ZUJI Australia Hot Deals: Phuket, Hong Kong, Cairns

Patong Hotel & Spa Phuket

Phuket Paradise – Save 50%

Getaway to the four-star Destination Patong Hotel & Spa Phuket, only a stone's throw from the white sand and crystal clear waters of Patong beach. Experience the buzzing nightlife of Patong, with restaurants, bars and plenty of shops and stalls or simply relax with a book by the resort pool or on the beach. Book now and save 50% on room rates. Prices start from $243 for two nights in a deluxe room with breakfast daily for up to two adults sharing, including taxes and fees. Valid for sale to 20 March 2013, or until sold out. Valid for travel until 15 July 2013. Terms and conditions apply. Visit zuji.com.au or call 1300 888 180 for more information.

North Adelaide - Stay 3, Save 15%

Treat yourself to a weekend escape in the city of churches staying at the Adelaide Meridien Hotel and Apartments, located in trendy North Adelaide. Enjoy the city’s funky entertainment, shopping and dining, through to the groovy live music, bar scene and thriving arts community. Book three night’s accommodation, 30 days in advance, and save 15% on room rates. Prices start from $346 for three nights in a standard room with free WiFi, for up to two adults sharing, including taxes and fees. Valid for sale to 31 March 2013, or until sold out. Valid for travel until 31 December 2013, must book 30 days in advance. Terms and conditions apply. Visit zuji.com.au or call 1300 888 180 for more information.

Hong Kong Flight Deals

There’s never been a better time to book a bargain flight to the bustling and eclectic metropolis of Hong Kong. Malaysian Airlines are offering the following fares till 28 February 2013. So book now and take advantage of these great offers. Prices for return economy flights to Hong Kong, including prepayable airport taxes, start from $772 departing Perth, $779 departing Melbourne and $790 departing Sydney. Valid for sale to 28 February 2013, or until sold out. Valid for travel until 31 October 2013. Terms and conditions apply. Visit http://www.zuji.com.au/ or call 1300 888 180 for more information.

Cairns – Save 30%

Escape to Cairns to explore the wonderful attractions tropical North Queensland has to offer, such as the Great Barrier Reef, Port Douglas and the Daintree Rainforest. Book 45 days in advance at the five-star Hilton Cairns and save 30% on room rates. That’s a saving of $78 per night! Prices start from $181 per room, per night in a King Hilton guest room for up to two adults sharing, including taxes and fees. Valid for sale to 30 March 2013, or until sold out. Valid for travel until 31 December 2013. Terms and conditions apply. Visit zuji.com.au or call 1300 888 180 for more information.

Terms and Conditions:

Advertised prices are correct at the time of publication and include taxes. All prices shown, including hotel, holiday and flight prices may vary and subject to availability based on the fare types and room types available on your preferred travel dates.

Harvey World Travel Hot Deals

Elegant and spacious ms Oosterdam

Red Centre Getaway

Discover the sights and sounds of the Red Centre on this three-day short break staying at Ayers Rock Resort. Enjoy a delicious buffet dinner under the stars at the famous 'Sounds of Silence' dinner, then sit back and relax as a star-talker takes you on a tour of the night sky. Rise early to view the beautiful sunrise at Uluru before exploring its base on a guided walk. Continue to the magnificent Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) and journey through Walpa Gorge along a natural creek bed between the tallest domes, then sit back and relax with a glass of wine as you watch the beautiful sunset at Uluru. Your Red Centre holiday includes:  two nights accommodation; Sounds of Silence dinner; national park entry fee; experienced driver guide; and travel by luxury air-conditioned coach. Prices per person, twin share, start from $795, land only. Valid for sale until 31 March 2014, unless sold out prior. Valid for travel from 01 April 2013 to 31 March 2014. This offer is subject to availability and terms and conditions apply. Visit www.harveyworld.com.au or call 132 757 for more information.

Canada and Alaska Tour – Majestic Rockies & Alaska Cruise

Board the Rocky Mountaineer Train for an unforgettable journey through the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Explore the alpine towns of Jasper, Sun Peaks and Whistler. Visit Butchart Gardens, walk along the shore of Lake Louise, Canada's 'Diamond in the Wilderness', and climb aboard a specially-designed Ice Explorer to ascend Athabasca Glacier. Continue your experience with a seven night Holland America Line cruise through Alaska's Inside Passage. Your 20-day Canada and Alaska holiday includes: 12 nights accommodation in luxury hotels; Rocky Mountaineer train journey from Jasper to Vancouver in GoldLeaf service; seven night inside passage Holland America line cruise; and in-depth sightseeing in Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler, Banff, Jasper, Yoho National Pars and Kelowna. Prices per person, twin share, start from $9,404, land only. Book before 30 May 2013 and receive one free pre or post night accommodation at the Four Seasons Vancouver.  Valid for sale from 01 February to 30 May 2013. Valid for tour departures on 26 August and 02 September 2013. This offer is subject to availability and terms and conditions apply. Visit www.harveyworld.com.au or call 132 757 for more information.

Real Food Adventures
Experience an unforgettable food journey when you book an Intrepid real food adventure to Mexico, India, Vietnam, China, Northern Spain or Turkey and save 10%. Learn the art of cooking, experience different food cultures and taste fabulous cuisine as you visit some of the most exciting and inspirational food cities in the world. Your intrepid food adventure holiday includes: meals; accommodation; transport, intrepid tour leader; market visits; cooking demonstrations; and cooking classes. Prices per person, twin share, start from $1,166, land only. Valid for sale and varying departure dates until the end of May 2013. This offer is subject to availability and terms and conditions apply. Visit www.harveyworld.com.au or call 132 757 for more information.

Monkey Mia – Western Australia

Escape to the crystal clear waters and pristine white shell beaches of Monkey Mia and see the enchanting bottle-nosed dolphins. Famous for their almost daily ritual of swimming to shore to interact with humans, visitors have the opportunity to feed the dolphins under the supervision of a national park ranger. This five day escorted tour to Western Australia is packed with spectacular sightseeing and includes visits to New Norcia, Monkey Mia, Geraldton, The Pinnacles and Perth. Your holiday includes: transportation by luxury air-conditioned coach; experienced tour director and driver; four buffet breakfasts, three dinners; four nights hotel accommodation; airport transfers; welcome drink; travel wallet and map; and hotel porterage. Prices per person, twin share, start from $1,625, land only. Valid for sale until 31 March 2014, unless sold out prior. Valid for tour departures on selected dates from 20 May 2013 until 17 March 2014. This offer is subject to availability and terms and conditions apply. Visit www.harveyworld.com.au or call 132 757 for more information.

South Pacific Cruise

Set sail from Sydney on the elegant and spacious ms Oosterdam and have an unforgettable cruise experience as you discover the beautiful tropical islands of Noumea, Lifou, Fiji, Vanuatu, Mystery Island and the Isle of Pines. Relax away the stress of life onboard and enjoy the ship's modern spa amenities, culinary presentations, exceptional food and wine, and legendary service. Your cruise holiday includes: 14 night cruise in an inside stateroom; all main meals and entertainment onboard; all pre-collectable taxes, surcharges and port charges. Prices per person, twin share, start from $1,599. Valid for sale until 31 March 2013, unless sold out prior. Valid for cruise departure from Sydney 24 November 2013. This offer is subject to availability and terms and conditions apply. Visit www.harveyworld.com.au or call 132 757 for more information.

Canada and Alaska - Motorhome Convoy Touring

Follow in the footsteps of the explorers on this magnificent motorhome adventure through the Canadian Rockies, the Alcan, the Klondike, the Top of the World Highway and the Parks Highway. Starting in Seattle, the tour proceeds via the Canadian Rockies to Dawson Creek, Whitehorse, Fairbanks and Anchorage, then transfers to a cruise ship for a seven night inside passage cruise to Vancouver. Your motorhome holiday includes: economy airfare and taxes from Sydney to Seattle and return from Vancouver; two nights hotel accommodation in Seattle, two nights in Anchorage and one night in Vancouver; 22 nights in RV parks in a 24ft motorhome; seven night inside passage cruise in an ocean view cabin; Mt McKinley scenic flight; Kenai Fjord cruise; roadside assistance; and tour guide. Prices per person, twin share, start from $11,000 for 2013 departures and $11,500 for 2014 departures. Valid for sale until sold out. Valid for departures on 08 May 2013 and 07 May 2014. This offer is subject to availability and terms and conditions apply. Visit www.harveyworld.com.au or call 132 757 for more information.

ZUJI Australia Hot Deals: Bali, Tasmania, UK

ZUJI HOT DEALS

15 February 2013

Mandurah, Western Australia – Save 10%

Located just 50 minutes south of Perth, the spectacular coastal town of Mandurah is the perfect place to spend a weekend whale watching with the family or to simply kick back and soak up the sunshine. Book a weekend getaway now at the 4.5-star Waterfront Sebel Mandurah and save 10% on room rates. Prices start from $179 per room, per night for Friday nights or $209 per room, per night for Saturday nights, in a studio king room for up to two adults sharing, including taxes and fees. Valid for sale until 31 March 2013 or until sold out. Valid for travel now until 30 May 2013. Terms and conditions apply. Visit zuji.com.au or call 1300 888 180 for more information.

Hagley, Tasmania – Save 35% plus bonuses

Experience the best of the Apple Isle with a stay at the stunning 4-star Quamby Estate in Meander Valley, just 25 minutes from Launceston. This iconic 10 bedroom manor is situated on 150 acres of Tasmania's most prestigious and historically significant properties, and is the ideal place to get back to nature. Book now and save up to 35% on room rates – a saving of up to $105 per night. Prices start from $162 per room, per night, in a standard room for up to two adults, including free WiFi, in-house movies, airport transfers, taxes and fees. Valid for sale to 10 March 2013, or until sold out. Valid for travel from 01 May until 30 June 2013. Terms and conditions apply. Visit zuji.com.au or call 1300 888 180 for more information.

Bali Holiday Package – Save 50% off hotel plus free breakfast

Escape to Bali and experience the exotic culture, laid-back lifestyle and legendary sunsets of this island paradise.  Book a five night holiday package at the 4-star Bali Dream Villa 30 days in advance and save 50% off accommodation.  Your Balinese holiday includes: return economy class flights to Bali; five night's accommodation in a one bedroom villa with private pool; breakfast daily for two adults, taxes and fees. Prices per person, twin share, start from $655 departing Perth, $855 departing Melbourne and $899 departing Sydney. Valid for sale to 31 March 2013 or until sold out. Valid for travel from now until 20 December 2013, black-out periods apply. Terms and conditions apply. Visit zuji.com.au or call 1300 888 180 for more information.

Manchester, UK – Book in advance and save 20%

Discover the best Manchester has to offer with a stay at the 5-star Lowry Hotel Manchester. Perched on the banks of the River Irwell and offering superb city views, the Lowry is an ideal base to explore Manchester's historic sites or its thriving bar and restaurant scene. Book more than 10 days in advance and save up to 20% on room rates. Prices start from $180 per night in a deluxe double room for up to two adults sharing, including taxes and fees. Valid for sale to 31 March 2013, or until sold out. Valid for travel from 01 March until 30 May 2013, blackout dates apply including Saturdays. Terms and conditions apply. Visit zuji.com.au or call 1300 888 180 for more information.

Terms and Conditions:

Advertised prices are correct at the time of publication and include taxes. All prices shown, including hotel, holiday and flight prices may vary and subject to availability based on the fare types and room types available on your preferred travel dates.

Flight Centre's Pick Of Must-Do Tours In Europe

Travellers are locking in last-minute trips to Europe for the summer season, thanks to a second round of discounted deals from leading tour operators.

Flight Centre has partnered with the big names in the business, including Trafalgar, Insight, Cosmos, Contiki and Topdeck, to provide travellers with the greatest range of trips across Europe.

Significant earlybird savings can be found on departures in Italy, France, Britain, Germany, Ireland, Switzerland and more.

Check out the full range at www.flightcentre.com.au/promotions/europe-earlybird-tours

See below for Flight Centre's suggestions.

CONTIKI - European Discovery
From $1536* per person, was $1659*, this 12-day tour maps out the best of Europe from the romantic canals in Italy to the icons of Paris and the landscapes of the Alps. Highlights along the way include a locally guided bike tour of Munich's famous landmarks, a private boat through Venice's canals, a sightseeing tour in Rome and Florence, a Paris by Night experience and more. The price includes 11 nights twin or triple-share accommodation, 11 continental breakfasts and 6 three-course dinners, local guided trips, services of an experienced English speaking tour manager and driver, transport in an air-conditioned coach, a ferry crossing and sightseeing as per itinerary. Departures scheduled from March 28, 2013 until March 18, 2014. Price is valid for sale until March 1, 2013.

TOPDECK - Greek Island Hopper

From $1383* per person, was $1495*, this 10-day island-hopping holiday starts in Athens and travels to Mykonos, Paros and Santorini, blending the perfect combination of fun, relaxation and culture. Travellers will be treated to a traditional evening in Athens on the first night, which includes an authentic Greek dinner with music and dancing, before navigating their way to the islands to shop, eat or party. The price includes nine nights' twin share accommodation at 4-star hotels in Athens, Mykonos & Paros, breakfast daily, one dinner, return transfers, transport by ferries between the islands, services of an experienced English speaking trip leader and walking tours. Departures are scheduled between April 12 and October 13, 2013. Price is valid for sale until March 1, 2013.

COSMOS - Hidden Treasures of Northern Italy
From $1159* per person twin share, this eight-day tour of Northern Italy travels from Milan to Cinque Terre, Parma, Pavia and Vigeano, before arriving at Lake Maggiore. Highlights include a guided city tour in Milan, the charming spa town of Salsomaggiore Terme, a visit to the Castles of Duchy and a full-day excursion to the romantic fishing villages of the Cinque Terre. The price includes seven nights' accommodation, buffet breakfast daily, six dinners, touring by private first-class air-conditioned motorcoach, a train from La Spezia to Monterosso, hotel taxes, portage, tips, and service charges. The trip departs on May 5, 2013. Price is valid for sale until March 1, 2013.

TRAFALGAR - Highlights of France & Barcelona

From $1989* per person twin share, was $2150*, this nine-day tour takes in the dazzling sights of Paris, Lyon, Cannes, Nice, Barcelona, Toledo and Madrid. Some of the highlights include the views across the Pyrenees, the charming castles of Loire Valley and the Papal Palace of Avignon, as well as the beaches of La Barcelonetta. The price includes eight nights in first class hotel accommodation, many meals, breakfast daily, services of a professional travel director, transport by luxury air-conditioned coach, hotel service charges and tips, baggage handling fees and local taxes. The tour departs on dates between July 5 and August 23, 2013. Price is valid for sale until December 28, 2013.

INSIGHT - Country Roads of Switzerland
From $3849* per person twin share, was $4165*, this 14-day tour travels from Lucerne to the summit of Mount Pilatus, Lake Geneva and into the heart of the Swiss Alps. The tour travels through fortified towns and flower-filled meadows, with highlights including a cog-wheel rail journey aboard the world-famous Glacier Express that offers panoramic views of the Alpine scenery. The price includes 13 nights' accommodation in premium hotels, breakfast daily, five dinners, travel by luxury coach with more legroom, guided sightseeing with an experienced Tour Director. The tour is scheduled to depart on dates from May 26 to September 15, 2013. Price is valid for sale until February 28, 2013.

All these earlybird Europe deals and more are available online at www.flightcentre.com.au/promotions/europe-earlybird-tours

For bookings, phone Flight Centre on 1300 939 414 to speak to a travel consultant.

*Price is subject to change and availability at the time of booking.

Spotting fake user reviews

originally published at www.yourlifechoices.com.au

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by Drew Patchell

Booking travel experiences, buying gadgets and researching restaurants are tasks where, when performed online, the user relies heavily on the feedback of those who have experienced the products or services. Drew explains how to spot a fake review.

I have been using the internet since I can remember and brands have become not only smarter in the ways they post fake reviews about their products and services, but also in the ways they talk down the products of their competitors.

So how do you spot a fake review?
The average fake review will either sing the praises of a product or service with absolutely no downsides or, on the other hand, totally dismiss any good qualities and recommend the user to avoid the product at all costs. Usually, these reviews will stand out from the crowd as they are so far apart from other user’s reviews in terms of the tone used (they normally sound like press releases) and the length of the review (either extremely short or long). Pay attention to the reviews that not only talk about the good features of the product or service, but are also critical of short comings.

Further signs
As soon as a new product is released, the PR team of that product will track down every article that talks about their product on the web and write positive comments, normally multiple times from different usernames. Be cautious of reviews for gadgets and gizmos written directly after the release of a product as the average user requires more than a few weeks to learn and understand a product fully.

If it is listed, pay close attention to the date the account was created by the reviewer as accounts created months or years before the review have a significantly higher chance of being genuine.

How do you sort the fakes from the reals?

Travelzoo Top 20

$139 -- Deluxe Waterfront Cairns Hotel w/Upgrade, Save 46%
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1403668
Source: Cairns Harbour Lights

$255 -- Phuket: 3-Nt Patong Break w/Massages & More, 41% Off
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1404632
Source: Novotel Phuket Vintage Park Resort

$549 -- 5-Nt Gold Coast Resort Stay w/Free Parking, Save 55%
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1404629
Source: Freshwater Point Resort

$1990 -- 7-Nt Luxe Hawaii Stay w/Flights & Bonuses, $520 Off
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1404643
Source: My Hawaii

$149 -- 2 Days Only: 4.5-Star Melbourne CBD Apts, Save 40%
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1404638
Source: Hotels.com

$95 -- Bangkok: Deluxe Sukhumvit Hotel w/Drinks, Half Price
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1404633
Source: Radisson Suites Bangkok Sukhumvit

$139 -- Sydney 4-Star Darling Harbour Apartments, Save 38%
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1404623
Source: HotelClub

$258 & up -- Deluxe 3-Nt Phillip Island Resort Stay, 48% Off
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1403644
Source: Silverwater Resort

$46 -- Sydney: 2-for-1 Unlimited Luna Park Rides Pass
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1404602
Source: Luna Park Sydney

$588 -- 2-Nt Tasmania Stay w/River Cruise for 2, Save $112
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1403674
Source: Pure Tasmania

$2950 -- Luxury South East Asia Cruise w/Double Upgrade
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1404545
Source: Ultimate Travel Group

$721 & up -- Bangkok Flights on Sale ex Sydney & Melbourne
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1404631
Source: Vietnam Airlines

$80 -- NZ: Rotorua Adventure Park Pass, Save 34%
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1404599
Source: GoDo

$390 -- 1st Class Swiss Travel Pass w/Free Day
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1404628
Source: Swiss Pass

$1625 & up -- African Safaris on Sale, Save up to $970
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1404626
Source: Intrepid My Adventure Store

$299 -- Edinburgh: Waldorf Astoria Stay inc Meals, 37% Off
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1403681
Source: The Caledonian, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel

$1576 & up -- Return Africa Flight Sale, Save 64%
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1404619
Source: South African Airways

$29-$69 -- Sydney to Canberra, Melbourne & Brisbane by Rail
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1404622
Source: CountryLink

$14 -- For 2: Entry to Award-Winning Perth Attraction
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1404630
Source: The Bell Tower

$300 -- 3-Nt Stay in 4-Star Darwin Tourist Park, Save 33%
http://www.travelzoo.com/au/top20/1130090-1404589
Source: Hidden Valley Tourist Park

For more hand-picked travel deals, visit
http://www.travelzoo.com/au

Zuji's Valentine's Day Specials

Rendezvous Grand Hotel Melbourne

Melbourne Amore – Complimentary wine, canapés, dinner and breakfast

Treat your loved one this Valentine’s Day with a Romance by Rendezvous Package at the 4.5 star Rendezvous Grand Hotel Melbourne. Book a deluxe room now and receive a bottle of sparkling wine, Chef’s selection of three canapés, strawberries dipped in chocolate, a three course dinner for two at the hotel restaurant, full buffet breakfast for two and complimentary internet during your stay. Prices start from $294 per night for two adults, including taxes and fees. Valid for sale until 15 February 2013 or until sold out. Valid for stays until 15 February 2013. Terms and conditions apply. Visit zuji.com.au or call 1300 888 180 for more information.

Five-star decadence in Sydney – Save 15%

Looking to impress your partner this Valentine’s day? Then book now at the five-star Blue Sydney – A Taj Hotel and save 15% on room rates. Located at Woolloomooloo Wharf, The Taj is a boutique hotel offering a chic, laid back designer lifestyle straight from the streets of New York. Prices start from $283 per night in a loft suite, pier view, for two adults, including taxes and fees. Valid for sale until 14 February or until sold out. Valid for stays until 15 February 2013. Terms and conditions apply. Visit zuji.com.au or call 1300 888 180 for more information.

Fall in love with Fiji – Stay 3, Pay 2

Book a romantic getaway this Valentine’s day to the South Sea paradise of Fiji, where crystal clear waters and white sand beaches await. Relax in spectacular surroundings at the five-star Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa. Book three nights now and only pay for two. Prices start from $568 for three nights in an Oceanside Superior Room with King Size bed for two adults sharing, including taxes and fees. Valid for sale until 14 February or until sold out. Valid for stays until 18 February 2013. Terms and conditions apply. Visit zuji.com.au or call 1300 888 180 for more information.

Live large in Las Vegas – Save 20%

Whisk your loved one away to the Vegas strip and experience first-hand the luxury and opulence of the spectacular five-star Bellagio Hotel. Set on a Mediterranean-blue lake where fountains perform a magnificent ballet choreographed to music and lights, this iconic hotel offers award-winning dining, a world-class art gallery and conservatorium, a sumptuous spa and luxury shopping. Book now and save 20% on room rates. Prices start from $169 per room, per night, in a Resort King Deluxe Room for two adults, including taxes and fees. Valid for bookings until 14 February 2013. Valid for stays until 18 February 2013. Terms and conditions apply. Visit zuji.com.au or call 1300 888 180 for more information.

Valentine's Day in the City of Love – Save 30%

Discover the magic and beauty of Paris this Valentine’s Day. Take a stroll down the Champs-Elysees, steal a kiss at the top of the Eiffel Tower or simply indulge yourself in the romance of this spectacular city. Book now at the three-star Hotel Renoir, St Germaine, located in the heart of Paris, just a few steps from Saint-Germain-des-Pres and the Latin Quarter, and save 30% on room rates. Prices start from $390 for three nights in a standard double room with breakfast daily, for two adults sharing, including taxes and fees. Valid for sale until 14 February 2013 or until sold out. Valid for stays until 18 February 2013. Terms and conditions apply. Visit zuji.com.au or call 1300 888 180 for more information.

Terms and Conditions:

Advertised prices are correct at the time of publication and include taxes. All prices shown, including hotel, holiday and flight prices may vary and subject to availability based on the fare types and room types available on your preferred travel dates.