Tel:  02-6651-2747  or  1300-738-888
Email:   coffsharbour@escapetravel.com.au

 

" The Whitsundays "

Few places in the world match the romance, adventure and pure natural beauty of the stunning Whitsunday Islands. Sunny days are spent lazily soaking up rays or busily finding Nemo among the magical coral underworld. Balmy sunsets slowly sink from the wide Pacific sky leaving cool evening breezes and an endless horizon of shining stars.

The Whitsundays lie midway along the Queensland coast - a group of 74 islands, bordered by the Great Barrier Reef and cradled by the calm and sheltered waters of the Coral Sea ; a picturesque coastline of wooded peninsulas, sandy coves and welcoming holiday retreats.  The range and variety of activities and resort accommodation, as well as the carefully preserved national parks that make up the bulk of the area, have made the area one of Australia's leading holiday destinations.

There are so many ways to experience the Whitsundays - something for every taste and budget - and every visitor can be assured of a great holiday.  Be sure to discover the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s seven natural wonders, right in the heart of the beautiful Whitsundays.  There are a myriad of ways to experience this magical wonder; from snorkeling and scuba diving, to semi-submersibles or scenic plane and helicopter tours.  However you choose to experience the Whitsundays, be sure to include a trip to Whitehaven Beach, consistently voted one of the best beaches in the world. The spectacular white silica sands of this gorgeous location stretch on for seven kilometres. You will want to return to experience its beauty again.

The island resorts in the Whitsunday group offer great value getaways that combine luxury, romance and adventure.  Whether it is Eco-style, family friendly, all-inclusive, activity based, food and wine focused or pure luxury, there is a resort experience to suit everyone.
 

BRAMPTON ISLAND.   At the southern end of the Whitsundays, Brampton Island is almost entirely National Park. With a rhythm of its own there are activities to enjoy at every imaginable tempo - from fast and furious water sports, to relaxing by the pool, pure escapism at the island spa, fine dining or the sunset cruise. For the highly adventurous, try the Jet Ski Safari to circumnavigate the island and explore beautiful beaches and secluded spots.

DAYDREAM ISLAND.  Daydream Island Resort and Spa is easily accessible from Shute Harbour, Airlie Beach or nearby Hamilton Island. Unique to the island is a man-made outdoor aquarium, a stunning network of reef lagoons containing over 40 marine fish species and 50 coral varieties. Visitors can snorkel or dive the island’s fringing reef. Recreational activities also include water sports, mini golf, movies at the scenic open-air cinema or swimming in one of the island’s pools.

HAMILTON ISLAND.  Hamilton Island is Australia ’s largest island resort and one of the most popular. It has one of the main airports for the Whitsundays and its colourful harbour serves as a major gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Hamilton Island’s village offers a number of shopping and dining experiences and a variety of activities including water sports, action-packed day trip cruises or high flying aviation options.

HAYMAN.  Recognised internationally for its luxurious surroundings and outstanding chefs and cuisine, Hayman is the epitome of holiday indulgence. The private island resort’s large and well-appointed suites and guest rooms edge up to the huge lagoon pool and overlook a scene of tropical perfection of neatly manicured gardens and a stretch of white sandy beach. After shopping at the island’s boutiques, book Hayman’s award-winning, Spa Chakra.

HOOK ISLAND.  Famous for its underwater observatory that takes visitors 6 metres below the surface for a view of its fringing reef, the island is also home to the Hook Island Wilderness Resort. The resort provides a value-for-money island holiday at the entrance to the Whitsunday Passage and offers a combination of camp sites, dormitory or cabin-style accommodation with either ensuite or shared facilities.

LINDEMAN ISLAND.   Australia ’s only Club Med island resort is located in the Whitsundays on Lindeman Island . The all-inclusive Club Med concept provides the perfect way for couples and families to enjoy the wide range of sports and activities on offer, such as joining the circus and trying out the flying trapeze or a round of golf overlooking the nearby islands. Why not take in one of the island’s many bush walks for breathtaking hilltop views, or just chill out on one of its secluded beaches. Lindeman Island boasts 670 hectares of World Heritage National Park.

LONG ISLAND. Surrounded by rainforest and nestled into a sheltered bay, Long Island Resort makes for a great tropical hideaway. Visitors can be at one with nature as they snorkel the surrounding coral reef or relax with a cocktail in hand on the pristine beach. There are loads of activities to choose from, including two enticing swimming pools.  Peppers Palm Bay is also located on Long Island.  Secluded and set amidst a grove of tropical palms, the resort is designed for privacy, peace and tranquility with just 21 stylish bure’s.  Peppers Palm Bay is an idyllic location for enjoying the finer things in life.

SOUTH LONG ISLAND - NATURE LODGE.  Imagine arriving by helicopter to your own secluded island, with waterfront bungalows, National Park rainforest and private beach. This is the life at South Long Island Nature Lodge. With no television, phones, young children or day visitors to disrupt your day, relaxation definitely comes first.

SOUTH MOLLE ISLAND . South Molle is a firm favourite with guests coming for the relaxing South Seas ’ atmosphere and the palm-fringed beach set amongst sheltered waters. If relaxation is not your style the range of water sports and 33 free activities, including a 9 hole golf course, will keep you busy. South Molle Island offers a wide choice of accommodation.  The island has over 420 hectares of National Park and 16 kilometres of trails to explore that lead to beaches, bays and great views from Mt Jeffreys.

SAIL AWAY.  There is a dazzling array of charter cruises to choose from, most starting from Airlie Beach or Shute Harbour. Leisurely trips around the islands of the Whitsunday Passage take in some of the better known spots as well as seeking out more secluded beaches.  Hiring a boat to take by yourself is also becoming increasingly popular. Sailing experience is not necessary but is useful and you can get some on-board instruction before heading for the horizon under your own command.



 


Hamilton Island Resort ON SALE: From $1972* per family land only (based on 2 adults and 2 children 14 years and under sharing).  Includes 4 nights accommodation at Reef View Hotel in a garden view room, Full Breakfast Daily, Half day family trip with Fantasea Cruises to Whitehaven Beach, Full day family trip with Fantasea Cruises to The Great Barrier Reef, Koala Gallery (weekly family pass), Complimentary use of non-motorised water sports and return Hamilton Island Airport/Marina to hotel transfers.   Ask about the kids stay and eat free program!!   READ MORE >>

To find out more information email: haydee.payer@escapetravel.com.au
 

    
                                    Did you know.....
 


The Whitsunday Islands were originally formed by volcanic action. However, after the last glacial period (30 to 50 000 years ago) the sea level rose, leaving the higher coastal peaks as islands.

The Aborigines of the Whitsunday Islands were called the Ngaro and are among the earliest recorded groups in Australia. In their occupation as maritime hunters and gatherers, the Ngaro became well known as skilled navigators.

In 1770, the Cumberland Islands were discovered by Lieutenant James Cook. On Whit Sunday Lt. Cook sailed through and named the passage between the northern islands, the Whitsunday Passage.

The Whitsundays encompasses 74 tropical islands, tourism based towns (Cannonvale, Airlie Beach and Shute Harbour) and the rural town of Proserpine.

70% of the Whitsunday region is protected Marine and National Park.

Over 500 000 visitors arrive each year to enjoy the wonders that make the Whitsundays one of the world’s most desirable destinations.
 


Email:   coffsharbour@escapetravel.com.au
 
   

 
Resort of the week:  Cypress Lakes Resort, Hunter Valley
 


Experience all the Hunter Valley has to offer.   Escape... sipping the flavours of a winemakers craft, swinging the club to conquer the greens, slipping into a trance from a spa treatment, spoiling yourself, or perhaps a special friend. Just a 90-minute drive north of Sydney, in the heart of the lush Hunter Valley wine country, Cypress Lakes Resort offers a combination of luxurious villa accommodation and first class facilities.

The Vintage Golf Club boasts a truly spectacular 18-hole Greg Norman-designed golf course created specifically to complement the area's unique natural environment and prestigious Hunter Valley lifestyle. Measuring 6,310 metres with a Par of 71, the course gently winds around undisturbed wetlands, water carries, eucalypts and the Beggars Bridge and Bimbadgen vineyards.


Prices start from $289* midweek and from $359* on weekends. Includes 2 nights accommodation at Cypress Lakes Resort in a 2 Bedroom Villa, 1 golf round of 18 holes per person at Cypress Lakes, 1 golf round of 18 holes per person at The Vintage Course, Electric cart for golf rounds, complimentary newspaper daily, use of Fitness Centre Villa and tennis court.  Prices are per person, based on four golfers sharing a 2 bedroom villa and golf cart.  Offer ends 31 March 2008.

 To find out more information, email:  haydee.payer@escapetravel.com.au   or READ MORE >>
 
 

Email:   coffsharbour@escapetravel.com.au
 
 

  USA & CANADA:


Western Canada SELF DRIVE Tour
 See the best of the West at your own pace! 
Glacial Peaks & Grapes:  Experience all of Western Canada's icons in this self drive that takes in British Columbia's interior and the breathtaking Rockies. 
From $1959* per person twin share land only.
Includes 10 days compact car hire, 9 nights accommodation, admission to Hat Creek Ranch, admission to either Banff Upper Hot Springs or Miette Hot Springs Jasper, Ice Explorer ride onto the Athabasca Glacier, Sulphur Mountain Gondola Ride, personalised maps, itinerary and driving instructions.  READ MORE >>
 


Gray Line of Alaska - Save $125* per adult.
 Book a Gray Line of Alaska tour with a duration of 6 days or more, and you will receive a $125* per adult discount!  But hurry.... offer ends 29 Feb 08.   READ MORE >>

For more information, email sandra.whittington@escapetravel.com.au or CLICK HERE for website.
                                                   1300-738-888

 

  UK & EUROPE:


PEUGEOT LEASING 2008
 2008 Earlybird Special.... NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED.
Simply book a minimum 17 days rental by 31 March 2008 and receive:   7 days FREE on ALL Models
50% off Delivery / Return Fees.
Loyalty Bonus# (3 additional FREE days).
    READ MORE >>
 


BUSABOUT FESTIVALS
 PAMPLONA - RUNNING OF THE BULLS.  5 days from $565* per person twin share land only.  Includes 4 nights accommodation in San Sebastian, breakfast dialy, shuttles from San Sebastian to Pamplona, Busabout guide, welcome drink, party on the final night and a souvenir T-Shirt.

LA TOMATINA.  3 days from $335* per person twin share land only.  Includes 2 nights accommodation in Valencia, return coach transfers to the tomato fight, Busabout guide, Busabout goggles and the guides pub crawl of Valencia.   READ MORE >>

For more information, email peter.elks@escapetravel.com.au or CLICK HERE for website.
                                                   1300-738-888

 

 SOUTH AMERICA:


ANDES AND THE AMAZON
 Uncover Peru's colonial heritage in Lima and Cuzco, hike the Inca Trail to teh lost city of Machu Picchu and explore the green heart of the Amazon.  12 days ex Lima from just $1560* per person land only.  Includes 6 nights hotel accommodation, 3 nights camping & 2 nights Jungle Lodge accommodation, 6 breakfasts, all meals while at the jungle lodge and when hiking the Inca Trail, transportation and services of a tour guide.  Plus local payment of US$400.  READ MORE >>
 


For more information, email sandra.whittington@escapetravel.com.au or CLICK HERE for website.
                                                   1300-738-888

 

 ASIA:


Contiki Resort Bali
 4 nights from $1240* per person twin share. 
Includes return flights to Denpasar, 4 nights 4-star accommodation at Contiki Resort Bali, return airport transfers, brunch and dinner daily, heaps of FREE resort activities and taxes payable from Australia. READ MORE >>
 


LANGKAWI LUXURY
 From $2065* per person twin share.  Includes return flights to Langkawi, 5 nights accommodation at the Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa in a Deluxe Room, BONUS: Full breakfast daily, return airport transfers and taxes payable from Australia.  READ MORE >>

KUALA LUMPUR:  5-STAR ON SALE
 From $1553* per person twin share.  Includes return flights to Kuala Lumpur, 5 nights at the Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur in a Classic Room, Return seat in coach airport transfers, BONUS: FREE upgrade to a Premier Room, BONUS: FREE breakfast daily and taxes payable from Australia.
READ MORE >>

Beijing - The Imperial Heart of China
 From $1780* per person twin share.  Includes return flights to Beijing, meals as per itinerary, all entrance fees, accommodation, transfers and touring with English speaking guides and taxes payable from Australia.  READ MORE >>

For more information, email sarah.luck@escapetravel.com.au or CLICK HERE for website.
                                                   1300-738-888

 

  SOUTH PACIFIC:


New Caledonia ON SALE.
 From $999* per person twin share.  Includes return flights to Noumea, 4 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, return airport transfers and taxes payable from Australia.    READ MORE >>
 


Cook Islands ON SALE.... SALE EXTENDED!
 From $1059* per person twin share.  Includes return flights to Rarotonga, 5 nights accommodation, one FREE tropical breakfast on arrival, starter tea and coffee pack, return airport transfers and taxes payable from Australia.  READ MORE >>

For more information, email belinda.parmenter@escapetravel.com.au or CLICK HERE for website.
                                                   1300-738-888

 

  CRUISING:


P&O TWIN Outside Special
 10 nights from $1595* per person twin share in an OUTSIDE CABIN.  Cruise the South Pacific aboard Pacific Dawn in March or April at this low fare!  Price includes 10 night cruise in an outside cabin ex Sydney, with all meals and entertainment included whilst onboard the ship.    READ MORE >>
 


ALASKA with Rocky Mountaineer
 17 night fly, stay, cruise and tour from $8279* per person. Includes return Qantas flights from Sydney to Vancouver, 1 night pre-cruise accommodation in Vancouver, 7 night 'Sawyer Glacier' Alaska Cruise aboard Norwegian Sun with all meals, entertainment and tips included onboard, 2 night post-cruise accommodation in Vancouver, 7 night Rocky Mountains Circle Tour visiting Whistler, Lac Le Juene, Lake Louise, Banff, Jasper, Kamloops and Vancouver with many inclusions, airport transfers, port charges and air taxes.   READ MORE >>

South East Asia and China with Princess Cruises
 16 nights from $4219* per person twin share including return airfares ex Sydney.    Experience the scents, sights and sounds of the Orient on a cruise in South East Asia and China.  Ports of call include Beijing (China), Nagasaki (Japan), Shanghai (China), Okinawa (Japan), Taipei (Taiwan), Hong Kong, Nha Trang (Vietnam), Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), Singapore and Bangkok (Thailand).  Price includes return flights ex Sydney, 16 night cruise with all meals and entertainment included, port and air taxes.    READ MORE >>

For more information, email dawn.smith@escapetravel.com.au or CLICK HERE for website.
                                                   1300-738-888

 

  NEW ZEALAND:


New Zealand Steam Train Journey
 19 Day New Zealand Steam Train Journey
featuring Exclusively chartered Loco's!
Explore New Zealand's true rail heritage as you sit back and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere that train travel creates. Absorb the olde world elegance in the form of several Edwardian era trains, complemented with a selection of steam locomotives involved in New Zealand's pioneering past.  From $7599* per person twin share land only.  Includes 18 nights superior hotel accommodation, luxury coach travel throughout the tour, services of a Tour Escort and Coach Captain, Meet and greet on arrival in New Zealand, 18 cooked breakfasts, 16 dinners , 6 lunches, all sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, Special souvenir group photo, numerous rail journeys including Glenbrook Vintage Railway,Wab 794, The TranzCoastal, Ja 1271, Taieri Gorge Ltd and Kingston Flyer and return airport transfers in New Zealand.    READ MORE >>
 


For more information, email sarah.luck@escapetravel.com.au or CLICK HERE for website.
                                                   1300-738-888

 

  AUSTRALIA HOLIDAYS:


AAT KINGS - 30% OFF for Second Traveller.
 Book any AAT Kings NT Short Break of 2 days or more and the 2nd traveller receives 30%* OFF!  Simply book by 30 April for travel until 30 June 2008.   READ MORE >>
 


Byron Bay - BreakFree Eco Beach Resort
 2 nights from $145* per person twin share land only.  Includes 2 nights accommodation at the 4 star BreakFree Eco Beach Resort in a Studio Suite.
ADD an extra night from $73* per person twin share.   READ MORE >>

Phantom of the Opera
 Book now to see this spectacular musical at Brisbane's Lyric Theatre, QPAC.  Acclaimed the most popular musical of all time, The Phantom of the Opera tells the tale of a disfigured musical genius who haunts the depths of the Paris Opera House.  From $195* per person twin share land only.  Includes 'A' Reserve ticket to the Phantom of the Opera and overnight accommodation at Hotel Ibis Brisbane.  READ MORE >>

 Cypress Lakes Resort, Hunter Valley.  See details above or READ MORE >>

Hamilton Island Family Deal.  See details above or  READ MORE >>

For more information, email haydee.payer@escapetravel.com.au or CLICK HERE for website.
                                                   1300-738-888

 

Email:   coffsharbour@escapetravel.com.au
 
 


Recipe of the Week:  Baked Passionfruit Cheesecake

Passionfruit is thought to have originated from South America, a natural vine from the Amazon. Since then, passionfruit has been domesticated and bred into many different hybrids.  Today, Australia’s largest Passionfruit is grown in the Whitsundays!
 

INGREDIENTS
250g plain sweet biscuits
125g butter, melted
1 kg cream cheese
1¼ cups caster sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla essence
80mls passionfruit pulp (the pulp of 4 passionfruit)
3 eggs
¼ cup cream
 

METHOD
Preheat the oven to 160°C.
Place the biscuits in a food processor and process until fine crumbs are formed. Tip into a bowl and mix with the melted butter.
Press into the bottom and 2 cm up the sides of a 22cm lined and buttered spring form pan. Chill.
In a medium bowl beat the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla essence and passionfruit until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time beating lightly after each addition and stir in the cream.
Pour into the prepared pastry shell and bake for 1 hour or until set.
Remove from the oven and place on a rack to cool. Chill for 4 hours or overnight.

Source:  http://aww.ninemsn.com.au
 

Email:   coffsharbour@escapetravel.com.au
 

Airport Parking in Coffs Harbour
 CLICK HERE for more information


 

1300- 738 -888


 * Prices are per person, twin share (where accommodation/car hire is included, unless otherwise stated), subject to availability at the time you make a booking and conditions apply.  Travel date restrictions apply. Prices may vary due to changes in taxes, currency and flight routings.  Travel agent booking fees may apply in addition to prices quoted. Offers may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please see our website for further details.
   

Kelly Travel Company, Escape Travel.
PO Box 1224
 Suite 3, 144-148 High St,
(Corner Moonee Street)
Coffs Harbour NSW 2450
Phone: (02) 6651-2747
Fax: (02) 6651-3334
Email: coffsharbour@escapetravel.com.au
Web: www.kellytravel.com.au
ABN: 37 067 920 441 

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