Out & About with kids - Issue 39 Summer 2014

FAMILIES | HOLIDAYS | TRAVEL | ACTIVITIES | ATTRACTIONS

with kids

ISSUE 39 SUMMER 2014 AUS$6.95 (inc gst)

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50 GREAT FAMILY HOLIDAYS

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Escape the everyday Escape Travel are here to help your family take a break away from the everyday. Say goodbye to work, school and housework and say hello to all the special moments that can only be shared on a family holiday.

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Take advantage of our: • 6 months interest free finance • Exclusive discounts on child airfares up to 17 years old • All inclusive holidays for children of all ages • Cruising for families • Kids Stay, Play and Eat FREE packages • Advice on accommodation with child minding & kids clubs You can also travel with confidence knowing you’re backed by our 24-hour customer assist program wherever you are in the world.

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*Terms and conditions apply. 6 months interest free provided by applying for the Lombard 55 Visa Card and is only available to approved applicants, it is subject to further terms and conditions contained in the Lombard Visa Card Account Conditions of Use and Lombard Visa Card Product Schedule. An application fee $60, monthly account fees $2.90 and other fees and charges are payable. The Lombard Visa Card is a credit facility provided by Lombard Finance Pty Limited (ABN 31 099 651 877) (Australian Credit License Number 247 415). Flight Centre Limited (ABN 25 003 377 188) trading as Escape Travel. Licence Number: ACT 18800224, NSW 2TA002719, NT 008, QLD TAG262, SA TTA254, TAS TAS031, VIC 31089 & WA 9TA 589. ETMARK55472

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summer | 14 Welcome

A

couple of weeks ago my five-year-old son asked me, “Mama, do you know what my favourite thing in the world is?”

I naturally assumed that the answer involved a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle with a super-sized serve of chocolate ice cream. But I was wrong.

To my great, and very pleasant, surprise the answer was, “Travelling to new places and seeing how other people live!”

Which is a relief really, given my penchant for dragging him and his little sister around the world. In fact, having just unpacked from a South Pacific cruise, both my tiny travel bugs are already hatching plans for our next escape. And with this, Out & About With Kids’ first ever 50 Great Family Holidays issue they, like our

readers, are spoiled for choice.

We’ve packed the issue with loads of fantastic ideas for your next family break, from where to go and where to stay to what to do when you get there. Whether you’re travelling with tots or teens, hankering for a holiday close to home or gearing up to go global, our extensive holiday roundup includes something to suit every family.

Happy holidays!

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

WWW.OUTANDABOUTWITHKIDS.COM.AU

LET’S GET SOCIAL

We asked readers to share their ultimate family holiday destination…

Silvana says: ‘Our ultimate family destination was Florida - doing a cruise, visiting Walt Disney World and seeing Miami.”

Linda says: “It would have to be Fiji, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and the Fijians are beautiful people.”

Suzanne says: “We love to cruise - everything is in the one spot, you only have to unpack once and you get to visit different destinations.”

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Deb says: “Our ultimate family holiday was going to Singapore and staying at the Shangri La Rasa on Sentosa Island.

It was so family friendly and relaxing.

They have the most amazing kids play centre. The kids have not stopped talking about it.”

Follow us on www.facebook.com/OAWkids

Visit our website to subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter to get all the latest family holiday, leisure and entertainment news delivered by email and for chance to win some FANTASTIC FAMILY PRIZES.

www.instagram.com/ outandaboutwithkids www.twitter.com/oawk2

with kids

MAKE THE MOST OF THE MOMENT The Sunshine Coast isn’t far away, but every moment there feels a world away.

No one knows when it happened exactly, but our lives have become so busy. Come to the place where you can breathe in and be still. A place for reconnecting with your loved ones, the world around you and the quiet beauty of being able to savour every feeling and every experience.

Make the most of the moment on the naturally refreshing Sunshine Coast.

visitsunshinecoast.com.au/moments

Publisher Elisa Elwin elisa@oawk.com.au 0413 770 550

Online Content Manager Christine Kane christine@oawk.com.au 0412 559 363

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

Design Magnesium Media

Snow & Ski Editor Helen Hayes helen@hayestack.com

Published by Elwin Media Pty. Ltd. ABN: 22 159 093 606 50a Central Avenue, Mosman 2088 0413 770 550

Contributors Helen Hayes, Victoria Herbert, Samantha Herbert, Michelle Pettigrove, Julianne Roberts, Craig Walsh Director of Sales & Marketing Richard Bunting rbunting@oawk.com.au 02 8204 1015 Cover image: Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Resort in California © Disney © Disney/Pixar

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

Art Director Louise Summerton

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the editorials are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Publisher and Out & About With Kids. Information provided was believed to be correct at the time of publication.

Copyright © Out & About with Kids 2014 Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders. Out & About With Kids cannot accept unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. If such items are to be sent to the magazine they will be returned.

contents australian destinations

118

88

Our extensive guide to southern comfort.

98 Tropical North Queensland, QLD Atherton adventures.

special feature

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50 GREAT FAMILY HOLIDAYS

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104

From where to go to where to stay we have it covered in our family holiday round-up.

regulars 122 Out & About With Baby

100 Corrina, Tasmania Tassie’s wild, wild west.

international destinations 104 South Africa Sun City shines

108 Sentosa Singapore’s island of fun.

110 Bali Bali by kids

114 Fiji Girls own adventure’s in Fiji.

118 Pacific Islands Cruise The Pacific gets the Royal treatment.

125 What’s hot for baby

win

We review the latest products for tots.

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Flying with babies & toddlers.

127 What’s hot books We review the latest books for families on the go.

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South Coast, NSW

128 Dad’s Word World surfing champion Joel Parkinson shares his family travel tips and memories.

A Jayco Eagle camper trailer

125 Tommee Tippee Miomee prize packs 125 Safe-n-Sound Platinum SICT Convertible Car Seat 127 Journey books

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WIN!

Have your say on the BEST family travel experiences and you could WIN an amazing Jayco Eagle Camper Trailer valued at over $23,000!

This fantastic prize includes 12 months worth of CIL Insurance thanks to the team at www.campingforkids.com.au.

Visit www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au to vote for your favourites and tell us where your family would most like to take a camper trailer and why for you chance to win.

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*Please note Terms & Conditions Apply.

Before heading off on your camping adventure, visit www.campingforkids.com.au for hints and tips while camping in the great outdoors.

Designed to get children excited about camping, this new initiative will teach kids about Australia’s natural wonders and beauty, as well as new skills, games, and healthy habits.

e r e nh

a c S

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50 GREAT FAMILY HOLIDAYS FROM WHERE TO GO TO WHERE TO STAY AND WHAT TO DO, OUT & ABOUT WITH KIDS’ AMAZING HOLIDAY ROUND-UP INCLUDES SOMETHING FOR EVERY FAMILY.

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American Dreams

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choice is a difficult one… New York with its incredible hubbub of humanity? Washington D.C. with its iconic monuments and living history?

Las Vegas with myriad mind-blowing hotels that double as theme parks or wildlife enclosures plus the breathtaking array of entertainment?

Los Angeles with its red carpet show biz buzz?

Or if you want a bit of music thrown in, how about New Orleans, Nashville or Memphis?

And of course for snow bunnies, there is Colorado, Utah, California, Wyoming, Idaho and Montana – all with world-class snowfields and all with that famous American service. © Shutterstock.com

merica really does offer something for all the family, from sun-drenched beaches to world-class national parks, buzzing cities to cowboy cool towns, the wide open spaces of the wild west to the sassy twang of the deep south and snowcovered mountains to Disneyland.

For sunshine and laid-back beaches, California and Florida are the big ticket items, with famous places like Miami’s South Beach and California’s Huntington Beach – the original Surf City USA and home to the US Open of Surfing.

For cities overflowing with attractions, the

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1.

DISNEYLAND RESORT, CALIFORNIA, USA Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California is a winner with kids and grown-ups alike.

Encompassing two parks - Disneyland Park (Walt Disney’s original theme park) and Disney California Adventure Park - this oneof-a-kind resort never fails to impress with fun attractions for every family member - from colourful journeys that little ones will

© Disney

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love to exciting thrill rides for bigger and braver kids plus the new Cars Land just adds to the magic for every age.

And it’s easy to turn a magical day into a magical stay with three hotels on location.

Join Mickey and Minnie for the ultimate Disney experience as you check in to one of three unique hotels within the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. Whether it’s the Disneyland Hotel, with classic styling that pays tribute to the park’s 1955 opening,

to the luxurious Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa or Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, guests of all ages will be charmed. Best of all, there’s a whole world of Disney right outside your door.

Something special: Disney’s FASTPASS Service can save you time by reducing the time you spend in line for attractions at the Disneyland Resort in California.

More information: www.disneyland.com.au

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BEACON HOTEL NEW YORK, USA

New York is the most exciting city on the planet and there is so much for families to do. Spend a day in Central Park, hire a bike and ride through its myriad pathways. Go ice skating, sit by a playground or hire a remote-controlled boat on Conservatory Pond. Visit the American Museum of Natural History - especially if your kids loved Night at the Museum - check out Times Square and catch a show on Broadway. Take the Staten Island ferry and wave to the Statue of Liberty on the way past. Visit the 9 11 Memorial and marvel at the new 1 World Trade Centre – America’s tallest building.

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You will need a hotel that is kid-friendly and well situated. The Hotel Beacon is perfect, located on the Upper West Side with views of Central Park, the Hudson River and midtown Manhattan. Service is exceptional and kids made very welcome.

The hotel offers 260 oversized rooms and suites with kitchenettes which are perfect for families.

Something special: Pick up a CityPass which saves you big money on most major attractions.

More information: www.beaconhotel.com

© Joshua Haviv , Shutterstock.com

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THE JEWEL

Of the

UPPER WEST SIDE

sparkle experience

© Disney

3.

recharge explore

W AL T DI SNEY WORLD RES O R T, F L ORI DA, US A If size counts, then the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, must be the best of the best! With four theme parks, two water adventure parks, 35 resort hotels, five golf courses, Downtown Disney’s dining and entertainment precinct and much more, this place is as big as Brisbane. The four Walt Disney World theme parks will make the real world disappear and make-believe become real. At Magic Kingdom, favourite Disney classics come to life as do princesses, mermaids, heroes, flying elephants and fairies. Discover big fun and cultures from around the globe at Epcot. Create your own wild adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and enjoy the glitz and glamour of Hollywood at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Wherever you go, the only limit to fun is your imagination.

Something special: The New Fantasyland is made up of the Enchanted Forest and a Storybook Circus, where guests can get caught up in beloved Disney stories and magical places where little girls can turn into princesses – and meet them!

More information: www.disneyworld.com

dream celebrate 2130 Broadway at 75th Street • New York, NY 10023 Tel: 0011+1+212.787.1100 • Fax: 0011+1+212.787.8119 www.beaconhotel.com • reservations@beaconhotel.com

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MAMMOTH LAKES, CALIFORNIA Mammoth Lakes, California, is a family playground all year round and, while most Australians go in winter to ski and snowboard on Mammoth Mountain, it is just as much fun in summer.

There really is a mammoth amount of choice when it comes to things to do and most of the big attractions are outdoors. If your family loves to fish, hike, ride a bike or go sightseeing, you will be in heaven here, with the fresh air and the stunning Eastern

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Sierra mountain scenery just magic.

One of the highlights of a summer visit is Bodie State Park, a National Historic Site.

The kids might think that anything historic is boring, but watch their eyes light up when you tell them it’s a real, dead, ghost town! Once a town of 10,000, it looks much like it did 65 years ago but with no people… except for tourists and the odd ghost. There is a museum and you can join a tour around the site – if you dare.

Something special: Sign up for a guided kayak tour of Mono Lake. Spectacular!

More information: www.ozvisitsmammoth.com

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LAS VEGAS, USA Las Vegas is out of this world for families.

There are so many places to stay and the hotels are so much more than just hotels.

Mandalay Bay has its own aquarium while at the Mirage there are white lions in the foyer and you can see dolphins and tigers

at Siegfried and Roy’s Secret Garden.

Treasure Island has a pirate ship battle every night – the ships are huge – while at the Venetian, you can paddle in a gondola with a suitably dressed gondolier. New York New York has the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge and a rollercoaster that will turn you pale, while at Stratosphere,

you can do the Skyjump, dropping 108 storeys. Or not. Then there’s Circus Circus, which has a circus running all day long.

Something special: Take a tour out to the magnificent Grand Canyon.

More information: www.visitlasvegas.com.au

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POLYNESIAN CULTURAL CENTER, HAWAII, USA Set on 42 acres of Oahu’s North Shore, the Polynesian Cultural Center is the only cultural attraction of its kind, with six island villages representing Hawai‘i, Samoa, Tahiti, Aotearoa (New Zealand), Fiji and Tonga, plus exhibits depicting Rapa Nui (Easter Island). With general admission, families can enjoy a full day schedule of

presentations and interactive activities in the island villages including canoe paddling, spear throwing, and underground cooking. Rainbows of Paradise, with performances from Polynesian islanders atop double-hulled canoes meandering through the Center’s lagoon; and Hawaiian Journey, an all-new cinematic presentation which highlights the story of the native Hawaiians and their connection to the land through spectacular imagery and engaging special effects. The evening closes

with Ha:Breath of Life, PCC’s critically acclaimed production, a story of passion ignited by fire, song and dance. The world’s largest Polynesian revue features over 100 performers, special effects, animation, original songs and choreography.

Something special: Now in its 50thyear, the Polynesian Cultural Center recently unveiled fantastic value family pricing packages. Seeing all of Polynesia has never been more affordable!

More information: www.polynesia.com

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ONE DAY IN HAWAII… From thrilling ocean activities to stunning illusions, scenic sunset cruises and grand island tours, experience the best of HAWAII IN A DAY with a local expert who knows the islands best: Roberts Hawaii. We’ve been serving satisfied customers for over 70 years – let us show you our Hawaii!

ISLAND TOURS & ONE DAY TOURS FROM OAHU Take one of our popular guided tours and explore the many highlights of each island: Hawaii’s famed waterfalls and majestic volcanoes, Kauai’s movie tours where Hollywood has filmed, Maui’s winding road to Hana and Oahu’s famed Pearl Harbor and surfing beaches. Or take a one day tour from Oahu to Maui, Kauai or Hawaii for a fun day trip.

CA C ATA AT TA MARAN CRUISES ALI`I KAII CATAMARAN Sail away on a relaxing sunset voyage aboard the world’s largest Polynesian catamaran. Soak in panoramic views of Waikiki and Honolulu, savor the flavors of an island style buffet or sumptuous clambake dinner, delight in a Polynesian revue and dance the night away!

POLY OL N OLY MAGIC OF POLYNESIA Spend a magical night in the heart of Waikiki at the MAGIC OF POLYNESIA. Join us for a spell-binding dinner show by award-winning master illusionist John Hirokawa, and be enthralled by stunning illusions, non-stop surprises, light-hearted humor and beautiful island entertainment.

S HAWAII HAW HA WAII EXPRESS SHUTTLE WA ROBERTS Start your island visit with a warm welcome, Roberts Hawaii’s way! Our popular Express Shuttle offers fast, convenient and friendly service to and from the Honolulu International Airport, Kahului Airport, Kona International Airport and Lihue Airport and your hotel. You’ll be met by our friendly representative upon arrival and escorted to baggage claim where we provide complimentary porter service onto our shuttle.

WAIKIKI OCEAN CLUB When the swimming pool is not big enough, board the WAIKIKI OCEAN CLUB for Hawaii’s hottest ocean activities. Slide into the beautiful Pacific Ocean, dive into the waves, take a thrilling ride on the Jet Ski, skim along on a banana sled and explore our underwater world with snorkeling gear.

Wet, watery and fun!

Visit us at www.RobertsHawaii.com Or call us (800) 831-5541 toll free or direct to (808) 539-9400

©2014 Roberts Hawaii, Inc. Magic Of Polynesia, Ali`i Kai Catamaran, Waikiki Ocean Club, and Roberts Hawaii Express Shuttle, Waikele Outlet Shopping Shuttle are registered trademarks of Roberts Hawaii, Inc.

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ROBERTS HAWAII, USA Families from around the world planning their holiday in beautiful Hawaii can count on Hawaii’s premier tour, transportation and entertainment experts, Roberts Hawaii, to show the way.

Their popular family tours include the Ali`i Kai Catamaran Cruise along the golden Waikiki coastline, with live music, a clambake dinner and Polynesian entertainment; a

magical night at the world-class Magic of Polynesia show where families will be enthralled by exciting illusions, light-hearted humour and dramatic fire-knife dancing; and The Waikiki Ocean Club, moored 300 yards off Waikiki Beach, with 10,000 square feet of outdoor deck space, three diving platforms, a 15-foot slide, snorkelling gear, kayaks, banana sled ride, jet skis and on-board refreshments.

Roberts Hawaii also offers a variety of guided tours to explore Oahu’s many

highlights including the island’s famed surfing beaches and Pearl Harbor plus daytrips to some of Oahu’s neighbouring islands including Big Island, Kauai and Maui. And of course there is an Express Shuttle service for fast, convenient and friendly service between the Honolulu International Airport and hotel.

Something Special: Take the Ali`i Kai Catamaran Cruise on a Friday evening for an extended sail to watch Waikiki’s spectacular weekly fireworks show.

More information: www.RobertsHawaii.com

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8.

EMBASSY SUITESWAIKIKI BEACH WALK, HAWAII The only all-suite nationally-branded resort in all of Hawaii, Embassy Suites-Waikiki Beach Walk is the perfect spot for your family to enjoy a blissful Hawaiian break.

Offering all the comforts of home with the benefits of a top hotel, including the Grand Lanai, a beautifully indulgent complex which incorporates a sundeck, pavilion seating area

and pool, right in the heart of the Waikiki Beach Walk, a vibrant area where visitors can enjoy a plethora of great boutiques, entertainment and dining choices.

For families, Embassy Suites-Waikiki Beach Walk’s comfortable one- and two-bedroom serviced apartments provide heaps of space with private bedrooms, separate living rooms with sleeper-sofa and a mini kitchen that provide a true home-away-from-home in paradise.

And best of all they are located just steps away from the glorious white sands of world-

famous Waikiki Beach.

What really sweetens a stay at the Embassy Suites-Waikiki Beach Walk is the host of added value amenities including full cooked-to-order breakfast daily and nightly poolside receptions, featuring an assortment of complimentary coldies and nibbles.

Something special: Don’t miss out on family fun activities like hula lessons, pineapple tossing or a conch-blowing challenge.

More information: www.embassysuiteswaikiki.com

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Drawing on the celebrated storytelling magic of Disney and the traditions and heritage of the people of Hawaii, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, in Ko Olina is a luxury resort adjacent to a nine acre lagoon and white sand beach that offers families paradise with a touch of Mickey magic.

The resort offers a choice of family-friendly accommodation and plenty to do. At Aunty’s Beach House children can explore Hawaiian culture through supervised entertainment and games.

And the whole family will delight in Waikolohe Valley, Aulani’s vast water play area which includes a tube-floating watercourse, Disney character experiences; Ka Maka Grotto, the themed family pool, and the new Keiki Cove, a kids splash zone that’s designed to resemble a tidal pool.

Something special: Guests can interact with a variety of native Hawaiian fish in the huge Rainbow Reef snorkel lagoo More information: www.aulani.com

10. © Disney

CRUISE THE USA

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Cruising in America opens up a huge choice of destinations to explore with your family.

Florida is the main point of departure for Caribbean cruises, with Port Canaveral and Miami major shipping hubs for the Bahamas, plus the Eastern or Western Caribbean or Yucatan Peninsula. You can cruise down the Pacific coast to Mexico or to Hawaii from Los Angeles, or north from Seattle up to the glaciers and wilderness of Alaska. Cruise from New York City and sail past the Statue of Liberty on the way up to New England or Canada, or do the short hop out to Bermuda. For something different, board an old time paddle steamer in New Orleans or Memphis and steam down the mighty Mississippi, discovering the America of yesteryear.

Something special: Take to the seas with Mickey & Minnie on a Disney Cruise

© Disney

AULANI, A DISNEY RESORT & SPA, HAWAI’I, USA

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Cool Canada

© Shutterstock.com

C

anada is blessed with some of the most beautiful scenery on earth and it is so easy to get around. Visit stunning Vancouver, cultural Quebec or Montreal for a city experience that the whole family will enjoy. For snow bunnies, take your pick of incredible resorts including Sun Peaks, Whistler Blackcomb, Big White, Silver Star, Lake Louise and Fernie, just to name a few. For jaw-dropping beauty that is off the scale take the Rocky Mountaineer to Banff and Jasper and marvel at the idyllic lakes and majestic scenery. Do a tour up the Columbia Icefield Parkway, go wild in the Yukon, or head east to Prince Edward Island – Anne of Green Gables territory. Watch the grizzlies in Knights Inlet or the polar bears in Nunavut, Canada’s biggest and newest territory where you can stay with an Inuit family and, at the right time of year, see the Northern Lights. Then, there is the sheer awesomeness of Niagara Falls and if you visit in July, the Calgary Stampede – nirvana for budding cowboys and girls.

DON’T TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT...

OUR GUESTS TELL THE STORY BEST Great terrain and snow! No lineups at the lift, lots of ski runs and variability. Friendly people and a village that has great restaurants and shops. Peaceful in the evening!”

Tripadvisor Traveller Review, December 2012

The best part of our visit was the service and attitude.

Everyone who works here—from hotel to restaurant to ski staff—is helpful, considerate, and super friendly. It’s just made being here so amazing, relaxing and fun!”

Tripadvisor Traveller Review, February 2013

T FRE E KIDS SKI + REN RD SPECIALS

AND OTHER EARLY BI agent today!

Contact your preferred travel Vancouver Direct flights from Sydney to Kamloops. to ht with a quick connecting flig

www.SunPeaksResort.com/AUS www SunPeaksResort com/AUS

Stay connected with us!

Check out the experiences our guests are sharing, and share your own story.

SunPeaksResort

SunPeaksResortTV

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11.

SUN PEAKS RESORT Sun Peaks Resort is all your Christmases come at once, if you are into snow! A White Christmas is something special for families and, at Sun Peaks Resort, even more so.

This intimate resort is just perfect for skiing or snowboarding families, with the quaint ski-through village quite contained and offering just enough shops to keep the kids – and mum – happy. There is a big range of ski-in, ski-out accommodation from cosy hotels to spacious apartments and luxury lodges, making it easy to hit the snow in the morning. The snow school is excellent for kids of all levels – even if they have never

skied before – and the terrain is sensational.

It has everything – immaculately groomed runs, steep runs, runs with bumps, narrow tree-lined glades for confident teens and a fabulous terrain park. And for fun on thesnow, hit the tube park, go ice skating or try mushing a dog-sled team.

As for that White Christmas, Santa visits every December with a huge program of fun for the family, the village is dressed up with twinkling Christmas lights, and carols play in the restaurants.

Something special: Check out Sneaky Scallywags a new kids games store with a whole wall dedicated to jelly beans!

More information: www.sunpeaksresort.com

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o many countries, so many experiences. Europe is a right royal treasure chest of history, culture, beauty and cuisines. Many parents trotted off to Europe after their schooling days with a backpack, a rail pass and travellers’ cheques, travelling for a month or three, or even a year. These same parents are now packing up their kids to experience a little taste of their favourite parts of Europe, and with cheaper airfares, fantastic rail passes and good deals on hire cars, it is easier than ever.

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Climb the Eiffel Tower in Paris, have a Sacher Torte and a strudel in Vienna or indulge in a paella in Barcelona. Ride a gondola in Venice or a bike in Amsterdam.

Visit historic Australian battlefields in France or Belgium, and let the kids live and breathe ancient history in Athens, Rome, Pompeii and London. Sail the Dalmatian Coast in Croatia, island hop in Greece, explore Switzerland, swim on the French Riviera or shop on the Kurfürstendamm in Berlin. As for skiing, the snowfields in France, Italy, Austria and Switzerland are about as good as it gets.

© Shutterstock.com

European escapes

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12.

INNSBRUCK, AUSTRIA

For a family holiday offering skiing, culture and fun head for Innsbruck, the gateway to a powdery paradise for families who love snow. The Olympia SkiWorld pass gives access to nine resorts – many of which offer world-leading ski schools, outstanding service and accommodation ranging from mountain huts to five-star luxury either at the resort or nearby, in a picturesque village. Best of all, many have kids ski free offers. If you want to base yourself in Innsbruck, the ski shuttle is free to all resorts. When the skiing is done a horse-drawn sleigh ride, tobogganing, bobsled or a bit of snowball tossing ensures even more family fun. Go before Christmas and let the kids experience the magic of the Christmas Markets. At Marktplatz a petting zoo and carousel add even more magic to this fairytale part of the world.

Something special: Why not stay the night in an ice igloo in KĂźhtai.

More information: www.innsbruck.info

Ski the Olympia SkiWorld Innsbruck

FROM $ 760 PER PERSON, 7 NIGHTS HALF BOARD, 6 DAY SKI PASS!

Information: Innsbruck Tourismus, phone +43 512 59 850, office@innsbruck.info, www.innsbruck.info, www.innsbruck-packages.com

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TRAFALGAR’S FAMILY EXPERIENCES, WORLDWIDE Trafalgar prides itself on uncovering hidden treasures, cultural highlights and not-to-bemissed attractions, and with a finger firmly on the pulse of what families want, ensures kids are entertained throughout every one of their exciting Family Experiences guided holidays.

The perfect way to introduce your children to different cultures and places, as well as allowing you to share amazing experience together as a family, Trafalgar offers 19 amazing Family Experiences Holidays across Europe, UK, North & South America and for the first time, South Africa.

Included in each holiday are family-friendly accommodation and child-friendly dining plus a unique collection of exclusive experiences.

From gladiator school and making pizzas in Italy, getting up close to a cheetah and

spotting the ‘Big 5’ in South Africa, learning to dance the flamenco and a visit to Europe’s largest football stadium in Spain, to a taste of ranch life in America’s wild, wild west, Trafalgar helps families create lifelong memories.

Something Special: The 10-day Castles and Kilts includes a Harry Potter tour in London where you’ll visit the red telephone box from The Order of the Phoenix and platform 9 3/4 where Harry catches the Hogwarts Express.

More information: www.trafalgar.com

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African Adventures A

or coming across a rhino, is so much more exhilarating than you can imagine. For younger kids, many lodges offer special experiences tailored just for them, with junior ranger programs and other activities to help unlock their inner Steve Irwin.

But there is a lot more to Africa than the wildlife. Cape Town is very familyfriendly, while Sun City is way up there on the Richter Scale of wow. The Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater, Victoria Falls, the Zambezi River - all are magical places, then there are the many cultural experiences that will enhance your visit in so many ways.

© Justin Black , Shutterstock.com

frica. Even just saying the word is exciting, but being there, and seeing nature at its best, is out of this world. Going on safari is one of those ‘bucket list’ items, and there are many incredible safari lodges from which to venture out onto the savannah to indelibly stamp animal experiences into you, and your children’s, memories.

Seeing your first lion, finally spotting a leopard, tracking a cheetah, watching elephants wander by, giraffes delicately plucking at a leafy snack, feisty zebras flashing by in a blaze of black and white

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14.

Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and is a must on any South African adventure. Take the kids up the cable car to Table Mountain for a stunning view over the city. Stroll around the Victoria and Albert waterfront and let the kids pick a bag of special stones at Scratch Patch – the floor is covered in semi-precious stones! Join a tour to explore Cape Point with its many attractions - swim with African Penguins at Boulders Beach, visit the World of Birds in Hout Bay or chill out at pretty Fish Hoek beach. At Cape Point, walk the Shipwreck Trail, visit the Nature Reserve, ride the Flying Dutchman funicular up to the old lighthouse and take selfies at the Cape of Good Hope.

Something special: Visit the Castle of Good Hope and watch the daily key ceremony.

More information: www.southafrica.net

15.

© Shutterstock.com

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

GROOTBOS, SOUTH AFRICA

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is a five-star eco resort just two hours from Cape Town.

It is absolutely magnificent for families with fantastic facilities and activities on site and in the surrounding area. The name Grootbos means ‘big forest’ and it lives up to it with ancient milkwood forests and many wonderful walks – there’s even a treasure hunt for kids.

Saddle up and go horse riding through the reserve, go for nature, marine and coastal drives, and do a cruise on Walker Bay or to Dyer Island where you’ll see masses of seals and maybe some sharks, dolphins, whales and penguins. There are kids games, a menu just for kids and a wonderful pool, where you can swim and look out at beautiful Walker Bay. Something special: Your family can even plant a tree, which gives you an excuse to go back and visit again and again.

More information: www.grootbos.com

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Exotic Asia

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© Shutterstock.com

A

sia is so welcoming for families with warm people and warmer climates. A choice of exotic cuisines, embraced by Australian families, is matched only by its variety of holiday venues. Families can enjoy Asia’s soft sandy beaches, lush jungles and charming villages, as well as experiencing bustling cities like Bangkok, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and Tokyo.

For thrills on a grand scale, Asia’s theme parks are amazing. Tokyo Disneyland and Hong Kong Disneyland are universally adored. In Bali, the water sports park Waterbom will keep the whole family entertained and Malaysia’s largest indoor theme park, Cosmo’s World in KL is also perfect for cooling off.

For a gentler pace, your family will love Asia’s bounty of beautiful beaches. The white beaches of Malaysia’s Penang and Langkawi, the crystal clear waters of Thailand’s Phuket, Hua Hin and Samui plus Bali’s surfing sensations, from the reefs at Kuta to the Mecca that is Uluwatu and the fun waves of Canggu and Keramas, are especially popular.

Another thrill for kids visiting Asia is its wealth of exotic animals. There are orangutans in Sabah, cheeky monkeys in Bali and Brunei, plus tigers and elephants in Thailand. If visiting the jungle is too hard, spend a few hours at Singapore Zoo, Kuala Lumpur’s Bird Park or Bali Safari Marine Park.

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Breathtaking, challenging, awe-inspiring, amazing.

There are parts of Thailand that haven’t changed in thousands of years. What is truly amazing is being able to explore such beautiful places without affecting the environment. Whether it’s treks through mountainous hilltribe villages or trips through mangrove forests, you will be truly amazed at our diverse landscape. Whether you are planning the trip of a lifetime or you are a regular visitor to Thailand, one thing that’s certain is you will always be amazed.

Tourism Authority of Thailand, Level 20, 56 Pitt St Sydney, NSW 2000, +61 2 9247 7549

www.tourismthailand.org/au

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CENTARA IS WHERE FAMILIES HAVE FUN The first day of our holiday! It’s just how we pictured it - tropical sun, golden sand, blue sea and sky, and a resort hotel that really knows how to take care of the youngsters! Our two kids are staying with us free of charge, and they also eat breakfast free!

There is a supervised Kids’ Club with plenty of action, and a children’s swimming pool. So there will be plenty of time for us to relax.

10.00 am Krabi, Our first morning on the beach! Our daughter took the picture, and we’ve got heaps more. It’s going to be a fantastic holiday.

TH AI L A ND • B A L I • S R I LA N K A M AL D I VE S • M AUR I TI US • V I E T N A M

T: 02 80968781

E: rsoaus@chr.co.th

centarahotelsresorts mycentara WWW.CENTARAHOTELSRESORTS.COM

Life should be rewarding WWW.CENTARA1CARD.COM

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CENTARA HOTELS & RESORTS

With five brands in six tropical destinations, Centara Hotels & Resorts, as well as being Thailand’s leading hotel chain, continues to expand across Asia and beyond and has plenty of holiday options to keep everyone happy – especially the kids.

With Centara you have a great choice of tropical destinations including Thailand,

Vietnam, Bali, Indonesia, the Maldives, Mauritius and Sri Lanka. And there are five Centara brands to choose from including the top brand Centara Grand Resorts with their professionally run kids clubs, smaller boutique properties and selfcatering serviced apartments - all with the distinctive warm hospitality of Centara’s Thai homeland. So, planning your budget becomes easy.

Centara has the lot, ranging from allaction family resorts through to quiet

hideaways. Pick from family-size rooms and suites, rooms with separate areas for the youngsters and villas with their own pool. And that’s not to mention sublime spas, amazing water parks and terrific restaurants.

Something special: Centara Grand Resorts offer an abundance of attractions, leisure activities and supervised activities for children of every age.

More information: www.centarahotelsresorts.com

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India is a treasure trove of experiences that will knock all of your senses for six. Chaotic cities will at first seem way too challenging but take a deep breath and soon you and the kids will be treated to sights and sounds that will live long in your memory and get under your skin. Visit the beaches of Goa, the magical city of Udaipur with its spectacular Lake Palace Hotel – featured in the James Bond movie Octopussy – the pink palaces of Jaipur, the many sensations of Rajasthan including a camel trek into the Thar Desert, the fortresses of Jodhpur, ride a bike around Delhi or spend a week of leisure cruising the Kerala Backwaters on a houseboat. India is indeed, incredible.

Something special: The Taj Mahal absolutely lives up to expectations.

More information: www.incredibleindia.org

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© Shutterstock.com

INDIA

18.

HONG KONG DISNEYLAND RESORT, HONG KONG Surely the number one item on the agenda of any child visiting Hong Kong would be a visit to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort?

The closest of the Disney theme parks to Australia, kids can meet their favourite Disney characters, enjoy the thrill and spills

© Disney

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of the amazing rides, and end their day with a glittering fireworks show.

Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Hollywood Hotel both offer spacious rooms, stunning views and dazzling Disney service and a shuttle bus operating between the Park and hotels. The park consists of seven sensational themed areas including Main Street, U.S.A., Fantasyland, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, Toy Story Land, Grizzly

Gulch and the brand new Mystic Point home to brand new characters and special effects that will transport guests into a fantastic universe.

Something special: Stay at one of Disneyland Hong Kong Resort’s two great feature packed hotels to make your Disney visit even more magical.

More information: www.hongkongdisneyland.com

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© Shutterstock.com

PHUKET, THAILAND

Phuket is, without a doubt, the number one pick for family holidays in Thailand, with more wonderful hotels and resorts than you can poke a (satay) stick at! Most Resorts offer myriad activities on and off the water, wonderful kids clubs and swimming pools to jump in or laze by. Then there is everything outside the resort gates to explore. Do a boat tour out to Koh Phi Phi, stopping at Maya Beach, Sa Mah Bay, Pileh Bay and more, swimming with fish and marvelling at the beautiful scenery. An elephant trek into the Chalong Highlands and the sea kayak tour of Phang Nga Bay are musts for adventurous families. Book into Phuket Fantasea – a wonderful show that showcases all things Thai.

Something special: Book your dream Thailand holiday with Escape Travel’s interest free holiday finance.

More information: www.escapetravel.com.au www.tourismthailand.org/au

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20.

THE WESTIN RESORT, NUSA DUA, BALI

Nestled on a white sandy beach on Bali’s southern coast, The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali provides a lavish five-star holiday haven for families.

The resort’s expansive Family Suites are sure to make your stay fun and comfortable. With two bedrooms and a family room, there is plenty of space for

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everyone to relax and reconnect after a busy Bali day splashing about by the beach or in one of the resort’s three pools including one with a 12-metre waterslide.

The Westin Kids Club at The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali has been recently upgraded and is now bigger and better than ever before with three ageappropriate areas for the kids to enjoy while mum and dad indulge in the resort’s amazing facilities including a sumptuous spa. All areas are carefully monitored,

with a fully-supervised area for toddlers, a section for 4 to 12 years complete with a climbing wall, a brand new Teen Zone for those over 12 plus activities for the family to enjoy together.

Something special: The Westin Resort Nusa Dua is home to one of Bali’s only dedicated kids spa where you can treat your little ones to massages, mini facials and mani-pedis.

More information: www.westinnusaduabali.com

Island Idylls

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W

hat could be more appealing than a family trip only a few short hours’ flying time from Australia, when the promise is a dream island holiday with plenty of warm sunshine, palm tree-fringed lagoons, crystal clear water, relaxed parents and happy kids?

The South Pacific Islands of Fiji, Vanuatu, Samoa, The Cook Islands, and closer to home, Norfolk Island – are renowned not only for their fabulous year-round climates, but also for the welcoming friendliness of their people and an abundance of great resort options with a firm focus on family comfort, fun and entertainment.

While they are all ringed by shimmering seas, individually, each Pacific Island destination has its own unique heritage, customs and landscapes. From pristine blue waters, white sandy beaches and swaying palms to jungle waterfalls, volcanic peaks and coral reefs, each is equally breathtaking.

Wherever your island interlude takes you, you will be surrounded by lagoons or ocean beaches. You’ll engage in local culture, dancing and singing, see spectacular marine life, swim in beautifully landscaped pools, find relaxation and create amazing family memories.

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JEAN-MICHEL COUSTEAU RESORT, FIJI Located on 17 lush acres of a former coconut plantation, Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji is renowned the world over for its dedication to conserving the environment.

The resort’s kids club offers hands-on education and experiences that allow children to truly explore and learn about Fijian culture, the environment and the natural world. It is the only luxury resort that employs a full-time marine biologist to help visitors appreciate the surrounding marine sanctuary. The resort boasts several pools, including one dedicated to families, day spa, scuba-diving, water sports, sumptuous dining and a new Bula Club Chef’s Junior Assistant of the Day initiative for kids aged six-12. In fact, there’s so much to do that the luxury of the resort’s five-star accommodation and idyllic location are almost a bonus.

Something special: The resort offers a dedicated nanny for every child under five and a great buddy system for kids and teens where they get a Fijian buddy to hang out with and learn about Fijian culture.

More information: www.fijiresort.com

Best family resort in Fiji 2012

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 Pay for 4 nights or more & receive

2 free nights plus bonus massage & diving *conditions apply.

Remember pre children exclusive holidays?

as voted by readers of Luxury Travel Magazine

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 office to enquire about our inclusive family packages.

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

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22.

MALOLO ISLAND RESORT, FIJI

Located in the Mamanuca Archipelago and surrounded by golden, coral sand beaches, azure seas and fringing reef, Malolo Island Resort is the way the world should be. A long-time favourite for families, Malolo Island’s extensive renovations make it

23.

PLANTATION ISLAND RESORT, FIJI

Nestled in a protected, tranquil lagoon fringed with coconut palms, seven kilometres of soft white sandy beach and clear blue water as far as the eye can see, Plantation Island Resort, in Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands group, offers fabulous family accommodation

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better than ever before.

Malolo’s extensive range of activities and facilities includes snorkelling, windsurfing, hobie cats and paddle skis, scuba diving, island hopping tours, village tours, fishing and much more. There are three dining venues offering a true gourmet experience, a spa (including massages for kids), two swimming pools (one for families and one

for adults) and a fantastic free kids club for four to 12-year-olds, plus a great new Teenage Retreat. All this combined with quintessential pure Fijian hospitality makes Malolo one of Fiji’s “must-do” experiences.

Something special: The resort’s Yanu Yanu program lets kids live like local Malolo islanders during their holiday.

More information: www.maloloisland.com

in traditional bures or hotel-style rooms and a good choice of dining experiences as well as a resort supermarket. The resort offers loads of leisure activities including cooking lessons, massage, free non-motorised water activities and fun cultural evenings. Children aged four to 12 will love the Coconut Kids Club plus crab racing, longboat rides, fish feeding, traditional arts and crafts and more.

If that’s not enough the resort also boasts several pools, a nine-hole golf course, and additional nanny and child minding facilities.

Something Special: The resort also offers the Lairo Club for kids 12 – 16 years of age who are too young for adult activities and too old for kid’s activities.

More information: www.plantationisland.com

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COOK ISLANDS, PACIFIC An archipelago of picture-perfect islands that pepper the Pacific, the Cook Islands offer families an idyllic tropical retreat of chilled-out charm and beauty that’s untouched and unforgettable. With all the Pacific holiday must-have features of lush rainforest, sparkling water, white sand beaches, volcanic peaks and coconut trees

in abundance, The Cook Islands also boasts some of the Pacific’s most amazingly blue water. There are many beautiful beaches and natural lagoons encircled by protective coral reef across the islands, each creating a marine sanctuary ideal for fish feeding, snorkelling and safe, all-tide swimming for kids.

And the locals will dote over your children – helping to keep them entertained

with enjoyable local activities including lessons on the local culture and nature studies.

Something special: Visit the pretty Avarua Cook Island Christian Church (CICC) in Rarotonga on a Sunday to be swept away by the lovely singing, whatever your religious persuasion.

More Information: www.cookislandstourism.com.au

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NORFOLK ISLAND F A M I L Y

H O L I D A Y

PA C K A G E S

Stay 7, Pay 5 Packages Start from:

AUD $885

PP

based on family of 4 (2 Adults, 2 Children) Subject to availability

Package Includes: • Return Economy Airfares • Accommodation at Hibiscus Apartments (with Resort Pool) • Airport Transfers • Complimentary ½ Day Tour • Rental Car (excl. petrol) • 1 Free Day at Kidz Club (NSW School Holidays) Terms and Conditions apply

We are the Norfolk Island specialists and we’re based right here on the island!

Contact us today so we can tailor a package just for you!

Phone: 1800 501 128 Email: travel@burntpinetravel.nf www.burntpinetravel.com

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NORFOLK ISLAND

When it comes to natural beauty, rich history, vibrant hybrid culture and a host of things to do, Norfolk Island ticks all the boxes, and then some. There are many natural attractions with Emily Bay one of the most beautiful in the world, boasting a boomerang curve of white sand, lapped by turquoise water usually only seen in

brochures. Stunning Slaughter Bay, just next door, is great for snorkelling.

There are many great bushwalks, including Rocky Point Reserve with its enormous Moreton Bay figs, Norfolk pines and rugged coastal scenery or, if you love fishing, drop a line off Cascade or Kingston wharves or at Bumboras.

There are countless other activities on the island, including scuba diving, horseriding, sea kayaking to beautiful Cathedral Rock,

mountain biking and golf.

Do a tour of the former convict settlement at Kingston, take in the Mutiny on the Bounty show and visit Cyclorama for an unusual look at the island’s history. There’s even a Norfolk Island Holiday Kids Klub that operates in January.

Something special: Hit the shops to pick up some of the cheapest Lego in the world.

More information: www.norfolkisland.com.au

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Capital Ideas T

and Melbourne, and their surrounding areas, inlduding NSW’s breathtaking Blue Mountains and Victoria’s incredible Goldfields region, have so much to offer the family you could stay for 365 days and still not see it all. Sunny Brisbane is also booming for families with a plethora of great activities and attractions indoors and out. Australia’s National Capital, Canberra, is kid central with some of the best interactive museums in the country as well as great outdoor spaces. And let’s not forget historic Hobart, appealing Adelaide, picturesque Perth and dynamic Darwin, smaller cities that are all still very big on showing little ones a great time.

© Visun Khankasem, Shutterstock.com

he idea of an Aussie family holiday usually conjures visions of beachside bliss, country road-trips or outback odysseys. But a trip to the city isn’t just for business travellers; our capitals have endless appeal for families too. Not only do their public transport systems make them easy to get around but with so much to see and do including hands-on museums and galleries, sprawling zoos, amazing parks, amusement centres, phenomenal playgrounds, easy access to great day trips and much, much more - a city escape can make for the perfect family break.

Australia’s biggest cities, Sydney

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26.

NATIONAL ZOO & AQUARIUM, CANBERRA At Canberra’s ever-expanding National Zoo & Aquarium, visitors can take a behind-the-scenes tour and get up close and personal with some of the residents.

The tours take you behind the scenes to meet and feed some of the zoo’s favourite animals on some of the most hands-on animal adventures in the country. Older kids can become a zookeeper for a day, hand-feed lions, tigers and bears on the Zoo Venture tour or play ball with a cheetah on the Meet-a-Cheetah tour while younger children are catered for in the Family Tour.

Located five minutes from the centre of Canberra, and with a wide variety of native and exotic animals and the biggest inland saltwater tank in Australia, the zoo has something for everyone.

Something special: Sleep with the beasts! The National Zoo and Aquarium’s hotel is nearing completion and will open in 2014. From the Treehouse Lodges guests will be able to hand feed giraffes and braver souls can have a lion in their lounge with (safe) glass-walled feeding areas part of the safari lodges by the cat enclosure.

More information: www.nationalzoo.com.au

BOOK YOUR ENCOUNTER TODAY

Open 10am to 5pm Every Day (Except Christmas Day)

Encounters run daily with a variety of Animals*

cture!

Put yourself in the pi

Scrivener Dam, Lady Denman Drive Yarralumla ACT Ph (02) 6287 8400 www.nationalzoo.com.au *Prior Bookings recommended Minimum age limits may apply

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COMBINED FAMILY TICKET OFFER: $95 FOR BOTH GOLD AND THE INCAS AND MEASURE ISLAND, that’s a saving of $30 for both exhibitions! * CANBERRA ONLY nga.gov.au

Journey deep into the jungle as you explore the world of measurement at Questacon’s Measure Island.

Challenge your understanding of accuracy and precision, try your hand at ‘mind reading’ and take a peek into the world of metrology.

On a visit to Measure Island discover how you measure up!

Combined tickets available at Ticketek and the National Gallery of Australia only.

Gold and the Incas reveals the splendour, drama and beauty of ancient Peru and the famous empire of the Incas.

GOLD AND THE INCAS FAMILY ACTIVITY ROOM Discover the amazing cultures of South America behind the massive walls of Machu Picchu. Children can spin and weave alpaca fibre, dress up in feathered masks and ornate costumes, decorate ceramics with fantastical creatures and crawl through an interactive treasure-filled tunnel.

An audio tour and an exhibition trail for children are also available.

6 December 2013 to 21 April 2014 Daily 10 am – 5 pm Closed Christmas Day PRESENTING PARTNERS

MAJOR PARTNERS

Purchase this great combined family ticket offer at

INCA culture, Centre, south, north 1400–1533 AD Llama gold Museo Oro del Perú, Lima Photograph Daniel Giannoni PRINCIPAL PARTNERS

ACCOMMODATION PARTNER

or 1300 795 012 or at the National Gallery of Australia *two adults three children. Combined tickets are valid for one month. Combined ticket offer valid until 21 April 2014

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27.

NATIONAL GALLERY OF AUSTRALIA, CANBERRA, ACT

You can’t visit Canberra and not visit the city’s amazing galleries. And the National Gallery of Australia, the largest art gallery in the country, is the cream of the crop. Boasting collections that include more than 160,000 works of art across four main areas - Australian art,

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander art, Asian art and European and American art - as well as world-class exhibitions, The National Gallery of Australia is an art lovers heaven. Their latest exhibition showcases the treasures of ancient Peru.

More than 200 objects from the Incan empire and prior including dazzling gold, ornate jewellery, intricately embroidered fabrics and amazing ceramics will enchant audiences. In the Gold and the Incas exhibition Family Activity Room

kids can discover the Peruvian way of life with fabulous hands-on craft and learning opportunities, interactive treasure-filled tunnels and colourful dress ups with feathered masks and elaborate costumes.

Something special: Until 6th April 2014, the gorgeous children’s exhibition, Toyshop, with its collection of toys made in different styles and mediums from around the world, is not to be missed.

More information: www.nga.gov.au

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FREE FALL DOWN A SIX METRE SLIDE GO HEAD OVER HEELS ING ON A 360 DEGREE SW E STAR IN AN EXPLOSIV SCIENCE SHOW science With over 200 hands-on bines exhibits, Questacon com incredible science and fun into an ! experience for everyone

r The ar te sm y to wa e v a h fu

n!

www.questacon.edu.au

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

Follow us on

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28.

QUESTACON, CANBERRA

No visit to Canberra with the kids is complete without discovering the smarter way to have fun at Questacon - The National Science and Technology Centre. Families can experience science in extraordinary ways at Questacon with over 200 interactive exhibits to explore across eight kid-friendly and extremely interactive themed galleries.

The fabulous Excite@Q, a hands-on and

minds-on experience, allows families to test their reflexes, skills and perceptions with interactive, energetic experiences focusing on spectacular scientific phenomena, and at MiniQ, tiny visitors can experiment with water, explore the sensory garden and play pretend.

At Questacon’s newest exhibition, Measure Island, explore monuments and statues built by a long-lost civilisation, hidden deep in the jungle of a mysterious island with interactive exhibits that look

at measurement systems and techniques and highlight the importance of good measurement in daily life.

And from Autumn 2014 you can shake, rattle’n’roll when the refurbished Awesome Earth exhibition reopens.

Something special: Be sure to catch a Spectacular Science Show. These entertaining shows change daily and feature explosive demonstrations and you may even end up the star of the show.

More information: www.questacon.edu.au

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29.

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ROAR & SNORE, TARONGA ZOO, SYDNEY, NSW Roar & Snore is a fully hosted first-class sleepover experience which incorporates fabulous animal interaction, milliondollar Sydney Harbour views and luxurious tented accommodation in the heart of Australia’s most famous Zoo. Enjoy drinks and nibbles in the main tent as the sun goes down over the city followed by a sumptuous feast and the amazing night safari tour without the

bustling crowds.

Wake early to a glorious sunrise and the roars, tweets, squeals and trumpets of the animals. Then there’s time for a light breakfast and behind-the-scenes exclusive animal interactions before you’re left to explore the zoo at your leisure before the crowds descend.

Something special: Get up-close and personal with some of the Zoos friendliest creatures including elegants, giraffes, cuddly koalas and slithering snakes.

More information: www.taronga.org.au

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30.

WOLGAN VALLEY, BLUE MOUNTAINS, NSW Discover just how elegant sustainability can be at one of Australia’s first luxury conservation-based resorts, Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa. Just a three-hour drive from Sydney and bordering the Blue Mountains, the superb eco-resort is nestled within its own private conservation and nature reserve and offers five-star service, fine dining and pampering to relax mind, body and spirit. And younger guests aren’t forgotten with loads of children’s activities, from games and sports

to educational nature trails for kids aged four to 14. Also on offer is bushcraft, bush bingo, stunt kite flying, pony rides and even archery!

The secluded resort has 40 individual suites each featuring wide private verandahs, an indoor/outdoor swimming pool, separate living and bedroom areas and double-sided fireplace.

Something special: Led by a field guide, kids can learn traditional Aboriginal culture and basic bush survival techniques, including navigation, animal tracking, shelter building and even how to find food and water.

More information: www.wolganvalley.com

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VICTORIAN GOLDFIELDS Ballarat is a great destination for family fun with a wide selection of interactive, engaging and fun activities and events on offer. Located a short drive from Melbourne, Ballarat and its historic villages offer scenic treasures, colourful events and tasty local produce in the heart of Victoria’s historic Goldfields region. The adventure playground at the Botanical Gardens is a must and, if you visit on a weekend or during school holidays, don’t miss a 20-minute ride on an historic horse-drawn tram around Lake Wendouree.

Sovereign Hill is another must for families. The extensive village, complete with blacksmith, school, church, sawmill, gold mine, coach house and a street full of shops, recreates life during Victoria’s rough and ready Goldrush era with re-enactments, folk musicians and tips on panning for gold.

Something special: Don’t miss Blood on the Southern Cross, Sovereign Hill’s spectacular evening sound-and-light show.

More information: www.sovereignhill.com.au

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East Coast Capers

S

un, sand and sea are all the elements a family needs for an unforgettable holiday, and Australia’s east coast is blessed in these departments. Whether you want to stay in a tent and immerse your family in nature, opt for a holiday park with fun and games for kids, an apartment with all the mod cons, a holiday house or a family-friendly hotel, you will find the perfect place. Then there all the things to do! In New South Wales go dolphin watching at Port Stephens, surf the beaches off the Mid North Coast, Coffs Coast or Tweed Coast, bite

into the Big Banana, Tropical Fruit World or the Pet Porpoise Pool. In Queensland, do the ‘World’s’ on the Gold Coast – Sea World, Dreamworld, Movie World – get sand between your toes on Fraser Island, see Australia Zoo or Underwater World on the Sunshine Coast, go cruising around the Whitsunday Islands, search for platypi around Mackay, or enjoy a day trip to the magnificent Great Barrier Reef from Port Douglas, Cairns or Townsville. And for the ultimate wilderness experience, head into the Daintree Rainforest and see if you can spot a croc or three!

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32.

SEA WORLD RESORT & WATER PARK, GOLD COAST, QLD

No family holiday on the Gold Coast is complete without a visit to Sea World.

Sensational Sea World Resort has been winning awards for family excellence for over 20 years and is the first hotel in Queensland ever to be awarded a place in the Queensland Hotel Association’s Hall of Fame. Located right on the doorstep

of Sea World theme park, Sea World Resort guarantees a great Gold Coast family holiday. The kids will love the newly upgraded Kids Club with specially designed SpongeBob SquarePants and Dora the Explorer activities and programs.

Take the monorail around the whole park and get a bird’s eye view of all the action below before planning a whole day of rides for all ages, animal attractions (including the super cute polar bears and penguins), the amazing underwater viewing of Shark Bay,

the world’s first SpongeBob SquarePants Parade and all the action of Castaway Bay plus once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to get up close and personal with sharks, dolphins and seals.

Something special: An exclusive for resort guests, kids can meet their favourite Nickelodeon characters, including SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick, Dora, Diego and friends!

More information: www.seaworld.com.au

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PARADISE RESORT, GOLD COAST, QLD

It’s not called Paradise Resort for nothing!

What family wouldn’t love this two-hectare oasis with beaches and the Gold Coast’s mega attractions a mere stone’s throw away? With a host of accommodation options to suit all families from Standard Resort Rooms, Family Rooms with a second

bedroom, Interconnecting Rooms or Junior Bunkhouses, there is something to suit families of all sizes and shapes.

Zone 4 Kids is a veritable kiddie utopia.

The kids club caters for babies and toddlers right through to 12 year olds with children separated into groups to ensure age-appropriate care and activities.

Meanwhile mum and dad can beat a retreat to the Resort’s day spa knowing the children are in safe hands. Amongst

a raft of other activities, the resort’s two new waterparks, a new ice skating rink called the Chill Zone, a new pool, two spas, a new adventure playground and rock climbing will ensure that your kids will never want to leave.

Something special: Paradise Resort is the only resort in the Southern Hemisphere to have a permanent ice skating rink!

More information: www.paradiseresort.com.au

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34.

EURONG BEACH RESORT, FRASER ISLAND Accessible only by 4WD vehicle, Eurong Beach Resort offers a magical beachfront position on stunning Seventy-Five Mile Beach and is the ideal hub for exploring spectacular Fraser Island - the world’s largest sand island and Mecca for nature-loving families.

Accommodation is designed to suit every budget and family with their spacious self-contained hotel units offering a small kitchenette, bathroom, telephone, TV and private balconies or shared terraces.

The larger self-contained, two-bedroom apartments also offer private balconies and full kitchens.

If you’d prefer not to do the cooking,

there’s a café and bakery plus Eurong Beach Resort’s restaurant and bar which serves buffet and a la carte meals overlooking the inviting lagoon-style swimming pool.

Something special: Leave the driving to an expert local guide and take a Fraser Explorer Tour or take to the sky with a joy flight for amazing views.

More information: www.eurong.com

Y3 STA 2 PAY

225

$

per apartment, per night including breakfast

1800 111 808 ☎ www.eurong.com

* Subject to availability, min 2 nights stay. Price is for 3 persons in apartment, additional person surcharge will apply. Valid until 31 October 2014.

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EBR075

Indulge in a little island time at Eurong Beach Resort on your next family beach holiday. There’s 75 miles of golden beach front to enjoy and plenty of sand tracks in between to explore. Bask in the fresh water swimming spots; land the catch of the day and reconnect with the ones you love on your next Fraser Island family holiday.

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FITZROY ISLAND, GREAT BARRIER REEF, QLD Fitzroy Island is a drop of paradise in the Great Barrier Reef, delivering an amazing holiday experience for families just 45 minutes from Cairns on the Fitzroy Fast Cat. Unlike many islands it has a beautiful National Park, perfect for bushwalks – long or short. Stay for a night or a week in the boutique 4 1/2 star island accommodation.

The Ocean Suite is perfect for families, with a kitchenette and separate bedroom. Play or laze the day away snorkelling, kayaking, bushwalking to magic spots like Secret Garden and Nudey Beach, or swimming in the pool. Hop on the glass bottomed boat or visit the turtle rehabilitation centre. Or do nothing but read by the pool or on the beach, forgetting about your city existence.

Something Special: Every child will love the in-water trampoline.

More information: www.fitzroyisland.com

GREAT BARRIER REEF

EXCLUSIVE OFFER FOR

OUT & ABOUT WITH KIDS READERS Enter the code OAWK01 in the booking button to receive 10% off accommodation Just 45 minutes from Cairns by Fast Cat, Fitzroy Island is nestled on a slice of tropical island paradise, positioned where the reef and rainforest collide. The 4½ star resort is the ideal location for discovering the Great Barrier Reef, come for the day or stay overnight.

ACTIVITIES INCLUDE GLASS BOTTOM BOAT • DIVING • SNORKELLING • KAYAKING • TOURS OF THE TURTLE CENTRE

Ocean Suite from $255 per room per night Day trips on the Fitzroy Fast Cat from $69 per person

fitzroy Isle_HP.indd 1

P 07 4044 6700 w www.fitzroyisland.com E stay@fitzroyisland.com

S U M10/12/13 M E R 24:32 0 1PM 4 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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36.

RENDEZVOUS REEF RESORT, PORT DOUGLAS, QLD

Located in in the popular family playground of Port Douglas, Rendezvous Reef Resort is a wonderful full-service resort offering the freedom of self-catered accommodation in stylish and spacious villas set in six hecatres

of lush tropical gardens.

The resort offers families plenty of ways to enjoy their days, from swimming in the three lagoon-style pools (including a children’s swimming pool), enjoying a game of tennis, frolicking in the children’s playground or relaxing over a barbecue with family and friends.

Located just 2km from Four Mile Beach and Port Douglas village the Resort offers

families a choice of one-, two- or threebedroom villas. Each villa features a fullyequipped kitchen, laundry, separate lounge and dining area.

Something special: If you don’t feel like cooking, why not savour a delicious meal at the resort’s Straits Cafe which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

More information: www.rendezvoushotels.com/portdouglas

Port Douglas

Kids under 12 stay & eat free Rendezvous Reef Resort offers affordable one, two and three bedroom self-contained two storey villas,each offering an enormous 110 square metres of space, each with a garden or pool view, balcony or patio, fully self contained kitchen and laundry.

Choose from a great range of resort facilities, relax by one of 4 swimming pools, cook up a delicious bbq while the children explore the new children’s playground, or enjoy alfresco dining at Straits Cafe and Bar.

2 BEDROOM DELUXE VILLA from

$144*

per night

Your own villa for the price of a room! *Price valid 01 Oct 13 – 31 Mar 15 (excludes School Holiday and Peak periods. Minimum 4 night stay) Offer based on 1 child per adult, in existing bedding.

Tel: 07 4087 2790 email: reservations.portdouglas@rendezvoushotels.com www.rendezvoushotels.com Adelaide l Auckland l Brisbane l Christchurch l Melbourne l Perth l Port Douglas l Shanghai l Singapore l Sydney

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37.

SUNSHINE COAST, QLD

From the moment you arrive and feel the sunshine on your skin, whether you’re digging your toes into the golden sand or breathing the clean hinterland air, you’ll begin to feel different.

Offering the perfect combination of safe swimming and patrolled surf beaches, a hinterland to connect with nature and affordable accommodation from camping and caravan parks to five star resorts, the naturally refreshing Sunshine Coast is the perfect setting for your next holiday getaway.

Families will love the beach games, water activities, extreme sports, exploring the ocean, frolicking in water fountains or exploring subtropical rainforests with a rejuvenating bush walk on world class walking trails.

Your fun-meter will skyrocket when you visit the Sunshine Coast’s amusement and theme parks, like Aussie World, UnderWater World

and internationally-renowned Australia Zoo. The kids will happily play all day at Top Shots in Maroochydore and they’ll love the Ginger Factory. The Sunshine Castle at Bli Bli is one of the more unusual attractions on the Sunshine Coast, complete with its own dungeon and torture chamber!

Something special: The Big Kart Track is a must, the largest of its kind in Australia.

More information: www.visitsunshinecoast.com.au

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Legendary

deals online

k o o b

now Fantastic discount coupons for accommodation and attractions available now at

legendarybeachesandbush.com.au

The Nambucca Valley Midway between Sydney and the Gold Coast, the Nambucca Valley has long offered families great holiday value and the perfect climate to relish the great outdoors.

Relive the simplicity of holidays gone by - where kids are kids – building sandcastles on family friendly beaches, swimming in clean and uncrowded waterways & having the freedom and space to run, to laugh and to explore.

Create new family memories when you experience all the Nambucca Valley has to offer such as surfing, fishing, kayaking, waterskiing, bushwalking, mountain biking & so much more. Rediscover the Nambucca, you’ll love it!

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NAMBUCCA HEADS, NSW Nambucca Heads is a coastal paradise where the Nambucca River meets the sea. Located halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, around 40 minutes south of Coffs Harbour, Nambucca offers a clean and pristine playground of beautiful beaches and stunning coastal scenery for holidaying families.

Take a nature walk through the

rainforest in Gordon Park. Stroll down the series of boardwalks that wind along and over the water to the river entrance or to one of the many lookouts along the headlands to take in the magnificent views south to South West Rocks; north almost as far as Coffs Harbour and west along the river to the mountains.

Postcard pretty and blessedly uncrowded surf and river beaches like Shelly, Beilby and Main Beach are great all year round and Main Beach is patrolled

throughout the summer school holidays and at weekends between October and Easter. If your family includes four-legged members, Swimming Creek Beach is even dog friendly!

Something special: Kids will enjoy the walk along the outdoor graffiti art gallery, the V-Wall, where visitors are encouraged to paint their own postcard message on the enormous rock boulders.

More information: www.nambuccatourism.com.au

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summer in the lakes Swimming, kayaking, horse riding, boating, surfing, walks, fishing, cruises, everything you will need for a Great Lakes adventure. visit www.greatlakes.org.au or phone 1800 802 692 for your free info pack.

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THE GREAT LAKES, NSW

The Great Lakes is an intricate group of waterways and lakes made up of the Myall, Wallis and Smiths Lakes. Stretching from Forster in the north, through Pacific Palms to Hawks Nest in the south and inland to Stroud there is plenty to do, on and off the water. Think whale watching, kite surfing, kayaking, windsurfing and

Š Great Lakes Tourism

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sailboarding. While older kids might also be keen to learn to surf with one of the many surf schools in the area, kids of every age will adore the local fun parks.

The area boasts amazing natural appeal with the Myall Lakes National Park as the centrepiece of a network of coastal forests, mangroves, pristine beaches and, of course, the lake system. The beaches are fantastic! Hawks Nest is especially good for families, Jimmy’s Beach suits

little ones and Forster has a pretty family beach with a tidal pool. Boat Beach, in the sleepy beach town of Seal Rocks (a favourite spot for holidaying Australian fur seals) is also ideal for snorkelling.

Something special: Take a walk with a National Parks and Wildlife Service discovery ranger on a Junior Ranger safari at Myall Lakes National Park.

More information: www.greatlakes.org.au

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Southern Sojourns

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© Ashley Whitworth Shutterstock.com

T

he southern states offer families great holiday destinations with a difference.

Victoria is Australia’s secondsmallest state but what it lacks in size it makes up for in family fun! Drive the rugged coastline along the Great Ocean Road, relive the Eureka rebellion at Sovereign Hill, and don’t miss Phillip Island’s tiny feathered residents, the fairy penguins.

South Australia is a natural playground.

At Kangaroo Island, penguins, sea lions and spectacular scenery will have the family enthralled. Cruise down the Murray River on a houseboat or stay on a farm in the Clare Valley or the Barossa, where mum and dad can also indulge in a little wine tasting.

MONA, the phenomenal Museum of Old and New Art in Hobart, is reason enough to visit Tasmania. Add some of Australia’s best markets, wild landscapes, historic towns and plenty of adventure and you’ve got all the makings of a perfect family holiday.

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With flippers, fur, feathers, fantastic food, fast cars and family fun in abundance, Phillip Island packs plenty of punch. An easy 90-minute drive from Central Melbourne, Phillip Island is an extraordinary family holiday destination that offers a wealth of natural experiences and popular tourist attractions to please every member of the family. Get up close with fairy penguins at the world-famous nightly Phillip Island Penguin Parade or get lost in the giant wooden maze. Cuddle a koala or ride the waves at the great surfing beaches, take a spin in a go kart or try your hand at trout fishing. And that’s just the tip of Phillip Island’s fabulous iceberg.

Something special: Phillip Island will play host to an Island-wide, week-long Scavenger Hunt event for visitors during the coming holidays with amazing prizes up for grabs.

More information: www.visitphillipisland.com

© Tourism Victoria, Photographer Garth Oriander

PHILLIP ISLAND, VICTORIA

™

Where: Churchill Island, Phillip Island When: Jan 21 - 27 10:30am to 2:30pm daily

Free with a 3 Parks Pass!

FREE kids activities Australia Day long weekend

www.penguins.org.au

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Outback Odysseys

T

Wilpena Pound or head up the Birdsville or Oodnadatta Tracks for a desert awakening.

Outback New South Wales is different again with towns like Broken Hill, Lightning Ridge and Silverton all offering a range of things to do and see. And in Outback Queensland, catch the Spirit of the Outback train to Longreach and visit the Stockman’s Hall of Fame and the Qantas Founders Museum.

Whether you fly in for a week here or there or do ‘the big trip’ your family will have a wonderful time reconnecting with each other - and the spiritual heart of the country.

© Albert Pego, Shutterstock.com

here is something magical about getting outback. The characters are quirky, the scenery sometimes stark but it is always beautiful and the experience unforgettable for kids.

Alice Springs and the Red Centre delivers the magnificent Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Watarrka Kings Canyon.

Broome and the Kimberley has the awesome Bungle Bungles, with kids able to enjoy the best of everything from camel rides to boat tours, mixed in with outback tours. In South Australia, head for the Flinders Ranges and the spectacular

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What better place to escape with the family than to one of the world’s most beautiful beaches?

Broome’s Cable Beach is 22 kilometres of pure sun-kissed white sand, bright blue water and that quintessential Broome experience, a sunset camel ride.

Vibrant Broome is one of Australia’s most beautiful places to unwind and the ideal gateway for families to explore the awesome outback

landscape of the Kimberley, one of the world’s last great wilderness areas and something every Aussie family should have on their bucket list.

To make the most of a break in Broome why not check in to the award-winning and extremely family-friendly Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa, the only Resort in Broome that’s located right on spectacular Cable Beach.

Something Special: Millions of years old dinosaur footprints can be seen at Broome’s Gantheume Point and near Crab Creek at low tide.

More information: www.broomevisitorcentre.com.au

© Shutterstock.com

41.

BROOME, WESTERN AUSTRALIA

RED CENTRE CAMPING Sleeping under the stars in a swag is one of life’s great joys and one of the best places to do it is in the Northern Territory’s Red Centre. Wayoutback Safaris’ has a one-night Dingo Dreaming tour with the highlight being sleeping outside in the Uluru-Kata-Tjuta National Park. Kids over eight are welcome and they will absolutely be blown away by the sheer amount of stars in the night sky in this part of the world. Not to mention

watching the sun set and rise, over the magical and mystical Uluru. The three-day Cockatoo Dreaming safari also includes Uluru, as well as a wonderful campsite on Kings Creek Station near Watarrka - Kings Canyon National Park. Sleeping in a swag under the warm blanket of the universe and hearing dingos howl in the distance… amazing.

Something special: Stay a few extra nights at Ayers Rock Resort and go for a camel ride at dawn.

More information: www.wayoutback.com.au

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N O I T A N I T S NO DE S E I R A D N U O B NO

!

S E I R R O NO W T A E R G DEAILNSE ONL

HiTOP

EXPLORER

SAFARI

Go your own way with Britz.

Whether your dream roadtrip is along the stunning Coral Coast of Western Australia, the Legendary Pacific Coast or the Explorers Way, explore it at your own pace in a Britz Campervan.

To book simply call 1800 445 989 or visit www.britz.com.au JOIN OUR ONLINE COMMUNITY facebook.com/britzfanpage

@BritzCampervans

Campervan. 4WD. Car Rentals

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BRITZ CAMPERVANS

With your transport and home all-in-one, a Britz campervan holiday gives you the freedom and flexibility to discover Australia’s beautiful countryside, beaches and outback at your own leisurely pace.

Britz, part of Australasia’s largest campervan company, has the widest range of

vehicles available making it the ideal choice for your next self-drive adventure. Britz offer vehicles to suit every need, including six-berth motorhomes and 4WD’s, the eight-person People Mover, compact HiTop campervan and the big Frontier motorhome, all perfect for families and groups of friends.

Your Britz campervan also comes with unlimited kilometres, all your bedding and linen requirements plus kitchen and general

living equipment. All that is left for you to do is to choose your destination, pack the family and hit the highway for your road trip of a lifetime.

Something special: If you book a Britz Campervan 120 days or more before you travel you can save 5% off the price of your vehicle hire - making it easier and more cost effective to tour around Australia.

More information: www.britz.com.au

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Fabulous Farmstays W

44.

© Shutterstock.com

ant to muck in and feed the chooks, milk the cows or simply enjoy the pace of country life?

Then why not make hay while the sun shines on a farmstay holiday. Staying on a farm can add a unique dimension to your family country holiday and is a fabulous opportunity for city kids who’ve never ridden a horse, collected eggs straight from the hen house, milked a cow, ridden a tractor, or joined a muster to experience country life. With a variety of on-farm accommodation available across Australia - from historic homesteads to self-contained cottages - a farmstay holiday offers families comfort, hearty food, great facilities and best of all a safe and relaxed environment for kids to interact with all manner of cuddly, and not so cuddly, farmyard critters.

Mowbray Park Farm

Man, you think your room’s untidy MOWBRAY PARK FARM, NSW Just 90 minutes from Sydney, Mowbray Park Farm delivers a real country experience for families. Mowbray Park has been a working farm since 1822 and is one of the best farmstays around. Go for a day or a week – the kids will love horse riding, the animal nursery, hay rides and demonstrations of farm life.

Something special: Be sure to take a trailer ride to the campfire for fresh damper and billy tea.

More information: www.farmstayholidays.com.au

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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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Happiness is a

Holiday Park

C

atering for every budget and taste with accommodation options from canvas to cabin, stunning locations, friendly community atmospheres and loads of activities to keep both kids and parents entertained, it’s no wonder that holiday parks are enjoying a massive resurgence with Aussie families.

A tent site is your cheapest option, or you can park your own caravan or motorhome. At the premium end, take your pick of cabins or villas that come in a wide range of sizes, styles and costs, or for something different, go glamping in luxury safari tents.

Whether you’re going for the canvas, caravan or cabin option, you’ll have access to a raft of fantastic facilities including camp kitchens and communal free barbecues.

Catering facilities do vary from park to park and while most offer a kiosk to purchase staples, some even offer cafes and restaurants for hassle-free dining.

These days a good holiday park is so much more than somewhere to sleep with many offering swimming pools (often with water slides and a toddler pool), giant jumping pillows, outdoor movie screens, mini golf, tennis courts, soft-play and games rooms and even kids clubs on weekends and during the school holidays.

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LOVE HOLIDAYS?

JOIN THE CLUB! With 180 BIG4 Holiday Parks in some of Australia’s most scenic locations, BIG4 Loyalty Club members have access to exclusive offers and savings. In addition, joining the BIG4 Loyalty Club provides you with a host of other benefits from our Loyalty Club Partners, making the BIG4 Membership a must have, when you are on or off road.

For more details or to book at any one of our Parks, visit BIG4.com.au.

SAVE 10%*

UP TO $40 ON EVERY BIG4 HOLIDAY Earn credits for each stay and you can be rewarded even more!

• $50 for a new 2 year membership • $40 to renew an existing membership

BIG4.com.au *10% discount is capped at $40 for Blue Members. Visit big4.com.au/loyalty for full terms and conditions.

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45.

BIG4 HOLIDAY PARKS, AUSTRALIA-WIDE

Taking the kids on a special holiday and keeping them amused has never been easier.

BIG4 Holiday Parks offer a family holiday experience that’s got it all and with more than 180 locations to choose from Australiawide, whether it’s a city stay, seaside escape, country retreat or farm stay you’re looking for, there’s a park to fit every family’s holiday destination wishlist.

Each BIG4 Holiday Park is unique and offers guests the freedom to do what they want and be who they want, to sleep under the stars or in five-star luxury with

accommodation options ranging from camping and caravan sites to self-contained holiday cabins from budget to five-star.

Kids love the parks giant jumping pillows, adventure playgrounds and swimming pools and parents will enjoy the time out, so whether you’re returning to your favourite BIG4 Holiday Park and catching up with old friends, or making new ones, BIG4’s familyfriendly parks are the perfect location for a summer holiday.

Something special: Join BIG4’s Loyalty Club to be rewarded with great discounts and amazing offers from more than 600 partners.

More information: www.big4.com.au

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Aspen Parks and Resorts A Holiday for all the family to enjoy!

Great online deals!

Visit our website to book an amazing Hot Deal!

Cabins • Caravans • Camping • Backpackers • Resorts • Houseboats

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

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 833 444 1800 356 103

New South Wales Echuca/Moama A Shady River Holiday Park Echuca/Moama Maiden’s Inn Holiday Park Eden Twofold Bay Beach Resort Dubbo BIG4 Dubbo Parklands Forster/Tuncurry Wallamba River Holiday Park

1800 674 239 1800 356 801 1800 631 006 1800 033 072 1800 268 176

Victoria Albury/Wodonga Geelong Echuca/Moama Melbourne

1800 352 982 1800 336 225 1800 222 052 1800 061 444

Boathaven Holiday Park Geelong Riverview Tourist Park Yarraby Holiday Park Ashley Gardens BIG4 Holiday Village

aspenparks.com.au

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46.

ASPEN PARKS AND RESORTS, AUSTRALIA WIDE

Aspen Parks and Resorts specialise in taking care of the whole family. Escape and relax as you watch the world go by or enjoy the many recreational activities available at your fingertips. Aspen strives to keep the amenities in all their Parks and Resorts modernised, fun, and enjoyable and each park offers a variety of activities for guests little and big with facilities that can include resort-style swimming pools, sporting facilities, entertainment, games rooms, camp kitchens, barbecues, children’s playgrounds, fully-equipped laundries, internet kiosks and tourist information amongst others.

Whether your family prefers to pitch a tent, park your luxury caravan, stay in a self-

contained unit, rest and relax in a deluxe spa chalet or hire a houseboat, Aspen Parks and Resorts offers a range of accommodation to suit every budget.

And with their 23 parks situated across five states, Aspen also offers visitors a range of iconic destinations that will appeal to every family.

Something special: Experience the meandering Murray River on a luxury Magic Murray Houseboat.

More information: www.aspenparks.com.au

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NRMA HOLIDAY PARKS, NSW & QLD If you are looking for a whole new way to holiday with your family, check out NRMA Holiday Parks.

Set in four pristine locations along Australia’s east coast – Gold Coast, Darlington Beach, Umina and Merimbula – NRMA Holiday Parks allow you to do it all, or do nothing at all.

Whether you are chasing action-packed

family adventures, traditional beach holidays or nature-based camping retreats, NRMA Holiday Parks has it all and more!

All four parks offer daily kids club activities plus fantastic resort-style pools, jumping pillows and fun kids playgrounds. Treasure Island Holiday Park (Gold Coast) and Ocean Beach Holiday Park (Umina) now have brand new pirate-themed waterparks! Other park facilities may include tennis courts, basketball courts, games room, golf course, lawn bowls, archery, a BMX track, go kart hire and beach volleyball, depending on the

location.

Each park offers a range of family accommodation from luxury five-star cabins to ‘glamping’ sites and tent sites and all parks feature onsite restaurants and cafes that can easily cater for all dietary requirements.

Something special: You can join the NRMA More for Members Benefit Program onsite from just $26.70, saving you up to 50% across all kids activities, discounts on your stay and priority check-in.

More information: www.nrmaholidayparks.com.au

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Scan Here

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48.

CENTRAL COAST HOLIDAY PARKS, WYONG SHIRE, NSW

Budgewoi Holiday Park in Lake Munmorah welcomes fishermen and water sportsloving families all year round and with a grassy lakeside foreshore there’s plenty of space and playgrounds for kids to let off steam.

Something special: In addition to numerous caravan and camping sites, Central Coast Holiday Parks offer a wide variety of spacious cabins to suit all budgets.

More information: www.cchp.com.au

© kwest , Shutterstock.com

Just an hour’s drive from Sydney or Newcastle, the Wyong Shire is renowned for its beautiful waterways, patrolled beaches, secluded bays, kid-friendly atmosphere and Central Coast Holiday Parks offer great places for visiting families to stay with four fantastic locations and accommodation options to suit all family sizes and budgets.

Toowoon Bay Holiday Park is located near beaches including Shelley Beach, Toowoon Bay Beach and Little Bay (perfect for little ones) and is just a stone’s throw from The Entrance. Only 300 metres from Soldiers Beach, Norah Head Holiday Park offers the chance to explore quiet rock pools, safe beaches and the amazing Norah Head lighthouse. Canton Beach Holiday Park in the peaceful park surroundings of the Tuggerah Lakes foreshore exudes a relaxing coastal township ambience.

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BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park THE PERFECT BEACH HOLIDAY DESTINATION! Our family friendly park has an array of accommodation to suit everyone’s needs from waterfront Beach Retreats and Villas to our Ensuite and Powered Sites. Relax and enjoy a swim or a game of beach cricket on our beautiful Easts Beach. Have a hit of tennis or catch a fish or two. The kids will love our 25m resort pool,

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

For further information please contact: BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park Ocean Street (PO Box 10) Kiama NSW 2533 Freecall: 1800 674 444 P: 02 4232 2124 F: 02 4233 1009 E: holiday@eastsbeach.com.au www.eastsbeach.com.au

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BIG4 EASTS BEACH, NSW Just a five-minute drive from the picturesque seaside village of Kiama and minutes from popular attractions including Jamberoo Action Park, Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk and Berry, BIG4 Easts Beach offers an ideal location for your next family holiday.

Nestled between the headlands that make

its absolute waterfront location so unique, BIG4 Easts Beach has been designed to cater for every age with a huge variety of accommodation. Whether you’re getting back to basics in a tent or indulging yourself in a Waterfront Spa Unit, BIG4 Easts Beach has something to suit your taste and budget. There are free barbecues and a fully-equipped camp kitchen or, if you want to take a break, the onsite Breakaway Café.

If you’re looking for a little serenity try a relaxing massage in the onsite Massage Studio next to Munna Munnora Creek while the kids take advantage of the beach, resort-style pool and spa, toddlers pool, jumping pillow and children’s playgrounds.

Something special: Kids will love all the organised activities during school holidays.

More information: www.eastsbeach.com.au

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Whether planning a family holiday, a romantic escape or a weekend getaway, our three friendly Parks promise you a unique holiday experience. Located on some of Wollongong’s most scenic and unspoiled beaches and within a comfortable drive of Sydney and Canberra.

The Parks offer a range of affordable self-contained cabins and caravan and camping options, and facilities convenient to all your travel needs including on-site kiosks*, camp kitchens*, guest laundries, clean amenities, kids’ playgrounds and much more.

Enjoy the easy access to the popular attractions of the Grand Pacific Drive and entertainment venues of metropolitan Wollongong, or simply enjoy patrolled swimming, surfing, fishing, or a stroll or a pedal along the coastal cycleway. Relax, it’s all right at your doorstep. *Not all facilities available at all Parks.

Bulli Beach Tourist Park 1 Farrell Road, Bulli NSW 2516 Tel 02 4285 5677 Fax 02 4285 5062 bullitp@wollongong.nsw.gov.au

Corrimal Beach Tourist Park Lake Parade, East Corrimal NSW 2518 Tel 02 4285 5688 Fax 02 4285 5079 corrimaltp@wollongong.nsw.gov.au

Windang Beach Tourist Park Fern Street, Windang NSW 2528 Tel 02 4297 3166 Fax 02 4296 9589 windangtp@wollongong.nsw.gov.au

wcc©1361158

www.wollongongtouristparks.com.au

50 G RE AT F AM I L Y HOLI DAY S

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WOLLONGONG CITY TOURIST PARKS, NSW

Marvel at the wonder of Wollongong – NSW’s third largest city. Located on a narrow coastal strip along the Pacific Ocean and bordered by the Illawarra Escarpment in the west, the stunning Royal National Park to the north and tranquil Lake Illawarra to the south, Wollongong and its surrounds makes a perfect playground for families who enjoy the great outdoors.

Savour the region’s highly popular attractions from one of the Wollongong City Tourist Parks, strategically located at Bulli, Corrimal and Windang beaches. These Parks offer a range of accommodation options, including standard and deluxe one-, two- or three-bedroom cabins, plus unpowered, powered and ensuite caravan and camping sites, with facilities like camp kitchens, barbeque areas, guest laundries, kids’ playgrounds and cafes to make your stay comfortable. Take advantage of the scenic coastal cycleway to recreational activities including patrolled swimming, surfing, fishing, boating and the harbourside boardwalk – the Blue Mile. And be sure to plan a visit to the Science Centre & Planetarium or Symbio Wildlife Park.

Something special: Kids stay free, strict terms and conditions apply.

More information: www.wollongongtouristparks.com.au

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NSW SOUTH COAST | ATHERTON TABLELANDS | TASMANIA SUMMER 2014 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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Š Shutterstock.com

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Southerly AWAY FROM THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF THE CITY, THE SOUTH COAST OF NSW IS THE PERFECT PLACE FOR FAMILIES TO RELAX, RECHARGE AND RECONNECT. WORDS: HELEN HAYES

T

SWELL

he NSW South Coast stretches from Wollongong all the way down to Eden, on the doorstep of Victoria.

Along the way you’ll find peaceful coastal hamlets, pristine national parks, jaw-droppingly beautiful rural scenery and of course a few bigger towns such as Wollongong, Nowra, Batemans Bay, Bega and Merimbula.

On a family holiday down the coast, the sea is so clear, the beaches so pure, the air so fresh and the countryside so pretty, your city-life stresses will fade away quicker than you can milk a cow. I should know; I grew up there.

WOLLONGONG Set between rugged escarpment and the blue Pacific, Wollongong is the perfect winter escape and is just over an hour’s drive from Sydney.

Or you can take the scenic route – the very scenic route, down the Grand Pacific Drive and the stunning Sea Cliff Bridge. With its coastline boasting plenty of surfing beaches and pretty beachside suburbs with parks, walks and buzzing cafes, the area is sensational.

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OUT AND ABOUT There are plenty of activities to keep kids busy on everything from two feet to two wheels. There are bike tracks galore including the very popular Wollongong to Thirroul track that is also fabulous for walking. Hire bikes from Novotel Northbeach to take the kids for a pedal and then enjoy delicious fish and chips on the beach. On the water go for a kayak on the Minnamurra River, stand up paddle board or enjoy a learn to surf lesson, while those wanting to go bush can tackle the amazing Illawarra Fly Treetop - a pram and wheelchair friendly 500 metre long, 25 metre high elevated tree top walk - or really push it with a 5.5 km trek around Mount Keira. The lookout gives incredible views over Wollongong and its coastline. If the weather is not cooperating your little treasures can wear themselves out at the Hangdog Climbing Gym.

SOUTHERN STARS Animal lovers will love the collection of furry friends at Symbio Gardens, where you can watch a rare Sumatran tiger feeding, cuddle a koala or try hand-feeding a kangaroo. For something a bit more cultural, visit Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere, or the Science Centre and Planetarium.

Finish off your trip with a wet and wonderful day at Jamberoo Action Park with slides and rides galore.

More information: www.tourismwollongong.com READER STORY

We Wollongong “We loved Wollongong so much we moved here, so we could bring up our two boys here. We love the coastal walk from North Beach, walking the dog alongside Lake Illawarra, watching the hang gliders at Stanwell Tops and are regular visitors to Symbio Wildlife Park. We love it because we have just the right mix of city and country, giving us and our boys the best of both worlds.” Scott Robinson.

SHELLHARBOUR In the heart of the Illawarra’s holiday playground, this historic township takes us back to yesteryear with its tranquillity, beauty and family-friendly atmosphere.

There are plenty of things to do, or you can do nothing at all – perfect for a family trying to relax after a busy year, term or for no reason at all. Shellharbour is known for its beaches – there are five stretching from Lake Illawarra to Minnamurra - while its oceanfront cafe strip and beachfront accommodation tick all the boxes.

OUT AND ABOUT

Above: Nan Tien Temple © Shutterstock

Opposite: Shellharbour boat harbour © Tourism Shellharbour

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For something different, go for a guided adventure Segway tour in scenic Killalea State Park at Shell Cove, exploring hills, forests and beaches in this truly unique way. The Park is also known for its surf lessons at the spot known as The Farm. For more aquatic fun drive up to Kangaroo Valley and go canoeing with Kangaroo Valley Safaris or go snorkelling in beautiful Bushranger’s Bay at Bass Point Reserve. It’s the region’s only marine aquatic reserve fabulous for snorkelling or scuba diving. Bass Point also stands is also home to a large collection of significant Aboriginal and European heritage sites - take the self-

S OU T H C OA ST, NSW

guided indigenous walk. Shellharbour’s cycle ways and putt putt golf offer more outdoor fun, while indoors, enjoy a blast from the past at Oaks Flats Rollerskating Rink.

SOUTHERN STARS Head to Jervis Bay and jump on a dolphin watching cruise, and squeak in the pure-white sands of Hyams Beach. Visit the Illawarra Light Railway Museum – open on the second Sunday every month – and go on a miniature steam train ride. For more mechanical marvels drop in to the Historical Aircraft Restoration Society (HARS) Museum and check out all the vintage planes, or for all things cars, rev into the Australian Motorlife Museum. When it’s time to chill out, take the kids fishing at Windang Island or Warilla Beach, or take a wander on one of the coastal tracks.

More information: www.tourismshellharbour.com.au READER STORY

We Shellharbour “My family loaded up the car and went to Shellharbour many times when I was young, and now I do it with my family. Sometimes we stay in one of the holiday parks and sometimes in holiday apartments but no matter where we stay or for how long, we always really enjoy each other’s company and visiting our favourite places. We fish, we swim, we play paddle tennis on the beach and we play in the playground at Blackbutt Reserve.” William Walton

Call our friendly staff for information on things to do in Shellharbour or ask for a FREE Visitors Guide

1300 656 169 BOO K ONLI NE

www.visitshellharbour.com.au

Shellharbour Visitor Information Centre Cnr Addison & Wentworth Streets Shellharbour Village NSW 2529 tourism@shellharbour.nsw.gov.au

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SO U TH C OAS T , NS W

KIAMA There is more – much more – to Kiama than the famous Blowhole, with its stunning coastline, workers’ cottages transformed into shops and eateries, rolling green hills and lush hinterland. It’s far enough from Sydney to feel like a holiday but close enough to make it an easy drive – around two hours.

OUT AND ABOUT

© Anson Smart; Destination NSW

With so much beautiful scenery you can’t help but want to go outside and get active. The biggest drawcard in the area is the Jamberoo Action Park but be warned, a day here will result in very happy, very tired kids – and parents. From scary rides like the Funnel Web and Taipan, to the bobsled tracks, mini golf course and Billabong Beach, it is a blast. Feel the sea breeze on a section of the 22km Kiama Coast Walk, and admire the dramatic view of Bombo Headland. For fun at the beach families with younger kids love Easts Beach and Kendalls Beach, while surfers will head for Mystics, Werri Beach at Gerringong, or Bombo. Take a trip to Minnamurra Rainforest at the base of Jamberoo Mountain in Budderoo National Park. Stroll through forests of ancient figs on elevated walkways to the waterfall and after, visit the Rainforest Centre. For another beautiful waterfall, carry on to Carrington Falls.

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SOUTHERN STARS The Blowhole is a rock formation that spouts plumes of water into the sky – how big they are depends on the swell.

While there call into the Pilot’s Cottage Museum to see the

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Family holidays South Coast NSW

Children are always welcome at our tourist parks, with most parks offering family-friendly standard rates during school holidays and kids staying free outside of peak school holidays.

Choose from a range of accommodation options from basic unpowered camping sites to two-bedroom, two-bathroom cabins that will sleep the whole family. Enjoy a host of recreational facilities for kids and access to some of the finest rivers, lakes and beaches on the NSW South Coast, just 2–3 hours’ drive from Sydney or Canberra.

Our parks offer: • Fully self-contained family holiday cabins • Ensuite powered sites • Swimming pools • Jumping pillows • Kids’ playgrounds

• Summer holiday activities • Beach, lake and river access • Camp kitchens • Recreational facilities • Internet and WiFi access • Boat ramps & fishing cleaning facilities

Note: Not all facilities or pricing is available at all Holiday Haven Tourist Parks. Please check with individual parks upon booking.

Kiama Holiday Haven Tourist Parks South Coast NSW

Kangaroo Valley Shoalhaven Heads Crookhaven Heads Currarong Beachside Huskisson White Sands Huskisson Beach Swan Lake Bendalong Point Lake Conjola Entrance Ulladulla Headland Burrill Lake Lake Tabourie

1300 559 977 1300 782 222 1300 733 026 1300 555 515 1300 733 028 1300 733 027 1300 555 517 1300 733 025 1300 133 395 1300 733 021 1300 555 525 1300 559 966

look no further …

www.holidayhaven.com.au

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story of Kiama’s past. You can see more history by visiting Kiama Terrace, a picturesque row of cottages built in the 1880s for quarry workers. The oldest weatherboard terraces in Australia, they have been fully restored as cafes and shops. And for good oldfashioned family time, stock up on reels and bait and head to Kiama Harbour and fish for bream and blackfish. You might not catch anything but you’’ll certainly have fun trying.

More information: www.kiama.com.au

Kiama READER STORY

We

Kiama

“Kiama is a regular on our holiday calendar and there is one thing we do every single time we go. That is to take a drive along Saddleback Mountain Road. This has to be one of the prettiest drives around and we always stop at the lookout and marvel at the view over the town, the ocean and the beautiful green hills.

There is something soothing about rural scenery and it draws us back time after time.” Matt McCarney

THE SHOALHAVEN The Shoalhaven is a magnificent slice of Australia stretching from the northern lush rainforests of Kangaroo Valley and quaint country town of Berry, to bustling Nowra, along many miles of exquisite beaches, to Jervis Bay, Mollymook and Ulladulla to Durras in the south. Beautiful beaches, farm stays, natural attractions – this piece of paradise has it all.

OUT AND ABOUT With so many beautiful beaches, you can take your pick of places to surf, swim with the little ones, go fishing or even get up close with some wildlife. At Pebbly Beach and Murramarang you can often see kangaroos up close – not to mention the copious birdlife singing and squawking in the sunshine. Go bushwalking in the various National Parks and if you are a family with teenagers used to challenging climbs, tackle Pigeon House Mountain.

Go camping in Booderee National Park, check out the fishing fleet in Ulladulla Harbour or hire a boat and fish at Lake Tabourie. For thrill seekers, fly high at the Trees Adventure park. On a rainy day in Ulladulla, Funland is a huge indoor play centre that kids adore.

SOUTHERN STARS Nowra can easily fill a few days with attractions like the Fleet Air Arm Museum, Shoalhaven Zoo and Adventure Park and a walk to Hanging Rock Lookout. In Jervis Bay go on a dolphin watching

INDOOR FAMILY FUN PARK

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unlimited ride packages available

dodgems arcade & prize games

Best value Family Fun on the Coast!

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ph 02 4454 3220

www.funland.com.au

S OU T H C OA ST, NSW

cruise and visit Point Perpendicular Lighthouse, while in Berry, spend a few hours browsing – and maybe spending – at the charming antique shops.

For a bit of convict history and a lot of outdoor fun and games, visit, or maybe even stay at Coolangatta Estate. Don’t miss doing a tour on board Big Foot!

In Kangaroo Valley, go horseriding or on a canoe or kayaking tour, and if you like two wheels, go on a self-guided bike tour around Jervis Bay, St Georges Basin and Vincentia. Don’t miss visiting Hyams Beach – recorded in the Guinness Book of Records as having the whitest sand in the world.

More information: www.shoalhavenholidays.com.au READER STORY

We Ulladulla “When I was young we used to go to Ulladulla quite a lot to visit my grandparents. We fished, played on the beach, watched the fishing trawlers come in with their catch and played in the park. No TV, no PlayStation, no computer.

Just family time spent mostly outdoors. I have taken my family there a few times now, and we do much the same. We surf at Mollymook or the Bommie, go fishing at Lake Tabourie and go horseriding at Termeil. We just love it.”

Catherine Sherby

EUROBODALLA With 83 beaches, islands, four major rivers, lakes, forests, historic towns and quaint coastal villages, the Eurobodalla shire can package up any type of holiday you and your family desire. The now bustling town of Batemans Bay and its satellite towns is flourishing, and the two other main towns – Narooma and Moruya – have a lot to offer. A holiday here will leave you refreshed and ready to slot back into busy lives in the city.

ACTION STATIONS

See the meerkats at Mogo Zoo

Eurobodalla means ‘land of many waters’ and as such, is pure heaven for water babies who love swimming in the sea or in rivers, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, surfing or boating. From Batemans Bay, go deep sea fishing to catch dinner, or go for a sail. You can even stay on a houseboat and meander the peaceful waters of the Clyde River. In Narooma, go on a fishing charter or better still, go out to Montague Island – home of the largest colony of Australian and New Zealand fur seals as well as penguins and seabirds. You can even stay overnight! For one of the prettiest and most tranquil places to fish, hire a dinghy and drop a line in beautiful Wagonga Inlet. For more active pursuits,

Above: Kangaroos, Shoalhaven © Don Fuchs; Destination NSW

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© John Hicks; Eurobodalla Coast Tourism

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go bushwalking, cycling or horse riding through beautiful forest scenery.

LOCAL HEROES Mogo Zoo is undoubtedly one of the biggest attractions in the area, with over 200 animals including the largest collection of primates in any private zoo in Australia. Don’t miss the white lions of Timbavati – real live Simbas! Another highlight in Mogo is the Original Gold Rush Colony and the quaint cafes and shops. In Batemans Bay get up close to wombats, koalas and snakes at Birdland Animal Park, which has over 80 native species. For pure natural beauty go for a drive to Tilba Tilba and Central Tilba, browsing through the shops and visiting the beautiful Foxglove Spires Garden. In Tuross Head, south of Moruya, stroll down the Bingi Dreaming Track to see ancient Aboriginal shell middens and stone carvings.

More information: www.eurobodalla.com.au

obodalla

Whale watching, Eur

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READER STORY

We

Mogo

“For a small place, Mogo packs a real punch and whenever we stay in Batemans Bay, we spend at least one day there. The kids insist on visiting Mogo Zoo every single time and visit every single creature. Favourites are the red pandas, the meerkats and the cheetahs. We can’t escape Mogo without visiting Jenny’s Old Time Lolly Shop, and we wouldn’t want to!” Jannene Crowe

SAPPHIRE COAST A true jewel, the Sapphire Coast is worth the drive from Sydney, Canberra or Melbourne, absolutely sparkling with natural beauty and country charm.

The major towns are Bega, Merimbula and Eden ably supported by arty Cobargo, historic Tathra and beautiful Bermagui, with the biggest attraction being the fresh air, star-lit skies and stunning vistas.

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Mumbulla Waterfall

From far left: A sunset on Glass House Rocks Beach near Narooma, NSW © FiledIMAGE, Shutterstock.com

Looking towards Tathra Wharf.

Images by Helen Hayes

ACTION STATIONS For surfers of all levels, the Sapphire Coast has beaches to suit. Learn to surf at Tathra or Merimbula, or take experienced groms to well-known local breaks such as Short Point, Merimbula Bar or the idyllic beaches inside Mimosa Rocks National Park. Mountain bikers will love the network of tracks around Tathra, and bushwalkers will enjoy the hike from Wallagoot Lake to Kianinny Bay, in Tathra. For an unforgettable day, head out early to the Mumbulla Creek Waterfall which can be accessed from Bega or Tathra. This waterfall has a slide worn into the rock and kids absolutely love sliding down it followed by the short drop into the natural rockpool. The water is cold, but feels amazing on your skin. In Merimbula, try all kinds of watersports on Merimbula Lake, and go dolphin or whale watching. And for an adrenaline rush, take the kids to Magic Mountain, a theme park with a rollercoaster, water slides, mini golf and more.

LOCAL HEROES In Bega, the home of Bega Cheese, a visit to the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre is a must. Learn how cheese is made and stock up on a variety of cheeses and fudges.

Don’t go home without having a milk shake – they are divine. In Tathra, go fishing from the only sea wharf

on Australia’s east coast then settle in for a coffee at the wharf café. In Eden, learn about Old Tom at the Killer Whale Museum and head out to Boydtown, with the view from Boyd’s Tower worth the drive. On the highway between Bega and Merimbula, visit Potoroo Palace, which is an educational animal sanctuary offering a number of encounters with animals such as dingos, koalas, snakes and wallabies.

More info: www.sapphirecoast.com.au READER STORY

We Tathra “When we first heard about Tathra, we couldn’t even pronounce it – Tarth- ra – but now know it inside and out. We stay there every summer right by the beach in a swish apartment and know all the spots. We go to Aragunnu in Mimosa Rocks National Park and play cricket on the beach and do the walk to the Rocks and the Aboriginal middens. We eat award-winning oysters, fish off the wharf and snorkel at Kianinny. It is a slice of heaven.” Helen Brodie

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TRO PIC AL NORT H QUE E N SL A N D

Atherton ADVENTURE

FLYING HIGH IN A VETERAN FIGHTER PLANE, EXPLORING RAINFOREST RUINS STRAIGHT OUT OF INDIANA JONES, SURVIVING THE ALIEN TENDRILS OF THE STRANGLER FIG AND FINALLY RE-CHARGING WITH THE BEST AND FRESHEST FOOD ANYWHERE ON EARTH… IT’S ALL CLOSER THAN YOU THINK, AND COULD BE YOUR TICKET TO THE PERFECT FAMILY HOLIDAY. WORDS: CRAIG WALSH

W

e’ve just landed in Cairns, breathing in the salty tropical air and driving west in our rental car. Our destination - Queensland’s amazing Atherton Tablelands.

Plantations and planes After an hour and a half of driving tummies are rumbling, so we’re refuelling at Skybury, Australia’s oldest coffee plantation. Perched on a granite outcrop at 550 metres above sea level with a huge balcony to take in the countryside, Skybury has everything from kid-friendly snacks to full meals. I’d recommend taking one of three coffee plantation tours and don’t miss the house-roasted Arabica coffee, so good that it’s no wonder it’s exported around the world.

Hunger sated, it’s time to play Top Gun! Warbirds Adventures is based at Mareeba Airport and boasts a collection of genuine fighter planes and flying memorabilia dating back to the Korean War. Kids eight years and older can take a 30-minute flight in a real warplane (though flights cost upwards of $355). A word of caution; don’t fly on a full stomach, or at least ask pilot Lance Robb to hold back on the aerobatics!

To market Safely grounded, it’s on to Yungaburra, Queensland’s largest National Trust village where there’s plenty to see. Much of the town looks snap frozen in 1890. There are arts and crafts galleries galore, opals and gems, cafes and restaurants - try the pasta and homemade desserts at Nick’s Swiss Italian Restaurant for a real feast. If you are here on the fourth Saturday of the month, don’t miss Yungaburra’s market morning with dozens of stalls selling antiques, flowers, home made preserves and just about everything else. And be sure to get there early as it shuts at 12.30.

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Monumental moments A modern war seems a long way from sleepy Yungaburra, but the Avenue of Honour, opened in 2013 in a peaceful park by Tinaroo Lake, has deep local significance. Dedicated to Aussies who have lost their lives in Afghanistan, its creation the result of a local family’s campaign to have their son, Ben Chuck, and his fellow soldiers remembered forever on home soil.

Outside town is a monument 500 years in the making, the Curtain Tree Fig. Over centuries, this alien monster plant virtually consumed another tree it was growing in, and today it is massive living sculpture and the perfect photo opportunity.

Take it slow A big tip is to slow down and take as long as you can to explore the Atherton Tablelands, as there’s something new and “wow!” around every corner. Five days could easily be filled, with still more to see next time. Even the local eateries come with bonus extras

designed with kids in mind.

Gallo’s is open every day and is justifiably famous for its dairy products. There’s a free petting zoo – go on, buy the kids a pet pig for $75 – and milking happens every afternoon at three.

Gallo produces 15 cheese varieties so why not try a platter while watching your little ones have fun in the café’s play area.

“We love the chocolates!” chorus three girls, their faces pressed against the glass counter where the special salty caramel chocs are voted a top seller. The Menadue family is visiting from South Australia, and mum Rachel reckons the Atherton Tablelands is a one stop family winner.

“Great food and heaps to do” she says, “the kids have had so much fun here.”

Castles and crocodiles For kids over five, try a kayak trip down a ninekilometre stretch of Babinda Creek. It sounds a

long way but let the current do all the work. Pack a picnic in waterproof bags and look out for resident platypus and turtles.

About 120 kilometres south of Cairns is Queensland’s Number One ‘must do’. Paronella Park is a magical 1930s castle built virtually single-handed by a Spaniard by the name of Jose Paronella. There’s a cafe with plenty of healthy snacks to keep up the energy levels of little – and big - explorers, or you can BYO food. A ticket buys all day access and don’t miss the included night tour. The kids love this, as the entire amazing complex is lit up like a haunted mansion. There’s even a young crocodile which has made Jose’s man-made dam home.

“A real biting crocodile!” one wide-eyed boy yells as the tour guide’s torch criss-crosses the dark waters. But no croc tonight, and its time to head to an on-site cabin to rest up for another amazing day in Queensland’s Tropical North.

© worldswildlifewonders, Shuterstock.com

Spotting Platypus at Babinda creek Kayaking on Babinda Creek © Tourism and Events Queensland

Paronella Park © Andrea Haase, Shutterstock.com

FAST FACTS

GETTING THERE Cairns Airport is the gateway to Tropical North Queensland with flights available from all major Australian cities. The Atherton Tablelands are easily accessible by car from Cairns.

WHERE TO STAY www.paronellapark.com.au MORE INFORMATION www.athertontablelands.com.au

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TA SMANIA

Corinna INTO THE WILD DISCOVER THE TRUE MEANING OF A FAMILY ESCAPE IN TASMANIA’S WILD, WILD WEST. WORDS: ALENEY DE WINTER

I

t’s a four-hour drive from Launceston to our destination, The Corinna Wilderness Experience, but there’s no reason to hurry in this lovely part of the world. Our leisurely scenic drive includes several stops, mostly to fill rumbling bellies. Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm in Elizabethtown is the first and the perfect place to stretch the legs and enjoy a lunch of raspberry sausages (yes, really) and a raspberry latte or two. Oh, and I’d recommend grabbing a suitcase full of the to-die-for chocolate coated raspberries … they may come in handy to stop your kids from descending into panic and devouring each other once the phone signals drop out and they imagine they’re heading into their own private episode of Survivor.

You see, Corinna offers families a chance to truly reconnect as they disconnect from the white noise of modern technology. And while Corinna is remote, it is extremely comfortable, offers great food and there is zero risk of being voted out by Tribal Council, Survivor style. This is not the spot to plonk your preschoolers but older children will find plenty to stay amused… including the undivided attention of their parents. Here, parents cannot be distracted by calls or emails and the kids have no choice but to forget about Facebook and detach their retinas from the PlayStation.

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Totally wild Located on the edge of the Pieman River in the heart of the Tarkine, the Corinna Wilderness Experience offers visitors access to a primeval lost world of meandering waterways, knotted vines, giant ferns and millennia-old Huon pine trees. It is alive with frogs, lizards and birds plus fluffier critters like the Tasmanian Devil, the insanely cute pademelon and, rumour has it, the last Tasmanian Tigers.

Long declared extinct, it’s easy to see why people might believe that they could still roam deep in the impenetrable tangle of the Tarkine.

The town of Corinna was originally a rough and tumble goldrush town, though loggers had already been harvesting the Huon pine (now protected) before its golden heyday. At its peak in the 1890s, Corinna boasted a population of 2500 people and more than 30 buildings. When the gold rush ended, the town was more or less deserted until the Tarkine Hotel opened in 2007. Now, only three of the original buildings remain: the old pub, the butcher shop and the roadman’s cottage, all of which are available as accommodation. There are also 16 new wilderness retreats.

In keeping with the eco philosophy of Corinna, the township is powered by a solar system with back-

up generators and the comfortably equipped cottages offer gas heating and pure rainwater on tap. Modern amenities including comfortable beds, en suites, small kitchens and easy access to the communal BBQ area make the retreats feel very homey indeed. Each has its own verandah, the perfect place to sit and watch the pademelons grazing at dusk.

Taking on the Tarkine The cottages also lead to a network of wellmarked walking trails. One that is relatively easy for kids is the hour-long Whyte River Walk that leads through a flourishing fairytale forest of lush greenery, mysterious mushrooms and suspended vines so magical that I half expect elves to appear.

All that fresh air – and it is the cleanest in the world – is enough to make a person hungry so it’s no surprise that the Tannin Restaurant and Tarkine Hotel form the central hub of the tiny town. Fine Tasmanian wines, beers and ciders are served at the bar and the restaurant, which is open for lunch and dinner (breakfast packs are sent to your cottage), and pays homage to the very best Tasmanian produce.

Dawn sees an ethereal mist entwined with the treetops above the mirrored surface of the Pieman River where we will spend our day aboard the 53-foot Arcadia II. Built in 1939, it’s the only Huon pine river cruiser still operating in the world. Our skipper, Dale, entertains us with anecdotes as we meander along the river past Lovers Falls, where water tumbles through luscious-leaved ferns and vine-strewn trees onto the moss-covered rocks, until we reach Pieman Heads where the river meets the Southern Ocean. We clamber ashore with a picnic lunch and wander past ramshackle cottages until we reach a beach littered with thousands of driftwood logs, scattered this way and that by the giant waves.

On our final morning at Corinna, we paddle kayaks up the Pieman to the Savage River, which ironically is anything but. It is still and deafeningly quiet, the mirror-like surface of the river broken only by our paddles and the wreck of a nineteenth- century steamship poking through the tannin-stained water. We build our appetite walking up and back through the rainforest, and when we return to the retreat lunch awaits, after which we prepare to return home, relaxed and happy after our total tech detox.

Left: Sunrise on the Pieman River at Corinna Wilderness Experience.

Above: Lovers Falls, Corinna Cute and cuddly pademelon on the Whyte River Walk.

FAST FACTS

GETTING THERE Corinna lies on the west coast of Tasmania, about a four-hour drive from Launceston. Jetstar and Virgin Australia fly direct to Launceston from Sydney and Melbourne.

WHERE TO STAY Corinna Wilderness Experience www.corinna.com.au ON THE WAY Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm Café www.raspberryfarmcafe.com MORE INFORMATION www.tarkine.org

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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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international holidays

FIJI | SINGAPORE | BALI | SOUTH AFRICA | CRUISING SUMMER 2014 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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South Africa KIDS RULE IN

FOR A SOUTH AFRICAN SOJOURN PACKED TO THE RAFTERS WITH CHILD-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES, INCREDIBLE THRILL RIDES, FIVE-STAR FANCY, SENSATIONAL GAME WATCHING AND A TOUCH OF HOLLYWOOD, SUN CITY RESORT IS, AS REDFOO WOULD SAY, RIDICULOUS. RIDICULOUSLY GOOD THAT IS… WORDS: MICHELLE PETTIGROVE

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hen the opportunity arises to travel to a diverse part of the world, experience cultures far removed from everyday life and still speak English, who would say no? Add to those enticements the strength of the Aussie dollar and the temptation to visit South Africa grows even stronger.

There are so many different types of holiday to be had in South Africa. As a family we’ve loved the rough and ready style of tented accommodation in wild regions of the African outback. We’ve revelled in the cruisey driving holiday exploring stunning winegrowing regions and historic villages along the Garden Route. We’ve picked up pace and spent time in cities and Zulu communities, soaking up the multi-cultural synthesis that is South Africa. And we have, without exception, been welcomed warmly and never felt anxious about safety.

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S OU T H AF RI CA

This time we’ve decided to shed the schedules and let ourselves be pampered in the high-end accommodation South Africa is famous for. Contrary to some travellers’ beliefs this type of holiday is not an adults-only domain. On the contrary, there are some very classy establishments where ‘kids rule’ is the first rule!

First opened in 1979, Sun City Resort has such a high profile it earned its own section in our guidebook. Bordering the sprawling plains of the Pilanesberg National Park in the North West Province, Sun City’s 64-square kilometres is a clever blend of the opulence of the Taj Mahal, the wilderness of Kruger, the frivolity of Disneyland and a remarkable level of service normally reserved for royalty.

The challenge when arriving at the Palace of the Lost City, Sun City’s most luxurious hotel, is to stop our mouths hanging open in awe at the scale and grandeur of the lobby. Admittedly, this architectural extravagance isn’t for everyone, but only a total cynic could feign indifference to its sumptuousness.

Sculptured animals chase each other through a massive fountain in the front portico, a life-size elephant guards the courtyard; various carved, frescoed and painted beasts stare down from the giant domed roof over reception.

It’s Michelangelo meets Spielberg on an African odyssey. The only thing missing is Indiana Jones, his whip slung over his shoulder.

We cross the marble foyer and peer over the mezzanine to a chandelier the size of a caravan hanging above the ballroom. Our host casually mentions there will be filming here soon for a movie starring Adam Sandler. Harrison Ford who needs ya!

Action stations This is a holiday destination where you can do as little or much as you like. Frank and I leave the choice to Georgia and we hang on for the ride. After a few minutes of unsuccessful ‘Sandler spotting’ we head for the Zip Sliding adventure which consists of being strapped into a body sling strung 280 metres above the ground, and sliding face-first two kms down the side of a mountain on a cable at speeds of 120 kms an hour. The whole experience takes about two minutes and rates ten out of ten for adrenaline rush. Georgia and I zip down in tandem and scream the whole way, swooping a bemused farmer and his goats.

As we make our way to the next activity we peel off layers of clothing. It’s winter, but the daily temperature regularly reaches a comfortable 28 degrees. If your idea of a walking maze is peeking through gaps in a hedge for a sissy ten minutes of fun, think again. The Maze of the Lost City, (one of the biggest in the Southern Hemisphere) is accessed by a 100-metre suspension bridge. Lurking along the stone alleys and chambers it’s easy to imagine we’re exploring a mysterious ancient temple.

Just when Georgia volunteers to climb the wall and send for help, the centre of the maze opens out to a delightful courtyard serving boutique beers and refreshments!

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A palace where kids rule

SO U T H AFRIC A

Frankie J. Holden, Georgia and friend on an elephant safari.

Sun City has two championship Garry Playerdesigned golf courses boasting world-class facilities and stupendous settings including the famous 13th hole guarded by three massive crocodiles. Georgia and I explore the fairways via Segway (a bit like stand-on motorised scooters), while Frank lives his dream and plays a quick nine holes.

Game on But this is Africa… “Where are the wild animals? “ I hear you ask. No trip to Sun City is complete without a game drive through the 55-hectare Pilanesberg National Park bordering the resort. There’s nothing Disney about this experience where the wildlife is completely unpredictable. Our tracker reminds us there are no guarantees, and then proceeds to point out impala, rhino, waterbuck, zebra, hippo, kudu, giraffe, wildebeest, springbok and a rare glimpse of the very elusive leopard!

If you’re looking for an even more intimate game viewing experience try elephant-back safari. From the safety and added height of an elephant’s back we lope single-file through the bush, watching sulky rhinos tussle for supremacy and an aptly named ‘dazzle’ of zebras gambol and snort. The final highlight is hand-feeding our mounts and enjoying a real connection with these gentle beasts.

Ride the wave On our return to the Palace lobby, huge lighting balloons float outside the ballroom windows

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Georgia exploring bySegway

simulating dawn for the film.

Extras mill around waiting for ‘Action’ and the crew shouts into walkie-talkies. But still no Adam.

There’s no time to sit around; the thrilling Valley of the Waves awaits.

The eternal water-baby - Georgia is delighted with the excessive menu of aquatic escapades at the Valley of the Waves. The Roaring Lagoon, a huge man-made wave pool, generates a daredevil 1.8m wave every 90 seconds. Frank and Georgia join the bobbing crowd and I make do with sandy beaches and swaying palms.

Finally waterlogged and high on adrenaline, we’ve tried all the rides at least twice.

Exhausted but with a frantic fear of missing out we scan the activities, but realise we’ve run out of time for hot-air ballooning, parasailing, quad biking, paint-ball, archery, Butterfly World, African drumming and so much more…

Possibly the most remarkable thing about Sun City is the sheer volume of activities offered. Perfect for families on a limited time frame, and only two hours’ drive from Johannesburg.

Leaving the ostentatious lobby for the last time Georgia throws a glance over the balcony and stifles a squeal to see Adam leaning back in his chair between takes. The thrill of celebrity wears off quickly as we realise he would probably much rather be hurtling down the Zip Slide, hollering with excitement, the wind in his hair…

For more on South African family adventures visit www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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

GETTING THERE From Johannesburg airport, visitors can rent a vehicle, catch a bus or hop on a Sun City Transfer for the easy two and half hour drive to Sun City Resort.

WHERE TO STAY Sun City Resort www.sun-city-south-africa.com MONEY The currency is the South African rand (ZAR). At the time of writing, AU$1 buys 9.38 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

Tsitsikamma River

Shamwari

Shamwari

Sun City

Shamwari

Table Mountain

Gansbaai

Mossel Bay

It’s time. Your Bucket List begins here!

“South Africa surprised us, it’s much cheaper and a lot safer than we imagined and it’s not all about safari.

There are so many beautiful things to see and do. We enjoyed crazy adrenaline pumping experiences, followed by world class luxury. Do yourself a favour and add South Africa to your Bucket List!” – Mikaila Faber, Sydney Visit www.southafrica.net for amazing deals on travel to South Africa.

Bo-kaap District

Cape Town

Sun City

Sun City

Shamwarie Town

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SI N GAPORE & SENT O SA

two islands SINGAPORE AND SENTOSA OFFER A WORLD OF FAMILY FUN FROM BEACH BLISS TO BIRD PARKS AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN. OUT AND ABOUT WITH KIDS HAS SEVEN REASONS TO STOP AND STAY. WORDS: ELISA ELWIN

1. Water worlds With the steamy climes of gorgeous Sentosa island, a host of water fun is on offer to keep the whole family cool. At Adventure Cove Waterpark splash, swim and zoom down waterslides, relax at the Bluwater Bay wave pool or grab a tube and float down Adventure River. Snorkel over a colourful coral reef with 20,000 friendly fish or wade amongst dozens of rays.

For a little more adrenaline take the kids surfing at Wave House Sentosa. This simulated wave surfing attraction sits in the heart of Siloso Beach. Try surfing on man-made waves up to three metres high in the FlowRider and FlowBarrel wave pools. Perfect for school aged kids to have solo fun, the cool surfing staff also do double board rides for those less experienced.

Port of Lost Wonder is Singapore’s first kids’ club by the beach and has water fun areas and themed play islands for all ages. Only pay for the kid’s with parents entering free with a hug from their kids. Tons of activities will make it hard to leave – there’s even a Bubble Party on weekends.

2. Light up your evening Singapore’s cooler (though still balmy) evenings are perfect for family outings. Gardens by the Bay at night is spectacular and not to be missed. Explore the many gardens and walkways, including the Cloud Forest and

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Flower Dome. Catch the beautiful Light and Sound Shows and watch the ‘Supertrees’ come alive. Take the elevator up to the walkway between the two tallest trees for a sparkling aerial view of the gardens and Singapore by night.

3. Talk to the Animals Singapore has a fabulous trio of animal experiences.

The brand new River Safari, with its perfect pair of Pandas; extensive and interactive Singapore Zoo where we recommend you start your day by taking the kids to breakfast with the Orangutans and, last but not least, Night Safari, the world’s first wildlife night park.

4. Eat Eat Eat Traditional Singaporean cuisine is a mix of its people - Chinese, Indian and Malaysian. The locals love to eat.

Sentosa alone has over 50 restaurants from casual to high end, to cater for every budget and taste. Let your kids run on the beach in the warm evenings while supping at one of the many beachfront restaurants.

Visit street stalls for delicious local sate. Even the fussiest little eaters will find something to enjoy.

Our favourite food find was the Sunday buffet at the funky new W Hotel - Sentosa Cove. Start with fresh seafood then work your way through a staggering array of divine dishes from around the

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TALES OF

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Hugo & Linnea making a splash on Sentosa globe. The dessert buffet with chocolate fountain and fairy floss was a hit with the kids. Take advantage of the ‘free pour’ concept – for a set price enjoy unlimited alcohol during your extended buffet session - and watch the kids run on the grass, use the kid friendly pool and while away a whole afternoon having funky family fun.

5. Travel in Style Zipline , Luge, and Segway … Sentosa has many modes of fun, frantic and futuristic transportation.

The luge at Skyline Luge has the Dragon Trail and the Jungle Trail which will have your kids wanting to go again and again. The Zipline at MegaZip Adventure Park is a little more challenging, with an aerial ropes course, the Mega Bounce trampoline and an incredible zip line that takes you on a breathtaking journey from the tropical hills down to the beach at Siloso. 13-year old Linnea, visiting from Sydney, thought it was “Awesome! I love going over the beach and water to get to the end”. For older kids the two-wheeled Segway with Gogreen Eco Adventures is great – you can even do a night Segway tour – the only one in Asia.

6. Go Sky High Check out Singapore with a bird’s eye view. A perfect starting point is the Tiger Sky Tower,

Singapore’s tallest with its perfect 360-degree revolving panorama.

No visit to Sentosa is complete without a visit to The Merlion, the 37 metre tall icon of Singapore that’s half-lion and half-fish. Climb to the crown and enjoy spectacular views of Sentosa.

Hop into the Singapore Cable Car in Sentosa and head up to the Jewel Box on Mount Faber.

Cruising over water and up to the hilltop, the views over the Harbour, Sentosa and Singapore’s city skyline are breathtaking.

7. Have Fun Universal Studios Singapore needs no introduction with its 24 exciting movie-themed rides and attractions. Our favourite is the all-ages Sesame Street Gang. For fear fans give ‘The Mummy’ a whirl, and scream your lungs out with the fantastic film-inspired effects.

Linneas’s 11-year old brother, Hugo, agreed with us, saying “Universal Studios was really fun, spending the day there going on all the different rides. The Mummy was my favourite - I didn’t expect to go backwards and it was really scary!”

For indoor fun try 4D AdventureLand Choose from a variety of 4D fun from a virtual roller coaster to the motion sensor Western shoot out game.

FAST FACTS

GETTING THERE Jetstar, Qantas, Silk Air and Singapore Airlines offer daily direct flights from six Australian mainland capitals to Singapore while Scoot now offers direct hops from Sydney and the Gold Coast.

WHERE TO STAY W Singapore Sentosa Cove www.wsingaporesentosacove.com MORE INFORMATION Singapore Tourism Board. www.yoursingapore.com Sentosa www.sentosa.com.sg

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BY KIDS FOR THE REAL STORY ON FAMILY HOLIDAY FUN, WE HEAD STRAIGHT TO THE SOURCE AND TALK TO KIDS, FROM TOT TO TEEN, TO FIND OUT WHAT AND WHERE THEY LOVE MOST ABOUT BEAUTIFUL BALI.

Surfing sensation DYLAN - 14

Dylan joined his mum, dad and 16year old sister on a Balinese surfing adventure.

Stay and play: We stayed at Bungalow Sebelas, a private villa in Seminyak for four nights, then went to Nusa Lembongan where we stayed at Lembongan Island Beach Villas. This turned out to be our favourite. The accommodation and view was fantastic and it was close to some good surf spots - Playgrounds, Lacerations and Shipwrecks. We also hired scooters to explore the island and visited the underground house and suspension bridge. On the main island we stayed in Balangan in a beautiful wooden villa right next to a world-class surf break.

The rest of our trip we spent at Kumala Pantai in Legian where we surfed, snorkelled and relaxed with books around the pool.

Bali bites: There was heaps of rice, curry and satay. Although you could find some quality western food as well.

Friendly faces: The Balinese were very

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friendly. I made a few friends out in the surf. I met a 15-year-old island boy at Nusa Lembongan. The other was a 14-year-old Hawaiian who had lived in Padang Padang, another Balinese town, for two years.

Get smart: To embrace the culture we learnt a few main words to help communicate, although most of the Balinese people we encountered spoke good English.

Best bit: The value of the Australian dollar enabled us to undertake activities that would be too expensive in Australia, this opened up new opportunities and experiences.

Dylan’s top tip: All kids should know that Bali can be a safe and fun place if you are cautious. But don’t drink the tap water!

Food Safari

RAFFERTY - 4 Rafferty and his family experienced a little culture and a whole lot of food on a recent Bali break.

Stay & play: We stayed in a villa at Ayana Resort & Spa. We had our own

garden with a pool and an enormous bed outside, but mum made me sleep inside. They had about a hundred other pools with crazy animals squirting water and one which had all different bits with waterfalls. There was so much to do. I learned to cook and even learned how to make perfume for my mum and sister.

The kids club had an animal zoo. I liked the craft best and I made a red plate that my mum said was beautiful. One day a nice man from the hotel took us to a temple to see dancers and loads of naughty monkeys.

Bali bites: There was loads of yummy food. My baby sister and I loved the chicken satay sticks. But the best thing was the Nasi Goreng and Duck in Banana Leaf that I learned to make at my cooking lesson with mummy.

Friendly faces: Everyone was nice. One really nice man even took my baby sister to get her blessed in a temple and I got to play with a boy on the beach who was four just like me. His name was Ketut.

Get smart: I learned to say Terima Kasih (thank you). Plus I learned how to make perfume and cook, which I loved.

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B ALI

Rafferty

Mia Best bit: Eating. And also swimming with my dad and sister and seeing the monkeys and the “chat chat” dancers at the temple.

Rafferty’s top tip: You should go to the beach with the fish markets and see all the big fish and crabs and eat them.

Adventure girl MIA – 4

Intrepid traveller Mia and her family have racked up four visits to beautiful Bali. You can read all about her families top family travel tips on their blog, www.travelwithbender.com Stay & play: We stayed in a fish tank!

(Mia’s mum adds, “I am not sure what this means, our last trip we stayed in villas in Ubud and Jimbaran and prior to that, Bali Dynasty Resort.”) At Dynasty there was a kids club which was so much fun. There is so much to

do like swimming and the Waterbom Waterpark & Peekaboo at Sanur. My mummy has a website with 10 great things to do with kids in Bali - we did them all.

Bali bites: I love Mie Goreng (noodles) Friendly Faces: They (the Balinese) are nice and friendly and the seahorses too (Mia went to a school a few times a week in Jimbaran, she made great friends and learnt the language).

Best bit: Going to the Waterpark. I also loved painting my nails with mummy.

I’d like to go back but it’s so far away, we need to take a plane.

Get smart: I can count to ten in Indonesian.

Mia’s top tip: Mummy said not to drink the water, but I think people should know where the Waterpark is.

Abby Sibling revelry

TYLER & ABBY - 9 & 7 Tyler and Abby enjoyed a relaxing retreat in Bali with family and lots of friends.

Stay & play: We stayed at the Sanur Paradise Plaza Hotel. They had a waterslide and a pool with an island.

There was a basketball hoop, a pool table, table tennis, a playground and a giant chess set. They had a kids club so that Mum and Dad didn’t have to look after us. (Adds Tyler & Abby’s Mum, “Oh dear!! I’m sure that was meant in a good way”). We especially loved the Waterbom Park at Sanur and

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Kai & Axel

the waterslide at the kids club.

Bali bites: There was great pizza.

Tyler – “When I was getting my hair braided they gave me a white fruit, it was nice”. Abby – “Bacon and eggs were good”.

Friendly faces: They (the Balinese) are very nice and we made lots of friends at the kids club. Some kids even left us their ball when they left. We gave all our toys to our driver for his kids.

Get smart: Dad taught us to say hello, goodbye, good morning and good night (in Indonesian) but we have forgotten them.

Best bit: Having a massage and the fish who nibbled at our feet. I’d like to go back a million times, because the massages don’t cost much in Bali.

Abby and Tyler’s top tip: Learn some words they say and see how nice the people are.

Family affair NEALA - 7

Neala enjoyed a month long multigenerational holiday in Bali with her parents, the “twinnies” (her twin brother and sister), grandparents and uncle. You can read more about Neala’s

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adventures on her mum’s blog, www.parentalparody.com Stay & play: We stayed at different hotels - Gardenview Cottages in Legian for two weeks because we have friends there, Febri’s in Tuban for one week, because it’s close to Waterbom Park and Centro Shopping Centre. Then Daddy took the twins home and Mummy and I went with everyone else to Sanur and stayed at Griya Santrian for another week. Tinah, our Nanny came every day to look after the twins because they’re only four and they don’t like being out all day in the heat. When we’re not in the pool we bring or buy lots and lots of toys and games to play with Tinah, so it’s like our own kids club! Before Tinah comes we do something every day. We go out walking, to the Bali Zoo or Safari Park, or to Waterbom Park which is my favourite.

Bali bites: I love the rice and noodles.

I also like the satay chicken sticks and the corn cobs cooked on the BBQ. I also really like the Pizza Hut and McDonalds, but Mum says we don’t go to Bali to eat that.

Friendly faces: I love the people in Bali.

They are always happy and smiling and

nice. Mum’s Balinese friend has little kids and we play together when we go to Bali.

Get smart: I know how to say Silahkan (please), and Terima Kasih or Suksema (thank you). My school is now teaching Indonesian, so I will know lots more words when we go next time.

Best bit: Having Christmas. The hotel did a big lunch and had Father Christmas and we all got presents.

Everyone was happy and we got to spend the day in the pool. Mum jokes about moving to Bali, and I think we should.

Neala’s top tip: The Bali people are all really nice. All the hotels have pools and you can spend the whole day swimming.

Monkey business DOM – 3

Little Dom had a Bali beach escape with his mum, dad and brother; nana and papa; aunt , uncle and cousin.

Stay & play: We stayed near Echo Beach – about fifteen minutes from Seminyak – in a villa. We really liked going for walks to Echo Beach and visiting the monkeys in the forest.

Bali bites: I liked the ice-cream.

B ALI

Serene Bali Villas in Seminyak

Friendly faces: The people were nice.

Best bit: I liked the pool and going to the Monkey Forest and seeing the monkeys.

Dom’s top tip: Visit the monkey forest.

Family & Friends

KAI & AXEL - 11 & 10 Kai, Axel and their family holidayed with four other families in their Bali, ensuring plenty of fun and frivolity.

Stay & play: We stayed at Kumala Pantai and Nusa Lembongan. We loved the surfing, swimming, shopping and Waterbom Waterpark. We’ve been four times now and I always want to go back. We went to a kids club on a previous visit and I really enjoyed doing activities with the Balinese ladies like learning how to make a peace offering. Our favourite spots were Uluwatu for its waves and swimming in the (infinity) pool at Potato Head Beach Club.

Bali bites: We loved the food, including Nasi Goreng, coconut shakes and juices. It’s so much fun eating at a restaurant every night.

Friendly faces: The Balinese are the friendliest people I’ve met - they always high five me in the street. We

travelled with other families but still made friends with the locals in the water while we were surfing. There were always other kids in the pool to play with. We made friends with a girl called Ellie and had dinner with her and her family.

Get smart: We learned a few basic Indonesian words like hello, goodbye, good and thank you. Summa summa means you’re welcome.

Best bit: The surfing and Waterbom Waterpark.

Kai and Axel’s top tip: It’s so much fun walking the streets, bartering for stuff and the Balinese people are really nice.

Little Luxe DENA - 11

Dena enjoyed getting glam with her fam on a luxury break in Seminyak.

Stay and play: We stayed at Serene Bali Villas in Seminyak. Our villa had its own pool and we could watch movies on a big screen outside in our own courtyard. The villa was so nice we hardly ever left. We even had our own butler who helped us with whatever we wanted. When we did go out I went shopping in Seminyak with mum and I really liked all the shops. We also

visited Ku De Ta on Sunday for Family Dayze. They had loads of things for us to do but we mostly spent our time in the pool while mum and dad had brunch with friends. We also took a trip to Bali Safari Marine Park and got to meet an orang-utan which was totally the coolest thing ever.

Bali bites: I really most of the Balinese food we tried, especially Satay, but my favourite was definitely the banana pancakes that our family butler brought us at Serene Villas.

Friendly faces: The Balinese people were so friendly, especially the staff at Serene Villas who were all really, really nice to us.

Get Smart: We learned to use special greetings for each time of day.

“Selamat Pagi” for morning, “Selamat Siang” for afternoon, “Selamat Sore” for evening and “Selamat Malam” for night and also “Suksma” which means thank-you.

Best Bit: I really loved spending time with my family relaxing by the pool in our villa. And meeting the orang-utan at Bali Safari Marine Park.

Sara’s Top Tip: Bali is beautiful, the people are lovely and you will have the best time.

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fiij

GIRL POWER SHINES IN

ELISA ELWIN EXPLORES THE MAGIC OF A FIJIAN HOLIDAY FOR TEENAGERS, FROM THE NORTHERN YASAWA ISLANDS TO THE COLOURFUL CORAL COAST

I

t had been eight years since our last family holiday to Fiji and it was simply fabulous. My two Amazonian teenagers were happy, compliant, snuggly kids way back then. On our latest holiday the configuration of mother and two feisty daughters was new, and I was concerned how the time away would work. It was enough of a challenge to drag them away from their heavy study schedules and hectic social lives. I need not have worried; the tempo, climate, beauty and people of Fiji worked their mellow magic. We all agreed it was our best mother daughter holiday EVER. Fiji is for families… of any age. And here’s why.

Family friendly fun Fijians really are happy people. Their relaxed energy calms everyone, while their happiness and good humour is infectious. There was laughter and music everywhere we went. At our first overnight at the Sonasali Island Resort, we were friends by check in, addressed by name and treated as family by our first fantastic dinner. From toddlers to teens every child we met had the same look of happiness, and every parent was peacefully watching their kids being enjoyed and cherished.

Fijians don’t just like kids, they love them. Babies

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Beautiful island children

are whisked away into safe and loving arms, toddlers are adored and cosseted, school-aged kids are talked to and included. In fact I would go as far as saying if you don’t holiday with kids in Fiji you are missing out. It is the most family-friendly destination we have ever been to. And my lucky girls have travelled with me – a lot. Our first day had exactly the right, calming effect, slowing the pace. All was going to plan for our mother daughter getaway.

So beautiful The Fijian people are beautiful and the Fijian Islands breathtakingly so. The Northern Yasawas with all their small inhabited village islands and palm trees, beckoned, and Captain Cook Cruises Fiji gave us a taste. There is nothing quite like a cruise to take you away from the pressures of every day. Facebook and iPhones are forgotten with the daily parade of divine islands, snorkelling, swimming, visiting and spending time getting to know the villagers. Each island is more beautiful than the last and every child is treated as a valued guest. Laughter and joy is a part of every gorgeous Captain Cook Cruise day. Each evening, as we watched the dramatic sunsets, we felt our family connection and harmony returning.

FIJI

Yasawa Islands, Fiji Š Przemyslaw Skibinski, Shutterstock.com

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FIJI

Tori, Elisa and Sam enjoying another blissful Fiji day.

Fiji by Teens SAM AND TORI

Totally relaxed Fiji time really is just time slowed down.

Nothing is a problem. From day one, the ‘we must do everything’ vibe starts to fall away. Walking more slowly and laughing more easily, we slowed down and relaxed into Fiji holiday mode. The Intercontinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa helped this along perfectly. We all shared a lounge by the pool and enjoyed laid back pool time, swam in the turquoise waters of the aptly named Coral Coast, watched a sundown fire-lighting ceremony, ate at a selection of the many fine restaurants and then I spoiled the three of us with a massage and spa session. Pure Bliss.

So close Fiji Airways flies to Nadi every day in around four hours from Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. It’s an easy trip and there’s only a small time difference so no down time needed to recover from the journey home.

Put that fab four together and you have your dream holiday with kids. The motto from Tourism Fiji, “Fiji, Where happiness finds you” is just simple truth.

It found us, in bucket loads. We have already booked our next mother daughter holiday there in 2014.

For more on fabulous Fiji visit www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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FAST FACTS GETTING THERE Fiji Airways operate daily flights from most Australian capital cities to Nadi. www.fijiairways.com.au MONEY The currency is the Fijian Dollar (FJD). At the time of writing, AUD$1 buys you FJD $1.74 WHERE TO STAY Sonaisali Resort www.sonaisali.com The Intercontinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa www.fiji.intercontinental.com Malolo Island Resort Fiji www.maloloisland.com Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort www.fijiresort.com Plantation Island Resort www.plantationisland.com CRUISING FIJI Captain Cook Cruises Fiji www.captaincook.com.au MORE INFORMATION Fiji Tourism www.fiji.travel To help plan your perfect holiday, call Escape Travel on 1300 556 855 or visit www.escapetravel.com.au

A holiday with Mum is not really what we planned for our term break. Who knew what lay in store as we raised our eyebrows and smiled skeptically at each other?

First stop Captain Cook’s Reef Endeavour cruise.

Four days without Internet and Facebook? We were up for the challenge. Greeted each morning with the characteristic excitement of our friendly Fijian crew and a buffet breakfast, we were itching to get into the turquoise seas of our daily mooring.

Every island brought us a new underwater paradise.

With the abundance of tropical fish that swarmed around us as we snorkelled by and colourful coral illuminated by the sun, we really couldn’t have asked for anything more. Yet every day was better than the one before. Not only did we find solace in the crystal clear waters, amused by the innumerable hermit crabs that scuttled across the white sands but more than this, it was the villages that gave our trip a memorable and well-rounded essence.

We were granted access to another culture, witnessing firsthand traditions and the people’s way of life that differed so substantially to the one that we knew. Every village we visited, the laughter and playful nature of the children and the warmth of the adults was replicated, allowing us to feel comfortable and accepted. For the adventurous, scuba diving and cave climbing were on offer, but having the freedom to explore the beautiful Northern Yasawa islands allowed everyone to make their own adventures. Most importantly it was the crew’s unceasing hospitality that made the real Fijian experience possible and we left with numerous email addresses to keep in contact and friends we promised to return to.

Next stop, the Intercontinental Fiji Resort and Spa. Nothing like a little luxury to help us recover from the sadness of leaving our new cruise friends.

A private tour of the grounds left us in awe of the endless facilities; a gym, spa, three restaurants, beachside bar and club lounge which we had the luxury to enjoy. An afternoon spent lazing around our private plunge pool left us feeling relaxed and replenished and ready for an exotic cocktail (mock) at the beach-side bar.

After being entertained by a troupe of fire dancers we relocated to Navo restaurant for a fivecourse meal that left us more than satisfied. The complete spa experience was our Sunday highlight, being led to an outdoor cabana on the edge of the crystal clear coastline to be pampered with a deluxe massage and facial followed by a sauna and spa. The accommodating staff at the Club Lounge facilitated an experience of unlimited drinks and snacks, with a buffet breakfast overlooking the infinity pool. With our main priority to relax, it was a great destination to escape and marvel at the breathtaking scenery.

Fiji was fantastic. Thank you, Mum.

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

Be free at Malolo!

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

Year round choose from F$200 resort credits, Kids Eat FREE with 5 night stays. Or between November and March, stay 5 nights and receive the 6th night free!

Malolo. This is the way the world should be.

AHU0022/1 -OAAWK

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

AUD$

445

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

*

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

The Warm Heart Of Fiji.

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CRU I SE

THE

ROYAL TREATMENT

TEMPTED BY THE PROMISE OF A DREAM HOLIDAY IN THE PACIFIC WITH PLENTY OF WARM SUNSHINE AND A FIRM FOCUS ON FAMILY COMFORT, FUN AND ENTERTAINMENT? ROYAL CARIBBEAN’S RADIANCE OF THE SEAS DELIVERS ON ALL COUNTS. WORDS: ALENEY DE WINTER

M

“

ama, let’s play mini-golf. No, let’s swim. No! Let’s get ice-cream” squeals my five-year old son and experienced cruiser, Rafferty, as soon as we board Radiance of the Seas. His two-year old sister, Marlo, hearing only the words “ice” and “cream,” is also leaping about in giddy anticipation. I suspect they’re excited enough about our nine-day Pacific Island Cruise without us topping up the high with sugar but this is a holiday and if you can’t break the rules on a holiday, when can you?

Hi-seas hijinks We check into our stateroom, which is surprisingly roomy and extremely comfortable, grab our cossies (it’s a great idea to pack them in your hand luggage so you can hit the pool as soon as you board) and, after ensuring our first stop is the much lauded icecream station, head off to explore what activities and entertainment our floating hotel has in store.

At 293m long, 40m wide and carrying up to 2350 happy passengers, Radiance of the Seas is a sizeable lass. And with floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the recently refurbished beauty, as well as glasswalled lifts that face the ocean, she certainly lives up to her luminous name. But we’re here with the kids and I have to say they are less interested in her regal looks than her personality. And what a personality she has!

Radiance boasts all the best signature Royal Caribbean amenities including an awesome outdoor rock-climbing wall, basketball court, ninehole miniature golf course, three swimming pools including a fantastic kids pool and water slide, poolside outdoor movie screen, indoor cinema and the Challenger Video Arcade, where my son has acquired a serious addiction to air hockey. Then there’s table tennis, shuffleboard plus Radiance is also the first cruise ship to feature pool tables that are stabilized by a computer-controlled gyroscope that adjusts the table with the motion of the ship.

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There’s also an enormous fitness centre and a day spa, where this mama forms a little addiction of her own.

Just for kids On Royal Carribean cruises kids rule the waves. On our first full day at sea we head to Adventure Ocean to register Rafferty for Aquanauts, one of the five age-based kids club programmes on board for kids aged three to 17, each staffed by experienced qualified child care staff. Having visited on a previous Royal Caribbean cruise he can’t wait to dive in to the crafts and games and new friendships he’ll make and has disappeared into the expansive play area before I’ve even finished filling out the forms.

Marlo doesn’t miss out on a boatload of fun either, as this particular ship is bliss for bubs. The Royal Babies and Tots Nursery offers supervised fun for cruisers three years and under in a soft playroom. There’s also a playgroup that offers a series of activity sessions for littlies to learn and explore through creative play and music with mum and dad. Not to mention the Fisher

arlo Rafferty & Moa rd eb fl playing shuf

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Price toy lending program that allows us to borrow and exchange baby toys to play within the comfort of our stateroom.

Little ladies can also choose to ride a wave of candy pink with the Barbie Premium Experience, Royal Caribbean’s ultimate indulgence for Barbie fans. Staterooms are Barbiefied with themed bedding, ribbons, toiletries, a Barbie doll and more - all of which participating Barbie Girls get to take home at the end of the cruise. A sneak peak at the programme of exclusive, themed activities – including an invitation-only “Tiara & Teacups” tea party, mermaid dance classes, and a Barbie Girls fashion show has my pink-loving princess in candyhued heaven.

Paradise calls More than just a ship, Royal Caribbean has once again created a vessel that is a destination in itself, which is lucky because trying to drag our kids away from all the fun onboard isn’t going to float. In fact our first attempt at getting our kids ashore is no easy task. But New Caledonia’s pretty Mystery Island soon wins them over and after a morning of snorkelling, local dancing and fresh bananas from the markets, we need to bribe them to get back on board!

In Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila, convincing the kids to head ashore is a little easier. Especially once we promise Rafferty there’ll be warriors waiting. True to our word

CRU I SE

we head straight to Iavofa Cultural Village. Here, after giving us a few minutes to recover from the heartstopping welcome of spear-wielding tribesman leaping noisily from the undergrowth, the village chief and his friends offer us an amazing insight into the culture and traditions of the indigenous people of Vanuatu while our kids run off to play with the local littlies. Then it’s on to Mele Cascades for a refreshing paddle in the natural waterholes at the top of the magnificent waterfall and then back on board Radiance for a sorry attempt at shuffleboard, toddler-style, and a special date for my son and I to see “City of Dreams,” one of the ship’s spectacular Broadway style shows.

An all-singing and all-dancing Rafferty, clearly inspired by the previous evening’s performance, jazz-hands his way off the ship at the Isle of Pines. The island is so ridiculously pretty that we need a little time to gather our jaws off the ground before we head off to explore the palm-fringed paradise.

Rafferty has barely dipped a toe in the impossibly blue water when a couple of local kids come and ask, in a combo of French, grins and wild gesticulation, if he’ll play with them. After interpretive dancing his happy accord, the three boys are off and leaping about in the water like old mates, language no barrier when it comes to fun.

Marlo too finds some smaller pals to build sandcastles with and plays happily on the beach. It is these moments that make travel so special.

A floating feast

From far left:

Clearly our little sailors have taken to cruising like seagulls to chips. Speaking of chips, the food on board is fantastic. All 70 tonnes of it, which incidentally is about what I’ll weigh when I disembark! Beyond dining buffet style in the ship’s timber-lined Windjammer Café or a la carte in the elegant 1000-seat Cascades Dining Room and a whole lot of lurking by the ice-cream station, Radiance impresses with eateries that range from casual eats at the Boardwalk Doghouse and Mexican flavours at Rita’s Cantina to Italian fare at Giovanni’s Table, Churrascaria style deliciousness at Samba Grill Brazilian Steakhouse and our favourite, Izumi, where we devour freshly-prepared sushi, sashimi and sizzling seafood cooked on hot rocks at our table. And the euphoria created by the “Chocolate Breakfast” served in the main dining room can’t go without mention.

Radiance also offers a My Family Time dining program where kids can enjoy an expedited dinner before heading off with the Adventure Ocean staff for a little more fun while mum and dad enjoy dessert and a glass or two of bubbles at peaceful leisure!

Holidays don’t come much better than this.

For more information on Royal Caribbean’s Australasian cruise season visit www.royalcaribbean.com.au

Rafferty and his new friends on the Isle of Pines.

Splashing about on Isle of Pines.

Marlo lounging about on Radiance of the Seas.

Meeting the locals at Lifou, Mystery Island.

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Š Shutterstock.com

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ir

OU T & AB OU T W I TH B AB Y

BORN

TOP TIPS FOR TURNING TINY TRAVELLERS INTO FEARLESS FLYERS. WORDS: ALENEY DE WINTER

F

or me travel used to be about picking a destination on a whim, finding the best deal, chucking some clothes and a camera in my backpack and hitting the airport ready for the next thrilling adventure. That is until I undertook what has turned out to be the biggest and boldest adventure of my life - parenthood!

But parenthood hasn’t slowed my travels, it just means a lot more thought and planning, not to mention a load more luggage, especially when your travel companion is a baby.

I didn’t make my first flight as a new mother easy for myself with a simple short-haul flight to somewhere sunny.

Instead I opted to boldly drag my then five-month-old son, Rafferty, across four countries, through four climates and four time zones in less than four weeks. Never one to shy away from a challenge we repeated the same exercise a few years later only that time with a toddler and our then fivemonth old daughter, Marlo. Needless to say I’ve learned a thing or two about making air travel with a baby a relatively stress-free experience. Here are my top tips.

The early bird catches the plane First things first, your baby will require its own passport for overseas travel and you need to leave plenty of time for the passport to be issued.

You’ll also need to allow extra time for checking in at the airport. Most things take exponentially longer with a baby along for the ride and air travel is no exception.

Lightweight umbrella strollers are best for travel and most airlines will allow you to keep a compact stroller with you until you board your flight, so leave that enormous pram at home as it will only end up in the hold. A comfortable baby carrier is another must as they not only allow you to keep your baby close and content but free up your hands for handling tickets, passports, luggage and other kids. Plus they come in handy for calming an unsettled baby on the flight.

Don’t stress too much about what other people think The secret to surviving a long flight with a baby (or a toddler for that matter) is having realistic expectations and being

prepared for the worst, while hoping for the best.

Before that first flight, my biggest concern was for our baby’s wellbeing but the thought of juggling a crying baby at 30,000 feet while dodging the glares of fellow passengers gave me chills.

Parenting guru Pinky Mackay suggests that it is in everyone’s best interest to throw out the rule book while travelling with a bub and that you should be prepared to walk, nurture and cuddle your baby to sleep - which is exactly what we did on the few occasions that tears did flow.

Personally, I also found that by making such an obvious effort to calm my baby, fellow passengers were more empathetic - so don’t be afraid to put on a bit of a show if your bub starts bawling.

Stick to routines On long-haul trips book a night flight and a bassinet so your baby can stay in his or her normal routine. Most airlines provide them but be sure to put in a request when booking as there are limited numbers and sitting with a squirming baby in your arms for 10 hours straight doesn’t make for a comfortable flight. I have to say that getting and keeping a baby asleep in an airplane is not without its challenges but my best advice besides using a baby carrier for settling, is to pack a dark muslin square to drape over the bassinet. This will help block out the light and well-intentioned passengers cooing over the baby you’ve just about got to sleep.

Pack smart Normally a light packer, the addition of babies and all their accessories was a tad perplexing for me but I have learned that there’s still no need to over-pack check-in luggage. Consumables like nappies, wipes and formula are readily available in most countries but do a little research beforehand if you’re heading somewhere out of the ordinary.

Carry-on luggage, however, is a different story. You’re better off carrying more than you think you’ll need, than being caught short. Managing this within carry-on weight restrictions can be a challenge.

Pack plenty of nappies, bags and wipes - many airlines

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O U T & ABOUT WIT H BA BY

TOILET TRAINING

e l t t i l r u For yo earners Potette Plus ®

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Pack enough sterile bottles and formula for the flight

It’s also important that you aren’t caught out if your baby should fall ill mid-flight. At an absolute minimum, pack baby paracetamol, nose drops, chest rub and a thermometer and ignore suggestions of sedatives as these are not appropriate for children under two. It’s wise to plan for your baby to feed or suck a dummy during take-off and landing as it will relieve the discomfort of changing air pressure in their ears. We’d also advise taking your child to the doctor for a checkup before you fly.

Portable Potty:

Cushie Traveller™

supply them but on a long flight can run out. Layer clothes on bub as cabin temperatures can change and pack at least one change in case of accidents. Packing everything you need for a nappy change in individual disposable bags so you don’t have to hunt for all the bits and pieces on your flight is also a great idea to save time and hassle.

Like us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/BabyUProducts

SUMMER 2014 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

Whether breastfeeding, bottle-feeding or experimenting with finger foods, keeping babies fed and not fed-up on long flights requires a little forward-planning. Flying can be quite dehydrating and if you’re breastfeeding you’ll probably find that your baby wants to feed more so make sure you drink lots more water yourself. Pinky suggests nursing mums also carry sachets of oral rehydration solution. “The extra hydration will help boost your milk supply so you can feed and comfort bub a little more often.”

She also suggests mums pack Boobie Bikkies (which are available to purchase online at www.boobybikkies.com.au) for a naturally nutritious treat that supports you as you support your bub.

If you’re formula feeding make sure you pack enough sterile bottles and formula for the duration of the flight. The most convenient way to bottle feed baby on a long journey is to use pre-measured formula sachets and requesting boiled water from the airline staff (just remember to give them plenty of notice so there is time for it to cool before feeding).

Most airlines offer infant and child meals and some also have a limited amount of baby food on-board. But make sure, if you want your little one to get a special in-flight meal, to request this when booking and double-check again before you fly. BYO if you have a fussy eater.

Relax Remember you’re on holiday and the flight, though it may sometimes not feel that way, will be over before you know it.

And the cranky gent tut- tutting while your screeching little cherub is making his or her presence loudly felt, well, you’ll never see him again!

W HA T ’S HO T FO R BA BY

WHAT’S HOT for baby Sweet dreams – naturally!

Brauer’s Baby & Child Sleep might be just the ticket to a smoother flight with bub. While some babies fall asleep quickly on flights, many others test their parents’ patience. Brauer Baby & Child Sleep is a homeopathic oral liquid that includes the traditional calming properties of Chamomile and purple Pasque flowers to work with your child’s body, helping them to drift off to sleep. Can be used for babies from six months. www.brauer.com.au RRP: $17.99

Going Potty The Baby U Potette Plus is a portable potty and toilet trainer seat in one and is perfect for assisting children with toilet training at home or on-the-go. The full size folding potty comes in a hygienic carry bag with a super absorbent liner that can simply be tied up after use for disposal, allowing you to keep to your training routine, wherever you are. www.babyu.com.au RRP: $19.99

win Tommee Tippee prize packs

Miomee is a fabulous range of products developed in conjunction with paediatricians, midwives and mothers by the awesome folk at Tommee Tippee. The range includes scientifically-designed bottles and teats, hospital-grade breast pumps, superior accessories for breast and bottle feeding, health and safety products and orthodontic comforters - all ideal for travelling mums.

Out & About With Kids has FOUR fantastic Tommee Tippee prize packs to give away each containing a Miomee Manual Breast Pump (no need for batteries on a plane or in transit lounge), Miomee Breastmilk and Formula Storage containers, Miomee Milk Storage Lids, Miomee Disposable Breast Pads (50 pack), a Miomee Insulated Bottle Bag, Miomee Comforters and a Miomee Bottle (twin pack 270ml) - valued at $177.65 per pack.

For your chance to win visit www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

win

Platinum SICT Convertible Car Seat Australia’s leading car seat manufacturer Britax Safe-n-Sound has created its safest car seat yet. The new seat boasts extra head and torso protection and is designed to cater for children from birth to approximately four years of age.

Featuring Britax Safe-n-Sound’s exclusive Side Impact Cushion Technology, the Platinum SICT provides both dual layer head and innovative new torso protection which acts to minimise the energy felt by a child in a side impact crash. The seat also features the Active Head Restraint (AHR) Easy Adjust lever, with deeper side wings to shield your child’s head and easily adjust as they grow. In addition, the seated height is now 30mm higher than the previous model, enabling your child to use the seat for longer. www.britax. com.au Out & About With Kids has a Safe-n-Sound Platinum SICT car seat valued at $659 to give away.

For your chance to win visit www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

Swaddled safely Ergobaby’s new Swaddler features a healthy hip positioner, which helps keep baby’s hips in the physician-recommended, ergonomically correct “frog-leg” position. Easy to use and lightweight, the Ergobaby Swaddler comes in two sizes and is perfect to keep baby comfortable, safe and well rested on holiday. www.babesinarms.com.au RRP: $69.00

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4 6 APRIL 2014 4Royal - 6 Exhibition APRIL Building 2014

Royal Exhibition Building Carlton Carlton

4 - 6 APRIL 2014

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W H AT ’ S H O T B OOKS

WHAT’S HOT books ... FOR THE KIDS

JOURNEY

AN AUSSIE YEAR

Aaron Becker A lonely girl draws a magic door on her bedroom wall and escapes into a world where wonder and adventure abound. With marker pen in hand she creates a boat, a balloon and a flying carpet to carry her on a spectacular journey to who knows where?

Walker Books RRP: $27.95

Tania McCartney & Tina Snerling Five Aussie children take little readers on a journey through a year in the life of Aussie kids, from festivals and events to quirky traditions and famous Aussie places. This celebration of Australian life is a must for children.

Exisle Publishing RRP: $19.99

NOT-FOR-PARENTS: CONTINENT GUIDES Lonely Planet This series of books devoted to four of the world’s coolest continents is, according to my kids, awesome. Intriguing stories and quirky facts about people, places, histories and cultures each illustrated with cartoons, drawings and images that make learning fun for kids.

Lonely Planet RRP: $19.99 ea

NOT-FOR-PARENTS: THE REAL WONDERS OF THE WORLD Lonely Planet Your kids will love this introduction to world wonders that really matter. Incredible images will bring some of the most mind-bending places on the planet to life from robot restaurants in China and Hobbit homes in New Zealand to sinkholes and space stations.

Lonely Planet RRP: $29.99

... FOR THE FAMILY

THE MODERN FAMILY SURVIVAL GUIDE

HUNGRY CAMPERS COOKBOOK

Nigel Latta This well thought out book offers common-sense and relatable answers to complex family questions by TV Presenter, author, clinical psychologist and all-round funny guy, Nigel Latta.

The fuss-free advice will help you navigate the unique dynamics of blended modern families.

Doubleday RRP: $34.95

Katy Holder This comprehensive cookbook combines all the fun of family camping holidays with fresh, healthy, gourmet recipes that are accessible and easy to recreate using fresh ingredients and minimal cooking equipment.

Explore Australia RRP: $29.95

THE JOURNEY

win

Coral Tulloch A fabulous interactive story of a journey winding through dark corners and caverns, this illustrated fiction book is a unique combination of games, codes and interesting people that will engage the imagination of your kids. Walker Books RRP: $19.95 Out & About With Kids has 10 copies of The Journey to give away, each valued at $19.95. For your chance to win visit www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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DA D’S WORD

Dad’s

QUICKFIND

word

ACCOMMODATION – OVERSEAS Centara Hotels & Resorts . . . . . . . . www.centarahotelsresorts.com . . . . . . . .34 Embassy Suites Waikiki . . . . . . . . . . www.embassysuiteswaikiki.com. . . . . . . .20 Hotel Beacon NYC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.beaconhotel.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Resort www.fijiresort.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Malolo Island Resort Fiji . . . . . . . . . www.maloloisland.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117 Plantation Island Resort . . . . . . . . . www.plantationisland.com . . . . . . . . . . . .117 Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa . . www.therarotongan.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 The Westin Resort Nusa Dua . . . . . www.westinnusaduabali.com . . . . . . . . . .39

AUSSIE JOEL PARKINSON IS A WORLD CHAMPION IN SURFING AND LIVES ON THE GOLD COAST WITH HIS WIFE MONICA AND HIS WELLTRAVELLED CHILDREN EVIE (9), MACY (6) & MAHLI (3).

ACCOMMODATION – AUSTRALIA Aspen Parks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.aspenparks.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Aspen Resorts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.aspenresorts.com.au. . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 BIG4 Holiday Parks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.big4.com.au. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Central Coast Holiday Parks. . . . . . www.cchp.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Easts Beach Holiday Park . . . . . . . www.eastsbeach.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 Eurong Beach Resort. . . . . . . . . . . . www.eurong.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58 Fitzroy Island Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . www.fitzroyisland.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 Holiday Haven Tourist Parks . . . . . www.holidayhaven.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . .93 Kiama Coast Holiday Parks. . . . . . . www.kiamacoastholidayparks.com.au . .92 Mowbray Park Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.farmstayholidays.com.au. . . . . . . . . 72 NRMA Holiday Parks. . . . . . . . . . . . . www.nrmaholidayparks.com.au . . . . . . . 79 Paradise Resort. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.paradiseresort.com.au . . . . . . . . . . .56 Rendezvous Reef Resort. . . . . . . . . www.RendezvousHotels.com. . . . . . . . . . .60 Sea World Resort & Water Park . . . www.myfun.com.au. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OBC Stockton Beach Holiday park. . . . . www.stocktonbeach.com/owk125. . . . . . . .4 Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park. . . . www.sydneylakeside.com.au/owk126 . . . .4 Wollongong Tourist Parks. . . . . . . . www.wollongongtouristparks.com.au. . .85

Where is your favourite family holiday spot in Australia?

I don’t get to go to a lot of places in Australia for holidays as we spend so much time overseas. I love taking the kids to Bells Beach in Victoria and Margaret River, Western Australia – both famous surfing spots.

Where is your favourite family international holiday spot?

Fiji. It’s such a beautiful place and the people are very welcoming. I love visiting the villages and watching the local children and my kids all playing together. We love Taverua and Namotu, and it helps that there are some world-class breaks there.

What’s your fondest childhood holiday memory?

I remember when I was 12, my dad and I did a road trip from where we lived on the Sunshine Coast all the way down to Ulladulla on the South Coast of NSW. It was a great adventure.

What is your top tip for a family driving holiday?

Short sharp bursts. Don’t drive it all at once. Take your time and leave early in the morning so you can get a good chunk of travelling done while they are still asleep.

Any hints for flying with kids?

For back-to back long flights, stay the night to break it up. If it’s an eight-hour flight followed by a three-hour flight or shorter, then we do them in one hit but if the second flight is longer than three hours we stay the night. It lets the kids regroup – especially if they are under three years old.

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up to a certain age. I prefer resort accommodation that has a selfcontained kitchen. That way you have more space, can cook for yourself and still get to use the resort facilities. A kitchen is a must with kids. Mine wake up hungry and in most resorts breakfast starts at 7am. My kids want to eat before then!

Describe your funniest holiday moment?

So many! I love the way kids fall asleep anywhere. My son Mahli was so excited to get on a boat when we got to Fiji it was all he talked about. And as we were about to get on the boat he fell asleep!

Describe your favourite family holiday photo?

My favourite holiday photo was taken when we were in Fiji and I was teaching my daughter Evie to surf. She stood up for the first time and caught her first wave. It was unforgettable.

Do you prefer resorts with kids’ clubs?

Do you have a dream family destination?

I do like them - they can be fun for kids

I would love to take the family to Dubai!

SUMMER 2014 www.outandaboutwithkids.com.au

ATTRACTIONS Funland. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.funland.com.au. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94 Mowbray Park Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.farmstayholidays.com.au. . . . . . . . . 72 National Art Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.nga.gov.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 National Zoo & Aquarium . . . . . . . . www.nationalzoo.com.au. . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 Phillip Island Nature Parks . . . . . . . www.penguins.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Polynesian Cultural Center . . . . . . www.polynesia.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Questacon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.questacon.edu.au. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 Roberts Hawaii . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.robertshawaii.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Sea World Resort & Water Park . . . www.myfun.com.au. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OBC TRAVEL Britz. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.britz.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 Escape Travel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.escapetravel.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC Roberts Hawaii . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.robertshawaii.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Trafalgar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.trafalgar.com/aus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Taj Voyages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.tajvoyages.com.au. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 TOURISM ORGANISATIONS Great Lakes Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . www.greatlakes.org.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 India Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.incredibleindia.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC Innsbruck Tourismus . . . . . . . . . . . . www.innsbruck-packages.com . . . . . . . . . 27 Nambucca Valley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.legendarybeachesandbush.com.au . 62 Norfolk Island . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.norfolkisland.com.au. . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Shellharbour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.visitshellharbour.com.au . . . . . . . . . 91 South Africa Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . www.southafrica.net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Sunshine Coast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.visitsunshinecoast.com.au. . . . . . . . . 3 Tourism Thailand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.tourismthailand.org. . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 SKI - INTERNATIONAL Innsbruck Tourismus . . . . . . . . . . . . www.innsbruck-packages.com . . . . . . . . . 27 Sun Peaks Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.sunpeaksresort.com/AUS. . . . . . . . . 24 OUT & ABOUT WITH BABY Potette Plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.babyu.com.au . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124 Baby & Toddler Show . . . . . . . . . . . . www.babyandtoddlershow.com.au . . . . 126

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

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

What will you discover today?

From only

134

.00

$

per person, per night, twin share* Bring the kids for only

40

$

.00

per child, per night

Come and discover all of the fun and adventure Sea World Resort has to offer with the Stay Splash and Save package.

With one night’s accommodation and unlimited entry to Sea World during your stay, you can enjoy family thrills on Sea World’s brand new Storm Coaster and get to know Australia’s favourite baby Polar bear Henry. With summer now here, and so much to see and do, there’s never been a better time to stay at Sea World Resort.

Package includes Sea World entry PLUS free entry to Paradise Country.

Visit SeaWorldResort.com.au or call 13 33 86

The heart of fun and adventure *Subject to availability. Visit www.SeaWorldResort.com.au for full terms and conditions.

1311747 SEA WORLD © 2013 & TM Sea World Property Trust.