Out & About with kids - Issue 34 Spring 2012

FAMILY | TRAVEL | HOLIDAY | LEISURE | ENTERTAINMENT

ISSUE 34 SPRING 2012 AUS$6.95 (inc gst)

Sunshine SECRETS SUNSHINE COAST LI

FT-OUT

States of PLAY KIDS IN AMERICA

Coasting ALONG

NSW’S MAGICAL MID-NORTH COAST

World CLASS

TRAVELLING TO LEARN

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spring | 12 Welcome

A

fter some end-of-season powdermonium at fabulous Thredbo, my family is now defrosting under the burgeoning brighter skies as Australia swings into spring. And, as quickly as I pack away our winter woollies, my kids are digging out their cossies in preparation for the warmer weather… and the promise of a beach break in Bali.

Speaking of packing, the spring issue of Out & About With Kids is packed to bursting point with great holiday ideas. Whether you’re staying at home to celebrate as our country comes alive with the splendid colours of spring or are planning family adventures of the international kind, you’re sure to find something in this issue to scratch your itchy feet.

From weekend road trips and coastal breaks to the temptations of the tropics and exotic Asian escapes, we’ve got it covered. We also take to the seas and share stacks of stateside sojourns. Plus, for those of you who think that too much snow is never enough, we share more icy holiday treats in the northern hemisphere.

Are we there yet? Not quite! We’re also delighted to present our first ever Sunshine Coast With Kids supplement.

If you’re still looking for more, be sure to head to www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au for family holiday deals, inspiration and all our great competitions. And don’t forget to join our Facebook fan page to be the first to know about all our latest news and giveaways.

Happy holidays!

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

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Get ready to be floored!

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

For more information www.disneyland.com.au/carsland ©Disney/Pixar ©Disney DLRTIM-12-22645

Publisher Elisa Elwin Editor & Associate Publisher Aleney de Winter aleney@oawk.com.au 0400 808 108 Deputy/Sub Editor Geraldine Cardozo Contributing Editor – Snow & Ski Helen Hayes Contributors Geraldine Cardozo, Barry Divola, Rod Eime, Carla Grossetti, Helen Hayes, Mark Juddery, Christine Kane, Julie Mahoney, Sarah Pye, Tiana Templeman Director of Sales & Marketing Richard Bunting (02) 8204 1015 rbunting@oawk.com.au National Sales Manager Colleen Hinch colleen.hinch@gmail.com Online Content Manager Christine Kane christine@oawk.com.au Design Magnesium Media Art Director Louise Summerton Published by Elwin Media Pty.Ltd. ABN: 22 159 093 606

50a Central Ave, Mosman, 2088 (02) 8021 5855 Photo Credits: © Gorilla, Shutterstock Images LLC Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the editorials are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Publisher and Out & About With Kids. Information provided was believed to be correct at the time of publication.

Join us on

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

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

contents 140 regulars 14

8

Domestic news

The latest travel news and offers from around Australia.

24

24

Animal news

All the best animal activities and encounters around the country.

32

Wish you were here…

A snapshot of beautiful Bathurst

36

Drive news

The latest car, campervan and caravanning news.

80

International news

The latest travel news and offers from around the Globe.

32 132

132 Cruise news The latest news from the world of cruising.

80 features 8

Reportage

Learning from travel.

26

Camping

Happy Glampers.

34

Drive

139 What’s hot for baby

We road-test the BMW 520i.

We review the latest products for tots.

80

140 What’s hot for kids

Chasing winter in the Northern Hemisphere.

We test the latest travel products, gadgets, books and entertainment for families.

128 Cruising

144 Dad’s word Better Homes And Gardens ‘Fast’ Ed Halmagyi tells all about travel with kids.

Skiing with kids

High seas hijinks on Voyager of the Seas.

134 Out & About With Baby Baby food to go.

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contents australian destinations 38

60

Sydney, NSW

Sydney by kids.

46

Mid North Coast, NSW

NSW’s glorious coast with the most.

56

Canberra, ACT

Spring into the capital.

60

Gold Coast, QLD

Hurleigh Burleigh.

66

66 100

Whitsundays, QLD

Wowed by the Whitsundays.

international destinations 88

America

The best of family friendly USA.

106 Fiji Fiji on family time.

112

Vanuatu

Viva Vila.

116

New Zealand

Queenstown thrills, without chills.

118

Singapore

Raffles rascals.

120 Thailand

win 15

Thomas & Friends Take-n-play Great Quarry Climb Sets.

28

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

36

A Navman MY300LMT GPS.

Family fun in fabulous Phuket.

124 China Shanghai Surprises.

142 Arkie Sparkle, Treasure Hunter book packs.

supplement

120 6

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Sunshine Coast for families Out & About With Kids complete guide to the Sunshine Coast.

GREAT

PRIZES

We found a place where once-in-a-lifetime is once-a-day.

South Africa gets you closer.

To find out about the latest deals to travel to South Africa visit www.southafrica.net

Inspiring new S P Rways ING 2012 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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class

WORLD

GETTING OUT OF SCHOOL TO TRAVEL OVERSEAS IS THE STUFF OF DREAMS FOR MOST KIDS BUT LITTLE DO THEY KNOW HOLIDAYS ARE ALSO FILLED WITH VALUABLE LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES. WORDS: TIANA TEMPLEMAN

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REPORTAGE

I

f you’ve been umming and ahhing over whether to avoid the school holiday rush and book a family getaway during term time, then don’t stress – just take a tip from Professor Deborah A Byrnes.

“Travelling is always educational in some way,” says the early childhood education expert. She says travelling “provides children with opportunities to learn and practice, in a real-world setting, concepts and skills in all of the core curriculum areas.” In other words, there’s no need to feel guilty about pulling your child out of school to travel.

When Annabel Candy and her husband decided to explore South America for 18 months with their three children, they spent time preparing for their travels by learning Spanish as a family. This created a sense of excitement and helped get their adventure off to a great start. “I knew I’d achieved my goal of helping the children become bilingual when, halfway through the trip, the eldest started complaining that my Spanish was embarrassing,” she laughs.

Live like a local Attending a local school in Costa Rica not only helped the Candy children develop foreign language skills, it also made them appreciate the school they now attend in Australia. The vast choice of books in the library, educational games they get to play in the classroom and endless after school activities will always be seen as a luxury; their Costa Rica school relied on old-fashioned rote learning and could not afford to provide students with a desk and chair. Spending time with the locals can broaden your child’s mind in more ways than one.

It’s worth noting that parents and their children may experience a period of readjustment in the early part of a trip, as few families are used to spending so much time in each other’s company without the familiar distractions of home. Fortunately the constant need for stimulation is soon replaced with simpler pleasures.

Exploring the unusual shapes and tastes of local fruits at a bustling Balinese marketplace; chatting as you watch local fishermen bring in the day’s catch or marvelling at how the sun slips into the ocean like a huge, sizzling disc creates long-lasting holiday memories that are far more precious than any video recording.

Learning in context These types of experiences also provide valuable learning opportunities because when children travel, they get the opportunity to learn in context. “Being able to explain a concept using a real life example has a far greater impact than any classroom ‘chalk and talk’,” says primary school teacher Heather White who has experienced this first-hand.

When she travelled to New Zealand with her two boys, they were fascinated with the role glaciers play in shaping the landscape. “It was an advanced concept for children that age but they had no problem understanding it because they could see the path of the ice at Milford Sound.”

To make the most of these opportunities, it can be helpful to meet with your child’s teacher to see what topics are being covered while you’re away. For example, if your child is studying farming, point out some crops at your destination and explain

From left: Anantara Mahout Training. Courtesy of Anantara The White family in New Zealand.

Luke Candy with his classmates in Costa Rica. © Annabel Candy

how people grow their food. Professor Byrnes recommends using thoughtful questions to link what your child is learning in school to what they are seeing to further enhance the educational value of the trip.

It’s all in the planning Travel schooling, like home schooling, is a serious responsibility (and one that parents should not take lightly) but it can also be challenging. “When you’re in a new place no one wants to sit down and do worksheets, you want to get out there and explore!” says Candy. Completing activities such as spelling in the car and setting a regular time for lessons can make things easier. Some parents get their children to do the bulk of their formal school work on the flight. “A 23 hour flight each way allows plenty of time to do a few weeks worth of class work,” says Cynthia Dammerer, who has been travelling with her now-teenage daughter since she was in kindergarten. “Karri revises on the way home which allows her to enjoy the travelling experience to the full.”

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From above: Max and Luke Candy walking to school in Costa Rica. © Annabel Candy

Club Med Bali - Tex Templeman. © Trevor Templeman

Kwandwe Game Reserve. © Kwandwe

Older children will likely be given school work to take away but youngsters seldom require such a structured learning approach, particularly for shorter trips. “I don’t see the need for too much formal learning when they’re young but it’s always important to keep up those basic skills,” says White. She suggests getting children to write in a diary every day as it requires the same discipline as homework, but is much more fun. “This also gives them something to share with their peers when they return to school plus it makes for a great show and tell.”

Travelling short or long term is an education in itself, for parents and their kids. It fosters a love of learning, builds your child’s confidence and celebrates a spirit of adventure. Children who travel become students of the world.

Top of the class You may not be ready to pack up for a life on the road but even a short resort break can offer some great learning opportunities for your children. Gone are the days of resort’s ‘kids clubs amounting to a tired-looking room with a meagre box of toys and a long-suffering staff member. Resorts have responded enthusiastically, and creatively, to meet the needs of discerning parents and their children with an impressive array of enjoyable and educational children’s programs with lessons in everything from local cuisine to marine biology. Here’s our pick of the best:

Club Med Bali, Indonesia Cheered on by his new-found friends from the kids club, my usually timid five year old amazed us by flying through the air on

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a trapeze with the confidence of a child twice his age. Building self-esteem and having fun is a key component of the Club Med kids’ program which goes well beyond basic childcare and, at some resorts, even caters for babies. Expect fun activities with a focus on team work and don’t miss the famous Club Med circus school and the unique Clean Art Planet program which teaches children about recycling through art. www.clubmed.com.au

Hard Rock Hotel Penang, Malaysia The Hard Rock Hotel Penang is Malaysia’s trendiest hotel as awarded by TripAdvisor, and is a massive hit with Australian families. In addition to regular kids club offerings like sports and crafts, the resort’s excellent Lil’ Rock kids program offers an extensive range of activities with a difference to keep the kids engaged and educated. Little chefs can hone their kitchen techniques with cooking lessons, there are dance lessons, language lessons and even the chance to learn and play traditional Malaysian games. penang.hardrockhotels.net

Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa, Thailand Children staying at northern Thailand’s luxurious Anantara Golden Triangle Resort & Spa can pass their driving test in just three days – on the back of an elephant. Working with a qualified mahout (elephant ‘driver’) and an English-speaking guide, this educational program for children aged eight and older covers basic ‘driving’ commands, elephant care and river

REPORTAGE

bathing. Kids must complete a short ‘driving test’ at the end of the course in order to receive a certificate. www.anantara.com

Shamwari Game Reserve, South Africa Shamwari gets a big tick of approval for its family-friendly offerings. Found in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, close to Port Elizabeth, Riverdene Lodge is a specific family lodge on the reserve with plenty to entertain children of all ages. Children can take part in the Kids on Safari program which will see them visit the animal rehabilitation and Born Free centres supervised by a specially trained ranger. There’s also a ‘dung hunt’ as part of the explorations that are created for kids to learn more about wildlife and conservation. www.shamwarigroup.com

Treasure Island, Fiji Don’t worry about kids missing out while they’re away on Treasure Island. Here can still enjoy a great Fijian holiday in the off-peak season without kids getting behind. The kids club is a large purpose-built bure with an innovative program of activities is run by fully qualified teachers and early childhood development specialists. Children can also get some unforgettable hands-on experience of Fijian culture and also learn about Treasure Island’s natural environment. Kids may never look at their classroom in the same way! www.treasureisland-fiji.com

Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort, Fiji Jean-Michel Cousteau’s superb Bula Club offers kids a chance to

explore and learn about Fijian culture, the environment and the natural word. This watery wonderland is the only luxury resort that employs a full-time marine biologist to help visitors learn about the underwater world of Fiji, with hands-on sessions on the importance of preserving our marine ecosystems. There are also scuba diving lessons available for kids 10 and over. www.fijiresort.com

Hayman, Whitsundays, Australia Budding chefs can work on their inner Masterchef at the Hayman nature resort. This luxurious island retreat is famous for its fine dining so it seems only fitting there’s a special kids’ program for budding chefs. Junior Hayman Chef includes exotic juice blending, a pizza making class and a tour of the famous Hayman Chocolate Room (with tastings, of course). Once the children have finished in the Chocolate Room, they collect their pizza boxes and return to the kids club for a feast. www.hayman.com.au

Kingfisher Bay Resort, Fraser Island, Australia Learning is a wild experience with Kingfisher Bay Resort’s Junior Eco Rangers. Fun and informative, the programme focuses on the environment while keeping kids active. There’s a low ropes course and canoeing, sand sculpture, art and craft as well as environmentally-themed games and guided walks. As the sun goes down sit around the campfire for songs and Aboriginal stories, head out on a spotlight walk or enjoy some stargazing. www.kingfisherbay.com

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Australian HOLIDAYS

14 24 26 32

TRAVEL NEWS All the latest and greatest from around the country.

ANIMAL NEWS The latest animal activities and encounters.

CAMPING Happy glampers.

WISH YOU WERE HERE...

Beautiful Bathurst.

34 36

DRIVE

38 46

SYDNEY, NSW

Luxe weekender wheels.

DRIVE NEWS The latest car, campervan and caravanning news.

Sydney by kids.

56 60 66

CANBERRA, ACT Spring buzz.

GOLD COAST, QLD Around the worlds.

WHITSUNDAYS, QLD Wowed by the Whitsundays.

MID NORTH COAST, NSW The coast with the most.

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SHORT CUTS Domestic NATIONAL Hit the rails in Outback Australia

NSW Half price offer for Baby & Toddler Show Out and About with Kids readers can take advantage of a special half-price ticket offer to the Baby & Toddler Show in Sydney.

Readers can get a double pass (admits two adults) for $20 and under-16s go free to the show at the Sydney Exhibition Centre in Darling Harbour from September 28 to 30. That’s 50 per cent off the door price.

Whether stocking up for your precious new bundle of joy or looking for new ways to keep your toddler busy, the Baby & Toddler Show is a shopping Mecca for everything a busy parent (and parent-tobe) needs. With the convenience of having hundreds of brands under one roof, you can browse, explore and ask for first-hand advice from product experts.

There’s also an expert seminar series featuring sleep guru Pinky McKay, a purpose-built pram trial track where you can put your favourite stroller brands through their paces, an ‘advice hub’ and live stage show with TV favourite Peppa Pig. There will also be a Fisher-Price playground plus face painting and balloon animals. For terms and conditions, go to www.babyandtoddlershow. com.au/sydney/outandabout

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© fritz16, Shutterstock.com

Great Southern Rail has launched a range of fantastic outback holiday packages on The Ghan and Indian Pacific for travellers looking for a unique rail adventure.

The Flinders Outback Escape package journeys through the NSW Blue Mountains, across Broken Hill and into Adelaide and the Flinders Ranges. Track the Red Centre begins in Darwin, through Katherine to Alice Springs and even includes a spot of glamping. Travel through Australia’s remote outback in comfort and style and watch the ever-changing landscape unfold beyond the window. www.greatsouthernrail.com.au

Find adventure on the Pacific Coast Create your own adventure on the Legendary Pacific Coast next holiday. Travellers can download a new iPhone app, with special-interest trails to make uncovering this route’s treasures even easier.

The Pacific Coast is an iconic tourist route. This 1000-kilometre stretch of coastline from Sydney to the Queensland border, taking in beaches, rainforests, lush farmland, rivers, lakes and spectacular sand dunes.

The three, five and seven-day trails featured on the My Adventure app include surfing, food and wine, arts and culture, indigenous culture, whale watching and national parks, and are great ready-made side trips to enhance your holiday.

In addition, the My Adventure section of the Legendary Pacific Coast website features regularly updated deals and offers from local tourism operators in the region. www.pacificcoast.com.au

DOMESTIC TRAVEL NEWS

Novotel puts the new into Newcastle One of the world’s most recognised hotel brands has arrived in Newcastle with the re-branding of The Sebel Newcastle Beach to Novotel Newcastle Beach, following the acquisition by Accor of the Mirvac hotel portfolio.

Literally putting the “new” into Newcastle, the Novotel name originates from Nouvelle Hotel, which in French means “new hotel”.

In bringing the “new” to Newcastle, the re-brand will help bring international recognition to Newcastle and cement its status as being one of the top 10 must-see destinations in the world, as asserted by Lonely Planet in 2011.

Located in Newcastle’s thriving East End and just meters from one of Australia’s most magnificent beaches, the Novotel Newcastle Beach is just a two-hour drive from Sydney and features 88 well-appointed guestrooms, some with ocean views, a fully equipped gymnasium, spa, steam room, and three meeting rooms.

Chef Justin Rose, formerly of Hunter Valley’s Chez Pok and Quay restaurant in Sydney, heads up the hotel’s Bistro Dalby Located in the Royal forecourt adjacent to the hotel, The Royal Day Spa is one of Newcastle’s finest day spas and the hotel offers spa packages which include overnight accommodation, a spa treatment, a bottle of sparkling wine on arrival, buffet breakfast and late checkout.

Rates at Novotel Newcastle Beach start from $179. www.accorhotels.com

Thomas & Friends Take-n-Play™ Great Quarry Climb play set Do your kids want even more Thomas & Friends holiday fun? Let them experience the adventures of Thomas and Bud the Crane as they load and unload cargo at the Brendam Docks with this great new Take-n-Play play set. On the way Thomas rolls over a stone cutter which activates to spin and cut out the slab of stone then proceeds down the winding flexi track trail to pick up a heavy load while Bud the Crane assists Thomas using his winch. This set includes two track paths, two cranes, rock cargo, a car and an engine and stacks and folds for easy take along play at home or away.

Say Toot Toot to Thomas in Thirlmere Little train fans will get a treat if they head to the pretty NSW town of Thirlmere, about an hour’s drive from Wollongong, this October. Thomas the Tank Engine and friends will be making a special stop at Trainworks on October 6 and 7.

Hop on board the vintage steam train for a ride from Sodor Island Railway Station pulled by Thomas’ friends or take a step back in time while marvelling at stunning carriages and engines from days of old. Young fans will relish the chance to meet their hero and his friend the Fat Controller as he oversees all of the exciting activities on offer. You can expect a very quiet car trip home as junior Thomas fans sleep off an action packed day. www.trainworks.com.au

WIN

Out & About With Kids has FIVE Thomas & Friends Take-n-Play™ Great Quarry Climb play sets to give away, each valued at $78.99. For your chance to win visit www.outandbaoutwithkids.com.au

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Spend Time & Dine...

Together!

Culinary Kids Spring Offer* This Spring parents can relax and enjoy the family holiday even more with SilverNeedle Hotel’s new ‘Culinary Kids’ dining offer.

Families staying at participating Grand Chifley, Chifley, Australis, Country Comfort or Sundowner hotels will be entitled to 50% off restaurant meals for kids during dinner plus a free drink.

Young ‘foodies’ can choose from a wide variety of meals from both the adults and childrens menu when one full price main meal is purchased by an adult. The kids will love the free drink and that’s a few dollars saved - or an icecream for later!

• 50% off restaurant meals at dinner • Free drink • For kids up to 14 years

City & Urban Hotels Adelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, Geelong, Melbourne (Doveton), Western Sydney (Eastern Creek), Townsville & Wollongong

Country Hotels & Motels Adelaide, Bass Hill, Cowra, Perth, Port Macquarie & Terrigal

Coastal Resorts & Apartments Coffs Harbour, Diamond Beach, Margaret River, Surfers Paradise & Wisemans Ferry

For more information visit www.silverneedlehotels.com.au/culinarykids * Valid for up to 2 kids (under 14 years) when dining with an adult. Adult must be an Escape Club member. (Join for free at any hotel) Minimum of one full price S P Rmeal I N G must 2 0 1 2be ordered for every child using the offer. Children can order from the kids menu or regular menu. Available for hotel guests only.

16 main Restrictions may apply to menu items at certain restaurants. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Valid until 1 December 2012. www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au Participating hotels mentioned above or visit website.

SHORT CUTS Domestic NSW

Have a blast with Wyndham at Coffs Laser clay shooting and an inflatable action zone are just two of the reasons kids will love visiting Wyndham Vacation Resorts Coffs Harbour – Treetops in Coffs Harbour.

The resort - a tranquil retreat tucked away amongst the trees on Charlesworth Bay and is surrounded by bushland as well as a nine-hole golf course – also offers Segway tours with Time Out Xperiences and is the ideal launch pad to explore the growing number of attractions in the area.

Located just north of Coffs Harbour town centre this family-friendly resort features spacious accommodation with all rooms featuring a self-contained kitchen with plenty of room for the whole family. The resort precinct also features the Zip Circus Trapeze School which is open to groups on weekends.

And after a day of adventure there is always the Tranquility Day Spa for some pampering and the onsite Charlie’s Restaurant overlooking a waterfall and lagoon. www.wyndhamvacationresorts.com.au

DOMESTIC TRAVEL NEWS

VIC Love Phillip Island’s Way Love is in the air on Phillip Island as the little penguins at the penguin parade prepare for spring.

The warmer weather brings lots of action to the Phillip Island penguin parade colony as the little penguins tidy their burrows and keep a keen eye out for a girlfriend or boyfriend!

Male little penguins have begun to line their nests with grass and twigs in an attempt to attract a female.

Little penguin chicks may begin to appear by midSeptember. The chicks only have down feathers and are not waterproof so mum and dad will return regularly with a fishy soup to regurgitate into the chick’s mouth. The chicks take between seven to 11 weeks to fully grow waterproof feathers.

Catch the action for yourself at the penguin parade, Phillip Island, Victoria – open all year round with penguin viewing at sunset. www.penguins.org.au

Fairy bread and more at the Langham South Coast names best of the best The votes are in and the South Coast’s best family-friendly tourism attractions have been named. Tathra Beach & Bike, Mogo Zoo and Dolphin Watch Cruises all picked up awards, and accommodation providers NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Park, Novotel Wollongong Northbeach, Western Fairway Motor Inn, Beachcomber Holiday Park and Merry Beach Caravan Resort were also winners in the annual awards. Daisycare nanny and babysitting agency picked up a family-friendly award and Kiama Visitor Information Centre won best visitor information services.

For details on all the winners, go to www.southcoast.net.au

Treat your little ones to a fairytale morning tea fit for a princess at The Langham in Melbourne these school holidays. To celebrate the release of Disney’s classic Cinderella on Blu-ray, The Langham will be hosting a Cinderella Children’s Tiffin from September 24 to October 5.

A wonderful addition to The Langham’s themes of enchantment, romance, magic and fantasy, this is the perfect setting for young and old to be swept away on a fairytale journey. As well as the obligatory fairy bread, there will be tiara cookies, ‘kiss the frog’ in jelly, loveheart cupcakes, castle marshmallow cones and fluffy scones with jam and cream. $29 per child or $45 per child with a take home gift of a Disney DVD. Bookings essential. www.ariabar.com.au

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Australia’s Favorite Holiday Parks and Resorts

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

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

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

1800 833 444 1800 356 103

aspenparks.com.au

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

SHORT CUTS Domestic

DOMESTIC TRAVEL NEWS

QLD More to Moreton Bay

Walk with the Djabugay people Visitors to the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway in Cairns can enhance this memorable experience with Djabugay Aboriginal Guided Tours.

The Djabugay Native Title Aboriginal Corporation (DNTAC) has launched the new walking tour from Skyrail Rainforest Cableway’s Barron Falls Station.

Accompany Aboriginal guides on natural rainforest trails through the Djabugay land and walk in the footsteps of their people on a 40-minute tour that provides a fascinating insight into Djabugay language, traditions, culture, plants and animals and stories from life in the rainforest.

With a maximum of 10 people per group, the new walking tours give visitors the opportunity to be part of an intimate, educational and memorable Australian experience. Tours depart from Skyrail Barron Falls Station between 10.15am and 3.30pm. The cost is $20 for adults and $10 for children with families of two adults and two children for $50.

With spectacular views of the Barron Falls, Barron Gorge and out to the Coral Sea, Skyrail is an unforgettable ‘must-do’ that just became even more compelling! www.skyrail.com.au

Calling all pint-sized superheroes. Moreton Bay needs you! The Queensland region is having its annual Caboolture Family Fun Day on September 29 and this year the theme is superheroes.

The event, which will be held at the Queensland State Equestrian Centre, is just one of the great reasons to head to Moreton Bay this spring. When it comes to having fun, Moreton Bay region is full of exciting adventures.

With kilometres of sandy coastline, thousands of hectares of countryside, plus picturesque towns and villages, this region is also rich in experiences. Families will enjoy the fascinating museums showcasing local history and culture while grown-ups can sample stylish boutique shopping and good local food and wine. For some quality family time, head to Moreton Bay’s many nature reserves and try a spot of fishing and boating on the magnificent waterways and marine parks. www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au

Sunshine Coast accommodation for the ‘Modern Family’

The Sunshine Coast is a firm holiday favourite year-round and Grand Mercure Twin Waters understands that size, space and convenience are the key elements when it comes to finding suitable accommodation for families of all sizes.

With two and three bedroom self-contained apartments and three and four bedroom beach houses (some with private plunge pools) regardless of your family configuration, there’s a home away from home waiting to comfortably accommodate everyone – and the location is a bonus!

Three swimming pools, barbecue areas, bike and walking

paths, expansive lawns and beach areas, a kids club, babysitting, Cirque Espace trampoline and trapeze classes and Lagoon Day Spa plus Grand Mercure guests have full use of the recreational facilities, restaurant and bar at the adjacent Novotel Twin Waters Resort.

For a seamless start to the holiday a range of pantry packs can be arranged for delivery on arrival. The ‘family night’ pantry pack with soft drinks, microwave popcorn, chips, dips, crackers, mixed lollies, chocolate and ice-cream will be a big hit with the kids. www.grandmercureapartments.com.au

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SHORT CUTS Domestic

DOMESTIC TRAVEL NEWS

Crocs, Reef and relaxation at Novotel Palm Cove

Novotel Palm Cove has released a great value seven-night family package for two adults and two children. With the Great Barrier Reef, Kuranda Rainforest and Skyrail and Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures right on the doorstep, this is a holiday getaway the kids will remember for years.

Priced from $1699 the package includes resort room accommodation, full buffet breakfast, a cuddly children’s gift, three hours of kids

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club care for two children and bonus half day Crocodile Farm adventure, full day Skyrail adventure and a full day on a Great Barrier Reef tour.

On-site facilities include three swimming pools, waterslide, shop, internet café, restaurant and bars and Novotel Palm Cove is perfectly and conveniently located by the beach.

The deal is valid until December 24, 2012. www.novotelpalmcove.com.au

N Cairns

Townsville

Rockhampt

on

Sunshine Coast Brisbane

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SHORT CUTS Domestic SA Fleurieu family fun Enjoy a weekend of Australiana at the Fleurieu Folk Festival this October.

Bush poetry and dance are just part of the fun at this annual event set in the beautiful historic town of Willunga on South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula from October 26 to 28.

There’s something for the whole family – from music concerts and sessions, workshops and bush poets to children’s entertainment and stalls.

Festival-goers are invited to bring an instrument and join in the sessions or kick up their heels at the bush dance. Alternatively browse around the craft stalls at the Saturday farmers’ market or check out the Young Talent Showcase. Entry is $45 for the weekend, kids free. www.fleurieufolkfestival.com.au

ACT It’s a menagerie at the National Museum

Adelaide gets its just dessert There’s a new coffee and dessert café in Adelaide that lists the secret ingredients of its pastries as ‘love and passion’. Behind the divine desserts at By Blackbird in Goodwood is Chakey, an experienced pastry chef who has known since she was a child that her path in life would lead to all things freshly baked! Croissants, tea cakes, quiches, crepes, brioche and desserts with Belgian chocolate, just try and stop the kids (or yourself) from sampling Chakey’s yummy fare. Wash all the tummy treats down with a mouth-watering range of coffees, hot chocolates and French Mariages Freres teas. Delicious.

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Go animal spotting at the National Museum in Canberra when the new Menagerie: Contemporary Indigenous Animal Sculpture exhibition opens in October.

The exhibition features groundbreaking and complex indigenous sculptures depicting a variety of native Australian animals.

Kids will love identifying the various creatures and examining the multitude of materials used to craft these contemporary and sophisticated sculptures through which the artists share their cultural knowledge, expressions of identity and connections to country.

This Object Gallery and Australian Museum Touring Exhibition will be at the National Museum of Australia from October 14.

Entry is free. www.nma. gov.au

DOMESTIC TRAVEL NEWS

NT Mantra’s Darwin makeover Spring is a great time to visit Darwin and one of the city’s most desirable waterfront properties, Mantra on the Esplanade, has just unveiled its recent $3 million makeover.

Located near Darwin Harbour and the CBD, the Mantra has several accommodation options including hotel rooms and one, two and three-bedroom apartments. The new makeover includes in-room improvements – from kitchen and bathroom upgrades to new furniture, entertainment and workstations.

The property also offers 24-hour reception, 24-hour room service, outdoor pool and spa (including new pool furniture), a beauty salon, business centre, on-site tour shop and car parking. www.mantra.com.au

WA Geraldton shines It will be hard not to feel happy if you pop along to Geraldton’s annual Sunshine Festival this October.

The town, on WA’s Coral Coast is this year celebrating its 53rd festival – which is certainly something to smile about.

This mid-west port has hosted this week-long festival since 1959 and it has grown in to a true family-friendly event.

With a focus on the unique and diverse lifestyle in Geraldton the festival is a must-do family experience. www.westernaustralia.com

© Tourism Western Australia

Free fun in Freemantle Families won’t be the only ones hanging around in Fremantle this Spring.

French aerial dance company Retouramont will be making its Australian debut at Fremantle Festival, from October 28 to November 11.

As one of Australia’s longest-running festivals, this annual event is also renowned for the Children’s Fiesta in Samson Park. The day features a host of hands on activities and is a great day out for families with children. And when the sun goes down the jazz begins.

This year the Fremantle Festival joins forces with the Blessing of the Fleet to open 15 days of activities and events across the port city. The Blessing of the Fleet was first introduced to Fremantle by Italian migrant fisherman in 1948 and is a celebration of the fishing traditions, religion and the wider Fremantle community. The parade is on the opening Sunday along with the inaugural Seafood Festival and a fireworks display. www.fremantle.wa.gov.au/festivals

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SHORT CUTS Animals Have a whale of a time in Eden

Mowbray Park Farm

Meet Melbourne’s wild koala scouts © Alberto Loyo, Shutterstock.com

The NSW South Coast town of Eden has a long and colourful history of human connection with whales – killer whales to be exact! In a collaboration enshrined in Aboriginal lore, it is said killer whales would herd bigger whales into Twofold Bay and help the men kill them. Historians believe there is no comparable pact between man and these mammals anywhere in the world. The annual Eden Whale Festival celebrates the area’s rich whaling history and its current ties to these giant marine mammals. With a focus on keeping the local marine environment clean plus displays, presentations, street parades, sculpture competitions, loads of festival fun will be the order of the two-day celebrations.

November 3 to 4. www.sapphirecoast.com.au

Join an Echidna for some wild koala spotting near Melbourne.

Tour company Echidna Walkabout offers a fantastic Savannah Walkabout tour at Great Western Plains, near Melbourne. The tour is unique in Australia – the only one of its kind where wild koalas have a known life history!

Each morning, before the tour, koala researchers head out into the nearby bush to search for these wild cuddly critters. Each koala is named, photographed and GPS located. Behaviour and tree species are also noted before the tour begins enabling the wildlife guide and researcher to introduce tour participants to each koala and share their individual stories.

Savannah Walkabout tour is just one of several fascinating wildlife experiences offered by eco-tour operators Echidna Walkabout. www.echidnawalkabout.com.au

Kids go wild online

Man, you think your room’s untidy If you are under 3 then you are FREE at ‘Wow-bray Park Farm’ Come say G’day to Chloe, Chester, Scooter & friends The days are full of fun at Mowbray Park Farm, Kid’s Club, ponies, camp fires, hay rides & more Day visits, birthday parties & weekend escapes Mowbray Park 745 Barkers Lodge Rd Picton www.farmstayholidays.com.au mowbray@farmstayholidays.com.au Call us 02 46809 243 for that special holiday

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Keen to get the kids outside more?

Then log on to the NSW National Parks and Wildlife’s new Wilderquest website, one of the many great experiences NSW NPWS is launching for kids and their families.

In Wilderquest, kids are led by Ranger Sam, a friendly and adventurous hero and guide, who cares for the environment and his friends, including Pug the echidna, Bandit the bowerbird, Spot the quoll and Atticus the possum. The more kids play, the more virtual and real-world rewards they earn with great prizes including passes to National Parks days out and naturethemed gadgets including badges, magnifying glasses, stamps, puzzles and backpacks. The website is dedicated to encouraging kids and their families to spend more time outdoors, and exploring their natural environment. www.wilderquest.nsw.gov.au

ANIMAL NEWS

Award-winning Mowbray Park Farmstay is inviting visitors to “make a difference” with a great tree-planting initiative.

The farmstay, near the picturesque rural village of Picton, NSW, has launched a joint project with one of Australia’s leading independent specialists in holistic books, Phoenix Rising Books, to plant a large number of native plants on the property.

The project is aimed at preventing soil loss while also providing shelter for farm animals and creating an environment for native animals. Visitors can purchase a tree for $5 from the park to be planted and nurtured on their behalf. Each tree comes from seedlings harvested within five kilometres of Mowbray Park. Anyone who buys a tree will also receive a map of the project stage their plantings are in.

The popular park, just 90-minutes from Sydney, has been awarded the Macarthur Sustainable Business Award and recently gained T-Qual National Tourism Accreditation. www.farmstayholidays.com.au

NEW ARRIVALS © Larry Westberg , Shutterstock.com

Make a difference with Mowbray Park

they will remain in the n Dolphin mum Tinkerbell has pouch until they’re big welcomed a new baby at enough to venture out.

Queensland’s Tangalooma Island Resort. It will be n It’s tiny twins for marmoset some time before the baby’s mum Mia at Perth Zoo. sex can be determined but The little sibs are happily its siblings Tangles, Storm riding around on the back and Phoenix are sure to of mum, dad or one of their have fun with the calf soon. older siblings. Look closely and you might catch a n Australia Zoo is proud to glimpse. announce its first successful conception for its rhino n Melbourne Zoo has breeding program. Inyeti, welcomed five cute baby a 2000kg southern white meerkats – two male and rhino, is expecting. But it three female – who are now will be a long wait to greet out and about enjoying the new arrival with rhino all the attention from zoo pregnancies lasting almost visitors during feeding 16 months. times.

n Congratulations also go to Australia Zoo’s resident Tasmanian devil mums, Indie and Tasma, who recently gave birth a week apart. The number of new joeys isn’t known yet, as

n It’s a Siamang ape baby for Taronga Western Plain’s parents Puteri and Saudara! Reports are that the bub is healthy and the experienced parents are doing a wonderful job.

Make a ray of it in Sydney Drop in on a croc at Cairns Zoom A wild rooftop attraction in Cairns is giving high-fliers the chance to drop in – literally – on the local croc!

The recently-opened Cairns Wildlife Dome is a spectacular allweather wildlife exhibit enclosed by a 20-metre high glass dome on top of Cairns’ iconic Pullman Reef Hotel Casino. And the dome’s new Cairns Zoom attraction takes participants directly over an enclosure that is home to Goliath – a four-metre crocodile.

The world’s first Challenge Ropes Course in a wildlife immersion exhibit, Cairns Zoom consists of over 50 elements of crossings and ziplines (all with safety harnesses). Adventure-seekers of all ages can enjoy the exhilarating birds-eye view from the dome of the wildlife below. External and internal walkways offer a gentler experience and provide fabulous views of the dome layout. www.cairnszoom.com.au

Rare rays are on display in a new exhibit at the newly relaunched SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium. The Tropical Bay of Rays is just one amazing part of the Aquarium’s $10million refurbishment which includes an exciting new Shark Walk. A variety of ray species call the new Bay of Rays home, many of which are making their debut appearance at the attraction. It will be difficult to miss the electric blue spots of the fantail rays and the blue-spotted maskray, and with other species including the spectacular leopard sharks, whitespotted guitarfish and leopard whiprays, this new tropical oasis is a sight not to be missed. www.sydneyaquarium.com.au

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CAMPING

Happy

GLAMPERS CARLA GROSSETTI LOOKS AT THE GROWING GLOBAL PHENOMENON OF GLAMPING - KNOWN FOR BEING EQUAL PARTS NURTURE AND NATURE.

W

“

hat’s glamping?” my son Finley asks.

“Join the words glamour and camping together and you get ‘glamping’ … glamorous camping,” I explain. “Well, what does glamorous mean?” he asks. It’s easy to forgive him for not knowing the definition of glamour when his mother bunkers down in her home office each day wearing trackie-daks.

All set Although I am more familiar with the concept of glamping than my nine-year-old, it’s not until we trickle off the ferry at Cockatoo Island, smack-bang in the middle of Sydney Harbour, that I truly appreciate just how luxurious it is to arrive at a campground and not have to lift a finger.

My husband Robin – a hardcore camping enthusiast – was initially less-than-impressed when I told him I’d booked a glamping experience: “So you’re too posh to pitch now, huh?” Well, yes, quite possibly! But when I remind my other half of the time we put up the tent after dark, in the rain, mid-winter, and slept in sodden sleeping bags with a sickly three-month-old in tow, he soon warms to the idea.

“Camping, schmamping,” says my husband, as he beholds the austere beauty of our khaki canvas canopy!

Forget feigning happiness while wrestling with tent pegs, unfurling punctured airbeds and eating tinned spaghetti with Spam. Instead, think crisp linen, comfortable beds, light-as-a-cloud doonas, lanterns, sun-loungers and a pre-pitched two-man tent. This is camping, cushioned with compromise!

The pitch Yes, glamping is all about creature comforts. And no, I’m not talking about proffering perishables to possums. It’s about enjoying the great outdoors without forgoing any of life’s little luxuries.

The history of glamping dates as far back as 200AD, when the Ottomans erected lavish tents for the Sultan, replete with silk fabrics and fabulous furnishings.

According to GoGlamping.net editor Garri Rayner camping again went upscale in Africa in the early 1900s to cater to the diva-like demands of American and European travellers.

While the Cockatoo Island campground is more

minimalist than some of the more high-end lodgings dotted around Australia, it ticks all the right boxes for expounding the eco-conscious, back-to-nature principles driving the growing global glamping phenomenon.

Also referred to as luxe camping, lazy camping, posh camping or comfy camping, glamping is ideal for everyone from rank newbies to those who want to spend less time wrestling with a wayward annex and more time taking pleasure in their surrounds. It’s also a fabulous option for families like us who aren’t always in the mood to rough it.

As committed city dwellers, it’s also a real thrill to be able to escape the bustle of our busy lives after just a short 15-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay!

And, because we have no gear to unpack, no tent to erect, we have time to circumnavigate the island, which is dotted with dry docks, artfully decrepit warehouses, rust-splotched cranes and concrete towers. At dusk, the island and surrounds are bathed in buttery sepia tones and we descend on the Island Bar, to enjoy a wood-fired pizza. When the last of the day-trippers depart, we return to our tent to drink in the deep quietness of our surrounds and sit and reflect on our day.

After a game of charades, we laze away the evening watching shooting stars streak across the sky from our waterfront location. No we are not completely off-the-grid and totally away from it all. But given there are only a handful of glampers on the island, it certainly feels that way!

Sydney Ferries run regular daily public services to Cockatoo Island. www.cockatooisland.gov.au

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READERS CHOICE AWARDS

!

N I W THEBestOF

FAMILY TRAVEL

AWARDS 28

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

Visit www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au to vote for your favourites and tell us where in the world your family would most like to visit and why for you chance to win. *Please note: Terms & Conditions Apply.

CAMPING

WHERE TO GO: Glamping state by state WA ECO BEACH RESORT Campers who like their champers will love lushing it up on the front deck of an eco tent at this lush resort outside Broome, in WA. The modernist tents are built on raised wooden platforms and designed to please those who are conscious of their carbon footprint as the sites are mainly powered for lighting. There are plenty of places for the kids to burn off their ya-yas as well as great activities such as whale watching and yoga. www.ecobeach.com.au

QLD JABIRU SAFARI LODGE This child-friendly lodge is all about the locality, with plenty to do on the 2000-hectare reserve of open savannah woodlands. For most visitors, the pleasure of this remote lodge is all about the birds and being in the bush. Enjoy a sunset safari that is enhanced by the prolific birdlife at Pandanus Lagoon, with brolgas, cranes, jabirus, jacanas, black swans, pelicans, egrets and cormorants wheeling and whirling overhead. www.jabirusafarilodge.com.au

NORTHERN TERRITORY BAMURRA PLAINS This pristine property is all about being unplugged! There are no telephones, plasmas and CD players. Yes, the rooms are supremely comfortable, but the draw here is what’s going on outside your hotel room. Over-eights will love whizzing over the floodplains on an airboat, which is an exhilarating way to explore the landscape. Expect to encounter everything from wallaroos to crocodiles and water buffalos. www.bamurruplains.com

SOUTH AUSTRALIA GAWLER RANGES WILDERNESS SAFARIS What better way to give your children a different take on life than to take them to Kangaluna Camps, a pristine property located near the spectacular Gawler Ranges. A mustdo is the day trip that includes: a detour to Lake Gairdner, one of the largest salt pans in Australia plus a stop-off at the Organ Pipes, a dramatic volcanic rock formation. After take a visit to an ochre pit where a local indigenous guide will explain the local lore. In September, the grasslands near Gawler are covered in a thick carpet of wildflowers. www.gawlerrangessafaris.com

TASMANIA HUON BUSH RETREAT Inspire your children to care for the natural environment with a visit to this award-winning carbon neutral retreat. As well as offering access to the nearby network of walking tracks and hidden waterfalls, guests can go

fossicking for gemstones and spotlight nocturnal animals. Best of all is the accommodation: each dinky solar-powered teepee has an outdoor bath built for two and a cosy open fire. www.huonbushretreats.com

NSW TANDARA LUXURY ECO TENT If you want a romantic night off sans kids, zip up to the Tandara Luxury Eco Tent, which is nestled within Lane Cove National Park, just five minutes north of Sydney’s CBD. This intimate, luxurious eco-conscious accommodation is ideal for nature lovers.

The accommodation is set in a commodious, shaded space with all the mod cons: beautiful linen, a king-sized bed, cable TV, mood lighting and barbecue. The fact there’s only one tent also means you can really stretch out and enjoy the scenery. www.lcrtp.com.au/tandara-sydney PAPERBARK CAMP, JERVIS BAY The 12 safari-style tents here are built with hardwood flooring, feature solar-powered lighting and all the hotel amenities you’d expect from a five-star glamping experience.

Accommodation includes a king bed, luxurious linen, an open-air ensuite, hot showers and fluffy bathrobes. A delectable menu is also prepared each day and there are family-friendly activities on offer each day, such as bushwalking, birdwatching, spotlighting and canoeing. www.paperbarkcamp.com.au

Solar-powered Teepee at Huon Bush Retreat, Tasmania.

GLAMPING TIPS FOR BEGINNERS

1

Do your research: does the glamping ground have barbecue facilities?

Does it supply food and cooking utensils? Read the checklist and pack all essentials.

Don’t forget your sunscreen and insect repellant. There’s nothing glam about being sunburnt or covered in bites.

It’s easy being green: try and adhere to the eco-travellers’ ethos and help mitigate the negative impacts of your footprint.

Plan early: many glamping grounds sell out months in advance.

If your budget won’t stretch to include luxurious canvas lodgings, start investing in equipment that will help you go wild with a bit of style.

2

3 4 5

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Come and play in our backyard!

There’s a whole lot more to Bathurst than you think!

Get your free school holiday booklet full of great family activities Bathurst Visitor Information Centre

Freecall 1800 68 1000 or log on to visitbathurst.com.au 34

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SHORT CUTSCamping Instant Up The convenient and easy-to-use Coleman Instant Up 4P tent (referred to by some as the ultimate “anti-divorce tent”) has no loose frame poles - they come preattached - and is designed to be fully erected in under two minutes. The innovative tent has a fully seam-sealed fly with large front awning and a spacious interior, three large windows for ventilation and is ideal for a stress-free outdoor family holiday experience. www.colemanaustralia.com.au RRP$299.99

Dogs welcome in Eden Instead of spending extra dollars on a dog-sitter while you’re away on holiday, take your four-legged friend with you. BIG4 Eden Gateway Holiday Park – the newest addition to BIG 4 Holiday Parks’ 180-strong network of parks – is dog-friendly and also has heaps for kids and adults too. Located on the picturesque NSW Sapphire Coast this park is nestled near the rugged beauty of Twofold Bay’s golden sandy beaches and a short trip into the town centre. Facilities range from stylish cabins and luxury spa villas to grassy powered sites. www.BIG4.com.au

Camp and Care Join thousands of happy campers for charity this November as part of the annual Camp and Care with BIG4. Pay just $20 at a participating BIG4 Holiday Park and enjoy a fun-filled night under the stars with family and friends, with all proceeds going to local community causes chosen by each BIG4 Holiday Park. The event on November 16 gives people the chance to help local communities and take part in the classic Aussie tradition of camping. Many parks will be hosting additional activities over the weekend in celebration of the event including pancake breakfasts, face painting and barbecues.

BIG4 Holiday Parks are located at 180 of the most popular tourism destinations across the country in a variety of different settings including wineries, bushland and beaches. www.BIG4.com.au

Family focused fun

Come and enjoy family focused fun at our award winning holiday parks, situated across Australia’s East Coast. Check out what we have planned over the coming months:

Family Focus – OCT

Enjoy our month long family orientated activities program and reconnect with your loved ones.

Grow and Get Green – NOV

Get involved in our green thumbs program and learn how to care for the environment.

Visit our website and click on your favourite park for full details on the above activities.

Fun for th

e kids En joy the outdoors

Modern accommodation

book today on 1300 414 448 www.nrmaholidayparks.com.au

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gold country

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WISH YOU WERE HERE

N

o trip to Bathurst is complete without doing a lap of Mount Panorama and visiting the Australian Fossil & Mineral Museum to see T-rex but there’s so much more to Australia’s oldest inland settlement than history and motor racing. One of the region’s prettiest cities, it’s also the perfect place to get away from the rat race, enjoy memorable sights that you’ll only ever see in the country, and let the kids run around in the fresh country air.

Start off with a visit to The Adventure Playground, one of the best in the state, where dinosaur trails weave around the slides and swings, flying fox, climbing frame and sandpit. It’s also an ideal spot to meet up with family or friends to enjoy a picnic under the trees or use

the free electric barbecues and picnic tables.

Closer to the city centre there are bike and walking trails around the river, Machattie Park where hungry ducks are just waiting to be fed and, best of all, a great ice cream parlour that sells cones full of the best ice cream in the central west.

The rush may be over but Bathurst is still solid gold for families.

GETTING THERE: Just three hours west of Sydney by car, bus or train.

There are also daily flights to and from Bathurst airport from Sydney and car hire is easily available at the airport.

MORE INFORMATION: www.visitbathurst.com.au

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Roadtrippin’ OUR FAMILY NEVER NEEDS AN EXCUSE FOR A ROADTRIP, BUT THE CALL OF THE NSW CENTRAL COAST AND A BRAND NEW BMW 520I TO TEST DRIVE GETS US PACKING OUR BAGS IN RECORD TIME. WORDS: ALENEY DE WINTER

I

’ve always loved a roadtrip. I remember dad packing our old Kingswood full to overflowing and my brother and I being dragged begrudgingly out of bed still clad in our PJ’s to the car where we snooze until sunrise, only to awake and discover we were on the road to new adventures. It’s a long way from the family Kingswood to a sleek new BMW 520i and luckily for my kids sleep routine, we’ve planned an afternoon start. We’re all excited at the opportunity for a weekend road trip to the sensational NSW Central Coast to test drive this BMW beauty.

Hitting the highway It’s love at first sight as we meet our car. The exterior is all understated elegance and the interior, with its cream leather and oodles of space feels open and light, a joy for a family used to squeezing into a small car. Fitting our child seats is a breeze and the enormous boot is laughably empty even after we fill it with luggage and the usual kiddie accoutrements like cot and pram. This is going to be fun. Well it would be if we could get moving.

Having never driven a keyless car before neither my husband nor I can work out how to start it! After a few shame-faced enquiries, she revs to life and we hit the road for our weekend of fun. It’s a big car with a relatively small 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine so we don’t expect it to pack as much punch as it does but it’s grunty and beautiful to drive. It’s also extremely economical for such a big car, using a claimed 6.4l/100km (we’re surprised by how full the tank still is when we hand it back).

The ride is smooth and so quiet we wonder if the engine is actually on, though this blissful silence is soon rendered useless as the kids start yabbering at Olympic pace. “Mum, why is there a hole in the

roof?” asks Raff who, enamoured by the sunroof, starts outlining our parental failings for not having one in our car at home. But the smooth ride soon sends them both into a peaceful sleep, something neither usually does in our family car. Yes! “Are we there yet?” calls a groggy voice from the back as we pull into the beautiful Crowne Plaza Terrigal, about 90-minutes north from Sydney, and our luxurious digs for the weekend. Keen to sleep in his beloved BMW, we convince Raff to check out the hotel first and fortunately our spacious suite and its lovely view of tree lined Terrigal beach gets his nod of approval.

After making ourselves comfortable and the all important (well, to a four year old) selection of beds, we enjoy a fabulous dinner at the hotel’s elegant Seasalt Restaurant before it’s time for little people to hit the hay with the promise of plenty of adventure to come.

Totally Wild After an extraordinary buffet breakfast we head to the Central Coast’s wonderful Australian Reptile Park and Wildlife Sanctuary.

Finding our way proves easy with the car’s in-vehicle GPS system, though Raff is curious to know why the car keeps talking to us. On arrival my very spoiled son gets treated to the zoo’s Mini Kids to Keeper program (for kids three to six). It’s a festival of animal love for Raff as he holds and pets a variety of lovely lizards, plays with a star tortoise, chats-up some emus, koalas and kangaroos, makes tasty treats for the native parrots and even steals a kiss from a tawny frogmouth before feeding it some crunchy bugs. Only an hour from Sydney, this place will definitely be added to our frequent fundays list.

An afternoon of leisurely cruising and we find ourseves at The Entrance, a trip down memory lane for me, as I virtually grew up here. We catch up with friends at the unusual but upbeat Central Coast Ukulele Festival on the idyllic waterfront. Listening to hundreds of ukuleles jamming is certainly an unexpected way to while away the hours but exactly the kind of quirky discovery that makes a road trip so much fun.

Markets and more Sunday comes and we’re off to the sprawling Avoca Beachside Markets, the most charming market I’ve stumbled across in an age with its creative bohemian vibe. Raff is drawn to the ‘enchanted craft circle’ before he and his dad head off on a pedal-boat ride with Aquafun at Avoca Beach, which I’m assured afterwards “was totally cool”. Meanwhile baby Marlo and I nestle on a pile of cushions under the trees and chill out with chai latte and fresh fruit sticks as we’re entertained by local musicians.

We head back to the lovely Crowne Plaza Terrigal for a last delicious lunch of juicy burgers at the Florida Beach Bar before packing the BMW to cruise back home in style and give her back, if we really have to.

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DRIVE

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35

SHORT CUTSDrive Ford ’s men get ‘pregnant’

A new arrival for to the Prius family Whether ferrying the kids to school or heading off on an interstate road trip if you’ve got a large brood the challenge is fitting the whole crew in one vehicle.

Enter the new addition to the Toyota Prius family – the sevenseater Prius v. The ‘v’ stands for versatility, which is a fair enough call. The Prius v is the first car in Australia to offer the flexibility of seven seats combined with a hybrid powertrain.

The Prius v, which joins the Prius c and flagship Prius hatch, is longer, wider and taller than the standard Prius, and can fit three adults in all three rows.

Even with seven passengers on board, the Prius v provides 180 litres of cargo space. Stowing the third row of seats provides a flat luggage floor with a capacity of 485 litres.

Advanced features include a 6.1-inch display-screen audio system, automatic air-conditioning, 16-inch alloy wheels, energy monitor, head-up display, keyless entry and ignition. Prius v will be priced from $35,990. www.toyota.com.au

WIN

A Navman MY300LMT This latest offering from Navman is packed with loads of features to keep you and your family safe on the roads.

Navman was the first to offer free live traffic in its devices and the SUNA traffic feature is now even better with more frequent updates. The Navman MY300LMT also comes with free lifetime maps so you get the most current maps (up to four a year) absolutely free. Other features include a 5” screen, spoken warnings for speed, red light and combined safety cameras, as well as spoken timed alerts for school zones and driver fatigue warnings, which can even offer suggestions of where to stop. Plus new Landmark Guidance makes navigation simpler by providing spoken directions using identifiable visual cues.

Out & About With Kids has TWO Navman MY300LMT’s to give away, each valued at $249.00. For your chance to win visit www.outandbaoutwithkids.com.au

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If you were asked to don a heavy suit containing lead weights, a pouch with two litres of water and another weighted pouch that applied pressure to your bladder before attempting to squeeze into a car and drive it – would you?

Any woman who has been heavily pregnant will know the feeling well, but until the creation of prosthetic ‘pregnancy suits’, it was not a feeling many men could relate to.

But now car designers at Ford are getting in touch with their pregnant feminine side, thanks to new Pregnancy Suit technology. The company’s ergonomic engineers are getting suited up with the ‘empathy belly’ to test, first-hand, how pregnancy affects the driver experience.

An amusing image to be sure – but the seriousness of Ford’s undertaking is part of an overall strategy to tweak vehicle design not only for the comfort of pregnant drivers but, most importantly, for their safety and that of their unborn child.

The Pregnancy Suit technology includes simulation of advanced pregnancy shape with lead weights, a ‘belly’ containing two litres of water and even a weighted pouch on the underside of the belly that mimics the foetal head resting and applying pressure on the bladder.

Ford’s engineers have been able to more accurately experience, and assess, the problems expectant mums face when driving a vehicle, including awkwardness in body movements, postural changes, shifts in centre of gravity and limitations in reach.

What this all means, for pregnant women, is Ford motor vehicle design initiatives that incorporate elements of comfort, accessibility and safety specific to expectant mums. Kudos Ford!

As yet, Ford Australia has not produced the Pregnancy Suit for general resale. So while sadly, you can’t buy purchase the empathy belly for your man to test-drive, you can, happily, make him watch the Ford video. www.youtube.com/watch?v=pp_FkS5lzqM

Protect your child

Use an Authorised Restraint Fitting Station A correctly fitted and approved child restraint provides maximum protection for your child in a crash. Use an Authorised Restraint Fitting Station to ensure your child is properly secured. Research shows children whose parents used an Authorised Restraint Fitting Station are twice as likely to be correctly restrained than other children*.

National child restraint laws mean all children up to seven years of age must be correctly restrained in the right restraint for their age and size.

Fines and demerit points apply.

To find your nearest fitting station visit www.rms.nsw.gov.au or call 13 22 13. For more information on the safest child restraints visit www.crep.com.au * ‘Incorrect child restraint use is reduced among restraint fitting station users’ Brown J, Finch C.F, Hatfield J, Bilston L.E. Neuroscience Research Australia and University of New South Wales.

Sydney

by Kids

FOR THE REAL STORY ON FAMILY FUN IN SYDNEY OUT & ABOUT WITH KIDS HEADS STRAIGHT TO THE SOURCE AND TALKS TO SYDNEY KIDS FOR THE INSIDE SCOOP ON WHERE, HOW AND WHAT VISITORS SHOULD SEE AND DO IN SYDNEY.

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SYDNEY

City slicker TOBY HUNTER - 7 Toby loves weekends playing in the city with his family and friends.

Great Outdoors: Darling Quarter has a huge playground (in Darling Harbour) with water and slides and climbing frames. I like climbing and the really big slide but my little brother Joshy just likes splashing in the fountains because he is still little.

Great indoors: The Australian National Maritime Museum at Darling Harbour is my favourite, I like climbing on the submarine.

Sydney Aquarium is also really amazing – the sharks are so cool.

Getting about: We like catching the ferry on Sunday because they have special family deals that mum and dad say are great value. It’s cool to sit outside and watch the boats go by on the harbour.

Parklife: Sydney Park in St Peters, near Newtown, is the best. There are giant slides and bridges and I can ride my scooter around the track. We like to picnic by the lake and watch the ducks.

A taste of Sydney: We love Yum Cha at Chinatown. Spring rolls are my favourite and Joshy likes the dumplings but my mum and dad always eat weird stuff.

Toby’s top tip: Go camping at Cockatoo Island, there are giant cranes and old machines to explore and climb all over and camping is really fun.

Sydney Explorer

Aerial of Cockatoo Island and Spectacle Island, Sydney Harbour\ Credit: Hamilton Lund; Destination NSW

MIKAYLA SIMMONDS - 5 Intrepid junior explorer Mikayla loves family adventures in the city.

Great Outdoors: Going to the islands in the harbour is the best fun. Some, like Cockatoo Island, have old cranes and some, like Shark Island, are just grassy. One is called Fort Denison and it’s like a floating castle. I think bad guys live there though. I love going to Bondi Beach and playing in the sand. Daddy takes me in the water and I ride on his back like a seahorse.

Great indoors: The Australian Museum is my favourite because they have giant dinosaurs there which I’m not even scared of.

Getting about: I like to ride on the trains and ferries but my dad likes to drive the car.

He’s boring!

Parklife: Blaxland Riverside Park at Newington Armory is the best. It is in Homebush and there are swings, slides, climbing walls, tunnels and a flying fox and climbing nets.

A taste of Sydney: I like to go to Sydney Fish Market with my daddy and eat fish and chips and calamari and chase the giant pelicans.

Mikayla’s top tip for visitors: Kids should go exploring. There are lots of adventures you can go on in the city and they are lots of fun.

Blue skies, big city SAVANNAH HINCH – 10 Savannah loves the big city buzz and blue skies of Sydney Great Outdoors: I love the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb – it takes a long time, three and a half hours but it is really exciting and the view is amazing. I like Sava nn ah loves th e Sydney all of Sydney’s Ha rb ou r Br idge Cl im b beaches too, Balmoral is my favourite and Palm Beach is really nice too for a big day out.

Great indoors: The most fun is Strike Laser Skirmish at the Entertainment Quarter in Moore Park! It’s so good. And there are also movie theatres, bowling, markets and loads of really nice shops.

Getting about: I really like the monorail, it’s a great way to see the city and how beautiful it is and I’m sad that they are going to close it.

Parklife: My favourite park is Blenheim Park in Lane Cove because there is a big flying fox and I can take my dog. They have a fenced dog park. It is like the movie Hotel For Dogs, there are always so many different kinds of dogs there.

A taste of Sydney: I like eating at the Garlic Teppanyaki House in Neutral Bay. Savannah’s top tip: I think every kid needs to spend the day at Balmoral Beach. You can swim, jump off the jetty, explore the rock pools and eat yummy fish and chips and ice cream.

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Wild about Sydney XAVIER CARDOZO - 6 Brothers Xavier and Jude, 4, love to go wild in Sydney.

Great Outdoors: Sailing on the harbour is lots of fun. We went on a pirate cruise which sailed under the Harbour Bridge a n d ch ip s sh fi s e v X av ie r lo sh M a rk e t (awesome!). at th e Fi Great indoors: The Powerhouse Museum has loads of cool stuff like old cars, planes, trains and a space shuttle you can go inside. Last time we sent a letter to our grandparents in England using Morse Code. Wild Life (formerly Australian Wildlife World) at Darling Harbour is also cool – there’s a crocodile called Rex, poisonous snakes and giant rhinoceros beetles you can touch.

Getting about: We love catching the ferry, but mum and dad also make us walk lots! We also like taking the tram from Central Station to Chinatown and the Powerhouse Museum.

Parklife: We like looking for bats in the Royal Botanic Gardens near the Opera House – you can even hop on a little train to take you around.

A taste of Sydney: I love fish and chips, so the Fish Market is great and Ventuno pizzeria at Walsh Bay has the best pizza.

Xavier’s top tip: Go to the Sydney Observatory for a night telescope viewing. Even if it’s cloudy you can see the stars in the beanbag planetarium!

ONLY

$371*

PER PACKAGE, PER NIGHT

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SYDNEY

Thrill seeker JEREMY GOULD – 10 Luna Park-lover Jeremy enjoys thrills and spills in Sydney.

Great Outdoors: Sydney Harbour is really beautiful and I love to explore it by water, especially by jet boat. My favourite place to spend the day is Luna Park at Milson Point where there are heaps of cool rides. I like the Moon Ranger which turns you upside down – it’s really scary. The Sydney Tower Eye Skywalk is awesome too – you can see the city through the glass floor under your feet which is way cool.

Great indoors: I really love ice skating at Macquarie Ice Rink in North Ryde.

Getting about: I like to walk around because you can see so much more that way.

Parklife: There is so much to do at Bicentennial Park in Homebush. I like it because I can ride my bike there on the bike tracks.

A taste of Sydney: My favourite place to eat is in Darling Harbour because there are so many great places to choose from. My favourite is sushi which you can eat right next to the new playground which is pretty cool.

Jeremy’s top tip: I think everyone should visit

Luna Park and then walk across the Harbour Bridge to the Rocks for the weekend markets.

Water world LEIA PATERSON - 9 Le ia en joys ex plo ring Fo rt Beach baby Leia loves all things wet De ni so n and wonderful in Sydney Great Outdoors: There are lots of things to do on the harbour. There are heaps of islands to visit and different boats. I would like to go on a jet boat next. Ryde Swimming Pool is really good because there are slides and a wave pool.

Great indoors: Manly Sea Life Sanctuary is my favourite place to see lots of sea animals.

Getting about: I like to catch a Sydney Ferry.

It’s the best way to see the harbour sights and get out on the water.

Parklife: Blenheim Park in Lane Cove is excellent because there is a flying fox and lots From left: of other play equipment for all ages.

Luna Park, North Sydney.

A taste of Sydney: I really like to go to a cafe Credit: Ben Townsend; Destination NSW for breakfast on Saturday mornings with my Exhibits at the Australian Museum parents. in Sydney. Credit: Grenville Turner; Leia’s top tip: Spend a day on the harbour Destination NSW. the last place I visited was Fort Denison and I Nautical relics on Cockatoo Island. really liked exploring it.

Credit: Hamilton Lund; Destination NSW

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You love it, the kids will Country Comfort Terrigal offers accommodation in Family Loft Rooms – loft style living offering 2 levels, with the main bedroom and private bathroom upstairs featuring a queen bed, single bed. Downstairs offers a living area and 2nd toilet and vanity and second queen bed, tennis and swimming pool for the kids

Brisbane

Gold Coast Tweed Heads

Byron Bay Nimbin Kyogle Lennox Head Lismore Ballina

Legendary experences that will become legendary memories.

Country Comfort Terrigal 154 Terrigal Drive Terrigal 02 4384 1166 countrycomforthotels. com/terrigal

Evans Head

Illuka Yamba

No wonder it’s Australias top tourist drive

Maclean Grafton

Situated on a stunning beachfront just 1.5 hours drive from Sydney, we offer the ultimate family getaway. There’s a great range of modern accommodation as well as caravan, RV and camping sites.

You’ll love our fantastic activities and facilities including; jumping pillows, playground, go karts, café, resort pool and more!

Wooli

Woolgoolga Coffs Harbour

Bellingen Nambucca

South West Rocks Kempsey

Sydney Avenue Umina Beach NSW 1800 611 522 oceanbeachholidaypark. com.au

Crescent Head

Wauchope

Port Macquarie

Harrington

Taree Nabiac

Lake Macquarie

Call us for your free Lake Macquarie Visitor Guide and map.

The ‘Best Play Space in Australia’ is located in Lake Macquarie, along with a lake twice the size of Sydney Harbour, 4 patrolled familyfriendly beaches, forests, mountains and much more.

Norah Head The Entrance

For hot accommodation deals, book online now

Gloucester

Forster / Tuncurry Pacific Palms

Bulahdelah

Seal Rocks Tea Gardens / Hawks Nest

Port Stephens

Hunter Valley

Terrigal & Avoca Beach Ettalong Sydney

Newcastle

visitlakemac.com.au Call 1800 802 044

love it too!

The secret is out!!

Bringing the kids along for a relaxed and fun filled holiday has never been so easy! At Lake Macquarie Holiday Parks, the tennis and basketball courts, resort style pools, playgrounds and recreation rooms are sure to keep them busy! Mention this ad and kids stay free!

(Conditions apply) Call 1800626438 lakemacholidayparks. com.au

Voted as a top 10 city in the world in the Lonely Planet Travel List, vibrant Newcastle continues to delight visitors.

Offering magnificent beaches, harbour, diverse dining, cultural and entertainment options. Only 2 hours from Sydney, Newcastle is a popular holiday destination for everyone.

See change in Newcastle. visitnewcastle.com.au

Less than 3 hours from Sydney are The Great Lakes. The great dividing range is the backdrop to 145 kms of stunning coastline and a glittering mosaic of crystal clear inland waterways based around the impressive Wallis, Smiths and Myall Lakes. The Great Lakes has all you will need to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Set in natural bushland and surrounded by two calm water beaches, Halifax is the ideal choice to have it all at your fingertips. This 4 star park is 15 minutes stroll to the centre of Nelson Bay with cafes, shops & restaurants and is a perfect choice for families.

Halifax Holiday Park Beach Road Little Beach Nelson Bay NSW 2315 FREECALL 1800 600 201 beachsideholidays.com.au

Great Lakes Tourism 1800 802 692 greatlakes.org.au

Macquarie Waters is an award winning 4.5 star boutique apartment complex located in the CBD of Port Macquarie featuring hotel rooms, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom self contained apartments.

The apartment complex includes heated pool and spa, guest roof deck, unique dive-in theatre, free wireless internet and free secure undercover parking.

11 Clarence Street Port Macquarie 02 6584 5755 info@mwaters.com.au mwaters.com.au

Travelling with your family doesn’t have to cost a fortune explore The Legendary Pacific Coast with YHA hostels. Choose from 15 fantastic properties in beach and bush locations, from the dunes of Port Stephens and action-packed Coffs Coast, to Byron and beyond. Save with YHA discounts.

Book online yha.com.au

Macleay Valley Coastal Holiday Parks is a family run business and dedicated to the spirit of a relaxing beachside holiday. We believe holidays should be about celebrating the great outdoors, making new friends around the barbie, cricket on the beach and nights spent under the stars. Take a step back and remember what’s important.

Located at 5 locations along the Mid North Coast of NSW, we have something for everyone.

Create New Family Memories Here The Nambucca Valley is a special place offering fantastic value & quality holiday experiences. Remember your childhood holidays enjoying safe beaches, clean waterways and friendly locals? It’s all still here & you’ll love it! Take a river cruise, hire kayaks, go fishing or learn to surf and water ski.

Nambucca Valley Visitor Information Centre Toll free: 1800 646587 nambuccatourism.com.au

1300 262 782 mvcholidayparks.com.au

Coffs Coast is Australia’s magical adventure playground.

Swim with the dolphins, say hello to majestic humpback whales, jump on board for a camel ride or walk in rainforests where dinosaurs roamed.

There are over 101 things to see and do on Coffs Coast - it’s where memories are made.

For a great family holiday deal freecall 1300 COFFS COAST. facebook.com/ coffscoast. coffscoast.com

Dolphin Marine Magic engages visitors with our animals in an extremely ‘up close and personal’ manner.

Be kissed by both a dolphin and seal for FREE allowing guests to be touched by magic!

Home to dozens of animals, more notably the Indo-Pacific Bottlenose Dolphins, seals, a flock of Little Penguins, Green Sea Turtles, fresh water turtles and a variety of endemic fish species.

65 Orlando St Coffs Harbour 02 6659 1900 dolphinmarinemagic.com.au

Get close to nature at the Coffs Harbour Butterfly House as you walk amongst hundreds of beautiful Australian butterflies in their temperature controlled environment.

Explore the maze within a maze or fill up on some delicious homemade treats. It’s a kaleidoscope of colour and nature for all the family to enjoy.

The State Forests of NSW offer unlimited opportunities to explore, discover & enjoy the natural forest environment. With picnic & camping areas, walking trails & lookouts that are free-to-use, why not visit your local State Forest? Experience your local forest playground today! You can share your experience on facebook

5 Strouds Rd Bonville NSW 02 6653 4766 butterflyhouse.com.au

facebook.com/ forestplayground. forests.nsw.gov.au

Summerland House Farm is a beautiful macadamia and avocado farm and MUST-SEE attraction.

Stay 7 nights and pay for 6 in a 2 bedroom deluxe suite and get a Free Kids Fun Combo Pass worth $209.95! Includes daily buffet breakfast for 2 adults and 2 children (3-13yrs), entry into Infinity, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and a Super Duck tour

Taste the region’s award winning produce.

Browse the quality nursery, museum and Gift Shop, test your skills in the interactive mini golf, while kids play in the water park and relax in the peaceful surrounds. New tractor tour starts September 2012. Open 7 days 9am-4pm.

Valid 1 Sept – 30 Nov and travel till 22 Dec 2012 for $1899 (Conditions apply) 3018 Surfers Paradise Blvd Surfers Paradise 07 5579 6500

253 Wardell Rd Alstonville 02 6628 0610 summerlandhouse.com.au

wyndhamsurfersparadise. com.au

With its combination of family-friendly beaches, calm clear inlets and World Heritage rainforests, the Tweed region is tailor made for creating family holiday memories that will last a lifetime. Enjoy a day at the beach teaching the kids to surf, hire a tinnie to go fishing in the river, or head off on a bushwalk in a magical rainforest.

Free Call 1800 674 414 tweedtourism.com.au facebook.com/ destinationtweed tourism@destinationtweed. com.au

Special offer!

Kids play free cws.org.au/oabwk Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary has amazing Australian wildlife, Aboriginal performances, World-class wildlife presentations, Green Challenge Adventure Parc, play at Wild Island playground or hold a koala or a crocodile, feed a kangaroo there is so much to see and do, a must for the whole family!

Cnr Gold Coast Hwy & Tomewin St, Currumbin, Gold Coast.

1300 886 511

Download the iPhone app

pacificcoast.com.au

MID NORTH COAST

MIDNORTH COAST

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MAGIC

SPRING 2012 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

ETCHED IN CHILDHOOD MEMORIES, THE COASTAL PLAYGROUND NORTH OF SYDNEY KNOWN AS THE MID-NORTH COAST STRETCHES FROM PORT STEPHENS TO PORT MACQUARIE AND COFFS HARBOUR. WITH 25 NATIONAL PARKS AND RESERVES, KILOMETRES OF UNSPOILED COASTLINE, HIDDEN HINTERLAND PLUS STUNNING LAKES AND WATERWAYS IT’S EASY TO SEE WHY THIS STRETCH OF COAST HAS BEEN THE GO-TO ANNUAL FAMILY HOLIDAY DESTINATION FOR GENERATIONS.

PORT STEPHENS The gateway to the Mid North Coast, Port Stephens is synonymous with dolphins and blissful bayside beauty – plus excellent activities both on and off the water.

Whether arriving from the north or south that first glimpse of beautiful beaches and crystal blue waters as you arrive is the signal that your holiday has begun.

NATURAL SELECTION The dolphin capital of Australia, Port Stephens is home to more than 150 bottlenose dolphins, and from May to November is a great place to spot humpback whales on their annual migration. There are several tour operators offering excellent dolphin and whale watching trips as well as evening cruises and, for a truly unforgettable experience for all ages, swimming with dolphins!

Take a guided koala-spotting walk in the Tilligerry Habitat State Reserve in Tanilba or younger families might prefer to head to Oakvale Farm and Fauna World for some up-close animal encounters of the gentle kind.

Tomaree National Park is home to around 230 bird species and the climb to Tomaree Head reveals sensational views from Newcastle to Seal Rocks. At the Australian Shark and Ray Centre you can experience the thrill of hand-feeding these mighty marine creatures!

Port Stephens © Hamilton Lund; Destination NSW

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MID NORTH COAST

From left: Boy on skimboard, Port Stephens. ©Hamilton Lund; Destination NSW Cruises, Port Stephens. ©James Pipino; Destination NSW

Readers Story

BY DAVID WILLIAMS

ACTION STATIONS Whether its diving, swimming, surfing, boating or fishing that floats your boat, there are loads of ways to get wet in Port Stephens. The 98,000-hectare Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park provides a variety of watersport activities and some of the best snorkelling and diving in the bay can be found at the Halifax Sanctuary.

Just south of Port Stephens Stockton Bight Sand Dunes is the largest coastal sand dune system in Australia at 32 kilometres long. Here you can enjoy sand-boarding and quad-biking – or perhaps a camel ride or horse ride through the dunes. For more on-shore thrills, there’s also the toboggan run at Toboggan Hill Park at Nelson Bay.

LOCAL HEROES Shoal Bay is a quaint seaside spot where the atmosphere is relaxed and casual. It’s a tradition here for returning families to stroll along the beachside shops and cafes and grab fish and chips to share!

At Nelson Bay marina the fresh catch of the day can be seen arriving straight off the fishing boats.

The marina is dotted with cafes and family-friendly restaurants where, naturally, the delicious local seafood is always on the menu. Nearby fun parks, wineries, historic houses and museums provide a range of options for family fun. Highlights include Fighter World at the RAAF base in Williamtown and Dizzyland Event Park and Family Amusement Centre.

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Port Stephens has pride of place in our treasure trove of family holiday memories. I have taken my girls there a number of times and have always loved it.

Our most recent visit was shared with the in-laws and cousins; four girls in a four-year spread who all adore each other and have a shared appreciation for beautiful beaches and great bush walks. This trip we spent time finding the perfect holiday rental home – somewhere that was big enough for all, a short walk to the beach and into town and with water views. The place also had a great outdoor barbecue area and rumpus room – perfect for evening meals and games of charades.

Our holiday was fantastic. Every day started with a morning walk into town for a coffee. We saw dolphins every day, even when we were in the water on our hired kayaks - a magical moment. We also hired a runabout for a day’s fishing and boating.

We also spent an exhilarating day four-wheel driving along the beach before a riotous afternoon of

running up and rolling down the sand dunes of Stockton Bight near Anna Bay. We all quickly gave up on the cardboard boxes we brought and instead ended up bare body rolling down the gorgeous golden sand until were all exhausted and totally covered in fine grains. It took days to get all the sand out!

Other highlights were watching the pelicans crowd around the fishermen at dusk as they eyed up the men cleaning their catch, and horse riding through pristine bush. We also thoroughly enjoyed a whale-watching cruise. Seeing these splendid creatures splash around on their annual migration was another magical moment and if you are in The Bay when it’s whale-watching season, be sure to book a spot on a tours.

Go Port Stephens, thank you for the memories. We’ll all be back soon.

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MID NORTH COAST

Readers Story

BY LEAH SMILES My husband’s fondest holiday memories (pre-me and the kids!) were of his trips to Port Macquarie with his parents and sister. So it was only fitting that one of our earliest family adventures should be to this fabulous spot.

One of the highlights of our holiday was an early morning whale-watching expedition that we took on our first day as it not only put a cross through an item on my bucket list, but was my kidlets first time on a boat. My two and half year old daughter loved the ride and we both had a wonderful time spotting the mother and calf that were travelling along the coast. My husband and son, however, didn’t quite find their sea legs on this voyage.

To re-affirm that boats are fun, we took a late-afternoon junk boat ride along the river. Both children were able to have a go at the wheel; afternoon munchies were enjoyed on the large cushioned seating, and we were able to enjoy the local sights from the water.

We also headed to the authentic heritage township of Timbertown where we enjoyed a bevy of activities throughout the day - from the blacksmith through to a real bullock driver and team and live bush music.

Ricardoes Tomatoes was next! Rather than tomatoes we decided to check out the strawberries. Yum! With buckets at the ready we filled them to the brim. We even managed to squeeze in a visit to the Billabong Koala and Wildlife Park.

With so much to do and with the option of taking it at any which pace you wish, Port Macquarie has definitely become one of our favourite holiday destinations.

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GREATER PORT MACQUARIE Greater Port Macquarie is an idyllic holiday haven on the Pacific Ocean with golden beaches, rainforests and a rich Aboriginal heritage and convict history. Families return again and again to experience the diverse landscape and the plentiful award-winning holiday experiences the area offers.

NATURAL SELECTION Greater Port Macquarie has 18 different beaches, of which six are patrolled; eight are dog-friendly and almost all suitable for swimming and surfing. Flynn’s Beach and Lake Cathie are particularly popular for kids. View the area’s dramatic coastline on the Coastal Walk, an eight-kilometre walkway running

from Port Macquarie’s Town Green to Lighthouse Beach.

Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, located at Shelley Beach, boasts an elevated rainforest boardwalk that is pram and stroller friendly and don’t miss the guided bush tucker tours through the rainforest to learn about traditional Aboriginal uses of herbs and spices. The world-renowned Billabong Koala and Wildlife Park is home to a variety of Australian and exotic animals and birds, a renowned koala-breeding centre. Fans of the fluffy critters can also visit Port Macquarie’s Koala Hospital – the only one in NSW. The park’s Reptopia section also has some of the most venomous snakes in the world!

ACTION STATIONS If you’d prefer to feel the sensation of skydiving without jumping out of a plane, then enter the vertical

wind tunnel at Extreme Velocity. Enjoy an action-packed game of paintball at Skirmish Down Under in natural bushland.

Learn to surf with Port Macquarie Surf School, take a kayak tour or take a jetboat ride on Wild Thing. For a less heartstopping day on the water, why not cruise on an old style Chinese junk or a stateof-the-art catamaran with Port Venture Junk Cruises.

COFFS COAST

LOCAL HEROES

If you want to be kissed by a seal there’s no better place to visit than the Pet Porpoise Pool. In this unique marine park kids over five can get into the water with a dolphin and learn about these magnificent animals, meet the dolphins and even get a smooch from the friendly seals.

Get up close and intimate with very different creatures at the amazing Butterfly House, Maze and Tearooms where hundreds of beautiful butterflies reside. With your colour identification chart you’ll have loads of fun

Step back in time at Timbertown Wauchope, where you can experience the life of early settlers and ride the steam train. Set amongst acres of natural forest, Timbertown is an entire village recreated to demonstrate the struggles and achievements of our pioneering ancestors. For something a little more left of field why not ride a ship of the desert along lovely Lighthouse Beach with Port Macquarie Camel Safaris and their experienced cameleers.

The iconic Big Banana may beckon families to Coffs Harbour but it’s the friendliness and attractions of this beautiful beachside city that keeps them coming back. With a wealth of attractions, uncrowded beaches and a vibrant heart, this laid-back destination lures kids and parents alike.

NATURAL SELECTION

From left:

Port Macquarie Koala Hospital. © The Legendary Pacific Coast

Surfers, Port Macquarie. © Greater Port Macquaire Tourism

Kayaks, Queens Lake © Greater Port Macquarie Tourism

Boambee beach, Sawtell. © Grahame McConnell; Destination NSW

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MID NORTH COAST

Readers Story

BY SALLY HARVEY My family had always planned on taking a family holiday in Coffs Harbour, so when friends moved there, we offered to drive their second car up for them (our ulterior motive no great secret)!

We packed our daughters - aged nine weeks, two and five - into the car and drove from Wodonga on the NSW-Victorian border and after 19 hours in the car, arrived at Coffs Coast.

We were immediately impressed by the relaxed atmosphere. It wasn’t overly touristy either, in fact it felt like a bustling regional city, with the huge drawcard of some of the most picturesque beaches and coastal landscapes on the east coast.

Our accommodation was a few sandy steps from the main beach where we spent most of our time enjoying the perfect beach weather.

Tearing ourselves away from the beach, we enjoyed a fun-filled day at the Pet Porpoise Pool where guests can touch the dolphins’ and seals’ leathery skin, much to the squeaking delight of my two eldest daughters! The Big Banana was also loads of fun, and we checked out the shopping centre, which has a wide

range of shops to browse through. There were also heaps of inviting cafes, eateries, and restaurants to choose from and we spent many meal times eating fresh seafood and enjoying the other local produce the area boasts.

If you’re after a cruisy atmosphere surrounded by beautiful scenery, amazing wildlife and culinary treats that are great for the whole family, a family holiday on the Coffs Coast delivers on all counts. And to our lucky friends who call Coffs home (insert their deservingly boastful snigger here) we can’t wait to bring our newest addition, our 10-month-old son, with us next time we visit!

Other highlights were watching the pelicans crowd around the fishermen at dusk as they eyed up the men cleaning their catch, and horse riding through pristine bush. We also thoroughly enjoyed a whale-watching cruise. Seeing these splendid creatures splash around on their annual migration was another magical moment and if you are in The Bay when it’s whale-watching season, be sure to book a spot on a tours.

Park Beach Holiday Park

www.coffsholidays.com.au Reservations: 1800 200 555

S GO

KID

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Free Free Stay for Kids Stay for Kids Free BBQ’s & Tennis Court Hire Resort Pool & Jumping Pillow Modern Villas Large Camping Sites

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Follow us on CoffsCoastHolidays CoffsHolidays

*The Kids Go Free deal is valid for cabin bookings of 3 or more nights. Maximum of 3 children.

Valid from 7 October to 14 December 2012.

identifying the different butterflies you encounter.

The subtropical rainforests here are on the World Heritage list and home to Dorrigo National Park. Accessible to everyone, even those who are wheelchair-bound, the park’s Rainforest Centre is the place to learn all about the native flora and fauna or to set out on a stroll on the Skywalk walkway and lookout platform over the escarpment edge for a close up view of the rainforest canopy.

There are various other walking trails for different ability levels in the park including a 10-minute walk with the Birds boardwalk is ideal.

ACTION STATIONS Coffs Coast is a great place to get wet. Try swimming, surfing, snorkeling and paddle boarding or paddle a couple kayaks through the Bongil Bongil National Park.

Take a Beach to Bush Buggy Tour – a guided tour that takes you on and off road along the shores of Boambee Beach, into rainforest and bush and along country roads stopping off at cafes and lookouts along the way.

From left: Crystal Shower Falls, Dorrigo NP. © Hamilton Lund; Destination NSW

Tea Gardens ferry. © James Pipino; Destination NSW

For thrill seekers, try go-karting at either Raleigh International Raceway, 20 minutes south of Coffs, or F1 Kart Hire near the centre of Coffs. Both venues have rides suitable for accompanied children from four years old or if you prefer two-wheels get on your bikes for a guided downhill mountain-bike ride down Waterfall Way through Dorrigo National Park.

THE GREAT LAKES

LOCAL HEROES

The largest coastal lake system in NSW lies just north of the Port Stephens area and is home to the holiday drawcard, ForsterTuncurry, and other popular getaway destinations including Pacific Palms, Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest. The rivers and lakes are alive, year round, with a host of houseboats, fishing boats, pleasure boats and plenty of watersport activities.

The Big Banana is certainly ‘big’- at 11-metres long it’s the biggest banana you’re ever likely to encounter, with a great water park, ice rink, toboggan run plus educational tours where you can learn about all things banana.

If you want to learn about the cultural heritage of Coffs head off on one of the areas arts and cultural trails and visit the historic buildings, art galleries and heritage items along the way.

The historic and picturesque town of Bellingen is just over the bridge from Coffs centre and is filled with great cafes, restaurants and shops. This tree-lined town has enormous character and charm, thanks to the number of historic buildings that have been preserved and is home to a lively community of artists, painters, sculptors and craft workers.

It’s hardly surprising that this area boasts some of the most beautiful natural assets – with the Myall Lakes National Park as the centerpiece amid coastal forests, mangroves, pristine beaches and the spectacular lake system. Take a walk with a National Parks and Wildlife Service discovery ranger on a Junior Ranger safari, go on spotlight walks or have a bird watching breakfast at Sandbar, Smiths Lake with Boomerang Forest Tours. Pebbly Beach Bicentennial Trail wanders past some of Forster’s fine beaches or climb the steep summit of Cape Hawke for breathtaking views.

The beaches at Hawks Nest are especially good for families – Jimmy’s Beach suits little ones and Forster has a pretty family beach with a tidal pool. Boat Beach, in the small sleepy beach town of Seal Rocks (a favourite sunning spot for Australian fur seals) is ideal

NATURAL SELECTION

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for snorkelling perfect for families with younger children.

ACTION STATIONS The Great Lakes are an intricate network of waterways and lakes made up of the Myall, Wallis and Smiths Lakes, perfect for fishing, kitesurfing, kayaking, windsurfing and sail-boarding.

Water activities are definitely the biggest attraction for holidaymakers to the Great Lakes region with amusements and activities for very little ones right through to adrenaline-seekers.

Older kids can learn to surf with one of the many surf schools in the area, or try windsurfing or kayaking. And kids of every age can go wild at the local fun parks. The Big Buzz Fun Park has a toboggan run, waterslides, and speed karts while at Tuncurry the Ton O Fun Amusement Family Fun Park has a variety of heart-pumping action.

LOCAL HEROES Wallis Lake is renowned for its oyster farms.

For a first-hand family fishing experience, head out after dark to catch delicious channel prawns aboard the Estuary Magic with Forster Estuary Charters. The lakes are also full of bream and other fresh fish and with plenty of nearby parks with barbecue facilities you can cook and sample your catch.

Kayaking, South West Rocks © Don Fuchs;Destination NSW

Readers Story

The great family beach holiday

BY HELEN NASH It was my 35th birthday and my husband surprised me with a family break at Myall Shores Nature Resort in Myall Lakes. This was my first time in the Great Lakes and I immediately fell in love with the area, and the amazing scenery. The cabins were modern and spacious and the boys, aged seven and five, loved the fact that there was a swimming pool and lots of space to run riot.

We even hired a canoe and went out on the lake one afternoon, and the next day dad and the boys hired bikes while I enjoyed some birthday ‘me’ time enjoying the view (and quiet!).

The following day friends joined us in a neighbouring cabin and we all took a day trip to Hawks Nest where the kids enjoyed taking the quaint Bombah Point car ferry across. Next time we go, we will be sure to take our fishing rods.

We were sad to leave the resort, but made the most of our ‘travel day’ back north to Port Macquarie by taking the scenic Lakes Way route past Smiths Lake and Pacific Palms to Forster. There are plenty of amazing lookouts and spots to have a breather, or a bite to eat. We stopped off at the Pacific Palms Recreation Club with a great family-friendly bistro and amazing views over the beautiful Wallis Lake.

It’s amazing what fantastic destinations we have on our doorstep and I am so grateful to my husband for discovering this gem.

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Well those holidays still exist and they’re our specialty at Mobys Beachside Retreat.

kids are safe to ride their bikes or scooters. Enjoy our free form pool, or walk mere metres to beautiful Boomerang Beach.

With daytime Kids Activities throughout the School Holidays as well as Movie Nights, Mums and Dads can relax too.

We offer accommodation for 2 adults and up to 4 children in our fully self-contained four-star 3 bedroom Beach Houses. Set privately in landscaped surrounds,

4 Red Gum Road, Boomerang Beach NSW2428 www.mobysretreat.com.au P: 02 6591 0000

Do you remember those great beach family holidays from your childhood, where you fell into bed completely exhausted with sand still in your hair?

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Isn’t it time you had the holiday you deserve?

Great Lakes Mid North Coast NSW

swimming | kayaking horse riding | water | fun boating | surfing | walks fishing | cruises | events time together | laugh

1800 802 692 for your free info pack www.greatlakes.org.au

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CANBERRA

Spring INTO THE

CAPITAL

CANBERRA IS A HAPPENING PLACE THIS SPRING, WITH FLOWERS, FESTIVALS AND FABULOUS FINDS JUST A FEW OF THE REASONS FAMILIES SHOULD VISIT THE NATION’S BUZZING CAPITAL. WORDS: GERALDINE CARDOZO

C

anberra never fails to disappoint for families, with a wealth of everchanging exhibitions and activities that appeal to all ages. As well as the capital ‘institutions’ – from the brilliant Questacon to the must-visit Australian War Memorial – it’s worth checking out what’s on from season to season. And the good news is that there are some great springtime deals on accommodation and many of Canberra’s major attractions are free or at least have low admission fees, making it an affordable destination for families.

Floral tribute Springtime in Canberra is synonymous with Floriade (September 15 to October 14) – Australia’s biggest celebration of spring.

This annual festival (which is 25 this year) is when the city throws off its winter woollies and comes alive with over a million flowers in bloom. As well as the colourful and fragrant floral displays there’s plenty for the kids to enjoy, including a giant ferris wheel, an Alice in Wonderland tea-cup ride and a circus show. Little ones can also be entertained by the Princess and the Forgetful Storyteller, make origami bouquets, paint gnomes or head to the Bunnings children’s workshops.

And for five nights Floriade comes alive after dark for Night Fest (September 26 to 30). See the garden beds in a whole new light as they are lit by dazzling light shows, with fun activities and entertainment for all ages also on the bill.

For a memento of all the floral festivities,

drop into the Canberra Glassworks for the fantastic Flowers-Off-the-Streets sessions (September 26 to October 14).

Under the direction of a glass artist and in small groups, kids eight years and up can create their own glass art using Floriade as inspiration.

Festival fever The Nara Candle Festival (October 27) is another date to add to your diary. The event, from 5pm to 9pm, pays tribute to Canberra’s sister city Nara in Japan. The evening peaks with a stunning display of more than 200 candles in Canberra Nara Peace Park. There will also be free entertainment, Japanese food and handicrafts to buy.

Movie lovers can head to to the Canberra International Film Festival (October 31 to November 11). This 12-day celebration of film is now in its 16th year and screens a selection of feature films and documentaries from around the world at Dendy Cinemas and the Arc Cinema at the National Film and Sound Archive. Older kids may want to hang around for a chance to hear filmmakers at Q&A sessions and workshops.

Foodie families may want to head further afield for the Murrumbateman Moving Feast (September 29 to 30) which takes place over the long weekend. The feast features local wineries, each offering a main meal and/or dessert, matched with one of their wines.

Appease the kids with a stop off at Robyn Rowe Chocolates with chocolate-making demonstrations and talks twice daily.

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BLACK MOUNTAIN TOWER

B

lack Mountain Tower rises 195 meters above the summit of Black Mountain and provides unsurpassed 360 degree views of Canberra and the surrounding countryside.

Situated in a beautiful nature reserve with many undisturbed animals, Black Mountain Tower is a futuristic landmark that plays a vital role in Australia’s telecommunication network. The Tower provides facilities for national and commercial television, FM Radio, mobile phones, video and tele-conferencing.

Visitors to the Tower can see the city unfold form the enclosed viewing gallery or the two open viewing platforms. There is also a relaxing kiosk with exclusive souvenirs.

The combination of a telecommunication tower and a tourist attraction was unique to Australia in 1980 when officially opened by Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser.

Black Mountain Tower has become one of the National Capital’s most symbolic landmarks and a major tourist attraction with a total of over 6 million visitors.

BLACK MOUNTAIN TOWER Black Mountain Drive, Acton ACT 2601 Open 9am – 10pm Daily T 1800 806 718 or T 02 6219 6120 F 02 6257 6600 W www.blackmountaintower.com.au

Managed by Raine & Horne Commercial Canberra

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Art house The National Gallery of Australia’s new exhibition Word Pictures in its Children’s Gallery explores the alphabet in art and the playful connection between our visual and written languages with a look at printmaking and typography.

Meanwhile at the Canberra Museum and Gallery kids can catch Ned Kelly and explorers Burke and Wills in works

by Australian artist Sidney Nolan. The gallery also runs a children’s workshop on the first Sunday of every month for kids aged four to eight.

Children are also sure to love the animal sculptures in Menagerie (until October 14) at the National Museum of Australia. The exhibition features sculptures by wellknown and emerging Indigenous artists - from spiky echidnas and aluminium fruit bats to a cute carved owl and steel and copper wire kangaroos.

Take the whole family on a journey of all things glass at Canberra Glassworks. The Great Glass Adventure (from September 27 to October 14) is a behind the scenes tour targeted at children over four years that follows the creation of an artwork from furnace to gallery space.

For some creative science head to CSIRO Discovery for their Tuesday afternoon Science Art Workshops (from 23rd October to 4th December). Kids and families

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CANBERRA

can create an art piece while learning about the structure of matter and space, from individual cells and crystals, through the human body, to the Solar System and the Universe.

Something Wild Book a tour at Canberra’s National Zoo & Aquarium, Australia’s only combined zoo and aquarium. The Family Tour takes you behind the scenes to meet and feed some of the zoo’s favourite animals. Bigger kids, aged 10 and over, can hand-feed lions, tigers and bears on the Zoo Venture tour and play ball with a cheetah on the Meet-a-Cheetah tour.

Market wrap The Old Bus Depot Markets is Canberra’s awardwinning indoor Sunday market for regional arts and crafts all set within a fabulous old industrial building. Theme events are held throughout the year.

For more locally crafted goodies - including kids’ clothes, decorations and crafts - check out the Handmade Market (September 29 and 30), Canberra’s quarterly ‘upmarket’ held at the National Convention Centre in the CBD.

Hot Tickets

eatre Centre has The Canberra Th ilies entertained plenty to keep fam lovers can catch s cu Cir this Spring. the Ground Up Circus Oz – From why not sample or 7) to (October 3 sea shanties ng some swashbuckli Slava and rs he ot br al with music ip to Shore Sh in an Leonard Grigory on November 5.

No visit to Canberra with the kids is complete without a visit to the mindbogglingly brilliant Questacon - The National Science and Technology Centre. Make sure to visit the new Excite@Q gallery and find out what talks are on when you visit. You can grab a 3inFun pass for a 10 per cent discount on entry to Questacon, Cockington Green Gardens and the Australian Institute of Sport. 3inFun also gives you a free return visit to your favourite attraction. www.3infun.com.au

Clockwise from top left: Questacon fun. © Questacon - The National Science and Technology Centre

Feeding a giraffe at the National Zoo & Aquarium. © National Zoo & Aquarium.

Old Bus Depot Markets. © Australian Capital Tourism

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Hurly

BURLEIGH BURLEIGH HEADS IS THE PERFECT BASE FOR A GOLD COAST FAMILY GETAWAY, AS CHRISTINE KANE DISCOVERS ON A SCHOOL HOLIDAY ADVENTURE WITH THE CREW.

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school holiday family adventure on the Gold Coast never disappoints. It’s as if this spot on Queensland’s coast has been purpose-built to entertain families.

The natural reserves, parklands and beaches are the perfect setting for a variety of great accommodation options to suit all families and budgets and Burleigh Heads, in particular, ticks all the boxes with its friendly, casual vibe and prime water’s edge location.

Burleigh Heads and beyond An easy and direct 15-minute drive from Coolangatta Airport delivers us to beautiful

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Burleigh Heads. As we open the door to our third floor Gemini Court apartment, we’re stopped in our tracks by the breathtaking view framed by the expansive balcony windows. Bags are dropped and there’s a rush to open the sliding doors and step outside.

Before us, bathed in brilliant sunshine, is a vista that arcs from Burleigh Beach, below, around the coastline with the skyscrapers of Surfers Paradise nestled at the farthest point. Swimmers, body boarders and kayakers bob on gentle waves while scores of families stroll and play on the white sandy beach, as far as the eye can see. This will be our all-day, everyday view for the next week!

GOLD COAST

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GOLD COAST

After a quick, delighted recce of our apartment (to the sounds of “I’ve got a spa bath!”, “We’ve got Foxtel!”, “I’ve got a remote control for my bedroom light!”) it’s time to explore the seaside village of Burleigh Heads, locate the multiple playgrounds on the foreshore we’ve been told about and check out the local eatery options for dinner on our first night on holiday.

The Esplanade runs along the beach and is impressively equipped and maintained by the Gold Coast Council with playgrounds, clean and free barbecues plus toilets and picnic areas. The stretch is long and the choices plentiful, with a path under towering Norfolk Pines that bustles with families, scooters, strollers and joggers. We counted (and tried) five separate playgrounds, all laid out with different equipment, rides and novelties, one after the other, each an easy amble along the beachfront reserve to the next.

Eat and be merry It’s Sunday and as dusk descends we can hear rhythmic drumming, vibrant singing and a chorus of happy voices emanating from Justins Park.

This is Burleigh Beat, a gathering of hundreds of people and families who get together to drum, dance, fire twirl and picnic each Sunday night until 10pm. It’s a carnival-style atmosphere that permeates the warm evening as locals and visitors alike meander, unhurried, through the park or stroll through the village.

Nearby James Street is Burleigh’s village hub, with boutiques, cafes and a wide choice of eateries and cuisines. We opt for the Burleigh Heads Bowls Club Bistro, clearly a popular choice for families, where mini-diners receive their own colouring and activity goodie bag complete with a voucher for a free ice-cream! The service is quick, the staff friendly and the food great so it’s a winwin all round.

Previous page:

Sea World showtime We’re greeted again, the next morning, with our spectacular Burleigh Beach view and, after breakfast in the sunshine, head off for the 20 minute drive to Sea World.

It appears we’ve inadvertently timed our arrival perfectly – the SpongeBob SquarePants Parade and show is just beginning with a cavalcade of colourful floats and characters and much music, mirth and mayhem. Children squeal, wave and jostle for prime viewing positions, transfixed and delighted by the real-life manifestation, so close, of these small screen favourites.

The park is huge! We take the monorail to do one circuit and observe all of the activities, amusements, attractions and the sheer scope of Sea World, from above. After a once-around, we alight at the monorail stop near Castaway Bay, having decided that some lagoon and pirate fun might be in order – and we’ve packed the swimwear in anticipation of water action.

(Never fear, if you do happen to get your clothes wet Sea World thoughtfully provides a great ‘People Dryer’ for $5 for five minutes of mega blowdrying!)

We pet stingrays (velvety soft) and starfish (hard like pebble-encrusted rocks), see the fairy penguins and polar bears, watch the stunning dolphin show, spend an hour in the underwater viewing area of the giant aquarium, watch the five-minute SpongeBob 3D show, experience rides and thrills and still have enough time to revisit favourite areas and attractions before closing time.

Believe it or not, sometimes it does actually rain on the Gold Coast! When the weather is, rarely, not conducive to outdoor family activities, there are plenty of indoor attractions to keep everyone amused. The Gold Coast is set up for

Burleigh Heads. © Pawel Papis, Shutterstock.com

From left: Beachfront Lunch © Tourism Queensland

Castaway Bay, Sea World. © Sea World

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GOLD COAST

holidaymakers and families so a less-thanperfect day here won’t make the slightest dent in enthusiasm or holiday plans.

Kid-friendly everything For us, several hours at TimeZone in Surfers Paradise was the wet-weather beater – dodgems, laser skirmish, bowling and games provide non-stop entertainment for all ages, from little ones to easily-bored teens. Pacific Fair shopping centre can easily turn into an all-day affair with plenty of shops, extensive food court and a multiplex cinema.

We arrange to meet friends at the Benowa Tavern, a 10-minute drive from Burleigh Heads, for a relaxed, family dinner. Again, the Gold Coast comes up trumps for families with the bistro adjoined to an indoor games room that connects to a fully-enclosed outdoor playground – the children are thoroughly entertained and parents are close enough to keep a keen eye on the little ones through dinner.

Up close with wildlife We’re joined by friends who have made the two-hour drive up from Evans Head with four of their five children in tow. Ranging in age from two to 16 years we decide that Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary has something for everyone and, after a pit stop for a big breakfast and great coffee, we make our way, 10 minutes up the highway, to Currumbin.

The sanctuary is owned by the National Trust of Queensland and is a not-for-profit nature reserve dedicated to the care and conservation of wildlife and native flora.

The younger ones are thrilled to walk among kangaroos and pat them, feed them and take advantage of a photo opportunity! Big, small, all different colours, the kangaroos are docile and friendly and clearly used to the passing parade of people through their vast enclosure. The tiniest of tiny koalas huddle in gum trees or poke their heads up long enough for us to ‘oooh’ and ‘aaah’ at their cuteness. We stop and watch a presentation about crocodiles and are told that the star attraction in the water below us – the big croc – is 15 metres long and, thankfully, not hungry at that precise moment!

The bigger kids try their luck with the newest attraction – the Green Challenge high ropes adventure course. Rigged up in overalls and harnesses, they tackle most of the 65 challenges including giant flying foxes and a tarzan swing.

It’s a thumbs-up for excitement and exhilaration after almost three hours of exertion.

From left: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. © Tourism Queensland

Green Challenge high ropes adventure course. © Tourism Queensland

Everything for families Back at Gemini Court, the family support continues with a great heated pool and spa, barbecues, free DVD and board game selection, individually-packed baby and toddler toy boxes to take to your apartment and advice on everything from theme park transport (bus at the door) to local supermarket shopping (plenty of nearby options for self-catering supplies).

Burleigh Heads is far enough out of the hubbub of Surfers Paradise nightlife and close enough to visit all of the kid-friendly attractions by day. Everything in close proximity, everything laid on for families. A Gold Coast getaway has it all.

FAST FACTS WHEN TO TRAVEL All year round.

GETTING THERE Most major domestic airlines have regular flights to either Brisbane to the North or Coolangatta at the southern end of the Gold Coast.

MORE INFORMATION Gold Coast Tourism www.visitgoldcoast.com.au

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Wowed by the

Whitsundays A BREAK IN THE WHITSUNDAYS IS SO MAGICAL YOU’LL NEVER WANT TO LEAVE. SARAH PYE WAS SO ENCHANTED WHEN SHE FIRST VISITED SHE FORGOT TO GO HOME. 66

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THE WHITSUNDAYS

T

he beautiful Whitsunday Islands lie like a jewel in the Coral Sea. This was the place I first immigrated to, and the place where my partner and I started our family. As you can imagine, it holds a special place in my heart.

Main attraction There are three distinct experiences in the Whitsundays: the mainland, the islands and water activities. Plan your holiday before booking your flights – there are two airports in the region - Hamilton Island and Prosperine, around 25 minutes from the popular waterside resort of Airlie Beach and gateway to the islands.

If you choose to stay on the mainland, Airlie Beach and Cannonvale are the gateways to family fun. There’s a huge range of self-contained accommodation options here at reasonable prices.

For campsites, or cabins, you can’t go past the Big4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort (or the Frog Park as it is known). This family-run spot is a destination in its own right with a waterpark, tennis courts, playground, jumping pillow, mini golf and school holiday kids’ program.

For hotel-style, Club Crocodile Airlie Beach is far enough away from the lively town of Airlie to avoid the noise if you don’t mind the 20-minute walk (or short bus ride) into town. It features a wraparound pool, family rooms and a couple of restaurants.

Out and about About 12 years ago a man-made saltwater lagoon transformed the town of Airlie Beach from a holiday stopover to a destination. I used to spend countless hours there when my daughter Amber was a toddler, and it is here she learnt to swim. Lounging and playing in this free facility can easily consume your entire holiday.

If you are lucky enough to be in Airlie on a Saturday, local crafts at the waterfront market make great souvenirs. For a crafty shopping treat, head to Fun to Bead. Grab a stool, pick shiny beads and create your own jewellery. Keep this one up your sleeve in case of a rainy day!

Another inclement alternative is Cedar Creek Falls. About 20-minute’s drive from Airlie, this rainforest swimming hole sparkles in the rain and makes a good alternative to the lagoon. The waterfall is only consistent during the wet season from February to June, though, and don’t forget bug repellent!

There are three more free walks on the mainland worth a visit.

The two-kilometre Kingfisher Circuit, off Brandy Creek Road, is not far from Cedar Creek. Allow around one and a half hours for kids to tackle stairs and steep bits. For younger ones, the 850-metre Airlie Creek Track is more suitable. It starts on Waterson Way and winds up behind town to natural rock pools and island views. Keep your eyes peeled for the flash of the electric blue Ulysses butterfly. Lastly, the winding waterfront boardwalk from Airlie Beach to Cannonvale is stroller-friendly. If you are staying in Cannonvale, this is a lovely way to wander into town.

© Taras Vyshnya, Shutterstock.com

Island dreams Perhaps the most well-known island for families is Hamilton; not only because you can fly right in, but there’s plenty to do. Family packages and internet deals can save a bundle in the resort rooms. For larger families, check out the range of Hamilton Island Holiday Homes.

While you are on Hamilton (or Hamo, as the locals call it), don’t miss Wild Life. Holding a conversation with Freddie the cockatoo, saying hello to Hippo the wombat or cuddling Baby O the koala will be a sure hit with youngsters.

A little less busy, but just as attractive, Daydream Island is my other pick as a family favourite. Because it’s closer to the mainland, water clarity is less consistent, but the Living Reef, and subsequent educational programs easily make up for this.

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Long Island Resort

Stay 3 nights from $80.50pp per night

Enjoy a laid back casual atmosphere in beautiful, natural surrounds.

Accommodation in a garden room, kids stay and eat free. Free kids club, bird and fish feeding.

T: 1800 075 125 E: longisland@oceanhotels.com.au W: Longislandresort.com.au

*Conditions apply. Rate based on up to 2 adults and 2 children. Discount already applied. Total min cost $483

Pinnacles Resort & Spa

2 adults & 2 children from $295 per night

30% off yacht, catamaran or cruiser

Valid for travel: 15 Oct 2012-26 Dec 2012; 28 March 2013-14 Sept 2013. Conditions apply.

Toscana Village Resort

Save over $300 on a five night holiday

At Toscana Village Resort, we are offering savings of over $300 on a family five night holiday including Airlie Beach ocean view accommodation + a Great Barrier Reef adventure + a cruise to Whitehaven Beach.

Available till 20 Dec 2012 T: 1800 555 684 E: info@toscanaresort.com W: www.toscanaresort.com

Booking deposit of $250 required to confirm the booking with the balance payable on arrival.

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Santa’s Workshop 17-21 Dec 2012 We’ll look after the kids whilst you look after the shopping!

Lets Dance Workshop 7-11 Jan 2013 Do your kids love to dance? They’ll just love our ‘Lets Dance’ workshops...

T: 1300 640 587 E: reservations@adventurewhitsunday.com.au W: www.adventurewhitsdunday.com.au

at Blue Horizon Resort

6 nights just $999!

2 adults & 2 children

2 Bedroom Ocean View Family Apartment 6 nights was $1590 now $999 save $591 plus heated pool, kids pool, kids playroom, BBQ area…just 600m to town. BONUS 2ad+2ch Great Barrier Reef daytrip $549 T: 07 4946 3500 E: stay@bluehorizonairlie.com.au W: www.athotelgroup.com

Valid until 31 March 2013. Based on 2ad+2ch available check in Mon-Fri 6 night package excludes 28 Dec 2012 12 Jan 2013

Based on a minimum 5 night stay midweek. Subject to availability. Conditions apply

30% discount on yacht, catamaran or cruiser skipper yourself charters in the Whitsundays.

Adventure for the whole family!

Book by 30 Oct 2012 T: 1800 075 000 E: holiday@rentayacht.com.au W: www.rentayacht.com.au

We’ve got Christmas holidays all wrapped up!

Deal deadline 11/01/13. Workshops subject to availability, for in-house guests only, age limits apply.

Luxury 5 star self contained apartments all with spa or jacuzzi, balcony & magnificent Coral Sea views. 2 Bedroom apartment for 2 adults & 2 children from $295 per night.

Valid until the 20 Dec 2012 T: 07 4948 4800 E: reservations@pinnaclesresort.com W: www.pinnaclesresort.com

Whitsunday Rent A Yacht

BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort

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at Waters Edge Resort

5 nights just $999!

2 adults & 2 children

2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom Ocean View Family Apartment 5 nights was $1375 now $999 save $376 plus 3 pools, restaurant, BBQ area… just 100m to town. BONUS 2ad+2ch Great Barrier Reef daytrip $549 T: 07 4948 4300 E: stay@watersedgewhitsundays.com.au W: www.athotelgroup.com

Valid until 31 March 2013. Based on 2ad+2ch available check in Monday 5 night package excludes 28 Dec 2012 12 Jan 2013

at Whitsunday Vista Resort

5 nights just $999!

2 adults & 2 children

2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom Ocean View Family Spa Apartment 5 nights was $1375 now $999 save $376 plus pool, restaurant, BBQ area…just 600m to town.

BONUS 2ad+2ch Great Barrier Reef daytrip $549 T: 07 4948 4000 E: stay@whitsundayvista.com.au W: www.athotelgroup.com Valid until 31 March 2013. Based on 2ad+2ch available check in Mon-Fri 5 night package excludes 28 Dec 2012 -– 12 Jan 2013

For more information www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au

THE WHITSUNDAYS

Sail away From whale-watching and chartering a yacht to Great Barrier Reef tours and leisure cruises, one of the Whitsunday’s biggest drawcards are the sailing opportunities. There are many different day tour boats from the mainland with varying itineraries. Generally, the larger vessels are more suited to small kids, giving them room to move around. Perhaps you prefer to hire a ‘bareboat’ from a company like Queensland Yacht Charters (on the mainland) or Sunsail (on Hamilton Island).

Of course, knowing how to sail is a prerequisite... but taking your home with you gives kids the chance to feel secure.

This huge man-made coral lagoon contains about 80 species of fish and 50 of living coral.

Feed fish, pet baby sharks, paddle with de-barbed stingrays (for those over six) or even become a reef ranger for a day and help the marine biologist! If you need kid-free time, the Skippers Club also offers a range of programs for babies to five-year-olds and Six to 12-year-olds.

Water please Only a handful of the 74 Whitsunday Islands are inhabited and many of the ‘must-see’ attractions can only be reached by boat.

Whitehaven Beach (and Hill Inlet) has to be the most stunning beach on the East side of Australia. BC (before children) I was a boat captain, and called Whitehaven ‘my office’. Its pure white, squeaky silica sands stretch for seven kilometres and colour the shallow water that turquoise you often see in postcards.

For upper primary and teens I recommend visiting Nara Inlet, where a short, rocky walk leads to Aboriginal cave paintings. Guessing what the shapes represent makes a fun game. If you want to try snorkelling, Mantaray Bay offers clear water and tame fish. It is necessary to enter the water from a boat, though, and this can be a little scary for small children so Amber suggests practicing in the pool first.

Reef watch Lastly, it’s hard to come this far and NOT visit the Great Barrier Reef. It takes two hours to travel to the Great Barrier Reef from the Whitsundays on a large, fast catamaran. If this sounds like a lot of travel for one day, you can stay at the Great Barrier Reef with the Reefsleep Experience. Day visitors depart around 2.30pm, leaving you exclusive access to the underwater viewing chamber, semi-sub and waterslide. Accommodation is in kingsize rooms or bunk-style and waking up to the vast blue ocean outside your window is a real treat and all meals are included.

One of the best things we can give our kids is a bank of happy childhood memories. No matter how you choose to experience the Whitsundays, it is sure to deliver happy family memories. I should know, I travelled there for a holiday and essentially stayed eight years!

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

From left: Family fun in the Whitsundays. © Peter Lik, Tourism Queensland

Charter Boat, Whitsunday Passage. © Steve Knutt, , Tourism Queensland

FAST FACTS WHEN TO GO Year round but autumn through to late spring is the best time to visit as the humidity is extreme in the summer months.

GETTING THERE There are two airports servicing the Whitsundays – Great Barrier Reef Airport on Hamilton Island and Whitsunday Coast Airport in Prosperine, around 25 minutes from Airlie Beach. Cruise Whitsundays and Fantasea Adventure Cruising operate ferries from Hamilton Island to transfer passengers to the Whitsunday Coast and other island resorts.

MORE INFORMATION www.whitsundaytourism.com

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international HOLIDAYS

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS The latest news and holiday offers from around the globe.

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AMERICA

Chasing winter.

States of play

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VANUATU Island Idyll.

FIJI Island fun in fabulous Fiji.

NEW ZEALAND Queenstown thrills without chills.

THAILAND Fun in fabulous Phuket.

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CHINA Shanghai surprises.

SINGAPORE Raffles rascals.

CRUISING High sea hijinks.

CRUISE NEWS The latest news from the world of cruising.

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SHORT CUTS International Spoil the kids with Centara With five brands in six tropical destinations, Centara Hotels & Resorts has plenty of holiday options to keep everyone happy – especially the kids.

First of all, you have a great choice of tropical destinations including Thailand, Vietnam, Bali Indonesia, the Maldives, Mauritius and Sri Lanka.

Then there are five Centara brands to choose from, ranging from the top brand with its professionally run kids’ clubs, through to smaller properties and also self-catering serviced apartments. All with the distinctive warm hospitality of Centara’s Thai homeland. So, planning your budget becomes easy.

Centara has the lot, ranging from allaction family resorts through to quiet hideaways. Pick from family-size rooms and suites, rooms with separate areas for the youngsters, and villas with their own pool. And that’s not mentioning the water parks and terrific restaurants.

And for Mum and Dad there are sublime spas, fully-equipped fitness centres and the opportunity to relax. www.centarahotelsresorts.com

Wild West adventures in Hong Kong Step back in time to a land of Wild West adventure and grizzly bears at Grizzly Gulch – the newly opened and largest themed ‘land’ in Hong Kong Disneyland.

The story goes that the town of Grizzly Gulch was accidently built on a dry creek bed filled with active geysers that, when erupting, caused the buildings to start sinking or listing at angles. The townsfolk renamed this part of Grizzly Gulch “Geyser Gulch” and playing in these sporadic, erupting water geysers is a whole bunch of fun! The friendly ‘residents’ love welcoming new visitors and their Wild Wagon Show is not to be missed. Jump on board the Big Grizzly Mountain Runway Mine Cars for a multi-directional terrain-style ride and experience the story of the grizzly bear family that lives in the mountain. http://park.hongkongdisneyland.com

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INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL NEWS

Bliss out with Berjaya in Malaysia

© Ronen, shutterstock.com

Families heading to Malaysia can choose from one of the Berjaya Hotels & Resorts properties for a great familyfriendly stay.

The hotel group has properties throughout Malaysia. Its flagship ‘city’ hotel is the Berjaya Situated in the city hub there are eight room categories suitable for families of any size to stay in. Aside from its adjacent Berjaya Times Square Shopping Mall, the amazing Berjaya Times Square Theme Park is a must-do stop on the family itinerary. Family tours can also be arranged and this fantastically-situated hotel has easy access to tourist attractions and shopping malls.

Berjaya Tioman Resort is an island resort with heaps of activities including the in-house PADI 5-star Gold Palm Resort and an 18-hole golf course. Diving in the pristine waters of the sea is a must-do when visiting this site to witness magnificent corals and reefs. The famous Ayura Spa caters to both adult and children alike.

Meanwhile Berjaya Langkawi Resort located at the duty-free port, provides a favourite shopping destination to its guests especially family members. While the kids are entertained with indoor games, parents can indulge themselves in the Ayura Spa. Island cruises and watersports, such as windsurfing, parasailing, and kayaking and island hopping are also on most guests ‘must-do’ lists. www.berjayahotel.com

Turtle rescue in Bali

Singapore unveils spectacular Gardens by the Bay After seven years in the making, Singapore’s eagerly-awaited Gardens by the Bay is now open for business. Gardens by the Bay is a unique man-made botanical paradise made up of three separate waterfront gardens. Bay South Garden, at Marina Bay, is the largest, covering 54-hectares with over 2000 species and more than 700,000 plants from around the world. It also features 18 man-made futuristic ‘supertrees’ – 16-storey vertical gardens. Set among the treetops, an aerial skywalk lets visitors take in panoramic views of the spectacular gardens and city below. With sustainability at the forefront of the design, these vertical gardens collect rainwater and solar energy for water features and lighting in the garden. www.yoursingapore.com/au

More than 30 guests at the luxury Ayana Resort and Spa in Bali were treated to a rare experience recently when they helped rescue 70 turtle hatchlings. The lucky guests were led to a turtle nest by a member of the resort staff after a guest spotted a baby turtle taking its first cautious steps at the resort’s private beach, Kubu Beach.

The group then collected the baby turtles and took them to a spot to be released into the sea.

Set on 77 hectares of cliff-top tropical gardens perched 35 meters above Jimbaran Bay, Ayana Resort and Spa enjoys majestic views and a secluded location, yet is just a short drive from Bali’s airport. www.ayanaresort.com

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Sacramento shines through October

© Photoroller, Shutterstock.com

Go wild in the USA and Canada

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL NEWS

It stakes its reputation on its proud California gold rush history and its status as the capital of the US state of California, but Sacramento is also a thriving hub of 365-days-a-year entertainment, attractions and festivals with family-friendly themes.

This October the streets will be brimming with families for the annual World Music and Dance Festival and the annual Sacramento Arts Festival. Traditional Halloween activities include the 21st annual Halloween Haunt and Boo at the Zoo, two days of ghoulish family fun at the famed Sacramento Zoo. Throughout Old and New Sacramento there’s never a dull moment, with a wide range of performing arts, food and wine, cultural and historical familyfriendly events and activities on offer. www.discovergold.org From Wild West cowboy adventures to ice-breaking escapades, Trafalagar’s Family Experiences in America and Canada are sure to appeal to adventurous little souls.

Whether staying on a real working dude ranch in Montana or exploring the Athabasca Glacier by Ice Explorer, families should feel at ease knowing their kids will be adventuring with other travellers their age. Choose from one of 10 itineraries across America (including Hawaii), Canada and Costa Rica.

With the eight-day Wild West Cowboys & Buffalos package families can saddle up for a horseback ride with true wranglers, discover the unique wildlife of Bear County and the iconic Mount Rushmore. For a beachside getaway, the Aloha Hawaii is a chance to explore Hawaii’s stunning islands and take in unforgettable experiences such as meeting chocolate makers in Honolulu, visiting the infamous Pearl Harbour and marvelling at Volcanoes National Park.

In Canada, the Rockies Thrills & Glacier Chills is an adventurous holiday that takes in the spectacular coast of Western Canada to the Rocky Mountains and true glacier chills along the Icefields Parkway and Columbia Icefield.

Wherever you choose to treat the family, with a Trafalgar Family Experiences guided holiday, you can look forward to activity-packed itineraries that will excite all ages. There are also great savings of up to 10 per cent for young travellers (aged five to 17). www.trafalgar.com

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Coffee and Keiki Hawaii’s ‘big island’ of Oahu hosts a wonderful festival for lovers of all things coffee – with keiki (children) welcome. The Kona Coffee Festival is held over three days from November 3 to 5 and kicks off with a talent show then the all-day Holualoa Village Coffee and Art Stroll. The village of Holualoa will be transformed into a marketplace, featuring art collections and dozens of estate Kona coffee farms. On Sunday, take part in the coffee picking contest where entrants of all levels of coffee-picking experience are welcome! Kids will love this fun day, testing their ability to pick coffee by hand with prizes up for grabs. www.konacoffeefest.com, www.gohawaii.com

Give your kids something to remember.

Trafalgar Family Experiences are guided holidays designed for travellers of all ages so your family can share unforgettable experiences as you discover the world together.

19 expertly planned, hassle free family experiences • Make great friends from around the world • Fun for everyone with sightseeing activities included • Includes accommodation, transportation and expert Travel Director •

See your local travel agent, call 1300 663 043 or visit www.FamilyTravelExperiences.com.au facebook.com/TrafalgarTravel EUROPE

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GREAT BRITAIN

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AMERICA

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CANADA

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SOUTH & CENTRAL AMERICA

11954TTAS

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Laugh Out Loud!

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A collection of short, highly-hilarious tales about the times we leave the comfort-zone of our own nest in search of the corner deli, the Prada handbag or the farthest reaches of the planet. Travel writer Mark Sheehan and his many well-travelled friends share a laugh out loud in this little pocket book of fun.

If you don’t crack an ear-to-ear smile, or break out in a belly-roll of laughter pinch yourself to be sure the blood is still flowing.

If you’re reading the book on the plane, please try and remember, the people around YOU are trying to sleep!

Great books from the author

www.newholland.com.au Follow New Holland Publishers on Facebook:www.facebook.com/NewHollandPublishers and Twitter: @NewHollandAU

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Hide away in Vanuatu Hideaway Island Resort & Marine Sanctuary in Vanuatu is a secluded island in a marine reserve, yet this unspoiled paradise is only 15 minutes from Port Vila.

There are spacious bungalows scattered around the island within tropical gardens (which can accommodate up to five people) and twin and quad dormitory-style accommodation for budget-conscious travellers The resort also has experienced scuba diving instructors plus a program of diving packages including a PADI Introductory Diver course. As well as snorkelling and scuba diving, you can try sailing and beach volleyball, kayaking or petanque. The tour desk can book a myriad of activities including horseriding, buggy rides or visiting the Cascade Waterfalls.

For something different, share your holiday with friends and family back home by using the world’s only underwater post office. And experience the real Vanuatu by taking a Village Walk tour to see first-hand how the local people live and experience their customs. The weekly traditional feast gives you a taste of an authentic Melanesian celebration. For another gastronomic experience, head to Hideaway Island’s recently renovated On the Beach restaurant.

Free inclusions for guests are a cultural walk and kava tasting in Mele village, a glass bottom boat ride (minimum four-night stay), use of snorkel gear, kayaks, paddle boat and sailboat, plus a snorkel safari to Coral Gardens. And from November 12 to December 15, stay seven nights and pay for five. www.hideaway.com.vu

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL NEWS

Baunti for kids on Norfolk Island

Kids stay and play free in Rarotonga Families heading to the Cook Islands can get a family holiday package at the four-star Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa, and kids stay and play for free.

Creative Holidays is offering the family holiday package which includes five nights’ accommodation, tropical breakfast daily, free kids club and more.

Renowned as Rarotonga’s signature hotel, the family-friendly Rarotongan has 108 air-conditioned rooms, watersports, beach access and a pool plus a spa and special themed evenings. The package which costs $945 per adult and $25 per child (based on a family of two adults and two kids aged four to 11) also includes an invitation to the manager’s Sunset Cocktail Party. The package is for sale until November 30 and valid for travel next year from April 1 to August 31. Conditions apply. www.creativeholidays.com

Explore a playground which stretches for more than 30 square kilometres with Baunti Escapes Tour Company.

Norfolk Island has a fresh new face for its kids club and she wants to share this natural playground with kids and visitors.

“This will be a great opportunity for visitors to bond with local kids and have loads of fun,” sports-loving kids club coordinator Serina Trickey said. “Norfolk Island has magnificent coral reefs and a very safe protected lagoon to play in. There are also two mountains to explore.” For more information email Serina on serina@baunti.nlk.nf or visit www. worldofbounty.com

A magical Maldives offer for the family Tots to teens are catered for at the Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa in the Maldives. The resort’s Family Special package is the perfect family getaway with an amazing range of accommodation and activities options that will put a smile on everyone’s face. In this spectacular natural paradise, Anantara Dhigu’s package includes four nights in a Sunrise Beach Villa and three complimentary meals a day for kids six and under when dining with an adult.

Children aged seven to 11 get half price restaurant meals.

With kids’ cooking classes, dolphin cruises plus a great kids club and even the option of some grown-up time with a private butler service and complimentary babysitting this is a great family offer, available until January 9, 2013. www.anantara.com

Save up to 50% on Excess Baggage

An inexpensive World Wide Air Service for Personal Effects and Excess Baggage

Australia’s leading specialist baggage service established since 1994.

EXCESS BAGGAGE Phone: 1300 300 688

www.excessbaggage.com.au

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SHORT CUTS International Emirates’ make flying fun for kids

Emirates’ young globalistas can now enjoy the company of new travel companions, of the monster kind! Little ones can collect playful monster characters including the plush Blanket Buddies (soft characters wrapped around polar fleece blankets) and Seat Belt Critters - little toys worn around a seat belt to encourage safety. Also included on-board for kids are magnetic sketchers for hours of creativity and entertainment while older children can collect the range of new Quiksilver travel-inspired products. The collection is designed around three themes - surfing, snowboarding and skating - and features travel folios, wallets and game cards. The new Emirates toys are available on all long-haul flights over five hours. www.emirates.com/au

FLIGHT CHECK • Malaysia Airlines is scheduled to start daily flights on the A380 between Sydney and London via Kuala Lumpur from November 26.

• Jetstar has announced a new international link for the DarwinSingapore-Osaka service, due to start November 1.

• Emirates has added a new service between Barcelona and Dubai and a non-stop daily flight from Dubai to Phuket. From December 1 the airline will also introduce a daily flight from Dubai to Moscow.

• Hot on the heels of its inaugural flight from Singapore to Sydney in June, Asia’s new low cost carrier, Scoot, is now taking flight from Singapore to the Gold Coast.

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INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL NEWS

THE INSIDER

THE INSIDER TALKS FAMILY HOLIDAYS WITH THE HON ANDRE NOBBS, MINISTER FOR TOURISM, INDUSTRY AND DEVELOPMENT AT NORFOLK ISLAND GOVERNMENT. My ideal family holiday is… One that allows me to get into ‘kids mode’ with my children and do crazy, happy things that are probably quite immature, but who cares? And that includes a range of activities that enable the kids to explore and have fun with my wife Kim and I, as well as independently so we can sneak away for some time out, while the kids enjoy themselves.

My fondest family holiday memory is… of a recent trip to the snow. I had a teleconference and although my four-year-old daughter and seven-year-old son patiently waited for me to finish the phone call while standing in the snow at the top of a mountain... their patience eventually ran out. While I discussed legislative and governance issues, my son Izak began making a series of snowballs, periodically shooting me a sinister smile to remind me that I was not supposed to be working. With his little sister Alicia clinging on to my leg as an anchor, Izak began firing the snowballs at me while I did my best to continue the telephone discussion as professionally as possible. With the phone hung up I proceeded to

give the kids my full attention… which included hammering them with a few snowballs!!

My most memorable family holiday meal was… making breakfast pancakes and fried banana on the barbecue at Norfolk Island’s beautiful Emily Bay, early Boxing Day morning.

Many family travellers are not aware of… just how many low cost or no cost activities that parents and kids can enjoy from beaches, bush walks and activity parks to learning centres, national parks and heritage areas.

Every family should experience… uncontrollable giggling, a sunset swim and cook up on a beautiful island beach.

My top tip for travelling with kids is… to plan your breaks when driving and carry a family snack pack with healthy food. And to remember that sometimes a family holiday should just be about engaging with the family and not about theme parks or big attractions - spend half a day playing board games or walking bush trails together.

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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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CHASING

winter WITH THE SKI SEASON DONE AND DUSTED IN AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND, FAMILIES THAT LOVE THE SNOW ARE IN MOURNING. BUT NEVER FEAR, NOW IS THE TIME TO BOOK YOUR FAMILY SNOW ADVENTURE IN THE NORTHERN HEMISPHERE. WORDS: HELEN HAYES

W

e can’t give you the whole buffet, but we have prepared a tasting plate of some of the best family ski resorts to help you make your decision.

Plus we’ve asked some of Australia’s best ski travel companies to share their knowledge. Even consider having a white Christmas … something your whole family will never forget.

Experts in the field There are plenty of reasons why it’s beneficial to book through an Aussie tour company that lives and breathes all things snow, such as Mogulski, Skimax and Travelplan. All three are staffed by experts that have visited the resorts they sell so they are better equipped to find the ski resort that is the best fit for your family.

Ben Cardenas from Travelplan, says that Travelplan’s buying power ensures you get the lowest inclusive price on flights, accommodation, lift passes, snow school lessons, equipment rental, transfers and more. “As an Australian owned and operated travel operator you will have absolute peace of mind, something you won’t have when risking upfront payments on overseas websites,” he says.

Rachelle Matheson from Mogulski says that they can offer discounts that are not available to people booking online and can answer every question you have – something that you can’t do online.

Rodney Muller from Skimax agrees and

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says that booking early is the key. “Like with most things, the ski industry has moved towards providing incentives to clients to book and commit early. Besides securing availability clients can take advantage of significant discounts and value adds.”

Board in the USA COOL IN COLORADO Australians love skiing and boarding in Colorado. In fact, Australia is the number one international market to quite a few of the big name players including Aspen/ Snowmass, Telluride, Steamboat and Winter Park. As some of the resorts are quite high, it is recommended that you spend a day or two in Denver.

Beaver Creek (www.beavercreek. com) is a family favourite with a host of complimentary activities and programs for kids. Younger children love the adventure zones from Jack Rabbit Alley to Ripperoo’s Retreat, and everyone loves the complimentary hot chocolate every morning and cookie time – free warm chocolate-chip cookies served every afternoon. For lovers of parks and pipes, Copper Mountain (www.coppercolorado. com) is cool thanks to the Woodward at Copper Barn, an indoor ski and board training facility that allows your kids to progress in a safe environment. It’s a great mountain for progression and the Belly Button Bakery childcare facility is very impressive.

What’s hot for next season?

We asked local ski travel experts for their tips on the go-to ski-fields this season. Japan is on the top of the list for Travelplan’s Ben Cardenas and Rodney Muller of Skimax. “After positive word of mouth from last season we have huge numbers returning for 2012/13,” says Cardenas. From Mogulski, Rachelle Matheson picks out Jackson Hole in Wyoming, USA

The Chapel of Holy Mary in the Snow at the familyfriendly ski resort of Bettmeralp in Switzerland.

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SOARING IN CALIFORNIA Yes, California is known for its sunshine, but it also has an impressive array of ski resorts.

Lake Tahoe has seven world-class resorts including Squaw Valley (www.squaw.com), which hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics.

Squaw has a lot of pluses including High Camp with its pool, hot tub, ice rink and jaw-dropping views, incredible parks and pipes and a Starbucks. True – Starbucks has opened the first ski-in, ski-out coffee shop in North America, at a lofty 2438 metres.

Squaw has teamed up with Alpine Meadows to give access to both mountains - a combined 2428 hectares of ski terrain.

Northstar at Tahoe (www.northstarattahoe.com) has been making a name for itself as an excellent family-friendly resort for beginners and intermediates with a beautiful village and staff with a can-do attitude. Awardwinning Mammoth Mountain (www. mammothmountain.com) delivers a giant ski experience with plenty of terrain, the fabulous Woolly’s Adventure Summit tube park and snow play area, nine terrain parks, three half pipes and plenty of kid-friendly dining options.

UTAH UNCOVERED Park City has had massive growth from Aussie families in recent years and no wonder, with three incredible ski resorts at the doorstep. Deer Valley (www.deervalley. com) is a ski-only resort with impeccable groomed slopes, service that is second to

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none, and a pedigree that is hard to top; Deer Valley has been named the top ski resort in North America by Ski Magazine for five years in a row.

Park City Mountain Resort (www. parkcitymountain.com) is a big mountain with big fun for kids of all ages, with innovative snowsports school, fun onsnow adrenalin rides such as the Alpine Coaster and the Flying Eagle Zip Rider and parks that are good enough for the pros.

Neff Land will open next season – a fun progression park with a vibe that is second to none. And to finish the trifecta of worldrenowned resorts, The Canyons (www. canyonsresort.com) is very hip and has an air of fun that is palpable. If you are there mid-December, don’t miss Santa Skis Free Day. Locals dress like Santa or Mrs Claus and ski for free.

Ski secret...

Grand Targhee in Wyoming is a hidden gem, constantly recognised for its great snow, hospitality, value, beauty, its ski school and for its new Kids Fun Zone. Kids can learn in a fun and intimate environment before heading over the Teton Pass to tackle Wyoming’s star performer, Jackson Hole. www.grandtarghee.com

From left: Village at Northstar Deer Valley ski school

Tried and te

sted “We visited Vail (www.s kivail.com) our three ki with ds, aged se ven, 11 and Our accom 13. modation w as in Vail V and we wer illage e more than happy for o children to ur walk aroun d on their ow visit shops n to and throw sno river. Ther e were so m wballs by the any highlig the quaintn hts; ess of the vi llage, the fr ski instruct iendly ors, the lon g ski runs an sheer num d the ber of ski ru ns. Incredib The Mazar le!” aki family.

“Telluride is a beautifu The Telluri l place to sk de village at i. the bottom the mounta of in is like so mething ou old western t of an movie and the village the mounta up on in-side was more stylis chic. Telluri h and de has som e stunning scenery an d we would certainly return.” Th e Brooks fa mily. www.telluri de.com

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SKIING WITH KIDS – INTERNATIONAL

Clockwise from left: Village at Sun Peaks Zermatt, Switzerland Christmas Carols at Silver Star

Tried and Tested SUN PEAKS

ent we saw the “From the mom aks village of Sun Pe postcard-pretty ved lo we ), m co resort. (www.sunpeaks th the kids wi e, at tim in d it. It is small an e or an r a hot chocolat able to go out fo i school sk e emselves. Th ice cream by th iing sk e th , ey on for m was great value we s incredible, and boarding wa sledding for the g do g in loved go g with Nancy iin sk first time and pic hero, was Greene, an Olym . e Hayes family Th unforgettable.”

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Euro zone

Whistler (www.whistlerblackcomb. com) is wow. There’s no denying its supremity and when you ski there, it does live up to the hype and expectation.

Everything about it is awesome; it’s size, the excellent Whistler Kids snowschool program, the free guided tours, the Peak2Peak Gondola between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, the village, the fire and ice show … and did I mention the size?

Silver Star (www.skisilverstar.com) and Big White (www.bigwhite.com) are very popular with Aussie families, mainly due to the village atmosphere. Big White is also great for families with kids who want to learn to race or improve racing technique, with the Australian Snowsports School (www.snowpro.com) operating throughout January and at Easter. United is now offering direct flights from Los Angeles to Kelowna, close to Big White, Silver Star and Sun Peaks.

For nature lovers and photography buffs, consider one of the three resorts in Banff National Park - Sunshine Village (www.skibanff.com), Lake Louise (www.skilouise.com) and Norquay (www.banffnorquay.com). The slopes are not crowded, the scenery will have you searching for superlatives, and the towns of Banff and Lake Louise are full of character and charm.

In Europe, you can ski just about anywhere, from Spain to Bulgaria, from Norway to Russia, and Andorra to Poland. So it’s easy to combine a holiday to one of your favourite countries with some skiing. Talk to a tour company, choose which country you want to go to and let them suggest the best ski resorts for your ability level, budget and general wishlist.

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AUSTRIA From idyllic Tyrolean villages to resorts known for glitz and glamour, Austria has it all. From the Arlberg – the cradle of alpine skiing, with resorts such as Lech, Zürs, St Antons, St Christoph and Stuben, to the Voralberg, Salzburgerland and DachsteinTauern regions. The Tyrol boasts the legendary Kitzbüehel, Mayrhofen and the family-friendly Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis.

Then of course, there is Innsbruck (www.innsbruck.info) which has something for everyone. If your family is looking for variation, the Olympia SkiWorld pass allows you to ski at nine resorts. The ski schools are world leaders, the service outstanding and the accommodation can be anything from an igloo to a mountain hut to fivestar luxury. Kids can ski many resorts for free, or at discounted rates and the shuttle bus between resorts is free. Go before Christmas and let the kids experience the magic of the Christmas markets, held in

Maria Theresien Strasse, the Old Town and Marktplatz. The traditional carols, the Christmas lights and traditional handicrafts will add up to fairytale evening and if you visit the Marktplatz market, the carousel and petting zoo will add even more to the occasion.

FRANCE France has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to ski resorts and a lot of them attract celebrities and royals by the private-plane load. High flyers love Val d’Isère, sitting pretty in the heart of the Savoy Mountains and Chamonix, at the foot of mighty Mont Blanc. For sheer size, the Trois Vallees (www.les3vallees.com) is as good as it gets. This is the largest ski area in the world with the resorts of Courchevel, La Tania, Méribel, Brides-les-Bains, Les Menuires - Saint Martin, Val Thorens and Orelle providing 600 kms of interconnected slopes. You can even pick up a Family (Famille) Pass which gives 20 per cent off the pass, from six to 21 days.

SWITZERLAND Impossibly pretty scenery plus world-class skiing and oodles of fondue and raclette is what you can expect in Switzerland, with the Valais Canton the place to start. The Valais sits in the southwest of the country and is where you can find the Matterhorn, and 121 ski resorts including the very classy Verbier with its traditional wooden chalets, the drop-dead gorgeous Zermatt, the car-free

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email ski@travelplan.com.au visit www.travelplan.com.au SPRING 2012

Offices in Sydney and Melbourne. NSW Licence No 2TA000270 and VIC Licence No 30167. www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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SKIING WITH KIDS – INTERNATIONAL

Clockwise from left: Bormio, Italy Learning to ski in Switzerland Rusutsu

Tried & Tested n we stayed in

villages of Bettmeralp (www.bettmeralp. ch) , near the Aletsch Glacier and Saas Fee – home to the highest underground funicular railway in the world and of course the Matterhorn itself, with 313kms of pistes.

Bettmeralp is known as one of the best family-friendly resorts with its facilities, locaton and the photogenic Chapel of Holy Mary in the Snow. www.myswitzerland.com

ITALY There are several tour companies in Australia that specialise in ski holidays for families to Italy, and they know their stuff.

Skiare (www.skiare.com.au) can organise snow holidays for families to the Alta Badia region of Italy, another ginormous ski area that you can access on the Dolomite Superski Pass. The numbers are huge – there are about 1220 kms of runs – but the heart-melting farm villages are small, beautiful and real. You can ski down a slope past a barn-load of cows waiting to be milked, or see a farmer pulling a sled-load of hay. To really tire everyone out, try the Sellaronda circuit, a 40 km run that links four villages. There is nothing like it.

Skiitaly.com.au organises snow holidays to the Valtellina area in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. The main ski villages are historic Bormio (Leonardo Da Vinci was a fan), Livigno and Santa Caterina

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Valfurva. Bormio is where you will find the ancient thermal baths, one of which dates back to 200BC.

Japanese joys This season is going to be huge for Japan, with all that powder snow, culture, onsens, great food and amazing resorts. Consider going in February or March when the snow is still deep and the discounts worthwhile.

Comprising nine ski resorts with over 200 runs, Hakuba has certainly grown since its first resort, Happo One, was established over 75 years ago. Happo One is still one of the larger resorts here, as well as Goryu and Hakuba 47. These bigger resorts have childspecific areas for learning and snowplay, while for bigger kids and fearless adults, there is no shortage of steep slopes, powder stashes and parks. For something special, the family can ski with Aussie Olympic skier Steve Lee. Also on Honshu, in the Joshin-estu National Park, Shiga Kogen is huge, with 21 interlinked resorts making it the largest ski resort in Japan. If the kids are tired and need a day off from Shigan Kogen or Hakuba, take them to visit the Matsumoto Castle – designated as a National Treasure, or go see the snow monkeys soaking in the Jigokudani hot springs.

pa “At Niseko in Ja very pleasantly Hirafu and were ational skiing was sens surprised. The ile to wh took a little – even though it ought th e W . er wd in po adjust to skiing e th t be fussy abou the kids would gs in th nt re ffe ed di food, but they tri to in ed ck tu off the buffet, did not the curries and The .” complain once ily m fa n so Hender

FAST FACTS FLIGHT CHECK When choosing an airline, check the checked baggage weight limit per person otherwise you will spend time unpacking from one suitcase and loading up another.

ACCOMMODATION Ask your tour company to ensure you have an apartment with a washer/dryer, and a heated pool with hot tub. You will appreciate it at the end of the day.

GEAR If you don’t want to lug your ski gear everywhere, consider hiring it over there.

Take masking tape and a texta to write everyone’s name on skis/boards.

TIPS Check out what your insurance covers in terms of injury, cancellations, no snow and damage to hire gear.

Take plenty of photos!

INNSBRUCK TOURISMUS GRAFIK h.a.

Ski the Olympia SkiWorld Innsbruck

from $ 690 per person, 7 nights half board, 6 day ski pass!

For the Alpine way of life Innsbruck, the Capital of the Alps and its surrounding ski resorts with 300 km of slopes guarantee unbeatable skiing for everyone. You can take your pick of staying in the 800 year old city of Innsbruck or in one of its charming ski resorts like Igls, Mutters or Kühtai each with its own Tyrolean character. Choose the regions you’d like to ski or have all 9 with an “Olympia World Ski Pass”.

SPRING 2012 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au RESERVATION AND INFORMATION: Innsbruck Tourismus, office@innsbruck.info, www.innsbruck-packages.com

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Statue of Liberty, New York City Š createsima1 , Shutterstock

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OUT & ABOUT IN AMERICA

States of play FROM THE MAGIC OF VEGAS TO CRUISING IN CALIFORNIA A FAMILY HOLIDAY TO AMERICA CERTAINLY HAS THE ‘KA-CHOW!’ FACTOR. AND WITH GREAT EXCHANGE RATES THERE’S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO SAY G’DAY TO THE USA.

W

ith the much-anticipated grand opening of Cars Land in California’s Disneyland this year, more Australian families are planning to take their tribes state-side (and let’s face it, what kid doesn’t want to meet Lightning McQueen and his best friend Mater?)

While a visit to see Lightning and his gang will be top of most children’s to-do list while in the USA (and a perfect excuse to plan your American adventure) there is also plenty to keep grown-ups entertained. With daily direct flights to Los Angeles from most Australian capital cities, this vibrant city is the gateway into the States for most Aussies.

From LA airport it’s just a quick trip to Anaheim – home of the original Disneyland Resort. And around four hours’ from Los Angeles is Las Vegas

– one of the most popular weekend travel destinations for LA residents.

The bright lights of Vegas may seem far removed from the fairytale castles of Disneyland, but this weird and wonderful city in the middle of the desert holds a magical appeal for young visitors.

Perhaps your family is more inclined take a bite of the Big Apple.

From Central Park to Coney Island, New York is a city made for kids.

Energetic and full of fun, the city that never sleeps has plenty of affordable activities for all the crew, night or day.

If you’d rather swap bright lights and circus tricks for surfing kicks, then say Aloha to Hawaii. With three direct flights a week to Honolulu from Sydney, this American state (actually a string of islands in the Pacific) is the perfect choice for a chilled-out and memorable getaway with a difference.

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big apple A FAMILY HOLIDAY TO NEW YORK DOESN’T NEED TO BREAK THE BANK. NEW DAD BARRY DIVOLA, A REGULAR TO THE CITY THAT NEVER SLEEPS, DISCOVERS THERE’S PLENTY OF AFFORDABLE ACTIVITIES FOR ALL THE CREW.

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’ve been making an annual solo pilgrimage to New York for almost 20 years. Last year my wife had a baby and I suddenly realised that future trips may involve a) entertaining a little girl in Manhattan; and b) trying not to break the bank in the process.

So on my most recent stay, I started asking questions that you may also be asking if you have a family and you’re thinking about making the trip. Can you

WITHOUT THE BIG BUCKS

make your dollar stretch in New York when you have kids in tow? Are there alternatives to the regular tourist traps?

And can you get anything for free in the city that never sleeps? Fortunately the answer to all those questions is yes. You just have to think outside the square.

The high life Sure, you could pay US$22 each at the ticket office of the Empire State Building

AMERICA

and then wait in line for so long that “Are we there yet?” will become the mantra that sends you to a mental asylum. Or you could walk across the Brooklyn Bridge for free. With a pedestrian path and bikeway running along the middle of the bridge, high above the lanes of traffic, the views from the middle are panoramic, taking in the city skyline, the East River and even the Statue of Liberty. And after you’ve taken all your photos, why not keep walking and end up in Brooklyn Heights, with its tree-lined streets and brownstone buildings? Alternatively, head to the High Line, an abandoned elevated railway line that was recently redesigned into a public space that runs through the Meatpacking District and Chelsea. With food and coffee carts in the middle and look-outs and seats dotted throughout, it’s a cheap and scenic way to spend an afternoon.

On your bike Sure, you could go on a guided bike tour of Central Park for $50 each. But did you know your family can ride bikes for free on Governor’s Island, right in the middle of New York harbour? A free ferry leaves from Battery Park, and on Friday afternoons between June and October, you can ride a bike for nothing for an hour.

It’s easy to pedal around the little island in that time, stopping now and then to take family photos with Manhattan in the background. Also, if you stay at the Jane Hotel in the West Village, guests get free use of a small fleet of black cruiser-style pushbikes. Or you can rent a bike from one of the eleven Bike and Roll outlets (kids’ bikes are US$8 an hour or US$25 for the whole day). Best ride: the Hudson River Greenway, a bike path that runs all the

way along the western edge of Manhattan, completely separated from traffic and very child-friendly.

Sleek sleeps Sure, you could stay at an anonymous midtown hotel for US$250 or more a night.

Or you could stay at Yotel (from US$149 a night in low season), a space-age place three blocks from Times Square. The kids - and possibly the adults - will love the Yobot, a giant robotic arm that picks up luggage and stores it in big white drawers in its glassed-in lair off the lobby. A lowcost alternative on the east side of town is The Pod, which has a modernist Ikeastyle design and bunk-beds for the kids.

Or why not be adventurous and sublet an apartment from www.airbnb.com? It will not only work out cheaper than a hotel, but your family will get to live like real New Yorkers

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the family spirit

Explore, understand, and have fun!

Novotel New York is located in an area that facilitates a wide range of activities for the whole family! Our centrally location on 52nd & Broadway is within walking distance of Central Park, Theaters, Fifth Avenue, Radio City Music Hall as well as Rockefeller Center. These outings, for children and parents, are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

All of our guestrooms offer incredible views of the lights

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and action of Times Square; Broadway and the Hudson River. Our lobby, rooms, and restaurant have a new and fresh design given the look and feel that our clients are looking for.

“Trips are unique opportunities for the whole family to discover the world and to share a whole host of sensations”. Let’s make it happen at Novotel New York Times Square!

Novotel New York Times Square, 226 West 52nd Street, New York – 315 0100 | Fax +1 212 – 765 5363 | www.novotel.com

SPRING 2012 Phone +1 212 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

AMERICA

FAST FACTS

WHEN TO GO New York is at its very best in the early northern autumn (September-October) and spring (March-April) WHERE TO STAY Yotel - 570 Tenth Avenue www.yotel.com The Pod - 230 E51st Street www.thepodhotel.com Apartment sublets www.airbnb.com Novotel Times Square www.novotel.com/New_York WHAT TO DO Governor’s Island www.govisland.com The High Line www.thehighline.org Bike And Roll www.bikeandroll.com The Cage corner of W4th Street and Sixth Avenue WHERE TO EAT Alice’s Tea Cup 102 W73rd Street; 156 E64th Street; 220 E81st Street www.alicesteacup.com Peanut Butter & Co. 240 Sullivan Street www.ilovepeanutbutter.com Shake Shack Madison Square Park www.shakeshack.com Big Daddy’s 239 Park Avenue South www.bigdaddysnyc.com Tom’s Restaurant 2880 Broadway www.tomsrestaurant.net MORE INFORMATION www.nycgo.com

and get to know the neighbourhood. The website features reviews from previous guests, multiple photos of each apartment and even after you pay your money, it’s held by airbnb for 24 hours after you arrive, just in case there are any problems.

with families (average kids’ meal, $8) while the Seinfeld fans in your brood (young and old) will have to visit Tom’s Restaurant on Broadway, which served as the place where Jerry, George, Elaine and Kramer hung out in the TV show.

Take a bite

Have a ball

Sure, you could eat at generic, tourist-clogged cafes and restaurants dotted around midtown. Or you could have a fun, unique dining experience that won’t break the bank. Alice’s Tea Cup boasts three magical uptown destinations for anyone who’s a fan of the Cheshire Cat and also enjoys homemade scones. Peanut Butter & Co. in Greenwich Village is true to name, with dozens of variations on the all-American peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Line up early if you want lunch at Shake Shack in Madison Square Park - the queues are there for a reason, as one of the best burgers in the city is served there. And what would a visit to New York be without visiting a diner?

Big Daddy’s on Park Avenue South is a favourite

Sure, you could take your sports-mad kids to see the New York Knicks play at Madison Square Garden for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Or you could go to “The Cage” on the corner of W4th Street and 6th Avenue and shell out nothing. Since 1968, this outdoor court has been the place where some of the best basketballers in the city gather to play. Team scouts often check out the action and many players have been signed up for the NBA as a result.

Sure, New York can be an expensive town. But do your homework, avoid the tourist traps and walk on the wild side a little, and you’ll take a big bite of the Big Apple without it taking a big bite out of your credit card.

Previous page: New York City at night. © Andy Z , Shutterstock.com

From left: Governors Island bike rides and great views. Courtesy: The Trust for Governors Island.

Illuminated facades of Broadway theaters on in Times Square. © Andrey Bayda, Shutterstock.com

New York lunch © Yuri Gupta, Shutterstock.com

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All revved up FOR CARS LAND OUT & ABOUT WITH KIDS TRAVELS TO DISNEYLAND TO SEE THE LATEST, AND MOST ANTICIPATED, NEW ATTRACTION AT THE ICONIC THEME PARK. WORDS: RODERICK EIME

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CALIFORNIA

Sally’s bizarre Cozy Cone Motel is there too, with novelty snacks and sweets served at each of the little cones.

Apart from the signature Radiator Springs Racers ride, where the set piece from the banked canyon scene is recreated, Mater’sJunkyard is a jolly tractor jamboree and Luigi’s Flying Tires is a giant skid-pan for tyre-like bumper mini-hovercraft.

Street of dreams

T

“

his is Radiator Springs,” says Sally Carrera the blue Porsche seductively as we ‘motor’ into the neon lit Flo’s V8 Café, “where you not only need to be fast, you need to look fast!”

“Ka-CHOW!” chimes in Lightning McQueen as we are whisked away for a makeover in Ramone’s body shop.

The Radiator Springs Racers ride is the crowning glory of the Disney Pixar’s Cars-themed Cars Land – part of Disneyland’s five-year multi-million dollar renovation of Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim that has seen an array of new and exciting hi-tech attractions open progressively since 2007.

Before you read on, go see the film or rent the DVD. Go on, I’ll wait. Because you must be acquainted with the characters and geography of the movie’s central location of Radiator Springs – and it seems everyone under 16 is - to fully appreciate this completely immersive experience.

Get your fix on Route 66

The grand opening in June was a gala affair executed in true blockbuster style with a concert, red carpet walk-thru and slap up feed. Of course, all the characters were there to welcome guests in true animatronic form.

As you walk through the streets of Route 66-inspired Radiator Springs, the whole story of Cars comes alive. You can stop for a snack at Fillmore’s Taste In or a sit-down meal at Flo’s V8 Café – all perfectly re-created. It’s sometimes difficult to work out which was conceived first, the theme park or the movie. Feel the retail urge?

Then Sarge’s Surplus Hut, Ramone’s House of Body Art or Radiator Springs Curios are there to satisfy.

While the other new attractions (such as Toy Story Mania, World of Colour, Ariel’s Undersea Adventure and Star Tours) were progressively opened since the overhaul began in 2007, the other all-new reveal was Buena Vista Street, styled on downtown Los Angeles of the 1920s and ’30s. This entire district was built as homage to Walt Disney, who arrived in the city from Kansas, as we are constantly reminded through legend and song, with “a suitcase and a dream”.

Grown-ups will find Buena Vista Street a thoroughly enchanting precinct with many art deco buildings and theatres, the centrepiece being the exquisite Carthay Circle Theatre which includes fine dining and a swank night spot. Adults could easily leave the kids at home for this place, although during the day there is a constant buzz in the streets with roaming characters and impromptu shows, like the Dixieland band Five & Dime.

One of the most impressive features of Buena Vista Street is the minute detail used to theme and decorate the buildings – from the scaled Red Car Trolleys, right down to recreated fuel bowsers, a tyre inflator and even an intricate vintage gum dispenser. All of this completes the illusion of fantasy that transports you back into the days of pre-war Los Angeles at the birth of the ‘talkies’ and Disney’s revolutionary animation Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. This movie was first screened in 1937 and the first full-length cel-animated feature in motion picture history.

Doing Disneyland The challenge of Disneyland is seeing as much as you can in the time available. Queues are inevitable and the signature rides can be an hour or more, but there are ways to minimize your waiting time.

Probably the single most important tip is the Disney FASTPASS which allows guests to reserve a specific time window to enjoy their favorite attractions. When guests come back during that specified window they enjoy the shorter line reserved for FASTPASS holders.

For parents, a theme-park “rider switch” policy gives both parents a chance to enjoy their favourite attractions without double the wait. A parent who waits with a young child while the other parent rides the attraction may board the ride with minimal wait time once the first parent exits, but you’ll need to enquire at each ride for this.

Also useful is the Disney Mobile Magic app for

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CALIFORNIA

smartphones which will give waiting times at major attractions plus GPS-enabled maps, dining guides and reservation tools.

Coming from Australia, the major cost is, naturally, airfares. So don’t cut corners by trying to ‘go cheap’ once you are in Disneyland.

Vacation packages are available with either of the two on-site Disney hotels which can include meals, multiple day entry and exclusive events where you get your own time with the stars.

Eating at Disneyland The common myth is that Disneyland is full of sugar-rich, artery-hardening junk food. Sure, you could easily go crazy with the array of naughty options, but with a bit of discipline conscientious parents can keep themselves and the kids on the straight-and-narrow.

The two signature breakfast dining options are Minnie & Friends Breakfast in Disneyland proper, located at the end of Main Street, and Goofy’s Kitchen in the Disneyland Hotel.

The former offers more traditional ‘big breakfast’ fare, while Goofy’s Kitchen is a crazy smorgasbord of outrageous breakfast options.

Yes, you can get sober servings of juice and fruit, but how do you keep the excited little mouseketeers away from such temptations as ‘worms and dirt’, peanut butter and jelly pizza,

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Mickey waffles, Krispy Treats and strawberry shortcake. It’s more like the Mad Hatter’s tea party.

Out in the park, there is no shortage of themed and novelty meals and snacks. From comforting hot dogs, burgers and all manner of fried things, the shortest queues are certainly at the healthy option outlets. Apples, bananas, oranges, mangos, dried fruit, trail mix and juicy pineapple spears are on offer at Mortimers Market along with bottled water for those mums and dads trying to keep a lid on the family calories. For pure fun, the Taste Pilots’ Grill in the Condor Flats rocket-testing facility makes great sandwiches. True. And PS, while dad can’t get a beer in Disneyland, the Carthay Circle Lounge does have a spot for a tipple.

Planning and research Disneyland’s online and virtual services are mind-boggling. You can have a complete virtual tour of Cars Land and investigate every nook and cranny of both parks as well as ticketing, dining and vacation package options. disneyland.disney.go.com/

FAST FACTS GETTING THERE Direct Daily Flights to Los Angeles are available from most Australian capital cities.

Air New Zealand, a member of the Star Alliance and ATW 2012 Airline of the Year, flies twice daily to Los Angeles via Auckland in their new Boeing 777-300s featuring onboard concierge on LAX route and latest interiors with the Kiwi-designed Skycouch in economy. www.airnewzealand.com.au MORE INFORMATION www.disneyland.com.au/carsland

Get ready to be floored at Disneyland Resort, California

© Disney/Pixar

Cars Land is now at Disney California Adventure Park. You’ll feel like you’re walking into the Disney•Pixar Cars movie, because Radiator Springs has now been brought to life.

Grab our 2013 Disney Parks brochure out now!

Experience Disney with this fantastic package: 4 nights accommodation at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel BONUS Kids stay FREE 3 Day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Bonus Ticket Return Los Angeles airport transfers on Disneyland Resort Express Adults from $975* and children from $305*

Call 1300 747 400, visit creativeholidays.com or your local travel agent. *CONDITIONS APPLY. Prices are per person family share based on 2 adults and 2 children under the age of 9 as at 3 Aug 12. Prices may fluctuate due to changes in charges, taxes and currency. Valid for sale until 30 Nov 12 Advertised price valid for travel 2 Jan 13 - 17 Jan 13 & 20 Jan 13 - 14 Feb 13. Subject to availability. Seasonal surcharges apply. Cancellation fees & blackout dates apply. Minimum/maximum stay restrictions apply. An additional SPRING 2012 97 Credit Card Service Fee will be applied to the dollar amount paid by credit or charge card. Prices and inclusions are correct at time of issue and are subject to change. Offers may be withdrawn at anytime without notice. www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au CH/980800. 11881CRMR

VEGAS

V

egas doesn’t usually come up in conversation when discussing where to head for the next family holiday. But beyond the brash veneer of nightclubs and gambling dens there is plenty of wholesome fun for the tribe – particularly if you have tweens and teens who are dazzled by magic shows and high-flying circus acts.

Before going, it is worth doing extensive homework. Luxury hotel rooms are well priced, but this is usually because they rely on gambling profits. Though children’s and family activities may be offered, the only way to the bedrooms of many resorts is through a huge casino area. Outside, Vegas still deserves its reputation as a place for dancing girls and quickie weddings, and the Strip – the seven-kilometre stretch where most of the action takes place – is not the safest place for an evening stroll.

But in the daytime, perhaps after lunch at one of the world-famous bistros (or alternatively, the increasing range of gourmet burger bars), a walk along the Strip can do you good.

Abracadabra…

At the Mandalay Bay Resort, at the southern end of the Strip, I spoke to Chan, a New Yorker visiting with her husband and two sons, aged 14 and eight. Like millions of others, the family visited some of the free attractions including the Bellagio Conservatory, with its ever-changing floral displays, and the Fall of Atlantis at Caesars,

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a fountain show combining fire, water and animatronics. “These were things which each of us enjoyed,” she said, “and that doesn’t happen so often.”

Yet the magic was just beginning.

Literally. Along with Elvis impersonators, Vegas is renowned for its magicians. Across the road at the Luxor Hotel & Casino, illusionist Criss Angel fronts the Cirque du Soleil show, Believe. Meanwhile at the Tropicana, Murray (who apparently has no surname) performs more intimate magic in the Laugh Factory, a renowned stand-up comedy venue. Word has it that Murray has apparently produced a Ferrari from thin air before, so it’s worth seeing him!

Walk on the wild side The magicians cum animal-tamers Siegfried & Roy, legends of the Mirage Resort & Casino, retired their show in 2003 after Roy was mauled by one of the tigers. They still headline at the Mirage through Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat, a small zoo where big cats still roam (albeit a safe distance from visitors), and you can swim with bottlenose dolphins..

More water fun can be enjoyed – free of charge – at the Silverton Hotel, eight kilometres from the Strip, where 4000 fish swim in a 117,000-gallon aquarium. As this is Vegas, a city based on fantasy, they swim with mermaids – former synchronised swimmers and ballerinas, whose water acrobatics are all the more impressive because they are wearing fins.

© Andy Z. / Shutterstock.com

LAS VEGAS HAS A REPUTATION FOR GROWN-UP FUN, BUT BEYOND THE GLITZ AND GLAMOUR THIS CITY HAS ENOUGH FAMILY-FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS - FROM MAGICIANS TO MERMAIDS – TO KEEP THE KIDS ENTERTAINED FOR MONTHS. WORDS: MARK JUDDERY

Watch and learn Like any large city, Las Vegas has museums and educational tours, but being Vegas, most of them focus on fun. Away from the Strip, the splendid Ethel M Chocolates offers a free factory tour, as well as a botanical garden with an extensive cactus collection. Chocoholics with less refined tastes can remain on the Strip for M&M’s World, which is basically a four-storey souvenir shop.

Safely away from the world of confectionery, the Lied Discovery Children’s Museum has over 100 wonderful interactive exhibits, mostly for science lovers, though the in-house radio station, K-KID, might be the main drawcard for kids who would rather be Justin Bieber than Einstein.

From left: Mxxxxxx. © Dxxxxxxxxx

Circuses and thrills Circus-lovers might choose to stay at Circus Circus (named with a subtlety befitting Vegas). The resort-hotel includes a free daily in-house circus, featuring acts from around the world (and unlike some burlesque-style circuses in Vegas, ideal for kids). Circus Circus also comes with its own indoor theme park, Adventureland.

The surreal and hugely popular Cirque du Soleil was founded near Montreal, but seven of its current productions reside in Vegas, regularly attracting full houses to different venues along the Strip. Apart from the sexy Zumanity, all are safe for younger eyes, including the colourful KÀ and Mystère; and the aquatic O, performed over an on-stage pool. In

Vegas, it is possible (if expensive) to see a new Cirque du Soleil show each day for a week.

Meanwhile, Adventureland is not the only place for amusement-park rides. Several thrill rides are located along the Strip. The Roller Coaster at the New York-New York Hotel provides incredible drops and multiple loops over a postcard copy of NYC, complete with a 46-metre Statue of Liberty. Apparently it provides some of the best views of the Strip, but when you’re plummeting 40 metres, you don’t always notice such things.

In fact, the best views of Vegas might be enjoyed while dangling from a zip-line over the colourful Freemont Street (a side street to the Strip). Strapped into a harness, it’s a thrill, but less distracting than a roller coaster.

FAST FACTS GETTING THERE Flights from Australia are available to Las Vegas via Los Angeles MORE INFORMATION www.visitlasvegas.com

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Waikiki beach in Honolulu, Hawaii. Š Chris Howey, Shutterstock.com

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Hawai’i HIGH

FROM ROMANTIC REPOSE TO FAMILY FANTASY. JULIE MAHONEY FOUND THE MAGIC WAS STILL ALIVE IN HAWAII WHEN SHE RETURNED WITH KIDS IN TOW.

T

here was a full moon over Waikiki the night that Thomas, our first son, was conceived. My husband and I were on our honeymoon, high on mai tais, sunshine and the strange excitement that accompanies a shiny new ring.

It was the first time we had visited Honolulu, a glitzy yet friendly place, chockfull of Americans in “Aloha!” shirts. We swore we’d be back soon but two children, a mortgage and a hectic work life got in the way until earlier this year. I saw a flight deal, a wave of nostalgia washed over me and without a single sensible thought, I’d booked a winter holiday to Hawai’i.

Honolulu hiatus Being back in Honolulu was just like seeing an old buddy, albeit one who has had a bit of work done. The shopping strip has gone from souvenirs and fast food to Louis Vuitton and sashimi. The street performers and buskers are still there but the crowd is well-heeled and international.

Having two little boys in tow (William, eight, and Thomas, 10) was no trouble either because the whole town caters for kids. Take Morimoto Waikiki, a top restaurant opened by one of the ‘Iron Chefs’ from Japan which is stunning in every way. Nestled amongst its white linen tablecloths and coral sculptures are highchairs. The restaurant is open air at

the front so it’s not a matter of containing noise either; ambient sound washes over you, along with the cool evening breeze, drowning out any kiddie racket.

Big ships, big shops During the day, there is plenty to keep the whole family occupied. Between swimming in the calm, warm water of Waikiki Beach and watching the passing parade, to driving up to the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor the boys are enthralled. Big ships – even tragically sunken ones – have that affect on boys, large and small.

On our last day in Waikiki, I decide to brave one of the biggest shopping malls in North America – the Ala Moana Center. The boys come along but before long they are flagging - they stick around long enough to pick out new runners before my merciful husband takes them back to the Moana Surfrider Resort & Spa for an outrigger canoe lesson.

Lunchtime rolls around and I spend a blissful hour at Mariposa restaurant on the second level of the Neiman Marcus building nibbling on housemade ‘pop-ups’ (savoury pastries served with strawberry butter), sipping bottomless iced tea and eating a fresh crab salad. Life is beautiful.

After a big day of shopping for me, and an afternoon of sun and saltwater for the boys, we barrel into the hotel restaurant,

Beachhouse at the Moana, for an early meal.

This is what takes me back to the heady days of our honeymoon. The dining room is the epitome of Victorian charm, all parlour palms and languidly rotating ceiling fans. The menu lists local fish, as well as the usual protein staples, and there is a special section for kids. Sitting here with not one, but three of my favourite males, I can’t help but feel very much in love.

Hibiscus and hula in Kaua’i The flight to Kaua’i, the northernmost and oldest of the Hawaiian Islands is remarkably quick. Twenty minutes in the air – just long enough for a complimentary juice – and we’re back on the ground. Alighting the plane is like arriving in old Hawai’i; a land of 1960s Elvis and luaus (traditional Hawaiian parties or feasts), hibiscus and hula.

We jump on the courtesy bus to the depot and pick up an automatic sedan (although hubby is vocally disappointed that we can’t get the orange Mustang from the Hertz fun collection). The friendly reservations staff hand over a foolproof map – there is one main loop road on the island so once you find that, you’re set.

We are staying at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa in Poipu on the south shore so we turn left and travel down country through lush greenery, turning off down an avenue of

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From left: Learn to surf Hawaiian style. © Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)/Tor Johnson

Local dancing. © Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)/Joe Solem

enormous eucalyptus trees dubbed the ‘tree tunnel’.

The entryway to the hotel is magnificent. A sweeping traditional South Pacific-style portico leads into a cavernous foyer filled with elegant tropical flower arrangements, chandeliers and a selection of sitting areas, shops and the check-in desk. There are five pools – a saltwater lagoon, a kids’ play pool and an adults-only pool, plus two other lagoon-style pool, complete with waterfalls and slides.

There are restaurants galore – poolside, sashimi, fine dining, casual, breakfast – you name it, it’s there. We have booked a family room that is very nearly the same size as our Sydney apartment.

High times Three happy days ensue. We rise early for breakfast, swim all morning in the resort pools, pick up lunch out and about (Living Foods at Kukuiula Village is our favourite), and then go driving in the

afternoon. The scenery of the island captivates us with its waterfalls, rusty red soil at Waimea Canyon, verdant hills and palm-fringed shores at Hanalei Bay and staggering cliffs along the Na Pali coast.

On our last day, we splash out on a zip-lining experience for the whole family. For the uninitiated, zip-lines are more commonly known as flying foxes.

At Princeville Ranch Adventures, there are nine lines of varying lengths and heights that whizz through the treetops.

The boys are beside themselves with excitement as they get clipped securely into their harnesses by the guide; they are Peter Pan’s Lost Boys for a morning.

After line number eight, we stop for a swim and lunch (meat and salad rolls, chips and cookies) and then it’s onto King Kong, the highest, longest line.

Boisterous yelling gives way to delighted laughter once everyone’s feet are back on the ground. Hawai’i really does make you a little bit high.

Forest trail, Kauai, Molokai, Hawaii. © Keith Levit,Shutterstock.com

FAST FACTS GETTING THERE Qantas offers three direct flights a week from Sydney to Honolulu with domestic connections available from all capital cities.

Qantas also have daily flights ex Perth connecting with Jetstar on the new Airbus A330-200 aircraft. www.qantas.com WHERE TO STAY Embassy Suites Waikiki www.embassysuiteswaikiki.com’ Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort www.hiltonhawaiianvillage.com MONEY The currency is the US dollar. At the time of writing, AU$1buys you US$1.03 VISAS Most Australian residents holding an Australian passport do not require a US visa providing the duration of stay is not more than 90 days and travellers hold a valid outbound ticket.

MORE INFORMATION www.gohawaii.com/au

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Fiji TIME IT’S LITTLE WONDER AUSTRALIANS FLOCK TO FIJI. FOR ECO-TRAVELLERS AND INTREPID ADVENTURERS FIJI IS A NATURAL WONDER; FOR SURFERS AND DIVERS, MEGA WAVES AND BREAKS AND STUNNING MARINE LIFE BECKON; AND FOR FAMILIES AND KIDS – WELL, THE FIJI WELCOME IS AS WARM AS GRANDMA’S BIGGEST BEAR HUG! WORDS: CHRISTINE KANE

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Fantasy Islands – Fiji Style From the boat, white stretches of sand sparkle in the sun, in arcs around a whole island, curved in coves on others; waters shimmer in all shades of blue – from deep turquoise to sea green – clean and clear, revealing colourful marine life just below the surface. A few footsteps from the water, thatched bures line the beaches. Palm trees abound as boats sit idly bobbing on their island moorings or gently cutting

through the waters to and from their home resort. Sunlovers, swimmers, snorkellers and beachcombers can be observed, from the cruise vessel, leisurely holidaying on their ‘own’ island paradise.

The Real Island Life By contrast, on many of the islands that at first glance appear uninhabited, villages (originally built for protection from the elements and from potential enemies) nestle well inland from the shoreline. These ‘unseen’ villages are home to communities of the indigenous island inhabitants of Fiji, descendants of the first settlers, said to be the Lapita (Polynesians) and the Melanesians, who arrived in these parts around 3500 years ago.

Their first real contact with Europeans came during the 19th Century when shipwrecked sailors and escaped convicts from Australia landed here. Christian missionaries, traders, seafarers, explorers and travellers followed, introducing the English language and western culture to the insular island communities.

Despite early tribal warfare and over 100 years of political rule by the British, the Fijian island village communities today still adhere to clan (mataqali) tradition with a chief (ratu) overseeing village (koro) life. Land in the village is owned co-operatively but it is the chief who grants the permissions for villagers to use the land to build houses or to plant crops. This hierarchical community consists of clans, sub-clans, chiefs and patrilineal inheritance and simple subsistence farming and fishing sustain the village. Family is everything.

Native land represents the majority of Fiji’s land tenure so permissions to develop resorts on these islands, in the form of lease holdings, can only be agreed and © Shutterstock.com

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n the main Fiji island of Viti Levu, from Nadi and Port Denarau to the Coral Coast, Suva and Lautoka, there are hundreds of fabulous resorts. When you’re immersed in so much fun holidaying on ‘the big island’ it’s easy to forget that there’s a whole lot more to the island nation of Fiji - actually an archipelago of over 300 spectacular islands scattered west of Nadi and spreading north to the other ‘big island’, Vanua Levu. These outer islands, and their people, are truly Fiji’s jewels.

Checking in at Port Denarau Marina for the boat transfer to the islands is a casual and well-oiled process of a generic boarding voucher issue and coloured island destination tag attached to each piece of luggage. For the fresh-off-theplane family, the absence of any of the usual checks and double-checks of contact details, baggage items, frequent flyer numbers or even passenger head count requires a leap of faith. How will the passengers and their suitcases arrive at the right destination island?

As the catamaran departs, navigating past the first of the beautiful islands in the Mamanuca group, it’s amazing how quickly such seemingly important concerns become mere trivialities. Under 15 minutes cruising and the first effects of ‘Fiji time’ have already kicked in.

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granted by the landowners and their chief. Sharing their lands with resorts has meant that people in these landowner communities have the opportunity to engage in work outside their village in resort offices, hospitality, activities, dive shops, food and beverage, housekeeping, ground keeping, babysitting and kids club activities. Importantly, all individual wages are pooled to benefit the community collectively.

This necessary interaction, between Fijian islanders and western developers, has brought the world of tourism into Fijian island village life and opened the door to the fascinating world of traditional Fijian island life to tourists.

Amunuca Resort & The Yanuya People Tokoriki Island, one of the northernmost islands in the Mamanuca Group and currently the last resort island in the chain (before the beginning of the Yasawa Island Group) is owned by the people of Yanuya Island and is home to two very different resorts. Tokoriki Island Resort is the oldest of these and caters for the luxury market with a guest policy that excludes children under 13. Amunuca Resort & Spa is family-friendly, overlooking a beautiful stretch of beach with a vista across the water that is absolutely breathtaking.

Yanuya Island, a village community of around 500 men, women and children invites guests of Amunuca to visit their village and experience first-hand, traditional Fijian island life and warm Fijian hospitality.

The 10-minute speedboat trip from Amunuca brings the imposing, uninhabited island of Monuriki, set behind Yanuya, into closer view. Monuriki is also owned by the Yanuya people and has become a Fiji island tourist attraction in its own right as the star, (alongside Tom Hanks and Wilson the volleyball) of the 2000 film, Cast Away.

Kids Stay, Play and Eat Free!

Special Offer!! Stay 7 nights and only pay for 5!! 2 kids under 12 years stay, play and eat for FREE!! For travel until 31 March 2014. Conditions and block out dates apply.

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

www.plantationisland.com

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On approach to Yanuya, pigs can be seen wandering along the sandy volcanic rocks exposed at low tide. In the village settlement, women sit cross-legged on mats, under shady palm trees, talking, laughing, playing with babies and young children, preparing meals or creating handicrafts.

With Yanuya friends as guides, the air is constantly peppered with the hearty greeting and response of “bula”. Male elders officiate the ‘welcome’ at the community hall with a ceremonial bowl of kava and market stalls are set up to sell jewellery, wooden pots and bowls, pottery items, bark cloths (tapa) and wood carvings. There’s no sales pressure here – everything moves at a relaxed pace and all takings go into the community fundraising kitty.

Yanuya Island Kids The primary school grounds are quiet as the students engage in lessons. Children from the age of six work in separate age-grouped classrooms led by six teachers, all on tenure from Nadi. Children from neighbouring Tavua Island board in the quaint dormitory next to the school from Monday to Friday and travel each week on the ‘school boat’ to and from Yanuya.

The transition to high school means island children must become boarders in Nadi and return only to their island homes in school holidays. Tween and teen visitors to the village school are stunned to discover that school leaving age in Fiji is 20!

When Yanuya kids first eye western kids, the meeting is delightful! Big grins from both sides, shy exchanges of ‘bula’, lots of giggles and head-to-toe checking-out, as children do with each other. In their neat school uniforms with bare feet, the Yanuya pupils’ seemingly incongruous teaming of uniform minus footwear elicits gasps of surprise (and possibly some envy) from the visiting children. A glance at the schoolwork, blackboard and artwork around each classroom draws immediate comparison – and quick confirmation – that wherever you are in the world, barefoot or not - school is still school and schoolwork is still schoolwork!

Community fundraising initiatives (including the contributions of village resort employees and tours such as these) have helped Yanuya flesh out government funding and they are about to commence piping fresh water directly into the village, attend to church building maintenance and purchase additional school supplies.

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Be free at Malolo!

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

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

Malolo. This is the way the world should be.

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

AUD$

400

*

from per room per night for 2 or a family of 4

For reservations and information visit www.maloloisland.com *Conditions apply

The Warm Heart Of Fiji.

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

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

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Fiji’s Jewels Back at Amunuca Resort, when guests head out with the Let’s Get Wet water activities team for a spot of fishing, diving or snorkelling at the sacred islands, or when the evening’s meke is underway or the resort’s tiny chapel holds services for villagers and resort guests on Sundays, it’s impossible not to get to know everyone.

The Chief’s daughter, Taina, runs the kids’ club. The Chief’s grandson is in the food and beverage department. Those with Ratu as their surname have direct lineage, or lineage through marriage, to a Chief.

The true essence of a Fijian island resort holiday defies description. The days have a different tempo on the islands. It may be the stunning locations or the sublime experience of being on a remote Pacific Island on Fiji time without high rises and concrete. It could be the noticeable absence of sounds (cars, radios and TVs, the white noise of the familiar everyday), or the clear night skies

freckled with millions of stars, and lulling lap of the ocean on the shore 24 hours a day. Or perhaps it’s walking, slowly, barefoot with the warm sun as your constant companion. But it is definitely, without question, the beautiful collective spirit of the people of these remote island villages – the traditional ‘saltwater people’ – that captures the heart of all ages!

So boats arrive, so boats leave to return to the village, boats head out to fish, and, sadly, for some, to transport holidaymakers back to the mainland. As the islands fade from view and Port Denarau looms in the distance, barely a frantic thought is given, on this return trip, to the logistics of luggage, taxis, shuttle buses, passports and flights that preoccupied the traveller at the outset of their holiday. The pace, the simplicity, the friendship, the education, the beauty and the magic of the jewels of Fiji – the Fijian Islands and their people - enhance Fiji time no matter how brief the stay, and the privilege of that unique holiday experience and its effects last a lifetime!

FAST FACTS GETTING THERE Air Pacific, Jetstar and Virgin operate daily flights from most Australia capital cities to Nadi.

MONEY The currency is the Fijian Dollar (FJD). At the time of writing, AU$1 buys you FJD$1.84 WHERE TO STAY Malolo Island Resort www.maloloisland.com The Naviti Resort Viti Levu www.warwicknaviti.com Plantation Island Resort www.plantationisland.com MORE INFORMATION Extensive destination information is available from the official Fiji Tourism website www.fijime.com

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Island Idyll

WITH A DIVERSE ANCIENT LANDSCAPE VANUATU’S NECKLACE OF 83 SLEEPY ISLANDS ARE BLESSED BY NATURE, AND ITS CAPITAL PORT VILA IS A GREAT STARTING POINT FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE FAMILY HOLIDAY FULL OF NATURAL SURPRISES.

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ess than four hours from Australia’s east coast, Vanuatu is a destination teeming with endless natural wonders. There’s everything here - from dense rainforest, majestic volcanoes, jungle waterfalls and soothing hot springs to clear warm tropical waters, unspoiled beaches and spectacular coral reefs, all teeming with wildly colourful marine life.

For families, the nation’s capital of Port Vila, located on the island of Efate, is an ideal place to begin.

For organized family excursions, it’s hard to go past the many family-friendly resorts which also offer a range of kid-centric activities within a choice of popular children’s clubs. Making this option even easier is the attentiveness to the children of the doting locals – the ‘Ni-Vanuatu’ people.

From Port Vila, tours are easy to organise however public transport is an easy option: the many taxis available operate 24 hours a day and a minibus service covers the three main routes from sunrise to sunset.

For those with more adventurous and older kids, a trip to one of the outer islands can be an exciting option. Less than an hour’s flight north of Port Vila is Pentecost Island. Renowned as the birthplace of bungee-jumping, land dives see locals jumping out of tall wooden towers precariously tethered by the ankles to their lifeline – delicate-looking but amazingly strong tree vines. Equally enthralling for families is getting up close and personal to an active volcano. A 45-minute flight from Port Vila brings you to Tanna Island, home to Mount Yasur - one of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes. Almost as exciting as arriving at the destination is the journey there over the eerie moon-like landscape.

The swimming is sensational and the turquoise waters are a snorkeler’s dream but Vanuatu has so much to discover. Here are our top tips to get you started.

© John Carnemolla, Shutterstock.com

Take a tour With so much for families to see and do, a day tour is the best start to exploring Efate. Round island tours might see you swimming at stunning Eton Beach, watching a fire walker in a local village or even paddling up the Epule River in an outrigger canoe.

Embrace local culture A visit to a cultural village is a great way to learn about the history and culture of the indigenous people of Vanuatu through demonstrations of local customs, traditional medicine, hunting and cooking and extraordinary tales of the past.

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Absolute seclusion, fabulous diving, mouth watering food, ocean breezes and the friendliest people in Vanuatu all on your own private tropical island - that’s what Hideaway Island is all about.

Come see for yourself….

HIDEAWAY ISLAND RESORT & MARINE SANCTUARY

© Vanuatu Tourism Office

Tel: 678 22963 Fax: 678 23867 www.hideaway.com.vu info@hideaway.com.vu

Set sail A cruise on Havannah Harbour is a must. With plenty of spots to paddle and snorkel and a turtle conservation rookery (where the children can meet baby hawksbill turtles) it’s a day trip the whole family will love.

Ride a horse Club Hippique, just ten minutes from Port Vila, caters for all level of riders. Your family can choose from a rainforest ride, a ride to a white sand beach or waterfall, or take advantage of the cooler hours and enjoy a magnificent sunset ride.

Visit a volcano A day trip to Tanna Island’s Yasur Volcano will amaze. Nowhere else in the world can you stand on the very edge of a live volcano to see nature’s pyrotechnics in action. Have the kids bring their postcards to drop in the world’s only ‘volcano post’.

Shop with the locals The Port Vila Market in Efate is a lively spot. Here the NiVanuatu women gather in their brightly coloured, floral smocks to sell local fruit and vegetables. There is also an array of jewellery, carvings and costumes for reasonable prices.

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Relax in a resort Many of Vanuatu’s resorts have excellent kids’ facilities including kids clubs and plenty of family friendly activities. Child minding can be organised and parents with babies are sure of a break as the hotel staff queue up for their turn for a cuddle with your little ones.

From left: Eruption of Mt Yasur volcano, Vanuatu. © Przemyslaw Skibinski, Shutterstock.com

Bay on Efate Island, Vanuatu. © Karin Wassmer, Shutterstock.com

Feast your eyes Port Vila boasts a range of restaurants catering for every taste but a Melanesian feast is something not to be missed. These massive feasts of traditional dishes and spectacular displays of local custom dancing are a feast for the eyes and the belly.

Shower in a waterfall Guided tours can take you on a 25-minute walk through the lush tropical jungle to the top of stunning Mele Cascades where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural waterholes or just relax in the gardens and watch the local children.

Meet the people The Ni-Vanuatu are a beautiful people in every way. Their sense of community and culture offers a spirit of friendliness that extends to visitors and in particular to children, who are warmly embraced by the lovely locals.

FAST FACTS GETTING THERE Less than four hours flying time from Australia’s east coast, Air Vanuatu flies direct to Vanuatu from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne.

WHEN TO GO The best time to travel is from April to October when temperatures range from 18 to 28˚C. MORE INFORMATION www.tourismvanuatu.com

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NEW ZEALAND

Feel the heat

IN QUEENSTOWN QUEENSTOWN IS HERALDED AS A WINTER PLAYGROUND, BUT THERE’S PLENTY FOR FAMILIES TO DO IN THE WARMER MONTHS. WORDS: HELEN HAYES

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very year, over 1.89 million visitors flock to Queenstown from around the world – many of them families. In the winter months, the town on New Zealand’s South Island is known for its ski resorts but in summer the area is a playground of pristine lakes, braided rivers and myriad hills for hiking and biking.

The only problem is, how to fit it all in.

Splash into summer Queenstown is built on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, a mirror-perfect lake that reflects the truly remarkable Remarkables range. One of the icons of Queenstown is the TSS Earnslaw, a coal-fired steam ship that operates tours on the lake from the steamer wharf to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Launched in 1912 – the same year as the Titanic – the Earnslaw is a working piece of history. Choose the cruise and farm tour option so the kids can explore the farm and even feed the sheep and deer. Better still, go between 14-22 October and join in centenary celebrations.

More watery fun can be had jetboating, and Queenstown has several excellent operators on different rivers. We choose Dart River Jet Safaris and are picked up at our hotel to enjoy the drive along Lake Wakatipu to beautiful Glenorchy . There we board a four-wheel-drive bus and drive to Paradise. And I mean Paradise. It is a

OR

why not try… Riding the rails aboard the Kingston Flyer - a one-hour iconic steam train journey.

Bolting down the track at of the Skyline Luge – two tracks will have your children and yourselves smiling.

Seeing a real kiwi at Kiwi Birdlife Park plus other native birds and the Maori Hunting Village.

Taking the family rafting with Family Adventures Rafting on the Shotover River in spectacular Skipper’s Canyon.

Taking a leap - If your kids have their heart set on a bungy jump Kawarau Bungy is the original and some say the best.

Skiing – if the family is going to learn to ski this winter why not do it here. Ski during the day and then enjoy Queenstown in the evenings. Perfect!

stunning place and we are not surprised to see a few Hobbits running around. This area was chosen for many scenes for the Lord of the Rings trilogy and filming of The Hobbit is underway as we arrive, with one set quite visible from the road.

After an informative stroll through typical Middle Earth forest, we board our jetboats and spin and speed our way up and down the Dart River. Driver Royce is a lot of fun and gives plenty of warning before he does a 360. Another option for families is the funyaking, where you do the jet boating and then paddle around in small kayaks called funyaks – a wonderful way to explore the river and its secret coves.

Up on Skyline All visitors to Queenstown should head up the Skyline Gondola to be wowed by the views and the activities you can do. My kids absolutely love the luge, doing the scenic and advanced tracks several times. The two-seater chairlift ensures they’re not too worn out afterwards! Thrillseeking teens might want to try the AJ Hackett Ledge Bungy Jump or giant swing, or the paragliding. Or not.

Another wonderful attraction on Skyline Gondola Hill is the Ziptrek. We opt for the four-line

Moa Tour which is the best choice for families. It is a cool experience and we love climbing up the wooden platforms and then zipping through the treetops. Kids as young as six can zip, and others may do some of the lines tandem with the guide.

The six-line Kea Tour is faster and longer and zips you back into town.

From left: Queenstown with Lake Wakatipu. © vichie81, Shutterstock.com

Ziptrekking kids in Queenstown Funyakking with Dart River Jet Safaris

Segway into town Segway On Q sees visitors and locals hopping on a funky Segway Personal Transporter, and doing a one- or two-hour tour around town. It takes a bit of time to get used to driving them, but once you get it, it is brilliant. Just lean forward to get going and lean back to stop. Simple! Be warned, it is addictive.

FAST FACTS

Eating out There are many fantastic places to dine in Queenstown. For breakfast, my kids love the pikelets and egg and bacon rolls at Joe’s Garage.

For dinner, take your pick of The Cow, Lone Star, Finz Seafood & Grill, Winnie’s gourmet pizza bar or Chico’s Bar and Grill. We have eaten at them all and highly recommend them. The kids were made welcome everywhere and loved the meals.

GETTING THERE Air New Zealand has direct flights to Queenstown and good connections through Christchurch.

MONEY Currency is the NZ dollar.

At the time of writing AU$1 buys you NZ$1.31 MORE INFORMATION www.queenstownnz.co.nz

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SINGAPORE

SINGAPORE

fling

COSMOPOLITAN, GREEN AND SQUEAKY-CLEAN, SINGAPORE IS ONE OF THE MOST KID-FRIENDLY SPOTS IN ASIA. IT’S ALSO HOME TO SOME RATHER LEGENDARY LODGINGS. WORDS: ALENEY DE WINTER

F

rom its immaculate stroller-friendly sidewalks and surplus of family attractions to its English speaking locals, Singapore offers visitors an Asia that is safe, organised and easy to navigate in a superb tropical climate. It’s also home to one of the world’s most celebrated hotels, Raffles Hotel. And on the eve of its 125th anniversary we’re here to lap up a little of its legendary luxury.

Past perfect Standing in the elegant multi-story lobby it’s easy to imagine what the Raffles must have been like back in the day, when the rich and famous soaked up both atmosphere and gin on the airy verandahs overlooking the (now reclaimed) seafront.

A time when the literary likes of Noël Coward, Rudyard Kipling and Somerset Maugham - who once described the Raffles as “the legendary symbol for all the fables of the Exotic East” - fuelled their creative juices with jungle juice at the Long Bar. “Where have you gone, Mama?” asks my perceptive four-year-old son as I’m swept by the ghosts of patrons past to a Raffles of rickshaw rides, tea dances and tigers under the tables.

A combination of modern luxury and old-world gravitas, the Raffles is calm and classy without a trace of stuffiness and children are most welcome. From the splendidly moustachioed doorman (who high fives Raff and even shares his secret stash of biscuits with him) and the lobby staff who enjoy copious cuddles with

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16-month-old Miss Marlo to the residents (this is the Raffles’ charming term for guests) who stop to say hello, our kids are made to feel very special, as indeed are their parents.

Suite dreams We are escorted to our suite (the Raffles is an all-suite hotel) with its soaring ceiling, sitting room, marble bathroom, dark timber floors, oriental carpets and a pretty cot for our baby that isn’t out of place with the period furniture. Modern comforts like wi-fi don’t hurt either but my favourite feature is the visceral service of our butler who kindly offers to organise toys and games for the kids, should we desire. At this moment we only desire tea, which we enjoy overlooking the cloister-like garden where our children play hide and seek along the colonnades and frolic in the Singapore sun. One could get used to this.

It’s a sling thing The kids however are more inclined to get used to soaking in the rooftop pool. I unwind in the jacuzzi while they joyfully drown their dad until, splashed out, we cave in to our inner tourist and head to the famed Long Bar for a Singapore Sling. Sling slung, I decide the sticky pink concoction is not for me but Raff is mightily impressed with the sweet treat, though his, of course, is sans alcohol. He also loves the crunchy floor. Yes, crunchy!

It’s a Long Bar tradition to shell peanuts at the table, discarding their remains on

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the floor. I make a neat pile of shells on the table but, after our waiter brushes it to the floor, get in the swing of flinging them there myself. Marlo and Raff think it’s hilarious and soon start hurling peanuts all over the place as we duck for cover. I can’t help finding it a touch ironic that in a country where littering laws are so strict, its actively encouraged here.

Luxury for littlies The ultimate luxe Singaporean experience, the Raffles is a destination in itself. It has its own museum and opulent day spa and an arcade lined with ritzy shops. Not to mention 15 restaurants and bars serving sumptuous food - each happily catering to kids. We consider high-tea in the Tiffin

Room or a champagne buffet in the Bar and Billiard Room but Raff twists our arms to visit the Raffles Creamery for a personalised ice-cream creation. Lovely as the icy treats are, we’re after a fine dining experience so decide to take advantage of the hotel’s superb babysitting service. While our little lovelies nosh on room service and watch cartoons, we enjoy the lunch of a lifetime at the hotel’s fine dining room, Raffles Grill. I could go on and on about the epicurean adventure but suffice to say it is exquisite, as is the entire Raffles experience for every member of this very satisfied family.

Her legendary literary lodgers may be gone but the Raffles is one glorious Grand Dame who has her own stories to tell.

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eyond the Raffles, there’s plenty of fun to be found in Singapore, here are our family faves; Enjoy breakfast with elephants and orang utans at Singapore Zoo. If your little ones like their friends feathered try Jurong Bird Park.

Jump into a world of movie magic at Universal Studios.

Take to the sky on the Singapore Flyer, the world’s largest ferris wheel, for a visual feast of the city.

Singapore Botanic Gardens is a firm favourite and the Children’s Garden a perfect place to cultivate an appreciation of nature through play.

Visit colourful Little India for the decorous Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple and awesome Indian food.

A range of activities, beaches and theme-parks on Sentosa Island make for the ultimate day trip.

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FABULOUS

Phuket FUN-FILLED PHUKET PROVIDES A WARM AND WONDERFUL TROPICAL ESCAPE ALL YEAR ROUND. WORDS: ELISA ELWIN

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THAILAND

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ith its balmy evening breezes and inviting turquoise seas, the heat and calm of the tropical Thai island of Phuket is the perfect antidote to the Aussie winter blues.

As a family we love Thailand, having visited this amazing country often in search of sun, sea and serenity. This time, we head to the fantastic Laguna Phuket resort - a holiday paradise of deluxe hotels and villas in sprawling parkland along an eight-kilometre stretch of beach at Bang Tao Bay on the island’s west coast.

The integrated resort has seven deluxe hotels and luxury villa options to choose from (all very different and all divinely tempting). All have the facilities for a great family holiday – the only problem is working out which property to choose! Wherever you decide to make your base, the resort is a great place to immerse yourself in the family-friendly fun and kid-specific activities that make this place an easy choice for your family holiday.

© HeadUSA, Shutterstock.com

Thai style We check in at super-stylish Angsana – the resort’s flagship property. We’re immediately taken in by the stunning setting and contemporary design. Water is everywhere – the Angsana is set around a lake, right next door to the infinity pool and on the sandy shores of the Island Beach (where you and the kids will have more water fun than you thought possible).

The Treehouse Kids Club and Café is perfect for little ones. Specially catering to kids, the Kids Café menu features healthier renditions of firm kiddy favourites like burgers, hot-dogs and fries. And there’s plenty to keep them occupied too! For dinner we treat ourselves to a beachside Thai seafood dinner at Angsana’s Baan Talay restaurant.

Mornings are not to be missed here. At breakfast a charming and adorable three-year-old elephant called Lucky steals everyone’s hearts with his cheeky eyes and cute tricks. This delightful pachyderm can give you hugs and kisses, gently lift children with his trunk, chat and vocalize and even give massages. His doting mahout is ever present as Lucky makes a morning tour of the entire resort and says hi to everyone he meets. Thank goodness elephants eat tonnes of food every day because little Lucky was overwhelmed with gifts of bananas from his charmed admirers!

After a thoroughly entertaining breakfast, the next stop is back to the Tree House Kids Club. This fantastic two-storey clubhouse is awesome, with indoor and outdoor sections. When we arrive there is a professionally supervised art and painting class in action where little artists are all happily painting their most adored subject - you guessed it, Lucky featured in every single one!

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THAILAND

Clockwise from top left: Kids have fun in the Phuket sun.

Inter resort ferry.

Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket Pool.

Keeping tradition For a more traditional Thai accommodation experience the resort has another fully beach-fronted property.

The Dhusit Thani is an idyllic retreat blending neo-classical architectural features with traditional Thai motifs.

With 226 rooms and suites, 28 pool villas, its own kids club, a spa and heaps of activities the Dhusit Thani is a destination in itself.

Here rooms open on to grassy lawns heading straight to the beach or the huge supervised swimming pool. Kids are catered for here again in the Busy Bees Kids Club with great activities including any watersport you could dream of, and classes in traditional textile techniques like batik.

And if you really feel like splashing out, have a peek at the exclusive Banyan Tree (voted world’s best spa resort by Conde Nast Traveller magazine) for a private pool villa, where luxury and attention to detail are paramount!

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FAST FACTS WHEN TO GO Thailand is generally hot and humid, particularly between March and May. November to February is cooler and dry.

GETTING THERE Thai Airways fly daily to Bangkok www.thaiairways.com.au GETTING AROUND Taxis and tuk-tuks are plentiful and are extremely cheap.

MONEY The currency is the Thai Bhat (THB). At the time of writing, AU$1 buys you THB33.09 VISAS Australians don’t require a visa for stays shorter than 30 days.

WHERE TO STAY Laguna Phuket www.lagunaphuket.com MORE INFORMATION www.thailand.net.au

Festival fever

Kids take ce ntre stage at Laguna Phuk from May to et October whe n the Summ Family Festiv er al swings into action. Bene extend right fits across Lagu na Phuket’s until the end facilities of October w hen kids can and eat free stay at al free golf at La l hotels and even enjoy guna Phuket Golf Club whe playing with n a full-paying adult, plus fr tennis too. Th ee ere’s also fr ee Laguna To for kids on se urs lected excurs ions, a free ex bed for kids tra 12 and unde r and free ev Kids Lounge ening s from 6pm-9 pm. The reso offers compl rt also imentary ex ercise classe as pilates, yo s such ga and even kids’ yoga, w parents and here children can take part to And at Angsa gether. na Spa Lagu na Phuket, ev the little ones en can spend re laxing momen with the fam ily spa packag ts es offering sp treatments for children. ecial

THAILAND - PHUKET FAMILY PACKAGES Go ahead, spoil your kids. And spoil yourself into the bargain, because if you are selecting a Centara holiday then you have options that will keep everyone happy. Even the kids.

CENTARA KARON RESORT PHUKET ★★★★ From $382* per adult From $37* per child • 8 nights’ accommodation in a Tropicale Premium Deluxe room • Return seat in coach airport/hotel transfers • Full breakfast daily • 4 FREE nights • Privilege card+ offering up to 25% discount at restaurants, FREE VIP entry & complimentary cocktails at top Phuket night spots and discounts on shopping & spas throughout Phuket • Up to 2 children under 12 years stay FREE & eat breakfast FREE^ • Access to Tropix Lounge Club – FREE all day tea & coffee service, daytime snacks, internet access and much more • Valid for travel 1 – 31 October 2012

CENTARA GRAND BEACH RESORT PHUKET ★★★★★ From $705* per adult From $57* per child • 8 nights’ accommodation in a Deluxe Ocean Facing room • Return seat in coach airport/hotel transfers • Bonus inclusions • Full breakfast daily • 4 FREE nights • Privilege card+ offering up to 25% discount at restaurants, FREE VIP entry & complimentary cocktails at top Phuket night spots and discounts on shopping & spas throughout Phuket • Up to 2 children under 12 years stay FREE & eat breakfast FREE^ • Valid for travel 1 - 21 Sep 12 & 4 - 31 Oct 12

CENTARA GRAND WEST SANDS ★★★★ From $889* per adult From $49* per child • • • • • •

8 nights’ accommodation in a Deluxe Family Suite Return seat in coach airport/hotel transfers Bonus inclusions Full breakfast daily 4 FREE nights Privilege card+ offering up to 25% discount at restaurants, FREE VIP entry & complimentary cocktails at top Phuket night spots and discounts on shopping & spas throughout Phuket • Up to 2 children under 12 years stay FREE & eat breakfast FREE^ • FREE admission to Splash Jungle Water Park • Valid for travel 8 - 20 Sep 12 & 27 Sep 12 - 31 Oct 12

HURRY, offer ends 30 September 2012, unless sold out prior. Availability is limited. *Agents may charge service fees and/or fees for card payments which vary. If you book with Viva! Holidays, an additional 2% applies to credit card payments. Prices correct as at 20 August

2012 but may fluctuate if surcharges, fees, taxes or currency change. Advertised prices are land only and do not include airfares. Free nights are already included in advertised price. Offers subject to availability. ^Eat breakfast free is only applicable to paid nights. ~Prices for children are applicable for children under 12 years. +Only 1 privilege card per booking. Other departure cities and travel dates available outside these listed, please enquire for details. Amounts payable to third parties not included. These property ratings are Qantas Holidays’ views, not official ratings. Please check all prices, availability and other information with your travel consultant before booking. The Qantas Holidays General Bookings Conditions apply. Other conditions apply - ask for details. Qantas Holidays Limited ABN 24 003 836 459. Licence No. NSW - 2TA 003 004, VIC - 31288, QLD - TAG 740, WA - 9TA 510, SA - TTA 48 116.

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Shanghai SURPRISE HIGH-FLYING CAPITAL OF COMMERCE AND CENTURIES-OLD CITY FULL OF EXOTIC APPEAL, IS SHANGHAI KID-FRIENDLY? ABSOLUTELY. THIS URBAN PLAYGROUND IS A WINNER FOR EVERY AGE. WORDS: ALENEY DE WINTER

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n a city best known for its tangle of cloud-bursting skyscrapers and heaving population, we’re surprised to find ourselves surrounded by a great expanse of leafy green. Shanghai’s People’s Square is home to museums, theatres and even a small amusement park with whirling rides. But its most attractive feature is space. Perfect for little feet to run, jump and even chase a low-flying kite. Today, it’s also a starting place for bigger adventures.

At least it would be were I not distracted by the seductive sparkle of shopping bags. I am lured by an unseen shopping force to nearby Ni Hong Children’s Market. If you like your kids gear cheap and cheerful, this is the place. We squander roughly thirty bucks on bags of new clothes and plastic toys before hitting Nanjing Road. The city’s major shopping artery, it’s positively pulsing with people scurrying in and out of department stores and boutiques. It’s also our route to The Bund.

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Tall towers and trippy tunnels Running alongside the industrious Huangpu River, The Bund is an architectural melting pot. A little NeoClassical, a little Gothic and a lot Art Deco, it’s wholly beautiful. It’s also the perfect spot to view the futuristic skyline of the Pudong district, all space-age towers and skyscrapers that won’t fail to impress even little visitors.

Four-year-old Raff is awed by the “giant rocket-ship”, better known as Pudong’s Oriental Pearl TV Tower, and crossing the Huangpu to climb it becomes priority number one.

The Bund Tourist Tunnel gets us there in trippy sci-fi style. So groovy is the ride through a tunnel of psychedelic lights that we’re made to go back and do it all over before permission is granted for us to alight in the Pudong district and the base of the “rocket-ship”.

When we explain we’ll be catching a lift to the top of the 350-metre tower, Raff insists he is climbing up the

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outside. “You can put glue on my hands and feet. It’s easy... Spiderman does it all the time!”

Right! He reluctantly follows us to the more mundane lift which zooms us to the observation deck without need of arachnid superpowers. The endless view of the sprawling city is awesome and 16-month-old Marlo is particularly keen to freak out her mother as she casually lolls right against the glass for a better look.

Neighbouring Jin Mao Tower is even taller at a staggering 420 metres. So high that its summit has disappeared into the clouds, Raff is convinced it’s a modern day “Jack’s Beanstalk” and suitably wary of giants decides instead on a visit to the nearby Shanghai Science & Technology Museum. This phenomenal interactive space is designed for kids but it does the trick for mum and dad too. There are robots, an indoor rainforest and even space-training.

And pre-school jungle gyms and crawling tunnels means Miss Marlo loves it too.

Lights, cameras, action!

Back at the Bund a neon glow envelops the city as the sun sets. Looking east from the promenade and across the river at the high density wall of flashing light and then back to the golden glow of buildings from a more refined era is like being in two cities at once.

It’s here we have our first Brad and Angelina moment (without the money or the insane good looks). With their light hair, curls

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and big blue eyes, our little tourists become the attraction as people literally queue for a snap. At first we find the “paps” a little overwhelming but the intent is sweet and the kids soon take their new-found superstar status in stride, Raff learning to keep his fans happy with a smile and a casual “ni hao” (hello) while Marlo, lapping up the love, waves to the crowds like she’s a member of the British monarchy.

Location, location There’s plenty of family-friendly accommodation in Shanghai, from selfcatering to five-star. We’re staying at the Pullman Skyway. A two-minute walk from Metro line 9 (the Shanghai metro is the cheapest, most efficient and clean I’ve come across) getting around is a breeze.

The upscale 52-storey five star hotel has a relaxed vibe and enormous rooms with spectacular views. We stay in one of the well-appointed suites where the kids have plenty of space to totter about and play.

Hotel facilities, including an enormous indoor swimming pool, are excellent. But the biggest plus of this hotel is an unexpected one, its garden. As well as resident geese in the pond, there’s a generous patch of green where the kids can run free. The little hit of nature is revitalising.

Our base also encourages us to explore more than just the obvious tourist spots.

Our favourite find, hidden away behind a shopping plaza, is a delightful slice of Old

Shanghai. Tianzifang is a bohemian area of traditional shikumen houses in ancient laneways, each a chaotic jumble of fairy lights and lanterns bursting with tiny bars, galleries and boutiques. It’s utterly enchanting and, though a tad pokey for our pram, we still manage to lose hours wandering through its alleys.

Kid-friendly cuisine The Pullman Skyway offers excellent familyfriendly dining and the breakfast buffet not only serves up great food but is a place of discovery. Who knew a four year old could eat a bowl of muesli, noodle soup, a bean bun and 13 shumai (dim sim) before 9am?

Eating in Shanghai with children is easy.

What kid doesn’t love fried rice, spring rolls or a stir fry? If yours have a stubbornly western palate there’s a proliferation of McDonalds, KFC’s and Pizza Huts, which we bypass.

In the evenings we visit eateries scattered around the hotel. Generally, we’re the only westerners but we’re treated like old friends as we stuff ourselves with authentic food.

We all, from toddler up, form an addiction to xiao long bao (glorious steamed parcels of pork filled with a gelatinous gingery broth).

Raff calls them “little mouth volcanoes” shouting “fire in the hole” before gulping them down and sets himself a mission to eat Shanghai out of the delicious morsels.

Another treat Raff finds hard to resist are the zongzi, a traditional food made

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of glutinous rice stuffed with pork and egg yolk steamed in bamboo leaves. The best we find are in Zhujiajiao, an ancient water town we visit on a day-trip with Helen Wong’s Tours.

Ancient towns and acrobats This pretty town is a series of interconnecting canals where we cruise in a gondola (Chinese style) under the town’s 37 arched stone bridges past old buildings dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. Off the water, the ancient streets are lined with shops, restaurants and teahouses, some a touch touristy while others home to local residents. Over another unforgettable meal our guide is able to fill us in on the region’s colourful history and share a few personal tips on Shanghai’s best attractions.

Top on her list is an acrobatic show which is how we find ourselves staring slack-jawed as the pretzel like performers at Shanghai Circus World twist themselves inside-out and catapult themselves through the air. Raff valiantly tries to stay awake through the lengthy performance but we miss the end, our sleepy son adamant that tomorrow he’ll personally recreate the show for us.

Tranquil times After the frenetic pace of the past few days we soothe our souls at the Longhua Temple and Pagoda, Shanghai’s oldest. One doesn’t expect a toddler and a pre-schooler to understand the sanctity of such a place but somehow they get that it’s time for quiet. We amble through halls heaving with intricate golden statues as the

sound of chanting monks reverberates around the grounds. It is one of those perfect holiday moments and we leave the temple a little more at peace.

We spend the afternoon at centuries-old Yuyuan Garden and enjoy a further taste of classical Shanghai. Pathways and pavilions, elaborate rockeries, bold red temples resplendent with ornate Ming lions and flamboyant dragons sit alongside ancient teahouses and pretty ponds swelling with hungry carp. The kids love it. It could be the fish, it might be the wealth of nooks and crannies to play hide and seek but more likely it’s that it reminds Raff “of Kung Fu Panda’s place”. The super-sized toy shop at its entrance doesn’t hurt either.

Previous page: The futuristic skyline of the Pudong district. © feiyuwzhangjie, Shutterstock.com

This page from left: Making delicious Zongzi in Zhujiajiao.

Gondala ride in the ancient water town.

Digging the dumplings at Yuyuan Gardens.

Tripping the light fantastic in the Bund Tourist Tunnel.

Balloons go by at Longhua Temple.

Goodbye Shanghai We arrived by sea but are leaving by air and getting to an airport has never proved so fast or fun. The Maglev, a 267-mph magnetic levitation train, hurtles us from the city centre to Pudong International Airport, about 30 kilometres away, in just eight-minutes. It’s not a great way to take in the scenery, which is reduced to a blur, but it is quite literally a rush for small (and big) boys who love their machines fast and flashy.

Shanghai has proved to be the ultimate in travel surprises. A buzzing metropolis that’s home to 23 million people and a superfluity of skyscrapers yet is clean, easy to get around, friendly and possesses an inexplicable charm that had my family at “ni hao”.

FAST FACTS GETTING THERE Qantas offers direct flights to Shanghai’s Pudong Airport.

WHERE TO STAY Hotel Pullman Shanghai Skyway www.pullmanhotels.com MONEY The currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). At the time of writing, AU$1 buys you CNY$6.51 MORE INFORMATION China National Tourist Office www.cnto.org.au

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CRUISING

HIGH SEAS

hijinks WHEN VOYAGER OF THE SEAS ARRIVES IN SYDNEY THIS NOVEMBER SHE’LL BE BRINGING SOME VERY SPECIAL GUESTS WITH HER. ALENEY DE WINTER AND FAMILY TAKE A SNEAK PEAK ON THEIR RECENT SOJOURN AT SEA.

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ama, I think it’s grown!” announces a bemused Raff as we prepare to board Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the Seas in Singapore for an eight-night cruise to Shanghai. This isn’t our first voyage on this lovely lady of the sea but her enormous bulk is no less impactful the second time around. In fact I think we’d all forgotten just how buxom a beauty she actually is.

Voyager of the Seas hasn’t actually “grown” any bigger (that would just be plain weird) but for families the newly-refurbished megaliner has definitely gotten better – and she was already great!

Size does matter One of the world’s largest cruise ships, Voyager of the Seas is coming to Sydney this November for her debut Antipodean season and at 311m long, 48m wide and with 15 passenger decks able to accommodate 3114 guests at double capacity (or 3840 in total) she will be the biggest cruise ship to ever call Australia home.

And this is one case where bigger really is better. Voyager of the Seas offers all the best signature Royal Caribbean amenities including a rock-climbing wall that soars 61 metres above sea level, a ninehole miniature golf course (a huge hit with my kids), three swimming pools, enormous bi-level fitness centre and spa (a huge hit with me) and a full-sized sports court and purpose-built in-line skating track.

And her mammoth scale means more of everything for passengers, especially families, with some great cruising concepts the Australian market hasn’t seen before including a 900-seat ice skating rink and most importantly for one small passenger, the “crackalackin’” Royal Caribbean DreamWorks Experience.

All aboard Raff and his baby sister Marlo loved their first Voyager experience so much we were a little nervous that it wouldn’t have the same impact a second time around. We needn’t have worried. The fact we already knew the ropes meant our son had a good idea of what he wanted out of the next week as well as where to find it. So, immediately after boarding and a quick refuel on the delicious hamburgers at Johnny Rockets, the ship’s American-style diner, it was straight to Adventure Ocean to register Raff for Aquanauts, one of the five age-based programmes for kids aged three to 17. Having been before he couldn’t wait to dive in to the crafts and games and new friendships he’ll make over the days to come.

But first there is some diving of a different kind to be done and we head to the pool so he can show off some of his newly acquired water skills to his suitably impressed mum. Only the promise of a visit to the Adventure

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Beach waterslide in the morning and a very special surprise after dinner can remove our frolicsome little fish from the water.

“Is it ice-cream?” he asks. Now, that would be telling!

Dinner and dancing Our a-la-carte dinner in the spectacular main dining room is a fabulous affair and both Raff and little Marlo are immediately smitten by both the food and our waiter, Ishmail, who as the week progresses become our little girl’s favourite friend. It becomes a nightly ritual for him to twirl her delightedly in a mock tango before sending her off with air kisses and hugs.

It must be said that just like the lovely Ishmail, the staff and crew on board Voyager are an absolute delight and they are all kinds of considerate to our kids.

The ship’s My Family Time dining program is a great addition for families. Kids can enjoy an expedited dinner before heading off with the Adventure Ocean counsellors for a little more fun while mum and dad enjoy coffee and dessert at leisure. This is a great concept, though we’re having so much fun with our kids that we don’t take advantage of it this time around.

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Dream a little DreamWorks “So, where’s my surprise?” demands Raff as we head to the Royal Promenade - a fourdeck high main street within the ship - where his question is answered in spectacular style as the DreamWorks parade begins. Both our kids faces light up as one by one their favourite film friends, assisted by a huge cast of entertainers, parade by in a dazzling display of colour and cartoon chaos. Kung Fu Panda, Shrek, Princess Fiona, plus the kooky cast of Madagascar - Alex the lion, Gloria the hippo, those whacky penguins and Raff’s new “best friend in the whole world ever” the nutty King Julien.

“They’re really real!” exclaims an excited Raff who very nearly explodes when he sees his current favourite, Puss in Boots (even mummy has a crush on that sassy cat after this holiday) joins the parade. The half-hour spectacle would have been enough of a highlight to make the entire holiday a winner for the kids but there was more DreamWorks’ magic to come with daily meet and greets, kids club visits, DreamWorks movies (we’re lucky enough to catch the 3-D premier of Madagascar 3 in the theatre), photo opportunities, funky poolside dance parties and even character breakfasts.

We, under the command of our little film buff, attend them all. Who are we to say no?

After all, it’s not every day that you get to have breakfast with an ogre, cuddle a lion or stroll deck-side with a king.

The DreamWorks characters are engaging, endearing and entertaining in equal part and each has their movie doppelganger’s schtick perfectly down pat. Perhaps the nicest thing about them is that even on a ship full of kids each one has some special way of letting our son know they remember him personally each and every time they interact, making them seem even more real and making him feel very special indeed.

Marlo is particularly enamoured with Gloria the hippo but Raff will be dining out for years on stories about learning kung-fu moves from Po, taking on Puss in Boots with a balloon sword and the “kidnap” attempts by a naughty King Julien who – clearly recognising in our son a kindred lunatic spirit - tries repeatedly, in jest, to spirit him away!

The DreamWorks experience is an incredible addition to an already impressive itinerary of family fun. Well executed and subtle enough to not overwhelm or intrude on the holidays of older guests whilst keeping the kids happy and engaged for the duration – the balance is spot on.

CRUISING

Cruising is cool One of Voyager’s stand-out features is its ice rink which hosts a world class ice show Ice Odyssey that Raff insists on seeing twice. There are also ice skating sessions for passengers. Though it’s been 20 years since his mother last strutted her stuff on skates, Raff convinces me to take him for a post dinner skating date. I’m pleasantly surprised that I manage to keep myself upright for the full 45 minute session though an impressed Raff, unaware of his mothers secret skating past, spends most of his time on his bottom, giggling. I’m convinced that the whole thing will end in tears but instead a happy Raff bounds back to tell his dad all about it, announcing, with impressive and flattering exaggeration, that “mummy is even better at skating than the sparkly girls in the show” and pleading to go again tomorrow. Bless!

Baby on board While Raff certainly rules the roost for most of this holiday there is plenty for our 16 month old daughter too. Royal Babies and Tots is fantastic.

A playgroup for parents with children age six months to three years, the programme offers a series of age-appropriate activity sessions where little cruisers can learn and explore

through creative play, music and other tot friendly fun. Marlo loves the musical activities and baby gymnastics as well as interacting with other littlies of a similar age. She also loves the Fisher Price toy lending program that allows her to borrow and exchange baby toys to play with in the comfort of our stateroom.

Doing it for the kids This holiday is all about our kids but mum still manages to sneak in a massage at the spa and dad an evening foray to the sports bar to catch up on all the Euro 2012 action. But time alone together is a rarity so on our final night we take advantage of the ship’s babysitting service and enjoy a well earned kid free night out at Portofino, Voyager’s ambient fine dining restaurant. The bubbles and conversation flow, without interruption, as we enjoy a superb three course meal blessedly free of face wipes or the need to remind anyone to eat their vegies.

More than just a ship, our experience is that Voyager is a destination in itself, which is lucky because trying to drag our son away from all the fun onboard isn’t going to float. Usually Raff loves exploring new destinations as much as we do but it’s not going to be at the expense of time on “his” precious ship with all his new DreamWorks bff’s.

FAST FACTS For more information on Voyager of the Seas Australasian season visit www.royalcaribbean.com.au

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SHORT CUTS Cruise Family Christmas at sea Float away on a fabulous family cruise this Christmas with the choice of three fun-filled Pacific Island itineraries from P&O Cruises. Departing Sydney and Brisbane between December 15 and 18, experience Christmas at sea with a range of familyfriendly activities and traditional festive surprises, including preparations to ensure Santa stops to visit!

Christmas cruise prices start from $1199 per person quad share for a 10-night cruise, subject to availability.

Conditions apply. www.pocruises.com.au

MSC unveils extended family rooms The 2012-2013 MSC Cruises program has been released boasting a staggering 150 itineraries to 250 different ports and some fantastic new destinations including the French Antilles and the Red Sea. With 13 ships now sailing waters from the West and East Mediterranean to North Europe, South America, South Africa, the Caribbean and the Red Sea, MSC has a cruise or two to suit every family. Best of all for families, new Super Family Cabins will be available on MSC Divina and MSC Preziosa (to launch in March 2013).

The spaciously appointed cabins are designed to sleep up to six people and comprise two connecting triple cabins, two bathrooms and two balconies. www.msccruises.com.au

See Queensland with Royal Caribbean Royal Caribbean Cruises offers families the opportunity to see Queensland as you’ve never seen it before with two of their extensively revitalised ships sailing north during the upcoming summer cruise season. Rhapsody of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas are destinations themselves with a huge range of activities and exceptional onboard facilities catering for all ages. “Seeing Queensland by sea is a unique Australian experience that many have yet to discover and doing it any other way would mean missing out on half the fun,” Royal Caribbean Cruise’s Adam Armstrong said. “Imagine being right in the middle of all this natural beauty, and having the time of your lives every minute of the way onboard on a Royal Caribbean cruise.” www.royalcaribbean.com.au

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CRUISE NEWS

THE INSIDER – AT SEA ON THE EVE OF CARNIVAL SPIRIT’S ARRIVAL TO AUSTRALIA OUT & ABOUT WITH KIDS CHATS TO JENNIFER VANDEKREEKE, DIRECTOR OF CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES AND MUM TO SIXYEAR-OLD TWINS, ABOUT FAMILY HOLIDAYS AT SEA.

Fiji’s Reef Endeavour gets a makeover Passengers cruising the Fiji Islands with Captain Cook Cruises can now enjoy the upgraded facilities on the MV Reef Endeavour.

The family-friendly cruise operator, recently completed a soft refurbishing of the vessel after rebuilding suites and interconnecting family rooms last year. The makeover includes new pool and sun deck furniture, new carpets as well as upgrades to the gym and spa. Passengers can now enjoy a comfortable and relaxed cruise experience with a contemporary, elegant feel. www.captaincook.com.au What are some of the best new features we’ll see on Carnival Spirit when she arrives in Sydney in October? It absolutely has to be the Green Thunder waterslide and the splash park, which has been designed for kids to interact with it to make things happen. The new Night Owls program is also going to be great for Aussie cruisers. The other big one is our interconnecting staterooms – perfect for families.

PNG Cruise First for P&O P&O Cruises has launched its first dedicated Papua New Guinea 2013-2014 itineraries with Pacific Dawn sailing from Brisbane to the turquoise waters of Milne Bay. Passengers can visit the local capital Alotau as well as the beautiful white sand beaches of Doini Island and the culturally-rich Trobriand Islands, also known as the Islands of Love, along the northern straits of the Bay. The Papua New Guinea sailings are priced from $1049 per person quad share for a ninenight cruise, with the maiden cruise to Milne Bay next October timed to coincide with the sacred Canoe and Kundu Festival where local communities compete in canoe races, costume displays and cultural performances. www.pocruises.com.au

Are your family keen cruisers?

Cruising offers families a great balance of ‘me’ time and ‘we’ time. I have boy and girl twins who are just about to turn seven and have been sailing me with since they were four.

They love cruising. And I like the idea that you can expose your kids to so many countries via cruising.

What are their favourite activities?

There are so many. My son is all about the mini-golf. We play every day. We always check out the youth programs on the first day. We help the kids choose what events and activities they want to do and preplan their days. It makes them feel like they own the holiday. Then I call the spa for an appointment. Another highlight is going for a swim after dinner, since we’d never do that at

home. It’s a great way to spend the evening.

What is your dream family cruise destination? I haven’t taken my kids to Fiji yet, it’s extraordinary. The people are amazing with kids so a Pacific Island Cruise is definitely on the agenda. First though we’re taking them to New Zealand, we’re really excited.

What are your top tips for a family cruise? Pack the kids swimmers in your carry-on back when you board. The kids will want to jump in the pool straight away.

If you have teenagers, make sure you choose one time a day where you’ll all get together - dinnertime works for most families. And at least one night during your cruise book the kids into Carnival’s Night Owls program, get dressed up and have a romantic meal, go to a show and kick up your heels a bit.

Also be sure to grab some fruit from the buffet in the morning, you’ll be amazed how hungry kids get playing mini-golf and flying down waterslides. www.carnivalcruises.com.au

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Š Ipatov, Shutterstock.com

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OUT & ABOUT WITH BABY

Baby food

TO GO!

WHETHER BREASTFEEDING, BOTTLE-FEEDING OR EXPERIMENTING WITH FINGER FOODS, KEEPING BABIES FED AND NOT FED-UP ON LONG JOURNEYS REQUIRES A LITTLE FORWARD-PLANNING, AND A WHOLE LOT OF PATIENCE. WORDS: GERALDINE CARDOZO

R by Take-away for fobarm ula carton

• Ready-made table • Fruit and veheges puree pouc • Yoghurt pouchesuit – • Chopped softopfrped grapes bananas, ch • Dried fruit rowroot) • Biscuits (like Ar • Rusks n-wheel wraps • Vegemite pihe or sandwic s • Rice biscuits • Cheese sticks

outines often go out of the window when travelling with kids – especially babies. So even if little one has started ‘sleeping through’, is almost weaning or is potty-trained it could all come undone once you’re on the road.

And that’s okay. Take set-backs in your stride and remember that babies need to adjust to the challenges of travel.

Consider the different time zones and climates wherever you’re travelling to.

If it’s much hotter, your baby will need to increase their liquid intake. If you’re breastfeeding you’ll probably find that your baby wants to feed more so make sure you drink lots more water yourself!

Allow time for your little one to adjust to the jet-lag. Unlike grown-ups who understand what’s happening to them, babies don’t get it. So expect a little grizzling and unpredictable behaviour for a while!

Perfect planning Try to time any long car trips, flights or train rides in with your little one’s routine. A good tip is to make sure

they are well fed beforehand (but avoid giving them anything sugary or sickly before setting off) and ideally ready for a nice travel nap.

Night flights are great with little ones – pop them in their PJs or sleepsuit, give them a good feed and then - in theory watch them snooze peacefully through most of the journey.

Of course, even the best-laid plans don’t always work out, so make sure you have some water and a selection of finger food treats for the older babies in your handbag (rusks, chopped grapes, banana, puree pouches) in case they wake up cranky and grumpy and milk just isn’t an option. Accessibility is vital. You do NOT want to find that the all-important bag of Arrowroots are packed in the Esky in the boot or at the bottom of a suitcase.

If you’re in the car, allow extra time for non-scheduled milk stops (and subsequent poo stops). As it is, unfortunately, impossible to breastfeed while in the passenger seat of a car you will probably have to pull over to top up bub, or just calm them down with a little milky cuddle.

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© Kiselev Andrey Valerevich, Shutterstock.com

© fredredhat, Shutterstock.com

Reader’s tips “When I flew to the UK with my one-year-old he wanted to breastfeed more. Being in the plane, coupled with extra feeds, meant I needed to drink more water too.” Nicole Harper, Gosford “When travelling on the road, I take a cushion to make breastfeeding in the car more comfortable for us both.”

Nerida Smith, Forster “Unless using a premixed formula (in a ready-to-drink popper or pre-measured sachet) keep powder in a separate container from your bottle - resealable plastic zip-lock bags work fine.” Linda Call, Brisbane “Disposable liners are handy when out and about and camping, so you don’t need to rinse and sterilise the bottles as often.” Brian Snell, Sydney “If considering weaning, don’t do it just before a long-haul flight! Breastfeeding was a lifesaver for us on the flight to the UK, especially during take-off and landing.” Hollie Ruthenberg, West Pymble “If flying overseas, be prepared to taste all liquids and baby foods in your hand luggage. Check with the airline before you pack how much liquid, milk and puree you can take,” Cathy Seale, Melbourne

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Bottle-feeding on the go The most convenient way to bottle feed baby on a long journey is to use ready-made formula which comes in handy cartons. These are a bit more pricey, but baby will have hygienically prepared milk throughout the trip. It’s then simply a matter of pouring the milk into a sterilised bottle. You can give your baby ready-made formula at room temperature, or warm the milk in a travel bottle warmer that plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter. Or take a flask of hot water and large plastic container. It’s not advisable to keep made-up formula warm in an insulated carrier, as this encourages bugs to breed. You can make a feed when you need it using pre-measured formula powder and boiled water from a vacuum flask.

In-flight dining Most airlines offer infant and child meals and some also have a limited amount of baby food on-board. In-flight staff on some airlines will also warm bottles for you and there is often fruit available on board. Make sure, if you want your little one to get a special in-flight meal, to request this when booking and double-check again before you fly.

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WHAT’S

hot

FOR BABY

TOILET TRAINING

e l t t i l r u o For y s r e n r a e Potette Plus ®

2 in 1 portable potty and trainer seat

WHaT’S hOT for Baby

Mini Squids Sunnies These funky aquatic sunglasses for baby and toddlers are designed to wrap snugly around little heads while providing maximum UV protection.

Lightweight and flexible they feature shatterproof safety lenses and come with a removable strap. www. moosaidthecow.com.au RRP$34.95

Portable Potty:

• Full sized potty, folds flat super-absorben • Includes 2 super-absorbent liners and hygienic carry bag

Disney strollers

Trainer Seat:

• Folding trainer seat • Comfortable, non-slip and durable • Hygienic, fits regular toilet seats

Other great toilet training proucts...

Cushie Traveller™ Folding Padded Toilet Seat

Keeps sheets dry throughout toilet training

Compact.

Ideal for on the go

by Ba U

No more middle of the night bed stripping

Potette Plus® Liners Disposable liners for portable potty

Convenient and hygienic

To find out more about the range and for helpful toilet training tips go to www.babyu.com.au

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Waterproof Sheet Protector

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Your little ones will love being on the move with Mickey and Minnie or the pals from Pooh Corner - Eeyore, Tigger and Pooh.

These supercute Disney character strollers are extremely lightweight and portable and perfect for the airport or to throw in the back of the car.

Sold through Big W stores nationally. www.bigw.com.au RRP $35.00

QuickSmart Scramble Bug The omni-directional Scramble Bug is a cute toddler rideon designed to help little ones learn important balance, pushing and steering skills while having fun. The Scramble Bug is designed to be easy to steer and ride and also folds flat to fit easily into the boot of a car making it ideal for travel. www.quicksmartgo.com RRP $49.99

Potette Plus Reusable Liner The Baby U Reusable Liner is made for the Baby U Potette Plus – a portable potty and trainer seat.

The Reusable Liner converts the Potette Plus into a standard potty.

The Potette Plus is great to maintain continuity throughout toilet training, and can be used at home or out and about. www.babyu.com.au RRP $11.99

Osprey Poco Premium Child Carrier Osprey’s new no-nonsense backpack-style carriers offer easy adjustability and maximum security with a strong, reliable powder-coated aluminium frame, deluxe padding and excellent ventilation. There’s also more packing room with a detachable day pack, sunshade and changing pad making it perfect for family days in the great outdoors. www.paddypallin.com.au RRP $329.95

Ergobaby Performance Carrier The new Ergobaby Performance Carrier can carry babies from newborn to toddler on the back, front, and hip positions to ensure you and baby stay close, cool and comfortable year round. The outer layer features quick-drying lightweight, high-tech fabric while the internal lining is made from breathable mesh for extra temperature control making it ideal for travellers. www.babesinarms.com.au RRP$199.00

Steelcraft Sonnet Portable Cot This slimline lightweight portable cot is the perfect bedtime solution for tots on the go. Boasting a mattress and travel bag for ease of transportation, it’s easy to assemble and has large mesh sides for ventilation plus a childproof rail lock and base lock for added safety. www.britax.com.au RRP $99.00

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WHAT’S

hot

FOR TRAVEL

WHaT’S hOT for Kids PaddlePak This super cute waterproof lightweight backpack is ideal for days out and trips to the beach. An ingenious roll top means a wide opening for easy packing and with three quick twists creates a dry seal before it clips together with a safety buckle.

The neoprene reflective tail fin also doubles as a dry pocket and a unique grip keeps sunglasses or goggles close at hand. www.yooneek.com.au RRP $32.95

Nerf Firevision Sports Football No sunlight? No problem. Pop on Nerf’s great new Firevision Sports Frames eyewear and flip the switch to see the reflective graphics and skins on the awesome football. Perfect to pack for your next weekend away for a little family fun after dark. Set includes one Firevision Sports Football and two pairs of Fire Frames eyewear. www.hasbrotoys.com.au RRP $26.99

Telestrations Looking for a great game to pack for your next holiday that the whole family will enjoy? Crown and Andrews awardwinning new board game, Telestrations is the visual equivalent of the schoolyard classic Chinese whispers and is loads of fun. Players simultaneously draw a word dictated by the roll of a die before passing on, guessing what they saw and passing on again for unpredictable and hilarious results. www.crownandandrews.com RRP $39.99

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five:am Squeezy Packs Proudly Australian made and owned five:am organic yoghurts have released a handy, squeezy pack range of their premium organic fruit yoghurt for kids. Made with locally sourced organic milk (from purportedly happy cows), it is free of gluten, gelatine, starch, preservatives and artificial additives. Perfect to chuck in the esky for the next road trip, our little taste testers give them the thumbs up for flavour. www.fiveam.com.au RRP $1.59

Tiger Tribe Felt World Globe Ball Kids can literally have the whole world in their hands with this felt ball with a difference. The 30cm Felt World Globe comes with its own pump included and will not only make an educational and fun addition to your next family holiday but get the kids thinking about where to head to next. www.moosaidthecow.com.au RRP $19.95

Skip Hop’s Zoo Luggage Let the holidays roll on with Skip Hop’s new Zoo Luggage. The perfect case for overnighters at Grandma’s or as carry-on luggage, the rolling suitcase comes in a range of cute characters that kids will love wheeling through the airport though detachable, adjustable shoulder strap means mum and dad can take over, hands-free, if little arms get tired. Available at David Jones and leading retailers nationally.

RRP $59.95

WHAT’S

hot

FOR TRAVEL

WHaT’S hOT travel tech Water wise No more belly bothers. The ultra portable handheld SteriPEN Freedom is not only environmentally friendly (no more plastic bottles) but a fast and effective way to sterilise water using UV light. Whether that water is from a running river or a hotel tap, the fantastic SteriPEN Freedom will destroy 99.9% of viruses and bacteria in under a minute without chemicals or pumps. Better yet you can recharge the battery via USB port in your computer or via the compatible solar charger (sold separately). Independently tested to be an effective sterilising solution, this cunning little gadget is compact and lightweight and a must for families who want to keep their little ones (and themselves) free of tummy troubles on holidays. www.seatosummit.com.au RRP$179.95

App, App & Away Check out the Packing (+To Do!) app, which will assist in keeping your packing under control. For less than the cost of the toothpaste you forgot last time you travelled, this app lets you create, edit and share packing lists, as well as providing sample lists.

Hitting the road? The Trapster app alerts you to red light and speed cameras, accidents and any other roadway hazards, extremely handy when you’re charting unfamiliar paths.

Exploring Australia with kids doesn’t need to be a case of trial and error with the new Kids Welcome app. With over 2000 (and growing) reviews of activities, attractions, tours, places to stay, camp and eat, this resource can turn a mediocre holiday into an amazing one. The app includes reviews (by age) of free playgrounds, beaches and events, other parents’ comments and the ability to share your own.

Have they started the “Are we there yets” yet? Keep the kids entertained on the road with the fun Travel Bingo app.

Race against the clock or challenge another family member as you watch for signs, cars, animal and other common roadside items.

Hitting the skies? iFly Pro provides details to help you quickly find services and amenities, from bathrooms to Wi-Fi hotspots, near your location or a gate. Plus there’s also a sleek real-time flight status, tracking utility and itinerary management utility for over 700 commercial airports across the globe.

Not sure about the correct etiquette at your destination? From correct greetings, communication style, personal space, eye contact, gender issues, taboos and laws, the World Customs & Cultures app gives you the lowdown on getting it right in more than 165 different countries.

Camera vs wild The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT4 tough camera is designed for thrills and spills. Waterproof to 12 metres, shockproof to two metres (not to mention dustproof and freezeproof!) this camera is perfect for even the most adventurous of families and the roughest and tumbliest of kids. A 4.6x optical zoom and 12.1 megapixels means that it takes great shots too. And the funky design is a standout in black, blue, silver and orange. www.panasonic.com.au RRP $449

Eye-Fi with my little eye Wirelessly and automatically save, organise and share family photos and videos with Eye-Fi X2 series memory cards. Featuring built in Wi-Fi, these fab new memory cards enable automatic and cordless transfer of images from camera to smartphone, tablet or laptop. Helping to make mums and dads better memory keepers, Eye-Fi simplifies photo and video upload to allow precious moments to be shared faster with extended family and friends. Eye-Fi cards can be used with most existing digital cameras wirelessly and mean there’s no need to buy endless other storage cards when they get full. www.crkennedy.com.au/eyefi RRP from $59.99

Ear Ear The Moshi Volume Limited Kids Headphones offer perfect protection for little ears.

Restricted sensitivity reduces the risk of permanent and irreversible damage to your children’s sensitive hearing. Great for keeping kids entertained and quiet in planes, trains and the back of the car without isolating them user surrounding noise, these comfy headphones are suitable for use with all your portable audio devices. www.moshielectronics.com/au RRP $29.99

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WHAT’S

hot

BOOKS

BOOKS …FOR THE KIDS

SOPHIE SCOTT GOES SOUTH

By Alison Lester Follow the diary of young adventurer Sophie Scott as she spots icebergs, penguins and seals. Travel with this nine-year-old as she makes new friends, experiences the southern lights and even becomes stranded in a blizzard as she joins her dad, the ship’s captain, on an Antarctic expedition ship.

Viking RRP $29.95

BLACK FELLA WHITE FELLA

By Neil Murray An inspirational Australian story beautifully illustrated by children from schools across Australia, Black Fella White Fella challenges us to lend a hand to make a change, embrace each other’s differences, speak out and stand together as brothers and sisters no matter where we come from in this world.

One Day Hill RRP $19.99

FIND THE FOOTY In this children’s activity book kids travel around the world to search for footballs hidden across a host of iconic landmarks -from the Great Wall of China to the Grand Canyon and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. With up to 12 carefully concealed footballs in each image this is sure to keep the kids entertained for hours.

Slattery Media Group RRP $14.95

WORLD FOOD ALPHABET

By Chris Caldicott This beautiful alphabet introduces kids to a world of food. Find out what Moroccans eat for a snack, how ice is sold in Bangladesh, visit a kitchen in the desert and a market in Hanoi. Touching gently on conservation and fair trade, this is a must.

Francis Lincoln RRP $29.95

… FOR MUM AND DAD

Arkie Sparkle, Treasure Hunter

By Petra James Introducing Arkie Sparkle, Treasure Hunter - an exciting new seven-book series that combines travel, archaeology, history, treasure hunting, action, gadgets, humour, fashion, two best friends and a dog. Eleven-year-old Arkie Sparkle’s archaeologist parents have been kidnapped. With the help of her genius cousin TJ and basset hound Cleo, she heads off on the biggest treasure hunt in the world to find seven treasures across seven continents in seven days. The first book in the series, Code Crimson, sees Arkie taking on Egypt’s Sahara Desert in her bid to rescue her parents.

Out & About With Kids has TEN Arkie Sparkle, Treasure Hunter packs to give away, each including the first three books in the series - Code Crimson, Time Trap and White Fright – and valued at a total of $32.97. For your chance to win visit www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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FRENCH TIES

By Jane Webster In this beautiful and inspiring book Jane Webster tells of both the contentment and complications of juggling family life across two countries. Deliciously filled with 40 delicious original recipes she shares with readers the pleasures of travel, cooking and simply being with family and friends.

Penguin RRP $59.95

THE TAO OF TRAVEL

By Paul Theroux Paul Theroux has collected the best writing on travel from the books that shaped him. Part philosophical guide, part miscellany, part reminiscence, The Tao of Travel includes excerpts from Theroux’s own work as well as selections from great literary travellers including Mark Twain and Ernest Hemingway. This is a wonderful tribute to the pleasure and pain of travel.

Penguin RRP $19.95

WHAT’S

hot

FOR ENTERTAINMENT

WHaT’S hOT Winter’s Best Entertainment DVD THE PIRATES! BAND OF MISFITS Hugh Grant stars as the splendidly bearded Pirate Captain – an enthusiastic, if somewhat ineffectual, scourge of the High Seas. With his faithful crew alongside, the captain dreams of beating his rivals Black Bellamy (Jeremy Piven) and Cutlass Liz (Salma Hayek) to win the coveted Pirate of the Year Award - a quest that takes the rag-tag bunch from the shores of Blood Island to the streets of Victorian London. It’s energetic and silly enough to appeal to viewers of every age but with characters and cameos as broad as Charles Darwin, Queen Victoria and Jane Austen along for the goofy ride, there is also a surprising amount of depth. www.thepiratesmovie.com.au

MOVIE MADAGASCAR 3, EUROPE’S MOST WANTED (3D) Monte Carlo, Paris, Rome? Join Alex the lion, Marty the zebra, Gloria the hippo, and Melman the giraffe in Europe on another crazy adventure as they fight to get back home to their beloved Big Apple. Of course, the lunatic King Julien, ever patient Maurice and the crazy penguins are all along for the adventure. On the run from the Captain of Animal Control they find the perfect cover as members of a traveling circus, which they reinvent – Madagascar style. This is one sequel that’s as good as the original. www.madagascarmovie.com

PERFORMANCE/ LIVE CIRQUE DU SOLEIL - OVO Cirque du Soleil has returned to Australia with its criticallyacclaimed and family-friendly big top production Ovo for a 20122013 national tour presented under the trademark blue-and-yellow grand chapiteau (big top).

Ovo (which means egg in Portuguese) is a headlong rush into a colourful eco-system teeming with life, where insects work, eat, crawl, flutter, play, fight and look for love in a non-stop riot of energy and movement.

When a mysterious egg appears in their midst, the insects are awestruck and intensely curious about this iconic object that represents the enigma and cycles of their lives. It is love at first sight when a gawky, quirky insect arrives in this bustling community and a fabulous ladybug catches his eye – and the feeling is mutual.

The cast includes 55 acrobats from 14 countries. One highlight of the show is the breathtaking Flying Act in which a group of scarabs soar high above the stage.

This year Ovo will visit Sydney from September 13 and Adelaide from December 6. Next year the show moves to Melbourne from January 17 and Perth from April 14. www.cirquedusoleil.com/ovo

TELEVISION SLIMEFEST A new wave of slime is coming… Off the back of a record-breaking 2012 US Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, Aussie kids are once again anticipating the “slime of their life” at this year’s new local show. With Nickelodeon’s winning formula of stars, stunts, music and slime, a brand new wave of slime is coming in the form of Slimefest! A massive concert and TV event especially for kids and tweens, Slimefest will deliver the slime experience to more kids than ever before.

Catch the world premiere of Nickelodeon’s latest local TV event on September 15, 6pm. www.nickelodeon.com.au

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DAD’S WORD

Dad’s

‘FAST’ ED HALMAGYI IS ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S FAVOURITE TV CHEFS AND FOOD AUTHORS, BEST KNOWN FOR HIS COOKING SEGMENT ON CHANNEL 7’S BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS WHERE ED SHARES HIS IDEAS ON ACHIEVABLE, TIMECONSCIOUS, FAMILY-FRIENDLY FOOD. HERE, THE FATHER OF FINN AND LUCA CHATS ABOUT TRAVELLING WITH KIDS.

WORD

Where is your favourite Australian family holiday spot?

I have a soft spot for Tasmania, especially along the west coast and also Bruny Island. Great food, lovely people, beautiful places – there’s a perfect surprise wherever you turn.

Where is your favourite international family holiday spot?

Really, the chef in me can’t avoid it – Italy every time. Swaddle yourself in history and culture, then wash it all down with a locallymade prosciutto and a big glass of Chianti. Bliss.

What’s your fondest childhood holiday memory?

Feeding cows in a field in the Loire Valley, France. I still remember being amazed by how yellow the buttercups were. Oh, and my first foie gras terrine… now that’s the way to get kids eating widely.

What is your top tip for a family driving holiday?

Get a good night’s sleep first, you’re going to need it. And don’t expect too much of the kids, or yourself.

Six hours in the car is plenty for a day, so space things and try to enjoy the journey.

Any hints for flying with kids?

Comfortable shoes. When my daughter was barely two, I reckon I walked from Tokyo to Sydney… up and down the aisles. Of course, the moment we landed – you guessed it, she fell asleep at last!

Do you prefer resorts with kids’ clubs?

Too right, and so do the kids. You travel as a family to spend time as a clan, but it’s also important for the kids to have their own adventure

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and for you and your partner to get some non-kid time.

Describe your biggest family holiday disaster?

A brief stay in a nature eco-camp on the NSW south coast where nature came calling in all the wrong ways – angry kangaroos beating up the kids, head lice, ticks, bed bugs and leeches.

Describe your funniest holiday moment?

Watching my kids practice ballroom dancing together on a beach in Fiji when they thought no one was watching. For what it’s worth, coordination is not genetic with us.

Priceless.

Describe your favourite family holiday photo?

We decided to be tourists in our own city for a long weekend and checked into a hotel in Coogee.

We did all the touristy things that we’d never find time for, and I even managed to convince them to find time for a Swans game!

Do you have a dream family destination?

A good amount of time away. A few months would be perfect. I’d like to park myself and the guys in New York and work on a couple of books that are simmering in my brain.

SPRING 2012 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

QUICKFIND ACCOMMODATION – OVERSEAS Berjaya Hotels & Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.berjayahotel.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC Centara Hotels & Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.centarahotelsresorts.com. . . . . . . . . 123 Embassy Suites Waikiki Waikiki. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.embassysuiteswaikiki.com . . . . . . . . 102 Hideaway Island Resort & Marine Sanctuary, Vanuatu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.hideaway.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .114 Malolo Island Island. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.maloloisland.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110 Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort Resort. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.hiltonhawaiianvillage.com . . . . . . . . 104 Novotel Times Square Square. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.novotel.com/New_York . . . . . . . . . . . 92 The Naviti Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.warwicknaviti.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110 Parkroyal Penang Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.parkroyalhotels.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Plantation Island Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.plantationisland.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa . . . . . . . . . . www.TheRarotongan.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79 Disneyland Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.disneyland.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 ACCOMMODATION – AUSTRALIA Angourie Rainforest Resort. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.angourieresort.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Aspen Parks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.aspenparks.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 at Blue Horizon Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.athotelgroup.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68 at Waters Edge Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.athotelgroup.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68 at Whitsunday Vista Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.athotelgroup.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68 BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort . . . . . . . www.adventurewhitsdunday.com.au. . . . .68 BIG4 Holiday Parks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.big4.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OBC Coffs Coast Holiday Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.coffsholidays.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 Long Island Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.Longislandresort.com.au. . . . . . . . . . .68 Mobys Beachside Retreat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.mobysretreat.com.au. . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 Mowbray Park Farm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.farmstayholidays.com.au . . . . . . . . . . 24 NRMA Holiday Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.nrmaholidayparks.com.au. . . . . . . . . . 31 Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour . . . . . . . www.novotel.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Paradise Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.paradiseresort.com.au. . . . . . . . . . . . .62 Pinnacles Resort & Spa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.pinnaclesresort.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68 Rendezvous Reef Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.RendezvousHotels.com . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Sea World Resort & Water Park. . . . . . . . . . . . www.myfun.com.au. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 Silverneedle Hospitality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.silverneedlehotels.com.au . . . . . . . . . 16 Toscana Village Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.toscanaresort.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68 Whitsunday Rent A Yacht. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.rentayacht.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68 ATTRACTIONS Black Mountain Tower. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.blackmountaintower.com.au . . . . . . .58 Cars Land, Disneyland Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.disneyland.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Mowbray Park Farm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.farmstayholidays.com.au . . . . . . . . . . 24 Sea World Resort & Water Park. . . . . . . . . . . . www.myfun.com.au. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 SKIING WITH KIDS Innsbruck Tourismus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.innsbruck-packages.com. . . . . . . . . . .87 Mogul Ski World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.mogulski.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 Travelplan Ski . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.travelplan.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85 TRAVEL Creative Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.creativeholidays.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Qantas Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.qantas.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 Trafalgar Family Travel Experiences . . . . . . . www.FamilyTravelExperiences.com.au. . . . 75 TOURISM ORGANISATIONS India Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.incredibleindia.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 Innsbruck Tourismus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.innsbruck-packages.com. . . . . . . . . . .87 Great Lakes Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.greatlakes.org.au. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 Bathurst Visitor Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.visitbathurst.com.au. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 The Legendary Pacific Coast. . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.pacificcoast.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 Port Stephens Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.portstephens.org.au. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 Moreton Bay Region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.visitmoretonbay.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Tourism Whitsundays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au. . . . . . . .68 South Africa Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.southafrica.net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Sultanate of Oman Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.tourismoman.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC Tourism Whitsundays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au. . . . . . . .68 BABY ON BOARD Baby & Toddler Show. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.babyandtoddlershow.com.au . . . . . . 137 Potette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.babyu.com.au. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138 OTHER Are those your underpants on the conveyer?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.newholland.com.au. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Jetta Excess Baggage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.excessbaggage.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 RTA Travel Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.rta.nsw.gov.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Pitch in and your $20 site fee goes to this local charity* Come and join us at participating BIG4 Holiday Parks on Friday 16 November for Australia’s biggest night of camping for charity. With your entire $20 site fee going to support charity, you’ll also help make a difference in the local community.

To find participating parks and place bookings visit BIG4.com.au/comecamp

BIG4.com.au/comecamp *Terms and conditions at BIG4.com.au/comecamp