Taking it Easy in Solar Springs

Travel Briefs – distributed w/c May 19th

Travellers Good Buys

By John Crook

A room with an unusual view

The Jules’ Undersea Lodge was named after Jules Verne. The difference is that this lodge is 21 feet under the sea, making it one of the most unique hotels on the planet. The underwater lodge has two guest rooms and a common room. Breakfast and dinner are included in your stay. To enter the lodge guests scuba dive to the bottom of the Emerald Lagoon. Location is Key Largo Florida and bookings through Flight Centre. Telephone 131 600.

Princes and princesses be pampered

This Queen’s birthday weekend treat yourself regally and be pampered right royally at Solar Springs Health Retreat at Bundanoon in the Southern Highlands of NSW. The three nights package includes accommodation, nutritionally balanced meals and a range of stimulating programs. Priced from $785pp. Full details dial 1800 044 944.

Venice to Athens

Make a note of September 16 2009 and be prepared to cruise. A ten-night escorted package aboard the motor-cruiser SeaDream II takes in the highlights of Croatia, Montenegro, the Greek Islands, the Corinth Canal, Turkey and Athens. Get the details, including best-value air travel by contacting www.premiumcruiseholidays.com or 1800 266 190

It’s a grape escape

Araluen Lodge with its four luxury king sized suites with ensuites and French doors opening to peaceful gardens is just the right spot for R&R. The location is the beautiful Yarra Valley in Victoria. Midweek winter specials are priced from $140 per room based on a three night stay. Included is accommodation for two, plus Yarra Valley wine sampling, breakfast, fresh fruit, chocolates, biscuits and complimentary port. Check availabilities and conditions by googling www.roamfree.com

Canada and Alaska touring

Make a booking prior to June 30 for travel on select departures late April and early May of 2009, and you will be set for memorable touring of Canada and Alaska. Guaranteed upgrades include view rooms at Fairmont hotels, GoldLeaf class on Rocky Mountaineer and a verandah state room aboard Holland America Line Alaskan cruising. Check the details and prices by ringing 1300 656 985.

Six performances only

Don’t blink or you will miss the talent. July 16 – 20 the Production Company presents Stephen Sondheim’s ‘Follies’ at the State Theatre in Melbourne. Then, August 20 – 24, ‘Damn Yankees’. Finally October 1 – 5 ‘Mame’ starring Rhonda Burchmore. Subject to availability there are some good deals. Ticketing through Ticketmaster.