Out & About with kids - Issue 33 Winter 2012

FAMILY | TRAVEL | HOLIDAY | LEISURE | ENTERTAINMENT

ISSUE 33 WINTER 2012 AUS$6.95 (inc gst)

SO COOL 48 PAGE FAMILY SKI SUPPLEMENT

Small World

WHY TRAVEL IS GREAT FOR KIDS

Oceans of fun CRUISING

BY KIDS

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winter | 12 Welcome “Part of the fun of sailing through life is tasting different ways to live!”

Y

ou know that you’re a parent when your poetic inspiration comes from a cartoon elephant instead of the great bards. But the legendary and very well travelled Babar really struck a chord with his above words of wisdom and has inspired us to take a look at why travel is so great for kids in our winter issue. Those words have also encouraged my heat-seeking family to head off on a slow boat to China to beat the winter chill while exposing our tiny travel bugs to new faces, places, tastes and ideas.

For those of you who, like me, are hatching an escape plan as the temperature drops, we’ve packed this issue full with a wealth of warm and wonderful destinations at home and abroad to suit every family and every budget, to ensure your family isn’t left out in the cold.

If you’d rather enjoy family fun of the frosty kind we’ve booted up for the ski season with our massive 48-page Skiing the Globe With Kids supplement crammed with all the where’s, why’s and how’s to make your family snow holiday child’s play.

So whether you want to hit the slopes with your pint-size powderhounds or would rather ease the freeze with a little beachside bonding, we’ve got it covered with loads of hot family holiday ideas for a totally cool winter.

If you’re after even more holiday inspiration and hot travel deals head on over to www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au and don’t forget to join our Facebook fan page for all the latest news and great giveaways.

Happy holidays!

Aleney de Winter Editor aleney@oawk.com.au www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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We’ve built sandcastles around the world to find you the best beach holidays

Create your kind of family beach break with Creative Holidays

Call 1300 747 400, visit creativeholidays.com or your local travel agent.

Publisher Elisa Elwin Editor Aleney de Winter aleney@oawk.com.au 0400 808 108 Deputy/Sub Editor Geraldine Cardozo Contributing Editor – Snow & Ski Helen Hayes Contributors Geraldine Cardozo, Rod Eime, Deborah Dickson-Smith, Siham El-Hacham, Carla Grossetti, Julie Mahoney, Sally Paterson, Sarah Pye, Michelle Smerdon National Sales Manager Colleen Hinch colleen.hinch@gmail.com Online Content online@oawk.com.au Design Gadfly Media Art Director Louise Summerton Published by The City Publishing Group 50a Central Avenue, Mosman 2088 0413 770 550

Photo Credits: © iStockphoto.com, Imgorthand Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the editorials are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Publisher and Out & About With Kids.

Information provided was believed to be correct at the time of publication.

Join us on

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Copyright © Out & About with Kids 2012 Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

All reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders. Out & About With Kids cannot accept unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. If such items are to be sent to the magazine they will be returned.

contents 28

regulars 18

12

Domestic news

The latest travel news and offers from around Australia.

28

18

Animal news

All the best animal activities and encounters around the country.

34

Drive news

Car, campervan and caravanning news.

76

International News

Travel news and offers from around the Globe.

88

Wish you were here…

A snapshot of Japan

88

114 features 12

Reportage

Why travel is good for kids.

118

Cruise news

The latest buzz from the world of cruising.

123 What’s hot for baby We review the latest products for tots.

32

Tried & Tested – SUVs

We look at the best seven-seater family SUVs.

36

Camping

Camping for the clueless.

124 What’s Hot for kids We test the latest travel products, gadgets, books and entertainment for families.

123

42

Accessible Travel

Access all areas with BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park.

128 Dad’s Word

114

Masterchef’s Matt Moran shares his travel tips and memories.

Kids have their say on cruising holidays.

Cruising by kids

WINTER 2012 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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contents australian destinations 46

46

Port Stephens, NSW

A natural fit for families.

52

Canberra, ACT

Winter breaks in the capital of cool.

56

Phillip Island, VIC

Fun with flippers, fur and feathers.

60

Gold Coast, QLD

Around the worlds.

international destinations 90

Thailand

Take a break in bustling Bangkok.

96

South Africa

The Big Five for families.

100 Oman A sandy stopover in Oman.

104 Cook Islands

C

Paradise found for families.

M

Y

72

64

Sunshine Coast, QLD

The inside word on Sunshine’s secrets.

68

108 Fiji

CM

A tropical holiday made for kids.

MY

CY

Tropical North Queensland

CMY

Where Queensland’s wild things are.

K

72

Christmas Island

Crabs, caves, coves and culture.

100 104 8

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win 14

A family holiday at NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Park, Gold Coast.

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A Strike party package.

29

Lego DUPLO My First Zoo & My First Farm sets.

126 Maisy Goes on a Sleepover books.

127 PlayStation sorcery prize pack.

GREAT

PRIZES

WINTER 2012 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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SMALL

world

TRAVEL AND EXPOSURE TO THE WORLD OPENS DOORS AND MINDS AND OFFERS AN AMAZING OPPORTUNITY TO FILL THE FERTILE IMAGINATIONS OF OUR CHILDREN WITH COLOUR, RITUALS, IDEALS AND IDEAS FROM EVERY CORNER AND CULTURE OF THE GLOBE. WORDS: ALENEY DE WINTER

A

s the editor of a family travel magazine, I’m often asked a question that never fails to leave me slack-jawed. “What’s the point in travelling with younger children? It’s expensive, challenging and they’re not likely to remember much.”

The case for an adventurous childhood I am a great believer in simply living in the moment - and those travel moments are, more often than not, full of fun, adventure and quality family time that makes my children, my husband and I inordinately happy. But there is also a lot to be said for what a gift exposing children of any age to new places, faces and experiences is.

There is no question that travel broadens the mind and when you have a mind as spongy and absorbent as a child’s it offers an unbeatable opportunity to stuff it full of colour, culture and ideas and release them from the limitations of preconception and prejudice. And while a young child may not remember the details with photographic clarity, their growing brains can still fill to overflowing with amazing life changing stuff.

At the ripe old age of four my son Raff is a savvy traveller who, though bordering on hyper at home, constantly surprises with his co-operation on even the longest haul flight or boring hours in airports. He knows that waiting at the other end is something special and loves exploring new countries and cultures as much as I do. To my great delight his sister Marlo, barely one, is already showing all the signs of following in his itchy footsteps.

That isn’t to say that the way we travel hasn’t had to change.

Along the way we have learned that travelling en famille means compromises must be made because, let’s face it, boutique hotels, endless museums and art galleries are not the way to a small child’s heart, and endless whining isn’t the way to ours.

Yes, there are frustrations and often occasions when something we’d love to do has to give, but in its place unexpected treats

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Raff meets a local in Oman.

often await. We find people talk to and welcome us more through the common language of being parents. Sure, we need to stop frequently as kids tire easily and there’s a whole world of public amenities out there that we’ve discovered through our children and their hummingbird-sized bladders. But our kids have made us look at the world through unjaded eyes, taking our travels to a whole new and, frankly, fabulous level.

Raff spends hours perusing copies of this very travel tome in his mission to nag me into submission over our next holiday destination. And, though I’m thrilled that my tiny travel bug is such a happy traveller, he doesn’t quite understand that “everywhere in the whole world ever” is not only a logistical impossibility but the economics involved are more suited to the Jolie-Pitt clan than to ours. Thankfully, he’s happy to lets his imagination fly and can often be found packing his bags ready to dash off, in his mind, to wherever has taken his fancy that day whether it be Paris, Thailand or Chatswood!

REPORTAGE

Photo courtesy of Vanuatu Tourism

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From left : Sam & Tori in Vietnam, Imogen in Uganda, Stephanie and her mum in Hong Kong, Dr. Karl and family taking on the Aussie outback.

Beyond boundaries With a love of travel and family scattered across the globe, Out & About With Kids publisher Elisa Elwin exposed her now welltravelled daughters, Sam and Tori, to the wonders of the world from the time they were babes-in-arms. “I wanted my children to have the opportunity to learn and live beyond their boundaries.

To appreciate, to live and to see, feel, hear and taste the world,” says Elisa.

And, as any parent who has travelled long-haul with children will admit, it wasn’t always easy, but the best things in life rarely are, as Elisa can attest. “I have stories of exhaustion to make you cry with laughter and as many tales of joy when they learned their first foreign words or played with children for hours with no language in common but childhood.”

Now 19 and 17 they are articulate, smart girls who love to travel who, adds Elisa, “have learned to appreciate their multicultural family and the world.”

Fearless philanthropist Imogen Tyndale, 20, is a dazzling endorsement for a childhood of travel. Her parents believed that they could offer their children a life filled with beautiful things or beautiful experiences. Imogen is grateful they chose the latter and believes those experiences were of far more value.

Imogen’s philanthropic parents became involved in international development work to assist in small business programs for the disadvantaged and impoverished. Visits to their far-flung family in Canada, America, Europe, and Bali and obligatory childhood trips to Disneyland were interspersed with visits to remote villages in Indonesia, East Timor, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, China and Africa.

Happy memories of playing on a beach in Bali, eating waffles and setting off fireworks, fishing with her two older brothers in remote river towns and hanging out with local kids in isolated villages were collected along the way.

She says her teachers were supportive of the educational value of travel and her grades unaffected by the frequent

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journeys, the knowledge she gained something that simply can’t be learned from books.

Before heading to University to undertake a degree in Social Science, intrepid Imogen undertook her first solo journey and, crediting her daring to her parents, spent 18 months embracing the chaos and culture of the world, including time in India and Uganda.

“I wasn’t worried at all. My brothers and I are fearless. I’d learned from our nomadic childhood that nothing goes according to plan, baggage gets lost, flights delayed and possessions stolen.

And that is so great! It gives you an ability to cope with the dramas of every day”.

“I’m so thankful that my beautiful mum and dad chose to reveal the world to us. To show us that there is so much more outside of our own everyday life and that there are so many different ways to live.

“We have an adopted family all over the world. We’ve been exposed to the richest and poorest of people and that’s endowed me with an ability to communicate with just about anyone. We have no social anxieties. I love my parents so much for that gift”.

Live and learn Hong Kong expat Stephanie West is another who extols the virtue of family travel. Born in Hong Kong to British parents, her earliest adventures saw her voyaging to England via Australia, South Africa and through the Suez Canal on cruise liner The Canberra, a journey from which a photo of her tiny eight-month-old self in the arms of a Zulu is still a favourite possession, even if she can’t remember the actual event.

This was the first in a childhood full of adventure as her parents took Stephanie and her two elder brothers travelling far and wide to explore Asia and the world. Popping in and out of temples and plantations, well intentioned sibling rivalry and ribbing over who could catch the biggest/most fish on longboat fishing trips, playing with local kids and quality time with her busy dad share equal billing with road trips across America, from Disneyland to Disneyworld, in her bank of treasured family memories. But, with all due respect to Mickey and Minnie, for Stephanie it is the little things that stuck.

REPORTAGE

“I recall horse riding in a forest in Malaysia and being led by a boy around the same age as me who had lost an arm. I realised even then how fortunate I was to have the opportunities I did.

Down the track it’s not the five star hotels you remember, it’s the people you met and the camaraderie of exploring and experiencing things for the first time as a family”, says a still appreciative Stephanie.

“Our parents made the world our classroom. At the Palace at Knossos in Crete I recall my dad trying to teach me a little of its history while I, like any typical teenager, just wanted to hang out in the pool all day. Almost 30 years later I remember Knossos and dad’s words but I wouldn’t have remembered that pool. I can’t express my gratitude enough to him enough for that. Or for the exposure to a world of differences that’s given me the confidence to try new things and talk to anybody in any situation.”

Now a mother herself, her four-year-old son Finlay has a passport rapidly filling with stamps and a burgeoning love of travel. Stephanie hopes that their journeys endow him with the same independent spirit, open-mindedness and acceptance of how other people live that she believes is the greatest legacy of her childhood travels.

Children of the revolution Are the cultural shocks hard on kids? Dr Roger L. Youmans doesn’t think so. In a case of complete cultural immersion Roger moved his young family from their comfortable home to the Congo during its struggle for independence. In his memoir, When Bull Elephants Fight, he tells how his family of four young children adjusted to their new environment while helping the Congolese people.

“When we were out in the bush, the Congolese people all wanted to touch them because they looked different. They had never seen anyone with pale skin and blonde hair. But the kids adapted remarkably well. The children didn’t have any big problems, though it was demanding on my wife who homeschooled the children when they reached school age.”

As a parent Roger has no major regrets about taking his kids so

far out of their cultural depth and believes that these experiences growing up has shaped them in to the successful and confident adults they have become.

Show and tell As for me, I am striving to raise adaptable, fearless, globallyaware children with respect for the people, places and ideals beyond their own backyards. I can’t think of a better way to do that than by showing them. I’m not suggesting that you need to pack up your kids and ship then off to anywhere as remote or as turbulent as revolutionary Congo. Travel doesn’t have to be wildly expensive or even terribly exotic to be worthwhile.

Chatting with Out & About With Kids, popular Aussie author, presenter and science guru, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, remarked that the best thing about being on holiday is just being with the kids all the time. And, having spent a combined total of about a year and a half with his family on pure outback travel here in Australia, is proof positive that it doesn’t need to cost a lot.

“On our biggest trip we started off at Alice Springs then headed west for a thousand kilometres and then north for another thousand”, Says Karl. “We didn’t see another human being for a month and had to carry all of our own food and fuel.

Every night we had an early dinner then lay out on our swags and looked up at the sky for hours searching for satellites and meteors before falling asleep.”

It is precious and free - in every sense of the word - moments like these that leave the most enduring impressions and that will be talked about for years to come.

If you find yourself questioning the worth of travelling with your children, whatever their age, remember that exposing them to the magic of the world is an invaluable legacy to leave them that they will only thank you for. I’ll leave the last word to Mark Twain someone I think we can all agree was a fairly clever chap.

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”

WINTER 2012 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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!

N I W THEBestOF FAMILY TRAVEL

AWARDS 14

WINTER 2012 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

Help us to choose the world’s BEST in family travel and you could WIN! an amazing holiday for a family of up to five at the multi award-winning NRMA TREASURE ISLAND HOLIDAY PARK. Valued at up to $5,400.00* This fantastic prize includes; n Five night’s accommodation for two adults and up to three children at NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Park, Gold Coast Queensland. n Five economy airfares comprising of two adults and up to three children from the winners’ closest major airport with flights direct to the Gold Coast. n Six days Thrifty car hire. n VIP Passes for two adults and up to three children for unlimited fun at the Gold Coast’s favourite theme parks, Movie World, Sea World and Wet’n’Wild Water World.

Visit www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au to vote for your favourites and tell us where in the world your family would most like to visit and why for you chance to win.

READERS CHOICE AWARDS

Have your say... n Best Australian

family resort n Best international

family resort n Best Australian

family holiday park n Best Australian

family attraction n Best international

family attraction n Best Australian

family ski resort

n Best Australian

destination for families n Best international

destination for families n Best Australian family

tour operator n Best international

family tour operator n Best family cruise line n Best airline for children

n Best international

family ski resort

*Please note: Terms & Conditions Apply.

WINTER 2012 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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Sea World © Tourism Queensland

Australian HOLIDAYS

18 28 32 34 36 42

T RAVEL NEWS All the latest and greatest from around the country.

A NIMAL NEWS The latest animal activities and encounters.

TRIED & TESTED Moving the Masses, SUV round up.

DRIVE NEWS The latest car, campervan and caravanning news.

CAMPING Camping for the clueless.

KIAMA, NSW Access all areas.

46 52 56 60 64 68 72

PORT STEPHENS, NSW Thrills, spills and bayside chills

CANBERRA, ACT Capital of cool.

PHILLIP ISLAND, VIC Penguins plus.

GOLD COAST, QLD Around the worlds.

SUNSHINE COAST, QLD Sunshine secrets.

TROPICAL NORTH QUEENSLAND, QLD Where the wild things are.

CHRISTMAS ISLAND Nature’s gift.

WINTER 2012 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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SHORT CUTS Domestic NATIONAL Discover Crowne Plaza this winter Embark on the ultimate road trip in ACT and NSW this winter as beautiful landscapes pass you by with Crowne Plaza’s Discover package.

Enjoy the scenic drive to the nation’s capital this winter and stay at Crowne Plaza Canberra, surrounded by pristine parklands and located within walking distance of the CBD, Australia’s National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery.

For a Sydney city break with a difference, escape to Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs and stay oceanfront at Crowne Plaza Coogee Beach. Coogee Beach boasts plenty of activities to keep the family occupied this winter including stunning coastal walks and parklands, located just a 15-minute drive to Sydney’s iconic attractions. There’s also a package taking in the Hunter Valley.

For something different, experience one of Lonely Planet’s 10 hottest cities of 2011 with a diverse dining, nightlife and arts culture at Crowne Plaza Newcastle. Located just two hours north of Sydney the lively coastal city of Newcastle is the perfect winter weekend getaway.

And for a convenient beach break, soak up breathtaking oceanfront views at Crowne Plaza Terrigal on the NSW Central Coast, just a 90-minute drive north of Sydney.

The Discover packages start from $170 per room, per night (prices vary according to hotel) including buffet breakfasts. The packages are available to book until August 17 and are valid for stays of two nights or more before the end of August, subject to availability. www.crowneplaza.com/roadtrip

Facebook your way to a great stay Facebook users can now book their stay at any Best Western International hotel on the social networking site. The hotel’s new Facebook booking capacity is the latest step in allowing travellers to book a Best Western hotel wherever they are on the web. And with more than 4000 hotels to choose from, it’s as easy as visiting Best Western Australasia’s Facebook page to reserve your accommodation.The Facebook booking platform, built in tandem with mobile and multichannel platform company, Usablenet, delivers Best Western’s private and secure hotel reservation system to millions of Facebook users. www.facebook.com/bestwesternaustralasia.

Family deals to ditch the winter blues Silverneedle Hotels has come up with some fabulous short break and holiday packages designed to shake off the winter blues, from country retreats to city escapes. Their Create Memories mid-winter breaks are perfect for family and friends to re-charge and have some fun when temperatures drop. Across Australia, Silverneedle has packaged great value deals across the country at Australis, Chifley, Country Comfort and Sundowner hotels.

Take the family on a wildlife safari with the Memories of Dubbo Zoo package at Sundowner Aberdeen Motor Inn Dubbo. Accommodation, breakfast, internet and zoo passes for two adults and one child from only $283 per night or visit Canberra with the Memories in the Capital package, staying at Country Comfort Greenway, with breakfast included and chocolates and sparkling wine on arrival from $159 per night.

Head to the sunshine and take advantage of the Australis Noosa Lakes Memories in Noosa package just $124 per night or experience pure bliss at Australis Diamond Beach Resort

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& Spa just 15 minutes north of Forster. Other packages include Chifley Hotel and Apartments in Geelong from $199 per night, the Grand Chifley Adelaide and Chifley at Lennons Brisbane, both from only $189 per night. www.silverneedlehotels.com.au/memories

DOMESTIC TRAVEL NEWS

Take to the trees For a swinging good time, high in the trees, visit TreeTop Adventure Park in the beautiful Blue Gum Hills Regional Park, just 15 minutes from the Newcastle CBD. The adventure park offers 96 challenges in the tree tops, with varying degrees of difficulty to suit everyone from three to 73. Slide down one of the 20 flying foxes, move from tree to tree on the suspension bridges and enjoy many other exciting activities up to 15 metres above the forest floor! For little kids, like mine, a continuous belay safety system ensures their safety on a kids-only course, while his wilder cousins and dad were happy to take on the more advanced courses, dangling at heights of up to 15 metres. TreeTop Adventure Park also has facilities at Ourimbah on the Central Coast, with 105 challenges and a brand new children course with three fun flying foxes. www.treetopadventurepark.com.au

Strike it lucky Strike has been celebrating mankind’s achievements in bowling, karaoke and laser skirmish since 2002 when it opened its first outlet, Strike on Chapel. In the years since, another ten Strike Bowling Bars have opened across Australia’s east coast states. Strike has also added laser skirmish to its unique offerings, opening million-dollar play arenas at five of the centres, each designed by the team behind Matrix Revolutions and X-Men: Wolverine. While bowling is still the main attraction, high-end AV and lighting systems, lounges and private party rooms are also part of the attraction.

Pool tables, interactive games and karaoke rooms complete with touch screen iPads and dress-up boxes only add to the fun. www.strikebowlingbar.com.au

WIN

ONE lucky Out & About With Kids reader can WIN a fantastic Strike party package for up to 15 people. The party package is available to be used at the Strike Bowling Bar of the winner’s choice, and includes a free game of either bowling or laser skirmish plus food, soft drink and a party planner (to organise the activities and give mum and dad a rest!) valued at up to $500. To enter visit www.outandbaoutwithkids.com.au

WINTER 2012 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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SHORT CUTS Domestic NSW Thredbo’s winter wonderland Get wrapped in the magic of winter at Thredbo. With trails galore to explore and a cosy village to get to know, whether you are a skier, boarder, sightseer, snowballer or snowman builder there’s a mountain of outdoor options right outside your door.

Staying in Thredbo makes your winter snow holiday so easy – from your accommodation to the slopes, within minutes you are on the slopes schussing down some of Australia’s favourite runs. Thredbo’s mountain is set up to suit every level of snow rider, from newcomers on the purpose built Friday Flat beginners area to those ready to tackle the whole mountain.

A highlight of Thredbo is the range, variety and styles of accommodation available. Choose from lodge-style rooms, hotels, on-snow chalets, luxurious apartments and self contained units all within a short walk or shuttle bus ride from the slopes.

There’s a dedicated children’s snow sports school, recognised as one of the best in alpine Australia. Thredboland caters for kids aged three to six and Freeriders is for children aged seven to 14. For the littlies who are not up to the slopes yet there are two childcare centres in the resort. There is also the Thredbo Leisure Centre, with heated pool, waterslide and a floating pool obstacle course plus a big sports hall.

Thredbo is renowned for having a great village atmosphere with a great mix of shops, eateries and conveniences right in the heart of town. Look out for restaurants with special kids dining deals. www.thredbo.com.au

Flutter by Coffs this winter

A gem of a retreat Just 15 minutes from Forster on the NSW Mid-North Coast, the Australis Diamond Beach Resort & Spa is a coastal resort that’s perfect for beach-loving families who want to get away from it all in absolute style. A range of accommodation options for two to eight guests in a choice of two and three bedroom villas and apartments, two outdoor pools, the Sandy Toes kids club (with sand pit, table tennis, art and crafts, computer games, books and toys) and on-site Endota Spa means there’s something to suit families of every size and shape. www.resortretreat.com.au

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It may be cold outside but it’s summer every day at the award winning Coffs Harbour Butterfly House, Maze & Tea Rooms. Experience the wonderful world of butterflies in the fully-enclosed subtropical garden as the butterflies flit and fly, mate and multiply. There are guides on hand to assist you in exploring the interesting lifecycle in every stage. Hunt for an egg or watch the amazing metamorphosis from caterpillar to butterfly. See butterflies from all over Australia including the amazing blue of the ulysses or the fantastic green of the birdwing.

You may like to get lost... in the outdoor puzzling maze within a maze. There is even a prize if you make it out!

It may be that you want to relax and be refreshed with homemade delights (be sure to try the scones) in the tranquil surrounds of the tearooms. Explore another realm of nature in the woodturning gallery featuring pieces made by the resident wood turner and other local craftsmen. www.butterflyhouse.com.au

Create Memories Winter makes the warmest memories... so pack your bags and escape the winter blues with your family, friends and loved ones.

SilverNeedle hotels is offering numerous packages jammed with added value experiences to keep you and the family extra cosy.

Australis Diamond Beach Resort & Spa, NSW MEMORIES ON THE BEACH -

$189* per night

• 2 Bedroom Resort Spa Villa • Bottle of wine & cheese platter on arrival • 15 min free massage each in Endota Spa • Free dessert when 2 main meals purchased

Australis Sovereign Hotel, QLD

$179*

$135*

Per Night MEMORIES IN SURFERS - $125* per night

Per Night

• One Bedroom Suite • Full buffet breakfast for two • 5% off tours purchased at the hotel • Glass of wine each, when 2 mains purchased

$170*

Australis Noosa Lakes Resort, QLD

Per Night Chifley Wollongong, NSW

MEMORIES IN NOOSA - $124* per night

MEMORIES IN THE GONG - $179* per night

• Studio Room • Bottle of wine & box of chocolates on arrival • Breakfast at Sirocco on the River (value to $30) • Sunset cruise on the MV Noosa for two

Australis Retreat at Wisemans, NSW MEMORIES ON THE HAWKESBURY

• Fairway Room • Continental breakfast for two • Main meal dinner in restaurant

- $189* per night

• Executive Balcony Room • Full buffet breakfast for two • Complimentary parking • 12 noon late checkout

$145* Per Night

$145* Grand Chifley Adelaide, SA Per Night MEMORIES ARE SWEET - $189* per night

• Executive King Room • Full buffet breakfast for two • Bottle of wine on arrival • Chocolate dipped strawberries

$149* Per Night

Chifley Alice Springs Resort, NT

Sundowner Aberdeen Motor Inn Dubbo, NSW

MEMORIES IN THE RED CENTRE - $149* per night

MEMORIES OF THE DUBBO ZOO - $238* per night

$149* • Deluxe Room

• Full buffet Per breakfast Nightfor two • 2 drink vouchers to use in Barra Bar

$199*

• Overnight accommodation • Continental breakfast Per Night • 2 day zoo pass for 2 adults and 1 child • Free internet access

For more great value deals visit www.silverneedlehotels.com.au/kids OR CALL 1300 650 464 * Subject to availability. Conditions apply. Valid to 30/9/2. Minimum night stays and block out dates may apply.

SHORT CUTS Domestic In a delightfully imaginative and creative venture, the streets of Dubbo will come to life for the spectacular Carnival of The Animals street parade in September.

With roving acrobats, a mobile zoo, Chinese dragons, giant floating animals and animalthemed window displays, prizes will be awarded to the best floats and window displays, courtesy of Taronga Western Plains Zoo. Celebrating arts, culture, film and music in the region, the inaugural Dubbo Festival, places the spotlight squarely on this picturesque region and invites one and all to find your inner animal by joining in the fun of Carnival of The Animals - an entertaining and unique, family-friendly street parade through the Dubbo CBD. September 7 to 30. www.dreamfest.com.au

High Tea for Party Princesses Little (and big) girls love a good excuse to dress up and what could be a finer or fancier occasion than a high tea children’s party in the grounds of Peppers Craigieburn’s picturesque country gardens?

It’s not exactly ‘no boys allowed’ but sitting in princess finery to a delicious high tea banquet table with white napkins and linen and a sublime spread of chocolate dipped strawberries, scones with jam and cream, fairy bread, delicate sandwiches and sumptuous sweet selections, is a young ladies prerogative after all!

Available mornings, afternoons, early evenings and during school holidays from $18 per child, Peppers Craigieburn in Bowral is within easy reach of Sydney, Canberra and the South Coast. www.peppers.com.au © Shutterstock.com

Find your inner animal in Dubbo

a wildlife encounter r like no othe

a and Cuddle up to a Koal s oo hand feed Kangar ailable Annual Passes now av Enjoy a face to face codiles, encounter with Cro n Devils...

Wombats,Tasmania

Open daily 9am-5pm (closed Christmas Day) 217 Kildare Road, Doonside, Sydney NSW 2767

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Meet our gorgeous

DINGO PUPS

DOMESTIC TRAVEL NEWS

Let in snow... in the Hunter We love Hunter Valley Gardens! Family-friendly, seasonal events transform this beautiful location for its fabulous annual Christmas Lights Spectacular and Giant Easter Egg Hunt and this July the gardens will become an enchanting winter wonderland, complete with ice rink.

This first-ever Snow Time event gives families a chance to experience the magic of a traditional snowy winter – get kneedeep in snow and practice making the perfect snow angel, ice skate under disco lights, have snow tubing races with friends, take part in a snow ball challenge or join the all-day snowflake treasure hunt. Thousands of fairy lights herald a twinkling winter wonderland as night falls. The Snow Garden will be open from 9am till 9.30pm and under threes are free. June 30 to July 15. www.hvg.com.au

Resort Report Country Comfort Terrigal For winter whale watching, a trip to The Skillion at Terrigal, on the NSW Central Coast was the perfect weekend family getaway for our family of four. And where better to cosy up after a brisk beachside stroll spotting migrating whales (or rather hoping to spot!) than at the Country Comfort Terrigal. With the cosy appeal of home, matched with a wide range of guest facilities this affordable hotel is the perfect choice for families who want to be close to all the action but with space for all the tribe. The hotel’s loft apartments are over two floors, with ample room for chilling out and the obligatory games of hide and seek. And with bedrooms upstairs and downstairs, you can (as we did) tuck the kids in on the top floor then enjoy some grown-up time downstairs without having to whisper and worry about waking the kids. The Country Comfort Terrigal is located across from the beach and a five-minute walk from the main drag of great restaurants, cafes and shops. We all enjoyed the evening stroll to our pizza restaurant.

And after the promised detour on the way home via the ice-cream parlour (you can’t head to the beach without an ice-cream, even if it’s freezing and dark!) the short trek back to the hotel was also a welcome way to walk off the meal. In addition, the Country Comfort Terrigal’s peaceful location, buffet breakfast in Breeze’s Restaurant, playground, tennis court and pleasant outlook all add to excellent value. www.countrycomforthotels.com

NT Festival fever hits Central Australia There’s plenty of family festival fun on offer in Alice Springs this winter. August 18 is the Northern Territory’s famous Henley-On-Todd Regatta - a wildly hilarious day of people racing in bottomless ‘eights’, bath tubs and ‘yachts’ along the deep sand of the Todd River. A boat race with a unique difference on the dry deep sand of the Todd River - no water required.

Then, from September 7 to 16, things gets a little more cultural at the Alice Desert Festival. Dancers, storytellers, artists and musicians from remote communities in Central Australia join some of Australia’s hottest acts to celebrate the unique lifestyle of the region at the premier arts and cultural festival of the Central Australia. www.travelnt.com

WINTER 2012 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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WINTER 2012 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

166 Angourie Road Yamba www.angourieresort.com.au enquiry@angourieresort.com.au

SHORT CUTS Domestic ACT Questacon Excites The National Science and Technology Centre has become even more exciting with an exhibition designed to bend your mind and your muscles. Excite @ Q is a hands-on and minds-on experience, allowing families to test their reflexes, skills and perceptions.

The new gallery provides visitors with interactive, energetic experiences focusing on spectacular scientific phenomena. Slide the puck in cross-shaped air hockey, take a gruesome peek in the Disgustoscope tunnel of mirrors to see your hair and face magnified and reflected with a backdrop of earthworms or hear your heart beat played on a bass drum.

To get the best value from Canberra’s top attractions, grab a 3infun pass for discounted admission to the Australian Institute of Sport, Cockington Green Gardens and Questacon on a single ticket. www.questacon.edu.au

© Australian Capital Tourism

Capital ideas for free family fun

There is plenty of free fun to be found in Canberra this winter. For hands on fun visit the National Museum of Australia where kids will enjoy learning about Australia’s history, events and characters through interactive exhibits or visit the Discovery Zone full of things to do, touch and hear at the Australian War Memorial. Play hide and seek in the Sculpture Garden at the National Gallery of Australia and inspire your pintsize Picassos with drawing, drama, stories and games in the family activity room and Children’s Gallery. Head to the Canberra Museum and Gallery for great children’s play activities and structured workshops for toddlers and younger children. See rare coins and even forgeries and watch robots make the coins we use today at the Royal Australian Mint. Rug up for a visit to Lake Burley Griffin’s Commonwealth Park to watch the Captain Cook Memorial Jet throw nearly six tons of water as high as 147 metres in the air or simply frolic among the flowers and spot native birds at the Australian National Botanic Gardens. www.visitcanberra.com.au

DOMESTIC TRAVEL NEWS

QLD Stay, Play and save at Sea World

With full-size waterslides, two lagoon pools plus direct monorail access to Sea World, Sea World Resort & Water Park is the ultimate theme park holiday destination. Located on the Gold Coast’s beautiful Broadwater, guests will enjoy four-and-a-half star facilities and friendly service all within easy access to famous Gold Coast beaches and shopping.

The kids can have the holiday of their lives with the brand new Nickelodeon SpongeBob SplashBash aquatic adventure play area. The bright and colourful waterplay areas themed around SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick, and Squidward are sure to be a huge hit. Plus, every evening the kids can dance and delight at the spectacular musical water fountain and stunning LED light show.

Sea World Resort & Water Park is also offering a unique dolphin presentation that is exclusive to resort guests. Set in Sea World’s spectacular Dolphin Cove theatre, the Dolphin Discovery presentation provides families with a sneak peek of a dolphin training session and the best part is that guests who stay for two nights or more will experience Dolphin Discovery included free as part of their stay. www.MyFun.com.au.

Top three for Big4 Queenland’s NRMA BIG4 Treasure Island Resort has scooped three top travel awards. The BIG4 family resort scored top honours in three categories in TripAdvisor’s 2012 Travelers’ Choice Awards. The family-friendly resort was named the best Large Hotels & Resorts for Families in the World, South Pacific and Australia categories.

The awards, rated by resort and hotel guests, found Treasure Island Resort ticks all the boxes for stunning Gold Coast location, facilities and activities, kids clubs, bar and bistro and fantastic accommodation options from luxury three bedroom townhouses and stylish studio units with spas, to camping under the stars.

Treasure Island wasn’t BIG4’s only winner – Ashmore Palms Holiday Village in Queensland took out second best in the Hotels for Families in Australia and South Pacific and BIG4 Beachlands Holiday Park in WA scored fifth place in the Australian list. www.BIG4.com.au

WINTER 2012 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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SHORT CUTS Domestic VIC Wallace & Gromit inspire inventions Who can forget The Curse of the Were-Rabbit and The Wrong Trousers? Wallace and Gromit fans can now introduce the kids to the wonderful and whacky world of the famous inventor and his faithful dog in a brand new, interactive display at Melbourne’s Scienceworks.

Transporting Wallace’s workshop to Spotswood, Wallace and Gromit’s World of Invention is an exhibition showcasing innovation and inventiveness as a part of everyday life. This family show is designed to inspire children to explore their own inventiveness through a series of interactive exhibits modelled on the devices built by Wallace in the much-loved stop motion clay animation TV program. August until November. www.museumvictoria.com.au/scienceworks

Ancient wonders in modern Melbourne

© Aardman Animations Ltd 2012

More than 170 treasures housed at the British Museum have travelled to Melbourne Museum for a major new exhibition, The Wonders of Ancient Mesopotamia. Discoveries from one of the world’s great ancient civilizations include massive carved stone reliefs depicting scenes of battles and hunting, priceless gold jewellery and bronze and silver artefacts.

Rivalled only in significance by the discovery of Tutankhamun’s Tomb, the exhibition includes pieces uncovered in the cities of Mesopotamia during major archaeological expeditions from the mid 19th century and into the 20th century. Until October 7. www.museumvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum

SA Australia’s magic railway One of the most exciting train journeys is the one that transports students to the famed Hogwarts – and how many kids wish they could have joined Harry Potter and his cohorts on that magical journey? While they haven’t been to Hogwarts, Great Southern Rail has transported generations of families across this wide brown land, showcasing the exceptional beauty and diversity of Australia to enthralled children.

Take time out to enjoy the journey with GSR’s newly launched range of holiday packages by rail. Darwin to Adelaide is an experience the kids will never forget on the Ghan or Sydney to Adelaide on the Indian Pacific when they see a side of Australia that isn’t found flying 30,000 feet above.

Appreciate the incredible diversity of our continent as the landscape changes from the lush tropics to the deep Red Centre and the arid farming plains of the south, through the spectacular Blue Mountains and across outback Broken Hill into South Australian wine country and let the family enjoy the ‘magical’ opportunity to really experience both the destination and the journey – just like the destination and the journey via the Hogwarts Express! www.greatsouthernrail.com.au

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Feeling fang-tastic They’re not furry or feathered – but they are fang-tastic!

These slithery creatures have fascinating selfpreservation skills developed just to avoid an encounter with us, and other natural predators. Kangaroo Island’s new reptile display includes a hands-on session that lets you feel snakeskin on your fingers and an educational presentation that encourages greater understanding of our reptilian wildlife and their fang-tastic instincts for protection, hunting and survival. Meet some of Australia’s lizards and snakes and, if you dare, have a snake draped around your neck. www.southaustralia.com.au

DOMESTIC TRAVEL NEWS

WA Perth bites the Big Apple arts scene Perth will get a little taste of the Big Apple with an exclusive series of exhibitions from New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). The Picasso to Warhol: Fourteen Modern Masters exhibition will be on display at the Art Gallery of WA featuring over 100 works by fourteen of modern art’s greatest artists, including Matisse, Picasso, Pollock and Warhol.

This exhibition is a fantastic introduction to the figures who redefined art. Covering cubism, pop art and abstract expressionism, Picasso to Warhol will leave you and the kids inspired to create.

June 16 to December 3. www.artgallery.wa.gov.au

Dig dinosaurs?

Andy Warhol (American, 1928-1987), Self-Portrait, 1966. Silkscreen ink on synthetic polymer paint on nine canvases Each canvas 57.2 x 57.2cm, overall 171.7 x 171.7cm. The Museum of Modern Art, New York Gift of Philip

Step into the shoes of a palaeontologist to get up-close-and-personal as incredible animatronic dinosaurs invade Sci-Tech.

Uncover the secrets behind fossils and learn how dinosaurs lived. With 16 interactive displays, discover how dinosaurs saw the world around them, how they hid from their prey and even how they digested their food!

Kids can test their strength against a T-rex jaw, compare the types of plants they ate, examine insects under a microscope and recreate the sounds they made at Explore-a-saurus until October 21. www.scitech.org.au

Johnson © 2012 Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York

WINTER 2012 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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SHORT CUTS Animals

New ‘mane’ attraction Qantas staff took care of a VIP passenger recently – a lion called Johari. The eight-year-old male lion was making the trip from Sydney’s Taronga Zoo to Zoo in Victoria.

Housed inside a special animal transport crate in the cargo hold, Johari was met by zoo staff on arrival at Melbourne airport to be transferred to his new home at Werribee Open Range Zoo. Following a few weeks in quarantine, Johari has now been introduced to his new family – three other lions in the zoo’s award-winning Lions on the Edge exhibit and eventually it is hoped this young lion will play a role in the zoo’s lion breeding program. www.zoo.org/WerribeeOpenRangeZoo

Mowbray Park Farm

What’s a weedy seadragon?

Four baby weedy seadragons made a splash recently at Sydney Aquarium. Born and bred at Melbourne Aquarium, one of only a few in the world that has been successful in breeding weedy seadragons in captivity, these beautiful and elusive creatures remain on the near threatened list.

Closely related to the seahorse, weedy seadragons are distinct in behavior, magnificent colour and weedy appearance and they are also one of only a few aquatic species where the males carry the eggs.

Unique to Australia, weedy seadragons are found in Sydney Harbour, with a known colony located near the airport at Botany Bay, and these four babies can now be seen, up close, at Sydney Aquarium. www.sydneyaquarium.com.au

Up close & personal animal experiences The award-winning Mogo Zoo, just south of Batemans Bay, NSW, is the place to go for a whole range of exciting up close and personal encounters with the animals.

Feed Mafuta and Numbi, Mogo’s renowned ‘white lions of Timbavati’ or the beautiful tiger, Kinwah. Take a Lemur Island Cruise to meet black and white ruffed lemurs, ringtailed lemurs, spider monkeys and siamangs or take part in the Dingo Walk with Mogo’s four hand-reared dingoes.

Other ‘up close’ Mogo Zoo experiences include face-toface encounters with meerkats, African servals, Nepalese red pandas and even a host of reptiles!

With over 200 animals of more than 42 rare and exotic species, Mogo Zoo also has the largest collection of primates in any private zoo in Australia. www.mogozoo.com.au

Man, you think your room’s untidy

Come say G’day to Chloe, Chester, Scooter & friends The days are full of fun at Mowbray Park Farm, Kid’s Club, ponies, camp fires, hay rides & more Day visits, birthday parties & weekend escapes Mowbray Park 745 Barkers Lodge Rd Picton www.farmstayholidays.com.au mowbray@farmstayholidays.com.au Call us 02 46809 243 for that special holiday

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© Shutterstock.com

If you are under 3 then you are FREE at ‘Wow-bray Park Farm’

ANIMAL NEWS

NEW ARRIVALS n Melbourne Zoo’s capuchin monkey population is now at 13 with the arrival of Possum’s third baby and Cassie’s second baby. n Canberra’s National Zoo and Aquarium is celebrating the arrival of a new baby zebra foal, Malawi. Congratulations to proud mum Zahra.

A koala who suffered horrific burns has been released into the wild, thanks to Australia Zoo. Rian the koala spent almost six months at the zoo after having been rescued from a tree by the zoo’s rescue unit. A controlled burn-off on North Stradbroke Island left the little marsupial with horrific burns including singed eyelids, ears, foot pads and fur.

Under the watchful eye and expert care of Dr Amber Gillett, Rian recovered and has recently been released back to her natural habitat – fitted with a GPS radio tracking collar for staff to monitor her and check on her recovery in coming months.

Dr Gillett describes Rian as “a beautiful koala” and was thrilled to see Rian well enough to return to her home. There are more than 80 koalas in care at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital and being able to release a now-healthy koala back into the wild is the ultimate reward for staff and the community of supporters who care for Australia Zoo’s sick and injured wildlife. www.australiazoo.com.au

WIN

LEGO DUPLO My First Zoo & My First Farm sets The new Lego Duplo My First collection gives children the opportunity to mimic real life situations. Little ones love animals and will be particularly inspired by the great My First Zoo and My First Farm sets full of exotic and colourful animals and farmyard fun.

2012 will see the exciting launch of even more great new Lego Duplo products, offering everything from simple stacking to building and being creative. There’s also an exciting new way to play with the introduction of Lego Duplo Playground on www.duplo.lego.com.

Out & About With Kids has five Lego Duplo My First Zoo sets and Five Lego Duplo My First Farm sets to give away, each valued at $39.99.

To enter visit www.oawk.com.au

© Shutterstock.com

Rian’s rescue and return

n Taronga Western Plains Zoo is home to three new cheeky meerkat pups, born to mum Umi and dad, Brock. n Perth Zoo has welcomed two critically endangered Sumatran orang-utan babies – a boy named Sungai (Indonesian for ‘river) and a girl, Lestari.

n Healesville Sanctuary is celebrating the arrival of two baby platypuses – a boy, Birrarung (Wurrundjeri for ‘river’) and a girl, Alooka (meaning ‘by the water’). n Australia Zoo’s Koala community has had a baby boom with nine (and counting!) new koala joeys – the proper term for baby koalas n Perth Zoo can also boast some new additions with the recent hatching of three Black-headed pythons.

Manly oceanworld now sea life sanctuary New name, new attractions.

That’s the news behind Manly Oceanworld’s name change.

Relaunching as Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary on June 28, the iconic aquarium will operate under the SEA LIFE banner as a world-class facility for the breeding, protecting and rehabilitation of Australian marine life.

Dedicated to marine conservation and education, Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary will also open a new rehabilitation facility for sick and injured sea life and launch a brand new Penguin Cove, allowing children and adults the chance to discover Manly’s iconic little penguins, the last mainland breeding colony of little penguins in Australia.

Visitors to the new sanctuary will be able to actively participate in the attraction’s efforts to breed, rescue and protect, learning first-hand from the dedicated team of aquarists ways to help safeguard the marine environment and its population. www.oceanworld.com.au

WINTER 2012 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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Brisbane

Gold Coast Tweed Heads

Nimbin Byron Bay

Kyogle Lismore

Lennox Head Ballina Evans Head

Iluka Yamba Maclean Grafton Wooli

Woolgoolga Coffs Harbour

Bellingen

Nambucca

South West Rocks Kempsey Crescent Head

Port Macquarie

Wauchope

Harrington

Taree Nabiac Gloucester

Forster / Tuncurry

Bulahdelah

Seal Rocks Port Stephens

Hunter Valley Lake Macquarie

Central Coast

Sydney

Newcastle

Road Trips For many of us, road trips when we were younger conjure legendary memories. The times when Mum and Dad packed us in the car with the bare essentials and we headed along the coast.

Sunny days filled with adventure and exploring the regional towns along the Pacific Coast corridor. Fun was had, memories were made.

Visit www.pacificcoast.com.au for information on the diverse range of activities and attractions across the touring drive that are sure to be legends with your kids. There are reptile parks, outdoor adventures from camel and horse riding to wetland walking, wildlife watching, family fun centres and more.

Look for this symbol along The Legendary Pacific Coast and stop at a Visitor Information Centre to pick up a copy of our free touring guide and more detailed local information or download our guide and iPhone app and take it on the road.

The Legendary Pacific Coast.

See where it takes you

discover the 20 top legends

the masses WHETHER YOU ARE A FAMILY OF ROAD-TRIPPERS OR SIMPLY PLAYING CHAUFFEUR TO YOUR TRIBE OF PINT-SIZE PASSENGERS, THE SEVENSEATER SUV IS BECOMING A POPULAR CHOICE FOR FAMILIES. HERE FIVE OF THE BEST ARE PUT TO THE TEST. WORDS: SALLY PATERSON

F

itting three young kids and their car seats into most cars is like a backbreaking game of Tetris. Little wonder then, that the seven-seater SUV is becoming a popular choice – both for growing families who dream of road-trips without backseat battles, as well as those often in the role of sports team chauffer. With a foot in each of these camps, I set out with my six-year-old co-pilot Lachlan, to see which sevenseater SUV stacks up.

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BMW X5 (From $92,100)

MODEL TESTED: X5 XDRIVE 30D BMW is another manufacturer that listens to the next generation, running a focus group with six-year-olds that influenced the X5 design with tweaks such as lower side windows for a better view of the outside.

Inside, even long trips are as smooth as the leather seats. The diesel engine is very responsive, and the über-stylish cabin is whisper quiet with not a hint of diesel truckiness. Luxury features abound: vicinity lights on the door handles, rear view camera with top view1, automatic wipers and lights – the list goes on. In fact, the gadgetry was so advanced it required research before pressing the engine start button.

The seven seats are optional (for an additional cost), and the rear row is best left for the kids, with seatbacks lower than those in the mid row. There are only two car seat anchor points, and with the third row up, as with most seven-seater SUVs, luggage space is at a premium.

Combined Fuel consumption From 7.4L/100km (diesel), from 10.1L/100km (petrol) Great if... you want luxe features and top safety but don’t need 7 seats often.

Lachlan’s verdict: “This car is very smart-looking and cosy like a comfy lounge room.”

© Shutterstock.com

MOVING

Volvo XC90 (from $69,990) MODEL TESTED: D5 R-DESIGN From the built-in booster to the split AC control for driver and front passenger – I got the feeling the XC90 was made specifically for us. Perhaps that’s because Volvo consulted with kids before finalising the design, with features like rear row air conditioning controls and storage incorporated as a result.

Tiered cinema seating makes for satisfied passengers, especially on longer trips, with mid and rear rows positioned so they can enjoy the view or a DVD2 with their wireless headphones. Third-row occupants will enjoy generously sized individual seats and a respectable amount of legroom. The boot size is huge, and with dual split tailgate it’s easy to load up with a pram or suitcase, even with the third row in place.

Being a Volvo, the list of safety features is long, and includes specific measures to protect against rollovers and impacts.

While there was some engine lag in the diesel model, the vehicle felt strong and composed up hills.

Combined fuel consumption: 8.8L/100km (diesel); 11.5L/100km (petrol) Great if... you want high quality, serious safety and impressive space.

Lachlan’s verdict: “The built-in booster is quite smart. That way I can have our baby next to me and still have room.”

DRIVE

Subaru Tribeca (From $54,990) MODEL TESTED: 3.6R PREMIUM The Tribeca possesses all the essential ingredients for a comfortable family road-trip and drives more like a wagon than a bulky SUV. The kids were thrilled with the rear entertainment system that pulled down from the ceiling, complete with wireless headphones – although it did slightly obscure my rear view.

The car seat anchor point locations – two across the middle row and two in the rear – meant the third row was always at least halfway up, which made for squishy legroom, limited boot space and difficult access to the third car seat. While my eldest was happy to clamber in through the boot and strap himself in, it’s not an ideal arrangement for the younger ones.

The Tribeca crams a long list of features – including front seat heating, Bluetooth connectivity, sat nav and rear vision cameras, as well as the impressive safety credentials synonymous with the Subaru brand – into an accessible price range.

Combined Fuel Consumption 11.6L/100km.

Great if... you want safety, impressive features and only need 3 car seats occasionally.

Lachlan’s verdict: “I liked the TV and the air conditioning was nice because it was right near my head.”

Mazda CX-9 (From $44,265)

MODEL TESTED: LUXURY WITH SAT NAV AND BLUETOOTH OPTION Stepping up, way up, into the CX-9 I could immediately feel the sheer size of it. The generous dimensions allow for three car seats across the middle reasonably comfortably, as well as a respectable amount of legroom and luggage space with all three rows up. Despite its proportions the surround vision is good and its bulk is not overwhelming.

Driving holidays are a breeze with three-zone climate control, several storage compartments and optional rear entertainment system pleasing the passengers. For the driver, Mazda has squeezed in considerable features including sensor wipers and reversing camera as standard, and with the luxury range: Bose speakers, leather seats, mirrors with reverse tilt-down function and optional sat nav package with Bluetooth.

Despite not having an ANCAP rating, its safety credentials include ABS, Dynamic Stability Control, six SRS airbags and Mazda’s crash-resistant body technology.

We’re not surprised this is a very popular SUV, both for city driving and longer-haul.

Combined Fuel Consumption From 11 L/100km Great if... you want good value for money, smart design and abundant space.

Lachlan’s verdict: “This is my favourite! I liked that it had lots of room to spread out.”

Kia Sorento (From $36,990) MODEL TESTED: 3.5L PETROL SI

Carrying a five-star ANCAP rating, the Sorento is responsive and easy to drive with a smart interior that ticks the box on all your basic features, plus some nice touches thrown in – such as Bluetooth and dual-zone air conditioning.

The driver’s perch up on high gives a commanding view of the road but without the aid of a rear vision camera1, it requires extra caution to look out for loitering little people.

Three car seats squeeze into the middle row, and with the high seat positions it’s easy to get the kids in and out. The rear row is comfortable enough for the undersized passenger, but leaves no boot space. For longer road-trips, seat splits in the mid and rear row allow for creative luggage placement and there is choice within the range to upgrade to a more comfortable driving experience, such as six-stacker CD player and third row fan control.

Combined Fuel Consumption From 6.7L/100km (diesel); 10L/100km (petrol) Great if.. you want an economical family car, good standard features and no fuss.

Lachlan’s verdict: “I like being up high so I can see outside and play I-spy.”

Not available on all models. 2Optional accessory.

Prices listed are the starting manufacturer’s list prices for the model (not necessarily the vehicle tested). Price quoted includes Luxury Car Tax (LCT) where applicable but excludes on-road costs and dealer delivery charges.

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SHORT CUTSDrive Going for a drive and looking for an easy and safe way to stay in contact with loved ones?

With the multi-purpose Quad Lock system you can now safely chat, follow the GPS or listen to music on your iPhone as you drive. Quad Lock is a protective case that covers your iPhone and allows you to connect your device not only in the car, but while pushing the pram or shopping trolley, in the office or in the kitchen. This secure and simple mounting system allows you to use your iPhone handsfree everywhere. Invented

by Aussie Entrepreneurs Rob Ward and Chris Peters, the Quad Lock mounts are available in two separate models that both connect easily to the Quad Lock protective case. www.kickstarter.com

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Keep the kids occupied on your RV holiday While families often head out on a RV vacation with the best of intentions, the constant struggle to keep the kids occupied can sometimes lead to frayed tempers, unwanted mischief and endless queries of “are we there yet?” With that in mind Jayco has provided the following tips to keep the kids happy on the road.

Pack wisely - Kids love their creature comforts, so make sure you pack the kids’ favourite toys, bikes, DVDs and books. Choose an RV with extra storage, such as the Jayco Expanda, which enables you to fit all of their gear with minimal fuss.

Surf the net - Research your destination to find out whether caravan sites are child-friendly and use Google to locate playgrounds, cafes and activities at your destination.

Let them help - Don’t underestimate how much children can help. Make them feel valued and important by having them help pack the RV, hold the map or cook dinner.

Go go gadgets - Being in an RV doesn’t mean you need to forsake technology. Most holiday parks have the option of powered sites enabling you to stay connected.

Take breaks - Remember to make pit-stops to avoid driver fatigue and give the kids a chance to stretch their legs. A 15-minute break can avoid hours of complaining.

The social network - Caravan parks can be choc-full of other families. Introduce yourself to other families at the park, the kids will love meeting new friends.

Star buys

Family vs wild

A Jayco Starcraft is the ideal RV for a young family: the budget conscious who are seeking value without foregoing quality. While the Starcraft boasts features synonymous with the Jayco brand, its affordability makes this caravan the first port of call for many fun seekers.

You can cook up a storm on a four burner gas grill in the pop top and four burner oven in the caravan and keep the kid’s soft drink and your wine cool in a new three-way fridge. There is nothing better than a good night’s sleep after a day of travelling with the family. Rest easy on double beds that extend by 150mm for those who need a little bit more room! www.jayco.com.au

You don’t have to be the Bear Gryll’s type to enjoy the great outdoors. Magellan has introduced the new eXplorist 110 outdoor hand-held GPS – a simple to use outdoor navigation device great for families who enjoy hiking, cycling and camping.

Providing essential information to safely make the most of outdoor activities, great features include a “breadcrumbs” option that allows users to keep track of their steps and backtrack to their base camp safely. www.magellan.com.au RRP $149.

WINTER 2012 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

© Shutterstock.com

Lock and Load

Protect your child Use an Authorised Restraint Fitting Station A correctly fitted and approved child restraint provides maximum protection for your child in a crash.

Use an Authorised Restraint Fitting Station to ensure your child is properly secured. Research shows children whose parents used an Authorised Restraint Fitting Station are twice as likely to be correctly restrained than other children*.

For a fee, an Authorised Restraint Fitting Station will: • Install and fit your child’s restraint correctly.

• Check your child restraint is installed correctly.

• Install additional anchorage points and accessories.

National child restraint laws mean all children up to seven years of age must be correctly restrained in the right restraint for their age and size. Children from 6 months up to 4 years old must be in either an approved rearward or forward-facing restraint, while children between 4 and 7 years old must be in an approved forward-facing restraint or booster seat.

Fines and demerit points apply to drivers who fail to ensure all children are appropriately restrained in a vehicle.

There are more than 240 Authorised Restraint Fitting Stations across NSW. To find your nearest fitting station, or for further information about child restraint safety ratings, call 13 22 13. *‘Incorrect child restraint use is reduced among restraint fitting station users’ Brown J, Finch C.F, Hatfield J, Bilston L.E. Neuroscience Research Australia and University of New South Wales.

Camping

1O1

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CAMPING

Camping for the clueless

CLUELESS ON CAMPING? HERE’S OUR FIRST TIMERS GUIDE TO THE BASICS - FROM CHOOSING YOUR CAMPSITE TO WHAT TO PACK. WORDS: GERALDINE CARDOZO

For some happy campers, pitching a tent is a doddle.

For experienced outdoor-types, packing up everything a family would need for a couple of nights in the bush is second nature. And then there are the rest of us. For my family, the furthest we have got to proper camping is spending a night in the backyard in our eight-man tent (which we’ve dubbed the Taj Mahal due to its excessive size). It took four adults to put it up and there was always the back-up plan of sneaking into the warmth of our double bed, should nature get the better of us.

So if your family, like mine, needs some camping coaching the team at Out & About with Kids has put together a guide to how to go about it – from choosing a campsite and equipment to packing for the trip.

Choosing a campsite Here in Australia you are spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a campsite. Choices are bountiful and campsites are often situated in the most picturesque locations within each town with views you’d pay hundreds of dollars for in a hotel. Once you’ve decided where you want to head to, choose a campsite with adequate facilities to suit your family’s needs, and book well in advance. You’d be surprised at how quickly campsites get booked out, especially during school holidays. Many families have a long-standing booking which has them reserving the same spot, during the same week, every year.

For your first time, choose a campsite with ample facilities, at the very least running water and an amenities block. Campsites close to the beach or with pools and kids playgrounds can also make life easier the first time around. Also check out if the campsite has a kids club, games room, tennis courts, giant jumping pillow and other activities for kids. First time campers will also appreciate barbecues, camp kitchens, laundry facilities and convenience stores – great for bread, milk and icecreams!

If you want a more authentic camping experience with only basic services check your local National Park website. The spots are usually more remote, quiet and surrounded by nature. Grounds can be less crowded, especially since most are not suitable for caravans and campervans.

© Shutterstock.com

When to go School holidays are an obvious time to head off on a camping break, but remember this is when campsite are likely to be packed out so book ahead. If you’re after a quieter trip, consider going out of school holiday times.

The climate is another make or break factor. Too hot and you’ll get no sleep, too cold and it will be no fun.

In warmer weather, head to areas with waterways like rivers, lakes or beaches and in winter stick to warmer destinations.

It’s always fun going with friends or family members as the kids usually love playing together in a group. There will also be more eyes supervising the kids and plenty of opportunity to catch up round the barbecue once the kids have gone to sleep!

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Australia’s Favorite Holiday Parks and Resorts

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1800 244 133 1800 817 016 1800 679 992 1800 621 101 1800 621 101 1800 451 855 1800 459 999 1800 653 611 1800 795 522 1800 808 999 1800 466 528

Victoria Albury/Wodonga - Boathaven Holiday Park Geelong - Geelong Riverview Tourist Park Mildura - Golden River Holiday Park Echuca/Moama - Yarraby Holiday Park Melbourne - Ashley Gardens BIG4 Holiday Village New South Wales Echuca/Moama - A Shady River Holiday Park Echuca/Moama - Maiden’s Inn Holiday Park Echuca/Moama - Magic Murray Houseboats Albury/Wodonga - Wymah Valley Holiday Park Eden - Twofold Bay Beach Resort Forster/Tuncurry - Wallamba River Holiday Park

1800 352 982 1800 336 225 1800 621 262 1800 222 052 1800 061 444 1800 674 239 1800 356 801 1800 356 483 1800 776 523 1800 631 006 1800 268 176

1800 833 444 1800 356 103

aspenparks.com.au

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Western Australia Fremantle - Woodman Point Holiday Park Fremantle - Coogee Beach Holiday Park Swan Valley - Perth Vineyards Holiday Park Exmouth - Exmouth Cape Holiday Park Exmouth - Blue Reef Backpackers Karratha - Pilbara Holiday Park Port Hedland - Cooke Point Holiday Park Monkey Mia - Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort Coral Bay - Ningaloo Reef Resort Kununurra - Kununurra Country Club Resort Queensland Airlie Beach - Island Gateway Holiday Park South Australia Port Augusta - Port Augusta BIG4 Holiday Park Roxby Downs - Myall Grove Holiday Park

CAMPING

Which tent?

When it comes to tents, there are basically two types – smaller hiking tents (which will fit on your back) and touring or family tents for longer, more comfortable stays. As a general rule, when a tent says it will sleep four, it will do just that. But there probably won’t be much more room for storage or wet gear. For a family of four, look to buying a five or six-man tent for a more comfortable, and saner stay.

First timers will want the more spacious family tents which kids and adults can easily walk around in (hence the Taj Mahal!). A tent with an annex or which separates into two or more rooms is ideal. Allocating one as the entrance to store gear and food plus using it like a foyer to take off muddy boots or wet swimmers will enable you to keep the second room clean, dry and cosy for sleeping. Look for a tent with built in floors in all rooms to keep out the wet and fly-mesh doors and windows to keep the bugs at bay.

Of course, if you’re just testing the camping waters it may pay rent or to borrow a friend’s gear for your first trip to see if camping really is for you. Be sure to get them to show you how to put it up and practice at least once before you go.

And remember it will be harder if it’s wet, dark or you have children trying to ‘help’.

Sleep tight It’s important to use a sleeping bag rated to the climate you’ll be camping in or you’ll end up cold. For good quality sleeping bags, speak to your local camping shop for advice, but beware of buying the cheap kids’ ones from big name stores, as they are more suited to sleepovers inside the house. Keep in mind that the nights are always cooler than the days. Buy warm sleeping bags and keep in mind that the ground is most likely not as soft as your bed at home.

You may want to buy or borrow a sleeping pad (or a sleeping bag with a built-in air mattress) but plan ahead and think about how you’re going to inflate the mattress.

Dress the part While it might be balmy in the daytime, the temperature is sure to drop once the sun goes down. Be prepared for both cold and hot weather so pack bed socks, trackie pants, beanies and thermals for chilly nights. In summer don’t forget the hats and beachwear. Two pairs of shoes are a good idea in case one pair gets wet, as is wet weather gear so the family can still move around outdoors if it rains. A pair of thongs is always handy to keep outside the tent for trips to the bathroom and showers. Remember this isn’t a fashion parade. Clothing should be casual and okay to get messy in.

Camp Cooking Cooking is one of the joys of camping – food just tastes better outside. But keep things simple!

When thinking about your menu don’t over-

complicate things by planning dishes with heaps of ingredients that need hours of preparation.

An easier idea is to pre-prepare your meals and simply heat them up on the night.

Also don’t underestimate the ease and tastiness of fresh meat and vegetables tossed in a little olive oil, seasoning and thrown directly onto the barbecue. Don’t overlook the easy things – baked beans, bacon and egg rolls, sandwiches; cereal for breakfast; a piece of fruit for morning tea. Plenty of water is a must plus hot chocolate, tea, and coffee to warm yourself up morning and night (and bottle of wine and a corkscrew for once the kids have gone to bed). And for the kids, pack those marshmallows.

While most family campsites will have barbecues, it’s also a good idea to take along a small two- burner gas stove; it’s easy to operate, large enough to accommodate family feasts but small enough to boil water for your cuppa in the morning. You’ll also need an Esky to keep food fresh (and beverages chilled...)

And after you’ve eaten, it’s important to leave everything as you would wish to find it.

Think about rubbish disposal and take a heap of garbage bags to keep the campsite clean and deter inquisitive and hungry visitors of the animal kind.

Enjoying the campfire. © Noam Armonn, Shutterstock.com

Camping to go

If you like the idea of sleeping under the stars, but don’t want to lug all the gear with you (or set it up!) then glamping is for you. Simply rock up and your tent awaits, with all the necessary gear too. This isn’t just for couples or those with serious money to spend, although there are plenty of uber-luxurious options out there should you want a parents’ getaway.

For families try the camping packages at Sydney’s Cockatoo Island (one tent sleeps four) or Lane Cover River Tourist Park.

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Kiama Coast Holiday Parks Book a minimum 2 nights and mention this ad and receive a 20% discount on site fees PLUS children under the age of 13 stay FREE, and will receive a Kiama Coast Holiday Parks Showbag upon arrival. This offer is valid until 20 September 2012, and not in conjunction with any other offer.

‘So much to enjoy...’

Surf Beach Holiday Park 1800 222 334 Kendall’s on the Beach Holiday Park 1800 111 224 Werri Beach Holiday Park 1800 655 819 Seven Mile Beach Holiday Park 1800 666 665

www.kiamacoast.com.au

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CAMPING

© Shutterstock.com

Packing checklist

Out & About Readers share their camping tips: • Ask friends and family about their favourite camping spots. Some parks offer kids’ activities during school holidays, with movies, daily bird feeding and wildlife watching included in the cost. Roberta Jolly, Gosford.

• Stock up at the local op shop on cutlery, plastic dishes, cups etc so that you have a plastic storage box always packed with all necessary kitchen and camping parts.

Heather Marshall, Glebe • Take plenty of bags like zip lock and recycled plastic bags. These are great for storing dirty or wet items or leftovers and can be thrown away when finished with.

Lindy Best, Newcastle • Pre-prepared frozen meals, such chilli con carne, bolognese sauce, curry or pesto are a great idea. Keep them in the Esky

and simply defrost them during the day.

Wraps are also great space-savers! Mark Henderson, North Fitzroy • For breakfast, porridge or Weetbix is easy; it packs up tight, small and it doesn’t matter if it breaks up. And it will also keep the kids satisfied till morning tea. Jodie Hunter, Yamba • If you’ve never been camping before, you might prefer to hire equipment from a camping store. This way you can try camping before buying a load of gear.

Don’t forget to ask the staff for advice.

Sarah Herd, Byron Bay • Get the kids involved in helping out with setting up the tent, cooking dinner, washing up – even the most dreaded tasks are a novelty to kids when they’re done away from home. Helen Reynolds, Rozelle

• Sleeping bags • Sleeping mats and pillows • Tent (with all its pegs and poles) • Water containers • Stove and fuel • Food • Matches • Plastic plates, bowls, mugs and cutlery • Pot with lid, frying pan, billy, tongs, knife, cutting board, stirring spoon, metal spatula • Serviettes, tea towel, wet wipes, garbage bags • First aid kit • Torch and batteries • Lantern (battery powered are safest) • Mosquito repellent • Sunscreen • Clothes, towels and essential toiletries • Bucket, sponge and detergent for washing up • Dustpan/brush for sweeping tent • Shovel • Hammer For fun: • Camera • Playing cards • Balls/ frisbee • Books and magazines • Notebook and pencil

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Kiama CALLING IT’S ACCESS ALL AREAS FOR 11-YEAR OLD JACOB AND HIS FAMILY AS THEY ROAD TESTED KIAMA AND BIG4’S EASTS BEACH HOLIDAY PARK. WORDS: SIHAM EL-HACHEM

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ACCESSIBLE TRAVEL

L

ike any 11-year-old boy, Jacob doesn’t like being stuck indoors. But Jacob isn’t like any other 11-year-old boys, he is wheelchair bound with physical and severe intellectual disabilities. Although he has physical restrictions and can’t talk in the conventional sense of the word, Jacob loves adventure and being in the wide outdoors. Watching him outdoors Jacob takes on a different persona. It’s like angels take him by the hand and guide him to world of discovery that only Mother Nature can provide. Not only is it therapeutic, it’s also humbling to watch.

So when our family was given an opportunity by Out & About With Kids and BIG4 to take Jacob, his big sister Rachel and younger brother David to road test a BIG4 holiday park, we jumped at the chance. And not just any old holiday park, we were going to BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park located on absolute beachfront just a few kilometres from the centre of Kiama. This holiday park boasts top of the range facilities including a pool, heated spa, children’s wading pool, playgrounds, internet kiosk, cafe and a minimart

Welcome break The mere mention of Kiama to Rachel and David and they are in heaven. It’s a beautiful town only an hour and a bit south of Sydney and one of our family’s favourite destinations and the one place that we know Jacob loves.

Though we went in March, this short break was our family’s belated Christmas getaway and really precious to us as in December 2011, Jacob underwent hip reconstruction on both hips plus knee surgery with recovery keeping him bed-ridden for six weeks. At a time where we would usually pack the family “Grismobile” (our pet name for the family car) and take the family for a driving holiday, we were house-bound while Jacob recovered.

Beach bliss Making this trip even more special was my sister, “Aunty Mona”, was able to join us for the first time since Jacob was two. Way back then we could all easily get away to a self-contained apartment or even a cabin in a caravan park. These days it’s more difficult and trying to find a place that’s been specifically designed for children and adults with physically disabilities is hard - particularly such an idyllic place in a location that is surrounded by a secluded bay and overlooking the beautiful and serene beach of Easts Beach - so this was a real treat!

We were extremely fortunate to stay in one of their wheelchair-accessible Seaview Villas set right across the beach less than a minute walk away from the beautiful sand.

Our unencumbered view from the veranda was amazing , and from the day we arrived, all Jacob wanted to do was just sit for hours mesmerized by ocean in front of us, clapping

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his hands and pointing towards the water to indicate when he wanted to go down to the beach - which we happily obliged. Tears in our eyes and joy in our hearts as this was the first time since Jacob was a “toddler” that we were able to carry him down straight into the water without the agonising battle of ensuring we don’t tread over crowds of people and also mindful of finding a space of sand where he could be himself. He was beside himself with joy, sitting on his low chair the water lapping over him, and digging his feet into the sand like any 11-year-old would. This became his afternoon ritual for the three days we stayed there, frolicking in the sand with his family.

Easy access The villa itself was one of the best planned and laid out accessible places we have ever stayed in. The interior of the villa was extremely well planned. The combined family/dining area was large enough to accommodate three adults and three children plus the wheelchair. The hallways leading through the kitchen, bedrooms and bathroom were wide enough for us to wheel Jacob in there and comfortably move him from the chair onto the bed. The bathroom was big and wide having deep shower seats and rails and allowing ease of movement between.

Out and about in Kiama No visit to Kiama is complete without a visit to the

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Located just a few kilometres from the centre of Kiama, BIG4’s Easts Beach Holiday Park is a five- acre park is nestled in the valley with mountain backdrops and absolute beach frontage. The resort has a wide range of accommodation options, from fully self-contained cabins and villas to ensuite, powered and unpowered campsites. The Seabreeze Villa is designed for wheelchair access. Families will love the top of the range facilities, including a 25-meter pool, heated spa, kids wading pool, tennis courts and playgrounds. www.eastsbeach.com.au

famous blowhole, and there is wheelchair access behind the Kiama Visitors Centre. While the Blowhole Point Rock Pool is accessed on foot, it is still a pleasure to watch nature in action at this dramatic natural attraction. It’s a good idea to pick up a copy of the Kiama Mobility Map from the local visitor centre, which gives a run-down of accessible places to go. It recommends routes such as the Kiama Seaside walk where you can pass old churches, buildings, the 1878 Post Office, monument and historical quarry miners’ cottages.

Assistance may be required at some points. Hindmarsh Park is an accessible park ideal for a picnic lunch.

Feast on this!

Lunch was good hearty food purchased from the cafe located on the grounds and we could enjoy home cooked dinners in the evenings with the kitchen being

ACCESSIBLE TRAVEL

Tips and tricks for planning an accessible roadtrip Any family travelling with a child with a disability deals with endless issues over accessibility, suitable activities, travel planning, and even the management of medications and issues specific to manage their child’s needs. Here are Out & About With Kids tips for making travelling a positive experience for the entire family.

PREPARING YOUR CHILD Children with special needs can be uncomfortable with changes to their daily routine – talk to your child and show them pictures of the places you will visit before the trip.

ROUTINE Ensure everyday routines like sleep times are kept close to those they would have at home.

very well stocked with all the essential utensils to cook up anything from a leisurely family breakfast to a family feast for dinner including a private barbecue where each morning the staff would ensure it was spotless. Our mornings were spent exploring the country towns around Kiama including Berry where we were able to indulge Jacob with his favourite desert... chocolate!

The whole experience was something we as a family would cherish, and loved so much we have now booked a week-long stay in January. The only way to adequately sum up this whole experience was from my frequent flyer sister Mona who said, “I’ve gone to a lot of places and this property is better than some of the best five or four star properties I have stayed in the world.” And boy, was she right.

A helping hand Out & About With Kids plans to share regular information on family friendly activities, accommodation and travel services recommended by you, our readers, for challenged families. We’re keen to hear about your positive experiences and recommendations of great places, services and activities for children with disabilities and their families.

We’d also love to hear from operators that offer user-friendly services for these families. To share your experiences and offerings, email editor@oawk.com.au

Previous page: BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park.

This page from left: Beachside fun Kiama Blowhole. © Destination NSW

Jacob and family with the “Grismobile”.

ACCOMMODATION Check with hotels before booking that they have rooms available on the ground floor or that are accessible by a working elevator that have ample space and that they have accessible facilities for the disabled and can offer any other assistance that may be required. Be warned, assessments of ‘wheelchair access’ are often prepared by the provider, and not rated against any independent criteria. Further checking is always required.

MEDICATION Endure you have enough medication (if required) for the duration of your trip and take prescriptions that can be filled at your destination in the event of an emergency.

EQUIPMENT Research the possibility of hiring mobility equipment at your destination as travelling with less equipment can make the journey more comfortable.

WHEN YOU’VE GOT TO GO The amazing National Public Toilet Map smart phone app shows the location of more than 14,000 public and private public toilet facilities across Australia including useful information such as location, opening hours, and accessibility for people with disabilities.

HELP IS AT HAND Looking for more ideas and assistance in planning your holiday the following websites are packed with information.

Association for Children with a Disability NSW (ACD NSW) www.acdnsw.org.au IDEAS www.ideas.org.au

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BAY

dreamers

A camel train on Stockton Beach. Š Phillip Minnis, Shutterstock.com

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PORT STEPHENS

IT WAS A CASE OF TRIPLE THE FUN FOR THREE GENERATIONS OF THRILLSEEKERS ON A WINTER WEEKEND BREAK IN THE BEAUTIFUL BAYSIDE RETREAT OF PORT STEPHENS. WORDS: GERALDINE CARDOZO

M

y mother-in-law is game for anything.

She loves dancing late into the night and has the most infectious laugh. Plus she’s “Mama” to her adoring grandsons, Xavier, 6, and Jude, 4. So when the chance came to take her along on a winter weekend break to Port Stephens (with my husband pulling out last minute to study for an exam) she, of course, jumped at the chance.

“I’ve planned lots of activities, like sandboarding and horseriding,” I warn Edna on the one-and-a-half hour drive from the NSW Central Coast. “Okay!” she smiles. “If you all do it, I’ll do it!”

Bayside bliss Our destination is Shoal Bay in Port Stephens’ sweeping natural harbour where we check into our enormous two-bedroom apartment at Shoal Bay Resort & Spa. As the boys get lost in the vast apartment playing hide and seek, Edna and I enjoy a cuppa on the balcony with fantastic views across the bay to Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens. “Mummy can you see any dolphins?” asks Jude from under the outdoor table. I explain that we will definitely see plenty of marine life on tomorrow’s dolphin-watching cruise (we are in the dolphin capital of Australia after all) but that now it’s time to head off for another adventure.

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PORT STEPHENS

All aboard There are four modes of transport if you want to ride the Sahara-like sand dunes of Worimi Conservation Lands which stretch for 32-kilometres to Newcastle.

Horse, camel, four-wheel-drive and sand-board. We choose the last two and as we bump over the moonlike terrain of Stockton Beach in our bright-red bus, our guide from Port Stephens 4WD Tours runs us through the basics. Before Edna and I have chosen our boards I spot the boys on the sandy ridge, tiny specks on the horizon. Xavier squeals with delight as he hurtles down the slope, while Jude takes more coaxing and has to wait for me to lumber up the hill before we fly down in tandem. And despite Edna’s protests (and an attack of vertigo halfway up), my fearless motherin-law receives a huge cheer from her grandsons when she flies down the bank – thanks to a little helping hand from yours truly. While the boys are up and down like yo-yos, Edna settles for the one attempt and I stop to take in the stunning views from the top.

After a thorough de-sanding back at the apartment, we head out refreshed for dinner at the Game Fishing Club in Shoal Bay for good, no-fuss grub. Be warned - the kids’ meals are enormous (even for my calamari and schnitzel-loving gannets).

Ten of the best for families…

1. Sail and splash with a Moonshadow Cruise boom net ride and slide 2. Take a toboggan ride at Toboggan Hill Park 3. Ride a camel along the beach with Oakfield Ranch 4. Hand-feed sharks at the Australian Shark and Ray Centre 5. Go quad biking on the dunes with Quad Bike King 6. Saddle up for a bush and beach horse trek with Sahara Trails 7. Go sand-boarding on the dunes at Stockton Beach 8. Learn to surf with Anna Bay Surf School 9. Swim with wild dolphins with Dolphin Swim Australia 10. Feed the animals at Oakvale Farm & Fauna World in Salt Ash

From left: Enjoy horse riding on the beach. © Shutterstock.com

Sand-boarding on the dunes. © Port Stephens Tourism.

Bottlenose dolphins. © Shutterstock.com

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Having a splash Home to over 70 bottlenose dolphins, Port Stephens is the place to spot these delightful creatures. And having watched Flipper and A Dolphin Tale repeatedly, my boys are superexcited about seeing a real-life dolphin. We’re heading out from nearby Nelson Bay for a Moonshadow cruise. Less than 10 minutes in, we spot a pod from the bow. The boys head to the upper deck to spot more, when the captain announces he’s sighted a hammerhead shark on port side. Cue a mad dash to spot this fearsome beast (which eludes us this time).

Young sailors are invited to visit the captain on the bridge, so Xavier gets a turn of steering the boat and is totally chuffed when the captain presents him with a certificate and tells him he is now qualified to sail any ship in Australia. On the way back down, the boys are captivated by inquisitive fish peering into the underwater camera which is shown on a TV screen in the dining room. We spot several more pods of dolphins before the boom net is lowered, for anyone game enough to get in the water. And that would be me. Despite my gritted-teeth enthusiasm, I can’t convince the boys or even Edna to slide down the twisty slide and into the safety of the boat’s huge net (well it is late May and freezing). But on a sweltering day it’s easy to see why there would be queues for this activity. I warm up with a buffet lunch, served on-board once the boat docks back in Nelson Bay. With a variety of dishes, from beef noodles and seafood pasta to hot chips and a mouth-watering salad there is plenty to please all palettes.

Horsing around From water to land-based activities, we head to Sahara Trails Horseriding and Farm Stays in Anna Bay. This fantastic family-run business has been operating for two generations, running beach and bush treks for all levels from novice to experienced riders. We’ve opted for the one-hour Aussie Bush Trail. Apparently in the summer you can see koalas. An even though it is nearly June we all still stare hopefully into the bush, keen for a sighting of these furry fellows. Despite his silent anticipation, Jude is excited about getting on a horse – he has been asking about lessons for months now. But I’m a little nervous about Edna saddling up, given the vertigo incident on the sand dunes. My boys look dwarfed on these lofty beasts, their little legs dangling at the side, and a slip of a thing Edna looks precariously balanced on top of her mount.

But as we gently clop through the bush on our trusty steeds Edna reveals this is something she’s always wanted to do! Like the boys, she’s a bundle of giggles and squeals and before we know it our hour’s up and we all make a pact to go riding again when we get home.

Back at the resort the boys enjoy a splash in the heated outdoor pool (complete with man-made sandy beach) under the watchful eye of Mama while I sneak off for some grownup time in the Aqua Spa. Dinner is takeaway pizza from the resort’s Mermaids Bar and Grill and a DVD from reception.

Who says you can watch Flipper too many times?

Love at first flight Early the next day (too early even for a takeaway coffee) the boys are keen for another marine mammal sighting, so I take them for a stroll to nearby Zenith Beach – an idyllic but non-

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PORT STEPHENS

Winter is a great time to head to Port Stephens. From May to November it’s whale watching season. Take a cruise to spot humpback and southern right whales as they swim past the bay on their annual migration north along the Australian east coast to the warmer waters of the Pacific Ocean.

patrolled beach framed between two dramatic headlands. As I drift off explaining to the boys that this is where mummy and daddy fell in love they run away, clearly distracted by something far more interesting. “Dolphins!” shouts Jude. And there they are, frolicking metres away from the shore. It truly is a magic beach.

After our substantial morning feed (along with dolphins the buffet breakfast also tops the kids’ holiday highlights) we’re all sad our weekend holiday is coming to an end. So we extend the fun and stop at Fighter World, next to the RAAF base in Williamtown on the way home. Real life fighter planes, two young boys... need I say more? Inside this humungous hangar the kids clamber in an aircraft cockpit, marvel at models and are amazed by missiles. As for Edna and myself, we’re glad there’s a coffee machine to remedy that very early wake-up call and gear us up for the trip back. It’s been heaps of fun, and as we head for home we’re already planning our next mother/daughter-in-law adventure.

FAST FACTS WHEN TO GO Year round, with whale watching season running from late May to November.

GETTING THERE Port Stephens is an easy twoand-a-half hour drive North from Sydney.

From left:

MORE INFORMATION www.portstephens.org.au

See the humpback whales on their annual migration.

Fighter World, Williamtown.

© Jan Kratochvila, Shutterstock.com

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Capital COOL

W I N T shutterstock.com ER 2012 52 Š travellight,

www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

CANBERRA

WARM UP WITH A WINTER WEEKEND GETAWAY IN THE NATION’S CAPITAL. GERALDINE CARDOZO TAKES TIME OUT TO CONNECT WITH THE FAMILY WHILE ENJOYING FUN ACTIVITIES IN CANBERRA. WORDS: GERALDINE CARDOZO

W

“

e’re off on holiday!” I announce. “But it’s winter... and cold!” comes the reply. “Exactly,” I explain.

“And Canberra is perfect at this time of year.”

Holidays don’t always have to mean stripping down to swimmers and playing by the pool all day, as my two young boys come to realise quickly as we nip off to the nation’s capital for a well-earned winter getaway.

Indoor appeal Having visited Canberra on a flying visit once before, my science-loving boys aged four and six can’t wait to head back to Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre. There’s in fact so much to do here, it’s hard to squeeze it all into one visit so we’re keen to pick up where we left off. We head straight to the new Excite@Q gallery.

Here you can freefall six metres and look into something called a Disgustoscope, which is a tunnel of mirrors where you can see your hair and face magnified (big laughs all round from the kids). My grub-loving little one is fascinated by the ‘earthworms’ on the back wall – you put a coloured piece of cloth in a hole and see it getting sucked along, and pooed out!

Another fascinating place to escape the chill is the Canberra Glassworks. Warm up while watching glassblowing and make your own glass bead or tile. It’s fascinating to watch this intricate process, and afterwards we grab a delicious burger for lunch at the Brodburger cafe. Yummo.

One place we didn’t get round to visiting last time was the Australian Institute of Sport. And given my sixyear-old’s enthusiasm for all things athletic (his school recently held a mini-Olympics) in the afternoon we head to see the Science of Success exhibition, open throughout winter, to learn what it takes to be an Olympic champion.

At the interactive Sportex exhibit we also get to find out the secret technology developed by the sport science boffins at the AIS and test our sporting skills, all the while hoping we might spot an athelete or two in training for the London Olympics!

Viewing gallery In my opinion, you can’t go to Canberra and not visit the city’s amazing art galleries and museums. While mum and dad can get their cultural fix there is always something interesting for the kids too, especially during school holidays where special activities will be laid on. So the next day we’re off to UnDisclosed: The Second National Indigenous Art Triennial (until July 22) at the National Gallery of Australia.

My kids are mesmerised by the colours, patterns and stories behind the contemporary artworks of 20 leading Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.

After lunch we cross to the nearby National Museum of Australia. Travelling the Silk Road: Ancient Pathway to the

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Modern World is an exploration of 1000 years of the greatest trading route in history. Direct from the American Museum of Natural History in New York, the exhibition features remarkable artefacts, dioramas and interactive exhibits.

I sneek off for a peek while the kids head to KSpace with Daddy where they get to imagine what Australian cities will look like in the future.

There’s still time (after a warming hot chocolate break) to discover the allure of the Antarctic at the National Archives of Australia’s Traversing the Antarctica: The Australian Experience exhibition - a rare collection of original equipment and diaries from early expeditions plus interactive displays and images. My sons’ obsession with icebergs, ice breakers and, of course, penguins (thanks to Mr Popper’s Penguins and the Happy Feet movies) ensures this is the perfect end to a thoroughly engaging day.

Hands-on action Day three, and we’re going to try and pack in as much as we can before our late-night drive home. We rug up warm and our first stop is the fabulous Australian War Memorial. The kids can’t wait to hop in the cockpit of the Vietnam War era helicopter again, so we happily oblige before driving out of the city and on to the

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National Zoo & Aquarium. We’re booked in for a Family Tour in the afternoon, so head to the zoo early for a relaxed walk around and some afternoon tea. On the tour, we go behind the scenes and get to see the animals up close. I fall in love with the playful otters while the boys are enchanted by the graceful giraffes, though they can’t be convinced to hold a snake!

This has been a non-stop action packed few days that has us filled with ideas and excitement – without a beach in sight!

Proof that you can enjoy a winter break with kids in tow.

For more information on tickets, events, activities and accommodation www.visitcanberra.com.au.

Capital cool for kids Buy an accommodation deal online between noon and 1pm any Thursday this June and you will receive a bonus $150 voucher for the Canberra Centre, National Zoo & Aquarium, Canberra Glassworks or combined 3inFun plus Skate in the City experience.

Head to visitcanberra.com.au/ winter to grab your Happy Hour deal!

Terms and conditions apply.

Super cool winter activities for kids Skate in the City - Enjoy frosty fun in Canberra’s city centre this July when Garema Place transforms into a winter wonderland with a magical open air ice skating rink. It’s also open late on Friday and Saturday nights. www.inthecitycanberra.com.au Fireside Festival - Throughout August this winter warming event provides a feast of indulgent activities for the family at multiple venues. www.firesidefestival.com.au AfterDark Firefly tour - Warm up with a hot chocolate then make a lantern to guide you on your AfterDark Firefly Tour of the Australian National Botanic Gardens on the first Saturday of each month during winter. Bookings at www.anbg.gov.au.

Tidbinbilla Sanctuary - Spot native animals or join a ranger guided tour to see Indigenous rock art. Play at the Nature Adventure Playground or kick a footy in the open space. Afterwards toast a marshmallow on an open fire. Also check out the exciting new network of trails has recently opened. All just 45 minutes from the city centre. www.tidbinbilla.com.au

From left: Skating in the City. © CBD Canberra Ltd

Children in Discovery. © Australian War Memorial

Questacon tornado. © Australian Capital Tourism

Triple the fun Grab a 3inFun pass for a 10 per cent discount on entry to Cockington Green Gardens, the Australian Institute of Sport and Questacon The National Science and Technology Centre. 3inFun also gives you a free return visit to your favourite attraction. 3infun.com.au

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Phillip Island coast.

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Š Jordan Tan,Shutterstock.com

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PHILLIP ISLAND

MAKING MEMORIES ON

Phillip Island

FLIPPERS, FUR, FEATHERS, FABULOUS FOOD, FAST CARS AND FUN. PHILLIP ISLAND IS A DREAM FAMILY HOLIDAY DESTINATION THAT PACKS PLENTY IN A SMALL PACKAGE. WORDS: ELISA ELWIN

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his windswept island glitters and postures, confident in its value. An easy 90-minute drive from central Melbourne, this is a must visit with your kids. There is so much or nothing to do to keep every member of the family happy. Relax and enjoy, get into the coastal groove. Visit for a day or stay a week . You will fall in love just as I did and want this to be a regular place to make your happiest holiday memories.

Animal attraction Philip Island has enough wildlife to keep every wildlife enthusiast and budding zoologist happy from koalas, seals and pelicans to an amazing array of sea and birdlife. For a more domesticated offering there are of course farm animals everywhere.

Everyone who comes here should make time for the iconic Penguin Parade. Sitting rugged up against the cool evening ocean breezes, the excitement pre penguin arrival is palpable. Loved by all visitors, these comically adorable little birds run, trot, waddle and preen their way up to their island nests after a long day of filling

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up on fish. Some of these darlings are so rotund from their day of bounty they can barely make a few short steps before stopping for a rest. In their thousands they make their way from the sea, thrilling everyone waiting. Families with their pajamaclad kids, locals and groups of tourists all react the same way.

First in hushed awe as the first penguins arrive, then as the parade continues for hours, settling in to enjoy and appreciate the spectacle. A real natural wonder. Checking under our cars for any strays there are huge smiles as we all depart, having witnessed one of nature’s wonders.

A family resort for all

Three Parks Pass The best way to make the most of this island is to buy the Three Parks Pass. Your family will experience the penguin parade, koala conservation centre, Churchill Island Heritage Farm and Nobbies Centre with one great value Pass. Phillip Island Nature Parks run all three attractions (not for profit) with a commitment to protecting the island’s wild inhabitants. www.penguins.org.au

You can choose any style accommodation to suit your needs and budget from beachfront apartments and hotels to houses to rent. We loved our choice - the All Seasons Phillip Island Resort which offers fantastic family accommodation in the middle of the island. Two bedrooms and plenty of living space with a washer and dryer make life very simple for families. Add to that the family-friendly facilities including eateries, outdoor swimming and toddler’s pool, gym, spa, sauna, games room, playground, tennis, barbecues and kilometres of walking tracks, its easy to see why this is the family-friendly property of choice.

Our villa even came with its resident currawong, trilling us awake in the morning and boldly popping up on to the table to see if any of our meal tidbits were easy access.

Bubbles and flippers If penguins are the cute comedians of this island, the seals are the interactive acrobats. Phillip Island boasts Australia’s largest breeding colony of Australian fur seals. Around 12,000 of these

penguins.org.au

Free Soup with every 3 Parks Pass at

Phillip Island’s RSL Valid 25 Jun – 21 Sep 2012 3 Parks Pass includes:

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• Penguin Parade • Koala Conservation Centre • Churchill Island Heritage Farm • The Nobbies Centre for free!

Present your 3 Parks Pass ticket at the RSL’s Lone Pine Bistro for lunch between 12pm and 2pm or for dinner between 5.30pm and 8.30pm, and receive a FREE hearty homemade soup!

To find out more visit

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NATURAL WARMERS

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PHILLIP ISLAND

curious graceful creatures call the eponymous Seal Rocks their home.

From wonderful Nobbies you can see and hear and smell this protected breeding in colony. However, being out on the shimmering water is the place to be. The excitement grows as we reach our prime destination.

In their thousands adult seals and their pups interact noisily on land or dip and dive in the sea, popping up their adorable and curious faces.

Shrieks of delight from the children on board as these characters of the sea look at us each in turn before bubbling and splashing away to more important business. Bring a sweater and a camera to see the Seals up close and personal.

Keep it interactive For a rainy day or a change of pace, there are plenty of fantastic interactive attractions to keep you all amused, from Churchill Island Farm, paintball to go-karting, laser zone, golf, fishing, museums and farms. Your greatest difficulty will be deciding which one to choose. I recommend Phillip Island Chocolate Factory -a must-do for chocolate lovers of every age. Activities include informative games, experiments and sideshows, even the world’s largest chocolate waterfall. The delightful Panny is usually somewhere proudly on his premises. Save room for a heavenly hot chocolate or even one of Panny’s fantastic curries when you are there.

Also take time to visit A Maze’N Things with your kids. This cute and funky gallery, putt putt golf, optical illusions, mazes, and gift shop with a cool selection of fun and fantasy will keep everyone happy for hours.

Magic moments You know the seemingly predestined times when everything falls into place? I had one of those on Phillip Island. Perfect weather, sparkling calm waters, blissful rolling grassy inland hills and endless parades of the most sensational wildlife. Top that with great accommodation, perfect meals, easy driving, friendly locals, happy smiling families and the most wonderful companionship. Lucky me! I wish you one of these holidays of connection and perfect bliss. The memories will last a lifetime. Go and discover it for yourself ….And say hi from me.

From left: Koala with her baby. © worldswildlifewonders, Shutterstock.com

Spotting Seals at Seal Rocks.

Penguins on parade. © Phillip Island Nature Parks, www.penguins.org.au

FAST FACTS GETTING THERE Phillip Island is an easy 90-minute drive from Melbourne.

WHERE TO STAY All Seasons Phillip Island Resort www.theislandresort.com.au WHAT TO DO Churchill Island Heritage Farm Koala Conservation Centre Penguin Parade Nobbies Centre www.penguins.org.au Wildlife Coast Cruises at Seal Rocks www.wildlifecoastcruises.com.au Panny’s Amazing World of Chocolate www.phillipislandchocolate factory.com.au A Maze’N Things www.amazenthings.com.au MORE INFORMATION Phillip Island Tourism Association www.visitphillipisland.com.au

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BRAVE NEW

WORLDS

GOLD COAST

At the movies

WE’VE HUNTED OUT ALL THE NEWEST EXPERIENCES TO QUENCH YOUR FAMILY’S THIRST FOR THRILLS, SPILLS AND CHILLS AT THE GOLD COAST’S WORLD-CLASS THEME PARKS. WORDS: ALENEY DE WINTER

Meet your favourite stars and enjoy all the behind-the-scenes action, stunts and exhilarating rides at Warner Bros Movie World. There’s plenty to keep littlies happy with Kids WB! Fun Zone and Main Street while thrill-seekers can head straight for the big guns.

New additions to the glitz, glamour and action-packed drama of Movie World include the multi-million dollar Hollywood Stunt Driver live action stunt show and a shining new light in the form of the just-opened Green Lantern Coaster. This brand new rollercoaster experience will see adrenalin junkies take on the steepest inverted drop in the Southern Hemisphere with speeds of up to 66 kilometres per hour, a wild inverted spin and a 3.5G pull on hairpin bends.

The all new Arkham Asylum will unleash a terrifying new experience this Gotham City-inspired screamer. Following some terrifying modifications to the 17-year-old Lethal Weapon coaster, the Arkham Asylum ride sees thrill-seekers reaching speeds of up to 85 kilometres per hour and pulling 4.2Gs. It’s also worth checking out old favourites like the Superman Escape rollercoaster (that travels 0 to 100 kilometres per hour in just two seconds) that offers 760 metres of weightless drops, mind-bending twists and G-force turns, and the awesome Batwing Spaceshot – a superhero fast vertical launch up a 60-metre tower followed by a stomach dropping descent.

SEA WORLD © 2007 & TM Sea World Property Trust.

Dream, dream, dream…

Dreamworld is where you’ll find the Gold Coast’s ‘Big Six’ thrill rides including the Tower of Terror 2 - one of the world’s tallest and fastest thrill rides, the Giant Drop with a freefall from 38 storeys and The Claw. It’s also the home to a multitude of new experiences for theme park lovers.

An Aussie theme park first, Buzzsaw will leave even the most hardened thrill-seeker white-knuckled with fear. At its 15-storey high peak you’ll be left to dangle upside-down before free-falling through a 360-degree heart roll and a final vertical drop at speeds of up to 105 kilometres per hour. There’s also the brand new Shockwave adventure ride with its wave-like track that plunges and climbs while circling at 12 revolutions per minute.

A little easier on the stomach but equally worth a visit are the park’s brand new purpose-built interactive animal enclosure that allows visitors to observe animals exhibiting their natural behaviours and a new cinema experience featuring a high tech digital projection system showing movies in RealD, 3D and 2D on a massive 21 metre wide screen. And, in an alliance with global entertainment brand Dreamworks, much-loved characters including Shrek, Puss in Boots, Kung Fu Panda and many others will welcome younger guests into their worlds, with the opening of the new Dreamworks Animation Lands precinct.

All at Sea World Sea World Resort & Water Park is also forming an entertainment alliance with Nickelodeon with its fun new Spongebob Squarepants and Dora the Explorer Aquatic Adventure Zone.

Sure to thrill little visitors, three bright and colourful waterplay areas complete with a spectacular dancing water display and giant spray bucket will be themed around Spongebob characters as well as other popular Nick Jr characters including much-loved pre-school idol, Dora the Explorer. In keeping with

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Sea World Resort

A M I T T E L U r k a P e m e h T

H oli d a y

Family packages that include theme park entry start at just $179* per room per night.

FREE Dolphin Discovery presentation at Sea World when you stay two nights or longer.

Visit seaworldresort.com.au or call 1800 074 448 *Conditions apply.

1205723 SEA WORLD © 2012 & TM Sea World Property Trust. NICKELODEON & SPONGEBOB © 2012 Viacom International Inc. All rights reserved. Nickelodeon and all related titles, logos and characters are W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 62 trademarks of Viacom International Inc. SpongeBob SquarePants created by Stephen Hillenburg. WARNER BROS. MOVIE WORLD and logo and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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the theme, the award-winning Sea World Resort & Water Park (Out & About With Kids readers choice for best Australian resort) has also unveiled its newly upgraded Kids’ Club with Spongebob Squarepants and Dora the Explorer activities and programs for the kids, plus the latest XBox 360 games, live appearances by everyone’s favourite characters and a kids movie theatre regularly screening children’s movies.

Also relatively new to the park is the spectacular Penguin Antarctic Adventure programme where visitors can chill out on to the ice with the penguins. And in an Australian first, guests staying two nights or more at the Sea World Resort can have an exclusive Dolphin Discovery presentation set in the spectacular Dolphin Cove Theatre. The unique presentation provides guests with a sneak peek of Sea World’s dolphins, before the park opens. Guests can watch a dolphin training session while a dolphin trainer educates them on these lovely creatures.

If these new experiences seem a bit on the mild side for older kids, thrill-seekers can still get their kicks from high adrenalin rides and rollercoasters and, for something really different, book ahead for a face-to-face encounter swimming with dolphins or diving with sharks. But, if you are more inclined to sit back and watch than get directly involved in the high octane action, another new addition is Sea World’s awesome Jet Stunt Extreme live show featuring some of the world’s best jet-ski stunt performers doing their thing in a high energy live show on Sea World’s lake.

Get wet Wet’n’Wild theme park offers loads of fast-flowing thrill rides as well as plenty of splashtastic fun to keep younger visitors amused, including the Buccaneer Bay aquatic adventure playground and colourful Calypso Beach.

Bigger and bolder visitors can conquer AquaLoop, one of the park’s newer attractions with four full looping, gut-wrenching and gravity-defying slides. And definitely not for the fainthearted, the new Skycoaster ride is sure to get hearts pumping as it catapults riders on a suspended cable more than 53 metres off the ground at speeds of up to 100 kilometres per hour. Other rides with names like Kamikaze, Terror Canyon, River Rapids, Twister, Mammoth Falls and the Tornado will ensure visitors adrenaline levels are topped up all day.

After dark When it comes to adding a little wow factor to your Gold Coast after-dark experience, why not include some nighttime animal encounters with your dinner. The Australian Outback Spectacular has just unveiled its brand new high energy show, Spirit of the Horse, paying tribute to the legendary Phar Lap. Here you can enjoy a gourmet Aussie feast and a celebration of the Aussie outback through a mix of theatre, music and interactive displays at the Australian Outback Spectacular, located within the city’s theme park corridor.

Similarly, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary’s Wildnight Tours offer a great evening experience, combining a tasty barbecue buffet with a guided tour of the sanctuary to introduce the nocturnal world of Australian wildlife.

From top left: Terror Canyon, Wet ‘n’ Wild Water World © Tourism Queensland Tower of Terror, Dreamworld. © Tourism Queensland

Hondas vs Horses at Australian Outback Spectacular. © 2007 Warner Village Theme Parks.

FAST FACTS WHEN TO TRAVEL All year round GETTING THERE Most major domestic airlines have regular flights to either Brisbane to the North or Coolangatta at the southern end of the Gold Coast.

Australian Outback Spectacular Sea World Resort & Water Park Warner Bros Movie World Wet’n’Wild www.myfun.com.au Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary www.currumbin-sanctuary.org.au Dreamworld www.dreamworld.com.au MORE INFORMATION Gold Coast Tourism www.visitgoldcoast.com.au

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Boardwalk at Caloundra.

W I Lugge, N T EShutterstock R 2012 64ŠJanelle

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SUNSHINE COAST

Secrets Sunshine

SUNSHINE COAST MUM SARAH PYE SHARES HER FAVOURITE LOCAL PLACES TO HEAD WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

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ust north of Brisbane, Queensland’s Sunshine Coast is known as a family holiday Mecca. I have to say I agree, since I’m lucky enough to call this region home. It’s the place I have raised my daughter, and the destination to which I welcome visitors. It’s amazing how many materialise when you live in paradise. Since local tips can only enhance your holiday, let me show you around...

SKIPPERS COVE NOOSA STYLE

N

urture yourself in Noosa and relax in this peaceful family haven right at the water’s edge. Choose from two- and three-bedroom Waterfront apartments with decks and balconies, all with superb Noosa River views, or two bedroom Poolside apartments with courtyards and access to waterfront facilities.

It’s a superb holiday setting for families of all ages, with kayaks, boat hire and mooring, a beach, tennis, heated pools, wireless broadband and tour options. It’s also close to Noosa’s cafe strips and public transport.

8-16 Munna Crescent, Noosa Sound, Qld P: 07 5449 8946 E: info@skipperscove.com.au W: www.skipperscove.com.au

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Caloundra On the southern end of the Sunshine Coast (closest to Brisbane), Caloundra is one of the most family-friendly places you are likely to find. The beaches are protected by Bribie Island and activities abound.

Aussie World on the Bruce Highway is a small cousin to the theme parks on the Gold Coast. A range of rides cover all ages, but tweens and teens will get the most from the experience. For younger transport lovers, the Queensland Air Museum in Caloundra gets them up close to the kind of aircraft they may only have seen in model miniature.

By far our favourite hidden treasure (literally) is Opals Down Under’s Scratch Patch. Just a short skip from the famous Ettamogah Pub, this has been my daughter’s favourite since she was three. Hidden in a huge gravel pit, a rainbow of polish stones await. Buy a plastic cup and start filling, taking your favourites home. This activity entertains little ones for hours, for very little outlay. Don’t forget to ask for a printed stone legend and if you are lucky enough to find the hidden ‘golden nugget’ you receive an extra prize.

Freebies abound in Caloundra. The pristine Pumicestone Passage – a narrow waterway between Bribie Island and the mainland - offers calm water beaches perfect for little ones and its shores are lined with cycle tracks and dotted with playgrounds. Just north of the Bribie tip, rolling surf attracts teens. For a range of ages, don’t drive past Kings Beach. With a free saltwater pool perched over the ocean, surf a few metres away and a water fountain play area, every member of your family is catered for. This is one of our favourite destinations on a hot summer’s day.

Just around the corner, Dicky Beach was named after an iron steam ship which ran aground here during heavy seas. If your primary-age kid is anything like mine, wandering through the rusty ribs will spark their imagination. Sending them on a quest to find the propeller tops off a great scavenger hunt! (It’s mounted in a nearby park).

Sunshine Coast Hinterland On the western side of the Bruce Highway, the Blackall Range awaits.

We recommend driving a loop down the Steve Irwin Way, up to Maleny, across the range to Mapleton and back via Yandina. This route takes in a wide range of attractions and you can pick and choose which suit your family.

First comes the Big Kart Track where rev-head teens can let off steam with a few hair-raising laps. Next comes Australia Zoo, home of the Irwin family and their menagerie of creatures. Australia Zoo is suitable for all ages, and well worth a day in its own right. The grounds are stroller-friendly and it’s worth timing your visit around the wildlife shows (particularly croc feeding). From here, double back towards Landsborough and travel the windy bends to Maleny.

Our visitors rave about picnics at Mary Cairncross Park. On a good day, the view over the Glasshouse Mountains is extraordinary. On a rainy day, the well-signed walk through the rainforest boasts extra sparkle. See if you can spot a paddymelon on the walk!

Preschoolers especially will love a tour of the Maleny Dairy. On an inexpensive one-and-a-half-hour tour here you pet baby animals, see where the cows and goats are milked, visit the bottling plant and taste the award-winning milk. Times vary, and bookings are an advantage so call ahead.

The end of this loop takes you further north to Yandina. At the Ginger Factory, toddlers will love riding the steam train and floating by boat around an amazing puppet world. Older kids might prefer a factory tour where they see, firsthand, the ‘robo-sorter’ and huge ginger vats.

SUNSHINE COAST

Whatever you do, don’t miss Buderim Bliss ice cream. Many locals travel here just for this!

From left:

The heart of the Sunshine Coast

Wandering through the rusty ribs of the SS Dicky on Dicky Beach.

The central Sunshine Coast, closest to the airport, boasts Mooloolaba, Cotton Tree, Maroochydore and Buderim. UnderWater World is our favourite paid attraction here: Not least because it’s great in inclement weather. It’s also large enough to spend the better part of a day wandering through the shark tunnel, yet small enough to let teens wander safely.

Locals, like us, tend to opt for low cost activities. These are the gems you won’t find in most brochures, but they are equally as much fun. Rent a fishing rod at Swan Boat Hire and wander across the bridge to Chambers Island to cast your lines. Kids will love climbing the expansive cotton trees while preschoolers head for the island’s playground.

For a more energetic adventure, tweens and teens might love the challenge of climbing Mount Coolum. The walk starts near the Hyatt Coolum and winds its way to wind-blown views of the entire Sunshine Coast. Allow about an hour each way with kids and remember to take plenty of water.

Perhaps because it’s right around the corner from our house, we are partial to Buderim Forest Park. From the lush picnic area at the bottom of Lindsay Road, a boardwalk leads just over a kilometre following the bubbling stream past huge fig trees. This first part is stroller friendly. The track gets a little trickier from there, but is worth the effort because a beautiful waterfall awaits.

Noosa Walking through the Noosa National Park is a thrill for all ages. The information centre blackboard will inform you of recent koala sightings. For a more languid afternoon, why not buy a flexible day pass on the Noosa Ferry?

This allows you to get on and off at any of the six stops to visit Noosa Beach, Hastings Street, explore the Sunday markets or simply enjoy the river.

Further upstream, the Noosa Everglades are extraordinarily beautiful and a wonderful canvas for a bonding experience with your teens. We recommend a canoe trip with Kanu Kapers which takes you to the upper reaches of the river system, viewing wildlife and even, if you are lucky, hoisting the sails and sailing home.

No matter the age of your children, the Sunshine Coast offers so much variety that the only difficulty will be leaving... and trying to cull your photos when you get home!

Splashing about in Buderim Forest Park.

FAST FACTS GETTING THERE The Sunshine Coast airport is located in the heart of the Sunshine Coast, just north of Maroochydore. Virgin Australia and Jetstar have daily flights available flying from both Sydney and Melbourne.

GETTING AROUND To make the most of all that the Sunshine Coast has to offer you’ll probably need a car. Most major car rental companies are represented at the airport.

MORE INFORMATION www.visitsunshinecoast.com.au

Sarah Pye is the author of Kids Welcome to Queensland guidebook and the creator of the Kids Welcome web directory (www.kidswelcome.com.au), blog and app. She travels extensively around Australia with her daughter, and chief expert, Amber in a camper trailer called Blueberry Pie.

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Four Mile Beach.

WINTER 2012 68 Š Tourism Queensland

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TROPICAL NORTH QUEENSLAND

wild WHERE THE

THINGS ARE

CARLA GROSSETTI TAKES HER KIDS ON A JAUNT DOWN MEMORY LANE WHILE VISITING TROPICAL NORTH QUEENSLAND.

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n Darwin, thrill-seekers can swim with crocodiles in an attraction known as The Cage of Death. But in Cairns, the locals might just be a bit more hardcore.

There is certainly no acrylic cage surrounding us for safety as we come to a standstill near a sign screaming saying “Danger: Crocodile Warning” on the vast expanse of sand at Cooya Beach, north of Port Douglas.

As a former North Queenslander, I know that it is a prerequisite for local tour guides to possess comedic talent. And, right on cue, the very laidback Linc Walker delivers. “Oh, don’t worry about that sign … the crocodiles aren’t hungry this morning,” says Linc.

“Why not?” asks my seven-year-old Marley, his eyes widening. “Because they ate a couple of backpackers for breakfast,” he says, before lurching into a lugubrious grin.

Survival instincts This is really Where the Wild Things Are, and, just quietly, I think my two boys wish they had a wolf suit handy. Luckily, Linc puts us all at ease when he explains that it’s low tide and hot and crocodiles are very lazy during the day. Who better placed to know this terrain than the Kubirri Warra brothers, Linc and Brandon Walker, who co-own the Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tours. The Walkers are descendants of the Kuku Yalanji people, who have lived on this stretch of coastline for thousands of years.

“Do you think Bear Grylls could survive here?” asks my nine-year-old son Finley, of the celebrity outdoor survival expert. “Oh, he’d be right, mate. There’s a shop around the corner,” says Linc.

Today, the brothers teach us to throw a spear, hunt while stalking and observe wildlife and Country. We also watch in reverential silence as Linc using his lightning fast reflexes to throw a spear at a fish that is to be his supper.

With the silken silt from the mudflats on our feet, we plod along the fringes of the shore where we sample a beach lettuce, beach almonds and coconuts and delight at a large dugong grazing on sea grass. As Linc explains, there’s nothing contrived about this cultural

tour: “It is like a normal custom fishing day for us”.

After the 90-minute tour, we are taken to the Walker family home where Linc and Brandon’s Mum serve up bush damper and Linc cooks up the day’s catch.

When we return to our accommodation in Port Douglas, the Mantra Aqueous on Port, we are weather-hammered yet happy and humbled by the hospitality we have received. It’s not just the chorus of crickets that is music to our ears: my husband and I sit, wrapped in contentment on the balcony of our fabulous apartment, while we listen to our kids compare notes on how many kingfishers, eagles and mudskippers they encountered.

Croc spot We get up close and personal with more wildlife the next day at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, which is literally crawling with crocs. It’s while crawling through the wetlands in a 35-seater boat that it occurs to me that Cairns does have its own cage of death, albeit a cruising one: what a relief to learn our custom-made boat is replete with strengthened safety glass. My two sons watch in slack-jawed awe as a prehistoric fivemeter-long reptilian named Ted leaps out of the lagoon to chomp on a chicken being dangled over the side of the boat by our guide, who is decked out like Crocodile Dundee. It’s a dramatic spectacle!

Resort bliss After a few days dedicated to seeing all of Port Douglas and its impossibly scenic surrounds, we head further north again to Peppers Beach Club and Spa at Palm Cove. Within an hour of checking in, we collapse, gratefully, by the luxurious pool where we sit, read and relax for hours as our children attempt a world record for the number of times they can leap into a pool with consistently exuberant squeals. Although it’s hard to leave the paradise that is Peppers, it’s definitely worth taking a walk along the stunning palm-fringed beach.

We inch even further north the next day when we check into The Lakes Cairns Resort & Spa. Yes, there are tennis courts, a playground, four swimming

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Phone 07 4036 9333 www.ksr.com.au

Phone 07 4038 5555 www.skyrail.com.au CAIRNS • AUSTR ALI A

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TROPICAL NORTH QUEENSLAND

From far left: Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tours. © Tourism Queensland

pools, three sports channels, a day spa and an abundance of sunloungers. But the biggest plus is the fact the resort is adjoined to Centenary Lakes, a fabulous boardwalk that slices through the pristine melaleuca wetlands and lowland swamps and leads to the emeraldgreen Botanic Gardens.

Cairns revisited Back in Cairns, our final place to roost on our whistle-stop tour of the Far North is the city’s Holiday Inn, which is centrally located over the Esplanade, or ‘nard’ as locals like to call it. It’s also within walking distance of Rusty’s

Family-Friendly Food CAFFIEND, CAIRNS The food and coffee at this edgy little cafe is fabulous. Owner Ollie also offers private coffee appreciation lesson for budding mini baristas.

LA FETTUCINA, CAIRNS Sit al fresco under the trees festooned with fairy lights and order homemade pasta and the chef’s signature dish, risotto al funghi.

FIFTY NINE RESTAURANT, CLIFTON BEACH Kids get free access to the sprawling Pelicans in Paradise adventure playground until lunch is ready.

TRINITY BEACH TAVERN, TRINITY BEACH Kids eat free at this casual bistro seven days a week. Flip the clown and Nikki the face painter make cameo appearances to keep younger kids happy.

Market and the restaurant district. Here, dusk is a delightfully deafening time of day. As well as the creak of the crickets, there’s a highpitched fracas from the flying fox and the omnipresent sound of excitement emitted from our children, who – despite the fact it is winter - are marauding around the water play area at Muddy’s Playground, which just happens to be opposite our hotel.

We tear ourselves away from this luxe oasis to up the ante on the high-decibel levels of exuberance at Sugarworld. Three decades ago, when I was a little flibberty gibberty, I used to hoof it up to the top of the city’s original waterslides with my three wild brothers. Now I’m here with my two wild boys and I can’t help but feel as thrilled as they are. It’s sooooo much fun.

Catching a high-speed catamaran to Green Island with Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises is another exercise in nostalgia. I first visited this island on a school excursion when I was six years old. There is a lot of water that has whooshed around the Trinity Inlet since then but, suffice to say, the memories I have are as clear as the crystalline seas. We see pot-bellied puffer fish, parrotfish and angelfish and a carpet of corals that shimmers in subdued shades of gold, silver, purple, red, green and blue.

As our holiday draws to a close, I am conscious that there are very few complaints from my children as I take them for my long jaunts down memory lane. It’s lovely to know that my budding naturalists appreciate all the things I loved about Tropical North Queensland. But they also see it with fresh eyes which has made me appreciate it all anew.

FAST FACTS WHEN TO GO Port Douglas and Cairns enjoys a superb tropical climate all year round GETTING THERE Cairns Airport is the gateway to Tropical North Queensland with flights available from all major Australian cities. To get from Cairns to Port Douglas simply hire a car, grab a taxi or take the shuttle bus.

GETTING AROUND Hire a car with Vroom, Vroom Vroom car rental www.vroomvroom.vroom.com.au TOUR BOOKINGS If you want to go anywhere and do anything in TNQ try Godo. www.Godo.com.au WHERE TO STAY Rendezvous Reef Resort www.rendezvoushotels.com/ port_douglas/ Peppers Beach Club and Spa at Palm Cove www.peppers.com.au Mantra Aqueous on Port www.mantraaqueousonport.com.au The Lakes Cairns Resort & Spa www.thelakescairns.com.au Holiday Inn Cairns www.holidayinn.com Paradise Palms MORE INFORMATION Tourism Tropical North Queensland www.ttnq.org.au Tourism Queensland www.queenslandholidays.com.au

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Nature’s

GIFT CHRISTMAS ISLAND IS A FANTASTIC PLACE TO EXPERIENCE SOME OF NATURE’S GREAT CURIOSITIES. THERE IS NO BETTER WAY FOR KIDS TO DEVELOP AN APPRECIATION FOR OUR ENVIRONMENT THAN TO EXPERIENCE ITS NATURAL WONDERS UP CLOSE. WORDS: DEBORAH DICKSON-SMITH

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ike most of the Earth’s natural wonders, the extent of my knowledge about Christmas Island starts and ends with what I have learned from a David Attenborough documentary. And this is it: millions of red land crabs live here.

And, I’m ashamed to say, as I board the plane in Sydney bound for my first stop, Perth, I realize that knowledge doesn’t even include its exact whereabouts.

Its location, as it turns out, is around 2650km north west of Perth. It’s closer to Jakarta than any city in Australia - one of those quirks of colonial expansion.

But red crabs are not the only natural wonder here.

The rainforest here is very different to mainland Australia.

The forest floor is clear of leaf litter, being kept tidy by its famous land crabs (who eat it). One of the best places to explore it is at The Dales, a fairytale land of meandering creeks, vines and waterfalls.

The diving

This is not your run-of-the-mill tropical island. It’s a wild-looking place surrounded by jagged volcanic outcrops of rock and riddled with limestone caves.

On the island’s south coast you’ll find a long line of blowholes stretching into the distance – a continual choreographed display of fountains for as far as you can see. The Kiama blowhole’s got nothing on this!

You don’t need scuba gear to check out the amazing coral reefs that surround the island. Grab a snorkel, step off the beach at Flying Fish Cove and within a few metres you’ll run into it.

Divemasters Lynnie and Hama at Wet & Dry Adventures can take you further out to spots such as Perpendicular Wall – a drop-off at the reef’s edge that is like a vertical Great Barrier Reef.

The waters here are famous for whale sharks but there are plenty of other species here to marvel at – brightlycoloured wrasse, lionfish, anemone fish, sea turtles and if you’re really lucky – hammerhead sharks.

The caves

The birdlife

The landscape

It’s a bit of a scramble over large boulders to the entrance of Daniel Roux Cave, but worth it to see the delicate limestone formations inside. Plus, the cave holds further delights for kids– possibly Australia’s biggest pile of poo, the work of the resident swallows.

Another magical place, the Grotto is a few minutes east of Settlement. It’s a little hidden swimming hole – a cave with a sandy bottom and crystal clear seawater.

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The rainforest

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Birdwatchers visit Christmas Island from all over the world to see the island’s endemic birdlife. Of particular interest are the frigatebirds – they’re the ones with the big red pouch under their chins that they puff up to attract the ladies, and another local star is the Christmas Island goshawk.

During Bird’n’Nature Week in early September, you can join bird expert Mark Holdsworth in the back of his ute as he ‘fishes’ for goshawks to tag and measure.

CHRISTMAS ISLAND

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The culture

The crabs

Christmas Island was ‘annexed’ by the British Empire in 1888 and incorporated in the Settlement of Singapore in 1900 and, in 1957, as the empire dissolved after World War II, the Australian government bought the island for £2.9 million.

Not surprisingly, the three main cultural groups here are Malay, Chinese and European, and while most ethnic groups tend to cluster into one town or another, everyone takes part in holiday festivities – be it Hari Raya, Chinese New Year or Christmas.

There are about 45 million red crabs and one million giant robber crabs on the island. During migration season in early December, many of the island’s roads are closed and people carry rakes in their cars to clear them out the way.

There’s also an elaborate system of tunnels, bridges and a funneling system on most roads to encourage the crabs to go under or over on their journey to the sea.

Plastic Not-So-Fantastic You may have heard of the “Great Pacific Garbage Patch”, formed over the years as a result of marine pollution gathered by ocean currents.

The so-called “plastic islands” are in fact enormous soups of micro-plastics and other pollutants as they break down into smaller parts – which birds and fish mistake for food.

Christmas Island, in the Indian Ocean, has not escaped plastic pollution, and two of the island’s beaches are particularly prone to catching debris that’s drifted here from nearby Indonesia: Greta Beach and Dolly Beach.

There are rubbish bags and gloves available at each beach for any passing volunteers who want to help. The council

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collects the full bags regularly.

The best thing you can do to help is to avoid single-use plastics – bottled water, straws, plastic cutlery, take-away coffee cups.

And – take responsibility – don’t wait for Clean Up Australia Day. Do what you can, when you can for your favourite part of the world. That’s the philosophy of environmental group Two Hands Project.

Get the kids to take a photo of what they’ve collected and post it to Facebook – www.facebook.com/twohandsproject

Previous page from left: A juvenile goshawk.

One of Christmas Island’s world famous red crabs. © Justin Gilligan Above clockwise from left: The three main cultural groups on the island are English, Chinese and Malay. © Kee Seng Foo

Flying Fish Cove . © Tan Hoek Hui

FAST FACTS GETTING THERE

Virgin Australia flies to Christmas Island and nearby Cocos Keeling Islands four days a week from Perth. You don’t need a passport to clear customs as it is considered a domestic flight.

MORE INFORMATION

Christmas Island Tourism Association www.christmas.net.au

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T H E

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Photographers: Joann oa e Buck + Paul Osta l www w.TheRaro rotong tongan.c n om

PLAY FREE IN PARADISE!

Now your family can feel the freedom of Paradise with the NEW DIRECT FLIGHT from Australia to the heart of the South Pacific, Rarotonga! At the 4-star Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa your family can enjoy the island’s best beach and lagoon, including ALL-TIDE safe swimming in the Aroa Lagoon Marine Reserve, the island’s best snorkelling lagoon protected by a natural coral reef from the open ocean (no stingers or sharks to worry about!). KIDS STAY FREE! KIDS PLAY FREE @ the amazing Moko’s Kids Club – includes KIDS NATURE & CULTURE DISCOVERY PROGRAMME! FREE Snacks & Drinks at Kids Club sessions! FREE Kids Welcome Pack! NEW Banana Beach Playland crèche (0-3 years; charges apply). NEW Teen Zone!

Extensive FREE Activities Programme for all the family with snorkelling, kayaking, tennis, beach sports, games room, learn to dance the hula, play the ukulele & log drums, make a lei, husk a coconut + much more. Around Rarotonga enjoy 4WD Safari Tour, Glass-Bottom Boat Lagoon Cruise, rainforest trek to see one of the world’s rarest birds, Saturday Market, cafes & restaurants – all minutes away! The tropical island family holiday of your dreams awaits you at The Rarotongan!

Aroa Beach + Lagoon Marine Reserve l Rarotonga l COOK ISLANDS P (+682) 25800 l F 25799 info@rarotongan.co.ck | www.TheRarotongan.com S I S T E R

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Photo courtesy of Cook Islands Tourism

international HOLIDAYS

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS

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WISH YOU WERE HERE

The latest news and holiday offers from around the globe.

Monkey Magic in Japan

THAILAND Bustling Bangkok.

SOUTH AFRICA South Africa’s Big 5 for families.

OMAN A sandy stopover in Oman.

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COOK ISLANDS Paradise for families.

FIJI Made for kids.

CRUISING Cruising by kids.

CRUISE NEWS The latest news from the world of cruising.

BABY STAYS Baby friendly resort round-up.

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SHORT CUTS International

Home on the range in Colorado A holiday at a real dude ranch in America’s west is many people’s wish list. And at Home Ranch, near Steamboat Springs in Colorado, your cowboy dreams can come true. Home Ranch is perfect for Aussie families, with each person given their own horse and wrangler for a week. This gem from luxury hotel chain Relais and Chateaux is so much more than just horseriding, with fly fishing, hiking and outdoor adventures for kids that they will talk about forever. There are special adventures for teens and the food is anything but boring too, with gourmet cuisine on the menu. In winter, horseriding is magical in the snow, plus there is cross-country skiing or a shuttle runs to Steamboat ski resort which is just down the road. Let your family discover their inner cowboy in the wild west. www.homeranch.com

Rev up for more Disneyland fun The Happiest Place on Earth just got even happier with the opening of Cars Land at Disney California Adventure Park. Cars Land immerses visitors in the thrilling world of the Disney Pixar blockbuster “Cars.” Step into the town of Radiator Springs and enjoy family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the movie, plus themed dining and shopping locations at Flo’s V8 Café, Ramone’s House of Body Art and Radiator Springs Curios.

One of the largest and most elaborate attractions ever created for a Disney park, Radiator Springs Racers is a twisting, turning, high-speed adventure through Ornament Valley and the town of Radiator Springs. Luigi’s Flying Tires invites guests to glide on air aboard special tires, whirling around with their pals. And at Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree, guests will whip around behind a baby tractor and enjoy tunes from a giant jukebox built from Mater’s most prized possessions.

In addition to Cars Land, the new Buena Vista Street and Carthay Circle Theatre along with the magical makeover of the Disneyland Hotel with new pools, themed suites and remodeled rooms, will ensure that guests of all ages will have more fun than ever before at the Disneyland Resort. www.disneyland.com

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Harry Potter fans, grab your wands Harry Potter fans can aim their broomsticks toward London’s The Rubens at The Palace for a totally magical experience. Book the Harry Potter Experience package and after a hearty complimentary breakfast at the hotel, located opposite Buckingham Palace, take a black cab (the driver is your qualified guide) for a three-hour guided tour of the London film locations used in all eight Harry Potter films. Bar flying on a broomstick, we say this is by far the best way to get around.

You’ll stop for photos at the films’ magical Platform 9 ¾, visit Diagon Alley and the Leaky Cauldron, and walk in the footsteps of Harry and Hagrid in the Victorian Leadenhall Market. Check out the real Gringotts wizarding bank and also follow the route of the Knight Bus then discover that Brockdale Bridge is in one piece and you can walk across it.

As well as the black cab tour, the Harry Potter Experience package includes luxurious accommodation, full English breakfast for the whole family on the day of your tour, a keepsake Harry Potter wand with cloak and glasses for the kids, Harry Potter cupcakes at turndown and a framed family photo. The package can be added on to any of The Rubens’ other family value offers. The hotel also offers a dedicated children’s concierge and a ‘director of fun’ to assist visiting families. www.rubenshotel.com

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL NEWS

Take five: Dubai

Dubai is definitely a destination for kids. And with a new initiative, Do More in Dubai, running until early September it’s a great value destination too.

Visitors to Dubai during that period can select from 77 hotels and hotel apartments with free accommodation for two children under 12. They will also receive discounts and experiences for the entire family plus under-12s dine free at the hotels they are booked into for their Dubai stay. Here are five other great reasons Dubai is all about families: Dubai is home to one of the world’s most imaginative children’s attractions. Kidzania is a huge city-like complex where children answer that question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”

With miles of fine red sand, Dubai’s ‘outback’ creates the ideal backdrop for thrill-seeking families – either by racing through the dunes in fourwheel drives or skiing and boarding down the powdery sand.

Where else can you ski in the desert? Ski Dubai in the Mall of the Emirates is one of Dubai’s landmark attractions and the Middle East’s first indoor ski resort.

Have an up-close encounter with a dolphin at Dolphin Bay or have splash at the in the world-famous Atlantis resort’s Aquaventure water park one of the world’s most advanced water attractions with huge slides, rapids and a dedicated children’s play area.

For more wet and wild adventures, Wild Wadi Water Park has more than 30 rides and attractions. Alternatively enjoy the calm waters of the Arabian Gulf at Dubai’s Al Mamzar Beach Park. www.definitelydubai.com

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Oman’s side trip of a lifetime If you’ve never been to a country, how can you possibly know what you want to do when you get there, especially when you are travelling with kids? There’s only so much a travel agent, a Lonely Planet or a travel article can tell you – sometimes you just need to see it for yourself.

Oman’s Sidetripofalifetime.com helps you plan your itinerary with short videos of places, activities and hotels. And if you’re still undecided on where to go, the website will ask you questions like souk or grand mosque? Hot desert or cool mountains?

Swim in the sea or a wadi?

“Words simply don’t do Oman justice so it makes perfect sense to show what this country has to offer,” Mona Tannous of Sultanate of Oman Tourism said. “There is a real groundswell of interest in Oman among Australians travelling to Europe. In the same way that people use London as a jumping off point to explore Europe, Abu Dhabi and Dubai are the gateways to Arabia.”

Oman’s capital Muscat - a one-hour flight from either Abu Dhabi or Dubai was voted in the Top 10 Places to Visit in 2012 by Lonely Planet and Out & About With Kid’s experience is that it is a stunning, safe, friendly country that families will fall in love with. www.sidetripofalifetime.com.au

A home away from home in Korea For families travelling to Korea who want a first-hand experience of Korean life and culture there is no better way than enjoying a home-stay with a Korean family. Koreastay is a home-stay program certified by Korea Tourism Organization which offers international visitors a special opportunity to experience life with a Korean family.

Koreastay host families are carefully selected and a home-stay experience allows visitors the chance to experience the authentic Korean way of life including Korean family meals and various traditional customs and cultural activities like family traditions and Korean games.

Koreastay is a great way to start your trip to Korea while immersing yourself in Korean life and culture with most host families located in major cities, close to tourist areas and providing home-cooked meals and various travel information. http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/koreastay

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SHORT CUTS International Helen Wong’s Tours makes China a family affair On the eve of celebrating its 25th anniversary, leading tour specialist Helen Wong’s Tours has added an exciting two-week family-friendly group tour to their broader China program for 2012-2013.

The 14-day Family Affair tour is designed for families with children aged two to 11. Beginning with a flight from Australia to Beijing the itinerary is packed with kidfriendly fun including activities such as a rickshaw ride through the historic hutongs (back alleys), having a meal with a Chinese family and taking in the colourful action-aplenty Legend of Kung Fu performance.

The tour isn’t just about the kids and there is plenty to enlighten and entertain mum and dad with stops including the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City in Beijing, the Bund along Shanghai’s waterfront, Hong Kong (where they can spend a day at Disneyland), and Macau to marvel over such shows as The House of the Dancing Water extravaganza and discover some of its preserved 25 Unesco World Heritage-listed sites. www.helenwongstours.com

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL NEWS

Beat the winter blues with Japan’s festive summer Want to escape Australia’s winter chill? While we’re busy huddled by the heater, summer is arriving in Japan enveloping its glorious landscapes setting the scene for some amazing festivities.

The season is filled with endless fun for the whole family from beautiful fireworks, such as those at Tokyo’s Sumidagawa Fireworks, to cheerful festivals throughout the country.

Ranked among the four largest festivals in Japan, Aomori’s Nebuta Festival (August 2 to 7) sees gorgeous and colorful three-dimensional nebuta designed after warrior dolls and cheerful dances called haneto.

Other notable festivals include Yamagata’s Hanagasa Festival (August 5 to 7), a performance of 10,000 dancers holding hanagasa (a hat decorated with artificial flowers) adorned with Yamagata Prefecture’s unique safflowers and Tokushima’s upbeat Awa Odori Folk Dance Festival featuring energetic folkdances performed to welcome the souls of ancestors in the Obon season (July-August). www.jnto.org.au

Tokyo’s Toy Story Mania!

Woody, Buzz Lightyear and friends are living it large in Tokyo. The Toy Story favourites are part of a brand new attraction at Tokyo Disney Resort.

Toy Story Mania! is opening in July. Inspired by the Disney-Pixar Toy Story film series, this is the first ride attraction at Tokyo Disney Resort to incorporate 3-D visuals.

Located in Toyville Trolley Park, entry is through a Woody’s giant open mouth where guests are ‘shrunk’ as they find themselves in Andy’s room strewn with oversized board games, puzzles and other toys. Guests board a tram, put on 3-D glasses and roll under Andy’s bed where the toys have set up a carnival play set.

Joining in the fun, guests play the carnival games with all their Toy Story friends—Woody, Buzz, Hamm, Rex and more. From their trams, guests can toss eggs, pop balloons, throw rings and play other games in the ride-through shooting gallery.

Each tram displays the guest’s score, adding some competitive fun to this interactive attraction. The game rules are simple so that the entire family can have lots of fun playing in the ever popular Toy Story world. www.tokyodisneyresort.co.jp

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Get ready to be floored!

Start your engines—a brand-new land is coming to Disney California Adventure Park! All around you, the world of Disney•Pixar’s Cars comes to life. Buckle up for fun on Radiator Springs Racers, Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree and Luigi’s Flying Tires. And at night, the whole town lights up with a neon glow brighter than a new car’s paint job!

For more information www.disneyland.com.au/carsland ©Disney/Pixar W I N TDLRTIM-12-22645 ER 2012 ©Disney www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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SHORT CUTS International Penang’s School of Rock

Do your kids dream of living the rock star life? Well now they can – at Hard Rock Hotel Penang.

The hotel has launched its Lil Rock Suite, where kids are treated to their very own special rock star experience. Equipped with their very own TV, Playstation, music videos, guitar, kid’s inroom dining menu, a mini bar full of snacks and surprises as well as a mini outdoor playground, this newly-created space is where young kids come to realise their inner rock-star potentials or dreams.

General Manager John Primmer says the five Lil Rock Suites was a response to the high demand for more family rooms at the hotel. “We have a very high rate of family visitors here and with more space needed, especially for young families of three or four, the concept of the Lil Rock Suite was born,” Primmer said.

“Parents absolutely love the beauty of having a separate space for their little ones including their own private outdoor playground,” he added.

Located on the beaches of Batu Ferringhi in Penang, Malaysia, the Hard Rock Hotel Penang features 250 guestrooms, the largest freeform pool in Malaysia, state of the art spa and kids’ facilities and more than 500 memorabilia items from the world of rock.

The Lil Rock Suites start from $210 per night per room off peak to $450 per night per room during peak travel periods. penang.hardrockhotels.net

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INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL NEWS

Festive Fun at Laguna Phuket Fabulous family-focused destination resort, Laguna Phuket, has kicked off its hotly-anticipated Summer Family Festival which will be bigger and better with new programs and activities.

Choose from a collection of deluxe hotels and villas on the resort including Banyan Tree Phuket, Angsana Laguna Phuket, Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket, Laguna Beach Resort, Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort & Villas, Best Western Allamanda Laguna Phuket, and Laguna Holiday Club Resort - all sharing 1000 acres of tropical parkland and three kilometres of beach frontage.

Until the end of October, the annual festival will see more kids stay and dine for free across all of Laguna Phuket’s properties and even enjoy free golf at Laguna Phuket Golf Club when playing with a full-paying adult. Free tours for kids on selected excursions are also on offer courtesy of Laguna Tours.

The centrepiece of the festival is from June 23 to August 25 when Canal Shopping Village at the heart of the resort will be transformed into a carnival playground, with a barbecue beer tent providing parents a place to socialise and relax while their youngsters enjoy the flying trapeze, bouncy castle, trampoline and games.

The tent will offer a feast of televised big screen summer sporting events (including coverage of the London 2012 Olympic Games, Euro Football Championship and the AFL), live music, a weekly quiz night and happy hour drinks.

A popular return attraction for the youngsters at this year’s festival is the Kidz Fun Zone, running (June 25 to August 25) and serving up daily afternoons of sports skills, cooking lessons, adventure and educational activities, mini golf excursions and outings to local amusement parks. www.lagunaphuket.com

The Melanesian gets a makeover

Get Creative in Bali Kids will be treated like gods in Bali this winter. Situated on the ‘Island of the Gods’ the Holiday Inn Resort Baruna Bali, which is guided by its namesake the Balinese God of the Ocean, has a magical deal for families.

For $645 per adult, Creative Holidays is offering a great family package. Enjoy four nights’ at the four-star resort in a Kids Suite.

Kids stay free, get complimentary breakfast every day and under11s eat free at the resort’s Palms Restaurant with full paying adults.

Plus kids aged three to 11 get free access to the Rascal Kids Club.

The contemporary, Balinese-inspired resort in the secluded enclave of Tuban has 195 guest rooms and suites along a perfect stretch of white sand beach, an easy 10 minute drive from the airport, and a short stroll to the vibrant shopping and entertainment area of Kuta. Guests will be spoiled for choice with families enjoying the themed Kids Suites, Family Suites and many creative children and teen activities.

The deal is based on a family of two adults and two children under 11 and on sale until the end of September and valid for travel between October 16 to December 23 and January 11 to March 13. www.creativeholidays.com

How about spending nearly $1million on your 21st birthday celebrations? That’s exactly what The Melanesian – one of the best-loved resorts in Vanuatu, has done with a lavish refurbishment to mark 21 years in business.

The holiday favourite has revamped its 69 rooms and 12 one-and two-bedroom apartments which is great news for families wanting to do some of their own cooking.

The conveniently-located property, just walking distance from the heart of Port Vila, is also offering the attraction of free stays for children with two children aged up to 12 to staying free if they are in the same room as their parents and eating for free when dining with their parents.

The recent renovations also provided wireless internet connections in all rooms for a small charge, plus and internet cafe in the foyer. www.vanuatuescapes.com.au

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YOUR HOLIDAY IN PARADISE STARTS HERE

BAUMANCASA KARON BEACH RESORT PHUKET, THAILAND

The beautiful Baumancasa Karon Beach Resort is perfectly positioned on beautiful Karon Beach where visitors can enjoy the white sand, blue skies and swaying palm trees.

The competitively priced resort offers a range of contemporary Asian style accommodation to satisfy even the most discerning family.

And, along with great rates and a great location the resort’s superior facilities include three swimming pools, fitness center, sauna, spa and massage, a beachfront seafood restaurant plus four bars, ensuring a heavenly stay.

We look forward to welcoming you to Baumancasa Beach Resort with warm Thai hospitality.

For a choice of great super saver packages visit:

www.baumancasa.com

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Bookings: info@baumancasa.com

SHORT CUTS International

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL NEWS

Be the Centara of attention in Thailand Taking the tribe to Thailand? Enjoy both city and sea destinations with Centara’s family-friendly properties, in Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya, offering the excitement of a bustling city destination and chilled-out resort atmosphere of a beach holiday at a range of price points to suit every budget. Each offers extensive kids club facilities and family activities free to guests and most resorts offer free accommodation for children sharing with their parents.

Landing in Bangkok? Centara Grand & Bangkok at CentralWorld is a fully integrated hotel, retail, and leisure complex in the heart of the city and Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok is close to the underground Mass Rapid Transit and BTS Skytrain, the adjacent Central Plaza shopping complex and a stroll from the world famous Chatuchak market.

A 90 minute journey will take you to the fun of Pattaya. Here Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort is designed to a Lost World theme and is set around a huge water park with swimming pools, slides and waterfalls, the park leading directly onto the resort’s own stretch of beach. It’s a destination in itself but if you can tear yourself away Pattaya offers some great family friendly activities including elephant trekking and the Flight of the Gibbon zipline tour.

Phuket, one of the world’s favourite playgrounds, is an island destination that has enormous appeal for families, with safe beaches and endless activities. Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket is located on the white sands of Karon with its own lazy river featuring waterfalls, caves and cliff jumps. Large swimming pools and beautiful ocean views ensure your family really feels on holiday.

Centara Karon Resort Phuket is a modern resort divided into four zones catering to individuals, families, couples, and discerning travellers. Karon’s four-kilometre beach is minutes from the resort and ideal for the kids.

Centara Kata Resort Phuket is located at one of the island’s popular beaches. The resort features three pool areas and sundecks with a thrilling waterslide for young guests.

Kids will love Centara Grand West Sands Resort & Villas Phuket.

Set on 47 acres with pristine beach frontage on Mai Khao Beach, the resort is home to Phuket’s wildest and wettest water park, Jungle Splash, with swimming pools, a lazy river and waterslides. www. centarahotelresorts.com

Cook Islands beaches the best Three Cook Islands beaches have been ranked some of the best in the South Pacific.

Aitutaki Lagoon, Titikaveka Beach and Arorangi Beach made it into the top 10 best beaches in the South Pacific with TripAdvisor.

The website surveyed its online readers to name their top beach destinations for 2012 in its Travellers’ Choice Survey.

Aitutaki Lagoon on the island of Aitutaki polled at number two, followed by quietly pristine Titikaveka Beach on the island of Rarotonga in third place.

Arorangi Beach, on Rarotonga’s sunset coast, was voted the 10th best beach.

Each of these beaches offers great accommodation opportunites for families.

On Aitutaki this ranges from the luxurious Pacific Resort and the Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa to inexpensive lodges. Titikaveka is the realm of out-ofthe-way self contained villas. While Arorangi is a popular visitor base offering hotels like the Edgewater, Sunset Resort and Crown Beach Resort, as well as plenty of restaurants and sightseeing experiences. www.cookislandstourism.com.au

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INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL NEWS

THE INSIDER

THE INSIDER TALKS FAMILY HOLIDAYS WITH PETER HOOK, GENERAL MANAGER COMMUNICATIONS AT LEADING HOTEL OPERATOR ACCOR. My ideal family holiday is… Fiji. It might always seem a cliché, but in reality there is no better place for Australians to go with a young family.

First, it is close. Second, the resorts – and I can vouch for the Sofitel and Musket Cove – are perfect all year round. And thirdly – the truest cliché of them all – there is no friendlier and more genuine hospitality in the world. I did recently take my 10 and seven-yearold to UK and Europe, but think they would have appreciated it more if they’d been a little older. While the holiday as a ‘whole’ was wonderful, sometimes the ‘parts’ were a little challenging.

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My fondest family holiday memory is… the Louvre art gallery in Paris. I must say I though the children wouldn’t appreciate this, but my wife organised a private family-style tour with a wonderful Irish guide and the Louvre came to life. I got more out of this visit than the four times I’d been there before.

My most memorable family holiday meal was… at the London Science Museum.

I know it sounds odd, but the Science Museum offers the complete package – a full day’s interactive entertainment for free and then seriously good, healthy food in a very buzzy restaurant. It made it a truly memorable day.

Many family travellers are not aware of… planning. Yes, you will get your “we will work it out when we get there” parents, but when you go to a place where you are taking in the sites and need to catch buses, trains, avoid queues, then the

laissez-faire attitude doesn’t work. It means spending a lot of time researching and preplanning, but that way you get to see the things that most tourists don’t, and you also ensure that the children don’t spend all their time on electronics or squabbling while you get organised.

Every family should experience… history.

Sometimes it’s not easy to translate the richness of history to children, but my daughter Amelia fell in love with the Tudors and Elizabethans on our recent trip to the UK and then became a devotee of the Horrible Histories books, anything to do with Henry VIII’s life and times, and the good and bad of England’s royal heritage.

She will remember that for decades to come. Saying a few French (or any foreign) words and experiencing different cultures will also have a lasting impact.

My top tip for travelling with kids is…find a resort with a water slide. Water slides especially the crocodile slide at Novotel Palm Cove Resort and the even larger swirly slide at Sofitel Fiji - become the place where children meet, make friends and then give adults the chance to sit by the pool and do the unimaginable - relax!

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magic MONKEY

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he Yudanaka Shibu hot spring resort and its nine spa towns, are so inviting that they’ve played host to everyone from famous folk to family holidaymakers as well as a tribe of local monkeys.

Beyond the feast of family fun to be found in colourful, cosmopolitan and cultural Tokyo, Yudanaka offers families the chance to see Japan at its natural best with a diversity of stunning all-season outdoor activities, though it’s for snow and steamy onsen (hot springs) that its best known. A long-standing northern hemisphere winter sports kingdom, Yudanaka caters to skiers and snowboarders of all levels and is ideal for families with a kids’ park, a snowboarding park, skiers-only slopes and plenty of family-focused on-snow activities.

Quaint spa towns exude a magical atmosphere year round with abundant onsen allowing overnight guests and day visitors alike to enjoy the public bathing facilities. There is even an onsen for the exclusive use of wild monkeys, at Jigokudani Wild Monkey Park, a sight that will delight parents as much as it does their children.

GETTING THERE Yudanaka is just 45 minutes from Nagano, and less than three hours from Tokyo by bullet train. Jigokudani Wild Monkey Park is about a 25 minute walk from Kambayashi hot-spring resort.

MORE INFORMATION www.jnto.org.au

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Š skyearth, Shutterstock.com

WISH YOU WERE HERE

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Bangkok BREAK WHAT BETTER WAY TO BREAK UP A LONG HAUL FLIGHT THAN WITH A FEW DAYS IN BOISTEROUS BANGKOK, THE EXUBERANT CAPITAL OF THAILAND. A QUIRKY COMBINATION OF FAST-PACED CITY LIVING AND ANCIENT CULTURE, BANGKOK OFFERS LIMITLESS OPTIONS FOR BARGAIN SHOPPING, SENSATIONAL FOOD AND EXCITING CULTURAL DIVERSIONS THE WHOLE FAMILY WILL LOVE. WORDS: MICHELLE SMERDON

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BANGKOK STOPOVER

Wat Arun in sunset. Š beboy, shutterstock

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BANGKOK STOPOVER

From left: Wooden flat boats ferrying people to the floating market. © Juriah Mosin, Shutterstock.com

See the snakes at Siam Ocean World © Charlie Edward, Shutterstock.com

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he dazzling lights, the blare of the tuk-tuks as they whiz through the city streets and the sun setting over the Chao Phraya River never fail to enthrall visitors and while Bangkok’s traffic gridlock is notorious, getting around the city to see all the sights isn’t difficult.

Bangkok beauty Rent one of the colourful rua hang yao (long tail boats) down the Chao Phraya River, - a great way to get up close and personal with local life as you enter the khlongs (canals) whose banks are dotted with wooden Thai houses and people going about their daily routine.

Bangkok’s bustling harbour is the perfect vantage point from which to see spectacular landmarks including the Grand Palace.

In fact, a trip to this opulent palace, home of the Thai King, will keep kids fascinated with its abundance of glittering statues of mind-boggling mythical creatures and giant monkey gods.

Once inside, the shimmering towers and golden buildings of Wat Phra Kaeo, a Buddhist monastery complete with the revered Emerald Buddha, are revealed.

Bangkok’s many pretty temples are a unique part of the city’s heart and soul and are definitely worth a visit. Wat Pho and the giant golden reclining Buddha and the intricately embellished Wat Arun are not to be missed.

Bangkok bustle Bangkok definitely bustles - day and night bursting with culture, eclectic market places, all kinds of shopping delights, entertainment and

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thousands of smiling faces.

The days are easy to fill with fun and this kidfriendly city has indoor playgrounds and ten-pin bowling alleys in most shopping malls, a worldclass IMAX Theatre, water parks, Siam Ocean World, a Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum and even several ice rinks!

River taxis, barges and ferries are readily available to take you along the river to the many historic riverside sites while iconic threewheeled tuk-tuks pepper Bangkok’s streets and are a great way to navigate through the city.

With efficient public transport systems in place, including the Skytrain and an underground rail network that connect the main business, entertainment and shopping areas, getting from A to B can be as direct or as scenic as you like!

Thai treats Restaurants are abundant and offer diverse cuisines so eating out with the family in Bangkok will leave you spoiled for choices – and children are always most welcome. Thailand is a country devoted to the concept of family.

There is definitely no shortage of eating options in Bangkok, ranging from sampling local flavours at roadside stalls or savouring Thai treats at local restaurants. Head to Khao San Road to ease yourself into Thai cuisine where you can eat noodles, curries and more at a range of restaurants, shacks or stalls on wheels (Western cuisine available here too).

Make sure you sample the delicious and nutritious local dish pad thai (stir-fried noodles) from the local street vendors and

BANGKOK’S TOP TEN FOR KIDS

• Feast on the local cuisin e in one of the numerous che ap, local restaurants.

• Let the kids run wild in Lumphini Park • Take a ride on the Sky train • Visit the colourful floa ting markets, just outside Bangkok.

• See cobras being milked for their venom at Bangko k’s snake farm.

• See all things aquatic at Siam Ocean World • Visit the giant gold rec lining Buddha at Bangkok’s Wa t Pho. • Shop until you drop at MBK department store.

• Take a long boat down the Chao Phraya River.

• Relax by the pool at one of the city’s great familyfriendly resorts.

Island In the sun Phuket is one of the world’s favourite playgrounds, an island destination that has enormous appeal for families, with safe beaches and endless leisure and entertainment activities.

Centara Grand West sands resort & Villas Phuket From $978* per adult From $72* per child 8 nights for the price of 4 in a Deluxe Family Suite 1 Bedroom with a spacious living and dining area Full breakfast daily FREE Phuket introduction tour FREE daily admission to Splash Jungle Water Park Return airport transfers Offer valid for travel : 01 Jul -31 Oct 12

Centara karon resort Phuket From $354* per adult From $64* per child

Centara kata resort Phuket From $346* per adult From $156* per child

8 nights for the price of 4 in a Lagoon Deluxe room Full breakfast daily FREE Phuket introduction tour Return airport transfers Offer valid for travel : 13 Jul – 31 Oct 12

8 nights for the price of 4 in a Family Deluxe room Full breakfast daily FREE Phuket introduction tour Return airport transfers Offer valid for travel : 01 Jul -31 Oct 12

Call Qantas Holidays on 13 14 15 or see your local travel agent. *Agents may charge service fees and/or fees for card payments which vary. If you book with Qantas Holidays an additional 2% fee applies to credit card payments. Prices correct as at 08 Jun 2012 but may fluctuate if surcharges, fees, taxes or currency change. Offers subject to availability. Amounts payable to third parties not included. Child prices are based on two adults and two children sharing. Child age is 2-11 years. These property ratings are Qantas Holidays’ views, not official ratings. Hotel cancellation policies apply, which vary. Bookings must be made direct with Qantas Holidays or a travel agent. Package cancellation fees apply. Qantas Holidays and General Booking Conditions apply.

Qantas Holidays Limited ABN 24 003 836 459. Licence No. NSW – 2TA 003 004, VIC – 31288, QLD TAG 740, SA – TTA 48 116, WA 9TA 510.

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BANGKOK STOPOVER

Happy Time, Calf Elephant, Thailand. © puwanai, Shutterstock.com

enjoy the fresh tropical fruit juices on offer – try the dragon fruit flavour for something different!

After an exciting day out, treat the kids to some traditional Thai puppet theatre delights at Suan Lum Night Bazaar.

Bangkok breather Over half a million square kilometres of natural space, Lumphini Park, said to be the ‘lungs of Bangkok’ and named after the Nepalese birthplace of Lord Buddha, was created in the 1920s and provides inner city tranquility and recreation for the people of Bangkok. From daily tai chi exercise to aerobics, this is where the great outdoors is enjoyed and if you head here on a Sunday after 8am you might even be lucky enough to witness a game of takraw, which mixes soccer, volleyball and hacky-sackstyle skills with amazing acrobatic dexterity.

Take a stroll through the flower market district, known as Pak Khlong Talad and marvel at the speed of the garland makers as they thread marigold, jasmine and roses and for a great breakfast of local delights - congee, noodles and fresh fruit juice from local food stalls – you’ll find this feast just outside the Sarasin Road gate.

Bangkok beasts Siam Ocean World, with over 30,000 curious underwater creatures covers two storeys underneath the Siam Paragon Shopping Mall.

This interactive mega aquarium brings you face to glass with oriental small-clawed otters, moon jellies, weedy seadragons and spectacular

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sharks and is one of the largest marine exhibits in South East Asia.

For some reptilian adventure, visit Bangkok’s Snake Farm (Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute) and see cobras and vipers being ‘milked’ for their venom.

If you have a few more days in Bangkok, take the family to Elephantstay for an overnight visit where the kids can swim with elephants and learn how to be an elephant handler!

Bangkok bargains A guided shopping tour is the best solution if you’re short on time and tour operators can even organise to ship your purchases home should your acquisitions outgrow your luggage.

If you’d rather go it alone, MBK department store has an abundance of bargains and Siam Paragon is the place for high end shopping.

If you have teens they will never forgive you if you miss Bangkok’s 35-acre shopping paradise – Chatuchak Market. The market stocks everything imaginable in over 15,000 stalls!

T-shirts, accessories, shoes, dinnerware and aromatherapy products are just some of things you will find as you weave your way through the narrow walkways. Test out your bargaining skills - and your sense of direction - here!

The chaotic floating market in Damnoen Saduak, about 45 minutes outside of Bangkok, is the most colourful of the cities myriad markets. It is noisy and quite touristy but great fun to watch as hundreds of small boats jockey for premium position along the klongs to sell their wares.

FAST FACTS WHEN TO GO Bangkok is a great destination all year round. The cooler months are from November to February (approximately 25 degrees Celsius), while the hottest months are March to May, where temperatures can reach 40 degrees Celsius.

GETTING THERE Numerous airlines offer direct daily flights to Bangkok and Phuket from most major Australian capital cities, with connecting flights easily available to the rest of the country.

MONEY The currency is the Thai Baht (THB). At the time of writing, AU$1 buys you THB31 VISAS Australians don’t require a visa for stays shorter than 30 days.

MORE INFORMATION www.thailand.net.au

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SOUTH AFRICA’S

Big Family Five MORE AND MORE AUSTRALIANS ARE TAKING THE PLUNGE AND TAKING THE TRIBE ON SOUTH AFRICAN SAFARI. ELISA ELWIN SHARES HER ‘BIG FIVE’ FAMILY-FRIENDLY PICKS.

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outh Africa is a country of contrasts, culture, colour, and so much excitement and on most people’s buckets lists. The country continues its positive direction with each passing year with more safe and amazing family-friendly properties.

Take the plunge now and thrill your family with a holiday to this incredible country.

Shamwari Game Reserve Shamwari gets the Out & About With Kids big tick of approval for its family-friendly offerings. Found in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, close to Port Elizabeth the reserve is home to the coveted ‘big five’ and stretching over 25,000 hectares. There is a specific family lodge on the reserve, Riverdene Lodge, with additional activities to entertain children of all ages.

Children can take part in the Kids on Safari program, visiting the animal rehabilitation and Born Free centres. The program, supervised by a specially trained ranger is totally engaging.

Watching the tikes on our vehicle collecting rhino dung and noting its scent and stalk is hysterical and charming. Created specifically to learn more about wildlife and conservation the kids get to find out about plant life and bird species that can been seen on the reserve.

They are also taught how to track the big five animals by hunting for footprints and at night they get to experience star-gazing first hand. Once done they are certified as a kids ranger. It’s a perfect family safari spot by a wonderful company.

Jaci’s Lodges Situated in the extreme northwest corner of South Africa’s North West province, the 75,000-hectare Madikwe Game Reserve lies abutting the Botswana border close to the Kalahari Desert. It’s well worth the three and a half hour drive from Johannesburg for this

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fantastic five star family experience.

Jan and Jaci Van Heteren own and live at their family-run premises. They raised their own kids there and know what it takes to make a special South African bush experience for families.

Everything family is catered for, from kids’ meals, family safaris, and jungle drives for under fours. There is also the fab fun kids’ room fully equipped to keep all ages happy and in touch with the bush experience.

For more inspiration, go to the Out and About with Kids website to read the story by the Perkins family of their stay at Jaci’s.

Sabi Sabi A favourite with Australian travellers Sabi Sabi’s Bush Lodge is a real a five star African safari experience. While families with young children have always been very welcome at Sabi Sabi, last year’s opening of the EleFun Centre has further improved their familyfriendly status. Not only is this free to all guests, it allows kids between four and 12 to have a ball and learn about the bush at the same time. Activities are broken in to age groups with qualified rangers taking the older children out for in the bush experiences they will never forget.

Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve is situated in the worldrenowned 65,000-hectare Sabi Sand Wildtuin in the South-Western section of the Kruger National Park. Sabi Sabi is a one hour flight from O.R. Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) directly to Sabi Sabi airstrip.

Kurland Hotel For a different South African experience, come to the luxurious five-star Kurland Hotel, in the Crags near Plettenberg Bay on South Africa’s Garden Route. This working polo pony property

SOUTH AFRICA

has excellent children’s facilities from extensive play areas, horse interaction activities and a dedicated children’s dining conservatory.

Children also have the opportunity to learn more about organic herbs and vegetables from the executive chef with his Kids in the Kitchen classes.

Kurland arranges imaginative activities specifically tailored to children of all ages and a safe haven that allows children to have their own luxury adventure holiday in the glorious surrounds of the Garden Route.

Grootbos Nature Reserve

© Arend van der Walt, Shutterstock.com

And saving the best for last, this five-star gem will take your breath away and have you and your children wishing you could stay longer.

Only two hours drive along the Garden Route from Capetown, Grootbos is designed in the bushland overlooking the whalewatching haven of Walker Bay and Hermanus.

The views, accommodation, exquisite food (mostly sourced and grown organically on the premises) are just the start. Set in the middle of a nature reserve with abundant plant animal and bird species at every turn, you can stay and relax by the pool and make the most of the natural bounty here or venture down to the centre of Gansbaai to experience the marine big five in all their glory; whales, white pointers, African penguins, fur seals and dolphins that call this most southerly point of Africa their home.

This place is a family’s dream destination. Children are special guests too. A farm petting area complete with bunnies to hold, eggs to collect from the happy chickens, cats to pat and ponies to ride.

There’s an activity room with fun and fantastic meals if kids want to eat separately, with heaps of learning and environmental activities run by trained guides. Owned and managed by the wonderful Lutzeyer family, you’ll see Michael, Tertius or Jan chatting to guests, swooping up a child to entertain them and generally making this place a luxurious “all in the family” escape. The philosophy of the hospitable Lutzeyer family, nothing is too much trouble. And you can tell they mean it, children really are special guests here too.

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Making the most out of your family safari experience Safari sounds exotic and fantastic. The first morning waking up before sunrise to see the animals in their natural environment will have you and your family pinching yourselves. Each game lodge has their own style of safari.

However there are general guidelines for how these run: You will board a purpose-built Range Rover with your guide and possibly a tracker, holding up to 10 in comfort to maximize viewing and minimize bumps over the dirt tracks and bush bashing you will do.

Safaris are long – around three to four hours. There are toilet stops if absolutely necessary. There might not be bushes around on a plain and even if there an animal or two could be lurking behind. Try and use the loo before, or just hold it.

Safaris are all about finding wild animals. So unlike a zoo where they sit and wait, these African animals are in their natural environment, on the plains in herds, hiding in bushes, sleeping during the day, being cautious and even territorial around people. You may not see many; you may be overwhelmed with herds and sightings. Patience is the key.

Some animals are, however, used to the vehicles. So the most important rule, stay inside your vehicle at all times unless given the all clear.

No hand waving, standing up to get a better look, shrieking with delight or even talking too loudly. Getting out of the vehicle to get a close-up of a rhino or other beast, an absolute no no. This is for you safety, to prevent a charge by a frightened or aggressive beast, or more often to stop them running away and spoiling the moment of magnificent observation.

Animals are at their most visible early in the morning or at dusk and early evening. Safari’s start early!! So get to bed for a good nights sleep before your 5am wake up call. A quick wake-up refreshment then rug up against the early morning chill and watch the sunrise and the animals do their magical thing.

Safaris are ideally more suited for older kids who have patience and bladder control to cope. The truly family-friendly lodges offer all sorts of small child friendly options such as kid-only short safaris at more appropriate sleep times and adventure kits for ticking off the animals or collecting dung.

And of course, don’t forget the activities back at the lodges for learning about the wildlife and the environment. If you are able, pay a little extra for a private safari vehicle and go for it!

FAST FACTS WHEN TO GO Sunny all year around, with December to February being the hottest, there is no real offseason for travel.

MONEY The currency is the South African rands (ZAR). At the time of writing, AU$1 buys 8.26 ZAR

From top: Kids on Safari at Shamwari Game Reserve Face Painting at Kamp Kwena, Sun City Feeding baby elephant at Sun City

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LANGUAGE Though there are 11 official languages spoken in South Africa, English is most commonly spoken.

WHERE TO STAY Grootbos Nature Reserve www.grootbos.com Shamwari Game Reserve www.shamwarigroup.com Sabi Sabi Sabisabi.com Jaci’s www.madikwe.com Kurland www.kurland.co.za MORE INFORMATION South African Tourism www.southafrica.net

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Oman THE

SOLUTION

HEADING AROUND THE WORLD, FROM SNOW TO SURF, JULIE MAHONEY’S FAMILY CHOSE A SANDY STOPOVER IN OMAN TO THAW OUT AND CHILL OUT. AND THE TRIBE LOVED IT SO MUCH, THEY WENT BACK FOR MORE. WORDS: JULIE MAHONEY

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fter saying goodbye to frosty white Christmas in the UK to head back to the sunburnt land we call home we decided to stop over in Oman. At first my husband was a little reluctant, but the country’s magic soon won us all round. So much so, that we repeated the trip on our next festive visit to the UK, only this time we stayed longer.

Some like it hot Growing up under a blazing Australian sun (albeit dunked in 30+ sunscreen) our boys, William, six, and Thomas, eight, take some time to acclimatise to the freezing English temperatures. So it was a welcome relief to step off the plane in sunny Abu Dhabi after a chilly UK winter to hit the road for our first visit to Oman.

From here our driver took us to the UAE and Oman border –the most spectacular border crossing in the world. The road stretches around the coastline with nothing but jagged shafts of camel-coloured rock, water and wide open sky in the line of sight. After two hours we arrived in Khasab, a tiny seaside village. Square white buildings cluster around the glittering water and the occasional palm tree provides green relief to the stark landscape.

After checking in at the Golden Tulip it was getting close to sunset so we headed out in search of dinner. Freshly showered, the warm breeze off the Gulf of Oman was a gift. There’s not much action in downtown Khasab. In fact, the whole village is about three blocks’ wide so after

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searching for a restaurant, we end up back in the hotel dining room for an extravagantly catered mixed Mediterranean buffet.

Setting sail In Oman morning sweeps in like an Oscar nominee, sparkling across the endless blue horizon, and we wandered down to the harbour for our pre-booked dhow (traditional boat) cruise around the Khor dubbed the fjords of Arabia. After about an hour, we reached the outer coral reef off Telegraph Island for spot of snorkelling. The boys, both confident swimmers, were splashing around like a pair of hyperactive otters in no time. Lunchtime rolled around and the crew barbecued freshly caught fish accompanied by salads, bread, dip and soft drinks.

With full bellies, we napped on the deck until it was time to start our return journey.

Sailing back to Khasab, a pod of over 50 dolphins surrounds the boat, zipping and diving around us.

The captain says it’s safe to get in the water with them so we all jumped in for a paddle. We couldn’t keep up with the graceful arcs of the dolphins but for one glorious minute, we were surrounded by these beautiful mammals.

Oman revisited It’s this memory; four bodies trying to keep up with dolphins, that lures us back to Oman a second time, two years later. Once again, we are coming off the back of a hectic festive season but this time it’s different – we’re staying for a week.

We touch down in Muscat and the boys, older

OMAN

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat. Š Philip Lange, Shutterstock.com

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© Fotonium, Shutterstock.com

now, can’t contain their excitement at being back in this exotic place. After weeks of snow and ice, it is such a physical relief to be somewhere warm so we spend that first day lounging by the pool at the Al Bustan Palace, one of the most opulent hotels I have ever seen.

On day two we go on a city tour to explore the Grand Mosque, the spice-scented souk (market) where I buy far too much beautiful Omani silver and then we wander around the museum until we’re footsore and tired. Back at the hotel, I indulge in a rare treat – a long bath – while the boys watch TV in the adjoining room.

After an early breakfast the following day our driver takes us south east along the coastline to the town of Sur, arriving in time to book a 7pm viewing at the Ras-Al-Jinz Turtle Sanctuary. Tourists are allowed to watch the large female green turtles come ashore in the evening to lay their eggs and, at other times of the year, they can observe the baby

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turtles scurrying down the beach just before dawn.

We were not allowed to use flash photography so our photos don’t turn out but the memory will last unaided; such is the strange beauty of a nesting turtle.

Desert Nights It has long been a dream of mine to head out to the open desert, Lawrence of Arabia-style, so I ‘bags’ the front seat for the drive out to Desert Nights Camp. On the way, we stop at Wadi Bani Khalid, a freshwater swimming oasis set between two staggering cliffs, for a simple picnic and a splash.

On arrival, our driver lays out rugs underneath a clump of palm trees and collects the lunchboxes we ordered from the hotel for a no fuss picnic and the boys run into the water for a swim, whooping and splashing each other. Lunch is chicken and tuna sandwiches, fruit and nibblies eaten in the shade before we get back in the car to drive towards the

OMAN

FAST FACTS unrelenting sands of The Empty Quarter.

Imagine an undulating plain of sand with one tiny pinpoint in the centre. As you draw closer, the dot grows into a fortified oasis town. That is what Desert Nights Camp is like. We arrive in plenty of time to watch the sunset, followed by an unforgettable night of traditional music, dance, henna tattoos (we get matching ones) and a simple barbecue dinner.

A major bonus of this luxury camp is that it has a bar. Hubby and I sneak off after the kids are asleep and share a bottle of wine, taking in the eerie silence of the desert and catching up on the past few weeks. By the time we go to bed, we are holding hands like newlyweds.

Two very excited boys go on a camel ride around the camp and then it’s off nice and early to make it to the ancient capital of Nizwa in time for the goat and cattle markets.

We cruise the souk (seasoned professionals now), take a guided tour of Nizwa Fort (the boys especially love the gruesome facts about boiling date oil being poured on intruders), and then it’s off to the Sahab Hotel in Jebel Akhdar (Green Mountains) for a bit of R & R after a busy day.

The hotel is set overlooking an old village where everyone is still living a very traditional life. Some people farm rock roses, others work at nearby terrace farms.

There are lots of children playing in the street, the little boys wearing traditional disha dashas, like miniature wise men. My lasting memory of our last few days in Oman is this; two Omani boys about the same age as my sons, taking Will and Tom by the hand and leading them into a game of street soccer. No words were exchanged – just big, toothy, innocent smiles.

WHEN TO GO October to April is ideal. Avoid June to September when temps can top 45˚C and during the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan.

GETTING THERE From Australia, flight stopover in Dubai or Abu Dhabi with connecting flights to Muscat.

GETTING AROUND Private cars and drivers can be organised through your travel agent or visit www.sunislandtours.com.au MONEY The currency is the Omani Rial. At the time of writing, AU$1 buys 0.37 Omani Rial.

VISAS Australians can purchase a visa on arrival to Muscat airport for 20 Omani Rial.

LANGUAGE Arabic is the official language but English is widely spoken.

MORE INFORMATION Sultanate of Oman Tourism www.tourismoman.com.au

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Photo courtesy Cook Islands Tourism Corporation www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

COOK ISLANDS

Paradise

FOUND

AN ARCHIPELAGO OF PICTURE PERFECT ISLANDS THAT PEPPER THE PACIFIC, THE COOK ISLANDS OFFER FAMILIES AN IDYLLIC TROPICAL RETREAT OF CHILLED-OUT CHARM AND BEAUTY THAT’S UNTOUCHED AND UNFORGETTABLE. WORDS: ALENEY DE WINTER

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s our plane descends into Rarotonga we are mesmerised by the drama of the landscape below us. The island is all jagged junglecovered mountains and ringed by white coral beaches and a dazzling crystalline blue lagoon.

With a tinkling greeting of “Kia Orana” necklaces of fresh flowers are draped around our necks.

Welcome to paradise.

It’s Saturday morning, so we join the locals for a stroll around the weekly Punanga Nui Markets where we discover that one-year-old Marlo has a thing for coconut as she thirstily slurps her way through the first of many fresh drinking coconuts.

Kids, dogs and chickens roam happily amongst stalls of brightly coloured pareo (sarongs), black pearls, flowers and fruit. Four-year-old Raff is overjoyed when he spots a garishly decorated ukulele that’s been cunningly fashioned out of a coconut shell and makes it clear it will be coming home with us. One day he’ll spot something tasteful and declare it must be his. Today is not that day.

We circumnavigate the lush island – just 32 km

in circumference – with a self drive MP3 tour from Mai Tours. This is perfect for our young family as it allows us to take in the island’s hotspots at our own pace with informative commentary and lessons in local legend. On reaching our accommodation, The Rarotongan Beach Resort, we spend the rest of our day snorkelling metres from the door of our beachfront suite and feed the friendly fish that come to greet us. The resort’s activities desk keeps us so busy with ukulele lessons and kayaking that we don’t have time to sample the kids club.

We enjoy dinner by the water’s edge where, at the exact same time each night, a very pretty metre long black and white snake-eel swims by. Either it’s the most OCD snake in Rarotonga or we are sitting alongside a snake-eel superhighway at peak hour.

Sunday morning we find ourselves bathing in the glow of stained-glass in a pretty whitewashed church. We find a space amongst the packed orange pews and settle between two lovely local ladies dressed in their best floral muumuus and decorous woven rito hats.

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There are few places where you’ll find a people as devout as those in the Cook Islands. Like much of the Pacific, English Christian missionaries arrived in the early 1800s and were successful in converting the islanders from their cannibalistic leanings, a boon to tourists wanting to visit paradise without getting eaten.

As the Reverend quickly uplifts his congregation Raff, like the local littlies, begins to squirm, until the music starts.

Stunned into stillness he, like us, is enthralled by the scat-like musical improvisation of the Imene tuki (hymn of grunts). As the women fill the church with sweet melody the men interject with a rhythmic harmony to form a uniquely Cook Islands sound. It is part chant, part spontaneous outburst of joy, wholly beautiful and something every visitor should experience, regardless of religious persuasion.

Afterwards we answer the call of the Whale and Wildlife Centre. It’s a tardis of whaling history where, unlike its sterile city counterparts, it’s all about hands-on education. Raff is fascinated by the sharks’ jaws and barbaric harpoons on display but it’s the fossilised dinosaur poo that really floats his boat - that and a frankly gruesome live coconut crab dangling precariously from its mesh enclosure.

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Ready for some seafaring of our own we head to Avatiu Harbour and climb into the semi-submersible Raro Reef Sub, the hull of which is soon filled with cries of “Sound the Octo Alert, Whoop, Whoop, Whoop”, as Raff embraces his inner Octonaut. Marlo too is enchanted by the deep blue as we cruise over the wreck of the SS Maitai accompanied by a school of giant pouty fish.

The Lagoon Breeze Villas is an expansive garden property offering spacious, self catering accommodation and a home away from home for our next few days. Located opposite a white sandy lagoon beach where we paddle on the resort’s kayaks, this place is made for families.

The large swimming pool includes a shallow toddlers’ area and plenty of pool toys. Complimentary reef shoes and snorkelling gear are available for guests of all shapes and sizes, not to mention beach toys by the bucketful. Plus the children’s playground, trikes and a trampoline also prove popular. But it is the villa’s resident pooch, Coco, who wins Raff’s heart.

To tear him away the promise of another pup is our only hope. And so we find ourselves at Island Living, a gift shop with a pronounced local flavour, to chat to owners Minar and Louis - and their dog, Coco’s brother. With typical Cook Island hospitality Minar and Louis have opened

their colonial-style home to visitors for a weekly three-course local dining experience with a difference where guests can enjoy restaurant quality dishes made from ingredients grown and livestock raised in their garden. We are lucky enough to enjoy a tour of the plantation with Louis, and while Raff happily stalks the pigs and chickens, Louis treats us to sweet bananas and coconut fresh from the tree.

Tuesday sees us boarding a glassbottom boat on Muri Lagoon with Koka Lagoon Cruises. It’s a fun morning of music and mayhem from the witty crew.

After snorkelling in the tropical waters amongst coral and giant clams and a world of colourful fish it’s off for a relaxing island barbecue lunch and some extremely entertaining warp-speed coconut tree climbing.

Back on dry land we head to the National Auditorium where lessons in the pulsating traditional Cook Islands dance are offered to visitors. We giggle at the irony of the locals doing Zumba classes nearby. The swivelhipped hula dancers make an impression so we opt for an evening at the Te Vara Nui Cultural Village where Rarotonga’s finest dancers and musicians tell local legends.

The men breathe fire and the women, clad in gravity-defying coconut bras, swing their hips seductively to the rhythmic island

COOK ISLANDS

beat. It’s spectacular, but the evening’s most memorable moment comes during a poignant theatrical pause as Raff shouts “When are the bottom dancers coming back?” at the top of his lungs and we pray for the earth to swallow us up.

The following morning we hop on a 45-minute flight to Aitutaki, quite possibly the prettiest place I’ve ever seen. There are no words to adequately describe the incandescent splendour of the world’s biggest natural lagoon. We’re staying at the Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa. Set on a private island we check out our beachfront bungalow and test the family-size hammock while Raff is whisked away for a drumming lesson at the activities centre. Long has he loved to make noise – so he proves a natural on the pate (log drum), as does Marlo who insists on her own raucous turn before performing a toddler style hula with one of the smitten staff.

Local tour guide Nga Tuanie collects us in his bright yellow four-wheel-drive to explore Aitutaki via a secret network of dirt tracks over the rolling hills. There’s little traffic, besides the occasional chook or pig and Raff is happy as he bounces about in the back of the jeep through plantations positively dripping with fruit. Nga points out places of interest from the sacred site of an ancient marae to World War II bunkers and shares the island’s fascinating history.

The following morning we rouse ourselves

sufficiently for some lagoon magic with Te Vaka Lagoon Cruises. Floating in one of the boat’s life rings Raff squeals with delight as he is surrounded by dozens of butterfly fish and is flabbergasted as a turtle pops up for air. After lunch of barbecued fresh-caught ocean fish, tropical salad and the ubiquitous coconut we head to a small uninhabited motu (islet) where the postmaster stamps our passports “One Foot Island”.

We paddle around the shallow waters of the island, dodging the thick black sea slugs that dot the water - and snorkel some more before the sound of the conch shell signals it’s time to head back to the resort.

Before dinner there is time for crab racing, music and drinks with fellow guests.

Raff selects a splendid looking specimen of crabhood and is invited to start the race. We cheer loudly for our crab who is resoundingly beaten by another who we suspect has been taking crab steroids. We’re calling shenanigans on that one. Any disappointment is short-lived as we are distracted by the need to rescue another hermit crab that our fearless daughter is attempting to eat.

Over dinner we feed her something less inclined to bite back and, as the setting sun puts on a magnificent display of colour, thank our lucky stars for this perfect week on island time and quietly dread our morning flight back to the faster pace of home.

From left: Aitutaki’s One Foot Island Scooter Ride. Courtesy of Cook Islands Tourism Corporation

One of Raratonga’s world class beaches.

Floral fun for Marlo & Raff

FAST FACTS GETTING THERE Air New Zealand now flies direct from Sydney to Rarotonga every Saturday. Air Rarotonga offers daily flights from Rarotonga to Aitutaki. www.airnewzealand.com.au www.airraro.com WHERE TO STAY The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa www.therarotongan.com Lagoon Breeze Villas www.lagoonbreezevillas.com Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa www.aitutakilagoonresort.com MONEY The currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). At the time of writing, AU$1 buys you NZD$1.28 MORE INFORMATION Cook Islands Tourism www.cookislandstourism.com.au

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FIJI

Fiji

MADE FOR

FAMILIES

SOME DESTINATIONS WERE SIMPLY MADE FOR FAMILY HOLIDAYS, AND FIJI RANKS HIGHLY, OR SHOULD, ON ANY PARENTS’ LIST. WORDS: RODERICK EIME

W

ith an enormous array of holiday accommodation options and easy air links, getting to Fiji is a piece of cake. Whether you choose a three, four or five-star option, families are catered for at every level.

All international flights will arrive at Nadi International Airport on the north-western corner of the main island, Viti Levu. After a short walk to immigration there is a dedicated queue for parents arriving with families. Even after the relatively quick three and a half-hour flight, parents managing restless tots will appreciate this simple service so they can be on their way.

Taxis are plentiful and inexpensive or, if you have pre-arranged transfers, your driver or representative will be there immediately as you exit customs. Compared to many international destinations, Fiji is a breeze.

© Shutterstock.com

Short and Sweet Close to the international hub of Nadi is the famous Denarau Island, a modern part-resort, part luxury residential development housing all the big names in hotels and leisure. Major hotel groups Westin, Sofitel, Radission Blu, Sheraton, Wyndham and Hilton can all be found in prime positions along the beachfront strip. Each resort, as you would expect, offers a jam-packed daily itinerary for guests of all ages. It’s common to see children from babes-inarms to energetic teens in all of these properties

enjoying the pool, beach or any of the other daily scheduled events.

Many resorts will offer specially designed family rooms. For example, Sofitel’s Family Style Terrace Rooms offer a layout that includes a kids’ private zone (complete with Playstation) separate from the main living room and devoted to fun. For sleeping, there’s one queen bed and a bunk bed and an ensuite with bath and shower facilities.

Family holidays mean parents too, so any vacation plans should include quality time for mum and dad. Check with the resort about childminding times and fees so there’s time for that special dinner for two at any of the exquisite restaurants along the Denarau strip. World famous spa treatments are a highlight of any Denarau Island resort stay, so be sure to schedule one (or two or three). If you’re someone who relaxes while being active, indulge in a round of golf on the par72 championship course or even a big game, deep sea fishing charter from the nearby marina. For older, more energetic families, why not get the tribe together for tennis at the Racquet Club, part of the golf complex.

Also from the marina are day trips, like those offered by well-known Captain Cook Cruises, to the nearby islands where the whole family can get out and visit the beautiful Mamanuca Islands, including the one used by Tom Hanks in the filming of Castaway.

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Kids Stay, Play and Eat Free!

Special Offer!! Stay 7 nights and only pay for 5!! 2 kids under 12 years stay, play and eat for FREE!! For travel until 31 March 2013. Conditions and block out dates apply.

One of Fiji’s most popular family resorts, Plantation Island Resort is located just 15km from the mainland on beautiful Malolo Lailai Island. Plantation is a true Fijian holiday paradise. Located on the shoulder of a blue lagoon with 7kms of sandy white beach, fringed by coral reef and crystal clear waters. Plantation has all the ingredients for a great family holiday, including the free Coconut Kids Club with three supervised activity sessions from 9am till 9pm. You’ll all have a truly enjoyable Fijian family break.

www.plantationisland.com AHU_0011 MIR_Out&About01.pdf

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Be free at Malolo!

It’s about a bure near the beach, surrounded by the world’s friendliest people with a living and authentic culture. Perfect for families and couples alike, you can fill your day with a myriad of activities or simply unwind and do nothing at all.

Year round, stay 5 nights and Kids Eat FREE or from 1 November to 31 March, stay 4 nights and receive the 5th night FREE!

Malolo. This is the way the world should be.

T+679 672 0978 | enquiries@ahuraresorts.com www.maloloisland.com

AUD$

400

per room per night for 2 or a family of 4 The Warm Heart Of Fiji.

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For reservations and information visit www.maloloisland.com

FIJI

Further afield Instead of staying close to Nadi, you can venture a little further and see a bit more of this beautiful tropical island nation. Just down the road toward Sigatoka on the Coral Coast, is the famous Sonaisali Island Resort. Self-contained and extensive, this expansive resort is great for families who want to arrive, unpack and hang out.

In the water there are kayaks, catamarans and jetskis. On land there are horse rides, beach games, tennis and even paintball. Family activities include firewalking display, sunset cruises and theme dining including the traditional and delicious lovo (earth oven).

Keep driving, through Sigatoka, and you’ll arrive at the acclaimed Naviti Resort, right in the heart of the Coral Coast. The resort is perfectly situated for land and river-based activities like the jungle walk, heritage sand dunes tour or the adrenalin pumping Sigatoka River Safari. The minimum three-night family package includes brekkie every day and their ‘all inclusive’ pricing means you’re not signing chits all day long and sweating on check-out shock.

For those families really looking for a true getaway, a short flight away is the renowned Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort (JMC) on the second island of Vanua Levu. This place is an example of a superbly planned and organised resort that is famous the world over for family vacations. This multi-award-winning

destination resort is just a short distance from the Savusavu township and offers relaxation, fun and enrichment for all guests, not just families.

A feature of JMC is the superbly run Bula Club, conducted in conjunction with the local villagers who act as dedicated nannies to the children, keeping them occupied with fun and games all day. Kids will learn about marine animals with resident biologists who also run immersive (if you’ll pardon the pun) sessions on the importance of marine ecosystems. Scuba diving is available too for parents and older kids with the PADIaccredited L’Aventure dive team. Did we mention the dining? Oo la la!

From left: Learning to scuba dive. © Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort

Plantation Island Resort © MattJones, Shutterstock.com

Get shipwrecked If you can do without a walk to the shops, Malolo Island is located in the nearby Mamanuca Islands and offers a ‘bure on the beach’ that will suit families to a tee. It might sound rustic and a bit Robinson Crusoe, but all bures are air-conditioned with queen beds, ceiling fans and a fridge, so there’s room for Man Friday and the tribe – who’ll just love the free kids club for four to 12-year-olds.

Just a few minutes by canoe is Plantation Island, another resort you’d easily jump ship for.

There are extensive children’s activities in and out of the water and I can see trouble getting them off the water slide for dinner, even if it is a succulent lovo and barbecue. Bures are substantial and spacious. None of this bamboo and grass nonsense.

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Exceptional Offer for Families - from the Best Exceptional Offer for families – from the Best Family Resort in Fiji* Family Resort in Fiji* Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands is an inclusive eco sensitive, luxury resort offering one of Fiji’s most comphrensive and responsible children’s programs.

This together with outstanding facilities for both adults and children, creative gourmet cuisine and stylish Fijian designed bures ensures that all members of the family have a relaxing, fun and enriching experience.

Dive & Rejuvenation package

Stay 7/Pay 5: Valid for travel from 1-26 Mar, 18 Oct-17 Dec 2010, 11 Jan - 31 Mar 2011 inclusive.

7 night’s accommodation* pay only for 5 nights!

All gourmet meals, bottled non-alcoholic drinks, choice of three days of 2 tank dives for 2 adults or three days of 2 tank dives for one adult, and three 60 minute massage treatments for one adult.* Stay/Pay packages also available for many months.

Complimentary sunsmart Bula (kids) Club operates daily for all children up to 12 years 8am-9pm.

Complimentary dining for 2 children up to 12 yrs sharing with two adults. Free nanny for each child under 6 yrs 8am - 9pm *As voted by Readers of Luxury Travel Magazine. Conditions apply.

sales@fijiresort.com t: 03 9815 0379 1300 306 171 www.fijiresort.com

JMC_FEB10.indd 1

Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort is an inclusive eco-sensitive, luxury resort offering one of Fiji’s most comphrensive and responsible children’s programs. This together with outstanding facilities & activities for adults, babies and children, creative gourmet cuisine and stylish Fijian designed bures ensures all members of the family have a relaxing, fun and enriching experience.

REJUVENATION PACKAGE Stay 6/Pay 4: stay for 6 nights or more and receive two free nights per stay (Gardenview Bure 6 nights $2148.00PA).

Validity: 14 Oct-21 - Dec 2012 , 7 Jan - 31 March 2013. Rate includes Free Nanny service, Bure accommodation, all gourmet meals, unlimited bottled non-alcoholic drinks, most activities, & free extra bonus of Diving & Massage.

More packages are available for travel on other dates

Free nanny service for each child under 6yrs, 8am-9pm Complimentary sunsmart daily Bula (Kids) Club operates 8am-9pm for all babies & children up to 12yrs.

Complimentary accommodation, dining and activities for two children up to 12yrs when sharing a buré with two adults. *As voted by Readers of Luxury Travel Magazine. Conditions apply.

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The 4 star Naviti Resort is cocooned on 38 acres of tropical gardens alongside golden beaches and tropical palms. Situated on Fiji’s famous coral coast the Naviti Resort is a famous All Inclusive resort. where guests can enjoy all meals, unlimited drinks, free golf green fees, Sunset Cruise, nightly entertainment, and many other activities.

For more information or to make a reservation Ph. (679) 653 0444 Fax. (679) 653 0099 Email : navitireservations@warwickhotels.com Website: www.warwicknaviti.com

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© McLennan, Sofitel

FIJI

Overnight cruises For seafaring families, Fiji offers a wealth of choice beyond simple day cruises from Denarau Island. Three small ship cruise companies, Blue Lagoon, Captain Cook and Tui Tai travel regularly among these divine islands, with some going as far afield as the Northern Lau Group, way across the Koro Sea to the east on true voyages of adventure and discovery.

These expedition-style itineraries (suitable for older families) are typically a week in duration and include cultural shows, school visits, nature walks and lots of swimming and snorkelling.

More manageable for families with tighter time constraints are the two- and three-night offerings that sail to the nearby Yasawa and Mamanuca Island groups, themselves a picture of gorgeous tropical island tranquillity. Choose from larger vessels catering to 50 or 100 passengers, or the exciting Barefoot Cruises offered by Captain Cook aboard their classic sailing ships.

Blue Lagoon Cruises will dedicate a Kids’ Captain for cruises with more than 10 children aboard and offer a dedicated program for young sailors that will keep them busy, fed and entertained with

games, fishing, water activities and movies.

One of the highlights of a Yasawa Islands visit is the manta ray swim where guests drift above exquisite giant manta rays as they feed on the plankton carried by the current between the islands.

Although huge and a bit scary-looking, manta rays are completely harmless and their tails carry no sting at all. As they feed, they execute graceful and mesmerising underwater dances as if performing for the delight of onlookers.

The Fiji difference Ask any parent who has experienced a Fiji family holiday and they will tell you of the natural skill of Fijians in looking after children. Perhaps it’s the age-old village structure and well-established communal child care routine that makes everyone a caring and nurturing member? Either way, a family holiday in Fiji may even give parents some valuable tips to take home besides T-shirts and seashells.

The writer, Roderick Eime, has visited Fiji at least once a year for the last five years.

He has travelled as a guest of Fiji Tourism, each of the cruise companies and several of the resorts.

FAST FACTS GETTING THERE Just four hours by plane from Australia’s east coast, Air Pacific offers regular flights. Air Pacific is the www.airpacific.com MONEY The currency is the Fijian Dollar (FJD). At the time of writing, AU$1 buys you FJD$1.84 WHERE TO STAY Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort www.fiji resort.com Malolo Island Resort www.maloloisland.com The Naviti Resort Viti Levu www.warwicknaviti.com Plantation Island Resort www.plantationisland.com Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa. www.sofitel.com/Fiji-Denarau Sonaisali Island Resort www.sonaisali.com MORE INFORMATION Extensive destination information is available from the official Fiji Tourism website www.fijime.com

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CRUISING WITH KIDS

Cruising by kids FOR THE INSIDE STORY ON CRUISE HOLIDAYS, OUT & ABOUT WITH KIDS CHATS TO KIDS WHO’VE CRUISED ABOUT FAMILY FUN AT SEA.

© Shutterstock.com

Mission to Mexico

Savannah Hinch – 11 Savannah discovers the “Allure”of the sea on a cruise with her mum.

Ship to shore My mum and I cruised to Haiti, Mexico and Jamaica on Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas with some of my mum’s friends.

The ship was massive with loads to do and our stateroom was really nice, we had a balcony facing the ocean. I really loved Mexico where we did an excursion to to visit an amazing underground river and the limestone caves called Rio Secreto (the Secret River) in the Riviera Maya.

Oceans of fun There were so many different activites and places to go on board. I tried all the activities. Surfing on the Flowrider was my favourite. There was also an awesome zip-line, rock-climbing wall and some really great shows.

I was having so much fun on the ship that I only made it to the kids club once, with a friend I made at the swimming pool.

Friendly faces I made a new friend who I hung out with and played games with. Everyone was really nice.

A moveable feast I LOVED the food on board, my favourite was the buffet.

Dream cruise? I’d like to do a European cruise.

Every kid should know... Cruising is awesome, you can relax and enjoy and don’t have to worry about repacking and going to catch another plane.

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Savannah Hinch

Madeleine Kelly

Teenage Dream

Madeleine Kelly - 16 Veteran cruiser Madeleine has sailed several seas with her mum, dad and two brothers.

Ship to shore We’ve cruised to the Caribbean, Asia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. I’m a tropical girl so I really loved the South Pacific. Vietnam was another favourite as the culture, heritage and history were amazing, our cruise gave enough of a taste to make me want more. Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 is definitely my favourite ship, its atmosphere was gorgeous. I also liked Blue Lagoon’s Fiji Princess because it was smaller and you got to know everyone really well – they were like family.

Oceans of fun Where to start? Swimming pools, tennis courts, ping pong tables plus the teen room where you can meet people your own age and just hang out... and have a bit of freedom from mum and dad without them worrying. And it’s easy to get around.

Friendly faces It’s a great way to meet people. On a cruise of Hawaii we formed a big group of around 20 kids. We stayed in touch, still meet up and go shopping together.

A moveable feast I love the massive variety of food on cruise ships. Even my brothers who are fussy find things to eat and the staff will modify food to suit.

Dream cruise? I’d like to go to Alaska... for a different experience.

Every teen should know... That they’re the ones that will have the best time on a cruise because the crew will spoil you rotten and make it all about you.

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Tropical tour

Lewis and Georgia Waters

Lewis and Georgia Waters – 12 & 10 Lewis & Georgia explored the tropics and their cruise ship on a family holiday at sea Ship to shore We sailed on the Pacific Pearl from Sydney to Noumea, Mystery Island, Lifou and the Isle of Pines. The ship was was great and our stateroom steward Reggie was very nice. Our stateroom had two bunk beds and a bathroom. Georgia: I liked Mystery Island in Vanuatu. Lewis: Noumea, New Caledonia’s cosmopolitan capital.

Oceans of fun: You could just roam around the place with your friends doing fun things like sports, air hockey and swimming in the pool. The HQ Kids Club was heaps of fun because you got to make new friends and there were activities all day long. Plus PS3 games, art, crafts, sports and a machine that had a bunch of music on it that you could play.

Georgia: I saw lots of shows and my favourite was the acrobatic show.

Friendly faces We made loads of new friends we’ll keep in touch with from different states and suburbs.

A moveable feast The food was amazing and the buffet was great. The food in the restaurant was delicious - there were always new dishes to try and service was friendly and excellent.

Dream Cruise? Lewis: Up or around the coast of Australia. Geogia: I wouldn’t care where I went I just want to get back on the boat.

Every kid should know... That you will have the best time of your life and that you get to meet lovely people in a safe environment as you sail to different locations.

South Pacific Soire

Annika and Jai Pandey – 15 & 10 Island hoppers Annika and Jai have cruised the South Pacific Islands with their cousins and Fiji with mum and dad.

Ship to shore We cruised the South Pacific on P&O’s Pacific Pearl for 29 nights and Fiji on Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas for 10 nights. They were both great with so many activities and great staterooms. Our favourite ports were in the Cook Islands as well Bora Bora and Morea in Tahiti where you could swim with the stingrays and ride jet-skis.

Oceans of fun There is always something to do on a cruise and different activities all the time like evening shows and fun entertainment like bingo. Plus putt putt, swimming and a gym. Rhapsody of the Seas even had rock climbing. We loved Pacific Pearl’s HQ for Kids. The kids club has play station, x-box, dance night, skit night, cooking classes and the teen club had chill out rooms and didn’t close until till 2am.

Friendly faces We made loads of new friends, and bumped into old ones, and still keep in contact with them now.

A moveable feast You can’t go past the desserts or all you can eat ice cream. The staff were really nice - Jai has allergies and they prepared him special meals. They even showed us the kitchens and we met the all the kitchen staff.

Dream cruise? We would both like to go back to Tahiti to visit Bora Bora and Morea.

Every kid should know... Cruising is so relaxing, heaps of fun and it means not having to think about school.

CRUISING WITH KIDS

Jack & Scarlett Foulsham

Hooked on the Caribbean Jack & Scarlett Foulsham – 10 & 8 Jack and Scarlett enjoyed cruising Caribbean style with mum and dad.

Ship to shore We’ve been to the Bahamas and Caribbean on Norwegian Jewel and Azamara Journey. The Norwegian Jewel was our favourite ship. The staterooms were nice and roomy and decorated with bright, beautiful colors and soft chairs that were so comfy you could become glued to them. Our favourite stop on the cruise was Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. It’s a beautiful private island in the Bahamas with a white sand beach and bright blue water full of neon fish.

Oceans of fun There is so much to do and you don’t have to go anywhere – it is all right there. The pool and the games arcade were our favourite places to hang out. The theatre was awesome too. They had a kids club but there was so much else to do we didn’t make it.

Friendly faces We made new friends by the pool and everyone on the ship was so nice.

A moveable feast The variety of food was really good. We liked the sushi and the buffet was great because they gave you a bit of everything to try.

Dream cruise? We’d go cruising anywhere but would really like to go back to the Caribbean.

Every kid should know... That it is a great fun experience and relaxing. If your parents say no, just show them the brochure!

Rafferty Laight

Adriatic Adventurer

Rafferty Laight – 4 Rafferty unleashes his inner pirate on a European cruise with his mum, dad and baby sister.

Ship to shore My ship was Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the Seas. I think it was even bigger than the sun and I liked that I could sleep with my mum and dad and baby sister in the same room. We went to Croatia, Italy and Slovenia. In Italy I had a granita and they are my favourite things ever, especially red ones. We went in a kayak (gondola) and the standing man pushed it with a really big stick. Croatia was my favourite because I got to drive everyone on a pirate ship and be the captain.

Oceans of fun I liked the pool and sliding on the waterslide with daddy. There was an ice show and I liked the girls except the one with a spiky head. At Aquanauts (kids club) I made things. The girls there were nice. They took me for ice-cream.

Friendly faces Jeffrey was my best friend. He was the man at dinner who gave me nice food and lots of tomato sauce. I drew him a picture and I miss him.

A moveable feast I liked all the food especially breakfast because I could eat cereal and bacon and dinner because Jeffrey sometimes gave me two desserts.

Dream cruise? I want to cruise to Oman, because I like it there so much and want to go again.

Every kid should know... To look out their window every morning because it’s always different, eat lots and lots, and go on the waterslide.

Eirin and Connor Harrigan

Disney Delights Eirin and Connor Harrigan - 12 & 10 Eirin & Connor Harrigan experienced Disney afloat on a Bahamas cruise with their mum and dad.

Ship to shore We sailed on the Disney Wonder to the Bahamas. It was really big and the staterooms were comfortable. Each time our stateroom steward made our beds they would leave an animal made out of a towel and chocolates on our pillow. Yummy! Castaway Cay was amazing. It’s an island where you are the only people there. They have a slide, bikes to ride, and lots of beaches.

Oceans of fun There was so much to do on Disney Wonder. We swam in the pools and went down the massive slide, which was awesome. There was a movie or show on every night plus bingo and the kids club had so many activities and was so much fun that we even stayed there till midnight one night. On the last day, we got to perform a dance in front of all our parents on a big stage - which was scary but cool.

Friendly faces It was fun to meet new people at the kids club.

A moveable feast There was a really big variety of food and we had a choice of kids meals or adult meals – and all you can eat ice cream. We had different food each night and tried escargot (snails) which weren’t that nice.

Dream cruise? We’d go cruising anywhere.

Every kid should know... Not to be scared about the boat cracking in half like the Titanic because it will most likely never happen and if it did there will be enough lifeboats. Just have fun.

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SHORT CUTS Cruise More for kids with MSC Cruises

Families can look to MSC Cruises as the Italian family-owned cruise line looks to revamp its kids club programs. Designed to appeal to all ages, enhancements to the 11-strong fleet focus on sporting activities, arts and crafts, theatre and new technology.

There will also be more family events from parades to scavenger hunts and four separate kids clubs tailored to specific age groups from three to 17. As well as dedicated kids theatre performances there will be on-board sports from basketball and volleyball to soccer tournaments plus dance competitions and art workshops. Future journalists and cartoonists will be proud to see their work published in the new kids’ newspaper, and the Mini Club library has been enriched with books and comics for all those bookworms on board. And for the littlest cruisers, each morning MSC Cruises will host a nanny’s hour, a special program for babies and toddlers aged 10 to 36 months with dedicated games and activities.

MSC also offers free cruises on all cruise ships to guests under-18s sharing a cabin with two adults, with kids needing only to pay port charges. www.msccruises.com.au

Cruising gets sweeter on P&O P&O Cruises has made cruising even sweeter for kids with the launch of its own branded ice cream - P&O Cruises Chocolate Hokey Pokey – in partnership with New Zealand Natural Premium Ice Cream. The new flavour will be available in the new New Zealand Natural parlours being installed on P&O Cruises’ ships as well as in New Zealand Natural’s 75 stores in Australia and New Zealand from early June.

The first New Zealand Natural on-board parlour was unveiled on Pacific Dawn as part of a multi-million dollar refit of the ship which also includes the installation of a new giant poolside entertainment screen and interconnecting family rooms. www.pocruises.com.au

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Europe in Royal style Australians can embark on a royal tour of Europe aboard one of Cunard’s three magnificent Queens in 2013, choosing their ideal itinerary from one of the more than 100 voyages that are on offer in Cunard’s new European program.

The offerings include the chance to cruise in the heart of the Mediterranean on Cunard’s youngest liner Queen Elizabeth, which will operate a series of 11 voyages cruising the waters between Venice, Rome and Athens.

The remainder of the season will see Queen Elizabeth sailing roundtrip voyages from Southampton to the Mediterranean and Northern Europe including Iceland, Norway’s fjords, British Isles and the Baltic Sea. Queen Victoria will spend a diverse 2013 season sailing from Southampton, visiting an array of Norwegian fjords, Baltic cities, Mediterranean shores, Atlantic islands and Black Sea cities and Cunard’s elegant flagship the Queen Mary 2 will continue to offer the line’s iconic Transatlantic service, with more than 15 crossings throughout in the new program.

Queen Mary 2 will also venture to Northern Europe and North America, where she will undertake an extended Canada and New England season. www.cunardline.com.au.

CRUISE NEWS

P&O Cruises kicks a goal for footy fans After the launch of live NRL coverage across its fleet, P&O Cruises has announced AFL games will join the sports line-up onboard its ships, giving fans the chance to catch both footy codes at sea.

For the entire 2012 season, Friday night AFL matches, as well as the final series and grand final, will be shown on the giant outdoor screens and in other public areas on P&O Cruises’ three ships. www.pocruises.com.au

More cruises, new itineraries and big savings for Celebrity Solstice Australia’s newest and most stylish ship, Celebrity Solstice, is set for an even bigger summer cruise season down under in 2013/14 with the announcement of a second local program featuring an extended season, as well as new itineraries and ports of call. The program will comprise of 10 unique itineraries, including a new three-night sampler cruise from Sydney, as well Celebrity’s first ever South Pacific island cruises sailing roundtrip from Sydney.

Celebrity Cruises puts an emphasis on the finer things in life – from the spacious staterooms to the exquisite meals available from a variety of restaurants; from fine wines in stylish bars to the decadent treatments at the AquaSpa. But children aren’t forgotten with the ship’s complimentary Toddler Time for under-threes, Fun Factory for ages three to11 and X-Club Teen Entertainment. Book now to snap up fantastic earlybird offers and affordable upgrades. www.celebritycruises.com.au

THE INSIDER – AT SEA OUT & ABOUT WITH KIDS CHATS TO JEANNETTE LOURY ADVENTURE OCEAN CONSULTANT, YOUTH ACTIVITIES FOR ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES.

In her role as Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean Consultant, Jeannette is responsible for overseeing the children and teens shipboard operations for all 22 ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet – which means she knows a thing or two on keeping kids entertained at sea.

What are some the best new features for kids on the newly refurbished Rhapsody of the Seas?

One of the best features we are excited to have added to the Rhapsody of the Seas is our Royal Babies and Royal Tots Nursery which accommodates our youngest cruisers from six months to three years. In addition to being able to offer our Fisher Price Playgroups for families we now have the ability to accommodate guests with drop-off baby service.

What do you have planned for other ships?

For kids and teens, specifically we have really targeted our under-three age group and how we can make our facilities more attractive to them. We are currently confirmed to have Royal Babies and Royal Tots Nurseries on both Mariner of the Seas and Grandeur

of the Seas by this summer giving us a total of nine nurseries fleetwide.

(The other seven being Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, Freedom Splendour of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, Rhapsody of the Seas) Do you have a secret recipe for keeping kids happy while on holiday?

Ensuring they are always entertained - which is why we take pride in our eclectic daily kids program. From the custom programming that is created by play experts at the Fisher Price lab for our three to five-year-olds olds all the way through to the fun theme nights and afternoons for our older kids, we make certain we cover all areas of interest. And while Royal Caribbean deploys ships all over the world we ensure our kids program is catered to the local demographic. With our international youth staff we are sure to accommodate language needs and cultural relevance with the kids onboard. The biggest compliment is when the children don’t want to leave the facility and would rather stay and play with the new friends they met on board. www.royalcaribbean.com.au

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Baby STAYS The best international baby and toddler-friendly accommodation

IT’S RELATIVELY EASY TO FIND ACCOMMODATION OFFERING FACILITIES AND ENTERTAINMENT FOR KIDS OVER THE AGE OF THREE, BUT IT CAN BE A DIFFERENT STORY WHEN IT COMES TO FINDING A PLACE TO STAY THAT OFFERS SERVICES CATERING TOWARDS LITTLER GUESTS.

F

orward thinking hotels and resorts are now realising that family holidays often include tiny travellers and are offering special services geared towards tots – from baby equipment, special meals and babysitting services through to designated baby and toddler kids clubs that offer tired mums and dads time out to reconnect, or to catch up on some much-needed sleep.

Here our readers share some of their recommendations on the best international resorts, apartments and hotels that cater to the needs of babies and toddlers.

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THE CAPITAL, LONDON

SUN CITY RESORT, SOUTH AFRICA

Surrounded by great family attractions including Hyde Park, the Science Museum and Natural History Museum, Buckingham Palace, and the Princess Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens, The Capital offers five-star personalised service for families including babysitting and family dining in luxurious style. With all the conveniences of home including a fullyfitted kitchen, it’s the perfect option for families with tots seeking a little luxury in the heart of London. www.capitalhotel.co.uk

Ideal for families, Sun City Resort offers a choice of four hotel experiences and a phenomenal range of activities to suit every kid, from tot to teen. More than just a kids club, their Kamp Kwena is an enormous fantasy fort bursting with an endless selection of games and activities along with plenty of hugs and smiles from the friendly caregivers. The resort’s impressive Thula Baba creche means babies are catered for too, day or night. www.sun-city-south-africa.com

“For our young family apartment rentals makes more sense and The Central offered us the bonus of luxury and location to make it feel special.” Jo Coffey

“The resorts creche facility meant we could head out game viewing content that our baby was in safe, caring and capable hands.”

Angela Pisani

© Shutterstock.com

OUT & ABOUT WITH BABY

THE RARATONGAN BEACH RESORT AND SPA, COOK ISLANDS

SUNWING RESORTS, PHUKET, THAILAND

The Raratongan is a great place to enjoy the simple pleasures of life. The kids can feed the fish at the water’s edge, snorkel straight of the resort’s world class beach or enjoy the kids club facilities. Littlies aren’t forgotten with the resorts new Banana Beach Playland Creche offering babies and toddlers up to four-years-old fun activities, a fantastic range of toys and more, all under the safe supervision of caring and attentive staff. www.therarotongan.com

Phuket’s Sunwing Resort and Spa, Bangtao Beach and Sunwing Resort, Kamala Beach offer sanctuary for families with their Happy Baby studios. The ground-floor self-contained units with gated terraces come equipped with cot, high chair, baby bath, potty, bouncer, safety locks and a stroller for when you want to get out and about to enjoy Phuket. Both resorts cater to the family market with comprehensive kids’ entertainment programs and activities for all age groups. www.sunwingphuket.com

“Our baby girl, Marlo, loved her afternoon with the other babies and the beautiful staff at the creche as much as we loved knowing she was in safe hands”. Aleney de Winter, Editor

“It’s like a deluxe home away from home.

Our Happy Baby studio had everything we needed for baby without having to lug it through airports. Our best holiday ever.” Alison Plunkett

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© Shutterstock.com

OUT & ABOUT WITH BABY

PLANTATION ISLAND RESORT, FIJI

JEAN-MICHEL COUSTEAU RESORT, FIJI

Renowned for providing warm and friendly service to visiting families, the beautiful Plantation Island Resort (part of the Mamanuca Group of islands) offers a variety of leisure activities including a kids club for older kids, and for a small hourly fee, babysitting, creche and nanny services for the younger ones ensuring everyone has a great holiday. And the resort is also conveniently located just a few kilometres from Nadi International Airport. www.plantationisland.com

Little nature-lovers are well catered for at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort - one of the Pacific’s most celebrated – with an awesome kids club programme where children can explore and learn about Fijian culture, the environment and the natural world around them. And the resorts dedicated nanny service for every child (under five) is such a treat that the luxury of the resorts accommodation and idyllic location are almost a bonus. www.fijiresort.com

“Our baby loved her first holiday and we loved the nanny service which allowed us to enjoy our break knowing she was in safe hands.” Evelyn Barrett

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“Jean-Michel’s excellent nanny service meant we could catch up on some much needed mummy and daddy time as well as enjoying time with our baby girl.” Meg Reilly

WHAT’S

hot

FOR BABY

WHaT’S hOT for Baby BabyNoBugs The cute and innovative new BabyNoBugs line of arm and leg warmers have been specially treated with Insect Shield technology, resulting in effective, odorless insect protection that lasts the expected lifetime of the warmers. www.babesinarms.com.au RRP $18.95

Babiators Babiators protect your children’s eyes from harmful UV rays with durable BPA free rubber framed sunglasses – without sacrificing style! Designed to stand up to the sun, teething, and playground fashonistas in a single purchase, these funky frames offer 100% UVA and UVB protection and come in two sizes and four fashion colours. www.boutiquebrands.com.au RRP$34.95

Oogaa Mealtime Set Let tonight’s meal be delivered by train or plane with this soft-touch, shatterproof and slip-resistant feeding set. Perfect for travel or at home the cutlery is made of high-quality BPA and PVC-free material that won’t support the growth of mould or bacteria. www.boutiquebrands.com.au RRP$24.95

Aussie Kidz Travel Mate Lock and load your tots! Easily mount your car seat to the Travel Mate to lighten your load in transit.

And you can enjoy the peace of mind of your child having their own car seat in a taxi or rental car at your destination. The Travel Mate weighs just 2.25kg and is compatible with most care seats. www.GoGoBabyz.com.au RRP $139

Organic Ergobaby Collection by Petunia Pickle Bottom The carrier of choice for celeb parents from Miranda Kerr to Pink, Ergobaby is now available in a Moroccan-inspired print that is sure to have you and bub ‘Frolicking in Fez’. The awardwinning carriers are perfect from birth to preschool and offer three ergonomic carry positions. www.babesinarms.com.au RRP $209

SideKick This inspired baby bag doubles as a baby carrier making it an ideal two-in-one for travel. Organise all your baby must haves and create a reliable nest to carry your tot (up to 15kgs) with the versatile bag. www.GoGoBabyz.com.au RRP$179

WHAT’S

hot

FOR TRAVEL

WHaT’S hOT for Kids Selk’bag A bit like a sleeping bag suit, the selk’bag has arms and legs so they move around and keep warm at the same time.

Designed to fit the wearer the selk’bag even has nylon soles so you can walk around the campsite or lounge room in it.

The kids selk’bag version comes in pink and blue with double-sided zips that are easy to do and undo from the inside. www.selkbag. com.au RRP $149.00

Games on the Go These perfectly portable versions of popular board games are ideal for travelling families. And with titles including Battleship, Cluedo, Connect 4, Guess Who and ever popular Monopoly, you’ll find one perfect for your tribe. www.hasbrotoys.com.au RRP $9.95

Charlie’s Juice for Kids Kathmandu Kids Travel Pillow Keep the kids comfortable while travelling in the car or plane with this convenient and compact inflatable pillow that’s perfectly sized for little necks. www.kathmandu.com.au RRP $19.98

Chuckies Is your child a chucker? According the research, just over half our kids suffer from travel sickness. Chuckies are a compact, deep, purposedesigned sick bag, with a ’can’t miss’ plastic opening, anti-spill lock (to contain contents as well as smell) that fit easily into glove boxes, carry-on luggage, handbags and first aid kits. www.chuckies.com.au RRP $19.99 (for 18 bags)

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Charlie’s has created a new juice that will have kids and parents smiling. The healthy and convenient drink is made from half real fruit juice (not concentrate) and half pure water saving mum and dad the tricky task of diluting fruit juice on the run. Available at Coles stores nationally. www.charlies.co.nz RRP $1.25

Trunki Snoozihedz Snoozihedz is an innovative three in one travel pal, pillow and blanket perfect for napping on the move!

Available in blue or pink, the cute character pillowcase simply un-zips to reveal a plush fleece blanket and inflatable pillow featuring the unique Trunki Grip which clips it to the blanket preventing it sliding off in transit. www.yooneek.com.au RRP $32.95

WHAT’S

hot

FOR TRAVEL

WHaT’S hOT travel tech An easy read Gone are the days of weighing down your luggage toting heavy books on your travels. The Sony Reader WiFi is a great travel companion that allows you to store up to 1200 e-books and at just 168 grams Sony claims it is the world’s lightest 6-inch e-book reader. The reader offers a great way to encourage reluctant readers to build literacy skills as children can save, annotate and highlight parts of the text and also allows access to websites which help parents build the skills to help their kids read. www.sony.com.au RRP $179.00

App, app and away Passengers are now able to check Sydney Airport flight schedules, get real-time arrival and departure updates plus info on getting to and from the airport, public transport, parking , terminal maps and a directory of shopping and eating options with the airport’s new app.

Heading to the US, Canada, Europe or Australia, Yelp is a fantastic easy to use app that offers member reviews of practically everything from where to eat, where to shop and where to stay to great parks and beaches.

Arrived at your destination? Sygic Mobile Maps is a hot voice-guided GPS navigation app packed with up-to-theminute comprehensive maps and a great set of navigation features that make discovering new places, by road or on foot, a breeze.

Share your experiences with friends and families while you’re travelling with the Trip Journal. The app, integrated with social networks including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Flickr, allows users to document and share their holiday experiences in real time as your adventures unfold.

Get the kids exploring with NSW Parks & Wildlife’s new WilderQuest website and app.

Tapping into the lure of screen time to actually draw children away from it and into the outdoors the app uses games to learn about the environment and native animals that can be found in NSW. www.wilderquest.nsw.gov.au

Tablet with a twist The dual screen Sony Tablet P offers easy portability with a clever clamshell design that fits easily in pocket or handbag and is perfect for travel. The easy to operate interface allows kids (my four-year-old found it a breeze) and parents to navigate, play and learn. In addition to access to a huge library of movies and music there are pre-installed PlayStationcertified games and exclusive access to more. Or simply download your own videos, music and photos to share your holiday memories with family and friends. www.sony.com.au RRP $729

Film star Budding travel documentary makers will love the ultra-lightweight Panasonic Full HD 1MOS HCV100. The video recorder is ideal for capturing those family holiday moments thanks to Intelligent Auto (iA), Power OIS, wideangle lens and impressive zoom. Weighing in at only 181 grams it’s perfect for packing and its impressive battery life allows users to record up to 165 minutes at a time so you won’t miss any of those special family holiday moments. The camcorder even offers 3D shooting with an optional 3D conversion lens. www.panasonic.com.au RRP $399

Charge!

The hiCharger travel emergency battery charger is compatible with the iPhone family and works with any AA battery. It also comes with two amazing hiEnergy, batteries so that you can simply charge electronics via USB port. A must for any traveller wanting to stay connected. www.campluxe.com.au RRP $99.95

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WHAT’S

hot

BOOKS

BOOKS …FOR THE KIDS A WALK IN LONDON

By Salvatore Rubbino Join mother and daughter as they board a classic red bus for a whirlwind tour of London’s iconic landmarks. A visually stunning paean to Britain’s bustling capital this book is packed with enlightening and entertaining information that’s perfectly timed for the upcoming London Olympics.

Walker Books RRP $18.99

GO JOJO GO!

By Tessa Bickford and Jennifer Castles Jojo the penguin wants to go to sea but first she must learn to swim. This lovely picture book is beautifully illustrated with photographs of the gentoo penguins on Australia’s world heritage-listed Macquarie Island and is ideal for younger children who are ready to explore their world.

Allen & Unwin RRP $24.99

…FOR RAINY DAYS LEGO CITY: BUSY AIRPORT ACTIVITY BOOK (WITH MINIFIGURE) Lego-lovers can join the Lego City minifigures at the bustling Lego airport in this fabulous and fun activity book. Perfect to keep little people amused on a rainy winter day they can build their own minifigure, read the stories and complete the puzzles.

Ladybird RRP $9.95

WIN

CHARLIE AND LOLA: MY HOLIDAY STICKER BOOK

By Lauren Child Lola has plans to make her latest school holiday the best ever, from building an enormous sandcastle and climbing the highest mountain in the world to exploring space and camping with mermaids. With more than 100 stickers, it’s a must for Charlie and Lola fans.

Picture Puffin RRP$9.95

…FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY JUNIOR MASTERCHEF: AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 AMAZING RECIPES

By MasterChef This fabulous cookbook is an ideal introduction for kids (and parents) to a world of food. Younger cooks can explore different cuisines through simple, achievable recipes. Each chapter features step-by-step recipes with ingredient guides and techniques specific to each cuisine, plus a cooking basics section.

Harper Collins RRP $29.99

CHILDREN’S WORLD ATLAS

By Dorling Kindersley Perfect for young explorers, this ground-breaking atlas has been revised and refreshed with colourful new maps, amazing 3D artwork and an interactive CD. Each map is complimented with human stories and views to introduce your child to the societies, cultures, histories and landscapes of every corner of the globe.

Dorling Kindersley RRP$29.95

Maisy Goes on a Sleepover

Lucy Cousins Join Maisy and her friends as she enjoys her very first sleepover! Read how she is packing her pyjamas and sleeping bag for an overnight adventure of non-stop chatter, dancing, chasing, exploring, lots of jumping on beds and plenty of snuggling... everything but sleeping. Young children will adore all the fun of this great new Maisy title that addresses both the excitement and anxiety of a sleepover in a house that isn’t their own.

Out & About With Kids has TEN copies of Maisy Goes on a Sleepover to give away, each valued at $24.99. For your chance to win visit www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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WHAT’S

hot

FOR ENTERTAINMENT

WHaT’S hOT Winter’s Best Entertainment PERFORMANCE CIRCUS OZ FROM THE GROUND UP

LIVE DORA THE EXPLORER LIVE! Everyone’s favourite explorer is embarking on a live musical adventure Down Under in Nick Jr.’s Dora the Explorer LIVE! Search for the City of Lost Toys.

Dora has lost her teddy bear, and the search is on to retrieve him! Dora the Explorer fans will delight in this two-act song and dance spectacular that invites them to think, sing and play along. Dora the Explorer LIVE! Search for the City of Lost Toys will tour nationally, June 23 – July 23. www.nickjr.com.au

With a spring-loaded love of the absurd, Circus Oz sky dives back to Melbourne with the premiere of a brand-spanking new show, From the Ground Up – the latest ridiculous debacle for audiences of all ages performed under the heated Circus Oz Big Top at Birrarung Marr in Melbourne. The new show is comedy engineering at its best and families will be entertained by power-packed aerialists, knockabout jugglers, live wire musicians – all acrobatically suspended in disbelief under the big top. From the Ground Up will run in Melbourne, June 20 – July 15, Circus Oz Big Top. www.ticketmaster.com.au

GAMING SORCERY Get ready to be transported into a world of magic and wonder as a young sorcerer’s apprentice in Sorcery™, the all new actionadventure fantasy game available only on the PlayStation®3 (PS3™). Conjure up spells and drink potions as the PlayStation®Move motion controller mirrors your actual movements in-game.

This awesome game is packed with magical adventure as players harness the true power of magic to save a mystical realm from the darkness of the Nightmare Queen.

MOVIE BRAVE In the rugged and mysterious Highlands of Scotland an impetuous princess and aspiring archer, Merida, is determined to set her own path in life. In doing so she makes a reckless choice that unleashes chaos and peril upon her kingdom.

Forced to put things right Princess Merida must rely on her bravery and her archery skills to undo the curse and change her fate. Starring the voices of Kelly Macdonald as Merida and John Cleese and Emma Thompson as her royal parents, Brave is an epic Disney Pixar adventure full of warmth and wonderful characters. disney.go.com/Brave/

WIN

ONE lucky Out & About With Kids reader can WIN the ultimate Sorcery™ pack valued at up to $550 RRP. The bundled pack includes a PlayStation®3 console, Sorcery™ game, PlayStation®Move starter pack, including PlayStation®Move motion controller and PlayStation®Eye camera & a PlayStation®Move Navigation controller.

To enter visit www.outandbaoutwithkids.com.au

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DAD’S WORD

QUICKFIND ACCOMMODATION – OVERSEAS Berjaya Hotels & Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .berjayahotel .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IBC The Baumancasa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .baumancasa .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Centara Hotels & Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .centarahotelsresorts .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93 Embassy Suites Waikiki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .embassysuiteswaikiki .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Hard Rock Hotel Penang . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . penang .hardrockhotels .net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82 Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort . . . www .fijiresort .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Dad’s

ACCLAIMED AUSTRALIAN CHEF, MASTERCHEF JUDGE AND AUSTRALIAN TOURISM AMBASSADOR MATT MORAN HAS BEEN TRAVELLING THE COUNTRY ON THE T-QUAL TICK TOUR, TO RAISE AWARENESS OF AUSTRALIA’S NATIONAL SYMBOL OF TOURISM QUALITY. HERE, THE FATHER OF HARRY AND AMELIA SHARES HIS THOUGHTS ON FAMILY TRAVEL...

WORD

Where is your favourite Australian family holiday spot?

We love to go skiing in Perisher, NSW. It’s always such a big family affair. We all take food down for a week and cook for ourselves.

Where is your favourite international family holiday spot?

My daughter Amelia was born on Bastille Day, so it would have to be Paris. We try to go there each year. It’s always such a wonderful experience.

What’s your fondest childhood holiday memory?

We didn’t really go on family holidays when I was a child.

Instead we stayed on the farm looking after the cows or went to our Grandmothers house in the NSW Central Coast.

What is your top tip for a family driving holiday?

Make sure you take a smartphone such as an iPhone or even an iPad. They’re great for navigation and making sure you can stay connected and in touch.

Any hints for flying with kids?

Always take plenty of books to keep them entertained.

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Do you prefer resorts with kids’ clubs?

No, I want to spend time with my kids when on holiday.

Laguna Phuket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .lagunaphuket .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Malolo Island . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .maloloisland .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 The Naviti Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .warwicknaviti .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Parkroyal Penang Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .parkroyalhotels .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Plantation Island Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .plantationisland .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . www .TheRarotongan .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76 Disneyland Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .disneyland .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Tokyo Disney Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .tokyodisneyresort .co .jp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87 ACCOMMODATION – AUSTRALIA Angourie Rainforest Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .angourieresort .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Aspen Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .aspenparks .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 Port Stephens Beachside Holiday Parks . . . . www .beachsideholidays .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 BIG4 Holiday Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .big4 .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OBC

Describe your biggest family holiday disaster?

We haven’t really had one.

We’ve never even missed a plane, even when we realised that Amelia’s passport had expired the day before we were leaving and we had just one day to get a new one...and it was New Year’s Day! Describe your funniest holiday moment?

Amelia was just a one-yearold at the time. As she was born on Bastille Day, we were watching the parade in Paris and her older brother asked me, “Is this all for Amelia’s birthday?” He was four at the time.

Kiama Coast Holiday Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .kiamacoast .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .aspenresorts .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Mowbray Park Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .farmstayholidays .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 North Coast Holiday Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .northcoastholidayparks .com .au . . . . . . . . .38 Paradise Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .paradiseresort .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Rendezvous Reef Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www . RendezvousHotels .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 Sea World Resort & Water Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .myfun .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62 Silverneedle Hospitality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .silverneedlehotels .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Skippers Cove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .skipperscove .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 GREAT THINGS TO DO Featherdale Wildlife Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .featherdale .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Phillip Island Nature Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .penguins .org .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Questacon, ACT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .questacon .edu .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Skyrail Rainforest Cableway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .skyrail .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 TRAVEL Creative Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .creativeholidays .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Qantas Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .qantas .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93 TOURISM ORGANISATIONS Christmas Island Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .christmas .net .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75

Do you have a dream family destination?

Definitely Croatia. I think it’s important for the kids to see and experience as much culture as possible.

It helps them to realise how fortunate they are.

WINTER 2012 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

India Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .incredibleindia .org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 The Legendary Pacific Coast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .pacificcoast .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Port Stephens Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .portstephens .org .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Sultanate of Oman Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .tourismoman .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC South Africa Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .southafrica .net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 OTHER RTA Travel Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .rta .nsw .gov .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

IN CINEMAS JuNE 21 DISNEY.COM/BRAVE ©2012 Disney • Pixar

Brave this winter and escape

For a Family getaway

Kids stay Free

in July & august* To celebrate the launch of the Disney • Pixar film Brave, BIG4 Holiday Parks has a very special BIG4 Club Member offer. Brave this winter and take advantage of our Kids Stay Free in July and August promotion. Offer available for a minimum 2 night booking at participating BIG4 Holiday Parks.

To book at one of our participating Holiday Parks visit BIG4.com.au

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BIG4.com.au *For full terms and conditions visit BIG4.com.au