Category Archives: South Pacific

Visit Australia’s Emerald City

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Australia has a lot going for it. There’s great harbors, an outback and a rainforest and barrier reef.  There’s lots to see and do in Melbourne, the coastal capital of Australia, but don’t skip a visit to Sydney. It’s a dazzling, but complex city and that’s one of the reasons it has earned then nickname of Emerald City. The city’s distinctive Opera House is an iconic feature that is as recognizable as the Eiffel Tower. Sydney is one of the top 15 visited cities in the world. It has hosted major sports events including the 2000 Olympics, the 2023 FIFA Cup and the Women’s World Cup Finals.

Sydney Harbor

There’s plenty of other things to see in the city and travel advisors at GetAway Travel are ready to help plan your adventure to Sydney and the Land Down Under.

Inspiring buildings and bridges

 Inspired by the designs of nature, Danish architect Jørn Utzon’s drawing was the winner of an international design contest for the new Sydney Opera House. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the multi-venue building has top-notch acoustics and is one of the world’s most recognizable and distinctive buildings. Ground-breaking engineering was used to set up the concrete sail-like outer shells.

Sydney Opera House

The 2,700 tulipwood acoustic panels inside the various venues shape the sound making for marvelous acoustics. The bold, purple carpeting is a perfect backdrop for the dramatic staircases and the harbor views from the tall windows are spectacular.

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Melbourne has something for everyone

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Museums, penguins, five-star restaurants, koalas, sports aplenty, a vibrant arts scene — Australia’s second-largest city has got it going on! The coastal capital of Southeastern Australia’s state of Victoria, Melbourne is home to 21 different wine regions with more than 699 wineries, 380 cellar doors and 160 craft breweries. It’s the birthplace of Magic coffee, although many of us believe coffee is always magic in the morning. So when you are done with your visits to the barrier reef and the rain forest, spend some time in Melbourne.

GetAway Travel travel advisors are ready to assist you in planning a trip to Australia and, perhaps Tasmania?

From gold rush to goal rush

Settlers from Tasmania established Melbourne in the mid 1830s and the city experienced a major growth spurt in the 1850s during the gold rush. If you want to have the “gold rush experience,” take a 90-minute trip from Melbourne to Sovereign Hill.

Sovereign Hill

At this hands-on outdoor museum set up like a mining town, you can pan for gold, take an underground mine tour and watch gold pouring.

By the late 1800s, Melbourne was one of the world’s largest and wealthiest urban areas. Many of the gothic-style buildings still standing were built during this time.

Flinders Street Station

It became the temporary capital of Australia in 1901, but reverted back to just the capital of Victoria in 1927 when Parliament moved to Canberra.

Melbourne Cup

It is the sports capital of Australia. It has hosted numerous major world sports including the Australian Open, Formula 1, Australian Grand Prix, Melbourne Cup, Boxing Day Test and AFI Grand Final.

Even if you aren’t a “sports person,” don’t pass up a chance to see the Melbourne Cricket Ground or as it is known in Melbourne, “the G.” This enormous stadium is the largest stadium in the Southern Hemisphere, the second largest cricket stadium in the world and the 11th largest stadium in the world. Seating capacity is 100,000.

Melbourne Cricket Ground Stadium

It has been the home of Australian football since 1859, was the birthplace of Test cricket in 1877 and one-day international cricket in 1971. The Australian Sports Museum is just outside gate 3.

Interactive exhibits celebrate the diverse sporting culture of the country including the Summer and Winter Olympics, tennis, rugby and soccer. The Australian Racing Museum is inside the Sports Museum.

No shortage of great sites to visit

 The Old Melbourne Goal opened in 1842 and executed 133 of what were considered some of the country’s most infamous criminals. The old jail was open for 80 years and there are creepy, fascinating displays in the cells about the people who were locked up there and what jail life was like. For extra “creepy” value, take the night tour.

State Library Victoria

One of the most beautiful buildings in the city is the State Library of Victoria. It has soaring domed ceilings, a fabulous reading room and the view of the interior from the sixth floor is amazing. Australia’s oldest public library and one of the first free libraries, there are dozens of exhibits including the world’s largest collection of chess-related materials and the Rennie Ellis photography exhibition has iconic photos of Melbourne life from the 70s and 80s including the punk scene, sporting events, protests and visiting celebrities.

Eureka Tower

The 88th floor of Eureka Tower is the highest observation deck in the Southern Hemisphere and there are awesome views in all directions. Feeling particularly adventurous? Try out the Edge, a transparent glass cube that travels on the outside of the building so you are suspended over Melbourne with nothing but glass beneath your feet.

Royal Exhibition Building

Speaking of amazing views, that’s also an option at the Royal Exhibition Building if you go onto the terrace off of the dome. The Exhibition building is one of the most historic buildings in the city and was the first building to get UNESCO World Heritage Status.This enormous building, the site of the country’s first parliament, was also used for the country’s first World Fair. During the fair it was packed with exhibits, exotic and innovative, from all over the world. At the fair, the US proudly displayed, chewing gum.

Now, the Royal Exhibition Collection consists of more than 5,000 historic objects, the ceiling paintings are lovely and the surrounding Carlton Gardens are beautiful.

St Patrick’s Cathedral, Melbourne

The Melbourne Museum has galleries and interactive exhibits focused on nature and the landscape of Victoria — from the rain forest to dinosaurs. Inside the museum is the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Culture Centre. Exhibits, performances and displays celebrate the achievements, culture and history of Victoria’s aboriginal people.

The Australian Centre for the Moving Image is dedicated to the history of movies and digital media.

Interior, Melbourne St Paul’s Cathedral

The city is home to two major cathedrals, St Paul’s and St. Patrick’s. St. Paul’s, an Anglican Church, was built in the 1880s. The neo-Gothic building has beautiful brickwork and the interior has a stunning patterned tile floor, banded stonework and tiled dado walls.

St. Patrick’s, a Catholic Church, constructed of bluestone and sandstone, was competed in 1939 when the spires were added to the chapel. Check out the gargoyle on the front ledge, walk the peaceful Pilgrim Path and check out the floor mosaics.

Penguins, koalas and shopping

Penguin Parade, Phillps Island

Take a 90-minute trip to Phillip Island and watch the penguin parade at dusk. We’re not talking a couple of birds taking a stroll — thousands of penguins come out of the sea and walk back to their nesting area. It’s a Parade with a capital “P.”

Little Blue Penguin

The Healesville Sanctuary, about an hour from Melbourne, is a zoo specializing in native Australian animals. You can see koalas, kangaroos, platypus, dingoes, wombats, emus and more. No, you can’t hold a koala. It is considered an endangered species that has high anxiety when it comes to human contact.

Mother and baby Koala

However, Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, near Melbourne, will let visitors touch and take selfies with a variety of animals including koalas. The sanctuary is home to more than 70 species including the cuddly quokkas, a short-tailed wallaby.

If all that sight-seeing makes you yearn for some relaxing shopping, Melbourne has you covered.

Seafarer’s Bridge – Melbourne

Queen Victoria Market is the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere. Built in 1878, it has dozens and dozens of food stalls including the American Doughnut Kitchen and the Bratwurst Shop and Co.. There is every type of cuisine imaginable as well as hundreds of types of cheeses, patés, smoked fish, olives, homemade dips and toppings. There are lots of bakeries, too.  You can find all sorts of souvenirs and clothing here, too.

Queen Victoria Market

Speaking of food, there are a number of Lune Croissanterie locations in Melbourne. While “croissant” and “Australia” aren’t often paired in one sentence — don’t skip a chance to try one. The New York Times has dubbed these flaky creations which come in a variety of flavors “the world’s best.” Have one with “Magic” coffee, a special coffee order that is double strength expresso topped with steamed milk.

Melbourne Central Business District

The Melbourne Central Business District is home to lanes and arcades, often referred to as laneways. Here, an arcade is a narrow street with a glass canopy and shops, cafés, bars and awesome street art. The Royal Arcade is the oldest while the Block Arcade was designed to mimic a famous galleria in Milan. It has mosaic tiled floors, stained glass windows, skylights and wrought iron fixtures. Here you can find Haigh’s, the country’s original chocolatier.

 

Melbourne is calling, GetAway Travel can help you answer! We can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

 

 

 

 

On land or at sea: Amazing Australia

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The Land Down Under is the one of the only places in the world where two UNESCO World Heritage sites meet. It is home to the Great Barrier Reef as well as the Wet Tropics of Queensland, the oldest tropical rainforest on earth. If adventuring in two marvels of biodiversity are on your bucket list, the travel advisors at GetAway Travel are here for you! 

The Great Barrier Reef

 Queensland rainforest renowned for beauty 

 Wet Tropics of Queensland is 3,453 square miles of rainforest that is 80 million years older than the Amazon rainforest. It is one of the only places on earth where two World Heritage sites sit practically side-by-side. The Great Barrier Reef is visible from the rainforest. 

Rainforest in Queensland

The rainforest, renowned for its beauty and biodiversity, is home to 2,800 plant species and 380 of those are considered rare or threatened. There are 102 animal species that are also classified as rare or threatened. One-third of Australia’s mammals call the Wet Tropics home and of those, 13 can only be found in the rainforest. Forty percent of the country’s bird species, 58% of the butterfly species and 30% of Australia’s marsupial species are in the rainforest.  

Rainbow Lorikeet – Queensland

There are actually nine subregions in Wet Tropics with the regional star being the Daintree Rainforest. 

Curtis Falls, Queensland

The Daintree Rainforest covers the Northeast coast. It is criss-crossed by rivers and framed by the impressive Mossman Gorge. 

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway

Visitors can see the rainforest, including some of the more spectacular waterfalls, by taking the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Or, take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. It takes you across the rainforest from the Barron Gorge National Park. There are two stops, at Red Peak and Barron Falls. A viewing platform a short walk from the Barron Falls stop overlooks the gorge and spectacular falls. 

Barron falls as seen from the Kuranda railway

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Australian Bush Walking

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Throwback Thursday (This Blog, originally published in 2011 at an earlier version of our site – we think you’ll still enjoy)

Sounds innocent enough doesn’t it?  After all the word “walking” is in the name, how hard could it be!

 

Lemonthyme Lodge Tasmania

 

Well to say I was surprised would be an understatement.  You see it seems walking is really a complete misrepresentation of what one will be doing on a bush walk.  It might be better named as bush hiking, bush trekking, or even bush sweating because friends it is not a stroll in the park!

 

Who knew walking could be graded as easy, intermediate, hard and very hard?  To me walking has always been just putting one foot in front of the other to propel you forward?  In my mind a bush walk was nothing more than a stroll in nature.  That was until my 7K bush walk in Tasmania near Cradle Mountain.

 

During our visit to the Lemonthyme Lodge we were given a pamphlet entitled “Timeless Trails, Lasting Impressions”.  Sounds sort of romantic doesn’t it?  The lodge is a cute boutique property tucked away amongst temperate rain forest.  The accommodations sort of help the unknowing form that romantic getaway sort of vibe with 1 and 2 bedroom tree top cabins.  The place lulls you into nature and all it’s wonders!

 

 

So when the owner handed us the pamphlet describing the “walks” well we just knew we had to try one.  I believe his exact words were, “well there is a short trail behind the main lodge that will take you about 45minutes, but if you have time you should try to see the waterfalls.

Proof we made it to the waterfalls!

Now I don’t know what it is about the word waterfalls that sets so many of us into a state of euphoria but somehow it just does.  So of course we can MAKE the time to do the “walk” to the falls!!  I mean it’s only a 2 hour walk, we can do that in the morning before breakfast, right?

 

 

The little pamphlet has a map, we have a plan to get up at 630am and “walk” to the waterfalls, we are all set!  But, do we actually read the pamphlet?   Don’t be silly, it’s just a walk!

The lodge dining room

The alarm rings and we dress for our adventure.  Originally there were 4 of us going but I think the other 2 must have read the brochure because they did not emerge from their cabin so Paul and I set off together for our stroll, camera in the ready to capture the flora and fauna of the area.

 

The first part of the walk is on a 4WD track that was created when power was added to the lodge (this place is in the sticks folks) and hmmm, it’s all uphill.  Wait let me rephrase that…up mountain.  Yes, such a lovely gradual incline that we literally had to stop every 30 or 40 steps because our calves were screaming mortal combat type pain and our cardiorespiratory system was pleading for normalcy.

 

 

I believe it was during this part of the “walk” that Paul asked 6 or more times if we should turn around and go back but NO we wanted to see the waterfalls!  I will say it is at this point where we read a small portion of the pamphlet with these exact words, “This is a beautiful circuit and one on which you should consider taking a packed lunch”!  What the heck, I thought it was a 2 hour “walk”, we only brought 1 bottle of water!

After nearly a grueling hour we finally reached the little sign that pointed off the 4WD track into the BUSH. I believe this was the top of the mountain but I was too focused on breathing that I’m not really sure.

Must have been a misprint – no Champagne this way

 

 

Now if you’ve been following along, you’ll remember me saying we went uphill… (note tree tops on level with camera)

 

Well you guessed it, the little sign pointed downhill (again down mountain is more accurate) through the woods and when I say trail I’m using the word only because I don’t know the word to actually describe the next part of this “walk”.  There is just some trampled thicket where the steps are literally the tree roots and your only source of balance is to grab onto brush, tree limbs, or weeds.  The ground is wet (it’s a rain forest) so the going is slick and slow going.

 

But as we descend we begin to hear water..oh boy the excitement returns, we are going to see a water falls!  At the base of the mountain we find a stream which we cross over (yes, someone actually made a bridge out here!) and continue a short distance toward the roaring water.  We stop to observe as there are supposed to be platypus living in/around the water.  Nope, we don’t spot any, as a matter of fact we had not witnessed any living creature thus far on the walk!

 

A short (relative terms) distance away we come to the first for two water falls, Champagne Falls, aptly named because of the bubbles that are created as the water falls from the mountain top.  Oh, it is beautiful!

 

Our rapture ends in dread when we look at our watch and realize it has taken us nearly 2 hours to get to the first falls.  EEK if it takes us another 2 hours to “walk” out we’ll not only miss breakfast but be late for our bus departure at 10am!

We press onward.

 

Our goal is Bridal Falls…now this one is worth the “walk”.

 

It’s beautiful and if you are willing to hike up a small hill you can actually climb out onto a rock that is behind the falls (thus the name, Bridal as in bridal veil).  Climbing behind the falls is an add on walk, it does not advance you toward the finish but come on, you’ve “walked” this far you certainly aren’t going to miss it even if it is uphill!

 

We stop to take turns (risky so we did it separate incase one of us fell and the other had to go for help!) climbing up behind the waterfalls and taking pictures.

 

But now the dreaded return is upon us.  We are 2+ hours into a 2 hour “walk” and we are half way, hungry and our water is almost gone!

We begin the climb (oh I mean walk) up the mountain clinging once again to brush, tree limbs and weeds.  We stink, we are hungry, and we are exhausted.  I’m not sure which of those propelled us upwards but soon we found ourselves back on the 4WD trail and we began to descend.

 

Where my calves were burning on the way up, my knees were crying on the way down.  So much so that at one point I honestly considered laying down and rolling!  But the good news is down mountain is much faster than up mountain and we arrived back at the lodge 15 minutes before breakfast ended.  Needless to say we went to eat smelling like a good “walk”.

When the owner saw us he said, “I didn’t think you’d be able to do it”!  NOW he tells us!!  This “walk” was graded medium.  What the heck do you think Hard and Very Hard are like.  I’m sure I’ll never know!

kookaburra

One thing for sure is, if/when you take a trip to Australia you have GOT to do a bushwalk.  This was actually one of two 7K bushwalks we took and loved them both.  As Aussie specialists, we can help you create an unforgettable vacation and even help you choose an appropriate bush walk!

Sue

 

Charm, beaches, mountains, great food and drink – Tasmania has it all!

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View from Mount Wellington, Hobart

Originally developed as a penal colony by the British, Tasmania is an island of breath-taking beauty that is slightly bigger than Switzerland. It boasts 19 national parks, pristine beaches, cliffs, caves, unique wildlife and 24 mountain ranges. Indeed, the wilderness area of Tasmania has been classified as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts, but it has immense historic charm and, is somewhat of a foodie paradise. Launceston, Tasmania is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. There are less than 50 cities in the world carrying that distinction. If some charm, some stunning scenery and some great food appeals to you — GetAway Travel can get you to Tasmania. 

On a hike in Tasmania

 History, culture and critters 

 Hobart is the capital of Tasmania and where much of the population is located. It is the second deepest port in the world and it has a charming waterfront as well as a great food and wine scene with an emphasis on farm-to-table. 

Hobart waterfront

Port Arthur is a little more than an hour from Hobart. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was built in 1830 as a timber station and penal settlement. About 3,500 convicts were housed on the 250 acres. Historians contend Port Arthur, on Cameron Bay, is one of Australia’s most well-preserved landmarks.  

Port Arthur penal colony

There are more than 30 historic buildings on the site which can be reached by ferry, car, bus or taxi. You can even take an evening ghost tour along the coast.  

Tasmanian Devil at Bonorong

About a half hour from Hobart is the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. A 24-hour facility that treats and rehabs injured or orphaned wildlife with the intent of returning them to their natural habitats, it is a temporary home to some of the most unique wildlife in the world. At any given time it is a temporary home to wombats, Tasmanian devils, quoll (a cat-like marsupial with short legs and a white-spotted coat), koalas and emus. Stroll the grounds, which mimic the animals’ natural habitats. Get another taste of the outdoors at the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. It’s an outdoor oasis of multiple gardens spread over 34 acres. There’s a conservatory, lily pond and regional gardens including a subantarctic plant house that replicates the cold, wet conditions f the subantarctic islands. 

The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery is a museum, art gallery and herbarium that holds artifacts that are important to the natural and cultural aspects of the country. The more than 100,000 items are the bulk of the State Collections of Tasmania. It has some fabulous displays on the history of seafaring and whaling and interactive child-friendly exhibits. 

Sue hiking at Lemonthyme lodge, Tasmania

The Museum of New and Old Art or MONA, looks like it would be just one floor, but there are three more levels underground. It was started as a small museum of antiquities by David Walsh. Now, in addition to the collections, there are art exhibitions, live music, food, wine, bars, restaurants, a library, recording studio and tennis court — almost all entirely underground. 

Digestion Art at MONA – yes it actually works

The art pieces range from the remarkable to the ridiculous. 

Looking for a great shopping experience? Every Saturday the Salamanca Market is open. The more than 300 vendors sell handcrafted woodwork items, jewelry, ceramics, glassware, souvenirs and tasty items like fish and chips and scallop pie. 

Cascade Brewery, with Mt. Wellington in the distance, is the oldest continuously operating brewery in the country. It still makes award-winning ales, stouts and bitters.  

 Devils, glorious food and spirits 

 Cradle Mountain is a stop on your way from Hobart to Launceston and you can visit the Cradle Tasmanian devil sanctuary. Tasmanian devils are nothing like the crazed cartoon character that tries to catch Bugs Bunny. They are shy, nocturnal carnivores about the size of a small dog, but definitely not cuddly.  They do have a voracious appetite and the strongest biting force of any mammal their size on earth. Their jaws are extendable and can bite through metal and most farming fences. 

Marsupials, they carry their babies in pouches and use scent glands to mark their territories. 

Speaking of marsupials – here’s a Wallaby mom and joey

The Cradle Mountain sanctuary is a breeding and conservation facility for the Tasmanian devil, spotted-tail quoll and the Eastern quoll. 

Our lodging in Cradle Mountain

Cataract Gorge is Launceston’s biggest tourist attraction. It is home to the world’s largest single-span chairlift and the gorge has fabulous panoramic views as well as walking trails, wandering peacocks and other natural wildlife, gardens including a Victorian garden, a tearoom, restaurant and cafe.  

Cataract Gorge, Launceston Tasmania

Queen Victoria Museum has natural science and history collections as well as a planetarium and just across the river is the Art Gallery with contemporary and traditional art and art pieces.

 

But let’s talk food and drink, after all, Launceston is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.  

Charcuterie platter hits the spot at Pooley!

The country is small enough that visitors can take advantage of great food and drink options throughout the country.  

Moo Brew on tap at MONA

Enjoy craft brews of cider, single-malt whiskey, small batch gin or vodka. Most distilleries offer guided tours — try ships whey vodka, gin flavored with sloe berries or lavender rye. The “very Scottish weather” is not only great for whiskey, but also for blended spirits of apple, pear and cherry as well as some fabulous Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. The Pipers River region near Launceston produces superior quality sparkling beverages. 

 

Derwent vineyard – Keeping the birds out as it gets close to harvest

Many of the vineyards have their own restaurants which take full advantage of crayfish, abalone, asparagus, mushrooms, fish, scallops and octopus which can be sourced nearby. Take the bay tour and stop off at Freycinet Marine Farm and they will let you put on a pair of waders and shuck oysters taken directly from the bay. Visit a truffle farm and go out with the truffle-scenting dogs and find your own treasures. The gin distilleries offer classes where you can learn the intricacies of making gin and mixing in some exotic botanicals. 

Check out our previous blog on wine tasting around Hobart – located here

 

Art, food, wine, history, culture — Tasmania has it all and GetAway Travel can get you there! Reach us at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel 

 

 

 

 

Time for a sunny getaway to Fiji?

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Beach in Fiji – only thing missing is you

Although any time is a perfect time to experience the outdoor paradise that is Fiji, the dreary days that start in mid-fall and run to mid-spring is a perfect time to getaway. From swimming to snorkeling to zip lining to just enjoying the drop-dead gorgeous scenery of any of the islands, Fiji is a perfect fit to drive the gloomy blues away. Let a travel advisor at GetAway Travel help you put some sunshine back into your life. 

 Islands offer something for everyone 

 Located in the South Pacific, Fiji is an archipelago or stretch of sea containing several islands. The more than 300 islands that make up Fiji offer up activities for adventure seekers, families and those whose idea of a perfect vacation is eating, sleeping well, sunning on a beach with a book and repeating for several days until the stress level drops. It is easy enough to travel from the island to island so you can day trip to your heart’s content 

 Nadi and Suva on largest island of Vita Levu 

 Fiji’s largest island is Vita Levu and the capital, Suva, is there as well. Nadi has a large international airport and that is where most flights arrive. 

Ni Sa Bula – welcome home!

The Fiji Museum is in Suva. A huge Ratu Finau, or a double hulled canoe, is the centerpiece of the museum. There are exhibits that trace Fijian life over the centuries as well as a collection of cannibal forks, war clubs and kava bowls. Rugby is the national game, and you can watch a match at Suva’s National Stadium. 

Welcome Home

About 40% of Fiji’s population is ethnically Indian. In Suva as well as throughout the islands, there are fabulous Indian restaurants. Get hot parcels of roti (a flatbread) stuffed with pumpkin and eggplant in coconut curry. 

Fijian coconut milk ceviche

The cuisine throughout the islands is decidedly international with an emphasis on different types of curries as well as fish, prawns, lobsters and crabs. Sweet potatoes and taro figure prominently into cooking and most resorts offer visitors a chance to experience a traditional loro or pit oven feast with slow-cooked meat and fish as well as root vegetables with onion and coconut cream cooked in a pit with hot coals.  

Suva has a modern shopping mall as well as open-air markets and a busy nightlife you can enjoy after you savor a spectacular Fiji sunset. 

Sunset at resort in Fiji

The biggest shopping area is Port Denarau Island which is near Nadi. In addition to a world class golf course and some great spas, you can shop for sarongs, saris, jewelry, beach wear and shell knick knacks. The more than 40 restaurants offer everything from pizza and burgers to Fijian and Indian cuisine. Be sure to inquire about the spice levels if you are trying Fijian or Indian curries, they do vary. 

Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple, Nadi Fiji

Nadi is home to the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple which is an example of bright Dravidian architecture you don’t usually see outside of India. You can visit the temple if you are dressed appropriately, knees and shoulders need to be covered and no photos are allowed inside. The temple is covered with intricate carvings and paintings of Hindu gods. 

The Garden of the Sleeping Giant (named for the mountain that hovers over it) is a short drive from Nadi. Started by actor Raymond Burr to house his orchid collection, the area now has more than 1,000 orchids from more than 40 different species as well as Cattleya hybrids. Wander through the covered walkways with a guide who will put a name on the flowers for you. 

Orchid – Garden of the Sleeping Giants

 If you want, adventure awaits you 

 A GetAway Travel advisor can help you plot out what you want to do, and that will determine which islands you visit. You can kayak, zip line, surf, wind surf, hike, dive, swim with sharks or manta rays, snorkel, go rafting and whitewater rafting, stay at a traditional village and eat and sleep like a Fiji native, go mud crab catching, make coconut jewelry, walk in an ancient Fiji burial ground, take a mud bath and get a spa treatment, laze on the beach, hunt for pearls, watch a pearl harvest, feed baby sea turtles, be awed by the fire dancers and other Fiji dance performances and soak in the hot springs. 

Fiji is very family oriented. Depending on where you are staying, you can get free nanny services and older children can enjoy a variety of activities with a buddy while parents are on a day trip. Everyone can meet up at dinner. 

 Taveuni is the Garden Island 

 Taveuni is the third largest island in Fiji and it is nicknamed the Garden Island because of its lush forests. It is a great dive as well as bird-watching destination. It is home to several plants that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. In Bouma National Heritage Park on Taveuni, the tagimoucia flower blooms near Lake Tagimoucia. This is the only place in the world where you can see the flower that is the floral emblem of Fiji. The liana bearing crimson and white flowers hang in foot-long clusters off the trees. The tropical rainforest park encompasses 80% of the island. 

Paul hiding in the Garden of the Sleeping Giants

Taveuni also has the most recognizable waterfalls in Fiji. The Tavora Waterfalls are three falls and the first you see in the park is the most spectacular with a waterfall of 78 feet. 

waterfall in Fiji

There are more than 100 species of birds on the island including the rare orange dove and the tiny, endangered silk tail. Take a guided birdwatching walk on the Vida Rain Forest Trail.  

If you want a relaxing beach vacation, a tropical paradise adventure or a little of both, GetAway Travel can get you there. We can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel 

 

 

 

Stunning scenery and adventure await travelers to New Zealand

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If fabulous landscapes from mountains to beaches, as well as the opportunity to walk on a glacier and drink fine wine are on your bucket list, New Zealand is the place you want to be. For its size, the islands of New Zealand pack some big bang for your buck. Your travel advisors at GetAway Travel can package you up a vacation that involves adventure or sightseeing, or some of both! 

 A natural paradise 

Without question, New Zealand is recognized as one of the most beautiful countries in the world. It has scenery that takes your breath away, plenty to do and see for all ages, friendly people and, this might surprise you, some of the finest wine in the world. 

The temperate climate means you can go snow skiing one day and water skiing the next. You can go bungy jumping in Queenstown and zorbing in Rotorua (you’ve probably seen videos of this) which is rolling around the countryside in a large transparent ball. There’s geothermal marvels and glowworm caves, too! 

You can get an idea of how gorgeous the scenery is if you’ve seen “The Lord of the Rings” or any of the “Hobbit” movies. 

World’s largest Hobbit

The indigenous population, the Māori (Mau-ree) are naturally friendly and outgoing and love to share their culture and heritage. And, as we always say, be respectful of local culture and landmarks because you are a visitor and would expect the same if they were visiting you. 

Let’s hit some highlights 

 New Zealand is two islands, somewhat uncreatively known as North and South islands. Together they are about a 1,000 miles long and at the widest point, about 280 miles across. There are five million inhabitants on the islands. 

Auckland

Rotorua is famous for geothermal features and representations of the Māori culture. There are bubbling mud pools, boiling geysers, colored rock formations and the resorts feature hot springs bathing. The surrounding area is studded with Māori villages including Mitai, Whakarewarewa and Tamaki. They have cultural shows that feature traditional music and dance as well as hangi meals. Hangi cooking is cooking large meals in pit ovens using heated rocks. The meat and vegetables come out extremely tender and flavorful. 

Waitangi on the North Island is a major historical site. In 1840 the Māori chiefs signed a treaty with Britain giving it ruling power. There is a museum on the treaty grounds as well as a fascinating ornately carved marae (which is a Māori meeting house) and a ceremonial canoe. 

Hokianga Harbour is perfect for camping, dune boarding, dolphin watching and horseback riding. Coromandel Peninsula has hiking trails, some eclectic quaint towns and Cathedral Beach on the peninsula is thought by many to be one of the country’s most beautiful beaches. 

Tongariro National Park is a dual UNESCO site, certified for both its cultural and historic significance. It has three volcanic peaks, Mount Tongariro, Raupehu and Ngauruhoe. 

One of New Zealand’s premier wine producing regions, as well as its oldest, is Hawke’s Bay. More than 200 vineyards are clustered in this temperate area. It is famous for its sauvignon blanc wines, some have even said they are the best in the world! Napier in Hawke’s Bay has a large collection of Art Deco architecture buildings. 

Wellington is the capital of New Zealand. The New Zealand Parliament Building is known as the “Beehive” due to its unique architecture and you can book a tour of the Weta Workshop. A film special effects company, it was founded by Peter Jackson, director of “The Lord of the Rings” and the “Hobbit” movies. Speaking of the Hobbit, if you are fond of the shire, Waikato is the place to go for a guided tour of the Hobbiton movie set. 

The Beehive, Wellington

Kaikoura is a great spot for whale and dolphin watching. If you visit Fiordland Park, nearby Anau has glowworm caves. 

Dusky Sound, Fjordland

Nelson is known for having the greatest number of sunshine hours per year in the country. There are numerous dining spots that highlight the area agriculture with farm-to-table cuisine as well as fine local wine. 

 Let’s eat… and drink! 

 Mutton is on the menu, but don’t pass up having lamb. Served roasted with vegetables or cooked in a hangi, it’s delicious. Vegemite and marmite — ok, not many people refer to yeast extract as tasty. Try it once. Marmite is a little sweeter than Vegemite. Put a thin layer on buttered toast and you can say you tried it. 

Hobbiton

Venison is also on the menu, but it’s not like your usual venison. The deer here are farm raised and the venison is not tough or gamey.  

New Zealand co-opted fish and chips from the Brits, but in New Zealand you can pick the type of fish you like. Speaking of seafood, it’s great here. Don’t pass up the abalone, Bluff Oysters or green lipped mussels. Chow down on a sausage sizzle which you can pick up at a street gazebo. It’s a sausage eaten on white bread with tomato sauce, mustard and fried onions. Likewise, mince pies can be purchased at the dairy store which is New Zealand speak for corner convenience store or at any gas station. Mince is the traditional filling, but there are lots more to choose from including vegetarian or vegan. 

Rail Station, Dunedin New Zealand

The wine is fabulous. There’s a drink you must try — Lemon & Paeroa, which is a carbonated lemon juice and mineral water drink. And there is craft beer aplenty. Local favorites include Garage Project, Parrot Dog and Heyday. Oh, there’s sweet things, too. Pavlova is like eating a meringue cloud with whipped cream and fruit, peanut slabs are candy bars with peanuts, pineapple lumps are chocolate lumps with a pineapple center and hokey pokey ice cream is vanilla ice cream with toffee bits. 

The Giants House, Akaroa

 New Zealand is starting to sound pretty interesting and like a great place for a vacation, right? Reach us at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel 

Enjoy sun, sand, surf and swimming in Tahiti

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If your vacation dream is relaxing on a beach with an exotic cocktail with one of those neat umbrellas, Tahiti is for you. You can swim, sun bath, snorkel, dive, surf and, well, just relax and let your worries slip away. GetAway Travel is in the business of making sure you have a worry-free vacation. We can help you with a weekend getaway or a bucket list vacation overseas. 

 Wonderful water activities 

Papeete is not only the capital of Tahiti, it’s also the capital of French Polynesia and it’s a perfect jumping off point for your activities. Sure, you may get bored with beaches after a couple of days, but start out your relaxing vacation by hitting the beach. Since much of Tahiti and the surrounding islands are part of a volcanic chain, the sand on the beaches, for the most part, is black. 

But one of the most popular beaches, La Plage de Maui, about 40 miles southeast of Papeete, has white sand. And it’s pretty spectacular white sand, too. Visitors describe it as “pearly white.” It’s a beautiful long stretch of sand that frames calm, clear, warm lagoon waters. The snack bar serves fresh seafood. 

Another sun bathing option that includes surfing, is Papenoo Beach about five miles east of Papeete.

The Plage du Taharuu beach is about 25 miles southeast of Papeete and it’s a nice, wide stretch of volcanic black sand so there’s plenty of room. Relax on the beach or under the nearby palm trees. The deep, blue water sometimes hits the beach hard enough to be accommodating to surfers. 

Before you hit the beach, find out if it’s a beach that usually is visited by food trucks, or has it’s own food stands. You may need to take a lunch and some beverages. Local taxis ferry visitors to the beaches. Remember to arrange a time for the driver to come pick you up! 

If you are interested in enjoying a little hiking, take a short trip to Fautaua Valley. The Fautaua Waterfall is fabulous with the water cascading into a large pool It looks even better shimmering in the rain so don’t let a cloudburst deter you. 

 Visit other islands, museums, markets 

The Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands showcases the attributes of Tahiti and her sister islands. It educates visitors about this popular tourist sport. Divided into four sections, the museum highlights geography, pre-European culture, colonization and natural wonders. Displays are labeled in French and English and don’t skip a visit to the gift shop. 

If black pearls intrigue you, you’ve come to the right place. Papeete is home to the Black Pearl Museum. Learn all about pearls, pearl harvesting and see all varieties, sizes and shapes of pearls from around the world as well as the largest Tahitian pearl in the world! 

The Vaipahi Gardens are on Tahiti’s southern coast in Mataiea. The lush gardens contain more than 75 plant species from all over the world. Enjoy the exotic flowers, a lily pond, small waterfalls and steams that wind through the gardens. 

Your GetAway Travel advisor can help arrange tours and trips, including diving trips, while you are on Tahiti so visit nearby Huahine and Moorea. Moorea, a sister island to Tahiti, is a bit more rugged so you can enjoy hiking or take an ATV tour. There are numerous beaches on the North side of the island including the popular Temae Beach. Try zip lining through the jungle. 

Bora Bora – so nice named it twice

Get up close and personal with the local aquatic residents at the Huahine Natural Aquarium. The natural lagoon aquarium lets you observe from a platform or go into the shallow waters with a guide. 

Papeete’s Municipal Market is a two-story enclosure with fresh vegetables, flowers, fruit, meat, fish as well as hand-crafted Tahitian quilts and wraps and black pearl jewelry. If you go close to lunch time, the local food trucks have a wide-variety of international cuisine to choose from. 

 Speaking of food…. 

Island food selections are varied and delicious. Poisson cru is raw fish, tuna a lot of the time but it could also be shrimp, crab, mussels, eel, octopus or prawns, marinated in coconut milk and lime juice mixed with diced vegetables. Chevreffes is freshwater shrimp cooked with coconut milk and vanilla. Poulet Fafa is chicken cooked the traditional way wrapped in taro leaves and put in a special oven or a heated pit. Onions, garlic, spices and coconut milk combine with the chicken for a flavorful dish. Traditional desserts include Po’e, a creamy taro pudding flavored with banana, vanilla, papaya or pumpkin and topped with a coconut sauce. Kato are coconut biscuits that go great with coffee and Firifiri are coconut-flavored doughnuts dipped in coffee. 

 If it’s the colder weather, stress or just the need to go somewhere — GetAway Travel is ready to help you take the trip you’ve dreamed of. Call (262) 538-2140, or e-mail: sue@getaway.travel 

Virtual Visit Week Thursday – let’s go Down Under to Sydney Australia

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One inescapable fact is Sydney is an ocean front city.  The Harbour is everywhere with 4 of the 5 central districts on the water.  The Greater Sydney area has many pristine miles of coast line.  Did you know there are well over 100 beaches in Sydney?  Sydney also enjoys over 300 sunny days each year.   Sydney has it all – beach lifestyle, culture, food and wine, and history.  

Speaking of history – Indigenous Australians have inhabited the area for over 30,000 years and thousands of engravings remain throughout this region, making it one of the richest for aboriginal archaeological sites in Australia.

In 1770, James Cook and his crew became the first Europeans to visit the area.  It didn’t take long for more people to arrive when in 1788 the First Fleet arrived to found a penal colony here.  British convicts were originally transported to the 13 colonies in North America, but after the American War of Independence ended in 1783, the newly formed United States refused to accept further convicts.   Between 1788 and 1868, roughly 162,000 convicts were transported from Britain and Ireland to various penal colonies in Australia.   Most were transported for petty crimes with sentences ranging from 7 years to life.  If well behaved, freedom was granted at the end of your sentence however very few had the means to return to Britain and therefore became settlers.

Enough of the history lesson though – let’s get back to modern Sydney.  It’s easy to get around with 5 fantastic neighborhoods in the Central district

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Your Invited Down Under – Thursday April 23

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It’s been a difficult time for everyone, trapped at home, concerned and unable to escape. A few of my Travel Adviser mates are hosting a virtual Australia information day and we’d love you to join us. You will escape your current confinement on a fabulous pictorial journey to the land Down Under.

On Thursday, April 23 we have lined up expat-Aussie, Jeff Adam to guide us through the best of Australia. There are 4 sessions as follows:

Session 1 – 11am PT, 12pm MT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET

Session 2 – 12pm PT, 1pm MT, 2pm CT, 3pm ET

Session 3 – 1pm PT, 2pm MT, 3pm CT, 4pm ET

Session 4 – 2pm PT, 3pm MT, 4pm CT, 5pm ET

For more details on the giveaways, prizes and to register http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?m=1112006432410&ca=e2b8df2a-d6c3-4369-bbd5-249a1d9b4af8

Jeff’s got a bit of a funny accent so all attendees will get a “How to Speak Aussie” dictionary, along with an Australia Map and Travel Planner. It will be balance of great information and good Aussie humor.