taking you places , fashion , travel , lifestyle

Emerging from a dramatic transformation, the newly redesigned Park Hyatt Sydney brings a new level of contemporary luxury to the edge of Sydney Harbour.  With a coveted harbour‑front location between the world-famous Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, Park Hyatt Sydney offers guests an intimate, residential-style hotel with architecture, design and art that reflect the Australian landscape.  Three new rooftop suites, including the exclusive Sydney Suite with near 360-degree panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and a private outdoor terrace, cater for the most discerning traveller.

Newly opened, The Spa at Park Hyatt Sydney is an urban retreat offering personalised therapies towards relaxation and well-being.  Drawing on time-inspired treatments and philosophies, The Spa at Park Hyatt Sydney is a place where guests yearning for peace of mind and tranquility come to unwind.

Nestled in the historic Rocks area between the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, The Spa introduces a spa champagne afternoon tea offer where relaxing massages and desserts meet in harmony.  This blissful offer includes a 60-minute massage of choice at The Spa followed by an indulgent champagne afternoon tea experience served with a flute of Moët & Chandon Rosé Champagne in the hotel’s lounge, The Living Room.

The Spa at Park Hyatt Sydney also offers a selection of holistic massages, facials, body and beauty treatments and personalised spa packages that focus on healing and wellness.  The treatments use luxury Spanish spa range Natura Bissé and home-grown iKOU, a natural and organic spa range from the Blue Mountains of New South Wales.

Featuring five thoughtfully designed treatment rooms, each with its own private shower, a guest relaxation room and a spacious spa reception, The Spa also offers spa gift certificates and spa products for purchase.

The spa champagne afternoon tea offer is priced at AUD$150 per person and available on weekdays.  For bookings at The Spa at Park Hyatt Sydney, please call +61 2 9256 1234 or email phsydney.spa@hyatt.com.

 www.sydney.park.hyatt.com

Pin It

Royal Coast Walks guide hikes along the coastline of Royal National Park, one of the best places in Sydney to spot whales on their annual migration. It’s one of the few land-based experiences where whale watching is just one part of an adventure-packed day outdoors.

Expect a challenge as you walk 15km along pristine coastline, experiencing awesome headland views, Depression-era hermit caves, unique sandstone formations and the secluded Marley beaches. Begin the day visiting one of the largest Aboriginal rock engraving sites in Sydney, which features carvings of Gurruwul – the Orca – totem of the local Dharawal people, and learn about the ancient significance of whales to the region.

With 180° views up and down the coast during the walk, it’s likely guests will spot at least a humpback whale, with a few lucky enough to spot the more rare Southern Right whale frolicking out to sea below the sandstone cliffs.

Owner operator Ian Wells says, “Imagine your favourite patch of Sydney’s coast… now take away all the buildings and all the people and you’re left with what we get to walk through every day – kilometres of deserted coastline of Royal National Park. It means when you do spot whales, you’re sharing the experience with a few other keen bushwalkers rather than carloads and boatloads of people elbowing for prime position.”

The day is about much more than ocean life as native plants and animals are pointed out and local European and Aboriginal history explained, allowing guests to learn about Australia’s oldest national park during the bushwalk.

Founded in 2009, Royal Coast Walks believes that Sydney is a place of supreme natural beauty with sights and experiences only accessible on foot. We believe that walking through a landscape allows you to engage with nature and create incomparable memories. We know that a true understanding of a place requires time and learning, so we guide supported walks at a relaxed pace for guests to absorb the wonder of Sydney’s outdoors.

The Marley Tour (full day Royal National Park bushwalk) departs year-round on Tuesdays, Thursdays and alternate Saturday/Sundays, meeting at Cronulla ferry wharf at 8:15am. Tour costs $149 per adult ($135 concession) and includes lunch and snacks, goody bag, return ferry fare from Cronulla to Bundeena, National Park entry fees and expert guide. Bookings essential.
http://www.royalcoastwalks.com.au/tours/marley-walking-tour

Pin It

The Day Spa at The Observatory Hotel is proud to announce its new partnership with luxurious Parisian beauty brand CARITA.

Positioned in the heart of Sydney CBD, close to The Rocks, The Observatory Hotel is the ideal luxury base from which to explore Australia’s most vibrant city.
This award winning urban retreat is known for its tranquil, boutique atmosphere, yet offers easy access to Sydney Harbour Bridge and big city action.
One of the many highlights of a stay includes a pampering session in the luxurious Day Spa. And with the introduction of CARITA, and signature treatments such as the Perfect Gold Facial and Perfect Gold Body Massage, which contain 24c gold leaf, the Day Spa is truly the cities ultimate spa destination.

Day Spa Director Samantha Swan comments, “I am truly delighted The Observatory Hotel Day Spa is entering a long-term partnership with the luxury brand CARITA.  We will be meeting the demands of clients seeking advanced anti-ageing products and avant-garde technology with the use of CARITA’s Pro-Lift machine”.

The CARITA brand was created in Paris in 1945 by two visionary sisters, Maria and Rosy Carita, who globalised the world of beauty by creating luxurious treatments for the face, body and hair. Their legacy continues in the House of Beauty on Faubourg Saint Honoré, the home of luxury, innovation and elegance, and now at The Day Spa at The Observatory Hotel.

CARITA representative Mandy Gray, Sales & Marketing Director at True Solutions International comments, “We are very excited about the partnership between French beauty brand CARITA and The Observatory Day Spa. The Day Spa is the perfect home for CARITA – both brands are leaders in luxury and five star experiences, and the team at The Day Spa are recognised throughout the country as being leaders in service and treatments. We are thrilled to be working with their team who are now fully fledged CARITA experts”.

For more information on The Day Spa and CARITA treatments visit:

http://www.observatoryhotel.com.au/web/osyd/spa_introduction.jsp

Pin It

The far North Kimberley’s iconic Kimberley Coastal Camp is set to launch its first yoga and wellness retreat this June.

Hosted by Ryoho yoga therapist and host of Australia’s Yoga TV – Kris McIntyre, the 3 day all inclusive package will feature meditation, nutrition, yoga, massage and reflexology at one of the world’s most secluded destinations. Guests are invited to experience intimate encounters with ancient cultures and rock art so old its origins are lost in time, native wildlife, pristine isolated beaches, bush walking, gourmet meals including fresh locally caught seafood, and luxurious beach front accommodation.

This unique opportunity to reconnect with nature includes a complimentary helicopter access only yoga session! Early birds can take advantage of the special EARLY BIRD OFFER – 10% off if booked before 10 April 2012.

Kimberley Coastal Camp is a small luxury wilderness lodge located on country know to traditional owners as Yalrundair, overlooking the Timor Sea. Open from late March to October each year, Kimberley Coastal Camp limits guests to just 12 and with access restricted to helicopter and float plane it is one of the world’s most secluded and unspoiled destinations.

The first Kimberley Coastal Camp wellness retreat will be held from the 9th to the 12th of June 2012. All inclusive packages departing Broome are $4936 per person or $4685 from Kununurra.

Telephone: 0417 902 006 Email: info@kimberleycoastalcamp.com.au

Web: www.kimberleycoastalcamp.com.au

Pin It

Experience innovative tranquillity on an island that Anantara has rediscovered and then reinvented for travellers and couples who expect more than an idyllic island life.  Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa on picturesque Koh Phangan is an invitation to dream, journey and enjoy paradise.

Tucked discreetly at the base of a lush mountain, amongst towering coconut palms and just steps from the powdery sands of Thong Nai Pan Noi beach, 44 private pool suites and villas in seven distinctive layouts face the turquoise sea. Comprising indoor and outdoor living spaces ranging from 100 to 250 square metres, each sanctuary reflects its own charming character. In natural harmony with the exotic surrounds, wood and stone features provide a striking backdrop to rich hand woven silks. Luxury comforts inside range from a “blissful dreams” mattress adorned with 500 thread count linens, to a 32 inch flat screen TV with home theatre entertainment, and outside to an indulgent private plunge pool.

An invitation to reawaken vital energy comes from Anantara Spa, where the deliverance of ancient secrets paves the way toward beautiful wellbeing, whether a guest can only spare the time for an individual treatment, or has the freedom to embark upon an extended restorative journey. A feeling of being completely at one with nature is effortlessly achieved by open air teak wood treatment suites and salas that surround a lagoon fed by a jungle waterfall, shrouded by indigenous noni trees which rise amidst gigantic granite boulders and towering palms.

Anantara Spa’s holistic approach extends to private yoga classes for one or two people, which take place on the shady poolside deck of a guest’s private suite or villa, and on a spacious wooden platform nestling pristine sands to the sound of gentle waves. 90 minute lessons or elongated three, five and seven day programmes offer an inspirational approach, complete with spiritual quotes and focused intentions, as well as a personalised exercise plan to take home.

The sparkling waters of the Gulf of Thailand beckon exploration, and the resort’s 37 foot ocean cruiser affords the perfect sailing escape. A day trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park introduces guests to one of Thailand’s most beautiful reserves, where teeming reefs offer colourful snorkelling opportunities, crystal clear waters are ideal for kayaking, and a mountain climb reveals an impressive panorama. Anantara’s tropical rainforest adventure showcases the island’s distinctive cultural and natural attractions in one day, by combining snorkelling, archery, elephant trekking, a Thai boxing show and a herbal steam sauna. Local life can be encountered in a leisurely stroll through Phangan’s bustling walking street market held every Saturday, tempting visitors to browse for souvenirs, sample southern delicacies from street food vendors, and mix with fellow travellers at local bars.

Rasananda’s discreet island setting, luxurious facilities and exceptional cuisine also set the scene for dream beach weddings and exclusive honeymoons.

Do it all, or do nothing at all – discover your Rasananda lifestyle at anantara.com



Pin It

Queensland has been experiencing one of its cruellest summers on record. And while the devastation of floods and cyclones has ravaged hearts, the golden spirit of Queensland remains strong.
A Queenslander offering respite, relaxation and rejuvenation is The Golden Door Health Retreat in the stunning Gold Coast hinterland. Fortunate to escape Mother Nature’s fury, the retreat has positioned itself as a haven of tranquillity for those that need to re-focus, re-balance and re-align.
Until the 31st of March, The Golden Door Health Retreat Queensland is offering 30% discount on the famous 7 day program and 20% off the famous 5 day program for the remainder of what can still be a Golden summer in Queensland.

Re-ignite your spirits, improve your overall health and wellness and be nurtured in a peaceful serene environment where accommodation, gourmet spa cuisine and the full use of Golden Door facilities are included.
For more information about the Golden Summer offer including full terms and conditions, go to www.goldendoor.com.au
Or phone 1800 816906 to make your booking.

Pin It

With Christmas just around the corner, families across Australia will soon be jumping in the car, jet setting in planes and even cruising the seas as they head to their favourite holiday destinations.

Sometimes the trip there is almost as fun as the holiday, but not when family members succumb to nausea-inducing motion sickness.

But never fear, by following these 10 simple tips you can help your family either avoid or minimise the effects of the dreaded travel tummy.

Focus on the horizon. Focussing on a distant point helps keep your eyes in sync with the vehicle’s motion. Avoid activities that keep attention inside the vehicle. For kids, play ‘I spy’ and other games that encourage them to look out the window and position baby-seats so children can look outside.

Up front and forward. Motion tends to be felt more in the back seat of a car, so moving the affected adult to the front seat and facing them forward can often help.

Plenty of fresh air. Fresh air calms the senses as well as the tummy, so try to keep the windows down as much as possible and avoid strong smells.

Stop frequently. This helps restore a sense of balance and reduce that ‘swaying’ feeling. Plan your trip in advance and include regular stops. Take advantage of free playgrounds or work in a picnic or two at a park on the way.

Head to the middle. The middle of a vehicle is typically where the least amount of movement occurs. On a plane, move to the centre seats over the wings. On a boat get as close to sea level as possible.

Drive smoothly. Less braking and swaying obviously reduces rapid shifts in movement. Consider servicing areas of the car which affect smooth driving, like the suspension or the breaking system.

Eat well and rehydrate. A settled stomach (though not one filled with greasy foods) is less susceptible to nausea. Some children cope with motion sickness better while munching on dry biscuits or fruit. Drinking plenty of water or club soda can also help settle a tumbly tummy.

See the signs. Tiredness, dizziness, nausea, sweating and loss of appetite are all signs of travel sickness. Recognising them means you can act fast.

Carry bags. If the inevitable happens and someone does have a technicolour burp, you certainly want to be prepared with something to catch it. Pre-moistened towelettes or a wet cloth will also come in handy.

Ease the quease with some ginger. QueaseEase is an anti nausea formula, gentle on the stomach containing a therapeutic dosage of ginger, an old and effective anti-nausea remedy. QueaseEase also contains Vitamin B6, for reducing stress, and chamomile, to help relieve a jumpy stomach. QueaseEase is suitable for children over the age of two, making it a natural, kid-friendly travel sickness remedy for the whole family.

QueaseEase by Buderim Naturals is the Nutraceutical division of Australian owned Buderim Ginger Limited, the world’s foremost authority on ginger processing. QueaseEase is available from leading pharmacies and health food stores. Alternatively visit www.buderimnaturals.com or phone 1300 389 229 for more information.

Always read the label, Use only as directed and if symptoms persist, consult your healthcare professional.

Pin It

With their Spring Yoga Retreat selling out months in advance, Peppers Salt Resort & Spa at Kingscliff in Northern NSW has announced another yoga weekend in November giving guests the opportunity to relax with soothing yoga, dine on wholesome cuisine and revitalise with a spa treatment before the silly season sets in.

The yoga retreat, which has been designed for all ability levels from beginners through to experienced practitioners, will take place 19-21 November and will once again be hosted by YOGA TV host, Kris McIntyre.

Kris said summer is the season of abundance, creative expression, power and strength.

“In Traditional Chinese Medicine, summer is when the fire element is most prominent in the body giving us access to our inner strength, power and a calm still mind.

“It is therefore the best time of the year to address issues relating to the heart, blood pressure and circulation, whilst at the same time improving our ability to assimilate food, relate to other people and express ourselves creatively,” Kris said.

Priced from $490* per person twin share, the all-inclusive escape includes two nights accommodation, full buffet breakfast daily, six yoga classes with yoga teacher, author and TV host Kris McIntyre, a yoga mat, Golden Door workshops and demonstrations, a 50 minute Golden Door Spa treatment, wholesome meals inspired by The Golden Door cook book and prepared by Roughie’s Restaurant & Bar, full use of resort leisure facilities, unlimited in-room movies and more.

Non-residential packages are available from $351* per person including all yoga classes, mat, Golden Door Spa treatment, one dinner and two lunches.

When you’re not striking a pose, step out into nature and enjoy a network of beachside walking and bicycle tracks, the resort’s large tropical beach lagoon pool, unspoilt surf beaches, or head to the onsite Golden Door Spa for a menu of soul soothing spa treatments.

Yoga enthusiasts can also kick-start and cleanse at a Peppers Salt Resort & Spa Yoga Retreat in 2011. The next seasonal retreats will take place 25-27 February, 10-12 June, 12- 14 August and 4-6 November.

Peppers Salt Resort & Spa is located just 20 minutes from Gold Coast Airport, 60 minutes from Ballina Airport and less than 90 minutes drive from Brisbane.

For bookings or further information phone Louise Anker on 02 6670 5027 or email louise@conferencesandeventsatsalt.com.au.

Pin It

The magic of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Macau – and its many enticing east-meets-west ingredients – has been heightened by the news that it will have two vastly different additions to help woo tourists.
In one corner is a pair of young pandas from the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, set to call the Asian centre home as gifts from China to celebrate Macau’s 10th anniversary of becoming a Special Administrative Region.

At the other end of the scale is a swish, contemporary health and wellness centre – Malo Clinic – a spacious day hospital and spa which opened inside the Venetian Macao Resort-Hotel on Taipa.
“The exciting new attractions are among many more which have been included or about to be included in Macau’s line up as the centre continues to build on increasing tourist numbers in both the leisure and business markets,” said Helen Wong, General Manager of the Macau Government Tourist Office (Australia).

“Cirque du Soleil was another exciting addition,” said Ms Wong. “Now we are preparing to welcome a pair of healthy and very lively pandas ready to make a new home in new surrounds and help attract visitors to Macau.”
In opening this month (June, 2010), Malo Clinic has become Asia’s first and only fully operational general day hospital.

The clinic was established to offer guests world class dental treatments and medical services as well as sophisticated spa and wellness programs – in a tranquil, relaxed environment.

The planned early 2011 arrival of the pandas and the opening of the chic medical-spa clinic provide further reason for travellers to visit Macau and build on the Asian centre’s increasing tourist numbers.
Arrivals from Australia have risen by more than nine per cent in the first three months of 2010 compared with the same period last year.
On average, Australians spend more than two nights each visit injecting invaluable tourist cash into the Macau economy.

Pin It

The first images of Saffire Freycinet have been released this week, coinciding with a number of launch activities giving the public their first glimpse of Australia’s new coastal sanctuary.

“This week we are celebrating the launch of Saffire at the Australian Tourism Exchange in Adelaide along with on-site functions with the local tourism industry and Coles Bay community,” Pure Tasmania Managing Director Greg D Farrell said.

“This is the first time we have opened our doors to the public, which is very exciting.

“We will be welcoming our first guests within the next week, and we are eagerly anticipating their arrival.” Saffire is an icon development for the Australian tourism industry. Its concept and design are like no other in the country, capturing the essence of this unique region and connecting with its environment to bring an authentic and enriching experience for its guests.

“This project is one of great significance for our company, and is the culmination of years of market research and careful planning,” Mr Farrell said. “We wanted to ensure we built a development that was sympathetic to this beautiful area and its environs, yet still offers guests the most unforgettable experiences in accommodation, food and wine, activities and most of all, Saffire Service.” Tasmania’s Minister for Tourism Michelle O’Byrne said the state’s tourism industry would benefit greatly from Saffire’s opening.

“Tasmania is blessed with exceptional creativity as well as world-class places, products and experiences. I congratulate Pure Tasmania on being able to bring all of these wonderful assets together to create Saffire,” Ms O’Byrne said.

“Saffire delivers a new world-class ultra premium Tasmanian experience that will showcase the very best of our island state. I am confident that this experience will set new benchmarks in the premium tourism marketplace and rival the best in the world.” Distinct in its design, exclusive in its features and set apart by its approach to individually tailored experiences and service, Saffire’s approach is not constrained by traditional five-star ratings and standards, but instead sets a bold new direction for holidays and accommodation in Australia. Saffire features 20 accommodation suites, each with sweeping views of Great Oyster Bay and the Hazards Mountains and complete privacy from the neighbouring suites. Tasmania’s freshest produce and finest wines and beers will be showcased in Palate restaurant and The Lounge bar. All guests can restore their wellbeing in the premium spa facilities and on-site gym. Exclusive Signature Experiences have been developed accessing little-known areas of the Freycinet Peninsula, and a range of other activities can be tailored to suit guests’ desires.

For further media information, visit www.saffire-freycinet.com.au

Pin It