Go Sail a Gulet

TRAVEL BRIEFS By John Crook

CALIFORNIA HERE I COME

After the fire Universal Studios is back in business with its theme park unfolding magic at every turn. Admission prices start at $81 per adult for a one-day pass. For details and reservations telephone 1300 730 023.

SAVE THE TURTLES

Add the plight of Cape York’s turtles to the Save the Whales campaign. The deadline is just as critical, with the turtle population dwindling. A three-year turtle rescue program is underway, with tours on offer through until October this year. Excluding airfares to Weipa prices for a two-night package start from $1070 per person twin share. Included are camp activities, meals, accommodation and return transfers from Weipa airport. Contact Travel Associates on 1800 044 066.

CRUISING THE CHRISTMAS MARKETS

Ten-day cruises along the Danube offer limited opportunities on any of the nine trips scheduled between November 23 and December 19, Christmas markets at Prague, Nuremberg, Regensburg, Salzburg, Vienna and Budapest are included. The price starts at $2895 and includes 22 meals, cruising, coach from Prague to Nuremberg and even a gala farewell dinner with gypsy violins. For details visit www.aptouring.com.au

A NOOSA LONG WEEKEND

July 4-13 is a ten-day weekend of arts, culture, food and entertainment in the village town of Noosa. Stay right on Hastings Street at the BreakFree French Quarter in a one bedroom deluxe apartment during the festival period from $173 per room, per night. Telephone 132 007.

MILDURA FOR HONESTY

With the high cost of petrol having a detrimental affect on out of the way holiday destinations, one such centre in Northern Victoria may ask itself why a ‘beware of snakes’ par has been included in its latest holiday brochure.

At least they’re honest. Don’t let that par put you off, as if the truth be known the experts claim that there’s a snake in most suburban Oz back yards.

A TOP PACKAGE FOR PARIS

A package priced from $845 per person, twin share, is one of the best for those heading to gay Paree. The three-night deal from Escape Travel is on sale until June 30 2008 for travel between July 1 and August 31 2008. Accommodation is at the Du Casino Hotel. Also included is a one-hour cruise on the Seine, a show at Moulin Rouge and a three course dinner at La Fermette Marbeuf. Breakfast daily return transfer from airport and a three-day Paris Visite card. www.escapetravel.com.au

GULET SAILING

Sailing aboard a Turkish gullet is one experience to cherish. These gracious and elegant motor ‘sailers’ can cater for groups of six to 12 people. A seven-day adventure, along the Turkish coast, costs from about $12,000 for six people in comfortable cabins with ensuites and that includes captain, crew, chef and all meals. Check it out by visiting www.iconholidays.com.au

* Please note conditions may apply to these packages and prices are subject to change and availability.