TRAVEL BRIEFS
John Crook
Classic Italian style
Sited within a few paces from Hagley Park and the Christchurch Arts Centre, is The Classic Villa. Arguably this is the finest accommodation in an historic Italian style boutique hotel. Peter Morrison and Jan Clarke host guests who choose to stay in luxury. The historic tram runs past the door. Across the way from the Arts Centre, a few more steps and its Hagley Park and the Botanical Gardens. Beautifully decorated and with quality facilities. Check the package,- a two-nights stay minimum, and the NZ$199 tariff includes a Mediterranean breakfast, free internet and car park. Email frontdesk@theclassicvilla.co.nz or visit www.theclassicvilla.co.nz
Free nights at Whistler
The site of the 2010 Winter Olympics offers a deal well worth considering. I can't believe this. Book a maximum of seven nights accommodation at the luxurious Fairmont Chateau Whistler with two-nights free. There's a choice of either an $800 food and beverage voucher, or a free upgrade to a deluxe room providing you make the booking before November 15 2009. Prices start from $1068 per person twin share and that includes accommodation and a six-day lift pass. The deal is valid for travel from November 1 2009 to February 10, 2010 and again from March 1 until April 30 2010. Check the conditions and details by contacting Value Tours on 1300 361 322.
UAE stopover
The brand new Traders Hotel in Abu Dhabi offers a three-day package priced from $689 per person twin share. The 301-suite hotel is now open and is located just 10 minutes from the airport. The package includes accommodation, breakfasts, a private city tour, a meet and assist at Abu Dhabi airport handling free and welcome pack, and arrival and departure transfers by coach. Get in touch with Tempo Holidays on 1300 558 987.
Spotting leopards
There's a tour which includes visiting an elephant orphanage, ancient cities, chances to spot leopards, and so much more culturally. It's destination Sri Lanka. Even a touch of soft adventure. For instance local transport includes train, bus and bicycle. Accommodation is in simple guesthouses and hotels. There are departures ex Australia through until December 2010. The price is from $1269 per person. For bookings and more information call 134 782 or visit www.statravel.com.au Check out the terms and conditions.
Women only on this one
Details have been released for a unique womens'-only tour, satisfying the urge to explore the rich beauty, history and culture of India. Departure date is April 17 2010 and the tour starts and finishes in Delhi. Take a rickshaw through a thriving marketplace, visits to temples and a boat ride on Lake Pichola. A highlight of course is the Taj Mahal. Prices start from $6,449 and includes return airfares from Brisbane, Melbourne or Sydney. An Indian domestic airfare, meals and entrance fees as per the itinerary. Travel in air-conditioned transport throughout. Get the facts by calling 1800 102 332 or log onto www.travelassociates.com/russell
Best value museum visit
So you don't think you've seen them all ! I refer to the Wanaka Transport and Tour Museum, in the New Zealand town of Wanaka. It is the most brilliant display, with more than 40,000 pieces of memorabilia. Ranging from Russian jets, to a Barbie collection of more than 500 pieces. It's a good deal, five huge hangars of items and just $10 admission. Without doubt, the best I've seen. Nearby Lake Wanaka is also one heck of a place to visit. As is the Edgewater Resort. Not to be missed.
* 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
