Deals of the week: from Venice to Mantua, Adelaide Hills lofts
The best of this week’s deals will see travellers crossing cruising from Venice to Mantua along the Bianco Canal to the reopened Sydney Darling Harbour Crown Plaza.
Footy fever
The 2020 Toyota AFL Grand Final promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle at the Gabba in Brisbane on October 24. Accor has a selection of hotels conveniently located nearby, including Mantra South Bank, less than 2km away, with guestrooms from $235 a night, minimum two-night stay. Blend sport and creativity at The Johnson - Art Series (a short cab ride to the big game) where discounted rates are from $347 a night, minimum two nights.
Top end temptation
Some like it hot and there’s no doubt the Northern Territory is that at this time of year. But hot too are the deals being offered by the NT Government in partnership with leading travel operators. The Never Before NT Summer Sale, which runs until March 31, offers a discount of $200 for every $1000 spent on a NT booking.
northernterritory.com/summer-sale
Many happy returns
After a 10-year absence, the Crowne Plaza brand returns to Sydney CBD with Crowne Plaza Sydney Darling Harbour now open on the corner of Bathurst and Sussex streets. With floor-to-ceiling windows, each of the 152 guestrooms has a desk space, sofa area to unwind, king-size bed and spacious bathroom. Guests can enjoy a rooftop heated infinity pool with city views and a 24-hour fitness centre. An introductory deal of 50 per cent off the best flexible rate is on offer; bookings for stays well into next year must be made by October 31.
crowneplaza.com/darlingharbour
One by one
Solo travellers can enjoy the company of like-minded passengers aboard European Waterways’ 20-guest La Bella Vita on a six-night all-inclusive singles cruise departing Venice on October 10, 2021. The hotel barge will be sailing to the Italian Renaissance city of Mantua along the Po River and Bianco Canal. Highlights include dinner with a countess, a wine tasting and palace and museum visits. A 10 percent discount on the $7935 fare applies for advance bookings.
In the heights
Mount Lofty House, set high in the Adelaide Hills at the gateway to South Australia’s wine regions yet only 15 minutes from the CBD, seems just the ticket for a short break now that border restrictions have been eased. The charming historic property, built in 1852, is offering three nights’ accommodation in a Picadilly Garden Room for $599 a person, a saving of 45 per cent, on selected dates until June 30, 2021. Wine tastings and tours are included.
Sunset for dawn
More than 1.2 million guests have made a great escape on Pacific Dawn since its first cruise from Sydney in November, 2007. But the 70,000 tonne superliner, which was due to leave the P&O fleet early next year, will now depart in coming weeks in preparation for its sale. Passengers who were booked on Pacific Dawn from December 17 can choose alternative arrangements including a full refund or bonus onboard credit on a future cruise option.
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