Out & About with kids - Issue 35 Summer 2013

FAMILY

| TRAVEL

|

HOLIDAY

|

LEISURE

|

ENTERTAINMENT

ISSUE 35 SUMMER 2013 AUS$6.95 (inc gst)

WIN

Vita tion® lidays a t S y Pla , ho packs prize nd more. a

PACIFIC

ISLANDS

Family Holiday Guide

COOK ISLANDS FIJI SAMOA VANUATU

SUMMER

FamilyFUN • AUSSIE ESCAPES • OVERSEAS ADVENTURES • WHAT’S HOT FOR TOTS • ATTRACTIONS, EVENTS & MORE

35 9 771832 331006

SYDNEY | PACIFIC COAST | GOLDEN WEST | CANBERRA GOLD COAST | SUNSHINE COAST | HAWAII | TEXAS THAILAND | BALI | SOUTH AFRICA | OMAN | JORDAN | CRUISING | CAMPING

Create your own journey online!

2

SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

Visit SidetripofaLifetime.com.au, and you could WIN. Beauty has an address ~ Oman www.tourismoman.com.au | info@tourismoman.com.au Phone +61 2 9286 8930 www.tourismoman.co.nz | OmanNZ@walshegroup.com Phone +64 9 977 2222

summer | 13 Welcome

H

earing suspicious whispering and giggling coming from my kids bedroom this morning I approached with some trepidation, half expecting to find them recreating Jackson Pollock’s Blue Poles on the wall or building a scale model war-zone.

Needless to say, I was a touch surprised (and mightily relieved) at the surreal sight of four-year old son studiously mapping out a trail through Asia in his atlas while my toddler daughter, in a typical act of oddness, pores over an enormous Indian Cook Book, “oohing” and “aahing” at pictures of curry - both intently ignoring the million and a half picture books on the shelf behind them.

“What are you doing?” I ask.

“Planning our summer holidays” answers my optimistic son.

And what an adventurous holiday they’re planning! I hate to disappoint my intrepid offspring but have to nix the exotic adventures they’ve mapped out for us as our family will be staying closer to home this summer as we prepare my “big” boy for his first year at school. But with so many fantastic Australian holiday ideas to choose from in our bumper summer issue, I’m sure we’ll find something to satisfy their insatiable appetite for travel.

Whether you, like us, are planning a local break or are hungering for an international adventure, we’ve stuffed this issued full to overflowing with inspirational holiday ideas that are sure to satiate your holiday cravings.

If you’re looking for more fabulous holiday, leisure and entertainment ideas for your family, be sure to head to www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au for inspiring stories, great deals and all our great competitions. Plus you can get all the latest news delivered by email. If you subscribe to our e-Newsletter before Feb 28th 2013, you could win one of two Sony LittleBigPlanet PlayStation Vita packs to take on your next holiday.

And don’t forget to ‘Like’ us on Facebook and get “Out & About” with our community of happy families sharing lively, entertaining, informative and fun conversations.

Happy holidays!

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

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SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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

National Sales Manager Colleen Hinch colleen.hinch@gmail.com

Publisher Elisa Elwin Editor & Associate Publisher Aleney de Winter aleney@oawk.com.au 0400 808 108

Online Content Manager christine@oawk.com.au Design Magnesium Media

Deputy/Sub Editor Geraldine Cardozo Contributors Geraldine Cardozo, Cameron & Alison Daddo, Carla Grossetti, Christine Kane, Julie Mahoney, Anna Marquard Karp, Julie Miller, Sarah Pye, India Roberts-Smilie, Debra Solomon, Mark Sheehan, Tim The Yowie Man Director of Sales & Marketing Richard Bunting (02) 8204 1015 rbunting@oawk.com.au

Art Director Louise Summerton Published by Elwin Media Pty.Ltd. ABN: 22 159 093 606

Photo Credits: © PoznyakovShutterstock.com

$371*

PER PACKAGE, PER NIGHT

SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

Copyright © Out & About with Kids 2013 Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

All reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders. Out & About With Kids cannot accept unsolicited manuscripts or photographs.

If such items are to be sent to the magazine they will be returned.

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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.

CAB Membership Application Approved October 2012

contents 148 regulars

50

14 Domestic news The latest travel news and offers from around Australia.

28

28 Animal news All the best animal activities and encounters around the country.

32 Drive news The latest car, campervan and caravanning news.

84 Concierge Family friendly hotels reviewed.

88 International news The latest travel news and offers from around the Globe.

90

Reportage

8

A snapshot of Jordan.

Travelling the distance.

142 Cruise news

30 Drive

The latest news from the world of cruising.

King off the road, Toyota.

We review the latest products for tots.

148 What’s hot for kids

features

138 Where in the world…

147 What’s hot for baby

142

147

34 Camping The low-down on multi-generational camping.

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

140 Cruising

152 Dad’s Word

144 Out & About With Baby

Comic legend Vince Sorrenti shares his family travel tips and memories.

Play safe this Summer.

Spirited Away with Carnival.

SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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contents 68

australian destinations

international destinations

38 Canberra, ACT

96 Pacific Islands

Summer in the city.

42 Sydney, NSW Marvellous Macarthur.

46 Golden West, NSW NSW’s golden heart.

50 South Coast, NSW South Coast Splendour.

60 Legendary Pacific Coast

80

A road well travelled.

68 Gold Coast, QLD Gold class with the Daddo’s.

74 Sunshine Coast, QLD Seven days of Sunshine.

80 Australian Outback Outback adventure by kids.

Family holiday planner.

110 Fiji Falling in love with Fiji.

116 Hawaii A world of warmth with the Daddo’s in Waikiki.

120 Texas Tots and teens in the Lone Star State.

122 Thailand Thailand’s best family beach breaks.

128 Bali Blissed out in Bali.

132 South Africa A tale of two travellers.

136 Oman Secrets of the Sultanate.

122

win 14

Australian Baseball League Packs.

48

NRMA Online shopping vouchers.

73

A family break at Dreamworld.

95

Sony LittleBigPlanet™ PlayStation®Vita bundles.

150 Around The World in 80 Days books.

128 6

SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

151

Sony PlayStation 3® Wonderbook™: Book of Spells Bundle.

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A popular beachfront resort in the prime Legian area with large grounds covering 11 acres of land. The apartments are ideal for families providing larger accommodation with the use of hotel facilities.

Ramada Resort Camakila Bali is situated directly on Legian Beach. While offering tranquillity, the resort is also within short walking distance to the popular Kuta and Seminyak shopping and entertainment areas.

Call 1300 747 400, visit creativeholidays.com or your local travel agent. *CONDITIONS APPLY. Prices are per family of 2 adults & 2 children 12 years of age and under as at 24 Oct 12. Prices may fluctuate due to changes in charges, taxes and currency. Valid for sale until 30 Mar 13. Valid for travel Jayakarta Bali Beach Resort & Spa 01 Feb – 30 Jun 13. Ramada Resort Camakila Bali 06 Jan – 15 Jun 13. ^Kids Club is supervised, open from 9:00am to 4:00pm, and costs AUD3.25 per child per hour. Subject to availability. Seasonal surcharges apply.

Minimum/maximum stay restrictions may apply. If booking is paid by credit card, a 2% fee will be added. Prices and inclusions are correct at time of issue and are subject to change. Offers may be withdrawn at any time without notice.

CH REF: Jayakarta Bali Beach Resort & Spa 220457 | Ramada Resort Camakila Bali 222114 S U M M E R 2 0 1 312465CRSL

www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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Travelling THE DISTANCE

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SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

REPORTAGE

FORGET A LONG WEEKEND, HOW ABOUT TAKING THE FAMILY ON A NEVER-ENDING ADVENTURE? GERALDINE CARDOZO SPEAKS TO NOMADIC FAMILIES WHO HAVE TURNED LONG-TERM TRAVEL INTO A LIFESTYLE.

© My Good Images, Shutterstock.com

D

ear all. Having a great time with a local French family, including an Easter hunt. We went swimming on a turquoise lake near our new home, and mum loves the village markets where we buy all our bread, cheese and amazing food. Soon we’re off to Italy and Mum and Dad are taking Mabel to see her first ballet in a little town. Lots of love, your cousins.

This was a typical email from my sister-in-law as she travelled around France and Italy with her husband and three children. While we were taken aback when they first announced their adventurous plans over dinner, it was easy to see why they had decided to pack and leave for months’ of adventure.

With Jasper, seven, Mabel (who turned five in Italy) and Lyra, one, it was a combination of timing and a deepseated need to enjoy some uninterrupted family time that led Amber and Fritz Cardozo to head to Europe for three and a half months, taking Jasper out of school for a term. “Fritz had long-service leave and we wanted to give the children and ourselves something to broaden our minds and spirits. We felt the need to show them different cultures, foods and people. Also in the crazy buzz of life we feel it is so important to just be free and alone as a family, and this adventure allowed for that,” said Amber.

And they are not alone. You need only do a quick Google search for long-term travellers or so-called digital nomads to find a plethora of blogs recounting tips and tales from likeminded globetrotting families.

“There have always been long-term travellers such as ex-pats, where essentially Mum or Dad got a job overseas, or perhaps were in the armed forces. But now there is a new phenomenon of the digital nomads – bloggers, web designers and those who can work remotely from their computer while travelling,” says founder of Vagabondfamily.org and long-term traveller Colin Burns.

Colin, a web developer and his wife Tracy Burns have been on the road with their two children Hayley, five and Noah, seven for over two and a half years. The couple decided to embark on their family adventure after a three-week holiday in Malaysia. “We weren’t happy with our lives in suburban Australia. We had just sold our house in Brisbane and were tossing up what suburb to move to next, when Colin came up with this crazy plan to travel the world with the kids (then aged two and four).

We just wanted something different, that we could share with the kids and spend time with them while they were young (and wanted to hang out with us!)” recalls Tracy.

The family now has a base in Penang, with the rough plan of spending six months in Malaysia and six months travelling.

Since setting off the Burns tribe has spent over 1000 days exploring much of South-east Asia, Eastern Europe, Canada, Fiji, Australia and New Zealand. “The highlights have been skiing eight kilometres down a mountain with the kids in Bulgaria and jumping off boats into Halong Bay in Vietnam,” says Tracey.

From top: Amber Cardozo and daughter Lyra in Florence; Hayley Burns in Cambodia; the Cardozos enjoy the view in Italy.

SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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Kids with benefits And while it’s not all happy camping and sepia-tinted Instagram snaps, Colin says the benefits of exposing his children to different people, places and experiences outweigh any tedious waits, long journeys or days when they’ve all had enough of each other.

“Sometimes we are on top of each other, sleeping in the same room, spending a lot of time with each other.

And then you have to get away, often one of us taking one child and the other going off with the other one.

But the beauty of our lifestyle is we can respond to situations,” says Colin. “If anything the kids are now much more adaptable, confident and open-minded. They don’t see race as a concept and are very flexible,” he adds.

Planning is crucial, as is making sure you have adequate back-up funds should anything go wrong. “You need to be smart about it,” says Colin. “As much as our sporadic travel plans may look haphazard to the outsider you need to have a plan. Never do it if you don’t have enough money to get home if something goes wrong.”

For Amber, while the trip threw up some challenges they tried to view them as part of the fun, chaos and journey. “We tried to embrace each situation with openness and a sense of excitement and overall the benefits were endless for our children. They met people from all over the world and got to see how interconnected we are as humans. And from a practical point of view, they learned patience on long flights and when visiting new places they had to learn to adapt their moods and behaviour to suit the situation. They grew so much as little people from our journey.”

Science commentator Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, a veteran of long-term family travel and dad to Karl, 24, Alice, 22

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SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

and Lola, 13, agrees. “Travel with the kids is not about just showing them stuff, it’s about sharing experiences with them and spending time together as a family,” Dr Karl says. The eminent author and broadcaster, who recently released his 32nd book 50 Shades of Grey Matter, recalls travelling round Australia with his two young children in 1988.

“I was working at a children’s hospital as a medical doctor, doing 40 hours a week plus overtime. I thought, ‘this is ridiculous, I’m not spending any time with the family’, so my wife and I decided to get a four-wheel-drive and explore Australia with my son Karl, then three, for a few months at a time. We ended up doing it for three years. Then Alice was born and we kept on going.”

In that time the Kruszelnicki clan travelled through 15 of Australia’s 17 deserts. “It wasn’t scary despite travelling for 2000km on one trip and not seeing another soul! I was a trained mechanic, so that helped,” he says.

Over 20 years later, Dr Karl still takes his children on expeditions, including a recent trip with his family to the Antarctic and Iceland to see the midnight sun in both hemispheres. “When travelling I’m always looking at the world from a scientific perspective, experiencing new technology and seeing first-hand marvels of nature and of course I want to share these with my family,” explains Dr Karl, who also travelled with his family to Switzerland to see the Large Hadron Collider at CERN and is about to take with his 13-year-old out of school to see the Undara Lava Tubes in Tropical North Queensland.

REPORTAGE

Opposite page (clockwise from left): The Burns family in London; Tracy Burns and children Noah and Hayley in Athens; Noah Burns explores Athens’ ancient ruins.

This page (clockwise from left): Colin Burns and children take a train in Sri Lanka; Dr Karl Kruszelnicki with his son ‘Little’ Karl at Mawson’s Hut in Antarctica; Dr Kruszelnicki’s wife Dr Mary Dobbie with their young children in WA’s Kalibari National Park.

School matters Dr Karl says that while school is a vital in terms of connecting with peers and socialisation, as well as learning, there are other skills and life lessons which can’t be taught in the classroom. “Travelling was easier when the kids were younger than school age, as we didn’t have to worry about them missing school. But there is also a world of difference between taking kids out of primary school to taking them out in the last years before their exams.”

While there is a push in some schools to discourage families from taking holidays outside school holiday periods, more parents are pushing for a more lenient attitude to term-time travel.

A recent survey in South Australia by Adelaide Now newspaper found that more parents were supportive of measures where parents could take holidays during term time.

In response to the findings of the newspaper survey, a spokeswoman for South Australia’s Department for Education and Child Development said “Learning is sequential and to reach their full potential at school, students need to attend regularly. We know that students who attend school regularly have the best possible chance of future success.”

But for long-term travelling families with schoolage children many turn to home-schooling or what has been dubbed “road-schooling” to keep their kids up-to-date with the curriculum.

For Colin and Tracy Burns, the emphasis is on travel and family time but not to the detriment of their kids’ learning. “Education is still very important to us. We both loved school and see the value of being educated. At first we didn’t worry about it, as the kids were much younger. Now I guess we’re halfway between the homeschooling ethos and those who travel and teach their kids through experience,” says Tracy – a trained teacher. She keeps up to date with the NSW and Queensland curriculum guidelines for maths and literacy, “and other things they learn through our travels and experiences”. The children are currently enrolled in a school in Penang for a term, “mainly for socialisation and to meet other children,” added Tracy.

And for Amber, the journey was a learning process for the whole family. “We weren’t concerned about Jasper missing a term and his school were more than supportive. The children grew so much as little people with the adventure.”

For the Burns’ their decision to travel is about teaching their children to be open-minded. “I can teach my kids that everything in life is a choice.

If they want to settle down that’s fantastic, but everything is a choice. At the end of the day, they know that home is where we are.”

SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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EXPLORE

EXCITE INSPIRE

Your Family summer Adventure Starts Here With a vibrant alpine village nestled next to an exciting outdoor playground, Thredbo Resort is the ultimate adventure destination for families. Spend this summer at the rooftop of Australia hiking, biking, swimming, bobsledding, horse riding and more and make your next escape one the family will never forget.

Visit thredbo.com.au or call 1300 020 589 to book today.

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Australian HOLIDAYS

14 28 30 32

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

ANIMAL NEWS The latest animal activities and encounters.

DRIVE Luxe weekender wheels.

DRIVE NEWS The latest car, campervan and caravanning news.

34

38 42 46 50

CAMPING Tribal gatherings.

CANBERRA, ACT Colourful capital capers.

SYDNEY, NSW Marvellous Macarthur.

GOLDEN WEST, NSW Go west.

SOUTH COAST, NSW

64 68 74 80

LEGENDARY PACIFIC COAST A road well travelled.

GOLD COAST, QLD Gold class.

SUNSHINE COAST, QLD Seven days of Sunshine.

AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK By kids.

South Coast Splendour.

S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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SHORT CUTS Domestic NATIONAL Feed the kids for half the price Summer is upon us and if you are starting to think about a fun family getaway to blow away the winter cobwebs, SilverNeedle Hotels has some great deals. The new Culinary Kids offer means kids eat for half price. Families staying at any participating SilverNeedle hotel will be able to receive a free drink and 50 per cent off each main meal per child 14 years old and younger. The offer will be available at selected Grand Chifley, Chifley, Australis, Country Comfort and Sundowner Hotels across Australia until March 28.

For full terms and conditions and participating hotels visit www.silverneedlehotels.com.au/ culinarykids

WIN

Great family deals with Aspen With Aspen Park properties in five states (WA, SA, Victoria, NSW and QLD) you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to your next family holiday destination.

Beachside, riverside or at nature’s gateway you’ll enjoy beautiful landscaped grounds with shady trees and a familyfriendly atmosphere.

Check out Aspen Parks Hot Deals. www.aspenparks.com.au

Australian Baseball League Packs The ABL, Australia’s premiere professional baseball league, entered its third 46-game season in November of 2012 with home stadiums in Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.

A partnership between the Australian Baseball Federation, Major League Baseball, and the Australian Sports Commission to elevate the profile of Baseball in Australia, the ABL encourages participation in baseball and showcases our talented worldclass Australian baseball players. www.theabl.com.au Out & About With Kids has SIX Australian Baseball League packs to give away. Each pack is valued at over $150 and will include ten game tickets, ABL merchandise and promotional items. For your chance to win visit www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

DOMESTIC TRAVEL NEWS

NSW

Summer family fun at Thredbo Thredbo is renowned for its snow sports, but Thredbo Resort is also a great destination for summer holidays. With a wide range of family saving packages on offer, plus free activities for kids, the Snowy Mountains resort is a refreshing choice for summer school holiday breaks. Activities include hiking to the top of Mt Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak plus a range of other scenic walks to suit all levels. There is also the Thredbo bobsled, tennis courts, golf course and Thredbo Leisure Centre with Olympic -sized pool, water slides, and huge pool inflatables. This year there is also new mountain bike trails to suit all levels plus Arthaus creative workshops for children and adults. Explore the area around the resort too for horse riding, fishing and more.

For information on kids stay and play free packages, visit www.thredbo.com.au/packages/ kids-play-for-free/

Be a-mazed in Port For a respite from Port Macquarie’s beaches this summer, holidaymakers can get lost in a labyrinth at Bago Maze, the largest hedge maze in NSW. The maze is set to open this December offering a magical escape with 2000 metres of pathways covering 10,000 square metres. The maze also features lookout towers, bridges, boardwalks and musical instruments along the way.

Located at Bago Vineyards, the design of the Maze takes inspiration from the surrounding vineyard and has taken around six years to grow from native lilly-pilly hedge. www.bagovineyards.com.au

World’s longest water ride at Jamberoo The longest water ride in the world is set to open at Jamberoo Action Park this summer. The Funnel Web water ride is one of two new attractions at the park, including the largest water play area in Australia.

Those daring enough will have their adrenaline pumping as they ride the Funnel Web, the longest and biggest water thrill ride in the world.

Meanwhile the four-storey Banjo’s Billabong water play area will provide hours of fun for all ages, with over 198 different water features. Also returning is the Jamberoo summer school holiday bus service. Operating every day from December 26 to January 28, the bus will pick guests up from Kiama Railway Station at 9.57am. For priority entry, tickets can be purchased via the new online ticketing system at www.jamberoo.net.

Get the destination lowdown from kids For kids, by kids – Bound Round is a great new interactive travel guide app for children and its first destination, Sydney, was launched recently. Bound Round’s Kids Board Member Daniel Mallender has given the lowdown, and the thumbs-up, on his top three favourite spots in Manly for kids.

Manly Sea Life Sanctuary: At the bottom there is a tank full of sharks, rays and turtles and you can walk through a tunnel with all the sharks swimming around you.

In the middle there are lots of tanks filled with colourful fish and a touch pool, and at the top is a sanctuary for little penguins – they are so cute!

Manly Waterworks: The best thing is that it’s right next to Manly Sea Life Sanctuary and Manly Wharf with a great ice-cream shop.

Murrays Brewery Restaurant and Bar: I like coming to Murray’s for lunch because we get to eat great burgers and chips and they also do a great beer for dad. www.boundround.com

S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE PRESENTS

BASED ON THE BOOK BY DR. SEUSS The hit National Theatre production based on the much-loved book by Dr. Seuss, colourfully adapted for the stage.

29 DEC – 27 JAN TICKETS $39* SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE, PLAYHOUSE

“A triumph... it’s the cat’s whiskers!”

The Times

“Terrific fun.”

The Telegraph (UK)

PLAY ORIGINALLY PRODUCED BY THE NATIONAL THEATRE OF GREAT BRITAIN Dr. Seuss’s Cat in the Hat is presented by special arrangement with Hal Leonard Australia Pty Ltd, exclusive agent for Music Theatre International (NY).

The happiest, splashiest hit of summer!

THE LIVE GLOW-IN-THE-DARK FAMILY MUSICAL 3 – 27 JAN | TIX FROM $30 K BOO !

NOW

MEDIA PARTNERS

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SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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SHORT CUTS Domestic

DOMESTIC TRAVEL NEWS

NSW Coffs Coast 101

Snowy summer

Coffs Coast visitors can take their pick from 101 different activities, attractions and experiences on offer (all compiled into a 40-page guide book) when visiting this beautiful part of Northern NSW. Packed full of quirky and interesting ideas, 101 Things To See and Do on Coffs Coast includes over 70 exclusive special offers and deals valid until the end of June 2013.

From swimming with dolphins and riding camels on the beach to cheese making and growers markets; from mountain-bike riding to stand-up paddle-boarding; from whale watching to bird watching – there are adventures, experiences, outings and a whole heap of fun waiting for families on Coffs Coast. www.coffscoast.com.au

Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales has opened Australia’s first resort-based mountain bike park combined with 14km of bushland tracks to offer heaps of terrain to explore. Attracting adventure travellers from around the world, the resort will also be hosting the 2013 National Off Road Triathlon Championships in March.

With direct access to Thredbo Diggings trails, resort guests have the free use of the mountain bike park. Family packages start from just $159 per person for two nights’ accommodation in a two-bedroom lake view apartment, a family barbecue pack, free half day use of mountain bikes for the family and a 10-minute family Segway experience plus discount activity and dining vouchers. www.lakecrackenback.com.au

ACT

Hunter Valley Gardens sparkles Hunter Valley Gardens will be sparkling again this Christmas with over 1.25 million lights a-glow for the annual Christmas Lights Spectacular. From November 9 to January 26 (excluding December 25) the largest lights display in the Southern Hemisphere will be delighting young and old alike for its sixth year. Featuring the Twelve Days of Christmas music and light display, towering christmas trees, the storybook garden, nativity scene and, of course, jolly visits from Santa, Hunter Valley Gardens is the place for fabulous family festive fun. www.hvg.com.au

Big Objects are coming to NMA There are some mighty big things on exhibit in the Hall at the National Museum of Australia and with these grand-scale treasures come the stories behind them and why they were collected. Big Objects are Coming is the museum’s brand-new permanent display. Marvel at the remarkable Saw Doctor’s wagon, a 1905 steam engine, a 1930s monoplane, one of Australia’s oldest surviving horse-drawn coaches, and a vintage Citroën tourer that was the first car driven around Australia. www.nma.gov.au

S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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SHORT CUTS Domestic

DOMESTIC TRAVEL NEWS

ACT Deep Oceans at Questacon

Art and about in Canberra The Moulin Rouge is can-canning its way to Canberra with the National Gallery of Australia’s summer exhibition ToulouseLautrec: Paris & the Moulin Rouge. To celebrate the first viewing in Australia of over 100 paintings, posters, prints and drawings, featuring masterpieces by French post-Impressionist painter Henri de ToulouseLautrec, the Crowne Plaza Canberra is offering a Toulouse-Lautrec package including one nights’ accommodation in a standard room, parking and two adult tickets to the exhibition from $225 per night. Valid for stays from 14 December to 2 April. www.crowneplazacanberra.com.au. For more information visit www.nga.gov.au/Lautrec

Journey through the mysterious deep at Questacon with the Octonauts and uncover the secrets of the world’s largest habitat as monsters of the deep are revealed.

The new Deep Oceans exhibit opens this November, and visitors can get a glimpse of glow-inthe-dark sea creatures, discover deep-ocean sponges that contain cancer-fighting compounds and meet Mr Blobby, a fathead found deep in the Tasman Sea. Alternatively, escape the jaws of an angler fish, look inside a replica of the Bathysphere (the first submersible to descend beyond light) or come face to face with a five-metre model of a giant squid – the biggest invertebrate on earth.

For under-fives, there is an Octonauts-themed trail. Young explorers can play on a special submarine with dress-up costumes and watch Professor Inkling and his crew “Explore! Rescue! Protect!” www.deepoceans.com.au

Happy 100th Canberra Canberra officially became Australia’s national capital in 1913 and 2013 marks 100 years since that auspicious event. The centenary of Canberra will be celebrated with a year-long program of events and is a great time to visit our national capital and discover how much has changed, both in Canberra and throughout the country, in those 100 years. www.canberra100.com.au

Central Coast Holiday Parks offer a unique holiday experience. The H across four diverse locations; Budgewoi, Canton Beach, Norah Hea The Parks' prime locations offer the best of the lakeside and beachs Central Coast.

a wildlife encounter r like no othe

a and Cuddle up to a Koal s hand feed Kangaroo rs are back Daily Croc encounte daily for Summer 10.15am Enjoy a face to face codiles, encounter with Cro n Devils...

Wombats,Tasmania Find us on Facebook and Twitter

Facilities include:

· Resort style pools at Norah Head and Toowoon Bay · Jumping pillows at all four parks for the young and young at heart

· Outdoor amphitheatres at Norah Head and Toowoon Bay; wher and watch a block buster under the stars

Each of the four Parks offers free wireless internet access from various w

All four Central Coast Holiday Parks are barely an hours drive from Syd Open daily 9am-5pm (closed Christmas Day) 217 Kildare Road, Doonside, Sydney NSW 2767

S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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Yamba’s 4.5 Star Resort

$ 219 LIMITED OFFER... SAVINGS UP TO 40% TWO BEDROOM VILLA 2 Adults + 2 Children

Includes continental buffet breakfast for the family

POOLS, DAY SPA, RESTAURANT, KIDS PLAY AREAS & ACTIVITIES, GYM, TENNIS, PUSH BIKE HIRE Excludes 27/12 - 5/1 and 29/3 - 1/4 Holidays Subject to availability.

day

Essential Elements

(02) 6646 8600

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

SHORT CUTS Domestic

DOMESTIC TRAVEL NEWS

QLD Dive the reef without leaving home For the first time, anyone with an internet connection can take a virtual dive to see the spectacular marine life on the Great Barrier Reef. Google Street View is mapping our world-famous marine treasure so you can virtually dive on the world’s most beautiful reefs!

Don your virtual wetsuit and enjoy the 360-degree panoramic - and breathtaking - view.

Based at the underwater research station on Heron Island underwater environments of the northern reefs of the Coral Sea are captured.

This fascinating undersea initiative is not only a visually splendid treat for virtual visitors but also contributes to the knowledge of the world’s oceans and provides valuable data about the health of our protected coral reefs.

To take an underwater tour of Heron Island visit http://goo.gl/ maps/3mPy0. maps/3mPy0 Or dive in to Lady Elliot Island at http://goo.gl/kDcLN and Wilson Island at http://goo.gl/ maps/sluiY

Dinosaurs come to Brisbane Australian theatre company Erth’s enchanting Dinosaur Petting Zoo production returns to the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) in Brisbane from January 8 to 20 on the Melbourne Street Green. The green will be transformed into a lush jungle housing prehistoric creatures, including insects, mammals and dinosaurs at the interactive show. Come eye to eye with an amazing array of life-like creatures from cute baby dinosaurs to the teeth-gnashing ferocity of the Queensland-found dinosaur, the Australovenator. This unforgettable interactive experience is suitable for ages five and up. www.qpac.com.au

S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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DOMESTIC TRAVEL NEWS

QLD Christmas treats at Airlie Beach Like the sound of a family Christmas in the Whitsundays?

At BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday in Airlie Beach the very popular Santa workshops return from December 17 to 21 providing a chance for the kids to make traditional homemade Christmas presents. With Mrs Claus and her helpers, the kids will have loads of fun creating a range of tasty festive treats and gifts your kids will bring home each day. De-stress by the pool with the family over Christmas at beautiful Airlie Beach with plenty of activities to keep the kids fully occupied, including the new Let’s Dance workshops running from January 7 to 11 for children aged four to 12. Enjoy Christmas Eve carols by the pool, an outdoor New Year’s Eve family disco and the famous pancake recovery breakfast on New Year’s Day. www.adventurewhitsunday.com.au

Your family is assured a holiday haven at Kingfisher Bay Resort. Join a 4WD tour or make your own tracks across the island. There’s even double the action for kids with the popular Junior Eco Rangers program, fishing clinics, canoe and water sports or tennis.

And at the end of the day, relax with a cocktail poolside, indulge in a massage or enjoy superb food and wine.

185

$ from

Snap up a deal at Peppers Beach Club & Spa

* PER VILLA

PER NIGHT MINIMUM 3 NIGHT STAY

*Conditions: Subject to availability. Rate based on ‘Best Available Rate’, minimum 3 night stay.

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KBRV984

☎ 1800 072 555

or book online www.kingfisherbay.com

Get away from it all in Tropical North Queensland at Peppers Beach Club & Spa. While the kids play in the resort’s spectacular sandy beach lagoon pool or splash around in the formal pool, mum and dad can be relaxing poolside at this picturesque resort. Peppers Beach Club & Spa is offering a fantastic family getaway from $490 per night in a Two Bedroom Lagoon Room including full buffet breakfast. The kids can enjoy the resort’s spectacular sandy beach lagoon pool, formal pool and tennis court or, for a fun-filled family day out, visit some of the many local attractions such as Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, Cairns Night Zoo or a Kuranda Scenic Railway adventure. www.peppers.com.au

N Cairns

Townsville

Rockhampt

on

Sunshine Coast Brisbane

S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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SHORT CUTS Domestic VIC Splash into Swan Hill Visitors to BIG4 Swan Hill have a new way to cool off this summer, with the opening of a brand new $800,000 Splash Park. The first of its kind for BIG4 in the state, the zero-depth multi-level aquatic play area is designed to bring even more fun to family holidays, equipped with a range of interactive features to suit all ages.

The new park incorporates three water slides, an 8.5-metre super splash tipping bucket, spray cannons, interactive ground sprays, and play equipment. The complex also has protected toddlers’ areas outside of the range of spray cannons and a soft fall surface. www.BIG4.com.au.

DOMESTIC TRAVEL NEWS

SA Adelaide escape From parks to pandas, the buzz of Adelaide’s attractions are all within easy reach from the Mantra Hindmarsh Square.

Bring the family to stay in style and step outside to explore the charming city from $199 a night in a Parkview suite.

The hotel is easy walking distance from the best the city has to offer, including Rundle Mall and the Rundle Street dining precinct, the Sky City Casino and the National Wine Centre of Australia. Adelaide Zoo is also close by – home to giant pandas Wang Wang and Funi. The offer is valid for Thursday to Monday stays until February 21. www.mantra. com.au.

Carnival curiosities at Scienceworks Next year marks Scienceworks’ 21st birthday, and what better way to celebrate than a carnival all about science?

Scienceworks brand new exhibition Carnival of Science opens on December 15 and looks at some of the most popular attractions at theme parks and carnivals around the world and explores the science that makes them work.

The exhibition gives the ‘science treatment’ to the human cannonball, mirror maze, bed of nails and more than 30 carnival icons. www.museumvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/

Mining mysteries and feral feasting in the Flinders Ranges

Short breaks on Victoria’s coast Enjoy the scenic drive along Victoria’s spectacular Great Ocean Road to Mantra Lorne for a three-night escape from only $263 per night in a two-bedroom apartment. Lorne’s coastal location is on the doorstep of famous attractions including the Twelve Apostles and Bells Beach so you can take the time to explore or grab some leisure time at the Mantra with an indoor heated pool, day spa, croquet pitch, tennis courts, putting green, gym and steam rooms to enjoy.

Valid until March 28, conditions apply. www.mantra.com.au

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Wilpena Pound Resort has launched an array of new half and full-day guided four-wheel-drive tours, allowing guests to explore the stunning surrounds of the Flinders Ranges from the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle.

All tours include ample opportunities for guests to walk around and explore the highlights of this unique, ancient landscape. The Mining Mysteries and Feral Feasting tour includes a trip to Blinman, the highest town in South Australia to explore the old copper mine. Lunch is at the famous Prairie Hotel, where guests can enjoy the famous “Flinders feral food”. The homeward journey includes Brachina and Bunyeroo Gorges. Other tours explore the European and Aboriginal history of the area, plus there are tours which give an insight into the fascinating geological history, going back more than 100 million years. www.wilpenapound.com.au

Australia’s Favourite Holiday Parks and Resorts

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 352 982 1800 336 225 1800 621 262 1800 222 052 1800 061 444 1800 466 528

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 South Australia Port Augusta - Port Augusta BIG4 Holiday Park Roxby Downs - Myall Grove Holiday Park

1800 674 239 1800 356 801 1800 356 483 1800 776 523 1800 631 006 1800 268 176 1800 833 444 1800 356 103

Out and About with Kids readers receive a 10% discount on presentation of this voucher.

✂

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 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 Queensland Airlie Beach - Island Gateway Holiday Park

10

% Discount (up to a maximum of $40 per stay)

Conditions apply, not valid for online bookings. Block out dates for peak season will apply.

Quote 002 when booking. Full terms and conditions visit www.aspenparks.com.au

aspenparks.com.au S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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DOMESTIC TRAVEL NEWS

TAS Adventure in luxury

Perth’s taste of luxury Treat the kids to a touch of elegance with a yummy afternoon tea at Perth’s newest luxury boutique hotel. The Terrace Hotel has opened on the West End of St George’s Terrace in Perth’s CBD. Reflecting the outdoor lifestyle synonymous with Perth, the casual elegance of the heritage-listed former St George’s House has been transformed into a sophisticated hotel, which retains its art deco charm. The hotel will feature 15 guest rooms over four floors, including a Premier suite with a private dining room for eight, a restaurant with two additional private dining rooms, wine vault and sommeliers tasting room. Guest rooms are furnished with modern amenities including iPads, Bang & Olufsen sound and television systems, complimentary WiFi access, Apple TVs and Foxtel IQ. www.terracehotelperth.com.au

Nature-loving family adventurers who are also after a splash of luxury should check out the new Adventure Bay Luxury Retreat on Tasmania’s Bruny Island.

Featuring two stylish standalone lodges, the indulgent accommodation is nestled amongst 33 acres of open bushland in Adventure Bay, guaranteeing privacy to guests and a stone’s throw from its famous beach.

Accommodating up to eight people, The Lodge is suitable for families with two king-size bedrooms and a third bedroom with two sets of bunks and there is also a deck overlooking the bay with outdoor furniture and a large gas barbecue – perfect for family meals.

Highchairs and port-a-cots are available on request. www.adventurebayretreat.com.au

Pod chasers stay at Mantra Dolphin-lovers in Bunbury have got a perfect location to base themselves while learning all about these amazing creatures.

Mantra Bunbury Hotel at Bunbury is situated on the historic Bunbury waterfront close to Koombana Bay – a popular dolphin haunt! Take a two-night escape from $179 per night in a Superior Studio at the premium hotel, situated just a short stroll from the busy cafe strip and Dolphin Discovery Centre. Relax onsite with an indoor heated pool and spa, Escape say spa, children’s play area and tennis courts. Valid for Friday to Sunday stays until March 31. Minimum two night stay applies. www.mantra.com.au

Tassie spirit Spend a day on the iconic Spirit of Tasmania from just $79 and experience the entire ship, food and drinks, a matinee movie and live entertainment. Spirit of Tasmania’s Melbourne to Devonport service provides passengers with flexibility and convenience when planning their holiday- just load the car and pack as much luggage as you can fit then drive on board for an adventure where half the fun is getting there.

Once on board, entertainment options include complimentary movies screened in the cinema, live music and plenty of kids’ activities such as face-painting, badgemaking and short films. Plus, there are Shipmate personal players for hire with a choice of movies, kids’ TV show and music. This offer is valid for selected 9am sailings between Januray 27 and April 4. www.spiritoftasmania.com.au

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Hungry for Summer Savings...

Culinary Kids Offer* • 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

This Summer 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!

* For full terms and conditions and participating hotels visit the website. Valid to 28 March 2013.

For reservations or for more information call 1300 650 464 or visit www.silverneedlehotels.com.au/culinarykids

S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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SHORT CUTS Animals It’s turtle nesting season on Heron Island!

The annual turtle nesting season, which runs from November to March, is starting on Heron and Wilson Islands. It’s an amazing experience to watch the turtles coming out of the ocean and pull themselves up the beach to lay their eggs, during the night and the early hours of the morning.

Turtles return to Heron and Wilson Islands after an absence of 35 to 40 years since their birth. By Easter, both islands offer the chance to watch as thousands of baby turtles emerge from their nests to make the annual scurry to the safety of the sea.

The breeding population comes ashore to nest approximately three to seven times during a season and lay their eggs in the same location where they were born. With careful guidelines for viewing, families can immerse themselves in all the action on a casual walk around the islands’ beaches. www.heronisland.com

Mowbray Park Farm

Breakfast with the koalas for something completely different!

WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo has extended its popular koala breakfasts to include both Saturday and Sunday mornings. Breakfast with the Koalas begins at 7.15am, before the crowds arrive, and offers exclusive access to the zoo’s residents with a guided tour when the animals are at their most active. The tour includes visits to Rex, the 700kg Saltwater croc, tropical butterflies, wallabies and even creepy crawlies, followed by a special koala talk, a delicious hot buffet breakfast and an interactive experience cuddling the cute koalas and, as a memento of your exciting morning, a photo of your koala encounter to take home! www.wildlifesydney.com.au

Correction: In the Spring issue of Out & About with Kids the above photo should have been attributed to WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo.

Close encounters

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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Meet the world’s smallest, and quite possibly its cutest, monkey in a one of a kind encounter at award-winning Mogo Zoo just south of Batemans Bay, NSW. The new animal experience is a unique and exciting addition to the zoo’s growing range of up close and personal interactive animal encounters with the animals which already includes feeding the white lions, Mafuta and Numbi, or beautiful tiger, Kinwah.

Visitors can also take a lemur island cruise to meet black and white ruffed lemurs, ring-tailed lemurs, spider monkeys and siamangs or opt for a face-toface encounter with meerkats, red pandas and snakes or a dingo walk with Mogo’s hand-reared dingoes. www.mogozoo.com.au

ANIMAL NEWS

For kids who love animals and parents who’d like their children to learn more about them, Mowbray Park’s every-day-of-the-week animal action ticks all boxes.

Spend a day or enjoy an extended farmstay at this delightful holiday farm, just 90 minutes from Sydney and you’ll be sure to spend plenty of time at the animal nursery cuddling cute critters, feeding the animals (bottle feed the gorgeous calves) and milking the cow and take a hayride on the tractor for horse and cattle feeding.

Experienced riders and beginners can enjoy a pony or horse trail through rolling hills and bushland.

All activities are fully-supervised and designed for families keen to enjoy a slice of rural life in beautiful, lush countryside. www.farmstayholidays.com.au

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium opens its doors One of the world’s largest aquariums now proudly flies the worldfamous SEA LIFE flag and has unveiled 14 newly-themed zones including the spectacular Shark Valley, a $5million ocean tunnel walk-through.

The iconic Sydney Aquarium has an all-new look and a new name. After nine months of work and $10 million investment, plus a large-scale re-homing mission for 300 animals, Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore officially opened the doors to SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium in September. The aquarium is located in the heart of the popular Darling Harbour and is renowned as the home of the world’s largest variety of sharks and rays. Visitors can marvel at the impressive overhaul that showcases 700 different species of 13,000 marine animals in the Tropical Bay of Rays, Discovery Rockpool, Mangrove Swamps, South Coast Shipwreck, Dugong Island and the breathtaking Shark Walk in Shark Valley. www.sydneyaquarium.com.au

Robert Irwin steps into dad’s shoes Young Robert Irwin, not quite nine years old, proudly fed his first croc in public last month as he takes bold, pint-sized steps towards emulating the life’s work of his late father, Steve Irwin.

He’s also stepping into the television spotlight – a move that brought dad Steve into lounge rooms around the world and earned him the moniker ‘Crocodile Hunter’ - with the launch of Steve Irwin’s Wildlife Warriors, screening on Network Ten (Saturdays at 7.30pm) “This is an exciting new show giving Robert his first fair dinkum go on television. With exciting archive footage of Steve in every episode, you’ll see how Robert and Bindi are continuing his legacy,” said proud mum, Terri Irwin. Be it a tiger tooth extraction, a koala who has been hit by a car or tracking a crocodile in the wild, the familyoriented series focuses on the wildlife hospital and rescue unit of Australia Zoo. www.australiazoo.com.au/SIWW

NEW ARRIVALS n Taronga Western Plains Zoo is celebrating the arrival of two Barbary Sheep lambs and nine Blackbuck fawns. They join other recent zoo babies - a giraffe calf, zebra foal and meerkat pups. n The first otters born at Perth Zoo in 18 years made their public debut recently. The four Asian small-clawed otter pups were born to parents Asia and Tuan.

© Shutterstock.com

Talk to the animals at Mowbray Park

n Werribee Zoo has welcomed baby camel Aloe. Proud mum Lucie gave birth to her calf as many visitors watched on in delighted amazement.

n Victoria’s Healesville Sanctuary is celebrating n A big welcome to Simba, an affectionate dingo a baby-boom with the pup born in August at arrival of 18 Tasmanian Brisbane’s Alma Park devil joeys, 24 helmeted Zoo. honeyeaters, 23 orangen Monarto Zoo said hello bellied parrots, 1129 to two little girls - a zebra Spotted Tree Frogs, filly and a southern white 20 southern corroboree rhino calf. Congratulations Frogs, 120 nothern to rhino parents Uhara corroboree frogs and and Sutara and new Zebra 16 mountain pygmymum Kenya. possums.

S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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TEST-DRIVE

KING off the road ALENEY DE WINTER AND FAMILY TAKE TOYOTA’S TOP OF THE LINE MULTI-TERRAIN LANDCRUISER SAHARA 200 TURBO-DIESEL ON A TEST-DRIVE.

I

t’s been quite some time since I’ve driven to the NSW Snowy Mountains, and then it was in a beat up circa 1974 bomb.

So when an offer of a weekend getaway to Thredbo to testdrive the shiny new LandCruiser Sahara 200 Turbo-diesel comes my way, courtesy of the lovely folk at Toyota, I jump at the chance with such enthusiasm that I’m surprised they don’t immediately sign me up for their next “Oh, what a feeling!” campaign.

When I say I’ll get to test-drive it, what I actually mean is that I plan on making my husband do all the driving while I relax in the super comfy soft leather passenger seat. Well, someone has to navigate!

That argument is immediately void as I settle in to position only to be greeted by the Sahara’s electro multi vision (EMV) display with fully integrated state-of-the-art satellite navigation system. Looks like I shall be sharing the driving after all.

The seven-seater Sahara Turbo-diesel is an ideal car for big or small families with ample room for everyone and a seating configuration offering plenty of flexibility. If the third row of seats isn’t needed at any time, you simply fold them away to the side of the rear storage area. This means there is more space for transporting a family load of luggage, something a frequent road-tripper like me could get very used to.

The luxurious interior is extremely well designed - think lots of leather and woodgrain finishes - and so spacious that it’s giving our apartment a run for its money. And it is feature packed. Unlike the old bomb I drove last time I headed to Thredbo, which didn’t sport so much as a cassette deck (yes I’m that old!), the Landcruiser Sahara has its own rear seat DVD player with a remote-controlled dropdown screen, an awesome audio system with a CD player, nine speakers, USB port and iPod and Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free mobile calls and a four-camera exterior view system. Plus four-zone air-conditioning, heated and cooled front seats and heated rear seats. Not enough? There is even a fridge, something which proves extremely handy when travelling long distances with little ones. If we find a microwave oven we

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may actually consider moving in.

The Sahara has a gutsy 4.5-litre twin turbo V8 diesel hooked up to a six-speed automatic with constant four-wheel drive and is surprisingly effortless to drive given its mammoth size.

Admittedly, I am a little intimidated at the idea of handling such a big car but it’s so easy to manoeuvre that the physics of it fall into place quite quickly. My husband, more used to larger vehicles, still agrees that it is a real pleasure to drive and we quickly find ourselves arguing over who’s turn is next. For such a powerful car the Sahara is also whisper quiet inside, the only sound is of the nattering small people in the back, who are also quickly silenced by the on button of the built-in DVD player.

Off road it offers five driver-selectable modes: rock, rock and dirt, mogul, loose rock, mud and sand so you can pretty much venture anywhere, anytime without fear.

As for the kids, four-year-old Rafferty breathlessly declares it a “magic car!” Already sold on the Sahara’s built-in telly, he is gobsmacked at the sight of the remote-controlled tail-gate seemingly opening itself.

“Can I keep it?” he asks. Of course you can honey, if you save your pocket money for the next decade or so, invest in a high yield term deposit with 300 per cent interest and hit up a few mates for the odd grand, then absolutely, it’s all yours.

As fabulous as the child-impressing “magical” features are, for us - besides the comfy leather seats, incredible handling and wads of space - the best feature of all is the constant allwheel-drive which means no matter the surface the Sahara takes it in stride, and we don’t even need to fit chains once we reach the snow! Huzzah!

And so, after six hours of smooth “are we there yet?” free driving, the dulcet tones of Tom & Jerry beating each other senseless infiltrating from the back seat my only irritation, I find myself en famille in Thredbo fresh and ready for action.

For more on the Toyota LandCruiser range visit www.toyota.com.au

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

SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.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.

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SHORT CUTSDrive Pacific Coast road trip memories For many of us, road trips when we were younger conjure legendary memories. Whether heading up the coast from Sydney, to the coast from inland towns or south from Brisbane, the Pacific Coast corridor promises days filled with adventure.

No wonder then that the Legendary Pacific Coast is known as Australia’s top tourism drive with more than 25 memorable destinations across 930km between the Sydney and Brisbane. You don’t need to drive far, with much of the highway now upgraded, so you and your kids can create your own family memories.

There is a fantastic range of accommodation options along the way from motels, beachside resorts, hinterland cabins, holiday houses and villas and of course camping. There are even YHAs that have family rooms. It’s all here waiting for you to rediscover with your kids – from the Central Coast to the Tweed Valley. www.pacificcoast.com.au

New online service drives car sales Whether saving for your next road trip or looking for a new touring vehicle, Car Advice can help you cut costs and time.

The website’s Best Price service not only provides the convenience of online shopping, but also offer significant savings too. According to the website, users can expect to save an average of 9.8 per cent off the RRP when purchasing a car, which can equate to thousands of dollars leaving more in your pocket for your next family road-trip holiday. By logging on to the website, time-poor families can choose their exact car requirements – including options, colour, and budget – and be connected with local dealers. www.caradvice.com.au

At the Drive-In Say bye-bye to the backseat drones of “are we there yet?” with this Drive-In headrest strap for the iPad from X-Doria. Totally portable, and perfect for travelling, it simply straps on the back of the car seat to create a clever screen for kids to play games, watch movies or read books on the go. www.platinumonline.com.au RRP $49.95

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Optimise your motorhome holiday With stylish new exteriors and luxurious interiors, Jayco’s 2012 Optimum Motorhome packs a punch in terms of comfort, style and innovation.

Two-tone leather design furniture, a Coast to Coast washing machine and high quality Dometic windows with built in blinds means you can holiday in luxury while on the move.

Upgraded safety features, including a rear view mirrormounted reversing screen and two rear cameras make parking in tight campsites a breeze.

Family travellers will also enjoy the space and convenience of the double electric slide outs. At the push of a button both the bed and the lounge can expand or contract, providing extra room to move when at your desired location. The new Optimum range also includes a variety of sought-after standard features like a barbecue, 120w solar panels, picnic table and entertainment system in its exterior as well as an extendable aluminium bed frame and satellite television system inside.

And customers have the added protection of Jayco’s 12 month warranty and Roadside Assist Program which is provided free for three years. www.jayco.com.au

ARE WE THERE YET? ARE WE THERE YET?

!

D E V L O S M PROBLE

memories

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SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

CAMPING

TRIBAL

gatherings PACK UP YOUR TROUBLES IN AN OLD KIT BAG AND GET AWAY FROM IT ALL WITH THE EXTENDED FAMILY ON A MULTI-GENERATIONAL ESCAPE. WORDS: CARLA GROSSETTI

M

ulti-generational camping offers more than just built-in babysitters. It gives happy campers the opportunity to cultivate close relationships with family and extend their friendship circles. Carla Grossetti explains.

The car has been packed by my husband with military-style precision, with the boot now an impenetrable wall built out of backpacks, body boards, walking boots and wetsuits.

For the third year since my two sons transcended toddlerdom, we’ve booked a camp trip with my husband’s parents, who this year are parachuting in from Canberra – not literally, they are in their 70s – to the Bulli Beach Holiday Park near Wollongong on the NSW South Coast.

Although Granddad and Nanna are long-time budget travellers (they ventured along the Silk Road trail in the 1960s) we’re not exactly roughing it: there are comfortable cabins, a corner store and a nearby cafe that sells sweet things by the slice.

On trend Apparently, such multi-generational holidays are right on-trend, with the Caravanning & Camping Association reporting them to be on the “up and up” in what is Australia’s fastest growing tourism sector. The association says 60 per cent of those participating in the caravan and camping sector are domestic families between the ages of 15 and 44 who holiday and travel in groups of three or more, usually during school holidays.

According to Tourism Research Australia, in 2006 there were eight million domestic visitors staying overnight in caravan and camping accommodation. Forget freeze-dried foods and powdered beverage mixes. These days, not many campers have to stray too far from their comfort zone with many ensuring they have all the mod cons – yes, including the fridge and kitchen sink – in tow.

Local councils have reported that the Global Financial Crisis forced many Australians to scrap the expensive 10-day overseas holiday in favour of spending less on a longer, local break with friends and family. And the fact that campgrounds are

altogether more comfortable means they now appeal to those averse to roughing it, catering to everyone from toddlers to grey nomads and all ages in between.

Family bonding My husband, Robin Moore, who has fond childhood memories of camping on the South Coast of NSW with his grandparents, says a multi-generational holiday is now a relaxing way for him to connect with his own parents – who live 300km away from us – far from the hurly burly of our busy lives.

Each year, my husband also books in a boy’s own adventure weekend away with his father and my two sons, Fin, nine and Marley, eight.

Last year, the male members of the Moore family met halfway between Sydney and Canberra in a campsite outside the picturesque village of Bundanoon, where they visited a glen of glow worms and built a Bear Grylls-style bridge in order to forge across a flooded creek. “There was a lot of rain and we had to cross a flooded creek. We built a bridge out of big rocks and branches and we had to use two sticks to balance as we crossed the river,” says Robin.

“It was a lot of fun and a great opportunity for three generations of males in our family to hang out – away from wi-fi and Wii and all the distractions of a modern life,” he says.

As well as learning to tie reef knots, and developing a taste for instant noodles, the four wrestled with a night sky map to observe the constellations. They also listened to the sounds of the bush, told stories and played silly games.

“There’s something really innocent and lovely about a frill-free holiday. Chilling out around the campfire for a game of charades and gallivanting through the bush with the kids is really grounding.

It’s also a great opportunity for me to connect with my dad and appreciate how he relates to my kids,” he says.

Friends for life Bulli is less off-the-beaten track than Bundanoon, which is why it’s hugely popular with older family members who don’t relish the idea of roughing it.

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CAMPING

As well as offering cabins, most Australian holiday parks have camp sites with and without electricity.

You can go as analog or digital as you dare – but for us the beauty of camping is going back-to-basics.

Having Nanna and Granddad on hand to help out with the childcare is what’s really luxurious for us. As well as allowing for plenty of time and space to connect with “the oldies”, another compensatory comfort is that campground culture seems to foster a sense of community with strangers, too. Those who don’t have extended families to lean on often form fast friendships and converge together year after year to construct canvas-walled communes.

A quick walk around the campground – with its heady waft of barbecuing sausages and rumble of reggae – provides a great snapshot of what is so appealing about a holiday park holiday. Mark and Georgie Redrup are a case in point. The couple, both teachers, arrived in Australia from England last September with their children Callum, 11, and Elissa, five. Last summer, the family, who now call Cronulla home, pitched their tent for two weeks at Lemontree Passage, near Nelson’s Bay. While enjoying their seaside holiday, the Redrups became friendly with another family from the southern Sydney suburb of Kirrawee after their sons met in the surf. As well as seeing each other at social events throughout the year the two families are set to go on another camping holiday together – at Southwest Rocks – this summer.

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“Campgrounds are really kiddie-friendly so they tend to build more of a sense of community.

I agree with [the African proverb]: ‘It takes a whole village to raise a child’ … that adage is very apparent in holiday parks,” says Georgie.

“You are naturally drawn to another family when your children are getting on so well. It’s not just about being able to borrow a tin opener from your neighbour. It’s a bonding experience. Part of the reason we had such a lovely time was our kids were so happy,” she says.

Stay and play These days, tourist parks offer families more than just a sunburned patch of lawn to pitch their tent. Yes, it’s still a bit old school, with bikes and skateboards whizzing by all day. But the infrastructure often includes swimming pools, playgrounds and inflatable pillows and activities such as art and craft workshops for kids.

For adults, a shared childcare arrangement means they can also take turns to, say, tour the local wineries, enjoy a leisurely lunch or restock the Esky with produce from the local farmers’ market.

If all that sounds far too hectic, just park yourself in a fold-up chair and take the opportunity to take a ‘nanna nap’ while Nanna plays her hundredth game of Uno with the kids.

Yep, multi-generational camping. It’s the way to go.

From left: Grandfather and grandsons beach fishing. © michaeljung, Shutterstock.com.

Boys own adventures with Robin, Fin. & Marley Moore.

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Colourful

C NBE CA CANBERRA 38

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CANBERRA

ENJOY NATURE’S BEST WITH A MINI-BREAK IN AUSTRALIA’S CAPITAL OF COLOUR. WORDS: TIM THE YOWIE MAN

E

ver since Sarah, my five yearold, discovered we were going to Canberra for a mini holiday, she’s been stashing away every item of red clothing in her backpack. You see, I made the mistake of showing her a tourist brochure and telling her she could pick one thing to do. The brochure was loaded with everything from puffing billies to hot air balloon rides over Lake Burley Griffin. And of all things to choose, Sarah picked a new walking track around one of Canberra’s lookouts – Red Hill, where everything is based on the colour red. I guess preschoolers will be pre-schoolers and red is her favourite colour after all.

kids are leading the way, instead of you dragging them along. Sarah squeals in delight each time she spots a red-coloured bird. First it’s a crimson rosella and then next it’s a pair of king parrots.

We finish our afternoon walk with a feast of watermelon, although Sarah complains that I should have cut the green rind off because “don’t you know, everything has to be completely red, Daddy!”

One of the best things about the walk is that the hill is topped by a knock-out cafe so mum and dad can indulge in a freshly brewed espresso before (oh, if only!) and after the walk.

Seeing red

Twilight adventures

On the morning of our road trip to Canberra, Sarah is up early and refuses to scrawl with any other colour except red in her scrapbook. We hit the highway in my (thankfully!) red Jeep, Sarah cheering at every red light – that’s when she isn’t raucously singing along to the Wiggles’ Big Red Car which remains on constant repeat for what seems like the entire trip.

On arrival into the capital, we make a beeline to the Red Hill (I’m left with no choice), where, within minutes Sarah has donned her red hat and backpack and is following the red signs along the path which is flanked by native red raspberries.

It’s refreshing to be on a walk where the

After a refresh back at our snazzy inner city hotel (we’re bunking down at Diamant Hotel in New Acton, we grab our torches in for the Australian National Botanic Gardens’ new twilight adventure.

The centrepiece of the kid-friendly tour is the rainforest gully (refreshingly cool on a balmy evening) which is decorated with, yes, you guessed it, red lights. We also spotlight a number of animals including possums and kangaroos, oh and some sleeping birds. Well, they were sleeping until a dozen over-excited five year olds shone torches in their roosts.

At the end of the night, (great value at only $14 per child) it takes a bit of convincing Sarah, that unlike some of the critters we have spotted in the gardens we humans are not nocturnal, but eventually I wrangle Sarah back to our hotel.

Wet & Wild

Canberra Festival Balloon Spectacular

Morning breaks early (doesn’t it always when kids are in tow!) and after an impromptu game of Kings and Queens (thankfully I got to be the former) in the nearby castle playground (shh it’s a bit of a secret, it’s in Commonwealth Park near Nerang Pool), we stroll along the lake-front to the Acton ferry terminal.

I doubt there’s a better way to enjoy a hot summer’s morning in Canberra than by taking a lake cruise with Lake Burley Griffin Cruises. Our skipper, Jim

© Australian Capital Tourism

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National Zoo & Aquarium

There’s plenty to s e e a n d do in Canberra for families 40

SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

Get up close and personal with a wild animal at the National Zoo & Aquarium.

Explore Questacon — The National Science and Technology Centre, Cockington Green Gardens and Australian Institute of Sport, all with a 3infun pass.

So come on, see for yourself!

For more information go online or call 1300 554 114.

Paterson, with his wispy white beard more resembles the crusty old sea-faring type you’d expect to find on a deep sea trawler rather than traversing an inland lake. He’s also a friendly chap, and in response to his “all aboard” calls, we scamper into the cabin. The MV Gull’s triumphant ‘toot’ reverberates around the ferry terminal as we chug away from the wharf.

To the shrieks of the kids aboard, as we approach the Captain Cook Water Fountain which jettisons hundreds of litres of water high into the sky, Jim manoeuvres us downwind so we all get a refreshing cool shower.

Jim also reveals that the lake actually has 40 kilometres of shoreline and although we don’t see it all, the one-hour cruise is a good length for Sarah who after the morning’s play is having a midday nap in preparation for the highlight of our Canberra trip – a visit to the National Zoo and Aquarium.

We’re booked on the boutique zoo’s behind the scenes tour that allows kids (aged four and over) to not only go to places usually out of bounds to the public, but also to feed some of the animals.

Crowds can take the fun out of visiting some zoos. No chance of that happening on

this tour for it starts just before closing time, when the place is all but deserted.

But this isn’t just some gimmick where you toss bread to a couple of geese. This is bears, sharks and lions! Sarah tosses fish bites to a hungry tawny nurse shark and with a pair of tongs (under the watchful eye of zookeeper Natalie) feeds Darkle the brown bear a fruit smear of rockmelon, coconut, oats and a spoonful of honey. Oh to be a fearless five year old!

There’s also snakes to cuddle (really!), white lions to call (and roar) and even dingos to say goodnight to, but Sarah’s favourite is Hummer the five metre-tall giraffe who scoops carrots straight from Sarah’s hand with his Inspector Gadgetlike tongue. Natalie tells us that a giraffe can eat over 60 kilos of food a day – that’s more than three Sarahs! Oh, we also learned this really cool fact that giraffes will only sleep ten minutes at a time, and while standing up. Oh Hummer must have made an impact on Sarah for as we leave Canberra, she tells me that she’s got a new favourite colour – it’s yellow “because that’s what colour Hummer is”

Questacon © Australian Capital Tourism

CANBERRA

FAST FACTS

No family visit to Canberra is complete without a visit to the mind-bogglingly brilliant Questacon - The National Science and Technology Centre. Make sure you check out their brand new Deep Oceans exhibit..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 MORE INFORMATION www.visitcanberra.com.au

Do sea monsters really exist?

Now open in Canberra Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre King Edward Terrace, Canberra. Phone 02 6270 2800 Open 9 am – 5 pm every day. Closed 25 December Admission fees apply

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SYDNEY

MARVELLOUS

Macarthur

FEEL LIKE A WEEKEND AWAY WITH THE FAMILY THAT’S SHORT ON DISTANCE BUT BIG ON ACTIVITIES? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN SYDNEY’S MACARTHUR REGION. WORDS: ALENEY DE WINTER

Above: Sundial Hill, Australian Botanic Gardens.

Rafferty at Gledswood Farm.

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he Macarthur region, on Sydney’s South Western outskirts offers a cool combination of modern urban action and rural relaxation and proves an ideal location for a weekend of family R&R just 45 minutes from the Sydney CBD.

Indoor and outdoor fun With rain threatening, we head indoors to start our weekend at Mega Mini Golf. Rafferty is a mini-golf obsessive so to him 18 holes is the perfect start to any weekend. He putts his ball through a leafy lost jungle via sandy Egyptian tombs and all the way into the Wild West and determinedly thrashes his daddy with a few impressive hole-in-ones.

Clouds clearing, we enjoy a leisurely lunch at the Campbelltown Arts Centre Cafe overlooking the pretty carp-filled ponds of a Japanese garden before exploring the centre’s sculpture garden and sprawling exhibition space.

Ready to contrast the creative with a little

country we head to Sugarloaf Horse Centre in nearby Menangle Park. We watch a group of kids head off for a trail ride on the family owned and operated 243-hectare property as Rafferty excitedly gets ready for a half an hour of pony riding fun. While I lead him around the paddock Marlo happily checks out the “’orseys” with her dad and elects to sit in a pile of poo. Which is why, when travelling with a toddler, one always carries a change of clothes.

As we pack our happy son and smelly daughter into the car we make a note of Sugarloaf’s Own-A-Pony days where kids aged seven and up learn how to groom, saddle and care for a horse and enjoy assisted bush riding sessions. This one is definitely going on our todo list for the future.

Checking in We’re staying in a two-bedroom serviced apartment at Quest Apartments in Woodbine.

The stylish and modern apartment offers us

all the comforts of home located within minutes of many of Macarthur’s best family attractions including a lovely playground in neighbouring Peyton Reserve.

The complex has undercover parking, a gym and breakfast room (which operates on weekdays) plus an alfresco barbecue terrace which is a great spot for a family dinner. Of course our apartment offers a fully equipped kitchen and laundry facilities, which comes in handy after Marlo’s farmyard antics.

Dinner and dancing After a spot of child cleaning we head off for dinner at the Horse and Jockey Inn at historic Menangle House, where, while the kids nosh fish and chips and colour in the tablecloth (pencils supplied, they’re not actually vandals), I enjoy a perfectly cooked beef eye fillet. There is a kid’s movie playing on the big screen but mine are distracted by

the live music and are off for a dance while we sit and soak up the friendly ambience and have a good giggle. It’s a hugely fun night but we discover that Sundays are even better for families here with a huge carvery banquet and clowns, balloons and face painting for the kids to enjoy on the expansive grassy lawn. Next time, we’ll know.

Whip crack We start Sunday down on the farm at Gledswood Homestead and Winery. The property dates back to 1810 and is a picture perfect slice of Australian history but we’re not just here for the ambience. We’ve come to experience “A Day on the Farm”. As a real-life stockman prepares billy tea and traditional damper in a camp stove, he shares stories of life on a colonial farm. The kids love watching a “baa baa black sheep” being shorn and afterwards dive in for a

pat and sing to the slightly confused and denuded sheep, who is clearly not up on his nursery rhymes.

We head back to sample the now cooked damper and get lost in the doughy bread and lashings of golden syrup until CRACK goes the stockman’s whip as he begins a demonstration of whip cracking. Even little Rafferty gets a turn, his chest puffed out with pride when his whip sounds. When the friendly stockman releases his dogs for a demonstration in rounding sheep, it’s my “puppy” loving toddlers turn for smiles.

Tearing our excited kids away from all the action isn’t easy but the promise of juicy Wagyu beef burgers at Gledswood’s Drover’s Cafe does the trick.

Our next stop is the Australian Botanic Gardens at Mount Annan, Australia’s largest botanic garden. Free to enter, the gardens cover 416 lush hectares and are is home to more than 4000 species of native

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Explore

Macarthur Camden & Campbelltown

Get out and explore Macarthur, with more than 101 things to see and do, including a huge range of activities for kids and families: Mini golf Go karting Horse riding Farming activities Paintball and laser skirmish The Wizard of Oz Funland Bicycle Education Centre Mountain Bike Enduro Trail The Australian Botanic Garden and much more!

Ph. 1800 655 991

www.macarthur.com.au 44

SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

SYDNEY

plants, around 160 species of birds as well as wallabies and kangaroos. The garden features ornamental lakes, picnic areas plus several themed garden areas.

It’s the only botanic garden in the world with its own mountain bike track where you can bring your own bikes to ride any day of the year. If you prefer to explore on foot, there are also lovely walking trails including the Wollemi Walk of Discovery where visitors can see Wollemi pines in all their ancient glory. We grab a coffee from the garden’s Melaleuca House Cafe and, once we can forcibly remove the kids from the neighbouring playground, head to Sundial Hill where the Sundial of Human Involvement

From left: Marlo and the machine at Gledswood Homestead.

Gledswood Homestead Sugarloaf Horse Centre

( a rare type of sundial that uses a person’s body to cast a shadow on hour markers to tell the time) sits like a pint-sized stone henge and we soak up spectacular 360-degree views of the Australian Botanic Garden and beyond.

Life in the fastlane Surely the highlight of the weekend, at least for my boys, is getting our backsides trackside to Fastlane Karting at Minto.

My mini Michael Schumacher along with his dad helmet up and jumps into a twin kart. These allow parents to share the karting experience with kids aged four to seven and there are also junior karts available for drivers aged eight to 11. They’re soon seriously speeding around the 500-metre outdoor go-kart track, my boy racer grinning so hard I’m sure he’ll burst with happiness. Me, I just nervously wait until the race ends and he’s safely in my arms squealing “Mama, mama, we won!”

It’s been such a great weekend I think we all did.

FAST FACTS WHERE TO STAY Quest Apartments Campbelltown www.questapartments.com.au WHAT TO DO The Australian Botanic Garden www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/annan Campbelltown Arts Centre www.campbelltown.nsw.gov.au Fastlane Go Karts www.fastlanekarting.com.au Gledswood Homestead & Winery www.gledswood.com.au Mega Mini Golf www.megaminigolf.com.au Menangle House www.menanglehouse.com.au Sugarloaf Horse Centre www.freewebs.com/sugahc/ MORE INFORMATION Visit Macarthur www.macarthur.com.au

S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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goWEST

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VENTURE INTO THE HEART OF NSW WITH A TRIP TO THE ‘GOLDEN’ WEST.

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or a taste of the country a few hours from Sydney head west to Central NSW. With some of Australia’s oldest country towns, the area is renowned for its pioneering and gold rush history as well as its astronomical appeal.

Star-gazers, car enthusiasts, history hounds, wine buffs, and nature lovers will ALL be happy campers here – no matter what age. Whether you’re heading on a family road-trip or taking a scenic train journey into the country for a long weekend break, there’s plenty in country NSW to amaze along the way.

CENTRAL NSW

The buzz on Bathurst One of Australia’s oldest inland settlements, Bathurst is a gateway to former gold-rush towns of Hill End and Sofala and boasts colonial buildings and grand old homes built for wealthy graziers. Today Bathurst is a vibrant regional city just a few hours’ drive west of Sydney synonymous with its annual motor race, the Bathurst 1000.

Bathurst has three historic, well-preserved homes including Ben Chifley’s home (Chifley Home & Education Centre) reflecting life in the 1940s, Miss Trail’s House – a time capsule of the life of a pioneer family – and the imposing Tudor-gothic stone mansion, Abercrombie House. All a must for budding time-detectives!

Mini palaeontologists will also love the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum - home to the internationally-renowned Somerville Collection plus Australia’s only complete T-Rex skeleton.

Bathurst Regional Art Gallery is one of the oldest regional galleries in NSW and offers guided tours and children’s activities. Or let the kids run off steam at the dinosaur-themed Adventure Playground - named as NSW’s highest-rated children’s playground.

Bathurst Miniature Railway operates every third Sunday of the month and the whole family can experience the fun of a working farm at Barcoo’s Barn with farm tours and animal feeding. Also at Heritage Park, a few minutes from Bathurst’s centre, learn about sheep and cattle breeds then join in and milk a cow or watch a sheep being shorn. There’s also a mini zoo and mini-golf.

No visit to Bathurst is complete without a visit to the National Motor Racing Museum located beside Mount Panorama motor racing circuit. Check out the hall of fame and discover the history of the mount from the early days of the dirt track to the current days of speed up to 290kmh. Grown-ups can take a spin around the race circuit, but the speed limit is a mere 60 km per hour.

“Having grown up in Trunkey Creek, south of Bathurst, I have memories of visiting Abercrombie Caves, and exploring the history of the gold rush and early settlers at Hill End and Sofala with school. Now when I take my sons back to see their grandparents, we make sure to revisit these places, and of course stop off at Mount Panorama – a must for my motor-loving boys!” Kelly Hunter

Tasty Orange Venture further west from Bathurst on to Orange, with its growing reputation for gourmet grub and grog. Taste the wines that Orange is famous for at one of the region’s 40-plus boutique wineries. Kids will have fun running around and exploring the vineyards while adults can sample a drop at the cellar doors.

At Huntley Berry Farm, pick luscious berries in season and at nearby Molong, sample delicious locally-made gelato at the Molong Gelato Factory. A farmers market is held at the Orange showground every second Saturday of the month where kids will love sampling locallyproduced goodies.

Who says road-trips have to be boring for kids? Animals on Bikes is a 120-kilometre paddock art sculpture trail displaying 111 sculptures by local adults and kids on the back road from Molong to Dubbo Zoo. And at the foot of Mount Canobolas, is Lake Canobolas – a large lake with playgrounds, watersports activities, walking and bike trails plus fishing spots and a sandy beach and pontoons for kids to swim and play.

“When I take my three boys to Orange to visit family, a stop at the Orange Adventure Playground in the Botanic Gardens is an absolute must. There’s a cafe, barbecues and a track for scooters. The kids love the huge fort and all the slides and have fun for hours. Every time we go it’s the first thing the boys want to do, and the last thing we do before leaving!”

Mick Noonan

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Dubbo delights A range of accommodation and kid-friendly attractions make Dubbo a great family holiday destination and an excellent base for exploring the Central West region of NSW. A highlight is Taronga Western Plains Zoo. This 300-hectare open range sanctuary houses over 700 animals, including many rare and endangered species. It’s the only place in Australia where you can see African elephants and is one of the few zoos that you can explore on foot, by bike, cart or car.

For something different, Dubbo Observatory is a great place to spot stars and there’s also an 18-hole astronomy-themed mini golf course.

Or head to Aladdin’s Cave Bottlehouse, a yurt-style building of about 3000 bottles, a short drive from Dubbo. In the grounds, also see Harry Potter’s Car, Aladdin’s treasure chest plus fairy gardens with Snow White, Thumbelina, Jack and the Beanstalk and more.

The Tracker Riley Cycleway is a scenic pathway along the Macquarie River that takes you to Dundullimal Homestead past the zoo and back into the CBD of Dubbo. And for more wheeled-action the world-class Dubbo Skate Park, in the Victoria Park Regional Action Sports “The big reason to head to Precinct, features Australia’s Dubbo was to visit the zoo, first full pipe competition-grade which was a huge hit. We skate park. took the XPT from Sydney For something on the milder and the kids loved the train side, enjoy lunch at tranquil ride too. We also squeezed Shoyoen Sister City Garden or in lots of local history, with horse riding at the Western a heritage walk around Plains Riding Centre. Western Dubbo’s historic buildings.

Plains Cultural Centre is Dubbo’s The fully restored Old Dubbo new state of the art cultural Gaol which re-creates 19th centre. Catch the annual Waste century prison life was one to Art exhibition where members of the holiday highlights.” of the community create art Jennifer Snow from everyday rubbish, on until the end of January.

SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au 22/11/12 2:04 PM

CENTRAL NSW

Observing Parkes Parkes is best known for the CSIRO Parkes Observatory (home to the world famous “Dish”), and also the town’s annual Elvis festival (January 9 to 13) when the town comes alive to the sounds of hip-swivelling Elvis impersonators and tribute artists. The CSIRO Parkes radio telescope is the first fully-steerable large antenna in the Southern Hemisphere (made famous in the movie The Dish). The world-leading scientific instrument is operated 24 hours a day. Stop off at the visitors centre and have a bite to eat at the Dish Cafe.

The Henry Parkes Centre is a tourism precinct incorporating the visitor centre, The King’s Castle Elvis Exhibit, Parkes Motor Museum, Henry Parkes Museum and Antique Machinery collection.

“Parkes is a great destination for every generation of our family.

My son is a wannabe astronaut and loved exploring the interactive exhibits at the Parkes radio telescope and his grandad had a soft spot for the King’s Castle Elvis Exhibit. All three generations enjoyed it so much that we are heading back in January for the annual Elvis Festival!” Leanne Mesham, Carlingford.

FAST FACTS GETTING THERE Qantas and Regional Express fly to Dubbo, Orange and Parkes. Hire a car from the airport and you’re on your way. The CountryLink rail network operates to around 360 destinations linking Country NSW with Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Canberra and regional NSW. A good trip is from Sydney to Dubbo.

MORE INFORMATION www.visitbathurst.com.au www.visitmudgeeregion.com.au www.visitorange.com.au www.parkes.nsw.gov.au www.dubbo.com.au

Family friendly atmosphere!

Enjoy pool, tennis court and gym facilities Local attractions Dine in at Chicane Bar & Grill for breakfast, lunch and dinner!

Rates start from $140.00 • 1 Conrod Straight, Mount Panorama Ph. 02 6338 1888 www.rydges.com

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21/11/12 12:36 PM

SOUTH COAST

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he NSW South Coast is famed for its lush hinterland, over 30 national parks and reserves and a sensational stretch of coastline abundant with beautiful beaches and bays.

Grand Pacific Drive stretches along the coast, south from Sydney for 140km, via the Royal National Park, Wollongong and Shellharbour to Kiama and the famous ‘blowhole’. In fact the spectacular South Coast region extends all the way to Eden, near the Victorian border with quaint seaside villages, marine parks, cliffs, rainforests and pristine beaches punctuating the journey.

Wollongong Just an hour’s drive south of Sydney, Wollongong is perfect for a weekend escape. Set between the coast and the mountains Wollongong is vibrant and cosmopolitan with small coastal villages boasting excellent surfing beaches and there’s always loads of watersports action at Lake Illawarra.

ACTION STATIONS An array of activities for the adventuorus from bush trekking and cycling to skydiving the beach, abseiling and hang gliding make Wollongong an ideal destinaton for active families. Canoe and Kayak Adventures offer canoe and kayak tours in and around Wollongong from a simple two hour kayak paddle to a more adventurous overnight camping safari. For indoor fun head to Hangdog Climbing Gym.

South HEADING

AN ALL-SEASON DESTINATION, THE DIVERSE AND UNSPOILED NATURAL ENVIRONMENT OF THE NSW SOUTH COAST INVITES BOTH RELAXATION AND ADVENTURE AND MAKES THE REGION IDEAL FOR HOLIDAYING FAMILIES.

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LOCAL HEROES Nan Tien means ‘Paradise of the South’ and it’s here that the Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern hemisphere, can be found. For something completely different, board the 3801 Limited’s historic scenic steam train for the Cockatoo Run or check out the vintage vehicles and motoring memorabilia at Australian Motorlife Museum. Enjoy the outdoors at North Beach Precinct – with rock pools, wading areas, loads of shade and free parking and keep eyes peeled for the engineering marvel that is the Sea Cliff Bridge as you travel along Grand Pacific Drive.

NATURAL SELECTION Head down to the Minnamurra River for a day out with Canoe and Kayak Adventures.

Bushwalkers will enjoy a trek around Mount Keira on a five-and-a-half kilometre trail through rainforest and eucalypt forest.

Towering 468-metres above sea level, Mount Keira Lookout offers great views over Wollongong and its coastline. Awardwinning family owned zoo Symbio Wildlife Park, set in 16 acres of bush parkland, is home to over 1000 animals and Wollongong is also a good spot for dolphin watching, with several cruises leaving from the area. More information: www.tourismwollongong.com

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Readers Story Melody Mayfield-Price For me, Wollongong offers it all. It has all the offerings of a ‘big time’ city with small town hospitality. I can’t think of anywhere else that offers the beach and the bush within just a stone’s throw of each other.

My three kids - twins Jade and Jasmine (11), and Cody (8) have all been born and raised in Wollongong. Rain, hail or shine, there is always something to do in Wollongong which doesn’t require us to spend a small fortune or pack the kids in the car for any longer than 30 minutes.

At Hangdog Climbing Gym the kids are entertained for hours for less than $15 each, as they take to the climbing walls which vary in difficulty, height and skill. Jamberoo Action Park is another favourite of ours come summer. The park boasts a range of rides, mainly water, for the kids to enjoy (all day!) and it is also a great day out for kids at heart.

The other must see is the Wollongong

Science Centre and Planetarium which offers a hands-on, educational experience. They also have science shows and demonstrations (explosions, bubbles, liquid nitrogen and more…) and a planetarium.

Wollongong is made up of an amazing coastline and boasts 17 patrolled beaches, one of which is patrolled year-round. We spend many weekends soaking up the sun and lapping up the waves. Belmore Basin offers a safe haven for swimming and is surrounded by great spots for hot fish and chips to refuel.

SOUTH COAST

Readers Story Ben Willis

Shellharbour As a coastal town Shellharbour is renowned for its beaches while its oceanfront cafe strip and beachfront accommodation make it a great spot for a relaxing family escape. At the heart of the Illawarrra’s holiday playground, this historic township also boasts a broad choice of watersports, family friendly activities and events.

ACTION STATIONS Bushranger’s Bay located at Bass Point Reserve is the region’s only marine aquatic reserve and one of the South Coast’s scuba dive and snorkel hot spots. At the eastern end of Bushrangers Bay spot sea urchins and tropical fish sheltering in the underwater cliff face. Popular surfing spot Killalea Beach in Killalea State Park is known by the locals as The Farm where local surf schools provide surfing lessons for beginners of all ages. It’s also a great spot to picnic or fly a kite. Shellharbour’s cycleways and putt putt golf offer more outdoor fun, while indoor activities can be found at Oaks Flats Rollerskating Rink, Greater Union Cinemas, ten pin bowling or at one of the indoor children’s play centres.

LOCAL HEROES Hop on a miniature steam train at the Illawarra Light Railway Museum, kids will love exploring the vintage aircraft at the Historical Aircraft Restoration Society (HARS) Museum or take a visit to see the automobilia at the Australian Motorlife Museum. When it’s time to chill out, take a wander on one of the coastal tracks of head to The Illawarra Regional Airport located at Albion Park for scenic flights by helicopter, plane and microlight.

NATURAL SELECTION Bass Point also has one of the few remaining stands of coastal rainforest in the state, as well as a large collection of significant Aboriginal and European heritage sites - take the self-guided indigenous walk. Macquarie Pass National Park has two great walking tracks, Cascades Rainforest Walk and the Glenview Track while at Blackbutt Forest Reserve there are walking tracks for all ages, plus barbecue facilities and a playground. At Reddall Reserve on the foreshore of Lake Illawarra children can paddle, swim and play or you can drop a line and try your luck at fishing and in the summer months why not try to catch a prawn or two?

More information: www.tourismshellharbour.com.au

We used to always pack up the car and head south to Shellharbour as kids, and so I love heading down there now from Sydney, past Wollongong, to show our little ones where my holiday memories were made. And while some things have changed, it still retains its seaside charm and appeal. We like to stay at Shellharbour Beachside Tourist Park which is perfectly located near the beach and town. We always take a stroll around the harbour and historic Shellharbour Village, which has a great children’s playground at Little Park and some good places to grab a coffee. And if we’re there on the second Sunday of the month, we try to take the boys to the Illawarra Light Railway Museum as this is when they run train rides. Our children have just mastered cycling, so last trip we hired bikes and went on the cycleways around Lake Illawarra and Blackbutt Reserve is another brilliant place to head to for picnics, with plenty of playgrounds and amenities. The reserve has heaps of walking tracks for all ages and even a cross-country course great for running and cycling (which we are yet to try!). Apparently there is also a fitness circuit... Of course, as a coastal town the beaches are all excellent here, but a family favourite is Shellharbour South Beach. There’s an ocean pool and shaded children’s pool nearby and I remember spending many long afternoons here as a tot.

SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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Kiama

Readers Story The Koorey family Ask any older resident of small town Australia and they’ll tell you that you have to live somewhere for approximately 93 years to be considered a local. That may be so, but with Kiama, we felt at home after just a few days – before we even knew how to pronounce it properly!* At its heart, Kiama is essentially a holiday town. But when the tents come down and the grass grows back, it’s also a great town to raise a family. In fact, we get to feel like we’re on holiday all year round!

We’ve lived here for six years, and one of the things we love is that there are so many free kid-friendly things to enjoy. It’s a bit like a child playing with the package a toy came in, but in this case Kiama’s package is the sandy beaches, rockpools and reserves that cradle the shoreline.

They’re all linked by the coastal track winding its way along the Minnamurra River all the way south to Gerringong, with a good chunk of it scooter or bike-friendly.

Hindmarsh Park is a great focal point

Mention Kiama and most people can tell you about its famous ‘blowhole’. This classic seaside town has been a drawcard for families for decades. With its rich history, sandy beaches, cute cafes, lush pastures and forests there’s a whole lot to see and do in Kiama.

ACTION PACKED in the centre of town, glimpsing through to Black Beach and the harbour – home to the monthly craft and produce markets.

The kids happily spend hours collecting shells or looking for crabs amongst the rocks.

We drove round half of Australia looking for the perfect spot to bring up our kids. In Kiama, we’ve found the kind of Instagram-sepia childhood we’d all like to have. With so many natural wonders right on our doorstep, it really is a natural choice!

We never considered ourselves the sorts to stay in one place for too long, but we could certainly do a whole lot worse than another 87 years in Kiama… *It’s pronounced “kai-amma” by the way!

Jamberoo Action Park is NSW’s largest theme park and has a massive wave pool, speed slides, a five-metre rock jump and the Taipan. The fun continues with bobsled tracks an 18-hole mini-golf course and two new rides, Funnel Web and Banjos Billabong.

And for the littlies, there’s Billabong Beach.

Thrill seekers can skydive the beach in Wollongong, while the family can enjoy a bike ride along one of the region’s many purpose-built tracks. The Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk is a 25-metre-high elevated treetop walk suitable for all fitness levels.

Learn to surf in one of the best classrooms in Australia at Seven Mile Beach with Lands Edge Surf School. For a spot of fishing, hire a fishing charter or simply throw a line in from Kiama Harbour

LOCAL HEROES Kiama is famous for its blowhole - an unusual rock formation that spouts big plumes of

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SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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SOUTH COAST

water into the sky. Situated on Blowhole Point adjacent to the visitors centre, the Pilot’s Cottage Museum tells the story of Kiama’s colourful past.

Kiama Terrace, the row of weatherboard cottages along Collins Street, was constructed in 1886 to house quarry workers and their families. These are the country’s oldest weatherboard terraces, now restored as a row of cafés and shops.

NATURAL SELECTION Follow the dramatic coast-hugging Kiama Coast Walk. For sheer drama, Bombo Headland is like walking on the moon with its unusual basalt walls and columns. Bonaira Native Gardens offers a peaceful atmosphere, while at Minnamurra Rainforest you’ll walk through forests of ancient fig trees and spot water dragons and lyrebirds as you take the wheelchairaccessible rainforest loop walk to the waterfall. For animal encounters take a trip to Kiama Harbour to see pelicans trying to get a free feed out of the fisherman or take a drive to the Spring Creek Birdhide.

More information: www.kiama.com.au

The Shoalhaven Encompassing Nowra, Jervis Bay, Mollymook, Ulladulla, Kangaroo Valley and Berry, The Shoalhaven juxtaposes lush country towns and pastures with a 160-kilometre arc of coastline endowed with beautiful beaches, bays and seaside villages. Each a worthwhile visit on its own, any trip to the NSW South Coast would be incomplete without exploring The Shoalhaven.

ACTION PACKED Explore the Kangaroo Valley River in a canoe or go sailing and fishing in the protected waters of St Georges Basin.

Older children can hang ten with surfing lessons at Mollymook.

If you’d rather stay indoors you’ll have a ball at Funland Ulladulla, the largest indoor entertainment centre in NSW which offers kids of every age the chance to experience real life thrills on the latest and most high tech video games and interactive simulators like skiing, bowling and other awesome action rides.

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS At Coolangatta Historic Village, near Berry, discover the world of our early convict pioneers. Spot dolphins on a cruise or in a sea kayak at Jervis Bay or hire a boat and go sailing or fishing in St George’s basin.

Visit a restored Sydney Harbour ferry at the Lady Denman Maritime Museum in Huskisson. On Sundays, head to Bundanon, iconic artist Arthur Boyd’s house and studio.

NATURAL SELECTION Admire the whitest sands in the world at Hyams Beach in Jervis Bay or go bushwalking in Morton National Park, including the challenging climb up Pigeon House Mountain (one for teenagers rather than littlies). In the far southern region, the magnificent coastal Murramarang National Park is famous for its rugged coastline and varied native wildlife while Booderee National Park has three familyfriendly campgrounds, magnificent bay and surf beaches, picnic areas and great

Readers Story Rodney Hayes When I was young my parents were not into doing anything adventurous. If we wanted to do exciting things, we did them ourselves, sort of secretly. They knew we were out in the bush, but not really aware of what dangerous things we were doing. Now I live on the South Coast of NSW in the wilderness and every day is like a ‘kids’ day out’.

I could talk forever about the fantastic beaches down here but the really exciting stuff is back from the coast up into the hills. The area is known as the Budawangs and it is nature’s secret.

A lot of it is difficult forest and cliff country with deep and mysterious rivers and gorges and if you are prepared for it, the experiences of wild bush walking are hard to beat. There are plenty of maps and books which tell you where you can walk.

If you’re after adventure, drive out of Milton or Ulladulla to Pigeon House. Once on top the views are amazing and there are great spots to sit and gaze out and eat whatever you took with you. Going back down takes about an hour, going up a bit slower.

The Budawangs is a place with a lot of weather which can change fast so take something to keep warm. With forests, cliffs and lots of marvellous wildflowers in spring and always lots of birds this is a place for you to explore.

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Readers Story Melinda Rugg We head to Narooma at least once a year to visit family. We love the slow pace, great for winding down.

I always appreciate the colour of the water as we drive into Narooma over the bridge of the inlet, it is the most amazing turquoise/teal think the most inviting clear fresh water imaginable. The beaches are lovely and quiet, which is what we’re used to and there is a fantastic community-built boardwalk in Narooma which is a great opportunity to see so much sea life.

It’s an easy 15-minute stroll and is flat and good for strollers (important with our toddler Liam!).

We always try and visit the amazing Mogo Zoo – a must for my girls Sophia, 9, and Elouise, 6 – and also Australia Rock, so called because a naturally-formed hole in the rock is in the shape of Australia.

Lots of people go there to get their photo taken “next to the rock!”

Another thing we like to do is head to Montague Island – home to NSW’s only known colony of Australian fur seals.

The area is also great for whalewatching and we’ve been lucky to spot quite a few migrating whales during the season. We always drive through Bodalla - a beautiful little town about 15 minutes from Narooma. The Bodalla Dairy has a lovely cafe and milk bar plus a new cheese factory and we also love a stop at Bodalla Bakery which has profiteroles and pastries to die for.

More information: www. eurobodalla.com.au

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bushwalking trails. Don’t miss the stunning Booderee Aboriginal Botanic Gardens. Try and find the famous ‘surfing kangaroo’ at Pebbly Beach. Okay, so you might not spot a marsupial hanging ten, but you will find a large resident kangaroo population at Pebbly happy to pose for a snap.

More information: www.shoalhavenholidays.com.au

LOCAL HEROES

Eurobodalla

NATURAL SELECTION

The Eurobodalla region includes the three main towns of Batemans Bay, Moruya and Narooma. This dazzling landscape of 83 beaches, islands, rivers and lakes, heritage towns and coastal villages stretches along 110 kilometres of the Batemans Bay Marine Park coastline.

ACTION STATIONS Eurobodalla – or ‘land of many waters’ is kayaking heaven. Cruise the estuaries, creeks and inlets with one of the many kayaking schools in the area. Alternatively go fishing off the continental shelf on a deep sea fishing charter, learn to surf with a qualified instructor or hurtle downhill on a mountain bike in the Mogo State Forest.

Eurobodalla is generously scattered with cycle-paths. Trail ride through unique bushland, along riverbanks and through fern valleys on horseback with one of the many horse-riding schools, catering for beginners and more experienced riders. Water-lovers can don snorkel and goggles for a kayak tour with a difference with Total Eco Adventures

Check out the work of local artists at the Land of Many Waters Gallery or sample the delights of regional farmers at the grower’s markets at the Tilba Big Hall or the Saturday markets at Moruya. Learn about the area’s rich heritage at the Bateman’s Bay Museum or try your hand at gold panning at the Original Gold Rush Colony reconstructed village in Mogo.

Smell the roses at Foxglove Spires Garden at Tilba or walk the Bingi Dreaming Track at Tuross Head to see ancient Aboriginal shell middens and stone carvings. Cuddle a wombat at Birdland Animal Park, snorkel with a seal colony at Montague Island or simply stand on a headland and play ‘spot the dolphin’. Play zookeeper for a day at the excellent Mogo Zoo - home to over 200 animals with more than 42 rare and exotic species, including the white lions of Timbavati.

More information: www.eurobodalla.com.au

Sapphire Coast The Sapphire Coast sparkles with beaches, bays, lakes, cliffs, caves and national parks and is renowned for deep-sea fishing off Bermagui, whale watching at Eden, awardwinning cheeses at Bega and a rich Aboriginal cultural heritage around Wallaga Lake.

ACTION STATIONS Kids will love Merimbula’s Magic Mountain with a rollercoaster, waterslides, toboggan mountain slide and more. For a more sedate

SOUTH COAST

afternoon, go fishing off the historic Tathra Wharf, the last steamer wharf on Australia’s East Coast. If you want to head under the water, try a scuba diving or snorkelling course at the Merimbula Divers Lodge. And there’s also more watersport fun to be had on Lake Wallagoot and Merimbula Lake.

LOCAL HEROES Visit the cheese-making town of Bega, where historic buildings are surrounded by lush dairy country, and the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre. Follow the food, wine and art trail along the Tathra-Bermagui road, one of the South Coast’s best drives.

Discover ancient middens and take in the spectacular views at Aragunnu in Mimosa National Park.

NATURAL SELECTION Explore the cliffs, sea caves and rock stacks and spot sea eagles and cormorants at the coastal Mimosa Rocks National Park.

Or check out the spectacular views from Boyd’s Tower in the Ben Boyd National Park. Don’t miss the prawning season from November to May. Pat a koala, touch a snake or go for a ride on the mini train and pat a potoroo at Potoroo Palace native animal wildlife park in Merimbula. Whalewatching tours depart from Eden and don’t miss the massive whale skeleton of Old Tom at Eden’s Killer Whale Museum. Also, visit the little penguins and seals that visit Tathra Wharf.

More info: www.sapphirecoast.com.au

Readers Story Karen Gould Tathra, on the aptly-named Sapphire Coast, is a gem of a town for parents and kids. Here the kind of family holiday we remember from our own childhoods is still a reality - salty hair, sandy feet and not an Xbox in sight.

The main attraction for us, of course, is the golden sand beach, where the kids can swim safely and we can relax with a decent cup of coffee. Older kids can take a surf lesson, while the younger ones wander up from the dunes to the playground.

Across the road, there are one or two surprisingly chic boutiques, and of course, the classic country town fish and chips shop.

Keen fishers will be in paradise here, with multiple good spots along the Bega River – as a former local, my tip would be casting for bream at the scenic river mouth. Even if the fishing gods don’t smile, there are two more playgrounds for kids to enjoy, and windswept views overlooked by soaring sea eagles.

Another popular fishing spot is the historical Tathra Wharf built in 1862, which can get pretty festive (read

crowded) in summer holiday season.

Fishing aside, the wharf is a must-see destination for Tathra visitors, and the kids love peering down through the creaky boards as the catch of the day is reeled in. If you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of a fairy penguin or two.

For nature lovers, pop over the headland past the Tathra Hotel (we won’t judge if you stop for a scenic glass of wine) to Kianinny Bay, where you can snorkel and take a manageable bushwalk through atmospheric coastal scrublands. Mimosa Rocks National Park and Bournda National Park are two other great spots for bushwalking – be sure to check out Bilyara Gallery Café on your way!

SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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KIAMA

SHELLHARBOUR

From rainforests and waterfalls to pristine beaches and water parks, the Kiama Region is the perfect escape for you and your family.

A visit to Kiama isn’t complete without a visit to our two extraordinary blowholes, rock pools and tackling at least some of our scenic coastal walk.

Cool, refreshing and essential in summer – romantic, dramatic and invigorating in winter.

Why not explore your creative side at Gerringong’s Bead Shack or Stampin’ Up where you will learn how to create cards, gifts and scrapbooks.

A ten minute drive west will take you to the township of Jamberoo where you will discover country charisma at its best. Visit Minnamurra Rainforest, a haven for children, where they will learn about nature and the outdoors.

Travelling further still will bring you to The Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk or the excitement filled, Jamberoo Action Park.

Join in on one the fantastic school holiday programs available in the area. Kiama Visitors Centre can assist with all the details.

Do you remember childhood holidays when the family shared simple joys like fishing, going to the beach, or a barbie? You’ll rediscover those holiday pleasures in Shellharbour, and they won’t break the budget.

Step back in time and visit the HARS Aviation Museum, take a train ride at the Illawarra Light Railway Museum or see the motoring memorabilia at The Australian Motorlife Museum.

Learn to surf at The Farm, within Killalea State Park, a National Surfing Reserve or discover the underwater world while snorkelling or scuba diving at Bass Point Reserve.

Try your luck at fishing, tee off at one of our golf courses or grab your bike and explore the many cycleways. And when the sky isn’t blue - Shellharbour has a wide range of wet weather activities to keep the kids occupied indoors too.

Call the friendly team (at the Shellharbour Visitors Centre) and they’ll give you oodles of ideas for your perfect Shellharbour family holiday.

SEARCH AND BOOK ACCOMMODATION online kiama.com.au Follow us on Facebook to keep in touch or download the Kiama App

Kiama Visitors Centre Blowhole Point Road Kiama NSW 2533 02 4232 3322 www.kiama.com.au

Book accommodation online - www. tourismshellharbour.com.au Like us on Facebook www.facebook. com/ShellharbourNSWAustralia Follow us on Twitter - www.twitter. com/shellharbour_

Shellharbour Visitors Centre Cnr Addison & Wentworth Streets Shellharbour Village NSW 2529 1300 656 169 or 02 4221 6169 tourism@shellharbour.nsw.gov.au www.tourismshellharbour.com.au

SHOALHAVEN Welcome to the Shoalhaven...

For the young and not so young adventurer, the Shoalhaven offers a myriad of activities. The Shoalhaven is renowned far and wide for its many unspoiled beaches, from ocean surf breaks to sheltered bays and coves.

For fantastic fun on the water, you can hire canoes, kayaks and boats and paddle our rivers, lakes and beaches or rent a surfboard from several locations.

Take the family aboard a dolphin or whale cruise for the thrill of seeing these amazing animals up close.

Bring your bikes and take them on a bush track to explore some of the many forests. For younger children, try out the shared pathway along the Shoalhaven River in Nowra, or the track running along Collingwood Beach.

Or for something different, head out to Shoalhaven Heads to see the sky filled with colourful kites.

There are so many wonderful activities, you’ll want to come again and again just to fit them all in!

BOOK ACCOMMODATION online, www.shoalhavenholidays.com.au and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Flickr.

Shoalhaven Visitors Centre: Cnr Princes Highway & Pleasant Way Nowra NSW 2541 1300 662 808 www.shoalhavenholidays.com.au

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LEGENDARY PACIFIC COAST

A ROAD

well travelled

THE PACIFIC COAST, STRETCHING FROM SYDNEY TO BRISBANE, IS A POPULAR ROAD-TRIP FOR GENERATIONS OF FAMILIES.

A

“

re we there yet?” This is a common refrain that all adults travelling with kids have heard while on a family road trip.

While distraction such as iPads, iPods, smartphones and a plethora of computer games (replacing the old-school I-spy and spotto games) give a glimmer of hope towards arriving at your destination without hearing those four little words, it’s a given that the phrase will be heard at some point in the journey.

Family road trips (with the good and the bad) hold a special place in our memories.

These are times shared, argued, laughed and explored all in the comfort of a tight family unit away from the responsibilities of school, work and home.

Family memories For the older among us, it was the old family Valiant and the bare essentials. They were sunny days filled with adventure and exploring nooks and crannies along the

quieter villages and towns, beaches, lakes, rivers, rainforests and mountains on the NSW North Coast. Memories were made as holidaymakers reconnected with families and friends lolling on the beach, enjoying a casual meal or sitting round a campfire.

They were great, relaxing times, savoured and favoured with many families choosing to do the same trip to the same place year after year to enhance memories, create new experiences and carry the sights, smells and tastes of that time to adulthood with sighs of nostalgia.

This is why the Legendary Pacific Coast is called just that because it is a place of legends and memories, many which can be revisited by ongoing generations who create their own legends in their own time.

There is so much to explore spreading across the 930km between Sydney and Brisbane and there is something for every member of the family. The good news is that with much of the highway now upgraded you don’t have to drive too far to stunning locations and you can pick whether it’s a few hours or a day to travel to your destination.

Online ideas The Legendary Pacific Coast offers up ideas for visitors at some of the old time favourites and loads of new experiences

via a host of new trails on the Legendary Pacific Coast website and free iPhone app.

You can take the food and wine trail, the culture and heritage trail, the National Parks trail and soon there will be a surfing safari offering up the best beaches across the tourism drive. Whether you’re after a new family snapshot in front of the Big Banana or want to stroll through quaint towns, hire a tinny and explore many amazing rivers, these trails can save you time and give you ideas of where to visit on your own road trip.

It doesn’t have to be in the school holidays either, try a three or four-day weekend and show your kids some of your faves from the good old days! Maybe they haven’t changed much in last 30 plus years but that’s what makes them timeless and bucolic, quaint and quirky, begging you to return with your family.

There is a fantastic range of accommodation options along the way from motels, beachside resorts, hinterland cabins, holiday houses and villas and of course camping. Time to use that new tent or van and visit some fabulous caravan parks. There are even YHAs that have family rooms. It’s all there waiting for you to rediscover with your kids and here are some of our ‘legendary’ favourites from the Central Coast to the Tweed Valley.

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2 1 TOP LEGENDARY 2 PLACES for your family on your next road trip 3 4

Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures on the NSW Central Coast has horseriding and quad biking within the 3000-hectare property where you can fish, abseil, kayak, picnic and camp.

The Australian Reptile Park in Somersby has a hands-on zoo boasting loads of animal interaction and exciting wildlife shows daily.

The Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park at Calga allows the kids to pat friendly wild Aussie animals, visit Aboriginal sites and find out about bush tucker. You can even learn how to throw a boomerang!

Treetop Adventure Parks – fly through the air above the forest floor on flying foxes or monkey from tree to tree along suspension bridges in these ecofriendly adventure parks in Yarramalong Valley on the Central Coast and Newcastle.

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5

Get to the bush at one of the 48 National Parks or 12 state forests along the drive. There are impressive sand dunes, hinterland treks, coastal lakes, stunning beaches and waterfall walks dotted along the route.

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Dolphin watching and whale watching in season can’t be missed and there is a choice with vessels in Port Stephens, Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour.

See the sand dunes at the Stockton Bight near Port Stephens. It’s like being in the heart of the desert and there is sand boarding for the whole family on the giant dunes.

Honeycomb Valley Farm in Nabiac offers families the chance to see a sustainable small farm with a diversity of farm animals, a farm gate shop, honey tasting bar and the largest solar cooking oven.

LEGENDARY PACIFIC COAST

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Bent on Food Cookery School – if your kids are showing a flare for cooking why not take them for a class at this innovative cookery school located in the historical village of Wingham.

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Port Macquarie has a range of activities for the whole family.

From picking strawberries and tomatoes to taste at Ricardoes Tomatoes & Strawberries, to camel riding along beautiful Lighthouse Beach with Port Macquarie Camel Safaris.

Billabong Koala & Wildlife Park displays a variety of Australian native and exotic species and you can get closer than you think!

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Timbertown Heritage Park in Wauchope can show the kids some history and the famous steam train operates daily and watch the bullock shows.

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Surfaris at Crescent Head is a great place to take the kids if they’d like to learn to surf with guys that put their hearts into teaching you.

Coffs Harbour is a legendary destination with The Big Banana still welcoming families 50 years on. You must try a choc-coated banana!

Dolphin Marine Magic has daily presentations allowing interaction, patting and playing with dolphins and seals and free seal kisses!

Tabatinga Family Fun Centre in Coffs is a fun filled attraction suitable for toddlers to grandparents. There is mini golf, multi level climbing structures and loads more for the kids.

Coffs Coast Camels allows you to walk tall on these gentle giants so you can cross this off your bucket list.

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The Butterfly House is where the kids can get lost in the outdoor maze and get close to nature being surrounded by hundreds of Australian butterflies.

Summerland House Farm at Alstonville is a macadamia and avocado farm. There is mini golf, a quality museum, regional produce and tractor tours.

The Macadamia Castle near Ballina has an animal park, mini golf, nut bar, cafe and playing areas for the kids with giant knights.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary provides the best cuddle of a koala and is home to the original wild lorikeet feeding.

Visit www.pacificcoast.com.au for details on all the above attractions and activities or download the free iPhone app today.

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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

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Legendary experences that will become legendary memories.

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

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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!

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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.

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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

Discover our experience trails & itineraries at pacificcoast.com.au

GOLD COAST

Gold Class LA BASED AUSSIE FAMILY, THE DADDOS, RETURN HOME TO GIVE THE KIDS THE ULTIMATE AUSTRALIAN HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE ON THE GOLD COAST. WORDS: ALISON DADDO

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here’s a term we heard on the Gold Coast that describes the area so beautifully. “The green behind the gold” refers to the stunning hinterland which lies behind the gorgeous golden beaches. With just four days to show our kids the delights of this lovely region, we headed straight for the hills to show them the “other side” of the Gold Coast.

A real treasure We arrive at Gold Coast airport in Coolangatta, refreshed after our Virgin Australia flight from the US (brilliant, smart and friendly service) ready to enjoy some of the best scenery and activities we have come across anywhere in our travels across the world. After grabbing a Thrifty rental car we head to the quintessential Aussie holiday spot, NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Park.

The holiday park is a real charmer that takes me back to my childhood days of staying in caravan parks with my family. There were always loads of holidaying kids around and we all ended up fast friends and playing together. Here you can pitch a tent, park your caravan, or opt for the modern units with up to three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a full kitchen. The open air bistro, Galleons, is excellent and there’s also a pinball/games area, three swimming pools, go-cart hire and a fabulous giant pillow that has our six-yearold daughter Bodhi’s eyes popping the minute she sees it.

Personally I love staying somewhere that offers the option of creating a home-cooked meal for the kids (that way you know you can get some kind of nutrition into them). Cam loved the outdoor barbecues too.

Day dreams Our first stop around the Gold Coast’s famed ‘worlds’ is Dreamworld.

Now, we’ve lived in Los Angeles for some time and done all the theme parks there. But our family found Dreamworld was equal to anything in the US in both design and creativity (even though I do tend to be biased towards anything Australian!). There’s a variety of rides that suit all ages, so even the faint of heart (me) can go on the simple rides with the younger ones.

Next day dawns to an amazing experience - a private luxury eco safari in the hinterland. Our guide and owner of Eco Safaris Tim gives us the choice of the beautiful Tamborine mountains and the more touristy spot of Lamington (which is fab) or the quieter, lesser-known Springbrook National Park. We choose the latter.

We hike into Twin Falls and enjoy a picnic lunch at the base. The falls are nothing short of breathtaking. The views on the way down are amazing, I was so thrilled for our kids to see true Australian forest in its most beautiful form. Tim is a fantastic guide taking us on back roads to see the wild pademelons (small rainforest wallabies) that inhabit the area.

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GOLD COAST

Dolphin delights Another day, another world. This time it is SeaWorld, and the promise of a dolphin experience. This lives up to everything we hoped for. We don our supplied wetsuits and life jackets and get a safety de-brief from the trainers.

They have so much knowledge about the animals they train we could chat with them for hours. Into the chilly water we go. Once in we have the magical dolphins swimming right up to us and all sense of the cold is quickly replaced with awe. We have a good half hour with the animals, interacting and taking photos. It is totally worth the freezing water.

We wander the rest of SeaWorld happily checking out the jet-ski show (Cam insists) and watching the large sharks in the lagoon. Make sure you grab the little gondola that goes from one side of the park to the other as it takes you right over the dolphin enclosure.

Cam and River, 12, catch a couple of rides (that they insist are a total blast) while Lotus, 12, Bodhi and I cheer them on, then laugh ourselves silly as photos of them appear on a screen for all to see.

Top tip: Be ready for very tired munchkins at the end of a theme park day and plan ahead so you can have an

GEMINI COURT HOLIDAY APARTMENTS

Walk on the wild side On our final day we visit to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. This place is a bit of an institution on the Gold Coast as it’s been here for over 60 years. It is a non profit park, so if you’ve got some spare change drop it into the donation jars as the park does incredible work saving all sorts of animals and protecting our little national treasure the koala.

If we thought the dolphin experience was good, the koala cuddle is a dream come true. Even if you’ve grown up with these beautiful animals, getting up close for a pat and a cuddle is so fun.

We catch the birds of prey show, which has a wedge-tailed eagle swooping down over the audience and screech owls landing on the presenter’s arm.

The presenter is a hoot (pardon the pun) and has us all enthralled with her knowledge and control of the animals.

While there we visit the animal hospital. Through the glass doors you might see vets operating on the wildlife, and we see a rainbow lorikeet having blood taken and a wild egret having her wing fixed. Pretty cool stuff, especially if you have kids who are animal lovers

SANDCASTLES ON THE BROADWATER

45 Hayle Street, Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast, QLD

392 - 398 Marine Parade, Labrador, Gold Coast, QLD

 07 5576 0300

 07 5537 0000

Experience the best of the

legendary Burleigh Beachfront Lifestyle by staying at Gemini Court Holiday Apartments.

Uniquely positioned within Burleigh with stunning views looking north over miles of white sandy beaches to Surfers Paradise.

The renowned beach and point break at Burleigh Heads is on the doorstep of this quality accommodation offering spectacular surf and swim opportunities. The twin towers of Gemini Court, are ideally located on elevated ground on the headland itself, between the National Park, Burleigh Beach and the Burleigh Town Centre.

 07 5576 0300 Toll Free 1800 636 036  geminicourt.com.au e: info@geminicourt.com.au

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early dinner then put them to bed to dream of the fab day you just had.

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The beautiful Broadwater is right on your doorstep - enjoy the stunning views, go fishing, swim safely, feed the pelicans, or try your favourite water sports.

This is the ideal base for holidaying on the Gold Coast only minutes to Surfers Paradise; close to SeaWorld, Movie World, Dreamworld or Wet ’n’ Wild and 5 minutes to fantastic shopping, restaurants and night life; Luxury one, two and three bedroom air conditioned apartments, fully self-contained each with large balconies designed to give spectacular views while adding real living and entertaining space.

 07 5537 0000 Toll Free 1800 005 180  sandcastles.com.au e: info@sandcastles.com.au

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Unlimited Summer Fun Dreamworld and WhiteWater World are full of surprises this summer, opening a host of new attractions including the latest precinct from DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc., Kung Fu Panda: Land of Awesomeness featuring Big 8 Thrill Ride, Pandamonium, the new Skadoosh bumper car ride and the Kung Fu Academy.

There’s also Wiggles World’s new Big Red Boat Ride, a smooth sailing sea-worthy adventure that will have kids laughing and squealing with delight, plus the Wiggles live in concert 22nd – 24th January.

Fans of reality TV show, Big Brother, get their first peek inside the Big Brother 2012 House. Roam the rooms where the Housemates lived for several months and see what it’s really like on the other side of the cameras.

World Pass holders can enjoy even more happiness at WhiteWater World with big thrills on slides, splashing fun in the Pipeline Plunge or simply chilling out in the Cave of Waves.

Head to www.dreamworld.com.au to save time and money with the Unlimited World Pass, offering endless entry to Dreamworld and WhiteWater World until 30 November, 2013, for just $79.99 for kids and $109.99 for adults when you buy online.

GOLD COAST

(I’m hoping one of mine might be inspired to be a vet one day).

If you have a bit of an adventurous streak, Currumbin hosts the Green Challenge treetops rope course. Now I may be a chicken on rollercoaster rides, but the idea of flying foxes over and through the forest is really exciting to me. We suit up in special overalls with safety harnesses, watch the safety video and with the blessing of the experienced staff head for the beginners’ course.

Warming up on the beginners’ course gives you a taste of what’s to come if you decide to go for the Extreme Green Challenge which we did (much to River’s complete shock). It is SO fun, it’s a serious challenge, but the rewards are great! You are pretty high up and need to use your upper body strength, but once you fly across from one tree to the next you’ll want to keep going till the very end.

So we sure did pack a lot into our four days on the Gold Coast. There is so much to see and that’s what makes it such a great spot for families. Now our kids have great memories of a true blue Aussie holiday and Cam and I have great reminders of why Australia is still referred to as the “lucky country”.

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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.

WHERE TO STAY NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Park www.treasureisland.com.au GETTING AROUND Thrifty Rental Car www.thrifty.com.au WHAT TO DO Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary www.cws.org.au Dreamworld www.dreamworld.com.au Eco safaris www.ecosafaris.com.au SeaWorld Resort & Water Park www.myfun.com.au MORE INFORMATION Gold Coast Tourism www.visitgoldcoast.com.au

WIN

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ONE lucky Out & About With Kids reader can WIN a fantastic DREAMWORLD FAMILY HOLIDAY valued at more than $5000.

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Superbly designed, La Grande offers the ultimate holiday escape, an oasis of indulgence and relaxation in every respect. La Grande’s location is second to none, standing pride of place on prime beach frontage, overlooking the famous sands of Kurrawa beach. 36 stylish and spacious apartments, A sparkling resort style pool and barbecue area, spa & sauna, gym, manicured gardens & more.

Tony and Grace Burns Resident Managers La Grande Apartments 122-130 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach, Gold Coast Qld 4218, Australia

p: +61 7 5592 5350 f: +617 5592 5130 e: info@lagrande.com.au www.lagrande.com.au

The prize includes one Family Holiday World Pass (for two adults and two children (allowing each pass holder unlimited entry to Dreamworld and WhiteWater World for 21 consecutive days from first day of entry) plus an exclusive Breakfast in the DreamWorks Experience before the park opens and two night’s accommodation in a four star resort in Surfers Paradise. Terms & Conditions apply.

To enter visit www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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SUNSHINE COAST

SEVEN DAYS OF

Sunshine WHEN IT CAME TO FINDING THE PERFECT HOLIDAY, QUEENSLAND’S SARAH PYE DIDN’T HAVE TO HEAD TOO FAR FROM HOME.

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ave you noticed how many people know more about distant holiday destinations than their own backyard? People travel from all over the world to enjoy the Sunshine Coast so, even though our family lives here, during the last school break, we decided to have a weeklong holiday without leaving home.

Day 1 Thrills and finds

Local theme park, Aussie World, has been growing fast over the last few years, adding gut-wrenching rides along the way.

Last year it was the spinning Redback, and this year the cooling Plunge. While I hid behind the camera, Amber rated each ride on a ‘fear’ scale. It’s no surprise that the Redback came

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prawns on the barbie. Lights illuminated the sand, and it wasn’t long before an impromptu game of touch footy materialised.

© Tourism Queensland

Day 3 Clear sky attractions

out on top and the carousel was close to the bottom. We found Aussie World small enough that we weren’t exhausted, large enough to be exciting for tweens and varied enough for smaller, height restricted kids.

Next we headed for a thrill of another kind: The Scratch Patch at Opals Down Under is a gravel-covered outdoor room. Hidden in the grey stones are shiny polished ones of every colour. We purchased a plastic cup to fill and mined for treasure to take home.

Last stop of the day was nearby Strawberry Fields where we picked our own juicy fruit, bought dipping chocolate sauce, then sat at a picnic table and gorged ourselves.

Day 2 Taste of the Sunshine Coast The Sunshine Coast is home to numerous small farms, many which tout their wares at the Big Pineapple Saturday farmer’s market. This event has revived the former icon, which recently reopened under new ownership. All the favourites were back: the Pineapple Express train, the animal farm and, of course, climbing to the top of the heritage-listed structure. After trying them all, we left with our green shopping bags chocked full of fruit, vegies and locally caught seafood.

Later, as the sun set, the sky at Mooloolaba Beach turned as pink as the

What a spectacular beach day! We chose Cotton Tree, where the calm waters of the Maroochy River meet the surf, making it perfect for all ages. There’s a market here on Sundays so, once sun-saturated, we headed for the shade and listened to a talented didge artist doing his stuff.

With the skies still clear in the evening, it was off to a celestial tour with Owen Bennedick at the Wappa Falls Observatory.

Owen’s passion for the stars led him to the property near Yandina where he has created a wonderful attraction. Since torches are not recommended (they destroy night vision) we arrived before dark to make sure we had our bearings, and time to look around the grounds.

Then we peered through the 600mm Newtonian reflector telescope at Venus and the moon, handled meteorites and listened to Owen’s colourful stories.

Day 4

Head for the hills

It was overcast when we woke, so we packed a picnic and headed for the hills. The rising mist was magical and the famous Glasshouse Mountains peaked through the clouds as we wound our way uphill to Mary Cairncross Park, on the Blackall Range. We were lucky enough to spot two native pademelons (marsupial rainforest kangaroos) on the two-kilometre, stroller-friendly loop track through the wellsigned rainforest.

From there it was only a short drive to the lush fields and happy cows of Maleny Dairy where we arrived just in time for the one and a half hour farm tour. We were shown how hand-milking is done, felt the suction cups of the milking machine, toured the processing plant and tasted strawberry milk. But it was the baby calves that stole our hearts. Amber wanted to take one home!

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SUNSHINE COAST

Paddling in paradise Day 5 On day five, we loaded our kayaks on the roof and headed for Caloundra and the protected Pumicestone Passage. If you don’t have your own paddle craft, Bill’s Boat Hire offers rentals at reasonable prices. We launched at Golden Beach and paddled over to the northern tip of Bribie Island. It’s an easy paddle, but timing the tide is important because the water moves pretty fast. We pulled the kayaks up the beach then wandered to the windward side. Huge cargo ships greeted us.

They come really close to the coast here, as they line up for the Brisbane channel, and it was fascinating to watch them.

Back on the mainland we drove the short distance to Kings Beach. While Trevor and Amber played in the water park, I grabbed fish and chips right across the road. We sat in the

shade of a pandanus tree and ate them straight out of the paper.

Day 6 Zookeeper for the day

From left: Picnic on the Noosa River. © Tourism Queensland

What’s a holiday without a little ‘parent only’ time? After so much action in the last few days, Trevor and I needed to slow down.

Amber was still raring to go and, luckily, today we had arranged for her to be a zookeeper for the day at Australia Zoo. This hands-on experience starts at 9am and ends around 2pm. During that time she helped prepare the animals’ food, fed elephants and parrots, cleaned out the red panda’s cage and even had lunch watching Bindi in the croc show.

Throw in a framed photo, hat and water bottle, and she has plenty of stories to tell back at school!

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SUNSHINE COAST

Mirage

ALEXANDRA HEADLAND The Mirage Alexandra Headland is an oasis of tranquillity in the popular Mooloolaba area of the Sunshine Coast - one hour north of Brisbane and just 15 minutes from the Sunshine Coast Airport.

All balconies are east facing and have a view of our beautiful pool and gardens, the lagoon and park or ocean. Spend your days by the pool, relaxing, playing and having a BBQ or stroll the 50 metres to restaurants and cafes and a safe, patrolled beach • Spacious, air-conditioned apartments • Heated lagoon, lap and spa pools, and children’s waterfall pool. Safe for all ages!

• Free Austar • Gymnasium, sauna, full sized tennis court & half basketball court • Out door children’s play area • FREE secure undercover parking

Mirage Alexandra Headland Resort Holiday Apartments Ph: +61 7 5443 9400 www.miragealex.com.au 6 Mari Street Alexandra Headland, 4572 Queensland - Australia

AU M. O X.C s!

LE l deal A ia GE RA spec I M r u it V is for o

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Day 7 Bird’s eye view The week was drawing to a close and we needed a little perspective on our adventures. Up early, we drove to the foot of Mount Coolum and climbed the rocky steps for a birds-eye view. It took about an hour to reach the top and the rewards were breathtaking. From Noosa to Caloundra, the Sunshine Coast sprawled below us and, out at sea, I swear we saw the blow of humpback whales on their yearly migration.

With a new-found appreciation for the paradise in which we live, and plenty of attractions still to see, we just might have to holiday at home again soon!

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 phone application. She travels extensively around Australia with her daughter, and chief expert, Amber in a camper trailer called Blueberry Pie.

22/11/12 2:01 PM

From left: Mary Cairncross Park. © Tourism Queensland

See the crocodiles at Australia Zoo. © Audrey Snider-Bel, Shutterstock.com

FAST FACTS GETTING THERE The Sunshine Coast airport is located in the heart of the Sunshine Coast, just north of Maroochydore.

Virgin Australia and Jetstar have daily flights available flying from both Sydney and Melbourne.

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

MORE INFORMATION www.visitsunshinecoast. com.au

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Outback Australia

BY KIDS

© edella, Shutterstock.com

FOR THE REAL STORY ON FAMILY HOLIDAY FUN, WE HEAD STRAIGHT TO THE SOURCE AND TALK TO KIDS TO FIND OUT WHERE AND WHAT THEY LOVE MOST ABOUT AUSSIE OUTBACK HOLIDAYS.

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OUTBACK AUSTRALIA

Smart Traveller OSCAR NOON – 12 Oscar discovers a world of fun on a family journey to the heart of the Northern Territory Play & Stay: At Sails in the Desert Hotel (at Voyagers Ayers Rock Resort in Uluru) there was a free bus to the other hotels and campgrounds to use Os ca r their restaurants, pools or activities.

We went camel riding in Yulara and visited Uluru and Kata Tjuta from the air. In Alice Springs we visited the School of the Air and Anzac Hill. We also went quad biking at an outback cattle station.

Get Smart: We learnt about the Anangu people - the traditional owners of Uluru – and how their laws and rules are different to ours. We didn’t climb Uluru because the Anangu people ask you not to.

Before we arrived I wanted to climb to the top, but when I listened to why the Anangu people don’t want you to, I decided to respect their feelings. We also did dot painting at Uluru. I liked learning about the paintings and how they tell a story.

Bush Tucker: I tried outback food in Yulara. I also tried emu and crocodile and they were really nice. I would eat them again.

Best bit: Kings Canyon. I went on the rim walk with my dad. You walk along the edge of really high sandstone cliffs that overlook the gorge and you need to be careful because you are so high, but you can see beautiful views.

Oscar’s Top tip: Drink lots of water and listen to your guides. Also respect the Aboriginal people while you are there.

Camel Capers

Har ry

HARRY NOON – 8 Harry and family enjoy a red centre adventure in the Northern Territory.

Stay and play: I really liked feeling like we were in the bush at Kings Canyon Resort. The wild dingoes came close to you (but you weren’t allowed to touch or feed them) and there were cool bugs. We went hot air ballooning in Alice Springs. The fire was really loud when they were filling the balloon but when we were floating through the sky it was so quiet and you could see the kangaroos on the ground below. I loved camel riding too. My camel’s name was Ned Kelly and he was in the movie Australia.

Get smart: I liked learning about the Indigenous people of Uluru. Our guide taught us about bush tucker and the things you could eat if you were lost.

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Bush Tucker: I tried crocodile and emu and it was OK. You could also have kangaroo if you wanted. I didn’t like the camel burger but I think that’s because I really like camels.

Best bit: Undoolya Station. We went quad biking on the oldest working cattle station in the Northern Territory and it was so much fun. The owner told us that the station was so big that just checking the gates takes days. The cows were really fat and chased us on the bikes, but they couldn’t catch us.

Harry’s top tip?: It gets really hot and there are lots of flies so take a fly net and be sure to buy the special Aboriginal bush cream to keep the flies away because nothing else works.

Roadtripper

H ayde n

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HAYDEN SPEIGHT - 7 Hayden enjoyed an epic road trip through South Australia and the Northern Territory with his mum, dad and little sister Paige.

Stay & Play: I loved our camper trailer because it was really cosy and warm inside and some of the nights were so cold there were icicles everywhere in the morning. We travelled with four other families so got to play with the other kids. We did lots of bushwalking and exploring in Wilpena Pound, SA. We had a camel ride at Uluru which felt strange cause of the way the camel

walks from side to side. At the Alice Springs Reptile Centre I got to hold a giant olive python which was so heavy!

Get smart: I learnt an Aboriginal dance about echidnas and how to throw a spear at Uluru. We also did rock painting but you’re not allowed to take the rocks home as everything there is considered sacred and has to stay. We had a ranger campfire talk at Palm Valley which was interesting and there were two injured dingos sitting with us listening to the talk.

Bush Tucker: We had camping food which I really like. I didn’t eat any bush food but my dad tried a camel burger at Uluru.

Best Bit: Dalhousie Springs, SA, because it had a massive spring and is so warm, we played in it for hours and I got so hot I had to get out and cool down. Coober Pedy had lots of mines and I got to go down a mine shaft and see opals in the walls.

Hayden’s top tip: Uluru is a really cool place that every kid should go and see and there (are) lots of wild animals everywhere.

Outback Beds TILLY BALDING – 14 Tilly joined family and friends to explore a range of NSW’s best outback attractions.

Stay & Play: We stayed at Outback Beds properties all around NSW, including Trilby Station (Louth), Mt Oxley (Bourke),

OUTBACK AUSTRALIA

Lightning Ridge, Caloola (Walgett) and Barkala Farm (Coonabarabran). The accommodation was always different – from shearers’ quarters and cabins to great twostorey round houses in the middle of nowhere.

We played lots of games like spotlight and 44 homes with our friends. and there was canoeing, bonfires, feeding lambs and walking.

Plus we made friends with lots of station dogs, and one very pushy goat!

Get smart: I learned how clay pots were made at Pilliga Pottery in Coonabarrabran. After spending time here I realised how it’s such a long process to make such beautiful things!

Bush Tucker: I didn’t try anything incredibly new but the toasted marshmallows were good though.

Best bit: There weren’t a lot of people and it was a really different environment. I’d love to go back.

Tilly’s top tip: The Australian Outback is endlessly surprising and it’s not as empty as you think it is going to be.

Head for the Hill AURORA BALDING -11 Aurora falls in love with NSW’s Broken Hill on a bush break with her parents and brother and sister, Tilly 14 and Noah 9.

Stay & Play: We stayed at The Imperial Hotel in Broken Hill. The rooms were nice and there was a pool and some chooks which I liked.

There were some kids my age at the hotel that we went Broken Hill Regional Art Gallery.

The sculptures at Broken Hill Sculpture Park and historic town of Silverton were good as well.

Get smart: I learned that there was a famous movie filmed in Silverton called Mad Max. Bush Tucker: We went to Bells Milk Bar they have really good milkshakes and spiders.

Best Bit: Broken Hill is not busy and frustrating like the city.

Top tip: Lots of people use a lot of water that is drying up the creeks and rivers, people need to use water wisely. And take a hat!

Til ly, R or y & Noa

h

From left: Hayden and family at Uluru.

Oscar meets a camel at Yulara.

Kings Canyon, NT Australia. © Neale Cousland, Shutterstock.com

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CONCIERGE

AUSTRALIA’S

best family hotels – tried & tested

Coffs from the Treetops

WYNDHAM RESORT, COFFS HARBOUR Treetops, the fantastic Wyndham Resort at Coffs Harbour only opened three years ago. Tucked away amongst the trees on pristine Charlesworth Bay, just north of the Coffs Harbour town centre, Treetops has it all for a fabulous family holiday.

You can choose between one-, two- and the deluxe three-bedroom options with fully self-contained kitchens and laundry facilities.

The location is perfect with direct beach access to pretty Charlesworth Bay Beach, a great spot for the kids to have a game of cricket, and an easy drive to all the magic Coffs Harbour has to offer.

When the kids are ready to move beyond the beach why not venture in to the Pacific Bay Precinct resort grounds, a two-minute walk away. For a unique family experience you can take a tour on a Segway around the extensive resort grounds from bush to beach. Or completely wear them out on the extensive Time Out Xperiences’ Inflatable Action Zone before jumping into the kid’s pool to cool off.

CONCIERGE TIP: “A perfect day for families at Wyndham Vacation Resorts Coffs Harbour could start with some relaxation in our lovely swimming pool and outdoor spa, followed by a barbecue lunch around the pool and then an afternoon stroll along the scenic Korora coastal boardwalk, just minute’s walk from the resort, keeping a look out for whales and dolphins.” Gary Collard, General Manager, Wyndham Vacation Resorts Coffs Harbour. www.wyndhamvrap.com/resorts/coffsharbour

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Fraser fun

KINGFISHER BAY RESORT, FRASER ISLAND Holidays with your loved ones should be memorable for the right reasons and at Kingfisher Bay Resort, on World Heritage-listed Fraser Island, a relaxing family holiday is just that - relaxing.

On Fraser - the world’s largest sand island - there are no traffic jams, no queues and, with a stack of naturebased resort activities to choose from, you can opt for the right blend of family togetherness. Lazy days can be spent exploring the national park by four-wheeldrive or on tour. Similarly the calm waters of the Great Sandy Strait are safe for older children to canoe, sail, swim, play and fish.

For bigger children there are free tennis courts and for little ones an Ausplay playground with climbing frames, swings and slides. The resort also has four large salt-water swimming pools and a spa. Rangers also have a free daily program of bird watching, bat viewing, frog and mammal spotting, marine, mangrove and bush tucker walks. And nights can be spent spoiling yourself with the creature comforts available at the resort as baby-sitting services are available on request.

CONCIERGE TIP: “If you’re staying at Kingfisher Bay, don’t miss our Junior Eco Rangers program for the little ones. The program is designed to show children how to care about the environment in a fun way. Night time activities include spotlighting for animals, stargazing, campfires with damper making, storytelling and sing-a-longs.”

Nick Peffer, Resort Ranger, Kingfisher Bay Resort www.kingfisherbay.com

Style and history by the harbour INTERCONTINENTAL SYDNEY

The InterContinental Sydney offers families luxury and history on the edge of the world’s most stunning harbour.

Built around the restored circa 1851 Treasury Building, the hotel (with 509 rooms all with postcard views) is a moment’s walk from the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. For the ultimate experience upgrade to Club InterContinental. Positioned high above the city with panoramic views across Sydney Harbour, the whole family can enjoy complimentary breakfast, a drink or snack throughout the day, and twilight snacks whilst parents enjoy complimentary cocktails and canapés.

InterContinental Sydney’s concierge service is just one reason this hotel stands apart. Combining top-notch personalised service by best-in-class concierge teams with innovative web-based features such as pre-stay emails, destination-specific concierge videos, local tips and interactive maps visiting guests can be pointed in the right direction for a fabulous family day out in Sydney. Ask for your copy of Out & About with kids while you are there.

CONCIERGE TIP: “Our InterContinental Sydney concierge team always keep abreast of the latest events, exhibitions and activities that will appeal to even our youngest guests! This summer, kids will love the new Dinosaurs in the Wild exhibition at Taronga Zoo featuring life-sized, moving dinosaurs.

Another great outdoor experience is to pack a picnic and head to Mrs Macquarie’s Point to enjoy one of the latest family blockbusters at the St George Open Air Cinema.” David Patt, Head Concierge, InterContinental Sydney www.sydney.intercontinental.com

Trend-setting travel

QUALITY HOTEL APOLLO, NEWCASTLE Crowned as one of the hottest cities to visit by Lonely Planet, the seaside town of Newcastle – two hours’ north of Sydney, is the perfect weekend break for families.

For a fantastic family-friendly sta , Choice Hotels Australia’s Quality Hotel Apollo offers a sophisticated sanctuary ideal for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

The 94 room four-star hotel has recently completed a multi-million dollar refurbishment and is set against a backdrop of native bush reserve. There’s a choice of rooms, from king spa and family rooms (with ample space for two adults and two very bouncy kids!) executive suites and honeymoon suites. Babbington’s Bar & Grill restaurant, on the ground floor and overlooking the bush, is a fantastic spot for a special dinner and breakfast the following morning. Little ones are well catered for with a special dinner menu and plenty to choose from at breakfast.

The hotel, which also features a swimming pool, business centre and function rooms, is conveniently situated a few minutes’ drive from Mereweather and Bar Beach and the trendy café strip of Darby Street and the Junction. Charlestown Square shopping centre and a great range of shops, is minutes’ away.

CONCEIRGE TIP: “Make sure you check out the delicious cafes in Darby Street and the Junction for a post-beach afternoon tea. We always head to Goldbergs (affectionately known by the locals as Goldies) and I hear that Snows Pattiserie in Union Street, at the Junction, also does wicked cakes.”

Robyn Lee, Front Office manager, Apollo International www.apollointernational.com.au

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India Tourism Sydney, Level 5 Glass house, 135 King Street, Sydney NSW 2000.

Ph: +61 2 9221 9555 email: info@indiatourism.com.au

Samoa Tourism © Kirklandphotos.com

international HOLIDAYS

88 96 110 116

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

PACIFIC ISLANDS Pacific Island family holiday planner.

FIJI Falling in love with Fiji.

HAWAII A world of warmth in Waikiki.

120 122 128 132

TEXAS Loving the Lone Star State.

THAILAND Thailand beach breaks.

BALI Bali bliss.

SOUTH AFRICA A tale of two travellers.

136 138 140 142

OMAN Secrets of the Sultanate.

WHERE IN THE WORLD? Jordan.

CRUISING Spirited Away

CRUISE NEWS The latest news from the world of cruising.

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SHORT CUTS International Stay five Pay three in Fiji

© shutterstock.com

One of Fiji’s first-established and much-loved island resorts has just completed a multi-million dollar refurbishment and, to celebrate, Plantation Island Resort is offering families a fantastic ‘stay five pay for three nights’ deal in the resort’s garden, hotel and poolside accommodation. In addition, children under 12 stay and eat free with free children’s transfers on the Malolo Cat from Denarau Marina to the resort included in the deal. From just $310 per adult the offer is valid from November 30, 2012 to November 30 next year. www.plantationisland.com

Moving overseas now a breeze With the launch of a new website, moving overseas is now a breeze.

Movingoverseas.com.au is a website that combines a multitude of handy products and suppliers.

You’ll find everything you need to help take the hassle out moving with one click of your mouse. From removalists and excess baggage companies to pet travel specialists and crate suppliers these and many more useful tips and links are at your fingertips. www.movingoverseas.com.au

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Avoid bill shock with new global SIM Bill shock from international data roaming charges stings many unsuspecting holidaymakers when they return to Australia. Woolworths is now offering a global roaming SIM that allows low-cost voice and data services in over 220 countries around the world.

Available for purchase in store, the starter pack costs $29 and includes $10 credit and credit can be topped up while you’re travelling via the Woolies website. SIM purchase from Woolies also includes a 10 per cent discount on a their own travel insurance policy.

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL NEWS

Japan Tourism Agency has launched a special Japan tourism app for iPhone. When visiting Japan, let world famous Hello Kitty be your tour guide. The Japanese animation brand icon now has an app for the iPhone, presenting local tourist landmarks.

The application has more than 50 regionspecific Hello Kittys with local themes or features in the costume or the background. A record of all the places you visit while in Japan can be stored in the app with the pictures you took. The Visit Japan with Hello Kitty iPhone app is available to download for free from the iTunes App Store until the end of March. http://jnto.org.au/

Siem Reap the benefits of luxury lodgings Take the family on a luxurious Cambodian retreat at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor’s refurbished private villas. The two enormous private villas (Villa Uma and Villa Kama) in the Siem Reap hotel are set amid lush tropical gardens.

The villas offer discerning guests stylish accommodation which includes a large drawing room and dining area, butler’s kitchen, wine cellar and private terraces with sundeck chairs, day beds and private access to the largest swimming pool in the Kingdom.

Prices for a four-night stay in a private villa with Trails of Indochina start from $3732 per adult and $3499 per child, based on two adults and two children under 12 sharing, including arrival transfer, accommodation and return flights with Singapore Airlines from Sydney to Siem Reap via Singapore.

For more information visit www.trailsofindochina. com or www.raffles.com/ siemreap

© shutterstock.com

Visit Japan with HELLO KITTY

Korea Makes Lonely Planet’s top ten Korea is one of the hottest places to visit. That’s according to travel guide Lonely Planet, which recently named Korea as one of the top ten world destinations to visit.

The country was listed third in the top ten destinations in its Best in Travel 2013 list.

And with over 10 million foreign visitors expected to visit Korea by the end of this year the word is out about Korea as a popular travel destination. From natural attractions - about 70 per cent of Korea is mountainous and, as the country is getting ready to host the 2018 Winter Olympics – 5000 years of history and culture and its hugely popular cuisine, visitors can also enjoy activities such as the overnight temple stay programs and food experiences like making your own kimchi or taking a night food tour of the capital Seoul. Alternatively learn the ancient art of taekwondo and join in the fun at one of the major festivals around the country. www.knto.org.au

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SHORT CUTS International Centara travels the world Centara Hotels & Resorts continues to expand its footprint and now has more than 50 hotels and resorts across the world. As well as being Thailand’s leading hotel chain, it continues to expand outside of its home country. In December its first property in Mauritius, Centara Poste La Fayette Resort & Spa, opened its doors. With 100 rooms it is a perfect family resort with kids club and excellent family accommodation.

This coming February, Centara’s second resort in the Maldives, Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa, is set to open, only 15 minutes by speedboat from Male airport. Meanwhile, the sister property Centara Grand Island Resort is one of the most suitable family resorts in the Maldives with two-bedroom beach villas and family overwater bungalows (with bunk beds and Playstation) where kids can swim from their own villa.

This resort is all-inclusive with daily spa credits, a selection of excursions (such as swimming with whale sharks and turtles) and all food and beverages are included in the tariff. A second Bali property is scheduled to open in the middle of 2013 – a family-friendly five-star villa-style property in the popular resort area of Nusa Dua – a short drive from Denpasar airport. www.centarahotelsresorts.com

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INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL NEWS

Tour Europe the easy way One of the cruisiest ways to see Europe is by train.

For families with children travelling on a train is comfortable, uncomplicated and fun and watching the spectacular passing scenery means never a dull moment on your journey! With rail products across 22 countries and 25,000 destinations on more than 11,000 routes, Rail Europe has every base covered.

Eurail Passes and Swiss Passes plus great children’s rates and family packages are affordable and easy to purchase. Some routes even offer dedicated kids play areas, baby-changing facilities and family seating around a board-game laden table. Why not try a sleeper, with cabins that accommodate the whole family and provide the novelty and fun of an overnight train journey to your destination? www.raileurope.com.au

Alpine attractions The Swiss Alps is more than just a picturesque ski-lovers’ region, they are also a great family destination full of natural attractions and plenty of snow fun. At Verbier St-Bernard, the breathtakingly beautiful landscape, fresh alpine air and mountain lifestyle give visitors a chance to unwind and recharge amongst nature or jump into a wide range of fantastic winter sports activities. Verbier St-Bernard has a wide range of accommodation options catering to all budgets and family requirements, great dining choices, spas and sports centres and a quintessentially alpine village square set with a day/night ice-skating rink. www.verbier.ch

Top tips for travelling to Europe with kids Take the hassle out of planning a family holiday to Europe, with tips from an expert.

In Carolyn Schonafinger’s handy guide Europe with Kids – How to travel Europe the Easy Way, the writer shares her top tips for anyone planning a European getaway with kids. From finding a good travel agent and the right travel insurance, to setting budgets and itineraries and pre-paying as much of your trip beforehand, the book is a great resource that will help ensure each member of the family reaps the benefits of wonderful new European experiences. www.holidaystoeurope.com.au/europewithkids

Latest US Family Packages from Creative Holidays Take the guesswork out of planning a family trip to the US with Creative Holidays.

Family-friendly holidays include a five-night Hyatt Regency Resort package in Hawaii from $284 per adult and $44 per child (based on two adults and two children under 11 travelling together). This package includes four nights for the price of three, full breakfast daily, return airport and transfers by coach and ‘kids stay and eat for free’ offer (must be dining with parents). Fun extras include a hike, kayak and snorkel experience for $122 per person. This package is available to book until February 28 and valid for travel between February 1 to April 30 2013 Another great deal is the San Diego family package. Enjoy five nights from $309 per adult and $42 per child (based on two adults and two children under 11 travelling together). This package includes five nights for the price of four at the four-star Sheraton Mission Valley, return airport transfers and optional add-ons such as a San Diego Zoo ticket from $51 per adult and $39 per child. This package is available to book until February 28 and valid for travel until April 30 2013. www.creativeholidays.com

Get creative with the wonderful world of Disney Discover the magic of Disney with Creative Holidays’ new 2013 Disney Parks & Resorts brochure, with exclusive packages, deals and ticketing options at all Disney parks in the USA, Paris and Hong Kong.

Whether you want to take the kids to explore the new Cars Land at Disney California Adventure Park; discover the white sand coves, pools and waterslides, at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Honolulu or help celebrate Disneyland’s 20th anniversary in Paris, there is something to accommodate both child and adult alike.

All resorts are ideally located and provide a variety of accommodation, dining and entertainment options. Each also have their own individual appeal like Orlando’s Walt Disney World Resort which serves as an exciting adventure when travelling mainland USA or the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, a great stopover and break when making the long journey to Europe. www.creativeholidays.com

UK rolls out free high street wi-fi Here’s great news for holidaymakers travelling to the UK and Ireland. Stay in touch with family and friends back home, surf the net, check in on your apps and access emails all via Skype with free access from high street shops, hotels and restaurants thanks to a new service being rolled out

by London-based wireless provider, Wicoms, and popular VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) company, Skype. Login from any participating location in Britain to browse the web, use social media, access and send emails and video Skype via your smartphone or iPad. Sign-in via the Skype wi-fi app then simply surf while you shop, Skype while you sup and browse while you buy – all for free!

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SHORT CUTS International

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL NEWS

BA gets ‘appy’

Kids go free at Ulusaba Kids can stay free at Sir Richard Branson’s private game reserve.

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is the Virgin boss’s luxury safari lodge in the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve. Three children (known as ‘cubs’) up to the age of 11 can stay free in 2013. And between January 10 and December 18, 2013 up to two children travelling with one or more adults can stay at Rock Lodge at no extra charge.

With rooms designed for families and game drives for cubs over six, families are sure to have a blast on this safari www.ulusaba.virgin.com

Stuck for what to do when you land in a city? British Airways’ new Perfect Days app may be just what you need.

Part travel diary, part inspiration guide, the app invites people to keep a record of where they go and what they do in cities, then share them via Facebook. Users can now capture and share their own ideal, personalised travel guides and experiences by creating reviews, uploading images and tagging their exact location on Google Maps. The iPhone app also contains a ‘Meet Me’ function allowing users to ‘pin’ and SMS an exact location to meet, making it easier for friends to quickly find the location if they’re in an unfamiliar city or destination. www.facebook.com/britishairways

Hobbit happenings

© shutterstock.com

New Zealand has found itself in the midst of Middle Earth, celebrating all-things Tolkien and, in particular, the new Peter Jackson (The Lord of The Rings) film The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, filmed entirely in New Zealand. Travellers to the Land of the Long White Cloud on Air New Zealand will have an added treat from November and one that will delight children – the airline’s new in-flight safety video features characters from the film, including elves, wizards and hobbits assisting with in-flight safety instructions. Look out for cabin crew sporting Bilbo Baggins-style pointy ears! www.airnewzealand.com.au

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 THE INSIDER

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL NEWS

THE INSIDER TALKS FAMILY HOLIDAYS WITH LALIE NGOZI, GENERAL MANAGER, SOUTH AFRICA TOURISM AUSTRALASIA.

Left: Lalie at the top of Table Mountain, Cape Town.

Above: Enjoying cuddles with the children at a community outreach programme in Khayelitsha, Cape Town.

My ideal family holiday is... in South Africa where there so much to be learned from the culture and from nature.

Most of the things that you would choose to go on any holiday for, you can enjoy and experience in South Africa.

With younger children you can stay in one place and have an amazing holiday because there are still so many options.

Sun City is an ideal place where you can combine moments of water fun, entertaining activities for kids of all ages, an educational element and plenty for mum and dad.

My fondest family holiday memory is... travelling within South Africa with my family. As the only daughter with three brothers I was always allowed to bring a girlfriend.

We mostly went to Durban because of the beach and water activities. Our other favourite was Port St Johns for its nature reserves and beautiful beaches. We liked Silaka Nature Reserve, where we would book bungalows with other families. Magic!

My favourite meals abroad are... Seafood, anywhere any day. I definitely appreciate spicy food and anything with fresh chillies. That’s my perfect meal.

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My top tip for those travelling with kids... Most people want to do a “Big Five” safari. Shamwari, Sanbona, Sabi Sabi, are just a few of the amazing properties that offer fantastic family programmes. Keep your kids fascinated, interacting and learning while there. Make the most of every opportunity.

And on arrival to South Africa make sure you have a driver, hotel transfer or a car hire booked and ready to go.

Most travellers are not aware that ... Most people only think of South Africa in terms of safari and the Big Five. In reality there are so many more activities to do in South Africa.

Choose your adventures by getting our new Build Your Bucket List Facebook app via our website www.southafrica.net or www.facebook.com/SouthAfricaTourism.net Over Christmas Johannesburg clears out as everyone leaves to go on holidays meaning there is no traffic, no crowds and access to everything from the best hotels to the best restaurants plus beautiful summer weather. I love a Jo’burg Christmas.

Every family should experience ... An African sunset together.

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL NEWS

Three in a row for top airline Garuda Indonesia Garuda Indonesia has been recognised as ‘Best International Airline for July 2012’ in a recent Roy Morgan’s survey.

The accolade is the third award in three months for the airline, which also picked up the Customer Satisfaction Survey award in January and February.

The survey conducted by research company Roy Morgan, ranked Garuda Indonesia and Singapore Airlines tied first ahead of Thai Airways, Emirates and Air New Zealand with a monthly satisfaction score of 90 per cent.

Qantas & Emirates join forces Qantas and Emirates have announced a 10-year commercial agreement that will mean Qantas flights to Europe will stopover in Dubai, instead of Singapore, from April 2013. The airlines’ partnership will now provide travellers with one-stop flights from more than 70 cities in Europe, North Africa and the Middle East to Australia. www.qantas.com.au www.emirates.com.au

FLIGHT CHECK • Hawaiian Airlines has announced the introduction of 18 additional flights commencing March 2013 between Brisbane and Honolulu.

• Air Pacific will officially become Fiji Airways in March 2013 with a new-look, new aircraft, new interior design and greater comfort.

• AirAsia has banned young children from sitting in the first seven rows of its economy-class section to create a “quiet zone” making the airline the latest to ban babies from parts of its planes.

• Philippine Airlines has increased its non-stop flights to Manila from five to seven per week – four from Sydney and three from Melbourne.

• A partnership between Air France/KLM and Jetstar means that travellers can now fly from the Gold Coast direct to Europe via Japan daily.

• China Southern Airlines has announced its first direct services from Guangzhou to Cairns from December plus increased flights to Brisbane during the summer holiday peak.

ONLINE Looking for even more great holiday, leisure and entertainment ideas for your family? Head to www. outandaboutwithkids.com.au for inspiring stories, great deals and fabulous competitions.

WIN

GET ALL THE LATEST FAMILY HOLIDAY, LEISURE AND ENTERTAINMENT NEWS DELIVERED BY EMAIL.

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter before Feb 28th 2013 and you’ll go into the draw to

win one of two Sony LittleBigPlanet™ PlayStation®Vita prizes.

Each prize will include a Playstation Vita Console and LittleBigPlanet Game valued at over $400.

Your kids can Join Sackboy™ in a whole new adventure on PS Vita to save LittleBigPlanet and return Carnivalia to a place of fun and laughter. Sackboy™ must discover the truth behind The Puppeteer’s actions and reunite him with his long lost puppet friends. Interact with the LittleBigPlanet in more ways than ever before using all of the intuitive PS Vita system controls to create and play your own games.

Want to join our expanding online community?

• Log into your Facebook account • Type Out & About With Kids into the search bar at the top of the screen and click the link • Click LIKE to get “Out & About” with our community of happy families.

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PACIFIC ISLANDS FEATURE

WELCOME TO

THE

PACIFIC A recipe for family fun!

WORDS: PAULA TOWERS

W

hat could be easier than packing for a family trip only a few short hours’ flying time from Australia, when the promise is a dream holiday on a Pacific island, plenty of warm sunshine, palm tree-fringed lagoons of crystal clear water, relaxation and happy kids?

The countries of the South Pacific – including popular Fiji, Vanuatu,Samoa and The Cook Islands – are renowned, not only for their sun-sational locations and fabulous year-round climates, but also for the absolutely welcoming friendliness of their peoples, a myriad of resort options and a firm focus on family and kid comfort, fun and entertainment.

In common, these are each tropical islands ringed by shimmering seas, but individually, each destination has its own unique heritage, customs and landscapes. From azure blue waters, white sandy beaches and swaying palms to jungle waterfalls, exotic gardens and rainforests to volcanic peaks and coral reefs, every vista is breathtaking.

In the Pacific, hotels and resorts often become the destination themselves with convenient, contemporary accommodation in garden and beach settings, a range of dining options and fabulous modern facilities and entertainment for all ages. Years of catering to the family holiday market means most establishments know exactly how to satisfy the varying needs and wants of mums, dads and kids.

The people of the Pacific love kids. No question. Kids’ activities and kids clubs here enthrall children of any age and keep them entertained throughout the holiday.

From informal ‘classes’ on local lore and traditions to shell, crab and marine life spotting, painting, cooking and fun games, a Pacific holiday engages young ones with a combination of entertainment and education. An extra bonus - visits to local villages give holidaymakers a rare glimpse into traditional culture and provide an exotic backdrop for traditional storytelling, dancing and singing.

It’s also no surprise that cruises to the Pacific are also very popular holiday options for families, with shore excursions complementing the all-laid-on-onboard ethos of modern cruising. Families have the opportunity of enjoying multiple island attractions while living it up with activities and entertainment provided on their floating hotel. Taking a cruise is certainly a tranquil way of experiencing a Pacific island nation and waking to a new vista of pristine seas and soft beaches and an ever-changing daily itinerary of activities is exciting for all the family.

Whatever form your Pacific island holiday takes, you will be surrounded by lagoons or ocean beaches with the opportunity for a wide range of water activities. You’ll get a chance to engage in local culture, dancing and singing, see spectacular marine life, swim in beautifully-landscaped pools, be entertained, find relaxation, eat well, have happy kids and create amazing family memories.

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FLIGHT TIMES SYDNEY TO: Vanuatu Fiji Samoa Cook Islands

MELBOURNE TO: 3hrs 4hrs 5hrs 7hrs

Vanuatu Fiji Samoa Cook Islands

ADELAIDE TO:

PERTH TO:

Vanuatu Fiji Samoa Cook Islands

Vanuatu Fiji Samoa Cook Islands

4hrs 5hrs 7hrs 8hrs

SAMOA FIJI

4hrs 4hrs 6hrs 7hrs

BRISBANE TO: Vanuatu Fiji Samoa Cook Islands

3hrs 4hrs 5hrs 6hrs

DARWIN TO: 7hrs 8hrs 9hrs 10hrs

Vanuatu Fiji Samoa Cook Islands

5hrs 6hrs 8hrs 9hrs

COOK ISLANDS

TONGA A

VANUATU

FIJI

SAMOA

COOK ISLANDS SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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PACIFIC ISLANDS FEATURE

AT A

GLANCE

VANUATU

FIJI

SAMOA

COOK ISLANDS

CLIMATE

CLIMATE

CLIMATE

CLIMATE

CURRENCY

CURRENCY

The hottest months are November to March which overlaps with hurricane season – November to May – and the time of occasional heavy rains, between January and April. The dry season from April to October is ideal for family travel.

CURRENCY

The currency is the Vatu (VUV).

At the time of writing, AUD$1 buys you VUV92.74

VISA REQUIREMENTS

Visas aren’t required for Australians. A one-month visa is issued on arrival.

GETTING AROUND

The best, most convenient and cheapest way to get around is on the buses. Just hail one where you see it – there are no set routes or timetables. There are also many taxis available (it’s best to decide on the price upfront).

HEALTH & SAFETY

Urban tap water is safe but only drink bottled water in rural areas. Take precautions against mosquitoes as malaria and dengue fever occur. Carry your own first aid kit as you need to be careful of infected coral cuts.

TOP TIPS

It’s hard to go past the craft market on the sea front for interesting artefacts made by the outer island people. Visit a traditional village – it’s a great fun family outing and remember to bring small gifts for the local children. No tipping or bargaining as it’s against local tradition - a smiling thank you is sufficient.

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The climate is warm and tropical year round. February to March is hot and humid and late December to mid March is wet season, almost matching the hurricane season which is November to April. The best weather is from May to November.

CURRENCY

The currency is the Fijian Dollar (FJD). At the time of writing, AUD$1 buys you FJD$1.84

VISA REQUIREMENTS

Visas aren’t required for Australians. A one-month visitor’s permit is issued on arrival.

GETTING AROUND

There are extensive local bus services on the main islands of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu while on Denarau Island, the Bula Bus complete with a thatched roof does regular free drop-offs between the area’s hotels and port.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Tap water is safe to drink at the main towns and resorts. Many smaller islands rely on bore water which is not suitable for drinking. Insect repellent and long cotton sleeves are advised.

TOP TIPS

“Bula” is the traditional greeting that literally means ‘life’. The trick is to receive it and respond to it with joy! Fijians run to ‘Fiji Time’ - everything is done at a leisurely pace with no clockwatching. Once you slip into the rhythm you’ll be so relaxed you won’t want to slip back out!

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Samoa’s tropical climate has two seasons though the proximity to the equator means there’s only a slight variation in temperature – November to April is hot and rainy and cyclones may occur.

May to November is cool and dry making it a better time to travel.

The currency is the Tala (WST).

At the time of writing, AUD$1 buys you WS$2.39

VISA REQUIREMENTS

A free 60-day visa is issued on arrival provided you have a return or onward ticket and your passport is valid for at least six months at the time of entry.

GETTING AROUND

Public buses are an experience, brightly-coloured with blaring music but not reliable. There aren’t any bus stops so hail them by waving with your palm down.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Samoa is a very safe place.

Vaccinations aren’t required and the water is safe but bottled water is still recommended.

Protection from mosquitoes during the day is advised.

TOP TIPS

Get over the clock-watching and get used to the Samoan way of never being in much of a hurry – it’s good for the blood pressure!

Relax and let the family enjoy all that nature offers – warm azure lagoons, refreshing waterholes, great snorkelling, lush rainforests, gorgeous beaches, lava flows and waterfalls.

The climate is tropical, with the heaviest rainfall (mostly brief afternoon storms) and humidity from December to March.

April to December is the ‘cool’ and dry season, while June to August are the ‘coldest’ months (an average maximum of 26ºC).

The currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). At the time of writing, AUD$1 buys you NZD$1.27

VISA REQUIREMENTS

On arrival in Rarotonga Airport, a 31-day entry permit is stamped into passports. There is a departure tax of NZ$55 per person adult and $25 per child between two and 12.

GETTING AROUND

Car hire is available but a local license must be obtained. Taxis are available while regular bus services operate Monday to Saturday.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Mosquito repellent is needed, especially during the hot season. Be careful when swimming as coral cuts can be irritating and can turn into tropical ulcers if the wound is not clean. It is advisable to only drink bottled water.

TOP TIPS

Beachwear should not be worn in town as Cook Islanders are religious and frown upon inappropriate dress. The best time to visit the local markets are on Saturday mornings for the best variety and bargains.

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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

R E S O R T :

A I T U T A K I

L A G O O N

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© Shutterstock.com

anuatu’s capital, Port Vila, is set on the beautiful deep harbour of the main island of Efate, the most populated of Vanuatu’s islands. But this archipelago of more than 80 islands, halfway between Australia and Hawaii, is an unspoiled tropical paradise.

From Port Vila, tours can be organised and public transport, via the many taxis operating 24 hours a day and a minibus service that covers the three main routes from sunrise to sunset, offers the best option for getting around.

It’s hard 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.

For those with more adventurous and older kids, a trip to one of the outer islands can be very exciting.

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.

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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 volcanoes. Almost as exciting as arriving at the destination is the journey there over the eerie Moon-like landscape.

This landscape contrasts to the main part of Tanna which features vegetation more like the other islands of Vanuatu - where plants run riot and provide a cooling cover of exotic emerald-green jungle. These areas are home to authentic villages and tribes and the chiefs give fascinating tours and are happy to talk about their traditions and culture including describing traditional medicines, hunting and intriguing rites.

Back at Port Vila, near the Food Market on the seafront is the Craft Market which offers a great selection of handicrafts including those made by the outer island people.

Blessed with a variety of natural beauty as well as warm friendly people – no wonder that, in recent times, Vanuatu was voted the world’s happiest place!

FAMILY FAVOURITES • Hear nature’s tummy rumble and view her impressive fireworks display at active Mount Yasur volcano on Tanna Island.

• Outside Port Vila, The Secret Garden features acres of tropical botanical gardens where children can learn about local customs and culture.

• Older kids can ‘ashboard’ Mount Yasur’s steep slopes on a volcanic surf tour.

• Get a bird’s eye view of lush rainforest, tropical lagoons and fiery volcanoes by seaplane.

• Just off Hideaway Island near Port Vila is the world’s first underwater post office where kids can don a mask and snorkel to post a waterproof postcard.

• Step back in time with a tour to the world heritage site of Chief Roi Mata’s Domain.

• This experience is matched on land at the bright blue Volcano Post Box located on the slopes of Mount Yasur.

• For a refreshing swim in clear blue waterfalls and natural pools, fringed by lush rainforest, it’s hard to beat the Mele Cascades.

• The Port Vila local markets are the best spot for fresh fruit and vegetables and delicious, home-made local meals.

• l’Hippocampas offers fun-filled day horse camps for kids with riding lessons, pony games, trail rides and swimming with horses.

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iji is famous for its warmth but it’s not only the balmy climate that lures holidaying families. The Fijian people are often called ‘the friendliest people on Earth’ and from your first encounter to your first goodbye you know the accolade is justified. Kids and adults alike are embraced by the Fijians and that’s just one of the many reasons families return to this Pacific island paradise year after year.

An archipelago comprising over 300 islands, Fiji is the ‘hub’ of the South Pacific and English is the main language spoken.

Rainforest, waterfalls, reefs and beaches are showcased on the main island of Viti Levu where the two major airports are located - one in the capital of Suva and the other in Nadi on the West Coast (where most flights from Australia arrive).

Nadi and nearby Denarau are where the largest concentration of accommodation can be found but Pacific Harbour and the Coral Coast areas also offer great family resorts.

Less than an hour’s flight from Nadi are the islands of Vanua Levu, location of the picturesque village of Savusavu and some well-known resorts with great kids’ amenities plus Taveuni, known as the “Garden Island” and renowned for ecotourism, spectacular waterfalls and an abundance of exotic, colourful flowers.

FAMILY FAVOURITES • The Garden of the Sleeping Giant is just north of Nadi near Sigatoka and showcases over 2000 types of orchids, a jungle walk and lovely lily ponds.

• Take an island cruise. Blue Lagoon Cruises offer special mealtimes, cots and highchairs plus kid-friendly activities during school holidays.

• Sabeto Mud Baths and Hot Springs are located just past the gardens. Containing muddy pools of varying degrees adults and kids will enjoy mucking about in the mud.

• Sigatoka River Safari will take you to authentic Fijian villages where families are given traditional sevu-sevu (welcome ceremonies).

• Zip Fiji is a fun way of soaring through the jungle canopy. Close to Pacific Harbour, children from as young as five can take a ride on the zip line.

• Hindu Holi – the Festival of Colours, which takes place over February and March, involves people squirting each other with coloured water.

• Enjoy a traditional Fijian night. Most include a lovo (food cooked in an underground oven) accompanied by a meke (songs and dancing).

• Also at Sigatoka, explore the sand dunes for an exciting and unusual ride of sand-boarding!

• Meet Fijian students at a traditional village school – a real eye-opener for the kids.

• Island Hop – if you’re staying on Viti Levu in Nadi or Denarau make sure you book a South Seas Cruises day trip to one of the nearby islands in the Mamunucas.

© Shutterstock.com

Fiji’s beautiful outer islands can be reached from Nadi by boat or seaplane. Popular choices are the Yasawa Islands and the Mamanuca Islands. Both offer a number of resort islands with fun water activities. For kids with a spirit of adventure, these outer islands offer families a memorable Fiji experience, featuring picture postcard lagoons, bays and reefs and white sandy beaches.

Taking a cruise around outer islands as well as the mainland is a relaxing way to the watch the exotic changing scenery without worries about transporting the littlies and is a great family option. Comfortable amenities and scrumptious meals are other attractive features for families.

Fijian resorts range from budget to luxurious. Some include bures based on traditional thatched roof houses which are a hit with the kids and provide an authentic atmosphere.

Many resorts offer kids clubs, and a great range of activities including water sports and adventure trips.

Most resorts also offer children’s meals, accommodation discounts and playgrounds. Popular all-inclusive packages are great value and these kid-friendly options see many holiday-makers becoming return visitors to these beautiful islands.

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amoa was given the stamp of approval as a great family destination by famous Scottish writer Robert Louis Stevenson who brought his own family to live here. Halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii and known as the heart of Polynesia, Samoa retains much of its ancient culture - referred to as “fa’a Samoa” (the Samoan Way,), centred around the family unit in which children hold a special place.

R.L Stevenson’s home and tomb are located at Mount Vaea on Upolu, the most populated of Samoa’s two main islands. The capital Apia and Faleolo International Airport are located here while nearby Savaii, the largest island of the Samoan archipelago, showcases pristine, unspoiled nature and boasts lush rainforests, which are home to many exotic birds.

Savaii also features secluded beaches and lovely coastal resorts which offer guests great snorkelling.

There are a number of resorts concentrated in the Manase /Fagamalo areas with accommodation including a thatched hut (fale) right on the beach or an overwater fale. Savaii’s centre is Mount Silisili, surrounded by

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rainforest, often covered in cloud, standing as Samoa’s highest point. If you can’t show the kids, at least be sure to tell them about it – it’s one geography lesson where they’re sure to remember the name!

Also worth a trip is the Saleaula Lava Fields. Created by volcanic activity between 1905 and 1911, the lava landscape features interesting textures and makes for a fun family time exploring. If the children are hungry, take them to the market at Salelologa Township, which has a food court offering local and western favourites as well as fresh exotic fruit and vegetables and local handicrafts. For souvenirs back on Upolu it’s also worth visiting the flea markets in the centre of town.

When travelling between the two islands ensure you take the larger ferry which is not only more comfortable but also more scenic - showcasing views of the little islands of Manono and Apolima. For a small place, Samoa offers a big choice in safe and fun family activities.

FAMILY FAVOURITES • Swimming and snorkelling with the turtles at the wetlands in the village of Satoalepai is a must.

• Witness traditional Samoa fire dancing - performed at the major hotels, of which Aggie Grey’s is the most well-known.

• Enjoy a traditional feast of fish, pork and root vegetables (yams, sweet potato or taro flavoured with coconut cream) are cooked in an “umu” (underground oven).

• At Uafato and the surrounding villages are the best wood carvers in Samoa. The kids will be fascinated watching wood carvers in action.

• Piula Cave Pool in the grounds of the Methodist Theological College is an oval-shaped natural pool filled with cool spring water flowing from a cave beneath the church.

• Papaseea smooth rocks are fun to slide down - through the waterfall into a deep, freshwater pool.

• Visit the author of Treasure Island, Robert Louis Stevenson’s, Samoan home which has been transformed into a fascinating museum.

• Visit beautiful Afa A’au Waterfall. It’s an easy drive up to the falls and the clean swimming hole at the bottom of them – a perfect spot for the whole family to take a refreshing swim.

• View the spectacular Alofa’aga blowholes in the village of Taga. Reputedly the second-most powerful in the world. But be careful as the area isn’t fenced.

Samoa Tourism © Kirklandphotos.com All rights reserved

• The Falealupo Rainforest Reserve offers a unique rainforest canopy walk with spectacular views from the suspension bridge which spans a 30-metre gap between two giant banyan trees.

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COOK

ISLANDS

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itting at the centre of the Polynesian triangle, with Tahiti and French Polynesia to the East, the Cook Islands are 15 stunning islands spread over two million square kilometres. The islands are named in honour of British explorer Captain James Cook and include the main island of Rarotonga, home to the capital, Avarua.

Warm and sunny year round, the summer rainy season begins in December and lasts until April. Although the late afternoon downpours only last a short time during this season, the humidity is high and accompanied by many mosquitoes.

With the Pacific holiday must-have features of lush rainforest, volcanic peaks and coconut trees in abundance, the island of Rarotonga boasts an amazing clear blue lagoon encircled by a protective coral reef - a marine sanctuary ideal for fish feeding, snorkelling off the beach, and safe, all-tide swimming. The other major islands are Aitutaki which also showcases spectacular azure lagoons, and popular Atiu, with pristine beaches and

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a coral reef. Both islands are easily accessible by regular air services.

Cook Islanders are culturally and linguistically similar to Tahitians and New Zealand Maori and are referred to as Cook Island Maori. They warmly welcome visitors with the greeting “Kia Orana” which means “Greetings - may you live on”.

An open, friendly people their Polynesian culture is very family-oriented and they dote over children - helping to make family holidays that much easier! Especially as they help keep children entertained at the great kids clubs with enjoyable local activities including lessons on the local culture and nature studies, like identifying the cheeky gecko known here as the moko.

There are no poisonous insects, snakes or wild animals in the Cook Islands so exploring and hiking are safe, as well as enjoyable, activities for the whole family.

Blessed by nature’s gifts, it’s no wonder “the Cooks” is a popular escape for a family holiday.

FAMILY FAVOURITES • Rarotonga’s Whale and Wildlife Centre is a tardis of whaling and maritime history with loads of hands on fun for the kids.

• Visit the Avarua Cook Island Christian Church (CICC), built from coral and lime. Try to visit on a Sunday, the kids will be enchanted by the sound of the Imene tuki (hymn of grunts).

• Raratonga’s Punanga Nui Markets - held on Saturdays – are a great place to check out and buy fresh local fruits and to meet and mingle with the locals.

• Get under the water without getting wet in Avatiu Harbour by taking a trip on the Raro Reef Sub – to see fish, shipwrecks and maybe even a whale, if you’re lucky!

• Board a glass-bottom boat on Muri Lagoon for a fun morning of music, culture, food and snorkelling.

• Getting amongst the marine life is really hard to beat – and snorkelling in the beautiful waters of a lagoon is one of the top attractions in the Cooks.

• Take a trip through the Aitutaki countryside on a four-wheel drive tour for great views and visits to ancient sacred places – “maraes”.

• Circumnavigate the lush island of Rarotonga – just 32 km in circumference – with a self drive MP3 tour from Mai Tours.

• On Tuesday afternoons head to the National Auditorium where lessons in the hip-shaking Cook Islands hula are offered to visitors.

• The whole family will enjoy learning how to prepare and cook food in a traditional earth oven or umu.

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PACIFIC ISLANDS FEATURE SAMOA

VANUATU

AGGIE GREYS HOTEL & RESORT Samoa’s premier family resort, Aggie Grey’s Lagoon Beach Resort & Spa is a perfect choice for your next holiday.

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ituated on a piece of paradise where James Mitchener began writing Tales of the South Pacific the resort, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, is nestled in 90 hectares of gardens fronting the best white sands in Polynesia. The property offers 140 air-conditioned Deluxe Ocean View rooms, all with sweeping vistas of the shimmering Pacific and across to the islands of Savaii, Manono and Apolima.

And there’s a multitude of culinary experiences on site from fine dining and lavish buffets.

every age including daily cultural activities.

ACTIVITIES

AGGIE GREY’S LAGOON BEACH RESORT &SPA Phone: +685 45611 Email: reservations@ aggiegreysresort.com Web: www.aggiegreys.com

For the Kids there’s Dolphins Kids Club (free of charge), open daily from 9am – 5pm and catering for kids 3-12 years old but the resort hosts a great range of activities for

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FACILITIES There is an 18-hole golf course Manaia Polynesian Day Spa, tennis courts plus Aqua Samoa Water Sports and Diving Centre has the most extensive choice of water activities in Samoa.

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POPPYS ON THE LAGOON RESORT, PORT VILA Poppys on the Lagoon Resort is a family friendly haven on the shores of Erakor Lagoon.

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casual and friendly resort suitable for all ages, Poppys on the Lagoon is set within two acres of lush garden with three swimming pools and a choice of accommodation to suit families. With a reputation for being meticulously maintained, friendly and welcoming Poppys staff take pride in looking after their guests every need. The resort also manages Friendly Bungalows on the island of Tanna, home of Yasur Volcano.

Discounted rates are available for two resort packages.

a weekly Island Night with string band and BBQ. Poppys offers babysitting and nanny services.

FACILITIES All bungalows, suites and villas are fully self-contained with daily maid service. There is a café, licensed bar and new open-air restaurant on site plus DVD library, book exchange, BBQ area and a mini day spa.

ACTIVITIES Complimentary non-motorised water sports, DVD players, games and a mini day spa add to the resort personalised feel. There is

POPPYS RESERVATIONS Phone: 678 23425 Email: info@poppys.com.vu Web: www.poppys.com.vu

VANUATU

FIJI

IRIRIKI ISLAND RESORT IRIRIKI APARTMENTS

SHANGRI-LA’S FIJIAN RESORT AND SPA

For a taste of island paradise just minutes from Port Vila, this resort is perfection for families.

A tropical gem, Shangri-La’s Fijian Resort and Spa offers families an idyllic island escape.

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ririki Island Resort boasts 69 acres of tropical gardens that will turn any hide and seek game into a lifelong memory. With Vanuatu being voted “happiest place on earth” two years running, it’s no wonder Iririki is a haven of safety. There is a purpose-built family area with a four-level cascading pool, games room, tennis courts, and playground and child-minding services. Not forgetting the adults, there’s also a swim-up pool bar and spa. Let them spoil you!

entertainment.

FACILITIES

All apartments have a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities and, for added luxury, a spa bath on your very own private balcony. The resort also boasts a spa retreat and a selection of dining options.

ACTIVITIES Iririki offers plenty of onshore and offshore activities, a complimentary kids club open 7 days for children 3-12 years offering a host of activities plus we have live weekly

IRIRIKI ISLAND RESORT Port Vila, Vanuatu Phone: 03 9326 6579 Email: info@iririki.com Web: www.iririki.com

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ocated on private Yanuca Island, and connected to the mainland by a causeway bridge, Shangri-La’s Fijian Resort and Spa is surrounded by pristine white beaches, swaying palm trees and turquoise lagoons. The rooms are modern, with earthy colours and soft lighting that create a serene South Pacific ambience, complemented by the lovely people, who are among the friendliest in the world.

FACILITIES Guests will find an array of facilities that include children’s play areas, a wide range of dining and recreation options, marine conservation centre and the luxurious CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La.

ACTIVITIES

SHANGRI-LA’S FIJIAN RESORT AND SPA

The resort offers a variety of onshore and offshore activities for the whole family, plus the supervised Little Chief’s Club, children’s pool and play areas and inviting deepwater lagoon.

Yanuca Island, Fiji Phone: +67 9 652 0155 Fax: +67 9 650 0402 Email: fij@shangri-la.com Web: www.shangri-la.com/ fijianresort

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Falling in love with

FIJI THREE GENERATIONS HEAD TO FIJI FOR A FUN-FILLED, SUN-KISSED ADVENTURE. WORDS: CHRISTINE KANE. IMAGES: SHARYN BURGESS

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e’ve been talking about it for years and now it’s about to happen - our first multigenerational family holiday. For sister-in-law Sharyn and children Matthew, 17, and Sarah, 14, it’s their first time in Fiji and for Nan, June, it’s her first trip overseas. That’s a swag of firsts! As regular visitors to Fiji, Paul and I are hoping that the family will love the place and the people as much as we do. We’re crossing fingers for great weather, fun times and wonderful memories.

So far, so very good We’re still in Nadi airport when I anxiously check out the family’s individual reactions to this new place - Fiji. It’s big grins and wide eyes all around and not long before I hear our little group returning regular and hearty “Bula”s to the welcoming airport staff. So far, so good!

We take the 10-minute cab ride to Nadi Town for a spot of sightseeing and shopping.

Matt is very quiet next to me. “Are you ok?” I ask. “I just can’t believe Fiji!” he replied softly.

“I already love it so much more than I thought I would!” he adds, eyes glued to the new world outside the taxi window, as we pass through local villages.

At the Fijian supermarket we grab snacks and soft drinks. There’s time for a quick perusal of other shops including tourist favourite, Jack’s of Fiji, where we’ll return to stock up on clothes and souvenirs after our Fiji island break. Our lovely cabbie, Neil, provides running commentary as we drive 10 minutes in the other direction to Port Denarau. At Cardo’s Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar we sit by the water at the marina, and enjoy cold drinks, delicious lunch and free wi-fi! The kids are already tapping away on their phones, telling their friends back home about amazing Fiji.

Everyone splits up to explore the great retail outlets at the port. Nan tries on a lime green, hibiscus-bedecked sundress that has caught her eye. It’s a sale!

The Malolo Cat boat transfer to our destination only takes 40 minutes and the afternoon set-sail transitions to a beautiful twilight cruise, arriving at our destination, Plantation Island Resort, just as night falls.

There’s a traditional Fijian welcome for the new guests as fairy lights twinkle around the resort and although all won’t be revealed until daylight, I check again on our travelling companions – even wider-eyes and excited Christmas-morning faces! So far, so very good!

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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.

Pa r e n t s d r e a m h o l i d a y w i t h t h e k i d s Remember pre children exclusive holidays?

The goods news is that there is a special place that offers you a romantic, restful, rejuvenating experience with fine dining whilst enjoying a family holiday.

The resort views children as the future caretakers of the earth & its oceans and has created fun educational programs for age groups 0-5 yrs & 6-12 yrs. Each child under 6 has an exclusive nanny 8am-9pm & children 6-12 yrs have a Fijian buddy on 1-5 ratio. Enjoy couples time out or fun times with your family.

Call Jean - Michel Cousteau Resort now to enquire about our inclusive family packages.

Pay for 4 nights or more & receive

2 free nights plus bonus massage & diving

Best family resort in Fiji 2012 as voted by readers of Luxury Travel Magazine

*conditions apply.

13 0 0 3 0 6171 - 0 3 9 815 0 37 9 - s a l e s @ f i j i r e s o r t . c o m - w w w.f i j i r e s o r t . c o m

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21/11/12 8:49 AM

FIJI

Dining delights We check out our ‘cool’ bures and freshen up, deciding we’ll sample the fare at Black Coral Restaurant for dinner. Plantation Island Resort offers several dining options including buffet and the a la carte Ananda’s Restaurant (we enjoy a great dinner here on our last night).

Babysitting is available for only FJD $2.50 an hour so mums and dads can even dine a deux.

A recent addition to the resort, (along with the new Boat Shed recreation area, upgraded convention centre and soft refurb on all bures) Black Coral has an extensive menu that caters for all appetite sizes and tastes and we place a mouth-watering order of fish and chips, chicken schnitzels, pasta and toasted sandwiches.

Matt decides his first night in Fiji deserves to be celebrated with a mocktail and opts for a blazing red, fruity non-alcoholic Red Riding Hood, which he declares to be delicious.

Fiji turns on her very best Our first morning greets us with glorious sunshine, a cloudless expanse of brilliant blue sky and a balmy 28 degrees. Once again Fiji does not disappoint and has turned on her very best for our holiday!

Only two of us make it to the buffet breakfast and after a rundown of the tantalisingly tasty food the sleepyheads missed it’s unanimous

that we’ll all be first in line tomorrow morning to try everything.

Wooden sun beds are scattered along the grassy beachfront, hammocks strung between majestic coconut palms. There’s no rush-andgrab here, there are plenty of both for everyone.

Families are paddling at the water’s edge, kids are splashing and cavorting and we’re cozziedup and ready for a whole day by the water. The tranquil lagoon is fringed with palm trees and shimmers in all shades of blue. It’s irresistibly warm. This is paradise.

Beach towels are provided, so we sign-out our six for the day. Matt dons snorkel gear and heads off to explore the coral gardens, abundant with vividly-coloured marine life. Sarah takes a kayak and leisurely paddles across the clear blue while munching on a chunk of fresh pineapple she says is ‘the best I’ve ever tasted!’

Previous page: Plantation island, Fiji © YUVIS studio, Shutterstock.com

From left: Sarah in the lagoon.

Plantation Island bure room.

A feast of tropical treats.

Something for all ages Nan has her swimsuit on for the first time in years and wears a smile so broad it’s infectious.

The warm and oh-so-friendly Fijian people LOVE Nan and, already, the feeling is mutual!

She’s brought the snacks and cold drinks to our chosen spot and settles herself into watching the kids, supplying sustenance to all of us when requested and venturing into the water, whenever she feels like it, a mere ten steps or so away.

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Kids Stay, Play and Eat Free!

Special Offer!! Stay 7 nights and only pay for 5!! 2 kids under 12 years stay, play and eat for FREE!! For travel until 31 March 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

Complimentary

Kids Club open from 10am–10pm

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

In their own words

“What an adventure and one I will always remember. The people are so friendly – never without a smile and warm greeting. Everything about Fiji is excellent.” June – ‘Nan’ “Fiji feels like home away from home. It fills you with so much love and warmth it’s impossible not to fall in love with its people. Vinaka Fiji – we love you!” Sharyn – ‘Mum’ “Perfect place to relax and unwind - beautiful sunsets and beautiful people. I’ll definitely be back soon.”

Matt, 17 “Fiji was an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of activities and the people are some of the friendliest I’ve ever met. The resort was incredible.” Sarah, 14

Sharyn has brought multiple cameras.

She’s compelled to capture the essence of Fiji; the yachts bobbing on moorings at the marina across from our resort, the spectacular sunrises and sunsets and Nan, always smiling. The kids scrawl “We love Fiji” in the sand and adorn their message with shells. Mum moves in with the big camera for a stunning close-up.

The fully supervised kids club is buzzing with T-shirt painting. With an indoor and outdoor playground there’s plenty to keep kids of all ages occupied and having fun here. Others settle into comfy seats in the cute movie theatre, complete with walls colourfully emblazoned with an underwater Nemo-esque scene. From the beautifully landscaped children’s pool area come constant squeals and shrieks of delight.

The resort’s supermarket has everything from fresh bread to nappies, pharmacy items and vegemite tubes – at mainland prices. The Mini Mart provides milkshakes, ice-creams and ice-blocks, lollies and chocolates and chips plus healthier alternatives!

There’s also Cocohut serving fresh fruit smoothies, cappuccinos and lattes. For a family on holiday on a Pacific island these food conveniences get a huge tick. Kids aren’t always hungry at set meal times and the all-day availability of well-priced food

favourites keeps kids happy and makes life easy for mum and dad. (There’s also a convenient token-operated laundry with washing machines and dryers.)

Sarah gets hair braids, Mum and Nan have relaxing facials and Sarah and Matt experience their first-ever half-hour kids massage!

Above Sarah, Christine, Sharyn, Paul, Matt & June at Plantation Island Resort.

Sun-kissed and blissed out

FAST FACTS

It’s only day one and already everyone is relaxed, happy and sun-kissed. We sit on the bure porch eating tropical fruit and sipping fresh coconut juice through a straw, thanks to the ‘cracking’ efforts of a friendly (and talented!) Fijian groundsman, keen for us to try the local fare. The sunset is out-of-thisworld and provides the perfect Fiji holiday backdrop for a family photo. We enjoy a beautiful Mongolian barbecue buffet for dinner, the kids are invited to join the band for dancing and singing and traditional dancers and fire twirlers entertain guests young and old after dinner.

The sensational Fiji weather holds for us throughout our stay. We remind ourselves, out loud, several times a day - ‘How lucky are we?’

“Fiji is awesome!” becomes the daily refrain on this trip. Successful family holiday? … tick … may there be many more!

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

MONEY The currency is the Fijian Dollar (FJD). At the time of writing, AUD $1 buys you FJD $1.82.

WHERE TO STAY Where to Stay Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort www.fiji resort.com Malolo Island Resort www.maloloisland.com The Naviti Resort Viti Levu www.warwicknaviti.com Plantation Island Resort www.plantationisland.com MORE INFORMATION Fiji Tourism www.fijime.com

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Aloha

Hawai’i Hawaii Hawai IN SEARCH OF A MAGICAL GETAWAY THE DADDO CLAN FINDS A WORLD OF WARMTH IN WAIKIKI, AND FALLS IN LOVE WITH HAWAII. WORDS: ALI AND CAMERON DADDO

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A

fter an incredibly busy month of American summer school holidays and prepping to rent out our house we had the tantalising reward of a Hawaiian holiday on the island of Oahu.

There is something so magical about Hawai’i. And it is said that Waikiki, on the island of Oahu, was a place of healing for the Hawaiian royal family many years ago. Here they would swim in the ocean with a “lei” of seaweed, then toss the lei back into the ocean taking with it any illnesses that the bearer had.

Divine Digs The Hilton group’s Embassy Suites, located a short block from the famous Waikiki beach, offers the best deal in town. Here we are greeted with pineapple mint water and the genuine friendliness that Hawaiians naturally have. The five of us fit very well into our two-bedroom suite. Along with the room, the hotel serves a free buffet breakfast (excellent for growing lads and you have to try the omelette bar) and from 5.30-7.30pm is ‘manager’s drinks’. Free alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and nibbles beside the pool. It’s a lovely thing to kick back with a mai tai, feet in the pool listening to live music and watching the kids swim themselves into a stupor.

After a few nights at the Embassy Suites we head to its sister hotel The Outrigger, just across the way for a couple of nights. This classic Waikiki beachfront hotel offers all sorts of fun, free activities for kids and adults including hula lessons, lei making and art classes.

These activities change constantly, so be sure to ask about their weekly offerings. Having unloaded our gear, we waste no time hitting the beach. As I enter the warm waters of Waikiki I can feel that touch of magic that royalty came for, working on me.

Action stations If you stayed a month you could easily fill your days with activities.

There are submarine rides, catamaran cruises that leave the beach for hourly or all-day cruises, whale and dolphin viewing boat rides and parasailing just to get started.

We choose to rent surfboards, stand up paddle boards (SUPs), and aqua bikes that are not only good for the leg muscles, but a great way to ride around the beach. But watch out for turtles – they’re all around. In fact, we renamed our six-year-old daughter Bodhi “Turtle” as she spent more time under the water than on top.

© Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson

Heading north

One Oahu must is to rent a car and cruise the easy 45-minute drive from Honolulu to the North Shore. It’s easy to find, especially if you opt for the navigation in the rental car.

The North Shore is remarkably different to Waikiki. The high-rise buildings are replaced by pineapple plantations, horse paddocks, gorgeous homes and a few grocery stores. The beaches - Pipeline, the picturesque natural big wave arena of Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach - are WOW! Folks who surf know it as a Mecca during the USA’s winter months.

We stop and swim at Sunset, where we spot a huge green sea turtle languishing in the shallows. Be sure to bring snorkelling gear as the water is crystal clear with underwater caves and teeming with big colourful fish to check out. This is something that can only be done in the calmer summer months, otherwise bring your surfboards and courage… or at least a camera to catch the action.

Oahu on a plate Travelling a few miles further north and hungry for lunch, we land in Kahuku. We pass a fantastic outdoor market, with funky stalls filled with handmade clothing, uniquely carved wood and a gaggle of food trucks. Go straight to Giovanni’s Shrimp Shack , DO NOT PASS GO! Yes, it looks like an abandoned campervan covered in

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graffiti but looks are deceiving! Inside there’s a heart beating with cooks who are rocking out to Hawaiian reggae music and making dishes with the freshest shrimp (prawns) that will knock your tastebuds for six.

With two plates of shrimp and rice in hand, we grab some fresh roasted corn-on-the-cob from another vendor and top the meal off perfectly with local fruit smoothies from another. We inhale the lot under a spectacular frangipani tree in full bloom. With full tummies, everyone is content for the drive back to Waikiki.

The main drag of Waikiki is Kalakaua Street and is teaming with restaurants, all the great American apparel stores, and the ol’ faithful International Market Place, with several fun “find a pearl” stands.

Our favourite eatery to take the kids is The Benihana, a Japanese teppanyaki restaurant, where a personal chef performs and cooks with lightening fast knife skills right in front of us, keeping the kids (and Cam) entertained!

Every Friday night, the Hilton Waikiki sparks brilliant fireworks out front of their rainbow tower on the beach, and a luau (traditional Hawaiian party or feast) is still the best way to experience the local culture. You simply have to try the poi with barbecue pork, not only is it a Hawaiian staple but it’s good for your hula muscles.

Local lore If you are looking for a little greenery, the hiking trails from Diamond Head take you through the lush natural fauna of the island. Once at the

top you can look out to sea and marvel at the different colours in the ocean. In the winter months you can even see the whales making their annual migrations.

The Hawaiian people love their island. Stop and chat to a local, ask about any local fun spots they know of. We find they are always full of ideas and great stories of Hawaii. While eating at the fantastic Roy’s Restaurant one night, the manager Diva happily chats to us for half an hour about Iolani Palace - the official residence of King Kala-kaua and Queen Lili’uokalani, who were the last in a long line of ruling Hawaiian royalty. Established in 1842, this place is a marvel of opulence, innovation, and political intrigue. Still decorated with the original furniture, there’s a great tour to hear all the great stories of the last king and queen of Hawaii.

Diva also suggests the east side of the island for more great hiking in the Kailua area, with excellent beaches at Lanikai, which is off the beaten path. The tropical onshore trade winds make for a perfect place to learn to windsurf, kite sail and other wind sports. Apparently it’s easy - when you fall off the wind just blows you ashore!

Waikiki is ALIVE and as ever, a fantastic place to holiday. The water and air temperature are forever warm, reflecting the hearts of the Hawaiians. It truly offers something for everyone in your family.

In the words of Duke Kahanamoku, father of surfing: “In Hawai’i, we greet friends, loved ones and strangers with aloha, which means love”.

Above: Hawaii 5! Cameron, Lotus, River, Bodhi & Ali Daddo Images: Lotus Daddo

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 MONEY The currency is the US dollar. At the time of writing, AU$1buys you US$1.04 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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AMERICA

Texas IS TOPS

Out & about in Texas Local ranchers suggest the state’s cattle population is estimated to be near 16 million and boasts the nation’s largest herd of whitetail deer. This translates as a heck of a lot of open country to ride horses, do chuck-wagon outings and rope-up a fair few steers on a dude ranch or adventure venue.

Being a stickler for travel trivia, our son, Dylan Thomas points out some bits of Texas trivia (unearthed on his laptop): “Dad! Did you know that the world’s first

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rodeo was held in Pecos, Texas on July 4, 1883? Or that the King Ranch in Texas is bigger than the entire state of Rhode Island and then some? (Oh yeah, and Dad can I please have an advance on my allowance to buy some rattlesnake-skin cowboy boots and an authentic Texan saddle for show and tell?)” My son does not own a horse, and often has difficulty even staying on one... like his father! And then there’s, “Dad, ‘Did you know that the first word spoken from the moon on July 20, 1969 was “Houston”? (Ok dad, If I can’t get the boots or a big-horned saddle, what about an Armadillo-skin wallet and key-ring. Please?”)

Austin, Texas is considered the live music capital of the world, and you’ll have at least a dozen options for rocking in the mosh-pit each and every week.

Roadrippin’ Self-drive holidays, recreational vehicle (RV) family trips and do-ityourselves options for visiting Texas are almost endless.

Rentals are great value, gasoline or ‘petrol’ idles at about 50 per cent less than any pump in Australia, roadways are sweetly signposted and if you do wind up on the wrong road, just say “G-day mate” to a local and you’re in! Honestly, when our kids visit the USA, they always make new friends, and come home toting new entries in the address book of other youths whom they want to re-visit when they don’t have their parents tagging along.

Our son, Cody William, just having nailed his licence wanted to drive our

© TommyBrison, Shutterstock.com

I

t should come as no surprise, that the word Texas comes from the native Hasinai Indian tribe’s word Tejas (sorry for my pronunciation, I’m a New Yorker!) which means friends or allies. And when you open your mouth from another place when visiting Texas, you’re an instant celebrity. Trust me, they love tourists in Texas.

Texas is nicknamed the Lone Star State to signify Texas as a former independent republic and as a reminder of the state’s struggle for independence from Mexico. The “Lone Star” can be found on the Texas state flag and on the Texas state seal today.

Get This: When you tote the kids to Texas, be sure you set aside ample time to see a good bit of it. The state is huge, boasting over 692,405 square kilometres of land mass, or... to keep Texas in focus, just under 7.5 per cent of the American nation’s total area. The US of A is about the same size as Australia.

We’re talking a heck of a lot of hectares... But this also means there’s a lot on offer for me and my offspring.

© BrianWancho, Shutterstock.com

TRAVELLING TO TEXAS ON MORE THAN 100 OCCASIONS, MARK SHEEHAN JUST LOVES TOTING TODDLERS AND TEENS INTO THE LONE STAR STATE. WORDS: MARK WILLIAM SHEEHAN

massive Lincoln Towne Car on the Old San Antonio Road, which in earlier times had no road signs whatsoever when wagons passed over it and is historically known as the El Camino Real, or King’s Highway.

Cody, having done his homework enlightened us all to the fact that it is the

oldest highway in the United States, first being blazed by buckaroos in 1691.

Prepare to enjoy When planning your trip to Texas with tots or teens, engage the entire family in the planning process, long before you put the key in the front door, and determine who’s going to walk the puppy while you’re away.

Move your mouse around and preexplore all the wonderful family-oriented options available beforehand. This makes your family holiday to Texas an experience that is shared by everyone, long before you leave.

And more importantly, you can pre-book all the ‘must dos’ and avoid disappointments.

Websites abound with good “Lone Star State” information, and once you knowbefore-you-go, you can triumphantly trot into your local travel agent and simply ‘book it’.

Mark William Sheehan has been writing tour guides for professional tour directors for over 35 years and is considered a ‘specialist’ on most things American. His best-selling Know Before You Go Guide to the USA – America Over Easy! is available at all good bookstores across Australia.

Mark welcomes feedback from readers: send him a postcard! www.arethoseyourunderpants.com

FAST FACTS GETTING THERE Qantas now flies direct service to Dallas-Fort Worth Texas from Sydney.

United, Air New Zealand, Hawaiian Airlines and V Australia also boast daily services to Los Angeles with good connections to Texas.

MONEY The currency is the US dollar. At the time of writing, AU$1 buys you US $1.04 MORE INFORMATION www.traveltex.com

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© Shutterstock.com

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Beach bliss IN THAILAND CRAVING AN EXOTIC BEACH HOLIDAY IN THE LAND OF SMILES? TRAVEL BLOGGER AND OFFICIAL FRIEND OF THAILAND JULIE MILLER SHARES SOME OF HER FAVOURITE PATCHES OF SAND.

P

ut kids on a beach, and there’s a good chance they’ll be happy. Adults, on the other hand, sometimes require more than a bucket and sand. Throw in an incredible view, perhaps, maybe a palm tree for shade ... add a hammock, and - why not? - even a cocktail. Now you’re talking - parental bliss.

Little wonder Thailand’s beaches are such a lure for Australian families: there are enough dimensions to keep everyone happy, and a patch of exotic shoreline suitable for every taste. Here’s a glimpse of Thailand’s favourite beach destinations, from popular resorts to hidden coves…

Phuket The largest Thai island and also the most accessible for Australian travellers, Phuket has a beach to suit everyone. For those who like to be in the thick of the action, with shopping, restaurants and bars close at hand, Patong is a popular, if overcrowded choice, thick with Australian accents! Kata and Karon beaches are a little more sophisticated with hotels like Centara’s Grand Beach Resort, Karon Resort and Kata Resort offering excellent facilities for families.

The north-western beach of Mai Khao features some top-quality resort accommodation, such as the JW Marriott Resort and Anantara Phuket; here the sand is soft and white, protected as a turtle nesting site, with a natural backdrop of the Sirinat National Park. Nearby - and also close to the airport - the Indigo Pearl Resort has a great location on Nai Yang beach, which has some cool seafood restaurants for barefoot dining. The gated complex of Laguna - featuring six deluxe resorts - is also a great choice for discerning families, with excellent facilities in a safe, kid-friendly environment.

Cape Panwa, on the extreme southern tip of Phuket, is also worth considering, with secluded swimming and some quality resorts. Note, however, that taxis in Phuket are very expensive, so shopping or dining excursions into Patong or Phuket Town will add to the budget.

Koh Samui With its own international airport (privately owned

by Bangkok Airways), cosmopolitan Samui is also a convenient island destination for Australians, with a great range of accommodation from three-star to luxury villas and condos. A pretty island with a mountainous interior, Koh Samui is more navigable than Phuket, and can be easily driven if you brave hiring a car.

Chaweng Beach is the most popular strip of sand, but can be crowded and noisy. Certainly head here for a sunset cocktail and dinner, but you may prefer to stay in the quieter Bophut, a charming fishing village on the island’s north, or further south at laidback Lamai.

The Anantara Bophut Resort and Spa is an excellent hotel choice for families, with a gorgeous pool surrounded by monkey statues sure to delight the children.

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Koh Phangan Accessed by ferry from Koh Samui, beautiful Koh Phangan is best known as a ‘party island’, with its monthly Full Moon Party attracting thousands of revellers. Visit outside of this time, however, and you’ll find a tranquil and unspoilt paradise, with plenty of idyllic bays and coves and some truly magical beaches for the kids.

Personal favourites include the squeaky white sands and rustic bungalows of Malibu Beach, near the fishing village of Chaloklum; Haad Yao and Haad Salad on the west coast (perfect sunset-viewing beaches); or upmarket Thong Nai Pan Noi, where resorts such as the Anantara Rasanada have sublime beachfront access.

Hua Hin Pretty Hua Hin has been a popular beach resort amongst Thais for over 70 years, and is the preferred holiday destination for the Thai Royal Family. Due to their influence, the town is ‘squeaky clean’, with no red light district and beautifully maintained public spaces, as well as serene royal villas and palaces, some of which

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© pat138241, Shutterstock.com

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are open to the public.

There are some top-notch resorts scattered along Hua Hin’s eight kilometre white-sand beach, ntercontinental and the including the ritzy Intercontinental famous Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas (formerly) Sofitel Central, originally the old railway hotel. Offering safe and secluded swimming, the beach is also popular with kite boarders; while you can hire ponies for a ride along the sand.

A visit to the Siam Hua Hin Hills Winery is a must-do for the whole family - while the parents are wine-tasting, the kids can take an elephant-back tour of the vineyard!

Krabi Stunning Krabi, with its stunning golden beaches and limestone islands rising dramatically from an emerald sea, is arguably the most beautiful destination in all of Thailand.

There are 83 islands scattered through the bay, and boat trips are the most popular way of experiencing the region.

Renowned as a rock climbers’ Paradise,

Above: Limestone cliffs of Railay bay in Krabi facing the Andaman sea. © Juriah Mosin, Shutterstock.com

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 $417* per adult From $57* 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 • Access to Tropix Lounge Club – FREE all day tea & coffee service, daytime snacks, internet access and much more • Valid for travel 1 May – 31 October 2013

Centara Grand BeaCh resort PhuKet ★★★★★ From $693* per adult From $57* per child • 8 nights’ accommodation in a Deluxe Ocean Facing 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 • Valid for travel 1 May – 31 October 2013

Centara Grand West sands ★★★★ From $841* per adult From $49* per child • 8 nights’ accommodation in a Deluxe Family Suite • 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 • Daily complimentary admission to Splash Jungle Waterpark • Valid for travel 1 May – 31 October 2013

HURRY, offer ends 28 February 2013, unless sold out prior. Availability is limited. *Agents may charge service fees and/or fees for card payments which vary. If you book with Qantas Holidays, an additional 2% fee applies to credit card payments. Prices correct as

at 20 Nov 12 but may fluctuate if surcharges, fees, taxes or currency change. Offers subject to availability. Advertised prices are land only and do not include airfares. + Return airport transfers must be booked to receive the Phuket Intro tour and privilege card. ^Free nights are already included in advertised price. Breakfast is included on bonus nights. Offers subject to availability. ~Prices for children are applicable for children under 12 years. 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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Railay Beach is arguably the prettiest beach of all, with accommodation to suit all budgets. The most exclusive offering is Rayavadee, set in gorgeous established grounds and with a great kids’ program including cooking, arts and crafts and garden discovery walks. Certainly worth the splurge!

Rock climbing tuition is available for young enthusiasts, while sea kayaking is another popular way for families to explore hidden sea caves, or hongs.

Khao Lak It took many years for Khao Lak - located an hour’s drive north of Phuket - to recover from the affects of the 1994 Boxing Day tsunami, with the beaches there the hardest hit in all of Thailand. Today, it is once again a thriving economy, with a slew of new hotels lining the glorious white-sand stretch of beach.

Khao Lak is much quieter than Phuket, with few shopping and dining options; but it’s a gorgeous, tranquil escape and ideally located to explore the jungle hinterland. A visit to Khao Sok National Park is a must; for

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an overnight side excursion, stay on one of the budget raft houses on the lake, a unique and fun experience for the whole family.

Koh Kood This is my ‘secret treasure’ of Thailand - and probably the quietest, prettiest island in the whole country. It’s also not that easy to get to - hence its isolation. Located off Koh Chang, a large island near the Cambodian border, Koh Kood is a two-hour speed-boat ride from the nearest mainland port, Trat.

There are only a handful of low-profile resorts (and one extremely exclusive one, the Soneva Kiri by Six Senses) on the island; there’s also just one paved road, no 7-Elevens, and no ATMs. In fact, there is nothing to do here but relax on the beach, swing in a hammock and swim in the crystal clear water with your kids. Pure bliss, but certainly not for everyone. For me - most definitely!!

For more tips on visiting Thailand, visit Julie Miller’s blog, Kao Jai Thailand. http://kaojaithailand.blogspot.com.au/

Left from top: Beautiful beach in island Koh Kood , Thailand. © OlegD, Shutterstock.com Swimming pool on the beach. Island Koh Kood. © OlegD, Shutterstock.com

FAST FACTS WHEN TO GO Thailand is generally hot and humid, particularly between March and May. November to February is cooler and dry.

MONEY The currency is the Thai Bhat (THB). At the time of writing, AU$1 buys you THB32.15 VISAS Australians don’t require a visa for stays shorter than 30 days.

MORE INFORMATION www.thailand.net.au

Sometimes serene, often action packed, always amazing.

Hundreds of islands, countless beaches. Some for the young at heart with action packed water sports and parties late into moonlit nights. Some you can walk for miles without seeing another soul. And others, where you’ll find local fishermen repairing their nets or painting their colourful boats.

The beaches of Thailand. For the romantic, for the family, for the thrillseeking adventurer. Where you can re-charge, be inspired, be refreshed or simply be amazed. Whether you’re a regular visitor to Amazing Thailand or you are planning your first trip, your perfect beach is just a flight away.

Tourism Authority of Thailand, Level 20, 56 Pitt St Sydney, NSW 2000, +61 2 9247 7549

www.thailand.net.au

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BALI

I

t’s been almost two decades since my first visit to Bali. On that trip I experienced a taste of the island’s endless beaches, pretty terraced rice fields, tranquil temples and the colour and kindness of Balinese Hindu culture. But, being young and foolish, I also tasted a touch too much bourbon, and after a big night out in Kuta ended up so inebriated that I tried to buy a horse. Of the live, whinnying variety. I bartered with a kart driver convinced that I’d be saving it from a life of servitude and, in my stupor, that I’d have no dramas whatsoever taking it back to our resort or getting it through customs the next day. It wasn’t one of my finer moments... nor was the resulting hangover.

That was then and this is now and my embarrassment has finally subsided enough that I’ve decided it’s time for a second taste of this island paradise. This time I’ve come armed with a little maturity and two small children so I’m fairly certain there’ll be no ill-conceived equine acquisitions.

Villa Thriller

Bali HIGH

WITH ITS TROPICAL ALLURE, CULTURAL EXPERIENCES, FRIENDLY PEOPLE AND ABUNDANCE OF KID-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES, BEAUTIFUL BALI TICKS ALL THE RIGHT BOXES FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE FAMILY HOLIDAY. WORDS: ALENEY DE WINTER

From the moment we arrive at Ayana Resort and Spa, we feel like rock stars. The expansive resort overlooking the Indian Ocean at Jimbaran is just 10-kilometres from the airport yet completely secluded and more than a little bit special. The villa lobby is surrounded by an exquisite lotus pool where we are greeted with fruity refreshments and floral leis before being buggied to our Cliff Villa, the scale of which is astounding.

Jaws drop as we take in the luxurious living area, bedroom with enormous canopied bed and bathroom that’s the size of our entire apartment at home. The bath is brimming with floating flower petals and a gift bag with a rubber ducky is presented to both our delighted children. Meanwhile, I am presented with a cell phone, our mobile hotline to the personal butler that we, as villa guests (the resort also offers standard suites and rooms in its 290-room hotel) are privileged to enjoy. Wow! We don’t have the first clue what to do with a butler but are quite prepared to spend the next few days working it out.

Outside, there’s a private plunge pool, bale (Balinese pavilion) and enormous daybed overlooking the ocean where, blown away by the sheer scale of the 77-hectare cliff-top resort, we snuggle up together and ponder where to begin.

Making scents There’s an award-winning spa, 18-hole golf course, tennis pavilion, fitness centre, five swimming pools, a retail arcade and abundant kids activities but Rafferty and I decide we’ll begin at the resort’s L’Atelier Parfums where we learn about the process of making perfume.

The mad scientist in him loves the test tubes and beakers in the hands-on workshop and he proves to have quite a nose, creating an original, and pretty, fragrance which he sweetly names “Marlo” for his sister.

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After a morning of aromatic adventure we catch up with the rest of our clan to pool hop across the resort. Choosing only one from the five on offer - each boasting infinity edges and spurting fantasy creatures - proving quite impossible. While the kids could happily spend the rest of the day in the water, the lure of Ayana’s award-winning Thermes Marins Bali Spa proves impossible to resist. Leaving the kids to splash about with their dad on the twisting waterslides of the children’s pool, I sneak off to road test the signature ‘seven chakra dhara’ treatment. I melt.

Not wanting my husband to miss out, the following morning we take advantage of the resort’s babysitting service for Marlo while Rafferty happily heads of to the resorts kids club - which, along with a fabulous program of crafts and traditional games, boasts its own outdoor petting zoo with lambs, piglets, rabbits and ducks - to hit the spa’s Aquatonic seawater jet pool, for an hour of invigorating hydrotherapy.

Tempted by temples As hard as it is to tear ourselves away from

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Ayana, we want our kids to experience a little Balinese culture so we nab a resort driver to take us to the 11th Century temple at Uluwatu, about half an hour away. Perched high on a steep cliff that overlooks the ocean, the location is even more remarkable than the temple itself and the perfect spot to view one of Bali’s spectacular sunsets.

We’ve arrived on a Balinese holiday and the place is alive with worshippers. Marlo takes a fancy to one of the locals and quite literally throws herself at him. In a gesture that perfectly encapsulates the kind nature of the Balinese people, he scoops her into his arms and carries her into the temple courtyard, where tourists are not allowed, for the priest to bless her before returning her to me with a gentle smile. It is a profoundly touching moment.

We stop to watch a traditional kecak dance. About 50 loin-cloth clad men form a circle around a fire and throw their hands in the air begin a percussive chant of “chatchat-chat”. The kids are mesmerised.

But it’s not all sweetness and light at

the temple. We’re advised by our driver to hide anything we don’t want stolen as the temple is also inhabited by a bunch of mischievous monkeys. Hats, sunglasses, and cameras are particularly popular among the pilfering primates and while you may have a little luck exchanging your stolen goods for fruit, it is better not to have to enter negotiations with the bolshie bandits in the first place. Especially when you’re with kids! The monkeys can bite and a rabies shot does not make for an ideal holiday memento. Still our kids love watching them scampering about and beg for more monkey magic the next evening.

Bali Bellies Instead we head to the beach at Jimbaran Bay at sundown where the kids stalk a guy selling balloons and frolic happily with local kids on the beach, connected by a shared language of play. They fill their bellies with fresh fish from one of the seafood shacks that line the beach and freshly barbecued corn from a random cart, while mum and dad fast in preparation for a big night out.

It’s a rare occasion where we get to eat out without having to tell someone to stop playing with their food, so dining by candlelight beside a pretty terraced lily pond at Ayana’s Dava Restaurant proves extra special. We enjoy a superb five-course “surprise” dinner, dotted with succulent bites of crayfish and freshly shaved truffle and finished with a baked chocolate fondant flourish. While the meal is superb the biggest surprise of the evening is returning to our villa to discover our little ratbags haven’t eaten their babysitter and are, in fact, fast asleep.

Food is an integral part of what makes Ayana so special. Besides fine diner Dava, the resort offers a huge choice of dining from fresh seafood on the beach and delicious kid-friendly trattoria-style Italian to a melting-pot of pan-asian cuisine and traditional Indonesian market fare. My kids can’t get enough of the smoky satay sticks cooked on a traditional cart outside Damar Terrace, eating them by the dozen and still begging for more. And the resort’s Rock Bar is an absolute must. Accessed by inclinator, the split-level bar built

almost organically into the cliff face gives new meaning to “on the rocks”. While we distract the kids with potato wedges, my husband and I toast another beautiful day in Bali as the waves break below us and traditional fishing boats sail past us into yet another postcard perfect sunset.

Perhaps the most special dining experience for us is one of delicious seafood nasi goreng (fried rice) and tum bebek (minced duck in banana leaf) that we enjoy on our last day at Ayana after an amazing tour of the local fish market. A meal that my beaming four-year-old son, chef’s hat in place, proudly presents to us after his first ever official cooking class.

As a reward for his hard work, I take my clever boy to Ayana’s gift shop for a little memento of our stay. Ironically, Rafferty sets his heart on a carved timber horse! So once again I find myself in Bali purchasing a pony, only this time I’m as sober as a judge. I agree with Rafferty that it’s an outstanding choice and something that will offer me a smiling reminder of two very different Bali breaks.

Previous Page: One of Ayana’s stunning swimming pools.

From left : Marlo on the beach at Jimbaran.

Fantasy creatures by the pool at Ayana.

Rafferty playing in our villa at Ayana.

Kecak dance at Uluwatu

FAST FACTS GETTING THERE Award winning Garuda Indonesia Airlines offers regular direct flights from Sydney , Melbourne and Perth to Denpasar.www.garuda-indonesia.net.au MONEY The currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). At the time of writing, AUD $1 buys you IDR $9787.55 WHERE TO STAY Ayana Resort and Spa www.ayanaresort.com MORE INFORMATION Bali Tourism Board www.balitourismboard.org

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SOUTH AFRICA – a tale of two journeys

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SOUTH AFRICA

FROM A FAMILY REUNION TO A FANTASTIC FIRST-TIME HOLIDAY SOUTH AFRICA, AS SEEN THROUGH THE EYES OF TWO TEENAGERS, OFFERS A WORLD OF ADVENTURE. WORDS: ANNA MARQUARD KARP & INDIA ROBERTS- SMILLIE

A

nna Marquard Karp and India Roberts-Smillie both travelled recently to South Africa. Now both share the joy of their individual journeys to this amazing, diverse and awe inspiring country. Anna recounts a visit with her parents and younger siblings back to her parents’ homeland, while India tells the story of a fantastic holiday with her family.

Anna’s story At 15 years old Anna Marquard Karp, her younger brother Jesse 13, and sister Nina nine went to South Africa for the first time with their South African born parents. She shares her story of reunion and discovery with Out & About With Kids.

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS When I travelled to South Africa it felt like going home.

To a home I had never visited, yet a place that held such value for my family and me, as my parents had grown up there.

What really stuck with me from my first day in “Joburg” (as the locals call it) was the buzz of the African city and the people. They were so friendly and caring, despite the hardship and poverty they face.

We visited my parents’ old homes and schools, caught up with friends and family and shopped at the vibrant Rosebank Markets.

We drove through rural Gauteng to Misty Mountain Reserve, which is just like it sounds, straight from a picture book. We spent hours walking, quad biking, and exploring the South African countryside, and even saw our first African animals - baboons. And lots of them!

We then had our first game park experience at Gomo Gomo Game Lodge in the Timbivati National Park. This was a highlight, as we really got to experience the African bush first hand and spotted a leopard lazing in a tree. The lodge, where we slept in rondavels (Africanstyle huts) with hippos and warthogs outside, is very family-friendly. The rangers were knowledgeable in everything and anything about the bush. The first drive was, in traditional African bush style, at 5am. A quick hot chocolate and rusks (delicious South African tea biscuits) and then off we set in an open-roof Land Rover.

We saw many different animals all up close in their natural habitat. We also went on bush walks, which was quite surreal with wild animals roaming about. It was an

amazing experience, the tranquility of the African bush is unforgettable and I long to go back.

Night drives were scary at first but all the better once your night-eyes adjusted. Hearing a lion roar only a few metres from your bed at night was a pretty riveting experience.

Next stop was Umlani Bushcamp. On our drive through, we stopped at the Cheetah Sanctuary where we saw lots of cheetahs and cubs (so cute). An unbelievable event occurred while we were swimming in the pool one afternoon; a huge herd of about 50 elephants came plodding along the river bed, towards us, and suddenly began drinking water out of the pool, before swimming and playing in it for hours, right beside us!

Our next stop via a small African plane was to Capetown, another highlight! We stayed in a beautiful apartment on the waterfront, visited friends and family, an abalone farm, stopped at Camps Bay beach and visited Hout Bay (very cool). We went to Table Mountain on cable cars, which provided a great outlook of Cape Town. Visiting Cape Town University was another highlight (Dad’s university) as it was in such a beautiful location perched high above the city with amazing views, and a fun atmosphere. The next day we drove to Kalk Bay with great little shops and galleries and cute areas to eat, and then went on to Boulders where we swam and amazingly hung out with penguins! We took a drive to Cape of Good Hope, the south-eastern furthest point of Africa, and went for a bush walk through the National Park there. More spectacular views!

Next up was Zambia. We stayed on the Zambezi River at Waterberry Lodge. We went on a sunset cruise - it was hard to believe that hippos surrounded us and at any moment we could encounter one. Victoria Falls was something I would recommend, where you have the chance to experience firsthand a waterfall claimed to be the longest in the world.

On our final day we took a day trip to Botswana and spent the day on a game drive in Chobe National Park, where we saw hundreds of elephants amongst other animals.

Unfortunately, this day was the last of our unforgettable two-and-a-half-week holiday around South Africa. The trip meant so much to me but I

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SOUTH AFRICA

particularly loved experiencing a culture that has such a close connection to my family. The people were caring and kind; the continent while rough in parts so beautiful, wise and wonderful.

India’s story Fourteen year old India Roberts-Smillie takes us with her on the family holiday to South Africa.

SOUTH AFRICA’S A BLAST! It takes quite a long time to get to South Africa from Australia - about 12 hours on the plane, but it’s definitely worth it! At first I was amazed at how similar Africa looked to Australia, so I felt at home immediately.

Our first stop was Johannesburg. After a fabulous buffet breakfast in the hotel we picked up a hire car and our adventure began. Our family (me, mum, dad and my sister Cassie) drove about four hours to one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen, and I was amazed to find out this is where we would be staying for the next few nights!

Hanglip Mountain Lodge is a huge game park, with groups of three or four lodges scattered around the 22,000 hectares. We went on a safari drive every morning and night, and saw some of the most incredible wild animals I have ever seen - including lions, giraffes, zebras, rhinos and so many more.

One of the highlights was rounding the corner in our safari truck to find a herd of elephants standing right on the track in front of us. After a while, they decided they weren’t going to move for us. I wasn’t concerned at first, until one of the biggest elephants came walking towards us flapping its ears, and the driver began to slowly

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reverse the truck. No one said a word, but we all let out a big sigh of relief when we had finally backed away from the herd.

It was such an incredible experience to get so close to these wild animals in their own natural environment. The lodges were so unique, and on a few occasions we awoke to a herd of zebra and impala grazing only a few metres from the verandah.

Each night we had dinner in the boma (traditional outdoor dining area), surrounded by flares to keep the wild animals away. I was a bit scared on the first night after listening to the sounds of the animals outside the lodge, but the staff made us feel very safe- even accompanying us to dinner each night with a rifle!

After leaving Hanglip Mountain Lodge, we drove through Kruger National Park, one of the biggest game parks in South Africa. What is unique about this experience is that you drive around in your own car. We were lucky enough to see more giraffe and zebra here, however you are not allowed to get out of your car and walk around, except for when you stop at the toilets, where we ran into a wild pack of hyenas (Mum was quite scared as she was worried they might eat Cassie and I). Our final night was spent again in Johannesburg, where we were able to relax before our long flight back to Sydney.

Travelling to South Africa with my family was definitely one of the most amazing experiences of my life, and so different and so much better than anything I would have expected. It was so relaxing and exciting at the same time and I cannot wait until the next time I can go back to this amazing place!

Previous page: Leopard in a tree, South Africa. © Dennis Donohue, shutterstock.com

Top: Giraffe in the wild.

Anna and family on the river.

India on safari.

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

MONEY The currency is the South African rands (ZAR). At the time of writing, AU$1 buys 9.07 ZAR LANGUAGE Though there are 11 official languages spoken in South Africa, English is most commonly spoken.

MORE INFORMATION South African Tourism www.southafrica.net

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

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SECRETS OF THE

Sultanate B

eyond the big attractions like the Grand Mosque, Muttrah Souq and desert camps, there’s plenty of fun things to do in Oman with your little sheiks and sultanas. Here are our top 10 things to do that will create lifelong happy memories.

designed golf course with a new vista at every hole. ‘The Shark’ and his design team were mindful of maintaining the panorama of the ocean and the spectacular view of the Hajar Mountains. On a clear day you almost feel as if you can reach out and touch them.

1. VISIT THE GREEN TURTLE SANCTUARY

6. TRY FRANKINCENSE ICE-CREAM

The pristine beach at Ras Al Jinz is renowned for being home to hundreds of endangered green turtles (chelonia mydas). The Raz Al Jinz Centre, established in 2008 by the Omani government, is one of the few places where the public can watch these gentle giants lay their eggs. The Turtle Visitor Centre conducts guided excursions every night to view the turtles and witness the nesting process.

2. GO SWIMMING AT WADI TIWI The contrast between the stark rocky landscape complete with date palms and the cool, green water of the wadi (desert oasis) is like nothing else on earth. Located on the coastal route to Sur, Wadi Tiwi is a safe, beautiful spot for an unforgettable picnic and a swim.

3. CAMP ON THE BEACH Did you know that it’s not only legal to camp on the beach in Oman, it’s also free? Over holiday periods, you will see a lot of Omani locals pitching tents on popular beaches and setting up their charcoal barbecue to cook fresh fish and marinated meats. Hire a fourwheel drive and head along the beach until you find the perfect spot. Reasonably priced camping gear is available in Muscat so why not take the kids on a real adventure?

4. CHILL OUT AT BARR AL JISSAH If you’re in Muscat and the heat is getting to your little people, the water activities at Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort will prove a godsend (air-conditioning and water, water everywhere). The indoor Adventure Zone features slippery dips, ball pits and Wii activities and is suitable for kids of all ages.

The Splash Pad is a water garden with childfriendly features and the Lazy River offers inner tubes for you all to float around on in an orderly manner.

5. JOIN GREG NORMAN WITH YOUR SHARK ‘PUPS’ The Wave at Almouj is a new Greg Norman-

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ARABIAN NIGHTS, GENIES IN BOTTLES, FLYING CARPETS AND ANCIENT FORTS; OMAN IS A FAIRYTALE COME TRUE FOR CHILDREN AND PARENTS ALIKE. WORDS: JULIE MAHONEY

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Forget chocolate or vanilla. Frankincense ice-cream, made from the sap of the native boswellia tree, is available from a number of souks (town markets) and is a taste sensation you won’t have the chance to try anywhere else in the world.

7. WATCH DOLPHINS FROM A GLASS-BOTTOMED BOAT This is a wonderful way for non-swimmers to explore the underwater magic of the reefs along the coastline of Oman. Add to this experience the company of hundreds of curious dolphins congregating around the boat and this will make for the marine experience of a lifetime. And you don’t even have to get wet!

Visit the Green Turtle Sanctuary © Rich Carey, Shutterstock.com

Grand Mosque © Permchai Phoorivatana, Shutterstock.com

8. GET HANDS-ON AT THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM The white-domed buildings of the Children’s Museum in Muscat will catch your eye as you approach this great attraction. With heaps of hands-on educational exhibits this quaint museum focusses on science and will appeal to kids of all ages. The museum has recently opened a new interactive computer workshop for visitors to learn about technology.

9. EXPERIENCE AN ARABIAN HORSE Arabian horses are world famous and if you like riding, Oman has exotic trails and the horses to explore them on. You’ll find the Royal Stables in Seeb a good spot to for equestrian events, and if you go to the Al Kamil and Al Wafi region of the country, you can find the best breeders and trainers the country has to offer.

10. TRY SCUBA DIVING If your kids are over eight, then they can learn how to scuba dive. And Oman’s waters are positively teeming with life and are considered one of the top 10 dive spots in the world. Kids can take a Bubble Makers program at Scuba Oman to get used to underwater breathing or start on one of the Discover Scuba or Learn to Dive courses at the many accredited dive schools in Muscat or on the Musandam Peninsula.

FAST FACTS WHEN TO GO October to April is ideal.

Avoid June to September when temps can top 45˚C and during the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan.

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

MONEY The currency is the Omani Rial.

At the time of writing, AU$1 buys 0.39 Omani Rial.

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

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

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

OMAN

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WHERE IN THE WORLD?

JAMPACKED

Jordan FROM DEAD SEA MUD FIGHTS AND ANCIENT RUINS TO OUTDOOR MOVIES AND FAIRY FLOSS JORDAN IS A DELIGHT FOR KIDS. WORDS: DEBRA SOLOMON

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I

f you are planning a trip to Jordan, pretraining will be nothing but fun for the children. Acquiring expertise in mud fights, hide and seek, toenail polishing and fairy floss munching should just about cover it.

Here’s mud in your eye: the Dead Sea From the capital of Amman, the legendary Dead Sea is just a one-hour drive along the King’s Highway. It’s the perfect place for children to reclaim their self-respect if they didn’t quite cut it at the school swimming carnival. Here, you don’t have to swim a stroke to float around with the best of them. It’s like being a balloon someone is trying to push under the water, but you keep bobbing up. The Dead Sea is the also world’s best place to stage a full-on mud fight.

Dredged from the sea bed, the mud is mineralpacked and incredibly gooey: just the thing to dollop all over your body.

Hot falls and outdoor movies Another hour’s drive south when suddenly the most extraordinary scene appears: a cluster of eucalypts, oleanders and acacias. Is it a mirage? No, it’s Hammamat Ma’In Springs – a valley of natural hot waterfalls. Children have just as much fun here today as the children of the ancient Romans did about 2000 years ago. Two falls are open to the public, and two are inside the only digs around: a luxurious spa hotel (juniors here have a whole spa menu for themselves!). Buffed and chilled, guests can take the short walk to the outdoor cinema. A viewing of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade will prepare the children for tomorrow’s surprise.

Petra and the last crusade Another hour south, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Petra is a must-see. A town hidden inside a gorge, the Nabataean people lived here from about 600BC until the Greeks took over (then the Romans). It lay abandoned

until 1812 when it was rediscovered by a passing German.

Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade was filmed at The Treasury building in 1988. Not really a treasury but a massive 2000-year-old tomb. Some people take a few days to cover the wonders of Petra, and the entry fee allows multiple entries on the same day. Animals of various kinds ferry weary visitors to and from various sections of the site; let’s just say the donkey would not be my first choice of transport for a little passenger.

Main pic: The old city of Petra in Jordan was carved out the rocks. It is now an UNESCO World Heritage site. © robert paul van beets, Shutterstock

Above from left: Family covered in mineral mud from the Dead Sea. Cameleer and camp at Wadi Rum, Jordan

Bedouin campsite hide and seek While little Bedouins of the plains play pebble and sand games, their peers in the Shara Mountains love to hide in the ravines and caves of the honeycomb landscape. When you see the scale of the place, you might want to keep a close eye on your own little adventurers.

Leave the car at the visitors’ centre and stay overnight in one of 15 campsites in the Wadi Rum area. Take a sunset camel ride, before returning to the camp to a zarb feast (cooked in the ground) and live music played on a rababa (a one-stringed mandolin). On chilly nights enjoy the campfire, but be prepared as nights in the desert can be icy. Tuck your little ones in to the comfortable bed of a traditional goat hair tent and regale them with the story of Lawrence of Arabia who helped free this very area from Turkish rule in 1912. Oh, and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen was filmed here!

Fairy floss Friday and chariot races Across the land you’ll see vendors selling fairy floss (pahsmak), especially on the traditional family day off – Friday. Jordan is a delight for kids - a 45-minute drive away is Jerash Castle holding gladiator and chariot races daily.

Jordan has a strong equestrian history and there are plenty of stables in town to take a trail ride.

FAST FACTS WHEN TO GO: The best time to visit is March to May and September to November when daytime temperatures are more moderate.

GETTING THERE: Fly via Bangkok with QANTAS, then Royal Jordanian Airlines to Amman.

MONEY: The currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). AT the time of writing AU$1 buys JOD$0.74 VISAS: Visas cost about $20 per person and can be bought on arrival in Amman MORE INFORMATION: www.visitjordan.com

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SPIRITED

Away TO CELEBRATE THE ARRIVAL OF COLOSSAL CRUISE SHIP CARNIVAL SPIRIT TO HER NEW HOME PORT OF SYDNEY, ALENEY DE WINTER AND FAMILY TAKE AN OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO NOWHERE TO SEE WHAT SHE HAS TO OFFER LITTLE PASSENGERS.

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T

he carnival has come to town, Carnival Spirit that is. The enormous fun ship has finally arrived after months of planning and millions of dollars’ worth of “Aussification” to give discerning Aussie cruisers an amazing holiday experience.

That “Aussification” means there are now more than 40 activities on board Carnival Spirit giving guests the opportunity to set their own pace and, as Carnival Cruise Lines Australia director Jennifer Vandekreek says, that pace can be be from “zen to adrenalin and every speed in between!”

On a scale of one to ten my unstoppable preschoolers go to 11, on a quiet day. So with the tearaway twosome in tow, you can guess which end of Jennifer’s zen spectrum we spend most of our time on.

That’s the spirit After checking into our surprisingly spacious and comfortable suite, replete with generous baclcony and a bathroom boasting a full-size spa bath, we don our cossies and head out to get into the “Spirit” of things. But where do we start? We’d need a week to see and do everything on offer but our cruise to nowhere offers us a mere taste of Spirit’s temptations. We make a plan!

Predicatably with my four-year old son, Rafferty, this plan includes filling his stomach, mini-golf and hitting the pool.

In no specific order.

We head to lunch at La Playa Grill, the ship’s casual style buffet and one of

CRUISING WITH KIDS

From left: Carnival Spirit in her new home port of Sydney.

Fun in the Splash Zone.

65 km/h slide snakes out and over the side of the ship, at which point I scream something that rhymes with ship but is entirely inappropriate to repeat in a family magazine. By the time I reach the bottom it isn’t the only thing that’s green.

Fellow guest Finley Moore, nine, is one kid who braved the slide and, unlike my cowardly self, went back for seconds and thirds. “We went out over the side of the boat and I thought we were going to splash into the sea. It was awesome and really freaky!”

A touch of zen

20 restaurants and bars on board where we can’t go past a slice or two of the best made-to-order pizza ever and a really good barista-style coffee. Afterwards we hit the self-serve ice cream machine to tick another must-do off Rafferty’s cruising bucket list.

We take a wander around and stumble across the brand new Fat Jimmy’s C-Side BBQ, an open air char-grill offering Aussie faves as well as traditional American offerings. Full, but unable to resist the smell, I have to grab a little of the pulled pork which is sublime.

While we wait for our tummies to settle we hit the 18-hole mini golf for a round or two of being shamefully defeated by a four-year old.

Thunder down under It’s time to get wet so we set off for Carnival Waterworks and the SplashZone area where we let both our kids loose in the kiddie heaven of mini-slides, waterplay areas and tipping buckets.

Splash park aside, the ship also boasts not one but two twisty turny (and that’s just my stomach after riding them) waterslides, including Green Thunder, the world’s steepest and fastest waterslide at sea.

While my twin terrors are too little to take on Carnival Spirit’s star attraction (height restrictions apply on both slides), I man up, so to speak, for three seconds of heart pumping WOW! The free falling,

The appeal of a little zen is hard to resist and here Camp Carnival (the ship’s kids club for two to fives) comes to our rescue.

Carnival’s award-winning youth program offers three age appropriate clubs for kids from two to 17. Though ours kids are both keen to stay in the pool, once they see all the games on offer and meet the lovely staff, the pool and their parents are dismissed with barely a backward glance.

Yippee.

While I head straight for the day spa and a stress-busting massage, my husband seizes this rare moment of childlessness and heads off to Serenity, an open-air, child-free area where grown-ups can soak up the sun and cocktails from one of the day beds and enjoy the 270-degree views of wherever they happen to be. In peace!

Dinner (for mum and dad at least, the kids were more than happy with burgers from the poolside grill) was at fabulous fine-diner Nouveau Steakhouse where we indulge in prime cuts of beef, lobster, hand-picked wines and a seriously lethal chocolate dessert.

The night time entertainment line-up is amazing (piano bars, jazz, live karaoke, comedians, stage productions, and a casino)… at least that was the verdict from fellow passengers the following morning as we disembarked from our cruise to nowhere. We had two tired tiny travellers to tuck in so simply enjoyed a couple of cruisey cocktails on our private balcony and the blissful quiet of a night at sea. For this mum and dad it doesn’t get better than that.

So did Carnival Spirit pass the family test? You bet. We’re giving her an “A” for awesome.

More information: www.carnival.com.au

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SHORT CUTS Cruise Kids in the Kitchen with Holland America Holland America Line attracts more than 25,000 kids and their families aboard its 15 beautiful ships every year and with an ever expanding range of family-friendly activities, it’s obvious why.

The Club HAL program has been expanded to include ages three to 12 and all ships have a teen program for ages 13 to 17 which includes “The Loft” - an adult-free zone to enjoy music, games, movies and “hanging out.” Younger cruisers, aged three to 12 - can also enjoy supervised, age-specific activities through the now expanded Club HAL. Best of all for budding Junior Masterchefs, Holland America Line has launched a kids and teen Culinary Arts Center activity program which incorporates a range of fun dishes, from simple to sophisticate, in complimentary classes lasting 45 minutes each.

Holland America’s 2012-13 season offers premium cruising for incredible value. For season highlights visit www.hollandamerica.com.au

Europe afloat

Set Sail with Barbie Royal Caribbean International, in partnership with Mattel, is taking the signature pink style of Barbie, the world’s most popular doll, to sea. The all-new Barbie Premium Experience, available exclusively on Royal Caribbean ships, is making its stylish splash aboard the cruise line’s entire global fleet of 22 ships from January 2013 on select ships and rolling out to the remainder of the fleet by March 2013.

The partnership with Barbie will encompass a host of activities in the cruise line’s award-winning Adventure Ocean youth program as well as a Barbie Premium Experience. Girls participating in the Adventure Ocean program can be part of the complimentary version of the Barbie program with Barbie Movie Night, Barbie Story Time and other themed activities, plus Barbie movies on their stateroom televisions.

The Barbie Premium Experience is the ultimate indulgence for Barbie enthusiasts. Girls can enjoy staterooms decorated in the iconic doll’s signature style and featuring keepsakes such as a Barbie doll and fashions, blanket and pillowcase, tote bag, toothbrush and toiletries bag plus exclusive, themed activities throughout the duration of their cruise – from an invitationonly tea party and mermaid dance class to a fashion design workshop and Barbie Girls fashion show. www.royalcaribbean.com.au

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Experience the best of Europe from a different perspective with a Le Boat self-cruising holiday. With a large fleet vessels, Le Boat covers many of Europe’s historic and picturesque waterways – from the Canal du Midi in the South of France - Europe’s oldest waterway stretching from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean – and Venice’s romantic waterways to the canals of Amsterdam and Ireland’s beautiful Shannon Erne, cruising through Europe offers the freedom to set the pace to suit your family.

Le Boat’s range of self-cruising boats can accommodate small groups from two to 12, making them ideal for a family holiday.

And new for 2013, guests who want a taste of luxury barging – with someone else behind the wheel – Le Boat has teamed up with Afloat in France (part of the Orient-Express collection) offering an all-inclusive cruise for four to 12 guests with an on-board chef, regional specialities and hand-picked wines.

Wherever you head, there’s always a new village, town or city to explore and the kids will love the excitement of mooring up at a new town and passing through locks.

Le Boat offers more than 200 itineraries and an extensive network of bases and support teams meaning help is at hand should you need it. www.leboat.com.au.

CRUISE NEWS

THE INSIDER – AT SEA OUT & ABOUT WITH KIDS CHATS TO SEAN HARRIGAN – SALES AND MARKETING DIRECTOR, DISNEY DESTINATIONS INTERNATIONAL

Families come first on MSC In addition to an already comprehensive range of activities tailor-made for families on board the MSC fleet, three great new programs make it even easier for children to have a fun-filled holiday at sea.

The MSC Happy Dinners program allows children to be served dishes from the kids’ menu while their parents enjoy their initial courses. The kids are then collected by kids’ club staff for fun with friends their own age, leaving their parents to leisurely savour their different courses and wine and enjoy the remainder of their dinner.

For those kids who relish their independence and would love the freedom of eating with their friends, away from the grown-ups, MSC Fun Time Dinners may prove even more tempting. Children can dine in a separate, specially decorated area of the buffet restaurant with the entertainment team, and then have fun in the Mini and Junior Club while parents enjoy a leisurely dinner alone, picking up the kids when they’ve finished.

MSC Cruises has also introduced a second nanny-hour to its kids’ club programs. Every morning from 9am to 10am and now also from 5pm to 6pm, MSC offers a special program designed for babies and toddlers aged 10 to 36 months to spend quality time with their parents. Staff organise dedicated games and activities aimed specifically at MSC’s youngest guests and their parents, including playing with bricks, musical games, baby disco, puzzle games and drawing. www.msccruises.com.au

What are some of the best new features we’ll see on Disney Cruise Line ships in 2013?

After doubling our fleet in the past two years, with Disney Dream launching in 2011 and Disney Fantasy earlier this year, Disney Cruise Line is visiting new destinations and has expanded its itineraries. For 2013 we are continuing our most popular itineraries in the Bahamas and the Caribbean with Eastern seven nights & Western four-, five-, six- and sevennight itineraries. We are also heading to the Mediterranean next year which is very exciting, visiting Rome, the French Riviera, Venice and the Greek Isles from Barcelona.

There’s also the first-ever water coaster at sea with the AquaDuck (on the Disney Dream and Fantasy), plus of course the themed deck parties, one-of-a-kind rotational dining where your servers travel with you across three amazing restaurants, special moments with Disney characters plus Broadway-style Disney musicals which are only found on our Disney cruises.

One of my favourite features is our fireworks at sea night, especially the pirate-themed night.

Are your family keen cruisers?

Yes - we did a three-night Disney cruise in the Bahamas. The kids liked the independence of going to the kids clubs and being able to grab food, see movies and play games when they liked. As parents we enjoyed this as

well….some quiet time to recharge and enjoy a couple of drinks beside the pool. We’re now keen to see Alaska as we like the idea of seeing the extremes of nature – and the comfort of cruising provides the perfect venue to view it from. A visit to the Caribbean would also rank highly.

What are your kids favourite on board activities?

Definitely the kids club. The activities were varied, mixing with children of comparable ages and they even performed a show on the last night.

They also definitely enjoyed visiting Castaway Cay - Disney’s own island in the Bahamas. The good thing about Castaway Cay is that you (and the rest of the ship) are the only visitors there.

My kids loved riding bikes on the island and the crystal clear water. They also spent a good few hours at the water playground Pelican Plunge, built in the ocean where they can climb, jump and slide all day. My son is also a budding foodie and he also loved the fact that he could sample lots of different food such as escargot.

What’s your top tip for family cruising?

Do it. It’s a great family holiday that offers up so many things to do – all the while visiting fantastic destinations. At the end of the day the best measurement is the looks on your kids faces (not as they leave the ship, as they are always a bit sad). I know mine want to go again….

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OUT & ABOUT WITH BABY

Play safe

THIS SUMMER

WHETHER IN THE WATER OR ENJOYING THE SUMMER SUN, KEEP BABIES AND TODDLERS SAFE WITH OUR SUMMER SURVIVAL GUIDE. WORDS: GERALDINE CARDOZO

T

he long summer holiday is just around the corner, and what better time for families to head out and enjoy the beaches, backyards and barbecues that Australia is famous for?

While fun is high on the agenda, safety is the order of the day – especially where active kids are concerned. Drowning or near-drowning, sunburn and heat-related illness are all potential dangers during the warmer months.

Around the pool Despite the excitement of summer, Swim Australia CEO, Ross Gage advises all parents and carers to make sure their home and pool are season-ready. “Being able to swim and enjoy the water is not only a rite of passage for every Australian child – it’s a way of life,” Mr Gage said. “But accidents can, and sadly do happen.”

The recently released National Drowning Report for 2011/2012, revealed 21 children up to four years of age drowned from water tragedies. While drowning deaths have halved since 10 years ago this is still too many young lives lost says Mr Gage. He says one of the best ways to stay water-safe is to sign the kids up for swimming lessons as early as possible.

But according to Mr Gage, ensuring a backyard pool area is child-friendly is only the beginning. Check that wading pools or spas are gated or securely closed, that nappy buckets filled with water are kept elevated or have a lid, that drink and ice buckets are tightly closed or out of reach and dog bowls are kept shallow and away from children or replaced with animalspecific water bubblers.

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At the beach Every year, almost 100 people drown at our beaches, according to Surf Lifesaving Australia (SLS). When heading to the beach with young kids, choose a patrolled beach.

Surf Lifesaving Australia’s Beachsafe App helps you find beaches nearby and gives information for each beach.

Remember – if lifeguards can’t see you, they can’t save you. Be safe and always swim between the red and yellow flags and make sure you read the safety signs so you are aware of any potential dangers on the beach.

SLS advises adults that children should always be within arms’ reach and observing them should be your constant focus when around the water. Bright swimming suits and rash shirts make good sun sense and are easy to see. Identify an easy-to-find point on the beach that children can go to if you become separated, such as the lifeguard tower.

Sun safety Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. Babies and children are at particular risk of sunburn and skin damage because of their delicate skin. Exposure to UV radiation during the first 15 years of life increases the risk of developing skin cancer later in life, warns The Cancer Council which recommends that children under 12 months should not be exposed to direct sunlight.

Plan the day’s activities to reduce exposure to the sun, especially between 10am and 2pm. Cover as much of your children’s skin as possible with loosefitting clothes and apply an SPF30+

BE PREPARED If you haven’t already, why not register for a children’s first aid course, to be prepared should an emergency happen. For details go to www.stjohn.org.au

© Shutterstock.com

SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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OUT & ABOUT WITH BABY

TOILET TRAINING

e l t t i l r u For yo earners Potette Plus

© Martin Novak , Shutterstock.com

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broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen to any exposed areas of skin at least 15 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, or more often if wiped or washed off. If your baby’s skin reacts to the sunscreen, try another product or speak to your doctor.

Choose a wide-brimmed, legionnaire or bucket style hat that protects your child’s face, neck and ears and adjust covers on prams and strollers to make sure babies remain shaded.

Encourage your little ones to play in the shade. Remember even in shade, scattered or reflected UV radiation can cause skin damage.

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SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

It may be necessary to breastfeed your baby more often to keep up fluids. If your baby is formula-fed, offer cooled boiled water regularly. With active youngsters, be aware of

the dangers before they feel thirsty, not after, advises St John Ambulance. Give them water before they start to play in the heat, then at 20-minute intervals.

Avoid sugary or caffeine drinks which can dehydrate.

Remember cars heat up very fast, even with a window open; so never leave a child unattended in a locked car.

If your child seems nauseous or dizzy, get them into the shade, remove or loosen clothing, sponge them down and give them cool water. If they are confused or delirious with a red, clammy skin, get to a doctor immediately.

Burns Also be alert to the dangers of barbecues and campfires this summer. Prompt treatment is essential. Keeping a burn cool for an hour with running water may save the need for a skin graft.

WHAT’S

hot

FOR BABY

What’s hot for Baby Sassy sunnies Frankie Ray’s designer inspired Mini Gidgets collection offer little fashionistas the coolest eye protection this summer. The sassy sunnies offer high grade UV protection for style setters under 18 months of age and come in a choice of funky fashion designs. www.eyetribe.com.au RRP$29.95

Protecting precious skin Keep baby sun safe this summer with SunSense Toddler Milk SPF 30+, a 40-minute water resistant milk formulation with broad spectrum protection especially designed for delicate baby and toddler skin. The toddler milk is available in a 250ml bottle or a convenient easy to apply 50ml roll-on perfect to keep in your handbag all summer long. www.sunsense.com.au RRP 50ml $7.95, 250ml $15.95

Potty portability The Baby U Potty Plus Reusable Liners are made for the Baby U Potette Plus portable potty and trainer seat. The reusable liner converts the Potette Plus into a take anywhere standard potty. The Potette Plus is great to maintain continuity throughout toilet training, and can be used at home or out and about these holidays. www.babyu.com.au Liners RRP $11.99

Hot shade for cool families Sunny Jim is the coolest new beach shade for families on the go. The shades of sun safety that’s stylish and portable, easily packing into a fashionable carry bag. All Sunny Jim shades include SPF 50 + rating to keep the little ones cool and protected. www.sunnyjim.com.au RRP$199.95

In the bag The Tempt nappy bag will certainly turn other mum’s green. The superstylish bag, made from PU leather, is as practical as it is chic. With a matching change mat, insulated bottle holder and plenty of pockets for storage, it’s perfect for everyday and still big enough to make an excellent carry-on for your next holiday with baby. www.totalbagenvy.com.au RRP$149.95

Make a splash Puddle Jumpers are a colourful swimming aid created by lifejacket experts Stearns, set to revolutionise swimming safety for toddlers.

Australian Standards-approved, the self-balancing swim-aid provides excellent stability and the freedom of movement to give them the confidence to jump, splash or even try their first strokes! www.colemanaustralia.com.au RRP $29.99

SUMMER 2013 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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WHAT’S

hot

FOR TRAVEL

WHaT’S hOT for family travel Pack and ride

It’s a jungle in there

Make sure the kids travel in style with the Trunki suitcase. Trunki’s smart and sturdy design allows kids to pack, carry and ride their suitcase in a safe and fun way. Kids can ride their luggage around the departure lounge, get towed by mum and dad or simply use it rest little legs in long queues. Tipu the tiger and his friends can be found at retailers nationally.

1300 557 691, RRP $59.99

A new addition to the Magna Junior family, Jungle Safari is a colourful set of magnetic puzzles, stored in its own little tin suitcase. Designed to suit small hands they’re perfect for kids three and up it are portable and perfect for keeping little ones happy in the back seat or on that long haul flight. www.tigertribe.com.au RRP$29.95

Flying HIgh Fly drive with Air Hogs Hit the road and the air with the fab new Air Hogs Hover Assault.

This is a remote control hybrid helicopter/car that can go where standard land vehicles can’t! It can drive, hope and fly and is a perfect indoor/outdoor holiday toy for kids this summer, if mum and dad will give them a turn. www.funtastic.com.au RRP $74.95

Travel pals Tiny flyers can now rest easy with Skip Hop’s Zoo neck rests. Featuring Skip Hop’s signature zoo animals - Monkey, Bee, Ladybug, Owl and Puppy - in plush velour, these neck rests are sized perfectly for young traveller and are easy to tote along for family trips or quick jaunts. www.skiphop.com.au RRP $24.99

Fruity fun With these great new travel games in the Bananagrams range from Moose Enterprise there’s hours of fruitful fun to be had anywhere, anytime. With three word games in the range, Bananagrams (“the anagram game that will drive you bananas), Pairs in Pears and Appletters, these cute brain-teasers in zipped fruit bags will test the mind, patience and vocabulary skills of adults, teenagers and children alike. www.mooseworld.com.au RRP $25

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Snappy backpack This summer travel will be even more fun for kids with the Crocs Crocband Backpack. With a lightweight and durable moulded design with adjustable nylon straps for a custom fit it’s the perfect pack for any adventure. The holes on the front accommodate Jibbitz by Crocs charms, so kids can customise the look to suit themselves. www.crocsaustralia.com.au RRP $34.99

WHAT’S

hot

FOR TRAVEL

WHaT’S hOT travel tech Leap and learn

In safe hands Little ones will feel all grown up with their very own Widge iPad case by X-Doria. With a super-protective, kidfriendly design, the Widge features built in handles making it easy for small hands to hold. Ergonomically designed for children and crafted from a durable rubber material, this will help keep your iPad safe on the go. www.platinumonline. com.au RRP $49.95

App, App & Away Why not start planning your summer getaway with the largest and fastest growing app in the social travel space.

With over 60,000 travel destinations to explore, the free app from www. gogobot.com allows you to tap into your social networks for personal advice and reviews, providing a reliable, easy and fun way to plan, share and enjoy extraordinary travel experiences.

Nervous flyer? A new app based on scientificallyresearched methods of treatment by the Dutch Valk Foundation – a collaborative venture headed up by aviation psychologist and pilot Dr. Lucas van Gerwen, will coach you through those white-knuckle moments. Whether it’s weeks until you fly, you’re at the airport or on in the air your inflight therapist is with you all the way with exercises to reduce your stress level and handy tips to ease your fears.

Holidaying in Australia? Explore our beautiful backyard with Tourism Australia’s free There’s Nothing Like Australia iPad app. Watch inspiring videos, read travel stories and uncover detailed destination information to create your own perfect Aussie holiday itinerary.

Staying at home these holidays? You can watch your kids explore the Serengeti without leaving the couch with Nukotoys’ revolutionary new collectable trading cards and app, featuring exotic animals and mythological monsters.

Available from Australian Geographic shops, the new game will capture a child’s imagination as creatures come to life on an iPad, iPhone or iPad touch.

The Leapster GS is the ultimate portable summer holiday companion ideal for kids aged four to nine. This new addition to the Leapster family puts kids in charge of the action with new motion-based play, a built-in camera, kid-friendly controls and more. They can also bring the real world into their play and put themselves right into the game with the built-in camera, video recorder and microphone. With fast-action game-play the Leapster GS also features a library of more than 300 cartridges and apps (music, videos, eBooks and more) and fun educational games that teach skills like maths, science, social studies and reading. www.leapfrog.com.au RRP $159.99

Go wild with Nat Geo TV Turn your living room into a forest and your kids into animals with Kinect Nat Geo TV and Xbox. Blending Nat Geo Wild television programs with intuitive Kinect for Xbox 360 technology, the ‘twoway TV’ will transport children into habitats around the world.

This revolutionary ‘two-way TV’ will bring children’s favourite TV programs to life like never before – merging educational television and cutting-edge gaming technology into a brand new series that will assist in kids’ learning through interactive play.

Through ‘reach in and explore’ interactivity kids will do more than just watch television - they will engage, play and learn using their full bodies, gestures and voices to explore. Each 30-minute episode includes visual cues on the screen to highlight the interactive activities for viewers to jump in and explore as well as role-play games. “It’s a unique experience when technology connects us to nature in this way,” Ben Britton, the face of Nat Geo Wild Australia said. “With Kinect Nat Geo TV, kids can get up close and personal with creatures great and small, and come to grasp basic concepts about our natural world.” www.xbox360.com RRP $39.95

Sony’s pocket rocket For families looking for quality images and portability, Sony’s new premium compact camera the 3.6x zoom Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 has landed. Delivering photo quality rarely seen in a camera this small, the Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 has the biggest ever sensor for a ‘pocketable’ zoom camera. Striking a balance between form and function, the aluminium-built camera delivers beautiful still images and crisp HD videos.

Similar to a DSLR-style interface, there’s a choice of auto and manual focus modes plus artistic options to expand creative shooting possibilities. www.sony.com.au RRP $799

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WHAT’S

hot

BOOKS

BOOKS …FOR THE KIDS

TODAY WE HAVE NO PLANS

By Jane Godwin & Anna Walker This delightful picture book, from the creators of the much-loved All Through the Year, is a journey through the hectic week in the life of one Australian family, celebrating those blissful precious days that have no plans that offer kids time to dream and time to play.

Viking RRP $24.99

TERRY DENTON’S BUMPER BOOK OF HOLIDAY STUFF TO DO!

By Terry Denton Chock full of holiday fun, Terry Denton’s bumper book is the must-have for the summer break! With wacky and fun drawing activities, cartoons, maps, lists and games to entertain the kids it is the perfect collection to take on holidays or pass the time on those long car trips.

Puffin RRP $16.99

THAI-NO-MITE!

MY BALI HOLIDAY

By Oliver Phommavanh Lengy’s parents run a Thai restaurant but he prefers hot chips and pizza! This hilarious story is all about a Thai boy living in Australia and his ongoing struggle to find out where he really belongs. Join Lengy on an adventure as he heads back to Thailand to visit all his relatives.

Puffin RRP $16.99

By Nicole Murphy This beautifully illustrated book captures a little boy’s excitement and anticipation about his holiday in Bali.

Depicting common scenarios encountered by families with small children during their Bali experience this is an excellent travel companion for kids holidaying in Bali. www.baliwithkids.com RRP $11.95

NOT-FOR-PARENTS: HOW TO BE A WORLD EXPLORER

THE JUNIOR GOURMET

Around the World in Eighty Days

By Jules Verne This is a beautiful newly illustrated edition of Jules Vernes classic from Walker Books. Phileas Fogg embarks on the race of a lifetime to circumnavigate the globe in just eighty days and travelling by boat, train, and even elephant. With plenty of adventure and surprises at every turn, this tale is as entertaining as ever.

Out & About With Kids has TEN copies of Around the World in Eighty Days to give away, each valued at $39.95. For your chance to win visit www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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This timely tome for kids aged eight to 11, offers Bear Grylls wannabes all they need to know to venture through every landscape on earth, through the air, over and under the seas. Learn how to cope with extreme temps; find food and water; and battle man-eating beasts.

Lonely Planet RRP $24.99

By Elizabeth Long Take your tastebuds on a world tour with this easy to follow collection of recipes collected from around the globe. Kids ten and up will explore and learn to cook signature dishes and cooking techniques from Morocco to Mexico and everywhere in between.

Five Mile Press RRP$19.95

WHAT’S

hot

FOR ENTERTAINMENT

WHaT’S hOT Winter’s Best Entertainment MOVIE RISE OF THE GUARDIANS When an evil spirit lays down the gauntlet to take over the world, the immortal Guardians must join forces for the first time to protect the hopes, beliefs and imagination of children all over the world in this awesome new animation from the team at Dreamworks. www.riseoftheguardians.com

GAMING LIVE DISNEY’S ROCKIN’ ROADSHOW Hit the road this summer with your favourite Disney friends Tigger, Cinderella and Disney/Pixar’s Buzz Lightyear and Woody for a hilarious talent search in the all-new Disney Live! Mickey’s Rockin’ Road Show! Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy set out on a zany road trip where audiences join in and help find the coolest acts around. Touring Australia from the 28th December 2012 to 17th February 2013, the kids are in for a fun-filled getaway at this live, show-stopping filled with unexpected twists and turns and exciting encounters along the way. Come join them at Disney Live! Mickey’s Rockin’ Road Show set to leave you on the edge of your seat and ready to embark on your very own road trip. www.disneylive.com.au

DVD BRAVE Impetuous princess and aspiring archer, Merida, is determined to set her own path in life defying a custom that brings chaos to her kingdom. Granted one wish, Merida must rely on her bravery and her archery skills to undo a beastly curse and change her fate. Brave is an epic Disney Pixar adventure full of warmth and wonderful characters. www.disney.go.com/Brave/

WONDERBOOK™: BOOK OF SPELLS Wonderbook (TM): Book of Spells is the latest way to inspire children’s imaginations and give them a whole new way to interact with stories. Bringing the tales to life, right in their hands, the Wonderbook is the newest evolution in storytelling, taking children of all ages into new worlds of adventure and excitement.

Master 20 spells from the world of Harry Potter(TM) such as Lumos, Expelliarmus and Wingardium Leviosa, and enjoy exclusive new writing from J.K. Rowling. www.playstation.com.au

WIN

ONE lucky Out & About With Kids reader can WIN a PS3 and Wonderbook Move Bundle, valued at $399.95 RRP. The pack includes a PlayStation®3 12 GB console and a Wonderbook Move Bundle with a PlayStation®Eye camera, PlayStation®Move Navigation controller, Wonderbook and Book of Spells game.

To enter visit www.outandbaoutwithkids.com.au

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DAD’S WORD

Dad’s

QUICKFIND

WORD ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S MOST LOVED COMIC ENTERTAINERS, VINCE SORRENTI IS ALSO A FATHER OF FOUR. HERE, THE DEVOTED DAD CHATS ABOUT TRAVELLING WITH KIDS. Where is your favourite family holiday spot in Australia?

We recently took our four terrors on their first ski trip to Perisher and had the best holiday. We stayed on the snow at the Sundeck Hotel which put on special kids’ shows and meals. The magician was hilarious – I was very jealous!

Where is your favourite international family holiday spot?

The Villas Bali Hotel & Spa in Seminyak, Bali. Each villa has a fullsize pool and and staff will cook luxury brekkies for you in your own semi-outdoor living spaces. We went with other families and entertained each other with parties and barbecues in our respective villas. Despite not mingling with the tourist masses and hawkers my daughter STILL managed to return to Australia with braided hair!

What’s your fondest childhood holiday memory?

Travelling to Europe when I was 14 with the family was the most impressionable, educational, and eyeopening experience of my life. We visited family in Italy, and travelled by train across Europe. I can still remember the cultural impact it had on a boy from Punchbowl. Being hosed down by perfume from a fire truck during the annual Perfume Festival in the medieval French town of Grasse is a memory I will keep forever.

What is your top tip for a family driving holiday?

We have tried everything! DVDs, iPads, Nintendo DS, and any electronic pacifier you can name. The best result for a great family laugh is a good old fashioned game of I spy!

Any hints for flying with kids?

Make sure all the games are charged.

Plenty of junk food and lollies to avoid ear problems, and sit as far away from everyone else as possible.

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Do you prefer resorts with kids’ clubs?

I go on holidays to spend time with my kids. I prefer to use nannies or good sitters on holidays when I want free time with adults.

Describe your biggest family holiday disaster?

I’d like to send a big cheerio to the travel agent years ago who assured me that kids don’t need passports if travelling overseas with parents. We had to cancel a trip to Thailand the day before we were set to leave when we found out this was not the case.

Describe your funniest holiday moment?

We were once shown to our room on Hayman Island by the general manager. He could not have been nicer to us. As he was bidding us an enjoyable stay my then four-year-old daughter interrupted with “Can you please go now? I need to do a poo!”

Describe your favourite family holiday photo?

Kate and I and three of the kids at Waterbom Park in Bali. Kid number four was barreling down the Macaroni Slide at the time. The kids absolutely love this place (and the adults don’t mind it either!)

Do you have a dream family destination?

I was lucky enough to visit Disneyland California when I was working as a comic in the US. Next July we are taking the kids there – something I’ve longed to do since they were born.

Vince and partners have started a small group tour company that travels to “Bucket List” events and destinations.

Next May they’re off to the Concorso d’Eleganza in Lake Como Italy - the world’s most fashionable exhibition of exotic and luxury cars and people! www.bucketlisttour.com.au

ACCOMMODATION – OVERSEAS Aggie Greys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .aggiegreys .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 Berjaya Hotels & Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .berjayahotel .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 Centara Hotels & Resorts Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . . www .centarahotelsresorts .com . . . . . . . . . .125 Embassy Suites Waikiki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .embassysuiteswaikiki .com . . . . . . . . . 118 Hard Rock Bali . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .bali .hardrockhotels .net . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 Iririki Island Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .iririki .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .fijiresort .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Malolo Island . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .maloloisland .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 The Naviti Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .warwicknaviti .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Plantation Island Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . www .plantationisland .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Poppy’s On The Lagoon . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .poppys .com .vu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa . . . . . www .TheRarotongan .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Shangri-la’s Fijian Resort & Spa . . . . . . www .shangri-la .com/Fiji . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 ACCOMMODATION – AUSTRALIA Angourie Rainforest Resort . . . . . . . . . . www .angourieresort .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Aspen Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .aspenparks .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Aspen Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .aspenresorts .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Australian Tourist Park Management www .atpm .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Central Coast Holiday Parks . . . . . . . . . www .cchp .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Gemini Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .gemini .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 Kingfisher Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .kingfisherbay .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 La Grande luxury Apartments . . . . . . . . www .lagrande .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Mirage Alexandra Headland . . . . . . . . . www .miragealex .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Mowbray Park Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .farmstayholidays .com .au . . . . . . . . . . 28 North Coast Holiday Parks . . . . . . . . . . . www .northcoastholidayparks .com .au . . . .IBC Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour . . www .novotel .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Paradise Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .paradiseresort .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Rendezvous Reef Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . www .RendezvousHotels .com . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Rydges Mount Panorama Bathurst . . . www .rydges .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Sandcastles on the Broadwater . . . . . . www .sandcastles .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 Sea World Resort & Water Park . . . . . . . www .myfun .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .OBC SilverNeedle Hospitality . . . . . . . . . . . . www .silverneedlehotels .com .au . . . . . . . . . 27 Thredbo Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .thredbo .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Voyages Ayers Rock Resort . . . . . . . . . . www .ayersrockresort .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 ATTRACTIONS Australia Zoo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .australiazoo .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Cars Land, Disneyland Resort . . . . . . . . www .disneyland .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Dreamworld . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .dreamworld .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Featherdale Wildlife Park . . . . . . . . . . . . www .featherdale .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Funland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .funland .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Jamberoo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .jamberoo .net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Mowbray Park Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .farmstayholidays .com .au . . . . . . . . . . 28 Questacon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .questacon .edu .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 Sea World Resort & Water Park . . . . . . . www .myfun .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .OBC Sydney Opera House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .sydneyoperahouse .com . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 TRAVEL Britz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .britz .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Creative Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .creativeholidays .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 TOURISM ORGANISATIONS Canberra Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .visitcanberra .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Kiama Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .kiama .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 India Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .incredibleindia .org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 The Legendary Pacific Coast . . . . . . . . . www .pacificcoast .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Macarthur Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .visitmacarthur .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Moreton Bay Region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .visitmoretonbay .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Shoalhaven Holidays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .shoalhavenholidays .com .au . . . . . . . . 58 South Africa Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .southafrica .net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 Sunshine Coast Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .visitsunshinecoast .com .au . . . . . . . . . 76 Sultanate of Oman Tourism . . . . . . . . . www .tourismoman .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . .IFC Thailand Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .thailand .net .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .127 Tourism Shellharbour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .tourismshellharbour .com .au . . . . . . . 58 BABY ON BOARD Potette Plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .babyu .com .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .146 OTHER Jetta Excess Baggage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .excessbaggage .com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 RTA Travel Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www .rta .nsw .gov .au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

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BOOK A STAY WITH NORTH COAST HOLIDAY PARKS & YOU’RE SURE TO HAVE THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE 4km BRISBANE 10 atta g an ol Co Tweed Valley Tweed Heads t

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Northern Rivers Region

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EVANS HEAD Iluka Yamba

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Macleay Valle

Kempsey ie

Port Macquar S BONNY HILL N NORTH HAVE Taree ps Barrington To TUNCURRY National Park FORSTER

SEAL ROCKS

Singleton HAWKS NEST m SYDNEY 160k Newcastle

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