ALL THAT’S MISSING IS SANTA CLAUS

TRAVEL BRIEFS By John Crook

SMELL THE WILDFLOWERS

Western Australia is best known for its wildflowers and its wine.  Travel there between August and November  for the best floral-scapes.  At the same time take in some of its natural wonders including Wave Rock and the Valley of the Giants.    Start and finish the seven night coach tour in Perth and pay from $2,380 per person, twin share.  Get the facts by visiting www.escapetravel.com.au or telephone 1300 799 783.

SEX IN THE AQUARIUM

There’s a spectacular sex-life display of sea anemones at the Sydney Aquarium, a display which may help to save the home of Nemo and his family.  Dr Anna Scott of Southern Cross University is recognised by the Aquarium for her research work and the display is now home to 30 of her captive bred sea anemones.  Check it out at Darling Harbour.

JOIN HILLARY IN THE ANTARCTIC

Explore the Antarctic. Travel to the Falkland Islands and get ready to experience the natural wonders of another world.   Polar explorer Peter Hillary leads intrepid travellers on an 18-night expedition, departing January 22.  Prices start from $10,115 per person, twin share.  International airfares not included.

WENDY WU WOWEE

A short break in Hong Kong priced from just $1236 per person, twin share is the deal.   That includes return economy airfares, four nights accommodation,  a half day tour of Hong Kong Island and a two-hour harbour cruise.  Return airport transfers are also included.  Packages are for sale until August 30 and valid for travel until September 11.  More details by visiting www.wendywutours.com.au

ALL THAT’S MISSING IS SANTA CLAUS

Manchuria, Siberia and Mongolia are the highlights of a 19-day tour which includes the spectacular Harbin Ice Lantern Festival.  The tour price is from $15,000 from Sydney and that includes return air, twin-share in hotels and traditional tourist camps, all meals, local guides, ground transport, excursions, entries, gratuities and services of a Far Horizons escort.  Call 1800 083 141.

ZUJI MEANS BEANS

Baked beans in a Zuji can form part of the promotional campaign for on-line travel company of same name.  It’s a real attention getter with exclusive deals.  These include five nights in London from $2660, staying at a four-star hotel and offering a saving of $800.  That’s ex-Sydney. Conditions do apply so check it out on www.zuji.com.au

WORLD BEST HOTEL

In the category of best service in a hotel,  another gong goes to the Red Carnation group and The Milestone Hotel in London’s ritzy Kensington.  With 63 deluxe rooms and suites The Milestone is situated opposite Kensington  Palace. It has a staff to guest ratio of two to one.   Check the website www.milestonehotel.com

Caption :  Harbin Ice Festival.