Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty

After touching down in Auckland, we began our journey to Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty. This was a beautiful drive to say the least – three hours of green rolling hills and winding gorges. Before starting our afternoon of exploring, we enjoyed an extended lunch at Deckchair Café in Mount Maunganui. The cafe was packed so we knew we were in for something special. And special it was with fresh local food presented immaculately.

Naomi Gray enjoys the sunset in New Zealand

Mount Maunganui

The atmosphere at Mount Maunganui was unforgettable. A beachfront lined with cafes, each one buzzing with people watching paragliders circling the mountain. There was that holiday feeling in the air. Whether you enjoy the ocean or would prefer to take a dip in the thermal baths, there’s plenty to see and do around Mount Maunganui.

Waimarino Glow Worms

Early that evening we set off to go kayaking through the mysterious Waimarino glow worm canyon. The half hour drive flew by as our tour guide talked about the history and geology of the area. Awaiting us at Lake McLaren were snacks and beautiful local wine. Sipping on wine with the sun setting over the lake was such a special experience.

We hopped into our kayaks and started paddling away as the evening got darker and darker. The guides were incredible – loads of fun but also extremely helpful and knowledgeable. We paddled through a narrow canyon, laughing every few seconds as kayaks bumped together. As the array of glow worms became visible, we could do little but stare in awe of this natural spectacle. The glow worms were not the only highlight of our kayaking tour. As we emerged from the end of the canyon, we were met by a picture perfect silhouette of pine trees with the moon reflecting on the glistening lake – an amazing sight.

A weekend in the Tauranga area was an unforgettable experience and I thoroughly recommend this itinerary to anyone wanting something a little different for their next weekend getaway.

Considering a trip to New Zealand? Contact Naomi Gray, a Manager at Flight Centre Adelaide Street in Brisbane, who can be reached on 1300 321 164.

Water Slides in Australia

Family fun at its best, a water park is the ideal destination to cool off and have fun in the sun. While there are a number of water parks around the country, few can come close to Wet’n’Wild. Boasting lovable sun-soaked Gold Coast weather, the water theme park is open all year round and is conveniently located within close proximity to Surfer’s Paradise.

Hydro-zorbing in Vanuatu

Hydro-zorbing in Vanuatu

Never heard of hydro-zorbing?  It’s a laugh-a-minute activity that involves rolling down a hill inside a very slippery clear ball. The concept may seem unusual, but once you’ve rolled around and had a good giggle, you’ll realize just why this attraction is so popular with all ages. For some of the best hydro-zorbing in the South Pacific, head to Vanuatu’s picturesque Mele Hills for a rolling good time.

Surfing in Bali

Whether you consider yourself a long board pro or a surfing novice, Bali is a great place to catch some waves. Receiving southern ocean swells direct from the Antarctic, the Indonesian Island boasts dream wave conditions all around the island. Search for the perfect wave by joining a surf school or heading to some of the island’s surfing hotspots including Keramas Beach, Medewi and Sri Lanka.

White water rafting in New Zealand

White water rafting in New Zealand

For the thrill seekers out there, it’s hard to top the excitement of white water rafting in New Zealand. Sure it may be a little chilly in the water, but you’ll hardly notice the temperature when you get dunked in the heat of the action– and you will get dunked. New Zealand’s South Island is where you’ll find most of the country’s rafting courses, with the rushing Rotorua River a popular favourite.

Scuba Diving in Fiji

While scuba diving is a year round activity, from now until October is when the reefs of the South Pacific are at their beaming best. It’s no secret that the region boasts some of the world’s best scuba diving sites. Of all of the area’s coral atolls and lagoons, Fiji is commonly regarded as a diving highlight and the ‘Soft Coral Capital of the World.’ Easily accessed and teaming with life, scuba diving in Fiji can range from thrilling shark feeding dives at Viti Levu to the astonishing Great White Wall of coral in the Somosomo Strait.

To find out more or book a holiday to one of these fun South Pacific destinations, talk to your Travel Consultant on 133 133 today.

Here’s a brief Kentucky racing timeline.

The Kentucky Derby

1787 – ‘The Commons’ a park like city street block was used for racing

1789 – A group of ‘safety minded’ citizens created a formal location for race meets

1805 – Racing moved to Shippingport Island and away from the city streets permanently

1827 – a new track known as Hope Distllery Course was created at a local farm

1833 – The Oakland Race Course was opened with the first formal racetrack and clubhouse

1858 – Moved to Woodland Course, east of downtown Louisville, also the birth place of the Woodland Vase, a wooden trophy presented to the winner

By 1873, Col M. Lewis Clark was developing a racetrack to show case Kentucky breeding. The track was known as ‘Churchill Downs’, named by the Louisville Commercial Newspaper and officially opened in May 1875.

Churchill Downs was not an immediate success. It was 28 years later in 1903 and under new administration before the track showed its first true profit. The track grew in popularity over the next decade with several clubs and associations being developed. While many tracks remain in the area, Churchill Downs remains as the premier track of Kentucky.

Enter the TV Revolution

The first live telecast of the Kentucky Derby aired on May 3, 1952. The popularity of the Derby in the following years exploded bringing in untold millions in revenue from wagering and tourism, thus financing further clubhouse and grandstand expansion and improvements to the track.  It was not long before the Kentucky Derby was the premier race of America and soon became known as ‘America’s Race’.

Today the Derby is an annual event that attracts over a 150,000 visitors from all over the world producing more than $100 million in wagers. The spectators themselves create a fashionable extravaganza creating something like a milliner’s dreamscape with hats of all designs dotting the field. Entertainment runs over several days and the sheer thrill of the big race is one that any racing fan should not miss.

Quick Facts

Location:  Louisville, Kentucky. Approximately 300 miles or 5 hours drive south-east of Chicago. From Nashville it’s approximately a 3 hour drive or 175 miles north-east.

When:  Beginning of May each year

Book: Now! Everything from tickets to flights to accommodation book out early.

This post first appeared on the blog morethanroute66.com.

As Europe prepares to battle for Eurovision glory, we thought we survey the past five host cities.

Dusseldorf, Germany – 2011
When popular Germany starlet, Lena, won the competition with her rendition of the song Satellite, her home country decided to host the 2011 competition in Dusseldorf. For travellers to Dusseldorf, the old town is a great place to stroll during the day but don’t forget to return when the sun sets for the great night-life. Also consider checking out the promenade stretching along the banks of the Rhine River and the Burgplatz, the Castle Square.

Moscow's Red Square

Oslo, Norway – 2010
With a brave performance void superfluous theatrics, Norwegian Alexander Rybak wowed the audience in Russia to turn his Eurovision experience into a fairytale. Oslo is a beautiful city to explore – admire the Royal Palace, the Opera House and the Cathedral. Also consider taking a tour of the City Hall and the Akershus Festning, a fortress dating to 1299.

Moscow, Russia – 2009
Dima Bilan believed he could win Eurovision in Serbia and delivered Russia their first ever win. The must-see Moscow attractions are centred around Red Square and include the Kremlin, Lenin’s Mausoleum and St Basil Cathedral. It’s also worth watching either a ballet or opera at the world famous Bolshoi Theatre.

Belgrade, Serbia – 2008
Serbian Marija Šerifović delivered a win for her country in Helsinki with the song entitled Molitva. Start your exploration of Belgrade in Knrz Mihailova Street, the central pedestrian thoroughfare. Also on the list would have to be the Belgrade Fortress, the Old Royal Palace, the White Palace and the New Palace. For lunch, head to Skadarlija, a street lined with many restaurants.

Helsinki, Finland – 2007
The hard rock outfit, Lordi won Eurovision for Finland when they performed in Athens in 2006. Helsinki, the Finnish capital, is a terrific city break destination. While in town, head across to Suomenlinna, a tremendous sea fortress. Other sites include the Church in the Rock, the Sibelius Monument and the Parliament House.

The People

One of the highlights of visiting any country is meeting the people,  in this regard Japan is a standout. Even if their English is basic, they will always go out of their way to help you, as I found when I was trying to decipher a map in Osaka and a street cleaner offered me assistance.

The Hiroshima Itsukushima Shrine at Sunset

Hiroshima Peace Memorial

The main sights in Hiroshima are clustered around the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, a poignant reminder of past horrors. The cost of entry to the museum is minimal. The museum is also a popular site for school excursions, where students are able ask survivors questions in the museum gardens.

Efficient Public Transport

Tokyo is not the cacophony of noise one would expect from a city of its size. The extensive metro system is easy to use with all signs in English. Women travelling during rush hours are welcome to use the ‘female only’ carriages which are equipped with bright pink straps to hold on to if you can’t get a seat. The easiest way to get from Narita to downtown Tokyo is to use the hotel limo buses, which drop off at all the main hotels and cost around ¥30000.

A high speed train in Japan

Japan Rail Pass

The Japan Rail Pass will pay for itself even if you only take a couple of journeys. Trains are sleek, punctual to the second, and seat reservations are free with the pass too. Reservations are highly recommended for any Japanese holiday. If you need a snack or drink, well-stacked trolleys are wheeled throughout the trains by immaculately dressed assistants who bow as they enter your carriage.

Local Delicacies

Meals in Japan are not as pricey as perceived. Stick to where the locals eat and you can’t go wrong. Food is delivered speedily and presented beautifully, even in places teeming with office workers on their lunch breaks. The speciality of the Osaka region is ‘okonomiyaki’, a pancake with fillings of your choice, cooked over a griddle in front of you by chefs dressed in spotless white outfits.

If you’d like more information on travelling to Japan, contact Laurence Baillie, an International Travel Consultant at Flight Centre Murwillumbah, on 1300 079 095. 

Accommodation offers and requests for advice have flown in – both in Australia and overseas – since Flight Centre and Escape Travel shared Keith’s inspirational story last week. He has featured in dozens of print, television and radio stories throughout Australia and made headlines in the UK, the USA, South Africa and Indonesia. Interview requests have been logged from as far afield as Austria.

Keith Wright Considering Couchsurfing

Online news reports about the World War II veteran, who stays in hostels and shares buses, trains and scooters with backpackers who are a fraction of his age, have generated large amounts of positive feedback – and several offers.

Writing on the Australian Flight Centre website,  “Lenny Valstar”, a 75-year-old fellow traveller, offered Keith a bed and a shower if he “ever comes to Spain”.

On the UK Daily Mail website, “Claire”, from Sweden, wrote: “I am surprised he doesn’t try Couchsurfing. If he comes to Gothenburg, he is very welcome to sleep at my place!!”

“Jason”, another fellow traveller from Kentucky, USA, praised Keith for his sense of adventure. “You sir are an inspiration!,” Jason wrote on the Daily Mail’s website. “May the best of times find you in all your endeavors; backpackers the world over are proud to have you as one of us!”

Australians have also been quick to praise the pensioner. 

Responding to the story on news.com.au, “Tash” of WA said, “My hero”, while “Steven” of Perth described Keith as an “Absolute legend!”.

“Justin”, of Canberra, summed up many of the online posts when he wrote on news.com.au, “What a great story. He could have been sitting at home complaining about the youngun’s loud music and baggy clothes and instead he is out there enjoying life.”

Flight Centre’s Christina Kerr, Keith’s friend and long-time travel agent, said he had been overwhelmed by the positive feedback his story had generated.

“Keith is excited that his story has made a difference and that people have been inspired to follow in his footsteps,” Christina said.

“Since he told his story, he’s been contacted by other retirees with similar travel ambitions. These are people who want to take off and see the world but are nervous about travelling independently. He’s happy to share his experiences and to encourage travellers of all ages to explore the world. He has become a real ambassador for older travellers.”

Winter Wonderland - The Snowy Mountains

While skiing and snowboarding are fantastic pursuits – there are plenty of other attractions in the area to mix it up.

Here are our top five Snowy Mountains alternate attractions.

The Big Trout
Many of the waterways in the Snowy Mountains are home to trout – so local artist, Andy Lomnici decided to create a Big Trout. Completed in 1973, the Trout proudly stands at 10 metres high and is located in Adaminaby. Piscine enthusiasts will appreciate dropping into the Eucumbene Trout Farm or the Gaden Trout Hatchery.

Snowy Vineyard and Microbrewery
Specialising in semi-dry sweet and fruity wines, the Snowy Vineyard and Microbrewery planted their first grapes in 1984. After an enjoyable day skiing, consider heading to the restaurant to enjoy a delicious meal that’s perfectly complemented with a locally produced wine.

Snowy Scheme Museum
One of the state’s great engineering feats, the Snowy Scheme was a significant project in the development of Australia. In 2011, the Snowy Scheme Museum was opened by the Governor-General Quentin Bryce and the Governor-General at the Scheme’s launch, Sir William McKell. The museum explores the construction of the scheme and its significance to the region.

Skating Rink
For a break from skiing, don a pair of ice skates and enjoy a different winter pursuit. The skating rink is located at Crackenback, just down the road from Jindabyne. For beginners, there are specially designed safety barriers to ensure that everyone enjoys their skating experience.

Wildbrumby Schnapps Distillery
Located on the Wollondibby Road between Jindabyne and Thredbo, the Wildbrumby Schnapps Distillery is a great place to head for lunch. This boutique distillery has a terrific café serving heart warming food and delicious desserts. And of course the Schnapps is highly recommended.

Marching Soldiers in London

England

No matter which way you look at it, London is this year’s travel star. As host of the 2012 Olympic Games, the city is set to experience a surge in tourism from all around the world. As such, London is making special preparations to deal with the deluge; improved public transport, hotel renovations and more events than ever. In addition to Olympic excitement, London is also in the midst of celebrating the 60 year reign of Her Majesty the Queen, with numerous ceremonies and public appearances taking place. On the luxury front, hip boutique hotels in the East End are proving to be the city’s hottest ticket, offering n homely and intimate experience within close proximity to all the action.

Brazil

Set to host the World Cup in 2014, Brazil is another country soon to gain wide world attention. In the lead up to the momentous event, South America’s largest country is gearing up for an influx of travellers, and those who decide to head there early are set to reap the benefits. While luxury resorts are nothing new to Brazil, particularly the iconic beaches of Rio De Janeiro, the country is experiencing a surge in health tourism. Wellness, fitness and pamper resorts boasting feel-good experiences have begun popping up along the coast line. As a country famous for its bronzed bodies and tiny bikinis, its little wonder that tourists are flocking to Brazil to learn the tricks of the body-beautiful trade. Now is the perfect time to test out the country’s beauty and pamper secrets before the prices rise in 2014.

Tasmania

Though it has been long been a local favourite, it’s taken until now for Tasmania to make it onto the world wide hotspot list, attracting a range of international travellers seeking luxury in an unspoiled environment. The Apple Isle’s biggest drawcard is its natural assets, from spectacular scenery to locally grown produce. Eco-tourism and culinary tourism in particular, are booming industries in Tasmania, with food and wine tours, and hands-on experiences such as harvesting oysters, proving incredibly popular.

Cruising in Alaska

Alaska
In the luxury cruising world, Alaska’s cold beauty is proving to be a hot trend. A destination that captures the attention of all ages, Alaska offers a unique experience like no other. Marvel at soaring glaciers, touch icebergs and watch in disbelief as whales jump out of the water. To complement this beautiful yet harsh part of the world, a luxury cruise ship allows you to see all of the sights without leaving your comfort zone, making it one of the ultimate ways to see Alaska. Furthermore, cruise ships can also venture to some of the state’s most isolated regions, allowing you to experience rare and spectacular scenery in style.

Laos

Travellers can’t seem to get enough of Thailand, but it’s not the only gem of South East Asia. In fact, if you’re looking for a Thai holiday minus the crowds, Laos is an ideal option. Savy travellers are cottoning on to South East Asia’s best kept secret, travelling to the pristine islands of Laos to embrace the laid-back lifestyle. While opulent comfort can be found at the country’s two, five star alliance hotels located in the popular tourism hub of Luang Prabang, you don’t have to splurge to experience luxury in Laos. Much like Thailand, package deals and luxury resorts offer great value for money.   

To find out more or book a holiday to one of these luxury travel hotspots, talk to your Travel Consultant on 133 133 today.

Harry Potter World in Orlando

Islands of Adventure

The mystical world of Harry Potter has always fascinated me. Now thanks to Universal Studios in Orlando, all muggles can enter this magical universe. It’s impossible not to feel like a kid again when you walk into Harry Potter World. The amount of detail that has gone into the buildings and streets is truly astonishing. Universal Studios has really captured the essence of Harry Potter, with snow on the rooftops, the Hogwarts Express, ‘Moaning’ Myrtle in the restrooms and a moving wanted poster of Sirius Black.

Best Theme Park Ride

The highlight of visiting Harry Potter World would have to be the inside of the castle. Waiting times for this ride can be lengthy. If you’re impatient and don’t mind if your group is separated, I highly recommend jumping into the single rider’s line. This does drop your waiting time dramatically. Universal Studios have designed this ride brilliantly. While you make your way through the line you walk through different parts of the castle including a classroom, Dumbledore’s office and Gryffindor’s common room before finally reaching the top of the line to start your journey. I’ve been to many theme parks in my life and this ride really takes the cake.

Hogwarts Express at Harry Potter World

Ollivander’s Wand Shop

For those who want the full Harry Potter experience, a visit to Ollivanders Wand Shop is a must. If you’re lucky, you might even be chosen to be fitted for a wand. Even if you’re not chosen, there is a large collection of character wands to purchase. You can buy everything from cloaks and owls to broom-sticks and chess boards.

Honeydukes

This is one store that sweet tooths shouldn’t miss. Inside Honeydukes you’ll find different types of weird and wonderful candy, such as the famous Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans. Beware you may get flavours like vomit, earthworm, rotten eggs and grass, as I discovered the hard way. Right outside Honeydukes is a Butterbeer stand. Butterbeer is probably the best drink I’ve ever had. Don’t worry – it tastes nothing like butter and is not alcoholic. I will give you plenty of warning though, Butter Beer is very addictive. The cravings you have after tasting this brew will last a while but will be completely worth it.

Universal Studios and in particular the Wizarding World of Harry Potter definitely left me wanting more. I look forward to returning in the near future.

Are you interested in discovering the world of Harry Potter? Contact Hayley Johnson, an International Travel Consultant with Flight Centre based in Paddington, Brisbane who can be reached on 1300 128 769.

In 2012 Keith celebrates his 95^th birthday and as such is possibly Australia’s oldest backpacker – who prefers to travel independently.

Keith Wright and his Airline Tickets to Europe

“My belief is that if you are fit and able to travel independently, it is the best way to see as much as of the world as you want,” said the spritely nonagenarian.

Keith took his first solo trip when he was 85, after his wife Barbara passed away. This sojourn was a four-day bus trip through Turkey, which inspired Keith to continue exploring other countries. He prefers to travel in economy class on a round-the-world ticket and regular checks in to hostels, where he enjoys the comfort of a single room but occasionally has no qualms sharing a dorm room with Gen Y backpackers.

“Most people I meet are surprised when I tell them my age and amazed that I have come all the way from Australia,” he said.

“Wherever I go, I wear my Australia cap, which gets me a lot of attention from the locals.”

On one occasion, Keith was sitting on a park bench and a stranger saw that he was wearing his iconic Australia cap. The curious local said “Ahh, Australia is so far away. I have never been because I don’t like flying for that long.”

Keith responded, “Oh, it’s not that bad if you break it up by doing stopover in Singapore or Dubai.”

One of Keith’s favourite destinations is San Sebastian in northern Spain because he loves dining in the Pintxo Bars and looks forward to returning there on this holiday.

“I have hitched a ride on the back of a scooter in San Sebastian and seen things that most tourists haven’t seen, because I have walked the back streets and taken the train or bus to a nearby town for the day,” Keith said.

Since 2002, Keith has booked his travel at the Flight Centre and Escape Travel in Burleigh Heads. The team in the store have decided to make his next holiday even more memorable, by paying his upgrade to business class on his Emirates flight. It’s important that he can stretch out in style as he travels to Europe.

Flight Centre’s travel consultant, Christina Kerr, has booked many of Keith’s holidays.

“Every booking I have made for him has been an inspiration to me,” Christina said.