly coloured cathedral is still around today thanks to the bravery of one man. When dictator Joseph Stalin demanded it be destroyed, architect Pyotr Baranovsky sent him a telegram stating he would rather kill himself than demolish it.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

109

HOLIDAYS: HOW TO

WIN AT WINTER ADVENTURES WORDS SUE WHITE

MEET SANTA IN FINLAND When dreaming of a magical winter escape with kids, at some point your thoughts will turn to Santa. The ‘real’ Santa that is, in Lapland, Finland. Many families know how magical the experience can be, so you will need book 12 months in advance (more, if possible).

Scrutinise your potential itinerary to ensure experiences like sleigh rides are included, and confirm just how much time you’ll get with the jolly bearded man himself – these trips don’t come cheap, so you’ll want to dot the i’s.

MAKE TIME FOR MARKETS Christmas markets can provide a ‘White Christmas’ experience without the expense of a trip to Lapland. European cities like Prague, Krakow, Strasbourg and Vienna offer a healthy dose of a winter wonderland via lights, gluhwein, reindeer rides and more. Canada does a good job with Christmas markets too – Montreal and Quebec City in particular. The action can begin as early as December 1, which is helpful if you have other commitments on December 25.

FIND SOME SNOW While options in New South Wales, Victoria and even New Zealand can satisfy your snow desires in July or August, if you’ve missed this season, start looking north for a winter adventure in the Aussie summer. Japan’s famous powder is a winner, but if you travel further north don’t limit yourself to the known entities. Skiing in Zagreb, Croatia, is far cheaper than France, while North America has hundreds of small ski resorts that are far quieter than the big names like Whistler or Aspen.

BOARD A TRAIN Older kids will enjoy sleeping on The Ghan from Adelaide to Darwin (take plenty of board games for the three-day trip). Thailand offers a shorter option – bunks are available on the 12(ish)-hour journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Or plan ahead and try Switzerland’s Bernina Express in the Aussie summer; viewing the Swiss Alps and its glaciers from one of the cosy carriages in winter is often likened to travelling in a snow dome.

110

118

123

114

NAVIGATE INDUSTRY INSIGHTS & EXPERT OPINIONS

112 114 118

THE MAGIC OF VIDEO There’s no better way to reminisce TALK TO THE EXPERT Jacqueline Alwill chats about nutrition on the road

123 128

WHAT'S ON Events across the world KIDS’ PICKS Six young travellers share their most treasured holiday highlights

WE REVIEW LEGOLAND Castle Hotel, GLO Hotel Kluuvi, Crowne Plaza Changi Airport, Finnair

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

111

ADVERTISING FEATURE

THERE’S NO BETTER WAY TO REMINISCE ABOUT THE PAST THAN THROUGH THE MAGIC OF VIDEO We’re sitting around the kitchen table staring at the laptop. My two children are growing more and more animated, their voices rising in volume with a fevered need to be heard.

“Play that one next,” my daughter begs, full of hope.

“Wait… what’s that one?” my son asks.

“Can I see what I was like as a baby?” my daughter asks next.

“Show me the one where I paint my sister,” my cheeky son requests.

On the screen in front of us are hundreds of videos backed up to Google Drive from our travels across the world and from daily life. The kids love watching them and it’s hard to get them to stop. It’s also incredibly fun, despite the noise.

No matter how many photos we’ve taken, it’s always the videos that the

112

kids want to see. It’s not just the big moments – weddings, school concerts and birthdays – but also the little memory-triggering videos that we love to watch together.

“Show me the one where I pushed Ruby over,” my son asks.

Ruby was his best friend in preschool.

In one video, I asked him “What happened today at preschool?”. I picked him up early after receiving a phone call to tell me he had vomited. I expected him to say “I got sick”. Instead he divulged, guiltily, that he pushed Ruby over. My stunned reaction was caught on camera too. It’s funny now – and he’s still friends with Ruby.

One of the greatest things I did as a mum was to keep the video camera recording as my daughter began to cry. With my son, my firstborn, I would

always stop recording and tend to him as soon as he cried. But with our second child, we weren’t so precious.

I remember wheeling her in a clear plastic hospital bassinet for her hearing test on the first day of her life. She started to cry and I kept recording. Now, hearing that newborn sound brings back a flood of emotion, love and tears. It physically pulls at the heart strings in a way a photo never could.

Video allows you to immerse yourself in the moment, to hear their voices and watch their first wobbly steps. You can see the awe-struck expressions when they see something like LEGOLAND for the first time. Video also helps the kids get a sense of how much they have grown and changed.

Now the kids are older, they have started to try their hand at filming

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Videos capture the precious sounds that photos miss.

TOP TIPS FOR RECORDING I captured this moment in slow motion – very cool!

too. We use a Sony AX33 Handycam camcorder to record video. It has an incredible zoom, a ‘steady shot’ function and slow motion.

The AX33’s ‘steady shot’ function cancels out little shaking hands with an in-built gimble. The kids love using the zoom function to get close-ups of animals (or the inside of their mouths and noses, let’s be honest). And what kid doesn’t love recording slow-motion videos of others jumping into a pool or hitting a ball with a cricket bat?

You can send the videos straight

to YouTube from the AX33 using the PlayMemories app. You can also trim and edit the videos on the actual Handycam screen.

Our kids love to remove the card to edit the videos and add music and text on their iPads. This is a great activity that uses a screen for something useful.

Once the video has been captured and edited, we sit around the table and watch their creations together.

“Please can I see the one where we climbed the Supertrees?”

“Sure!”

01 Invest in a good-quality video camera.

02 Select HD vision.

03 Choose 50 frames per second.

04 Record detail shots as well as action ones.

05 Always ensure the light is behind you.

06 Try slow-motion mode for jumping, water-based activities and sport.

07 Point the camera at someone when they are speaking.

08 Buy a camera with ‘steady shot’ capabilities.

09 Try editing your videos in Sony’s PlayMemories Home software suite, Adobe Premiere Pro or iMovie.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

113

Navigate: Expert advice

TALK TO THE EXPERT When only the best advice will do.

Jacqueline Alwill is a nutritionist, wholefoods cook, author, founder of Brown Paper Nutrition and, most importantly, mother to Jet, 9.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO FOCUS YOUR CAREER ON NUTRITION? A few years into my (first) career as a marketing strategist, I decided I couldn’t ignore my deep yearning for gaining

114

a better understanding of nutrition, so I jumped ship, re-educated as a personal trainer and followed my path to becoming an accredited nutritionist.

When I had Jet, all of my history with food and nutrition finally came full circle and I became the healthiest and most balanced with nutrition I’d ever been. I wanted Jet to grow up seeing his mum healthy and knowing what a great way that is to live.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FAMILY HOLIDAY DESTINATION AND WHY? I have absolutely fallen in love with Sri Lanka! There is so much on offer culturally, food wise, coast and inland adventures, but best of all it offered

Navigate: Expert advice

a beautiful time and space just to reconnect as a family after a big year.

The highlight for us was our morning ritual of a gentle wake-up, roti (flat bread) filled with banana, pineapple or spicy vegetables (so incredibly good!) with a papaya juice, followed by a surf at one of the many incredible beach breaks along the southern province.

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THAT TRIP? In the southern province, there are beautiful historical monuments such as Galle Fort – visit at sun down with

a gelato from Isle of Gelato (the salted caramel flavour was phenomenal!).

We also visited the gorgeous tea plantations and experienced the finest Sri Lankan (Ceylon) tea. Walking through the expansive plantation, Jet was really taken by the men climbing and picking coconuts high in the coconut trees, and the different varieties of teas grown there. I think he was most fixated on the tea-tasting experience, however, because he loves tea and absolutely dove into the tasting (FYI, the mango-flavoured tea was the winner in his eyes). 

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

115

Navigate: Expert advice

Mirissa is beautiful for snorkelling and the Insta-famous palm tree peninsula was gorgeous, especially at sunset. You can go to the restaurants in Mirissa after sundown to enjoy some of the absolutely scrumptious local fare.

The food in Sri Lanka is heaven – such an amazing variety on offer and so much flavour!

Because we’re a family of foodies, we attended a cooking class one evening (taught in a kitchen that is 185 years old) to learn more about how to make these foods we love.

Immersing ourselves in Sri Lankan cuisine, we learnt vegan ayurvedic recipes for traditional dhal, sweetpotato salad, an absolutely divine pineapple mushroom dish and the best raw coconut pineapple cake for dessert. We all agreed that evening at Welle Gedara Homestay & Cookery was the pinnacle foodie moment of our trip.

Outside of the food arena, the highlight for all of us was our days

116

spent at Kabalana Beach. We ate roti, surfed, ate more roti, swam, saw turtles, enjoyed seafood and fried rice for lunch, slept, read books, hung out, and Jet made a lovely little friend – a local boy of the same age named Carindu.

Even without speaking each other’s language, they understood each other completely because play is a universal language. We didn’t need to race about on this holiday and tick boxes, we just needed to ‘be’ as a family, and we did just that.

WHAT WERE SOME OF YOUR MUST-PACK ITEMS FOR THE TRIP? While food and juice huts are in abundance in Sri Lanka, I still packed my women’s multivitamins. I guess you never truly know until you get there how you’re going to eat and nourish over the holiday, so I never go anywhere without these supplements in my bag. In the lead-up to the vacay, and during the super-crazy-busy December period, I found my energy

tablets did wonders for me too, in particular so that I actually had energy to enjoy a holiday and didn’t just totally crash, which can easily happen.

HOW DID YOU CHOOSE WHERE TO EAT? ARE THERE ANY PLACES YOU WOULD RECOMMEND VISITING? Oh gosh, where to begin? The water at Kabalana was diamond-like, there was a big reef break out the back and then smaller waves on the beach – and the seafood restaurant was also a winner!

Even better for the kids, we didn’t have to wait for ages for food (which can happen a lot in Sri Lanka).

In the area of Weligama, there is a lovely cafe and accommodation called Ceylon Sliders. They had great coffee for the aficionados needing their hit and delicious food too. We ended up getting takeaway boxes of their buddha bowls to take with us on the trip to the airport so we weren’t caught out. It proved to be the best decision – those queues can go forever!

Navigate: Expert advice

images

From far left: Walking to the historic Galle lighthouse; salted caramel ice-cream from the amazing gelateria at Galle Fort; the infamous palm tree peninsula in Mirissa – it’s a stunning setting to watch the sun go down; hoppers and dhal for breakfast – the tastiest, most satisfying breakfast I’ve eaten on a holiday; Jet and I love cooking up a storm together in the kitchen – it’s our happy place; exploring the southern province of Sri Lanka.

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER IS THAT YOU NEED TO PRIORITISE YOURSELF TOO.



IS IT POSSIBLE TO EAT HEALTHILY AND STILL HAVE FUN WHILE TRAVELLING? HOW DID YOU DO IT? Of course it is – but make sure you don’t do food when you’re hungry; pre-empt hungry by about an hour and get into the cafe or restaurant then, because some places will be quick and others will work on their own time and take much longer than your small folk might be able to handle. We accepted that was the way and did our best not to get to places too late into the hunger stage.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR TOP TIPS FOR GETTING KIDS TO EAT THEIR VEGETABLES, ESPECIALLY WHEN ON HOLIDAYS WHEN THEY MAY NOT BE AS READILY AVAILABLE? Just keep exposing kids to them! Even if it is the smallest amount at each meal – a couple of peas, a piece of broccoli, one lettuce leaf – keep them there because in time they will learn that’s the norm and you never know

the day they will decide to pick it up and try it. This is something that’s easy to do when travelling. Reward them with encouragement and lots of love when they do – make a song and dance about it! Also, have greens on a plate when they are at their hungriest – pre-dinner, for instance. That way their hunger will override their apparent dislike of greens and it’s likely they’ll try them anyway.

HOW DO YOU ENSURE THE WHOLE FAMILY LEADS A BALANCED AND HEALTHY LIFESTYLE WHILE ON THE ROAD? The most important thing to remember, at any time, is that you need to prioritise yourself too. It’s easy to let go of time just for you in order to do everything for your kids, but you’ll end up burnt out and deflated in the long term, especially when travelling.

Schedule time out – even just 20 minutes a day – to do something that invests in your health.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

117

Navigate: WE REVIEW

LEGOLAND CASTLE HOTEL LOCATION

Just over an hour from Anaheim and 90 minutes from Los Angeles sits the most perfect hotel for families.

Tumble out of the entrance and within less than 50 steps you’ll be standing beneath the sign that welcomes you to LEGOLAND California. If you’re wanting to immerse yourself in the real LEGOLAND experience, there is no way you can go past staying at either of the LEGOLAND California Resort hotels.

We stayed at the recently opened LEGOLAND Castle Hotel and couldn’t rate it highly enough.

ACCOMMODATION

Designed to keep the wonder and fun associated with LEGOLAND alive throughout your stay, the attention to detail at the hotel is second to none.

From the LEGO pit in the foyer to entertain the kids while you check in to the sculptures and themed decor

118

WORDS NATASHA KELLER

as you walk the halls and corridors, there is endless LEGO fun to be had before you even set foot in your room.

Kids’ imaginations run wild and even us parents couldn’t help but get swept away in the fun of living like a mini figurine for the night.

This hotel really knows its audience.

Each themed room is equipped with a king bed and kids’ quarters (a separate bunk area for the kids, perfectly spaced from the adults’ bed with the bathroom in between, with LEGO building tables and a scavenger hunt). The kids’ area also features a nightlight that projects constellations onto the ceiling (perfect for kids who prefer a little ambience when they sleep), and the bathroom doesn’t disappoint either – it features a toilet fitted with a double seat; the toddler potty seat is perfect for smaller visitors in the family, and the step stool means kids can reach the sink. The kids’ area also has a pull-out trundle

available, so it can accommodate three kids in total.

The in-room mini fridge was perfect for storing kids’ snacks ahead of a day exploring, and the coffee machine came in handy to get us parents energised for a big day of family fun at the park.

WHY WE STAYED HERE

When it came to planning our first family holiday to LA, it was a no-brainer to add a stop in Carlsbad to visit LEGOLAND California. With two kids who love LEGO, we couldn’t travel all this way and not experience the place so many have raved about. While the price tag is steeper than you might otherwise expect, it is absolutely worth every cent. Park entry is included in the room price (with exclusive early access), as is breakfast and impressive nightly entertainment.

LEGOLAND Castle Hotel features a wade-in pool area with water-based

Navigate: WE REVIEW

play features and a whirlpool spa that the kids loved to splash about in when we got back from the park. There’s also an entertainment courtyard that has zones for kids of all ages, including DUPLO for younger kids, slides, an outdoor stage and a cinema with seating. They hold evening shows in this area that are perfect for kids who enjoy interactive experiences.

FOOD & BEVERAGE

There is one restaurant at LEGOLAND Castle Hotel, the aptly named Dragon’s Den Restaurant & Bar. Breakfast here is included in the cost of your stay, and no stone is left unturned in making sure there’s something for everyone in the family. Make sure you bring your appetite – the all-you-can-eat buffet is absolutely delicious!

Assuming you have a car, you could venture out for dinner, however the menu at Dragon’s Den has plenty of options to suit. When you also factor in that there’s a giant LEGO pit in the restaurant as well as live entertainment in the evening, it’s definitely a winner.

The kids hoovered up their dinner within no time so they could go and play, leaving us to enjoy a drink and meal in peace. Now that’s a bonus!

EXPLORE

Like Lucy and Emmet sing, on repeat, all movie long, everything really is awesome when it comes to life in LEGOLAND. If you’ve got kids aged anywhere up to 10 or 12, this place is heaven. With rides for all ages – from storybook boat rides to more adrenalin-pumping rollercoasters (including one that scared the heck out of this travelling mum!) – there’s plenty to satisfy all members of the family.

The rides available beat expectations.

Having come direct from an intensely wonderful three-day Disneyland adventure, we were surprised with how fantastic the options are (as well as how manageable the lines – or lack thereof – are).

Divided into nine distinct worlds and featuring more than 60 rides, shows and attractions, the park is easily navigable using the park map or the handy app, which provides updates on show times as well as wait times when relevant. There are rides for the thrillseekers, experiences for the kids who are keen to learn to drive or go to skipper school, and creative displays of world monuments.

DID YOU KNOW? LEGOLAND also has an aquarium and seasonal waterpark! With the two-day SEA LIFE Hopper pass, visitors can gain access to the neighbouring SEA LIFE Aquarium. It features all the elements you’d expect – a touchpool, a shark tunnel and 350-plus unique species of aquatic life on display. The most unique feature of this aquarium is the underwater displays that feature LEGO sculptures – they add to the sense of fun.

With the two-day Resort Hopper pass, you can also visit the waterpark. While the waterpark was closed when we visited, reports are that it is definitely worth adding to your plans if you’re there in the warmer months. With a lazy river, waterslides, a wave pool, fountains and super-soaker splash zones, it has something for kids of all ages (including a dedicated area for kids aged 1 to 3).

LEGOLAND CASTLE HOTEL LEGOLAND California Resort 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad CA 92008 legoland.com/california

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

119

Navigate: WE REVIEW

GLO HOTEL KLUUVI

WORDS TATYANA LEONOV

LOCATION

GLO Hotel Kluuvi is positioned in the middle of Helsinki’s shopping district and a short walk to key sights, such as Uspenski Cathedral with its onion domes, the bustling Market Square, the central Esplanadi walkway and the waterfront. Apart from the taxi to and from the airport, we didn’t need to catch another during our stay, because everything important was so close. If you’re not lugging around a heap of luggage and a toddler, the train station is just a five-minute walk from the hotel, and it’s easy enough to catch the train to and from the airport.

WHY WE STAYED HERE

With three days in Helsinki, our plan was to explore to the max. Generally we like to head out during the day, come back in the afternoon for a rest, then go out again for dinner, so choosing a centrally located hotel is always a key factor. GLO Hotel Kluuvi ticked that box.

Picking a hotel that has comfortable rooms and a tasty breakfast also come into the equation. It was easy enough to work out that the rooms and food were good, thanks to the reviews. And as soon as we turned up (very early in the morning!), the welcome we received from staff confirmed that we’d made the right choice.

ACCOMMODATION

GLO Hotel Kluuvi has 184 rooms spanning five categories. The Smart Doubles are the smallest category, and at 13m2 are quite compact. The largest are the Executive Suites, which are 68m2 and can fit up to six guests.

We booked a Luxe Double room, which at 26m2 easily fit our travel cot and luggage. All rooms are modern

120

and kept spotlessly clean. They are well designed too, with furniture strategically positioned to make maximum use of the space.

ACTIVITIES

GLO Hotel Kluuvi reception staff are courteous and helpful, so if you need directions or advice, chatting to them is a good port of call. You can hire a bike (a GLOfied Jopo) throughout spring and summer and explore the capital in the saddle. Staff can also help with car rental if you’re keen to explore further.

FOOD & BEVERAGE

You can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at The Tray, which has a cosy ambience that makes you want to sit there for hours reading a good book – but, with a toddler, even half an hour is a luxury. The buffet breakfast selections are varied, with something to please even the pickiest of eaters. I enjoyed eggs on toast most days, followed by fruit compote and yoghurt. My husband chose something similar but finished off with pastries (his travel addiction).

We’re lucky our toddler eats just about anything, so it was eggs, toast and fruit for her too. There is a weekday lunch buffet service with one locally inspired hot dish (alternating every day) and salad bar. Dinner is an imaginative a la carte affair, with mains designed for sharing. Try ‘Two birds on a nest’ – you’ll get French pulled duck with ponzu sauce and Finnish teriyaki chicken served in a pineapple shell alongside veggie sticks and roti pancakes.

GLO HOTEL KLUUVI

Kluuvikatu 4 00100 Helsinki glohotels.fi/en/hotels/glo-kluuvi

FAMILY TRAVEL TIP At The Tray, stool-like seats hold energetic toddlers in and take up very little space. Our daughter loved sitting with us in her special chair.

Navigate: WE REVIEW

FAMILY TRAVEL TIP Need an accessible room?

Crowne Plaza Changi Airport has three available, as well as TTY devices, accessible parking, ramp access to the restaurants and entertainment spaces, and assistive listening devices.

CROWNE PLAZA CHANGI AIRPORT WORDS ALISON GODFREY

LOCATION

“Mum, look – you can see the planes landing!” It’s just before 6am and my two children are lying flat on the carpeted floor of Crowne Plaza Changi Airport with their noses pressed against the floor-to-ceiling window. They’ve been captivated for the past 15 minutes.

Amelie, 8, is trying to take photos of the planes to show her friends; Callum, 10, is pointing out the different airlines.

Crowne Plaza Changi Airport is next door to Terminal 3 of Singapore’s Changi Airport. The entrance to the MRT station is just outside the hotel, which allows easy access to the city and Sentosa if you have time.

WHY WE STAYED HERE

We booked a Scoot flight to Luang Prabang in Laos, which has a 14-hour overnight layover in Singapore. Skytrax recently named Crowne Plaza Changi Airport the world’s best airport hotel for a fifth consecutive year, so we thought we would check it out. It also met the kids’ criteria, which was that the hotel had to have a pool and a buffet breakfast.

to get the blood flowing again after sitting for eight hours.

A massage and body scrub at the hotel’s Essence Vale Spa (open from 10am to 10pm) is an unbelievable way to relax between flights. Better yet, the spa uses natural and organic products.

ACCOMMODATION

EXPLORE

ACTIVITIES

FOOD & BEVERAGE

It has impeccable furnishings, worldclass service and large, comfortable rooms with deep bathtubs. We stayed in a Premier Room with a runway view on the ninth floor. The room had a rollaway bed for the kids and, most importantly, wifi. It was also wellinsulated against the plane noise.

The tropical palm-fringed outdoor pool was an absolute highlight. As you swim, turquoise light swirls around you, like phosphorescence. I watched, astounded, as my daughter jumped in, the ripples encircling her glowing as she swam towards me. Tall palm trees loom over the centre of the pool, shading a network of canals with bench seats hidden in nooks and crannies. For adults, it offers a dash of privacy. For kids, it screams hide-and-seek.

If you have more time, you can book an outdoor exercise class at East Coast Park (10 minutes by car) or use the onsite gym, which has rowing machines, treadmills, exercise bikes, free weights and elliptical machines. It’s a great way

Changi Airport has been crowned the best airport in the world for seven years in a row. The newest building, Jewel, features a 40m indoor waterfall – the tallest in the world. You can also explore the Butterfly Garden (T3) and the Sunflower Garden (T2), or watch a movie in the terminals’ theatres.

Azur’s buffet has Western- and Asianstyle breakfasts, with everything from bacon and eggs and waffles with maple syrup to rice and steamed buns.

Try traditional masala tea, order a decent coffee and have an omelette made fresh by the talented chefs.

The lobby bar is dimly lit, calm and quiet. We ordered crispy popcorn chicken, calamari, samosas and the perfect mojitos.

CROWNE PLAZA CHANGI AIRPORT

75 Airport Boulevard, Changi Airport, Singapore 819664 changiairport.crowneplaza.com WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

121

Navigate: WE REVIEW

FINNAIR FLIGHT WORDS TATYANA LEONOV

THE FLIGHT

Singapore to Helsinki

THE PLANE

Airbus A350 XWB

THE SEAT

Seat 6A (business class). My daughter is 1, so she flies free because she’s still small enough to sit on my lap. Thankfully, with a business-class seat, there is plenty of space for us both.

When extended to the lie-flat position, the seats are 190cm long, so it’s easy for me to stretch out my feet and we can both nap snuggled up together.

To be honest, we don’t get that much napping in (because she’s a toddler and toddlers don’t like to sleep on planes), but it’s bliss when we do both reach our slumber. Having the window on one side means I’ve got views and some privacy, while aisle access makes it easy to get up and move around.

FOOD & BEVERAGE

The Singapore to Helsinki flight is a red-eye service, so I forgo dinner and go straight to bed while my daughter is more inclined to sleep. We’re both up bright and early and very ready for breakfast come morning. On our flight they have run out of granola, so instead they offer me two hot breakfast options

122

– I opt for pancakes smothered in blueberry compote and quiche. My husband pops up from economy and helps us devour our meals, which is very thoughtful of him (wink!). By that stage I’m on to my third cup of blueberry juice too – a Finnair specialty that is just too delicious to pass up.

ENTERTAINMENT

There’s a wide range of movies, TV shows, music and games available on the in-flight system, but with a toddler the reality is you won’t watch any of them.

When she sleeps, I sleep – it’s the only logical way to travel.

She is my entertainment, with no pause or stop button.

POINT OF DIFFERENCE

The Airbus A350 XWB is one of the better planes to be a passenger on. Special HEPA filters circulate outside air through the cabin every two to three minutes, so you won’t feel too dry or dehydrated. It’s quite a spacious plane, too.

FINNAIR

Finnair partner airline Qantas flies to Singapore from various Australian cities. Finnair flies from Singapore to Helsinki, and then beyond to many destinations. See finnair.com

Navigate: What’s on

JULY 4 USA

INDEPENDENCE DAY

THE WORLD

Join the patriots as they celebrate all things America.

Public parks fill with picnics, barbecues and local activities including hotdog-eating contests, baseball games, threelegged races and tug-of-war.

horse race. The Palio di Siena sees horses and bareback riders compete for their various Tuscan districts.

Be warned, though, the Italians tend to get pretty passionate about their favourite sporting event.

JULY 4-20 PAPE’ETE, TAHITI JUNE 26-30 SOMERSET, ENGLAND

GLASTONBURY FESTIVAL

If you can brave the mud, glitter and tantrums, the contemporary performing arts festival at Worthy Farm is sure to pay off. The 2019 line-up features The Killers, The Cure, Stormzy, Kylie, Janet Jackson, Tame Impala and Miley Cyrus, and will host a giant kids’ tent and an evolving sky show.

HEIVA

What better excuse to soak up the beauty of the glorious French Polynesia than for one of the longest-running festivals in the world? Tahiti’s Heiva is a month-long celebration of the exotic Polynesian culture and heritage, and is celebrated with pride.

JULY 1-14 LONDON, ENGLAND

WIMBLEDON

Head to London this year with sports enthusiasts for a close-up experience with some of the world’s greatest sporting names. At the oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament, you’ll be sure to spot your favourites in action.

JULY 2 AND AUGUST 16 SIENA, ITALY

PALIO DI SIENA

Head on over to Siena for the world’s most insane

JULY 1-6 BERLIN, GERMANY

BERLIN FASHION WEEK

This one is for aspiring fashionistas! During Berlin Fashion Week, the buzzing city welcomes designers, models, celebrities and press for numerous fashion shows and exhibitions.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

123

Navigate: What’s on

JULY 18-20 LINZ, AUSTRIA

PFLASTERSPEKTAKEL

This international street-performance festival transforms the city centre of Linz into a circus extravaganza of comedy, juggling, clowns, aerial performance, fire acrobatics and music. There are about 100 performances and, better yet, this family friendly spectacular is free!

JULY 5-7 LOEI, THAILAND

GHOST FESTIVAL (PHI TA KHON)

JULY 14 PARIS, FRANCE

BASTILLE DAY This famous holiday is a celebration of all things français. The entire country lights up on Bastille Day, and large-scale events are held across the capital. Be sure to pay tribute to the French military at the parade on Champs-Elysées and watch the fireworks display from the Seine.

124

Thailand’s history is full of scary superstitions about ghosts and ghouls. Head to Phi Ta Khon and salute the existence of the spiritual world with eye-catching masked processions, traditions and parties.

JULY 6-28 FRANCE

TOUR DE FRANCE

You don’t have to be a cycling enthusiast to get caught up in the thrill of this world-famous race. Of the 3.5 billion people who watch the Tour de France each year, 12 million of them are standing roadside to cheer the cyclists on – and boy

do they have stamina! Join in the excitement at one of the many spectacular checkpoint destinations as the competitors cover more than 3500km of terrain.

JULY 9-10 DELHI, INDIA

DELHI INTERNATIONAL MANGO FESTIVAL

Mango lovers, look no further – we’ve found your heaven on Earth! Organised

by Delhi Tourism, the festival has more than 1000 varieties of mango on display – and it’s your job to taste-test.

Get involved in a range of competitions and events, including mango-eating, mango quizzes, mango kids’ shows and mango folk performances.

Navigate: What’s on

JULY 26-29 LONDON, ENGLAND

LONDON FILM & COMIC CON

Dress up as your favourite character and head to London Film & Comic Con to hang out with the coolest celebrities from TV, film, comics and popular literature.

Join photoshoots, panel discussions and autograph sessions, and check out the hundreds of merch and memorabilia stalls.

JULY 17-21 ZAGREB, CROATIA

INTERNATIONAL FOLKLORE FESTIVAL

This extravaganza that celebrates the folklore culture of the regions of Croatia has been held for more than 50 years. Domestic and international artists travel from far and wide to put on traditional shows of singing and dancing, and to promote special messages of peace and friendship.

JULY 19-28 BORYEONG, SOUTH KOREA

BORYEONG MUD FESTIVAL

Every July, Daecheon Beach is transformed into a mud oasis as bouncy castles, slides, football fields and inflatable prisons are filled with nothing but mud. Enjoy its healing properties as you splash about for 10 days while enjoying live music.

JULY 26-28 NIIGATA PREFECTURE

FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL

Considered the cleanest and greenest festival in the world, the Fuji Rock Festival is complete with hot springs, live music and a cool cable car that flies overhead. Hang out with other Fuji-Rocker families while enjoying a jam-packed schedule of live music, DIY crafting and chill-out tents.

AUGUST 2-26 EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND

EDINBURGH FESTIVAL FRINGE

The world’s biggest arts festival is set to kick off for another 25 days in Scotland’s lively capital. This year, 53,232 performances are scheduled to take the stage – think theatre acts, comedy, dance, circus, cabaret, kids’ shows, musicals, opera, spoken word and music.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

125

Navigate: What’s on

AUGUST 28 BUNOL, SPAIN

LA TOMATINA Each August, thousands flock to Spain for the world’s biggest food fight. Join in the mayhem at La Tomatina as more than 100 tonnes of tomatoes are thrown.

126

Navigate: What’s on

AUGUST 23-25 TILBURG, NETHERLANDS

ROODHARIGENDAG (REDHEAD DAYS)

Redhead Days, as the name suggests, is a festival for the gingers of the world. Join more than 5000 redheads and their families as they attend lectures, demonstrations, workshops and photoshoots, all in honour of their vibrant hue.

AUGUST 3-4 SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

DOG LOVERS SHOW

Need your fur fix? This year’s much-loved event will feature aquatic dogs, downward dogs and rescue dogs. The only pitfall is falling so in love with the talented pooches that you’ll be saving for a new fur-mily member as soon as you leave the grounds!

streets of Notting Hill. Join in the celebrations with costume-clad Caribbeans who love dancing, food and traditional reggae.

AUGUST 25 TO SEPTEMBER 2 NEVADA, USA

BURNING MAN

This spectacular desert festival should top all bucket lists. Held annually in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert, the renowned arts event dedicates itself to anti-consumerism and radical self-expression, and culminates with the burning of a large wooden sculpture of a man. Be sure to stay in the Kidsville camp for bonus family benefits.

AUGUST 16-18 CHESHIRE, ENGLAND

JUST SO FESTIVAL This charming festival is a paradise for little ones and a dream for their parents.

Held annually in Cheshire, the intimate outdoor event is a wonderland of literature, arts, theatre, dance, music and comedy. Check out the light installations and bubble displays, learn to dance the maypole, and build your very own lantern for the Lantern Parade.

AUGUST 24-26 LONDON, UK

NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL

Every August, a million festival-goers flood the

AUGUST 15-28 BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA

BUENOS AIRES TANGO FESTIVAL

This two-week festival sees the world’s most sensual dance at its competitive best. Close to 400,000 visitors join in the tango extravaganza to enjoy demonstrations, performances, free lessons, market stalls and the general city buzz.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

127

Navigate: kids’ picks

KIDS’ PICKS

WHY WE LOVE TO TRAVEL There’s no greater learning experience than physically exploring the world.

Here, six young travellers share their holiday highlights with us.

Amelie, 9 Last holidays, my family went to Vietnam on an Intrepid family tour and it was great because I got to meet other kids, drink from a coconut on the beach in Halong Bay and ride on a tuk tuk through the jungle in the Mekong Delta. Next holidays, we are planning to visit Canberra for the Kanga Cup. I’m really looking forward to visiting Questacon while my brother plays soccer. My favourite destination that I’ve ever visited is Vietnam because I loved doing the tour with my family and visiting cool places with other kids my age. Family holiday time is special because you get to hang out with your family and you can see new places and new things. My favourite family holiday memory is going on a tuk tuk and seeing all of the plants and flowers and farms in Vietnam. My dream destination is Disneyland because there are so many rides and new places to explore. After taking a cooking class in Vietnam I really want to visit Italy because they have the best food and I’d like to learn how to cook spaghetti bolognaise. The next Australian Australia I’d like to visit is Perisher because I can’t wait to ski with my friend. The next overseas destination I’d like to visit is Italy because the food is yummy. The best thing about life right now is hanging out with my friends.

128

Lucy, 8

Aimee, 8

Last holidays, my family went to QT Sydney and we got the best room service and yummy snacks. Next holidays, we are planning to visit Mt Baw Baw. I’m really loking forward to going on the husky sled rides. My favourite destination that I’ve ever visited is Uluru because it was the longest camping/roadtrip I’ve ever had.

Family holiday time is special because you can spend time with your family and catch up. My favourite family holiday memory is cycling around Uluru. My dream destination is Antarctica because I can see snow and meet loads of wild creatures I’ve never seen. After seeing Moana I really want to visit Hawai‘i because I love sea life. The next Australian destination I’d like to visit is Queensland because I want to see the Great Barrier Reef. The next overseas destination I’d like to visit is Japan because I like Pokémon, sushi, cherry blossoms and Squishies. The best thing about life right now is spending time with my family.

Last holidays, my family went to Cyprus and it was great because my granny and grandad live there and they taught me to sail. Next holidays, we are planning to visit Perisher and I’m really looking forward to it because I want to ski and eat icicles. My favourite destination that I’ve ever visited is Cyprus because I got to see my grandparents. Family holiday time is special because you get to spend time together. My favourite family holiday memory is racing sailing boats along the beach in Cyprus. My dream destination is Fiji because I like the coral and in the morning it’s nice and warm. After seeing the movie Big Hero 6 I really want to visit Japan because it looks cool. The next Australian destination I’d like to visit is Megalong Valley in the Blue Mountains because you can stay at a farm with horses. The next overseas destination I’d like to visit is London because I want to see my Aunty Grace.

The best thing about life right now is playing with friends.

Navigate: kids’ picks

Fin, 10 Last holidays, my family went to Fiji and it was great because the landscape and people were beautiful.

We visited a village and they showed us a magnificent waterfall where we swam. The snorkelling was also fantastic with amazing fish. Next holidays, we are planning to visit Val d’Isere in France and I’m really looking forward to skiing and ice-skating. My favourite destination that I’ve ever visited is Whistler in Canada because it was where I learnt to ski and every night we sat outside in the jacuzzi. Family holiday time is special because we get to spend more time together and do fun activities and experience different cultures. My favourite family holiday memory is skiing through the trees and doing little jumps in Niseko, Japan.

My dream destination is South Africa because I would love to go on a safari and see all the animals in the wild, especially the lions! The next Australian destination I’d like to visit is the Hunter Valley because I’m going there with a group of cricket friends. The next overseas destination I’d like to visit is Japan because I love Japanese food, especially gyoza and sushi. The best thing about life right now is having fun with my family and friends on the weekends and in school holidays.

Nathan, 6 Last holidays, my family went on a cruise and it was great because there was free ice-cream and pizza! Next holidays, we are planning to visit the ski fields and I’m really looking forward to the husky ride and making snowballs and chucking them at Mummy. My favourite destination that I’ve ever visited is Ireland because my grandparents live there. Family holiday time is special because we get lots of treats. My favourite family holiday memory is any time we are outside because it is important to respect nature. My dream destination is LEGOLAND because I would get to see lots of LEGO. After seeing the movie Spider-Man I really want to visit New York because it looks so cool. The next Australian destination I’d like to visit is Tasmania because I like hiking.

The next overseas destination I’d like to visit is Ireland because I would like to see some snow. The best thing about life right now is my perfect family.

Hannah, 10 Last holidays, my family went to Orlando in America. I loved Universal Studios because there was so much Harry Potter! Next holidays, we are planning to visit Singapore and I’m really looking forward to the zoo. I am absolutely obsessed with animals so I will probably be talking about it for a while afterwards. My favourite destination that I’ve ever visited is Discovery Cove in Orlando because of all the animals we got to swim with there. The best part was swimming in the Grand Reef! Family holiday time is special because you get to have fun while hanging out with special people. It also brings back better memories than if you had just gone by yourself.

My favourite family holiday memory is the time we were dogsitting. It was really funny when the dog kept waking Mum and Dad up in bed. My dream destination is New Zealand because of all the natural things on offer. It is meant to be really beautiful. After reading Gorilla Grab I really want to visit South Africa because I want to help stop the poachers and prize hunters. The next Australian destination I’d like to visit is Australia Zoo because there are so many animals there I would really like to see. The next overseas destination I’d like to visit is Alaska because I really want to see the snow and the Northern Lights if I’m lucky enough. The best thing about life right now is being silly with my friends at school.

WI NTER 2019 familytravel.com.au

129

premium snow & sun resorts designed with families in mind

outstanding kids clubs fun for them, time for you!

a wide range of activities to enjoy together

SPECIAL RATES FOR TOTS, KIDS AND TEENS

tots stay free* under 4

up to

gourmet dining even for fussy eaters

kids 40% off* from 4 to 11

up to

teens 20% off* from 12 to 17

*Kids discount may vary depending on dates and resorts.

Teens pricing not available for Europe ski resorts.

where family means the world FAMILY-FRIENDLY ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORTS 70+ DESTINATIONS WORLDWIDE

one price, it’s all included!

6-DAY LIFT PASS

GROUP LESSONS

APRES-SKI

ACCOMMODATION

GOURMET MEALS

OPEN BAR

CHILDCARE

SPORTS

RELAXATION

ENTERTAINMENT

Visit clubmed.com.au · Call 1800 258 263 · Contact your preferred travel agent

FREE WI-FI

TRAVEL INSURANCE

familytravel.com.au