TRAVEL BRIEFS
By John Crook
Italy boutique style
Family-owned operators in Italy understand the problems associated with the Aussie dollar as against the Euro, so these suppliers have thrown out the welcome mat Italian-style for those who book a three-week tour of Umbria and Tuscany. Costs are kept competitive with such decisions as spending a week at a time in each of three major centres, rather than moving on each night. These tours are worthy of consideration, so get the facts and the prices by ringing (07) 3396 8652 or visiting www.carolinasusi.com.au
Recession fighter
Thanks to SeaSA which has slashed ferry fares to half price on all cars, motorbikes, caravans, trailers and motor homes crossing Spencer Gulf. You just need to be travelling on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The mid-week 'recession buster' is available until May 1 2009. The offer is available for full-fare paying customers. Advance bookings need to be made at least one day before travel. Telephone (08) 8823 0777. Conditions apply.
Shongololo discounts
Lovers of rail travel should be pleased to learn that there a 10% discount on selected journeys of South Africa's Shongololo railway's 16-day journeys between Johannesburg and Victoria Falls and Johannesburg and Cape Town. So whether it be the Southern Cross adventure tour to Victoria Falls, or the Good Hope adventure to Cape Town, prices have been reduced. The deals are for ten journeys departing up to December 21 2009. Get the facts by telephoning 1300 363 055. or visit www.adventureworld.com.au
Monaco here we come
The film stars head to Cannes in May and with Windstar's 8-day Nice round trip on msy Wind Surf, you too can share in all the glamour of the film festival. The package includes two days and a night in Cannes and three days and a night in Monaco for the Grand Prix. Departing Nice on May 17 you get to experience two of the world's most celebrated events. Call into San Tropez, the Italian Riviera, in addition to Cannes and Monte Carlo.
It's class all the way,- mixing it with the 'beautiful people'. Prices and conditions are available by checking www.traveltheworld.com.au or calling 1300 766 566.
The King and I
The musical which once was banned in Thailand again makes it to the stage. This time in London, at the Royal Albert Hall. It is playing in June. The Red Carnation's super luxurious Milestone Hotel, within walking distance of the Royal Albert, offers its King and I package from £509 per room per night. That includes a regal pre-show three-course dinner for two in Chenestons Restaurant, two tickets to the King and I, a dessert and liqueur served on your return, a full English breakfast, in bed! There's more too, so get the facts infoMS@rchmail.com
If it's Easter it must be Werribee Park
A rather special accommodation package awaits at the Werribee Park Mansion Hotel and Spa, 30 minutes drive from Melbourne. From just $99 per person, twin share, the package includes overnight accommodation at the luxurious hotel, a full buffet breakfast in Joseph's Restaurant, Sofitel 'strawbettes', a complimentary wine tasting at Shadowfax Winery, and a self guided tours of the lavishly restored historic mansion and the Werribee Park sculpture walk. The deal is valid from 1 – 30 April 2009. Email reservations@mansiongroup.com.au or ring (03) 9731 4000.
Overlooking Koombana Bay
On West Australia's south west coast is Mantra Bunbury,- so close to Ferguson wine country. Situated right in the heart of the heritage listed precinct, handy to restaurants, cafes and bars, it has opening specials from $157 per room per night. Stylish studio apartments feature lounge and dining areas, kitchenettes and of course broadband, cable TV and in-house movies. Valid to 31 August, 2009. Check it out by visiting www.mantra.com.au or 'phone (08) 9721 0100.
* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability. Block out periods may apply. Need a holiday ? We're archived on http://travellersgoodbuys.info
