Sunday, 9 December 2012

Tully River Rafting , Cairns with Selina


My favourite tour, by a long shot, is Tully River White Water Rafting. If you're after an adrenalin rush, enjoy getting out of your comfort zone and enjoy getting soaked with a boat load of friends-you-haven't-met-yet...then this one's for you! 


Although it's an early start, the scenic drive from Cairns to Tully is really beautiful and there won't be a lack of interesting conversation with a bus load of excited Aussies, backpackers and adventurous folk to keep you occupied. The staff are super friendly and, by the end of the day, if your cheeks and belly aren't sore from excessive smiling and laughing, I think you may have boarded the wrong tour bus! They take your safety very seriously too and won't force you to do any crazy flips in the raft...unless of course you're feeling up to the challenge. Awesome day tour, not to bee missed!!


Wednesday, 5 December 2012

Jupiters on the Gold Coast, Broadbeach with Bec


When people think Gold Coast, they immediately think Surfers Paradise. But, if you can sway them, Broadbeach is definitely where you want to be!!! It has a great restaurant/café scene, great shops and the beach is beautiful. But what is has over Surfers is that really laid back beach holiday feeling to it. With plenty of great hotels, there is lots to choose from, however, after our stay at Conrad Jupiters I would definitely recommend this as a great option!




Conrad Jupiters is the site for the Gold Coast Casino and is the closest we have to a “vegas” style hotel. It’s big, it’s busy, it’s 24 hour buzz, it has shows, pokies.. what more could you want??



Well for me, I like to have: a good hairdryer, great room service, a comfy bed, a proper iron and good shower pressure (I know picky!) But Conrads ticked all the boxes!  And not only this, the Casino is linked by Monorail to the heart of Broadbeach’s restaurants and shops, so great location and easy to get around! The hotel rooms were also spacious, modern in their features and the service was some of the best I’ve received.




For a hotel stay on the Gold Coast, with a fun and happening atmosphere, you can’t go past Conrad Jupiters. And while you’re there, go and check out one of their shows!!!

Saturday, 3 November 2012

Hayman Island September 2012 with Tina


One of the most relaxed places on earth. Our family of 4 enjoyed 2 nights on Hayman. If possible, I would recommend trying to extend, as we really only had 1 full day. The transfer back to Hamilton Island to fly home will pick you up at 09:30am from Hayman, so only time for a quick brekkie before you head home

 We stayed in an interconnecting Pool View Deluxe. This is guaranteed interconnecting room, so the boys didn’t feel too far away, but they had their own space at the same time. We left the interconnecting door open so it was a massive area.

We mainly spent our time at the pool, where they heat the internal salt water pool to 30 degrees, and the outside chlorine pool to 27 degrees – both perfectly lovely swimming temperature.

Our eldest who is 7 enjoyed his first Helicopter experience, which you can pay direct on the Island (approx.. $150 pp). This was his highlight, and proceeded to tell everyone in his class about how he flew the helicopter upon his return!




Both boys enjoyed a lovely dinner with 2 courses!




La Tratorria also provided colouring in books, and pencils to keep them occupied whilst waiting for their dinner. You must book in for dinner as soon as you hit the Island. A lot of places are only open on certain nights, but you can order room service and stay in your PJ’s if nothing suits your family.

It was really a perfect day to be playing on the beach, whilst we leisurely finished our breakfast. Hayman also have a barista onsite, so skinny, mocha, decaf, late…. Whatever you please.



It was time to head home on the gorgeous yacht transfer back to Hamilton Island with champagne flowing and canapés at the ready, we were sad to say goodbye to Hayman – until next time – we have wonderful memories.






Monday, 29 October 2012

Mantra Broadbeach on the Park, Broadbeach

I had the pleasure of staying here in March of 2012 for a beautiful and memorable long weekend of 3 nights (on a fabulous stay pay - they are great when you get them!) This Mantra is situated 1 block back from the beautiful beach of Broadbeach, right above an iconic Gold Coast restaurant, Moo Moo (amazing steaks! and other meaty treats).



Broadbeach is the suburb south of Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast, and is a little bit quieter than the centre of Surfers - I would say it is a more relaxed and less hectic crowd. It has heaps of restaurants and shops - there is actually a fairly new shopping cul de sac comprising many shops and restaurants between the Peppers Broadbeach and the Sofitel, which is fantastic for a nibble and a browse.



We stayed in a 1 bedroom apartment that was spacious, with a fully equipped kitchen and laundry. The room and hotel was beautiful - clean and crisp - with all the facilities you would expect of a 4.5*:
- complimentary secure undercover parking
- in room internet access
- tour desk
- child minding
- games room
- sauna
- spa
- gym
- bbq area

Breakfree Longbeach, Surfers Paradise

This property was nicer than i expected. It is dated, but the rooms are all massive , they all have ocean views , and it is about 50 metres from the beach. Seriously!
 
A lot of the units are owned by individuals who then rent to Mantra and this is why some of them have airconditioning and some do not. This is also the reason we need to request bedding types at properties like this- some are king, some are queen, so just request it and they will see if they can accommodate.
Facilities
- gym, inddor and outdoor pools, sauna, spa, baby pool, bbq area, tennis court!
- foc parking
 
 
1 Bed Ocean/ 3 Bed Ocean Apartments
- massive!
- some have ocean and hinterland views- a balcony on the front and the back!
- fully self contained
 
 

Mantra Circle on Cavill, Surfers Paradise

I would rate this property so much higher now that I have been there. It is modern, set in the literal heart of Surfers' Paradise, schmick and trendy- worth the extra $$$ because it looks amazing and the facilites are fantastic.
 

 
Facilities
- in house cinema to book foc by guests
- multiple,pools, spa, sauna, gym, etc etc
- foc parking
- kids play area
- amazing games room
 
 
 
1 bed standard
- is not standard, is amazing!
- seriously beautiful, hinterland views, modern and massive.
- fully self contained.
2 bed ocean and 3 bed ocean
- opulent and massive.
- wraparound balconies.
 
 

Mantra Crown Towers , Surfers Paradise

This is another property on the Gold Coast that is fantastic for families, with an amazing array of kids facilities. This property feels like a resort. ie. the facilities are so good, you wouldn't feel like you needed to leave for a day or two without getting cabin fever.
 


 
 
Facilities
- grand entrance, under the water theme
- pirate ship and play area
- massive lagoon pool area outdoors, indoor, outdoor, sand area pools, spa, sauna, day spa.
- cafe, restaurant- Chang Mai- amazing Thai
 
 
2 and 3 Bedroom Ocean Apartments
- massive living space
- really beautiful and well appointed again apartments
 
 

Mantra Sun City, Surfers Paradise

This is an amazing property with incredible family facilities.
 
Facilities
- sayas restaurant- serves buffet breakfast and dinner; french/australian fusion.
- room service out of the restaurant.
- parking is foc
- pools- waterslides, lifeguard 7 days a week, 9-5.
- lagoon pool , indoor pool
- gym, day spa, games area (video games!) and pool table
- waterslide and swimming pools
- play area
- tennis court
 
 
Hotel rooms
- we get a lot of special room rates should include breakfast- always check.
- the rooms ae very large 
- hinterland views - unobstructed and beautiful
1 bed apartment ocean view/ 2 bed apartment ocean views
- both of these troom types are freaking massive - the living spaces are very impressive and there are balconies on most rooms.
- they are all tidy and well appointed , totally 4.5*
 
 
 
 

Thursday, 25 October 2012

Novotel on Collins, Melbourne




- 380 rooms, from levels 6-14, built arond the shopping centr below (so the hotel is shaped like a rectangle with a hole in the middle where the shopping centre is).

Standard- street/ mall views through floor to ceiling windows.
- the rooms are still modern and amazing but there is a soft refurb scheduled for 2012.
- the walk in showers are lovely and modern.

Executive
- these were built in 2010 and include bottle of water daily, internet, local calls daily, and an espresso machine in room.
- 2 x spa suites in this room type.

Premier
- massive and include a sitting room. These ones are shower over bath but are being refurbed for walk in shower access.
 
- the swimming pool and gym have been refurbed also recently and the swimming pool is for leisure, not laps.


Grand Mercure Apartments Flinders Lane






This property has been refurbished mid 2011 and the outcome is incredible. The decor and styling is magnificent- really classy and beautiful looking. You get what you pay for.



There are 59 rooms only 4 of which are a studio room. This is not a hotel so they dont really advertise the studios- they are primarily to  be sold as interconnections to the 1 bedrooms to extend the sleeping. 

The 1 bedroom standard - the kitchen is fully loaded - only thing missing is an oven- and there is a coles express around the corner- and there is a small dining area in the entry, sitting/ entertainment room and a bedroom.



These ones go up to a signature suite which can sleep 6 passengers. It is a massive apartment with 2 sitting rooms, a shower and massive bath overlooking the courtyard, and a wine fridge.

There is also corporate fitness centre downstairs is $5.50/ session and parking off site is $30/night.
(Prices at Nov 2011).

Victoria Hotel, Melbourne




-  average property in prime location. 430 rooms with twin, double, family and triple configurations.
- the hotel has recently been refurbished but it is still very basic.
- it is tidy, but not exceptionally clean and you would want your passengers' expectations to match what they are getting or they will be disappointed.
- there is a plunge pool, spa, sauna and small gym.
- daily buffet breakfast super cheap - $17/ day and the restaurant does lunch and dinner thai style.
- parking $16 / night.

Sofitel On Collins, Melbourne



This is an amazing 5 star hotel property. It is grand and fancy and has amazing facilities, and all rooms have amazing views as the hotel starts from level 35 upwards in a high rise building on the Eastern end of the CBD..


There are 363 rooms in total in a variety of configurations. They are all beautifully appointed, modern and very comfortable - they have the cloud bed experience and a pillow menu !

Club access is worth it for your corporates/ special clients. Private access to the club dining for breakfast , day time snacks and night time canapes and drinks. The food here is amazing- this is where we had a hosted morning tea and the pastries were delicate and delicious. Everthing about it is 5*.


Mercure Treasury Gardens, Melbourne




- $4 million refurbishment was completed in November 2011 and the rooms are stunning. Nice colours, amazing decor and very beautiful.
- the bathrooms are modern and very nice.
- located right on the Treasury Gardens .
- the standard rooms overlook the city, the superiors overlook the park and it is the first Australian mercure to meet international standards of Mercure.
- on site restaurants and bar, including 24 hr room service.
- all king rooms are able to be split into twins and and the garden view queen can have 2 queens to sleep 4 passengers.

The Blackman (Art Series), Melbourne



The Blackman is a stunning and unique property just a 10 minute tram ride from the city - the hotel staff very friendly and helpful and tram is easy- even I can do it! 

The rooms are definitely 5*. This is a boutique style, very trendy, and beautifully appointed. You will feel a little bit like a rock star to stay here :) The studio twin includes kitchenette (everything but an oven) and a balcony on every room with stunning views.

There is an Italian restaurant and a French cafe on site and the food at both is divine!




Holiday Inn Melbourne Airport



- the rooms are massive. Mine was a standard and there was plenty of space.
- bedding and kitchenette (tea and coffe, mini fridge and storage area) were modern .
- bathroom slightly dated (style wise) but very clean , tidy and well-presented.
- work station for business people but internet is extra.
- check in staff very friendly.
- not well signposted, but very close to the airport- 5 minute walk through/ airport the carpark.


Wednesday, 24 October 2012

Outrigger Little Hastings Street, Noosa


Noosa is one of Australia’s most visited destinations and after a weekend here I’m reminded why! Just an easy 2 hour drive north of Brisbane and you arrive at one of the most beautiful destinations Queensland has on offer.



Noosa itself is a small beachside town, but filled with life, restaurants, and shops and of course a magnificent beach. The most famous part of Noosa is perhaps Hastings St; however, the Noosa River is an easy 5 minute drive and has its own happening atmosphere. Plenty of hotels, restaurants and shops on this side of town also.



We stayed at the relatively new, Outrigger on Little Hastings St, situated at the end of Hastings St, and an easy 5 minute walk from the action. This property is made up of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments. Most have ocean views and are very modern and spacious with full laundry and kitchen facilities. Suitable for both couples and family getaways. If returning to Noosa, we would certainly stay here again.

 


If relaxing by the beach or strolling through the shops is not for you, then you can learn to surf, kayak or jump on a day tour over to Fraser Island. And if you are there on a Wednesday or Saturday, drive out to the famous Eumundi Markets!

If the beaches of Queensland are your next holiday hot spot, then Outrigger Little Hastings in Noosa will certainly serve you well.


Versace, Main Beach the Gold Coast with Bec




From the moment you pull up at the Palazzo Versace hotel, you know you have arrived!
Over the top grandeur  is simply the only way to explain this hotel. Situated in Main Beach, the Northern end of the Gold Coast, Versace is the perfect indulgent weekend away or for those who can afford it, a week here would be amazing!



The rooms range from Superior Hotel Rooms, to 3 bedroom Condos. A Lagoon room will get you view over looking the gorgeous Versace Pool. And whilst it may just be a hotel room, the rooms are extremely spacious. It’s the small touches that make your experience at Versace so memorable… The oversized bath, the robes, the slippers, the bathroom amenities, and simply the best bed I’ve ever slept in!



Food wise, we opted for room service… And it was not your ordinary room service. It was quick, delicious and when delivered to our room we had our own table set up in front of us with candles to top it off. Buffet Breakfast is included, but shout yourself to a Champagne High Tea – a perfect way to end your weekend at Versace!!



Versace is definitely what you expect it to be. Over the top, but AMAZING.


Hamilton Island - Reef View Hotel and Whitehaven day trip


True Blues recently travelled to Hamilton Island for our team trip and it was AMAZING! We stayed at the Reef View Hotel, did site inspections at Beach Club, Qualia and the Palm Bungalows, and also partook in some of the on island activities.

The Reef View Hotel features extremely spacious, well-appointed rooms all with private balconies overlooking either tropical gardens or the breathtaking vista of the Coral Sea. The upper most floors boast a range of luxuriously appointed suites (these are the Reef Suite, 1 bedroom Suites etc). All rooms face the sea and are complete with outdoor furniture to experience the spectacular sunrises and sunsets.



All packages with Hamilton Island Holidays include airport transfers and use of all of the free activities on the island which are updated daily on their website (http://www.hamiltonisland.com.au/Activities/Documents/daily-activity-guide.pdf) .

While we were there for our team trip we also enjoyed the fabulousness that was Romano's, the fancier Italian restaurant on the island. The food here is amazing! It is a wonderful restaurant, with great service, and if you are going to Hamilton for a special occasion, Bommie (their fine dining restaurant at the yacht club) or Romano's is definitely the way to go.

A few of us went to White Haven for the half day trip and it is the wonder everyone says it is. It was an overcast day and this did nothing to diminish the beauty of the beach and the surrounds. I took a little trek up to one of the lookouts and Tina and Selina enjoyed the beach and all of its napping opportunities :)



The rest of the girls headed over to Hamilton's world class golf facility for a bit of a swing (and a hit from what I heard). Not only is it an amazingly located and gorgeous golf course, it is one of the more challenging courses in Australia.

Overall, it was an amazing little mini break for us. Ask us about it and for any recommendations while your passengers are travelling.