Dreaming of a white Christmas? No? If you fancy the complete opposite downunder then look no further than the adventure-of-a-lifetime with The Selous Safari Company in Tanzania.  Swap sleigh rides in the snow for 4×4 game drives in the bush, reindeer for impala and a trip to see the relatives for a boat ride among crocodiles and hippos on the Rufiji River!  What’s more, benefit from savings of up to £560, with a seven-night beach and safari experience over Christmas or New Year starting from £2,890 per person with Africa Odyssey.

With gala dinners and entertainment on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve, guests at the two luxury tented camps and exclusive beach retreat will still enjoy traditional Christmas fare but with a Tanzanian twist. Children over six are especially welcome and are invited to spot Santa’s and Rudolph’s tracks in the camps on Christmas Day.  Accommodation options include:

A hidden gem in the Ruaha National Park with just eight luxury tents, a swimming pool and fabulous food, Jongomero promises a great vantage point from which to take in the sights and sounds of the African bush.  Ruaha’s  dry open landscape encourages large herds of elephant, buffalo as well as giraffe, zebra, lion and leopard.

Promising a totally different, yet equally awe-inspiring backdrop and experience, the boutique Selous Safari Camp, situated on the bank of Lake Nzerakera, is the ideal base to explore the Selous Game Reserve.  In addition to daily game drives, regular boat safaris on the Rufiji River gives a unique opportunity to get up close to crocodiles and hippos.  For large families, a section of the camp can be exclusively booked. Selous Private Camp accommodates up to 12 guests and comes with private use of safari boats, vehicles and walking guides as well as own dining and lounge area and a swimming pool.

On safari, accommodation is in luxuriously appointed en suite tents, which are built on raised platforms with thatched roofs.  Each comes with a king-size bed and a private verandah, ideal for watching the sun rise or set and for wildlife viewing.  The adventure starts here as the animal world, including giraffes, buffalo and elephant, saunters past the tent – by day or night!

Before or after game viewing, Ras Kutani, set amid a long stretch of unspoilt beach and a fresh water lagoon, is the ideal hideaway for those seeking solace, luxury and Tanzanian charm. Each of the nine en suite beach cottages boasts an eight-foot wide bed, large verandah with hammocks and breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.  For extra privacy, the four hillside suites come with a plunge pool and there’s also a family house with two connection rooms.

Packages Available Over Christmas & New Year Include:

Stay three nights at Jongomero Camp and four nights at Ras Kutani from £2,890 per adult (saving £493 per person) and £1,758 per child

Stay three nights at the Selous Safari Camp and four nights at Ras Kutani from £2,990 per person (saving £560 per person) and £1,756 per child.

Valid for selected departures late December, prices include scheduled flights from Heathrow, internal transfers, accommodation on a full board basis, game viewing drives in open sided 4×4 vehicles, concession and park entrance fees. Book with Africa Odyssey (www.africaodyssey.com / 020 7471 8780).

Qantas holidays has introduced a Fly Free in Western Australia offer for travellers who book return flights with Qantas from London to Perth. Book the return flights and a five night stay at one of a selected number of properties in Broome or Exmouth & you get the internal flights from Perth free.

It’s the largest Australian State, home to Australia’s sunniest capital, Perth and the largest collection of wildflowers on earth.  Here visitors can camel ride, swim with whale sharks and sup on delicious wines from vineyards running down to the beach.  Get out and experience the extraordinary with one of the following options:

Broome & The Kimberley - Set between a vast red desert and azure blue sea ringed by pure white sands, lies Broome.  Founded as a pearling port over a century ago, Broome is now famous for the coastal paradise of Cable Beach, one of the most stunning beaches in the world.  Broome highlights include taking a camel ride on Cable Beach and exploring the beehive shaped Bungle Bungles.

Package starts from £1325* per person twin-share and includes:

Return flights in Economy with Qantas from London Heathrow to Perth Return flights from Perth to Broome 5 nights at Mercure Broome

* Price based on travel between 11 August – 30 November 2011

Exmouth & The North West Coast  - Swim through an underwater paradise of vibrant coral, brightly coloured fish, dolphins and manta rays in just about the clearest turquoise water on Earth at Exmouth.  Or head to Monkey Mia, world renowned for its bottlenose dolphins that visit these shores every day, a must for families and nature lovers. For a real thrill, swim with the huge whale sharks on Ningaloo Reef.

Package starts from £1475* per person twin-share and includes:

Return flights in Economy with Qantas from London Heathrow to Perth Return flights from Perth to Exmouth 5 nights at Monkey Mia Resort

* Price based on travel between 11 August – 30 November 2011

Perth & Margaret River - Famous for its blue skies, warm climate and friendly people, the riverside capital of Perth is truly one of Australia’s most beautiful cities.  To the south of Perth lies the region of Margaret River, a superb blend of good living and stunning nature where visitors can experience the region’s culinary delights including award winning wines, exquisite cheeses, jams and olive oils.

Instead of the free flight, this package includes 5 days car hire.  To take advantage of this offer, you must book at least 5 consecutive nights from among the qualifying hotels, with at least 2 nights at the Esplanade Hotel Fremantle.

Package starts from £1529* per person twin-share and includes:

Return flights in Economy with Qantas from London Heathrow to Perth 5 days car hire 2 nights at Esplanade Hotel, Fremantle 3 nights at Karri Valley Resort, Pemberton

* Price based on travel between 11 August – 30 November 2011

The free flight offer is only available in conjunction with international return flights from the UK to Perth booked through Qantas Holidays. Internal flights are return in economy with Qantas from Perth to either Broome or Exmouth, inclusive of all fees and taxes.  To qualify for this offer a minimum of five nights must be booked at one of the selected hotels.  Offer is based on two adults travelling together and sharing twin accommodation.  Valid on new bookings made between 1 – 31 August 2011  and for travel commencing and completed between 1 August 2011 – 9 December 2011 and 11 January –30 June 2012.

The airline which was grounded by the Civil Aviation Authority of Australia (CASA) because of safety concerns, has been given a set of formal conditions that it must meet, some of which must be satisfied prior to the reintroduction of domestic flights.

In a statement, Tiger said, “As a result of the progress made since 1 July 2011 (when it was grounded until August 1), Tiger Airways Australia is confident that it can comply with these conditions and expects to resume services in the near future.”

Tiger Airways Australia said it would automatically refund all passengers booked to fly between August 1 and August 4 (both dates inclusive).

“A further announcement, concerning flights scheduled to operate from August 5, 2011 and the re-commencement of sales, will be made at the appropriate time,” Tiger said.

Colin and Christine Chapman recently won £161 million on the Euromillion jackpot and quickly stated that at the top of their wish list was to stand at the foot of Ayers Rock (Uluru).

Tourism NT has been equally quick to point out that some of the best things in life are free, like visiting Uluru. Though we Brits have to spend a bit on flights and accommodation, they have a point.

Uluru is one of the world’s iconic places and has recently been shortlisted to become one of the worlds New7Wonders of Nature, the results of which will be released on the 11^th of November.

Uluru certainly does provide a unique experience for travellers. Tourism NT points out Uluru offers visitors a rich spiritual and cultural experience helping them disconnect from their every day routine and reconnect with the land.

The Red Centre region has a wealth of experiences; take a helicopter tour for the ultimate aerial views of Uluru; enjoy a camel trek at sunrise or for a deeper understanding of the awesome rock and its ancient Dreamtime stories take a cultural tour round the 9.4km base with a traditional owner.

Mr & Mrs Weir, our Jacket pot winners could easily afford to charter their own private jet to the Red Centre and check into the Northern Territory’s most exclusive hotels. However luxury tour operator Bridge & Wickers has launched a super deluxe 10-day itinerary from £15,590 per person based on two adults sharing. Perfect for those who have yet to win the jackpot but still want to experience Australia’s Outback in sheer style.

The 10 day luxury itinerary includes return first class flights*  with Qantas from London Heathrow, four nights in Kakadu and Arnhemland with Lords Safaris including a stay at Bamurru Plains, one night in Darwin at Feathers Sanctuary (B+B), and an overnight journey onboard The Ghan train in Platinum Sleeper service (with all meals). Three nights at Longitude 131 with views of Uluru (full board), a helicopter flight over Uluru & Kata Tjuta, a camel trek at sunrise, a private cultural tour of Uluru, Sounds of Silence Dinner, plus all internal flights and transfers are included as part of the package.  To book, visit www.bridgeandwickers.co.uk or call 020 7483 6555

Kimberley heritage cattle drive

It seems that upmarket tourists are increasing looking for the “city slicker” experience (for those of you who remember the Billy Crystal movie from 1991) and providers are responding.

Nick Crabb, General Manger at Qantas Holidays says “We are seeing an increasing number of customers opting for a different kind of luxury experience,” adding “It’s less about extravagant, designer hotels and more about experiencing awe-inspiring nature and engaging with local people and culture.  Travellers want to get under the skin of a destination.”

Activities ranging from camping in national parks to staying in private homes or learning local skills, people are seeking out more natural and authentic experiences.

One experiential luxury product  Qantas Holidays has recently added to its programme includes the Kimberley Heritage Cattle Drive in Western Australia, which starts this month.

The Cattle Drive is a six day horse riding adventure in the Outback. Guests will help drover boss ‘JR’ round up feral cattle in Australia’s wild Kimberley region and herd them along the savannah landscape, dotted with majestic gorges, powerful waterfalls and the distinctive Boab tree. This epic journey includes horsemanship lessons, nights camping out under star-filled skies and the chance to help protect the Kimberley, one of the world’s last wildernesses from the damaging hooves of the feral cattle. At each stage local indigenous drovers will provide guests with an insight into the meaning of the country that the cattle drive passes through. Gourmet outback dinners will be shared around a roaring campfire, with live music and story-telling from the drovers before earning the luxurious comfort of the Home Valley Station on the last night.

Price from £2,940 per person, including 5 nights accommodation, meals, entertainment, horse and tack, and transfers from Kununurra. The cattle drive will run annually every June to August.

“The Kimberley Heritage Cattle Drive is exactly the kind of authentic experience we are seeing become more popular with our customers.   This trip offers the rare chance to travel slowly through amazing landscape in comfort with local people, to really get to grips with the area and its history.

“Guests don’t have to compromise on comfort or quality to indulge in a truly memorable Australian adventure,” he concludes.
Interested then check out Qantas Holidays

Qantas have come to an agreement with jet engine manufacturer Rolls Royce on a financial settlement following the mid-air explosion that grounded its fleet of A380s.

Rolls Royce will pay Qantas £62 million in compensation.

The airline suffered severe disruption and financial impact after an A380 was forced to make an emergency landing when one of its engines, a Trent-900, exploded just after take off from Singapore last November.

Qantas grounded all six of its A380s for tests following the incident.

The carrier then brought legal proceedings against Rolls Royce but this week’s announcement of the settlement brings a close to the row.

A Qantas statement said: “Qantas looks forward to a continued strong relationship with Rolls-Royce on the basis of the settlement announced today.”

With declining jobs for students and graduates, it’s hard to believe there are places out there that still offer endless possibilities. Australia is one of the very few countries at the moment to have an increasing number of jobs available – not to mention the added benefits of the gorgeous weather, clear sandy beaches and exotic wildlife.

If it all sounds appealing and you are under 30 years of age, it might be your cue to try an Australian Working Holiday Visa, which enables you to work and earn money whilst enjoying a trip of a lifetime.

Backpacking your way around Australia is the ideal way to meet lifelong friends, learn skills which could help in future careers, become more independent and most importantly have the time of your life.  YHA Australia is a perfect partner with over 110 hostels around the country, most having swimming pools or spas, and all having great quality sleeping accommodation and lively social areas here are a few places to help with your planning.

Sydney Central YHA

Start at the five-star Sydney Central YHA which has been awarded Australia’s best backpacker accommodation for the third year running. Boasting an in-house cinema, panoramic views of the city from its rooftop and a heated pool and sauna it’s close to major attractions including Darling Harbour and Chinatown. The central location means its ideal for those wanting to find work, meet other travellers, enjoy the nightlife and explore the city.   All of this can be a reality on a budget too – with prices starting from just $20.80 per person, per night (multi-share).  If you are a YHA member you will receive a minimum 10% discount on accommodation, tours and attractions.

Bungalow Bay YHA

When you are ready for a break from bustling cities, then visit award-winning Queensland hostel Magnetic Island YHA set in a beautiful nature reserve complete with a Koala Sanctuary. You can explore 23 secluded beaches, snorkel on reefs or perhaps experience the once-in-a-lifetime sea kayak tours to spot dolphins, turtles, coral reef fish and sea eagles. For those who want to mix nature, relaxation and entertainment, there is a pool, plus a bar and restaurant that offers regular activities for backpackers – which is a great chance to meet and socialise with fellow travellers. Accommodation at the resort consists of A-frame private bungalows that start from $16.25 per night.

For vibrant city life combined with outdoor activities and plenty of entertainment, state-of-the-art Brisbane City YHA is ideal. Backpackers can enjoy a rooftop pool, games rooms and an enviable, central location. From prices starting at just $17.05, this hostel is a prime example of how gap-year travellers can enjoy the pleasures of Australia for as little as possible – in keeping with a set budget. Other activities whilst staying in Brisbane could include visiting Australia’s favourite theme park (Dream World) which not only offers great rides and attractions but a complete water park, a lion lair and Tiger Walks.

For those adventure-seeking backpackers, that want something a little unique to add to their travels, Crocodylus Village YHA in Cape Tribulation is a perfect solution. Nestled under the rainforest canopy, travellers can experience the tranquillity and splendour of the World Heritage National Park. With rooms beginning at a very affordable $14.30 per night, per person, Crocodylus Village is an amazing opportunity to travel and explore the jungle. Animal lovers can involve themselves in organised night walks where you can spot possums, snakes, rainforest dragons, tree frogs and lizards – far more memorable than just looking at photographs back at home. You could organise your own ‘Celebrity Get Me out of Here’ style challenge – complete with a ‘Bush Tucker Tour’ offered by local tour companies. For those who enjoy a wild experience but are comforted by the idea of a little luxury, the hostel offers a pool, BBQ and restaurant complete with the added bonus of a choice of single, twin, double and multi-share rooms.

Diving enthusiasts should head to Yamba on the north coast of NSW as it is surrounded by white sandy surf beaches with crystal clear water, rivers, bush land and national parks.  The world famous surfing beach, Angourie, is 10 minutes away and Byron Bay is nearby.  Some of the best dive sites in Australia can be found here. It also has fantastic weather all year round.   Yamba YHA is a brand new, state-of-the-art hostel right in the centre of Yamba and close to the beaches.  There is a mix of multi-share and private rooms, plus bar/cafe, rooftop pool and deck. You can hire surfboards, body boards or bikes, or perhaps try whale watching, ocean kayaking or even involve yourself in one of the festivals that take place throughout the year.

Alternatively, if you like the idea of staying in a homely, bohemian town in a renovated beach house Port Elliot YHA in South Australia could be the place. From just $16.25 per night, you will be just across the road from stunning beaches and great harbour nightlife. The hostel itself has a 270 degree view of a stunning peninsula and is in perfect proximity to local amenities, popular restaurants, a surf school and whale watching tours. When on your gap year travels, it is great to indulge in fun filled activities but it is equally great to visit somewhere that you can unwind and breathe in the fresh sea air – Port Elliot YHA allows you to do just this.

As well as the award winning website www.yha.com.au, YHA Australia now also has a mobile website (m.yha.com.au) making it easier to book into a room or a bed at one of the YHA hostels, whilst on the go.

Both Qantas and Jetstar resume services to and from Perth.

Flight services had been suspended due to the ash cloud spreading over Western Australia from Chile’s Puyehue-Cordon Caulle volcano .

Qantas said all Australian domestic services would operate as scheduled but services to and from New Zealand would remain suspended until 12pm local time on Thursday.

Qantas will continue to monitor the movement of the ash cloud and assess its impact on flight operations.

It has been reported that passengers have been frustrated by different responses from airlines to the ash cloud crisis.

Qantas has insisted on “safety before schedule” in cancelling flights while Air New Zealand found ways to operate which, it said, had been approved by safety authorities (flying at lower altitude).

However, AirNZ cancelled some South Island services on Thursday morning due to the ash cloud forming at lower levels, but later resumed its schedules.

Pacific Blue has suspended services into and out of Auckland and Hamilton in New Zealand because of the volcanic ash plume.

The airline said the plume that had been in the Christchurch, Wellington and Dunedin regions had moved further north, necessitating the schedule changes.

The recent volcanic eruption in Chile has forced the cancellation of flights into and out of Perth Western Australia.

The ash cloud is thought to be too low prompting Quantas, Jetstar and Virgin to stop flights in and out of the city.

Experts assessing the eruption of the Puyehue-Cordon Caulle volcano predict further activity in the days to come. Previous activity from the range in the 1920’s and 1960’s went on for months.

Sean Donohue Virgin Australia group executive said “The ash plume is forecast to be at a lower band level of approximately 15,000ft and with this in mind, Virgin Australia will suspend all services into and out of Perth as a precautionary measure.”

Travelling around Australia may soon be a completely different experience if the design for a new bullet train named the Australian High Speed Vehicle (A-HSV) becomes a reality.

The designer Hassell has released concept images for the train which could replace traditional air journeys for some routes, the journey from Melbourne to Sydney at 400km/h for example would take just under three hours.

 The proposed double-decker train will not only be far more comfortable to travel in, it will also reduce reliance on air travel and the use of cars for covering long distances thus cutting carbon emissions.  

 “The A-HSV presents an alternative low-carbon, safe mode of transport for future travel between Australian capital and regional cities,” a Hassell spokesperson said.

 “Pioneering a new concept in the way Australians commute and travel, the double-decker train would offer the choice of modern, spacious, open plan commuter seating or private berths for business meetings or luxury travellers.”

Hassell aims to revolutionise the way in which Australians travel.

Australia is currently lagging far behind Asia in its train network where Shanghai boasts the 581km/h Maglev train and Japan has the 300km/h “Hayabusa” bullet train.