Out & About with Kids #51 Summer 2016

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FAMILY | TRAVEL | HOLIDAY | LEISURE | ENTERTAINMENT

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in Anaheim A FAMILY HOLIDAY

HOTELS FOR From family-friendly suites to stylish hotels, from extensive resort amenities to incredible locations with fun activities for everyone, we offer the perfect fit for any type of family visiting Hawaii. Isn’t it time to vacation better together?

Sign up for exclusive A-List Insider member deals and instant perks for your next stay. aqua-aston.com | +1.808.564.7618

“Hotels for ALL” Out & About w/ Kids Issue: Jan/Feb 2017 Full Pg Full bleed trim: 210mm x 275mm Due: 12.05.16

….Wishing you and your family a fabulous summer holiday and a very happy new year ….

So Solomons,

So Different !

Explore the hidden paradise of the South Pacific, an archipelago comprising a vast group of 992 breathtaking tropical islands.

Feel the spirit of adventure and enjoy your own special piece of paradise - dive, fish, surf, hike, kayak or simply relax and discover a culture with a welcoming smile.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau PO Box 321, Mendana Avenue, Honiara, Solomon Islands call (677) 22442 or email info@sivb.com.sb

www.visitsolomons.com.sb www.facebook.com/VisitSolomonIslands

Out & About with Kids Print & Digital outandaboutwithkids.com.au Publisher Elisa Elwin elisa@oawk.com.au 0413 770 550 Editor Christine Kane christine@oawk.com.au Digital Content Manager Lisa Monk lisamonk@oawk.com.au

© Shutterstock

Associate Publisher Richard Bunting rbunting@oawk.com.au 0424 138 806 Contributors Deborah Dickson-Smith Julie Jones Charli Kane Simon Mallender Craig Sheather Yumi Stynes Monique Van Tulder Sue White

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Print Design Magnesium Media Print Art Director Louise Summerton Advertising Enquiries Richard Bunting rbunting@oawk.com.au 0424 138 806 Published by Elwin Media Pty Ltd ABN: 22 159 093 606

PO Box 4148, Balgowlah Heights NSW 2093 0413 770 550 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.

Copyright © Out & About with Kids 2016 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.

ummer seems to roll around so quickly – and here we are again with our bumper annual LIST ISSUE, containing fun, fascinating and frivolous facts in a fantastic series of Lists, with something to appeal to every member of the family – so take your time over the long summer holidays to relax, unwind and enjoy the read!

Our List issue this year also includes a 24-page special feature on everyone’s favourite destination – Anaheim. If you’re unfamiliar with Anaheim, you might know it better as the home of the original Disneyland Park in California – now the Disneyland Resort, with two unbelievable parks, and so much more.

Get to know Anaheim with our special guide – aside from ‘The Happiest Place on Earth’ – Disneyland Resort – Anaheim is full of excitement for families, with unbelievable attractions and adventures, fabulous hotels and resorts, and Pacific beaches to rival those in Australia!

Anaheim is in Orange County, a beautiful stretch of Southern California (SoCal) that runs from Los Angeles to San Diego. Top to bottom and across, the O.C. is paradise for families – and especially for kids of all ages.

And while you’re discovering this great holiday destination, make sure you enter our ‘Seven Days Are Not Enough’ competition for your chance to win a fabulous and unforgettable family holiday experience in amazing Anaheim!

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YUMI STYNES Yumi sets off camping – not for the first time – but it’s a debut experience with her two teens and two tots in tow! Joining them are friends who are newbies, and for whom the delights of sleeping under canvas in the great outdoors have yet to make themselves apparent!

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DID YOU KNOW Stay up to date with the latest family travel news covering destinations in Australia and internationally, cruises, airlines and airports, ‘The Good Life’ with columnist Monique Van Tulder, entertainment, Fiji news and more.

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WE REVIEW We’ve stayed there and played there – Singapore’s Novotel Clarke Quay and Swissôtel The Stamford; and Discovery Holiday Park Jindabyne in the NSW Snowy Mountains.

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THE LIST ISSUE

© The Brando

© Destination NSW

Who doesn’t love a list? Perfect summer reading for the whole family – trawl your way through 30 fantastic, fun, factual and frivolous holiday lists … and you may just learn something new, and find inspiration for your next holiday along the way!

Montague Island, near Narooma

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Toddler Travel p.97

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TODDLER TRAVEL Join our TODDLER TRAVEL guru, Sue White, on a fabulous farmstay with her son Ollie – and find out why tractors rank as high (if not higher!) than cute and cuddly animals for Mr-almost-two; and check out the latest baby and toddler products for happy holidays with little ones.

Anaheim is a Southern California (‘SoCal’) gem that most Aussies know best as the home of Disneyland Resort. It’s also part of a region that stretches along the Pacific Coast from Los Angeles to San Diego – a veritable playground for families, with drawcard attractions too numerous to mention, shopping experiences, delicious dining, incredible family hotels and resorts, and beautiful beaches. Discover family-friendly Anaheim, Orange County and SoCal in this issue and you could an amazing family holiday experience – ‘Seven Days Are Not Enough’.

© Disney

24-PAGE OUT & ABOUT WITH KIDS IN ANAHEIM

© Disney

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Special feature:

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Reconnect with your family at NANUKU AUBERGE RESORT FIJI

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aking Fiji’s luxury resort offering to levels previously unseen, Nanuku Auberge Resort offers the perfect venue for families looking to truly reconnect while on holiday in the ‘land of smiles’.

Nestled in the very heart of Fiji’s cultural and soft adventure homeland on the shores of pristine Beqa Lagoon in Pacific Harbour, Nanuku Auberge Resort’s expansive beachfront residences offer the perfect family accommodation solution with huge air-conditioned living and entertaining areas, luxurious ensuites complete with spa baths, private yoga bures and plunge pools.

Guest offerings extend to a dedicated spa, yoga classes and resident fitness instructor and one of the best organised children’s programs in Fiji with free access to the resort’s ‘Kids Adventure Park’ and a wide range of age appropriate, environmentally oriented activities for older children. *Conditions apply. For terms, conditions and more information call toll free on 1800 791501, email nan.reservations@aubergeresorts.com or visit http://nanuku.aubergeresorts.com.

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Tips for happy holidays with grandma and grandpa!

If you’re planning to send your kids off with their grandparents for a holiday, here’s some great advice from WYZA to make sure it’s fun and memorable for all!

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If the children are holidaying with their grandparents without you, be sure young ones are prepared for being away from home, and encourage grandparents to become familiar with sleeping and eating schedules, and routines in advance. A test-drive, day out together close to home is a terrific way to see how things will go on a longer holiday and lets the older generation gauge their endurance abilities!

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Keep in mind that the memories from time spent together are going to be more important, long term, than where you go, and remind grandparents that they might need to be prepared to change day-today plans to accommodate the needs and moods of young children. The key is not to make outings too ambitious - particularly with activities that are regulated like a stage show or a museum.

Involve children in holiday plans with grandparents so that they know what to expect, and to generate preholiday excitement for all.

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Be prepared to give everyone a little space rather than being in each other’s pockets 24/7.

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Pack on the light side, but if your grandchild and include a favourite toy that can help at sleep times. Taking along a few favourite snacks and drinks is also a good idea.

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Give the grandkids some spending money of their own. It’s even more exciting for them to work out what souvenirs to buy when it’s in a foreign currency!

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Most importantly, don’t forget to have fun!

WYZA.com.au

Naturally relaxing Stay right on the beach or river frontage at all of the Sunshine Coast Holiday Parks at any of the 6 great locations: Dicky Beach Family Holiday Park

BOOK ONLINE Mooloolaba Beach Holiday Park

+617 5491 3342

Mudjimba Beach Holiday Park +617 5448 7157

+617 5444 1201

Cotton Tree Holiday Park

+617 5459 9070

Coolum Beach Holiday Park

+617 5446 1474

Maroochydore Beach Holiday Park +617 5443 1167

BOOK ONLINE

Naturally relaxing

BOOK ONLINE

sunshinecoastholidayparks.com.au

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YUMI STYNES Ah … the perils, pitfalls and joys of camping – with babies and teens! Despite moments of discomfort, and other times when she questioned her decision to take the family on a great outdoors adventure, Yumi concludes that the rewards of experiencing nature together are, in fact, ‘pretty sweet’.

GETTING THERE Drive to Palm Beach. Unload your car at the Palm Beach ferry, then look for parking. If you’re staying a couple of days you may need to drive along Barrenjoey Road until you get to an unmetered area, ten minutes walk away. Ferries leave on the hour.

Visit nationalparks.nsw. gov.au and type ‘The Basin Campground’ into Search

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amping: The point of this trip was to take a break from the city, bond with the kids and enjoy the loveliness of the Australian outdoors.

The Basin is close to Sydney and for camping, it’s actually pretty easy. There’s a flat, grassy camp area, toilets, cold showers and gas barbeques. The ferry jetty is close to the campsite and there are a couple of chilled rangers on site too! And, in spite of this infrastructure, the campground is still far away enough from real life to feel like you’re in nature.

I started planning this trip four months out. Four months out and all I could see was the peace - not the pieces of dirt under my fingernails. But camping can be a little like pregnancy - it seems like a good idea until you’re actually doing it.

We went with friends and a couple of extra kids, bringing our numbers to 14. My husband dropped out, citing work excuses. He valiantly struggled to contain his glee and relief, bless him.

And, to be honest, he wasn’t the only non-camper on this safari. One of the families in our group had literally never been camping. Never. We kept checking: “Have you really never been camping?”

“Never.” “Never, ever?” “Never, ever” etc, on and on, all weekend. I had to resist the urge to keep apologising: “You’ve never been camping? I’m so sorry. This is what it’s like, so sorry.”

But we’ve picked a great place to camp, in Ku-ring-gai National Park. The Basin, across the water from iconic Palm Beach, is surrounded by tidal estuaries and tranquil harbour waters, so the swimming is gentle and kid-friendly, and the wildlife is plentiful. With no road access, all visitors arrive by boat, and you really notice the glorious absence of cars when you have toddlers staggering about with blithe disregard for their own safety. (I have been to campgrounds so busy with cars you that you could never relax.)

The teenagers head off in a gang, climbing rocks, jumping off jetties, floating on their backs and

watching clouds. They catch tiny fish and decorate their skin with bright orange clay. We don’t see them for hours at a time and they forget about phones and screens (except my 14-year-old, who needs an app to tune her guitar. I end up showing her how people used to tune guitars before apps were invented and she looks at me like she might be a tiny bit impressed.)

“Why camp?” I ask myself while doing a headcount.

“WHY?” My brain is a little fried by the demands of the two babies.

The answer presents itself that very evening.

We’ve arrived. We’ve pitched our tents. Kids are fed.

The sun starts to sink in the sky and we watch it go down. And it’s quiet. There is nowhere to go. We have the time and the space to watch that sun set. We feel the temperature cool.

Mercy & Magnus ready to dine al fresco

REMEMBER TO PACK BBQ essentials Tongs, oil spray, tomato sauce, metal spatula, etc $1 and $2 coins for the coffee machine.

Floatation devices like lilos, boogie boards, inflatable boats...

Insect repellent

Portable phone charger Apparently these are relatively inexpensive to purchase from JB Hi-Fi. I did not know this until I had to borrow one several times!

HOT TIP The rangers

sell bait and ice once a day (at 2:45pm)

@ The Basin Wharf

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own bedroom. Here, they’re so close I can smell them. We spend all of the second night cuddling.

This is Sydney, so the weather quickly comes good and by the time we pack up to ship out, it’s glorious. A cloud of flies is following my son about – so thick and plentiful they hover above him like a thought bubble.

We scramble to catch the ferry, the babies fall asleep on the drive home, and the teenagers and I make the most of the peace by trying to find our favourite pop songs on the radio.

Yes, camping is hard work - but gosh, the reward is pretty sweet.

YUMI’S PREPARE AT HOME BBQ TIPS* There’s a lot you can do before you leave the comfort of your home kitchen to make camp cooking easier ...

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Trim and halve zucchini lengthways, store in a ziplock bag. Barbequed zucchini is amazingly delicious and doesn’t even need oil.

This, I realise, is why we’re here.

We’re camping because it’s the best way to go somewhere without feeling like you have to rush off to the next place. “Nature” is more than just a reality TV genre. The sun sets, and that means it gets harder to see! Birds are nesting, tides are shifting, the whole thing happens before your eyes.

It’s pretty magical.

My two-year-old is entranced by the wallabies hopping around, and some even have joeys in their pouches. At her city day care, she’s in the Kookaburra’s Room – but look, there in a tree is a real, live kookaburra! And it’s laughing!

If the evenings are beautiful, the nights are tough. My one-year-old refuses to sleep except when he’s on me. I forgot how hard the ground feels after the first four hours of lying in a tent.

Past midnight and the baby’s still clinging to me and I realise I won’t be socialising tonight. It’s not until the following morning that I remember I didn’t pack away the BBQ vegetables! Not only have the wallabies had a dirty great binge on the leftovers, they’ve actually eaten so much that they’ve been sick – all over the rugs belonging to the family who have never been camping. OMG! The second night it rains and the wallabies grow bolder. They claw their way into the tent of ‘The Family Who Have Never Been Camping’ looking for – what? A phone charger? A bottle opener? Seems funny now but it wasn’t then.

Also not funny are the puddles of water pooled in the corners of my tent (because it didn’t occur to me to close the windows when it started to rain!). I lie in the dark listening to the storm and the quiet sighing and breathing of my two babies. At home they have their

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Slice the onion at home.

Throw away the skin and other bits you don’t need. I like mine seasoned, so I sprinkle the slices with salt and pepper before bagging them up with a couple of tablespoons of oil, ready to cook.

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Swimming and floating for hours

Broccoli on the BBQ is yummy! Cut into small florets, toss through a bit of olive oil and salt, zest a lemon onto the florets, then bag them up with the lemon cut in half.

When it’s time to cook, tip all the broccoli and lemon onto the hot plate, allow a good 15 minutes (they cook slowly). Just before serving, squeeze the BBQd lemon onto the broccoli.

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Corn is another slow vegetable that’s very rewarding. Put it on first before anything else to give it enough time to char all over. If the kids are old enough, have them rotate it. Serve with butter!

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Vegie burger – with bacon!

Saganaki. Think of this as “posh haloumi”. It’s cheese that fries brilliantly on a BBQ with surprisingly delicious results. Serve it with salad or in a burger.

*Note: everything needs to be stored in a cold esky

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A N A N A B THE B IG

K R A P R E T A W

F UP TO O S O D T E P E U P F S O S EEGD SPIN CH AG RHEIN ES WILL H A, C E ID IG L R L H IL , S H W S L S IG IE E IL H R R ID S O L H IE S T R T L S S RIL HS STEST OVEERR44STO 4RW4OW ASCSLTA GEG BIG EBIG LODRCLLD H E R T H T ’S ’S IT IT .

U R E U O R , O , O H H .

REM F MOOR L 60KKMM/P/P U T D COAST R S G O O A G IN F O G C E G G H D IN L T E G O B G D G E N B E U OO EYTHA AND AVVEEYY YD HA EY SYEDNNS E N W E E T E W T U! YOU! B E OR K B R K RFYO A R O G F G IN IN IT IT A ATTEERRPAP A W WA W ’S ’S NDDITIT AN A

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SPRING 2016 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

WWW.BIGBANANA.COM | PH: 02 6652 4355 351 PACIFIC HWY, COFFS HARBOUR NSW 2450

D I D Y O U K NO W...?

Did you know …?

Macleay Valley magic spectacular Yarriabini National Park, a site significant to the Dunghutti and Gumbayngirr nations, and Mount Yarrahapinni, from where the views are unparalleled. Add in towns like Kempsey and Gladstone (and many others) and your only holiday dilemma will be where to start! The Macleay Valley Coast comprehensive website

will set you in the right direction with new, and top ten, things to do in the area, tips on what to explore and where, a guide to fabulous holiday parks and camping, and many more family-friendly highlights, making it very easy for families to start planning their holidays. macleayvalleycoast.com.au mvcholidayparks.com.au

MACLEAY VALLEY HOLIDAY PARKS

The stunning NSW north coast holiday region known as the Macleay Valley Coast seems to have scored more than its fair share of iconic natural attractions, not least the fabulous outdoor beach playgrounds of Crescent Head, Hat Head, Stuarts Point, Grassy Head and South West Rocks.

The region also encompasses the

Get ready for Hi-5’s Summer Holiday Show!

Just 90 minutes from Sydney, the award-winning family-friendly Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains in Leura is playing host to some very special guests in the new year when the fabulous Hi-5 return to the resort for another sensational Summer Holiday Show!

With plenty of playful holiday adventures and favourite Hi-5 hits, the whole family will be singing, dancing and feeling the summertime glow when the Hi-5 gang treats audiences to fantastic fun in the Grand Ballroom on 15

January 2017.

Show starts at 2pm and tickets are priced from $29 (plus booking fee) for General Admission. If you book 4 or more general admission tix online a $5 discount per ticket will be automatically applied at the checkout. Or, opt for the VIP package for $39 (plus booking fee) that includes preferential seating and a ‘meet and greet’ after the show! fairmontresort.iwannaticket.com.au

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DID YO U K NO W...?

Best ever creative learning program 2017 @kidsatthehouse Sydney Opera House has launched its most ambitious Kids, Families & Creative Learning programs yet, for 2017. A brand new Creative Learning Centre will nurture the next generation’s creativity, through programs offering year-round performances and experiences onsite, online and in the classroom.

From babies to teens, the 2017 Kids, Families & Creative Learning program features young Australian performers and internationally-acclaimed companies, from the UK’s Touretteshero to Australia’s Flying Fruit Fly Circus, Sydney Dance Company, Bell Shakespeare and Bangarra Dance Theatre, and local and international experts. Classrooms across Australia will connect with performers at the Opera House through the pioneering Digital Creative Learning program, including a new, behind-the-scenes tour of the Opera House designed especially for years K-2.

Join in the conversation on Facebook: Sydney Opera House Kids & Families @ kidsatthehouse

New Super Ferry services on Sydney Harbour

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Keep an eye out for the new Super Ferry – SeaLink’s largest and fastest catamaran commuter ferry! MV Capricornian Sunrise is now in Sydney, joining the Captain Cook Cruises fleet to help meet a growing demand for passenger services on the Harbour.

The 400-passenger vessel has four jet engines and is fast, efficient and reliable, and the three boarding points allow for quick embarking and disembarking of passengers on the Watson’s Bay, Manly, White Bay and Parramatta to city services.

SeaLink will also introduce a unique and pioneering class of 60-passenger light ferry on Sydney Harbour in the new year, serving key tourism locations like the new International Convention Centre, White Bay Passenger Terminal and the Sydney Fish Market. captaincook.com.au

Your cool home base for the Nation’s Capital 69 Canberra Avenue Kingston ACT 2604 | easthotel.com.au

CAIRNS | GREAT BARRIER REEF

Just 45 minutes from Cairns by Fast Cat, Fitzroy Island is nestled on a slice of tropical island paradise, positioned where the reef and rainforest collide. The 4 1/2 star resort is the ideal location for discovering the Great Barrier Reef, come for the day or stay overnight.

Ph: + 61 (07) 4044 6700 E: stay@fitzroyisland.com W: www.fitzroyisland.com

Family Fun Package

Save 20%

Enjoy some Family Fun on Fitzroy Island with 3 nights in an Ocean Suite from $185 per room per night.

Book online using promo code ‘KIDS20’.

Applies to the One Bedroom Ocean Suite with use of Sofa Bed. Based on 2 Adults & 2 Children. Children are 13 years and under. Subject to availability. Valid until 30/05/17. Book via www.fitzroyisland.com using the promo code.

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New report: Aussie kids help plan family holidays Independent research* commissioned by the Singapore Tourism Board highlights the increasing role our children are playing in organising family holidays, with over half of Australian households allowing their children to have a say in choosing the travel destination (52%).

The ‘Australian Holiday Memories Report’ shows that half of parents with children aged 5-11 years (52%) ask their children for destination input, and this increases to over two-thirds for parents with 12-17 year old children (71%). One third of parents of under five year olds (34%) also ask their children for input before booking their country or city of choice.

Other findings from the Australian Holiday Memories Report: › The most influential factors in parents’ choice of holiday destination is whether it offers kids and adults things to do together (71%), followed by safety (69%) and then value (66%) › Gen X parents (75%) are the most sentimental group seeking out shared experiences for the whole family, compared to Gen Y (66%) or Baby Boomers (59%) › Once the destination is confirmed, Australian parents tend to forgo the standard kids clubs, and instead seek out immersive, bonding experiences that enable them to spend quality time together (67%) › Relaxation time is perceived as the second most valued activity (59%), trumping iconic attractions (57%), good food (54%) and new experiences (50%)

The Australian Institute of Sport.

The AIS. Australia’s premier elite sporting precinct.

Only minutes from Canberra’s CBD with plenty of free parking.

AIS Visitor Centre Everyone’s welcome. Pop in and purchase exclusive merchandise at the AIS Shop and enjoy great coffee & café-style food at GG espresso.

AIS Tours Go behind the scenes on an award-winning guided AIS Tour. Challenge yourself in Sportex, offering fun and interactive sporting exhibits. Daily 10am, 11.30am, 1pm & 2.30pm. Fees apply.

AIS Aquatic & Fitness Centre Dive into our world-class swimming pool or try out our fully equipped gym. Visitors welcome. Fees apply.

Leverrier Street, Canberra, ACT Phone: (02) 6214 1010

@ExperienceAIS

ASC 34415

/ExperienceAIS

*Galaxy Research, January 2016. Research was conducted Australiawide and included insights from 1,004 parents with children under 18 year olds, who have travelled overseas in the last two years.

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After dark underwater adventures Tangalooma Island Resort, on Queensland’s Moreton Island, has launched an ‘adventure after dark’, allowing guests to explore the island’s underwater life in a whole new light.

The new evening Glass Bottom Boat tour takes guests through a maze of sunken shipwrecks at dusk, where you can see straight through the boat to the amazing spectacle of local marine life. Underwater LED lights offer a rarely seen view of Tangalooma’s underwater life including a kaleidoscope of colourful fish, starfish, shovelnose rays, schools of squid, beautiful sand formations, seagrass beds, and even dolphins.

The boat accommodates 40 passengers and the tour takes approximately 1.5 hours, with prices for adults and children.

Tangalooma has also launched other novel aquatic night adventures this summer, including illuminated see-through stand up paddle boarding and transparent night kayaking! tangalooma.com

Family movies under the stars, across Oz cities

TFE HOTELS

More than just a room for family holidays Finding the right kid-friendly holiday accommodation is a priority for all families, and whether the priority is space, price, location - or all of the above - it’s a relief when you arrive at your destination to find that all of the boxes have been ticked.

The accommodation brands Adina Apartment Hotels, Rendezvous, Vibe, Travelodge, and Medina Apartments may be familiar, but did you know they are all part of the TFE Hotels group who opened the first Medina Serviced Apartment in Sydney in 1982 and are now spread far and wide across Australia and New Zealand (and across the globe)? And, did you know that TFE Hotels offer families more than just a room?

Add in extra living space, multiple bed arrangement options, toy boxes and kids activity packs, regular family package deals and all the modern conveniences of a home away from home and you’ve got a deal! Right? tfehotels.com/perks-programs/ family-hotels

Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a family movie under twinkling skies in the coming months in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney! Moonlight Cinema is expecting a season of smash hits and sell out nights - and that’s just the first two months - so get in early, grab the family, snap up your grassy patch and enjoy fun, food and films under a clear night sky!

The program is chock-full and fits-all-sizes … you might even catch Disney’s newest movie, Moana, (due for cinema release Boxing Day 2016) or the animated musical, Sing, Dreamworks’ new release Trolls, or the remake of the 1977 classic Pete’s Dragon.

Adelaide: Botanic Park until 19 February 2017 Brisbane: New Farm Park at Brisbane Powerhouse until 5 March 2017 Melbourne: Central Lawn at Royal Botanic Gardens until 2 April 2017 Perth: Kings Park and Botanic Garden until 2 April 2017 Sydney: Belvedere Amphitheatre in Centennial Park until 2 April 2017 moonlight.com.au

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DI D Y OU KNOW...?

Did you know …?

International

So good Solomons!

© P&O Cruises

For a comparatively small place, big things are happening for the Solomon Islands! It might be an unspoiled Pacific paradise, but word is spreading far and wide, particularly among Aussies, that this is one amazing destination. Thanks to an increase in independent visitors and cruise passengers, 2016 was one of ‘the Sollies’ best years for tourism yet, and 2017 looks set to be even bigger. Among at least 12 other cruises, P&O’s Pacific Eden, called into Honiara and Gizo twice in 2016, with more than 1200 Aussie passengers on board each visit.

As the host of the Pacific Games in 2023, the Solomon Islands is well and truly moving ahead with the expansion of infrastructure, hotels and tourism initiatives in the lead up. visitsolomons.com.sb

New Vanuatu resort gets ready to welcome first guests!

The World’s Best 29th ANNUAL

AWARDS WINNERS

© JTNO

The award-winning US luxury and lifestyle travel magazine, Condé Nast Traveler, covers a range of categories in its highly anticipated annual Readers Choice Awards. The 29th Annual Awards of 2016 include everything from ‘The Best 50 Hotels in the World’ to best cruises, islands, airlines and oh so much more! Over 100,000 votes were garnered from readers asked to nominate the ‘50 Best Cities in the World’ (outside the USA) and two Australian cities made the cut – Sydney at #12 (following Paris at #11) and Melbourne at #14, with London sandwiched in between at #13!

But it was Japan that led the pack – scoring #1 place for Tokyo and #2 spot for Kyoto. Rounding out the top 10 cities were: #3 - Florence, Italy #4 - Lucerne, Switzerland #5 - San Miguel de Allende, Mexico #6 - Vancouver, BC, Canada #7 - Victoria, BC, Canada #8 - Salzburg, Austria (helped by a proliferation of ‘The Sound of Music Tours’ perhaps?) #9 - Barcelona, Spain #10 -Vienna, Austria Out & About with Kids was happy to see a few of our other favourite cities, closer to home, make it into the Best 50, including Singapore at #16, Hong Kong at #23, and Cape Town in South Africa at #36! cntraveler.com/travel-awards/readers-choice-awards

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Vanuatu’s newest resort - Ramada Resort Port Vila – will open in April 2017. With just the finishing touches left on the 4-Star property, the hotel will offer state-of-the-art facilities, including studio rooms, one and two-bedroom suites, an onsite restaurant and three bars (showcasing the finest local produce and ingredients) a swimming pool and a gym when the doors open..

Ideally nestled on the cliffs of Erakor Lagoon, with unobstructed views of sandy white beaches and turquoise waters of Erakor Island, the resort is just five minutes from the heart of Port Vila, and ten minutes from Bauerfield International Airport.

Bookings for stays from 1 April 2017 and beyond, can be made by visiting ramadaresort.com.vu

D I D Y O U K NO W...?

Spectacular new Oman resort is the highest 5-Star in the Middle East Perched 2,000m above sea level on a great canyon edge in the Al Hajar Mountains of Oman, the doors have recently opened on the highest five-star resort in the Middle East - Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort – a two-hour drive from Muscat International Airport, and four and a half hours from Dubai International Airport.

Reflecting the fortified architecture of the region, the resort’s 115 luxury guest rooms and villas overlook either the dramatic canyon or tranquil gardens. Eighty two Premier and Deluxe Canyon View Rooms come complete with spa-like bathrooms, a rain shower and separate bath, and the 33 one and two bedroom villas each boast personal villa host services and a private infinity pool overlooking the cliffs, or hidden in an exotic garden.

Guests can dine at the resort’s collection of six restaurants and lounges, including Anantara’s Dining by Design, perched on a spectacular cliff-edge platform known as ‘Diana’s Point’, named for Princess Diana, who famously visited the spot in 1986! jabal-akhdar.anantara.com

Australians visiting Canada are now required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before entering the country.

To apply you must have a valid passport, a credit card, and an email address. Most eTAs are approved within minutes and then electronically linked to the traveller’s passport. The eTA is valid for five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

New Aussie entry requirements for travel to Canada

The online application costs just CAD$7 (approximately AUD $7).

People with dual Australian/ Canadian citizenship must ensure they carry both passports when they travel using their Canadian passport (without an eTA) to enter Canada, and their Australian passport to re-enter Australia.

Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation for Canada at cic.gc.ca/english/ visit/eta-start.asp

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DI D Y OU KNOW...?

Did you know …?

Airlines & Airports Air Vanuatu flies from OZ nine times weekly!

The ‘Land of Smiles’ - Vanuatu - is only a short flight from Sydney (3hrs 20mins) and Brisbane (2hrs 30mins) and the nation’s carrier, Air Vanuatu, flies nine times per week from Sydney and Brisbane to Port Vila, the capital.

The airline launched its new Boeing 737-800 on 3 February 2016, bringing an even greater level of comfort to passengers and introducing Boeing’s spacious ‘Sky Interior’ - with drop down LCD wide screens and direct passenger accessibility via personal electronic devices, and larger overhead lockers.

Air Vanuatu’s full service Economy Class includes inflight entertainment, meals and bar service, and the Business Class Cabin features ‘the best restaurant over the Pacific!’ Air Vanuatu even has great island hopper fares for its connections to Vanuatu’s outer islands, Santo and Tanna. airvanuatu.com

Performers entertain at 41,000ft ….

New Sydney Airport Pick-Up zones Sydney Airport

To celebrate the launch of British Airways’ Dreamliner flights from London Heathrow to Moscow, Russia, in November 2016, Artemy Belyakov and Olga Marchenkova, two artists from Russia’s legendary Bolshoi Ballet, together with Welsh mezzo soprano, Katherine Jenkins, gave a once-in-a-lifetime, high-inthe-sky performance for lucky passengers on the inaugural flight!

(Domestic) has introduced new passenger pick-up arrangements for T2/T3 arrivals. An expanded Express Pick-Up zone allows for 15 minutes free parking and is located in the P3 undercover, multi-storey car park. A new Priority Pick-Up zone is available for private motorists, pre-booked taxis and ridesharing services such as Uber and GoCatch, located opposite the T2 and T3 terminals for a fee of $4 for 15 minutes, with convenient payment via your existing eTag. Blu Emu Car Park offers one hour of free parking and is accessed via a free, direct shuttle bus service, dropping off and picking up outside the T2 and T3 terminals, with 13 bus stops conveniently located inside the Blu Emu Car Park. pickup.sydneyairport.com.au

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To the moon and back 60 times!

Emirates has just become the first and only airline in the world to operate a fleet of all Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft following the retirement of the last of its Airbus A330 aircraft. A6-EAK joined Emirates in 2002 and had flown for over 60,000 hours, close to 45 million kilometres – a distance that’s equal to 60 return journeys between the Earth and the Moon!

Break your flight to the US with a stopover in paradise!

Air Tahiti Nui has released a new combination fare, offering Australian travellers the ultimate way to travel to the United States, with a stopover in Tahiti one way and a seamless non-stop flight home.

The new Pacific Loop allows guests to depart Sydney, and stopover in Papeete, Tahiti, en route to Los Angeles, with the convenience and value of one airfare. The return journey is a swift non-stop flight from Los Angeles to Sydney with American Airlines.

The journey can also be reversed. airtahitinui. com

P.S...

Hawaiian Airlines, in collaboration with The Walt Disney Studios, has taken Disney’s new heroine, Moana, to the skies … turn to page 38 to read more!

GetawayS the whole family wilL Love Bring back the great east coast road trip with pocket-friendly camping, cabin and caravan stays.

Book now Visit nrmahp.com.au or call 1300 414 448 Treasure Island, Gold Coast | Darlington Beach | Myall Shores | Ocean Beach Sydney Lakeside | Murramarang Beachfront | Merimbula Beach SUMMER 2017 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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Did you know …?

HOLIDAY PARKS

Beachfront

summer selections from Discovery Holiday Parks BEACHFRONT - @ Discovery Parks - Emerald Beach, on the NSW North Coast. Emerald Beach, one of the region’s top beaches and surf spots, is a mere stone’s throw away, and familyfriendly Coffs Harbour is just a short drive from the park ISLAND - @ Discovery Parks – Hervey Bay, in Queensland.

Minutes from the departure point to World Heritage-listed Fraser Island and its uninterrupted white beaches, sand cliffs, freshwater lakes, ancient rainforests, wildlife and whale watching.

HISTORY - @ Discovery Parks – Lake Hume, in Victoria.

Military relics, gold rush history, rebellious bushrangers like Ned Kelly, and The Man from Snowy River Museum, plus swimming, fishing, boating and relaxing on Lake Hume.

CHILL AND CHARM - @ Discovery Parks – Woodman Point, in Fremantle Western Australia - from discovering history to fish ’n’ chips at Fishing Boat Harbour, and from the iconic markets to the Maritime Museum, ‘Freo’ invites families to explore and unwind in equal measure.

Chill and charm

Island

History

At the recent 2016 Queensland Tourism Awards, the popular, family-friendly BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort in Airlie Beach was thrilled to walk away with the highest state award in the “Caravan and Holiday Parks” category!

Privately owned by the McKinnon family, the park has grown and evolved over the past 23 years, and is now recognised as a premium

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SPRING 2016 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

Whitsunday holiday resort. Continual reinvestment has seen the development of luxury, designer-decorated condos, the multi-purpose Palm House function venue, the funky Airlie Beach Kombis service, the establishment of an Animal Park, and exciting plans for more cabins and a massive 13-slide water park in 2017! adventurewhitsunday.com.au

BIG 4 ADVENTURE WHITSUNDAY RESORT

Congratulations to a favourite Whitsunday resort!

D I D Y O U K NO W...?

Pet-friendly holiday parks For many families, a holiday just isn’t the same unless their furry, four-legged friend can join the fun – did you know that around 40 of the more than 80 BIG4 Holiday Parks across Australia offer pet-friendly options?

And some of the parks go above and beyond to provide your fourlegged family members with their own special ‘cabins’, dog wash facilities and off-leash areas. BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park in Victoria is not only dog-friendly, but also welcomes cats at a number of powered and unpowered sites, and BIG4 Forbes Holiday Park even provides a thoughtful letter from a furry friend to their human, offering a dog’s perspective on how to make the most of a great holiday at the park together!

In Victoria, try BIG4 Borderland Holiday Park, BIG4 Bendigo

Park Lane Holiday Park, BIG4 Shepparton Park Lane Holiday Park and BIG4 Traralgon Park Lane Holiday Park.

In NSW, dogs are welcome at BIG4 Great Lakes at Forster-Tuncurry and, in South Australia, at Coober Pedy’s BIG4 Stuart Range Outback Resort and BIG4 Port Willunga Tourist Park.

Queensland’s BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park, BIG4 Innisfail Mango Tree Tourist Park and BIG4 Mackay Marine Tourist Park offer selected sites and cabins for pets and, after a 20year pet-free policy, BIG4 Walkabout Palms Townsville is now open to pets again!

There are no charges applicable for pets staying at BIG4 Plantation Caravan Park in Carnarvon, Western Australia, Darwin’s BIG4 Howard Springs Holiday Park is pet-friendly and BIG4 Ulverstone Holiday Park in Tasmania is happy to welcome wellbehaved pets.

Visit big4.com.au/caravan-parks/ pet-friendly for more.

NOTE: Terms and Conditions for holidaying with your pet vary from park to park. As a rule, dogs are accepted at the discretion of the individual BIG4 park manager, and considerations may include the size of your dog, breed, and the time of year you will be holidaying at the park, so make sure you check T & Cs at the time of booking your pet-friendly holiday park!

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D I D Y OU K NO W...?

Did you know …?

Cruise Wollongong, NSW, makes its mark as the newest cruise port in Oz

2,200 onboard guests were welcomed to Australia’s newest cruise port in Wollongong, on the NSW South Coast, when Radiance of the Seas arrived at Port Kembla - the first time a cruise ship has ever visited the South Coast tourist destination – to a special flyover by a vintage Catalina flying boat, and the cheers and waves of thousands of excited locals positioned at vantage points along the coast.

Seven different shore excursions showcased the region, with visits to scenic Bald Hill Lookout, Jamberoo Action Park, Kiama, Shellharbour Village, Symbio Wildlife Park and the tranquil Nan Tien Temple proving very popular with passengers. royalcaribbean.com.au

Double the cruising fun in 2018!

In the booming world of Down Under cruising, it’s apparent that the more we fall in love with cruising, the more fabulous cruise ships choose to make their homes here during our peak cruise seasons! That’s great news for Aussie families, because we have taken to cruising like ducks to water, and no sooner have we disembarked from one great family cruise, we’re already thinking of the next. Carnival Cruise

Line has just released its newest program of cruises Down Under, with 35 fantastic itineraries to choose from, for cruises between April and December 2018. So get planning.

Included is a new voyage through Asia on the fun-packed Carnival Spirit, extra sailings from Melbourne on Carnival Legend, three night short breaks at sea, longer escapes to tropical islands including Vanuatu, Fiji, New Caledonia and Hawaii, and four night sailings to Queensland’s Moreton Island.

Both Carnival Legend and Carnival Spirit feature multiple dining options, 16 bars and lounges, two theatres, three pools, Camp Ocean kids clubs, a fitness centre, the child-free Serenity retreat, plus a waterpark complete with Green Thunder – the steepest and fastest waterslide at sea! carnival.com.au

Spectacular sight at sea The world’s three largest cruise ships, Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, met for the first time at sea, in November, to celebrate the U.S. arrival of Harmony of the Seas on the eve of the ship’s debut in her new permanent US homeport of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

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DID YO U K NO W WITH M ONI QUE

THE GOOD LIFE … with Monique Van Tulder

New Zealand

A COUNTRY FOR ALL SEASONS MEET MONIQUE In the course of a fabulously full career in travel, this mum has been fortunate to have access to many of the world’s top destinations.

Monique and her family, including two teenage boys, have experienced international cities, skiing, golf, resort beaches, and even shopping, together.

Her advice and tips on ‘the good things in life’ are shared on her own luxury (family) travel site theurbanmum.com.au … and, as a coffee devotee, she knows where to find the best, around the globe!

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Renowned for abundant ski seasons in winter, New Zealand is equally beguiling - possibly even more so - in summer (spring and autumn too).

I hold the view that holidays are like an ice cream cone – keep things simple (one scoop) and it’s all pleasure – add an excess and you run the risk of having to sample it all too quickly. Thus with two main Islands (North and South) to explore in New Zealand, my suggestion is: choose a region (my birthplace, the South Island, never tires for us), choose a season, and get set for an incredible family holiday.

SUMMER in Abel Tasman National Park When I was a kid we spent long summer days (due to its southern location, summer daylight in NZ can stretch past 9.00pm) on the beach, fishing and making huts in the bush.

Reassuringly, I note little change as we arrive in the seaside hamlet of Kaiteriteri (top of the South Island), our base to explore the ‘golden bays’ of Abel Tasman National Park – eschewing the beachside caravan park for a hilltop holiday house rental. One night we stay at Peppers Awaroa Lodge (access via helicopter or Sea Shuttle - to the boys dismay we take the latter).

Breakfast amongst the call of native birds sets

us in good stead for a day of tramping (Kiwi speak for hiking), back towards Kaiteriteri. Encountering several other families en route, we stop for lunch to watch seals languish on distant rocks; they eye groups of kayakers with little interest.

“Move it mum!”, calls my 14 year old, his size 11 sneakers charging along the bush track. I have several decades on him so it is not surprising he skips ahead to be the first to reach the pre-arranged return boat transfer. What is surprising is that we are exerting ourselves outdoors, no WiFi, nor a shop, in sight – and not one complaint.

LUXURY (adventure)

TIPS

Lord of the Rings Tour – follow in the footsteps of Sam and Frodo; visit the location where ‘Edoras’ was set – via 4WD adventure, a hike, (and movie prop replicas). hasslefreetours.co.nz

SPRING in Canterbury “It looks like England”, yells the youngest, as he jumps through a field of knee-high grass.

Thankfully he pulls to a halt before trampling the adjoining meadow, thick with daffodils. Nearby, blush pink blossoms line the central city Botanic Garden (Hagley Park); obligingly a mother duck plops into the meandering Avon River, followed in quick succession by fluffy yellow offspring.

Later we sit in the sun with our coffees at the hip new iLex Café – the striking architecture evidence that Christchurch is taking every opportunity to emerge reinvigorated, post-quake.

We drive quaint country roads to discover adrenalin-pumping action; jet boating on swift running rivers and spring skiing the challenging slopes of Mt Hutt – under blue skies (warmer and less crowded than winter) - inhaling clean, crisp air rejuvenates.

Terrace Downs Resort – nestled at the foot of the Southern Alps, a luxurious base to explore Canterbury plains – golf for kids, clay shooting, helicopter tours, horse-riding. terracedowns.co.nz Bike Riding Tours – bike from historic Arrowtown, across suspension bridges, to the winery. gibbstonvalleynz.com

AUTUMN in Queenstown Our plane’s approach into Queenstown offers a breathtaking glimpse of gold-tinged trees lining Lake Wakitipu – school holidays conveniently coincide with the amber hues of autumn. With the Kiwis’ obvious penchant for sports and adventure we spend a week sampling all the great outdoors has to offer.

Our Shotover Jet driver roars “Hang on!” as he steers us to a final expert spin, and I emerge with my youngest son, dripping wet with cheeks aglow

and heart still pounding from the thrill of zooming so close to rock faces I swear I feel the brush of overhanging ferns. Henry wants more, I want a glass of wine – Gibbston Valley Winery is nearby; we lunch under a backdrop of towering Alps, contemplating the next day’s activities – with mountain biking, luging, gold fossicking and golf (for the husband) on the menu.

As with each of our New Zealand holidays we leave too soon – vowing to return – we relax, the kids are kept busy – perfect no matter the season.

Awaroa Lodge helicopter transfer – spot seals and dolphins as you zip over distinctive golden beaches. tasmanhelicopters.co.nz TOURISM NEW ZEALAND tourismnewzealand.com Opposite top: Arrowtown Central Otago. (David Wall) Top: Centre: Avon River Canterbury. (Hiroshi Nameda) Bottom far left: Abel Tasman NationalPark. (Nelson Gareth Eyres)

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relax the mind and spoil the senses in our luxury oceanfront penthouses and apartments mooloolaba’s only 5 star beachfront resort

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D I D Y O U K NO W...?

Did you know…?

Fiji

Malolo Island Resort celebrates prestigious Top 10 Resort awards ranking Ahura Resorts is celebrating the sensational news that two of its multi-award-winning Fiji resorts – the adults-only Likuliku Lagoon Resort and family-friendly Malolo Island Resort – have been named in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers Choice Awards 2016 - with Likuliku at #9 and Malolo at #10 in the ‘Top Resorts in Australia and the South Pacific’ category. Both resorts are situated on beautiful Malolo Island in the Mamanuca Islands of Fiji.

A delighted Steve Anstey, Ahura Group General Manager, said, “It is a wonderful achievement and it is a testament to the quality of the products we have and the delivery of our promise to our guests. Thank you to our incredible staff and of course, to all our valued guests for their continued amazing support”. cntraveler.com/readers-choice-awards/australia-pacific/ australia-south-pacific-top-resorts maloloisland.com

Kokomo Island opening soon!

On track to officially open to guests in March 2017, the brand new 56ha super-luxury Kokomo Island Fiji resort has been lovingly created by well-known Australian property developer and Kokomo owner Lang Walker. With direct access to the Great Astrolable Reef, only metres from shore, the family resort will boast ten x 1-bedroom luxury accommodations, six x 2-bedroom, 7 x 3-bedroom and six super luxury residences when it opens. But that’s just phase 1 in Mr Walker’s ‘labour of love’ plans for Kokomo.

Having made his first overseas trip to Fiji’s Castaway Island 47 years ago, the avid diver and sailor says this is one investment that went straight to his heart. We can’t wait for the ultimate reveal of the fabulous Phases 2 and 3 in this stunning island resort development!

Take a sneak peek at kokomoislandfiji.com

Vomo wants to know …

‘Are you #betterthanberetta’?

Vomo Island Resort has teamed up with the Seven Network’s Sunrise program’s Mark Beretta to launch a year-long charity run challenge, asking resort guests ‘Are you #betterthanberetta ?

The Mt VOMO Sunrise Charity Run was devised as a fun way for Vomo’s guests to donate to Cure Kids, a charity organisation that focuses on raising funds to enable medical research to find cures for childhood illnesses. Launching the campaign, Mark smashed out a run of 5:04 mins, so the question is … can you beat his time? If you take up the challenge you’ll add your run to the Mt VOMO Sunrise Charity Run leaderboard and be in the ‘running’ to win a holiday back to VOMO – and you will have officially scored bragging rights that you’re indeed #betterthanberetta!

Guests who fulfil all of the participation requirements will not only be raising money for a worthy cause but will also have the chance to win the Vomo family holiday, to be drawn on 30 September 2017! vomofiji.com/ mt-vomo-sunrisecharity-run

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Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay Location Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay is just a 25 minute taxi ride (20km) from Changi Airport.

Situated on the banks of the historical Singapore River, all of the vibrant and bright night entertainment of Clarke Quay is minutes away, Singapore’s famous Orchard Road is also close, and it’s just a 15 minute walk to Chinatown.

© Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay

Accommodation There are 403 rooms in this 4-Star 100% non-smoking hotel that also offers kids stay free, with complimentary breakfast, for two children under 16 years. Perfect for families, the hotel offers a choice of standard, superior executive and executive floor rooms, a 24 hour gym and large outdoor pool, and a convenient supermarket in the basement for all your day to day supplies.

OAWK TIP: Novotel caters for families with play areas, children’s menus, Kids Clubs and a special welcome gift for each small guest.

© Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay

Activities The hotel is located in the midst of the Singapore entertainment hub - Clarke Quay with over 150 bars and restaurants on either side of the river. Venture to Chinatown to experience the best of Singapore Chinese Cuisine and a spot of market shopping. Take a river cruise to Marina Bay for a riverside view, while great bargains can be found on Orchard Road, a few minutes walk from the Novotel.

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OAWK TIP: Walking along Clarke Quay at night is a fun and buzzing experience. Head over the river via one of the many well-lit bridges and view the murals in the commuter bypass tunnels.

Remember Singapore is safe. Relax and enjoy your night family time in this exciting city.

Food & Beverage There are four dining options in the hotel The Square restaurant hosts the breakfast buffet with plenty of tasty options to fill up for the day ahead. There is also a children’s menu for lunch and dinner. You can try Dragon Phoenix Restaurant for Cantonese fine dining or northern Indian cuisine in the Moghul Mahal Restaurant. “Le Bar Rouge” is an adult option for a cocktail or bar snacks.

- Reviewed by Elisa Elwin

Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay 177A River Valley Road P: +65 6338 3333 novotelclarkequay.com

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Swissôtel The Stamford, Singapore Location For less than SGD$20, a 20 minute cab ride from Changi Airport will deliver you to Swissôtel The Stamford. Boasting a prime location in the heart of Singapore city’s world-class shopping, dining and entertainment zones, Marina Bay, Gardens by the Bay and many museums and galleries are only minutes away.

Accommodation This spectacular 5-Star deluxe hotel offers 1,261 perfectly appointed rooms and suites all with private balconies showcasing stunning panoramic views of Singapore.

Large comfortable beds, large TVs with satellite channels, high-speed wireless/ broadband internet access and luxury amenities make your stay a dream. The hotel’s Willow Stream Spa is one of Asia’s largest luxury spa and fitness facilities, and the outdoor pool area is a fantastic space for the family to cool off after a steamy Singapore day.

Activities When you have had enough shopping (is there such a thing?), wander across the road to the historic Raffles Hotel Singapore and soak up the ambience of the Colonial era. Parents can even indulge in an iconic Singapore Sling in the place of its origin.

OAWK TIP: Get your bearings before wandering through the adjoining internal shopping mall. It’s easy to get lost in the endless floors and meandering corridors of stores and food vendors..

Food & Beverage There are too many food offerings in this fabulous hotel to give a full list, with 14 restaurants and bars sprinkled through

© Both images: Swissôtel The Stamford Singapore

OAWK TIP: If the little ones are too tired to head to the Gardens by the Bay, you can watch the nightly ‘Rhapsody by the Bay’ evening light show from your balcony. See the Supertrees sparkle and come alive from the comfort of your room each night at 7.45pm and 8.45 pm.

the premises. Take our word for it -we almost tried them all! Eating is a national pastime here, with the tasty fusion of Chinese, Indian and Malaysian cultures all represented, along with plenty of international fare. We started our day with the seemingly endless temptations of the breakfast buffet. Make sure you give your family enough time (at least an hour) to work their way through the variety of fresh and delicious options.

- Reviewed by Elisa Elwin

Swissôtel The Stamford, Singapore 2 Stamford Road, Singapore P: +65 6338 8585 swissotel.com/singapore-stamford

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Discovery Holiday Park Jindabyne, NSW

Location Discovery Holiday Park Jindabyne is located at the T-intersection of Kosciuszko Rd and Alpine Way and makes a great base for visits to the two leading ski destinations in NSW, Thredbo and Perisher Valley. Thredbo is 36km down Alpine Way (about 30 minutes’ drive) and Perisher is 38km further on, down Kosciuszko Rd. Sitting on the western side of Jindabyne on the shores of Lake Jindabyne, Discovery Holiday Park is only a 3 minute

drive to Jindabyne town centre or an easy 30 minute walk on the path that winds from the holiday park around the shores of the lake.

The drive from Sydney is approx. 5 hours 30 mins, from Canberra approx. 2 hours and from Melbourne approx. 7 hours.

Accommodation The park offers 15 different accommodation options with powered and unpowered camping sites, powered campervan sites,

budget cabins and a variety of deluxe cabins and villas. The deluxe and superior cabins and villas sleep up to 6 people and many offer a beautiful view out onto Lake Jindabyne, the perfect base for an outdoor spring/summer holiday in the Snowy Mountains.

Out & About with Kids stayed in a Deluxe Villa. The main bedroom had substantial cupboard space in the wall-to-wall built-in robe, and a comfy bed to rest up in. The second bedroom was furnished with two bunk beds and, with air conditioning, separate lounge, and TVs Austar, it was a very comfortable stay, allowing us to spread out cook some meals and relax on the balcony with an afternoon drink.

OAWK tip – Book early for winter ski deals or visit in the warmer months to enjoy all the outdoor experiences that the Snowy Mountains and Lake Jindabyne have to offer.

Activities The park offers a range of onsite activities including a jumping pillow, games room and tennis court. If you fancy a spot of fishing, the park can arrange boat hire, or byo and moor at the private jetty that lies on the park’s waterfront. (Please contact the park prior to arriving if you would like to use the mooring).

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WE R EV IEW

Outside of the park you will find one of Australia’s most unique and beautiful playgrounds. The Snowy Mountains is replete with walking trails, bike trails and fishing spots. Mountain Adventures (next to Reception) hires outdoor gear for all kinds of winter and summer activities.

Food & Beverage Whilst the park itself doesn’t operate a café or restaurant, the Reception office is part of a row of five shops that includes Trader Joes Garage Café, a Shell Service Station and Sureeya Thai Restaurant. Trader Joe’s Café offers a delicious, and great value, traditional coffee, bacon and eggs breakfast.

Recommended Visit On the way to the Snowy Mountains from Canberra you will drive through the idyllic country town of Cooma. Cooma is home to the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre, a stateof-the-art facility that gives you an insight into how the Snowy Hydro was built and how it works. It’s what we call a fun-ucation experience for all ages!

Did you know Both Thredbo Village and Perisher Valley are within NSW National Parks, therefore you will need a National Parks entry pass. You can pick one up in Jindabyne at the Visitor Centre.

- Reviewed by Richard Bunting

Discovery Holiday Park Jindabyne 399 Ewingsdale Road, Jindabyne NSW 2481 Ph: 1800 039 512 Email: byron@discoveryparks.com.au Web: discoveryholidayparks.com.au/nsw/north_ coast/byron_bay/

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Find out more at

visitmanningvalley.com.au tourism@visitmanningvalley.com.au facebook.com/visitmanningvalley Visitor Information Centre 21 Manning River Dr, Taree North Ph: 6592 5444 or 1800 182 733

Top10 things to do

Lookouts From the coast to the hinterland, we have some spectacular lookouts! A few of our faves include Brushy Cutting, Apex, Flat Rock, Crowdy Head and Vincent’s.

Sky Dive The Manning Valley has its very own Skydiving NSW Drop Zone where you can jump from 12,000 feet and experience a bird’s-eye view of the Valley.

Ellenborough Falls A trip to the Manning Valley is not complete without a visit to one of the longest single drop waterfalls in the Southern Hemisphere! Why not take in the stunning hinterland scenery and enjoy historical Wingham along Tourist Drive 8.

Beach 4WD For the more adventurous travellers we allow 4WD access to many of our beaches.

Fishing

Mountain biking

With 150 kilometres of navigable waterways, it is not surprising that the Manning Valley is a fisherman’s paradise, with a place to drop a line or experience adventure fishing around every corner.

Get close to nature as you bike the coast or discover 40 kilometres of challenging mountain bike loop tracks, hidden deep within our forests.

National Parks

Cattai Wetlands

The 9 stunning National Parks and Reserves within the Manning Valley are perfectly placed for day-trippers to explore by car, bike or foot. You’ll discover waterfalls, lookouts, walking tracks and the perfect picnic spot!

Don’t forget your camera!

Here you’ll find over 180 species of birds, kangaroos, goannas and more including beautiful black swans!

Wingham Brush A nature reserve with a difference – take a stroll along the gently winding boardwalk, spot the resident endangered flying foxes and stand in awe of the giant Moreton Bay fig trees.

Beaches We have 45 kilometres of pristine coastline to discover, whether you go to the beach to swim, surf, fish, picnic, sunbathe or 4WD, we’ve got all your bases covered.

got a moment? reconnect

great holiday experiences with a local touch Ice cream before lunch, breaking in a new pair of thongs, Mum’s light touch with the suncream and Dad’s well cooked BBQ’s. We love our summer holidays and look forward to seeing you soon!

Discover ‘moments’ that matter at www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au

UMMER 2017 34* TermsSoutandaboutwithkids.com.au and Conditions apply, visit www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au

STATS: 1.*Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), 2.*Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), 3.*Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), 4.*Destination NSW, 5.*Roy Morgan, 6.*Tourism Fiji, 7.*Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), 8.*2016 Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), 9.*CLIA Australasia, 10.*Caravan Industry Association of Australia (CIAA)

travel by 9.7 million

AUSTRALIANS left the country in

2015-2016 ON SHORT-TERM DEPARTURES.

In the year ended June 2016,

59.4% of those RESPONDENTS SAID THEIR

MAIN REASON FOR LEAVING AUSTRALIA WAS

HOLIDAY

THE TOP 10 DESTINATIONS VISITED BY AUSTRALIANS IN THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 2016 WERE: New Zealand, USA, UK, Thailand, China, Indonesia, Fiji, Singapore, Hong Kong & Malaysia.

The peak age group FOR ALL SHORT-TERM RESIDENT

departures from

Australia changed from 45-49 years in 2005-06

In 2003 less than 80,000 Australians visited the Hawaiian Islands, growing by over 400% to 400,000 Aussie visitors in 2015.

Australians make up almost half of all annual visitors to Fiji.

367,273 AUSSIES

visited in 2015, contributing substantially to Fiji’s visitor arrivals record-breaking year.

Of the 14,487,600 recordbreaking visitor numbers to Japan between January and September 2015, 267,600 were Australians.

In just ten years between 2004 & 2014 - Australia’s cruise passengers jumped from 158,415 to a whopping 1,003,256!

30-34 years in 2015-16

During 2015-16, there were 1177 CRUISE SHIP VISIT DAYS at Australian ports - a 39% INCREASE on 849 visit days recorded in 2014-15.

The Australian state most visited by Aussies, in the year ending June 2016, was NSW, with domestic travellers on ‘holiday’ making up 89% OF ALL OVERNIGHT VISITORS.

85% OF THE AUSTRALIAN

10.4%

9.5%

POPULATION has had a caravanning or camping experience at least once in their lifetime, and 88% of campers say it something that every child should experience.

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Hits of

All images © shutterstock

We listened to: Happenin’ All Over Again – Young Divas L.O.V.E – Ashlee Simpson London Bridge – Fergie We watched: Summer Heights High Are you smarter than a 5th grader?

We went to see: The Golden Compass Transformers We wanted: Transformers action figures Bratz dolls Scene it? boardgames In 2007: The iPhone was released

We listened to: Barbie Girl – Aqua Tubthumping – Chumbawamba Mmmbop – Hanson We watched: Judge Judy Buffy the Vampire Slayer We went to see: Titanic Men in Black We wanted: Tamagotchis Tickle Me Elmo Teletubbies toys In 1997: Scientists in Scotland successfully cloned an adult sheep called Dolly

We listened to: I Should Be So Lucky – Kylie Minogue (I’ve had) The Time of My Life – Jennifer Warnes & Bill Medley Bad – Michael Jackson We watched: ALF Full House

We went to see: The Princess Bride Dirty Dancing We wanted: Sylvanian Families Koosh Balls Barbie & G.I Joe In 1987: The Simpsons is seen on TV for the first time on The Tracey Ullman Show

We listened to: Walk Right In – Dr Hook I Go to Rio – Peter Allen That’s Rock N Roll – Shaun Cassidy We watched: Blankety Blanks Countdown’s 100th Episode We went to see:

Saturday Night Fever Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope We wanted: Slinky Raggedy Ann & Andy View-Master In 1977: The first Apple II home computers went on sale SUMMER 2017 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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need-to-know

FACTS Disney Moana

Movies ©Walt Disney

A POLYNESIAN HEROINE

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© Walt Disney Movies

She’s here!

An Oceania adventure from Disney – Moana is ‘Explorer.

Wayfinder.

A hero in the making’.

1

From Walt Disney Animation Studios, Moana, is a sweeping, CG-animated adventure about a spirited teenager who sails out on a daring mission to prove herself a master wayfinder and fulfil her ancestors’ unfinished quest.

to get a better understanding of the people, places, traditions and mythologies that would help form the inspiration for the ‘Moana’ story, and help them tell that story respectfully. The film took five years to make.

2

5

With the help of the oncemighty demi-god Maui (Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson), they traverse the open ocean on a voyage that sees them encounter enormous fiery creatures and impossible odds.

3

You'll also meet GRAMMA TALA, who knows best; playful, loyal, and adorable PUA the Pig; and HEIHEI - clueless, problematic, poultry!

4

6

‘Moana’ will be the first feature film ever translated into the Tahitian language.

7

‘Moana’ features an original soundtrack, with songs written

by Tony-award winner Lin-Manuel Miranda alongside Mark Mancina and Opetaia Foa’i.

8

Dwayne Johnson aka The Rock (Maui) and Auli’i Cravalho

9

In collaboration with The Walt Disney Studios, Hawaiian Airlines has unveiled three Moanathemed Airbus A330 aircraft, each emblazoned with ‘Moana’ imagery! You can head to their website and track these very special planes as they make their voyages to the Hawaiian Islands and other Hawaiian Airlines destinations. hawaiianairlines.com/Moana Follow #SoaringWithDisney Moana

10

Disney Moana is released in Australia on Boxing Day (26 December 2016)

Visit movies.disney.com.au/ moana Follow @DisneyMoana and #Moana

© Walt Disney Movies

MAIN IMAGE: © shutterstock. RIGHT: ©Hawaiian Airlines

Directors Ron Clements and John Musker (the duo behind ‘Aladdin’ and ‘The Little Mermaid’) spent time in the Pacific Islands

It’s the film debut for 16-yearold Hawaiian, Auli’i Cravalho, who beat out hundreds of candidates from across the Pacific to win the role of Moana.

(Moana) both sing in the movie – and both are very impressive singers!

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@ Sovereign Hill

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© iStock

Gold panning

Blood on the Southern Cross Show

Where 19th Century Australian

HISTORY

All images except main pic opposite @ Sovereign Hill

COMES TO GOLD COUNTRY Ballarat VIC

BUSHRANGER COUNTRY Forbes NSW

Wander through this great city, brimming with Australian history at every turn. There are also plenty of fabulous attractions that focus on specific elements of the early days of Ballarat – the site of Victoria’s most famous goldfields and the famed Eureka Stockade.

Visit M.A.D.E (Museum of Australian Democracy) and hear the stories of ordinary men and women, past and present, who for fought for democracy in Australia.

Located on the historic site of the 1854 Eureka Stockade M.A.D.E uses engaging digital immersion to explain a powerful story. Pop into The Gold Museum for an up-close look at valuable gold nuggets, and priceless gold artefacts and gold coins. Spend a day at the award-winning Sovereign Hill and step back in time in a recreation of the 1850s gold rush era that brings the town to life. Pan for real gold – and it’s ‘finders keepers' – explore an underground goldmine, enjoy street theatre, and meet costumed goldfields characters. visitballarat.com.au

The notorious bushranger, Ben Hall, is ever-present in Forbes – he became the leader of one of the most notorious gangs of the 1860s until he was shot dead by police in in scrub on the Lachlan Plain about 20km northwest of Forbes. You can visit the site – and his grave at Forbes Cemetery. At the Visitors Centre in town there’s even a room dedicated to Ben Hall, and a statue of this famous bushranger sits outside the Centre, commissioned by his own great grandson! Visit Forbes & District Historical Museum to learn more about Ben Hall and his gang, and see relics from his famous bushranging days. visitnsw.com/destinations/country-nsw/parkesarea/forbes

NED KELLY North East Victoria Australia’s most famous bushranger left his mark in many towns of north eastern Victoria, including, famously, Glenrowan. Turn to page 84 to learn more!

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Jungle Surfing Canopy Tours – Cape Tribulation Queensland

In the stunning Daintree Rainforest, two UNESCO World Heritage-listed areas meet to create a living museum that can only be truly appreciated from on high. Embark on a unique adventure - a fully-guided ziplining tour between six tree canopy platforms

that will transport you over the world’s oldest rainforest. From 20m in the air you will experience the exhilaration of seeing ancient treetops, native wildlife, and even the coral fringes of the Great Barrier Reef!

astonishing ,

BIRD S EYE 42

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VIEWS

Table Mountain Aerial Cableway - Cape Town South Africa

© Shutterstock

Take a spectacular trip to the top of Table Mountain on this iconic cableway that has transported over 25 million people to the summit since 1929. Today’s cable cars have a modern, circular shape for excellent aerodynamics and stability, and the floor of the cabin rotates to allow travellers 360° views. Each of the two cars can carry 65 people, travelling at a maximum speed of 10m per second – and it only takes around four to five minutes to reach the top and be rewarded with phenomenal views! tablemountain.net

The Sky Tower stands 328m tall and has been an iconic fixture in the CBD skyline for 20 years. You can view the Auckland area from 220m above street level, with panoramic 360˚ views up to 80km in every direction. skycityauckland.co.nz

Empire State Building - New York City USA This landmark 102-storey building in Manhattan is world famous – and from the 86th and 102nd floor observatories the 360° views of New York City and beyond are breathtaking. See the city as you never imagined - Central Park comes into full view, Manhattan’s grid of streets reveals its brilliant design, and you can gaze far beyond the towering skyscrapers to the Hudson River, Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty. esbnyc.com

© Shutterstock

© Shutterstock

Sky Tower - Auckland New Zealand

For the ultimate bird’s eye view, embark on an amazing virtual hang gliding experience, soarin’ over international landmarks and landscapes in an epic reimagining of the classic Disney California Adventure Soarin’ Over California attraction.

As the lights dim, you will ascend 12m, and take your position in front of a huge projection dome for a sensational simulated flight around the world. From Disney California Adventure Park in California, to the Great Pyramids of Egypt, Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa, and our own Sydney Harbour – just some of the awesome sights you’ll see from way up high above the world! disneyland.disney.go.com/ attractions/disney-californiaadventure/soarin

© Disney

Soarin’ Around the World - Disney California Adventure Anaheim USA

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San Francisco

New York City

Houston

Disneyland®, Southern California

SAVE UP TO 50% AT TOP ATTRACTIONS IN: Atlanta Boston Chicago Dallas Houston New York City Philadelphia San Francisco Seattle Southern California Tampa Bay Toronto 44

SUMMER 2017 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

© Disney

YOUR TICKET TO

THE TOP ATTRACTIONS IN 12 GREAT NORTH AMERICAN DESTINATIONS

Iconic Spots.

Significant Savings.

One Amazing Experience. citypass.com

© Skyrail Rainfroest Cableway

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway - Queensland The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway experience spans 7.5km over Australia’s pristine tropical rainforest that stretches for over 500km along Tropical North Queensland’s coastline.

These rainforests are the oldest continually surviving rainforests on earth, and once covered the entire Australian continent. On the Cableway (from Port Douglas or Cairns) you will find yourself gliding mere metres above the rainforest canopy. skyrail.com.au

© Thredbo

© Shutterstock

Titlis Rotair – Mount Titlis Switzerland Head high up into the Swiss Alps as this rotating gondola whisks you up Central Switzerland’s highest peak at 10,000 feet. The Titlis Rotair is the world’s first revolving gondola that will take you to the mountain station at 3,020m above sea level, along the way providing you with sensational 360˚ views of steep rock faces, deep crevasses and distant snow-covered mountain peaks. titlis.ch/en/glacier/ rotair

Kosciuszko Express Chairlift - Thredbo NSW Australia’s highest mountain doesn’t have to be climbed – the best way to experience the spectacular views from its closest access point is by the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift, open 365 days a year. Take in the view in winter when the snow lies thick, or at any other time of the year when the full extent of nature shows itself across the beautiful Kosciuszko National Park. The Kosciuszko Express Chairlift is nearly 2km long, rising 560 vertical metres. The ride takes 15 minutes one way and offers spectacular valley views. thredbo.com.au SUMMER 2017 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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It’s always

t h g i n e dat here.

www.fij i.travel

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Shark Dive Xtreme

9 TOP ANIMAL

encounters

@ TARONGA WESTERN PLAINS ZOO

TUARY A LIFE SANC @ MANLY SE

Siamang spotting

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Brisbane QLD This is the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary and the perfect place to actually cuddle one – or you could also experience a Reptile and Raptor encounter!

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Gold Coast, QLD Set aside a full day to experience over 1400 mammals, birds and reptiles. Younger kids will enjoy feeding the lorikeets and bigger kids will get their kicks flying over the enclosures on the TreeTop Challenge – five large ropes and zipline courses for different age groups.

Feeding wallabies @ FEATHERDALE WILDLIFE PARK

Australian Reptile Park, Central Coast, NSW This is possibly the most interactive wild life park in Australia. Feed a wallaby or bush kangaroo joey and a 200-year-old tortoise, take a selfie with a koala or giant python,

see alligators and Elvis, the big saltwater croc.

Taronga Zoo, Sydney, NSW Sydney’s iconic zoo celebrated 100 years in 2016. Kids 12 to 17 years can be a Keeper For A Day Cadet and enjoy behindthe-scenes, interactive activities.

Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary, Sydney, NSW Shark Dive Xtreme is a serious animal encounter with seriously big (yet harmless) sharks, just inches from your face.

(Min age 14 years.)

Featherdale Wildlife Park, near Sydney, NSW Hand-feed kangaroos, wallabies, poteroos and pademelons, and enjoy animal encounters with everything from cattle, crocodiles and reptiles to baby goats, pigs and rabbits in the Farmyard.

Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo, NSW Stay a night at the Zoofari Lodge and enjoy your private sunset over the African Savannah where giraffe, eland and zebra roam. Wake to the Siamangs’ crazy whooping calls.

National Zoo & Aquarium, Canberra, ACT Hand feed lions, tigers and bears, and walk with some friendly dingoes.

The Zooventure Tour is the only opportunity you’ll have to experience a brown bear’s tongue licking honey off the palm of your hand!

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary near Hobart, Tasmania The Feeding Frenzy behind-the-scenes tour lets you feed daily treats to over ten different animals, birds and reptiles.

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Great Barrier Reef ~ Australia

ENJOY A FREE NIGHT ON US! PLUS - K IDS STA Y AND EAT BREAKFAST FREE!

INCLUDES: • 5 nights in a Garden Balcony room • Full buffet breakfast daily • Children stay and eat breakfast FREE of charge* • FREE shell necklace and mocktail on arrival • FREE WI-FI# • FREE holiday portrait during your stay • Over 20 FREE guest activities including catamarans, stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, mini golf, open air cinema, stingray & shark feeding show, gym, rainforest walk, & more!

STAY 5 NIGHTS. PAY ONLY 4 *

630

$

from

per person twin share

*Conditions apply, subject to availability. For travel until 31/03/17. Rate increase Block out period 17/12/16 - 15/01/17.

Price increase from 01/04/17 – 29/03/18. From $650 per person, twin share. Block out period 14/04/17 – 17/04/17, 16/09/17 – 08/10/17, 09/12/17 – 21/01/18, 14/02/18 – 18/02/18. Children aged 0 - 14 years inclusive stay and eat breakfast free of charge when sharing a room with parents/adults and utilising existing bedding. Extra charge applies for adult’s and children’s transfers . Cots can be provided free of charge. Bonus offer only applicable for bookings confirmed on the Stay 5 pay 4 package. Extra nights available upon request. All prices quoted in Australian dollars. ^Free Wi-Fi in atrium and all room types 24 hours a day.

FREE CALL 1800 075 040 Tel +61 7 3259 2350 Email reservations@daydreamisland.com

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DAYDREAMISLAND.COM/SPECIALS

de Phillip Island Penguin Para

AUSTRALIAN

islands to

MAIN: ©Tourism and Events Queensland POLAROID: ©Montague Island Destination NSW

DISCOVER Magnetic Island, Townsville QLD If your kids are into water sports, Magnetic Island offers plenty of opportunity to dive, snorkel, kayak, fish, swim, stand-up paddleboard and sail.

Koalas were introduced to the island in the 1930s and ,with no natural predators, you are almost guaranteed to spot one as you stroll along the well-marked trails through the national park. Kids will love the bright pink mini-mokes and beach buggies for hire to drive around the island.

Christmas Island This little island in the Indian Ocean will surprise even the most adventurous wildlife fan.

Snorkel Flying Fish Cove and count 200 fish species, wander through the rainforest and be outnumbered by crabs - by 50 million to one! Explore the caves and the Christmas Island Grotto (though Santa’s rarely there!)

Hamilton Island, Whitsundays QLD You’ll need at least a week to sample everything Hamilton Island has to offer. Try the Quads for Kids (6-14 yrs) or jet ski for older kids. Take a day trip to the famous Whitehaven Beach, go snorkelling and meet a few turtles, cuddle a koala or bush walk to one of the many secluded bays.

Daydream Island, Whitsundays QLD As well as the natural fringing reef and great swimming beaches, Daydream Island has its very own Living Reef. With over 140 species of fish including sharks and rays, kids can get really close

Montague Island, near N

arooma

and learn first-hand about the inhabitants of the Great Barrier Reef.

Heron Island, Great Barrier Reef QLD Heron Island is on the Great Barrier Reef, so snorkelling, bird watching and reef-walking are literally on your doorstep. Kids (7-12 yrs) can join the Junior Rangers, with nature-based activities designed to nurture a sense of exploration.

Between November and February watch turtles come ashore to lay their eggs, and if you’re lucky, see the hatchlings head off back to the ocean.

Moreton Island, (near Brisbane) QLD Moreton Island’s Tangalooma Resort is the only place in the world where you can hand feed bottle nosed dolphins. Take a desert safari SUMMER 2017 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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tour and go sand tobogganing, then cool off with a snorkel or Banana Boat ride.

North and South Stradbroke Island (near Brisbane) QLD ‘Straddie’ as the locals call it: two sand islands where you can really get back to nature and camp by one of the many beaches. Relax and spend some down time fishing, swimming or just sunbathing.

Phillip Island (near San Remo) VIC A popular day trip from Melbourne, spectators gather daily at sunset on Summerland Beach to watch the Penguin Parade, when Little Penguins come ashore in groups. Nobbies outcrop is the viewing site for Seal Rocks, home to a large colony of Australian fur seals.

Cockatoo Island (Sydney Harbour) NSW Cockatoo Island is Sydney Harbour’s own UNESCO World Heritage-listed island. Hop on a ferry and explore the island for the day or stay overnight in a cabin or a tent, and join the spooky Haunted History night tour.

Kangaroo Island (near Fleurieu Peninsula) SA It’s not just kangaroos you’ll find on Kangaroo Island - it’s home to all kinds of native wildlife like sea lions, penguins, koalas and a variety of bird species. Visit the striking coastal rock formations, like the sculpted Remarkable Rocks, and the stalactite-covered Admirals Arch where fur seals play in the rock pools below.

Lord Howe Island (near Port Macquarie) NSW A World Heritage-listed island paradise that’s easily explored by bike, you can also snorkel with turtles at Settlement Beach, feed the fish and snorkel with baby reef sharks at Ned’s Beach, or hike up into the rainforests of Mount Gower for spectacular views.

Rottnest Island (off Perth) WA Rottnest is best known for its population of quokkas. They might look cute and even smiley but, beware, the little marsupial critters do bite! On the north western tip there’s also a colony of New Zealand fur seals, so where do you think the Australian sea lions hang out? On Dyer Island in the south east, of course!

Montague Island (near Narooma) NSW Montague Island is famous for its seals and Little Penguins. Snorkel with the seals and watch the nightly penguin parade when 12,000 Little Penguins come ashore at dusk.

Green Island, Cairns QLD Perfect for a day trip from Cairns (or even a weekend) this protected coral cay on the Great Barrier Reef has white sandy beaches, safe swimming, amazing snorkelling and a kidfriendly resort.

Fraser Island (near Hervey Bay) QLD Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island, offers plenty of adventure activities for kids.

Junior Eco-Rangers (5 -14 yrs) get to try the low ropes course, experience canoeing, and go bushwalking to see and learn about the mangrove colonies and inter-tidal zones. Kids will also enjoy the aboriginal storytelling around the campfire and cooking damper, followed by spotlighting for nocturnal wildlife through the dark forest, and amazing stargazing.

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Fitzroy Island Resort Fitzroy Island, Cairns QLD Fitzroy Island’s sheltered waters are ideal for snorkelling and just messing around in the water. Stay a few days at the resort and enjoy the fine dining, or even camp and enjoy a BBQ. See the corals from the glass bottom boat and be sure to tour the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre.

Lady Elliot Island, Great Barrier Reef QLD

Lady Elliot calls itself the Home of the Manta Ray, but you’re just as likely to see turtles and (in winter) hear whales around this island sanctuary within the Great Barrier Reef’s Green Zone. Whether snorkelling, reef-walking or aboard a state-of-the-art glass bottom boat, this eco-resort’s activities also include plenty of bird watching, with nesting shearwaters around your feet, noddies in the trees and crested terns in the air.

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POOLS, SLIDES & MORE

KIDS’ ACTIVITIES

ISN’T IT TIME? Let the kids do all the running around.

Imagine a holiday where everything you need and want is all in the one place. Kids’ activities are just a stroll away from your cabin or campsite, and finding a way to relax is easier.

From splash pools to kids’ clubs, it’s all here for you to get a real break too. With 180 locations around Australia, the perfect family getaway is now within reach. If you’re thinking about getting away from the grind and taking that well-earned break, ask yourself a simple question – isn’t it time?

CREATURE COMFORTS Let’s get connected

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E

RIT AVOU LIA’S F A R T S AU

BIG4.com.au Isn’t it time you visited?

DADS

image © shutterstock

The Perfect Planner Dad This dad is all over every inch of the family’s holiday plans, many months in advance. He believes that in-depth, pre-holiday research is necessary to find the right destination, the right mode of travel, the right accommodation and the right attractions. When an overseas holiday has been booked, he’s the dad who is so excited he starts prepping his family with a peppering of handy local phrases in the language of the destination, throws out random (but useful!) facts about the destination (including its history, geography and culture) and has the passports ready and stored safely - waaaay before your scheduled departure date. His enthusiasm is admirable, but yours might begin to wane before you have even left home!

The K.I.S.S. Dad He likes to apply the ‘Keep It Simple Stupid’ philosophy when it comes to family holidays by dismissing family members’ doubts, objections and concerns with a casual ‘no worries’. This dad wants his family holiday – from planning and packing to daily holiday activities – to be stress-free, and he assumes the important task of keeping his family on the K.I.S.S. track at all times.

Anyone over-complicating simple plans, having a meltdown, or retreating into tired and cranky mode will be enthusiastically distracted and jollied out of that mindset, and immediately reprogrammed for K.I.S.S.

The 'What if?' Dad He’s factored in every possible thing that could go wrong on your upcoming holiday, and has a foolproof contingency plan for each ‘what if?’ Every scenario has been considered – from losing luggage, passports, wallets and iPads, to losing front teeth, losing a favourite toy and losing a child! He’s triple-checked the travel insurance Product Disclosure Statement and, at your holiday destination, he has already mapped the nearest shops to purchase essential items, and noted local telephone numbers for police, ambulance, hospitals and pharmacies. He’s even got everything sorted for home security, mail collection, dog minding and garden maintenance while you’re away, so he can enjoy a peaceful, relaxing family holiday!

The Wing It Dad The Wing It Dad wants to take to the open roads, fly high or sail away without too many plans, or too much baggage.

He’s the dad who doesn’t book accommodation because ‘we’ll just find something nice when we get there’, who puts packing limits on each family member two t-shirts, a couple of pairs of pants, thongs and sneakers, a jumper, pjs, cossie and undies – and lives by the mantra that if you don’t have it you can borrow it or buy it at your destination! He’s determined you’re all going to have the best, fuss-free holiday ever – as long as no one spoils the mood and bursts his bubble by saying ‘I told you so!’ when the 'wing it' goes wonky.

The Dadolescent This dad is pretty confident that someone else has made all the holiday plans so he’s happy to kick back and go along for the ride. Where you will be staying and how you get there is not of great consequence, but he has already Googled the weather, and all the fabulous attractions and activities on offer at your holiday destination, and made a mental must-do list. He’ll be on the zipline with the kids, catching waves, hands-on at fun museums, looking for the best ice-cream, dragging his feet through shopping malls, and pleading for ‘another go on the rollercoaster’. He’s also the family member most likely to forget to pack something and also to leave something behind in your hotel room!

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Valley of Fire

REASONS FOR A

NEVADA

FAMILY

Road Trip 54

SUMMER 2017 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

So much to see and do in this cool, quirky, bright, alien-spotting, cowboy homelands, desert, mustangfilled, Native American, west coast state!

Nevada is home to four major American Indian tribes: Washoe, Northern Paiute, Southern Paiute and Western Shoshone, all deeply connected to the environment and its gifts. Four fun days on the road should touch the edge along the 700 km route. travelnevada.com Hit the city lights Overload your senses with sparkle, glitz, entertainment, big swimming pools and endless buffet dinners. Treat your family to both, first in the ‘City of Lights’ Las Vegas, finishing your journey at the ‘Biggest little city in the World’, Reno. Both cities are easy access

on 1-hour flights with United Airlines from the hub of San Francisco. united.com See 3000-year-old Native American rock art in the ‘Valley of Fire’ State Park.

Drive through then stop and hike past ancient trees and Indian petroglyphs - ancient rock art - the most renowned being the spear thrower ‘Atlatl’ works. Rangers can give your kids safe lessons on this ancient hunting technique, and the visitor center has interactive displays and wild animal and bird information and what’s on in the park. A 95km drive from Las Vegas, this area is best saved for spring and autumn with temperatures in summer heading to 48 degrees Celsius. parks.nv.gov/parks/valleyof-fire-state-park

Stewart Indian school

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe

Spot an alien or just gaze at the stars along the way.

Head down the ‘Extraterrestrial Highway’, a portion of State Route 375. Make it a nighttime priority to be in awe of the universe in one of the darkest skies in the USA. Fun alien signs, and even alien burgers, are there to tempt you to stop and test your belief in other life out there.

Eat the best darn bbq you’ve ever tasted. About half way between Reno and Vegas in historic Tonopah, at the Tonopah Brewing Co. - best helped down with the tasty local craft beer and a root beer for the kids. Make sure you try a side of fried pickles for the authentic local experience. A perfect pit stop, Tonopah is half way between Las Vegas and Reno.

Go ghost hunting. The stuff of legends, Tonopah is also home to the Mizpah Hotel. Pop in

and look around (if you are not brave enough to stay overnight) to ‘sense’ the legendary “Lady in Red” who frequents this fine establishment. tonopahnevada.com Go fishing at Pyramid Lake.

Pick up your fishing gear and licence then throw in a line for Lahontan cutthroat trout. A beautiful oasis in the desert, in the Paiute native American tribe reservation, a 45-minute drive west of Reno. Understand the importance of the area to Native Americans, with a stop into Pyramid Lake Paiute Lake Museum and Visitors Center. pyramidlake.us See the ‘The Lady of the Lake’ at Cave Rock State Park, a sacred Washoe Tribe site. Tribal ancestors spent their summers at Lake Tahoe and once performed religious ceremonies inside the largest of

Mustangs

the caves, estimated to be over 3 million years old. Book a tour for the genuine Native American experience by the inspiring and awesome Great Basin Tour Company, with Donna and her daughter, Melissa Cossette. greatbasintourcompany.com Go on a train ride with Santa. Head to Ely for a Polar Express train departing during the Christmas season for trips to the North Pole and return. Ely is a 4-hour mid-way point between Las Vegas and Reno. elynevada.net Go back to school at the Stewart Indian School. Take a self-guided walking tour of the campus, serving as the only off-reservation Indian boarding school in Nevada from 1890 to 1980. The stone buildings are an icon of education and life for many American Indians in the West, with children from

over 200 tribes educated here.

The school is located in Carson City, the capital of Nevada, just outside Reno. stewartindianschool.com Visit Lake Tahoe. Fill your senses with summer lakeside beauty and adventure. Hike, bike picnic or play in one of the lake’s many beaches during summer.

Winter is a snow lover’s dream, with the most concentrated ski runs in North America adjoining the bluer-than-blue freshwater Lake Tahoe just one hour from Reno. visitinglaketahoe.com See wild mustangs and burros. Spot them along the road in their natural beauty, or visit these living legends of the west, ready for adoption as part of the Bureau of Land Management at the National Wild Horse and Burro Center, at Palomino Valley near Reno.

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Elephant Hills Thailand Angama

Coral Triangle

ONCE IN A If money was no object and you wanted to create a really special memory with your kids, what would you do? Where would you go? Travelling with your children is the best way to create great memories together … so save up, and try these once-in-alifetime adventures for size!

Climb Mt Everest.

Or at least hike to base camp. What could be more exhilarating than standing on top of the world with your children? It’s not just the incredible views of the world’s highest mountain peak, but also the amazing culture of Nepal that you’ll discover together along the way. World Expeditions has been running its Family Everest Trek for many years, and their team of friendly and knowledgeable staff deliver an experience that’s hard to beat, at a leisurely pace that allows plenty of time for acclimatisation. The 15-day trip costs around $2250 per person.

Watch the world’s greatest migration from a hot air balloon. And do it in style – follow in the footsteps of Robert Redford and Meryl Streep and stay in luxury, tented accommodation at Angama Mara, where the their movie, ‘Out of Africa’ was filmed. A private access road leads to the game-rich Mara Triangle area of the reserve, where expert guides take guests on game drives to see the famous prolific wildlife found here, including big cats and, in season, the herds of the wildebeest

migration. To make the occasion even more special, book a trip on a hot air balloon to watch the spectacle from the sky, as you glide silently over the African savannah. Rates start at $825 per person per night.

Go scuba diving in Coral Triangle There’s nothing quite so magical as learning to scuba dive with your kids.

It opens up a whole new underwater world for both of you to explore. And where better to do it than the nursery of the seas itself? The global epicentre of marine biodiversity, where 76% of all coral species, and over 2000 species of fish, are found is in the ‘coral triangle’ that stretches from the Solomon Islands in the East to Malaysia in the far West. There are many untouched tropical paradises in between, where you might see manta rays, whale sharks and turtles, while being blown away by the colourful coral. Do it in style on a luxury small ship such as True North’s Fires and Dragons cruise from Darwin to Ambon, stopping at Flores, Komodo and Wakatobi along the way. Cabins start at around $22,000 per person for an 11-day cruise.

Live like a prince or princess in Paris. The Shangri-La Hotel Paris was once home to Napoleon’s nephew, restored lovingly to its opulent glory by the Shangri-La group. Each room has a view of the Eiffel Tower and a bathtub so beautiful you’ll want to soak in it all night. If you really want to splurge, go for the Shangri-La Suite, a penthouse suite with panoramic views of the city, the Eiffel Tower a few hundred metres away, and Montmarte towards the horizon.

Breakfast is under one of the largest chandeliers you’ll ever see, before the concierge organises a private guided tour of the city sights, that simply must include a long lunch at 3-Michelin Star Pavillon Ledoyen on the ChampsElysées, just past the Palais-Royal. Rooms start at around $1250 per night.

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Wish you were here: © The Brando

SUPER LUXURY

o 3 Bedroom Villa @ The Brand

© Taveuni Palms Fiji

A luxurious 246sqm three-bedroom villa in French Polynesia does very nicely for families at The Brando, on the breathtakingly beautiful island of Tetiaroa. Once the home and preserve of legendary actor, Marlon Brando, the resort aims to provide ‘one of the most luxurious, authentic and enriching travel experiences available anywhere in the world in an environmentally sensitive, sustainable and culturally rich manner.’ White sand beaches frequented by sea turtles, manta rays and exotic birds, and ‘Lagoon School’, especially designed for children from 4 to 12 years old, a Library and Explorer Center, where you can read books about French Polynesia and attend lectures and demonstrations about Polynesian culture, history, and lifestyle, and onsite research scientists, all make The Brando a truly unique destination for the whole family. thebrando.com

Horizon spa villa pool, Taveuni Palms Fiji

Manor House Loft Suite terrace

One of the Virgin Limited Edition properties, Sir Richard Branson’s collection of luxury hotels and retreats, the Mont Rochelle Hotel and Mountain Vineyard in Franschhoek, South Africa has recently opened the Manor House, offering families deluxe suites that also have separate bunkrooms for the children. The Manor House has two private pools and a games room with pool table, games consoles and board games, so kids are more than happy to let the adults relax on a sun lounger or dine alfresco on the terrace. virginlimitededition.com/en/mont-rochelle Your own luxury two bedroom, two bathroom villa, plus a private beach, pool, chef and staff, and a complimentary nanny – all that and more at the ultra-luxe island resort, Taveuni Palms Fiji! Each villa sits on its own private acre, directly on the water’s edge, with panoramic views over the ocean. Snorkel, kayak, ride horses, take waterfall walks and have fun with the kids, and when you want to rest and relax, your nanny will take the children out and about, safely discovering the wonders of Taveuni Island. taveunipalms.com/family-holiday SUMMER 2017 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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fun hands-on

LEARNING CENTRES

back in business after the floods

OFFICAL VISITOR GUIDE

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art trail heritage trail food experience fishing & canoe tours outback droving tours

call 02 6852 4155

www.finditinforbes.com.au

Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre - Canberra ACT Every year this fantastic hands-on attraction welcomes over 400,000 visitors through its doors. Since opening in 1988 little kids and big kids alike have been wowed by the amazing interactive and engaging exhibits designed to make the worlds of science and technology fun and accessible to everyone!

Understanding the way in which things work, scientific advancements and futuristic concepts are all up for grabs – literally - in an entertaining, fun, relevant – and sometimes messy – discovery quest.

Little ones under six years will love Mini Q, designed to gently introduce pre-schoolers to the hands-on wonder of the world around them. questacon. edu.au

Qu est aco n

© Questacon

Questacon

Top image © AIS Otheimages © ACMI

The Australian Institute of Sport

ACMI – The Australian Centre for the Moving Image - Melbourne VIC A unique institution in the heart of ACMI celebrates, explores and promotes the moving image in all its forms - film, television, games and digital culture.

With a proud tradition of hosting awardwinning Australian and international exhibitions, films, festivals, live events, creative workshops, education programs and resources, ACMI invites visitors to engage with the moving image. The range of constantly changing and engaging kids’ creative workshop experiences on offer at ACMI is fantastic. acmi.net.au The Powerhouse Museum - Sydney NSW Explore the interactive side of art and science at this iconic Sydney museum, part of the Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences (MAAS), where kids under 16 visit free!

Heaps of hands-on permanent exhibits and visiting exhibits will take you into ancient worlds and future worlds, entertainment, architecture, design, the digital age, experiments, ecology, steam power, space,

clocks, transport and more. Even The Wiggles have their own wonderful, wiggly permanent exhibition @ The Powerhouse! maas.museum/powerhouse-museum Sciencecentre @ Queensland Museum - Brisbane QLD There are ‘no visitors’ at the Science Centre because everyone is a ‘participant’. With 100% hands-on science-based fun waiting for little kids and big kids to experience, there are more than enough exciting incentives to join in and start discovering – hands-on! sciencentre.qm.qld.gov.au The Australian Institute of Sport - Canberra ACT Go behind the scenes at Australia’s elite athlete training institute – AIS. One of Canberra’s most popular attractions, you might even catch some of Australia’s top athletes in training when you visit!

Challenge yourself in Sportex, a leading interactive sports exhibit set amongst a unique collection of Australian sporting memorabilia. Best of all Sportex is included free as part of every AIS Tour. experienceais.com

ra li an A C M I – Tthh ee AMuovstin g Im ag e C en tr e fo r

AC M I – Th ra lia n Ce nt re fo r th ee MAuovsting Im ag e SUMMER 2017 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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One of the first ‘supermodels’, Cindy Crawford, singer Janet Jackson, actresses Halle Berry and Salma Hayek, and celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay all celebrated their 50th Birthdays

The Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro hosted the 2016 Summer Olympic Games and the 2016 Summer Paralympic Games

US National Park Service and Taronga Zoo Sydney both turned 100

LOOKING

50th anniversary of Battle of Long Tan, Vietnam

Britons were outraged when the makers of Toblerone announced the ‘reconfiguring’ (shrinking!) of this triangle-peaked chocolate favourite

BACK

400th Anniversary of the death of William Shakespeare Billionaire business mogul Donald Trump elected the 45th President of the United States of America

90th Anniversary of the first Winnie The Pooh book, by A. A. Milne, which was published in 1926… … the same year Queen Elizabeth II was born – celebrating her 90th Birthday in 2016

Actors Robert Redford and Alan Alda (‘Hawkeye’ on TVs ‘M.A.S.H’) both celebrated their 80th Birthdays

50th Anniversary of Star Trek, and the film ‘Born Free’, the true story of a lion cub called Elsa

Australia got a new-look $5 note Singer/Actress Cher and film director Steven Spielberg both turned 70

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LOOKING

FORWARD 70 years since the first round-the-world airline flight was introduced,

by American airline, Pan Am, in 1947

Finland celebrates 100 years of independence Our favourite young wizard, Harry Potter, says goodbye to his teens – 2017 marks 20 years since the release, on 30 June 1997, of J.K. Rowling’s first book in the series - Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

230 YEARS since the 11 ships of the First Fleet left England for Australia, sailing 20,000km around the world to establish a British Colony in New South Wales

200th Anniversary of the death of author Jane Austen 50th Anniversary of family favourite films, Walt Disney’s The Jungle Book, and Dr Doolittle Canada celebrates 150 years as a nation – Toronto, Canada, will host the 2017 Invictus Games, (established by Prince Harry) the only international adaptive sports event for wounded, ill and injured service members and veterans.

(Sydney will host the games in 2018)

The very first Edinburgh Festival in Scotland, celebrating art and culture, was born 70 years ago, in 1947

The 20th Anniversary of the death of Princess Diana, at the age of 36, will be commemorated in 2017 with the installation of a new memorial garden at Kensington Palace in London. The White Garden will be opened to the public in the northern spring, and will feature white roses, scented narcissi and a carpet of forget-me-nots around the existing Sunken Garden at the Princess’s former home.

The ‘Star Wars’ movie franchise turns 40!

The first ‘Star Wars’ film (re-titled ‘Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope) was released in May 1977

Luminaries of the science world will present the beauty, complexity, and importance of science at the 2017 World Science Festival in Brisbane

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Best Parent

PAMPERING Barista-made coffee straight to your door each morning Not only is BIG4 Beachlands located in the beautiful Margaret River wine region of Western Australia, but it also has your morning coffee fix sorted, with barista-made coffee that can be brought to your door each morning.

‘Mud’ Day spa for joyful pampering If facials, massages and body wraps are your thing, then Victoria’s BIG4 Beacon Resort ‘Mud’ Day Spa is the place for you. Based on the aboriginal concept of kierr’wo “Everything is joyful, everything is wonderful, everything is sweet” Mud Day Spa is parent pampering at its best.

MAIN: Mud

Day Spa

@ BIG4 BEACON RESORT. LEFT ROW FROM TOP:

Massage and sublime views @ BIG4 EASTS BEACH KIAMA; Nibble's Cake and Coffee chill out @ GOLD COAST HOLIDAY PARK;

Driftwood Restaurant and Bar @ RIVERSHORE RESTAURANT DECK; the new 'fit' centre @ BIG4 BELLARINE

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Healthy holidays @ ‘fit’ness centre To accommodate health-conscious guests, BIG4 Bellarine Holiday Park in Victoria now offers its guests access to the park’s brand new fitness centre ‘fit’. With an area dedicated to machines and another for floor work and classes, ‘fit’ offers the best place to keep up your exercise regimen while on holiday.

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Eating well: Driftwood Restaurant and Bar The newly-opened Rivershore Resort in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast features luxurious glamping - and great dining at its Driftwood Restaurant and Bar, only a stone’s throw from the accommodation.

From 7am till late, and with a happy hour from 4-5pm, there’s always great nosh available when you’re feeling peckish.

Relaxing Massage BIG4 Easts Beach in Kiama, NSW wants you to relax as best you can on holiday, and what better way than with the treat of a massage?

Indulging in a massage, with the added benefit of a truly peaceful environment, helps parents relax and unwind so they can truly enjoy their holiday with the kids.

Fancy a Nibble?

Nibbles Licensed Café at Gold Coast Holiday Park in Queensland is the ideal place for parents to grab a daily break to just chill - over delicious, freshly baked biscuits and muffins, and a great coffee! For something more substantial, the menu also includes plenty of choice for the adults, and the kids. big4.com.au

THE PERFECT BEACH HOLIDAY DESTINATION! Our family friendly park has an array of accommodation to suit everyone’s needs from waterfront Beach Retreats and Villas to our Ensuite and Powered Sites. Relax and enjoy a swim or a game of beach cricket on our beautiful Easts Beach. The kids will love our 25m resort pool, toddlers wading pool and children’s

playgrounds. Kids activities and movies in our holiday periods will keep the kids busy. Our holiday park is the ideal location from which to explore the south coast, with popular tourist attractions such as Jamberoo Action Park and the Minnamurra Rainforest just minutes away.

For further information please contact: BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park 30 Ocean Street (PO Box 10) Kiama NSW 2533 P: 02 4232 2124 F: 02 4233 1009 E: holiday@eastsbeach.com.au www.eastsbeach.com.au

family-friendly ATTRACTIONS ON THE

NSW SOUTH COAST Eurobodalla Botanic Gardens – Batemans Bay Relax and commune with nature in these beautiful grounds, bursting with 2000 species of plants, trees and shrubs of the region – and home to kangaroos, wallabies, bandicoots, possums, echidnas, snakes, lizards, frogs and many birds.

The 42ha Gardens are part of the Mogo State Forest and include the amazing Children’s Play Space (opened in 2012), café and picnic and bbq facilities.

LEFT FROM TOP:

Bermagui © Nick Rains/Destination NSW. Eden Whale Museum Sapphire Coast © Nick Rains/Destination NSW.

Segways at Coolangatta Estate © Dee Kramer Photography.

MAIN: Killalea State Park © Dee Kramer Photography.

RIGHT INSET: © Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventure.

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Segway Tours South Coast - Shoalhaven Ecotourism-certified, Segway Tours South Coast showcase the natural and pristine beauty of the south coast in an environmentally-friendly, unique adventure at Coolangatta Estate in Shoalhaven, and Killalea State Park (between Shoalhaven and Kiama).

The Killalea Beach Segway Tour is the only beach Segway tour in NSW. Suitable for kids 12 years and over.

Killer whales – Eden Come face-to-face with the skeleton of ‘Tom the Killer Whale’, a legendary Orca who once led a pack of killer whales.

Exhibitions at the Eden Killer Whale Museum cover the history of Tom and his cohorts, and the relationship between man and giant mammal at Twofold Bay during the 19th and early 20th Centuries.

The water-filled playground of Lake Illawarra Shellharbour Set up a picnic at Reddall Reserve on the foreshore of Lake Illawarra with playground, amenities and kiosk. Then change into swimwear and head to the water where kids can safely swim.

The Lake is the perfect spot for hiring a boat or catamaran, fishing, and all manner of fun water sports.

Up-close dolphin watching – Jervis Bay Award-winning Dolphin Watch Cruises at Huskisson will take you on an unforgettable

encounter with some of the 120 resident bottlenose dolphins of Jervis Bay. From May to November, go whale watching, and look out for humpbacks, southern right and minke, plus seals, penguins and albatross.

Treetop walk and fly Jamberoo The award winning Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures is home to the highest Zipline Tour in Australia! You can also take in panoramic views of the rainforest canopy, and far out to the Pacific Ocean, on the Treetop Walk, a steel walkway with a central tower raised nearly 50m from the forest floor, 710m above sea level.

Potoroos, bettongs and other native animals – Merimbula Meet potoroos, bettongs, wombats, koalas, possums, dingoes, kangaroos and wallabies, lizards, pythons, turtles, frogs, emu, parrots and cockatoos – and that’s just scratching the surface of the wonderful

experiences for families at the popular Potoroo Palace, a not-for-profit native animal educational sanctuary.

Oaklands Barn Pambula Spend a day at a gorgeous and unique old-style homestead where you can go on pony and trail rides and get up close and friendly with barn animals including pigs, goats, cows, sheep, alpacas, chickens, cats and dogs and even camels. Entry is a $2 gold coin donation per person, which goes toward the cost of feeding and looking after the Oaklands animals!

The largest blowhole in the world - Kiama Almost 1 million people stop here each year to marvel at this natural phenomenon – when

the seas are running from the south east, the blowhole can ‘spout’ up to 25m of water! Set up a picnic for a prime viewing spot, explore the town or play in the rock pools.

Laser tag – Albion Park Rail, Shellharbour Heaps of heart-thumping fun is up for grabs at C1 Speed, with a two-level Laser Tag Maze (the largest on the south coast) equipped with LASERTAG GEN 6 technology, interactive sound, hidden targets and UV lighting effects. Go head to head with a family opponent, or involve the whole gang for a team game.

Killalea Beach– Shellharbour Surf’s up at this popular beach (known as ‘The Farm’) in Killalea State

Park, declared a National Surfing Reserve in 2009.

250ha of pristine coastal reserve and beaches are now protected for future generations to enjoy, and with beautifullylandscaped picnic and bbq areas, stunning views and avid surfers riding the waves, why not grab a board, or take a few lessons with Pines Surfing Academy, and join them?

It’s a Gold Rush! Mogo Step back in time at The Original Gold Rush Colony and pan for real gold! Daily, guided tours will give you some insight into panning techniques and a few tips to help you strike it lucky! A fantastic day outing for the whole family (or stay onsite) there’s even theme park attractions including a

maze, train rides and Gold Rush Mini golf.

Thrills and spills – Jamberoo Combing plenty of water action and rides, Jamberoo Action Park is a thrill-a-minute attraction for all ages.

From the Taipan (a 5-person ride down a giant waterslide in darkness) to the wavelike speed slide of Surf Hill, older kids will find plenty of action at every bend. Younger kids will love the wet and dry fun of Billabong Beach, a themed play area just for them, Outback Bay in Kiddies Cove and the fabulous Mushroom Pool.

Bishops Bigfoot Adventures – Shoalhaven Climb aboard Bigfoot, a huge 4WD open-

sided tractor-bus for an exhilarating ride to the top of Mount Coolangatta for some of the best views of Coolangatta Estate, the site of the first European settlement on the south coast, and an amazing panorama of the region.

Fresh fruit gelati – Bermagui An arrangement with local growers, to supply fresh fruit in exchange for free gelati, has proved a winning recipe for the quirky and super-popular Bermagui Gelati Clinic.

With mouth-wateringly delicious artisan gelato on the menu this is a must-visit for families holidaying in the Eurobodalla region.

The kids will thank you! visitnsw.com/ destinations/southcoast

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SUPER FAMILY DEAL 5 nights - $1350 at Darwins Favourite HOTEL APARTMENTS

7 nights - $1800

in a 2 bedroom apartment, with full breakfast for all and kids eat free plus FREE WIFI

Two bedroom fully self-contained and serviced hotel suites in the Darwin CBD with awesome pool

Located at 6 Carey St Darwin NT

Complimentary unlimited NBN wifi Full buffet breakfasts included for all guests with this offer Children (under 12) EAT FREE with Adult main meals Free secure parking & space for trucks, caravans 5 minutes walk to WAVE POOL, WATERFRONT & CBD Onsite licensed restaurant with all day menu Large apartments with 12sqm furnished balconies, lounge, kitchen, stove, dishwasher, toaster, oven, microwave, large fridge, kettle, cooking utensils, washing machine & dryer Views from every apartment of harbour and/or city Darwins best pool - 28 metre infinity - child friendly Full foxtel channels Cots & rollaways available

BOOK NOW Quote: HAPPYKIDS

08 7912 5212 www.zenquarter.com reception@ramadasuitesdarwin.com Offer valid for stays of 5 or 7 nights for November 2016 - March 2017. Excludes stays over Christmas Day, New Years Eve or Easter

PALS NICKELODEON

SEA WORLD

5BEST OF THE

INSET: Nickelodeon TNMT MAIN: Sea World Resort Dolphin Discovery

Sea World Resort offers families direct monorail access to Sea World, one of Australia’s most iconic Gold Coast Theme Parks, where you can discover a world of marine animals, exciting rides and incredible animal presentations.

SpongeBob SplashBash Let the kids splash around with everyone’s favourite sponge and his nautical friends at the spectacular SpongeBob SplashBash aquatic adventure playground.

With bright and colourful water play areas themed around Spongebob SquarePants, the kids will delight at their own

underwater adventure at Bikini Bottom.

Meet Nickelodeon Characters Daily Make your children’s dreams a reality with daily meet and greets with favourite Nickelodeon characters in the Resort Lobby, including SpongeBob Square Pants, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Dora the Explore and Boots.

Dolphin Discovery Presentation Stay two nights or more to experience a complimentary behind the scenes peek at a dolphin training session, with Sea World Resort’s exclusive Dolphin

Discovery Presentation.

The Dolphin Discovery presentation also sheds light on the remarkable work of the Sea World Research & Rescue Foundation.

Award-winning Restaurants Treat yourself to an amazing dining experience at the awardwinning Japanese Restaurant, Hatsuhana, featuring delicious authentic Japanese cuisine. Or dine at The Shoreline Restaurant and enjoy a delectable buffet breakfast or dinner, with a selection of internationally inspired dinner options available through the week.

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, OF DARWIN S

FAMILY-FRIENDLY

ATTRACTIONS Berry Springs Nature Park Escape the heat and cool off in the safe swimming holes at Berry Springs. This family friendly picnic spot is an ideal day trip from Darwin. Surrounded by lush tropical plants and trees, it’s a haven for brightly coloured birds, who dip in and out of the water around swimmers. For less experienced swimmers, take a pool noodle or hire one from the café.

Wheelchair and pram-friendly paths lead to the pools, but entry to the water is via a small set of stairs.

Visit nt.gov.au/leisure/parksreserves and click: ‘Find a park to visit’

Deckchair cinema Darwin’s balmy evenings are perfect for watching a movie under the stars while reclining in a deckchair at the outdoor cinema. Located next to Darwin Harbour, cinema-goers can watch the sunset while indulging in dinner (meals can be bought on site) before the movie.

Operated by the Darwin Film Society, Deckchair is an independent cinema and often screens films which are unavailable in mainstream movie theatres.

The venue is wheelchair and pram accessible. deckchaircinema.com

Litchfield National Park Litchfield National Park can be visited as a day trip from Darwin or, if you want longer to explore, settle in to the accommodation and camping.

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Magnetic and Cathedral termite mounds can be seen while driving through the park but to let kids really appreciate the size and detail of the mounds, stop at the Termite Mound viewing area.

Boardwalks allow easy access and a great photo opportunity.

There are many places to swim within Litchfield National Park and Wangi Falls provides the easiest access for families and people with mobility restrictions.

Swimming in the large water hole and under the waterfall is great fun.

Visit litchfieldnationalpark.com

Mindil Beach Locals and tourists flock to Mindil Beach on Thursdays and Sundays to enjoy the live entertainment and laid back atmosphere. Shop for a locally-made souvenir, grab dinner from one of the many food trucks, and watch the sunset over the Timor Sea from Mindil Beach.

The markets are wheelchair and pram accessible. mindil.com.au

Wave Lagoon at Darwin Waterfront Swimming at Darwin’s beaches is unsafe due to the possibility of crocodiles, so the Wave Lagoon is a magnet for families looking to have some cool fun.

Kids enjoy jumping the man-made waves and parents can supervise from the deckchairs lining the edge of the pool. waterfront.nt.gov.au

Crocosaurus Cove Get up close and personal (in safety!) with crocodiles, including the world’s largest display of Australian reptiles, at Crocosaurus Cove in the heart of Darwin. There’s an opportunity for the kids to feed the saltwater crocodiles with a fishing rod, hold a baby crocodile or swim in a pool with the juvenile crocs (don’t worry, there is perspex between the kids and crocs!).

For any daredevils in the family, the Cage of Death experience (must be 14 years or over) is a must. In a perspex cage, lowered into the crocodile enclosure, you’ll come face-to-with a 5m crocodile. Bookings are essential for this highly popular attraction.

Crocosaurus Cove is wheelchair and pram accessible. crocosauruscove.com

Corroboree Billabong Wetlands Cruise Darwin is home to a wide variety of birds, and the Wetlands sunset

cruise at Corroboree Billabong gives visitors a chance to see them at one of their most active times of the day.

Along with the Black Neck Storks, Kingfishers, Jacanas, Brolgas and Eagles that are in the area, the boat guides do their best to ensure that visitors get to see a croc or two in their natural habitat.

Just remember not to put your hand over the side to cool off!

Access to the boat is via a few stairs. wetlandcruises.com.au

Harbourside Lagoon at Darwin Waterfront Another great cool-off spot at Darwin Waterfront precinct, this free attraction is ideal for toddlers, or families who just want a quiet swim.

The man-made beach allows kids to play in the sand and paddle in the water safely, and trees provide plenty of shade for relaxing on the sideline.

Wave Lagoon and Harbourside

Lagoon are both wheelchair and pram accessible. waterfront.nt.gov.au

Aquascene Not far from Darwin’s CBD, tourists line the shoreline to hand feed the hundreds of wild fish that visit this attraction daily. Feeding times change according to the tides with the best months from December to August. Visitors can expect to see a variety of fish including barramundi, mullet, catfish, batfish and even rays.

Aquascene is wheelchair and pram friendly. aquascene.com.au

FROM TOP LEFT:

Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise Dining at Deckchair Cinema Darwin.

Recreation lagoon Darwin.

ABOVE: Wangi

swimming

Falls

Julie Jones is the creator of havewheelchairwilltravel.net, where she combines her skills as an ex-travel consultant with her life and experiences as a mother to her daughter AJ and son BJ, who has cerebral palsy.

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“FOR GREAT VALUE

PARKING AT SYDNEY AIRPORT, PARK AT BLU EMU CAR PARK!”

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Floating Market

Naphamethanidon pagoda in Doi Intanon National Park, Chiang Mai

Ramayana Water Park

Most Unique

All images Tourism Authority of Thailand. Floating market © Dennis Jarvis

ATTRACTIONS

FOR KIDS

Beautiful Tropical Paradise, Khao Lak, Phang Nga An extraordinary view, from shore and underwater. It’s one of the most wonderful places for swimming, watching the sunset, or just relaxing with your family.

Flying Hanuman, Phuket One of the best zipline adventures in Thailand, this extreme experience takes you flying from tree to tree via ziplines, across 28 different platforms, immersed in a variety of foliage and wildlife spotting. flyinghanuman.com Doi Intanon National Park, Chiang Mai Visit the northern part of Thailand and you will find one of the most breathtaking sites - spectacular views in the morning, waterfalls, trails, and two pagodas (Naphamethanidon and Naphapholphumisiri).

Baan Silapin (Bangkok Artist’s House), Traditional Thai Puppet Show Located along a canal on the Thonburi side of Bangkok, see these

beautiful handcrafted puppets enact Thai folktales and scenes from the Ramayana, with three puppeteers bringing the marionettes to life. The free show starts at 2 p.m. daily, except Wednesday.

The Upside Down House, Amazing Attraction for kids View the world in a whole different way - from another dimension! Great fun for the whole family and there are plenty of sensational photo opportunities too! upsidedownhouse-phuket.com Bangkok’s Waterways and Canals Visit one of Bangkok’s colourful floating markets like Klong Lat Mayom, or take a combination canal and bike tour of the city’s waterways where you can explore the rivers and canals that have connected this city for hundreds of years, on two wheels and by long-tail boat.

Ramayana Water Park, Pattaya Thailand’s biggest water park, and the newest attraction in Pattaya – a great place to cool down and get that adrenalin pumping. ramayanawaterpark.com SUMMER 2017 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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Harajuku-Girls

Snow Monkey

Shirakawa-Go

Studio Ghibli Museum, Tokyo.

Japanese animation genius Hayao Miyazaki has been captivating audiences worldwide since the global release of the magical film Spirited Away almost 20 years ago, but his legacy of films goes back much further. This amazing museum is full of miniature magical machines, dioramas and gyroscopes, imagined in his animated features and brought to life.

Tokyo Disney Resort. The first ‘Disneyland’ built outside the U.S. has all the rides and characters you’d expect to see, plus a few more such as the Jules Verne-inspired Journey to the Centre of the Earth and 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea rides.

Tokyo-Disneyland

Tokyo Disneyland

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Snow Monkeys, Jigokudani, Yamanouchi, Nagano. If you’re taking the family skiing in one of the Nagano ski resorts, it’s definitely worth visiting the snow monkeys outside onsen town, Yamanouchi. These adorable creatures keep themselves warm in winter by soaking in hot volcanic springs.

Takeshita St, Harajuku, Tokyo.

A wander down this iconic street is a must – especially for tweens and teens, to check out the Harajuku ‘punks’ who

hang out here after school (and Saturday afternoons). Be sure to grab one of the delicious crepes on sale there too.

Robot Restaurant, Tokyo. More of a show than a restaurant, this place has to be seen to be believed – even the entrance and staircase! There’s Taiko-drumming girls in sequined outfits, and robot dinosaurs battling giant fembots, while a band of Power Rangers plays loud rock music.

Shirakawa-go, Gifu. This World Heritage-listed village lay hidden in remote mountains for hundreds of years until early last century when tunnels connected it with the modern world. The fairytalelike houses here are still thatched in the traditional way and they have a look that makes you think Hansel and Gretel might peek out the windows.

Himeji Castle, Hyogo. One of very few (12) original castles left in Japan, this beautiful structure, also called the ‘White Egret Castle’ has plenty of tragic stories to tell, like the broken-hearted Princess Sen, who lived here in the 1600s. On nearby Shikoku Island, there are several more castle towns to explore.

Robot-Factory-Taoyan

Modern Toilet, Taipei, Taiwan. Eat lunch from a toilet bowl. Yep, in Taipei’s Xi Men shopping district you’ll find a three-storey eatery called Modern Toilet. Try the Thai green curry, served in a baby blue toilet bowl, or the chocolate ice cream, shaped like a…

Kobitos Café, Taiwan and Japan. Get to grips with ‘Ugly Cute’ in the Kobitos Café. You’ll find a Kobitos Restaurant in Taipei as well as dotted throughout Japan. These Dwarf Fairy characters are, well, ugly … but, cute. Dine on risotto, pasta and burgers shaped like these strange characters that look like evil Telly Tubbies.

Owl Cafes, Japan. Since the first Owl Café opened in Tokyo around two years ago, this craze has really taken off, with Owl eateries in Taiwan, China, even Bangkok. There are several to choose from in Tokyo, from the original Akiba Fukurou in Akihabara to the Forest of Owls on Takeshita Street in Harajuku, where you can wander through a forest of (fake) trees and pet owls of all sizes, before going upstairs to meet the Bengal cats.

King of Carton, Taichung. Stroll past zebras, giraffes, elephants and toucans, as well as windmills, Big Ben and the Eiffel Tower, all made from paper, before dining in a restaurant also made of paper – even your chair and the pot that you cook your Shabu Shabu-style veggies and meat in!

Robot Factory, Taoyan. Learn how robots are made at the Robot Factory in Taoyan. Not only do you get to learn the history (and future) of robots at this interactive museum, you also get to control them and play with them.

Lotus Wake Park, Kaohsiung. Take the wakeboard course around manmade Lotus Lake, which is surrounded by colourful temples, each dedicated to different gods to balance the lake’s Feng Shui.

Lihapo Land, Taichung. Get that adrenalin pumping on the freaky broken track rollercoaster here – the track tips over 90 degrees and leaves you hanging

there before freefalling to meet the next track that loops a few loops. There are plenty of other thrill rides to enjoy here too, as well as an adjacent water park.

Taroko Park, Kaohsiung. Go racing on the only Suzuka go-kart racetrack outside Japan – it feels like Formula One, if only for 15 minutes. Inside the complex there are all sorts of indoor sports to try out as well, including basketball, mini golf and baseball.

Leofoo Safari & Theme Park, Taipei.

Hand-feed King Julian, the lemur, and his mates at this open-plan zoo on the outskirts of Taipei. The complex also includes a theme park and water park, so you’ll need a full day to explore.

Rainbow Village, Taichung. This painted village is one of the last of Chiang Kai Shek’s veteran housing projects, saved from demolition by its determined owner, who taught himself to paint and turned it into a tourist attraction.

Cat Cafes, Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong. The first of the animal café crazes, cat cafés are still a thing, and there’s even one in Sydney now. The format changes from café to café, some more like cafés, some more like petting zoos.

Robot Station, Taichung, Taiwan. This little gem is an eclectic collection of vintage (and not so vintage) robots, everything from Robbie the Robot to Wall-E. Dinner comes robot-shaped as well, with toasted sarnies served in tin lunchboxes with juice in Robbie the Robot-shaped bottles.

Miyahara, Taichung, Taiwan. Eat ice cream in a bank and cake in a drug store. Taiwan has a great culture of preserving historic buildings, restoring them thoughtfully so they retain their original character. Taichung has two great examples, a cake shop and café inside an old Chinese medicine dispensary and Miyahara, an ice cream parlour in an old bank.

Moomin Café, Tokyo, Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong, China, South Korea. Perhaps it’s the illustration style that’s made this series of Finnish children’s stories so popular in Asia, or maybe because the TV cartoon was produced in Japan, but these little magical beasts have taken the Asian world by storm. Sit next to a life-sized Moomin plush as you sip your Moomin-iced cappuccino and Moomin-shaped omelette.

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DISCOVER AMAZING STORIES IN AMAZING THAILAND

Hugthailand SUMMER 2017 74 www.tourismthailand.org/au outandaboutwithkids.com.au

For a culture hit, head to the newly opened National Gallery of Singapore. Holding the world’s largest display of modern Southeast Asian art, there is plenty to keep all the family absorbed, including dedicated children’s spaces to explore, create and learn.

Opened in November 2015, the Gallery is housed in two national monuments – the former Supreme Court and City Hall. Both historical buildings have been beautifully restored and transformed into this exciting venue right in the heart of the Civic District. nationalgallery.sg

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SENSATIONS

After culture and imaginative fun take a little luxury break over a High Tea at the Chihuly Lounge in the Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore. Cool down and fill up with delectable morsels, cold drinks and as much tea or coffee as you can manage – all part of the package. Children are welcome and will be treated as special guests, and you can take a divine breath admiring the stunning glass sculptures by the artist Dale Chiluly, all complemented by the backdrop of Marina Bay. ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/Singapore/dining/chihuly-lounge

Spend hours exploring and playing in the ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay. The Lotus-inspired design is just a taste of the magic inside. Start with the Museum’s new permanent exhibition (opened March 2016) ‘Future World: Where Art Meets Science’, Designed in collaboration with teamLab, an award-winning Tokyobased art collective of “ultra-technologists” – it’s a fully immersive interactive digital universe! Lose all track of time using your imagination playing in, and with, the 16 spectacular art installations. It takes interactive creativity to bring each exhibit to life on walls, floor, and even growing around you … and the kids will have a ball too! marinabaysands.com/singapore-museum SUMMER 2017 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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Dallas Arboretum

TOP for Kids in...

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Klyde Warren Park. An urban green space built over Woodall Rodgers Freeway to connect Uptown, Downtown and the Arts District, kids will love the Children’s Park, dogs can run free at the dog park, and anyone can enjoy the numerous other activities, such as ping pong, a putting green and live music.

Six Flags Over Texas.

Located in Arlington, outside Dallas, Six Flags offers thrills, roller coasters, shows, carnival games, restaurants and more.

Top Tip: Buy an all-access fast pass to skip the queues.

Dallas World Aquarium.

Great for a hot day, the cool interior showcases marine creatures from all over the world. Be sure to check out the popular Flooded Forest and Ancient Mayan exhibits.

Jumpstreet Indoor Trampoline Park. The perfect spot to release pentup energy, where kids can literally bounce off the walls on trampolines that include basketball courts and obstacle courses!

Perot Museum of Nature and Science. At this gorgeous facility kids can take part in dozens of interesting and compelling educational programs such as Story Time Under the Stars, Scribbles and Dribbles or Budding Scientists, which offers kids the chance to do hands-on experiments with scientists who work in the museum.

Dallas Heritage Village. Perfect for young historians, this attraction is set along a charming red brick Main Street, home to Dallas’ largest collection of 19th Century buildings.

Kids can explore the various homes and storefronts and learn about what life was like in Texas at the turn of the century.

Hurricane Harbor. The largest and most popular water theme park in Dallas.

Kids will love the intense and scary Twister and Black Hole rides and grownups might prefer simply to float with the family along the Lazy River that circles the entire park.

images on this page © DCVB

rk e Warren Pa Dallas Klyd

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.

Nestled on the eastern shore of White Rock Lake, just minutes from Downtown Dallas, this urban oasis boasts hectares of fabulous blooms throughout the year and was built on the grounds of two former mansions, still standing on the property Dallas Zoo. Located on 43ha of land just south of Downtown Dallas, The Dallas Zoo offers a dizzying number of exhibitions and kidspecific programs, such as Safari Nights, a nightly concert that starts before the kids have to go to bed, and offers wine and cold beer for parents who’ve been chasing their little ones around the zoo all day.

George W. Bush Library and Museum. A new state-of-the-art museum on the campus of Southern Methodist University, highlights include a fullsize replica of the Oval Office and a poignant exhibit about 9/11.

Water Garden s

Sundance Plaza

image fortworth stockyards © FWCVB

Cowgirl

The Fort Worth Stockyards. Railroads and cattle markets helped to build Fort Worth throughout the late 19th century. You can explore this colourful legacy by spending a day in the highspirited Stockyards District, a warren of vintage shops, restaurants, and museums that include the Stockyards Championship Rodeo, the Stockyards Museum, and the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame.

Twice daily Cattle Drive.

Led by seasoned cowhands, the Cattle Drive brings a bygone era to life, with the jingle of spurs, cattle bawling and the rhythm of the hoof beats as The Herd passes by.

National Cowgirl Museum. The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame is the only museum in the world dedicated to honouring and documenting the lives of women who helped shape the American West. Kids will love the interactive Bronc ride and visiting everyone’s favourite

animated cowgirl, Jesse from Disney’s Toy Story.

Fort Worth Water Gardens. The Fort Worth Water Gardens is a refreshing oasis next to the Fort Worth Convention Centre and features three pools of water: the aerating, the quiet and the active pool.

Fort Worth Zoo. With over 5,000 animals, the Fort Worth Zoo is one of the largest in the state, offering daily animal encounters for visitors.

Cowtown Segway Tours.

There’s no better way to see any city than on the back of a Segway, allowing you to cover a lot of ground with little effort – and it’s a much more intimate experience than riding in the back seat of the car. Cowtown Segway has a range of tours that loop downtown, the Trinity Trails, and the Stockyards.

Kimbell Art Museum.

With over 350 works spanning various art periods and movements throughout history, the Kimbell Art Museum is a great place to inspire

your child’s inner artist.

Check out their website for events made for a younger crowd, like the Teen Artist Workshop.

Hit the trails on horseback. With a long history of cowboys, Fort Worth is a great place to try out riding horses, and local stables offer organised rides to visitors.

Hit the fountains in Sundance Square.

There’s plenty happening in Sundance Square all the time. Home to several streets of fountains, shops, and frequent festivals, this is one of the liveliest places in town. And, here, you can just wing it!

Cowtown Cattle Pen. Consisting of over 5,000 square feet of sneakily connected wooden pathways, the Cowtown Cattlepen Maze resembles the cattle pens of the old west, minus the efficiency.

Participants race against the clock and other competitors as they try to find the quickest route through this tricky jumble of paths.

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5km of sand – West Maui’s signature beach.

HAWAII’S FAMOUS KA’ANAPALI BEACH

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One of the most famous attractions at Ka’anapali Beach is the daily cliff diving ceremony off Puu Kekaa, or Black Rock.

Held every evening at sunset, a cliff diver lights torches along the cliff and dives from Black Rock in a re-enactment of a feat performed by Maui’s revered King Kahekili.

Amazing snorkelling, particularly around Black Rock at the north end of the beach.

An abundance of world class oceanfront resorts.

Ka’anapali Beach Hotel is known as ‘Hawaii’s most Hawaiian hotel’ and was recently voted one of the ‘Top 5 Hotels in Hawaii’ in Condé Nast Traveler Readers Choice Awards 2016.

The historic old whaling town of Lahaina, once known as ‘Lele’ (meaning ‘relentless sun’) was also the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom in the early 19th Century.

Up to 1,500 sailors from as many as 400 ships took leave in

Lahaina during this period, including Herman Melville, who immortalised this era in his classic novel Moby Dick. Lahaina is on the National Register of Historic Places.

The channel off the coast of Lahaina is one of the best places in the world to spot humpback whales.

Aston at The Whaler on Ka’anapali Beach offers beautiful Pacific views, island-style hospitality and the convenience of luxury condominium living with hotel amenities.

Whalers Village is a contemporary mall-style hotspot for unique shopping, great dining, art galleries and other family-friendly attractions.

PIC CREDIT: MAIN PIC & POLAROID © shutterstock, INSET PIC: © Aston Hotels & Resorts

tempting

A place of great cultural significance – once the prized retreat of Hawaiian Royalty who relaxed on its beautiful sands and in its lush gardens, and a training ground for ancient Hawaiian warriors.

Ka’anapali was Hawaii’s first planned resort – with the beach providing the perfect vista for holidaymakers.

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TOP OUTINGS IN North East Victoria

Falls Creek

Clockwise from above: Playground at Campbells Winery Rutherglen Red Stag Deer Farm Pizza at Bridge Rd Brewery, Beechworth Cope Hut, Falls Creek Opposite page: Fun in the vineyards Mount McKay, Falls Creek

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Once the snow melts, the Alpine areas become an enticing summer escape. Located at 1600m above sea level, Falls Creek’s temperature is around 10 degrees cooler than the valleys below.

Nearby, dazzling mountains, streams waterfalls and rivers, plus expansive meadows of wildflowers leading to historic cattlemen huts are waiting to be explored.

The grassy banks of Rocky Valley Lake are a beautiful spot to spend the day with the family, especially during the annual Dragon Boat Regatta (held in late January).

Red Stag Deer Farm Situated between Myrtleford & Bright, Red Stag Deer Farm offers visitors the chance to feed, touch and learn about animals including deer, emu, ostrich, goats, pigs, chooks, and sheep.

The adjoining restaurant overlooks the Ovens Valley with gorgeous views of Mt Feathertop and Mt Hotham. After feeding and interacting with the

animals the kids may not be impressed to know that venison, emu, pork and goat are on the menu – best to keep that a secret!

Woolshed Falls Located in the Chiltern-Mt Pilot National Park, Woolshed Falls, 5km north of Beechworth, was once the centre of one of the richest goldfields in Australia, where up to 8,000 prospectors searched for their fortune. Marvel at the cascading falls, swim in rock pools, enjoy a picnic or take a selfguided walk around the alluvial gold workings.

Murray to Mountains Rail Trail Over 100km of sealed rail trail links the popular culinary villages of Wangaratta, Milawa, Beechworth, Rutherglen, Bright and Wandiligong.

Suitable for all ages and fitness levels - walkers and cyclists – each of these towns offer plenty of great places for families to stay - and eat! Short rides can be taken with younger children who are still finding their peddling legs.

Mount Buffalo Declared a National Park in 1898, Mount Buffalo has sheer cliffs, imposing granite tors, tumbling waterfalls, snow gums and stunning alpine landscapes.

In summer, wildflowers are abundant and bushwalking, canoeing, swimming, picnicking, sightseeing and mountain biking are popular.

Lake Catani Campground has unpowered camping sites with toilets, hot showers and basic laundry amenities. Mandatory bookings required for busy holidays seasons. Book via parks.vic.gov.au

Sweet Beechworth Lollies, fudge, licorice, candy, toffees, chocolates – you name it, they’ve got it! The Beechworth Sweet Co. is a local institution, bringing yummy childhood fantasies to life for the young and young-at-heart for more than 20 years.

Just a few doors along is the famous Beechworth Bakery which offers more tasty sweets including cakes, slices and pastries.

Beechworth definitely feels like “home sweet home.”

Family-friendly craft breweries The booming craft beer industry has seen the

emergence of a number of boutique breweries in this region including Bright Brewery, Black Dog Brewery (Taminick), Bridge Road Brewers (Beechworth), Sweetwater Brewery Company (Tawonga South), Rutherglen Brewery and Blizzard Brewery (Dinner Plain).

Discover the secrets of crafting a unique beer from the brewers themselves. The breweries are family friendly with great outdoor areas and delicious eats!

Bright Splash Park In summer, families gather at Centenary Park to cool off at the Bright Splash Park.

Designed to reflect the region’s mining heritage and natural environment, there are four splash pads, each planned to suit different age groups from toddlers through to teenagers. Best of all, it’s FREE! The adjacent playground will keep the young’uns entertained for hours.

Edging the park, the Ovens River is also a popular spot for swimming, with life guards on duty during summer.

Vineyards The region is renowned for its wines and there are hundreds of vineyards scattered across lush landscape. Too numerous

to name them all, the historic All Saints Estate (Rutherglen) Pizzini’s (King Valley) Boynton’s Feathertop Winery (Alpine Valley) and Brown Brothers (Milawa) are definite favourites. While the grown-ups enjoy tastings, children can explore the gardens and surrounding vineyards, and many of the wineries also boast fantastic restaurants showcasing the gourmet local produce.

Ned Kelly Australia’s most famous bushranger needs no introduction. Many of Ned Kelly’s antics occurred in Victoria’s North East, and there’s a number of historical sites at Beechworth, Glenrowan, Greta, Benalla and Chiltern.

The Beechworth Gaol operated for nearly 150 years and all four members of the Kelly gang, plus Ned’s mother, were imprisoned there. The nearby Ned Kelly Vault displays some of the most significant collections in Australia, including Ned’s helmet and gun.

Compiled by Craig Sheather, who lives on the banks of the Murray River in Albury, at the NSW border to Victoria, with his wife Carly and children Lyra (3) and Morrison (6 months).

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Be free at Malolo!

Malolo Island Resort is 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 choose from F$200 resort credits, Kids Eat FREE with 5 night stays, or between November and March, stay 5 nights and get an extra night FREE! Malolo. This is the way the world should be.

AHU577/M-OAWK

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

AUD$ from

Central Coast Council

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Central Coast Council

260* per person

Central Coast Council

For reservations and information visit www.maloloisland.com *Conditions apply. Approx rates only – check daily FOREX rates.

Central Coast Council

Central Coast Holiday Parks

OF THE NSW CENTRAL COAST

for kids MAIN: Glenworth

Valley Abseil.

© DANIEL MARSH DEKM MEDIA 2016.

TOP: Glenworth

Valley Ocean Planet Kayak Tours.

POLAROID: Memorial Park water playground The Entrance.

Go to the Beach There are so many to choose from near The Entrance: the sheltered Toowoon Bay Beach, with popular Blue Bay Beach and Shelley Beach on either side.

Further south the safe surfing beaches of Terrigal and Avoca are family favourites, and the very pretty Pearl Beach.

Buzz around Lake Macquarie in a Jet Boat Endure the usual thrills and spills with a combination of highspeed slides, 360° spins, power brake stops and fish tails.

Take in the View Take a stroll up to historic Norah Head

Lighthouse, or Terrigal’s Skillion, and enjoy the panoramic views over land and ocean. During the season (May-November) you might even spot some whales going by.

Cycle What better way to explore the lakeside and beaches than by peddle-

power? BYO or hire bikes for the whole family for an hour or a day at E-Bikes-R-Us in Long Jetty.

Take a Mountain Bike Tour If you want to venture off the flat tracks around the lakes, then Central Coast Mountain Bike Tours has adventures for all ages.

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Ride a Segway Just like you could never see yourself on a unicycle, you might think riding a Segway requires a lot of balance. But if you can stand up, you can ride one, and by the end of the ride we guarantee you’ll be pushing its speed limits!

Go Quad biking At Glenworth Valley, big kids (age 12 and older) can spend an hour and a half hooning around the valley on a quad bike.

Fly through the tree tops The high ropes courses at TreeTop Adventure Park are not for the faint-hearted, but there’s nothing a kid likes more than climbing a tree and whizzing down a zipline – and

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the Crazy Rider takes that to a whole new level. It’s a cross between a roller coaster and a zipline that flies through the treetops!

Paddle around Avoca Lagoon Whether you like to paddle sitting down or standing up, explore the coastal lagoon wetlands around Avoca Lake in a kayak or on a stand up paddleboard. If you’re not a paddler, you can hire a pedal boat and still get out on the water.

Visit the Australian Reptile Park There are shows throughout the day, and Ranger Mick knows how to wow the audience with big crocs, slippery snakes and little Tassie Devils. The wandering roos, emu and tortoises

provide entertainment for toddlers and teenagers alike.

Master horse riding Glenworth Valley offers plenty of adventurous activities to keep older kids entertained. With a range of trail rides for beginners and experienced riders, and over 200 horses to choose from, there’s no better way to explore this beautiful valley.

Try abseiling, kayaking or even laser skirmish You can combine quad biking and horse riding with one of the other adventures on offer at Glenworth Valley to provide an activity-packed full day. visitnsw.com/destinations/ central-coast

The Central Coast has accommodation to suit every family’s budget.

On a Budget: Central Coast Holiday Parks - Budgewoi, Canton Beach, Norah Head and Toowoon Bay You can’t beat a cabin in a holiday park for convenience and value.

You’ll have access to BBQs and playgrounds onsite and be walking distance from some of the bestpatrolled beaches. Choose from a powered campsite to 3-bedroom cabins. cchp.com.au

Feel like splurging: If you prefer Terrigal’s up-market social centre, with bars and restaurants on your doorstep, then Terrigal’s Crowne Plaza, with its day spa and heated pool, might be more your scene. The hotel has spacious family rooms, balconies overlooking Terrigal Beach and one of the best breakfast buffets on the coast. crowneplazaterrigal. com.au

Children near The Entrance Central Coast © DESTINATION NSW. Family playing together on Terrigal beach © DESTINATION NSW.

Australian Reptile Park Galapagos Tortoise Hugo walking with child.

Australian Reptile Park Ranger Mick.

Glenworth Quad Biking.

Glenworth Valley horse riding.

Glenworth Valley Ocean Planet Kayak Tours.

Glenworth Valley Quad Bikes © DANIEL MARSH DEKM MEDIA 2016.

Norah Head Lighthouse.

The Skillion, Terrigal © DESTINATION NSW.

Toowoon Bay Holiday Park © CCHP. TreeTop Adventure Park.

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159 b

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Now open PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY

Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre King Edward Terrace, Canberra Phone 02 6270 2800 Open 9 am – 5 pm every day.

Closed 25 December. Admission fees apply.

www.questacon.edu.au

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Swissotel - Sydney, Australia The luxury 5-Star Swissotel, in the heart of the city on Market Street, offers accommodation specifically designed to delight young guests from 2 years to teens. Each Kids Room comes with age-appropriate toys, DVDs and video games, including colourful bed linen, special bath amenities, a children’s desk and a mini bar just for kids. (Parents can stay there too!) swissotel.com/hotels/Sydney

KIDS WILL

LOVE East Hotel - Canberra, ACT This hotel’s fantastic location, between the vibrant hubs of Canberra’s Kingston and Manuka, is a drawcard for families, and East Hotel’s dedicated ‘Kids Studio’ rooms are just so cool and fun they’re known affectionately as the ‘Kids Cubby’. Each Studio interconnects with an East Apartment for the ultimate family accommodation. The colourful Kids Studio is kitted out with bunk beds, a kids’ play table, dining table, play rug and beanbags, lots of games and toys, kids mini bar treats and an Xbox 360 with the latest games. easthotel.com.au

Holiday Inn Resort – Phuket, Thailand KidSuites give kids the VIP treatment – with a fun Jungle or Pirate theme kids area including bunk beds, toy box, play desk, flat screen TV with DVD player and Xbox 360, plus plenty of space for adults to unwind in and enjoy some privacy! Family suites feature a superior king size room connected to a Pirate or Seaworld themed children’s room, with imaginative features like boat-style beds and treasure chest furniture. phuket.holidayinnresorts.com SUMMER 2017 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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SCHOOL’S OUT FOR

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Incredible rates from

$

per room per night PLUS EXTRAS! BOOK NOW www.wyndhamap.com/hotels/deals/schoolsout

*Terms and Conditions apply. Subject to availability. Minimum night stay and blackout dates may apply at selected properties. On sale for bookings made between 30th April 2016 until 31 December 2016 and for travel during school holiday periods between 30th April 2016 and 31 December 2016. For full terms and conditions visit www.wyndhamap.com/hotels/deals/schoolsout. Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Pty Ltd ACN 090 083 613. Resort Management by Wyndham Pty Ltd ACN 099 634 830.

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The Queen Mary – Long Beach, California Stay onboard an iconic ocean liner without heading out to sea! Once a world-class ship, the Queen Mary Hotel gives guests a real glimpse into what transatlantic travel was like during the 1930s, 40s and 50s. Family Staterooms were designed for families taking the long sea journey from England to New York City, and you can stay in these authentic two bedroom cabins with ample space and cozy charm (no two rooms are the same). Olden days touches include operable portholes and clever built-in storage, and the 21st Century fun comes in the form of flatscreen TVs, WiFi and Pay-Per View movies. queenmary.com

Jumbo Stay – Stockholm, Sweden Head to Stockholm in Sweden for the coolest of cool sleepovers in a real, converted 747-212B jumbo jet – on the ground. The plane, built in 1976, has been given a new, modern interior and is a unique, and exciting, accommodation experience for aviation enthusiasts and families with children. All-mod-cons include free WiFi, flatscreen TV, and ensuites, plus the jumbo includes a fun café, shop and bar and an observation deck on the wing! jumbostay.com

Paradise Resort – Gold Coast, Queensland Close to all of the Gold Coast’s popular theme parks, this familyfavourite resort has so many kid-friendly facilities and activities onsite it’s almost a mini theme park itself! Staying in one of the Bunkhouses only adds to the fun – accommodation with a kids-own underwaterthemed sleep/ play area with brightly coloured bunks, games consoles, play desk and separate TV. paradiseresort.com.au

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TRAVEL TIPS FOR FAMILY HOLIDAYS 1. Carry a drink bottle with you, and one for everyone in the family, preferably a durable stainless steel one. Most hotels and resorts have perfectly safe drinking water on tap and you can always ask if you’re unsure.

Plus as an added bonus, you’ll save a fortune in bottled water.

2. Take your own toiletries. You can be pretty sure that housekeeping do not recycle those miniature bottles of shampoo and body lotion!

3. Eat in rather than takeaway – you’re on holidays – you do have time!

Sit down in that café, enjoy your lunch from a plate, your juice from a glass (without a straw) and your coffee in a cup (without a lid). It tastes better. If you must drink on the move, take a Keep Cup with you. And for those road trips, put your snacks in Tupperware instead of wrapping them in plastic.

4. Act like you would at home. Do you have a fresh towel every day at home? Do you leave the TV and all the lights on when you leave the room?

Do you have a 30-minute shower?

Just because someone else is paying that bill, it shouldn’t have to cost the planet.

5. Take a couple of reusable shopping bags to use instead of plastic shop-supplied bags. Even if you don’t plan to go shopping, these bags are handy for everything.

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6. Say thanks to the establishments who are doing the right thing. Whether that’s providing bikes to get around, separate containers for recycling or simply providing chilled water for free.

Everyone needs a little encouragement when they’re trying to do the right thing.

DIGITAL

devices are now banned by most airlines around the world. Passengers are unable to take these devices onto planes in carryon baggage, or in checked baggage.

FAMILY HOLIDAYS

have intentionally tried to undertake a digital detox on holidays. Of those undertaking

a digital detox, the main reasons were: need a break from work (51%), for stress relief (50%) and to be ‘in the moment’ (48%) say they have been completely successful when switching off on holidays. As a result, 61% said their holiday was more enjoyable, 52% found they were more absorbed in their surroundings, 51% felt less stressed and 41% had a more positive attitude after a digital detox holiday.

All images © shutterstock

% ONLY 1 IN 10 TRAVELLERS say they are able to completely ‘turn off’ from work during a break, and many can’t remember a holiday that hasn’t been interrupted by work.

%

of Australians connect to WiFi when travelling; of these 42% use hotel WiFi, 36% use any WiFi they can access, 10% use public transport WiFi and 12% use café WiFi.

Over half (56%) of the holidaymakers surveyed said they have either occasionally, or frequently, had to work while on holidays, and more than 55% of this group have had to cancel or postpone holidays because of urgent last minute work commitments.

%

of Australians don’t check if their WiFi connection is secure before connecting. * ‘Do More of What You Love’ traveller survey. Conducted by Holiday Inn 2016

%

of holidaying travellers only check work emails and messages once their children are in bed, with women (61%) more disciplined than men (38%) at sticking to that routine! *Survey Conducted between 18 March and 29 March, 2016 by MSI, via Intel Security

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TIPS FOR

‘access’ and fun travel

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When most of us think of travel, it conjures up images of freedom, exploration and a feeling of liberation. For 1 in 5 people in Australia living with a disability, travel can be a daunting proposition. Given the statistic, it’s most likely that you will know someone who has additional needs when they travel. Accessible and inclusive travel refers to people being able to participate in activities along with friends or family members despite their disability. The word ‘accessible’ doesn’t only refer to someone using a wheelchair. It may be a family travelling with a child with Autism, a parent or grandparent who requires step-free access or perhaps someone with a hearing or vision impairment.

Julie Jones from Have Wheelchair Will Travel believes everyone should enjoy the feeling of wanderlust that travel brings!

Accommodation Holiday parks, hotels and even some glamping experiences (Sydney’s Taronga Zoo Roar & Snore experience) offer accessible accommodation. This accommodation should have a step-free entrance, lowered features at wheelchair height, and bathroom amenities like lever taps, grab rails and a hob-free shower. The room is usually more spacious allowing easy manouevering. Some holiday parks are now providing beach wheelchairs for guests to use in their water parks.

Airlines Most airlines will allow a person with a disability at least one piece of mobility equipment at no extra charge, over and above the regular luggage allowance.

The Qantas A380 aircraft is equipped with a disabled toilet cubicle that is larger than regular plane bathrooms.

Qantas Carer Concession Card Available on Qantas domestic flights for travellers with a disability where that person has high level support needs and a carer is necessary to assist on a flight.

Nominated carers are eligible for a 50% discount on domestic Red e-Deal and Flex economy class fares. The cardholder is eligible for a 10% discount on Qantas operated flights. Apply for the card via People with a Disability Australia. pwd.org.au Discounts The Australian National Companion Card can be used at many travel attractions throughout Australia including shows at events like The Sydney Festival. Eligible cardholders can purchase a ticket or pay an entry fee and receive a free ticket for their companion. companioncard.gov.au Beaches Australians love beach holidays but, in the past, a day at the beach or even a walk on the sand was impossible for

wheelchair users. Beach wheelchairs are now available (free to loan) on many beaches. Beach matting is being rolled out in many areas and this is making visits to the beach easier for families with prams, wheelchair users and anyone using a walking frame.

Attractions Some attractions go the extra mile and have accessible experiences. Tree Top Crazy Rider on the NSW Central Coast, Sydney Tower Sky Walk and many ice rinks offer unique opportunities for adults and children who use a wheelchair.

The TrailRider Many people enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle and the TrailRider allows people to continue to enjoy Australia’s bountiful and beautiful bushwalks and trails. havewheelchairwilltravel.net/ trailrider Find out more – visit havewheelchairwilltravel.net

Clockwise from previous page bottom: The TrailRider for bushwalks 'Roar and Snore' Beach matting @ Avoca NSW

Treetops Adventure Park Beach wheelchair Sydney Tower Accessible Skywalk experience

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Kid’s Club Daily Activity Schedule Outdoor Cinema Luxury Cabins Landscaped Sites Over 15 Onsite Activities Multi Award Winning Reservations 1300 640 587 reservations@adventurewhitsunday.com.au www.adventurewhitsunday.com.au Shute Harbour Road - Airlie Beach

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NT in Kakadu Billabong

Vancouver Cana da

Majestic Whale Encounters Tonga

iry BIG4 Point Fa

Family Holiday Destinations for 2017

OAWK PR EDICT ION S

Pacific Dawn Waterslide

Canada With the nation celebrating its 150th Anniversary in 2017, the whole country will be buzzing with festivities across a year of fabulous events. Australians are already keen fans of Canada’s family-friendly ski resorts like Whistler-Blackcomb, Big White, Sun Peaks and Silver Star, but 2017 is likely to see more Aussie families than ever visiting Canada, in every season.

Holiday Parks More like fabulous resorts than the caravan parks of yesteryear, Aussie holiday parks across the country grow in popularity with each passing year. So many to choose from and in fantastic locations, families can opt to pit stop

at several on a road trip to their destination, or pick one and flop and drop for the whole holiday! Whether you stay in a deluxe villa or cabin, in a caravan, or sleep under the stars, we predict most families will find themselves at a holiday park somewhere in OZ, sometime in 2017.

Cruises All-inclusive, awesome facilities, onboard waterparks with mega thrills and spills, endless activities for kids of all ages, entertainment, excitement, new friendships, fabulous (and endless) food, WiFi, games, and new destinations to discover along the way – Aussie families have embraced cruising big time and we predict that won’t change in 2017.

Northern Territory Plenty of affordable flights from Australian capital cities to Darwin and Uluru make it easier than ever for families to take a short jaunt or a longer holiday to explore this unique part of our country. So much to see and do and such a big Territory to cover, the possibilities are endless, and awesome, on a huge scale – unforgettable 2017 family holidays.

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IMAGES ©Majestic Whale Encounters Tonga. Billabong in Kakadu NT ©John Dunphy. Vancouver Canada © Tourism Vancouver. ©BIG4 Point Fairy. Pacific Dawn Waterslide rendering © P&O Cruises.

Pacific Islands 2017 sees fabulous Fiji and Vanuatu holidays again at the top of the Aussie traveller favourite destinations list, and more families are likely to discover the delights of New Caledonia, the Cook Islands, and Samoa.

Families with adventurous teens will be looking to places like Tonga and the Solomon Islands, and even PNG!

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The World’s Best Kept Secret PACIFIC RESORT RAROTONGA Muri Beach, Rarotonga, 4 Star With daily scheduled activities, Pacific Resort Rarotonga’s Beach Hut & complimentary Kids Club has everything you need to entertain the little ones. Children aged 6-12 can join in the fun, learning traditional dances, basket weaving, exploring the lagoon’s hidden secrets and discovering the nearby Motus (islets). All the while leaving you to lounge on the beach to soak up the sun.

15+

PACIFIC RESORT HOTEL GROUP Cook Islands leading boutique resort operator www.pacificresort.com

BABY & TODDLER

Travel

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TODDLER TR AVEL WITH SUE W HI T E

Tractor time

A farmstay is a perfect holiday with a toddler: just be strategic about when you convey the news to your little one!

L

Our Toddler Travel columnist, Sue White, is a journalist, travel writer, founder of babieswhotravel.com and mum to an energetic, well travelled, toddler. She’s also the moderator of a Facebook community where travelkeen parents talk tips and tricks for family travel: facebook.com/groups/ KidsWhoTravel (all welcome).

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ike all parenting mistakes, this one starts innocently enough. My two year old is happily tinkering with a toy tractor in that way toddlers are expert at (“Mummy, stay.

Help.”) when I make an inane comment to help pass the time.

“Did you know we are going on a tractor soon?”

He halts, and glances up at me as if to confirm.

“Yes, a tractor, at a farm.”

His eyes widen and he points to the toy in question, with its attached trailer.

“In, Ollie?”

“Yes.” “In, Mummy?”

“Yes.” “Farm?”

“Yes!” Cute hey? It was: at least the first three or four times. But I’d given the game away a whole week in advance, so by the time we’re on the tree-lined driveway of Mowbray Park Farmstay, about 90km south of Sydney, I am pretty confident I’ve repeated the tale of our upcoming tractor-based adventure nigh on 80 times.

Luckily, the reality doesn’t disappoint. Mowbray Park Farmstay may be designed for visitors –

especially of the young variety – but it’s a real working farm. The property dates back to 1822 and, since its iteration as a farmstay about 30 years ago, the operators have won a host of tourism awards for their efforts.

If my toddler was handing out awards he would have done so before day one was over. Within half an hour of arriving, we’re on a trailer, towed by – you guessed it, a tractor!

Two-year-old is beside himself with delight and has to be plied off, to learn how to cook damper in the bush. Actually, to be honest, he doesn’t get off. Instead, he plays happily while everyone else’s children learn to make damper. But the best part is that nobody cares.

And that’s the beauty of this type of holiday; it’s so kid-friendly everyone gets it. Your kid wants to stay sitting in the tractor for half an hour instead of making damper? No problem. Your child wants to run around outside during the evening meal (yes, there’s a catered option) and pat farm dogs? No problem.

Of course, there is an actual routine, for those who choose to follow it.

“We like to keep things simple, so we have a schedule,” says Blair Briggs who, with his wife Jacqui, owns the property. And while the evening meal timing seems slightly late for a number of the kids we meet, mine included (a 6.30pm start means we learn to stock up on snacks late afternoon), the day’s activities prove to be both a toddler’s utopia and imminently enjoyable for their adult companions.

As a parent, I also appreciate the owners’ expertise in balancing two overlapping businesses: a farm and a family-friendly tourism experience. On check-in, Blair informs us that while the guests are high priority, the farm is number one. Staff members are generally around to help, especially if you ask. But in an animal emergency it’s ‘up sticks’ from the team as they deal with it pronto.

Happily, there are no emergencies during our stay.

Instead, I realise just how much two-year-olds can absorb from their surroundings. While a farm holiday probably comes into its own for kids three years old and above, my toddler knows enough to remember, on waking, that we are on the farm and that he’s delighted about it. “See farmer?” is his first phrase of every day.

After a spot of farmer stalking over our hot breakfast (“See farmer?”) we all clamber onto the back of our faithful friend the tractor/trailer, and head to the animal nursery for the morning’s non-motorised activities.

This daily ritual involves the kids feeding alpacas,

cuddling rabbits and (for the older ones, willing to queue patiently) milking a large cow. My toddler enthusiastically holds out handfuls of hay for the alpacas, and although he doesn’t quite grasp the ‘flat hand’ instructions from our farm guide, ends up only being licked versus nipped. I’m pleasantly surprised that by day two he’s also keen to milk the cow, an activity he was definitely unwilling to try on day one.

Naturally, one of the many highlights for this age group is ‘horses’ and, happily, a horse ride is included each day (more serious rides are available at an extra cost for the uber keen, or adults). In the daily schedule, it’s a led pony ride for the littlies (helmets are available, and I walk alongside as a back up) although on some days bigger horses appear too, to the delight of the older children.

By mid morning each day we’ve already fulfilled many of a toddler’s fantasies (tractors, animals, horse rides – what more is there?), so head to the playground for a climb on the disused tractors and old farm vehicles dotted amongst the play equipment.

I watch thoughtfully as a few parents drop their charges at Kids Club (yes, it exists – but only in school holidays), consoling myself that I’ll make up for it by reading during my toddler’s day sleep.

It’s a beautiful setting for it, so, settling in with a book on the deck outside our simple motel style room, I breathe in the country air and delight in the daily opportunity to switch off.

While nothing is exactly ‘relaxing’ with a toddler, I find the overall experience of Mowbray Park Farmstay to be, well, almost exactly that. I’m particularly chuffed with our outing on evening two – we’ve lucked out, and there’s a bush dance on the schedule.

I throw bedtime out the window (we’re on holidays, right?) and let my toddler do-si-do with another child’s grandfather, and learn the Nutbush from someone’s aunt, while I enjoy some sidekicks without my favourite sidekick attached.

It’s an ideal way to end our stay. Even better given that I’ve learned from my earlier mistake: I don’t tell my son we are leaving until it’s too late to protest. farmstayholidays.com.au SUMMER 2017 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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T O D D L ER TR AV EL

The art of travelling light Weighing just 5.9kg, Mountain Buggy nano is not only lightweight, easy to manouevre and compact to fold, but it also accommodates baby’s capsule with its builtin car seat adaptors. nano is now available in the Year of the Rooster 2017 special edition print, celebrating the tenth of the twelve animals in the Chinese zodiac.

Encapsulating some of the Rooster’s powerful traits such as charm, confidence and style, the ‘hide ‘n’ seek’ theme depicts the Rooster playfully hiding behind metallic gold gladiolus (the lucky flower for 2017). RRP: AUD$399 (AUD$439 with the special edition print) mountainbuggy.com

Roll onboard!

Mountain Buggy bagrider is a problem solver for travelling families, particularly when flying and struggling having to take a buggy and carry on luggage. Transforming into a travelling seat for toddlers up to 15kg/33lbs, whilst still retaining its luggage storage capacity, Mountain Buggy bagrider quickly converts, with a twist of a dial, back into a 2-wheel carry on suitcase!

Suitable for toddlers from 9 months (when child can sit unaided) to approximately 3 years, the bagrider features an easy-to-attach cushioned seat liner, and a 3-point safety harness with adjustable straps. Once your toddler has outgrown the bagrider, the stylish aesthetics make it perfect for parents to use as a regular carry-on. RRP: AUD $149 mountainbuggy.com

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NY & Chicago theatre magic, London for babies, Festive Hawaii, a 10-year-old’s fabulous adventures in Singapore

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Out & About with kids magazine is your comprehensive guide to family travel and entertainment. Published quarterly and timed to coincide with school holidays, Out & About with kids is your ultimate resource - everything you need to enjoy the school holidays!

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Out & About with Kids in

© Disney

ANAHEIM

There is a place, like no other. Where a walk down Main Street, can fill you with wonder. And the smile of a mouse can spark joy. Where magic is spread with every touch and always leaves you wanting even more. So make the time… to take your time because here, there is Magic For Days.

There’s magic to be found throughout The Happiest Place on Earth! Featuring two amazing Theme Parks – Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, plus three Disneyland Resort Hotels and the Downtown Disney District, the world-famous Disneyland Resort is where Guests of all ages can discover wonder, joy and excitement around every turn.

Disneyland Park is where it all began. With its mix of new and classic attractions and entertainment, like Star Wars™ Launch Bay, Pirates of the Caribbean, Splash Mountain and fireworks spectaculars* – Walt’s original Theme Park is home to timeless fun. And in Disney California Adventure Park, you can go Soarin’ Around the World, cruise into Cars Land, plus you can enjoy incredible entertainment like Frozen – Live at the Hyperion theatrical spectacular and the awesome after-dark spectacle of World of Color.

In all, there are more than 100* can’t-miss attractions, shows and experiences at the Theme Parks of the Disneyland Resort. But the memories you’ll make here… well, those are nearly limitless. So gather your family and friends and come to the place where dreams come true!

Contact your Travel Agent to plan your dream Disneyland Resort holiday or visit www.disneyparks.com.au *All attractions and entertainment may be seasonal and are subject to change without notice. Please check show guide for availability and times. ©Disney. ©Disney/Pixar. ©Disney/Lucasfilm Ltd. © Disney/MARVEL.

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Visit Anaheim

Mission San Juan Capistrano

SAN J UAN DANA CAPI ST RANO POI NT 5

Let your Southern California adventure begin in Anaheim. Experience our world-famous theme parks at Disneyland® Resort and Knott’s Berry Farm®, the foodie culture at the Anaheim Packing District and pro sports action with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim® and Anaheim

DucksTM. Explore surrounding Orange County for its arts, cuisine, culture, luxury shopping at South Coast Plaza® and sun-kissed beaches.

Start discovering at

visitanaheim.org/OAWK

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verything we do in Anaheim is designed to delight and inspire the imagination of each and every visitor coming to our magical destination.

Connecting with Australians and being able to introduce you to our ever-changing city and experience our unique attractions, has been a key component to our success. Last year alone we delighted in welcoming 425,000 Australians. It is our goal to welcome even more this year, and to make sure when you choose to come to Anaheim, that your time with us will change the way you see and remember the world.

To keep the destination fresh and unexpected for more than 22 million visitors a year, Anaheim has grown immensely by expanding the amenities we can offer.

Thousands of new hotel rooms have been added to our resort district, built specifically for long-haul travellers looking to make Anaheim their home while on holiday. The 2016 opening of the first Great Wolf Lodge in California, just down the road from Disneyland Resort, with 600-all-suite rooms and boasting a 1.2ha indoor waterpark, is just one of a handful of our new properties.

Family fun is at the heart of what we do, and no trip to Anaheim would be complete without a visit to Disneyland Resort. So many new and exciting park offerings have recently debuted, including Star Wars “Season of the Force” in Tomorrowland at Disneyland Park, and the live theatrical version of Disney’s blockbuster movie “Frozen” at the Hyperion Theatre at Disney’s California Adventure Park.

Looking to expand the palate while in Anaheim? The gourmet traveller may

be interested to know that Anaheim is experiencing a culinary and libation explosion. The city’s downtown scene has birthed numerous eclectic eateries at the county’s premier food hall, the Anaheim Packing House.

We understand navigating the California freeways is not for everyone. We encourage visitors to use Anaheim as your ‘home base’ and explore more of Southern California using public transportation.

Guests can choose if they want to visit attractions, entertainment, and sports venues in Anaheim or simply hop the train from Anaheim’s futuristic ARTIC station and discover Los Angeles and San Diego.

Let us inspire your imagination and change the way you see the world.

We look forward to welcoming you to Anaheim soon!

Jay Burress President & CEO Visit Anaheim

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AUSTRALIAN FAMILIES

© Disney

Anaheim

© Visit Anaheim

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he lure for generations of Aussie families visiting this Southern California gem has always been the wish list Disneyland experience. It is still one of the main reasons Anaheim is on the holiday map for Australians young and old, but visitors very soon discover that Anaheim is also so much more.

Anaheim sits in the heart of Orange County in Southern California (SoCal), a region of the state that positively brims with endless and exciting family-friendly attractions.

Stretching from Los Angeles to San Diego, and hugging the Pacific coastline, Australians feel an instant synergy here – the climate, casual lifestyle, open spaces, beaches, sense of fun, fresh and delicious food, and friendliness personified in everyone we meet – that resonates with us from the moment we arrive. We feel at home.

Back In the early 1950s, when Walt Disney decided on the perfect site to develop his dream for families – Disneyland – Anaheim was abundant with citrus orchards.

The first immigrant settlers of the city, 160 years ago, used the rich soil to grow grapes for wine, and then created vast hectares of orange groves. Today, Anaheim is a thriving destination that welcomes over 22 million visitors each year – families among its biggest fans!

The historic Anaheim Packing District, once the pulse of the region’s citrus production, has been transformed into a contemporary downtown hub of food, community, entertainment and fun for all to enjoy, reflecting and preserving the city’s agricultural beginnings. The Anaheim Resort District is the hub of close to 100 hotels and resorts, providing a whole range of accommodation choices for all family sizes and budgets, and easy and affordable transport options make it the ideal base for exploring attractions, shopping, dining and beaches.

The original Disneyland has expanded over the decades to become the Disneyland Resort, encompassing Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, the Downtown Disney District and three fabulous Disney Hotels – Disneyland Hotel, Disney’s Grand California Hotel & Spa, and Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel.

Nearby, Knott’s Berry Farm, famous for boysenberries (and its delicious Boysenberry Pie!), celebrated its 75th Anniversary in 2016, growing from a family’s roadside berry farm in the 1920s, into an attraction hot spot full of rides and fun themed areas for all ages.

Anaheim today is an amalgam of history, nature, the ultra-modern and the futuristic and families are spoiled for choice when it comes to outings, and attractions, in any direction, that each promise hours of delights, and excitement. Visit stunning SoCal beaches and towns including Newport Beach and Laguna Beach, try the hands-on science fun at Discovery Cube Orange City, thrill to the interactive movie experiences at Universal Studios Hollywood, be astounded by the mini world constructions at LEGOLAND, get up close with wonderful wildlife at the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, and take in all the amazing shows, rides and exhibits at SeaWorld California.

From A for Anaheim to Buena Park, Disneyland Resort, Great Wolf Lodge, Huntington Beach, Knott’s Berry Farm, LEGOLAND, Medieval Times, Newport Beach, Orange County, Pirate’s Dinner Adventure, SeaWorld California, Universal Studios – all the way to Z for San Diego Zoo, and every letter in between – Anaheim offers a whole alphabet of holiday fun in one exciting and friendly destination.

Turn the page to discover more of Destination Anaheim, Southern California - for families …

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Disneyland D Resort ABOVE: World of Color Night Time Spectacular RIGHT: The Toys are in Town!

Meet friends from Toy Story

Mad Tea Party, Disneyland Park Radiator Springs Racers in Cars Land

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isneyland Resort is a destination in itself. With two amazing Parks to discover – Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park – and three Disneyland Resort hotels – the Disneyland Hotel, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel – plus the entertainment and wonder of the Downtown Disney District, the magic doesn’t have to end when you leave the Parks each day!

It’s that kind of place Riding high on the back of the excitement of the recent Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration, marking

60 magical years since the opening of the original Disneyland Park, this everevolving destination has even more new and exciting guest experiences in store for 2017: Frozen – Live at the Hyperion, a New Stage Musical, premieres at Disney California Adventure Park, offering an unforgettable theatrical experience, included in your Park entry ticket.

NEW Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! invites guests to Step into a Thrilling Adventure and Comical Rescue Scheme at Disney California Adventure Park.

As to Disney artwork, logos, and properties: ©Disney ©Disney/Pixar ©Disney/Lucasfilm Ltd. © Disney/MARVEL

Celebrate all things Star Wars at Disneyland Park. Encounter beloved Star Wars characters, play the latest Star Wars interactive video games, explore galleries full of treasured memorabilia and authentic replicas of large-scale Star Wars artifacts, step into a Star Warsthemed cantina, and have access to Star Wars merchandise. Plus, with more than 50 different 3D ride combinations – Star Tours – The Adventures Continue is the ultimate thrill!

Cars Land invites guests to step right into Radiator Springs and meet all of their favorite friends from the hit Disney • Pixar films “Cars” and “Cars 2.”

Spanning a whopping 5ha in Disney California Adventure Park, Cars Land is truly a must-see for anyone visiting the Disneyland Resort. Cars Land is also home to one of the largest and most elaborate attractions created for any Disney theme park, Radiator Springs Racers.

NEW Soarin’ Around the World

takes guests to locations worldwide, including the snowy peak of the Matterhorn, the Great Wall of China, the majestic buttes of Monument Valley, the Great Pyramids of Egypt, and spectacular Sydney Harbour.

Guests don’t just see these gorgeous

landscapes with their eyes, they use all their senses to feel, smell and hear the world through this thrilling immersive experience as they fly above some of the world’s most unique natural landscapes and man-made wonders.

Disneyland for everyone Through six magical decades, the original 18 attractions that comprised Disneyland Park have grown into the Disneyland Resort – a sprawling 200ha resort destination featuring two renowned Disney parks, three beautiful hotel properties and the exciting entertainment, dining and retail fun of the Downtown Disney District.

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© Visit Anaheim)

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for Attractions, Activities and Adventures

Grab a piece of paper, a pen and the whole family, and start making a must-do list before you leave home, because this is where your Anaheim adventure really begins.

W

ith so many exciting attractions and activities to choose from, the key to making the most of your holiday is in the planning, because you won’t believe the number of awesome, and diverse, family-friendly adventures that are waiting for you to experience here – including all-new attractions in 2017.

Disneyland Resort The Happiest Place on Earth really is incomparable!

The Resort is home to two of the world’s most beloved and sensational Parks – Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park – and you will want to set aside a minimum of three days to explore everything! At Disneyland Park, enter Main Street U.S.A, Frontierland, New Orleans Square, Critter Country, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland and Mickey’s Toontown and experience the magic of the iconic “it’s a small world”, Pirates of the Caribbean and the Haunted Mansion, Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy, Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage and Indiana Jones Adventure, just for starters! Your favourite Disney characters are all there too – including Disney Princesses, Elsa and Anna from “Frozen” and, of course, Mickey and Minnie and friends.

At Disney California Adventure Park, visit “a bug’s land”, Grizzly Peak, Cars Land, Condor

Flats and Paradise Pier and take a 4D virtual hang-gliding tour of some of the globe’s most famous landmarks (including Sydney Harbour!) on the all-new “Soarin’ Around The World”. Don’t miss the nightly World of Color show. disneyparks.com.au Knott’s Berry Farm More than a farm, this popular attraction in Buena Park has evolved into a much-loved theme park – a far cry from its humble beginnings 75 years ago as a roadside berry farm. There’s a new “Ghost Town Alive!” show and the iconic ‘longest, fastest and tallest wooden rollercoaster’, GhostRider, recently re-opened with 1370m of smooth, new track. Grab a freeze ray to battle mysterious sea creatures on the new 4-D interactive ride, Voyage to the Iron Reef, try the Timber Mountain Log Ride, climb aboard the Calico Railway, pretend you’re in the Wild West on an original Butterfield Stagecoach, zip through the air on Surfside Gliders and take the challenge of the Bigfoot Rapids! Younger children will love playing in Camp Snoopy.

Don’t forget to call into the newly renovated Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant and sample Knott’s Berry Farm’s famous Boysenberry Pie, and Cordelia’s fried chicken. knotts.com

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romance while feasting on a four-course banquet served in true medieval, pre-silverware fashion, in a castle! medievaltimes.com/BuenaPark

Discovery Cube Imaginations run wild through more than 100 hands-on exhibits at Orange County’s leading destination for science fun. Take the Eco Challenge and become a green superhero, feel the power of a real rocket engine ‘launch’, explore the inner workings of a two-storey-tall dinosaur, and try your best slap shot against the Anaheim Duck’s goalie in the Science of Hockey exhibit. discoverycube.org Medieval Times, Buena Park A fun family dinner – and a jousting tournament! This two-hour adventure will take you into a world of glory and chivalry with spectacular pageantry, dramatic horsemanship, breathtaking swordplay, falconry and

$

25

Adults Save

Bowers Museum One of SoCal’s finest museums and Orange County’s largest, the Museum’s state-of-the-art facilities present world-class exhibitions from the greatest museums in the world. Bowers’ Kidseum is an interactive children’s museum with a focus on ‘igniting imagination through exploration’ - visit Glow Cave with its fun art making activities, step back in time on a Wells Fargo stagecoach in the Green Screen Time Machine, and discover ancient history in the Archaeology Lab. bowers.org

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Packing House

SeaWorld California As part of SeaWorld’s commitment to education, marine science research and the rescue of marine animals, SeaWorld® California is introducing a new orca encounter in 2017.

This new live presentation will be centered on the orca’s natural behaviors, physical attributes, intelligence, social structures and unique relationship with mankind.

SeaWorld will also unveil an extraordinary new attraction in 2017 that will create an expedition of wonder across the seven seas. Ocean Explorer will combine a series of specially-designed aquariums, exciting family-friendly rides, digital technologies and interactive activities to engage park guests in an experience centered on exploration and adventure that will inspire them to protect our oceans.

For thrill seekers, soar, dive and twist like a ray on Manta ® – then get immersed in the remarkable world of Turtle Reef ™, the largest aquarium in the world dedicated to sea turtles. Combining spectacular dolphin and short-finned pilot whale behaviors with a close-up look at the animals and the special relationship they have with their trainers, Dolphin Days inspires guests while at the same time encouraging them to help conserve and protect dolphins and whales in the wild.

There are amazing opportunities to connect with animals at SeaWorld. Guests can interact

Kids Save

Pirates Dinner Adventure lets lads, lasses and scallywags of all ages live out their pirate dreams by donning costumes and joining the crew aboard a life-size, 18th century pirate ship. Buccaneers of all ages will get swept away by the amazing swordplay, aerial artistry, and acrobatics, while enjoying a delicious pirate feast.

For Tickets and Showtimes call

1.866.439.2469

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piratesdinneradventureca.com 7600 Beach Blvd.

Buena Park, CA 90620

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Reservations required. Mention code OAA-PDA. Offer valid for general admission only. Upgraded seating available for an additional cost. Not valid with any other promotion, discount, or group reservation. Valid up to 9 guests. Gratuity not included and will be charged for parties of 10 or more. Expires 12/30/17. Subject to availability.

© Knott’s Berry Farm

© SeaWorld San Diego

SeaWorld California

Medieval Times

with marine animals, such as touching a dolphin at Dolphin Point, feeding a bat ray at Manta and having ‘cleaner fish’ nibble at their hands at Explorer’s Reef ®. At Aquatica SeaWorld’s Waterpark®, experience waters from serene to high-speed thrills, a sandy beach and up-close animal encounters, all in a one-of-a-kind waterpark. seaworldparks.com/en/seaworld-sandiego

plus a special after dark experience. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is an adventurers’ safari paradise with over 3,000 animals living in wide, open-field enclosures. The Safari Park benefits the conservation of animals in more than 35 countries across the globe. zoo.sandiegozoo.org sdzsafaripark.org

LEGOLAND® California LEGOLAND California Resort has more than 60 rides, shows and attractions including, the new LEGO NINJAGO® World! Ninja work to become masters of the ancient art of Spinjitzu and demonstrate what they have learned on the new LEGO NINJAGO The Ride. This technological marvel allows riders to control animated fireballs, lightning, shockwaves and ice to defeat the Great Devourer! Inside LEGOLAND, you can enter a world of knights and princesses to conquer the Dragon Coaster. Kids can drive their own cars at Driving School. Make new friends at LEGO Friends Heartlake City. The Resort is also home to the LEGOLAND Water Park featuring the LEGO Legends of CHIMA™ Water Park. Plus, create and build your own adventure with LEGO, or DUPLO for little ones. legoland.com/california

Universal Studios Hollywood Go behind the scenes of the world-famous Studio Tour to explore real film sets where Hollywood movies are made. Face action head-on in heartpounding rides, shows and attractions – including Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and Fast & Furious – Supercharged. Don’t miss The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, bringing Harry Potter’s universe to life via Hogsmeade village and Hogwarts castle, which features the land’s signature ride, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™. Dine at Three Broomsticks™ and Hog’s Head pub, and ride the park’s first outdoor coaster, Flight of the Hippogriff™. universalstudioshollywood.com

San Diego Zoo This world-renowned zoo celebrated its 100th Anniversary in 2016. Attracting millions of visitors annually, the Zoo spans 40ha and is home to more than 3,500 rare and endangered animals, representing more than 650 species and subspecies. Hop on the Kangaroo Bus and take a tour – see giant pandas, king cobras, cheetahs, elephants, lions, tigers and polar bears. You can also book exclusive experiences including Early Morning with Pandas and Crazy About Cats,

The Queen Mary This legendary luxury ship was the most advanced ocean liner of her time when she launched almost 80 years ago. Today, she is a museum attraction and hotel in Long Beach. Her 314 staterooms have been updated, while retaining their classic art deco features, and original portholes let you imagine you are crossing the Atlantic Ocean in style in the 1930s. Guided daily tours chronicle her story from construction, to duty as a WWII troopship, and her 1950s golden years with celebrity passengers – she even has a “haunted” reputation. Visit the on board Queen Mary 4-D Theater. queenmary.com

Silver Bullet, Knott’s Berry Farm

Pirate’s Dinner Adventure

Known as the “World’s Most Interactive Dinner Show!” Pirate’s Dinner Adventure offers the best combination of food, fantasy and fun in Southern California. Guests enjoy an astonishing display of special effects, aerial artistry, swashbuckling swordplay and dynamic duels while enjoying a delicious, four-course feast, fit for a Pirate King! The action is set aboard an 18th Century Spanish galleon, adrift in a 250,000-gallon lagoon.

The talented crew makes this show possible with brilliant actors, singers and stunt performers. Up to one hundred and fifty guests of all ages are chosen to participate in this epic production - from hoisting the ship’s sails, to joining the pirates on the ship’s deck, there are multiple opportunities for guests to become a part of the adventure, truly making it the “World’s Most Interactive Dinner Show!” piratesdinneradventureca.com

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brandnew walk to disneyland® resort

• Complimentary full hot breakfast buffet, free WiFi • All-suite hotel—kitchens, living rooms, kids suites • Rooftop pool, hot tub, splash zone • Lobby bar and Pizza Hut Express® Onsite

WALK TO DISNEYLAND® RESORT • Free hot breakfast buffet • Free WiFi • Kids suites with bunk beds • A comfortable lobby bar to unwind and relax • Outdoor heated rooftop pool and lounge/deck perfect for viewing Disneyland fireworks • 24 hour CVS adjacent

1801 South Harbor Blvd. Anaheim, CA • springhillanaheim.com • +1 714-533-2101 1801 South Harbor Blvd.

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640 W Katella Avenue Anaheim, California 92802 residenceanaheimresort.com 714-782-7500

Seven Days Are Not Enough WIN

the ultimate family holiday in California!

“Seven Days Are Not Enough” to pack in everything Anaheim and Orange County can offer families!

But, with this sensational prize, one lucky family will experience seven days of as much fun as is humanly possible – and then some!

Southern California is home to Disneyland Resort, Knott’s Berry Farm, Universal Studios and plenty more – and the coastline and beaches are spectacular.

Out & About With Kids and Visit Anaheim are offering one lucky family of four a sevenday holiday of a lifetime with accommodation, transfers and admission to some of America’s best family attractions.

This amazing prize package* includes • Five (x5) nights accommodation Anabella Hotel • Three (x3) nights accommodation Best Western Stovall’s Hotel • Four x 3-Day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Tickets • Four (x4) Universal Studios HollywoodSM passes • Four (x4) Passes to Knott’s Berry Farm • Four (x4) Passes to SeaWorld California • Four (x4) Round-trip ferry transfers to Catalina Island via Catalina Express • Four (x4) Round-trip airport transfers via Karmel Shuttle • Four (x4) Passes to Medieval Times® Dinner and Tournament • Four (x4) Passes to Pirates Dinner Adventure

© Disney

• $100 Restaurant certificate courtesy of Visit Anaheim

Visit outandaboutwithkids.com.au to enter and for full Terms & Conditions. Competition closes 30 June 2017.

THAN 2.5KM FROM 4 GREAT OPTIONS LESS

DISNEYLAND PARKS

HYATT HOUSE 1800 S. Harbor Blvd.

Anaheim, CA 92802 714-971-1800 anaheimresort.house.hyatt.com

HYATT PLACE 2035 S. Harbor Blvd.

Anaheim, CA 92802 714-750-4000 anaheimresort.place.hyatt.com

CMYK RED- C:21 M:98 Y:91 K:11 CMYK CREAM - C:5 M:5 Y:13 K:0

HOMEWOOD SUITES 2010 S. Harbor Blvd.

Anaheim, CA 92802 714-750-2010 homewoodanaheim.com 118

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CORTONA INN & SUITES 2029 S. Harbor Blvd.

Anaheim, CA 92802 714-971-5000 cortonainn.com

LEFT AND BOTTOM RIGHT: © Visit Anaheim. TOP RIGHT: © Shutterstock

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for Shopping, Sport and Sunshine Shopping From malls to outlets, antiques and luxury, Orange County is a shopper’s dream. Try South Coast Plaza or Fashion Island for the latest fashions – from haute couture to casual surf wear – plus homewares, sporting gear and just about anything under the sun.

Several locations offer shuttle service from the Anaheim Resort area. Center Street Promenade in Downtown Anaheim has gone through a modern revival with quaintly curated shops, artisan-inspired eateries and other neighbourly services. Old Towne Orange is famous for its one-of-a-kind antique treasures. The Lab Anti-Mall and The Camp in Costa Mesa are great spots to pick up the latest fashions and earth-friendly finds.

Sport If you’re lucky you might catch a baseball or hockey game during your holiday! Orange County is a hub for sports fans and outdoor enthusiasts. With professional teams that hold division and world titles

in hockey – The Anaheim Ducks – and baseball, and make frequent playoff appearances, Anaheim is becoming known as the home of championship sports. Ideal, year-round weather also makes Orange County the perfect spot for outdoor sports and activities, including kayaking, biking, surfing, golf, rollerblading, stand up paddling, fishing and hiking.

Sunshine Orange County has 68km of spectacular coastline and six city beaches including Huntington Beach, Newport Beach and Laguna Beach. The O.C’s beaches are among the best in the world – celebrities including Gwen Stefani and Kobe Bryant hit the sand in Newport Beach; Laguna Beach is frequented by former reality TV show stars from ‘The Hills’ and ‘Laguna Beach’ and pro surfers including Brett Simpson and Kanoa Igarashi ‘hang ten’ in Huntington Beach year-round. These family-friendly beaches are perfect for a day of relaxing, strolling, swimming, body surfing and sunshine!

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© Residence Inn

Anaheim – STAY

Families are spoiled for choice with Anaheim’s fantastic hotels and resorts ranging from ultra luxury and funky to affordable and fun. From family rooms and suites perfect for larger families, to comfortable and spacious rooms with extra bedding options, Anaheim accommodation is geared for families.

Fabulous onsite facilities and amenities ensure that wherever you choose to stay on your family holiday, you will feel right at home!

Homewood Suites by Hilton Spacious suites feature separate living and sleeping areas, a full kitchen, and complimentary WiFi. Choose a contemporary family suite and enjoy an included hot full breakfast, and relax in the pool (plus kids pool) after a day of sightseeing! homewoodsuites3.hilton.com/en/ hotels/California Hyatt House and Hyatt Place Both hotels, set in the Anaheim Resort/ Convention Center are perfect for families, with a choice of rooms and suites offering separate living and sleeping areas and full kitchens, all less than 1.5km away from Disneyland Resort parks. anaheimresort.house.hyatt.com/en/hotel/ home.html anaheimresort.place.hyatt.com/en/hotel/ home.html

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The Anabella The Anabella is an award-winning, first-class boutique hotel situated on the Anaheim Convention Centre campus opposite Disneyland Resort. Designed in iconic California Mission style, the hotel features many newly renovated, high-quality accommodation options including Divine™- A Sleep Experience, with pampered bedding, luxurious pillow-top mattresses and plush duvet covers in selected rooms. A tranquil hideaway set on 3ha of lush grounds, amenities include two pool areas, a fitness centre with state-of-the-art equipment by StarTrac, Wireless Internet Access (fee), and indoor/outdoor dining at the acclaimed Tangerine Grill and PaTo Restaurant and Nectarine Bar. The resort features 358 guestrooms, including eight Kids Suites with three Family Suites. anabellahotel.com

Springhill Suites Anaheim Conveniently located near the Disneyland Resort and next to the Anaheim Convention Center, the all-new Springhill Suites at Anaheim Resort/Convention Center offer home-like comfort, with suites 25% larger than the average hotel room.

Brand new family-friendly kids suites (bunk beds), with mini-fridge, microwave and coffee-maker, and kid-friendly amenities (including free and fast WiFi), plus Springhill’s proximity to Disneyland Resort (!) tick all the boxes for families. springhillanaheim.com Best Western Plus Stovalls The Best Western Plus Stovall’s Hotels of Anaheim are four AAA 3 diamond-rated hotels with over 700 guest rooms, surrounding the magic of the Disneyland Resort. Certified as Disney Good Neighbor ® hotels, they are within walking distance of Disneyland Resort,

© Desert Palms Hotels & Suites © The Anabella

Desert Palms Hotels & Suites Fully renovated in 2016, Desert Palms Hotel & Suites offers the best of Anaheim conveniently located right outside your door.

One of only three non-Disney ® hotels on the Disneyland Resort block, Desert Palms is an easy ten-minute walk to Disneyland Park, Disney’s California Adventure Park, and Downtown Disney District. 196 recently renovated rooms and kid-friendly suites come fully equipped with a microwave, refrigerator, flat screen TV, and in-room safe, and the swimming pool is heated year-round!

Kid’s Suites feature bunk beds, or try a 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom Family Suite with 4 queen beds. Families planning an extended stay of 5 nights or more will enjoy spacious accommodation with the comforts of home in the Kitchen Suite, with a private bedroom,

2 queen beds, separate living room with a pullout sofa sleeper, and full kitchen. Plus there’s free daily Hot Breakfast Buffet, free WiFi and free car parking. desertpalmshotel.com

© Homewood Suites

Cortona Inn & Suites A Tuscan-style treasure in the heart of the Anaheim Resort District, the freshly renovated property offers 127 modern, affordable guest rooms and suites (including kids suites with bunk beds), free deluxe continental breakfast and free WiFi. cortonainn.com

4 HOTELS NEXT TO DISNEYLAND® ANAHEIM INN PARK PLACE INN PAVILIONS STOVALL’S INN

800-854-8175 STOVALLSHOTELS.COM Stovall’s Hotels of Anaheim

FREE BREAKFAST FREE WIFI POOL & HOT TUBS MODERN GUEST ROOMS IN ROOM COFFE / TEA

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© Best Western Plus Stovalls

© Springhill Suites

© Portofino Inn & Suites

Disney’s California Adventure, Downtown Disney District and the Anaheim Convention Center. Best Western Plus Anaheim Inn, Best Western Plus Park Place Inn, Best Western Plus Pavilions and Best Western Plus Stovall’s Inn are family owned and operated, and have been in the Anaheim Resort area since 1968. Each hotel has recently undergone major re-models – dramatic new exteriors, modern lobby areas, plush bedding, all-new swimming pool areas, and many other exciting changes. The Best Western Plus Park Place Inn is the closest hotel to Disneyland Resorts’ main pedestrian entrance, with comfortable guest rooms that include many upgraded amenities. There’s also free high-speed wireless internet access, microwaves, mini fridges, fresh brewed single serving coffee makers, HBO Family and much, much more – and start your day off right, with upgraded breakfast offerings at all four hotels. stovallshotels.com Residence Inn Anaheim Convention Center The all-new Residence Inn by Marriott Anaheim, says whether you’re staying for a few days or a few weeks, your daily routine matters to them! Choose from spacious studio, one- and two-bedroom suites with separate living and sleeping areas, or the brightly themed and popular kids suites with bunk beds and a fully equipped kitchen to enhance your ‘suite’ family time. Complimentary grocery delivery services are available so your fridge is always full.

The Residence sweetens the deal with free hot breakfast buffet daily and free WiFi. Unwind at the 24-hour fitness centre, or at the rooftop pool with expansive area views, hot tub, cabanas and kid -friendly splash zone! Relax at the

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lobby bar and let the kids enjoy the convenience of Pizza Hut Express ®! residenceanaheimresort.com Portofino Inn & Suites Anaheim Anaheim Portofino Inn & Suites offers spacious designs, and several room types to choose from, including kids suites, king suites, and affordable deluxe guest rooms. Everyday low rates and an exceptional location – right next door to Disneyland Park – are great draw cards for families. This unique Anaheim hotel has been recognised as “The Most Beautiful Hotel in Anaheim”, and great value Disneyland Packages are also available. portofinoinanaheim.com Great Wolf Lodge Great Wolf Lodge Southern California is the newest lodge in the country-wide chain of family-friendly properties – part hotel, and part fabulous 84-degree indoor waterpark! Jampacked with slides and splashing fun, when you’re ready to dry off, the excitement continues with activities, games and adventures throughout the resort. The 603 all-suite property offers spacious guest rooms, including fun-filled, family themed-suites. Stay in the WolfDen Suite or the KidCabin Suite with special animations, bunk beds, TV, and cubbyhouse-style fun for little ones. The Lodge also offers an accessible WolfDen Suite and KidCabin Suite. Seven onsite dining options, including ‘The Loose Moose Family Kitchen’ and ‘Hungry as a Wolf’ (!) will fill bellies big and small after a day of adventure. greatwolf.com/southern-california

seven acres of tropical paradise in the heart of Anaheim Discover the Anabella Hotel, a peaceful retreat located across the street from Disneyland Resort and on the Anaheim Convention Center Campus. A mission style boutique hotel with modern flair, on seven acres of lush, landscaped grounds, it’s no wonder we were awarded “Anaheim’s Most Beautiful Property.” Offering a tranquil hideaway with two pools, Jacuzzi, fitness center, wireless internet, business center, and California-fresh cuisine and full-service bar at the Tangerine Grill & Patio.

It’s a sweet sanctuary. ®

©Dis

800.863.4888 | anabellahotel.com

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Getting Around

ARTIC fireworks © Visit Anaheim

Getting around Anaheim and around Southern California is made simple with many transportation options, including shuttles, buses, trains, taxis and rideshare services, that will take you to all the places you want to travel. Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC) is Orange County’s first centralised hub for all regional public transit lines.

Guest can choose to explore the golden state’s most well-known and celebrated attractions, entertainment and sports venues in Anaheim, or hop on Anaheim Resort Transit Metrolink and Surfliner to see more of Orange County, Los Angeles and San Diego.

SHORT WALK TO DISNEYLAND® RESORT outdoor heated pool parking and wi-fi included new game room & fitness center kids rooms w/ twin-size bunk bed deluxe rooms w/ two queen beds

1831 South Harbor Blvd.

Anaheim, CA 92802 portofinoinnanaheim.com 714-782-7600

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Getting There Fly from Australia to Los Angeles on United Airlines, Qantas, Virgin Australia and Delta. Check individual airlines for flights from your nearest capital city.

Getting to Anaheim from Australia is made easy with four airports within an hour’s drive: John Wayne Airport, Orange County (SNA), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Long Beach Airport (LGB) and LA/Ontario International Airport (ONT).

Speak to your Travel Agent about fantastic packages, including flights, accommodation, attraction passes and Disneyland packages, to plan and book an unforgettable family holiday in Anaheim.

Out & About with Kids in Anaheim was created, designed, and produced by Out & About with Kids, in association with Visit Anaheim Editor Christine Kane Cover © Disney Design Magnesium Media Published by Elwin Media Pty Ltd ABN: 22 159 093 606 PO Box 4148 Balgowlah Heights NSW 2093 +61 413770550 Publisher Elisa Elwin

outandaboutwithkids.com.au 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.

Copyright © Out & About with Kids. 2017 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.

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.com.au For the best family travel deals, latest news, tips, blogs and competitions visit Out & About with kids new website and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

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Happy Holidays from Out & About with Kids

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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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$

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per person, per night, twin share, min 3 night stay*

Experience the ultimate family holiday.

Unlimited theme park entry

Visit seaworldresort.com.au or call 1300 139 677 *Conditions & surcharges apply for Fri/Sat/peak periods & credit cards.

Voted 2016 #1 Family Hotel in Australia

1611922 SEA WORLD Š 2016 & TM Sea World Property Trust. WARNER BROS. MOVIE WORLD and logo and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and Š Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

From only

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VIP Theme Park Holiday