Monday 10 August 2009

Leopard Spotting

TRAVEL BRIEFS

John Crook

Absolute comfort

Travel through magical India aboard the new Maharajas' express train. The 24-carriage train runs on itineraries with travel for seven or eight days. Packages start from $5938 per person twin share and that includes your choice of cabin style, all meals including wine and beer with dinner, escorted excursions, butler service, celebrity chefs and guest lecturers. There are two restaurants, a bar and observation lounge. Check the finer details by visiting www.tempoholidays.com or call 1300 558 987.

High value offer

Pay from $180 per room per night and book into a deluxe room at Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove.  Normal price would be from $455,- so that is a tremendous saving.  What's the catch? Well, nothing really, apart from the fact that the price is based on twin share and valid for sale until August 31 2009.   This five-star Gold Coast resort is inspired by the 1940's grand homestead style.  Conditions apply so to get the full story log onto www.flightcentrehotels.com  or telephone 1800 005 125.

Rhine getaway

Here's a river cruise through history and with a special offer of discounts up to $1,000 per couple.  Choose from a range of Viking River Cruises, with bookings being necessary prior to September 30 2009. For example, there's an eight-day Rhine River cruise  priced at $1810 per person, departing Amsterdam to Basel.  There are port stops in Germany and France prior to anchoring down in Switzerland.  Or do the itinerary in reverse.  Cruise prices include all meals on onboard, shore excursions, gratuities and port taxes.  More info by calling 1300 363 554 or visit www.beyondtravel.com.au

Researching leopards

For something quite unique check this one out.  It's a three-day leopard research safari tracking wild beasts.  Apart from leopard sightings in the wild, travellers also contribute towards the research and ongoing leopard conservation.

The price (excluding accommodation) is approximately $AUD930, subject to currency fluctuations. Al your questions should be answered by accessing www.andBeyond.com

Russia awaits

Why not 13-nights in Russia?  That includes 12-nights cruising and paying around $2300 per person below current brochure prices.  However, you will need to book prior to August 31 this year, with travel between May 6 and September 27 next year.  The price from $6699 per person twin share included return air from mainland capitals, current air taxes and fuel surcharges, a night pre-cruise at the Novotel St Petersburg, all meals  during the 12-night cruise, a complimentary wine package, onboard gratuities and port charges.  Check out the facts by visiting www.ecruising.travel or you could call 1300 369 848.

Antarctic savings

If you make a new booking on the December 19 Antarctic cruise there could be savings on airfares (from and to selected ports), as well as a 10% discount.  The cruise is a classic Antarctica experience aboard the Lyubov Orlova, taking in the Falklands and South Georgia.  Contact 1800 222 141 or visit www.adventureassociates.com   By the way, there are additional bonuses on several other departures.

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages  and prices are subject to change and availability.  This information is provided as a guide only.  Check with your travel agency.   Block out periods may apply.    Need a holiday ?  We're archived on  http://travellersgoodbuys.info