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No time for a holiday? A ‘workation’ could be the answer

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/mariachiara-barzotto-1449459">Mariachiara Barzotto</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-bath-1325">University of Bath</a></em></p> <p>Imagine this: you’re lounging on the beach, waves crashing in the background. A laptop sits on the table next to your iced coffee. In between meetings, you dip into the ocean or explore a hiking trail. This is the ideal vision of “workations” – a blend of work and vacation that is <a href="https://www.peoplemanagement.co.uk/article/1882649/rise-workation-hr-encourage-blurring-lines-home-away#:%7E:text=Since%20many%20people%20shifted%20to,having%20to%20take%20annual%20leave.">gaining popularity</a> worldwide.</p> <p>A workation allows employees to work remotely from a holiday spot, and is part of a larger shift towards more flexible working arrangements, accelerated by the COVID pandemic and the rise of digital technology. <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/16078055.2022.2134199#d1e474">Workations</a> can last from a few days to several weeks.</p> <p>The concept can be appealing to both employees and companies, but there are challenges too. So, understanding its benefits and limitations is important for workers and employers alike.</p> <p>The most obvious benefit for employees is enjoying a new environment while staying productive. The typical work environment can become monotonous, potentially leading to burnout, decreased creativity and dissatisfaction.</p> <p>A workation offers an escape from this day-to-day grind, providing a refreshing change of scenery. It combines the mental break of a vacation with the flexibility of working remotely, allowing workers to balance their professional and personal lives and <a href="https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/abas/20/1/20_0210112a/_pdf">enhance their creativity</a>. This flexibility may be particularly beneficial for those with high workloads or tight schedules, as they no longer need to sacrifice time away from work to relax.</p> <p>And companies can also reap rewards from approving workations among their staff. One of the most significant advantages is employee retention. Flexible work arrangements are among <a href="https://buffer.com/state-of-remote-work/2023">the top priorities</a> for employees in today’s job market, helping to reduce staff turnover.</p> <p>Offering the option of a workation could also make a company more attractive to prospective employees. And workers who are free to work from inspiring locations may return to their tasks less stressed, and more motivated and engaged. Studies show that remote workers often demonstrate <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1529100615593273">increased organisational commitment</a>.</p> <p>Another advantage is the potential for cost savings. With more employees working remotely, companies may reduce their need for large office spaces or the expensive perks offered in corporate environments such as gyms, canteens and the staffing that goes with them.</p> <p>But there can be challenges too. The boundary between work and leisure can become blurred, and some employees may find it <a href="https://tuprints.ulb.tu-darmstadt.de/7578/1/Dissertation_Reinke_Always%20Online%20-%20Boundary%20Management%20and%20Well-being.pdf%20">hard to disconnect from work</a> – defeating the object of travelling to a different workplace. The allure of finishing “just one more task” can prevent employees from truly enjoying their surroundings, potentially leading to exhaustion instead of rejuvenation.</p> <p>Time zone differences can also be a challenge. Juggling meetings and collaborating with colleagues in different time zones can lead to irregular work hours that make it hard to maintain a healthy work-life balance.</p> <p>Distractions are another concern. Beaches, tourist attractions or even the simple novelty of being in a new place can make it difficult to focus on work tasks. Employees need to have a strong sense of discipline to remain productive.</p> <p>For companies, one of the primary challenges is ensuring that employees remain productive. Monitoring performance without feeling intrusive can be a tricky balance for managers to strike.</p> <p>Security is another major concern. Remote work often involves accessing company networks and handling sensitive information. When employees work from unfamiliar locations – particularly in public spaces such as cafes – there may be increased risks related to cybersecurity. Ensuring that employees follow security protocols, use secure wifi and protect sensitive data is crucial.</p> <p>Lastly, workations might not be feasible for all roles. This can lead to disparities in who can take advantage of the opportunity, potentially leading to bad feeling among other staff.</p> <p>For the concept of workations to succeed, both employees and employers should set clear expectations, establish boundaries, and focus on maintaining productivity while allowing time for relaxation. But, if managed properly, they could become a staple of modern work culture. In a world where flexibility and wellbeing are increasingly valued, workations offer a unique opportunity to blend productivity with personal fulfilment, reshaping how we think about work and leisure.</p> <h2>Nine tips for having a successful workation</h2> <p><strong>1. Choose the right destination</strong></p> <p>Opt for a location with reliable internet access and where the time difference between colleagues and clients is manageable.</p> <p><strong>2. Set clear boundaries</strong></p> <p>Establish dividing lines between your work and vacation time, and communicate these boundaries with your employer and colleagues.</p> <p><strong>3. Ensure you have the right tech set-up</strong></p> <p>Bring all the necessary equipment, including noise-cancelling headphones. Double-check that you have remote access to all necessary material before leaving.</p> <p><strong>4. Plan for cybersecurity</strong></p> <p>Use a secure virtual private network (VPN) to protect company data, and follow your company’s cybersecurity policies to the letter.</p> <p><strong>5. Understand your company’s remote work policy</strong></p> <p>Read up on things like flexibility in terms of location, time zones, working hours and refunds for co-working spaces or tech tools.</p> <p><strong>6. Set realistic expectations</strong></p> <p>Don’t expect your workation to feel like a full vacation. Plan your leisure activities around your work schedule. Be prepared to work longer or odd hours if your company operates in a different time zone.</p> <p><strong>7. Consider the local infrastructure</strong></p> <p>Research amenities such as medical services, food delivery and transport. These might be important if you stay in a more remote or unfamiliar area. Have a contingency plan for health emergencies and check visa requirements.</p> <p><strong>8. Prepare for flexibility</strong></p> <p>Be ready for unexpected issues like slow internet or disruptions due to local events. Back-up plans, such as access to a co-working space or alternative accommodation, can save you from unnecessary stress.</p> <p><strong>9. Stay organised</strong></p> <p>Keep a work schedule and a checklist of tasks to ensure that you remain as productive as you are in your regular work environment.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/240485/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/mariachiara-barzotto-1449459">Mariachiara Barzotto</a>, Senior Lecturer in Management Strategy and Organisation, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-bath-1325">University of Bath</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock</em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/no-time-for-a-holiday-a-workation-could-be-the-answer-240485">original article</a>.</em></p> </div>

Travel Tips

Catriona Rowntree shares tips for picking the perfect souvenir

<p dir="ltr">After travelling the world as the host of <em>Getaway</em> for almost 30 years, Catriona Rowntree has collected a stash of souvenirs to remind her of her travels. </p> <p dir="ltr">Like many travellers and tourists, Catriona has spent much time in a souvenir shop trying to decide on the best trinket to remind her of unique corners of the world. </p> <p dir="ltr">According to the well-travelled TV host, there is one go-to souvenir that is far superior to others: magnets. </p> <p dir="ltr">Catriona has a dedicated wall in her kitchen for the magnets that she's collected from all over the world, each of which she associates with a special memory.</p> <p dir="ltr">She told <em><a href="https://travel.nine.com.au/latest/scenic-catriona-tip-for-finding-the-right-travel-souvenirs/8b9874ed-41b3-4c09-b92a-86e34be0c100">9Travel</a></em> that they are the ideal souvenir for anyone to pick up on their travels. </p> <p dir="ltr">"If you're going to collect something, stick to something that's easy to just grab and go."</p> <p dir="ltr">"You can get one at any airport, just before you leave to come home," she says.</p> <p dir="ltr">For her, the tradition started when a visitor in her home remarked that for a travel reporter, Catriona didn't have many trinkets around the house which showed off all the places she'd visited.</p> <p dir="ltr">And so she started her collection, even buying a magnetic sheet to affix inside her pantry, where she keeps her souvenirs for all to see. </p> <p dir="ltr">"I, of course, could stand here and tell you a story for every single magnet there," she remarks, looking at the wall with fondness.</p> <p dir="ltr">"I absolutely adore taking a look at this wall and seeing all the crazy places I've gone to. Of course, the crazier the magnet the better," she laughs, pointing out a magnet of a sailor's head which doubles as a bottle opener.</p> <p dir="ltr">Catriona added that some travellers similarly love to collect snow globes or postcards from every destination they visit around the world, but for her, you can't get better than a fridge magnet that can be displayed proudly. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p>

Travel Tips

Inside Jamie Durie's new Byron Bay holiday getaway home

<p>Once upon a time in the lush hinterlands of Byron Bay, where celebrities are as common as sunsets and vegan cafes, the notorious green-thumbed celebrity gardener Jamie Durie was up to some garden-variety mischief.</p> <p>He had just scored a sweet deal – a dairy farm called Akubra, situated about 22km southwest of Byron Bay. The price tag? A cool $3.6 million. <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">The way he splurged on this deal, y</span><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">ou'd think he was buying smashed avocado toast.</span></p> <p>The farm came with everything a celeb like Jamie could ask for – creek frontage to Byron Creek, a three-bedroom farmhouse nestled among mature trees, tropical plants, fruit trees, macadamia trees, and a bountiful vegetable garden. It even had a massive wood fireplace with a brick hearth, giving Jamie the perfect opportunity to toast marshmallows while he discussed the finer points of mulching.</p> <p>But it didn't stop there. Akubra was no ordinary farm; it was a place that could accommodate a menagerie that would make Old MacDonald blush. Up to 40 head of cattle? Sure! More than 300 sheep? Absolutely! And if that's not enough, bring on the chickens, llamas and goats. It was a veritable farm animal extravaganza. You could almost hear Jamie saying, "<em>You</em> get a llama, and <em>you</em> get a llama, and <em>you</em> get a llama!"</p> <p>There were six paddocks for all the creatures to frolic, and to top it all off, a five-hole golf course and a lagoon-style pool. Imagine Jamie mowing the grass while swinging a golf club – a true multitasking genius in the making.</p> <p>But there was one problem. You see, Jamie was also building a house in Avalon, costing a mere $2.75 million (pocket change for a celebrity gardener, of course). He had been dreaming about this project for six years, and this year, he had finally "broken ground". He was going for an energy-efficient, off-the-grid, state-of-the-art green home. This wasn't just any house; it was going to be so green that even Kermit would be envious.</p> <p>However, <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/home-garden/jamie-durie-under-fire-for-controversial-building-plans" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the locals in Avalon weren't too thrilled</a> about his ambitious green dream. They opposed his plans with fervour, as if he wanted to build the Hanging Gardens of Babylon in their backyards. Jamie was bewildered. He even brought in experts, the Green Building Council of Australia, to vouch for his eco-cred. After all, the house he bought was more of a relic than a residence, having survived since the 1950s.</p> <p>"It is no longer fit for living," Jamie wrote, "and does not comply with current code requirements." And let's not even talk about the 70 years' worth of wild and woolly vegetation that had taken over. If Mother Nature had a say, she'd be like, "Yeah, Jamie, you've got some work to do here!"</p> <p>So, as Jamie Durie juggles his new holiday-escape-slash-dairy-farm in Byron Bay with his eco-friendly mansion project in Avalon, you can almost picture him in his gardening gloves, scratching his head, thinking, "Who knew that being a celebrity gardener could be so delightfully complicated?"</p> <p>Just another day in the life of this horticultural maestro, where buying a farm and building a green paradise are all in a day's work.</p> <p><em>Images: RealEstate.com.au / The Vine Foundation</em></p>

Domestic Travel

"Hot girl summer": Jackie O turns heads in swimsuit on enchanting getaway

<p>Radio host Jackie 'O' Henderson has embarked on a "magical" vacation to Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia, accompanied by her close friend, Gemma O’Neill – leaving left her fans in awe with the beachside photos she shared online.</p> <p>The 48-year-old shared an image of herself and Gemma on the sandy shore, prompting her followers to declare that Jackie was fully embracing a "hot girl summer".</p> <p>"Deserted beaches, sunsets, super moons, no phones, and swimming with gentle whale sharks 💛 @gemmyjean, thank you for this incredible birthday gift," Jackie captioned the photos, some of which showed the duo swimming alongside these magnificent creatures.</p> <p>"Wow, that looks absolutely amazing 🙌," remarked Kylie Gillies.</p> <p>"It looks absolutely incredible! Adding it to my list ❤️❤️❤️," chimed in Michelle Bridges.</p> <p>"Your beautiful friendship with Gem is heartwarming. Hip, hip hooray, Jack! ❤️," gushed Melissa Hoyer.</p> <p>"Seems like you had a blast on your little getaway! Looks like so much fun," one user commented, while another exclaimed, "Absolutely stunning!"</p> <p>"That's the way to live 🙌," added a third.</p> <p>"Radiant beauties basking in the joy of life!" another fan noted.</p> <p>Several others complimented Jackie, calling her "gorgeous" and the experience "magical".</p> <p>This exciting adventure followed an amusing incident in which Jackie was caught with an embarrassing item in her luggage while en route to Western Australia.</p> <p>Before her departure, the producers of the Kyle and Jackie O show surreptitiously placed a large vibrator in her carry-on bag, ensuring it would be discovered by airport security by attaching it to a sizeable aerosol can.</p> <p>Jackie recounted the prank to her listeners on-air, stating, "That [phallic object] was in my suitcase, planted by our staff, so that when I went through security, it was uncovered. I could have died!"</p> <p>"They placed this [adult toy] in my bag, thinking it would be a funny joke," she continued. "[Airport security] showed me the X-ray and asked, 'What is this?' And I genuinely had no idea."</p> <p>Video footage of the prank was shared on the show's Instagram account, featuring Jackie with airport security as they inspected her bag.</p> <p>"I'm turning beet red! Stop it! Someone has placed something in there. It's not mine," she exclaimed to the unamused security personnel. "I'm mortified. My colleagues at work played a prank on me. I'm sure you've seen this happen before."</p> <p>"I felt like such a fool," Jackie admitted to her producers.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CxxDebVPe72/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CxxDebVPe72/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Kyle and Jackie O (@kyleandjackieo)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Ultimately, Jackie had to retain the item and dispose of it herself, tossing it into a nearby bin.</p> <p>"Seriously, do you realise how humiliating that was? It was an incredibly lifelike object!" she exclaimed in the video once she realised that her producer had filmed the prank at the airport.</p> <p>Listeners thoroughly enjoyed the prank, with one Instagram user writing, "I'm currently in the hospital, and this made my day."</p> <p>"Best prank ever!!! It brightened my day," another fan praised.</p> <p>"OMG, this is hilarious!" a third person added. "I'm sorry, Jackie, I know you were embarrassed, but it was genuinely funny."</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Domestic Travel

Climate change is set to make our holidays look very different – here’s how

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/nick-davies-313760">Nick Davies</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/glasgow-caledonian-university-913">Glasgow Caledonian University</a></em></p> <p>Holidays are making a comeback after several years of disruption caused by the COVID pandemic. Nearly 4 billion passengers <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/564717/airline-industry-passenger-traffic-globally/">boarded international flights</a> in 2022, up from fewer than 2 billion in 2020. <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09669582.2022.2162062">Recent research</a> suggests that people are likely to continue travelling more in 2023 and beyond.</p> <p>But this resurgence in travel is concerning. The tourism sector alone is responsible for an <a href="https://wttc.org/news-article/wttc-launches-groundbreaking-net-zero-roadmap-for-travel-tourism">estimated 8%–10%</a> of global greenhouse gas emissions. And conditions at traditional holiday destinations in high summer are becoming <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/14/travel/europe-heat-wave-tourists.html">increasingly unpleasant</a> if not <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jul/23/british-tourists-tell-of-nightmare-in-rhodes-fires-greece#:%7E:text=British%20tourists%20said%20they%20had,the%20Greek%20island%20of%20Rhodes.">downright hazardous</a>.</p> <p>During the past year, <a href="https://climate.copernicus.eu/july-2023-sees-multiple-global-temperature-records-broken">numerous climate records have been broken</a> as heatwaves and wildfires ravaged large parts of Europe, Asia and North America. In July, both Sardinia and Sicily experienced temperatures <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jul/15/italy-temperatures-48c-mediterranean-heatwave-hotter">in excess of 46°C</a>, nearly breaking European records.</p> <p>Most of what we do while on holiday, particularly on holidays abroad, <a href="https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20200218-climate-change-how-to-cut-your-carbon-emissions-when-flying#:%7E:text=Together%20with%20other%20gases%20and,of%20the%20world%20flies%20frequently">releases greenhouse gases</a> into the atmosphere and ultimately has an impact on the climate. But the way most of us get there – by flying – is potentially most damaging. UK data suggests that a single passenger on a short-haul flight, for instance, is responsible for releasing the <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/travel-carbon-footprint">equivalent of approximately 154g of CO₂</a> for every kilometre travelled.</p> <p>As the effects of climate change become increasingly severe, there’s genuine concern that traditional destinations will become too hot in summer to remain appealing to visitors. This raises the question: how will tourism adapt?</p> <h2>Changing destinations</h2> <p>Researchers have been trying to predict the future of tourism for quite some time. One idea is that tourism will undergo a “<a href="https://www.cisl.cam.ac.uk/system/files/documents/ipcc-ar5-implications-for-tourism-briefing-prin.pdf">poleward shift</a>” as global warming causes temperatures to rise not only in traditionally hot regions, but also in locations further to the north and south.</p> <p>A <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0047287506295937">modelling study</a> from 2007 predicted that, by 2050, hotter weather would make popular tourist hotspots like the Mediterranean less appealing in the summer. At the same time, northern destinations such as Scandinavia and the UK would experience longer holiday seasons.</p> <p>Approximately <a href="https://oceanpanel.org/opportunity/sustainable-coastal-marine-tourism">half of global tourism</a> is concentrated in coastal areas. So another concern is the potential loss of beaches due to rising sea levels. In the Caribbean, an <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09669582.2012.699063">estimated 29% of resort properties</a> would be partially or fully inundated by one metre of sea-level rise – though many of these resorts would have lost a significant amount of their beach area before this.</p> <p>Some other beach destinations are potentially even more vulnerable. Sardinia was hit by disruptive storms in 2022. <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0272771423000744">Research</a> suggests that the beaches there may struggle to accommodate tourists in the near future due to a greater risk of flooding and storms.</p> <p>The impact of climate change on tourism will extend beyond just coastal areas. Many popular city break destinations, including <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0301479722007344">Porto</a> in Portugal, are expecting to endure more severe heat. <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09669582.2022.2112204">Tourism in mountainous areas</a> will be affected, too, as accelerated snow melt leads to shorter ski seasons.</p> <h2>The practicalities of tourism shifting</h2> <p>Changing conditions will affect where humans can safely travel to. But travel patterns take time to evolve. In the meantime, established destinations will need to change to withstand challenges such as extreme heat, rising sea levels and other climatic conditions.</p> <p>Existing tourist destinations in areas of the world that are vulnerable to the effects of climate change, such as the Nile Delta in Egypt, are already <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0964569121005068">considering ways to adapt</a>. These include building seawalls and natural dunes to protect tourist areas from coastal flooding. Changing construction materials and reconfiguring urban spaces to improve ventilation have also <a href="https://www.thenationalnews.com/uae/environment/2021/10/19/beat-the-heat-how-to-make-buildings-in-the-middle-east-cooler/#:%7E:text=Traditionally%2C%20buildings%20in%20the%20Gulf,known%20for%20its%20wind%20towers.">been proposed</a> as ways to reduce reliance on expensive and energy-intensive air-conditioning.</p> <p>New destinations that begin to emerge in more temperate regions will require substantial infrastructure development to support the influx of visitors. This includes transport systems, accommodation, dining options and attractions. The process of establishing tourist destinations typically takes time and requires careful thought.</p> <p>Barcelona, for example, has experienced a <a href="https://stay-grounded.org/conference-degrowth/barcelona-a-city-exploited-by-tourism/">rapid surge in tourism demand</a> since the 1992 Olympics. This has resulted in a tenfold increase in visitors over the past three decades.</p> <p>Such rapid tourism development can <a href="https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/WHATT-02-2017-0005/full/html">put a strain on local people</a> and the environment. Although Barcelona already had a transport system and some infrastructure to accommodate visitors, the rapid growth in tourism has led to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2018/jun/25/tourists-go-home-refugees-welcome-why-barcelona-chose-migrants-over-visitors">strong opposition</a> from local residents.</p> <h2>What will happen next year?</h2> <p>The <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0047287520933679">current thinking</a> among tourism academics is that those responsible for managing tourist destinations should work towards reducing carbon emissions by focusing on the domestic market.</p> <p>But, as recent summers have shown, international tourism does not look set to slow down yet. Even amid crises such as the fires burning through Rhodes in summer 2023, tourists <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2023/aug/30/tourists-rhodes-maui-burned-travel">continued to arrive</a>.</p> <p>Rather than choose different destinations, the most likely scenario – at least in the short-term – is that tourists themselves will adapt to the effects of climate change. During Europe’s summer 2023 heatwave, there were reports that people were staying in their hotel rooms <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/14/travel/europe-heat-wave-tourists.html">in the hottest part of the day</a> and taking sightseeing trips in the evening.</p> <p>Nevertheless, there are some signs that travellers may be starting to worry about more extreme weather conditions and adapt their travel plans accordingly. A survey conducted in May 2023 showed that <a href="https://etc-corporate.org/uploads/2023/07/2023_ETC_MSIET_Results_Wave_16.pdf">69% of Europeans</a> planned to travel between June and November – a fall of 4% compared to 2022.</p> <p>The heatwave of summer 2023 might mean that tourists start looking for <a href="https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/news/extreme-heat-prompts-tourists-to-seek-cooler-alternatives-to-europe/">cooler destinations</a> as early as the coming year.</p> <p>The evolving landscape of global tourism in the face of climate change is complex. What is clear, though, is that if Europe continues to experience extreme weather conditions like the summer of 2023, many people will think twice about booking their place in the sun.</p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/nick-davies-313760">Nick Davies</a>, Lecturer and Programme Leader, BA International Tourism and Events Management, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/glasgow-caledonian-university-913">Glasgow Caledonian University</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/climate-change-is-set-to-make-our-holidays-look-very-different-heres-how-212474">original article</a>.</em></p>

Travel Trouble

Why Jelena Dokic's European getaway has sparked outrage

<p>Jelena Dokic has once again been the target of online hate, after a seemingly innocent photo from her European holiday garnered a lot of unwanted attention. </p> <p>The former tennis champ, who is also a prolific Instagram poster, has been sharing snaps from her getaway with her 175,000 followers, as she revels in a European summer. </p> <p>Flying home from Croatia, the 40-year-old shared a picture from inside the plane, writing that she felt "recharged" after her trip as she flew back to Australia in business class. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CwRn_BgJR-b/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CwRn_BgJR-b/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by JELENA DOKIC 🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺 (@dokic_jelena)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Her post was flooded with comments of support, with many saying they had loved her holiday content and wishing her a safe flight home as she enjoyed the luxuries of flying business class. </p> <p>However, there were also a slew of negative comments, prompting Jelena to address the hateful messages she had received. </p> <p>“I posted a couple of images of flying back from Europe, flying back home to Australia in business class. A few people have had an issue with that,” she said. </p> <p>Dokic said that she’d been accused of “showing off” and not being “humble” and noted that these comments weren’t acceptable.</p> <p>“I’m a big believer in, if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all,” she said.</p> <p>Dokic also explained that she realised she wasn’t everyone’s “cup of tea” but also pointed out that the response she’d received was still “social media abuse.”</p> <p>“I think for people to judge and shame people for posting something. It is mean, and it is a type of social media abuse,” she vented.</p> <p>She went on to clarify that while most of her comments had been supportive, she didn't think she should have to tolerate the barrage of abuse from the cruel minority. </p> <p>Dokic is no stranger to having to deal with online hate, after she went viral earlier this year in January because she was <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/health/body/i-went-through-hell-and-back-jelena-dokic-reveals-tragic-truth-behind-old-photo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">trolled</a> over her weight gain.</p> <p>She also took to social media to address the online trolling and called it “disgusting” and begged for people to stop.</p> <p style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 24px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

Travel Trouble

Johnny Ruffo’s romantic getaway

<p dir="ltr">Johnny Ruffo and his girlfriend Tahnee have delighted fans with a series of stunning pics from their New Zealand getaway.</p> <p dir="ltr">The lovebirds took to Instagram to share multiple snaps from their adventure.</p> <p dir="ltr">Ruffo couldn’t hide his awe as he happily posed in front of a beautiful mountain in Queenstown from the deck of their accommodation.</p> <p dir="ltr">In another photo, the former <em>Home and Away</em> star - who is battling terminal cancer - wowed fans as he proudly shared video footage of the snow-capped mountains from a helicopter.</p> <p dir="ltr">The star was clearly obsessed with the surreal views as he also posted a photo of himself posing by the water with the mountains in the background.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Freezing cold but worth it for these views 🏔️🏔️🏔️,” he captioned the post.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CutKhhFr9VD/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #F4F4F4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CutKhhFr9VD/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Johnny Ruffo (@johnny_ruffo)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">His girlfriend was as equally giddy about the trip as she posted a photo of herself on the mountains with the caption: “I think I might be a Winter girl at heart 🥶🥹🫶🏼”</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CutK9DFxVmW/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CutK9DFxVmW/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Tahnee Sims (@tahneesims)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">She also shared a selfie with her beau in matching beanies, and a little clip of them relaxing in the hot tub as they clinked their glasses.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CuwD4uNxMJI/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CuwD4uNxMJI/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Tahnee Sims (@tahneesims)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">The Home and Away star finally caught a well-deserved break as the pictures shared gave fans a glimpse into the sweet dates the couple went on for their romantic getaway.</p> <p dir="ltr">Friends and followers took to the comments to share their love for the couple.</p> <p dir="ltr">“What an amazing experience lovelies. Hope you’re having a great time 🥰👏🥂🥳😘,” Ruffo’s close friend and former <em>Home and Away</em> co-star Lynne McGranger wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Absolutely loving these pics what an incredible adventure ❤️” wrote one fan.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Johnny, I hope you & Tahnee are having the best time ever, that looks absolutely stunning guys. Much love & happiness to you both,” commented another.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The best place. So beautiful, enjoy that cold air, hot tub and beautiful views,” wrote a third.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Beautiful couple so much love ❤️” commented a fourth.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

International Travel

Jackie O and Carrie Bickmore pretty in pink for girls' getaway

<p>Jackie O and Carrie Bickmore spent their weekend enjoying a mini girls' getaway as they celebrated their friend’s birthday in the NSW coastal town of Byron Bay.</p> <p>The pair were both dolled up in pink as they marked the 40th birthday of a mutual friend Gemma O’Neill, a former 2Day FM executive producer on <em>The Kyle & Jackie O Show</em>.</p> <p>“Weekend in Byron spent celebrating my besties @gemmyjean 40th,” Henderon, 48, captioned her carousel of Instagram photos from the event held at Halcyon House in town.</p> <p>The radio giant stunned in a figure-hugging Rebecca Vallance hot-pink dress paired with white Christian Louboutin heels, an outfit that was certainly celeb-approved.</p> <p>“Gorgeous,” commented singer Delta Goodrem, while TV personality Jessice Rowe wrote, “Divine.”</p> <p>Bickmore was colourful in a floral minidress and wedges as she posed for a series of snaps with the birthday girl.</p> <p>“Happy 40th Gem. You have packed more in the first 40 years than most. Can’t wait to see what you do with the next 40,” the 42-year-old former wrote on Instagram alongside the images.</p> <p>Henderson <a href="http://debuted%20her%20slimmed%20down%20figure/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">recently debuted</a> her slimmed down figure following a dramatic 18kg weight loss in early 2023, with the help of WW (formerly known as Weight Watchers).</p> <p>Her transformation sparked rumours that she had used the diabetes drug Ozempic to lose weight – an injectable that helps to increase insulin production and suppress appetite.</p> <p>The mum-of-one addressed the rumours on <em>The Kyle & Jackie O Show</em>.</p> <p>“That diabetic medication people talk about taking, I don’t take that,” she told co-host Kyle Sandilands.</p> <p>“Honestly, you can do it, guys. But I will say, I reckon [cutting out] alcohol and [frequent] exercise was a big thing. I’ve never done [that] before so that was kind of the kicker for me.”</p> <p>Bickmore has also been under the spotlight with rumours she is dating Tommy & Carrie co-host, Tommy Little, amid her split from long-time partner Chris Walker.</p> <p>However, Little put a stop to the rumours on 2DAY FM’S<em> Hughesy, Ed & Erin</em> show after he revealed he is single and just signed up to celebrity dating app Raya.</p> <p>“I just can’t keep telling the apps that it’s me, because it’s so desperate saying, ‘Hey, Tinder, that’s actually me!’” Little said, admitting people kept reporting his profile as fake.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Instagram</em></p>

Beauty & Style

Easter travel: Best weekend getaways in Northern Territory

<p>The Easter public holidays are the perfect time to travel to the Territory’s Top End and Red Centre for a memorable getaway, whether its short stay in Darwin, camping and waterfalling hopping in the pristine national parks or a road trip through the outback. The Dry Season also commences soon in April, greeting travellers with warm weather and ideal temperatures for outdoor adventures, and an exciting roster of art, culture, music and sporting events.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>SHORTER NT TRIPS</strong></span></p> <p><strong>Darwin staycation: </strong>Spend a long weekend exploring the tropical city of Darwin, where you can soak up the laid-back atmosphere, sample delicious local cuisine, and take in the stunning sunset views.</p> <ol> <li>For foodies, the <a href="https://northernterritory.com/tours/darwin-gourmet-tours">Gourmet Food Tour</a> samples some of the city’s most iconic restaurants or queue up for an iconic steaming bowl of laksa at <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/see-and-do/parap-markets">Parap Markets</a>.</li> <li>Take in the sights of the beautiful Darwin Harbour, whether its enjoying the breeze on a luxurious <a href="https://northernterritory.com/tours/sail-darwin/champagne-sunset-sail-3-hr-dinner-cruise-on-darwin-harbour">champagne sunset dinner cruise</a>, or racing on a thrilling <a href="https://northernterritory.com/tours/00seven-jet-ski-adventures">jet ski tour</a>.</li> <li>Visit the diverse Aboriginal <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/see-and-do/art-and-culture/art-galleries">arts galleries</a> around town, including NATSIAAs exhibition at Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT). If time allows, book the immersive <a href="https://northernterritory.com/tours/sealink-northern-territory/tiwi-by-design---tiwi-islands-day-tour">Tiwi By Design</a> art and culture tour to the remote Tiwi Islands, introducing you to the Aboriginal community of Wurrumiyanga</li> <li>Learn about Aboriginal traditions and stories with Larrakia man, Trent Lee, at <a href="https://www.saltwaterculturaltours.info/">Saltwater Cultural Tours</a>. Just an hour’s from Darwin, <a href="https://northernterritory.com/tours/pudakul-aboriginal-cultural-tours">Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours</a> offers authentic tours in the Adelaide River floodplains, where local guides demonstrate basket weaving, dilly bag making, and touch upon bush medicine.</li> <li>Consider timing your trip with <a href="https://www.bassinthegrass.com.au/">BASSINTHEGRASS</a> music festival which returns to Darwin’s Mindil Beach on 20 May. Expect an incredible lineup including May-A, Tones and I, and more.</li> <li>Stay at <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/accommodation/mindil-beach-casino-resort">Mindil Beach Casino Resort</a>, where you can wine and dine to your heart’s content, and relax at the infinity pool. Stay at the Lagoon rooms, which have a private balcony or deck, and offer sweeping views of the deluxe tropical Lagoon pool.</li> <li>Stay in the middle of the action at the <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/accommodation/vibe-hotel-darwin-waterfront">Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront</a> on Darwin’s promenade, surrounded by excellent restaurants and family activities like Wave Lagoon.</li> </ol> <p><strong>Greater Litchfield Loop (2-4 days): </strong>The <a href="https://northernterritory.com/drive/greater-litchfield-loop?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=always+on+plan+fy23&utm_content=fy23+dsa+drive&utm_term=&gclid=Cj0KCQjw2cWgBhDYARIsALggUhr8AX0rImnQzV2rgI1xTbNf4Oa4SUJbmMcxk4uBfsAFw0BesQbtUHwaAq1kEALw_wcB">Greater Litchfield Loop</a> is the perfect road trip to explore <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/destinations/litchfield-national-park">Litchfield National Park</a>, located just 90 minutes from Darwin. Litchfield is a true nature lover’s respite with crystal-clear waterfalls, hiking trails, incredible monsoonal forest scenery and towering termite mounds.</p> <ol> <li>Enroute to Litchfield, book a <a href="mailto:https://northernterritory.com/tours/spectacular-jumping-crocodile-cruise">Jumping Croc Cruise</a> at Adelaide River to witness wild crocodiles in their natural habitat and watch them spring out of the water around you.</li> <li>Head south to <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/see-and-do/berry-springs-nature-park">Berry Springs</a> to soak up the first of many water holes in this stunning region.</li> <li>Meet some of the animals that call the NT home at the <a href="mailto:https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/see-and-do/territory-wildlife-park">Territory Wildlife Park</a> including walking through tree top aviaries.</li> <li>Stop by locals’ favourite, Berry Springs Tavern, before continuing to Litchfield to bask in iconic water holes like Wangi Falls, Florence Falls and Buley Rockhole.</li> <li>Retreat to <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/accommodation/hideaway-litchfield">Hideaway Litchfield,</a> a set of three luxurious and sustainable shipping containers-turned cabins located in the secluded and beautiful surrounds of the Park</li> <li><a href="mailto:https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/accommodation/litchfield-tourist-park">Litchfield Tourist Park</a> also has a range of accommodation options, from camping to caravanning and cabins, and is perfect for families and groups.</li> <li>Extend your road trip by checking out and staying in the coastal towns of <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/destinations/dundee-beach">Dundee Beach</a> or <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/accommodation/crab-claw-island-resort">Crab Claw Island</a>, both famous fishing spots in the Top End.</li> </ol> <p><strong>Finniss River Lodge: </strong>Located on Finniss River Station, a working cattle property which is a 90-minute drive from Darwin and set near lush floodplains, <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/accommodation/finniss-river-lodge">Finniss River Lodge</a> is NT’s newest experiential luxury wilderness retreat. The Lodge boasts six luxe ensuites, described as ‘bush character meets contemporary elegance’, and can cater for 12 guests at a time. Visitors can witness station life, like musters or indulge in the Cows n Canapes experience, participate in private wilderness tours and enjoy thrilling airboat rides. Minimum two-night stay.</p> <p><strong>Alice Springs: </strong>A gateway to the Red Centre, Alice Springs is a thriving outback town, surrounded by fantastic natural wonders and ancient sites.</p> <ol> <li>Time your trip with one of NT’s most anticipated cultural events, <a href="https://www.parrtjimaaustralia.com.au/">Parrtjima-A Festival in Light</a>, 7-16 April 2023. This is an extraordinary 10-night celebration of First Nations art, culture and light including projections against the West MacDonnell Ranges, large-scale installations, talks, performances, workshops and films.</li> <li>Wake up in awe with a sunrise <a href="https://northernterritory.com/alice-springs-and-surrounds/see-and-do/outdoor-activities/hot-air-ballooning">hot air balloon ride</a> and float silently alongside the rugged Ranges.</li> <li>Visit <a href="https://northernterritory.com/tours/the-kangaroo-sanctuary">Kangaroo Sanctuary</a>, where the little ones can cuddle orphaned kangaroos, feed baby joeys and learn more about wildlife preservation in the outback.</li> <li>Experience the best stargazing at <a href="https://northernterritory.com/tours/earth-sanctuary-world-nature-centre">Earth Sanctuary</a>, with the outback home to some of the clearest skies. For a magical experience, sleep under the stars at the Sanctuary’s Space Camp.</li> <li>Outside of town, there are no shortage of picturesque natural swimming holes including <a href="https://northernterritory.com/alice-springs-and-surrounds/see-and-do/glen-helen-gorge">Glen Helen Gorge</a>, <a href="https://northernterritory.com/alice-springs-and-surrounds/see-and-do/ellery-creek-big-hole">Ellery Creek Big Hole</a>, <a href="https://northernterritory.com/alice-springs-and-surrounds/see-and-do/ormiston-gorge-and-pound">Ormiston Gorge</a> or <a href="https://northernterritory.com/alice-springs-and-surrounds/see-and-do/redbank-gorge">Redbank Gorge.</a></li> <li>For a comfortable stay, book at <a href="https://northernterritory.com/alice-springs-and-surrounds/accommodation/doubletree-by-hilton-alice-springs">Double Tree By Hilton</a> or Lasseters</li> </ol> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">LONGER ROAD-TRIPS</span></strong></p> <p>Nature’s Way (8 days): Experience the best of the Top End along the <a href="https://northernterritory.com/darwin-and-surrounds/destinations/litchfield-national-park">Nature’s Way road trip</a>. Start the journey in Darwin, then take Arnhem Highway to reach the nature-lovers’ paradise that is dual-World Heritage listed <a href="https://northernterritory.com/kakadu-and-surrounds?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=always+on+plan+fy23&utm_content=fy23+brand+location+e&utm_term=kakadu%20national%20park&gclid=Cj0KCQjw2cWgBhDYARIsALggUhphmWv0ReRoIv2zhmrPF2SiFthW-Jxb4NA9Jbr4p3DNPcjOxeQ-e2waAkNMEALw_wcB">Kakadu National Park</a>. Then, continue to Katherine and explore the incredible sandstone gorges of <a href="https://northernterritory.com/katherine-and-surrounds/destinations/nitmiluk-national-park">Nitmiluk National Park</a>, before stopping by Litchfield.</p> <ol> <li>At Kakadu, cruise on the <a href="https://northernterritory.com/kakadu-and-surrounds/destinations/yellow-water">Yellow Water Billabong</a> lined with lily pads, native birdlife and sunbaking crocodiles, and marvel at ancient rock art galleries at <a href="https://northernterritory.com/kakadu-and-surrounds/see-and-do/burrungkuy-nourlangie-rock-art-site">Nourlangie</a> and <a href="https://northernterritory.com/kakadu-and-surrounds/see-and-do/ubirr">Ubirr</a>.</li> <li>Attend Kakadu’s unique cultural dining experiences including the ultimate bush food experience, <a href="https://parksaustralia.gov.au/kakadu/taste/#:~:text=Karrimanjbekkan%20An%2Dme%20Kakadu%20%2D%20Taste,unlike%20anything%20else%20on%20Earth.">Taste of Kakadu</a>, 13-21 May 2023, and <a href="https://kakadutourism.com/explore-kakadu/kakadu-full-moon-feast-361">Full Moon Feast</a> dinner, 1 April 2023</li> <li>Stay at the Kakadu’s <a href="https://northernterritory.com/kakadu-and-surrounds/accommodation/cooinda-lodge-kakadu">Cooinda Lodge</a>, offering camping, lodges and Outback Retreat glamping.</li> <li>At Nitmiluk National Park, <a href="https://northernterritory.com/katherine-and-surrounds/see-and-do/outdoor-activities/canoeing-and-kayaking">hire a canoe</a> and paddle along the gorges to see waterfalls, or book a river cruise and listen to Jawoyn guides share their world of culture and history.Stay at <a href="https://northernterritory.com/katherine-and-surrounds/accommodation/cicada-lodge">Cicada Lodge</a>, a luxury lodge overlooking the Katherine River with rooms opening to the sounds and sights of the native bush.</li> <li>When in Katherine, visit local Aboriginal guide and TikTok sensation Manuel Pamkal at <a href="https://northernterritory.com/tours/top-didj-cultural-experience">Top Didj Cultural Experience</a>.</li> <li>Bathe in natural thermal waters of <a href="https://northernterritory.com/katherine-and-surrounds/see-and-do/bitter-springs">Bitter Springs</a> and <a href="https://northernterritory.com/katherine-and-surrounds/see-and-do/katherine-hot-springs">Katherine Hot Springs</a>.</li> <li>Discover the ancient, limestone caves at <a href="https://northernterritory.com/katherine-and-surrounds/see-and-do/cutta-cutta-caves-nature-park">Cutta Cutta Caves National Park</a>, 30km south of Katherine and home to rare wildlife like the orange horseshow bat.</li> <li>Visit award-winning <a href="https://northernterritory.com/katherine-and-surrounds/see-and-do/katherine-outback-experience">Katherine Outback Experience</a>, where kids can watch horse and working dog demonstrations, pet station animals, and take a glimpse into farm outback life.</li> </ol> <p><strong>Red Centre Way (5 days):</strong> The <a href="https://northernterritory.com/sg/en/drive/red-centre-way?psafe_param=1&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=always+on+plan+fy23&utm_content=fy23+dsa+drive&utm_term=&gclid=Cj0KCQjw2cWgBhDYARIsALggUhoUHqy0pLQC2nf_isF3X1izKaGUaHE8ibr20nVlZvf1418JkOv3YzoaAgluEALw_wcB">Red Centre Way</a> is the quintessential outback road trip. Uncover the breathtaking beauty, rugged landscapes and sacred cultural icons of the Red Centre, stopping by Alice Springs, <a href="https://northernterritory.com/uluru-and-surrounds">Uluru</a>-Kata Tjuta National Park and Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon).</p> <ol> <li>Follow the Red Centre light trail starting from <a href="https://parrtjimaaustralia.com.au/">Parrtjima – A Festival in Light</a> in Alice Springs, then Bruce Munro’s newest <a href="https://www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au/kings-canyon/discovery-kings-canyon/activities-and-attractions/light-towers">Light Towers</a> installation at Kings Canyon, and the beautiful <a href="https://www.ayersrockresort.com.au/experiences/field-of-light">Field of Light</a> installation and <a href="https://www.ayersrockresort.com.au/wintjiri-wiru">Wintijiri Wiru</a> 1000 drone, laser and projection show at Uluru.</li> <li>Embark on a <a href="https://northernterritory.com/tours/uluru-camel-tours">camel tour</a> through the desert.</li> <li>See <a href="https://northernterritory.com/uluru-and-surrounds?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=always+on+plan+fy23&utm_content=fy23+brand+location+e&utm_term=uluru&gclid=Cj0KCQjw2cWgBhDYARIsALggUhrq3SflUZ97TDA3wh7ny2O-uepl-SZdhetXbqjkBBifwHdwSDqrXDIaAoHcEALw_wcB">Uluru</a> in all its glory, whether it’s walking the 10km base, hiring a bike, heading on a guided Mala tour or capturing the changes colours at sunset at the viewing platforms.</li> <li>Explore some of Australia’s leading Aboriginal art galleries and centres including Araluen Cultural Precinct and Hermannsburg Potters at <a href="https://northernterritory.com/alice-springs-and-surrounds/see-and-do/art-and-culture/art-galleries">Alice Springs</a></li> <li>The halfway point between Alice Springs and Uluru, Kings Canyon is a majestic valley 400-million-years in the making. Enjoy the endless red desert views from <a href="https://www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au/kings-canyon/discovery-kings-canyon/activities-and-attractions/light-towers?gclid=Cj0KCQjw2cWgBhDYARIsALggUhqrcruswwFLPiR3CSQtEhtyHP8CyLGb_3IAlOodHYCaJ_1F9OpPKhUaApBtEALw_wcB">Discovery Kings Canyon</a> or <a href="https://northernterritory.com/uluru-and-surrounds/accommodation/kings-creek-station">Kings Creek Station</a>, with camping and glamping options available.</li> </ol> <p><strong>Arnhem Way (7-10 days):</strong> Arnhem Land is a must-visit for the ultimate immersion into Aboriginal culture and is one of Australia’s last unspoilt areas. <a href="https://northernterritory.com/drive/arnhem-way">Arnhem Way</a> road trip starts near Katherine and ends in Nhulunbuy on the Gove Peninsula. This region is also home to some of Australia’s most pristine white sand beaches, incredible fishing, diverse marine life and stunning wetlands.</p> <ol> <li>Visit galleries showcasing local artists for a deeper understanding of traditional practices like <a href="https://yirrkala.com/">Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Art Centre</a> at Yirrkala.</li> <li>Find time for a sunset drink at the <a href="https://northernterritory.com/arnhem-land/food-and-drink/gove--boat-club-and-manyimi-campgrounds">Gove Boat Club</a> with unhindered views of the horizon.</li> <li>Visit <a href="https://northernterritory.com/arnhem-land/destinations/groote-eylandt">Groote Eylandt</a>, <a href="https://northernterritory.com/arnhem-land/destinations/little-bondi-beach">Little Bondi Beach</a> or <a href="https://northernterritory.com/arnhem-land/destinations/cobourg-peninsula">Coburg Peninsula</a> for some stunning coastal views.</li> <li>Escape to <a href="https://northernterritory.com/arnhem-land/accommodation/banubanu-beach-retreat">Banubanu Beach Retreat</a> for an impressive eco, beachfront experience.</li> </ol> <p><em>Image credit: Tourism NT </em></p>

Domestic Travel

Beyond 2000 host Jeff Watson sadly passes away

<p>Getaway’s first ever presenter Jeff Watson has passed away at the age of 80 following a long battle with brain cancer.</p> <p>The veteran TV host, who was diagnosed with the disease in early 2018, died at Greenwich Palliative Care Hospital.</p> <p>He was surrounded by his wife Judi, children Lucy and Timothy, as well as his stepdaughter Cara and her husband, Ben.</p> <p>Despite doctors claiming he had only three months to live when he was first diagnosed, he went on to exceed their expectations by five years.</p> <p>The presenter had a long career in television spanning over 40 years. He was well known as the original presenter on Getaway from 1992 to 1998, and his love for travel was shared in many family homes nationwide.</p> <p>His passion for travel extended beyond the show. Watson once flew 23,000 kilometres from England to Australia with John Travolta in a 50-year-old jet airliner to produce the programme Southend to Sydney.</p> <p>He went on to produce aviation series such as The Boneyard and The Shape Of Things To Come.</p> <p>Early in his career, he planned and presented a science show called Towards 2000, which he co-hosted with Sonia Humphrey and David Flatman from 1981 to 1984.</p> <p>He then went on to present the popular show Beyond 2000 and contributed to renowned series such as This Day Tonight, Four Corners, Holiday, and 60 Minutes.</p> <p>Current Getaway host Catriona Rowntree said in a statement, "This is heartbreaking news.</p> <p>"As both a colleague and friend Jeff was a joy to be with. You can imagine how interesting he was after so many world travels, above all though he was just so cheeky and fun loving.</p> <p>"Jeff had the best bloopers ever! Jeff always spoke of his love for his family, I know their hearts will be hurting, and we are sending all our love to them.”</p> <p>Getaway’s executive producer John Walsh said, "Jeff was really fundamental in the launch of Getaway in 1992.</p> <p>"As one of the original presenters on the show, he brought a world of experience to the on-air team and had the rare knack of being incredibly funny one minute and projecting authority and gravitas the next.</p> <p>"Audiences really responded to him and there's no doubt he played a big role in the show's early success. He was a real one-of-a kind and will be missed.”</p> <p><em>Image credit: TV Tonight</em></p>

News

Catriona Rowntree shares holy grail travel tips

<p dir="ltr">After 25 years gallivanting around the world as the host of <em>Getaway</em>, Catriona Rowntree knows a thing or two about travelling. </p> <p dir="ltr">She has scoped out every corner of the globe from Canberra to Canada, and Sydney to Spain, with the 51-year-old veteran travel journalist sharing some of her holy grail tips to make travelling a breeze. </p> <p dir="ltr">Catriona sat down with <a href="https://www.nowtolove.com.au/celebrity/tv/catriona-rowntree-travel-hacks-75162">TV Week</a> to share her hacks on flying well, packing like an expert and planning your travel itinerary with ease. </p> <p dir="ltr">When it comes to curing jet-lag, she says it all comes down to where you’re heading. </p> <p dir="ltr">She said, “Use your phone to find out what the time is where you're going to and plan your sleep according to that. The day you leave, go for a walk, and try to get as much vitamin D as you can.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“When you land, repeat that. Don't fall asleep until after 8pm, don't nap during the day, and avoid leaving your phone by your bed (the blue light isn't your friend).”</p> <p dir="ltr">After being a seasoned luggage packer, Catriona said the answer to perfectly packed bags lies in preparation, as well as simple trial and error. </p> <p dir="ltr">She says, “I prep a week before I leave: I add, I subtract, take nothing that needs to be ironed, stuff socks into shoes, stick to three colours and add a fold-out bag (like a Longchamp) in case I do extra shopping.”</p> <p dir="ltr">When it comes to carry-on bags, Catriona has a list of essentials she will never leave behind. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Wet Ones, a Band-Aid, Lanolips, a moisture spritzer, hand sanitiser (Bondi Wash), emery board, Panadol and magnifying mirror (Change Skincare has a light-up one), she said.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“For [overseas], I do pack extra knickers, deodorant, Clarins' Beauty Flash Balm, socks and Cetaphil wipes. Anything to avoid the cabin loo.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Planning your itinerary carefully is key to any successful holiday, with Catriona saying the best way to find hidden gems is through social media. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Go to Instagram, hashtag where you're going, see what's popular, what they're wearing and what's respectful. Then look up the weather app to see what temperatures you're heading into. Boom, your phone is key,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Travel Tips

4 great Aussie getaways

<p>You don't have to go overseas to have a great holiday, in fact, some of the best trips in the world can be found right here on our very own doorstep in Australia.</p> <p><strong>Broken Bay, NSW</strong><br />Located only an hour-and-half drive north of Sydney, Broken Bay sits on The Hawkesbury River in NSW. Argued to be the best oyster-farming destination in Australia due to its rich nutrients and water quality is there a better way to spend a holiday than relaxing on or by the water with family and enjoying seafood? From a day on the water to hiking in one of the many national parks in these parts, it’s the perfect city escape.</p> <p><strong>Hobart, Tasmania</strong><br />As the second-oldest capital city in Australia behind Sydney, Hobart was founded in 1804 as penal colony for British convicts. With 60 National Trust buildings on Macquarie and Davey streets alone and the fine Georgian buildings of Salamanca Place, a day spent wondering the neighbouring suburb of Battery Point offers the best examples of Colonial, Georgian and Victorian houses and cottages. Make sure you plan a pit stop at Jackman and McRoss café for the best tea and scones.</p> <p><strong>Bunker Bay, Western Australia</strong><br />Located in the Margaret River Wine Region, Bunker Bay is a three-hour drive south of Perth. With long stretches of beautiful white sands between Rocky Point and Shelley Beach, it’s the perfect place for swimmers, surfers, walkers and people that love the outdoors. Calm, turquoise waters perfect for swimming and a stunning 600m section of granite shoreline at the eastern end of Rocky Point attract artists and photographers to this picturesque spot.</p> <p><strong>Kimberley, Western Australia</strong><br />Covering nearly 423,000sq km of north Western Australia, the Kimberley is one of Earth's last true wilderness areas. Gibb River Road Track offers a great experience past remote cattle stations, freshwater gorges and kilometre after kilometre of dusty red dirt. Another must-visit includes Pumululu National Park where you can camp under the stars at the Bungle Bungle Range, 350 million years in the making.</p> <p>Wash the red dirt off at the world-famous Cable Beach in Broome then take a scenic flight or sea safari to Talbot Bay to catch sight of the only Horizontal Waterfalls on Earth – described by David Attenborough as "one of the greatest natural wonders of the world".</p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Travel Tips

Catriona Rowntree stuns fans with ageless looks

<p>Getaway presenter Catriona Rowntree has caused a stir among her legion of diehard travel fans after archival clips of her first ever travel segment resurfaced – leaving many to ponder how she has remained so unchanged.</p> <p>The now 51-year-old seems to have not aged a day since first gracing our screens back in 1996, and the resurfaced footage has amazed Getaway fans, as a then-25-year-old Catriona looks pretty much the same as she does right now.</p> <p>Throughout the years, the mum-of-two has been open in sharing her beauty tips, and walked us through some of her favourite secrets that have helped preserve her incredible youthful appearance.</p> <p>She said she keeps her skincare routine simple, only using a gentle cleanser, serum, and moisturiser, but said staying hydrated with lots of water, taking collagen, and consuming olive oil is the most important.</p> <p>While flying all the time isn’t the best for your skin, Catriona says she uses “liquid gold” jojoba oil to keep her skin dewy and fresh while travelling long distances.</p> <p>“I love to do really quick facials like the SOS ones (10 minutes while having my brekky) and of course Clarins Beauty Flash is essential,” she previously told House of Wellness.</p> <p>“That said, daily olive oil is my saviour too. On salads, directly rubbed into cuticles, a baby’s dry scalp, you cannot beat nature as a cure all.”</p> <p>“I take collagen daily, guzzle the water, consume olive oil whenever possible and moisturise the neck, the décolletage, and tops of hands,’” Catriona told Marie Claire.</p> <p>“My skin has always been sensitive, so I’m thrilled I can use serums which I also now add to my foundation for extra glow."</p> <p>Catriona also likes to eat a healthy, natural diet filled with plenty of wholefoods and dark green leafy vegetables from her family’s farm.</p> <p>She will also never have more than two cups of coffee per day, and if she wants another hot drink, she switches to camomile tea.</p> <p>The TV presenter has hosted Getaway for more than 25 years, and has travelled to nearly 100 countries throughout her very rewarding career.</p> <p><em>Image: Getty / Nine / Catriona Rowntree </em></p>

Beauty & Style

The best pet-friendly getaways

<p>So you want to go on a holiday but you don’t want to leave your pet behind? You’ll be pleased to know there are lots of ideas for getaways with your furry friends in tow.</p> <p>From swanky hotels in Australian cities to rustic mountain escapes, there are even loads of pet-friendly beaches across our sunburnt country. We’ve compiled a list of our favourite holiday ideas for you and your furry friend.</p> <p><strong>The Hughenden Boutique Hotel, Sydney NSW</strong><br />Having once served as a temporary home for poodles, terriers, golden retrievers, Burmese and Siamese cats and even a baby kangaroo, furry friends are more than welcome at this hotel which sits on a tree-lined street in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. The Hughenden is a charming boutique hotel that offers pet-sitting, dog-walking, and even a visit to the Doggy Day Spa. Oh my! Pets can even join you for breakfast! Conveniently located just across the road from the expansive Centennial Parklands, you can take your pet to the park to a number of the special leash-free areas for a play.</p> <p><strong>Gold Coast Holiday Park & Motel, Qld</strong><br />If holiday parks are more your thing, this laid-back holiday park and motel offers dog-friendly cabins and sites for campervans, caravans, tents and trailers. With a casual, family-friendly feel, there’s also dog grooming and dog sitting available. Set across 32 acres, you won’t be wanting for room for your animal to roam free.</p> <p><strong>Camp Tailwaggers, Qld/NSW border</strong><br />More like a boot camp for pets and their owners, if you’re after and all-inclusive experience, Camp Tailwaggers have thought of it all. Offering dog-sport training seminars for owners and dog obedience, agility, tracking, competition-handling and dancing. Plus it’s set on 31 hectares with tropical rainforest walks and ocean views, your animal will love swimming in the dam and playing with other pets. With an onsite Coolangatta Pet Motel to keep your dog safe and happy, you can enjoy the nearby Coast nightlife.</p> <p><strong>Tara Valley Caravan Park, Gippsland Vic</strong><br />Located near the Tarra-Bulga National Park, Victoria's Tarra Valley offers a selection of caravan parks that welcome dogs. But there's none better than the award-winning Best Friend Holiday Retreat where four-legged customers can roam free in six off-leash areas. Dog-agility equipment, doggydoo stations, tethering and drinking spots are dotted throughout the park. There's a hydrobath hut and kennels, too.</p> <p><strong>Redgate Farm Stay, Margaret River WA</strong><br />If you want to give your little friend a taste of the farm life, check out Redgate Farm Stay. As well as being able to feed the calves, collect chicken eggs or pat a kangaroo, you’re right on Margaret River so you can take advantage of the superb wineries. Each of the six cottages has large fenced gardens for your animal, and dogs can run off leash in the paddocks or on the dog beach at Gnarabup Beach nearby.</p> <p><strong>Turon Gates, Blue Mountains NSW</strong><br />With the sheer beauty of the surrounding in the Blue Mountains and the number of mountain walks you can do, it's the perfect cosy community place to holiday with your pet. Turon Gates is an authentic bush hideaway, tranquil and unspoilt and most importantly, pet friendly. Boasting seven rustic log cabins, the site is situated along a crystal clear trout stream. BYO bedding and feeding bowls for pets.</p> <p><strong>Moonshadow Villas, Darwin NT</strong><br />Welcoming well-behaved cats and dogs, they’re so friendly here that they refer to pets as "furry children". Each villas has a fenced private courtyard and there's even one with a doggy door. If you want to drop your animal off at the nearby Purrs and Paws Resort while you go crocodile spotting, they can relax in the luxury kennels which are equipped with wading pools, lights, fans, music and television.</p> <p><strong>PS Federal paddle steamer, Goolwa SA</strong><br />Both cat and dog friendly, the PS Federal paddle steamer also provide food and water bowls for their furry guests. Built in 1902, the old steamer now rests on stilts on the River Murray opposite a bird sanctuary. So expect to see spoon-billed cranes, pelicans, black swans, egret, purple swamp hens, dusky moorhens and black-winged stilts. Within walking distance to Goolwa beach, this is the perfect place for you and your pet.</p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Domestic Travel

Disgusting warning for fans of swim-up bar at holiday resorts

<p dir="ltr">A popular TikTok influencer has issued a "disgusting" warning for people who use the popular swim-up bars at holiday resorts.</p> <p dir="ltr">Whitney, a Canadian woman who goes by @twofoodpiggies, shared a clip from a hotel in Cabo, Mexico which boasted a stunning pool bar.</p> <p dir="ltr">Whitney cautioned her followers to "avoid the pool with the swim-up bar" because of one vulgar reason – many people use it as their personal toilet.</p> <p dir="ltr">Vacation pro tip: Do not hang out in the pool where the swim-up bar is," she wrote in the now-viral clip.</p> <blockquote class="tiktok-embed" style="max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@twofoodpiggies/video/7088566993208593670" data-video-id="7088566993208593670"> <section><a title="@twofoodpiggies" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@twofoodpiggies" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@twofoodpiggies</a> One girl didn’t understand why some people were leaving the pool to use the washroom 😳 <a title="riubajacalifornia" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/riubajacalifornia" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#riubajacalifornia</a> <a title="swimupbar" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/swimupbar" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#swimupbar</a> <a title="poolaccident" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/poolaccident" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#poolaccident</a> <a title="♬ оригинальный звук - 🤍" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/оригинальный-звук-7067549981984541441" target="_blank" rel="noopener">♬ оригинальный звук - 🤍</a></section> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">"There was literally intoxicated guests admitting that they were peeing in the pool here."</p> <p dir="ltr">She added in the caption: "One girl didn't understand why some people were leaving the pool to use the washroom."</p> <p dir="ltr">Some of Whitney's followers appeared to see no problem with peeing in a hotel pool, with a few people openly admitting to doing it themselves, while others shared horror stories from pools at other resorts.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Well we all do," one man wrote, as another added: "There's so much chlorine, you're fine."</p> <p dir="ltr">"The amount of people admitting peeing in a pool in this comment section disgusts me," an unimpressed man wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">Meanwhile, some of Whitney's followers argued it was normal to pee in public pools. She went on to share that at night, the pool becomes a nightclub with people drinking and dancing in the water. </p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-cae2526b-7fff-f391-028d-0614e0008fba"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">Would you take your chances in this resort pool? Let us know.</p>

Travel Tips

Saving hacks for your next getaway

<p dir="ltr">If you consider yourself a savings sleuth, then you already know some of the best ways to get incredible deals and cheap prices when it comes to travel.</p> <p dir="ltr">You’ll have signed up to airline e-newsletters for the latest sale drops, joined every frequent flyer program under the sun and kept an eye open for last-minute savings on accommodation on social media.</p> <p dir="ltr">There’s more than one way to get good deals.</p> <p dir="ltr">Here are three little-known hacks to save hundreds, if not, thousands of dollars, on your next holiday.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Buy your ticket from a wholesaler</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Snow fiends may have already heard of <a href="https://snoworld.com.au/">SnoWorld</a>, an old-school, family-owned travel wholesaler that offers budget-friendly package deals on ski holidays to the US and Canada. Their best kept secret is that they now deal directly with the consumer.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Some customers had trouble buying airfares alone from SnoWorld, thinking they had to buy some sort of snow holiday, so we set up the very basic Value Fares website,” says Craig Mathews, managing director of <a href="https://protect-au.mimecast.com/s/sJV1CyojoDhB1P7kiMZy-a?domain=valuefares.com.au">Value Fares</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">The company specialises in flights to the US, and travellers often use them in conjunction with frequent flyers points as a cheap way to get to Canada, Mexico and Central and South America.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We buy blocks of seats, 500 at a time, every February and March for December and January departures. Fares from Sydney to Vancouver non-stop departing early January are often $3000 to $4000 return. Many people don’t want to, or cannot spend those amounts,” says Craig.</p> <p dir="ltr">“But if you can get a cheap fare to LAX, which is usually around $1000, you can then use frequent flyers points to get to Vancouver, or buy cheap tickets to airports on the US side of the border and then rent a car.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Check out the <a href="http://www.valuefares.com.au/buy-now-1">‘Buy Now’</a> page on the website for current deals and for regular updates, sign up to their newsletter.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>How to get cheap upgrades</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">“Being a ‘points pro’ means earning lots more frequent flyer points without spending too much more, if any more, money, then knowing exactly how to redeem those points effectively so you can travel in business or first class when you go on holiday,” says Matt Graham, co-founder of Frequent Flyer Solutions.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Aussie company offers 10 online courses under its Frequent Flyer Training umbrella that teach the three components of an airline or hotel loyalty program: earning points, redeeming points and earning elite status.</p> <p dir="ltr">It’s free to join as an ‘Economy Class’ member to access the first unit of each of the 10 courses, while a membership fee applies to access further content.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The courses teach how to calculate the value of a reward to determine whether it’s good value, some of the left-field ways to redeem points, how to find award availability and book an award ticket,” Mr Graham said.</p> <p dir="ltr">And if you’re just as confused about fare classes as us, this is a good chance to learn.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Understanding how fare classes work allows you to work out how many points and status credits your flight will earn, whether your ticket is upgradeable, how full your flight will be and can help to predict the likelihood of a points upgrade request being successful,” Mr Graham said.</p> <p dir="ltr">You’ll also learn hacks such as how to hire a car for $1 using a one-way relocation deal and how to get the best seats when flying Qantas.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The trick with Qantas is to select a seat exactly three days and eight hours before the flight’s scheduled departure time. This is when most of the blocked seats at the front of the cabin become available for selection,” Mr Graham said.</p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Graham said one of the best strategies they teach is buying heavily discounted frequent flyer points from overseas airlines such as American Airlines, Etihad, Air Canada or Avianca, which can then be redeemed for business and first class flights on different airlines including Qantas and Virgin Australia.</p> <p dir="ltr">“This can be a clever way to save thousands of dollars on premium cabin flights because by doing this in a smart way, you can attain the points you need for a flight for just a fraction of the regular airfare,” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Use your mobile device to get a steal on luxe stays</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Booking accommodation in Bali, Greece or Italy? Close your laptop and pick up your mobile device.</p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://booking.com/">Booking.com</a> offers huge savings on accommodation bookings that are made through their app on your mobile device.</p> <p dir="ltr">Just be sure to read the reviews to see if it’s worth the value and make sure you tweak the filters to include free cancellations.</p> <p> </p> <p dir="ltr">Have any additional travel tips? We’d be happy to hear them.</p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p>

Travel Tips

14 staycation ideas for a great getaway close to home

<p><span>Holidays are one of life’s best pleasures, but sometimes your mini-getaway is not an option – like now, for many of us! </span></p> <p><span>Whether it’s because you’re travel ideas have been curtailed by lockdowns, it’s not in the budget this year, you don’t have enough time off, or you just feel safest staying local, you can have all the fun with way less hassle by trying one of these staycation ideas.</span></p> <p><strong>Have a pillow fort sleepover</strong></p> <p><span>Don’t just build a pillow fort; build the best pillow fort ever! </span></p> <p><span>Go all out, draping sheets over furniture and building an indoor adventure. Hang fairy lights. Bring in a TV. Whip together recipes for a picnic. Break out the classic board games. </span></p> <p><span>The dress code is strict: Jammies only! Then when it’s bedtime, you have the perfect setup for a sleepover.</span></p> <p><strong>Have a fondue night</strong></p> <p><span>Eating a fondue meal is a unique culinary experience, and it’s one you can bring to your home. </span></p> <p><span>Heat up a fondue pot (or two!) and lay out a spread of dippables. </span></p> <p><span>Start with savoury dishes like meat cubes, bread and steamed vegetables dipped in melted cheese. </span></p> <p><span>Then finish with dessert, dipping fruit, cake and marshmallows into melted white and dark chocolate.</span></p> <p><strong>Visit a nearby national park</strong></p> <p><span>Our national parks are underrated treasures. </span></p> <p><span>With over 500 of them, there’s bound to be something for everyone. </span></p> <p><span>There’s plenty of hiking, but most national parks have other things to do as well, including wildlife spotting, horseback riding, swimming or kayaking, and so much more.</span></p> <p><strong>Set up an outdoor movie theatre</strong></p> <p><span>Projectors have gotten better and cheaper, making it easier than ever to set up a DIY backyard movie theatre. </span></p> <p><span>Pick a blank side of your house (garage doors often work great), set up your laptop and projector, and pick a holiday-themed movie. </span></p> <p><span>Invite your neighbours to bring their lawn chairs (if you’re able), add popcorn and drinks, and you have a perfect night out, err, in.</span></p> <p><strong>Tour your own city</strong></p> <p><span>Every state has some must-see tourist attractions. </span></p> <p><span>When people come to visit, you probably have a list of sights they should see and things they should do.</span></p> <p><span> Now is the time to use that list yourself! Visit a museum, go to a concert, check out historical buildings, walk on the pier, or hike those hills. </span></p> <p><span>View your city as a tourist might. Heck, you can go so far as to buy the souvenir mug.</span></p> <p><strong>Go to a drive-in movie</strong></p> <p><span>It’s true that there aren’t nearly as many of them as there once were, but those remaining drive-ins offer a much safer big-screen experience than a regular cinema. </span></p> <p><span>Find a drive-in movie theatre near you, check show times, and stock your car with goodies to eat and drink. </span></p> <p><span>Or find a friend with a pickup truck and put a mattress in the back for more comfortable viewing.</span></p> <p><strong>Take a bike tour</strong></p> <p><span>Riding a bike is a great way to see your city or a destination. </span></p> <p><span>It’s faster than walking, but you don’t have to worry about parking a car or finding an Uber. </span></p> <p><span>Plus, you get to be in the fresh air. Many places offer guided bike tours, or you can come armed with a list of sights to stop.</span></p> <p><strong>Indulge in a spa day</strong></p> <p><span>Tired mums will love getting a day to relax and pamper themselves, although this is definitely one of the staycation ideas that most people will enjoy. </span></p> <p><span>You can schedule a full day at a local spa and get the deluxe treatment, or you can put one together at home. </span></p> <p><span>Get a fluffy bathrobe, stock up on sheet masks for your face, and choose a new nail polish. </span></p> <p><span>T</span><span>hen top off your glass of wine and fill the bathtub for a relaxing soak.</span></p> <p><strong>Have a girls' or guys' night in</strong></p> <p><span>Some of the best types of holidays are guys’ or girls’ weekend getaways. </span></p> <p><span>Don’t want to risk it during the pandemic? Host your pals at home for the night. </span></p> <p><span>Invite a small group friends for a girls’ or guys’ night in (current restrictions notwithstanding!). </span></p> <p><span>Mix a signature drink, play a fun game, watch a movie, or just talk. </span></p> <p><span>Or set up the guest room and make a weekend of it.</span></p> <p><strong>Have an outdoor dance party</strong></p> <p><span>Dancing with others is fun and good for you. </span></p> <p><span>But going into crowded dance clubs probably isn’t at the top of your to-do list right now. </span></p> <p><span>Thankfully, all you need for your own dance party is an outdoor speaker and a flat spot for dancing.</span></p> <p><span> String up some lights, fill a couple of coolers with drinks, and invite your neighbours or some close friends.</span></p> <p><strong>Hit the beach</strong></p> <p><span>This is one of the most popular staycation ideas and for good reason. </span></p> <p><span>A day at the beach is like its own form of meditation. If there’s a body of water nearby, chances are there’s some type of beach. </span></p> <p><span>Bring a beach picnic, set up a sun umbrella, lay out your towels, and spread out the sand toys. </span></p> <p><span>Oh, and don’t forget the sunscreen.</span></p> <p><strong>Take part in a house swap</strong></p> <p><span>Got friends that live in fun places? </span></p> <p><span>If you’re not in a locked down area, you can still skip the hassle and uncertainty of a hotel by swapping houses for a weekend. </span></p> <p><span>Each of you gets to check out a new place with a comfortable home base to come back to at night. </span></p> <p><span>Be sure to also swap lists of the must-see sights in your areas.</span></p> <p><strong>Camp under the stars</strong></p> <p><span>Avoid crowds, stay close to home, and take in the night sky by going camping. </span></p> <p><span>Keep it simple and head to a nearby scenic spot for one night. </span></p> <p><span>Pack a light backpacking tent, but if temperatures are mild and skies are clear, you may not even need it. </span></p> <p><span>Sleeping under stars is one of those life-changing experiences that we’ve nearly forgotten about in modern society, making it one of our favourite staycation ideas.</span></p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock</em></p> <p><em>This article first appeared in <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/travel/travel-hints-tips/14-staycation-ideas-for-a-great-getaway-close-to-home?pages=2" target="_blank">Reader's Digest</a>.</em></p>

Domestic Travel

Catriona Rowntree looks back on her all-time favourite Getaway locations

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As Australia’s most iconic travel program, </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Getaway</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">, celebrates its 30th season, presenter Catriona Rowntree is looking back on her time on the show.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Her dream to share people’s stories started when she was just 14, when she was inspired by the passion her friend’s dad, Brian White, had for his job.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">She never thought that dream would include becoming a presenter on the program, which she joined in 1996.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“In one sense you feel nothing but gratitude for the life that it’s given you,” she told 9Entertainment. “Also to be able to be the conduit, to share other people’s stories, different religions, different cuisines, different cultures, with people that may never have the opportunity to experience what you have, and equally to inspire others to maybe take your advice.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Rowntree continued, “It’s humbling to know that we’ve been supported for this long, literally through thick and thin, and you can imagine I say that with all my heart from the year that we’ve experienced, so we just feel incredibly grateful.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To celebrate 30 seasons, </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Getaway </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">will be airing a special 30th anniversary episode at 5.30pm on Saturday, May 22. As part of the episode, </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Getaway</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> will also be reminiscing on some of its celebrity appearances, including Catriona’s interview with former US president Donald Trump before he had even considered joining the presidential race.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Speaking to Trump about his hotel and tourism empire, Catriona has been reluctant to talk about meeting him in more recent years because people didn’t want to hear any positive anecdotes.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I met him under the best circumstances where I was going to interview him about an award that one of his hotels had won. We shared an interest in travel and tourism, we discovered a shared interest in feng shui, which I had learned about on my travels through Asia, and that he applied to the hotels that he created,” she said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">"He was as charming to me as he was to my sound operator, he was generous with his time, and the person that was later depicted was not the person that I met.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">"However, I found that a lot of people didn't like me telling that story because I didn't have anything negative to say, and so I stopped telling the story. I sensed that people were only interested if I was going to say something derogatory and that wasn't my experience."</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Another memorable moment that will be appearing in the special episode is her time with business magnate Richard Branson and his family at their home on Necker Island.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">"We're both Cancerians, I think we're a day different with our birthdays, and we just clicked straight away, and definitely and he was very generous with his time and unbelievably kind," she recalled.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Though Catriona’s experiences with people have been mostly positive, her animal encounters while on the show have left her feeling everything from fear to awe.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">"Definitely one of the most extraordinary surreal experiences was swimming through jellyfish lake in Palau, where the jellyfish have lost their sting because they have no predators. The jellyfish are through your hair, between your legs, you're smothered in jellyfish and you are totally discombobulated by the experience,” she said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">"I'm up for anything because both I and my bosses quickly realised that people found it funny when I showed my fear, so how I react is how most people react, but on TV I think people try to be too cool for school and that doesn't work.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But, it’s this vulnerability that made her so endearing to viewers, and what really warms her heart about her time on </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Getaway</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> has been how the show has become a part of viewers’ lives.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">"And sometimes I'll meet people and they'll say that 'Our family puts a picnic blanket down in front of the tele and you take us around the world' — just tiny little comments like that mean the world to me."</span></p>

International Travel

Top 5 unforgettable island getaways

<p>Winter blues getting you down? Here are five fab last-minute tropical island escapes. Ready to go?</p> <p>If the winter blues are getting you down, and the start of September still seems like an eternity away, why not indulge in a last-minute island escape? Here are the easiest, cheapest and most popular global destinations to visit in order to get some instant sunshine. August is one of the most popular months for Aussies to jet away for a mid-year holiday, so pack your bag and book yourself a spontaneous holiday filled with tropical beaches, exotic culture and glistening sunshine!</p> <p><strong>1. Canary Islands, Spain</strong></p> <p><strong>Where:</strong>The Canary Islands are a tropical oasis located off the Spanish mainland. Behind its veneer of exotic oceanfront resorts lies a backdrop of lush pine forests with breathtaking waterfalls, dramatic volcanoes and lava fields. There are also a seemingly endless array of Sahara-style dunes. Spain is an idyllic mid-winter getaway due to the inviting climate and rich culture. The Canary Islands retain these positive aspects without being overrun by tourists, making it perfect for a sunny and spontaneous winter getaway.<br /><strong>Why go:</strong>Watch the sunset while sipping a cocktail at one of Tenerife’s myriad of oceanfront bars, scuba dive and discover hundreds of species of fish or hike up mountains and across volcanic fields. Other options are to explore the area on a unique camel ride or soak up a dose of Canarian culture by viewing the work of local sculptors and artists in Gran Canaria.</p> <p><strong>2. Sri Lanka</strong></p> <p><strong>Where:</strong>Sri Lanka is a cultural paradise with an enticing array of options to suit all travellers. Its geographical proximity to Australia means that flights are affordable and short, making it highly suitable for last-minute vacation plans. Sri Lanka boasts of exquisite beaches, pristine rainforests, tea plantations, world-renowned train rides, legendary temples and phenomenal cuisine. The small island has eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites packed into an area that is just over two-thirds the size of Tasmania!<br /><strong>Why go:</strong>Go on a scenic train ride from Kandy to Nuwera Eliya; visit the National Museum in the capital, Colombo; witness herds of elephants, wild buffalo, sambar deer and leopards in Uda Walame National Park; and bike along coastlines and small villages along the National Cycling Trail.</p> <p><strong>3. Lombok, Indonesia</strong></p> <p><strong>Where:</strong>Many people might think of a last-minute vacation just outside of Australia and immediately turn their attention to Bali. But Lombok, Bali’s less frantic neighbour, has just as many exotic tourist options and authentic Indonesian cultural offerings, all without the hordes of partying Westerners. Lombok forms part of the chain of the Lesser Sunda Islands and is the gateway to the magical Gili Islands.<br /><strong>Why go:</strong>Climb the breathtaking Mount Rinjani; take a bemo (converted mini-van) through the rice fields to visit Lombok’s holiest temple, Pura Lingsar; snorkel the warm tropical waters and travel by boat to the surrounding Gili Islands; barter for fresh produce at the local Pasar Mandalika markets.</p> <p><strong>4. New Caledonia</strong></p> <p><strong>Where:</strong>Want to feel like you’re in France while travelling just over 1000km East of the Australian mainland? New Caledonia is a multi-ethnic tropical island that offers a range of relaxing activities as well as numerous cultural and natural experiences. Maintaining temperatures of around 23-24°C throughout Winter, it is a conveniently located escape for anyone restricted by time or a small budget. Although the water may not be toasty, these months are ideal for hikes through the Grand Randonnee (great hiking trail). New Caledonia is a nature lovers’ haven with opportunities a-plenty for sailing, diving, fishing, hiking, golfing, watersports and adventurous activities. Alternatively, you could simply visit the exotic island on a cruise, or spend time relaxing in the cultural hub and capital, Noumea.<br /><strong>Why go:</strong>Explore Noumea’s many districts, which have cultural influence from countries spanning five continents; discover the Melanesian customs, picturesque landscapes and coral reefs of Iles Loyaute (the Loyalty Islands); hike up to the gates of the City of Dumbéa; or immerse yourself in the magic of the largest lagoon in the world.</p> <p><strong>5. Montego Bay, Jamaica</strong></p> <p><strong>Where:</strong>Located in Jamaica’s northwest corner, Montego Bay is a hub for flights and resorts and offers visitors fantastic weather. All-inclusive resorts are near their annual low at this time of year, justifying a spontaneous trip to the exotic Caribbean. Simply book a flight and a resort and then choose from the abundant R&R options or watersports activities upon your arrival.<br /><strong>Why go:</strong>Lounge around at Doctor’s Cave Beach; learn about the Rastafari movement at the Indigenous Rastafarian Village; take a zip-line tour through the canopy; or get the adrenaline pumping with a jungle river tubing safari.</p> <p><em>Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/travel/5-enticing-island-get-aways.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a></em></p>

Cruising

Don’t want to travel far? The best luxury getaways close to home

<p><span>Holiday planning is often imbued with irony. While we may strive to indulge ourselves and have a relaxing experience, there seems to be a lot of work involved to get there – from arranging itineraries and accommodation to spending countless hours sitting on the plane and figuring out how to get around in a faraway, unfamiliar destination.</span></p> <p><span>But a luxurious and hassle-free trip is not out of reach – in fact, it is just at your doorstep. Destinations in our own backyard await discovery, with plenty to offer – from the world’s oldest known continuous culture and the unique wildlife and natural landscapes, to the thriving cuisine scene and the idyllic boutique stays. And with luxury coach travel options, all you need to do is pack your suitcase and enjoy the ride.</span></p> <p><strong><span>Tasmania: Immerse yourself in nature and gourmet delights </span></strong></p> <p><span>An hour away from the capital city of Hobart lies Mt Field National Park, <a href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/trips/australia/tas/rth12">Tasmania</a>’s first national park. The star attraction is Russell Falls, which consist of two beautifully segmented main drops and are surrounded by swamp gums, tall tree ferns and various flora of wet forests and rainforests. The gorgeous view of the falls is so beloved by nature enthusiasts it has been immortalised on one of Australia’s first stamps.</span></p> <p><span>Another highlight is the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, part of the Tasmanian World Heritage Wilderness area and one of Tasmania’s most popular landmarks. Situated in the middle of the island, the park comprises ancient rainforests, jagged peaks and alpine heathlands with beech trees. As you explore the park, you can see the ever-changing scenery punctuated by wallabies, wombats and possums. You can observe majestic Cradle Mountain from the picnic area in Dove Lake and make your way to the iconic boat shed on the water’s edge, built by the first park ranger.</span></p> <p><span>After getting back from exploring the nature, you can reconnect to the land’s heritage with a visit to Strahan, a former port town on the west coast with rich and fascinating convict history. From the small hamlet you can take a cruise on the Gordon River and visit Sarah Island, a notorious penal settlement where a group of convicts once conspired to build and steal a ship to escape.</span></p> <p><span>The heart of the Apple Isle also has its share of history – in Launceston, the historic homestead Entally House stands surrounded by great gardens and a vineyard. The old home of 19<sup>th</sup> century premier Thomas Reibey, the place now consists of various outbuildings, including a chapel, coach house and Australia’s oldest conservatory. </span></p> <p><span>Continue to the winery of Josef Chromy for gourmet delights and some of the finest drops from Tasmanian grapes, served with a view of the elegant Colonial and Victorian architecture.</span></p> <p><span>Travel along the scenic wine-producing regions to sample more exquisite elixirs at Bridestowe Lavender Estate. As the home and farm to over 260 acres of French lavender, Bridestowe offers a range of unique lavender-infused fare against the otherworldly backdrop of 650,000 plants stretched across 200 kilometres of open space.</span></p> <p><span>When you travel with APT, you will be spoiled with a special stay at hand-picked boutique accommodations once the day is over. Turn the fireplace on and take in the night air of the alpine wilderness at the Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge – which has been listed as one of Lonely Planet’s Top 10 Most Extraordinary Places To Stay – or soak up the sights of the city lights and sailing ships at the harbour out of your window at Hotel Grand Chancellor in Hobart’s CBD. Discover your next Tasmania adventure <a href="http://www.aptouring.com.au/tasmania2020">here</a>.</span></p> <p><strong><span>New Zealand: Adventure seekers and food lovers’ paradise </span></strong></p> <p><span>As Tassie’s oceanic neighbour, <a href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/trips/newzealand/ncc18">New Zealand</a> is perfect for those looking to venture just beyond the border. The Land of Long White Cloud comes packed with natural beauty and compelling heritage – and on the APT trip, you get to enjoy all the best destinations in a comprehensive 18-day tour.</span></p> <p><span>After you land in Auckland, you can immediately enjoy the local delicacies on the Waiheke Island wine and olive tasting tour. Then cross the Harbour Bridge to get to the Bay of Islands, where sandy beaches and rocky outcrops could be found all around the subtropical enclave alongside historic sites, such as the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Matakohe’s Kauri Museum and Māori Meeting House.</span></p> <p><span>Travel south to Waitomo to visit the home of the famous glow worm caves, where thousands of tiny luminescent creatures radiate an otherworldly glow that enfolds your boat ride through the underground rivers. </span></p> <p><span>From there you can make your way to Rotorua. A trip here is not complete without an excursion to the Hobbiton Movie Set, the only place in the world where you can experience the real middle-Earth. Those who are less familiar with the <em>Lord of the Rings </em>series shall not worry – they can still take in everything the town has to offer, from a guided walk through Redwood Treewalk to sightseeing opportunities around the country’s largest boiling mud pool and colourful hot springs.</span></p> <p><span>Once you’re done touring the North Island, it’s time to take on the South. Jump aboard the Interislander ferry to cross Cook Strait – the views of Marlborough waters and Queen Charlotte Sound will accompany you throughout until the ship lays at anchor in Picton.</span></p> <p><span>More special travel options await – the TranzAlpine train, which runs from Christchurch, will take you on one of the world’s greatest rail adventures through the pastoral patchwork farmlands of the Canterbury Plains and the rugged Southern Alps mountain range within Arthur’s Pass National Park. </span></p> <p><span>Move ahead on coach to the artisanal township of Hokitika and the exquisite Franz Josef. You are spoiled with choice for quality meals in Queenstown, like taking a cruise on the TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet BBQ dinner.</span></p> <p><span>Board a sightseeing cruise to witness the magnificent fiord that is Milford Sound in full length, carving a course across the stunning waterway encompassed by mountains, including the iconic Mitre Peak. At night, you can recharge with the unique Fiordland Dinner by Lake Te Anau.</span></p> <p><span>Another summit awaits in the form of World Heritage-listed Aoraki Mt Cook national park, which hosts Australasia’s highest peak. Wander through the site to discover the native flora, get up close to icebergs on the Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake, or view the southern night skies stargazing with an astronomer.</span></p> <p><span>Wherever you go in New Zealand, unparalleled beauty is to be expected. Learn more about how to explore New Zealand in Luxury <a href="http://www.aptouring.com.au/newzealand2020">here.</a></span></p> <p><strong><span>Signature getaways</span></strong></p> <p><span>These two incredible destinations almost in our own backyards are luxuriously showcased by <a href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/discover/new-zealand-2020?utm_source=url&utm_medium=alias&utm_campaign=newzealand2020">APT Luxury Travel</a>. As a seven-time winner of the Best Domestic Tour Operator title at the AFTA National Travel Industry Awards, APT makes sure every detail of your journey is taken care of – so you can Live Fully. </span></p> <p><em><span>This is sponsored content brought to you in conjunction with </span></em><span><a href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/discover/new-zealand-2020?utm_source=url&utm_medium=alias&utm_campaign=newzealand2020"><em>APT Luxury Travel</em></a><em>.</em></span></p>

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