Intro4u2u

Like the rest of New Zealand, Queenstown is a pretty place too. The town center consists of rows of quaint looking cafes and never-ending souvenir shops with plenty of gifts to choose from at reasonable prices. T-shirts with little lambs printed on it are a common sight in town, as well as everywhere in New Zealand.

Don’t let the calm façade in Queenstown deceive you though. Many people have stepped into it and left with exciting and breathless encounters to talk about and remember for years to come. If there is one thing that Queenstown is synonymous for, it would be adventure sports. Well known for its adrenaline pumping sports activities, Queenstown would leave you gasping and a little weak in the knees. There does not seem to be an end to the variety of adventures available. When you think that you have exhausted every possible sport, a new and crazier activity will jump out at you. New Zealanders simply enjoy jumping off bridges, speeding down shallow rivers, and rolling down hills on inflatable balls, with safety in mind, of course.

The less adventurous need not feel out of place as other equally interesting activities are available, such as trout fishing and excursions on the steamship Earnslaw, which gently cruises the waters of Lake Wakatipu.

Water Adventures

Swift-flowing rivers near Queenstown are great for white-water rafting and jet-boating adventures. Imagine speeding over rapid shallows barely ankle deep in a ‘propellerless’ power boat! Be thrust by jet streams, which is when the water is drawn in through an intake at the bottom of the hull and pumped out at high pressure through a nozzle at the rear. The jet boat can actually skim over shallows no more than 10 cm (4 inches) deep, and can execute sudden 180-degree turns within a single boat length. Commercially, the most famous of them all would be the Shotover Jet. It swerves up and down the Shotover River, traveling at breakneck speeds in close proximity to the rocky banks; you will feel as if your head is just a hair’s breadth away from the rocky walls.

Canoeing, yachting, windsurfing, parasailing, water-skiing, and hobie-cat sailing, a well as hydrofoil and jet-bike rides are other water activities one should try in Queenstown.

Bungee Jumping

The most popular activity though in this adventurous town is bungee jumping. One of the recent additions to the bungee jumping locations is at the top of the Skyline gondola overlooking Queenstown. Another famous location would be at the historic Kawarau Bridge. Of course, there is the Skippers Canyon, which is one of the world’s highest bungee jumps, located right at the end of a dramatic four-wheel-drive ride.

Tandem Sky Dive

As the name suggests, this dive is done with a professional attached to your back. The both of you would then free-fall for about 30 seconds at a speed of 195 km/h (120 mph). The only time you catch your breath is during the four-minute final descent by parachute.

Rap Jumping

Those who find bungee a little “boring” should try rap jumping, the latest thrill. It will definitely present the city in a new light or rather, angle!

Island
Next

Singapore is an island with over 50 surrounding islets. Some of these islets have become favorite theme parks, such as Sentosa Island. Others have become camping spots or resorts filled with water sport activities. Each have their own special personality.

Kusu Island

Kusu Island is sacred to both the Muslims and Taoists. There is a legend attached to the Malay shrine and Chinese temple that is on the island. It is said that a giant turtle had transformed itself into a large rock, in order to save two shipwrecked sailors - one was Malay and the other Chinese. Taoists make annual pilgrimages to the Tua Pekong Temple during the 9th lunar month, while Muslims visit the Kramat Kusu, which is a Malay shrine. Stunning views of the mainland can be seen from Kusu’s beaches and its hilltops. The warm waters of the lagoon are ideal for swimming.

Getting there: Take a ferry from the World Trade Centre.

Pulau Ubin

Shaped like a boomerang, Pulau Ubin is an island off the northeastern coast of Singapore. An island covered with low hills, it is currently being developed into a nature park complete with trails, shelters, camping sites, chalets, and other basic amenities. Works will be fully completed by the year 2000. Much of its natural environment will be preserved and visitors can still experience the rustic village atmosphere encompassing granite quarries, coconut and rubber plantations, mangrove swamps, fish and prawn farms, and traditional fishing kelongs or huts. Pulau Ubin also has a natural haven of plants, birds, and insects found in its mangrove and forest areas. This island is a great place for mountain biking, hiking, and camping.

Getting there: Take SBS Bus 2 from Tanah Merah MRT Station to Changi Point. Then take a bumboat from the Changi Jetty

Nature
Next

Singapore is awash with lush gardens and parklands as tropical greenery carpets the landscape. Countless trees and flowering shrubs line the expressways and colorful plants hang from balconies and overhead bridges. Singapore also has many nature parks and reservoirs that dot the entire island.

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Apart from Rio de Janeiro, Singapore is the only city in the world to have a significant area of primary rainforest within its boundaries. Only 12km from the city center, this 164-hectare reserve contains more species of trees than the entire North American continent. At the heart of the reserve lies Singapore’s highest point, Bukit Timah Hill. It is at 162.5m above sea level with well marked paths meandering through the jungle. An ideal place for hikers, it is a habitat for exotic birds, butterflies, monkeys, squirrels, and flying lemurs, as well as unique plant life, such as the insect-eating pitcher plant. It is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Getting there : Take TIBS Bus 171 or 182 from Newton MRT Station.

Sungei Buluh Nature Park

As Singapore’s first wetland nature reserve, this park offers several hiking trails and ten observation hides. There are also large freshwater ponds, prawn farms, mangroves, and swamps. This is a great place for adventurous hikers. The park is open from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays and from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends and public holidays.

Getting there : Take TIBS Bus 925 from either Woodlands MRT Station or Kranji MRT Station

Other Attractions
Next

Interactive, entertaining, fabulously fun, and educational are the words to best describe these tourist attractions in Singapore. The history of the republic has also given rise to a number of landmarks and memorials. Each brings about a vivid chapter of Singapore’s past. Some of these buildings date as far back as the British colonial period to the Japanese Occupation of World War II.

Chijmes

A former convent, Chijmes (pronounced “chimes”) is a unique blend of historical architecture and modern restoration. It offers an exciting dining, shopping, leisure, and entertainment experience. Within its grounds stands the Chijmes Hall, which was erected in 1890. It is a showcase of plasterwork, delicate wall frescoes and stained glass. This restored chapel provides a spectacular backdrop for musicals, recitals, and other theatrical performances. Apart from the chapel, it boasts the oldest freestanding house in Singapore, the Caldwell House. Chijmes is also home to art galleries, boutiques, and a lavish selection of fine dining restaurants, wine bars, and cafes. Operating hours begin at 11 a.m.

Getting there : Alight at City Hall MRT Station.

Merlion Park

The Merlion Park is home to the half-lion, half-fish sculpture, which is a national icon. The Merlion statue was officially located at the mouth of the Singapore River on September 15,1972. A ubiquitous tourism symbol of Singapore, it is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Getting there : Walk towards the Esplanade from Raffles Place MRT Station. Or take TIBS Bus 167 or 182 from Orchard Road.

Parliament House and the Elephant Statue

The Parliament House was a former two-story colonial mansion called “Court House”. It was designed and built by George Coleman in 1827. Currently, the Parliament House is Singapore’s oldest government building and home of Singapore’s democratically elected President. Visitors to the stately building are greeted by a bronze elephant, which was a gift from King Chulalongkorn of Siam in 1871. Tours are by appointment only.

Getting there : Walk across Cavenagh Bridge from Raffles Place MRT Station.

Travel Guide:

A new word is slipping into the dictionary of diving in the Sipadan area and the word is Mataking. While there are plenty of options for diving Sipadan from as close as possible, Mataking is slightly removed from all the action and offers something different.

Mataking is in fact two islands connected by a sandbar and on Mataking Besar you will find the only resort, The Reef Dive Resort. Apart from the resort and a small police station the islands are covered in natural jungle as a little stroll will reveal. The main island is several times larger than Sipadan and is privately owned, meaning no other resorts will be setting up shop here.

The island is a short 40 minute ride east of Semporna where the peace and solitude of the luxury Reef Dive resort awaits you. From Mataking you can enjoy convenient, hassle-free and diverse macro-diving as well as the daytrips to world-famous Sipadan which is 80 minutes speedboat ride away.

Get in :

Flight - Boat Transfer
The recommended flight from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau leaves at 7:00 hrs and arrives at 7:45 hrs with Malaysia Airlines. This is the flight that Mataking Resort prefers and guests will be collected here and driven for around one hour to Semporna, where the resort boat will transfer you the 40 minutes to the resort.

Later flights are available but can cause problems with transfers (there is often one in the afternoon) and will almost certainly mean no diving on the first day.

There are direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Tawau with Air Asia (07:20-10:05 hrs), and from Johor Bahru (07:50-10:35 hrs), but these may mean a long wait for pick up, or an overnight in Semporna and pick up from your hotel next day at 08:00 hrs. You can stay at the Seafest Hotel or Dragon Inn in Semporna.

Due to the dangers of flying after diving, some resorts may require you to sign a waiver. This is because some guests want to squeeze in as many dives as possible regardless of the risks. Guests who will be flying within 24 hours after departure from the resorts may be subject to diving restrictions on the last day.

Flights back from Tawau are Malaysia Airlines to Kota Kinabalu (14:40-15:25 hrs or 21:00-21:45 hrs). If you do not wish to stay overnight in Kota Kinabalu, you can fliy direct to Kuala Lumpur with Air Asia (10:30-13:15 hrs or 21:00-21:45 hrs) or back to Johor Bahru (11:10-13:45 hrs).

Note - flight times are subject to change

Sakawa Royal Golf Club - Kanagawa Prefecture
Learn More

Book your spot ™
Open year round, including holidays, this membership club of 3000 members has lowered its prices and now allows non-members to play on weekdays, but on weekends during peak season it’s still members only. With Mt. Fuji in full view from nearly every hole, this 6786-yard course (6205 meters) offers four holes with water, 18 sand traps and one dog’s leg. Longest hole: 582 yards. Shortest hole: 152 yards Learn More

Phone: N/A
Price Range: $251 - $500
Size: N/A
Open Season: Year Round
Kids Allowed: Yes
Pets Allowed: No
Restaurant Onsite: Yes
Conference Facility: No
Nearest Popular City: Kanagawa Prefecture
Nearest Lake/River: N/A
Languages: English, Japanese

Accommodation Types: Golf Resorts

Activities: Golfing

Details Provided By: Sakawa Royal Golf Club
Akasaka Prince Hotel - Tokyo
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+81 3 3234 1111
Book your spot ™
Akasaka is one of the most exciting areas in Tokyo offering easy access to the business and government districts by day and one of Tokyo’s’ premier entertainment areas at night. Designed by award-winning architect Kenzo Tange, the Akasaka Prince Hotel features especially spacious guest rooms along with 13 restaurants and bars. Learn More

Phone: +81 3 3234 1111
Price Range: $76 - $150
Size: N/A
Open Season: Year Round
Kids Allowed: Yes
Pets Allowed: No
Restaurant Onsite: Yes
Conference Facility: Yes
Nearest Popular City: Tokyo
Nearest Lake/River: N/A
Languages: English, Japanese

Accommodation Types: Holiday Hotels

Activities: Shopping, Sightseeing

Details Provided By: Akasaka Prince Hotel
Kyoto Brighton Hotel - Kamigyo-ku
Learn More  Check Availability
(81-75) 441-4411
Book your spot ™
Centrally situated near the Imperial Palace and just minutes away from the famous business and entertainment districts of the Gion and Kawaramachi, the Brighton is perfectly located for sightseers and those seeking more relaxed pastimes in elegant surroundings. Renowned for a delicate combination of five-star British elegance with unrivaled Japanese service and quality, the Brighton is popular among international business and sightseeing dignitaries for its complimentary benefits program, including English-language tour information and twice-daily English-language newspapers. Learn More

Phone: (81-75) 441-4411
Price Range: $251 - $500
Size: N/A
Open Season: Year Round
Kids Allowed: Yes
Pets Allowed: No
Restaurant Onsite: Yes
Conference Facility: Yes
Nearest Popular City: N/A
Nearest Lake/River: N/A
Languages: English, Japanese

Accommodation Types: Luxury Resorts

Activities: Fitness and Beauty, Swimming Pool / Lake

Details Provided By: Kyoto Brighton Hotel
Hotel Seiyo Ginza - Tokyo
Learn More  Check Availability
(81-3) 3535-1111
Book your spot ™
Hotel Seiyo Ginza, located in the center of the Ginza District, is a small luxury hotel featuring top quality personalized service. The hotel is conveniently near the Tokyo triangle and the main areas of interest in Tokyo, making it the ideal destination for both business and pleasure. The elegant Hotel Seiyo Ginza is a serene oasis. Learn More

Phone: (81-3) 3535-1111
Price Range: $251 - $500
Size: N/A
Open Season: Year Round
Kids Allowed: Yes
Pets Allowed: No
Restaurant Onsite: Yes
Conference Facility: Yes
Nearest Popular City: Tokyo
Nearest Lake/River: N/A
Languages: English, Japanese

Accommodation Types: Luxury Resorts

Activities: Fitness and Beauty, Sightseeing

Details Provided By: Hotel Seiyo Ginza
Hotel Narita Tokyu - Narita-City
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+81 4 7633 0109
Book your spot ™
Decorated in contemporary style with light colours and modern furnishings, the well-equipped Hotel Narita Tokyu caters to the needs of the business and leisure traveller. Learn More

Phone: +81 4 7633 0109
Price Range: $76 - $150
Size: N/A
Open Season: Year Round
Kids Allowed: Yes
Pets Allowed: No
Restaurant Onsite: Yes
Conference Facility: Yes
Nearest Popular City: Tokyo
Nearest Lake/River: N/A
Languages: English, Japanese

Accommodation Types: Holiday Hotels

Activities: Shopping, Sightseeing

Details Provided By: Hotel Narita Tokyu
Nagoya Kanko Hotel - Nagoya
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+81 5 2231 7711
Book your spot ™
Nagoya Kanko Hotel is a large and modern first class hotel in the heart of Nagoya with elegantly refurbished guest rooms. A careful balance of service based on the 60 years tradition also provides a wide range of restaurants and other ammenities. Learn More

Phone: +81 5 2231 7711
Price Range: $76 - $150
Size: N/A
Open Season: Year Round
Kids Allowed: Yes
Pets Allowed: No
Restaurant Onsite: Yes
Conference Facility: Yes
Nearest Popular City: Kyoto
Nearest Lake/River: N/A
Languages: English, Japanese

Accommodation Types: Holiday Hotels

Activities: Shopping, Sightseeing

Details Provided By: Nagoya Kanko Hotel
Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo - Bunkyo-ku
Learn More  Check Availability
(81-3) 3943-2222
Book your spot ™
Boasting unparalleled comforts, the elegantly modern Four Seasons Tokyo is artfully integrated into the 17 acres of Japan’s historic Chinzan-so Garden, yet within easy reach of business, shopping and entertainment. We offer 283 rooms and suites, furnished in Western or Japanese style, and an exclusive Four Seasons Club Floor. Choose from gourmet Italian, Chinese or traditional Japanese cuisine at our exquisite restaurants, and relax at our state-of-the-art health club and spa with Japanese Onsen baths filled with filtered hot spring water from the Izu Peninsula. Also featured are an atrium pool in a lovely garden setting and a sophisticated amphitheatre for conferences. Learn More

Phone: (81-3) 3943-2222
Price Range: $251 - $500
Size: N/A
Open Season: Year Round
Kids Allowed: Yes
Pets Allowed: No
Restaurant Onsite: Yes
Conference Facility: Yes
Nearest Popular City: Tokyo
Nearest Lake/River: N/A
Languages: English, Japanese

Accommodation Types: Luxury Resorts, Spa Resorts

Activities: Fitness and Beauty, Swimming Pool / Lake

Details Provided By: Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo
The Pan Pacific Hotel Yokohama - Yokohama City
Learn More  Check Availability
(81-45) 682-2222
Book your spot ™
The Pan Pacific Hotel Yokohama is located in the trendy Minato Mirai 21 waterfront area of Yokohama. The luxury hotel is a contemporary urban oasis designed to refresh the spirit with lush greenery, natural sunlight, and spectacular views of the waterfront. The hotel’s international style of service and facilities cater to leisure visitors as well as groups and business travelers. The majority of the guest rooms offer balconies, which is rare for a city hotel in Japan. Learn More

Phone: (81-45) 682-2222
Price Range: $76 - $150
Size: N/A
Open Season: Year Round
Kids Allowed: Yes
Pets Allowed: No
Restaurant Onsite: Yes
Conference Facility: Yes
Nearest Popular City: Yokohama
Nearest Lake/River: N/A
Languages: English, Japanese

Accommodation Types: Luxury Resorts

Activities: Fitness and Beauty, Shopping, Sightseeing, Swimming Pool / Lake

Details Provided By: The Pan Pacific Hotel Yokohama
Portopia Hotel - Kobe
Learn More
+81 7 8302 1111
Book your spot ™
Multifunctional yet hospitable, futuristic in design yet warm: contrasts come together to make the luxury Portopia Hotel a unique experience. Learn More

Phone: +81 7 8302 1111
Price Range: $76 - $150
Size: N/A
Open Season: Year Round
Kids Allowed: Yes
Pets Allowed: No
Restaurant Onsite: Yes
Conference Facility: Yes
Nearest Popular City: Osaka
Nearest Lake/River: N/A
Languages: English

Accommodation Types: Holiday Hotels

Activities: Shopping, Sightseeing

Details Provided By: Portopia Hotel
Dai-ichi Hotel Tokyo - Minato-ku
Learn More  Check Availability
(81-3) 3501-4411
Book your spot ™
A contemporary, high-rise structure,the Daiichi Hotel is located in the heart of the city’s business and shopping areas, it is a landmark near the city’s famous Ginza district. The hotel embodies a rich Japanese tradition of warm hospitality, while skillful design and exacting attention to detail combine to create a world of European elegance. Learn More

Phone: (81-3) 3501-4411
Price Range: $251 - $500
Size: 277 Units
Open Season: Year Round
Kids Allowed: Yes
Pets Allowed: No
Restaurant Onsite: Yes
Conference Facility: Yes
Nearest Popular City: N/A
Nearest Lake/River: N/A
Languages: English, Japanese

Accommodation Types: Luxury Resorts

Activities: Fitness and Beauty, Swimming Pool / Lake

Details Provided By: Dai-ichi Hotel Tokyo

FRASER ISLAND TOURS
Departing HERVEY BAY
Fraser Venture Tours - 1 day tours of Fraser Island
Fraser Venture Safaris - 2 & 3 day tours departing Hervey Bay and Sunshine Coast
Kingfisher 1 day Tour - 1 day Ranger Guided Tour of Fraser Island
Kingfisher 2 & 3 day Safari - 2 & 3 day all inclusive Safari of Fraser Island
Air Fraser - Flights and fly/drives to Fraser Island
Fraser Island Company - 1 Day Tour of Fraser Island
Fraser Island Company - 2 Day Tour of Fraser Island
Fraser Exclusive Tours - Quality tour with small numbers
Koala Backpackers 4WD Safari - 3 day self drive safari of Fraser Island

FRASER ISLAND TOURS
Departing Sunshine Coast
Fraser Explorer - Tours from the Sunshine Coast
Sand Island Safaris - 3 day guided safari of Fraser Island
Australian Day Tours - two day guided tour of Fraser Island
Fraser Island Suncoast Safaris - a personalised safari departing the Sunshine Coast
Fraser Island Adventure Tours - 1 day tour departing the Sunshine Coast
Sunrover Expeditions - 3 Day Safari to Fraser Island departing Brisbane
Sunrover Expeditions - 5 day World Heritage Nature Safari

Fraser Island maps  - Full Colour Fraser Island maps for sale at only $5.95 each

FRASER ISLAND RESORTS
Kingfisher Bay Resort & Village - The eco resort of Fraser Island
Eurong Beach Resort - The family resort of Fraser Island
Fraser Island Retreat - A Timber lodge retreat
Fraser Island Beach Houses - quality resort style houses on the beach
Poyungan Valley Hideaway -  3 bedroom accommodation on Fraser Island
Sailfish on Fraser -  luxury 2 bedroom apartments at Happy Valley
Holiday Houses at Second Valley -  a selection of privately owned holiday houses

FRASER ISLAND 4WD HIRE
Bay 4WD Centre - A variety of 4WD’s for hire
Island Explorers - See Fraser Island in a 4WD
Kingfisher Bay 4WD Hire - 4WD on Fraser Island
Sunshine 4WD Hire - 4WD Hire from Noosa
Noosa Sunrover Rentals - a variety of 4WDs for hire (Noosa)

BUNDABERG
Lady Musgrave Island - A day trip to the coral cay
Saltys Dive Centre - Diving and courses on The Great Barrier Reef
Lady Elliot Island Resort - Great diving and snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef

WHITSUNDAYS
Accommodation
Airlie Beach Hotel - The beachfront resort in Airlie Beach
Coral Sea Resort - The beachfront resort in Airlie Beach
Mediterranean Resort  - Luxury with beautiful sea views
Martinique Whitsundays - best views in Airlie Beach
Toscana Village - Luxury apartments in Airlie Beach
Laguna Quays Resort - Your passport to fun on the mainland
Boathaven Lodge - affordable accommodation
Coral Point Lodge - accommodation with great sea views

WHITSUNDAYS
Sailing
Banjora - 3 Days 3 Nights sailing adventure in the Whitsundays
Tongarra - 3 Days 2 Nights fun sailing in the Whitsundays
Dream Catcher - 2 Day 2 Night sailing adventure
Reality is… - 2 Day 1 Night sailing adventure in the Whitsundays
Roque II - 3 Day 2 Night sailing adventure in the Whitsundays
Otella - a sailing adventure to remember
Mainstay - Luxury sailing adventure from Airlie Beach in the Whitsundays
Anaconda III - 3 Day/3 Nights Luxury Whitsunday sailing
Fun Cruising - 4 fun sailing vessels for 18-35’s in the Whitsundays
Apollo III - 3 Day 2 Night Sailing trips in the Whitsundays
Coral Trekker - 3 night & 6 night Sailing trips in the Whitsundays
SeaQuest - Luxury cruises around the Whitsundays
Mandrake - 3 days 2 nights on this 55′ ocean racer, Airlie Beach, Whitsundays
Mango - 3 days 2 nights luxury Whitsunday cruise
Callista - spacious cruising vessel in the Whitsunday Islands
Madison - cruise the Whitsunday Islands in style
Wings of the Dawn - see more of the Whitsunday Islands

WHITSUNDAYS
Cruising and Great Barrier Reef Trips
Whitsunday Rent-a-yacht - The ultimate Whitsunday getaway
Reef Odyssey - a luxury Great Barrier Reef Cruise
Reefjet - The fastest ride to the Reef
Fantasea 2 Island Cruise - 2 island adventure day cruise
Fantasea 3 Island Cruise - 3 islands in one day cruise
Fantasea Reef Reefsleep - 2 Day 1 night Reef Adventure
Fantasea Reef Day Cruise - Day cruise of the Great Barrier Reef
Ragamuffin - Sail, Dive, Snorkel on this day cruise
Air Whitsundays - Seaplane flights of the Great Barrier Reef
Oceania Dive - Dive & snorkel the Great Barrier Reef

CAIRNS
Cruises and activities
Ocean Spirit Cruises - day sailing trips to the Reef
Odyssey H20 - Dive and snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef
Jeni’s Adventure Tour & Charter - Tours of Cape Tribulation
Trek North - Tours of Cape Tribulation and the Daintree
Trek North Skyrail & Kuranda Train Tour - Skyrail & train
Down Under Dive - Dive and Sail the Great Barrier Reef
Raging Thunder - Tours & activities - all offering excitement
Hotair Ballooning - Hot air ballooning over some magnificent country

Car Rental

Sugarland Car Rental - Locally owned and operated car rental

Apex Rent a Car  - Australia wide car rental

PORT DOUGLAS -  DAINTREE
Accommodation

- THE DAINTREE -
PK’s Jungle Village - an unforgettable get-away
Daintree Wilderness Lodge - a small intimate lodge
Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa - Clear the mind, cleanse the soul
Ferntree Rainforest Resort - unique accommodation
The Sovereign Resort Hotel  - a luxury resort style hotel in Cooktown
Peppers Bloomfield Lodge  - peace and tranquility on the Bloomfield River

WHALE WATCHING
HERVEY BAY
Tasman Venture II - A luxurious catamaran
The Spirit of Hervey Bay - A cat with glass bottom viewing
MV Islander - A large stable whale watching vessel
Kingfisher I - a fast, comfortable, catamaran
Seaspray - A personalised whale experience
Quick Cat - A fast catamaran to get to the whales quickly
Princess II - A cruise limited to only 32 passengers
Mikat Whale Watch - A luxury 3/4 day trip
Volante III - Dawn and 3/4 day trips
Volante IV - luxury half day whale watching cruises
Whalesong - A luxury half day cruise
Blue Dolphin - a personalised sailing vessel with small numbers
Oceania Project - extended whale watch research cruises

ISLAND RESORTS of QUEENSLAND
Relax on one of these fabulous island resorts

Lady Elliot Island Resort - A true coral cay resort on The  Reef

Magnetic Island - Magnetic International Resort

Orpheus Island Resort - An enchanted isle

Heron Island Resort - A quality resort right on the Reef

Wilson Island Resort - A very exclusive resort near Heron Island

Green Island Resort - A coral cay only 45 minutes from Cairns

Lizard Island Resort - Something out of the ordinary

Great Keppel Island Resort - The fun resort of the coast

Hamilton Island Resort - An Island with plenty of activities.

Hayman Island Resort - A world class resort

Daydream Island Resort - A casual Whitsundays resort

Kingfisher Bay Resort and Village - Fraser Island’s premier resort

Fraser Island Beach Houses - Quality Beach Houses on Fraser

Sailfish on Fraser - Luxury apartments on Fraser Island

South Molle Island Resort - Australia’s friendly resort

Club Crocodile Long Island - The friendly resort for all ages

Hook Island Wilderness Resort - Unspoiled Wilderness

Dunk Island Resort - A resort on a beautiful rainforest island

Bedarra Island Resort - your private hideaway on Bedarra Island

Fitzroy Island Resort - a fun island resort

Brampton Island Resort - A beautiful tropical island haven

Tangalooma Wild Dolphin Resort - The resort of Moreton Island

Couran Cove Island Resort - A stunning destination on Stradbroke Island

Hinchinbrook Island Wilderness Lodge - Splendid Isolation

Club Med Lindeman Island - The well know entertainment resort

Couran Cove Island Resort is a stunning holiday destination, with easy access by road or plane, only a few kilometres offshore from Queensland’s Gold Coast. Fly into Brisbane or Coolangatta and it’s only a short transfer to our ferry terminal.

An easy twenty-minute ferry ride across the calm Broadwater brings you to our island. A glorious sanctuary with protected natural surrounds, like an ancient rainforest. Spoilt for choice, the facilities begin with twenty-two kilometres of pure white sandy beach, the ultimate Spa and Total Living Centre, Olympic-standard sporting facilities, every conceivable water sport, dining by the beach, kids club and more. Stay in award-winning accommodation perched over the water’s edge, or in cabins nestled deep in a forest of banksia trees.

Couran Cove is an island playground where first-class facilities are standard.

When was the last time you had twenty-two kilometres of fine, sandy beach to squish through your toes? Or natural coastal beauty stretched out in front of you? Shells, rainbow lorikeets, a surf lifesaver, even wallabies call this beach home.

After an invigorating swim, hop on your bike and ride beneath a canopy of trees. The rainforest is a tranquil introduction to the island’s wildlife and flora.

A long leisurely stroll down the endless beach gives you plenty of time to contemplate what to do next.
Take a deep breath. At the surf beach you can go boogie boarding, bodysurfing and jogging, or learn to surf. At the Broadwater, learn to sail or carve a wave behind a speeding tow, go yachting, waterskiing, windsurfing, have a banana boat ride, or a parasail.

Maybe you’d like to Mad Max your way across the water on a jetski? Or try your hand at sailing a catamaran. At the lagoon you can go kayaking, canoeing, hydrocycling. Can you keep up?

There’s a 180 metre sprint track with a self-timer. There are long jump, high jump and triple jump pits. Javelin, shot put and discus areas. There’s two basketball half courts, shuffleboard courts, an indoor and outdoor gym and a rock climbing wall. Golf driving nets, 18-hole putting green, baseball batting cage, beach volleyball court, bikes and scooters. If you manage even half of these activities, you’ve put in a marathon effort.

When was the last time you had twenty-two kilometres of fine, sandy beach to squish through your toes? Or natural coastal beauty stretched out in front of you? Shells, rainbow lorikeets, a surf lifesaver, even wallabies call this beach home.

After an invigorating swim, hop on your bike and ride beneath a canopy of trees. The rainforest is a tranquil introduction to the island’s wildlife and flora.

A long leisurely stroll down the endless beach gives you plenty of time to contemplate what to do next. There’s so much to do, where do you start? From nature activities like star gazing and eco-tours, every physical and water sport under the sun, the Spa and Total Living Centre for serious indulging, and off-island tours like golf trips, shopping or theme parks. Couran Cove is an island playground where first-class facilities are there to spoil you.

Find a secluded spot for lunch and laze about in the middle of nowhere. Why not try bird watching in the mangroves? The Broadwater is a haven for wildlife. Maybe you’d like to lose yourself in the exquisite nature walking trails. Everyone finds the rainforest boardwalk an easy, peaceful stroll.

Ask about our eco-tours like star gazing or the bush-tucker tour. Or try your hand at nature art classes and explore your own creativity. After an exhausting day, or a completely relaxing day, it’s a comforting thought to have a massage lined up. Or maybe a Tai Chi class on the beach at sunset. And if you’re not that organised, just watch the sun set at the beach before you go out for dinner. It’s stunning.

Once you find out how much there is to do at Couran Cove Island Resort, you’ll need some time out to relax

Queensland is fortunate indeed to be home to a large number of truly unique Islands Resorts along its coast. These Island Resorts are situated on islands ranging from small coral cays where you walk from the beach to the Great Barrier Reef to an island made of pure sand - World Heritage Listed Fraser Island.

Each Australian Island Resort has it’s own qualities and features and offer varied experiences and luxury.
All of the Australian Island Resorts are special places and are certainly worth a visit.

For instant last minute hotel rooms and resort accommodation bookings go to: GoGoGo:

• Lady Elliot Island Resort - A true coral cay resort on The Reef
• Magnetic Island - Magnetic International Resort
• Orpheus Island Resort - An enchanted isle
• Heron Island Resort - - A quality resort right on the Reef
• Green Island Resort - A coral cay only 45 minutes from Cairns
• Lizard Island Resort - Something out of the ordinary
• Great Keppel Island Resort - The fun resort of the coast
• Hamilton Island Resort - An Island with plenty of activities.
• Hayman Island Resort - A world class resort
• Daydream Island Resort - A casual Whitsundays resort
• Kingfisher Bay Resort  - Fraser Island’s premier resort
• Fraser Island Beach Houses - Quality Beach Houses on Fraser
• South Molle Island Resort - Australia’s friendly resort
• Long Island Resort - The friendly resort for all ages
• Dunk Island Resort - A resort on a beautiful rainforest island
• Bedarra Island Resort - your private hideaway on Bedarra
• Fitzroy Island Resort - a fun island resort
• Brampton Island Resort - A beautiful tropical island haven
• Tangalooma Wild Dolphin Resort - The resort of Moreton Island
• Couran Cove Resort - A luxury resort on Stradbroke Island
• Hinchinbrook Island Wilderness Lodge - Splendid Isolation
• Club Med Lindeman Island - The well know entertainment resort
• Wilson Island Resort - very exclusive very quiet       ~ New ~
• Hayman Island Resort

The islands resorts are ideally suited for honeymooners, families, divers and snorkellers - in fact anyone looking for an idyllic, exotic, tropical, and pristine holiday destination.

When you want absolute luxury you can try Lizard Island Resort, Orpheus Island Resort, and Bedarra Island Resort. For Scuba divers and snorkellers there is Heron Island Resort or Lizard Island Resort.

All of the island resorts are a great place for a stress free holiday and a unique experience.

Some of the resorts are situated right on or near the Great Barrier Reef.

The Great Barrier Reef stretches more than 2000 kilometres along the coastline of Queensland.

More than 2900 individual reefs and 71 coral islands make up the Great Barrier Reef. Islands and reefs are typically in remote locations. Access is via resort stays, day trips with tour operators or self-sail rentals. The waters of the Great Barrier Reef provide the world’s busiest and most varied marine habitats.

Marine life is in abundance and perfect for diving and snorkelling. The varied colours of the reef’s fish and other marine life will astound the visitor with colour combinations that artists haven’t even dreamed of. Several islands of the Great Barrier Reef are built on coral cays and many have their own fringing reef and national parks are common on the islands and park rules apply. Island resort activities vary according to the locale and style of each resort.

Typical activities are swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, coral viewing, reef walking, sailing, yacht charter, jet skiing, parasailing, sailboarding, kayaking, catamarans, canoes, big game fishing and whale watching.

The Great Barrier Reef is of such pristine condition that it was listed as by the World Heritage Trust as a protected site and is therefore managed by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Authority to ensure that its beauty is maintained for many generations to come.

Lord Howe Island is a rare place where people still ride bicycles, where fish are abundant, where indigenous Kentia palms and pure white sand fringe an aqua lagoon and where the translucent ocean rolls in on “Blinky”, our magnificent surfing beach.

The island offers a stunning combination of natural beauty and warm hospitality. 700km north east of Sydney in the South Pacific Ocean, Lord Howe’s unique environment of forests and mountains is fringed by the most southerly coral reef in the world, creating a fascinating crystal clear lagoon, with a foreshore of beautiful bays and beaches.

The appearance of the island and its unspoilt environment draws visitors of all ages back time and time again. Pinetrees is centrally located so it makes an ideal base.

A guest house for over 100 years, Pinetrees is now the largest hotel on Lord Howe Island, catering for just 85 visitors in single story accommodation in grounds studded with magnificent pine trees. Our boatshed is right on the lagoon.

The lagoon beach is just across the road for your early morning swim in clean, clear water. Our boatshed is right on the lagoon in front of Pinetrees and is a great place for a cool drink as the sun sets.

You are only a short bike ride from the golf course or the champagne surf at Blinky, or a lazy day at Lovers Bay. In the other direction there are cafes, museum, bowling green, shops, post office and churches. Stretch out on Old Settlement Beach or check out Neds Beach where you can hand-feed the fish. Hand feed the fish.

Pinetrees is open all year round. There are attractive all-inclusive packages throughout the year.

During June-July-August, we have an excellent programme of bushwalking, tennis and jazz, all included in the package price.

This programme features some of Australia’s best jazz musicians. It has been an annual event since 1992 and each year is more exciting than the last.

Lord Howe boasts such spectacular scenery and special environs, that it was one of the first places in the world to acquire a World Heritage listing.

A two hour flight from Sydney, Brisbane or Port Macquarie takes you to this new world of natural beauty and warm hospitality.

Lord Howe Island is a very special place and we believe that if you choose to stay with us at Pinetrees, with our all inclusive rates, that you will find yourself perfectly situated for a wonderful holiday experience.
Pinetrees is the perfect base for enjoying all that Lord Howe has to offer.

We have a tennis court, a small library, bicycles and a billiard room. The lagoon beach is just across the road for your early morning swim in crystal clear water. Our Boatshed is right on the lagoon in front of Pinetrees and is a great place for a cool drink as the sun sets. There is also a shower and toilet for guest use.

For walkers there are clearly marked tracks. For walkers there are clearly marked tracks through rainforest or to the tops of hills with breathtaking views. Island guides will lead more energetic climbers to the top of Mt Gower (875 m high).

Scenic flights can be arranged to give you a different perspective or you can fly further afield to see the majestic Balls Pyramid. You can have days out on fishing boats, cruise around the island and visit smaller off-shore islands crammed with nesting birds.

Take a glass-bottom boat trip to see the most southerly coral reef in the world or go skin-diving in Lord Howe’s magical underwater environment. Or simply lose yourself exploring the bays and beaches along the deserted foreshores.

No matter how you choose to spend your day Pinetrees will pack your lunch, a cold picnic style or a true Australian barbeque, so that you can spend all day at your favourite spot birdwatching, fishing, snorkelling or just plain relaxing in the sun.

Pinetrees is the perfect holiday destination. Be as active as you like or just relax by yourself and then meet up again with friends for dinner.

The dining room. What dinners they are! Pinetrees professional chefs prepare superb meals from breakfast to dinner, all included in the tariff. There is fresh fruit, homemade bread and the best fish you ever tasted… caught that day of course. There are locally grown vegetables and tempting desserts.

In the dining room we uncork the wine and serve romantic candle lit meals looking out to the floodlit Kentia palms where the woodhens often scratch around and show off their chicks.

The original family homestead built in 1884 still stands as part of the lounge, billiard room, bar and dining room central complex. Around it is a wide covered verandah where guests gather for lunch, afternoon teas, drinks and occasional buffet dinners.

We can comfortably cater for groups or small conferences for up to 30 people. All the buildings are single storey set around the landscaped grounds and blend in beautifully with the palms, the pine trees and the tropical hibiscus and frangipanis.
Lord Howe Island is one of the most beautiful, unspoilt islands imaginable, fringed by the most southerly coral reef in the world. It lies in the South Pacific only 700 kilometres north-east of Sydney, or south-east of Brisbane.

A two hour flight from Sydney Brisbane or Port Macquarie takes you to this new world of natural beauty and warm hospitality.

What to bring to Lord Howe? Very little.. you won’t need a lot of gear on the island. It is a very relaxed and informal place. The planes have a weight limit on baggage of 14 kilos and you pay excess if your bags are overweight. You can hire snorkeling gear and golf clubs and we provide reasonable quality tennis racquets and balls.

We provide beach towels too. Nights can be cool and sometimes we eat out on the verandah so bring a sweater. A raincoat and torch should also be on the list - there are only a few street lights on Lord Howe Island. Days out on fishing boats can be arranged.

Only a short bike ride to the golf course Even though we are only a couple of hours from the mainland don’t rush a holiday with us.

Once you are here, spend at least a week to allow yourself the time to unwind and to savour and appreciate the delights of this World Heritage island.

In this frenetic world Pinetrees on Lord Howe Island is a great place to escape to