You’ve worked hard, and it’s time to reward yourself with a luxury holiday to be
pampered and indulged in the manner to which you prefer to become accustomed. The
possibilities for a luxury holiday are endless and these days can be enjoyed just
about anywhere in the world.
Luxury holidays take many forms, from indulgent pampering in a tropical spa, lazy
resort life in an exotic remote destination, living the high life in a sumptuous
international hotel, or watching the world slip by from the balcony of your cruise
liner suite. Talk to your Travel Counsellor about the best type of luxury holiday
to suit your taste.
Luxury Resort Holidays
For a truly luxurious holiday think about some resort “essentials”; your personal
plunge pool (preferably an infinity model) overlooking your private beach on an
exclusive island, sipping chilled champagne served by your personal butler. Some
local names to consider are Hayman, Lizard, Bedarra while overseas think about Aman,
Evason, Six Senses and LHW.
Luxury Spa Holidays
For the ultimate in luxe, get into a spa resort, the more exotic and over the top
the better. These days spas are the reason for the resort, not an added feature,
and you will leave relaxed and toned, probably with a much slimmer wallet. In Australia
consider Hepburn Springs, Hunter Valley or Palm Cove; while overseas the Maldives,
Mauritius and Thailand are hot destinations.
Luxury Cruise Holidays
Increasingly popular luxury cruises are another great way to unwind and live the
luxe life. Grab your chance to explore remote ports-of-call while cosseted in the
incomparable luxury of your stateroom. Five star luxury at every turn, gourmet dining
and world-class entertainment come bundled on your luxury cruise.
Fun Luxury Holiday facts
The “buzz” way to arrive at Evason Hideaway at Zighy Bay, Oman is to drop in by
hang glider.
The Huvafen Fushi resort in the Maldives has an underwater spa.
Sydney’s Hilton Hotel has a luxury $1 million 2 night package deal.
Cairns at Christmas
Sunday 20th December 2009

Travel Counsellor: Rosemary Metcalf
Cairns in summer is the least likely place for Australians to go for a holiday. We took the challenge to spend Christmas with family and to take on the so called ‘wet season’ of the north. The direct services are the only way to go, with flights from Melbourne taking around 3.5 hours.
When we first arrived the humidity was a bit of a shock, but we soon settled into our social routine. The wet season was thankfully delayed, as it seems to be getting later each year. So we enjoyed near perfect conditions, without too many other tourists.
Cairns is the gateway to Far North Queensland with a destination to suit most travellers. One of my favourites (on which everyone agrees) is the picturesque beach setting of Palm Cove. This small seaside village boasts some great little eateries and a variety of accommodation.
A spectacular one hour drive north of Cairns is another favorite spot, Port Douglas. This is a great place to browse in the boutiques, or to enjoy lunch with the locals in... view full story
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