Fabulous announcement for all Members regarding the AHS property program - Page 8-9
New Club Property
The Sebel Sydney, Manly Beach now available to Members - Page 24
Dear Member
As another year ends, it is my great pleasure to report to you on such a productive year at Accor Vacation Club.
I am very grateful to all of you who have continued to provide me with feedback throughout the course of the year. The Member Survey which so many of you recently completed provides us with important insights to what you require out of your Club in the future. It has been fantastic to see so many of you attend our workshops and events, which have been held across Australia and New Zealand throughout 2016. We saw record attendance, with over 3,500 Members and guests attending these fun-filled and informative events. If you haven’t attended a workshop, I strongly recommend that you do so this year.
In 2016 we were very busy with our refurbishment program, completing the full or partial refurbishment of five Club Properties. Next year we continue with Club Apartments at Novotel Pacific Bay Resort and The Links Lady Bay receiving a full upgrade and The Sebel Melbourne Flinders Lane, Grand Mercure Basildene Manor, MGallery St Moritz Queenstown and The Sebel Darling Harbour The Pinnacle receiving a soft refurbishment.
It has been immensely rewarding to receive so much positive feedback on the refurbishment program from so many of you, both directly and through social media sites. This has resulted in most of our properties soaring up the rankings on travel websites such as TripAdvisor, with a few of our Club properties holding the number one position in their respective categories. Full credit goes to our wonderful hotel General Managers who, with their teams, continue to provide you the highest level of service, which you have rightly come to expect from your Club. Please keep posting those good reviews because we really do appreciate it.
The Club continued to grow during 2016 and we purchased additional Club Apartments at Turtle Beach Resort Mermaid Beach and we’re very excited to introduce a new Club Property, The Sebel Sydney Manly Beach. This is exciting, and over the course of this year the current plan is to point additional inventory in Manly and to work on sourcing more locations so that your holiday options can continue to expand.
FROM THE CEO
During this past year, new hotels have been included in the Accor Hotels Select program. In 2017 we intend to add further locations to the program. We have recently introduced the Accor Hotels Select Asia and Accor Hotels Select Elite programs to allow those with the higher levels of Membership additional opportunities to use their points.
Early last year we introduced our VIP loyalty program, where on presenting your Accor Vacation Club Membership card at almost any Accor hotel in Australia you receive (where available) priority check-in, a welcome drink, complimentary Wi-Fi and late checkout. From the start of 2017, this program has been extended to include Accor hotels in New Zealand, Fiji and French Polynesia.
I have been saying for some time that the best way to keep updated on what’s happening at your Club is to log in to your Member website, or alternatively follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Thousands of you have started to follow us on these sites, with many also contributing to the content by adding photos and/ or anecdotes of your holiday experiences. We like this! Please keep them coming.
And of course, you will find more detailed information on what is happening in this edition of your Vacations magazine.
Until my next update, I wish you all very happy holidays and a healthy and prosperous 2017.
Warm regards
Craig Wood Chief Executive Officer Accor Vacation Club CEO@accorvacationclub.com.au
DON’T LET SUMM
Su mme r is wh en Au st ralia is at its b est .
The ultim ate time of year to explo re and experien ce everythi ng our ba ckya rd
Not t his Summ er… Don’t let a se co nd go to waste.
over 7,500 room nights
CLUBFACTS -WHATHAPPENEDIN2016
WORKSHOPS
The following Member Workshops and Special Member Events were carried out in 2016.
• Melbourne VIC
• Wollongong NSW
• Canberra ACT
• Brisbane QLD
• Auckland NZ
• Adelaide SA
• Hunter Valley NSW
• Coffs Harbour NSW
SPECIAL MEMBER EVENTS
Swan Valley WA Gold Coast QLD
over 330 cruises booked value of $2 million
Favourite Destinations
Australian Cruises, South Pacific & European River Cruises
2016
REFURBISHMENTS
The following Club properties have been refurbished in 2016
• Legends Hotel Surfers Paradise, Accor Vacation Club Apartments
•Turtle Beach Resort Mermaid Beach, Accor Vacation Club Apartments
• The Sebel Bowral Heritage Park
• Grand Mercure Oakridge Resort, Accor Vacation Club Apartments
• Twin Waters Sunshine Coast, Accor Vacation Club Apartments
PROPERTIES to choose from
Accor Hotels Select Elite allows Traveller and Corporate Members access to over 30 AccorHotels properties throughout South East Asia and the Pacific.
Call your friendly Member Services team to find out more or to make a booking.
Accor Hotels Select Asia allows Platinum, Traveller and Corporate Members access to over 25 AccorHotels properties throughout South East Asia.
“Captain Scott” and First Mate Jackie with the Does Size Really Matter? Big Ship vs Small Ships
Are you an “old salt” who already knows the ins and outs of cruising or an unsure first time cruiser? It’s already clear that cruising includes so much – accommodation from solo cabins to suites, multiple dining options and entertainment galore. Transport is taken asail onboard a floating hotel. Plus there’s the added bonus of unpacking only once!
Are you an “old salt” who already knows the ins and outs of cruising or an unsure first time cruiser? It’s already clear that cruising includes so much –accommodation from solo cabins to suites, multiple dining options and entertainment galore. Transport is taken care of to multiple destinations as you set sail onboard a floating hotel. Plus there’s the added bonus of unpacking only once!
There are a few things to consider before deciding if size really matters…
Step 1: Think about who is actually coming along… a group of friends, a family with/without kids, a romantic couple or solo cruisers?
Step 2: Your holiday expectations are important – are you looking for a relaxing, adventure, discovery, romance, or a dance all night and party all day type of cruise?
Step 3: What floats your boat? Actionpacked, fun-filled, popular ports or a complete immersion to get up close and personal with people, cultures, nature?
Step 4: Are we talking a 2-3 day getaway, a 7-14 day cruise around the islands or do you have time on your hands for a world cruise or longer sojourn to parts unknown?
Now you have an idea of what you want from a cruising holiday we can focus on whether size REALLY does matter. Let’s compare the two…
LARGE SHIPS: From luxury liners to the newest, all-singing, all-dancing “Mega-ships” catering for 1600 up to
latest round of cruise news... Matter?
6700+ passengers. Each ship is designed as an integral part of your holiday experience, combining a huge, floating resort with everything onboard that you could need or want and more!
Most are jam packed with a wide choice of restaurants, bars and spaces to hang out. Fun-filled entertainment ranges from Broadway-style shows, piano bars, big band and dance all night through disco’s to family-friendly movies, and many features you wouldn’t find on a smaller ship like ice-skating, Flowriders®, ziplines, climbing walls, mini-golf, bowling, a selection of pools and even thrilling waterslides…not to mention kid’s clubs, shopping malls, luxury spas, gyms, and so much more. Each ship is different, and the list is almost endless.
Popular ports and major destinations are chosen to accommodate the physical size of the ship as well as to appeal to the widest range of cruiser expectations. The atmosphere onboard is one of fun for all, with something to do every moment of the day, whether it is planned or not. Unless, of course, you just want to chill out – then that’s fine too!
Some passengers feel that the ship is simply TOO big, that they are just another face in the crowd or that the service is impersonal. Yet, with such a large ship, and a seemingly huge amount of people and nooks and crannies to explore, others find it more of a benefit to be a little anonymous. It’s all about how you look at it…do you see too many people, or all the
new friends you are yet to meet?
Many cruisers love the variety a large cruise ship offers and see it as one of the destinations. Others though are looking for a more exclusive and intimate experience. That’s where small ships come in.
SMALL SHIPS:
Vary from the extensive, multi-cultural destinations of a European river cruise, to specific country cruises through to ultra-luxurious sea-going vessels providing unique experiences. The spotlight is definitely on the destinations visited with a smaller ship. It’s a chance to immerse yourself. Pristine shores, secluded islands, age-old cultures, Zodiac excursions landing on the seemingly inaccessible Kimberley or the
Antarctic…Getting up close and personal with the environment, nature and exotic cultures - a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Whilst some small ships give their passengers the best of the best with ultra-luxurious accommodations, gourmet cuisine, high-end style and more, they also provide, along with river cruises, access to a wide selection of regions, lifestyles and landscapes. From the age-old history of world-class European cities to the more unique and exotic Asian discoveries of golden temples, floating markets, soaring mountains and more. With a little bit of luxury and a whole lot of adventure, every holiday palate can be satisfied.
It is however, unlikely that your onboard entertainment choices will include glitzy broadway-style shows. To enhance your cruise experience smaller ships will focus on exclusive cultural highlights - Ukrainian dance troupes, whirling dervishes or the magical strains of a Japanese Shamisen for example. In addition to captivating shore excursions that are often already included in your cruise price, knowledgeable local experts will charm you with their fascinating narrative, personal insights and exciting adventures. Imagine a winner of Alaska’s Iditarod speaking of her astonishing experiences, or an environmental biologist discussing the life-cycle of the Blue Whale…all designed to expand your own knowledge and understanding of the world around us.
Most smaller ships will gravitate towards the informality of comfort over high fashion - at most, dress codes will require limited “formal or semi-formal” attire. Dining will usually be in one main dining, with separated areas for Captain’s Table, Chefs Table or a Wine Connoisseurs… to name a few. The chef is likely to take advantage of any regional speciality and the availability of fresh lobsters, seafood, produce, cheeses, wines… and if you have special requirements, say an anniversary or dietary options, these are simple and easy to organise!
One of the features of a smaller ship, of course, is that you are closer to the motion of the ocean. Cruises may hug the coastlines, though there is always that longer trek across open water that may mean seasickness for some or a romantic ideal for others. And being closer to the ocean also leads to spectacular views and those wonderfully fresh salty breezes.
It has to be said that with a smaller cruise ship a more intimate experience is gained. A close knit crew will treat you as part of the family. New friends and camaraderie are easy to find, and you are guaranteed to be seeing their familiar faces everyday (which may or may not be a good thing).
So, does size really matter? Yes… and No! All ships and cruises are unique. Each holiday is fun-filled, action-packed, with spectacular ports ripe for exploring. Our suggestion – book a cruise, any cruise, and get onboard today!
TOP 11 TRAVEL tips
1TRAVELINSURANCE IS A MUST
It is essential that you take out Comprehensive Travel Insurance and ensure it covers you for the places you plan to visit and the things you plan to do. Medical Evacuations can be rather expensive if you are not insured.
2PACK YOUR OWN BAGS
ALWAYS be aware of what is packed in your own bags. NEVER carry anything for another person or you may find yourself in hot water!
3PASSPORT
Before you leave, check your passport has at least 6 months validity from your planned date of RETURN!
4BE A SMART TRAVELLER
Check the latest travel advice for your destination at www. smarttraveller.gov.au
5VISAS
CHECK you have the correct visas for all the countries you are visiting or transiting. CHECK any other entry or exit
6 KEEP IN TOUCH
Keep in contact with friends and family back home so they know where you are. It’s a good idea to make copies of your travel itinerary, passport details, insurance policy, travellers cheques, visas and credit card numbers. Carry one copy in a separate place to the originals and leave a copy with someone you trust at home - just in case you need replacements in a hurry.
8THE LAW
OBEY the laws of the country you are in. It’s a good idea to be aware. Most countries have different laws, rules, cultural expectations –everyone is different.
7HEALTH & MEDICATIONS
Check with health professionals on recommended vaccinations and other health precautions. Remember that vaccinations can be an entry requirement for some countries. Also REMEMBER, if you require medication while overseas, that certain medicines are NOT allowed in some countries. You will need to check this.you trust at home - just in case you need replacements in a hurry.
9FOOD & WATER
Food onboard your cruise, or at your hotel should be fine (and delicious). If you can, try to ensure cooked food and hot drinks reach boiling temperature and wash any fresh produce with bottled water. Peel any fruit yourself.
If water is suspect you may want to drink bottled water to avoid any nasty bugs. NO ice in drinks. – it’s frozen water!.
Although half the fun of travelling is trying the local cuisine and eating out in the big, wide world – just be a little more cautious in your choices to stay healthy while travelling.
10 LEAVE SOMETHING FOR NEXT TIME
Travel is a journey of discovery, and you cannot, will not see absolutely EVERYTHING in one go. Take time to explore what you can in the time you have, and leave a little something for the next time you return. For example I missed the Spanish Steps in Rome – I know hard to do, but I did. So now I have
11LESS IS MORE
On the subject of packing again… Less is definitely more. Wear things twice if needed. Most people WILL NOT mention that you have had the same jeans on for 3 days running. They just don’t care. So minimise your packing, go with a smaller suitcase and you will never need worry about lugging a ginormous suitcase through the streets again. Or… go cruising where you only have to unpack once!
CRUISE ALERT! Afternoon
A little of what you fancy, my nanna always said, never hurt anyone. That may be so, however every time I cruise, I gain at least 5 kilos. Could Afternoon Tea be the cause? Step onboard and share with me the delicious charm of these English delicacies, and you decide.
Traditional afternoon tea is generally thought of as being very British. Made popular by the Victorians, this very elegant mid-afternoon repast consists of sandwiches, scones and cakes with copious amounts of tea to drink. Very civilized, very fashionable.
Most cruises these days will have some form of indulgent afternoon refreshment reminiscent of a very elegant British affair. Very civilized, very fashionable. It’s possible that Afternoon Tea may be a one off extravaganza filled to the brim with delectable delights, or a daily occurrence for those who can fit it into their daily schedule of fun, or even some form of midafternoon snack ranging from a ice-cream bar to pizza to cake-n-coffee to a BBQ amidships.
Tea blamed for cruiser’s weight gain.
to try. All washed down, of course, with a fine china cup of the obligatory Earl Grey or Darjeeling…lemon or milk?? You decide!
Some more trendy, younger cruiselines however have thrown caution to the wind offering you a glass or two of bubbly - always nice - teamed with a whole bounty of beauties! Mouthwatering biscuits - buttery shortbread, lemony, coconutty and some with jam on top; chocolate eclairs (or caramel or strawberry or OMG yummy things like toffee apple puffs), luscious muffins, dreamy chocolate cakes, fruit tarts, triple-decker BLT’s and mini-quiches, plus fancy coffees with whipped cream and a sprinkling of chocolate. Can it get any better??
For the more traditional cruiselines it’s all starched linen, shining silverware, white gloved servers, steaming pots of tea and fine china cups and saucers with a laden three tiered stand. Imagine warm scones fresh from the oven, jam and cream, delicate crustless finger sandwiches – cucumber (of course), chicken salad, thinly sliced ham with a scraping of seeded mustard, a few savoury tarts and sweet tasty little morsels for you
Tray after tray of tasty treats… the servers even encourage just one more…each cake or scone looks small and innocent…and let me just say that only those with the firmest resolve will resist!
Afternoon Tea is simply perfect in my view, but try not to indulge too much because there is always dinner and dessert waiting…then late night snacking, and tomorrow it’s early risers breakfast followed by “real” breakfast, then morning tea and of course let’s not forget lunchtime or a mid deck BBQ…then we start all over again…hmmm maybe it wasn’t Afternoon Tea after all…
Just enough time for a quick jog around the deck before I have another éclair…just a little one…or two!
A KALEIDOSCOPE OF TRADITIONS Asia
Sights, Sounds and Beyond!
It is mesmerizing how the many countries of Asia have combined the past and the future, the idyllic with the fast-paced, wide open countryside with metropolis blazing with lights.
It’s a discovery of verdant landscapes and flowing fields, chock full of shrines, temples and palaces, each thoroughly steeped with a rich history and diverse cultural heritage. Ancient farming villages surrounded by mountains or simple fishing villages beside the fertile Mekong Delta share with every visitor a simpler, more peaceful appreciation of life.
Contrast this with the futuristic, fast paced, hi-tech cities of Tokyo, Beijing, Hong Kong and Singapore. Confidence and energy soars high as a multitude of architectural obelisks reach for the skies above. Here the power, politics and population jam its streets to capacity - a testament to communal modernity. Yet, nestled among the high-rises tradition still holds true in the many local restaurants, teahouses, and folk culture of the people, adding flavour and life to this mass conglomeration of buildings.
A journey into Asia means the experiences of Forbidden Cities frozen in time, floating markets alive with loud bargaining between vendors and customers, sharply contrasting with the softly falling cherry
blossom, serene and gentle. The Taj Mahal a testament to love, shinto shrines holy in their tranquillity and a thousand golden statues of Buddha each praying for enlightenment. It means dumplings overfilled with pork or lotus flower, Peking duck with sticky lickable sauces, delicious dahl and freshly made sushi delicate as a flower. It means high mountain peaks soaring to the heavens, dense jungle opening onto endless grassy plains and terraced rice paddy’s providing sustenance and life.
Asia means an assault on the senses at every turn, the aromas, the sights, the sounds, each unique to its own country, separate yet together making the whole that is Asia.
Call Accor Vacation Club Cruises today and book your next cruise to Asia
Steamed Dumplings
(Makes approx. 20 dumplings)
Ingredients:
• 200gr pork or chicken mince
• 50gr prawn meat, minced
• small piece ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ small onion, finely chopped
• 1 T Soy Sauce
• 1 T Chinese rice wine or sherry
• 1T finely chopped chives
• 1T finely chopped parsley
• ½ cup shredded chinese cabbage (optional)
• Won ton or gow gee wrappers
• Cold water for sealing
• Additional soy sauce or plum sauce for serving
Method:
1. Combine meat, ginger, garlic, onion, soy sauce, rice wine, herbs and cabbage - if using, into a small bowl.
2. Spoon heaped teaspoonful’s into half of each wrapper. Brush edge with water and fold wrapper over to enclose filling. Pleat edges if desired.
3. Place each dumpling on a tray that has been lined with baking paper.
4. Line the base of a large steamer basket with baking paper and place it over a pan of simmering water. Make sure dumplings do not touch each other and there is enough room for the steam to work its magic. Cook dumplings in batches for 5-6 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Transfer to a warmed plate and cover.
6. Serve with soy sauce, or chilli sauce as an alternative.
HINT: Add some mixed vegies or water chestnuts. Same mixture also makes brilliant spring rolls.
HINT: Steamer baskets in varying sizes are readily available at your local asian supermarket.
Twin Waters Sunshine Coast Accor Vacation Club Apartments
sunshine coast
Stylish rooms designed with the Queensland climate in mind.
Twin Waters Sunshine Coast
Accor Vacation Club Apartments
The Twin Waters Sunshine Coast Accor Vacation Club Apartments recently underwent a minor refurbishment which has provided a fresh new look. Apartments have been painted inside and out and have had new soft furnishings installed including mirrors, light fittings, scatter cushions, and floor rugs, yet keeping to the “Resort Series” theme outlined below.
The “Resort Series” room was designed to take into consideration the environmental and climate conditions associated with the properties, whether it be costal or inland locations.
Accor Vacation Club rooms typically run at high occupancies and guest densities with resort destinations also experiencing a longer average length of stay and higher family use. As a result of this the design and products selected needed to be of a higher quality to reflect heavy commercial use while still achieving a modern yet practical design.
Environmental initiatives have also been implemented with the replacement of high energy down lights with LED and fluorescent fittings and all bathroom fittings and fixtures have been chosen based on their water saving capacity. In addition to this in room appliances have been replaced with media hub units linked to a 40” television to reduce electricity consumption.
The majority of the selected furniture is manufactured in Australia and is covered by an 8 year commercial structural warranty and the fabrics used have a high rub and are fire rated. Tables and draws are all covered in tempered glass to promote longevity especially due to the self catering nature of the apartment.
The practical approach to the design assists in reducing ongoing maintenance costs especially in service agreement properties where significant fees are incurred for call outs.
The design will also be supported with revised operating standards manual, improved in room collateral and a greater range of quality cutlery, crockery, glassware and kitchen utensils to ensure quality design is reflected through every component of the room.
Refurbishment..
member workshops
and events
February Adelaide Workshop
March Launceston Workshop
April Melbourne Workshop
May Canberra Workshop
June SEQ Workshop
July Christchurch & Auckland Workshops
August Sydney Workshop
Sept/Oct Perth Workshop
Nov/Dec Brisbane Workshop Can’t
What a great year
We started the year with the first Member Workshop in Adelaide and finished with our last on the Gold Coast. A truely busy year with Workshops and Events being held consistantly throughout.
All our Workshops and Events were stronghly attended by our Members with all going away with a greater knowlegde of their Club. We will be back next year bigger and better, so look at for workshop near YOU!
Gold Coast Member
WORKSHOP
Novotel Surfers Paradise GOLD COAST
The recently held Gold Coast Member Workshop held at the Novotel Surfers Paradise was a great success.
Just under 250 Members attended the Saturday workshop session and the evening event was a wonderful night of entertainment...
Accor Vacation Club recognised for outstansing performance at the 2016 Australian Timeshare & Holiday Ownership Industry Awards
Accor Vacation Club scooped three awards at the annual Australian Timeshare Holiday Ownership Council event held recently in Queenstown, NZ. These awards recognise the best of the best within the timeshare industry and are a fantastic achievement.
Winner Members Services Team for Excellence in Customer Service
Winner Upgrades Team for Sales Team of the Year
Winner Casey Antoniadis from The Sebel Pinnacle Valley for Resort Performer of the Year
Congratulations to our Winners!
We GREATLY appreciate how many of you took the opportunity to have your say in the 2016 Members Survey.
We take YOUR opinions very seriously and will endeavour to use these results, to continue to make this Club great!
Club Property
VISIT the elounge page of the Members website for full results...
NEW Property
Welcome to the latest addition to the Accor Vacation Club, the wonderful Sebel Sydney Manly Beach hotel!
Boasting a fantastic location at the southern end of Sydney’s famed Manly Beach, The Sebel Sydney Manly Beach is just steps away from some of the very best boutiques, restaurants and entertainment venues in the region! The hotel embodies the relaxed sophistication for which this part of the world is known for.
Whether you take a stroll along Manly Beach, soak in the sun at one of our two outdoor pools, or sample the dining at Manly Wine, your next stay at The Sebel Sydney Manly Beach is sure to be memorable.
Directly across from the beach, this modern oceanfront hotel is an 8-minute walk from Manly Wharf ferry terminal and an 11-minute walk from the Manly Sea Life Sanctuary.
Our rooms include balconies offering ocean views, feature flat-screen TVs, individual climate control and tea and coffee making facilities. Wired and wireless broadband available in guest rooms for additional cost.
The casual restaurant/wine bar with terrace seating serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. There are also two outdoor pools (one heated) and meeting rooms. Undercover parking is available at no extra charge to Members.
Accessible by Public Transport
Manly Ferry – 30 min (from Circular Quay)
Railway station – Chatswood (20km)
Airport – Sydney Airport (30km)
The Sebel Sydney Manly Beach
Sydney, New South Wales
Studio Deluxe Room
NEW Member Property
1 Bedroom Deluxe Room
The Sebel, Manly Beach – a wonderful club experience
With many thanks to our efficient and effective Members Services team, I recently stayed three nights at the new Club venue at The Sebel Manly Beach. I cannot speak too highly about my wonderful stay. From the outset, the front office staff were so friendly, efficient and helpful. The room was wonderful – so clean and what a view!
The café next door was great – not run by the Hotel
but the ambiance, food (excellent coffee) and view was outstanding.
The Corso and Manly Wharf are all a very easy walk away as is Shelley Beach and Manly Bower I had such a good time that the Member Services Team have organised another stay in 2017.
(Mr) Kerry Brooks AVC Member.
Whatto do in Manly?
from those in the know
Manly Sea Life Sanctuary
Swin amongst the most misunderstood creatures of the sea. Expert guides will teach you the scuba basics and will be with you the whole time, to ensure a safe and amazing experience that will be easierly forgotten. You will swim with Grey Nurse Sharks, stingrays, sea turtles and a variety of beatuifully coloured fish durring your drive.
Manly and North Head Guided Coastal Walk
Enjoy a 4 hour walking tour of Manly and Sydney Harbour National Park. Take in the natural beauty and learn about the marine environment, surf culture, native wildlife, Aboriginal heritage and military history of the area from your local guide. Enjoy views of North Head, South Head, Spring Cove and even catch a view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge in the distance. Small groups are limited to 15 people.
Manly Self-Guided Bike Tour
Escape on your own full day cycling adventure. Make your way along the soaring sea cliffs, golden beaches and tree-lined promenades of Manly. You will pass landmarks like Manly Corso, Manly Lagoon and Cabbage Tree Bay. Cool off with a dip at Shelly Beach, get out Collins Waterfall or admire the scenery of Sydney Harbour National Park.
Sydney Beer and Brewery Tour
For those wanting a change of pace. Join in on 1 of the 3 or 6 hour guided tours of Sydney,s craft beers and breweries. Knowledgeable guides will talk you through the working breweries, you will get to see the brewing process up close and meet those who are changing beer making in Sydney. Oh and do not forgot the tasting of a variety of craft brews at each stop.
...also
Manly Quarantine Station
Manly Art Gallery and Museum
Hello Manly Booking & Information Centre
Dolphin & Whale Watching
The Luggage Store Cafe & Museum
Joel Coleman Gallery
Little Manly Beach
Kayaking & Canoeing
REFURBISHMENT
REFURBISHMENT
The Sebel Bowral Heritage Park
Warm, modern, comfortable restyled rooms, filled with custom furniture. A mixture of energy efficent, enviromentally sensitive fixture solutions.
REFURBISHMENT
The
Sebel Bowral Heritage Park
The “Resort Series” room was designed to take into consideration the environmental and climate conditions associated with the property whilst maximising on the Heritage features of Bowral and the region.
The variation in the “Resort Series” is achieved through the use of locally inspired design elements, wall coverings and tiles in conjunction with the use of a rich sophisticated color palette and finishes setting the scene for comfortable time for our Members and guests.
The custom furniture design is complemented by the luxurious lounge, which also incorporates a sofa bed system for practicality. The contemporary arm chairs are also a key furniture element to accentuate the comfortable relaxed reading and indoor recreation space. In the bedroom a key design element is the upholstered panel feature bed head with a luxurious king bed pillow top mattress, complemented by high quality scatter cushions and bed throws.
Accor Vacation Club rooms typically run at high occupancies and guest densities with resort destinations also experiencing a longer average length of stay and higher family use. As a result of this the design and products selected needed to be of a higher quality to reflect heavy commercial use while still achieving a modern yet practical design.
Environmental initiatives have also been implemented with the replacement of high energy down lights with LED and fluorescent fittings and all bathroom fittings and fixtures have been chosen based on their water saving capacity. In addition to this, connectivity is being provided with Bluetooth accessories, wall installed media hubs and a mix of 48 inch flat screen smart televisions for the living area and 40 inch smart televisions wall mounted for the main bedrooms.
The enhancement of the bathrooms will be created with the new tiled floors and upgrading of tap ware and luxury water saving shower heads whilst continuing with the heritage feel.
The bathrooms have been partially redesigned, with feature tiles and floating vanity shelf, semi frameless shower screens and decorative mirrors have been used to blend with the heritage nature of the bathroom furniture and fittings.
The practical approach to the design will also assist in reducing ongoing maintenance costs.
Getaways: Holiday More Often for Less
Getaways are the perfect way to enjoy new experiences around the world.
Whether you’re looking for a new city to explore or a tropical paradise in which to unwind, with Interval International’s Getaways, you can enjoy a resort stay without exchanging your Accor Vacation Club points. What’s more, the accommodation is available at remarkably low prices, backed by Interval’s Best Price Guarantee.
On the go? Search for and book Getaways with the Interval International app, available for iPhone, iPad and Android devices.
Don’t forget:
Interval Gold members get $25 off Getaways, and Interval Platinum members get $50 off.
Australia 0011 800 INTERVAL (0011 800 4683 7825)
New Zealand 00 800 INTERVAL (00 800 4683 7825)
The perfect destination for your next event
Book for you, your family or YOUR friends at Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort or The Sebel Pinnacle Valley Resort
find out what benefits await...
Package includes: Complimentary venue hire • Complimentary familiarisation including one nights Accommodation for conference organiser
• Upgraded packages • Breakfast included for all staying guests
• Internet access for all conference guests
Wedding Bookings are also available. Ask us now.
* Terms and Conditions apply. For details go to: www.accorvacationclub.com.au/terms-and-conditions/
The Sebel Pinnacle Valley Resort
Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort
BuddingMembersPhotographers Competition
DOUBLE THE FUN
Top 10 stopovers in Asia
Flight Centre’s guide to Asia’s top 10 destinations showcases myriad diverse regions and towns for you to consider adding for an exciting side trip when booking your next flight to Asia.
1 Halong Bay, Vietnam
Halong Bay is one of those rare destinations that shines no matter the weather. Some might say that its startling scenery – towering limestone pillars rising from waters tinted a leafy shade of green – is best enjoyed when the sun throws those distinctive colours into sharp relief. However, other visitors find it even more evocative on cloudy days when the mist wraps around the bay’s islands, which seem to loom like the fabled dragon that, according to legend, gouged out this landscape. The best way to experience this UNESCO World Heritage-listed area is on a liveaboard boat. It’s not all drifting about languidly: take a hike in the lovely Cat Ba National Park, home to 32 types of mammal; or head further out to Lan Ha Bay, which flows on from Halong Bay. Just as striking as its betterknown neighbour, but with fewer tourists, Lan Ha Bay is a great place for a kayaking expedition.
HANOI
Vietnam’s capital and its second-largest city is also one of its most charming. From the narrow streets of the Old Quarter to the elegant French colonial buildings, there is plenty to explore in the northern Vietnam metropolis.
Halong Bay is a three- to four-hour bus trip from Hanoi. From Australia, fly to Hanoi with Vietnam Airlines, AirAsia, Scoot, Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Cathay Pacific and China Southern.
2 Kerala, India
After a three-hour flight, Kerala is the perfect antidote to Delhi’s high-octane impact. Feast your eyes on 50 shades of green in this tranquil province, where a web of rivers and canals spreads out through rice paddies and coffee plantations, past pretty villages shaded by coconut groves and into the forested hills of the Western Ghats. Kerala is best known for its canal cruises and yoga retreats, but there is a lot more to this laidback state. Few Indian destinations have preserved their historic ambience like the port city of Kochi, where an exotic blend of Portuguese, Dutch and English
influences is on show, not to mention ancient mosques and a 400-year-old synagogue. If you prefer a walk on the wild side, head to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary to spot bison, sambar, and elephants.
DELHI
There is a surprise around every corner in the City of Djinns. From Mughal monuments to grand colonial edifices to monkeys scampering over roofs, it’s a gloriously eye-popping, ear-bursting sensory overload.
Fly to Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala via Delhi with Air India. Singapore Airlines, Etihad, Emirates and Malindo Airlines can also get you to Kerala via other stopover destinations.
3 Battambang, Cambodia
A great base for exploring Cambodia’s countryside, visitors to the historic hilltop temples of Phnom Sampeau will pass beautiful statues, lookout points, as well as limestone caves.
SIEM REAP
This Cambodian town is the gateway to one of Asia’s greatest sights: Angkor Wat and its neighbouring temples, including Bayon and Ta Prohm.
Battambang is a leisurely eight- to 10-hour boat trip from Siem Reap. Fly to Siem Reap with Singapore Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Thai Airways, Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia or Jetstar.
4 Xi’an, China
There are thousands of reasons to visit Xi’an – if you add up all the soldiers in the Terracotta Army. This extraordinary collection of statues was famously buried alongside China’s first emperor more than 2,000 years ago. Xi’an, a two-hour flight from Beijing, has other attractions. One of China’s ancient capitals, Xi’an offers imperial-era attractions including the tomb of Emperor Jingdi, the Great Mosque and the Big Goose Pagoda. Xi’an also retains its 12m-high, 14th-century Mingera city walls and labyrinthine Muslim Quarter.
BEIJING
China’s capital embodies the contradictions that make the Middle Kingdom such a compelling destination. Cuttingedge art and architecture exist alongside ancient monuments such as the Forbidden City and the nearby Great Wall of China.
Fly to Xi’an via Beijing with Air China. Cathay Pacific, China Eastern, Qantas, China Southern, Korean Airlines, AirAsia and Scoot can also get you to Xi’an via other stopover destinations.
5 Bintan Island, Indonesia
There is only one hard decision to make on Bintan Island, and that’s which luxury resort to check into, with idyllic settings and indulgences for guests. Bintan is an ancient trading post between China and India, with a rich collection of relics from Chinese temples to Christian shrines. Throw in a visit to a traditional fishing village, or a cruise through the mangroves (keep an eye out for silver leaf monkeys and snakes), and there is plenty to keep you occupied. But, with over 100km of coastline, Bintan is the ideal place to do nothing but relax.
SINGAPORE
Calling all culture vultures, city slickers, shopaholics and foodies. From colourful marketplaces and heaving food halls to lush green spaces among glittering skyscrapers, the vast and varied wonders of this frenzied island state offer something for everyone.
Bintan Island is a two-hour ferry ride from Singapore. Fly to Singapore with Scoot, Singapore Airlines, Qantas, Jetstar or Emirates.
6 Phuket, Thailand
White sandy beaches and balmy weather never go out of style; add a healthy serve of massages and fabulous food, and Phuket is hard to beat. Go exploring in Phuket Town, where historic shophouses are being reinvented as cute cafes; spend a day in Phang Nga Bay, kayaking through limestone caves and visiting floating fishing villages; or get away from it all in Sirinat National Park, where beaches such as Nai Thon remain uncrowded.
BANGKOK
Spicy street food and air-conditioned shopping malls, gold-plated temples and sky-high bars: Bangkok’s contradictions are part of its charm.
Fly to Phuket via Bangkok with Thai Airways or Qantas.
7 Busan, South Korea
Blessed with golden sandy beaches and snow-capped mountains, Busan has a calendar of international events and Korea’s largest fish market. Busan’s charms are on display in neighbourhoods such as Dalmaji, where art galleries and elegant cafes sit alongside serene Buddhist shrines. Also worth checking out: Gamcheon Culture Village and the Buddhist carvings at the Seokbulsa hermitage.
SEOUL
From serene temples to bustling night markets, modern shopping malls to traditional bathhouses, South Korea’s capital delivers.
Fly to Busan via Seoul with Korean Air or Asiana Airlines. Japan Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Air China, China Eastern and Thai Airways can also get you to Busan via other stopover destinations.
8 Penang, Malaysia
It’s a rare visitor who doesn’t fall head over heels for George Town, Penang’s old-world capital. Trishaws jostle for space in its crowded streets, while the quirky street art provides a cool edge. The city’s retro appeal has been bolstered by a boom in funky cafes and bars, and a street food scene that’s hard to beat. The island’s beaches are justly famous, and some of the country’s most indulgent resorts are clustered around the beaches of Batu Ferringhi and Tanjung Bungah.
KUALA LUMPUR
Kuala Lumpur or KL is one of Asia’s most underrated cities. Its idiosyncratic flavour is summed up in its striking skyline, where minarets contrast with skyscrapers, including the famous Petrona Twin Towers which you can ascend for a stunning sky-high view of KL from 86 storeys up.
From Australia, you can fly to Penang via Kuala Lumpur with Malaysia Airlines, Malindo Airlines or AirAsia. Singapore Airlines, Qantas, Jetstar and Scoot can also get you to Penang via Singapore.
9 Okinawa, Japan
It’s Japan, but not as you know it. The group of islands that makes up Okinawa Prefecture is the southernmost region of Japan, and is different from the rest of the country in all sorts of ways, from the subtropical climate to the distinctive Okinawan cuisine, which blends influences from China, Korea and Southeast Asia. There is plenty to explore on the area’s biggest island, Okinawa-hontō, from the impressive Churaumi Aquarium to scenic spots such as the Hiji Waterfall and the sacred site of Sefa Utaki. Further afield, the Yaeyama Islands – with their jungles, mangrove swamps, beaches and excellent diving –are the place to unwind.
TOKYO
In the city that never sleeps, you can admire the costumed kids in Harajuku and the neon lights of Shinjuku, before breakfasting on sashimi at Tsukiji fish market.
Fly to Okinawa via Tokyo with Qantas, Jetstar, Japan Airlines or ANA. Hong Kong Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Eva Air and China Airlines can also get you to Okinawa via other stopover destinations.
10 Bohol, Philippines
Yes, Bohol Island – just a short ferry trip from Cebu – is another fabulous Philippines destination for water babies, with coral reefs and inviting beaches. But the island has other attractions as well. Its most famous inhabitants (and, arguably, the cutest) are the extraordinary tarsiers, the world’s smallest primates: small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, yet agile enough to leap five metres in a single bound. You can try your luck spotting them in the wild in the Rajah Sikatuna National Park; for guaranteed sightings, the Tarsier Research & Development Center is your best bet. Other ways to spend the days include visiting the ancient cave paintings on Lamanok Island, swimming in an underground lake in Hinagdanan Cave and hiking the extraordinary dome-shaped Chocolate Hills.
CEBU
Cebu is the Philippines’ best-loved holiday destination, famous for its pretty beaches and the superb diving on offer.
Bohol is a two-hour ferry ride from Cebu. Fly to Cebu via Manila with Philippine Airlines or Qantas
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