Travel Sprout Magazine - Issue #2 November 2014

ISSUE #2 - NOVEMBER 2014

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INSPIRING FAMILY TRAVEL

the Great ocean road trip

GREAT FAMILY CAMPING SPOTS IN AUSTRALIA

WIN!

ShaRE YOUR FAVOURITE PHOTOS & DRAWINGS

tramping in new zealand

Great family friendly hiking in the land of the long white clouds

FAMILY FRIENDLY

SAFARI IN SOUTH AFRICA

HOW TO CAMP WITH KIDS - BIG CITY CAMPING - CAMPING APPS - COOL CAMPING GEAR

TRAVEL SPROUT - NOVEMBER 2014

travelsprout.com.au Check out our website to find previous issues, links to great destinations and more info on the organisations we support. You can also get in touch if you have ideas for articles, great family holiday photos you want to share or just have a browse.

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CONTRIBUTORS Travel Sprout Magazine travelsprout.com.au Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Jonas Ask Homaa Editor Olivia Witkowski Assistant editor Emma Kate Design & illustrations Nina Bennett Images BigStock.com unless otherwise stated Contributors for this issue Arwen Hann Jane Chiro Elizabeth Peterson Published by Sprout Publications ABN 91 843 395 033 P O Box 25 Elwood VIC 3184 Australia

Front cover copyright - Bigstock.com

Arwen Hann Arwen Hann embarked on her first overseas adventure at 18, with a solo trip to New Zealand and Singapore. She has travelled extensively across the world. After emigrating from England to New Zealand and starting a family, her focus switched from far-flung adventures to road trips. She has braved long-haul travel with a young child, and called South Africa home temporarily. She dreams of beach holidays that don’t involve building sand castles, and enjoys seeing new experiences through the eyes of a schoolchild.

Jane Chiro From crossing the Atlantic Ocean to being kissed by North American snowflakes, travel adventures have always left Jane Chiro in search of wanderlust. Each trip is a treasure chest holding memories, bursting with colors, sounds, people and a promise. Next on her list is Europe. She wants to eat in Tuscany. Swim in Greece. Walk Paris at night.

Dance in Barcelona. Sleep in Spain. “Life is really what you make it” is her motto.

Elizabeth Peterson Beth Peterson is a professional writer with a love for travel, and a particular interest in wild places and wildlife. She remembers family holidays in southern Africa as the adventuresome highlights of her childhood. Today, as a parent, she’s keenly aware of the power of travel to foster family togetherness and an unforgettable shared experience of the wider world. Beth is lucky to live with her family in the gorgeous city of Cape Town, Africa’s premier travel destination.

Jonas Ask Homaa Jonas has always had an inherent urge for travelling and exploring. Having lived with his family in Copenhagen, Los Angeles and now Melbourne he always looks for new adventures both locally and out in the big world. His favorite thing is to dive or go camping with his daughter and you can always catch him eating italian ice cream on a hot summer day.

DISCLAIMER:

The opinions expressed in the editorials / articles are those of the writers and does not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher and Travel Sprout Magazine.

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

Copyright © Travel Sprout Magazine / Sprout Publication 2014. Reproduction of any part or in whole without the permission of Travel Sprout Magazine is strictly forbidden. All reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders. If you feel that we are using any images in an inappropriate way please contact us immediately.

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A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

WELCOME

I have almost “divorced� my lovely wife twice since we met. The first time was trying to put up wallpaper together having just moved into our new apartment.

The second time was when we went camping together in a beautiful Swedish forest. Everything went wrong from putting up the tent to lighting a damp camp fire to deciding who forgot the mosquito repellent. For that reason I abandoned camping (and wall paper) for many years until I recently rediscovered it with my five year old daughter.

Reading books in a dim lit tent, getting up early to play footy and cooking snags over a campfire is probably the best and most relaxing family time you can have and we try to get out as much as possible. We have put together this entire issue just to inspire you and the kids to get out and camp!

Enjoy!

Jonas Ask Homaa Editor-in-Chief Travel Sprout Magazine

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DESTINATIONS in Australia 16 Camping WE HAVE FOUND SOME TOP AUSTRALIAN SPOTS TO GO CAMPING WITH THE FAMILY ...

OCEAN ROAD TRIP 40 GREAT FANCY A GOOD ROAD TRIP? THEN HEAD FOR THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD ...

family Tramps in NZ 75 Great PUT ON YOUR HIKING BOOTS AND FOLLOW THE TRACKS IN NEW ZEALAND!

SAFARI IN SOUTH AFRICA 88 GO ALL-IN ON A GREAT SAFARI ADVENTURE IN BEAUTIFUL SOUTH AFRICA ...

IN AUSTRALIA 98 ZOOFARI ... OR SETTLE FOR A MORE HOMELY BUT

EQUALLY EXCITING EXPERIENCE AT THE ZOO!

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DESTINATIONS

16 40

Camping in australia

great ocean road trip

88 75

KID FRIENDLY SAFARI IN SOUTH AFRICA

Tramping in New zealand

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HOW TO CAMP WITH KIDS

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59 8

WeIrd & WACKY BIG CITY CAMPING

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cool camping gadgets

LOTS OF great family friendly camping stuff

INSPIRATION

INSPIRATION to ... Camp With kids 35 how GET SOME GREAT INPUT ON HOW TO CAMP WITH KIDS (AND ENJOY IT) ...

city camping 59 big LOOKING TO COMBINE A BIG CITY HOLIDAY

WITH A BIT OF CAMPING? LOOK NO FURTHER ...

camping gadgets 69 cool WE HAVE PICKED OUT SOME ABSOLUTELY

AWESOME GADGETS FOR THE GADGET FAMILY ...

AND MUCH more camping stuff .. LOTS OF OTHER CONTENT LIKE GOOD CAMPING APPS, CAMPING BOOKS, KIDS BACKPACKS ETC.

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TRAVEL SPROUT - NOVEMBER 2014

l l a e Se lash p S o G signs de re he

www.gosplash.com.au

Dry off in style with comfort and ease in a Go Splash robe. It will keep you warm all year round, and with their UPF 50+ rating, protected from the sun after swimming lessons, around the pool or at the beach, surfing, sailing or boating.

Made from 100% cotton towelling with a hood and full length from zip, Go Splash robes are perfect for all the family.

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THE BIG CAMPEDIA

Alpine Zone

The visual area located just above the treeline. This is a common term among hikers, who use it for navigation.

Billy

Billy is a lightweight cooking pot which is used on a campfire or a camping stove.

Boxing the Needle

The process of lining up a compass needle with magnetic north.

Bush Telly

Bush telly is slang for camp fire. To watch the bush telly is to sit a stare into the camp fire.

Camping

Camping is an outdoor recreational activity. The participants (known as campers) leave urban areas, their home region, or civilization and enjoy nature while spending one or several nights outdoors, usually at a campsite.

Chuck Box

A box or sack for camping cookware. Keep the chuck box separate from the rest of supplies to minimize cleanup.

Day Pack

A small pack that hikers take out for short-term trips. Usually, a day pack is light and only contains essential items.

Deadman

When the ground is too soft to stake a tent, campers often bury large rocks or sticks tied to guy lines to pitch the tent safely. Deadman is the slang term for this process.

The Big Campedia

Freestanding

A term for tents that do not need guy lines.

Glamping

Glamping is luxury camping often in cabins or pre-erect tents and with lots of luxury amenities like fresh bed linens, en suite washrooms, food service, private verandas etc.

Gramping

Gramping is camping (see above) with grandparents or great grand parents.

Mozzies

Slang for mosquitoes which are a family of small, midgelike flies: the Culicidae.

Outback

The outback is the vast, remote, arid area of Australia.

The term “the outback” is generally used to refer to locations that are comparatively more remote than those areas named “the bush” which, colloquially, can refer to any lands outside the main urban areas.

Swag

Swag is a portable sleeping unit. It is normally a bundle of belongings rolled in a traditional fashion to be carried by a foot traveller in the bush.

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Camping in A

Camping test Safari in South Africa

p. 88

HOME!

ABROAD!

THE CAMPIN t

ABROAD / HOME? Zoofari

p. 98

BUSH!

Let us help you help your inner camping spirit. Take find our what kind of cam where you should go

BIG CITY!

BIG CITY / bush?

CLASSIC!

Big City Camping

START CARAVAN

dO YOU PRE OVER A CA

p. 59

COOL / CLASSIC?

G

COOL!

GLAMOUR

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Gadget / g

CAMPING TEST

Australia

Tramping in NZ

p. 16

p. 75

BUDGIES!

hiking boots / budgy smugglers?

BOOTS!

RELAX!

E BIG NG TEST

relax / road trip?

Great Ocean Road Trip

p. 40

rself - in finding your true e the big camping test and mping family you are and camping next time ...

ROAD TRIP

HERE GRAMPING!

TENT!

EFER A TENT ARAVEN?

Cool camping gear NOT SURE?

glamping / gramping?

p. 69

GLAMPING!

glamour?

GADGET

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COMPETITION

Have you got a great family photo from the last trip to the beach somewhere in Australia? Share it with us on Instagram by using the hashtag #travelsprout and you could be the lucky winner of a luxury beach towel from www.beachtowelsonline.com.au.

#travelsprout instagram.com/travelsproutmagazine

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WIN

PHOTO COMPETITION

SHARE YOUR BEST AUSTRALIAN FAMILY BEACH PHOTO AND WIN A LUXURY BEACH TOWEL

Share your beach photo no later than 26th November 2014 on Instragram to participate in the competition.

Shop online Great selection

Beach towels Ponchos

! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! Competition rules: The Best Family Beach Photo competition is open to all entries as long as they follow the competition rules. Winners will be chosen by judges

from the Travel Sprout editorial team. Winners will be contacted via email and have their drawings and names displayed in our magazine / website / facebook / Instagram and other social media. The Judges decision is final and no correspondence will be entered in to. The competition will run from 5th November 2014 until 26th November 2014. No late entries. Travel Sprout is compliant with the Privacy Act. Our policy is such that we will not pass on your details to any third party without your prior consent.

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TRAVEL SPROUT - NOVEMBER 2014

10 GREAT

camping Spots in Australia Australia is an outdoors adventurer’s paradise. Camping enthusiasts can enjoy a plethora of nature reserves, coastal and outback excitement.

Jane Chiro has found are some of our great camping locations. The only things missing are your footprints and thirst for a camping holiday.

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Copyright - BigStock.com

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Above: Relaxing along the beach. Copyright - Sorrel Wilby.

pambula beach New South Wales ooking to hear nature’s lullaby in a quiet, serene, atmosphere? You have Pambula Beach to look forward to.

Pitching your tent for the night night will leave you hearing the sounds of rural Australia. You’ll hear water as it runs down river to the cheerful rhythm of the

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frogs and the nightly piercing sound of cicadas. Bear no worry when it comes to finding accommodation. At Pambula, you can find everything from campsites, self-contained cabins, huts and places to park your van for the night.

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Above: A fantastic view of Squeaky Beach. Copyright - Roberto Seba.

Left top: Talking a walk at Squeaky Beach. Copyright - Roberto Seba.

Left bottom: Local at Wilsons Promontory. Copyright - Visions of Victoria.

wilsons prom Victoria

he coastal scenery works as a great backdrop for explorers who want to explore Wilson’s Promontory National Park. The white-sand beaches, the secluded spots, the plethora of wildlife and the ease of access from Melbourne. makes this a perfect spot for camping.

From the sight of wombats waddling to kookaburras lurking, you’ll be sure to find something to keep the kids excited.

Tidal River offers a campsite along with easy access to sweeping beaches and breath-taking shorelines. You will also find a general store at Tidal River.

When at Wilson’s Promontory, venture over to Squeaky Beach through

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the Tidal Overlook walk. Your trip will commence from the car park at Lilly Pilly Gully. The walk will lead to the majestic Squeaky Beach that has earned its “squeaky” name from the sound the sand makes when you walk on it.

A trip to the Wilson Promontory Lightstation will leave you in awe. The landscape will place you into direct view with the ocean and mountain range. You can even choose to stay at one of the three cottages near the lighthouse. If you want to take camping to another level, Wilsons Promontory offers overnight camping trips.

10 GREAT CAMPING SPOTS IN AUSTRALIA

Top left: Campers at the Grampians National Park.

Copyright - Visions of VIctoria.

Top right: Great morning view.

Copyright - Visions of VIctoria.

Bottom left: Campsite at the Grampians.

Copyright - Visions of VIctoria.

Bottom left: The Grampians Tourist Road.

Copyright - Visions of VIctoria.

the Grampians Victoria

ustralia has always been known to house the hidden charms of the outdoors. All you need to do is explore the Grampians National Park to discover them for yourself. The park itself is nestled a couple of hours drive from Melbourne.

Here you will find campsites along the natural path of the national park. Check out Wannon Creek and Jimmy Creek campgrounds.

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If you’re a family of avid hikers, venture over to Hall’s Gap. Tucked in at the foot of the Grampians, this is an outdoor aficionado’s hiking dream. You can get maps at Hall’s Gap to start your expedition. If you’re concerned about the weather, you’ve come to the right place to release those worries. The weather here is mild and the living is easy.

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10 GREAT CAMPING SPOTS IN AUSTRALIA

airlie beach Queensland

irlie is a small town with a lively tropical vibe. There is no shortage of things to do here when you’re with family. Located on the Queensland coast, the climate is sensational and the locals are friendly.

If you’re in the mood for some adventure, why not embrace the Crocodile Safari. This day tour takes your family to the back woods of the Whitsunday area. One minute you’re on board a tractor drawn train down the Goorganga Wetlands. The next minute you’re experiencing a boat ride down to Prosperpine River. Finally, you start to see lots of crocodiles experiencing the calmness of the Prosperpine River.

The Airline Beach Lagoon offers

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a great place to swim when the sea is infested with stinging jellyfish (usually November to May). Your kids can experience fresh, self-chlorinating, water while swimming.

Airlie Beach is also a great connection to Whitsundays - the perfect place to relax by day and celebrate by night.

Surrounded by beautiful scenery, Airlie Beach provides a serene camping ground with the exotic melody of birds and exotic parrots. There are a few highend caravan parks if you are looking a bit of luxury.

Opposite:

Airlie Beach. Copyright - Joe Shemesh / Tourism and Events Queensland.

Above:

Top: Lookout at Airlie Beach. Copyright - Mike Hilburger / Tourism and Events Queensland.

Middle left: You could run into one of these on Properpine River . Copyright - Tourism and Events Queensland.

Right: Relaxing at Airlie Beach. Copyright - Tourism and Events Queensland.

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10 GREAT CAMPING SPOTS IN AUSTRALIA

10 GREAT CAMPING SPOTS IN AUSTRALIA

Above:

Opposite:

Maheno Wreck.

Copyright - Tourism and Events Queensland

Left: Fun at Lake McKenzie. Copyright - Darren Jew / Tourism and Events Queensland.

Rigt top: Seventy Five Mile Beach. Copyright - Tourism and Events Queensland.

Right bottom: Champagne Pools. Copyright - Tourism Western Australia.

fraser island Queensland

f you want to experience the ultimate beach camping expedition, Fraser Island is the place to be. If you’re taking a vehicle to the island, you want to make sure you book the permit way ahead of time. You can get the permit online from the Queensland Government Department of National Parks. Once on Fraser Island, enjoy Lake McKenzie’s sparkling water as you partake in mid afternoon swimming adventures.

A camping trip to Fraser will take you to a great swimming hole known as Champagne Pools. Here you will find

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small sandy rock pools near the ocean.

Situated along the northern side of Indian Head, by Eastern beach; the foaming ocean crashes along the rocks into the pools. Watch out as the ocean can have strong currents here. Apart from that, it’s a great place to spend a lazy day inside naturally formed swimming holes. You can finish off with a trip to the lighthouse in Sandy Cape. Sandy Cape is located at the northern part of the island and is a great place to catch some fish to cook over an open fire.

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esperance

Western Australia

urrounded by crystal blue waters and lush forests, this breathtaking beach town is worth venturing into. The town is a one-hour flight from Perth and if you intend to access some of the secluded beaches in the area, renting a car is advisable once you’re in Esperance (booking is essential in the busy months).

Esperance is a great spot to camp under the stars. You can pitch your tent

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at Lucky Bay and stay at the campsite.

Your experience will be made easier with on site kitchens, hot showers and amazing trails that lead to coastal views.

Those who enjoy nature will melt into the vast coastline of breathtaking white beaches. It’s no wonder kangaroos love the scene in Lucky Bay. This beach features white sand and flowers that make the earth smile.

10 GREAT CAMPING SPOTS IN AUSTRALIA

Opposite:

Top left: The campsite at Lucky Bay. Copyright - Tourism Western Australia.

Top right: Kangaroo on Lucky Bay. Copyright - Greg Snell.

Bottom: Lucky Bay, in Cape Le Grand National Park.

Copyright - Tourism Western Australia.

Above:

Left: Family hanging out on Lucky Bay Beach. Copyright Tourism Western Australia.

Right top: Children jumping in the water in Esperance.

Copyright - Kristal Tonkin Right bottom: Aerial view of Lucky Bay. Copyright Tourism Western Australia.

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rockingham Western Australia

f there is a paradise on earth, Rockingham has a piece of it. The coast welcomes pristine islands and offers a playground for marine life and coastal charms. The island presents you with endless options that will keep you entertained. Experience everything from sailing, surfing, swimming, scuba diving, fishing and camping.

Your family vacation will be nothing short of amazing. Swim with dolphins or take a trip to Penguin Island where you can get acquainted with the friendly colony of penguins. If you have young kids, they will enjoy Bell and Churchill Park. This large foreshore park along the coastline is perfect for an afternoon of bbq’s and kids play.

Check out the Rockingham

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Above: A day at the beach on Penguin Island. Copyright Tourism Western Australia.

Holiday Village. Nestled amongst the country style setting in the outskirts of Rockingham, this is an ideal setting for a camping getaway. You’re thirty-five minutes away by car from Perth - so close enough to the city if you want to take a day trip there.

Sometimes the best charms Australia has to offer are not sold in all-inclusive packages. Families have the opportunity to discover the less commercial places locals enjoy. Check out Streaky Bay Foreshore Tourist Park for your next camping adventure.

Experience spectacular views and aweinspiring sunsets.

10 GREAT CAMPING SPOTS IN AUSTRALIA

Left top: Rottnest Island from above.

Copyright - Tanya Morgan.

Left bottom: A beach on Rottnest Island.

Copyright - Greg Snell.

Right: Bikes at Parker Point, Rottnest Island.

Copyright - Tourism Western Australia.

rottnest island Western Australia

elcome the magic of Rottnest Island where cars are not permitted but walking and biking are. This kidfriendly island is an outstanding place to visit all year round. Rottnest Island will welcome your camping adventure with a convenient campsite complete with kitchen access and luggage delivery.

There are no shortages of activities while on your camping trip. This island nurtures fun family activities like boating, surfing, diving, snorkeling and island tours. Finish the day with a stroll to Rottnest Island Movies after a seafood dinner along the

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shore.

Families can rent bikes and pedal along the sea wall while making stops at the many attractions. Family fun can continue with some paddle boarding followed by a stroll to Geordie’s cafe and art gallery. Don’t forget to take a peek into the Wadjemup Lighthouse Tour. Your trip will be complete with a 360-degree capture of this islands lighthouse. Frame the memories of the majestic Indian Ocean against a backdrop of Rottnest Island.

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flinders ranges South Australia

f you’re looking for an extraordinary pursuit of the mountainous outback, Flinders Ranges is the place to explore.

It’s about a 200 km drive from Adelaide and thrill seekers and wilderness adventurers will appreciate the mountain range in this outback location. Camp amongst the stars in Wilpena Pound Campground and enjoy the tremendous abundance of wildlife.

If you’re going for more of a luxury camping experience, otherwise

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known as “glamping”, check into the Ikara Safari Camp. This camp boasts premium family tents complete with luxury amenities and king size beds. The luxurious campground is within Flinders Range National Park. Wake up to local events that include wildlife expeditions and mountain biking. Don’t forget to visit world renowned Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary in the northern part of Flinders Ranges.

10 GREAT CAMPING SPOTS IN AUSTRALIA

Opposite:

Top: Night sky at Flinders Ranges. Copyright - Tourism Australia and Greg Snell.

Above:

Top: Night at the camping ground. Copyright - BigStock. com.

Left top: Pugilist Hill at Flinders Ranges. Copyright Tourism Australia and Greg Snell.

Bottom left: Lounge lizard. Copyright - Tourism Australia and Greg Snell.

Bottom middle: A lonely emu. Copyright - Tourism Australia and Greg Snell.

Right bottom: A wallaby on the lookout. Copyright Tourism Australia and Greg Snell.

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Above:

Top let: Spotted-tail Quoll. Copyright - Tourism Tasmania & Rob Burnett.

Top right: Local wildlife on an Enchanted Walk. Copyright - Tourism Australia & Paul Fleming Middle: Lake Dove Circuit. Copyright - Tourism Tasmania & Geoffrey Lea.

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Bottom: Windermere Hut on the Overland Track.

Copyright - Tourism Tasmania & Don Fuchs.

Opposite:

Top: Great short walks at Cradle Mountain. Copyright Tourism Tasmania & Geoffrey Lea.

10 GREAT CAMPING SPOTS IN AUSTRALIA

cradle mountain Tasmania

radle Mountain is quintessential Tasmania. The allure of the mountain is found in its snow-capped peaks, lush forests and gushing waterfalls. The national park is brought to life with the abundance of wildlife and you will see everything from wallabies, Tasmanian Devils to the ever elusive platypus.

You can choose to camp amongst nature in the lush forest setting or, you can go for the comforts of cottages and luxury

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cabins. You can always be sure that you will find comfort and accommodation with stunning mountain views at Cradle Mountain National Park.

Wake up to endless activities that will keep the whole family entertained - horseback trail rides, helicopter rides, canoe trips or, take a day or night trip to see the Tasmanian Devils. Cradle Mountain is the perfect place for a family adventure.

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COMPETITION

UPF50+

f o s t o l Great for 32

the beac

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h

s n g i s e d t a e r g

WIN

DRAWING COMPETITION

BIG BEACH DRAWING COMPETITION Send us your best drawing of your family on the beach and win one of Go Splash’s great Australian designed beach robes. We’ll show the top drawings in the next issue of Travel Sprout Magazine and you could be the lucky winner of a snuggly beach robe for next time to take mom and dad to the beach.

Underwater World from beach holiday in Bali. By Ronja Witkowski 6 years old in VIC, Australia.

Send your drawing to us by no later than 26th November 2014 via e-mail (scan it or take a good photo) at: contact@travelsproutmag.com or you can mail it to us (but please leave a contact e-mail address) at: Travel Sprout Magazine P O Box 25 Elwood, VIC

! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! WIN! Competition rules: The Big Beach Drawing competition is open to all entries as long as they follow the competition rules. Winners will be chosen by judges from the Travel Sprout editorial team. Winners will be contacted via email and have their drawings and names displayed in our magazine / website / facebook / Instagram and other social media. Travel Sprout Magazine reserves the right to use the images in the above mentioned media in relation to the competition. Drawings will not be returned in the mail. The Judges decision is final and no correspondence will be entered in to. The competition will run from 5th November 2014 until 26th November 2014. No late entries. Travel Sprout is compliant with the Privacy Act. Our policy is such that we will not pass on your details to any third party without your prior consent.

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. . . o t How Camp with Kids! . . . t i e v i v r u s and enjoy

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amping can be a great family holiday. It is usually low-cost, accessible to everybody, and offers the chance for children to run around in the fresh air and possibly even learn some new

skills such as camp-stove cooking and teamwork in tent building. Furthermore campsites are often in the best holiday spots, right next to the beach or swimming hole, so next time you are planning a family holiday why not

give the hotel room a miss and think about spending a few nights under canvas instead.

Arwen Hann gives us a few tips that will help you get the most from your next tent-based trip.

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How to ...

Practice ...

kids entertained. Most family oriented caravan parks will have a playground, swimming pool, or games room and many are in great locations near a beach, forest, or river. Some sites provide extras such as kayaks or mountain bikes so research what is available before you book. You can of course also pitch the tent on a free camp site / nature spot – you can find more information on free camping in Australia here.

Pick your camp site carefully ...

Think about packing!

If you’ve never been camping with your kids before then practice before you go on a longer trip. Camp out in your lounge room or pitch a tent in the garden and try an overnight stay. Try cooking on a camping stove and have the kids see if they can pack their stuff into a small bag. This makes things easier when you actually go, but more importantly gets everybody excited for your big trip.

Campsites can vary greatly from very basic sites to fully equipped ones with electricity and luxurious toilet facilities.

Choose a site that suits your family’s skills and comfort level and look for one that has plenty of activities nearby to keep the

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A good camping trip is all about preparation. You don’t necessarily want to take a lot especially if you are walking as part of your trip. Remember your packing list will be different for a camping trip than a resort vacation or weekend trip and things like canned food and

disposable wipes will come in handy.

If your family is new to camping, make room for a few home comforts such as your child’s favourite toy or blanket. If you want to take bulkier items, then plan a trip where you can take the car right up to the campsite. You can find plenty of camping checklists online to help you plan and prepare.

Expect bad weather ...

While you can hope that your holiday will be sunny, the chances are it will rain on at least one day and there is nothing worse than being stuck in a tent with nothing to do. Pack a few simple family games such as Ludo or cards to pass the time. Quiet individual activities such as colouring or puzzle books are also good to give everyone a break. Remember to

pack wet weather clothes so you can still go out if it isn’t raining too hard.

Relax and enjoy!

On a camping trip routines go out of the window! Try to relax during your holiday and accept that things might not go like clockwork. If you are all sleeping in the same tent, chances are your kids will be in bed later than usual and cooking on a camp-stove or eating at local restaurants means they probably won’t be getting their recommended veggies every day, but on holiday it doesn’t matter. What is more important is kicking back, enjoying your trip, and creating great family memories.

You can find more tips on how to camp with kids here.

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Experience the raw, rugged and untamed wilderness in your own cabin at the rustic Nakiska Ranch ...

Come and stay at Nakiska Ranch in the Wells Gray Park in your own rustic cabin, fully equipped with all modern amenities. But enjoy the real feel of a working ranch with Red Angus Cattle, pigs, horses and of course our lovely dogs who love to show you the place. In winter, our resident Moose visits the front yard in search of goodies to eat.

And with actitivies like snow shoeing, ice climbing, horse riding and much more there are plenty of activities to make sure the kids sleep well at night.

W: nakiskaranch.com - E: nakiska@nakiskaranch.com - T: +1 250 674 3655

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of Canada while staying

Nakiska Ranch Image by Aude - CC

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ROAD TRIP

R

oad trips are often associated with unwashed uni students in rusty old cars living of canned food and beer getting into all sorts of more or less pleasant trouble.

But road trips can also be a great way to spend time with the family exploring new things and places having an old school adventure.

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The Great Ocean Road is a perfect place for a great road trip. It is filled with fantastic things to do and see on the way and the drives are not too long so the kids won’t go crazy in the backseat. Go on a road trip with us on the Great Ocean Road.

Copyright - Visions of Victoria

GRE AT O CEGARE NAT

RORAO D A TRI D

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TRAVEL SPROUT - NOVEMBER 2014

ROAD TRIP

In the guide book:

Apart from going surfing at one of the many surf beaches catering to all levels (surf lessons at Go Ride A Wave) and of course a trip to Bells Beach you should head to the Surf World Museum to learn about the history of surfing. There are also loads of nice cafes and restaurants for a welldeserved break between breaks. Growlers or Moby can be recommended. The RACV Resort Torquay Golf Club has some of the best views overlooking the golf course from the lounge and they make a great hot chocolate. You can also walk down and use their bouncing mattress and playground or tennis courts.

Off the beaten track:

Just next to the Surf Museum there is a small Skate park in case the kids want a break from the surf.

Nestled in between houses and grass fields along Spring Creek is a great bike track with hills and jumps. Even if you’re inexperienced rider you’ll have fun there.

A few kilometres out of Torquay down the Great Ocean Road turn off towards Point Addis for a nice snorkel experience.

Camping:

Camp at Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park and step right out on the beach in the morning for a quick surf.

Images copyright - Visions of Victoria

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Even t Road a a coup are ple famou

Torquay

though few people realize it the Great Ocean actually begins in Torquay. The town is home to ple of the world’s biggest surf brands and there enty of beach and surf options here – the world us Bells Beach among others. travelsprout.com.au

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ROAD TRIP

In the guide book:

Go have a drink at the Anglesea Golf Course and watch a local group of Eastern Grey Kangaroos relax around the 18th hole.

Anglesea is also a recognised haven for its abundant flora, particularly rare orchids and native flowers during spring, so a walk in one of the parks is a must.

Off the beaten track:

On the banks of Anglesea River you can rent kayaks, paddleboats and small motorboats. The kids will love to be captain for a day and the trip up river (kayaks only) can be a great adventure. If you head up along the river to Coogoorah Park you’ll find a great pirate ship playground where you can spend at least half a day.

Camping:

Anglesea Beachfront Family Caravan Park is highly recommended. It has its own 9-hole mini golf course and a giant jumping pillow.

Copyright - Visions of Victoria

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ANGLESEA

Anglesea is a just a 10-minute drive down the road from Torquay. This small town is a great place to stop for lunch, a day on the beach or for exploring the small river. travelsprout.com.au

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ROAD TRIP

AIREYS INLET Copyright - Visions of Victoria

In the guide book:

Head for the Split Rock Lighthouse and a walk out to look at the Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary. The lighthouse is open to the public for tours and the view from the top is worth the climb. There are rock pools to explore near the base of the lighthouse and this area is also popular for snorkelling and scuba diving.

Remember to have scones and cream at Willow’s Tea House.

Off the beaten track:

Instead of turning left towards the lighthouse drive a few more meters and turn right. A way up the road after a few

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left turns you’ll find Blazing Saddles.

They offer trail rides but also pony rides for the kids. It’s a great walk where you often see local wildlife (kangaroos, cockatoos etc.) and a nice place to have a picnic amongst the horses.

Camping:

Aireys Inlet Holiday Park is a great spot if you want to stay for the night.

CAMPING ON THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD

LORNE

Copyright - Visions of Victoria

In the guide book:

The white sand and blue waters of Louttit Bay will draw you in for a swim or stroll along the beach. If you are looking for a bit more action for the family the Lorne Sea Baths have trampolines and lots of water toys and Lorne Beach Pavilion has great views for a bite to eat.

Off the beaten track:

There is a gang of cockatoos roaming the streets of Lorne. Locals consider them a pest, but they hang out around the foreshore playground, so head there for some playtime and bird watching.

Erskine Falls is probably the most well

Copyright - Travel Sprout Magazine

known of the waterfalls in the area. But if you head towards the Sheoak Picnic Area there are plenty of other good walks for families. Try the Won Wondah, Henderson Falls and The Canyon walk or look here for the full range of walks and waterfalls.

Camping:

Cumberland River Reserve is an idyllic grassed camping area in a stunning setting beside the river and only 7 kilometres south-west of Lorne. There are a few caravan parks in Lorne if you want the comfort of clean toilets and running water.

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TRAVEL SPROUT - NOVEMBER 2014

WyE & kennett RIVER

ROAD TRIP

Copyright - Visions of Victoria

In the guide book:

Do the Wye River Heritage walk and learn about an era when the area was best known as a timber harvesting region. Or for the more adventurous family members you can drive inland a bit to Forrest and find one of Australia’s best mountain bike destinations.

Off the beaten track:

Kennett River has a large population of koalas and a good place to spot them is along the Grey River Road. You walk through Manna Gum forest – a koala

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favourite and a great way to get up close and enjoy nature at the same time. A few kilometres up the road is the Grey River Reserve where you might spot glow worms at night. Remember your torch and head for the picnic area.

Camping:

In a beautiful setting with beach frontage to Bass Strait and beside the Kennett River you’ll find Kennett River Foreshore Reserve. A bit further up the road is Wye River Reserve - also a great spot for sleeping under the star.

APOLLO BAY

Known as paradise by the sea, Apollo Bay is halfway along the Great Ocean Road, in shelter of Cape Otway and on slopes of the Otway ranges. There are an abundance of water sports and plenty of walks in and around the area. And it is a great place to stay when exploring the Otway National Park.

Copyright - Visions of Victoria

In the guide book:

From Apollo Bay the obvious activities will drag you towards the ocean. You can either take the family fishing with daily departures or go on a sea kayak tour. Or if the wallet allows it – there are plenty of plane and helicopter rides departing here for the 12 Apostles. For a cheaper option go seal spotting along the beach.

Off the beaten track:

For a fantastic and less visited beach head for Skenes Creek about 5 km before Apollo Bay. The beach has been

voted one of the best-hidden gems when it comes to beaches in Victoria.

Camping:

There are quite a few holiday parks in Apollo Bay. Check out Apollo Bay Holiday Park, Marengo Holiday Park or BIG4 Apollo Bay Pisces Holiday Park for some high-end family friendly caravan parks. If you want to get out of town then head back to Skenes Creek and stay at the Skenes Creek Beachfront Park.

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TRAVEL SPROUT - NOVEMBER 2014

ROAD TRIP

CAPE OTWAY Copyright - Visions of Victoria

In the book and off the track:

Head towards the Cape Otway lighthouse and you are sure to stop a few times on the way to see the many local koalas sitting in trees close to or over the road. Be careful when driving as tourists tend to look up rather than on the road and stop suddenly at the sight of a fluffy friend above. Give the lighthouse a miss unless you want to pay the – exorbitant high – entry fee.

campsites in the Cape Otway.

Especially Blanket Blanket Bay can be recommended, so much so that during summer and Easter campsites are allocated by ballot.

Camping:

There are quite a few very nice Copyright (right) - BigStock.com

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CAMPING ON THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD

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TRAVEL SPROUT - NOVEMBER 2014

ROAD TRIP

TWELVE A Copyright - BigStock.com

In the guide book:

Go visit the Twelve Apostles Centre before taking the walk to view the amazing Twelve Apostles coastline.

The Centre offers insightful cultural heritage stories, shelter and toilets. Walk the short distance (500m) through the

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tunnel, under the Great Ocean Road to various lookouts offering expansive, breathtaking views.

Off the beaten track:

Instead of driving up to the Apostles do the hike from Princetown to

APOSTLES Glenample and see some absolutely spectacular views. Walk along cliff tops through coastal shrubland and low heath to Glenample. Kangaroos and other natives are often seen in nearby paddocks and dolphins sometimes swim in the Marine National Park below.

Camping:

Conveniently located only a few kilometers from the Apostles in Princetown you’ll find Apostles Camping Park & Cabins.

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ROAD TRIP

PORT CAMPBEL Images copyright - Visions of Victoria

In the guide book:

The Twelve Apostles are magnificent, but if you’re a looking for something a little more relaxed then the quaint Port Campbell, Port Fairy and Portland are all good options.

Port Campbell is a nice little seaside village with good restaurants and cafes curled around a horseshoe bay and sheltered by rugged cliffs. It’s a great place to stop and breathe after experiencing the raw nature of the 12 Apostles.

Further up the coast is Port Fairy. Filled with historic buildings and tearooms it feels like taking a step back in time.

There are a couple of annual festivals, but the picturesque waterfront or the Griffiths Island Lighthouse is worth

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the visit.

Portland, the oldest town in Victoria, has lots worth travelling for: the Princess Margaret Rose Cave in the Lower Glenelg National Park; seals, blowholes, and a petrified forest at Discovery Bay. Shelly Beach (ideal for collecting shells) and Cape Bridgewater, once a volcanic island, now a pretty spot 20 minutes’ drive from Portland, are great for swimming and surfing.

If you travel between June and October you should make sure to have a look out as whales are often sighted along the Great Ocean Road, particularly in winter months during migration and when mothers have given birth to calves.

CAMPING ON THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD

LL AND BEYOND Camping:

There are an abundance of camping spots and caravan parks along the coast from Port Campbell. Have a look at some of the websites listed on the right to find accommodation and get more inspiration. And have a great road trip.

Great other options:

If you are looking for a shorter but equally exciting road trip I heart Melbourne Tours offer one-day tours down the Great Ocean Road. They specialize in family tours so you’ll be in good hands.

Visit Great Ocean Road has a dedicated site just for this great stretch of coastline. Have a look and get inspired.

Visit 12 Apostles has a great list of family fun and other interesting stuff to plan your trip.

Visit Melbourne has loads of information about the Great Ocean Road but also surrounding areas in case the road trip continues afterwards. travelsprout.com.au

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I

the Great Ocean Road - $149 per person

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TRAVEL SPROUT - NOVEMBER 2014

in family and coastline The and experts surf beaches.

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famous Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and Gibson Steps. Spot wild kangaroos, koalas, cockatoos, rosellas.

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I Heart Melbourne Tours is Victoria’s first specialised family tour company. They are diffe Customise This fully customised tour includes morning tea on the beach, a high thing on board that families could possibly need at no extra cost. From car seats and st tours mad company I Penguins $169 per person quality Aussie lunch ocean (with kids menu) and all do up! we the go?

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0431124326 info@iheartmelbournetours.com.au

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Explore Churchill Island and 0431124326 a beautiful setting such as Daylesford or the Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs. evening. enjoy the famous penguin parade in the evening. to take strollers or any luggage info@iheartmelbournetours.com.au We will work with you toThis buildfully an itinerary that suits needsa and interest and r the customised touryour includes family-friendly lunch, mini g sights with little travellers. With ensures that you can simply back in comfort andelse!) enjoyand Victoria of its glory.

This fully customised tour includes aall family-friendly (you sit won’t get with anyone threeinpark pass. family iheartmelbournetours.com.au ave a stroller and much more lunch,amini golf (you won’texperience, get with anyone else!) and three All full day tours include gourmet dining complementary park service pass. and commentary from your personal tour More s refreshments, door-to-door discover guide. the be See the sights We also cater for larger group bookings – enquire about our charter services. tra the big buses can’t get to professionally fitted car seats to full booking see website: and nappies are on For board.

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www.iheartmelbournetours.com.au

Customised

I

Melbourne City Sightstravelsprout.com.au - $65 per person 57

TRAVEL SPROUT - NOVEMBER 2014

YOUR AD HERE? If you have content that is relevant to families that loves travelling and exploring then why not reach out?

We’re a quickly expanding online travel magazine for families with loads of content on travelling with kids.

Be part of a growing media with competitive advertising rates.

Contact Travel Sprout Magazine at contact@travelsproutmag.com

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g n i p m a c roof top

Copyright - EG Focus

BIG CITY CAMPING

Combine camping with big city holidays ...

Big city? Camping? Have you ever had that discussion over the dinner table when planning the next family holiday? Why not do both at the same time this year? Impossible you say? Take a look we say!

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TRAVEL SPROUT - NOVEMBER 2014

ACCOMMODATION

Roof top camping!!

Have a drink a the kids have ct the Skybar after rashed ...

Copyright - www.granddaddy.co.za

Cape Town - South Africa

Airstream Rooftop Trailer Park If you and the kids are into old American airstream trailers then this is the perfect spot for you. With 7 Airstream Trailers, a Skybar and a (Pink Flamingo) Rooftop Cinema this is the ultimate big city family glamping experience. Located in the heart of Cape Town only a stone throw from the harbour front and Signal Hill you won’t find a more central camping spot in town.

From AU$145 38 Long Street, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa +27 21 424 7247 - www.granddaddy.co.za

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BIG CITY CAMPING

caravan Have you ever slept in a ? suspended from the roof

aving to Camping without heather ... worry about the w

Copyright - www.huettenpalast.de

Berlin - Germany

Hutten Palast If you are one of those people who wants to go camping, but also likes the big city and want to be sure that the weather does not interfere in your holiday plans - then Hütten Palast (roughly translated “Cabin Palace”) is the place for you. Located in the middle of the great city of Berlin you can find a handful of fantastically fun oldtimer caravans and cosy wooden cabins in an old factory hall. Hütten Palast has a cafe, a nice garden and even a sauna to keep the family fed and busy.

From AU$80 - Hobrechtstrasse 65/66, 12047 Berlin – Neukölln, Germany +49 30-37 30 58 06 - www.huettenpalast.de travelsprout.com.au

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TRAVEL SPROUT - NOVEMBER 2014

ACCOMMODATION Glam

ping

Big city campin

Best evenin

g sun in Syd

ney ...

g

Copyright - www.cockatooisland.gov.au

Sydney - Australia

Cockatoo Island If you are looking for a true big city tent experience in one of our very own big cities then Cockatoo Island is the place to go. A UNESCO world-heritage-listed island in the middle of beautiful Sydney Harbour and nothing more than a short ferry ride away from the CBD this is as close to perfect you come in terms of urban camping.

Explore the island for the day and stay overnight in the campground or glamping area.

From AU$45 Cockatoo Island, Sydney Habour, Sydney, Australia (02) 9700 4100 - www.cockatooisland.gov.au

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KIDS CAMPING

2.

1.

3.

KIDS CAMPING 4.

6.

5.

1. Eco Gear Panda Backpack - AU$25.00 2. Deuter Kikki Pack - AU$ 45.00 3. Pineapple PAKitToMe Backpack - AU$15.99 5. Osprey Jib 35 Pack - AU$139.95 5. The North Face Happy Camper Pack - AU$45.00 6. Vaude Puck 10 Kids Backpack - AU$54.99 travelsprout.com.au

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TRAVEL SPROUT - NOVEMBER 2014

camp

TRAVEL APPS

V

THERE’S AN A

Camping Around Australia Finding a campsite has never been quite so easy. Just open the Camping Around Australia app and choose from more than 3000 rigorously researched camping areas.

AU$ 14.99 Available on iPhone and iPad

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Classic Camping Cookbook & Meal Planner Great app for ideas, tips & tricks on what to cook when out camping.

Choose to search by equipment, meal or ingredients.

Free Availalbe on iPhone and iPad

Using you phone or t can help y all the ted things you to do whe planning, or travelin found a fe that migh traveling l easier for your famil

THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT

ping

APP FOR THAT

ur smart tablet your with dious u need en packing ng.We’ve ew apps ht make life you and ly.

CAmPBUDDY Australia

WikicampS AUstralia

CampBuddy Australia is a simple and easy to use.

Camping and Caravan App with Offline Map support.

It will help you on your road trip through Australia to find the next camping spot or rest area.

Users help make this app this biggest and most comprehensive list of camp sites, caravan parks, backpacker hostels, day stops, points of interest and loads more.

Free Available Android

AU$ 7.49 Available on iOS, Android and Windows travelsprout.com.au

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TRAVEL SPROUT - NOVEMBER 2014

You can read Travel Sprout on any platform and device It doesn’t matter if you are on a computer, laptop, tablet or your mobile phone. You can alway get to the latest issue of Travel Sprout.

You can even download an app for when you are offline.

Read Travel Sprout Magazine online at issuu.com or download the issuu app to read it on your tablet or phone.

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What it feels like to travel with Intrepid (in 90 seconds)

INTREPID

The Best Family holiday ever‌ On an Intrepid Travel Family Adventure you and your kids will discover and take part in heaps of real life experiences – Enjoy Rafting the Seti River in Nepal, exploring the temples of Angkor by Remork, discovering the temples of Bagan by bike or camping in the jungle in Borneo. Whatever it is, learning and exploring the world together as a family with Intrepid opens eyes and minds in a way the virtual world never can.

For more information and to order a Family Adventure brochure

1300 797 010 intrepidtravel.com/family travelsprout.com.au

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TRAVEL SPROUT - NOVEMBER 2014

Do you like what you see?

If you like what you see then why not follow us on Facebook?

You’ll get the latest updates with inspiration for your next family holiday and new issues of Travel Sprout Magazine right in your news stream?

Like Travel Sprout on Facebook www.facebook.com/travelsprout

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COOL CAMPING

COOL or weird?

CAMPING ga

dgets...

Some people swear to the nature experience when going camping. Others are inherent gadget freaks. We have found a few things that will quench your family’s gadget thirst.

Like this outdoor blender for your afternoon camping smoothies. What about a must-have glow-in-the-dark boule set for those late nights on the campground. Or an air mattress with build in speakers if you get tired of listening to sounds of the outback. Have a look on the next couple of pages for some awesome gadget freak camping gear. travelsprout.com.au

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CAMPING GEAR

Copyright - heimplanet.com

SPACE INVADERS The Cave From approx. AU$ 1,010.00 The inflatable tent “The Cave” from HEIMPLANET stands for a new way of camping.

Assembling of parts is unnecessary. Inner tent, fly sheet and the inflateble frame work as a union and enable a very quick and uncomplicated set-up (inflation). Just unpack it and inflate it - welcome home! You can also go for its bigger sister “Mavericks” for a little extra room. But with a price tag of more than AU$ 9,000 only few families will probably pitch that tent.

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COOL CAMPING

Copyright - www.themonsterfactory.com

KOMBI LOVERS VW Camper Van Kids Tent From approx. AU$ 100.00 Not to be outdone by their parents, these new licensed T1 VW Camper Van Play Tents from MONSTER FACTORY are just what every hip and happening kid needs this Christmas! Perfect indoors and outdoors, these new mini-me versions of the iconic 1965 Split Screen VW Camper Van are too cool for school.

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CAMPING GEAR

Copyright - www.kikkerland.com

SLEEP LIKE A LOG Log Head Pillow From approx. AU$ 25.00 Why not rest your weary head on a log after a long day out camping? With these novelty pillows from KIKKERLAND you can be sure that the kids are keen to go to bed. Just be sure that you do not mistake natures own with these pillows or you might end up with a head ache.

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COOL CAMPING

Copyright - www.selkbagusa.com

SLEEPING AND RUNNING BAG Selk’bag Kids From approx. AU$ 110.00 Developed especially for Kids, the all-new SELK’BAG Kids Sleepwear System is the most mobile, comfortable and fun sleepwear system available today. Uncommonly comfortable and exceptionally fun, kids the world over enjoy the Selk’bag while camping with family, caravaning with the grandparents, enjoying sleepovers with friends or just having a good time at home. We found these on the US website, but have a look for outlets in Australia here.

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CAMPING GEAR

Copyright - www.grandst.com

INFLATE IN SECONDS Windcatcher From approx. AU$ 115.00 Windcatcher is one of the coolest pieces of outdoor camping gear we’ve seen.

Its technology represents so much more than an air pad and it’s what makes this product stand out. The incredibly smart and patented inflation valve allows you to use Windcatcher without pumping anything, plugging anything in, or becoming completely light-headed. Just give it a few strong breathes and it’s fully inflated.

The Windcather is a kickstarter project and you can see more on GRAND ST.

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TRAMPING IN

NZ

Native explorer Arwen Hann gives us five great spots perfect for testing out your new hiking boots and camping skills.

safe crossing

Copyright - Bigstock.com

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TRAMPING IN NZ

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Egmont National Park

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ominated by the huge volcano Mount Taranaki, Egmont National Park in the central North Island is one of the country’s most accessible areas. There are 13 entrances to choose from, while the three paved roads up different sides of the volcano

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makes it easy for families to get to the starting point of a walk. Features include the beautiful Dawson Falls waterfall and the Goblin Forest filled with moss covered kamahi trees. There are plenty of hikers’ huts to choose from for an overnight stay.

great views

hiking trail

Copyright - Bigstock.com

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TRAMPING IN NZ

comfy bed

2

Peel Forest

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ocated north of Geraldine, a small town on the South Island, Peel Forest is the ideal camping and walking spot. The area is a remnant of forest left over from logging days and covers 500 hectares. The tracks

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range from easy 30-minute round trips suitable through to the six-hour trek to the summit of Little Mount Peel. The forest has a serviced campsite at Clark Flat, which has sites for both tents and campervans.

3 T

Tararua Ranges

he Tararua Ranges stretch across the lower part of the North Island from the Kapiti Coast to Wairarapa. One of the most popular walks is the Gentle Annie Track, a four hour round trip up an easy gradient that gives way to panoramic views. At this side of the park, you can

stay at the Holdsworth campsite or the Holdsworth Lodge if you fancy something a little more comfortable.

On the other side of the ranges, the Otaki Forks campsite is popular and is the starting point for walks of varying difficulties.

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Creative Commons - Geoff Jacobsen and Lisia Grocott

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TRAMPING IN NZ

4

breakfast

Stewart Island

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any people think of New Zealand as just two islands, but it is in fact three – with Stewart Island being the third. The island, 30 kilometres off the South Island, is 2000 square kilometres and around 85 percent of it lies within

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Rakiura National Park. Many of the walks can be accessed from Oban, the island’s main town and there are 25 trampers huts dotted around the park.

Stewart Island is a haven for wildlife and overnight campers may even spot a kiwi.

lunch

dinner

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TRAMPING IN NZ

camp site

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A

5

Abel Tasman National Park

bel Tasman National Park at the top of the South Island is one of New Zealand’s most picturesque areas and the coastal track is one of the country’s Great Walks. The great thing about this walk for families is that it can be done in sections. There are several huts along the route that offer overnight accommodation and

regular water taxi services mean you can walk to a certain point and then get picked up for the ride home if you wish. The Totaranui campsite near the entrance to the park is a popular site with tourists and locals and is near the beach and the estuary for swimming and kayaking.

Images copyright - newzealand.com

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GOOD TRAVEL BOOKS

GOOD TRAV

Camp

The Camping Book

The Campsite Companion

AU$ 17.95

AU$ 25.75

The Camping Book clearly shows you how to choose the right kit, telling you what to take and what not to take, and how to pack your kit in the most practical way. It shows you how to set up your camping environment so it is organised and comfortable.

This is the ultimate portable reference to the camping experience, whether you’re having it in a caravan or it’s just you and your old swag under the stars. With illustrated sections covering everything from how to find your way without a compass to making the best s’mores, this book gives practical advice for all scenarios and situations.

www.booktopia.com.au

www.booktopia.com.au

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TRAVEL BOOKS

VEL BOOKS

ping

Australia’s Best Camping

Camping with Kids

AU$ 27.95

AU$ 15.00

Australia’s Best Camping is smart and opinionated, packed with carefully selected camping spots for families, couples and groups travelling with a tent, a caravan or a campervan. Organised into state or regional chapters, and featuring colourful photos and maps, you’ll find the ideal campsite for your next camping trip anywhere in Australia.

Whether you’re a first-time camper or a veteran backpacker befuddled by the challenges of carting a brood—and all the requisite gear— into the great outdoors, here you’ll find all the tips and tools you need to plan the perfect nature adventure with your family. www.amazon.com

www.booktopia.com.au

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Barnardos Gifts for Kids Spare a thought for the thousands of Australian children suffering from abuse and homelessness.

For these kids Christmas can be a heart-breaking time.

Your gift will bring joy to a child who thinks no one cares this Christmas. barnardos.org.au/giftsforkids

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ABN 18 068 557 906 I A Co

ompany Limited by Guarantee I Registered Charity I GFK14_00652_PF

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If you are considering a holiday of a lifetime, where it’s absolutely easy to turn your children’s attention from the distractions of modern life to the togetherness of family on an unforgettable journey, you may well think about a childfriendly safari in South Africa.

With its sophisticated tourism infrastructure, world famous Game Reserves and a favourable currency exchange, South Africa offers top-notch private safari experiences that are family-affordable.

Favourite Family-Friendly

SAFARI SOUTH AFR 88

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In

RICA

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SAFARI

BORN FOR THE BUSHVELD

G

rowing up in southern Africa, there’s no doubt that Elizabeth Peterson’s most exciting and memorable family holidays were the safaris. Setting off into the wilds, in anticipation of coming across roaring lions and giant, ear-flapping elephants; herds of peaceful zebra grazing the green plains and swooping fish eagles grasping silver prey in their talons, was the greatest adventure she could imagine. These childhood safari experiences tapped into her young, innate fascination with nature and imprinted a deep and abiding

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enjoyment and appreciation of the wild. Today, as a parent, she is even more keenly aware of the value of giving her children the opportunity to have real-life close encounters with Africa’s magnificent wildlife. An African safari must be one of the finest antidotes to a childhood beset by digital devices, bombarded by TV, bound by indoor activities and beleaguered by the busiest schedules ever experienced by children.

Elizabeth shares her top tips for a great South African safari experience with the family.

Exploring the bushveld from the Jock Safari Lodge

Copyright - www.jocksafarilodge.com

Big Five A pan-African wildlife safari term that refers to Lion, Elephant, Buffalo, Rhino and Leopard.

Boma A traditional African structure made of wood and thatched grasses where food is cooked over open fires and served in the communal setting. A classic boma is round and open to the skies.

Braai The South African term for barbeque derived from the Afrikaans ‘braaivleis’, literally meaning grill meat.

Bushveld The South African term combining the English word ‘bush’ with the Afrikaans word

for grassland ‘veld’. It refers to the low-lying areas in the east of country and describes the mixed woodlands and savannah.

Karoo The Karoo is a semi-desert region of South Africa often defined by its low rainfall, arid air, cloudless skies and extreme heat or cold.

San Refers to the First Nations Khoisan people of southern Africa who were nomads, following the migrating herds of game.

There are only a few small groups of surviving San people living traditional lives in game reserves in Botswana, Namibia and the Northern Cape of South Africa.

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SAFARI Families at the Shamwari Game Reserve

Big Cats & Boma Nights at

Shamwari Game Reserve This award-winning, private game reserve covers 25,000 hectares of wild terrain teeming with game in the malaria-free Eastern Cape Province of South Africa.

If you have kids over 16 years you can stay at the Explorer Camp. But we stayed at the more luxurious Riverdene Lodge, overlooking the Bushman’s River where there’s a dedicated children’s co-ordinator to ensure that your kids make the most of a wide range of safari activities.

The lodge makes for a comfortable and supportive base to explore this

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Big Five reserve with its fantastic scenery, large game herds and stunning predators. As our children were over 4 years of age, we could all go on game drives in the gorgeous early mornings and the late afternoons.

You can beat the midday African heat lounging round the rim-flow swimming pool and keeping an eye on the kids having fun in the expansive shallow end. Well-known for its excellent cuisine, there are in and outdoor dining areas including a traditional African boma where you can enjoy a ‘braai’ under the stars.

FAMILY FRIENDLY SAFARI

The Explorer Camp

A local resident ...

The view from the Riverdene Lodge Images copyright - www.shamwari.com

There’s a comprehensive, wholesome children’s menu, and kids have great fun preparing their own African omelettes for breakfast or pizza for supper.

We loved family visits to the Born Free Foundation Big Cat Rescue centre and Shamwari’s Wildlife Rehabilitation centre where we could marvel up close at different African species and learn a lot about conservation issues.

We shared close family evenings at the lodge playing board games, reading animal stories, making nature art projects about what we have seen that day and watching wildlife documentaries. After tucking tired and happy children into bed, there’s an elegant bar and lounge where you can unwind while sipping on a fine South African wine.

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SAFARI

Stargazing & Rock Art at

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve The wide-open, semi-arid Karoo is an intriguing and evocative landscape unique to the Western Cape of South Africa. The privately-owned Sanbona Wildlife Reserve conserves 54, 000 hectares of this craggy, yet poignant environment, and offers a captivating malaria-free alternative to the traditional African savannah safari.

The sparse vegetation makes it easy for kids to succeed at game-spotting, and there’s plenty of opportunity to see lion, elephant, cheetah, buffalo, giraffe, white rhino and numerous antelope species. If you’re lucky you may view the more elusive leopard, brown hyena and the critically endangered riverine rabbit.

The family strong-hold at Sanbona is Gondwana Lodge, a traditional, thatched Karoo homestead with spacious luxury suites that all have sweeping, soulful views over the rugged plains to the Anysberg Mountains. Again if you have older children you can stay at the Sanbona Explorer Camp for an all-in outdoors experience.

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Our children loved rambling along the interpretive trail through Gondwana’s garden where they learnt interesting facts about the animals they saw out on the reserve, identified animal tracks and learnt the names of unusual plants.

Sanbona also preserves San rock art sites amongst the dramatic geological formations on the reserve.

A family outing to these sites is very rewarding, where the informative ranger interprets the scene and inspires the children to later create their own ‘rock art’.

But perhaps, the highlight at Sanbona is night-time star watching through telescopes on the lodge deck.

The Karoo is blessedly free from light pollution, and the vast spectacle of the southern hemisphere’s grand constellations literally take the breath away from city children who have only ever seen the odd star twinkling in the sky.

FAMILY FRIENDLY SAFARI

Stargazing in the Karoo ...

The Explorer Camp at Sanbona ...

Copyright - www.sanbona.com

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SAFARI

Jo At Jock Safari Lodge, in an exclusive concession of the world-famous Kruger National Park, your family can experience the quintessential safari in the heart of the South African bushveld. Kruger is one Africa’s oldest game reserves, and today’s mega-fauna and regal predators are the offspring of continuous generations of wildlife that survived the colonial hunters of the early 20th Century. Here, you feel the true rhythm of nature, the energy of a wild place that has never needed to be ‘rehabilitated’ and start to experience

One of the many locals you’ll meet ...

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yourself naturally moving and interacting at the pace our bodies and minds are optimally designed for! The lodge was once privately owned by the descendants of legendary British author and adventurer Sir Percy Fitzpatrick, who was encouraged by his friend Rudyard Kipling to write the entertaining accounts of his African adventures with his intrepid Staffordshire bull terrier, Jock, in the classic children’s adventure story ‘Jock of the Bushveldt’.

FAMILY FRIENDLY SAFARI

Old Classics & New Adventures at

ock Safari Lodge Families are accommodated and attended to personally at Fitzpatrick’s Family Lodge. The luxury, comfort, child support and quality activities are wonderful. But the reason to be there is the sheer magnificence of place, and what it does to your perception of life on earth and your way of being in the world.

The Kruger National Park is a malaria area. You need to consult your family doctor before travelling, and take necessary precautions with your children. There are many types

of mosquito, and only the females of the anopheles genus may carry malaria, so it’s not like every bite is a risk. Prophylactics; light-weight, long-sleeved, long-cuffed clothing and topical skin repellents reduce risk. We never let this put us off fully experiencing the Kruger Park when our children were small. Being sensible and careful has been enough to safely open up a world that has noticeably enriched our children, beyond measure, through their primary experience of an outstanding wilderness.

Jock Safari Lodge

Images copyright - www.jocksafarilodge.com

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SAFARI

Do youR own

australiaN zoofari

Copyright - www.perthzoo.wa.gov.au

pERTH

Australia’s best small zoo is just 5 minutes from the Perth CBD on the banks of the Swan River. Perth Zoo is open every day of the year (according to their website they have not closed for a single day since it opened back in 1898) and there are plenty of possibilities to

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go game spotting. Take a walk through the “African Savannah” to see the giant giraffes, cheetahs, lions, zebras, rhinos and the African painted dogs.

If the little legs are getting tired you can rent a two-seater, pull-along wagon for the day or take a Zebra car tour around the Zoo.

FAMILY FRIENDLY SAFARI

Roar & Snore tents with a decent view in Taronga Zoo...

Copyright - www.taronga.org.au

Sydney

If you live in Sydney the zoofari options are plentifold. You can stay in the city and experience the ultimate zoofari sleepover - Roar & Snore. Camp in safari style tents in the heart of Sydney’s famous Taronga Zoo, and wake up to spectacular views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Apart from the fantastic views a stay includes a Zoo night safari and several behind-thescenes tours.

You can also head for the Taronga

Western Plains Zoo and stay at the newly constructed luxury Savannah View lodges overlooking a paddock where local Giraffes, Zebras and Elands roam. Enjoy the Sunset Safari Tour where you get a behind-the-scenes encounter and meet the Zoo’s African Wild Dog. In the evening you go on the Zoo Under Spotlight Tour and experience the Zoo under the vast night sky. The next morning the Morning Jaunt Tour will show you the Zoo waking up to a new day.

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SAFARI Savannah View Lodges with locals in the back yeard ...

Copyright - www.taronga.org.au

Slumper Safari huts behind one of the local giraffes

Images copyright - www.zoo.org.au

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FAMILY FRIENDLY SAFARI

Copyright - Greg Henderson

MELBOURNE

Werribee Open Range Zoo is a true zoofari paradise with loads of activities, tours and overnight stays for the whole family. You can explore by yourself by walking the Pula Reserve trail to see gorillas, cheetahs, hippos, lions and much more in what seems to be their natural habitat. Along the way you’ll find kids activities like the “Cheetah leap” and the “Hippo trail” and lots of educational information about the animals and their home. There is also a new outdoor adventure play space called Village Kids where you’ll probably have to spend a few hours before heading on. For the younger ones the indoor play area Ranger Kids is worth a visit.

After exploring on your own you should head for the safari tour that will take you out on the open plain to see giraffes, rhinos, zebras, antelopes and other African animals. The tour is part of the entrance ticket, but you have to book a time slot when you arrive at the zoo.

There are many Wild Encounter options at an additional price, but to go all in on the zoofari experience you can do the “Slumber Safari”. Stay overnight in safari tents overlooking the open plains of the zoo and take part of awesome night-time activities including a night walk and toasting marshmallows around the evening campfire. All only 30 minutes from Melbourne CBD.

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SAFARI

Tasmania

Zoodoo Wildlife Park is small compared to some of the other zoofari options listed. But that doesn’t mean it is not worth a visit. You can find white lions, tigers and loads of monkeys here.

There is also a Safari bus tour that runs all day and is included in the entry price. The safari bus takes visitors on

a tour of the top of the property and takes visitors into the paddocks getting incredibly close to the larger animals.

And even though you won’t see the big five you and the kids get to see and feed llamas, alpacas, emus, ostriches and camels. Zoodoo is a great small and intimate zoofari experience for the whole family.

Images copyright - www.zoodoo.com.au

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NEXT ISSUE ...

NEXT ISSUE OF

TRAVEL SPROUT The next issue of Travel Sprout will hit the Internet super highway on December 3rd 2014. The December issue is all about have a great time at the beach so if you’re into that sort of thing then stay tuned for more great family travel stuff.

December 3rd 2014 Stay tuned for the next issue. travelsprout.com.au

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4 1 0 2 R E B OT C O - 1 E U S S I

u a . m o c . t u or p s l evar t

LE VART YLIMAF GN I R I P SN I

TRAVELLING IS TWICE THE FUN WHEN YOU ARE DOING IT WITH PEOPLE YOU LOVE AND HALF THE HASSLE WHEN YOU ARE WELL PREPARED ...

Old Travel Sprout Proverb

SEE YOU AGAIN SOON - until then keep exploring