Travel Aggregator (October 2019)

OCTOBER 2019

APAC Newsletter

WIN! 3D2N stay!

-----------------------------Hilton Tokyo Odaiba ---------------------------------Glamday Style Hotel & Resort Okinawa ---------------------------Fair House Villas & Spa Koh Samui

Explore the Land of the Rising Sun

Walking in the Winter Wonderland

~ Page 6

~ Page 22

Self-drive along the Great Ocean Road by WebBeds' Sara Lee ~ Page 44

FOREWORD

WEBBEDS ASIA PACIFIC DARYL LEE CEO Daryl.Lee@webbeds.com SUN KOK SHENG CCO Koksheng.Sun@webbeds.com CYNDI NG COO Cyndi.Ng@webbeds.com CHERYL CHEANG Vice President, Marketing Cheryl.Cheang@webbeds.com EILEEN TOK Vice President, Commercial Technology Eileen.Tok@webbeds.com JINTANA PORNTANAPAT General Manager, Thailand and Indo-China Jintana.P@dotw.com

FOREWORD Welcome to this month’s edition of Travel Aggregator – WebBeds’ newsletter dedicated to the travel trade in Asia Pacific!

This October, we’re preparing for the forthcoming festive holiday season with a special feature on the world’s best Winter Wonderlands. What type of winter traveller are you? Take our quiz and find out whether you’d prefer to hit the ski slopes, shop at Christmas markets, warm up in an onsen or more!

We’re also showcasing the wonders of Japan this month. Whether you’re a family traveller, a sun seeker, a culture vulture or a foodie, we’ll find the best destination for you in the “Land of the Rising Sun”. In addition, WebBeds’ own Sara Lee will take you on a scenic drive along Australia’s Great Ocean Road, with tips on where to stop and what to see.

As always, we’ll present some of Asia’s most exciting new hotel openings, plus all the latest news, photos and exclusive offers from WebBeds in Asia.

Enjoy the read!

VINCENT LEUNG Managing Director, Hong Kong, Philippines & Japan Vincent.Leung@webbeds.com JOY HUANG Managing Director, China Joy.Huang@webbeds.com LINDA KIM General Manager, South Korea Linda.Kim@webbeds.com JOSEPH SHIH General Manager, Taiwan Joseph.Shih@webbeds.com ASHUTOSH DOGRA General Manager, India Ashutosh.Dogra@webbeds.com JOHN STUCCI President, Pacific John.Stucci@webbeds.com JOY ZHOU General Manager, Singapore and Malaysia Joy.Z@dotw.com

Daryl Lee CEO of WebBeds Asia Pacific To catch up on any past editions of Travel Aggregator, simply head to attractions.fitruums.com/aggregator

ABOUT TRAVEL AGGREGATOR Travel Aggregator is the monthly newsletter published in-house by WebBeds Asia Pacific. Created especially for our travel trade partners and clients, this informative newsletter will include the latest updates from WebBeds Asia Pacific, including our news and developments, plus exciting offers from our partners, a selection of the hottest hotel deals, and much more!

If you’d like to be featured in the next issue of Travel Aggregator, please email Travel.Aggregator@ fitruums.com. Alternatively, for marketing partnerships with WebBeds Asia Pacific, please email marketing@fitruums.com.

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@WebBedsAPAC

Jigokudani Monkey Park, Japan

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Celebrate

th CHINA's National Day

Enjoy your stay at one of the Jin Jiang Premier Hotels: Jin Jiang Hotel, Shanghai

Hua Ting Hotel & Towers, Shanghai

Jin Jiang Hongqiao Hotel, Shanghai

The Kunlun, Beijing

Jin Jiang Tower, Shanghai

The Kunlun Jing An, Shanghai

K11 ARTUS

K11 Artus K11 Artus is a serviced residence that promises to deliver new levels of style and sophistication in Hong Kong. Nestled in Tsim Sha Tsui, this “artisanal home� features 287 residences in a 14-storey tower, all perched on the edge of Victoria Harbour. Options range from spacious studios to vast three-bedroom suites, all of which come equipped with open-plan living areas, designer furnishings and cutting-edge amenities. A series of cultural salons allow guests to connect with the heritage of Hong Kong, while a gym, training room and outdoor pool enable guests to stay fit and healthy. With its focus on art, design and culture, K11 Artus has successfully raised the bar for accommodation in this vibrant city.

Read more >

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K11 ARTUS

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Go Your Own Way in Japan From modern mega-cities to ancient wonders, snowcapped mountains to palm-fringed beaches, Japan is a land of rich contrasts. This diversity makes it a wonderful destination for curious travellers to explore.

But while all visitors may be attracted by Japan’s enchanting culture, different groups may have their own ideas about what makes a great holiday. With so many alluring destinations and activities on offer, how can you be sure you’re choosing the right Japanese vacation for you? WebBeds’ guide to the “Land of the Rising Sun” is here to help…

TOKYO

For Families

Tokyo For families and first-timers to Japan there is

Disneyland. Guests can also discover Japan’s

only one place to start: Tokyo. The capital city is a

authentic culture at a sumo wrestling match or

thriving metropolis, filled with iconic landmarks

by sampling ramen or sushi at a local restaurant.

such as Senso-ji, the Shibuya Crossing and Tokyo

The options are endless!

Skytree, plus fun-filled attractions like

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H I LT O N T O K YO O DA I BA

WIN!

3D2N stay for two at Hilton Tokyo Odaiba

WHERE TO STAY

Hilton Tokyo Odaiba Families who want easy access to Tokyo’s theme

Click HERE to take our quiz to WIN a two-night

parks, without being too far from downtown, can

stay in a Deluxe Room including breakfast, plus

stay at Hilton Tokyo Odaiba - a modern waterfront

bonus FIT Points!

hotel with links to all parts of the city, including free shuttles to Disney. Facilities include several restaurants, an outdoor pool and rooftop Jacuzzis.

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O K I N A WA

For Sun Seekers

Okinawa Okinawa is Japan’s tropical island paradise. The

Japan’s largest aquarium, scuba diving, golf and

blissful beaches, azure seas and warm climate

more. Culture seekers can also discover a series

make it a perfect destination for travellers seeking

of UNESCO World Heritage sites, including

a break from the city, and many attractions have

Shuri Castle.

grown to cater for this tourism boom, including

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G L A M D A Y S T Y L E H O T E L & R E S O R T O K I N A WA

WIN!

3D2N stay for two at Glamday Style Hotel & Resort Okinawa

WHERE TO STAY

Glamday Style Hotel & Resort Okinawa Newly opened in summer 2019, Glamday Style is

Click HERE to take our quiz to WIN a free stay at

a contemporary hotel where guests can soak up

Glamday Style Okinawa, plus bonus FIT Points!

the exotic beauty of Okinawa. The rooms are bright and spacious (minimum 50 square metres), the elevated freeform outdoor pool overlooks the sea, and the restaurant specialises in healthy cuisine.

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OSAKA

For Foodies

Osaka Osaka may be Japan’s second largest city, but it is

Having treated your taste buds, there are plenty of

the country’s undisputed culinary capital. Guests

other attractions to experience, including Osaka

can spend many happy hours in the dazzling

Castle, the Floating Garden Observatory and

Dotonbori district, where local eateries and street

Universal Studios.

food stalls line the famous canal.

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H I YO R I H O T E L O S A K A NA M B A S TAT I O N

WHERE TO STAY

Hiyori Hotel Osaka Namba Station Just a short walk from Osaka Namba Station and

choice of accommodation, free Wi-Fi, a restaurant

Dotonbori, Hiyori Hotel is perfectly positioned

and more, plus easy access to the city’s main

for guests who want to explore this bustling city.

attractions.

Newly opened in 2019, this modern hotel offers a

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KYOTO

For Culture Vultures

Kyoto Kyoto is one of the world’s most enchanting

through exquisite gardens or past classical wooden

cities. This cultural treasure trove is home to

shophouses and restaurants. Watching the geisha

approximately 2,000 temples and shrines,

in Gion is like stepping back in time to a more

including 17 stunning UNESCO World Heritage

elegant era.

sites. Guests can spend endless days strolling

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O R I E N TA L H O T E L K YO T O R O K U J O

WHERE TO STAY

Oriental Hotel Kyoto Rokujo Guests can savour quintessential Japanese style

Earn 5X FIT Points from now till 10 Oct 2019 when

and hospitality at this elegant hotel, which features

you book with WebBeds, for travel from 1 Nov 2019

a design based on a traditional tea garden.

to 30 Apr 2020!

Guests are offered complimentary green tea and “meditation candy�, and many of the rooms feature classical furnishings, including futon beds.

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Enjoy up to 50% OFF and 3X FIT Points when you book selected properties at these beach destinations!

Booking & Travel Period: 1 Aug – 31 Oct 2019

Find out more >

THE POT TINGER HONG KONG

FEATURED HOTEL OF THE MONTH A new section dedicated to hotels in Asia Pacific that possess distinctive characteristics, from standout rooms and facilities to unique character and individual charm. This week, we check in to The Pottinger Hong Kong.

The Pottinger Hong Kong

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THE POT TINGER HONG KONG

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THE POT TINGER HONG KONG

The Pottinger Hong Kong celebrates the heritage of Hong Kong by blending classical design with cuttingedge amenities. Nestled in Central, surrounded by historic buildings and soaring skyscrapers, this luxurious hotel perfectly reflects the changing face of this global city. The elegant interior design combines British colonial style with traditional Chinese artworks, and black and white images from renowned photographer Fan Ho. Guests have a choice of four room types ranging from 23 to 68 square metres, plus a bar, a chocolaterie, two sensational restaurants and the same number of Michelin stars. For culture seekers, The Pottinger Hong Kong is a wonderful place to learn more about this alluring port city.

Read more >

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THE POT TINGER HONG KONG

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Winter Wonderlands Around the World Winter is a wonderful time of the year to travel the world. Snowfalls can transform landscapes into crisp, white wonderlands, creating an idyllic ambience and a beautiful backdrop for your holiday photos. From adrenaline-fueled fun on the slopes to romantic walks through the snow, winter has something for everyone.

For guests who usually live in the tropics of Southeast Asia, this is also an exquisite time to experience something new and exciting. So put on your furry boots, button up your thick winter coat, sip a mug of warm mulled wine and soak up the spirit of the season.

Here’s WebBeds’ guide to the best winter vacations around the world...

W H I C H W I N T E R G E T A WA Y I S P E R F E C T F O R Y O U ?

Which winter getaway is perfect for you?

Winter vacation conjures images of ski slopes, brightly illuminated Christmas markets, snow-capped mountain ranges and frozen lakes.

But which kind of winter wonderland do your prefer? Take our quiz to find out‌ and then get booking!

1. My favourite drink during winter is: a. Peppermint Oreo milkshake

5. You have a free weekend; how do you spend it?

b. Yuzu tea

a. Hiking at a local park

c. Matcha tea

b. Keeping fit, playing sport

d. Hot chocolate

c. Relaxing at a spa

2. Which travel activity is most

d. In the kitchen, trying out new recipes

appealing to you?

a. Observing animals in the wild

6. If you could splurge on one thing this trip, what would it be?

b. Skiing, snowboarding and winter sports

a. Camera equipment – to take the best shots

c. Warming up in a spa

b. A relaxing time at a resort

d. Shopping and soaking up

c. Dining at a fancy restaurant

the festive ambience

d. Flying business class

3. Which dish whets your appetite?

7. Describe your ultimate travel buddy:

a. Steak

a. Someone adventurous

b. Kimchi-Jjigae

b. Someone energetic

c. Shabu-shabu

c. Someone laid-back

d. Cheese fondue

d. Someone open-minded about food

4. Where would you prefer to stay?

8. What are the best perks of vacation?

a. A mountain lodge

a. Knowledge and awareness

b. A cosy ski resort

b. Being active

c. A stylish boutique hotel

c. Getting pampered

d. A luxury hotel

d. Meeting new people

W H I C H W I N T E R G E T A WA Y I S P E R F E C T F O R Y O U ?

Mostly As Your ideal winter vacation is wildlife spotting in Yellowstone National Park, USA! You love the great outdoors and feel at home among nature. Grab your camera and head out into the snowy wilderness to snap herds of bisons, before warming up in a mountain lodge. Pure bliss!

Mostly Bs Your ideal winter vacation is skiing in South Korea. Relaxing is a waste of time; for you, every adventure should be adrenalinfuelled! Head to the Phoenix Snow Park, where you can choose from an amazing selection of 17 ski slopes plus many other sporting activities.

Mostly Cs Your ideal winter vacation is visiting the onsens in the Japanese Alps. Snow and ice may be beautiful to look at, but nothing beats warming up in the steaming waters of a spa! Head to Shibu Onsen in Nagano prefecture and meet the famous “snow monkeys� who bathe in outdoor pools.

Mostly Ds Your ideal winter vacation is shopping at the Christmas Market in Montreux, Switzerland! You love the spirit of the festive season and enjoy nothing more than strolling through the markets, soaking up the ambience and trying delicious new culinary delicacies. Simply magical.

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S K I I N G AT P H O E N I X S N O W PA R K

South Korea WHAT TO DO

Skiing at Phoenix Snow Park

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The host of the 2018 Winter Olympics, South Korea

children’s ski school, indoor and outdoor pools and

is the ideal place to enjoy some family fun on the

much, much more. Whether you’re an experienced

slopes. Less than two hours from Seoul, Phoenix

skier or a first-timer, the superb snow quality will

Snow Park has a total of 17 ski slopes, plus a

ensure a soft landing!

THE WHITE HOTEL PYEONGCHANG

WHERE TO STAY

The White Hotel PyeongChang The White Hotel PyeongChang is one of the closest

This midscale property also features a cafĂŠ, shop

hotels to Phoenix Snow Park and its surrounding

and fitness centre.

facilities. Guests can stay warm and connected with modern air-conditioned rooms and free Wi-Fi.

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WA R M U P A T S H I B U O N S E N

Japan WHAT TO DO

Warm up at Shibu Onsen Winter in Japan is a truly magical time of year.

era. Up in the snow-capped hills, an abundance

Shibu Onsen in Nagano prefecture is an enchanting of onsens allows visitors to warm their bodies by

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place where quaint cobbled streets and traditional

bathing in the steaming outdoor pools, or watch

wooden buildings reflect the essence of a bygone

the iconic “snow monkeys� doing likewise.

H O T E L M E T R O P O L I TA N NA G A N O

WHERE TO STAY

Hotel Metropolitan Nagano Hotel Metropolitan Nagano puts guests in the

treatments. Three restaurants and a cafĂŠ provide

heart of Nagano, the gateway to the Japanese Alps.

plenty of dining options to satisfy every palate.

The midscale rooms all feature private bathtubs, while onsite spa services offer a wide range of

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VISIT THE CHRISTMAS MARKET IN MONTREUX

Switzerland WHAT TO DO

Visit the Christmas Market in Montreux

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The charming lakeside city of Montreux,

of attractions for all ages, including plenty of food

Switzerland, is the perfect place to discover the

and drink, artisan toys, train rides and more. Santa

magic of the festive season. The annual Christmas

Claus rides his sleigh into town every evening to

market, Montreux NoĂŤl, features an amazing array

delight the children.

FA I R M O N T L E M O N T R E U X PA L A C E

WHERE TO STAY

Fairmont Le Montreux Palace Fairmont Le Montreux Palace is a grand and

a full range of five-star hotel facilities, plus stunning

luxurious hotel overlooking Lake Geneva, just

lake views.

moments from the markets. Guests can unwind in style with fine dining restaurants, spa services and

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G O W I L D L I F E S P O T T I N G I N Y E L L O W S T O N E N AT I O N A L PA R K

USA WHAT TO DO

Go Wildlife Spotting in Yellowstone National Park

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Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming is a

course, abundant wildlife. Get your camera ready

beautiful landscape in any season, but in winter

to snap herds of bison, elk, mule deer, moose, and

it becomes simply breath-taking. Discover frozen

even packs of wolves that come down from the

waterfalls, snowy forests, steaming geysers and of

mountains every winter.

T H E I N N AT JAC K S O N H O L E

WHERE TO STAY

The Inn at Jackson Hole The Inn at Jackson Hole is a cosy log cabin that

scheduled to be completed by the end of 2019.

lets guests live out their “wild frontier� fantasies.

Several restaurants are located nearby.

All 83 rooms and loft suites have been recently

Alternatively, travellers who prefer to stay warm this

refurbished, and a new pool and hot tub is

winter can head to...

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U N W I N D O N T H E B E A C H I N S A N YA

China WHAT TO DO

Unwind on the Beach in Sanya

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Nicknamed the “Hawaii of the East�, Sanya is

playground provides plenty of options for aquatic

the winter sun paradise where Chinese and

adventure, including jet-skiing, parasailing and

international travellers can spend their days

more. Meanwhile, the Guanyin Buddha is one of

unwinding on golden beaches. This tropical

the tallest statues in the world, at 108 metres.

T H E S A N YA E D I T I O N

WHERE TO STAY

The Sanya Edition The Sanya Edition is an exceptional and original

a spa, outdoor pools, multiple restaurants and a

five-star resort, nestled in 50 acres of landscaped

rooftop bar.

gardens overlooking the sea. Guests have a choice of rooms or villas, plus extensive facilities including

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Up to 54% OFF + exclusive value-added offers for selected hotels in Bangkok!

Booking Period: 15 Aug – 15 Nov 2019 Travel Period: 1 Sep – 30 Nov 2019

Find out more >

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F A I R H O U S E V I L L A S & S P A U N D E R G O E S M A J O R R E N O VA T I O N

Fair House Villas & Spa Undergoes Major Renovation Fair House Villas & Spa, the contemporary Thai-style resort on the desirable north coast of Koh Samui, will reopen 1st December 2019 following an extensive renovation. This tropical island retreat closed earlier this year to embark on the refurbishment project.

Once it relaunches in time for the upcoming high season, guests can expect a fresh design concept, a full range of facilities and the highest standards of hospitality.

The renovation is being undertaken under the concept of “simplicity, privacy and timelessness�, with aim of making the property the best locally branded hotel in Koh Samui and differentiating it from its popular sister property, Fair House Beach Resort.

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F A I R H O U S E V I L L A S & S P A U N D E R G O E S M A J O R R E N O VA T I O N

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F A I R H O U S E V I L L A S & S P A U N D E R G O E S M A J O R R E N O VA T I O N

WIN!

3D2N stay at Fair House Villas & Spa Koh Samui

The revamp will focus on modernising the resort, while retaining the enchanting ambiance and authentic elements that guests love. For example, the wooden fixtures and furnishings will be preserved, but the overall colour scheme will be lighter and more in keeping with the exotic surroundings. Much of the furniture is also being upgraded to new sleek, slimline pieces, with the aim of giving guests more space to unwind.

Read more and WIN a three-day/two-night stay at Fair House Villas & Spa! Simply take our short quiz to discover this reimagined resort.

Read more >

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F A I R H O U S E V I L L A S & S P A U N D E R G O E S M A J O R R E N O VA T I O N

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Scenic Self-Drive Along Australia’s Great Ocean Road

By Sara Lee, Marketing Executive APAC

Self-drives are my absolute favourite way to explore new places because I love spontaneity and the sense of freedom. Travelling at my own pace makes me feel relaxed. So, having picked up my rental car in Melbourne early in the morning, I was very excited to set off along the Great Ocean Road.

Read on as I share my unforgettable road trip experience!

G R E AT O C E A N R OA D

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GREAT OCEAN ROAD Australia’s Great Ocean Road is hailed as one of the world’s most epic coastal routes, spanning a total of 243 kilometres along the country’s southeastern coast from Torquay to Warrnambool. The best way to experience the Great Ocean Road in its entirety is from behind the wheel, with flexibility in terms of where you stop and for how long. Along the drive you will see many wonderful sights, attractions, small coastal towns and an abundance of wildlife. I drove for a total of 373km from Melbourne to Warrnambool and experienced the incredible beauty of the Great Ocean Road.

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M E L B O U R N E T O A P O L L O B A YÂ

al arch is a The memori One e World War tribute to th e who built th servicemen photo Road. Good Great Ocean 've to prove you opportunity oad. reat Ocean R driven the G

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Melbourne to Apollo Bay Come and climb Split Point Lighthouse at Aireys Inlet; the views are simply breath-taking. You will spot her as you travel the Great Ocean Road, about 120km from Melbourne. The lighthouse was built in 1891 and still shines her guiding light every night to keep ships safe on their journeys to and from Port Phillip Bay. You can also enjoy a bird’s eye view of the dramatic coastline from the balcony at the top of the lighthouse. Tours are available every hour from 11am to 2pm.

By the end of a long day’s drive, you might be feeling in need of a rest. Apollo Bay is a great place to kick back. It is an idyllic seaside treasure with all the amenities of a resort town and access to some of the most beautiful natural environments that Australia has to offer.

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B E S T W E S T E R N A P O L L O B AY M O T E L

SARA’S RECOMMENDATION

Best Western Apollo Bay Motel Located in the heart of Apollo Bay, Best Western Apollo Bay Motel is a convenient place for a restful sleep after exploring the scenic coastline.

This motel offers spacious apartment-style accommodation just a stone’s throw from the shore, and within easy reach of many shops and restaurants.

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B E S T W E S T E R N A P O L L O B AY M O T E L

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A P O L L O B A Y T O WA R R N A M B O O LÂ

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Apollo Bay to Warrnambool To feel tiny, visit Gibson Steps and experience the majestic view at the foot of Port Campbell National Park’s mammoth cliffs. One of the biggest attractions of the Great Ocean Road is the iconic Twelve Apostles, a collection of limestone stacks that sit against the magnificent backdrop of coastal cliffs formed 10-20 million years ago.

There are only eight left standing, and the last one collapsed as recently as 2009. With the rapid rate of erosion, you’d better see it before it’s gone!

The final stop on the Great Ocean Road drive is the town of Warrnambool; an historic city that has plenty of facilities while maintaining a small-town feeling.

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BEST WESTERN COLONIAL VILLAGE MOTEL

SARA’S RECOMMENDATION

Best Western Colonial Village Motel Best Western Colonial Village Motel is a perfect retreat after spending the day exploring the Great Ocean Road. This recently refurbished motel has peaceful surroundings with garden views. It is close to Warrnambool’s attractions, including Logan’s Beach, where you can sometimes spot whales, and Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village.

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BEST WESTERN COLONIAL VILLAGE MOTEL

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T R AV E L N U G G E T S

TRAVEL NUGGETS Slow Down & Stop in Town The Great Ocean Road should not be rushed. Slow your trip down and take time to really experience the towns and coastline you pass along the way.

Stopping regularly also allows you to stay mentally fresh, which makes for safer driving when you get back on the road.Â

Saving Big on Car Rentals I highly recommend checking out Online Republic (www.onlinerepublic.com) which provides comprehensive comparisons of car rental rates for me to enjoy the best deal.

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T R AV E L N U G G E T S

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