Travel packages: Crystal Cruises; The Langham; Geelong; truffles in Canberra
Save thousands on a Brisbane to Singapore cruise in 2023 or take advantage of some cracking hotel specials.
Savour the sea
Regional cruise
A complimentary international business class flight and savings of $5080 a couple or $8425 for solos are on offer for early-bird bookings of a 24-night Pathways through Papua voyage from Brisbane to Singapore aboard luxury liner Crystal Serenity, leaving March 2, 2023. Ports include Solomon Islands, PNG (Rabaul, Madang and Wewak), Komodo Island and Bali.
Fine print From $13,855 a person, twin-share, or $18,770 for solo; bookings by July 31.
By Corio Bay
Victoria
Geelong is a lively destination in its own right as well as the gateway to the Great Ocean Road and Bellarine Peninsula. Think fine dining on vibrant Pakington St and walks along Corio Bay and in the botanical gardens, all within easy reach of Quest Geelong, which is celebrating a refurbishment with special deals.
Fine print A one-bedroom apartment from $259 a night but save 25 per cent on stays of three nights or more; book by July 31 for visits to September 31.
In fine taste
ACT
Truffles have grown from a trifle in culinary agriculture to big business in a few short years. Experience the magic of truffle season in Canberra with a package devoted to the fungus at hip Midnight Hotel. Enjoy accommodation in a premium guestroom; three-course truffle dinner for two in Braddon Merchant restaurant and breakfast next morning; and a cocktail and complimentary mini-bar.
Fine print From $451 a night for stays to July 31.
Caring time
Victoria
The Langham, Melbourne has created a Winter Retreat “staycation” package to pamper guests. It includes overnight accommodation, valet parking, a bottle of premium sparkling wine on arrival, breakfast for two at Melba Restaurant, an in-room movie and a 25 per cent saving on dinner at Melba. A Winter Family Adventure package is also available.
Fine print Available for stays until September 17; from $326 for two adults or $421 for a family of four.
In the news
Spice isle Grenada in the Caribbean, along with sister islands Carriacou and Petite Martinique, has been named the first global Culinary Capital by the World Food Travel Association. The award is part of a program to help tourism recover after its hiatus.
Crystalbrook Collection’s latest addition to its hotel portfolio is the six-storey Vincent, formerly known as The Fantauzzo at Brisbane’s Howard Street Wharves. It is the group’s seventh hotel to open in three years. It will retain its links with artist Vincent Fantauzzo, whose works dominate the decor.
A new Egyptology museum has opened in Vif, south of Grenoble, France. Musee Champollion is set in a grand residence of the Champollion brothers, who pioneered the study of ancient Egypt, particularly deciphering hieroglyphs.
Organisers of the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair will revert to a digital platform for this year’s event in light of recent Covid-19 outbreaks. Audiences will be able to browse artworks and make purchases online from August 6-11.
Blue Mountains Tourism has been handed more than $2.6m as part of a state and federal government bushfire-recovery grant. The cash will be used to create jobs and promote the region as a tourist destination.