31.12.2014 Views

+ bONUS - STA Travel

+ bONUS - STA Travel

+ bONUS - STA Travel

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.

AUSTRALIA &<br />

NEW ZEALAND


2<br />

IntroductIon<br />

In 1979, two students returned from their travels newly cultured, slightly jetlagged and on the<br />

biggest high of their lives.<br />

Bright-eyed and inspired by their wanderlust, they founded StA travel to help other young<br />

people explore a world beyond text books and office desks. the real world.<br />

32 years later, the ethos of <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> remains the same. We’ve grown up with our travellers and discovered that more<br />

people, not just students, want authentic real-value travel options. We’ve built our exclusive product range from the<br />

ground-up in direct response to what you need and want from us.<br />

We firmly believe that experiencing the wonders of the world will expand your mind and enrich your understanding.<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> is the best education - there is nothing like it to open the eyes, mind and heart.<br />

Our commitment to responsible travel is something we are hugely excited about. We’ve partnered with the non-profit<br />

organisation Planeterra to launch a new selection of volunteer projects designed to help communities globally - and to<br />

help you experience travel with purpose. We’ve also committed to raising a million dollars over the next five years to<br />

support Planeterra in its work.<br />

Inside this brochure, you’ll find a whole host of Aussie and Kiwi travel options, handpicked to inspire your socks off.<br />

We’ve got thousands of exclusive offers on flights, accommodation and all the essential extras to help you plan your<br />

ultimate trip.<br />

Come and talk to us by popping into one of our many branches, giving us a call or visiting our website online.<br />

We’re passionate about changing the way people think about travel and in the process, making a positive impact on the<br />

lives of millions.<br />

Get out there – the world is waiting for you!


3<br />

CONTENTS<br />

Getting there 06<br />

Planning your trip 08<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> with Purpose 14<br />

AUSTRALIA 16<br />

Car hire & campervans 18<br />

OZ Experience 22<br />

Greyhound 25<br />

Rail Australia 26<br />

Accommodation passes 28<br />

Big Trips 29<br />

nEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND 36<br />

Island Suntanner 38<br />

Sydney to Cairns 40<br />

Cairns to Brisbane 42<br />

Surf, Sun & Sand 42<br />

Capricorn Suntanner 43<br />

Reef Suntanner 43<br />

East Coast Drive 44<br />

Sydney 46<br />

Byron Bay 51<br />

Learn to surf 52<br />

Queensland 53<br />

Gold Coast 54<br />

Brisbane 57<br />

Sunshine Coast 59<br />

Fraser Island 60<br />

Airlie Beach 62<br />

Hamilton Island 63<br />

Whitsundays 64<br />

Cairns 68<br />

Diving on Great Barrier Reef 74<br />

NORTHerN TERRITORY<br />

& WESTERN AUSTRALIA 76<br />

Darwin to Perth Safari 78<br />

City, South & the Outback 80<br />

Darwin to Adelaide 81<br />

Melbourne to Alice Springs 82<br />

4WD Broome to Darwin 82<br />

Northern Territory 83<br />

Red Centre 84<br />

Darwin 88<br />

Western Australia 91<br />

Perth 92<br />

Broome 94<br />

VICTORIA, SOUTH<br />

AUSTRALIA & TASMANIA 96<br />

Melbourne & Beyond 99<br />

Melbourne 100<br />

Great Ocean Road 103<br />

Adelaide & Beyond 104<br />

Adelaide 105<br />

Tasmania 107<br />

Hobart & Launceston 108<br />

NEW ZEALAND 110<br />

Kiwi Experience 112<br />

Campervans & car hire 116<br />

Accommodation Passes 119<br />

Big Trips 120<br />

North Island 130<br />

Auckland 132<br />

North Island 134<br />

The South Island 138<br />

Queenstown 140<br />

Christchurch & Kaikoura 141<br />

South Island 142<br />

TRAVEL INSURANCE 146<br />

TERMS AND CONDITIONS 147


4<br />

‘Planeterra is a labour of love and<br />

a dream that came together in 2003<br />

based on our belief that people<br />

and planet should be as important<br />

as profit in the travel business.<br />

Working together with travellers<br />

like you allows us all to give back to<br />

the local communities that provide<br />

us with unforgettable memories<br />

through the precious gift of sharing<br />

their culture.’<br />

Bruce Poon Tip, founder,<br />

Planeterra<br />

a perfect Partnership<br />

<strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> has embarked on a responsible travel journey, partnering with Planeterra; a non-profit travellers organisation focused<br />

on global community development and sustainability. This new partnership will not only change the face of <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong>, but enable<br />

you to connect with community and conservation projects around the world, helping you travel with purpose.<br />

Planeterra works with local partners to develop projects and directs donations to fund needs such as tools, materials and other<br />

items to keep projects going. They also develop volunteer programs so that people can visit, live onsite or with a local family and<br />

contribute to the wellbeing of the community.<br />

Since 2003, Planeterra has developed over 25 projects spanning Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas – and now with <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong><br />

as a partner, there are close to 80 volunteering projects. This is the launch of a totally new type of travel experience; a credible,<br />

authentic and real opportunity for you to give back directly. <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> has committed US$1 million to Planeterra over the next five<br />

years to develop these new volunteer programs and to support communities around the world.<br />

In addition to this investment, our goal this year is to raise US$120,000 to support the building of a community tourism training<br />

centre on Koh Phra Thong Island in Thailand. The centre will be accessible to communities throughout southern Thailand, providing<br />

a way for them to increase income and sustainable tourism in the area. Want to help at our volunteer project We wholeheartedly<br />

welcome your involvement on Koh Phra Thong (see pages 14-16 in our Voluntouring brochure) and any donations made towards<br />

our project will be doubled by us, up to US$30,000 annually.<br />

If you’re keen to spend a few days (or weeks) volunteering in Australia and New Zealand, there are plenty of conservation projects<br />

on offer. You can spend time lending a hand from as little as four days anywhere up to several weeks. Help to protect New Zealand’s<br />

Magic Forest or take the unique opportunity to volunteer on a marine conservation project in the Whitsundays (see page 15).<br />

Our perfect partnership with Planeterra enables us to provide you with much more than travel. We’re passionate about offering<br />

you the chance to experience the real world. And what you gain from giving back is seriously priceless.<br />

To view our entire range of meaningful travel options, make sure you pick up our Voluntouring brochure, packed full of volunteer<br />

and voluntour options the world over.


5<br />

Why <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong><br />

Now if this is the first time you’ve heard of us then where have<br />

you been living We could say in a cave but that would be too<br />

cliché and we revolt against all things cliché, so much so that we’ve<br />

made our mark specialising in all the impossibilities that used<br />

to seem just a little out of reach. We have a wild and wonderful<br />

enthusiasm for all the experiences both diverse and magnificent<br />

that travel provides.<br />

We’ve been providing these kinds of adventures for over 30 years,<br />

so you should have heard of us by now! We’ve made it our mission<br />

to open up the world to eager, enthusiastic, adventurous travellers<br />

and are the world’s largest bona fide travel company for students<br />

and young adults – but whatever your age we enthusiastically<br />

await your call, email or visit as we’re more than happy to show<br />

you our unique perspective of planet Earth.<br />

No matter where you are in the world, the incredibly friendly and<br />

knowledgeable people that work for <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> are never far away.<br />

We’ve got hundreds of <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> branches all over the world with<br />

24/7 global travel help - an essential backup for all travellers on<br />

the move. If you’ve lost your tickets, want to change your dates or<br />

just need some local advice our help is always at hand.<br />

We’ve got thousands of exclusive offers on flights, adventure<br />

trips accommodation and all the essential extras to help you plan<br />

your trip to Australia and around New Zealand. This brochure<br />

showcases the best of them, so enjoy!<br />

Come and talk to us by dropping into one of our branches<br />

around New Zealand, calling us on 0508 <strong>STA</strong> TRAVEL or<br />

visiting statravel.co.nz<br />

Top 10 reasons to<br />

travel with us<br />

1. Global <strong>Travel</strong> Help<br />

Wherever you are, we’re there for you<br />

2. World Class <strong>Travel</strong> Partners<br />

We only work with the best to ensure you’re looked after<br />

3. Exclusive Low Airfares<br />

Our unique airline partnerships give you access to the lowest fares<br />

4. Exclusive Flexible Airfares<br />

You can change your plans at minimal cost and effort<br />

5. 100's of Branches Worldwide<br />

Speak face to face with us on the other side of the world<br />

6. One Stop Shop for All Your <strong>Travel</strong> Needs<br />

With all your bookings in one place, it’s easy to manage your holiday<br />

7. Extremely Knowledgeable, Well <strong>Travel</strong>led Staff<br />

They’re expertly trained with hands on experience to give you the best advice<br />

8. Over 30 Years Experience<br />

We’ve got the experience to take you to the most exciting places for less<br />

9. award winning service<br />

We've been awarded Australasia's leading travel agency several times at the World <strong>Travel</strong> Awards<br />

10. Massive Range of Adventures Available to Everyone<br />

No matter your age you can enjoy our extraordinary adventures in any corner of the world


6<br />

Getting there<br />

Why fly wth<br />

<strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong><br />

Aside from our great prices, many of our<br />

airfares are unique and exclusive. We<br />

offer a wide range of flights negotiated<br />

just for you. We can book just about<br />

anything you desire, from simple return<br />

tickets to tailor-made complex round<br />

the world itineraries. Here are some of<br />

the things that make us stand out from<br />

the crowd:<br />

• Lowest fares with leading airlines for<br />

students holding an ISIC card, youths<br />

under 26 holding an IYTC card or<br />

teachers holding an ITIC card.<br />

• Flexibility to change your travel<br />

dates and your route before and<br />

after departure.<br />

• The option to build your own<br />

itinerary using our exclusive one<br />

way fares (don’t compromise when<br />

creating your perfect trip!)<br />

• 'Open jaw' tickets - fly into one<br />

airport and out of another.<br />

• 24 hour travel help, so wherever<br />

you are in the world, there is always<br />

an expert available to handle your<br />

queries.<br />

• Hundreds of <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> branches<br />

worldwide, giving you personal<br />

service as you travel the globe.<br />

Sign up to our e-newsletter by visiting<br />

statravel.co.nz to make sure you<br />

don’t miss out on our best deals and<br />

competitions to win free travel!<br />

Get the best price<br />

We’ve been helping folks get the best<br />

airfare deals since before the dawn of<br />

time… OK, so we exaggerate a little, but<br />

we have been doing this for ages! Our<br />

advisers know exactly where to look<br />

and what to check. So talk to one of<br />

our travel gurus, or have a look at our<br />

website and find yourself a deal that<br />

won’t break the bank. To get you started,<br />

here are a few insider tips that’ll help you<br />

get the very cheapest price:<br />

• Buy an ISIC, IYTC, ITIC card to be<br />

eligible for our exclusive student,<br />

under 26 and teacher fares.<br />

• If you can help it, don’t leave it to<br />

the last minute. Many of our best<br />

prices sell out quickly!<br />

• Try and be a little flexible with your<br />

dates and check out flying on a<br />

weekday instead of the weekend.<br />

• Think about flying outside of peak<br />

times if you can.<br />

One way Flights<br />

<strong>Travel</strong>ling on several one way tickets on<br />

separate airlines is often the cheapest<br />

way to get around New Zealand and<br />

Australia as well as across the Tasman.<br />

Our online flights booking engine<br />

searches the cheapest airfares across<br />

a huge range of airlines so you can be<br />

sure you’re getting a great deal! Search<br />

and compare to grab a cheap flight<br />

today at statravel.co.nz<br />

Add-On Flights<br />

Add-on’s are the best, kinda like fries<br />

with your burger or lemon in your<br />

vodka! They let you go well beyond<br />

your original arrival city meaning more<br />

gallivanting around Oz and NZ. The<br />

Qantas Walkabout Pass is perfect<br />

for discovering Australia and lets you<br />

stop in up to six different destinations<br />

across the country. It’s only available<br />

when you book your trans-Tasman<br />

flight on Qantas so ask your <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong><br />

Adviser for all the in’s and out’s!<br />

Round the world<br />

When you think of travelling around<br />

Aussie and NZ you may not immediately<br />

consider a round the world flight – but<br />

why not Throw in a few more hard<br />

earned dollars and turn your two week<br />

stock-standard break into an adventure<br />

of a lifetime!<br />

<strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> specialise in round the<br />

world tickets so we’ve got a huge<br />

range of exclusive choices and plenty<br />

of suggestions for you. Grab our<br />

See the world your way brochure for<br />

some itinerary ideas and then challenge<br />

us to create a trip tailored to your<br />

needs (and budget!)


qantas - your airline to and from australia<br />

7<br />

Qantas, the world’s most experienced airline, is Australia’s largest<br />

domestic and international airline and your perfect partner for<br />

flights to and around Australia.<br />

Qantas operate multiple daily services across the Tasman from<br />

Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown. Their<br />

new B737-800 aircraft, which feature brand new seating and<br />

state-of-the-art entertainment, are now operating on selected<br />

services from Auckland to Australia, and will be introduced on<br />

selected services from Wellington and Christchurch during 2011.<br />

qantas walkabout pass<br />

Once you cross the ditch, ‘go Walkabout’ and see more of Aussie<br />

with the Qantas Walkabout Pass. It’s perfect for travel within<br />

Australia and only available when you book your trans-Tasman<br />

flights on Qantas from New Zealand so make sure you ask your<br />

<strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> adviser when booking your fare.<br />

The Pass offers you flexibility, choice and unrivalled access to the<br />

Qantas Australian domestic network. You can stop in up to six<br />

different destinations across Australia including:<br />

• Australian Capital Territory: Canberra<br />

• New South Wales: Sydney<br />

• Northern Territory: Alice Springs, Ayers Rock, Darwin<br />

• South Australia: Adelaide<br />

• Queensland: Brisbane, Cairns, Coolangatta, Hamilton Island,<br />

Mackay, Maroochydore, Proserpine, Rockhampton, Townsville<br />

• Tasmania: Hobart, Launceston<br />

• Victoria: Melbourne<br />

• Western Australia: Broome, Perth<br />

Qantas Frequent Flyer<br />

Join the Qantas Frequent Flyer programme and earn points not<br />

only on eligible Qantas flights but for hotel visits, rental cars, retail<br />

outlets and much more.<br />

Benefits include:<br />

• At least 1000 points for every Qantas flight – guaranteed<br />

• Earn more points when you travel Business or First<br />

• Upgrade using points on selected Economy fares<br />

• Points bonus for Silver, Gold and Platinum members<br />

• No expiry of points for active members<br />

• Earn points with other oneworld carriers<br />

All this for a $50* one off joining fee! Ask your <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> adviser<br />

how to join or for further details.<br />

*Price applies to New Zealand residents only. No gst applicable.<br />

As a member of the oneworld alliance, Qantas’ top standards<br />

ensure that punctuality, reliability and your comfort are second-tonone.<br />

So if you want to call Australia home for a while, book Qantas<br />

with <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong>.


8<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

Checklist<br />

Get a travel discount card<br />

Book your arrival<br />

accommodation<br />

Get travel insurance<br />

Help the environment<br />

Get a <strong>Travel</strong>ex cash card<br />

planning your trip<br />

Where should I go<br />

Think about the cities you’d like to<br />

visit, what you really want to see and<br />

experience. Ask your mates for their<br />

hot tips, read some travel blogs and<br />

come and chat to us for advice. Just get<br />

inspired, because your Aussie or Kiwi trip<br />

can be anything you want it to be.<br />

Go to fulfill an overseas adventure that’s<br />

close to home. Go in search of bungy<br />

jumping, jandals and fush ‘n’ chups<br />

or explore big and beautiful Aussie!<br />

Whatever your trip is to you, we’ll do our<br />

best to make it happen.<br />

Once you’ve finished flicking through<br />

this brochure and have a rough idea of<br />

what you want, pop into your nearest<br />

<strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> branch and chat to one of<br />

our friendly advisers. All our staff are<br />

passionate travellers, so they’re full of<br />

helpful advice, tips and tales about the<br />

places that you’re planning to visit.<br />

Getting around<br />

Australia and New Zealand boast long,<br />

scenic roads, high-speed trains and<br />

loads of well-connected airports. At <strong>STA</strong><br />

<strong>Travel</strong>, we take full advantage of this<br />

to make sure you get around as safely,<br />

comfortably and efficiently as possible.<br />

We feature loads of hop-on hop-off bus<br />

options, sailing adventures, 4WD tours<br />

and more.<br />

One day you might be bumping along an<br />

exciting off-road track, the next you’ll<br />

be calmly sailing through beautiful azure<br />

waters - or you might simply be using<br />

your own two feet as you trek through<br />

awesome landscapes.<br />

If you’re keen to get yourself on one of<br />

our adventure trips, please don’t be put<br />

off if it starts in one city and finishes up<br />

in another. We sell ‘open jaw’ tickets -<br />

which quite simply allow you to fly in and<br />

out of completely different locations.<br />

Money<br />

Every major town and city in Australia<br />

and New Zealand will have ATMs, giving<br />

you quick and easy access to your funds<br />

with your credit, eftpos or <strong>Travel</strong>ex cash<br />

card. We’ll help you to work out a budget<br />

by nutting out where you’ll be going, how<br />

long you’ll be away for and what you’ll be<br />

doing while you’re there.<br />

Booking your first few nights<br />

accommodation before you leave is<br />

always a good idea. You’ll find it’s quite<br />

a bit cheaper and loads more convenient<br />

too. You definitely don’t want to be<br />

wandering the streets looking for a bed<br />

on your first night!<br />

Many of our adventure trips include<br />

almost everything you need to survive.<br />

These are a great option if all you want<br />

to have to worry about is your spending<br />

money for additional activities, shopping<br />

and drinking.


9<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> essenTials<br />

TRAVEL INSURANCE<br />

Whether you’re hitting the slopes in<br />

Queenstown, going on a shopping mission<br />

to Sydney or chilling out on the beach in<br />

Queensland, you’d be crazy to leave home<br />

without travel insurance. We know you<br />

must be buzzing for your trip to begin and<br />

travel insurance is the last thing on your<br />

mind - however, our experience tells us that<br />

travelling without cover is simply not a risk<br />

worth taking.<br />

<strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> offers travel insurance policies<br />

that cover you for a range of benefits,<br />

such as cover for medical, cancellation,<br />

emergency transport and accommodation.<br />

Plus if things go wrong you’ll have access to<br />

the 24 hour emergency assistance team of<br />

doctors, nurses and case managers. To chat<br />

about your travel insurance options or for a<br />

quote, ask your <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> adviser today!<br />

HEALTH<br />

It’s your responsibility to obtain proper and<br />

detailed medical advice in good time before<br />

you go. We suggest that you visit the Safe<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> website at safetravel.govt.nz for up to<br />

date information. Your local GP can also give<br />

advice on which vaccinations you’ll need for<br />

particular countries.<br />

Don’t forget to make sure you pack plenty of<br />

high SPF sunblock, your hat and sunnies on<br />

your adventure. Australia and New Zealand<br />

have some of the highest skin cancer rates<br />

in the world so don’t forget to ‘Slip, Slop,<br />

Slap and Wrap’ when you’re in the outdoors!<br />

VISA<br />

Your trip of a lifetime will quickly ground<br />

to a screeching halt if you forget to sort<br />

out your entrance visas. Please don’t forget<br />

to check with the relevant embassy if you<br />

need to get a visa for the countries that<br />

you plan to visit.<br />

ISIC & ITYC CARDS<br />

Want to take advantage of over 41,000<br />

discounts worldwide If you’re a full<br />

time student you can buy a ISIC card or<br />

alternatively if you’re not a student but<br />

under 26 years old, you can buy a Youth<br />

card. They’re only $25 each and can be<br />

used at home and abroad you’ll save loads<br />

more than the cost of the card while you’re<br />

travelling so they are well worth the spend!<br />

We sell these cards right here at <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong><br />

and just look at the discounts you can get:<br />

• Access to cheaper student and under 26<br />

airfares<br />

• Discounts on local transport<br />

• Savings on museum and art gallery<br />

admission charges<br />

• Discounts at retail stores<br />

• Bonus extras at hostels like free<br />

internet and welcome drinks<br />

• Great deals at restaurants, pubs<br />

and bars<br />

TRAVEL SAFETY TIPS<br />

Alright it may not seem like you’re going<br />

that far from home when you’re heading to<br />

Aussie or travelling around New Zealand,<br />

but it still pays to be aware of things<br />

that are a wee bit different to what you’d<br />

encounter normally. Have a read our travel<br />

safety advice to help prepare you for<br />

the unexpected.<br />

don’t hitch-hike<br />

If Wolf Creek didn’t put you off already,<br />

hitchhiking around Australia is both not<br />

recommended and actually illegal. Another<br />

great reason to look into our flexible<br />

campervan, bus and rail passes!<br />

Keep in touch<br />

Make sure you always stay in contact with<br />

friends and family back home, especially<br />

if you are near a disaster or incident!<br />

Registering your travel plans online with<br />

MFAT if also a great idea so you can be<br />

contacted in an emergency – visit safetravel.<br />

govt.nz for more details.<br />

Be weary of the water<br />

The surf can be dangerous so be sensible<br />

at the beach and swim between the flags. In<br />

tropical areas of Australia you also need to<br />

be aware of poisonous creatures around the<br />

reef including stonefish and coral snakes.<br />

When you’re out snorkelling or walking in<br />

shallow water, make sure you wear thick<br />

soled shoes. If you’re planning on doing a<br />

bit of exploring, we suggest you get a good<br />

debrief from a local or a guide on where to<br />

go, what to look out for and how to stay<br />

safe in the water.<br />

25% OFF<br />

AUSTRALIA & NEW<br />

ZEALAND GUIDEBOOKS! *<br />

Visit shop.lonelyplanet.com<br />

and enter the code<br />

AUNZ25 at checkout.<br />

*Conditions apply<br />

www.lonelyplanet.com/<br />

promocodes<br />

No matter where or how you’re travelling<br />

in Australia or New Zealand, there’s a<br />

Lonely Planet guide for you.<br />

From comprehensive country and regional guides<br />

to pocket-sized Encounter guides or an array<br />

of guides for your mobile, Lonely Planet is<br />

your key to the best possible Australian or<br />

New Zealand experience.


10<br />

Sweet dreams<br />

Where to <strong>STA</strong>y<br />

Star ratings are often not the best way to categorise hotels. Depending on what country you’re travelling through, perceptions of<br />

each standard can vary quite dramatically. To make things much easier for you, we’re giving you our own, very educated travellers<br />

opinion on each property that we feature. We have three very straightforward accommodation categories to choose from:<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple, <strong>STA</strong>ysmart and <strong>STA</strong>ystylish. Read below for a description of each.<br />

+ bonus<br />

Look out for our <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> Bonus offers - we’ve sourced the very best deals that will ensure you save<br />

money and make the most out of your stay.<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

For those who want their travelling dollar<br />

to go further. Clean, comfortable, secure<br />

and perfectly adequate, these are no<br />

frills budget options. All of our hostels<br />

and some of our more basic hotels come<br />

under this category.<br />

The majority of our <strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

properties have great locations in the<br />

heart of all the action, and many of them<br />

boast popular bars and vibrant social<br />

scenes. Facilities are generally limited,<br />

but this is compensated for by the<br />

friendly staff and buzzing atmosphere.<br />

Many of these options will have shared<br />

bathrooms.<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

Perfect for those who demand a little<br />

comfort when they travel. We have a<br />

range of <strong>STA</strong>ysmart properties that will<br />

give you bang for your buck as well as<br />

everything you need to enjoy your stay.<br />

These are international-standard,<br />

modern hotels, so expect a plethora of<br />

great facilities. All rooms will have private<br />

bathrooms, air-con and a host of modern<br />

amenities. You can also expect loads of<br />

great facilities as most will have a pool,<br />

gymnasium and a couple of restaurants.<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart hotels are ideal for city<br />

stopovers.<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

These are a little bit special. Adjectives<br />

such as unique, funky and intimate<br />

are definitely very apt. Most will boast<br />

something absurdly indulgent, such as<br />

a private pool, pillow menu or a cigar<br />

lounge. Luxury, darlings!<br />

These hotels are relatively small in<br />

size, which means close and personal<br />

attention. The utmost service and an<br />

unforgettable experience are more or<br />

less guaranteed. After a fantastically<br />

hectic adventure trip or an early morning<br />

flight, it definitely pays to splash a little<br />

cash and book yourself into one of these<br />

wonderful hotels.<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

Pricing and photography<br />

The accommodation prices featured in this brochure are based on per person, twin share. The ‘from’ pricing shown has been calculated using low-season stays and is based on lead-in room types. We’re sourcing great deals all year long, so we<br />

recommend using the prices in this brochure as a guide and to ask your <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> adviser for the best available deal for your travel period. The accommodation photos featured are representative of the room types available at each property;<br />

however this may not be the actual room type that you’ll receive. If you have a preference for a particular room, your adviser will be happy to help. Just ask!


11<br />

Your amaZinG<br />

advenTure<br />

We partner with leading tour companies who provide fantastic adventures across the globe to give you a variety of styles of travel and experiences to<br />

choose from when planning your big trip. We consider them our ‘perfect partners’ as they share the same passion for travel as we do and we guarantee you<br />

will get the cheapest price on their trips through us. Check out our ‘perfect partners’ for Australia and New Zealand.<br />

Adventure Tours Australia is the leading<br />

small group tour company in Australia and<br />

New Zealand. From the outback to the East<br />

Coast, they have the widest range of tours<br />

for active travellers, providing authentic experiences at budget<br />

prices! They cater for adventurers of all ages including backpackers,<br />

students and all with an adventurous spirit.<br />

Whether it’s a crocodile cruise in Kakadu, a 4WD safari to Fraser<br />

Island, a sailing trip through the Whitsundays, cruising and kayaking<br />

on the magnificent Doubtful Sound or cycling through the remote<br />

Otago region, great activities are included in all the tours. Your trip<br />

will be action packed and you won’t have to fork out for expensive<br />

optional activities<br />

The guides are extremely passionate about what they do, they’ll<br />

usually have an answer for just about anything you ask them.<br />

‘Adventure Tours’ operate an industry leading in-house training<br />

programme and as a result have won a whole host of prestigious<br />

awards over the years. Exploring Australia and new Zealand isn’t right<br />

unless you have the opportunity to meet real locals too and your<br />

guide knows all their favourite hangouts.<br />

Topdeck's passion is for providing<br />

unforgettable travel experiences for 18 to<br />

30 somethings throughout Australia and<br />

New Zealand. Share the experience and adventure of the ‘Land Down<br />

Under’ and journey across one of the world’s most diverse countries.<br />

If snorkelling off white sandy beaches in both Oz and NZ, visiting<br />

mystical Uluru or hiking Tassie’s National Parks or New Zeland<br />

glaciers is your thing, you’re in for the time of your life!<br />

One of the great things about Topdeck is that all of the travelling and<br />

accommodation is taken care of. You enjoy the fun parts of travelling<br />

whilst they take care of all the boring bits. No overbooked trains,<br />

unavailable hostels or language problems...make it easy for yourself!<br />

You will also be travelling with one of their friendly guides. With their<br />

encylopedic knowledge, Australia & New Zelands’s history will come<br />

alive! They’ll also share their insider’s knowledge and show you the<br />

local hangouts and take you to some spots off the tourist trail.<br />

The itineraries are designed to give you as much free time as possible<br />

to explore at your own pace and you will be travelling with other<br />

passengers of your own age - your new 'instant' circle of friends from<br />

all over the worls who will share amazing experiences with you.<br />

Some of you can’t wait to get your hiking boots on and climb a mountain, while others look forward to exploring museums or trying new foods at the local<br />

markets. Everyone has different travel preferences and budgets, so we’ve built a style for anyone who wants to add a little (or a lot) of adventure to their<br />

holiday. Keep an eye out for the stamps below throughout the brochure so you know exactly what's in store and can find your perfect adventure!<br />

Adventure Tours<br />

Australia is the<br />

leading small group<br />

nature based tour company in Australia and New<br />

Zealand. From the outback to the Coast and<br />

everywhere in between, they have an extensive<br />

range of modular tours for active travellers,<br />

providing authentic Australian experiences<br />

at budget prices. Tours are hands on and will<br />

incorporate all forms off accommodation from<br />

hostels to camping and even sailing boats.<br />

Overlander Trips offer<br />

the ultimate in small<br />

group adventures<br />

with a maximum group size of only 14 people<br />

and travelling in spacious, Eco friendly Mercedes<br />

vans. Our Overlander Trips get you right to the<br />

heart of all the wonders that Australia is famous<br />

for. From pristine beaches to the remote outback<br />

and the array of marine life on the Great Barrier<br />

Reef, we will get you there with all the freedom<br />

and flexibility for which we are famous for.<br />

We feature loads of<br />

fantastic trips for 18<br />

to 30 somethings.<br />

The group size averages around 38 on East Coast<br />

trips and 24 on Outback trips, so you’ll have<br />

just the right amount of new friends to share<br />

your experience with - on a long trip, that’s a big<br />

time bonus! Trips are highly inclusive of meals<br />

and activities and there is no local payments<br />

making it easier for you to manage your budget.<br />

Accomodation will be in a mixture of lodges,<br />

campsites, hotels.<br />

EASYRIDER<br />

Tag-alongs on<br />

Fraser Island<br />

provides the<br />

fun and freedom of four wheel driving with<br />

your friends and fellow travellers- but with a<br />

knowledgeable and experienced tour leader<br />

to help you make your way around the island.<br />

This new style of self-driving helps improve<br />

safty by lowering speed limits, restricting<br />

passengernumbers in vehicles, implementing<br />

tighter rules for securing luggage.<br />

TAG-ALONG<br />

Combining the<br />

challenge of physical<br />

adventure with<br />

the thrill of fully immersive exploration, our<br />

Challenger trips are designed to push you to the<br />

edge of excitement for an adrenalin pumping<br />

experience you’ll never forget. From hiking and<br />

biking to rafting and kayaking, work up a sweat<br />

as you venture off the beaten path and discover<br />

a world other travellers can only dream of.<br />

Self-drives offer you unbeatable freedom and<br />

flexibility. We have selected the best routes<br />

to incorporate the best beaches, towns and<br />

sights along the way but of course you’re free<br />

to make your own detours. Self-drives include<br />

accommodations based on 3*-4* quality as well<br />

as some exciting activities. Please note that car<br />

hire must be purchased separately.<br />

Pricing based on twin share accommodation.<br />

CAR HIRE<br />

IS EXTRA


12<br />

Face to face<br />

with the<br />

world<br />

Let us plan your<br />

perfect Trip<br />

SPECIALISTS<br />

We’ve been selling trips over to this part of<br />

the globe for donkey’s years. The majority<br />

of our advisers have travelled to the<br />

destinations in this brochure and all of<br />

them have been expertly trained to give<br />

you the best advice.<br />

E U<br />

N O R T H A M E R I C A<br />

DISCOVER<br />

EUROPE<br />

CHECK OUT THE EUROPE<br />

BROCHURE FOR INSPIRATION<br />

FROM THE<br />

BIG APPLE TO<br />

SIN CITY<br />

SEE IT ALL IN THE NORTH<br />

AMERICA BROCHURE!<br />

A F<br />

TRAVEL WITH<br />

PURPOSE<br />

CHECK OUT OUR<br />

VOLUNTOURING BROCHURE<br />

L AT I N A M E R I C A<br />

THE ALMIGHTY<br />

INCA TRAIL<br />

BROWSE THE OPTIONS IN OUR<br />

LATIN AMERICA BROCHURE<br />

IT’S SAFARI<br />

TIME<br />

GRAB THE AFRICA<br />

BROCHURE FOR<br />

INSPIRATION<br />

Some photography used throughout the<br />

brochure is courtesy of Flickr.com


13<br />

TRAVEL BLOGS<br />

When you head off on your next hollie -<br />

blog about it! Not only will you feel like an<br />

expert travel journo, but your stories will<br />

help inspire and educate other travellers<br />

who crave real travel info from real people<br />

like YOU! To start blogging or to browse for<br />

stories, visit blogs.statravel.co.nz<br />

FACEBOOK<br />

We heart Facebook. We’re always posting<br />

new updates, pics and competitions on<br />

our wall. It’s all about keeping you inthe-know.<br />

You can ask us any burning<br />

travel questions, even hook up with other<br />

travellers along the way. Click to *like* us<br />

at facebook.com/statravel.nz<br />

TWITTER<br />

Festival giveaways, new comps, flight<br />

sales…*tweet*! We won’t bore you with<br />

tweets about what we’re eating or what<br />

the dog’s doing. But we will tell you about<br />

new deals and the exciting stuff first - as<br />

soon as it happens. Come follow us at<br />

twitter.com/statravelnz<br />

R O P E<br />

A S I A<br />

AMAZING ASIA<br />

EXPERIENCE TURQUOISE<br />

WATERS AND PERFECT<br />

WHITE SANDS<br />

A S I A<br />

BLOG ABOUT IT<br />

IT’S FREE & EASY AT<br />

BLOGS.<strong>STA</strong>TRAVEL.CO.NZ<br />

AMAZING ASIA<br />

EXPERIENCE TURQUOISE<br />

WATERS AND PERFECT<br />

WHITE SANDS<br />

R I C A<br />

BLOG ABOUT IT<br />

IT’S FREE & EASY AT<br />

BLOGS.<strong>STA</strong>TRAVEL.CO.NZ<br />

A U S T R A L I A<br />

A U S T R A L I A<br />

Gold Coast<br />

N Z<br />

Gold Coast<br />

N Z


14<br />

WORK WITH<br />

CONSERVATION ANIMALS<br />

CHILDREN<br />

WORK IN WORK WITH<br />

WORK WITH<br />

COMMUNITIES<br />

80 PROJECTS,<br />

34 COUNTRIES...<br />

1 WORLD<br />

volunteer<br />

WORK WITH<br />

COMMUNITIES<br />

WORK WITH<br />

COMMUNITIES<br />

Volunteering is all about making a<br />

greater contribution. Giving back<br />

- and gaining lots too. You'll make<br />

a positive difference to the lives<br />

WORK WITH<br />

CHILDREN<br />

WORK IN<br />

WORK WITH<br />

CONSERVATION ANIMALS<br />

WORK WITH<br />

COMMUNITIES<br />

WORK WITH<br />

CHILDREN<br />

of others on a much deeper level<br />

by donating your time, energy and<br />

experience. All of our projects aim<br />

to help local communities achieve<br />

a sustainable way of life in an<br />

environmentally sensitive manner, as<br />

well as assisting conservation and<br />

community programs worldwide. You<br />

don't need specific qualifications or<br />

skills either - just a desire to lend<br />

a hand, immerse yourself and learn<br />

more about what life is like in other<br />

communities around the world.<br />

voluntOUr<br />

Voluntouring is the hot new way to<br />

learn about the people and place<br />

you're visiting on a much deeper<br />

level than you normally would on a<br />

tour. It's the perfect way to spend<br />

a portion of your tour giving back<br />

to the community you're visiting.<br />

Lend a helping hand to someone<br />

in need, work towards a cause you<br />

believe in or simply give back to<br />

make a positive impact through<br />

your travels. Our Voluntours provide<br />

opportunities for travellers to<br />

engage in community projects that<br />

are working in health, education,<br />

conservation and small business<br />

opportunities around the world.<br />

Our projects<br />

Participate in a range of global projects<br />

and make a real difference. Every project<br />

has been chosen with the ultimate aim<br />

of helping local communities and their<br />

environments achieve a sustainable<br />

way of life.<br />

Work in<br />

conservation<br />

Protect some of the world’s most fragile<br />

environments. By preserving these ecosystems,<br />

you’ll contribute to the project’s<br />

long term sustainability and pass on<br />

your knowledge to local communities.<br />

Work with<br />

animals<br />

Contribute to the protection of<br />

endangered species. In their desperate<br />

fight for survival, you’ll develop an<br />

understanding of their conditions and<br />

work to protect them.<br />

Work with<br />

Children<br />

Inspire the newest generation to break<br />

the cycle of poverty. Your work will<br />

provide them with basic skills and help to<br />

create an environment in which they can<br />

reach their full potential.<br />

Work with<br />

comMunities<br />

Spend time with a broad cross-section<br />

of the local community. Your work<br />

will improve quality of life and ensure<br />

community sustainability in some of the<br />

world’s remotest areas.<br />

Extend your stay<br />

FROM AS LITTLE AS $32<br />

Before or after your project experience,<br />

why not extend your stay Jump on an<br />

escorted tour, kick back and relax on a<br />

beach, or head into the hustle and bustle<br />

for a big city break.


Volunteer in the<br />

Magic Forest<br />

marine<br />

conservation<br />

4 days FR $449 2 weeks FR $2,183<br />

(Tour price FR $299, Local payment FR $150)<br />

15<br />

Starts anywhere<br />

where you started<br />

Brampton Island, Whitsundays<br />

WITH<br />

ALS<br />

WORK WITH<br />

COMMUNITIES<br />

Help protect the kiwi and other native<br />

flora and fauna as part of your travels<br />

with a 4, 7 or 10 day conservation<br />

WORK WITH<br />

volunteer and travel package.<br />

CHILDREN<br />

WORK IN<br />

CONSERVATION<br />

A unique opportunity to volunteer for<br />

two weeks on a marine conservation<br />

project on an island national park in<br />

WORK WITH<br />

the Whitsundays.<br />

ANIMALS<br />

WORK WITH<br />

COMMUNITIES<br />

WORK WIT<br />

CHILDR<br />

ABOUT THIS PROJECT<br />

The Magic Forest is a restoration project which aims to create an<br />

eco-corridor WORK WITHof native vegetation WORK WITH joining two of New Zealand’s<br />

well COMMUNITIES established rainforests. CHILDREN This growing corridor will expand<br />

kiwi habitats, protect the area from harmful development and<br />

provide natural recreational trails for future visitors. The forest<br />

requires dedicated time and effort invested into regeneration,<br />

native planting and pest control.<br />

WORK WITH<br />

How COMMUNITIES you make a difference<br />

Volunteers are introduced to the relationships between fragile<br />

ecosystems and human habitations as well as between cultures<br />

during this experience. You will learn about land management plans<br />

and local initiatives which will enhance the traditional Maori tribal<br />

land – working with the local community to spread the conservation<br />

message. Conservation work varies depending on the time of<br />

year with seasonal focus on tree planting, plant release, plant<br />

propagation and track maintenance and development, with year<br />

round environmental monitoring.<br />

A day in the life of a Volunteer<br />

Activities include assisting with bird counts, bird feeding and<br />

assisting with an endangered species program. You will also<br />

find yourself helping to install tracking tunnels, setting up<br />

environmental monitoring stations, building nature trails and<br />

planting native trees. You will also be able to learn about the<br />

Maori uses of native plants. At night time, you may find yourself<br />

conducting night surveys of the local wildlife.<br />

Fast FactS & what’s included<br />

Four days volunteering at a reforestation project<br />

Project start days: Daily year round<br />

Accommodation: Multi-share dorm at a hostel (4 nights)<br />

Getting there: Add on a Magic pass that includes a northbound<br />

coach journey from Rotorua to Tauranga/Mt Maunganui to reach<br />

the project. Passes start from $255<br />

In-country support: Local project co-ordinator<br />

Meals included: None<br />

Budget: Allow NZ $100-150 per project for meals not included<br />

Prices: Prices are per person and based on 2010 and 2011<br />

departures<br />

Trip code: <strong>STA</strong>ROTMAG<br />

ABOUT THIS PROJECT<br />

You will be a part of small team of volunteers assisting the project<br />

staff to return Brampton Island National Park to its natural state.<br />

WORK WITH<br />

The majority of the work includes eradicating invasive vegetation,<br />

COMMUNITIES<br />

collecting and analysing marine debris and conducting surveys on<br />

the coral reef. In your free time you will have the opportunity to<br />

snorkel the reef, explore the island and enjoy the local wildlife.<br />

How you make a difference<br />

Tourism has resulted in the introduction of invasive<br />

WORK<br />

species<br />

WITH<br />

and<br />

volunteers help by manually removing these weeds. COMMUNITIES Marine debris<br />

is very dangerous to marine animals so volunteers collect the<br />

waste, and classify and record the information. The data collected<br />

from the reef surveys provides information to gauge the impact<br />

their strategies are having on the coral reef.<br />

A day in the life of a Volunteer<br />

A typical day starts with an Aussie style breakfast at 7am.<br />

After your team briefing you’ll find yourself tackling the invasive<br />

species that plague the local flora and fauna. There is a break<br />

during the hottest part of the day for you to relax and enjoy this<br />

beautiful island paradise. Afternoons can be spent surveying the<br />

stunning coral reef. Your evenings are free for you to enjoy and<br />

you can go swimming, cook dinner, or simply watch the sunset.<br />

Fast FactS & what’s included<br />

Accommodation: Camping<br />

Getting there: Most people fly to Mackay. Greyhound Australia also<br />

serves Mackay from Cairns on a Mini-<strong>Travel</strong>lers pass from $226<br />

Duration: Two weeks<br />

In-country support: Project co-ordinator and staff<br />

Meals included: Yes<br />

Budget: Please allow funds for side trips – if you’d also like to<br />

explore your nearby surroundings.<br />

Prices: Prices are per person and valid for departures in 2010<br />

Notes: During 2011 this project may be adapted to include a<br />

week on Brampton Island followed by a week of fauna work in a<br />

reserve on the mainland<br />

Trip code: <strong>STA</strong>WDSMCO<br />

WORK WI<br />

CHILDR


36<br />

NEW SOUTH<br />

WALES &<br />

QUEENSLAND


37<br />

5<br />

TOP 6<br />

AMAZING EXPERIENCES<br />

3 4 2<br />

1<br />

6<br />

1<br />

2<br />

3<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

Learn to surf in<br />

byron bay<br />

see PAGEs 51 - 52<br />

4wd safari on<br />

fraser island<br />

see PAGES 60 - 61<br />

crack a whip on an outback<br />

cattle station<br />

see PAGES 30 - 43<br />

4<br />

5 6<br />

sail the whitsundays<br />

see PAGeS 66 - 67<br />

dive or snorkEL the<br />

great barrier reef<br />

see PAGEs 74 - 75<br />

cruise along<br />

sydney harbour<br />

see PAGEs 48 - 50


38<br />

Island<br />

Suntanner<br />

14 days,<br />

Sydney<br />

fr $2,865<br />

Cairns<br />

EASYRIDER<br />

When you think of Australia, you think of lying<br />

on sandy surf beaches, sailing around tropical<br />

islands and snorkelling in crystal clear waters.<br />

If you’re a water baby from way back, this is the<br />

trip for you. The east coast is your playground<br />

as you make your way from Sydney up to Cairns.<br />

Our particular favourites on this awesome<br />

itinerary include the cool surfing scene at boho<br />

Byron Bay; the enormous sand dunes, pristine<br />

freshwater lakes and extraordinary wildlife on<br />

Fraser Island; plus the sun-drenched seas and<br />

beautiful reefs of the incomparable Whitsundays.<br />

The trip will also take you away from the<br />

traditional coastal spots, letting you check out<br />

the Aussie outback cattle station at Kroombit.<br />

From one wild night out in Byron Bay to possibly<br />

an even better one in tropical Cairns, this 14 day<br />

adventure is the perfect way to experience the<br />

concentrated beauty of Australia’s east coast.<br />

Best Bits<br />

• Hang out with the hippies in Byron Bay<br />

• Go surfing, diving, kayaking or sunbathe<br />

• Absorb the glitz of the Gold Coast<br />

• Check out Australia’s best beaches<br />

• Experience Fraser Island’s raw beauty<br />

• Visit a working cattle station<br />

• Sail the stunning Whitsunday Islands<br />

• Enjoy a wild night out on Airlie Beach<br />

• Check out a local Aussie rodeo<br />

• Opt to explore the Great Barrier Reef<br />

• Soak up the action of tropical Cairns<br />

• Cuddle a koala in Cairns<br />

Day 1: SYDNEY TO CENTRAL COAST<br />

Your adventure begins bright and early as you<br />

cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge and head<br />

north along the Pacific Highway. <strong>Travel</strong> past<br />

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, stopping for<br />

lunch along the way. Pick up an ‘Akubra’ hat<br />

in Kempsey before arriving at your idyllic surf<br />

spot on the central coast. This area is one of<br />

the most beautiful and pristine parts of the<br />

Australian coastline. Jump into the Aussie surf<br />

lifestyle and hit the water for your first lesson. If<br />

surfing is not your thing, kick back and explore<br />

the surrounding area. Tonight relax around the<br />

campfire. (D)<br />

Days 2-3: Central Coast to Byron Bay<br />

After a second surf lesson this morning, head<br />

north via Coffs Harbour, to Australia’s most<br />

easterly point and surf capital - Byron Bay. Chill<br />

out, hit the beach and explore the town. The<br />

next day, try some of the optional activities on<br />

offer: surfing, diving or sea kayaking. Take a<br />

scenic walk to the lighthouse where the views<br />

are spectacular. (2B)<br />

Days 4-5: Byron Bay to the Gold Coast<br />

A relaxed start to the day with a gourmet picnic<br />

brunch before saying bye to Byron. Head across<br />

to Queensland with a stop at Natural Arch; a<br />

spectacular waterfall that plummets through a<br />

stone archway into a rock pool below - and onto<br />

Surfers Paradise on the glitzy Gold Coast. The<br />

nightlife here is pumping every night! Day Five is<br />

a free day to take in the sights or head to one of<br />

the famous theme parks. (2B, D)<br />

Days 6-7: Gold Coast to Fraser Island<br />

Stop at Kangaroo Point Cliffs lookout in Brisbane<br />

for the best views of this river city and hit the<br />

mall for a coffee and some shopping. Head<br />

north to the great, sandy national park of Fraser<br />

Island. On Day Seven, get out in a 4WD bus<br />

for some dune bashing along the unspoilt surf<br />

beaches and visit the pristine freshwater lakes,<br />

perfect for a swim. At the end of the day watch<br />

the sunset with a cocktail in hand at the jetty<br />

bar. Perfect! (2B, D)<br />

Day 8: Fraser Island to Kroombit<br />

Take the ferry back to the mainland and head<br />

into Central Queensland for a taste of the true<br />

Aussie outback. Join a local family on their<br />

10,000 acre cattle station and experience the<br />

wide open spaces and casual, relaxed lifestyle<br />

in this tranquil bush setting. Enjoy a goat rodeo<br />

and an evening around the campfire for a yarn<br />

or two - you can even try your skill on the<br />

mechanical bull! (B, D)<br />

Day 9: Kroombit to Emu Park<br />

Goat mustering, horse riding, quad bike riding<br />

or trap shooting are just a few of the activities<br />

available this morning before you say farewell<br />

to the cattle station. Make a stop in the beef<br />

capital of Queensland – Rockhampton or ‘Rocky’<br />

- before making your way to the laid-back<br />

coastal town of Emu Park. A perfect place to sit<br />

back, relax and take it easy. Maybe a walk on the<br />

beach is more your style or a dip in the resort<br />

pool. Tonight enjoy a seaside ‘Reef & Beef’<br />

dinner. (B, L, D)


39<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

Day 10: Emu Park to The Whitsundays<br />

Head off for the gorgeous Whitsundays where<br />

you’re in for a real treat. Arrive in Airlie Beach,<br />

the heart of this thriving tropical paradise.<br />

The town overlooks the beautiful Whitsunday<br />

Passage and the 74 nearby tropical islands. If<br />

there’s a heaven on earth, it’s definitely in the<br />

Whitsundays, so prepare to enjoy! The best way<br />

by far to experience this gorgeous region is<br />

onboard a sailing yacht – your home for the next<br />

two nights. (B, D)<br />

Day 11: THE WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS<br />

Wake up in one of the many sheltered coves<br />

that make up the Whitsundays. You’ll set sail<br />

for golden sandy beaches, snorkel over island<br />

coral reefs and soak up the sun in this tropical<br />

paradise. A visit to the famous Whitehaven<br />

Beach and Blue Pearl Bay will be a highlight. For<br />

the budding sailors, help set the sails and have<br />

a go at the helm as you cruise the islands. By<br />

night you’ll star-gaze at the Milky Way and feel a<br />

million miles away. (B, L, D)<br />

Days 12-14: The Whitsundays to Cairns<br />

Early this morning, set sail for the mainland<br />

disembarking in Airlie Beach. Bid farewell to<br />

paradise as you head to tropical Cairns, the<br />

adventure mecca of Oz! Make sure you take a<br />

boat trip onto the beautiful Great Barrier Reef<br />

to go snorkelling or diving. Back on land there<br />

is a huge amount of adventure activities to get<br />

into. Go white water rafting, quad biking, bungy<br />

jumping or even try a sky dive! The nightlife in<br />

Cairns is pretty buzzing, so hit the town and<br />

enjoy a few farewell drinks with your new friends.<br />

On Day 14 head up to Kuranda for a chance<br />

to cuddle a koala and explore the beautiful<br />

rainforest. Make your way back to Cairns where<br />

the tour ends. (3B)<br />

Please note: the above itinerary is effective from 1 April 2011 – 31 March 2012<br />

DEPARTURES<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

2011 APR 30 MAY 13 SEP 17 SEP 30 2012<br />

JAN 01 JAN 14 MAY 21 JUN 03 OCT 08 OCT 21 JAN 07 JAN 20<br />

JAN 08 JAN 21 MAY 28 JUN 10 OCT 15 OCT 28 JAN 28 FEB 10<br />

JAN 29 FEB 11 JUN 18 JUL 01 NOV 05 NOV 18 FEB 04 FEB 17<br />

FEB 05 FEB 18 JUN 25 JUL 08 NOV 12 NOV 25 FEB 25 MAR 09<br />

FEB 26 MAR 11 JUL 16 JUL 29 DEC 03 DEC 16 MAR 03 MAR 16<br />

MAR 05 MAR 18 JUL 23 AUG 05 DEC 10 DEC 23 MAR 24 APR 06<br />

MAR 26 APR 08 AUG 13 AUG 26 DEC 31 JAN 13 MAR 31 APR 13<br />

APR 02 APR 15 AUG 20 SEP 02 APR 07 APR 20<br />

APR 23 MAY 06 SEP 10 SEP 23 APR 21 MAY 04<br />

Accommodation: Accommodation varies from Hostels, Hotels, Lodges and Sailing.<br />

You will have 5 nts Dorms or Cabins with shared facilities, 5 nts Dorms or Lodges with<br />

private facilities, 2 nts hotel, 2 nts livaborad sailing. Group Size: Max 36 Meals: 13<br />

breakfasts, 2 lunches, 7 dinners Tour Code: TD JQL14<br />

go in reverse<br />

cairns - SYDNEY<br />

FR $2,795 Tour Code: TD JQL14R<br />

Stay Longer in Cairns<br />

Check out pages 68-71<br />

• Cairns<br />

Emu Park •<br />

Kroombit •<br />

• The Whitsundays<br />

Gold Coast •<br />

Byron Bay •<br />

• Sydney


40<br />

Sydney<br />

to cairNs<br />

14 Days, fr $3,620<br />

Sydney<br />

Cairns<br />

Think miles and miles of brilliant beaches;<br />

massive expanses of shallow coral reefs; clear<br />

blue water and colourful tropical fish; endless<br />

days of blazing sunshine and living the life every<br />

Aussie wants to lead - filled with BBQs and<br />

surfing all day long! This, surprisingly, is a reality<br />

you can experience. You owe it to yourself, in<br />

fact. Over a couple of weeks, at just the right<br />

pace, you’ll get a chance to explore the coastal<br />

beauties of Mission Beach, Rainbow Beach and<br />

the superbly chilled-out town of Byron Bay.<br />

Meet koalas, cows and wallabies, chuckle with<br />

the locals and eat some serious bush tucker.<br />

Head out sailing on the Whitsunday Islands, spot<br />

dolphins if you’re lucky and snorkel with some of<br />

the most beautiful fish you’ve ever seen. And if<br />

that’s not enough, once you reach Fraser Island,<br />

you’ll be completely mesmerised by the lakes,<br />

the rusty shipwreck (perfect for the snap happy)<br />

and Indian Head, with incredible views over the<br />

ocean. Get out and get active with a couple<br />

of surf lessons and you’ll be riding the waves<br />

freestyle in no time. Ah, yes. This will be the trip<br />

that keeps you talking for years to come!<br />

Best Bits<br />

• Hit the waves with a surf lesson<br />

• Chill out in Byron Bay<br />

• See the coloured sand at Rainbow Beach<br />

• Take a 4WD adventure on Fraser Island<br />

• Swim in clear fresh water lakes<br />

• Crack a whip in the outback<br />

• Sail around the stunning Whitsundays<br />

• Skydive down onto Mission Beach<br />

• Take a rainforest hike on Dunk Island<br />

• Go white water rafting on the Tully River<br />

• Explore the Daintree Rainforest<br />

• Admire the sunrise on a kayaking trip<br />

Day 1: Sydney to Surf Camp<br />

Set off from Sydney and head north to your<br />

secluded surf camp where you’ll get the chance<br />

to hit the waves this afternoon with an included<br />

lesson from the guys at Mojo Surf. These guys<br />

are on a mission to get you standing on a board<br />

by the end of your first go! You will start with<br />

a theory lesson on surfing and then it’s straight<br />

out to the beach. Relax on the beach and in the<br />

evening hang out and have dinner at the Mojo<br />

Beach House. (D)<br />

Days 2-3: Surf Camp to Byron Bay<br />

After a delicious breakfast and maybe an early<br />

swim, head north through the coastal towns of<br />

Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga to Byron Bay,<br />

Australia’s most easterly point. On arrival, check<br />

out the Byron Bay lighthouse for amazing views<br />

of the east coast and inland national parks. After<br />

checking into your accommodation you’re free to<br />

enjoy one of Australia’s finest beaches for the<br />

next two days! Maybe grab another surf lesson,<br />

try tandem hang gliding, take a trip to the hippie<br />

centre of Nimbin, scuba dive or just hangout at<br />

the beach or in the coffee shops. (B)<br />

Day 4: Byron Bay to Rainbow Beach<br />

After brekky make tracks for colourful Rainbow<br />

Beach with a stop in glitzy Surfers Paradise on<br />

the way. As you head north there is the option<br />

to visit Australia Zoo or take a short break at<br />

the spectacular lookout at Wild Horse Mountain.<br />

Enjoy panoramic views of the Sunshine Coast<br />

overlooking Noosa and Mooloolaba before<br />

arriving at Rainbow Beach; a vibrant young<br />

coastal town, with glistening coloured sands and<br />

a relaxed atmosphere. This evening relax back<br />

at your accommodation, located just 100m from<br />

the beach. (B, D)<br />

Days 5-6: Rainbow Beach to Fraser<br />

Island<br />

Get ready for two days of exhilarating adventure<br />

exploring crystal fresh water lakes and some of<br />

the finest white sandy beaches around as you<br />

head off to Fraser Island on a locally guided<br />

4WD tag-along safari. During this time you’ll<br />

drive along Seventy-Five Mile Beach, explore<br />

Lake Wabby, Lake Mackenzie, Eli Creek and<br />

Indian Head - be sure to take a photo of the<br />

Maheno Wreck. There will be plenty of wildlife to<br />

observe and free time to soak it all in. Return to<br />

Rainbow Beach in the late afternoon on Day Six.<br />

(2B, 2L, D)<br />

Day 7: Rainbow Beach to Kroombit<br />

This morning catch a bus or ferry to Tin Can<br />

Bay where you can feed the resident dolphins.<br />

After dolphin feeding, leave the coast behind<br />

as you turn inland through cattle country to<br />

Kroombit Cattle Station. Here you’ll experience<br />

true outback living with the chance to ride a<br />

mechanical bull and take a walk of the massive<br />

property. Taste a traditional camp oven dinner<br />

cooked on the open fire and learn the art of<br />

cracking a whip! (B, D)<br />

Day 8: Kroombit Cattle Station<br />

Today is jam-packed with exciting outback<br />

activities. Learn firsthand about Queensland<br />

farming life as you participate in a “goat muster”<br />

on horseback, try your skill at trap-shooting<br />

and be part of a mini-rodeo as animals are<br />

herded into the ring. This evening enjoy another<br />

hearty camp oven dinner and relive your day’s<br />

experiences around the campfire with a beer<br />

from the bush bar, a good old yarn and an even<br />

better sing-along. (B, L, D)


41<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

Day 9: Kroombit to Airlie Beach<br />

It’s an early start today as you enjoy a hearty<br />

country breakfast before the big drive from<br />

Kroombit back to the coast. Arrive in Airlie<br />

Beach this afternoon in time to board your<br />

private chartered yacht for two magical days<br />

and nights, sailing the finest waters in the<br />

world through the Whitsunday Islands. You will<br />

sleep on the boat, moored in quiet coves - or<br />

if you prefer, drag your mattress out onto the<br />

deck for a night under the stars. (B, D)<br />

Day 13: Mission Beach to Cape<br />

Tribulation<br />

Heading further north you’ll stop at the Boulders<br />

for a refreshing swim before passing through<br />

Cairns towards the World Heritage Daintree<br />

Rainforest area. Catch the ferry over the Johnson<br />

River to your hideaway accommodation in the<br />

rainforest. There are lots of laid-back options<br />

to select from including a rainforest spotlighting<br />

walk, a stroll down to the beach or a cool off in<br />

the pool. (B)<br />

Day 10: Whitsunday Sailing<br />

Wake up this morning in paradise where you’ll<br />

have the opportunity to sun-bake, snorkel and<br />

swim while exploring the idyllic Whitsunday<br />

Islands on board your luxury yacht. Visit the<br />

many beaches, coves and islands with the<br />

opportunity to hoist the sails and even take<br />

the wheel. (B, L, D)<br />

Days 11- 12: Airlie Beach to Mission<br />

Beach<br />

Retire your sea legs for dry land. Leaving Airlie<br />

Beach you’ll head to tropical Mission Beach -<br />

known as the adrenaline capital of the north.<br />

There are so many optional activies to try,<br />

your two days will fly by! Take a full day white<br />

water rafting trip down the mighty Tully River<br />

or for those with a strong sense of adventure,<br />

go tandem skydiving and land right on the<br />

beach. Catch the water taxi out to Dunk Island<br />

for some stunning rainforest hiking, take a<br />

fishing charter, relax on the 14km of pristine<br />

beach or head off in search of the elusive<br />

Cassowary through the surrounding rainforest.<br />

(2B, D)<br />

Day 14: Cape Tribulation to Cairns<br />

If you can handle the early start, a three hour<br />

sunrise kayaking cruise will impress! After<br />

breakfast start winding your way back down<br />

along the coastline. There’s the opportunity for<br />

a final photo of a deserted beach, complete<br />

with overhanging palm trees before reaching<br />

your final destination of Cairns where you say<br />

good bye to your new friends. Time for your next<br />

adventure! (B)<br />

DEPARTURES<br />

2011 2012<br />

JAN: SUN 09, 16, 23 JAN- MAR SUN<br />

FEB SUN 13, 20, 27<br />

MAR-DEC SUN<br />

Included: Experienced guide, surf lesson, national park fees, 2 night Whitsunday<br />

sailing, 2 day 4WD Fraser Island Tag Along tour, wild dolphin feeding, outback cattle<br />

station experience including a horseback goat muster, trap shooting and mini-rodeo.<br />

Accommodation: 13 nts multi-share dorms with shared facilities Group Size: Max 14<br />

Meals: 12 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 8 dinners Tour Code: AT SC14<br />

go in reverse<br />

CAIRNS - SYDNEY<br />

Tour Code: AT CS14<br />

sTAY LONGER IN cAIRNS<br />

CHECK OUT PAGES 68 - 71<br />

• Cairns<br />

Cape Tribulation •<br />

Mission Beach • • The Whitsundays<br />

Airlie Beach •<br />

• Kroombit Cattle Stn.<br />

• Fraser Island<br />

Rainbow Beach •<br />

• Surf Camp<br />

• Sydney<br />

• Byron Bay


42<br />

Cairns to Brisbane Surf, Sun & Sand<br />

11 Days, fr $3,426 6 Days, fr $1,065<br />

EASYRIDER<br />

Cairns<br />

Brisbane<br />

Sydney<br />

Gold Coast<br />

• Take a sunrise kayaking tour through the Daintree Rainforest<br />

• Skydive directly onto Mission Beach<br />

• Sail the Whitsunday Islands and witness beautiful marine life<br />

• Ride a mechanical bull at a cattle station in the outback<br />

• Stay overnight on the world’s largest sand island<br />

Day 1: Cairns to Cape Tribulation<br />

Head north out of Cairns, across the croc-filled Johnson River towards the<br />

Daintree Rainforest area and your hideaway retreat.<br />

Days 2-3: Cape Tribulation to Mission Beach<br />

It’s back down the coast for some adrenalin filled fun at Mission Beach. Go<br />

white water rafting on the Tully or skydive right onto the beach! (2B, 2D)<br />

Days 4-5: Mission Beach to Whitsundays<br />

A short drive to Airlie where you board a yacht for two days of bliss as you<br />

sail through the Whitsundays. Sunbathe, snorkel and visit many different<br />

island beaches. Ask the skipper for a go behind the wheel. (2B, L, D)<br />

Days 6-7: Whitsundays to Kroombit Cattle Station<br />

Experience outback living in cattle country and participate in farming life.<br />

Trap shoot, be part of a mini-rodeo and ride a mechanical bull! (2B, L, 2D)<br />

Day 8: Kroombit to Rainbow Beach<br />

Back to the coast to check out the coloured sands at Rainbow Beach. (B, D)<br />

Days 9-10: Rainbow Beach to Fraser Island<br />

There’s 4WD action for the next two days as you follow your guide across<br />

the sand dunes to pristine fresh water lakes on Fraser Island. (2B, 2L, D)<br />

Day 11: Rainbow Beach to Brisbane or Byron Bay<br />

Head back down the coast and choose to stop in Brisbane or Byron Bay. (B)<br />

• Wander the eclectic galleries, craft shops and cafes of Byron<br />

• Surf on one of Australia’s best beaches<br />

• Gaze at dolphins from Cape Byron Lighthouse<br />

• Enjoy wild nights out on the Gold Coast<br />

• Lie back and bask in lashings of gorgeous sunshine<br />

Day 1: SYDNEY TO CENTRAL COAST<br />

Cross over the iconic Harbour Bridge and travel northwards, past Ku-ringgai<br />

Chase National Park. Pick up an “Akubra” hat in Kempsey before arriving<br />

at your secret surf spot. Hit the waves with a surf lesson or kick back on<br />

the beach. Relax around the campfire tonight. (D)<br />

Days 2-3: CENTRAL COAST TO BYRON BAY<br />

After a second surf lesson this morning, head north via Coffs Harbour to<br />

Australia’s most easterly point and surf capital - Byron Bay. Chill out, hit<br />

the beach and explore the town. The next day, try some of the optional<br />

activities on offer: surfing, diving or sea kayaking. Take a scenic walk to<br />

the lighthouse where the views are dramatic. Time will pass too fast! (2B)<br />

Days 4-5: BYRON BAY to the Gold Coast<br />

A relaxed start to the day with a gourmet picnic brunch before leaving<br />

Byron. Head into Queensland with a stop at Natural Arch - a spectacular<br />

waterfall that plumets through a stone archway into a rock pool below -<br />

before arriving at Surfers Paradise on the glitzy Gold Coast. Day Five is a<br />

free day to take in the sights or head to one of the theme parks for fun.<br />

The nightlife here is pumping every night - get out and enjoy a few farewell<br />

drinks or grab dinner overlooking the sea. (2B, D)<br />

Day 6: Gold Coast<br />

Another blissfull day to enjoy the aptly named Gold Coast. Hit the shops,<br />

the waves or explore the surrounding hinterland. It all wraps up today as<br />

you say goodbye to your new friends. (B)<br />

DEPARTURES<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

2011 MAR 30 APR 09 AUG 11 AUG 21<br />

JAN 05 JAN 15 APR 07 APR 17 AUG 25 SEP 04<br />

JAN 26 FEB 05 APR 21 MAY 01 SEP 08 SEP 18<br />

FEB 02 FEB 12 MAY 05 MAY 15 SEP 22 OCT 02<br />

FEB 09 FEB 19 MAY 19 MAY 29 OCT 06 OCT 16<br />

FEB 16 FEB 26 JUN 02 JUN 12 OCT 20 OCT 30<br />

MAR 02 MAR 12 JUN 16 JUN 26 NOV 03 NOV 13<br />

MAR 09 MAR 19 JUN 30 JUL 10 NOV 10 NOV 20<br />

MAR 16 MAR 26 JUL 14 JUL 24 NOV 17 NOV 27<br />

MAR 23 APR 02 JUL 28 AUG 07 NOV 24 DEC 04<br />

Included: Experienced guide, national park fees, Whitsunday<br />

Sailing, 4WD Fraser Island Tag Along tour, wild dolphin<br />

feeding, outback cattle station experience including a<br />

horseback goat muster, trap shooting and mini-rodeo<br />

Accommodation: 10 nts dorm with shared facilities Group Size:<br />

Max 14 Meals: 10 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 6 dinners<br />

Tour Code: AT CBB12<br />

• Cairns<br />

Cape Tribulation •<br />

Mission Beach • • The Whitsundays<br />

• Airlie Beach<br />

• Kroombit Stn.<br />

• Fraser Island<br />

Rainbow Beach •<br />

• Brisbane<br />

• Byron Bay<br />

DEPARTURES<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

2011 APR 02 APR 07 JUL 23 JUL 28<br />

JAN 01 JAN 05 APR 23 APR 28 AUG 13 AUG 18<br />

JAN 08 JAN 12 APR 30 MAY 05 AUG 20 AUG 25<br />

JAN 29 FEB 02 MAY 21 MAY 26 SEP 10 SEP 15<br />

FEB 05 FEB 09 MAY 28 JUN 02 SEP 17 SEP 22<br />

FEB 26 MAR 02 JUN 18 JUN 23 OCT 08 OCT 13<br />

MAR 05 MAR 09 JUN 25 JUN 30 OCT 15 OCT 20<br />

MAR 26 APR 30 JUL 16 JUL 21 NOV 05 NOV 10<br />

Accommodation: Accomodation varies from hostels, hotels,<br />

lodges. You will have 1 nt dorms with shared facilities, 2 nts<br />

lodges with private facilities, 2 nts hotel Group Size: Max 36<br />

Meals: 5 breakfasts, 2 dinners Tour Code: TD JQL6<br />

go in reverse<br />

GOLD COAST - SYDNEY<br />

Tour Code: TD JQL6R<br />

Please note: The above itinerary is effective from 01 April 2011 –<br />

31 March 2012. Prior to this it will run as a 5 day tour.<br />

Gold Coast •<br />

Byron Bay •<br />

• Central<br />

Coast<br />

• Sydney


43<br />

Capricorn<br />

Suntanner<br />

12 days, fr $2,655<br />

Sydney<br />

EASYRIDER<br />

The Whitsundays<br />

• Hit the waves on world-class surf beaches<br />

• See Fraser Island’s natural beauty and swim in freshwater lakes<br />

• Stay at an outback cattle station and ride a mechanical bull<br />

• Explore pristine white sand beaches and soak up the sun<br />

• Sail around the awesome Whitsunday Islands<br />

Day 1: SYDNEY TO CENTRAL COAST<br />

Head out of Sydney and arriving at your secret surf spot. Hit the waves<br />

with a surf lesson and relax around the campfire tonight. (D)<br />

Days 2-3: CENTRAL COAST TO BYRON BAY<br />

Today you’re off to Australia’s surf capital - Byron Bay. Activities the next<br />

day include surfing, diving or sea kayaking. Enjoy the chilled vibes. (2B)<br />

Days 4-5: BYRON BAY to the Gold Coast<br />

Have a gourmet picnic brunch before heading onto Surfers Paradise. Day<br />

Five, a free day to visit one of the theme parks for some fun. (2B, D)<br />

Reef Suntanner<br />

10 days,<br />

Gold Coast<br />

fr $2,065<br />

Cairns<br />

EASYRIDER<br />

• Hit the waves and relax in the sun on the Gold Coast<br />

• Enjoy a 4WD adventure on Fraser Island<br />

• Cruise around the magnificent Whitsundays<br />

• Snorkel over crystal clear coral reefs<br />

• Party on for fun times in Cairns<br />

Day 1: Gold Coast<br />

A full day to take on Australia’s holiday playground! Visit the famous theme<br />

parks for some thrills or relax on the golden sandy beaches.<br />

Days 2-3: Gold Coast to Fraser Island<br />

Stop in Brisbane as you head to Fraser Island. On Day Three see this sandy<br />

national park by 4WD bus - drive along unspoilt surf beaches and visit<br />

stunning lakes. End the day with a cocktail and watch the sunset. (2B, D)<br />

Day 4: FRASER ISLAND TO KROOMBIT<br />

Say bye to the beach and hello to the outback as you head to Kroombit, a<br />

working cattle station. See the renowned ‘Goat Rodeo’ or try your skill on<br />

the mechanical bull before an evening around the campfire. (B, D)<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

Days 6-7: gold coast to Fraser Island<br />

A quick stop in Brisbane as you head to Fraser Island. On Day Seven,<br />

get out in a 4WD bus to explore the dunes, drive along the unspoilt surf<br />

beaches and visit the pristine freshwater lakes perfect to swim in. (2B, D)<br />

Days 8-9: FRASER ISLAND TO KROOMBIT and Emu Park<br />

Head to Kroombit Cattle Station to get a taste of the outback. Day Nine<br />

will see you enjoy a ‘Reef & Beef’ dinner by the seaside. (2B, L, 2D)<br />

Days 10-12: EMU PARK TO THE WHITSUNDAYS<br />

Get ready for an awesome time as you spend the next two days sailing<br />

around the Whitsundays. Tour ends back in Airlie on Day 12. (3B, L, 2D)<br />

Day 5: KROOMBIT to EMU Park<br />

After some more ranch activites in the morning, head to Emu Park for a<br />

relaxing evening on the coast and enjoy a ‘Reef & Beef’ dinner. (B, L, D)<br />

Days 6-7: EMU Park to The Whitsundays<br />

Get ready for an awesome time as you spend the next two days sailing<br />

around the Whitsundays. Snorkel over coral reefs - paradise! (2B, L, 2D)<br />

Days 8-10: The Whitsundays to Cairns<br />

Arriving back in Airlie, head straight up to the adventure capital for two<br />

excitement-filled days. Take a boat trip out to the reef for some amazing<br />

diving and snorkelling or try white water rafting, skydiving or bungy! (3B)<br />

DEPARTURES<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

2011 APR 23 MAY 04 AUG 20 AUG 31<br />

JAN 01 JAN 11 APR 30 MAY 11 SEP 10 SEP 21<br />

JAN 08 JAN 18 MAY 21 JUN 01 SEP 10 SEP 21<br />

JAN 29 FEB 08 MAY 28 JUN 08 SEP 17 SEP 28<br />

FEB 05 FEB 15 JUN 18 JUN 29 OCT 08 OCT 19<br />

FEB 26 MAR 08 JUN 25 JUL 06 OCT 15 OCT 26<br />

MAR 05 MAR 15 JUL 16 JUL 27 NOV 05 NOV 16<br />

MAR 26 APR 05 JUL 23 AUG 03 NOV 12 NOV 23<br />

APR 02 APR 13 AUG 13 AUG 24 DEC 03 DEC 14<br />

Accommodation: 4 nts lodges with shared facilities, 3 nts lodges<br />

with private facilities, 2 nts hotel, 2 nts sailing Group Size: Max 36<br />

Meals: 11 breakfasts, 2 lunch, 7 dinners<br />

Tour Code: TD JQL12<br />

Emu Park •<br />

Kroombit •<br />

• The Whitsundays<br />

Gold Coast •<br />

Byron Bay •<br />

• Fraser<br />

Island<br />

DEPARTURES<br />

<strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH <strong>STA</strong>RT FINISH<br />

2011 APR 27 MAY 06 AUG 24 SEP 02<br />

JAN 04 JAN 14 MAY 04 MAY 13 SEP 14 SEP 23<br />

JAN 11 JAN 21 MAY 25 JUN 03 SEP 21 SEP 30<br />

FEB 01 FEB 11 JUN 01 JUN 10 OCT 12 OCT 21<br />

FEB 08 FEB 18 JUN 22 JUN 01 OCT 19 OCT 28<br />

MAR 01 MAR 11 JUN 29 JUL 08 NOV 09 NOV 18<br />

MAR 08 MAR 18 JUL 20 JUL 29 NOV 16 NOV 25<br />

MAR 29 APR 11 JUL 27 AUG 05 DEC 07 DEC 16<br />

APR 06 ARP 15 AUG 17 AUG 26 DEC 14 DEC 23<br />

Accommodation: 3 nts lodges with shared facilities, 3 nts lodges<br />

with private facilities, 1 nt hotel, 2 nts sailing Group Size: Max 36<br />

Meals: 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 5 dinners<br />

Tour Code: TD JQL10<br />

• Cairns<br />

Emu Park •<br />

Kroombit •<br />

• The Whitsundays<br />

• Fraser<br />

Island<br />

go in reverse<br />

THE WHITSUNDAYS - SYDNEY<br />

FR $2,595 Tour Code: TD JQL12R<br />

Please note: the above itinerary is effective from 1 April 2011 –<br />

31 March 2012. Prior to this it will run as an 11 day tour.<br />

Central Coast •<br />

• Sydney<br />

go in reverse<br />

CAIRNS - GOLD COAST<br />

FR $2,025 Tour Code: TD JQL10R<br />

Please note: the above itinerary is effective from 1 April 2011 –<br />

31 March 2012. Prior to this it will run as an 11 day tour.<br />

Gold Coast •


44<br />

East<br />

Coast<br />

drive<br />

15 Days,<br />

fr $2,723<br />

CAR HIRE<br />

IS EXTRA<br />

sydney<br />

cairns<br />

Make your way from urban Sydney to tropical<br />

Cairns without missing a thing. From the laidback<br />

pace of Byron Bay to the fun of ‘Brisvegas’,<br />

there’s plenty to see and do as you cruise your<br />

way up the iconic Aussie east coast.<br />

• Visit the wineries of the Hunter Valley<br />

• Stay in coastal Coffs Harbour<br />

• Surf in Byron Bay<br />

• Take a 4WD tour of Fraser Island<br />

• Chill out on Daydream Island<br />

• Head out on the Great Barrier Reef<br />

Day 1: Sydney to Hunter Valley (216 km)<br />

Depart Sydney, travelling north over the Harbour<br />

Bridge and along the Pacific Highway. Drive<br />

through Gosford and Newcastle before reaching<br />

the Hunter Valley, famous for its wineries.<br />

Day 2: Hunter Valley<br />

A full day to explore the wineries, art and<br />

gourmet delights that make up the Hunter Valley.<br />

Day 3: Hunter Valley to Port Stephens<br />

(101 km)<br />

Leave the Hunter Valley and travel to Port<br />

Stephens. Known as a blue water wonderland,<br />

the natural bay is two and a half times the size<br />

of Sydney Harbour and surrounded by dormant<br />

volcanoes.<br />

Day 4: Port Stephens to Coffs Harbour<br />

(440 km)<br />

Choose to take a cruise in the harbour with<br />

the local dolphins this morning before heading<br />

north along the Lakes Way until you reach Coffs<br />

Harbour.<br />

Day 5: Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay<br />

(251 km)<br />

This northern stretch of NSW contains some of<br />

the most beautiful landscapes in Australia. From<br />

Coffs Harbour, follow the coast to Woolgoolga<br />

and then turn inland through Grafton, travelling<br />

onto Byron Bay. Cape Byron’s northerly aspect<br />

makes it one of the best beaches for surfing in<br />

Australia.<br />

Day 6: Byron Bay to Brisbane (170 km)<br />

Leaving Byron Bay, travel north to Brunswick<br />

Heads and then to Kingscliff and Tweed Heads.<br />

From here, there is a choice of routes. The first<br />

option is to continue on the main highway via<br />

Nerang and travel directly to Brisbane. The<br />

second option is to travel via the Gold Coast and<br />

Surfers Paradise.<br />

Day 7: Brisbane<br />

You’re almost halfway! Take today to relax and<br />

explore the city of Brisbane.<br />

Day 8: Brisbane to Fraser Island<br />

(320 km)<br />

Depart Brisbane and head north on the Bruce<br />

Highway with a stop on the Sunshine Coast at<br />

Noosa Heads. At Hervey Bay park your car at the<br />

terminal (at own expense) and catch the ferry<br />

across to Fraser Island.<br />

Day 9: Fraser Island<br />

Today enjoy a full day ranger-guided 4WD eco<br />

tour of Fraser Island, including lunch. Learn<br />

about the natural and cultural history of the<br />

island, swim in clear freshwater lakes, walk<br />

through towering rainforest and drive along the<br />

amazing Seventy-Five Mile Beach.<br />

Day 10: Fraser Island to Yeppoon<br />

(439km)<br />

Depart Fraser Island and return to Hervey<br />

Bay. Head north on the Bruce Highway via<br />

Rockhampton to Yeppoon; a resort located on<br />

the coast overlooking Great Keppel Island.<br />

Day 11: Yeppoon to Daydream Island<br />

(495 km)<br />

Returning to the Bruce Highway, continue to<br />

Proserpine and take the turn to Airlie Beach and<br />

Shute Harbour. Take the Fantasea catamaran<br />

for your transfer to Daydream Island, a small<br />

island nestled amongst the Whitsundays. With<br />

an array of restaurants and tropical bars, lagoon<br />

swimming pools and spas - it’s time to relax!<br />

Self Drive Inclusions:<br />

Accommodation: 14 nights on a room only<br />

basis, at various stops along the way<br />

• ‘Co-pilot’ package - pack containing detailed<br />

maps, itineraries and route touring suggestions<br />

• Catamaran transfers to: Fraser Island, Hervey<br />

Bay, Daydream Island and Abel Point Marina<br />

• Fraser Island Beauty Spot Tour<br />

Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>596<br />

CAR RENTAL: fr $58 per day<br />

CHECK OUT PAGE 18<br />

Day 12: Daydream Island<br />

A full day to enjoy the activities on offer.<br />

Day 13: Daydream Island to Townsville<br />

(280 km)<br />

Depart Daydream Island and return to Shute<br />

Harbour by catamaran. Pass through Bowen<br />

before arriving in tropical Townsville. Make sure<br />

you visit the Great Barrier Reef.<br />

Day 14: Townsville to Atherton<br />

(377 km)<br />

Continue north on the Bruce Highway with a<br />

stop to explore the stunning Mission Beach<br />

before continuing onto Innisfail. From Innisfail<br />

travel through the rich wet tropic rainforest<br />

of Johnstone River Valley to the cool climate<br />

highlands of the Atherton Tablelands. Here you<br />

are free to explore the deep blue waters of<br />

extinct volcano crater lakes and the amazing<br />

Curtain Fig Tree. <strong>Travel</strong> to Millaa Millaa, where<br />

you can start your rainforest drive of the<br />

Waterfall Circuit, an essential part of any visit to<br />

the area.<br />

Day 15: Atherton to Cairns (99 km)<br />

Today’s drive takes you north to Mareeba, where<br />

you can savour the region’s aromatic coffee.<br />

Drive onto Kuranda where you can visit the<br />

Kuranda markets (operating Wed, Thu, Fri and<br />

Sun), the Heritage markets are open every day.<br />

Continue onto Cairns - the gateway to the Great<br />

Barrier Reef, the tropical rainforest of the World<br />

Heritage region and the rugged outback of the<br />

Cape York Peninsula and Gulf of Carpentaria.<br />

• Cairns<br />

• Atherton<br />

• Townsville<br />

• Daydream Island<br />

• Yeppoon<br />

• Fraser Island<br />

• Brisbane<br />

• Byron Bay<br />

• Coffs Harbour<br />

• Port Stephens<br />

• Hunter Valley<br />

• Sydney


45<br />

SYDNEY & BEYOND<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

MY FAVOURITE EXPERIENCE<br />

After the epic nightlife of Sydney, the laid-back vibes of Byron Bay were<br />

just what we needed. On the first night we danced on the tables at ‘Cheeky<br />

Monkeys’ - a Byron Bay institution! The next day we hung out on the beach in<br />

the sun, learnt to surf in the afternoon and climbed to the Byron Lighthouse for<br />

an unforgettable sunset... Harry, Launceston<br />

THE WEATHER<br />

NSW lies in the temperate zone and the climate is generally free<br />

from extreme heat and cold. Sydney has a mild, sunny, Mediterranean<br />

climate, with its warmest months being November to April. The rest of<br />

the state has warm semi-tropical summers, particularly in lower central<br />

areas. Mountain areas in the west are cooler, particularly in winter –<br />

but in Sydney even in the winter you can don your shorts and flip flops!<br />

USEFUL INFO<br />

On the first Saturday in March, Sydney celebrates Mardi Gras. This<br />

fabulously flamboyant celebration is a real eye opener. Whatever your<br />

sexual preference, you won’t want to miss it!<br />

USELESS INFO<br />

New South Wales was the first part of Australia to be settled by<br />

Europeans. Apparently these first settlers in Australia drank more<br />

alcohol per person than any other community in history!<br />

MUST-DO’S:<br />

• Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge for amazing<br />

views<br />

• Drink cocktails from jam jars in Byron Bay<br />

• Bask with beautiful people in Bondi<br />

• Witness the spectacular Blue Mountains<br />

• Become a surf-a-holic on Coff’s Coast<br />

• Hit the slopes at Jindabyne or Thredbo<br />

• Emerge from an Oxford St nightclub in daylight<br />

• Head to the wineries of the Hunter Valley


46<br />

SYDNEY<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

1 woodduck Backpackers<br />

The best located hostel in Darlinghurst. It’s an<br />

easy walk to Hyde Park, the bars and shops of<br />

the city centre and all the must-see attractions.<br />

There’s an awesome rooftop bar area with views<br />

over Sydney’s skyline, a weekly BBQ plus they’ll<br />

pick you up from the airport. <strong>STA</strong>104<br />

2 Base sydney<br />

Stay right in Sydney’s centre. Recently renovated<br />

rooms are big and comfy, plus the girls-only<br />

sanctuary rooms come with some pampering<br />

extras. There’s a hip cafe, Internet, communal<br />

kitchen and for the party animals, the Scary Canary<br />

bar will be a hit. <strong>STA</strong>103<br />

3 wake up! Sydney<br />

This seven storey mega hostel opposite Central<br />

Station is a great place to make new friends. It<br />

has immaculate rooms and bathrooms, a state<br />

of the art kitchen, Internet lounge, all day cafe,<br />

work and travel centre, laundry facilities and<br />

Sidebar - the best backpacker bar in town! <strong>STA</strong>101<br />

fr $35 DORM<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT including breakfast<br />

fr $42 DORM<br />

fr $68 Twin/Double<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

fr $46 DORM<br />

fr $67 Twin/Double<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

7 metro central<br />

Luxury facilities at budget prices - now we have<br />

your attention! Contemporary rooms have had a<br />

recent facelift and come with cable TV and Wi-Fi.<br />

There’s a rooftop pool where you can relax with<br />

your complimentary newspaper and you’re an<br />

easy walk to all the top sights. <strong>STA</strong>276<br />

8 travelodge sydney<br />

Superb restaurants, theatres, lively clubs and<br />

a great range of shops from designer stores<br />

to funky boutiques are within easy walking<br />

distance. New, modern and easy on the wallet,<br />

there’s an Internet cafe plus snack and drink<br />

vending machines in the lobby. <strong>STA</strong>277<br />

9 rendezvous stafford<br />

A charming, intimate hotel located in the heart<br />

of the historic Rocks district, just moments from<br />

the Opera House. Choose to stay in the stylish<br />

harbour view rooms or apartments. Facilities<br />

include a heated outdoor swimming pool, spa<br />

and poolside breakfast lounge. <strong>STA</strong>278<br />

fr $191 SINGLE<br />

fr $95 Twin/Double<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

fr $223 SINGLE<br />

fr $111 Twin/Double<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

+ bonus<br />

fr $258 SINGLE<br />

fr $129 Twin/Double<br />

4TH night free<br />

01 APR 11 - 30 SEP 11 + bonus<br />

7TH night free<br />

01 APR 11 - 30 AUG 12<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT


12<br />

•<br />

THE ROCKS<br />

•<br />

DARLING<br />

HARBOUR<br />

SYDNEY KINGSFORD-SMITH AIRPORT: 8km <br />

•<br />

HARBOUR BRIDGE<br />

•<br />

CENTREPOINT<br />

TOWER<br />

Western Dstr<br />

2<br />

7<br />

10 4<br />

3<br />

6<br />

9<br />

•<br />

OPERA<br />

HOUSE<br />

•<br />

HYDE 1<br />

PARK<br />

11<br />

Cleveland St<br />

•<br />

BOTANICAL<br />

GARDENS<br />

Mrs Macquaries Rd<br />

•<br />

KINGS CROSS<br />

8<br />

5<br />

Cross City Tunnel Eastbound<br />

Moore Park Road<br />

•<br />

SCG <strong>STA</strong>DIUM<br />

•<br />

BONDI BEACH <br />

(6KM EAST)<br />

6km east<br />

Airport<br />

Transfer<br />

fr $36<br />

dates for your diary<br />

december 26, every year!<br />

sydney to hobart yacht race<br />

january 3-7. 2011<br />

5th ashes test, sydney cricket ground<br />

january 26, every year!<br />

australia day<br />

march (first saturday), 2011<br />

Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras<br />

september 18, 2011<br />

sydney running festival<br />

October 2, 2011<br />

Rugby League Grand Final<br />

december, annually<br />

New Year’s Eve firework display<br />

47<br />

AUSTRALIA<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

4 westend backpackers<br />

Funky and cheap sums things up nicely. There’s a<br />

great communal buzz and you will have a bunch<br />

of new buddies by the time you leave. There<br />

are nightly activites, a massive kitchen, secure<br />

lockers and friendly staff. In the middle of the<br />

city buzz there’s not much else you need. <strong>STA</strong>102<br />

5 artS HOTEL<br />

Centrally located in vibrant Paddington, fashion<br />

fans will love the boutique shopping and hips bars<br />

in the area. This charming hotel boasts a fitness<br />

room, swimming pool, complimentary bike hire,<br />

Internet booth and Wi-Fi. All rooms have private<br />

bathrooms, safe, air-con and TV. <strong>STA</strong>903<br />

6 aspire<br />

This great value hotel is located on a leafy street<br />

in the hip suburb of Ultimo, a few minutes from<br />

Darling Harbour, Paddy’s Market and the city<br />

centre. Massive rooms are modern and clean<br />

and come with Wi-Fi, TV and some even have a<br />

balcony. Helpful staff are available 24hrs. <strong>STA</strong>275<br />

fr $44 DORM<br />

fr $62 Double<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

+ bonus<br />

4TH night free<br />

01 APR 11 - 30 SEP 11<br />

fr $189 SINGLE<br />

fr $94 Twin/Double<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

fr $191 SINGLE<br />

fr $95 Twin/Double<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

10 The Marque Sydney<br />

This contemporary, intimate hotel boasts even<br />

friendlier service. Unwind by the pool on the<br />

rooftop sundeck or relax in the lobby bar.<br />

Located adjacent to Railway Square and the<br />

transport hub of Sydney, just minutes to Darling<br />

Harbour, Surry Hills and Chinatown. <strong>STA</strong>280<br />

11 the sebel surry hills<br />

Recently refurbished, this hotel offers<br />

contemporary accommodation, a heated pool,<br />

two restaurants and a funky bar. Located in<br />

cosmopolitan Surry Hills, just minutes’ walk to<br />

the boutique areas of Oxford and Crown Street,<br />

this is the choice for stylish travellers. <strong>STA</strong>281<br />

12 shangri la<br />

Luxury, opulance, fine dining, personal service<br />

and stunning views over Sydney’s iconic harbour.<br />

Located in the historic Rocks, you’re perfectly<br />

postioned to take advantage of the city. Fab<br />

features include indoor pool, sauna, beauty<br />

salon, massage, gym, Internet and more. <strong>STA</strong>282<br />

fr $198 Single<br />

fr $99 Twin/Double<br />

Prices are per person per night<br />

+ bonus<br />

fr $266 Single<br />

fr $133 Twin/double<br />

7TH night free<br />

01 APR 11 - 30 AUG 11 + bonus<br />

5TH night free<br />

01 APR 11 - 30 SEP 11<br />

Prices are per person per night<br />

fr $348 single<br />

fr $174 Twin/double<br />

Prices are per person per night


48<br />

Boutique hunter<br />

valley wine tour<br />

full day<br />

There are over 130 wineries in<br />

the Hunter Valley, so with no set<br />

itinerary and travelling in a small<br />

group, you can customise the day to<br />

take in the cellars you most want to<br />

explore! There’ll be a focus on the<br />

small boutique wineries throughout<br />

the day and a gourmet lunch stop at<br />

a local cafe is included. <strong>STA</strong>283<br />

blue mountains<br />

Special Tour<br />

boutique wildlife<br />

tour<br />

Sydney Harbour<br />

bridge climb<br />

FR $224 full day FR $94 full Day FR $398 FR $255<br />

The solitude, breathtaking scenery<br />

and awesome landscapes are all<br />

waiting to be discovered. See the<br />

Three Sisters rock formations, do a<br />

two hour hike at Wentworth Falls,<br />

take in spectacular lookouts, view<br />

kangaroos in their natural habitat<br />

and ride the Scenic Railway. A tasty<br />

lunch is also included. <strong>STA</strong>284<br />

See Australia’s iconic wildlife in<br />

the wild. You’ll travel as part of<br />

a small group accompanied by a<br />

guide to search for kangaroos,<br />

koalas, wombats, emus, possums,<br />

and platypus. You’ll travel in the<br />

afternoon and into the evening to<br />

see the most wildlife possible. A<br />

hearty dinner is included. <strong>STA</strong>285<br />

2 hours<br />

This is the ultimate experience in<br />

Sydney. Choose from three guided<br />

climbs that take you to the summit<br />

of this world famous bridge. You’ll<br />

climb through the inner arch,<br />

crossing over catwalks and stairs<br />

to make your way up to the thrilling<br />

views that await you at the summit<br />

of the bridge! <strong>STA</strong>286<br />

Sydney & Beyond<br />

2, 3 or 7 days FR $211<br />

One price, one ticket, 40+<br />

attractions, endless savings. The<br />

Sydney and Beyond Card provides<br />

free admission to loads of brilliant<br />

attractions - from the Opera House<br />

to the Aquarium, Scenic World<br />

to Jenolan Caves. You’ll also get<br />

discounts in certain shops and<br />

restaurants. Add on an upgrade to<br />

include transport. <strong>STA</strong>904<br />

Port Stephens &<br />

Nelson Bay Dunes<br />

Full Day<br />

Discover the beautiful north coast<br />

region of Port Stephens, with its<br />

diverse blue water paradise, its<br />

pristine waterways, golden sandy<br />

beaches and eco diverse marina.<br />

Join the dolphin watch cruise from<br />

Nelson Bay and then take a 4WD<br />

tour through the sand dunes where<br />

you can go sandboarding. <strong>STA</strong>287<br />

Sydney Harbour<br />

Sailing<br />

Bonza bikes Classic<br />

cycle tour<br />

FR $243 4 hours fr $110<br />

FR $136<br />

Experience the world famous<br />

Sydney harbour on a cruise to see<br />

the icons including the Harbour<br />

Bridge, Opera House, Luna Park<br />

and Taronga Zoo up close. While<br />

at anchor, swim to the beach for<br />

a friendly game of beach cricket,<br />

relax in the sun or enjoy a BBQ on<br />

the deck. <strong>STA</strong>279<br />

half day<br />

Join this awesome bike tour that<br />

takes in Sydney Harbour Bridge,<br />

Darling Harbour, the Royal Botanic<br />

Gardens, Hyde Park and loads more.<br />

There’ll be an expert guide showing<br />

you the sights with plenty of time<br />

to stop for happy snaps. There’s<br />

even time for a quick pint at the<br />

pub! <strong>STA</strong>901<br />

weekend ski trip<br />

3 days, fr $310<br />

Sydney OR canberra<br />

Sydney OR canberra<br />

• 2 nights accommodation at the Snowy Valley Resort, Jindabyne<br />

• All return transport to the resort<br />

• Daily shuttle up and down the mountain<br />

• Three-course dinner and 2 breakfasts<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> to Snowy Valley resort, famous for its breathtaking vantage point<br />

above Lake Jindabyne and magnificent views. Start Day Two with a hot<br />

breakfast, then head up the mountain for a day of skiing. At night enjoy a<br />

complimentary three-course dinner and party the night away in Jindabyne!<br />

Awake on Day Three and hit the slopes for another wonderful day of skiing,<br />

before transferring back to Sydney or Canberra in the evening. <strong>STA</strong>960<br />

also available:<br />

MIDWEEK MADNESS SKI TRIP<br />

4 DAYS FR$388<br />

Departure Days: MON<br />

Included: Transport to and from Jindabyne, daily ski shuttle, National Park entry fees Accommodation: 2 nts dorms with shared<br />

facilities Meals: 2 breakfasts, 1 dinner Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong><br />

Departure Days: FRI


49<br />

Sydney to<br />

Melbourne Safari<br />

3 Days, fr $447 2 Days, fr $184<br />

Sydney<br />

Melbourne<br />

• Visit Parliament House in Canberra<br />

• Climb to the top of Australia’s highest mountain<br />

• Admire the coastal rock formations at Wilsons Promontory<br />

overnight in the<br />

blue mounTains<br />

Sydney<br />

Sydney<br />

• See unique wildlife in the wild<br />

• Enjoy bush walks to lookouts and waterfalls<br />

• Jump on board the Scenic Railway<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

You could fly between Australia’s two largest cities, but where’s the fun<br />

in that On this mini road trip there are plenty of iconic sights to keep<br />

you occupied. Walk to up to the ‘roof of Australia’ or Mt Kosciuszko -<br />

Australia’s highest mountain. Stop in the nation’s capital, Canberra to visit<br />

the striking Parliament House building. Stay overnight in Lakes Entrance,<br />

gateway to Gippsland and Ninety Mile Beach before reaching Wilson’s<br />

Prom. Admire the rugged coast with the chance to see wombats and emus<br />

in the wild. All that before you reach Melbourne!<br />

Included: Experienced guides, National Park entry fees, chairlift to ‘Roof of Australia’ Accommodation: 2 nts dorms with shared<br />

facilities Group Size: Max 24 Meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners Tour Code: AT SM3<br />

Departure Days APR, OCT-MAR: MON, WED, SAT (except Dec 21, 24, 28, 31 2011), MAY-SEP: WED, SAT<br />

One day is just not enough to really experience the World Heritage Blue<br />

Mountains National Park - so we have added a nights accommodation to<br />

maximise your time here. See Eastern Grey kangaroos in native bushlands<br />

and hike through the lush rainforest to cascading waterfalls. Jump on board<br />

the Scenic Railway (the world’s steepest) for some spectacular views before<br />

bunking down in Katoomba for the night. The next day there is more time<br />

to explore highlights like the Jenolan Caves, try canyoning or even abseiling<br />

before returning to Sydney.<br />

Included: Experienced guide, lunch, scenic railway and national park entry fees Accommodation: 1 nts dorms with shared facilities<br />

Group Size: Max 24 Meals: 1 lunch Tour Code: AT BLUEHILL<br />

Departure Days: Daily<br />

blue mountains<br />

& Hunter Valley<br />

drive<br />

4 days, fr $658<br />

CAR HIRE<br />

IS EXTRA<br />

Sydney<br />

Sydney<br />

• Enjoy the fantastic wine of the Hunter Valley<br />

• Trek the trails through the Blue Mountains<br />

• Visit the spectacular Wentworth Falls<br />

• Take in the spectacular views from Echo Point<br />

Day 1: Sydney to Hunter Valley (216 km)<br />

Depart Sydney, travelling north over the Harbour Bridge and onto the<br />

Pacific Highway. <strong>Travel</strong> via Newcastle and Maitland into the Hunter Valley.<br />

Take the opportunity to taste some of Australia’s finest wines.<br />

Day 2: Hunter Valley to the Blue Mountains (230 km)<br />

Leave the Hunter Valley and travel to Katoomba, the main town in the Blue<br />

Mountains. The highlight attraction is Echo Point, where the best views of<br />

the Jamison Valley and the magnificent Three Sisters rock formation are.<br />

Day 3: the Blue Mountains<br />

Enjoy a day at leisure in the Blue Mountains.<br />

Day 4: the Blue Mountains to Sydney (100 km)<br />

Leave the Blue Mountains and take the Western Highway, passing through<br />

Springwood before linking to the freeway back to Sydney. Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong> 597


50<br />

SYDNEY beaches<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

surfside backpackers bondi beach<br />

You’ll love the friendly vibes at this surfobsessed<br />

hostel right on the legendary Bondi<br />

Beach. When you’re not making use of the<br />

surfboards, wetsuits, fishing rods and snorkelling<br />

gear all supplied for peanuts, chill out in the TV<br />

room and catch a match on the big screen! <strong>STA</strong>289<br />

surfside backpackers coogee beach<br />

Live the Aussie dream by the beach - sunning,<br />

swimming and surfing! Your waterfront hostel<br />

in one of the city’s coolest locations is only 15<br />

minutes from the central CBD. Rooms are clean<br />

and cosy. Most have a balcony overlooking the<br />

beach and the legendary nightlife! <strong>STA</strong>290<br />

ultimate apartments bondi<br />

This contemporary Bondi Beach property is only<br />

a short stroll from the famous beach. Not a<br />

hotel but better, these serviced apartments with<br />

kitchenette are a great cost saving option for<br />

short and long stays. There’s an outdoor pool,<br />

sundeck and free off-street parking. <strong>STA</strong>291<br />

fr $43 DORM<br />

fr $65 Twin/Double<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

fr $43 DORM<br />

fr $65 Twin/Double<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

fr $119 Twin/Double<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

Bondi surf Experience<br />

2 hours FR $122<br />

What better place to learn to surf than on<br />

famous Bondi Beach Here you’ll find fantastic<br />

waves, year-round sun and the coolest beachside<br />

vibe. Taught in a small group and given personal<br />

instruction, you’ll be up on the board riding the<br />

waves in no time. You’ll soon be dreaming of<br />

your own ‘Endless Summer’ following the surf<br />

looking for that perfect wave! <strong>STA</strong>292<br />

surf and turf<br />

full day FR $231<br />

Enjoy the ultimate Sydney experience. This full<br />

day tour starts with a morning’s surf session<br />

on famous Bondi Beach. After hanging 10, head<br />

over to The Rocks for a guided tour by bicycle<br />

to show you the best Sydney has to offer while<br />

giving you local insights for the ultimate Aussie<br />

day out. A truly entertaining and memorable<br />

experience! <strong>STA</strong>293<br />

bonza bikes bridge ride<br />

cycle tour<br />

half day FR $176<br />

Head out over the Sydney Harbour Bridge and<br />

enjoy the peaceful surrounds of Sydney’s north<br />

shore! You’ll start out in the Rocks district<br />

before you make the easy ride over the bridge<br />

- it’s an unforgettable sight looking back at<br />

Sydney’s skyline. Head around Luna Park and<br />

Lavender Bay. <strong>STA</strong>288


51<br />

byron bay<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

nomads byron bay<br />

Just 300m from the main beach, this new and<br />

flashy hostel has it all - 24hr reception, games<br />

room, cinema lounge, Internet, kitchen, patio and<br />

BBQ area. All rooms have air-con and balconies.<br />

King rooms come with plasma TVs! You’ll soon<br />

be addicted to the Byron surf culture. <strong>STA</strong>130<br />

FRIDAY’S ON THE BEACH<br />

You’ll be greeted by blue skies and white beaches<br />

as you arrive at this absolutley gorg beachfront<br />

property. Recently renovated rooms are large<br />

and roomy. All come with king size beds, LCD TVs<br />

and DVD player, iPod docking stations, air-con<br />

and a fully stocked mini bar! <strong>STA</strong>29<br />

APARTMENTS INN BYRON<br />

These new and funky apartments are right in<br />

the middle of town, surrounded by restaurants,<br />

cafes, shops, markets and nightlife. Choose from<br />

one, two and three bedroom apartments - bring<br />

your mates along too! 150m from the beach, this<br />

is the perfect spot for a bit of R&R! <strong>STA</strong>298<br />

fr $43 DORM<br />

fr $72 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

Byron Bay surf<br />

package<br />

5 Days fr $300<br />

+ bonus<br />

4TH night free<br />

01 JUN 11 - 31 AUG 11<br />

• Stay at Nomads Byron Bay<br />

• Learn to surf in the surf capital<br />

• Relax on the beach<br />

• Check out the markets and local shops<br />

• Choose from optional activites available<br />

We’ve made things dead easy for you by<br />

packaging up your accommodation at the ultra<br />

cool Nomads Byron Bay and a half-day surf<br />

lesson, all for one amazing price. Get into the<br />

true spirit of things over four days. Chill out on<br />

the white sandy beaches, soaking up the surf<br />

vibe with plenty of time to check out some of the<br />

other activities around town including kayaking,<br />

snorkelling and tandem skydiving! Also make<br />

sure you head to Cape Byron - the most easterly<br />

point in Australia. <strong>STA</strong>299<br />

fr $489 single king suite<br />

fr $244 TWIN/DOUBLE king suite<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

fr $325 single<br />

fr $162 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

Surf Lesson<br />

Half Day, fr $99<br />

Every day is a search and surf adventure. Enjoy<br />

the life of a surfer as you cruise to the pristine<br />

uncrowded beaches surrounding Byron Bay -<br />

Lennox and Ballina. Here you will learn to surf<br />

or improve your surfing technique on fun, easy<br />

waves. Have a laugh and experience some of<br />

Australia’s most unspoiled coastline. <strong>STA</strong>335<br />

Tandem Skydiving<br />

Flexi Pass<br />

Half Day, fr $290<br />

The ultimate rush with the ultimate amount<br />

of flexibility. Jump from 9,000, 11, 000 or<br />

14,000ft (with a trained pro of course) at one of<br />

four stunning locations - Cairns, Mission Beach,<br />

Byron Bay or Coffs Harbour. Not sure where<br />

you’re going to be No problem, you can work<br />

out the details later. <strong>Travel</strong> up the coast and<br />

choose your favourite jump sight. <strong>STA</strong>300


52<br />

learn to surf<br />

Great Aussie Surf<br />

Adventure<br />

5 days, fr $1,021<br />

Sydney<br />

Byron Bay<br />

• Learn to surf on beautiful beaches (no experience required)<br />

• 7x two-hour surf lessons in total<br />

• Campfire games and beach parties galore<br />

• Transport from Sydney to Byron Bay<br />

• Four nights accommodation<br />

• All meals included at the Surf Camps<br />

• All surf gear provided, including warm wetsuits in winter<br />

This is the be-all and end-all of surf adventures. Departing from Sydney<br />

every Monday morning, you can cruise north for an action packed week of<br />

surfing, beach parties, exploration and relaxation. Split the week between<br />

three luxury surf camps - Melaleucas’ teepee village and cabins; Crescent<br />

Heads’ purpose built Mojo Beach House (the sleepy surf town that holds<br />

‘Spot X’, a secret spot amoung surfing enthusiasts); and of course<br />

Australia’s surf capital, Byron Bay. This is the ultimate way to live the surf<br />

and beach lifestyle to its fullest. Long days relaxing in the sun and hitting<br />

the waves will turn into memorable nights around the campfire and of<br />

course - classic beach parties. Over five days you will meet a heap of new<br />

surfer buds, not to mention picking up a new and very cool skill. There is<br />

plenty of free time to explore and take on other optional activites like bike<br />

riding or snorkelling. Each day the best surf location is chosen depending<br />

on the wind, swells and tides.<br />

IIncluded: Experienced guides, 7 Lessons and surf gear including warm wetsuits in winter, Transport from Sydney to Byron Bay<br />

Accommodation: 4 nts dorms with shared facilities Meals: 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>294<br />

Departure Days: MON (all year) and WED (Sep-Apr)<br />

Weekend Surf<br />

Escape<br />

3 Days,<br />

Surf and stay at<br />

spot x<br />

fr $396 3 days, fr $352<br />

SydneY<br />

Sydney<br />

Woolgoolga<br />

Woolgoolga<br />

• Learn to surf on beautiful beaches (no experience required)<br />

• 3x surf lessons and two nights accommodation<br />

• Transfers to and from Sydney<br />

Escape for a weekend of fun in the surf and sun. Head up the coast to<br />

Crescent Head where you’ll surf gentle learning waves with only dolphins<br />

and kangaroos for company. Enjoy live music and tall tales at the Saturday<br />

night campfire party and lots of other activities to keep you amused.<br />

• Learn to surf on deserted beaches in a secret surfing spot<br />

• 2x surf lessons and two nights accommodation<br />

• Two breakfasts, one dinner<br />

Get off the beaten track and head out to our secret surfing location at ‘Spot<br />

X’ - a hotspot amongst avid surfers. Spend your days with the pros learning<br />

the ropes on some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia - the nights<br />

spent around the campfire are pretty memorable too!<br />

Included: 3 Lessons and surf gear including warm wetsuits in winter, transfers to/from Sydney Accommodation: 2 nts dorms with<br />

shared facilities Meals: 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 1 Dinner Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>295<br />

Departure Days: FRI<br />

Included: Experienced guides, 2 Lessons and surf gear including warm wetsuits in winter Accommodation: 2 nts dorms with<br />

shared facilities Meals: 2 breakfasts, 1 dinner Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>296<br />

Departure Days: Daily


53<br />

queensland<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

MY FAVOURITE EXPERIENCE<br />

While sailing the Whitsundays, we stumbed across a wedding on Whitehaven<br />

Beach. We woke up one morning to see a bride, groom, seaplane pilot (who<br />

doubled as a vicar) and a little girl with flowers in her hair walking the distant<br />

pristine shores. It was the perfect location for the perfect wedding. 0ne day<br />

that might be me! Stacey, Perth<br />

THE WEATHER<br />

The ‘sunshine state’ enjoys warm weather pretty much all year long.<br />

A sizeable chunk of the state is in the tropics, but since it’s pretty darn<br />

big, there is some climate variation. Low rainfall and hot summers are<br />

typical for the inland west, there is a monsoonal ‘wet’ season in the far<br />

north and warm temperate conditions along the coastal strip. Further<br />

inland and south it’s a bit cooler. The coastal strip is influenced by warm<br />

ocean waters, keeping the region free from extremes of temperature.<br />

USEFUL INFO<br />

Surfers Paradise has been twice voted the world’s best beach by<br />

Discovery Channel - pretty awesome! Famous for its healthy and<br />

athletic lifestyle, flashy restaurants, trashy bars, late-night shopping<br />

and tanned surfers toting surfboards; you really will be in paradise.<br />

USELESS INFO<br />

Queenslanders are colloquially known as ‘banana benders’ - possibly<br />

because of the large banana plantations in the tropics. Hmm,<br />

interesting. We’ll let you make up your own mind!<br />

HIGHLIGHTS:<br />

• Bask in the spectacular sun all day long<br />

• Turn up the kiddie adrenalin at the theme parks<br />

• Party the nights away in Surfers Paradise<br />

• Hit Main Beach on the Gold Coast for fresh<br />

seafood<br />

• Shop up a storm along Hastings St in Noosa<br />

• Explore picturesque coastline at Alexandra<br />

Headland<br />

• Soak up the friendly village vibe in Mooloolaba<br />

• Sail the blissful Whitsundays - it’s a given!<br />

NEW ZEALAND


54<br />

gold coast<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

1 nomads islander resort<br />

The biggest and best hostel in Surfers Paradise<br />

as well as the most central. The resort features<br />

a huge tropical pool, spa, steam room, tennis<br />

court, squash court, BBQ area, Internet lounge,<br />

video library, tour desk, communal kitchen,<br />

communal lounge and bottleshop. WOW! <strong>STA</strong>942<br />

2 NOMADS AQUARIUS<br />

Only 15 minutes from Surfers Paradise, this<br />

fab hostel packs a punch! There’s a large comfy<br />

lounge with plasma TV and DVDs, a games room<br />

and pool table, free Wi-Fi, sun terrace and party<br />

bar. They run a free shuttle bus to Surfers with<br />

free entry to selected nightclubs. <strong>STA</strong>301<br />

3 KOMUNE RESORT & BEACH CLUB<br />

Designed by an Italian architect, this super<br />

cool coastal resort exudes a laid-back, breezy<br />

atmosphere. There are plenty of room options to<br />

choose - from shared apartments to girls-only<br />

dorms - and a long list of facilities. Plus you’re<br />

only metres from the sweet surf breaks. <strong>STA</strong>302<br />

fr $46 dorm<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

+ bonus<br />

4TH night free<br />

01 MAY 11 - 31 JUL 11<br />

fr $40 dorm<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

fr $50 DORM<br />

fr $129 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

7 VIBE HOTEL<br />

You’ll love the convenience of staying right in the<br />

heart of Surfers Paradise in this uniquely chic<br />

and vibrant hotel. There’s miles of white sandy<br />

beach nearby, world class shopping, fantastic<br />

nightlife and cafes galore! If you’ve got a big<br />

personality here’s a hotel to match it. <strong>STA</strong>949<br />

8 mantra legends<br />

This newly refurbished hotel offers the perfect<br />

getaway for your glitzy stay on the Gold Coast.<br />

There’s a beautiful outdoor pool area, fully<br />

equipped gymnasium, relaxing steam room, plus<br />

most of the contemporary rooms have a private<br />

balcony, cable TV and Wi-Fi. <strong>STA</strong>303<br />

9 Mantra Circle on Cavill<br />

Located just off Cavill Avenue in a popular<br />

retail precinct in the heart of Surfers Paradise.<br />

The resort boasts spacious one, two and three<br />

bedroom apartments. The view from your room<br />

is awesome and other highlights include a 25m<br />

outdoor pool, spa and indoor sauna. TVP<br />

fr $192 SINGLE<br />

fr $96 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

+ bonus<br />

fr $204 SINGLE<br />

fr $102 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

4TH night free<br />

01 APR 11 - 30 SEP 11 + bonus<br />

3RD night free<br />

18 JAN 11 - 18 NOV 11<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

fr $131 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT


55<br />

Ross St<br />

Olsen Ave<br />

Ashmore Rd<br />

High St<br />

Coslew St<br />

Bundall Rd<br />

2<br />

Gold Coast Hwy<br />

•<br />

PARADISE<br />

WATERS<br />

•<br />

CHEVRON<br />

ISLAND<br />

9<br />

7<br />

6<br />

BRISBANE AIRPORT: 80km <br />

• MAIN BEACH<br />

• SURFERS PARADISE<br />

8<br />

1<br />

dates for your diary<br />

december, 2010/11<br />

pro kite surfing tour<br />

january 23, 2011<br />

big day out, music festival<br />

febRuary 26 - MARCH 9, 2011<br />

QUICKSILVER PRO SURF TOUR<br />

APRIL 2 - 10, 2011<br />

The surf life saving championships<br />

Nielsens Rd<br />

Robina Pkwy<br />

•<br />

FLORIDA<br />

GARDENS<br />

•<br />

MERMAID<br />

WATERS<br />

5<br />

3<br />

Gold Coast Hwy<br />

• BROADBEACH<br />

4<br />

may 26-29, 2011<br />

blues on broadbeach, music festival<br />

october, 2011<br />

gold coast 600, v8 supercars<br />

november 19 - december 11, 2011<br />

schoolies week<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

4 BreakFree Diamond Beach<br />

This resort is located on the south side of<br />

Broadbeach, less than 100m from the beach.<br />

Self-contained apartments are nestled amongst<br />

tropical gardens that boast cascading waterfalls<br />

and two free-form pools. All apartments have<br />

fans, balconies, full kitchen and laundry. TVP<br />

5 Mermaid Waters Hotel<br />

For great value accommodation and a warm<br />

welcome, look no further! Spacious rooms are<br />

modern and comfy. There’s a waterfall that<br />

cascades into a tropical pool, free transport to<br />

the beach and the treasures of the Gold Coast all<br />

on your doorstep. <strong>STA</strong>950<br />

6 WATERMARK HOTEL & SPA<br />

Located between the golden surf beaches and<br />

the Nerang River, this hotel is situated in the<br />

heart of Surfers Paradise. It offers an extensive<br />

range of deluxe facilities, including a new<br />

restaurant, the L’Aqua Day Spa, onsite gym and<br />

plush lobby lounge area .TVP<br />

fr $83 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

fr $193 SINGLE<br />

fr $96 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

fr $94 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

GOLD COAST WELCOME<br />

PACKAGE<br />

5 Days, fr $528<br />

+ bonus<br />

5TH night free<br />

23 JAN 11 - 31 MAR 11<br />

• 4 nights at Vibe Hotel (incl. 1 night free!)<br />

• Dreamworld and Whitewater World<br />

• Currumbin Wildnight Adventure and BBQ<br />

The perfect introduction to the Goldie. Stay<br />

at the Vibe Hotel, perfectly located for<br />

travellers wanting to be close to everything -<br />

designer shopping, great restaurants, a host<br />

of nightclubs, plus the beach is within walking<br />

distance for all the sun and surf you want. Ready<br />

to have some fun Embrace your inner kid with<br />

a day at Dreamworld and Whitewater World.<br />

You’ll also get a spot on the Gold Coast’s only<br />

night-time wildlife tour featuring an amazing<br />

Aboriginal Corroboree show at Currumbin. Watch<br />

as the animals come out to feed - and feed<br />

yourself with an included buffet BBQ!<br />

* Valid for stays 01Apr11-30Sep11


56<br />

Gold Coast theme Parks<br />

3 Days fr $219 3 Days fr $246<br />

Gold Coast Kayaking<br />

• 2 nights at Nomads Aquarius Hostel<br />

• Backpackers big night out<br />

• Entry to a Gold Coast theme park<br />

• Plenty of time to hit the beach<br />

• Explore other optional activities available<br />

For three wild days on the Gold Coast, you’ll be housed at the fun-loving<br />

Aquarius Hostel, just a few minutes from the centre of Surfer Paradise.<br />

Now two nights here would be pretty fun, but with this package you also<br />

get a ticket to one of the Gold Coast’s famous theme parks. Choose to<br />

spend the day at Sea World, Wet n Wild, Movie World or Dreamworld. Big<br />

thrills, big stars, big marine animals or big water slides! There is also plenty<br />

of time to hit the beach or the shops and live it up a little. <strong>STA</strong>304<br />

• 2 nights at Nomads Aquarius Hostel<br />

• Free entry to selected night clubs<br />

• Kayak and snorkelling adventure<br />

• Plenty of time to hit the beach<br />

• Explore other optional activities available<br />

There really is something for everyone on the sunny Gold Coast and over<br />

three days you’ll have the opportunity to experience plenty of them! You’ll<br />

stay at the Aquarius Hostel where you’ll find clean, modern and friendly<br />

accommodation with a great bar and nightly activities like pool, darts and<br />

party games. You’ll then get an included day kayaking and snorkelling with<br />

the opportunity to spot dolphins and experience some unique Aboriginal<br />

culture. Make time to check out Surfer Paradise as well. <strong>STA</strong>305<br />

dreamworld pass<br />

full Day, fr $99<br />

Ready to embrace your big kid<br />

After two decades, Dreamworld is<br />

still Australia’s biggest theme park.<br />

From the tallest and fastest rides<br />

to live entertainment and unique<br />

animal attractions - it’s all here!<br />

<strong>STA</strong>955<br />

Crocodile Express<br />

full Day fr $172<br />

ex GOLD COAST/BRISBANE<br />

All aboard the Crocodile Express.<br />

Explore the many exhibits and<br />

daily shows at the Australia Zoo!<br />

Founded by the legendary late croc<br />

hunter Steve Irwin, there is plenty<br />

of wildlife to keep you entertained.<br />

See kangaroos, koalas, emus,<br />

snakes and of course - crocs! Don’t<br />

miss the croc feeding show at noon<br />

which is definitely a highlight. <strong>STA</strong>350<br />

hot air Balloon &<br />

Champagne Breakfast<br />

half day, fr $284<br />

ex BRISBANE<br />

Enjoy a dreamy 30 minute hot air<br />

balloon ride over the hinterland<br />

as the horizon comes alive in the<br />

sunrise. Back on the ground, relive<br />

the excitement over a champagne<br />

breakfast. <strong>STA</strong>306<br />

Currumbin Wildnight<br />

Adventure<br />

full Day, fr $122<br />

Meet koalas, kangaroos, crocs,<br />

wombats and the cheeky Tassie<br />

Devil on a night-time adventure.<br />

Watch the animals come out to<br />

feed, hunt and play - and feed<br />

yourself too! You’ll enjoy a tasty<br />

bush inspired buffet dinner,<br />

including billy tea and damper<br />

bread *mmm*. <strong>STA</strong>309<br />

Whales in paradise<br />

Half Day, fr $117<br />

ex BRISBANE/GOLD COAST<br />

Whale spotting off the beautiful<br />

Queensland coast is something<br />

that should not be missed, with<br />

guaranteed sightings June to<br />

October. Watch in awe-struck<br />

wonder as these giants play in the<br />

water. Way too cute! <strong>STA</strong>307<br />

Tangalooma Island<br />

Adventure tour<br />

full Day, fr $237<br />

ex GOLD COAST<br />

The cool blue waters and white<br />

beaches of Tangalooma await.<br />

Make a special connection with<br />

wild dolphins as you hand-feed<br />

them from the shore and soak up<br />

the island lifestyle with over<br />

80 optional activites to choose<br />

from. One of Queensland’s most<br />

pristine areas. <strong>STA</strong>308<br />

Jump the Beach<br />

Tandem Skydive<br />

half Day, fr $371<br />

ex brisbane<br />

Just 30 minutes north of Brisbane,<br />

the amazing Suttons Beach Drop<br />

Zone is nestled between two of<br />

Brisbane’s amazing land marks;<br />

the islands of Bribie and Moreton<br />

and the beautiful Glass House<br />

Mountains. Take the plunge from<br />

11,000 or 14,000ft and freefall<br />

for up to 60 seconds before<br />

floating onto the beach below.<strong>STA</strong>349


57<br />

BRISBANE<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

base brisbane central<br />

Base Central is a party hostel, right in the heart<br />

of Brisbane close to all the pubs, restaurants<br />

and entertainment. The hotel facilities include a<br />

24hr reception, internet access, comfortable TV<br />

lounges, a funky bar open until 3am and a big<br />

rooftop terrace where guests can relax. <strong>STA</strong>943<br />

metro tower mill, brisbane<br />

This swish hotel boasts 80 well equipped rooms,<br />

most with their own private walkout balconies<br />

for panoramic views of the city. There’s a 24hr<br />

reception, restaurant, bar and free parking.<br />

Located right in the middle of town you’re only a<br />

short walk from South Bank and CBD. <strong>STA</strong>957<br />

BRISBANE MARRIOTT<br />

With its stylish architecture, elegant spaces<br />

and attentive staff, the Brisbane Marriott Hotel<br />

makes a lasting impression. Enjoy coffee and<br />

cocktails at the Lobby Lounge, relax in the<br />

pool or at the hotel’s award-winning Spa which<br />

provides hours of blissful distraction. <strong>STA</strong>340<br />

fr $40 DORM<br />

fr $54 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

fr $216 single<br />

fr $108 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

fr $188 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

Bushwacker Fraser<br />

Island Tour<br />

2 Days, fr $457<br />

• 4WD along the beach<br />

• Swim in crystal clear freshwater lakes<br />

• Spot dingoes and other wildlife<br />

• Check out the multi-coloured sands<br />

• Explore a shipwreck<br />

Leaving Brisbane, head straight up the coast<br />

to Rainbow Beach where you can check out the<br />

multi coloured sands that give this place its<br />

name. 4WD along the sand ‘highway’ to meet<br />

your ferry across to Fraser Island. Renowned<br />

for its beautiful beaches, enormous dunes,<br />

freshwater lakes and unique wildlife, spend two<br />

days exploring tropical haven. Spend the night at<br />

Eurong Beach Resort and be treated to a yummy<br />

Aussie buffet dinner as the sun sets. <strong>STA</strong>343


58<br />

Outback Wildlife<br />

& Farm stay<br />

5 Days, fr $1,285<br />

4WD Moreton<br />

Island Adventure<br />

2 Days, fr $350<br />

brisbane<br />

brisbane<br />

brisbane<br />

brisbane<br />

• Relax in the therapeutic Artesian Waters<br />

• Make billy tea and damper around the campfire<br />

• Enjoy a boat cruise on the Warrego River<br />

• Sleep in traditional Aussie swags under the starry sky<br />

• Sample real-life outback experiences<br />

Day 1: Brisbane to Charlotte Plains Farm stay<br />

An early departure from Brisbane. Enjoy fantastic views of the changing<br />

landscapes as you head west into QLD’s outback. Arrive at Charlotte Plains<br />

farm stay, where dinner will be served with the station owners. (D)<br />

Day 2: Farm stay<br />

Enjoy a guided tour of the farm, shearing shed, wildlife and then lay back<br />

and relax in nature’s Artesian water and enjoy the therapeutic benefits.<br />

Make billy tea and damper, a traditional Aussie outback smoko. (B, L, D)<br />

• Camp on the beach at Moreton Island<br />

• Take a dip in the Blue Lagoon<br />

• Go sandboarding down the dunes<br />

• Snorkel around a shipwreck<br />

• Explore a tropical rainforest<br />

Camping bush safari style, you’ll spend two days exploring the beautiful<br />

sub-tropical Moreton Island with a flexible itinerary that changes<br />

depending on the weather and tides - meaning each tour is unique. 4WD<br />

your way to rainforest hideaways and take aromatherapy to a whole<br />

new level with a dip in the Blue Lagoon; a freshwater lake infused with<br />

theraputic tea tree oils. Snorkel around ship wrecks, stroll along 40kms of<br />

surf beach and sandboard down some devilish dunes! <strong>STA</strong>342<br />

Day 3: Farm stay to Cunnamulla<br />

Say bye to your hosts and head for Cunnamulla to meet the local<br />

characters. Tour the heritage town and then enjoy a boat cruise on the<br />

magnificent Warrego River. Enjoy dinner under the stars. (B, L, D)<br />

Day 4: Cunnamulla<br />

Visit the historic cemetery where you will learn some history and stories<br />

of past local characters. Later, brace yourself for an awesome Aussie pub<br />

crawl around the local’s favourite watering holes. (B, L, D)<br />

Day 5: Cunnamulla to Brisbane<br />

It’s time to say goodbye to the outback and make the journey back to<br />

coastal Brisbane. (B)<br />

Brisbane &<br />

Moreton Bay<br />

3 Days, fr $676<br />

DEPARTURES<br />

2011<br />

JAN-DEC SUN<br />

brisbane<br />

brisbane<br />

Inclusions: Return travel on Greyhound/Coach Qld from<br />

Brisbane Transit Centre, all entry fees Accommodation:<br />

4 nts camping in swags under the stars in a mix of camp<br />

grounds and farmstay Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4<br />

dinners Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>593<br />

• Snorkel around the Tangalooma Wreck<br />

• Tandem skydive on to the beack<br />

• Take a 4WD adventure to Moreton Island<br />

• Go swimming in the Blue Lagoon<br />

<strong>STA</strong>Y LONGER IN bRISBANE<br />

CHECK OUT PAGE 57<br />

Cunnamulla •<br />

• Farmstay<br />

• Brisbane<br />

Experience Moreton Bay to the MAX with this great value package<br />

that combines three great tours. You’ll get a day to snorkel around the<br />

Tangalooma Wreck and experience ‘boom-netting’. Get the biggest adrenaline<br />

rush of your life as you tandem skydive from 11,000ft right on to the beach<br />

and finally take a 4WD tour to Moreton Island where you can sandboard<br />

down massive dunes and and swim in the theraputic Blue Lagoon. No<br />

accomodation is included but there’s lots of options to choose from. <strong>STA</strong>344


59<br />

SUNSHINE COAST<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

NOMADS NOOSA<br />

Full of fun time vibes, this hostel has a big<br />

outdoor swimming pool, volley ball court, party<br />

bar, pool table and direct access to Noosa’s main<br />

beach. Located just across the road from all the<br />

trendy bars, restaurants, shops and cinema,<br />

you’re right in the think of things! <strong>STA</strong>346<br />

fr $44 dorm<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

+ bonus<br />

4TH night free<br />

01 APR 11 - 31 OCT 11<br />

MooLOOlaBA BACKPACKERS<br />

Located just a two minute stroll from the white<br />

sandy beach of Mooloolaba and some of the<br />

best surfing in Queensland. There’s a TV lounge<br />

and kitchen on every floor, a relaxing swimming<br />

pool for when you’re not at the beach and free<br />

surfboard, bike, kayak and body board hire! <strong>STA</strong>347<br />

fr $39 DORM<br />

fr $47 DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT including breakfast<br />

BreakFree Alexandra Beach<br />

This resort is uniquely designed around its<br />

150m lagoon pool, located directly opposite the<br />

patrolled surf beach at Alexandra Headland. The<br />

hinterland, fabulous restaurants and shopping<br />

are all within easy reach. Choose from studios<br />

and self-contained apartments with air-con.TVP<br />

fr $83 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

Novotel Twin Waters<br />

This multi award-winning resort occupies a<br />

unique location where the river meets the sea.<br />

Located within minutes of popular restaurants<br />

and shopping, use it as a central base to explore<br />

from or simply enjoy the fab facilities like free<br />

water sports gear and 18 hole golf course.TVP<br />

fr$87 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

+ bonus<br />

6TH night free<br />

16 JAN 11 - 31 MAR 11<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT including breakfast<br />

The Sebel Resort Noosa<br />

Located smack-bang on Hastings Street, this<br />

luxurious resort is close to all the action, just<br />

steps away from Noosa’s main beach and<br />

National Park. Each of the spacious apartments<br />

are equipped with kitchen, laundry, spa bath,<br />

lounge/dining area, cable TV and balcony. TVP<br />

fr $155 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

+ bonus<br />

6TH night free<br />

16 JAN 11 - 31 MAR 11<br />

QUAY WEST NOOSA<br />

A contemporary apartment-style resort with<br />

world-class leisure facilities. In a privileged<br />

location close to Hastings Street with superb<br />

Noosa views, you’re close to all the action but<br />

will feel miles away. You’ll love the luxurious Mii<br />

Day Spa for a bit of pampering. <strong>STA</strong>348<br />

fr $370 single<br />

fr $185 DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

+ bonus<br />

7TH night free<br />

01 APR 11 - 31 AUG 11<br />

31 OCT 11 - 22 DEC 11


60<br />

fraser island<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

Palace Backpackers, Hervey Bay<br />

Set in tropical gardens, Palace Backpackers<br />

is a home away from home with its unique<br />

self-contained apartment style accommodation<br />

including kitchen and lounge. Take the time to<br />

relax around the swimming pool, hang out in the<br />

hammocks or use the free BBQ facilities. <strong>STA</strong>133<br />

Fraser’s on Rainbow, Rainbow bEACH<br />

This awesome new pad, in the centre of Rainbow<br />

Beach, is a brilliant place to stay on your way to<br />

Fraser Island. There is a fully equipped kitchen<br />

and BBQ area, Internet, bar, tennis court and a<br />

large pool. All rooms have private bathrooms -<br />

even the dorms! <strong>STA</strong>916<br />

Kingfisher bay resort, fRASER iSLAND<br />

Located on Fraser Island, this stunning resort<br />

is in perfect harmony with its natural surrounds<br />

and has every facility under the sun. Wander<br />

the timber walkways, stretch out in your<br />

luxurious room and enjoy first class dining in<br />

one of the three restaurants. <strong>STA</strong>948<br />

fr $38 DORm<br />

fr $40 Twin/Double<br />

fr $38 DORM<br />

fr $52 Twin/Double<br />

fr $355 sINGLE<br />

fr $211 Twin/Double<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

Kingfisher Bay<br />

Adventure<br />

3 Days, fr $603<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

HERVEY BAY<br />

HERVEY BAY<br />

• 2 nights at the beautiful Kingfisher Bay Resort<br />

• Full day 4WD ranger guided Beauty Spot eco-tour<br />

• Return transfer, including ferry, to Hervey Bay<br />

Day 1: Hervey Bay to Fraser Island<br />

Await your pick up from either the airport or your Hervey Bay accommodation.<br />

You are then whisked off to the glorious Kingfisher Bay Resort on world<br />

famous Fraser Island, where you will check-in and relax in your new<br />

surroundings. With three restaurants and four pools to choose from and a<br />

luxurious spa, we know keeping yourself entertained won’t be hard.<br />

Day 2: Fraser Island<br />

After a yummy hot buffet breakfast at the resort, you will start your Fraser<br />

Island 4WD adventure! Your expert guide will show you the best the island<br />

has to offer - Seventy Mile Beach, Wanggoolba Creek and Lake Mackenzie.<br />

You won’t go hungry on this tour which includes morning tea, lunch and<br />

afternoon refreshments. When the evening approaches, head back to the<br />

resort and chill out, swap stories or show off your amazing photos!<br />

Day 3: Fraser Island TO HERVEY BAY<br />

After another delicious gourmet breakfast, soak up the last of the island vibes<br />

before being transferred back to Hervey Bay. <strong>STA</strong>601


61<br />

Fraser Island 4WD<br />

Guided tour<br />

2 or 3 Days,<br />

Hervey Bay<br />

Hervey Bay<br />

Fraser & the<br />

Whitsundays<br />

fr $438 7 Days, fr $972<br />

EASYRIDER<br />

Hervey Bay or AirliE<br />

TAG-ALONG<br />

Hervey Bay or AIRLIE<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

• 4WD along the beach and through sand dunes<br />

• Admire the vibrant coloured sands<br />

• Snap pics at the rusting Maheno shipwreck<br />

Fraser Island is a must-see in Australia. You’ll have an expert guide with you<br />

as you tackle massive sand dunes in your 4WD to explore the hidden freshc<br />

water lakes, secluded beaches and spot local wildlife. You’ll stay in a comfy<br />

wilderness lodge and be treated to gourmet meals.<br />

Accommodation: 1 or 2 nts at Wilderness Lodge with shared facilities Meals 2 day tour: 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner.<br />

Meals 3 day tour: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners Age 18-35’s Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>COOL2<br />

Departure Days: Daily from Hervey Bay or Brisbane. Departures from Brisbane will overnight in Hervey Bay.<br />

• Swim, snorkel, sunbathe and relax in the Whitsundays<br />

• Drive over sand dunes to pristine lakes on Fraser Island<br />

• Enjoy total flexibility - you choose the order!<br />

Experience the east coast’s two most talked about destinations. Cruise<br />

through the idyllic Whitsunday Islands and then join a tag-along 4WD<br />

adventure on Fraser. Choose to be a passenger or get behind the wheel and<br />

cruise along the beach following the lead car - it’s all about flexibility.<br />

Accommodation: 2 nts Whitsunday Sailing, 2 nts hostel, 2 nts camping on Fraser Meals: all meals included while sailing , none<br />

included on Fraser Island Note: own transfer between Airlie Beach & Hervey Bay or vice versa Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>PABUD<br />

Departure Days: Daily from Hervey Bay or Airlie Beach.<br />

Fraser island<br />

4wd Safari<br />

5 Days, fr $412 5 Days, fr $458<br />

TAG-ALONG<br />

4WD Fraser Island:<br />

Pot of Gold<br />

TAG-ALONG<br />

Hervey Bay<br />

Hervey Bay<br />

Rainbow Beach<br />

Rainbow Beach<br />

• Jump in the fresh waters of Lake McKenzie<br />

• Admire spectacular views from India Head<br />

• Keep a look out for dingoes and other unique wildlife<br />

This Fraser Island 4WD tour gives you the independence of a self drive plus<br />

the convenience of a guided tour. You’ll travel in a tag-along style with a<br />

maximum of four cars in the group and will have the opportunity to explore<br />

all the amazing sights on the island. Really get off the beaten track!<br />

Accommodation: 2 nts Nomads Hervey Bay, 2 nts at a permanent campsite including all camping/cooking equiptment on Fraser<br />

Island Meals: 2 meals at Nomads Hervey Bay Local Payment: Price includes fuel & insurance approx AUD70 payable locally<br />

Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>351 Departure Days: Daily<br />

• Visit stunning Seventy Five Mile Beach<br />

• Spot wildlife including echidnas, wallabies and dingoes<br />

• Check out the stunning sand dunes, lakes and waterfalls<br />

The perfect package to explore Fraser Island - you’ll get to drive a 4WD<br />

along sandy beaches before finding an idyllic spot to set up camp as you fall<br />

asleep to the sounds of the waves lapping at the shore...bliss. It’s all about<br />

independence and flexibility as you tailor an itinerary with your guide.<br />

Accommodation: 3 nts Frasers on Rainbow, 2 nts camping on Fraser Island including all Camping and cooking equipment Meals:<br />

3 days of Local Payment: Price includes fuel, insurance & park fees approx AUD74 payable locally Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>917<br />

Departure Days: Daily


62<br />

airlie beach<br />

& Whitsundays<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

nomads Airlie Beach<br />

Before or after you sail around the Whitsundays,<br />

make sure you stay at Nomads Airlie Beach. Chill<br />

out by the pool, challenge your friends to a game<br />

of volleyball or join your buddies at the bar to<br />

experience the relaxed atmosphere and cheap<br />

drinks on offer! <strong>STA</strong>352<br />

fr $39 DORM<br />

fr $59 DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

+ bonus<br />

Whitehaven Beach:<br />

Camira day sailing<br />

full Day, fr $237<br />

For an awesome day out on the Whitsunday<br />

waters, the Camira is a world first with her<br />

sleek lines, spacious deck and mind-blowing<br />

performance! Experience exhilarating sailing<br />

as you swim and snorkel in beautiful beaches<br />

and enjoy a stuff-yourself-silly BBQ lunch with<br />

unlimited refreshments. <strong>STA</strong>356<br />

Great Barrier Reef<br />

Adventure<br />

4TH night free<br />

02 JAN 11 - 11 AUG 11<br />

21 AUG 11 - 22 DEC 11<br />

full Day, fr $270<br />

Cruise aboard Seaflight to the innovative reef<br />

pontoon featuring a giant waterslide, underwater<br />

viewing chamber, semi-sub and glass bottom<br />

boat rides. For an unforgettable day on the reef<br />

you can choose to snorkel or dive to discover the<br />

underwater wonderland of Knuckle Reef Lagoon<br />

and be blown away by the colourful corals. <strong>STA</strong>357<br />

coral sea resort<br />

For a luxury beach getaway, you couldn’t do<br />

much better! From the outside, it looks like a<br />

Mediterranean villa, with balconies, arches and<br />

columns overlooking expansive lush gardens.<br />

Inside, you’ll find a cool and relaxing oasis from<br />

Airlie Beach’s tourist hustle and bustle. <strong>STA</strong>353<br />

fr $331 Single<br />

fr $166 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

+ bonus<br />

4TH night free<br />

01 APR 11 - 31 AUG 11<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT including breakfast<br />

waters edge Resort<br />

This hillside property is lush and exactly what<br />

you need if you like to be pampered! With<br />

extensive facilities including three pools - all<br />

with a different view, Balinese styled rooms with<br />

views of the coral sea and Déjà vu - a boutique<br />

restaurant with a tasty seafood menu. <strong>STA</strong>354<br />

fr $284 Single<br />

fr $142 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

Whitsundays Island<br />

Hopper<br />

4 Days, fr $802<br />

+ bonus<br />

4TH night free<br />

01 APR 11 - 24 DEC 11<br />

• 3 nights at Coral Sea Resort<br />

• Island cruise to Hamilton and Whitehaven<br />

• Airport transfers<br />

• Daily breakfast<br />

Combine luxury accommodation and the hip<br />

nightlife of Airlie Beach with your days sailing<br />

around the Whitsundays. What you get is a<br />

very exciting package! The included day trip<br />

to Hamilton Island and Whitehaven Beach will<br />

certainly be a highlight and in your free time<br />

make use of the Coral Sea Resort’s extensive list<br />

of services including an indulgent pool and a spa<br />

for pampering treatments. Don’t forget to check<br />

out the action in town - hit the shops, grap a<br />

meal or take to the bars. <strong>STA</strong>358


63<br />

hamilton island<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

palm bungalows<br />

Take full advantage of all the resort facilities<br />

including pools, restaurants and bars. The<br />

gorgeous bungalows are in a garden setting each<br />

with their own balcony. They are so close to<br />

the beach that you’ll fall asleep at night to the<br />

soothing sounds of gentle crashing waves. <strong>STA</strong>943<br />

reef view Hotel<br />

The name says it all. If you want stunning views<br />

of the reef from your very own balcony, then<br />

you’ve come to the right place. Rooms have<br />

contemporary furnishings and there is also a<br />

relaxing pool, lounge bar and pampering day spa<br />

to take advantage of. <strong>STA</strong>360<br />

whitsundays holiday<br />

apartments<br />

These holiday apartments come with everything<br />

you need for independent living but still give you<br />

access to all the resort’s pools, bars, restaurants<br />

and water sports. Fantastic coral sea or tropical<br />

garden views from your private balcony. <strong>STA</strong>361<br />

fr $443 Single<br />

fr $221 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

fr $493 Single<br />

fr $247 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

fr $243 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHt<br />

Hamilton Island Package<br />

3 Days, fr $684<br />

Situated on the Great Barrier Reef amongst the idyllic Whitsundays,<br />

Hamilton is rightly regarded as one of the most beautiful islands. We think<br />

it’s the best place to enjoy a few days to relax in the sun, swim, snorkel or<br />

sail in the clear blue water. This outrageously good value package combines<br />

three nights at the tropical Palm Bungalows, daily breakfast and a heap of<br />

water activites to try if you can drag yourself off the beach.<br />

Included: Return Airport/Marina to hotel transfers, Full Day Fantasea Adventure Cruising on the Great Barrier Reef, Use of non<br />

motorised water sports Accommodation: 2 nts Palm Bungalows Meals: 2 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong> 359<br />

Departure Days: Daily


64<br />

whitsunday ISLANDS<br />

South MolLe<br />

Island Resort<br />

3 days,<br />

fr $404<br />

• 2 nights accommodation on South Mole Island<br />

• Great Barrier Reef day trip<br />

• Daily breakfast included<br />

• Return ferry transfers to Airlie Beach<br />

• Use of island facilities including non motorised water sports<br />

One of nature’s most beautiful gifts to the Whitsundays is South<br />

Molle Island. The island is a national park and has beautiful bays,<br />

beaches, tropical forest and mountain peaks with magnificent views<br />

and the very best walks of the Ngaro Sea Trail Great Walk. The resort<br />

is set in the heart of it all on a palm clad beach. The bay is like a<br />

marine sanctuary with fringing coral reef and a haven for exotic fish<br />

life, turtles and visiting dolphins. At night, dine poolside, meet fellow<br />

travellers in the beachfront bar or join the party nights.<br />

South Molle Island attracts young travellers (and the young at heart)<br />

from all over the world. The resort offers clean, comfortable rooms<br />

and dorms in a 5-star location. This package includes a trip to the<br />

magnificent Great Barrier Reef with Cruise Whitsundays and there are<br />

more optional activites to try than you can poke a stick at! There’s a<br />

nine hole golf course, kayaking, windsurfing, catamaran hire, archery,<br />

tennis, snorkelling, bush walks and day cruises to Whitehaven Beach.<br />

Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong> 362<br />

Daydream Island<br />

Resort<br />

3 days, fr $432<br />

• 2 nights accommodation on Daydream Island<br />

• Great Barrier Reef day trip<br />

• Daily breakfast included<br />

• Return ferry transfers to Airlie Beach<br />

• Use of island facilities<br />

Daydream Island Resort provides a fantastic tropical island getaway.<br />

The resort occupies the whole island with large areas of bush,<br />

gardens, several blissfull beaches and relaxing pool areas - so<br />

it’s very easy to find your own space. See the shark and stingray<br />

feeding in the amazing Living Reef lagoon pools, stroll along Sunset<br />

Beach, see wallabies and birdlife on a rainforest walk or enjoy the<br />

‘Around Australia’ mini golf course. There is a range of lively bars and<br />

restaurants to choose from, outdoor movies in the evening and be<br />

sure not to miss the cocktails in the pool bar! For a few days relaxing<br />

in the heart of the Whitsundays you can’t beat Daydreaming. A trip<br />

to the magnificent Great Barrier Reef with Cruise Whitsundays is also<br />

included and there are loads of optional activites on the island to try<br />

- you certainly won’t get bored if you can drag yourself off the beach!<br />

There’s a 19 hole mini golf course, kayaking, windsurfing, catamarans,<br />

tennis, snorkelling, bush walks, day cruises to Whitehaven and the<br />

Rejuvenation Spa where you can indulge.<br />

Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong> 363


65<br />

Whitsunday<br />

Tropical Dreamz<br />

7 days,<br />

fr $888<br />

• 5 nights accommodation in the Whitsundays<br />

• Great Barrier Reef day trip<br />

• Whitehaven Sailing Adventure<br />

• Return ferry transfers to Airlie Beach<br />

• 3 breakfasts and 1 lunch<br />

If you want to make the most of the Whitsundays and the Great<br />

Barrier Reef, here is your chance! We have combined all the best<br />

must-see sights plus a few gems you might not know about to come<br />

up with this incredible package. Not only is it super good value but<br />

each day will see you in a new location more beautiful than the<br />

last. You will get a chance to explore Airlie Beach - the shops, the<br />

restaurants, the bars and the famous Beach Lagoon. It’s then off to<br />

explore the islands and of course the reef! You’ll spend two nights<br />

on South Molle Island, home to palm clad beaches, excellent island<br />

walks and pristine bays where you can laze in a beachside hammock<br />

or by the pool. It’s then off to explore the wonders of Daydream<br />

Island for another two nights. Get up close to sharks and stingrays<br />

in the Living Reef Lagoon and explore pristine beaches. A trip to<br />

the Outer Reef for a day of snorkelling, diving and swimming is also<br />

included plus a thrilling day of adventure sailing on board Camira to<br />

Whitehaven Beach. This is the ultimate Whitsundays experience.<br />

Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong> 364<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

Awesome<br />

foursome<br />

4 days,<br />

fr $874<br />

• 3 nights accommodation on South Molle Island<br />

• Great Barrier Reef day trip<br />

• Whitehaven Sailing Adventure<br />

• Return ferry transfers to Airlie Beach<br />

• 3 breakfasts and 3 lunches<br />

There are plenty of options when it comes to exploring the<br />

Whitsundays but we think we have nailed the perfect combo with this<br />

great value package. You will get four nights on the stunning South<br />

Molle Island - budget accommodation in a 5-star location! The resort<br />

is set in the heart of a palm fringed beach where you can laze away<br />

in a hammock. The bay itself is like a marine sanctuary; a haven for<br />

exotic fish life, turtles and visiting dolphins amongst stunning coral<br />

reef. At night, dine poolside, meet new mates in the beachfront bar or<br />

join the party nights. We’ll also include some awesome day trips -<br />

board the Whitsundays’ premier vessel Seaflight for a cruise out to<br />

the stunning Knuckle Reef Lagoon, acclaimed as the region’s most<br />

spectacular reef site. Go diving, snorkeling and hit the waterslide on<br />

Queensland’s most innovative reef pontoon. Another day will be spent<br />

exploring the magnificent Whitehaven Beach and the spectacular<br />

Whitsunday Islands National Park on board a sailing catamaran. Go<br />

sailing each day, party and sleep on the island each night. Perfect!<br />

Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong> 365


66<br />

whitsunday sailing<br />

sail & dive<br />

2 & 3 days,<br />

fr $629<br />

• Fully qualified diving instructors and top professional crew<br />

• Comfy, fast and fantastic sailing and motor yachts<br />

• Diving for first timers and certifieds can hone their skills<br />

• See spectacular marine life, coral and island scenery<br />

It’s highly likely that one activity on your must-do list is seeing the<br />

Great Barrier Reef. Perfect! These dive and sail adventures let you do<br />

just that. Get out and about on one of the diving yachts and whether<br />

you’re a first timer or a super experienced diver you’ll be sure to have<br />

a whale of a time exploring the coral fringed reef. But that’s not all -<br />

there’s also a chance to snorkel, kayak, bushwalk or simply strip off<br />

and sunbathe while you sail the ocean blue. It’s a great option even if<br />

you’re not a keen diver - lie back on deck and soak up the sun. <strong>STA</strong>366<br />

BOAT NAME DEPARTS DURATION SHARED<br />

CABIN<br />

PER PERSON<br />

PRIVATE CABIN<br />

PER PERSON<br />

VESSEL STYLE<br />

Wings 2 MON, WED, SAT 2 days $629 N/A Dive Cat Adventures<br />

Wings 3 FRI, SUN 2 days $642 N/A Dive Cat Adventures<br />

Powerplay TUE, THU, SAT 2 days $669 N/A Dive Cat Adventures<br />

Summertime THU, SUN 3 days $803 $921 Sail & Dive Adventures<br />

Kiana MON, FRI 3 days $876 $940 Islands & Outer Reef<br />

Emperors Wings TUE 3 days $793 N/A Islands & Outer Reef<br />

Whitsunday Getaway FRI, SUN 2 days N/A $988 Style Cat Adventures<br />

Whitsunday Getaway TUE 3 days N/A $1,258 Style Cat Adventures<br />

Pacific Sunrise SUN, WED 3 days $946 $1,002 Sail & Dive Adventures<br />

sailing<br />

adventures<br />

2 & 3 days,<br />

fr $484<br />

• Take part in a whole host of on and offshore activities<br />

• A range of vessels to suit social and relaxed cruising<br />

• Great home-cooked grub prepared fresh on board<br />

• Live aboard a big, fast, comfortable and swanky yacht<br />

If diving isn’t up there on your to-do list then adventure sailing should<br />

be! Spend time cruising on one of these awesome vessels - you’ll<br />

seriously be blown away with the wind beneath your wings. Explore<br />

the beautiful Whitsundays with their stunning scenery, epic views and<br />

fantastic marine life. Take part in activities like snorkelling, kayaking,<br />

exploring, bushwalking and learning about the local ecology. <strong>STA</strong>367<br />

BOAT NAME DEPARTS DURATION SHARED CABIN<br />

PER PERSON<br />

PRIVATE CABIN<br />

PER PERSON<br />

VESSEL STYLE<br />

SV Whitehaven* TUE, THU, SUN 2 days $581 N/A Eco Sailing Adventures<br />

Silent Night* MON, WED, FRI 2 days $634 N/A Adventure Sailing<br />

Waltzing Matilda* SAT, TUE, THU 2 days $484 $536 Adventure Sailing<br />

Alexander Stewart* MON, FRI 3 days $797 $888 Eco Tallship Adventures<br />

Derwent Hunter* TUE, SAT 3 days $797 $940 Eco Tallship Adventures<br />

Whitsunday Blue** MON, THU, SAT 2 days N/A $934 Style Cat Adventures<br />

* Snorkelling Availble ** Rendevous Diving Available<br />

cruising for couples<br />

On both these diving and adventure packages you have the option<br />

to upgrade to a private double cabin. Some even have ensuites!<br />

Perfect for all you young romantics out there.<br />

For just a little extra, you can pump up the style factor and spend<br />

some quality time with that extra special person in your life.<br />

Ask your friendly <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> adviser for all the details. <strong>STA</strong>368


67<br />

maxi sailing<br />

2 days,<br />

fr $444<br />

• Sail a Maxi racing yacht at super fast speeds<br />

• Sit out under the stars with like minded travellers<br />

• Go snorkelling and swimming in the clear Whitsunday waters<br />

• Daily departures mean you can travel when you want<br />

Set sail on a famous Ocean Racing Maxi yacht! Spacious and fast, you’ll<br />

be guaranteed to have an amazing time sailing round some of the most<br />

stunning ocean scenery on the planet. With larger groups up to 28 people<br />

of 18-35 year olds, you’ll get to spend some quality social time with other<br />

young travellers - and you can expect a bit of a party onboard! You’ll be<br />

fed every day with some tasty treats from the boat’s galley and you’ll be<br />

accompanied by a team of easygoing, highly professional crew. Why not<br />

ask to help sail the yacht yourself Get out and about on snorkelling tours,<br />

swimming, beach stops and guided islands walks. <strong>STA</strong>369<br />

BOAT NAME DEPARTS DURATION MAX NUMBER OF<br />

PASSENGERS<br />

Maxi Hammer Even Days 2 days/1 night 22 Guests $444<br />

Maxi Siska Odd Days 2 days/1 night 22 Guests $444<br />

Maxi British Defender TUE, THU, SAT 2 days/2 nights 28 Guests $541<br />

Maxi Condor TUE, THU, SUN 2 days/2 nights 28 Guests $541<br />

Maxi Boomerang SUN, WED, FRI 2 days/2 nights 28 Guests $541<br />

Maxi Broomstick MON, WED, SAT 2 days/2 nights 25 Guests $541<br />

*Age: 18 - 35’s<br />

SHARE CABIN<br />

PER PERSON<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

adventure<br />

sailing<br />

3 days,<br />

fr $662<br />

• Choose from four live-aboard yachts with daily departures<br />

• Take part in loads of activities on and offshore<br />

• Single and double bunks available<br />

• Transfers to/from Airlie Beach to the marina included<br />

These adventures are aimed specifically at young fun things within the<br />

18-35 bracket. Choose from four yachts that range in size from 50ft<br />

to 68ft and cater to a maximum of 16 people. With lower numbers on<br />

board you’ll get the most out of your time on and around the islands.<br />

Perfect for guests looking for a live-aboard sailing adventure, you’ll fill<br />

your days snorkelling over coral reefs, stopping at islands to laze on<br />

pristine beaches and exploring the amazing bush walks. <strong>STA</strong>370<br />

CRUISE DEPARTS DURATION PRICE PER PERSON<br />

Southern Cross Tue, Fri 3 days/2 nights $662<br />

Eureka II Wed, Sat 3 days/2 nights $662<br />

Ron of Argyll II Wed, Sun 3 days/2 nights $662<br />

Ragamuffin II Mon, Thu 3 days/2 nights $662<br />

*Age: 18 - 35’s<br />

tall ship sailing<br />

3 & 6 days,<br />

fr $759<br />

• Sail in the magnificent and historic Solway Lass<br />

• Range of dates and accommodation options to suit you<br />

• Heaps of Whitsunday activities included<br />

• Freshly prepared meals onboard daily<br />

Solway Lass, the Whitsunday’s magnificent tall ship, was built in Holland<br />

in 1902 and has an amazing history, being involved in both world wars<br />

and sailing the Baltic and the North Sea. The name Solway Lass comes<br />

from time spent working in the Solway Firth in Scotland. This ship is a<br />

leisurely paced lady and your accommodation will be in private air-con<br />

cabins or in shared dorms. Looking like something out of ‘Pirates of the<br />

Caribbean’ she is a Square Rigged Brigantine with 12 sails and a fun<br />

tarzan rope swing off the deck. <strong>STA</strong>371<br />

BOAT NAME DEPARTS DURATION SHARED CABIN<br />

PER PERSON<br />

Solway Lass TUE, SAT 3 days/3 nights $759 $808<br />

DOUBLE/TWIN<br />

PER PERSON


68<br />

cairns<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

1 gilligan’s resort<br />

Centrally located, Gilligan’s offers a perfect blend<br />

of traditional backpacker accommodation and<br />

hotel rooms, all with private bathrooms and some<br />

with balconies. Facilities include lagoon pool with<br />

its own beach, restaurant, TV lounges and three<br />

bars with nightly music and entertainment. <strong>STA</strong>170<br />

2 Calypso Backpackers Inn<br />

Everything is centred around the cool pool,<br />

huge communal kitchen and funky Zanzibar Bar<br />

and Restaurant. Located on the edge of town,<br />

but still only a 10 minute walk to the centre,<br />

facilities include Internet access, television<br />

lounge, kitchen and laundry facilities. <strong>STA</strong>114<br />

3 nomads cairns<br />

A purpose built ‘Flashpacker’ hostel, this is a<br />

true backpackers resort with a huge outdoor<br />

tropical pool, beach volleyball area, restaurant<br />

and bar. It boasts wireless Internet and plenty<br />

of outdoor lounges. The town centre is a short<br />

stroll along the promenade. <strong>STA</strong>117<br />

fr $32 DORM<br />

fr $82 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

+ bonus<br />

fr $36 DORM<br />

fr $39 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

5TH night free<br />

01 JAN 11 - 31 MAR 12 + bonus<br />

4TH night free<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

fr $30 DORM<br />

fr $45 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

4TH night free<br />

01 JAN 11 - 31 MAR 12<br />

01 APR 11 - 31 MAR 12 + bonus<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

7 pacific international<br />

Water babies will love this hotel. On top of great<br />

ocean view rooms, there’s a waterfront bar,<br />

outdoor swimming pool and even an open-air<br />

Jacuzzi - perfect for clearing your head the<br />

morning after. Fantastic Italian cuisine plus<br />

Internet and free movies in your room. <strong>STA</strong>158<br />

8 sebel cairns<br />

A luxurious hotel located in the vibrant heart of<br />

Cairns CBD, right at the doorstep of some of the<br />

best shopping, dining and attractions the city has<br />

to offer. The beautiful contemporary style rooms<br />

feature full length sliding glass doors leading onto<br />

a private balcony and amazing views. <strong>STA</strong>119<br />

9 the lakes resort and spa<br />

Amongst acres of lush landscaped gardens,<br />

lakes and beach lagoon pools - this amazing<br />

resort offers a relaxed village vibe. Unwind at<br />

the day spa, cook a BBQ by the pool, dine at the<br />

delicious Rambutan Restaurant or chill-out in<br />

your lovely well equipped apartment. <strong>STA</strong>158<br />

fr $234 Single<br />

fr $117 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

+ bonus<br />

fr $237 Single<br />

fr $119 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

3RD night free<br />

+ bonus<br />

01 APR 11 - 31 MAR 12<br />

3RD night free<br />

01 APR 11 - 30 JUN 11<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

fr $258 Single<br />

fr $129 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

4TH night free<br />

01 APR 11 - 24 JUN 11<br />

17 JUL 11 - 22 DEC 11<br />

01 NOV 11 - 31 MAR 12<br />

+ bonus


69<br />

9<br />

3<br />

dates for your diary<br />

2<br />

5<br />

6<br />

7<br />

4 8<br />

1<br />

May 7, 2011<br />

cairns blues festival<br />

july 20-22, 2011<br />

the Cairns show, regional fair<br />

august - september, 2011<br />

festival cairns<br />

september 4, 2011<br />

carnival on collins<br />

october 2011<br />

crocodile trophy, mountain bike race<br />

year round<br />

cultural events, the esplanade<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

4 bHA centrAL backpackers<br />

Bang in the centre of town, within stumbling<br />

distance of the best bars, clubs and restaurants.<br />

The BHA has been recently renovated so<br />

everything is shiny and new. Chill out by the pool,<br />

eat in the Alfresco Cafe, surf the web or hang<br />

with the locals in the Drop Zone Bar. <strong>STA</strong>118<br />

fr $35 dorm<br />

fr $48 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT including breakfast<br />

Cairns welcome<br />

Package<br />

4 Days,<br />

fr $603<br />

+ bonus<br />

7TH night free<br />

01 APR 11 - 31 MAY 11<br />

01 OCT 11 - 31 DEC 11<br />

• 3 nights at The Sebel Cairns (incl. 1 free!)<br />

• Full day snorkelling and diving trip on the<br />

Great Barrier Reef<br />

5 Njoy <strong>Travel</strong>lers Resort<br />

Minutes from the centre of town, kick back and<br />

soak up the rays beside the beautiful resort style<br />

pool while recovering from a great night out!<br />

Rooms are airy and simple yet comfortable; all<br />

have air-con and resort facilities include a big<br />

friendly kitchen, laundry and Internet. <strong>STA</strong>906<br />

fr $34 dorm<br />

fr $38 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

+ bonus<br />

3RD night free<br />

01 APR 11 - 31 MAR 12<br />

6 discovery cairns<br />

Friendly, comfy, cool and central. Laze on a sun<br />

lounge between paddles in the two saltwater<br />

pools. Retire to your room, chill some beers in<br />

the fridge, kick back on the balcony - or just<br />

stretch out on your super-sized bed. Rooms all<br />

come with ensuite, air-con and TV. <strong>STA</strong>115<br />

fr $68 TWIN/DOUBLE<br />

PRICES ARE PER PERSON PER NIGHT<br />

+ bonus<br />

4TH night free<br />

01 JAN 11 - 31 MAR 12<br />

Kick off your visit to Cairns in style. For starters,<br />

we’ve thrown in an extra night at The Sebel for<br />

free! So you can soak up your spacious, comfy<br />

room and the fabulous views of the harbour<br />

and mountains, knowing you scored a great<br />

deal. Also included is a day out sailing the Great<br />

Barrier Reef aboard the Silverswift catamaran.<br />

You get a free introductory dive, a guided<br />

snorkelling tour and after all that underwater<br />

action, a smorgadbord tropical lunch. You’ll visit<br />

three different sites, each chosen on the day to<br />

give you the best possible experience. <strong>STA</strong>372<br />

* Valid for stays: 01 Apr 11 - 30 Jun 11 and 01 Nov - 31 Mar 12.


70<br />

raft, relax &<br />

rainforest<br />

3 Days,<br />

fr $392 2 Days, fr $251<br />

go wild:<br />

cape tribulation<br />

cairns<br />

cairns<br />

cairns<br />

cairns<br />

• Full day white water rafting on the Tully River<br />

• Jungle Surfing Canopy tour<br />

• Second night accommodation at Ferntree Rainforest Hostel<br />

The Tully River is Australia’s most famous one-day white water rafting<br />

adventure. Prepare for fun, thrills and spills as you ride the rush of grade<br />

four rapids. Day Two, enjoy the coastal drive to Port Douglas, a guided<br />

rainforest walk, a visit to Mossman Gorge, a crocodile cruise on the<br />

Daintree River and time to chill on Cape Trib Beach. On your final day, fly<br />

through the trees on ziplines with a birds eye view into the canopy. <strong>STA</strong>910<br />

Inclusions: 1 nts at Ferntree Rainforest Hostel, Return Transfers from Cairns, Visit to Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary,<br />

Daintree River Cruise, Daintree River Cable Ferry, Jungle Surfing Canopy tour, Tully River Rafting Code: <strong>STA</strong> 910<br />

Departure Days: Daily<br />

• Guided walks at the Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary<br />

• Visit Mossman Gorge, Daintree River, Cape Trib Beach<br />

• 1 night accommodation at Ferntree Rainforest Hostel<br />

Go deep into the rainforest on this wild Cape Tribulation tour. Head to Port<br />

Douglas for a guided rainforset walk, then a swim at Mossman Gorge. After<br />

a picnic lunch, spot crocs on a Daintree River cruise. Later on, relax at<br />

Cape Trib Beach as you decide what you’ll get up to on Day Two - options<br />

include reef trips, jungle surfing along the rainforest canopy, sea kayaking,<br />

horse riding and mountain biking. One and three day trips also available.<br />

Inclusions: 1 nts at Ferntree Rainforest Hostel, Return Transfers from Cairns, Visit to Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary,<br />

Daintree River Cruise, Daintree River Cable Ferry, 1 lunch Code: <strong>STA</strong>373<br />

Departure Days: Daily<br />

green island<br />

full Day, fr $144<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> aboard the speedy Big<br />

Cat catamaran! Green Island is a<br />

beautiful coral cay on the Great<br />

Barrier Reef, covered with tropical<br />

rainforests and surrounded<br />

by white sandy beaches and<br />

magnificent reefs. Explore the<br />

walking tracks through lush foliage<br />

and snorkel translucent waters.<strong>STA</strong>374<br />

white water<br />

rafting<br />

FULL Day, fr $224<br />

This trip features up to five full<br />

hours of action on the Tully River.<br />

Hang on very tight as you race over<br />

more than 40 rapids in this action<br />

packed thrill ride. Everything you<br />

need for a safe and enjoyable day<br />

will be supplied, as well as a tasty<br />

BBQ lunch. Yum! <strong>STA</strong>376<br />

TANDEM skydive<br />

HALF Day, fr $290<br />

Take advantage of this great<br />

flexi-pass for the thrill of a<br />

lifetime. Jump out of a plane from<br />

9-14,000ft attached to a fully<br />

qualified skydiver, freefall at speeds<br />

of 120mph and then float to the<br />

ground over stunning scenery. Use<br />

it in either Cairns, Mission Beach,<br />

Byron Bay or Coffs Harbour. <strong>STA</strong>378<br />

Silverswift Dive<br />

& Snorkel<br />

FULL Day, fr $246<br />

Visit three sites at the Outer Reef<br />

and spend a leisurely five hours at<br />

play. Certified divers can enjoy up<br />

to three dives. All divers recieve a<br />

free introductory dive. Adventure<br />

snorkellers can explore spectacular<br />

coral formations and vibrant<br />

underwater gardens. <strong>STA</strong>380<br />

helicruising<br />

half Day, fr $444<br />

This amazing trip takes you to<br />

the spectacular North Hastings<br />

Reef. Combine a fantastic day of<br />

great activities out on the sea<br />

at stunning reef destinations<br />

onboard the Osprey V, with a scenic<br />

helicopter flight over breathtaking<br />

ocean scenery. BBQ lunch and<br />

snorkelling are also included in your<br />

awesome adventure! <strong>STA</strong>3755<br />

aj hackeTT bungy<br />

half Day, fr $176<br />

Fancy plummeting 50 metres from<br />

a platform above Queensland’s lush<br />

rainforest, with nothing more than<br />

a bit of elastic separating you from<br />

certain death Bring nothing except<br />

nerves of steel and maybe a spare<br />

pair of underpants. It’s the only<br />

bungy site in the world to offer 16<br />

different jump styles, including a<br />

BMX bike jump. <strong>STA</strong>377<br />

TUSA: Snorkelling<br />

on the Reef<br />

FULL Day, fr $224<br />

Tusa Dive have a selection of 16<br />

unique snorkel locations for you<br />

to explore - you’ll be gliding over<br />

the reef tops, mesmerised by the<br />

vividly colourful fish as they dart in<br />

and out of the corals. Snorkelling<br />

is straight off the back of the boat,<br />

with the reef never more than a<br />

short swim away. <strong>STA</strong>379<br />

passions of<br />

paradise<br />

full Day, fr $189<br />

A day on the reef that’s beyond<br />

belief! Become acquainted with<br />

this natural wonder by boarding<br />

the exquisite 25m maxi catamaran<br />

to the reef’s outer reaches at<br />

Michaelmas Cay and Paradise Reef.<br />

Enjoy lunch, afternoon tea and<br />

plenty of opportunities for some<br />

underwater exploration. <strong>STA</strong>381


71<br />

cairns<br />

adventure<br />

6 Days,<br />

cairns budget<br />

buster<br />

fr $1,286 4 Days, fr $907<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

cairns<br />

cairns<br />

cairns<br />

cairns<br />

• Spend a full day white water rafting on the Tully River<br />

• Head out sea kayaking on a guided tour from Fitzroy Island<br />

• Take to the skies on an awesome hot air balloon flight<br />

• Ride over the lush green rainforest on the Skyrail cableway<br />

• Snorkel to your heart’s content on an Outer Barrier Reef cruise<br />

Day 1: cairns<br />

Check into your accommodation and spend your day soaking up the sun at<br />

your leisure and getting to know your new travel buddies.<br />

Day 2: White water rafting<br />

A full day of full-on white water rafting down the Tully River. Be prepared<br />

for thrills and spills as you hurtle your way down the river on a wet and<br />

wild ride! Tuck into a delicious lunch before being whisked back to your<br />

accommodation later in the afternoon.<br />

Day 3: SEA KAYAKING TOUR, fitzroy Island<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> by fast catamaran to Fitzroy Island for a half day sea kayak and a<br />

leisurely afternoon spent in the sunshine. Snorkel and swim in the pristine<br />

waters and enjoy a snack before paddling back to the island for your return<br />

catamaran transfer to Cairns.<br />

Day 4: BALLOON FLIGHT & Skyrail, KURANDA<br />

Rise and shine bright and early for your dawn hot air ballooning<br />

experience! Glide high above the Cairns Highlands before enjoying a<br />

full breakfast. Afterwards spend some free time wandering around the<br />

rainforest town of Kuranda. Check out the local arts and crafts and head<br />

back to Cairns. Board the Skyrail - the famous Rainforest Cableway that’ll<br />

lift you up over the canopy for views you just won’t get anywhere else.<br />

Day 5: Great Barrier Reef<br />

The Outer Barrier Reef is on the menu today. <strong>Travel</strong> to the Outer Reef to<br />

your pontoon reef site where you can go snorkelling and view the coral<br />

and marine life from a semi-submersible or underwater observatory. Enjoy<br />

a buffet lunch, take an optional dive or a scenic helicopter flight before<br />

returning to Cairns for your last night.<br />

Day 6: cairns<br />

Time to say goodbye to your new friends and depart Cairns, brimming with<br />

adrenalin and feeling throroughly invigorated.<br />

• Ride the raucous river rapids down the Tully River<br />

• Soak in the spray at the majestic Cairns Highlands waterfalls<br />

• Get in some superb reef snorkelling, swimming and fishing<br />

• Check out some great local wildlife at Cape Tribulation<br />

• Opt to go diving, take a scenic flight or a semi-submersible tour<br />

Day 1: White water rafting<br />

Arrive at your pick up point and head down south to the Tully River for a<br />

great day of epic wet and wild proportions. Spend five hours negotiating<br />

the grade three and four rapids through the middle of World Heritage<br />

Listed rainforest. Enjoy a BBQ lunch riverside before tackling the lower half<br />

of the river and returning to Cairns that evening.<br />

Day 2: TABLELANDS WATERFALLS & RAINFOREST TOUR<br />

Set off today to enjoy the picturesque setting of the Cairns Highlands<br />

waterfall circuit. Spend the day visiting lakes, waterfalls and rainforest<br />

settings and enjoy a delicious lunch in the quaint village of Yungaburra.<br />

There will be plenty of swimming opportunities as you will vist both<br />

Millaa Millaa and Dinner Falls plus the Curtain and Cathedral Fig Trees. A<br />

spectacular day spent in the rainforest.<br />

Day 3: GREAT BARRIER REEF<br />

No visit to Cairns would be complete without a trip to the Outer Reef. Visit<br />

two reef locations where you can snorkel and view the exotic, brightly<br />

coloured fish as they dart in and around the coral. You can also get a<br />

different look at the reef shelf from a semi-submersible or underwater<br />

observatory. You’ll enjoy a fantastic buffet lunch, free drinks, live<br />

entertainment and free fish feeding. Try an optional scuba dive (extra cost)<br />

before returning to Cairns late in the afternoon.<br />

Day 4: Cape tribulation<br />

Your last day finds you heading north to Cape Tribulation; expect to see<br />

crocodiles on a Daintree River cruise and take in the oldest rainforest in<br />

the world, packed with stunning scenery and natural assets. Meet some of<br />

the creatures of the rainforest at the Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary<br />

and return to Cairns early evening for your last night.<br />

Accommodation: Multi-share (5n) Local payment: Price includes approx AUD62 of levies to be paid locally - whitewater rafting<br />

AUD30, Outer Barrier Reef tax AUD20, bus transfers AUD12 Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>912<br />

Departure Days: Daily<br />

Accommodation: Multi-share (5n) Local Payment: Price includes approx AUD65 of levies to be paid locally - white water rafting<br />

AUD30, sea kayaking AUD10, ballooning AUD25. Reef cruise - fuel levy may apply. Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>911<br />

Departure Days: Daily


72<br />

NORTHERN CAIRNS BEACHES<br />

& PORT DOUGLAS<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysimple<br />

1 PARROT FISH LODGE, port douglas<br />

A new and funky hostel right in the centre of town.<br />

Lap up the sun on the deck or take a refreshing<br />

dip in the pool. Choose between the modern<br />

kitchen or the BBQ to cook up your dinner, then<br />

it’s off to the bar to enjoy the cheapest beers in<br />

town! <strong>STA</strong>382<br />

2 port o’call eco lodge, port douglas<br />

This fantastic lodge boosts eco credentials (100%<br />

of its hot water comes from solar power), a topnotch<br />

location just five minutes’ stroll from Four<br />

Mile Beach and fantastic facilities that include a<br />

lagoon pool, air-conditioned rooms, bar, bistro and<br />

a communal kitchen with free tea and coffee. <strong>STA</strong>383<br />

3 bay villas, port douglas<br />

You’ll be spoiled for choice with two swimming<br />

pools and an outdoor spa at this plush resort<br />

just a short walk from Four Mile Beach. Get some<br />

privacy in a private air-conditioned apartment<br />

with an ensuite bathroom and enjoy the easy life<br />

on your own courtyard or balcony. <strong>STA</strong>384<br />

fr $28 dorm<br />

fr $60 double<br />

Prices are per person per night<br />

fr $52 dorm<br />

fr $74 double<br />

Prices are per person per night<br />

fr $172 single<br />

fr $86 double<br />

Prices are per person per night<br />

+ bonus<br />

5TH night free<br />

01 APR 11 - 31 MAR 12<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish <strong>STA</strong>ystylish <strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

7 peninsula boutique, port douglas<br />

Relax in the unique oasis of heated pools, chill<br />

out on the luxury sun lounges and enjoy your<br />

favourite cocktail. When you feel it’s time to head<br />

back inside, why not tempt your taste buds at the<br />

beach cafe before heading out for a big night or<br />

back to the serenity of your suite. <strong>STA</strong>385<br />

fr $472 single<br />

fr $236 twin/double<br />

+ bonus<br />

5TH night free<br />

01 APR 11 - 30 JUN 11<br />

01 NOV 11 - 31 MAR 12<br />

Prices are per person per night including breakfast<br />

8 thala beach Resort, port douglas<br />

A 5-star family owned and operated lodge made<br />

up of 83 deluxe timber bungalows across 145<br />

acres of stunning rainforest. Peace, quiet and<br />

serenity don’t even begin to describe it. Many<br />

places may boast that you can get away from it all<br />

- but here, it’s an absolute certainty. <strong>STA</strong>386<br />

fr $359 single<br />

fr $179 twin/double<br />

Prices are per person per night<br />

9 sea temple, Palm Cove<br />

Sea Temple has been designed for those guests<br />

with total indulgence in mind and boasts a<br />

beautiful beachfront location. Asian styled<br />

architecture embraces the design of the resort<br />

with each luxurious apartment having its own<br />

kitchen, laundry, lounge and dining room. <strong>STA</strong>387<br />

fr $323 single<br />

fr $161 twin/double<br />

Prices are per person per night


73<br />

1 7 4<br />

where to go:<br />

2 3<br />

fr $160 single<br />

8<br />

port douglas<br />

characterised by a sophisticated and friendly<br />

village atmosphere, surrounded by spectacular<br />

scenery. the town boasts the famous four mile<br />

beach, award-winning restaurants and world<br />

class shopping.<br />

9<br />

6<br />

palm cove<br />

here You’ll find trendy restaurants, bars,<br />

eateries, boutiques, galleries, the latest fashions,<br />

a golf course and a fabulous jetty for great<br />

fishing.<br />

5<br />

trinity beach<br />

a natural cove lined with coconut palms that lies<br />

between twin headlands. Swim all year round in<br />

temperate ocean waters and enjoy the village<br />

atmosphere.<br />

NEW SOUTH WALES<br />

& QUEENSLAND<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ysmart<br />

<strong>STA</strong>ystylish<br />

4 mercure treetops, port douglas<br />

Surrounded by rainforest, flowing waterways<br />

and lily ponds, Treetops is the perfect base to<br />

kick back and relax or get out and experience<br />

everything the area has to offer. Spacious rooms,<br />

a restaurant, bars and spa are some of the top<br />

quality facilities you can expect. <strong>STA</strong>388<br />

5 amaroo at trinity, trinity beach<br />

Enjoy a peaceful elevated beachfront position with<br />

stunning views over the Pacific Ocean. Located in<br />

the relaxed village atmosphere of Trinity Beach,<br />

with all of its entertainment just a stroll away,<br />

there’s a selection of studios and suites and all the<br />

facilities you require are available. <strong>STA</strong>389<br />

6 kewarra beach hotel, palm cove<br />

This breathtaking tropical oasis enjoys absolute<br />

beachfront tranquillity and privacy. The deluxe<br />

bungalows are nestled amongst the resorts’<br />

intimate pools and lush rainforest, which runs<br />

down to your own private beach. Enjoy a dinner of<br />

exquisite local seafood at the restaurant. <strong>STA</strong>390<br />

fr $228 single<br />

fr $114 DOUBLE<br />

Prices are per person per night<br />

fr $80 DOUBLE<br />

Prices are per person per night<br />

+ bonus<br />

4TH night free<br />

01 JAN 11 - 30 JUN 11<br />

01 OCT 11 - 31 MAR 12<br />

fr $432 single<br />

fr $216 double<br />

Prices are per person per night<br />

Quicksilver Outer Reef<br />

full Day,<br />

ex CAIRNS/PORT DOUGLAS<br />

Whether you’re a mad snorkeller or die-hard sun<br />

lover, the Outer Reef platform is a luxury floating<br />

pad. Get a glimpse into the magical underwater<br />

world from the Quicksilver semi-sub and<br />

underwater observatory. Slap on the sunscreen,<br />

hitch up the bikini/boardies and head out for an<br />

awesome day on the reef! <strong>STA</strong>391<br />

Cape Trib ‘Go Wild’ tOUR<br />

dAINTREE DREAMING<br />

fr $287 full Day, fr $197<br />

ex CAIRNS/PORT DOUGLAS<br />

The tour includes a combination of the<br />

Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary, cruising<br />

on the Daintree River searching for crocodiles<br />

and wildlife, swimming and rainforest walk in the<br />

Mossman Gorge and exploring Cape Tribulation<br />

Beach where the oldest rainforest in the world<br />

meets the Great Barrier Reef. <strong>STA</strong>393<br />

fr $256<br />

full Day,<br />

ex CAIRNS/PORT DOUGLAS<br />

On this authentic Aboriginal cultural tour you’ll<br />

visit natural hideaways that are far from the<br />

beaten path. Learn how to throw a spear, track<br />

exotic wildlife, hunt for mud crabs and fish, find<br />

bush tucker and medicines and visit pristine<br />

waterfalls. Also included is a one hour cruise on<br />

the Daintree River and a delicious picnic. <strong>STA</strong>395<br />

Hartley’s Crocodile<br />

Adventure<br />

Kuranda Rail, Sky Rail<br />

and Tjapukai<br />

hALF Day, fr $110 full Day, fr $241<br />

ex cAIRNS<br />

ex CAIRNS/PORT DOUGLAS<br />

Get up close to some Aussie reptiles. See the Take a breathtaking ride on one of the world’s<br />

notorious head shake and death roll of a huge most scenic rail journeys to Kuranda. Here<br />

crocodile at the Crocodile Attack Show, say explore the ‘Village in the Rainforest’ before your<br />

cheese as you hold a croc for a photo and then Skyrail journey through the rainforest. Then it’s<br />

discover the world’s most venomous snakes. Not onto the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, where<br />

for the faint hearted! <strong>STA</strong>392<br />

you’ll get to discover this ancient culture. <strong>STA</strong>394<br />

Daintree Walkabout<br />

full Day, fr $224<br />

ex CAIRNS/PORT DOUGLAS<br />

Dreamtime in the Daintree. This is a day<br />

to remember - hiking through indigenous<br />

homelands filled with folk stories and cultural<br />

history, before being whisked away for a<br />

scrumptious catch of the day lunch. Cruise the<br />

Daintree River and tour historical Port Douglas<br />

on the happy drive home. <strong>STA</strong>396


74<br />

DIVING ON THE<br />

GREAT BARRIER REEF<br />

leaRn to dive<br />

padi open wateR CoURse<br />

5 days, FR $1,045<br />

• 9 dives on the Great barrier Reef<br />

• “Reef teach” presentation<br />

• all diving equipment<br />

• padi open water Certification<br />

If learning to dive is on your to-do list, this<br />

is an opportunity not to be missed! Pro Dive<br />

Cairns is recognised worldwide as a leader in<br />

all aspects of scuba diving education offering<br />

students a professional and safe learning<br />

environment combined with spectacular dive<br />

locations on the Great Barrier Reef. This PADI<br />

five day learn to dive course is broken down<br />

to two components: two days of pool and<br />

classroom training and then a three day liveaboard<br />

trip to numerous reef sights of the<br />

Outer Reef which will include a spectacular<br />

guided night dive. Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>127<br />

live aboaRd<br />

CeRtiFied diveR tRip<br />

3 days, FR $834<br />

• 9 dives on the Great barrier Reef<br />

• 2 additional night dives<br />

• all diving equipment<br />

• night diving equipment<br />

Get ready for three fantastic days exploring<br />

the stunning marine life on the Great Barrier<br />

Reef. This trip consists of a total of 11<br />

dives including two exciting night dives.<br />

Spend time aboard an awesome 80ft vessel<br />

with comfortable double and twin-share<br />

cabins. There are two large decks, one of<br />

which is dedicated purely to relaxation and<br />

sunbathing - the perfect way to spend an<br />

afternoon kicking back after a full day of<br />

diving. All passengers must present their Dive<br />

Card at the beginning of the trip in order to<br />

participate in the certified dives. Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>129<br />

live aboaRd<br />

advanCed divinG CoURse<br />

3 days,<br />

FR $1,042<br />

• 6 recreational dives on the reef<br />

• 5 advanced course training dives<br />

• padi advanced manual<br />

• all diving equipment<br />

The Great Barrier Reef, renowned as the<br />

eighth wonder of the world, is a very special<br />

place to complete your advanced dive course.<br />

Over three days visit up to four Outer Reef<br />

locations, taking in sites selected for their<br />

extravagant marine life and excellent visibility.<br />

You’ll need a PADI Open Water Certificate or<br />

equivalent to participate. There’s time for a<br />

total of 11 dives, five of these dedicated to<br />

your advanced course training: Deep Dive,<br />

Underwater Navigation and Night Dive.<br />

Your remaining dives could be a choice of<br />

Underwater Naturalist, Search and Recovery or<br />

Underwater Photography. Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>397


75<br />

live aboaRd Cod Hole<br />

& GReat baRRieR ReeF<br />

4 days, FR $1,657<br />

• 10 dives in total, 2 night dives<br />

• explore Cod Hole & Ribbon Reef sites<br />

• Comfy Cabin style accommodation<br />

• all diving equipment<br />

Spoil yourself with some deep-sea diving<br />

on this live-aboard expedition. Over four<br />

days at sea, you’ll tee up a tremendous ten<br />

dives - two at night - taking in world-class<br />

dive sites like Cod Hole, Ribbon Reefs and<br />

Pixie’s Pinnacle. Spot everything from reef<br />

sharks and scorpionfish to sleepy turtles and<br />

gorgeous grey whalers. In between descents<br />

take a breather on the breezy deck. Soak up<br />

some sun, chat to your new travel pals and<br />

feast on fresh fish. Then at night, kick back<br />

with some beers and let the starry seascape<br />

work its magic! Certified divers must have<br />

open water dive certificate. Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>398<br />

new soUtH wales<br />

& QUeensland<br />

live aboaRd Cod Hole<br />

& ospRey ReeF<br />

5 days, FR $2,076<br />

• 14 dives in total, 4 night dives<br />

• spot reef sharks and sleepy turtles<br />

• dive osprey Reef in the Coral sea<br />

• all diving equipment<br />

Cram 14 dives into four nights at sea - and<br />

prepare to be amazed. Sleeping onboard your<br />

blissed out boat, you’ll live a seafaring life,<br />

cosied up in a cute cabin and dozing away<br />

on the deck between dives. From Cod Hole<br />

to remote Ribbon’s Reef and the beautful<br />

Osprey Reef, you’re signed up for some of<br />

Australia’s most awesome under-water action.<br />

See reef sharks pitched against grey whalers<br />

in a feeding frenzy, scout for schooling<br />

trevally and scorpionfish at Steve’s Bommie<br />

and glimpse at nudibranch and barracuda at<br />

Pixie’s Pinnacle! Certified divers must have<br />

open water dive certificate. Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>399<br />

baCk to baCk: Cod Hole<br />

& ospRey ReeF<br />

8 days,<br />

FR $3,451<br />

• 24 dives in total, 7 night dives<br />

• explore the very best dive sites<br />

• dive Cod Hole and osprey Reef<br />

• all diving equipment<br />

You came here to dive and that’s what you’ll<br />

do! Pack 24 daring descents into just seven<br />

nights at sea and experience the Australian<br />

ocean at its most awesome. Take in reefshark<br />

sightings, sensational swim-throughs<br />

and close encounters with cuttlefish, corals<br />

and cod. And when you snatch a breath<br />

between dives, sunbathe on the deck, chat<br />

with the gang or just snooze in the sun. You’ll<br />

stay in comfy cabins and share everything<br />

from your chow to your chores. At night relax<br />

with a beer, fresh fish and a stunning starry<br />

seascape! Certified divers need open water<br />

dive certificate. Tour Code: <strong>STA</strong>400


146<br />

Don’t forget your travel insurancE<br />

• Cover for the adventurous<br />

We automatically cover loads of adrenalin pumping activities which<br />

you means you can experience more and still keep your mum happy.<br />

• Working holiday and study abroad cover<br />

Planning on working or studying while you’re overseas No problem, we<br />

cover working holidays whether you’re pulling a pint of beer, working<br />

on the ski fields, or studying overseas.<br />

• Cover for existing medical conditions<br />

We automatically cover many existing medical conditions, and if your<br />

condition falls outside the auto cover criteria, cover can be applied<br />

for by completing a medical assessment form, and if accepted, paying<br />

an additional premium.<br />

the cover you can expect<br />

No complicated plans to choose from, just great cover you can rely on.<br />

Here’s some of the inclusions you can expect with your international policy:<br />

• $Unlimited overseas medical and dental cover<br />

• $Unlimited additional expenses<br />

• $Unlimited amendment or cancellation costs<br />

We hope you have an awesome trip, but to put it bluntly, if something does<br />

happen (and it happens all the time), you’ll want travel insurance, not a<br />

$50,000+ medical bill!<br />

We know how important it is for you to have an amazing journey and travel<br />

insurance is probably the last thing on your mind. However, our experience<br />

tells us travelling without cover is simply not a risk worth taking. Imagine<br />

getting sick as you are travelling through the Bungle Bungles, or worse<br />

get lumped with medical bills for an ambulance, private hospital care,<br />

x-rays, prescriptions and GP costs all of which are NOT covered under the<br />

Reciprocal Health Agreement between New Zealand and Australia.<br />

It’s a scary thought, but these kinds of things happen all too often, all over<br />

the world. Having an emergency assistance team of experienced doctors,<br />

nurses and case managers on call to help you when you’re in trouble is why<br />

having the right travel insurance is so important.<br />

<strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> Insurance gives you much more than medical cover. It also<br />

covers emergency transport and accommodation costs, includes cover for<br />

cancellation and for your belongings should they be lost, damaged, stolen<br />

or delayed.<br />

You wouldn’t go camping without a tent – you shouldn’t book your<br />

holiday without travel insurance!<br />

what makes us different<br />

Some of the benefits of booking your travel insurance with us…<br />

• 24 hour emergency assistance<br />

Access to our 24 hour emergency assistance team for medical<br />

emergencies and evacuations, help with hospital bills and assistance<br />

should you lose your passport and travel documents.<br />

• Luggage coverage<br />

For lost, stolen or damaged items which you’re travelling.<br />

• Flexible policy length<br />

You can see the four corners of the globe on the one policy, and if you<br />

decide to stay longer you can extend your policy for up to 18 months.<br />

plus cover for:<br />

• Luggage and travel documents<br />

(including sporting equipment)<br />

• Delayed luggage allowance<br />

• Money<br />

• Rental car insurance excess<br />

• <strong>Travel</strong> delay<br />

• Resumption of journey<br />

• Special events<br />

• Hospital incidentals<br />

• Hijacking<br />

• Loss of income<br />

• Disability<br />

• Accidental death<br />

• Legal expenses<br />

• Personal liability<br />

choose extras that suit you<br />

Just like making your own iPod playlist to suit your mood, you can<br />

customise your <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> policy to suit your trip...<br />

• The annual multi-trip option<br />

If you plan on getting away a few times over the next 12 months,<br />

taking out an annual policy for multiple trips may be the cheaper option.<br />

• Choose an excess<br />

The higher the excess the cheaper the premium. You can choose<br />

between a $nil, $100 or $250 excess.<br />

• Increase your rental car insurance excess cover<br />

Hiring a car and don’t want to pay a massive excess if you have an<br />

accident Some plans automatically cover a rental car insurance<br />

excess of up to $4,000. If that’s not enough cover, you can buy<br />

additional cover.<br />

• Add cover for snow skiing or snowboarding<br />

Plan on going for a board or ski Take this option if you want to be<br />

covered if you come unstuck. We don’t cover skiing or boarding<br />

outside resort boundaries.<br />

• Add cover for motorcycle/moped riding<br />

Plan on hiring a scooter while you’e away Take this option if you<br />

want to be covered in case you come off.<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> insurance for overseas visitors<br />

If you’re visiting New Zealand and you forgot to pick up some travel<br />

insurance before you left home, then no worries, we can arrange<br />

cover for you in an instant. Protect yourself from unforeseen<br />

circumstances while travelling through our beautiful Aotearoa<br />

(New Zealand) as well as insuring yourself for a quick trip to<br />

Australia, the Pacific Islands or even all the way home. Ask your<br />

<strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> adviser about your options.


<strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> (NZ) Limited Terms and Conditions<br />

147<br />

Agency<br />

We are <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> (NZ) Limited (<strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong>). We sell products and services as an agent on<br />

behalf of airlines, wholesale companies and other service providers including accommodation<br />

and transportation services (Third Party Suppliers). <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong>’s role is to assist you to<br />

plan your travel arrangements, facilitate your bookings, and arrange payment and refunds<br />

as applicable. <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> is not a provider of any travel products/services and has no<br />

responsibility for products or services provided or not provided by any Third Party Suppliers.<br />

We give and make no warranty or representation regarding the standard of<br />

any services or products supplied by Third Party Suppliers and no person has authority to<br />

make any such representation or warranty on behalf of <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong>. If for any reason, any Third<br />

Party Supplier is unable to provide the products/services you purchased through <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong>,<br />

your remedy lies against that Third Party Supplier and not <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong>.<br />

General<br />

These general terms and conditions together with the relevant terms and conditions of the<br />

Third Party Suppliers apply to any travel products/services you purchased through us. Once<br />

you pay for your booking (whether in full or in part):<br />

(a) you acknowledge and agree that you have read and understood these general terms and<br />

conditions; and any terms and conditions imposed by Third Party Suppliers, for whom we act<br />

as Agent;<br />

(b) you enter into a legally binding contract to acquire the relevant travel or travel related<br />

products and/or services with the Third Party Suppliers.<br />

(c) you are not at least eighteen years of age then your legal guardian must give consent to<br />

this contract on your behalf.<br />

(d) if you make a booking on behalf of someone, you warrant that you have the authority to<br />

accept and do accept on behalf of that person to be bound by <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong>’s general terms and<br />

conditions and the relevant Third Party Suppliers’ terms and conditions.<br />

Deposits and payment<br />

Deposits are non-refundable. Payment of a deposit enables <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> to hold a reservation for<br />

you but does not guarantee the fare and/or price. The fare and/or price can only be guaranteed<br />

once we receive full payment and tickets and/or other travel documents have been issued. <strong>STA</strong><br />

<strong>Travel</strong> will advise you of the date that full payment is required. Additional deposits for certain<br />

travel arrangements may also be required by Third Party Suppliers. Failure to make payment<br />

in full by the due date may result in the forfeiture of any deposit paid. If payment for your<br />

booking is made by credit card, a non cash administration fee is payable as advertised. No non<br />

cash administration fee will be charged for payments made by EFTPOS and Bank transfer.<br />

Please note that Bank transfer may take up to 3 business days to show as received by <strong>STA</strong><br />

<strong>Travel</strong>, therefore you will need to allow sufficient time for payment to be cleared before the<br />

actual due date. Personal cheques are not accepted for domestic bookings. For all other<br />

bookings, we reserve the right to refuse personal cheques. Personal cheque may take up<br />

to 10 business days to clear. You agree not to stop payment of the cheque even when you<br />

cancel a booking. You agree that <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> may apply the proceeds of the cheque to satisfy<br />

any liability you may have to us and the Third Party Suppliers. Please note that even after full<br />

payment, the conditions of the contract between you and the Third Party Suppliers may permit<br />

them to increase the cost of your arrangements. We will pass on any such increase to you.<br />

Documentation<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> documentation will not be issued until full payment with cleared funds is received. It is<br />

your responsibility to ensure that all of the details on your travel documents are correct and<br />

to bring to our attention any errors or discrepancies as soon as possible but in any event<br />

within 72 hours after <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> provides you with your travel documents. <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong>’s general<br />

practice is to send documents to our customers electronically whenever possible. We reserve<br />

the right to charge you an administration fee if we send you such documents in hard copy form,<br />

at your request. All travel documents are non transferable. It is your responsibility to collect all<br />

paper travel documents prior to departure. Your travel documents are valuable and should be<br />

safeguarded as if they were cash. It is not always possible to replace travel documents in the<br />

case of loss, theft, damage etc<br />

Cancellations and Changes<br />

Your contract with your Third Party Suppliers may allow suppliers to cancel or amend bookings.<br />

We will ensure that you are promptly notified of any significant changes, but accept no liability<br />

for any changes or costs incurred which may result. If we make an error in your booking,<br />

which gives rise to a need to significantly change your booking, we will inform you as soon as<br />

reasonably possible if there is time before your departure. You will have the choice of either<br />

accepting the change of arrangements, accepting an offer of alternative travel arrangements of<br />

comparable standard from us, (we will refund any price difference if the alternative has a lower<br />

value), or cancelling your booked arrangements and receiving a full refund. You agree that this is<br />

the only compensation payable in connection with such an error.<br />

Period before departure when a significant change is notified Compensation payable per person<br />

More than 56 days 0<br />

55-29 days NZD $30<br />

28-15 days NZD $50<br />

14-7 days NZD $70<br />

7-0 days NZD $90<br />

Despite anything to the contrary in these general terms or conditions, changes beyond our<br />

control to the extent permitted by law, we will not be liable to compensate you in any way, if<br />

a significant change is made to your booking for reasons beyond our control. These include:<br />

war, threat of war, riots, civil disturbances, terrorist activity, industrial disputes, natural and<br />

nuclear disasters, fire, epidemics, health risks, and changes due to rescheduling or cancellation<br />

of flights by an airline or alteration of the airline or aircraft type; closed or congested airports<br />

or ports, hurricanes and other actual or potential severe weather conditions, and any other<br />

similar event. If you have booked a flight and we are alerted to a significant schedule change by<br />

your airline before you depart from New Zealand, we will contact you by email to advise you of<br />

this. Please ensure that you have given your contact email address to <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> and that you<br />

regularly check for messages before you leave. <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> has no control over airline schedule<br />

changes and accepts no liability for costs which may arise as a result of such changes. After<br />

you have left New Zealand, it is your responsibility to check with the airline that any onward<br />

flights you have confirmed are operating as booked. We strongly recommend that you contact<br />

your airline at least 72 hours before the scheduled departure of each flight to do this. Please<br />

note that for some airlines it is mandatory to confirm with them your intention to fly.<br />

If you wish to change your booking and such a change is permitted and possible, <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong><br />

will charge you a service fee to process the change. You may also be charged a service fee by<br />

your Third Party Supplier. For changes after departure please see the ‘<strong>Travel</strong> Help’ section of<br />

www.statravel.co.nz for details of how to request changes. Please note that all reservation<br />

changes are subject to availability and the terms and conditions of the product or service<br />

purchased. For changes before departure please contact your original branch that booked your<br />

ticket. The name in your booking must be exactly the same as your passport. Changes to name<br />

details are not allowed by many airlines and other service providers. Whilst we will do our best<br />

to make such a change if necessary, please bear in mind that most airlines and other service<br />

providers treat a name change as a cancellation, to which standard conditions and charges would<br />

apply. Flights must be taken in the sequence they appear on your ticket or e-ticket confirmation.<br />

If you plan not to take a flight as booked, please contact the airline as far in advance as<br />

possible to discuss your options. If you do not check in on time for a confirmed reservation, the<br />

airline may register you as a ‘no-show’, which could result in extra charges and/or your whole<br />

flight itinerary being cancelled and/or render your ticket void. If you cancel your booking, the<br />

cancellation terms and conditions of your Third Party Suppliers will apply as well as <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong><br />

fees outlined on your itinerary and receipt. We need to receive from you written notification of<br />

cancellation and your original ticket/voucher before any refund can be considered. If you<br />

decide to cancel arrangements before the balance due date, any deposits paid are nonrefundable.<br />

Refunds will only be paid to you once we have received the funds back from Third Party Suppliers.<br />

Generally flight tickets cannot be refunded if they are partially used. If the reason for your<br />

cancellation is covered under the terms of your travel insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim<br />

your cancellation charges through your insurer.<br />

Liability Limitation<br />

We have taken all reasonable care to make sure that all the services that make up the<br />

arrangements made by <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> are provided by efficient and reputable businesses. These<br />

businesses should follow the local and national laws and regulations of the country where they<br />

are provided. However, please be aware that overseas safety standards may be lower than in<br />

New Zealand. You acknowledge and agree, however that, <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> has no liability for any act,<br />

omission or default, whether negligent or otherwise, of any Third Party Supplier. In circumstances<br />

where liability of <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> cannot be excluded, such liability is limited to the value of the<br />

purchased travel arrangements. <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> reserves the right to decline to provide services to any<br />

individual.<br />

Privacy and personal information<br />

We will handle your personal information in accordance with the terms and conditions set out<br />

in our Privacy Policy which is posted on our website at www.statravel.co.nz you consent to<br />

the disclosure of your personal information to us and to Third Party Suppliers. We and the Third<br />

Party Suppliers may disclose your personal information to others where directly connected<br />

with facilitating your travel arrangements and bookings and the provision of travel services and<br />

products. For example, we may disclose your personal information to airlines, hotels, car rental<br />

companies and other service providers in facilitating your travel arrangements.<br />

Passport, Visa and Immigration<br />

It is your responsibility to fulfil the passport, visa and other immigration requirements for all<br />

transiting and stopover destinations applicable to your itinerary. You should confirm these with<br />

the relevant High Commissions, embassies and/or consulates. We do not accept any responsibility<br />

in the case of you being unable to travel due to not complying with any such requirements. Your<br />

passport must be valid for 6 months beyond your return date into New Zealand.<br />

Insurance<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> insurance is a vital part of your arrangements. We strongly recommend that you have<br />

taken out adequate insurance for the duration of your journey. <strong>Travel</strong> insurance is a mandatory<br />

element of some travel arrangements. We can arrange travel insurance for you and can provide<br />

you with a quote and answer any queries you may have regarding the insurance we offer.<br />

<strong>Travel</strong> advice and vaccinations<br />

New Zealand residents should refer to the travel advice posted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs<br />

and Trade at www.mfat.govt.nz or www.safetravel.govt.nz for all the countries you intend to<br />

visit. Please also check www.flysmart.govt.nz in regards to up to date security requirements.<br />

Vaccinations may be required for some or all of the places you are intending to visit. It is your<br />

responsibility to ensure that you have arranged all necessary vaccinations for your itinerary.<br />

Taxes and Frequent Flyer Program<br />

Local travel and airport taxes and charges may apply in various overseas countries. Unless<br />

otherwise stated, these taxes are not included as part of the fees. Taxes and duties may need<br />

to be paid in local currency at the time of departure and are subject to change without notice.<br />

It is your responsibility to check with your airlines on whether your booking with us is qualified<br />

for any points under any frequent flyer programs. Please retain all boarding passes to allow<br />

verification of your travel if required.<br />

If you have a complaint<br />

If you have a problem during your holiday, please inform the relevant Third Party Supplier (e.g.<br />

your hotel) immediately. Should they be unable to resolve the matter, please contact <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong><br />

in New Zealand, either through the branch where you made your arrangements, or through<br />

customerrelations@statravel.com.au. If you fail to contact <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong>, we will not be permitted<br />

the opportunity to investigate your complaint and rectify any error whilst you are away and<br />

this may affect your rights under your contract. We are a member of IATA (Membership No.<br />

24343034) and operate according to IATA Code of Conduct.<br />

Other important information<br />

For unaccompanied minors travelling overseas without their parent/s or legal guardian please<br />

contact the relevant airlines for further information. Please contact the airline directly regarding<br />

airline carriage conditions and luggage restrictions. Any contract entered into pursuant to these<br />

terms and conditions will be governed by the laws of New Zealand; and supersede all previous<br />

agreements in respect of its subject matter and will embody the entire agreement between the<br />

parties in respect of its subject matter. Any indulgence or extension of time which <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> may<br />

grant to you will not prejudice or interfere with <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong>’s rights and will not constitute a waive.<br />

All prices within this brochure are correct at time of printing (November 2010) and are subject to<br />

currency fluctuations and change without notice, ask your <strong>STA</strong> <strong>Travel</strong> adviser for up to date prices.<br />

Prices are based on cash payment and payment by other means may attract an administration fee.<br />

Prices are based on low season departures and seasonal surcharges may apply.<br />

TRAVEL INSURANCE &<br />

TERMS AND CONDITIONS


BOOK YOUR WAY...<br />

<strong>STA</strong> TRAVEL BRANCHES IN NEW ZEALAND<br />

AUCKLAND:<br />

Auckland Central<br />

Shop 2B, 187 Queen Street<br />

Ph: 09 309 0458<br />

Auckland University<br />

2nd floor, Kate Edgar Building<br />

University Campus<br />

Ph: 09 307 0555<br />

Queen Street<br />

267 Queen Street<br />

Ph: 09 356 1550<br />

St Lukes<br />

Shop 771, St Lukes Mall<br />

80 St Lukes Road<br />

Ph: 09 845 8153<br />

Sylvia Park<br />

Shop SO75, Sylvia Park Mall<br />

286 Mount Wellington Highway<br />

Ph: 09 582 0271<br />

Telephone Sales<br />

Level 14, Telco Building<br />

16 Kingston Street<br />

Ph: 0508 <strong>STA</strong> TRAVEL<br />

Working Holidays<br />

Level 10, 220 Queen Street<br />

Ph: 09 307 9167<br />

CHRISTCHURCH:<br />

Cashel Street<br />

The Crossing<br />

146 Cashel Street<br />

Ph: 03 379 9098<br />

Canterbury University<br />

Student Union Building<br />

90 Ilam Road<br />

Ph: 03 348 6372<br />

DUNEDIN:<br />

Dunedin<br />

Starbucks Coffee Shop<br />

207a George Street<br />

Ph: 03 474 0146<br />

HAMILTON:<br />

Waikato University<br />

Gate 1, Knighton Road<br />

Waikato University<br />

Ph: 07 856 1300<br />

PALMERSTON NORTH:<br />

Palmerston North<br />

45c The Plaza, Church Street<br />

Ph: 06 354 5670<br />

QUEENSTOWN:<br />

Queenstown<br />

Chester Building<br />

Cnr Shotover & Camp Streets<br />

Ph: 03 409 0904<br />

WELLINGTON:<br />

Courtenay Central<br />

5A Courtenay Central<br />

100 Courtenay Place<br />

Ph: 04 385 4917<br />

Cuba Street<br />

130 Cuba Street<br />

Ph: 04 385 0561<br />

Willis Street<br />

99 Willis Street<br />

Ph: 04 499 1017<br />

HIT <strong>STA</strong>TRAVEL.CO.NZ VISIT YOUR NEAREST BRANCH CALL 0508 <strong>STA</strong> TRAVEL<br />

This brochure uses paper from Internationally certified sustainably managed forests and is<br />

printed at a plant that holds the ISO14001 Environmental Management System certification.

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!