Grab your suitcase!

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!

2010-08-04T21:54:00.000-07:00

The wait is over!

It's time to step back in time and relive the memories and magic at Cherry Tree Lane.

Everyone has their favourite Mary Poppins song...was yours Chim Chim Cher-ee, A Spoonful of Sugar, Feed the Birds or Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious?

(Sorry if you have that song stuck in your head for the rest of the day!)

Mary Poppins the stage spectacular is playing for a strictly limited season at Her Majesty's Theatre in Melbourne. Based on both the book by Aussie P.L. Travers and the 1964 film, it features new sub plots and songs.

It'll cost you over $130 for a good seat (you can grab midweek matinee seats in the stalls for $60) but unlike other musical theatre experiences (I'm talking about you Cats...meow!) you'll be floating out of the theatre feeling you absolutely got your money's worth.

But you know if you are planning an evening at the theatre dahling, you absolutely must make a night of it.

There a ton of fantastic restaurants near Her Majesty's Theatre. For a list and locations check out this site.

And of course, for fantastic luxury accommodation in Melbourne check us out.

Her Majesty's Theatre. 219 Exhibition Street. Melbourne Victoria 3000.

Super - cali - fragi - listic - EX - P - I - A - LI - DOCIOUS!

Where I confess that I'm a Masterchef addict...

2010-07-16T00:28:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm confessing that I watch Masterchef.

Not religiously mind you (it makes me too hungry), but I do love to tune in occasionally to watch mere mortals battle their little culinary hearts outs.

I really love it when they crack under the pressure (schnitzel! OMG I can't make a schnitzel!)

Hilarious.

A few days ago they aired an episode where the remaining seven had to fight for a guaranteed spot in the finals next week.

Guest judges were some of the worlds best chefs - Kylie Kwong, Jacques Reymond, Mark Best and Alla Wolf Tasker.

The contestants shed blood, sweat and tears while preparing their dishes.

Oh dear, Calum had a mini break down over dropped pheasant pies.

But what I really loved about this episode was seeing the guest judges restaurants. These chefs are some of the most talented and inspired in their industry and we're so lucky their restaurants are here in Australia.

Lucky for you guys, we've also tracked down amazing luxury accommodation near these fine dining establishments.

Here are my two favourites out of the group in Victoria.

Jacques Reymond - Jacques Reymond Cuisine du Temps Restaurant 78 Williams Rd Prahran VIC.

Jacques has introduced a new approach to fine dining, offering entree size dishes only allowing diners to sample a wide variety of dishes.

The restaurant occupies a stately Victorian mansion with extensively landscaped gardens, open fireplaces and a private car park.

The menu combines impeccable cooking with a playful use of flavours and ingredients from Europe and Asia. It's occasion dining without the stuffiness.

Where to stay....

Alla Wolf Tasker - Lake House, King St, Daylesford Victoria.

The restaurant that Alla and husband Allen founded enjoys international acclaim.

Situated in the heart of Spa Country in Daylesford, Lake House offers magnificent views from its terraces and windows across the lake.

The team of cooks work to produce everything on the premises with strong seasonal produce driven menus. Dishes are 'masterly in composition and captivating in their appeal'. The Lake House is a country restaurant with world class standards.

This month they are featuring Masterclasses and a celebration of truffles and an exclusive cellar dinner with top wine expert Matt Paul.

Where to stay...

That's it from me, I'm off to watch the telly, bon appetit!

Comfort food...

2010-06-25T21:55:00.000-07:00

Winter is the season when food needs to be nourishing and sustaining. It's time for comfort food. Those dishes that involve cooking methods such as braising, simmering and roasting...all to warm your soul on these cold, cold evenings.

Operating in the heart of Hobart every Sunday is Tasmanian Farm Gate, Hobart's weekly farmers market. The stall holders stand by these four beliefs:

* Produce must be fresh, picked the night before.
* Everything must be regional.
* Produce must be in season.
* Only the grower or producer can trade at the market.

That's how you know what you're purchasing will be of the highest quality and taste divine.

According to the stall holders this winter, these are the top products to put in your shopping basket.

Hearty vegetables such as potatos, swedes, turnips, beans, cabbages, pumpkin, silverbeet and sprouts.

Stock up on crisp, juicy, new season apples. Remember an apple a day keeps the doctor away!

Grab some premium Tassie Beef and Premium Goat Meat. Don't forget Goat Meat pies and Berkshire Pork bangers.

Make sure you try Bruny Island Artisan Cheeses.

For the pantry, grab some Woodstock award winning jams and relishes.

Do all your shopping while sipping on locally roasted coffee.

Make sure you turn your purchases into something delectable...with ingredients this fresh and wholesome, you can't go wrong.

Tasmanian Farm Gate - Every Sunday in the Melville Street outdoor car park, Hobart Tasmania. Rain, hail or shine!

Festival of Voices

2010-06-22T21:54:00.000-07:00

Just because it's cold outside doesn't mean there isn't plenty to keep you occupied here in beautiful Tasmania.

Tourism Tasmania brings you The Lumina Winter of Festivals, more than 100 festivals and events that are taking place over Tasmania during autumn and winter.

If you're staying in Hobart (why not try the Zero Davey apartments?) then next up on the schedule is the Festival of Voices 7 - 11 July, 2010.

The festival features around 40 events over 5 days.

Festival highlights include the Festival Bonfire and Big Sing, the Festival Club in Salamanca Place and the Festival Finale Concert in Hobart's Federation Concert Hall.

National and local choirs choose the festival to perform and to celebrate. Come with your choir or with your friends and family.

A Good Read

2010-04-30T02:04:00.000-07:00

I love boutique...anything really! I'm not referring to little, funky clothes stores but to little companies that strive to be a little bit different and provide that something extra to their customers.

Melbourne Books is a boutique publishing house that publishes works of both non fiction and fiction. It also offers a self publishing service to authors who are finding it increasingly difficult to secure a publisher.

Australian writers should be celebrated and I'm chuffed to share this little gem that Melbourne Books has launched following the success of Award Winning Australian Writing 2008 at last year's Melbourne Writer's Festival.

This anthology provides an opportunity for talented Australian writers to showcase their short stories and bush poetry. Several of Australia's most prestigious competitions are participating in the book.

It's a great way to promote Australian writers.

For those of you who have always envisaged yourself as a writer...(admit it, we all have a dream of writing the great Australian novel) why not attend the Melbourne Writers Festival? For more info, click here.

Dzienkuje! (Well I think that's how you spell thanks in Polish!

2010-04-28T00:48:00.000-07:00

Remember that Seinfeld episode where Elaine was fighting with a old couple over a chocolate babka cake in a bakery?

Seinfeld -) The Babka - The funniest bloopers are right here

Well I have my own favourite Polish/ European bakery here in St Kilda.

Monarch cakes has been a Melbourne icon for years. It originally started as Monaco cake shop in Lygon Street in 1931 and quickly established itself as the centre of 1930s euro-cafe society.

In 1934 it was reborn in St Kilda, where it has remained for the last 76 years.

Here are two of my favourites.

Chocolate Kooglhoupf. Real chocolate laced through yeast pastry.

100 year old Polish Baked cheese cake (the cake's not 100 years old just the recipe LOL!)

So delicious.

Most of the recipes come from Eastern Europe - Austria, Poland, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia and recently a few more recent editions from the French.

Come and fight over a babka.

Monarch Cake Shop. 103 Acland Street St Kilda, Victoria.

Let's get all arty farty....

2010-04-27T23:31:00.000-07:00

So being a Melbourne girl, just like a diamond (Tiffanys if you are reading boy, hint hint) I tend to have different facets to my personality.

There's uber professional me. You know the one that open all the emails as soon as they hit the inbox, shows up for work on time, and never, ever has a sick day. Well almost never :)

Then there's the little miss party pants me. The one who can't wait for Friday night drinkies with the girls.

Next we have ex Melbourne Storm supporter me. Honestly boys, WTF?! You better win every game for the rest of the season just to prove a point. Disappointing to say the least....

Of course we also have Super Mummy me. Because girls can do it all * laughs hysterically *.

And then there's wildly intellectual, arty farty me.

So what's an art farty (no, I don't have a gas problem, honestly!) gal like me like to check out?

I love to check out The Rose Street Artists Markets when I have a free afternoon in Fitzroy. They run every Saturday and Sunday from 11am till 5pm. The Market is held in a disused yard in the back streets of Fitzroy and showcases up to 70 artist and designers each weekend.

Most of the artworks are a tad pricey if you're just after a souvenir, but there are cheaper items like hand drawn badges, cards or magnets priced from $3 - $5. I love the atmosphere and finding quirky designers flogging their wares, like the guy who makes bracelets from forks and funky earrings by Kasame.

The Market has live entertainment as well as munchies for you to enjoy.

The Rose Street Artists Market, 60 Rose St, Fitzroy.

- Nicola

Back to Melbourne we go!

2010-04-22T22:17:00.000-07:00

Hi guys!

Ready for the long weekend?

Well, I'm posting from my town this week and I thought I'd share with you one of my favourite touristy things to do in Melbourne. This is the tour that I take all my non-Melbournian relatives on when they visit and it never fails to impress.

What am I referring to?

The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant.

It glides through the city streets and onto South Melbourne, St Kilda, Prahan and Malvern.

You're welcomed aboard by a friendly maitre d' and served by the friendliest waiters I've ever met. Although it's also open for lunch, we always go for the five course dinner in the evening. Prices range from $82.50 for lunch (4 courses + drinks), $77 for the early 3 course dinner to $121 for the 5 course late dinner.

Open bar.

Figured out why I love it so much?

Booze aside, the food is always sensational.

My favourite so far has been the cognac pate for an appetizer, heavenly kangaroo (sorry Skippy) with tomato chilli jam for an entree, macadamia chicken with pesto, a selection of cheeses served with pear, and white chocolate and passionfruit parfait with praline and raspberry coulis for dessert.

* swoons *

I love my food.

It's a great way to introduce people to Melbourne but make sure you book early, it's so popular that it's often difficult to get a reservation. The tram has all the modern conveniences you'd expect from a first-class restaurant (but no room for prams folk) with all the luxury and fittings from the period.

It departs from the Tramstop at Normanby Road near the Crown Casino.

For more info or to book give me a holler.

Pavilions verdict...

2010-04-21T02:40:00.000-07:00

So do you want to know how we've rated The Pavilions among the listings that we have at Luxury Oz Stays?

How does 5 out of 5 sound?

I guess it depends on what type of holiday you're looking for, but if you want a holiday home that doubles as a great place to simply hang out, then The Pavilion 2 is perfect.

It's designed so that there are so many different, airy, open spaces for you to inhabit, that you never feel crowded regardless of how many people are staying with you. The inter-connected open plan pavilions incorporate extensive living areas and decks, set amongst a rain forest inspired garden.

The home is filled with all the mod cons you could desire (thank you my darling coffee machine) and it was in spic and span condition when we arrived. It successfully blends the inside with the outside

Broken Head is gorgeous in itself. Pristine beaches and lush rainforests. You can spend hours exploring the wonderland that is just metres from your doorstep.

If you're after some night life or perhaps a few top notch restaurants or eateries, then the city centre of Byron Bay is just ten minutes down the road.

We left feeling refreshed, revived and spoilt.

Pavilion 2 is a private and secure retreat perfect for a small beach wedding, secluded honeymoon or a beach getaway.

Loved it.

A bit of a splurge....

2010-04-18T21:00:00.000-07:00

We spent the day yesterday exploring Byron Bay.

I haven't been here for a few years and while it's still retained that relaxed, hippy vibe, it's became a lot funkier and diverse. It's still one of the most relaxed holiday destinations in Australia, with gorgeous beaches (famous for the lighthouse) and tropical rainforests.

With a friendly village atmosphere, Byron attracts people from all walks of life from all over the world and it's a great place to people watch.

We had lunch at the Beach Hotel (great fresh food and cold beer). Totally kid friendly too, with a park across the road and a row boat for them to play in.

After a spot of sunbaking, I spent the afternoon roaming the streets and looking for treats in the quirky little stores that are peppered all over Byron.

Here are a few of the treasures I found.

I bought a canister of Tridosha Salt of the Sea. It uses all natural ingredients to blend Australian sea salt, cracked peppercorns and native Australian herbs and spices. I sprinkled it over the chicken that we had for dinner and it was delish! Cute canister too.

A big stash of cookies from the Byron Bay Cookie company. I always grab one of these when I get a takeaway coffee so I decided to stock up at their home town. These are too good to be true, white choc chunk and macadamia nut is my all time favourite. (Hint, zap it in the microwave for 15 seconds and enjoy the gooey goodness).

And just to take home a bit of the hippy vibe with me, I splurged on this boho american Tassel necklace with Turquioise, feathers and an antique coin from Spell Shop. Great to wear with a singlet and jeans, methinks.

Gorgeous day out.

Stories from the Suitcase...Serenity now...

2010-04-16T18:12:00.000-07:00

Today I get the pleasure of writing this post while lying on the couches on the deck of a gorgeous beach house that we have the pleasure of 'road testing' for the weekend. I've got a freshly brewed coffee beside my laptop (it smells divine) and at the moment, because everyone is still asleep, all I can hear are the birds in the trees and the faint roar of the ocean.

Bliss.

All the stress of the working week evaporated as soon as we drove through Byron Bay to get to Broken Head. There must be something in the air here and I'm not talking about fumes from nearby Nimbin LOL!

People just seem more relaxed and everything moves at a slower pace.

The Pavilions is a gated complex of luxury beachouses situated at the end of a beach road, in a rainforest. The layout is open and spacious with timber decking all around the building. You feel like you've left Australia and landed in Bali.

To get our luxury beach house weekend started last night, the kids and everyone else were banished to the lounge pavilion to watch DVDs and I took a long bubble bath in the master bedroom.

Jealous?

Feeling 100% more relaxed, I grabbed a glass of wine and joined the crew to watch The Hangover. All time funniest movie.

This morning, to continue my weekend of chilling out I headed down to the beach.

I walked along the beach, squishing my toes in the sand and breathing in the fresh air. I'm one of those people who is always on the go, so to get the opportunity to just relax is wonderful. Better than a yoga class any day!

This area is so beautiful and unspoilt, you feel like you're a million miles from development. There's lots of little paths that lead into the nature reserve and you get spectacular views along the coast in both directions. I've heard that the little bays around Broken Head are known for nude bathing, but I didn't spot any nudie rudies!

It sounds like the troops have woken up, I'll let you know how the rest of our weekend goes.

- Susan

Stories from the Suitcase...Maroochydore

2010-04-14T02:28:00.000-07:00

So guys, new layout, new blog, new direction...why the hell not?!

We're going to show you how real people travel.

I don't know about you guys but I luuurve to read about other people's trips away, be it for the holiday of a lifetime or just a weekend away. I especially enjoy hearing about nightmare holidays. It's how I get most of my survival tips.

We tracked down Alex @ Whoa Mumma for a guest spot to let us know how she survived the Easter long weekend. Alex has a tonne of kids and yet manages to still get away occasionally (straight jacket stowed in glove box, I'm sure!)

This post should be called How I survived my Easter holiday.

I don't know if you guys follow my blog (IT IS AWESOME despite what you may have heard or read, recent laziness cast aside). If you do, you'll know that in recent years I have been some what of a jet setter. Hawaii, Japan, Vegas, heck even Christchurch...I've taken advantage of pretty much every Jetstar flight special.

But since popping out sprog number 4, I have been grounded. Something to do with her screaming like a banshee whenever the wind changes. Not the best companion for long haul flights. In fact, she's screaming her lungs out right now so I guess I better tend to Her Majesty's whims (4 teeth out in one week, she really is an over achiever).

Okay, I'm back.

What was I talking about?

Oh yes, the weekend from hell.

Hubs was going to do some training for his new job on the Thursday in Maroochydore. Maroochydore is a mighty pretty seaside town in Queensland.

Free luxury accommodation in a one bedroom apartment. He suggested that we all go up and spend the weekend together. Because I'm always complaining that I never get to go away anymore.

Being the sleep deprived, bored idiot supportive wife that I am, I agreed.

Flying to another country with family in tow? No worries. Limited to whatever crapola you can fit into a suitcase.

Driving to another city with family in tow?

A bloody mission. Portacot, pram, nappies, beach toys, blah, blah blah.

At 4am on Thursday morning we set out on our road trip. The baby, Miss 2 and 8 year old boy were pulled from their beds and packed into the car.

Let me now just say an almighty thank you to the Gods that invented in car DVD. I always swore black and blue that I'd never get one but this little beauty kept these two quiet for 3 whole hours.

Amazing. The fact that they were watching Austin Powers and now call each other 'sexy bitches' is irrelevant.

So we made it from the Gold Coast to Maroochydore in record time and found ourselves at our destination with a little dilemma.

What the heck was I going to do all day?

We found the local radio station and they were all a flutter because a man- eating shark had been spotted on the local beach. Hubs turned towards the beach and along with a dozen other JAWS fanatics (and the local TV station) stood on the beach waiting for a surfer to get chomped.

Took me about 15 minutes to figure out the date and that we'd been duped. April Fools Day people.

Ugh. Stupid sleep deprivation.

It was getting late (like 7.45am) so we dropped Hubs off at work and I took a few random turns, and found myself utterly and completey lost.

Sleep deprived, unable to check in until 2, with no GPS and 3 bored kids I did what any mother would do.

Found a Hungry Jacks, fed my kids a nutritious breakfast of hash browns and lemonade, hit google and found out the way to Australia Zoo.

Saved!

I took a few more random turns, found the way out of Maroochydore and headed down the highway to Beerwah.

When I turned into Australia Zoo, I felt like Clark Griswald arriving at Wallyworld.

Lucky for me, it was open, so there was no Bindi nose punching incident.

Fabulous day out. Kids loved it. We saw tigers, elephants and bears, oh my! Oh and yeah we watched the croc show.

I made inappropriate Steve Irwin jokes, threw in a few 'CRIKEYs' and got to pat a possum.

We left thoroughly exhausted and made our way back to Maroochydore. A few random turns and I found the waterfront and we spent some time playing in a park.

We finally checked into our accommodation at 5 pm (because I couldn't find it, then realised it was 100 metres from the park we'd been playing in. Doh!)

Hubs finished his training and I was ready for him to take over so I could have some 'me time' and start my holiday.

Bottle of wine ready.

He informed me that he was off to a work dinner at a swanky Thai restaurant.

Pleased I was not. Several glasses of wine were downed and there may have been some expletives.

CRIKEY!

I don't know if you've ever taken your family on holidays in an upmarket, luxury apartment.

Never EVER book a hotel room if you have kids. Nightmare.

You need at least one room to hide away in, so that you can quietly rock in the corner.

As it was, we had a spacious, uber trendy, one bed apartment to trash.

Which when you have an 8, 2 and 8 month year old to entertain, we did.

Cheese sprinkled all over the carpet amused the baby.

The 2 year old threw things off the balcony.

The 8 year old turned a lovely shade of green and proceeded to throw up and POO (one of those bugs that it comes out both ends) all over the lounge room for the rest of the evening.

Mummy drank wine. Lots of wine.

And eventually passed out.

Daddy eventually came home from his dinner, saw the devastation and realised it was 'his turn'.

Let's just say Good Friday did indeed turn into Good Friday when Whoa Mumma was treated to the movies (Revenge of the Titans...crap, don't go), A NAP, lunch & dinner. Delish.

Sunshine Plaza (across the road from our hotel) rocks.

I heart Maroochydore.

So yeah, eventually mummy got to relax and honestly, it was good to get away...all my complaining put aside.

Sorry for trashing the room Horton apartments. The smell will come out of the carpet...eventually.

So what did I learn on this adventure?

When you get home you want to kiss the tiles and Thank God that you're home.

(Unless, you're halfway home on Saturday and pewk into a McDonalds cup and proceed to spend the afternoon making out with the toilet bowl.)

Being a mum is awesome.

Got a horror holiday story you need to share? Maybe just to vent? Drop us a line and spare someone else the nightmare (or give us a giggle!)

The World Is Your Oyster...

2010-04-08T20:09:00.000-07:00

My family always consumes tonnes of seafood every Easter. Our table is normally set with some fresh Barramundi and a platter of prawns.

This year, since we were holidaying with the extended family, we thought we'd mix things up a bit and introduce the relatives to one of Tasmania's famous exports...

Barilla Bay Oysters

With oysters, I've found that people either love or hate the slippery little suckers.

I absolutely adore them. My husband? Not so much, but he was more than happy to tag along and check out Barilla Bay.

Barilla Bay is an oyster farm, restaurant and gourmet food store at Cambridge, southern Tasmania. It's about 15 minutes away from Hobart. It's only 5 minutes from Hobart airport and I was amazed to find out that they specialise in a travel pack so that you can take the oysters and other products on extended airline travel!

It's a beautiful complex, overlooking the bay and oyster farm.

We'd booked to go on the farm tour before lunch. Make sure you take coat and hat, it gets pretty chilly down this far south. The tour takes you out to the edge of the bay where you can see where oysters are grown in racks and then into the processing areas. They opened a few for us to taste and they were sensational! Fresh and creamy.

The Barilla Bay Restaurant features fresh Tasmanian produce (including the famous oysters) matched with Tasmanian wines and beers. It's on top of the food store and has views of the oyster farm.

The oyster menu is extensive.

My favourites were the Avocado and Lime Salsa oysters, Wasabi Soy oysters and Tasmanian Brie. There is plenty on the menu for oyster phobes too. Chef Simon Townsend is not only a dab hand at producing the freshest Tasmanian seafood, he can conjure up mean Thai-style salads and tender scotch fillets.

All washed down with a few bottles Tasmanian wine.

We grabbed a few cheeses and Barilla Bay's own Worcestershire Sauce from The Gourmet Foodstore to take home.

A delicious day out.

Barilla Bay

1388 Tasman Highway, Hobart.

What's on in Hobart in April...

2010-04-05T19:20:00.000-07:00

Looking for local festivals and events while staying in Hobart?

Here's a selection to inspire you for April 2010.

Every Saturday - Salamanca Markets. From 8.30 to 3.30pm enjoy the sights, sounds and flavours of Australia's best outdoor market.

2 - 5 April 2010 - Australian National Band Championships - Brass and Wind Bands from around Australia compete for the national titles. Street Parade on Saturday 3rd April.

10 April 2010 - Fairies in the Forest. Come to the first annual 'Fairies in the Forest Day' at the Tahune Airwalk. The day will feature face painting, treasure hunts, a barbeque lunch and more. A portion of the proceeds go to Make-A-Wish.

10 & 11 April 2010 - The Hobart Gem and Mineral Spectacular. Gemstones, jewellery, fossils, demonstrations and kids activities at the Boardwalk Gallery, Wrest Point Casino.

10 April 2010 - The Sundance Kids: Burn So Bright Tour at Republic Bar & Cafe.

11 April 2010 - Head to The Alley Cat Bar to catch Ann Vriend, a highly acclaimed singer/ songwriter.

11 April 2010 - Catch John Mayall and his blues/ rock style at Theatre Royal.

16 & 17 April - Come join the Hi-5 Surprise live stage sgow at the Theatre Royal.

16 April - 1 May 2010 - Enjoy a little Barry Manilow at The Playhouse Theatres production of 'Copacabana'.

18 April 2010 Derwent Valley Autumn Festival. Entertainment includes bands, dancers, singers and market stalls at The Esplanade, New Norfolk.

27 April - 2 May 2010 Targa Tasmania. Around 300 high performance vehicles are unleashed onto the tranquility of Tasmania.

30 April 2010 - Chrysanthemum & Floral Art Show in the Town Hall.

What to do....Hobart

2010-03-31T02:40:00.000-07:00

So if you're staying at Antolu, which is just a stone's throw away from Hobart then you need to know fantastic places to eat.

Hate going on holidays, finding random restaurants and regretting the experience a few hours later? I'm sure I've been in a few restaurants that would have had Gordan Ramsey frothing at the mouth.

Not pleasant.

So if you're after quality dining in Hobart here's a recommendation.

The Customs House Restaurant.

The customs House Restaurant provides award winning dining within the heritage atmosphere of the Waterfront Hotel. Well known for seafood dishes (especially the wide selection of scallops) and a range of wines to accompany your meals.

Chef Alex and his staff at the hotel prepare meals with the freshest of produce, bought locally. Tasmania does have the freshest and the best!

Customs House Hotel is one of the oldest Hobart Hotels which has been renovated to a high standard while still maintaining the original integrity of the building.

Here's a few pics of the menu to get your mouth watering....

Back to nature but close to town.

2010-03-28T17:58:00.000-07:00

This weeks featured property is Amtolu in Tasmania.

48 Liverpool Crescent, West Hobart.

Looking for stylish, luxury accommodation for a bigger group?

Amtolu holiday home is fabulous self-contained accommodation ideal for families, groups and couples.

This multi-level 4-bedroom home with vibrant decor, modern facilities and breath taking views. The tri-level design features soaring ceilings and picture windows which create an amazing sense of space.

Guest comments regarding Amtolu.

"This house is the ultimate in luxury accommodation, surrounded by towering gum trees, nessled in the hills of West Hobart. We had a group of 10 people stay at the house and we were delighted by all the facilities...including a spa on the balcony! It was a fantastic place to stay, I would sincerely recommend it to anyone considering staying here!"

"7 of us stayed at Amtolu and we all loved it! The house is so modern and bright inside. Chris was extremely pleasant to communicate with, very friendly. Thank you for the experience."

" A beautiful house, fully equipped with every mod con you could want and with stunning 180 degree views that extend from Hobart to Mt Wellington. Chris was friendly and made us feel very welcome, while respecting our privacy."

"Excellent property, tastefully furnished with everything you could possibly need. Comfortable, new. Perfect for our party of 7 including baby and 4 year old. Plenty of room for everyone. We loved our week here."

Stay tuned this week to find out great things to see and do if you stay at Amtolu.

Things to do...Swansea

2010-03-24T21:10:00.000-07:00

So you know that this week Susan checked out The Lair, a stunning property in Tasmania.

The area is ideal for fishing, swimming and diving or relaxing on the beach overlooking Great Oyster Bay and the beautiful Freycinet National Park.

The Lair is just 15kms south of the wonderful coastal town of Swansea, a beautiful historic town of around 500 residents.

The town is full of historic buildings including the Swansea Bark Mill and East Coast Museum built by the in the 1880s, Morris' General Store, Meredith House, Schouten House, Resthaven, Spiky Bridge and more.

This part of Tasmania also produces world class wine and produce.

For a treat, pay a visit to Kate's Berry Farm. It sits high above the coastline looking out across Great Oyster Bay to The Hazards range.

Kate was born and raised in Victoria and fell in love with Tasmania the first time she visited. In 1988 Kate seachanged to Swansea where she found her 10 acre dream property overlooking the sea and the mountains.

Kate saw the potential for a unique cottage venture, became a farmer and after a lot of initial hard work Kate's Berry Farm was born. It quickly achieved a reputation for producing outstanding, chemical free berries. Kate designed and built her cellar door shop and workshop and works the gardens, and she's always ready to chat with visitors about her farm and what it means to her.

During the picking season, from November to May, punnets of juicy freshly picked berries are available for purchase.

Visit Kate's Just Desserts Cafe, a cosy little eatery that lets you relax and indulge in some of Kate's treats. Like the name implies, apart from wine, tea and coffee and milkshakes, the cafe sells nothing but luscious desserts. Waffles and crepes with lashings of berries, fluffy scones and jams and rich cheesecakes. The berry tart is to die for.

Kate's kitchen also produces an ever expanding range of delicious country produce including chutneys, relishes and marmalades for you to purchase. Everything is handmade is mall quantities.

She also has her own winery and produces a small range of delectable dessert wines, made from her berries.

It's pure, unadulterated indulgence. Bliss.

Indulgence...The Lair

2010-03-17T20:02:00.000-07:00

I laughed when Susan described her inspection of The Lair.

That was quite an adventure!

It's now my turn to check out what makes The Lair perfect to join the Luxury Oz Stays list of properties.

Show me the luxury!

The Lair was created using only the finest fixtures and fittings from around the world, the epitome of style and design.

It comprises of two identical, sumptuously appointed suites at either end. Each room opens onto an eastern facing deck.

You can stretch out on the emperor size leather beds or spread out in the generous bathrooms and soak up the view of the ocean.

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the voluminous living/ dining/ kitchen.

The mini bar at The Lair is stocked with fresh local produce and some of the fine local wines that Tasmania is renowned for.

The complementary dry pantry is fully stocked.

Browse the library of books and games. If you must keep in touch, boot up the 24" Mac. Play your favourite tunes through the audiophile quality sound system. Or better yet, plug your ipod onto the dock and bliss out in the spa pool.

A collection of contemporary art by prominent Tasmanian artists such as Michael McWilliams and Jonathan Kimberley adorns the walls.

For your viewing pleasure you can kick back with Austar or a DVD on one of the three plasmas.

Personally, I wouldn't be able to drag myself away from the stunning ocean views of Oyster Bay.

So does it tick all the boxes for a Luxury Oz Stays indulgent, luxury property?

Tick, tick, tick!

Grab a glass of wine and join me on the deck.

Off road adventures, Susan style....

2010-03-13T22:35:00.000-08:00

Ever wondered how we find the properties to put on our website Luxury Oz Stays?

Unlike a lot of travel websites we actually like to check out the properties that we represent before we recommend them to other people.

Trust me, there are a lot of properties that claim to be 'luxury' but seriously don't meet our, and your, standards.

Wouldn't it be awful to book your holiday of a lifetime only to find yourself spending a week in a roach infested, hell hole?

That's why we do what we do!

A new property wanted to come on board with us and because it's in Tasmania we had to check it out.

Here's the lowdown of our adventure, checking out our swish new luxury accommodation.

For your viewing pleasure, I bring you The LAIR.

THE LAIR is located 90 minutes away from either Launceston or Hobart airport. The drive takes you through picture postcard views of the meadowlands, forests, coastal promonteries and beaches that give Tasmania it's unique character.

We live a little further away than the airports, but because I always inspect the properties before representing them, decided today was a day for an adventure.

I love Tasmania and have explored most of it.

I'm familiar with the area but Jason (my husband) thought we would attempt to drive the 3 hours to The Lair using a different route this time.

Stupid decision, we ended up on this dirt road that went for about 40 kms at least!

It was in the middle of no where, no cars, people, houses nothing!!!

Bumpy as anything, it wasn’t just dirt it was pot holes, cracks, ridges and more dirt. Needless to say by the time we hit this road it was too far to turn back and go the way we came, so we thought we would stick it out.

Anyways we learnt a valuable lesson, DO NOT SEND OUR GUESTS on this route, although scenic, it took forever!

To add to this, we did not know if we were lost or not, our GPS charger would not charge so it went flat, our mobiles had no service at all and we had been on this road for about 45 mins watching our petrol get lower and lower.

I was thinking I was gonna end up stranded and walking – not to mention I had to pee, so go bush!

Finally at the end of the road we see a sign pointing to Swansea! It was a great relief to know we were not lost and back to civilisation!!

The adventurous road met up with the road we normally would have taken and we got to the property with a car that looked like someone had chucked red mud all over it – not a great look for the owner of a 2 million dollar property we were trying to impress.

Luckily he knew the road and just laughed at us!

So in the name of research for our guests we took a gamble to try a new route for them along the ESK Hwy, we can now tell them NOT to take it and stick to the Bass Hwy! It is much faster and safer.

What a mission!

So there you have it folks, we actually do inspect properties before we list them on our website to ensure the level of quality we expect. We do travel our own state and even being locals we can get into silly situations!

But I think this was definitely worth the wait!

The Accommodation...Kudos Villas

2010-03-11T23:45:00.000-08:00

Now that you've seen a few of the attractions that Hepburn Springs and the surrounding area offers, it's time to check out the luxury accommodation at Kudos Villas.

No expense has been spared in the creation of Kudos.

Notice the love seats? Perfect for snuggling up to with the one you love. I think The Kudos Villas are perfect for a weekend away with your special one. Spas, love seats, champagne on arrival? What more could you ask for.

The properties are scattered throughout the area, all you have to do is figure out which one suits you.

The properties draw inspiration from the essential elements to life and provide a pampering experience like no other.

Are you ready for it?

Kudos presents their luxury spa villas.

Kudos Air

Kudos Fire

Kudos Earth

Kudos Water

Kudos Nature

Kudos Bliss

Kudos Diversion

Kudos Indulge

Kudos Temple

Kudos Secret

Love it?

I know I do.

Let me know if you need a break, Kudos will takes care of you.

To whet your appetite...Kudos Villas

2010-03-10T21:17:00.000-08:00

Hey, guys, now it's my turn to share with you the mouth watering delights that the area around Hepburn Springs has to offer.

Of course, at Kudos Villas you never actually have to leave your room.

Kudos offers the ultimate in indulgence and pampering.

Makayla gave you and example of the amazing menu that your private chef can cook up for you in your own villa. They can also co-ordinate the perfect romantic proposal for you (complete with red carpets and rose petals).

Kudos also has a delish selection of ready to eat meals that can be delivered to your villa as well as organising a gourmet picnic hamper for you to take away while you explore the area.

But I'm here to tell you about the amazing food and wine in the area.

Hungry?

I am!

Here's a selection of some of the great eateries in the area.

On the corner of Raglan and Wombat Street in lies Mercato Restaurant. It's a popular country restaurant in Daylesford, set in a restored 1864 timber building. Mercato is Italian for "market" and the inspiration for the restaurant is that in European history, the town market place was the heart and soul of the town.

Richard Mee is the head chef and owner.

Degustation Menu

Seared fillet of Tuki trout with avocado, nectarine, white asparagus, salmon roe and baby herbs

Carpaccio of Romsey Emu with Holy Goat fromage frais. Kyneton extra virgin olive oil & thyme

Roasted Wycheproof quail wrapped in "Istra' prosciutto with a salad of grapes, roasted capsicum, hazelnuts & olives

Breast of duck on roast sweet potato puree with an orange, spiced cherry & watercress salad and a shirz jus

Chocolate and raisin torte, cardamom icecream, red currants

Food only $95

Matched with wines $135

Or, if you're like me and love to experience vineyards and all they have to offer, why not visit Ellender Estate?

"One not only drinks wine, one smells it, observes it, tastes it, sips it and one talks about it" King Edward VII

Ellender Estates is a boutique winery located just a short drive from Daylesford. Here you'll have an opportunity to meet and chat with owners Jenny and Graham Ellender.

The story of how they came to running a vineyard and winery is fascinating.

Bes ure to taste their exquisite 2006 Pinot Noir, whose finish is soft and full of elegant tannins.

For something simple and traditional, why not try The Cosy Corner?

On Tenth Street in Hepburn Springs, Shane Trask & Jennifer Colley have turned Cosy Corner around froma cafe to a a much sought after eating house. Your Food Guide.com recommended that youput these guys ahead of your more pompous restaurants when dining out around Daylesford and Hepburn.

There's a great selection to choose from. If you need some more information, just let us know.

ACTION...Kudos Villas

2010-03-07T19:22:00.000-08:00

Hi guys, Nicola here.

Time to have some fun!

Kudos Villas provide you with all the indulgent pampering that you would ever require. Makayla checked out the hedonistic packages that the villas offer.

If you do decide to venture out of your villa, Hepburn Springs has heaps to see and do.

You'll notice that on every street corner and in every row of shops, you'll see a sign offering massages and spa treatments. This is the heart of spa country, people! The perfect destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The towns of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs are surrounded by more than 60 natural mineral springs. Rich in minerals, the region's springs are believed to cure all sorts off afflictions from acne to athritis.

Want to earn your massage at the end of the day?

Try the Tipperary Walking Track. It runs from picturesque Lake Daylesford to the Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve. It's a 5 hour, 16 kilometre walk that traces the route of the old water races cut by miners last century. Look out for the Blowhole, a tunnel built to divert water and allow sluicing for gold.

Or you can visit Mount Franklin (yup, like the water bottles). It's located 8km north of Daylesford. The sheltered extinct volcanic crater of the mountain provides a great setting for a picnic (the Villas can hook you up with a basket full of goodies).

There's also Hepburn Springs Golf Club. An 18 hole course with manicured fairways, in a peaceful bush setting.

My personal favourite activity is horseriding through the bush to the historic Swiss Mountain Hotel for lunch. It offers pub grub at its absolute and unashamed best. Hepburn Lagoon Trail Rides offer a scenic alternative to discovering the region.

But let's face it folks, you come to the area massages, treatments and the mineral springs.

Next up, Susan will find the best places to eat while at Kudos Villas.

Indulgence...Kudos Villas

2010-03-05T19:19:00.000-08:00

Hi! Makayla here.

This week we're featuring Kudos Villas in Hepburn Springs Victoria.

I think it's so important to take time out and pamper and rejuvenate yourself.

Don't you?

When Alex takes you through the property, you'll see why Kudos Villas take luxury Spa Country escapes to a whole new level. We're talking 5 star, hedonistic luxury.

Here's a sneak peak at one of the villas, Kudos Water. A sumptuous spa bath with an open wood fireplace.

You'd never have to leave your room.

And you don't have to!

Haven't you ever wanted a weekend away, where it's all about you? To be treated like royalty, and spend some quality time with the one you love?

I do, all the time, actually!

(Hint to all you boys out there, Kudos Villas have a load of packages to make the girl in your life feel like a superstar. Do it, it'll be worth the effort, trust me)

They have a range of indulgent massage and dinner packages designed to indulge and rejuvenate your body and soul.

My two personal favourites?

Firstly, the Kudos Relaxation Package.

It includes 2 x 1 hour massages in your villa.

Breakfast at the award winning Red Star Cafe, Hepburn Springs.

Lush bathrobes for you to keep.

Champagne or wine and heart chocolates (awwww) on arrival.

A Kudos gift pack and discounts to local restaurants and attractions.

($290 for two people)

My other favourite?

The Personal Chef Romantic Dinner For Two.

Indulge in the ultimate private dining experience with your own personal chef, in your own villa of course!

Your private chef will create a 4 course dinner and Kudos provides table service including set up and clean up, candles and music, linen, a flower centrepiece, 2 bottles of wine and mineral water (naturally from Hepburn Springs).

You choose from the mouth watering menu. Delicacies that include Tuki trout rilletes with organic almond skordhalia on crisp bread, Goat's cheese coppeletti with organic cherry tomatos and basil oil and Confit of Waubra duck leg. Oh and we can't forget dessert. How does baked berry cheesecake with amoretti cream, local berry compote with strawberry Iranian fairy floss sound?

($200 per person)

Perfect indulgence for little ol' me. And you.

Exploring Tasmania...weeeeeeeeeeeee!

2010-02-24T15:44:00.000-08:00

The last time we visited Launceston for the weekend, we stayed in a beautifully maintained Heritage listed, Victorian home called Ashton Gate. It was close to the city centre and more importantly, the Boags brewery.

My husband was a little dubious about staying in B & B style luxury accommodation but after a weekend of being taken care of by Jennifer and John he didn't want to go home!

We had breakfast at Ashton Gate each morning and hit Stillwater and The Jailhouse Grill for dinner.

Stillwater. Set in a beautifully restored 1830s flour mill. The Tuna was to die for.

Our room.

As much as my husband wanted to spend the whole weekend at the Boag's Brewery, I convinced him to spend a day with me at the Hollybank Treetops Adventure.

A bus picked us up from the B & B and took us to Hollybank reserve, which is only about 15 minutes from Launceston. Hollybank is one of the earliest private plantations in Tasmania consisting of European trees. They were originally planted to obtain wood for the construction of cricket bats (!).

The reserve is so tranquil and beautiful, and there were plenty of families enjoying the grounds. I was almost sorry that we'd left the kids at home. Almost.

We were there for the Canopy Tour. I must confess I've developed a terrible fear of heights (something to do with the Stratosphere in Vegas) so seeing how high the platforms were made my knees knock a little.

The basic concept of the Canopy Tour is that they take tourists up into the forest canopy and you then traverse between treehouse-type platforms along steel cables. The platforms are built around tree trunks in the mid canopy of the forest, approximately 30m high. You're kitted out in a harness with pulleys attached and slide along the cables from one platform to the next.

It's like being on a flying fox, but on a whole new level.

Ged and Tillsy, our tour guides, were very entertaining and quite good at dealing with scaredy cats like me. The first few flights were pretty tame but I screamed like a banshee as I slid down the zipline (much to the amusement of the others in the group, little kids included).

By the last flight, a 370 metre trip over the Pipers River, I was having a ball. I thoroughly enjoyed the adrenalin rush of sliding above the forest. The views from the platforms were stunning.

It's a 3 hour adventure and the most fun I've had! If you're ever in the Launceston area and up for some fun, then make sure you try the Hollybank Treetops Adventure. I definitely earned my bottle of James Boags that day.

Exploring Victoria....The Great Grape Road

2010-02-22T02:08:00.001-08:00

At first when I heard about The Great Grape Road I laughed...who invents tours that involve driving and wineries? I've never been a big fan of the taste and spit part of wine tasting. Drink for effect not flavour has always been my philosophy!

I'm joking (only slightly).

If you have a responsible adult with you, then the Great Grape Road touring route is a fantastic scenic circuit through the Pyrenees, Grampians and Ballarat wine regions of western Victoria.

This is the ultimate hedonistic experience. Eat, drink, be merry.

This post will provide you with a general route and a list of all the vineyards that you can visit. Each has its own cellar door opening times, but because there are so many available to you I'm sure the experience will be amazing regardless of what you visit.

Local cellar door experiences range in style from sophisticated tasting rooms to barrel-side tastings in underground tunnels. Remember, this is a hedonistic road trip...it's all about eating and drinking.

Winemakers are keen to share their experiences and their produce. These people put their blood, sweat and tears into producing their wine. It takes months and sometimes even years to produce a wine that you are proud to put your name on. Indulge them. Enjoy. Appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into making a single bottle of vino.

Most cellar doors have adjacent cafes that allow you to indulge in a great drop then taste some of the local produce. Think great local cheeses and other mouth watering snacks.

The scenic countryside around Ararat, Buangor, Great Western and Hall Gaps is home to outstanding wineries such as Seppelt's and Best's Great Western and newer vineyards such as Mt Langi Ghiran and Montara.

Grampians wines are known for their strong berry flavours and soft tannins. Just surveying the vineyards while you taste the local drop is a memory you can't replace.

Fratin Brothers Vineyard

Grampians Estate

Kimbarra Wines

Montara Winery

Mount Langi Ghiran

Norton Estate Wines

Seppelt Great Western

The Gap Vineyard

After leaving the mountainous terrain of the Grampians, the Great Grape Road swings east toward the soaring Pyranees, a splendid backdrop for a tasting at the region's excellent wineries.

The rich purple berry flavours of the region's cabernet sauvignon and shiraz offer hints of mint and eucalyptus. It's chardonnay sauvignon blanc show soft stone fruit flavours and a refreshing acidity. It's amazing how within such a small distance, there is such a large variety of delectable wines to savour.

Amherst Winery

Berrys Bridge Vineyard

Blue Pyrenees Estate

Counterpoint Vineyard

Cullenya Winery

Dalwhinne Wines

Dogrock Winery

Eurabbie Estate

Jardine Wines

Kara Kara Winery

Mount Avoca Vineyard

Neds Vineyard

Peerick Vineyard

Pyren Vineyard

Pyranees Ridge Vineyard

Quoin Hill Vineyard

Redbank Winery

Shays Flat Estate

St Ignatius Vineyard

Summerfield Wines

Taltarni Vineyards

Warrenmang Vineyard Resort

Wimmera Hills Winery

From the Pyranees, the Great Grape Road swings south to the nine wineries of Ballarat region, where the climate is ideal for chardonnay and pinot noir. The long growing season here produces complex and subtle wines - flint and citrus in the chardonnay and spice and rich berry character in the pinot noir.

Captains Creek Organic Wines

Eastern Peake

Gold Fields Winery

Michael Unwin Wines

Mount Beckworth Wines

Mount Buninyong Winery

Mt Coghill Vineyard

St Anee's Vineyard

Whitehorse Wines

This drive takes around 3 days. If you have the time, take a few more days and indulge.

The list of vineyards is amazing. The girls at Luxury Oz Stays can suggest some great accommodation to rest your weary head after all that vino. Or even find you a driver so you can indulge in the lap of luxury.

Once again folks, eat, drink, be merry.

You only live once.

Thank you to http://www.visitvictoria.com for the great information.

Stories from the Suitcase...Bali

2010-02-19T19:38:00.001-08:00

It's Friday, ladies and gentlemen and it's time for you guys to share your travel stories. We want to know the good, the bad, the ugly. Let others know if you found your dream destination or if your holiday turned into a nightmare. Just drop us an email to share your stories from the suitcase!

This week Hayden revisits his first trip to Bali.

1. Destination?

Bali. We flew Jetstar from Darwin to Denpasar. It was a short flight. The airport in Denpasar is a bit overwhelming. Make sure you have some US dollars to pay for your visa (about $20). Our host at our Villa organised for us to skip the queues and got us past customs in about 2 minutes.

2. Where did you stay?

We stayed at a Luxury Private Villa called Villa Hening. It's in Jimbaran Bay and overlooks Benoa Harbour. It had a great pool, jacuzzies, a spa (which the wife took full advantage of), private theatre and fitness centre. It'd be a great place to take a bunch of friends there (which we plan to do).

We had a great time having drunken parties with some Japanese guests, surfing in the pool.

Our room was right next to that Bali hut and that's where we ate breakfast everyday, right next to an awesome infinity edge pool overlooking the whole valley.

Our room had its own outdoor tub and luxury shower.

No pokey hotel room here!

It was a bit strange to have staff at your beck and call 24 hours a day at first, but we got used to it pretty quickly. The villa was only 15 minutes from the airport and 10 minutes to Jimbaran Beach and Nusa Dua shopping complex. The good thing was the staff organised all our transport, recommended the best places to eat.

3. What time of year did you travel?

We went to Bali in February. The weather was pretty hot and occasionally there was a light shower (which was actually refreshing). Most days were spent in the pool.

4. Who did you travel with?

My wife. It was our wedding anniversary.

5. How did you get around?

We had a driver from the Villa drop us off if we wanted to get anywhere then made our way back in Taxis. Apparently you should only go in the blue taxis with birds on them because all the others are dodgy.

All the balinese get around on scooters. It's really freaky seeing 3 people piled onto a scooter. They're a bit mad with the road rules, but it all seems to work.

We decided to be rebels though and took a walk through the suburbs.

That's a cow in the bushes.

These poor dogs are everywhere.

6. Food?

We took full advantage of the restaurant at the Villa. I seriously nearly ate every single item on the menu.

We also tried a few restaurants on the beach in Bali. Our favourite was this outdoor restaurant with red furniture, weird food and a pool.

In between cocktails we'd have a swim. It was a bit expensive though. There were cheaper Asian style places to eat that had great food and cold beer.

Jimbaran Bay seafood restaurant was awesome as well. Really fresh fish.

It was weird to see rice on offer in their KFC and McDonalds.

7. Trip Highlights?

We visited the monkey forest and that was pretty cool.

Sitting in the private theatre and watching about 20 dodgy DVDs while getting room service was definitely a highlight.

We had fun shopping in the markets and bought a bunch of cheap knock offs like Billabong shirts and shorts, sunglasses and the wife bought a few hand bags.

The furniture and historical places are visually spectacular, too.

8. Trip low point?

The poverty. Outside of the rich area where we stayed you can see that people are really struggling. The open sewers in the streets were also gross. We saw an old lady just squat and pee into the gutter right in the tourist strip in Kuta.

Seeing all of the neglected dogs roaming the streets was pretty bad too. The wife just wanted to feed them all.

Getting hassled by every single local trying to sell you something got irritating after a while too. You try to be polite but they don't take no for a answer.

9. What would you like others to know about your destination?

We only explored a really small part of Bali. I know there are beautiful destinations all over the island but we just wanted a relaxing trip away.

It also really threw us how poor and dirty the country is.

If you want a really relaxing holiday rent a private villa. It's luxury accommodation but it's not expensive and the service is impeccable.

Next time we plan to stay there, explore other areas of the island and go surfing.

Exploring Tasmania...Enter the Caveman...

2010-02-17T17:41:00.001-08:00

Ever since I watched 'The Descent' on DVD I've wanted to try caving.

You know, for the adrenalin rush of descending into the earth and exploring the subterranean alien environment.

Not for the monster at the end of the movie.

SCARY!

I want the adventure without the danger, thanks!

Luckily, there's plenty of places that cater to a novice like me and have been tried and tested to make sure there are no monsters lurking in the shadows.

These caves are the perfect destination to visit if you're staying in North West Tasmania.

Head to Mole Creek Karst National Park. It's approximately 40 minutes from Deloraine (which holds the worlds oldest working craft fair) but can be a great day trip if you're staying in Devonport or Cradle Mountain.

Mole Creek Karst National Park protects deep limestone caves of superb stalactites, stalagmites and columns, glow worm displays, subterranean streams and cathedral caverns.

The park is best known for two richly decorated caves open to the general public, but it's 1, 345 hectares contain 300 caves and sink holes in all. Although visiting the caves should be high on your agenda, don't miss the opportunity to take a walk through the beautiful forests in which these caves occur.

You'll have the opportunity to explore Marakoopa and King Solomons Caves on a guided tour - they've recently celebrated 100 years of public visitation (and lost no one...yet). Picnic shelters, free barbecues and toilets are located close by.

There are several guided tours run at different times throughout the day from 10 -4 for the general public. If you are an experienced caver, a knowledgeable guide can lead you through one of the region's wild caves, not open to the general public.

The two tours of Marakoopa and the tour of King Solomons are quite different, but each tour takes approximately 45 minutes (tickets for the caves need to be bought at the central office which is about 600m prior to the entrance).

MARAKOOPA CAVE

This cave was named after an Aboriginal word meaning 'handsome' and is characterised by a superb glow warm display, which is well worth the effort.

The Underground Rivers and Glow Worms is an easy tour for all age groups and fitness types. Visit the lower chamber with its sparkling crystals, reflection pools, stalactites and stalagmites. Listen to the underground streams and wander down abandoned river passages.

The Cathedral Gardens and Glow Worms tour requires a reasonable level of fitness. The large cavern known as the "Great Cathedral' is not to be missed. 'The Gardens' feature delicate formations and beautiful colours.

KING SOLOMONS CAVE

It's a compact cave system with elaborate geological formations, including stunning calcite crystals known as King Solomon's Diamonds. The cave has high scientific and conservation significance and is home to a number of threatened plant and animal species. It is a dry cave, with no stream running through it.

Awesome! Great way to experience some of the caves in Tasmania without going extreme.

Once you've visited the caves, you can play tourist in the Mole Creek area.

Hit Stephens Leatherwood Honey Factory for a jar of leatherwood honey. Or pay a visit to the Tasmanian Wildlife Park and Koala Village for an up close encounter with a Tasmanian Devil.

Exploring Victoria...Inspired by the Winter Games...

2010-02-15T17:25:00.001-08:00

The 2010 Winter Olympics Games are currently underway in Vancouver, Canada (currently Australia has one silver medal, woot woot!)

I don't know about you but for those of us sweltering in the Australian summer, the images of all the supporters frolicking in the snow and more so, the fairytale Whistler resort...

makes me yearn for a skiiing holiday with the family. Such a fairy tale setting! Makes me want to pack my suitcases and grab the next flight to Canada.

Until I realised I'd have to spend 22 hours on a plane. With my children.

Um...maybe not.

Time to check out what's available in good ol' Oz.

We took the kids on a snow trip a few years back and it was one of the best family holidays that we've had.

Although there is great skiing in New South Wales too, I think Victoria offers a better variety of snow fields and the snow is within easy access of Melbourne. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, or simply want to throw a few snowballs at the kiddies, there are plenty of options to satisfy your inner snow bunny.

We chose not to stay on the actual resorts (it can get pretty pricey), but picked a few different destinations so that we could drive around and explore the region. That way we had the option of hitting the ski fields for a day and then relax doing other activities the next. Snow is lots of fun but it can also be wet, miserable and cold. Keep your options open!

Basically, the higher the mountain, the better the snow quality and the more chances of there being snow.

The Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges let you enjoy some of the best cross-country skiing in the country, tobogganing, snow play and alpine landscapes at Melbourne's closest snow fields.

In Gippsland, Mt Baw Baw and Mt St Gwinear offer the chance for you to enjoy skiing or snow boarding.

The High Country has some of Australia's most beautiful and accessible alpine regions. Mt Buller, Mt Hotham, Falls Creek, Mt Stirling, Lake Mountain and Dinner Plain give you a variety of destinations to choose from.

You just need to know what sort of activities tickle your fancy and let someone recommend the best destination and accommodation.

PS. And if you're not a fan of snow, the Australian Alps are great to explore in summer too!

Time to check the medal count, Go Australia!

Stories from the Suitcase...The Mercury Cider Fans

2010-02-05T15:03:00.001-08:00

Once again folks, we have a Story from the Suitcase. Drop us a line if you'd like to feature in this column. We want to know the good, the bad and the ugly.

This week we have Nicola (one of the lovely gals at Luxury Oz Stays) revisiting her trip to Hobart.

1. Destination?

Hobart, in Tasmania. Tasmania is that little apple shaped island at the bottom of Australia.

It started out as a penal colony but what was hell for English convicts is now a heavenly place to visit.

2. What time of year did you travel?

We visited Hobart in May. It was starting to get a little chilly, so it was lucky that we brought jackets!

Icy winds coming off the Southern Ocean quickly remind you that southward, the next stop is Antarctica!

Lucky for us though, we had several beautifully sunny and clear days to explore the city aswell. We had an awesome time strolling through the Salamanca Markets. These markets are brilliant and sell nearly everything. Lots of yummy food too!

3. Who did you travel with?

My boyfriend Chris and my friend Leesa.

4. How did you get around?

Hobart has plenty to do within walking distance. We also used the bus and hired a car for longer trips.

5. Food?

My favourite was a place called Axum Ethiopian Restaurant at 112 Liverpool St, Hobart. One of the cheapest and most delicious meals I've ever eaten.

6. Trip Highlights?

Leesa and I are MAD Mercury Cider fans and over a few 100 ciders one night, decided to visit the place that makes this wonderful beverage! The brewery is set on a large property with immaculate gardens and restaurant. The tour itself was headed by a young guy with a great sense of humour making the tour really enjoyable.

We also hired a car for the day and drove down to Port Arthur. We stopped along the way and saw some beautiful beaches and really quaint towns.

The actual Port Arthur Historical Site and Visitors Centre was interesting but not worth the expensive entrance fee.

We drove up Mt Wellington which was a hair raising experience for us. The road is narrow and winding, making it scary when you have a large coach passing you from the other direction. Once we got to the top, the cloud cover was so dense we couldn't see 10 metres in front of us! We laughed about it afterwards.

7. Trip low point?

There weren't many...but I'd have to say the public transport in Hobart isn't the best.

8. What would you like others to know about your destination?

At first we struggled to get used to the slower pace of Hobart, however after a while we noticed that we too had succumbed to the slower pace that is beautiful Hobart. I would advise other travellers to spend at least 4 - 5 days there. This place will capture you, and slow you right down without even realising it.

Exploring Tasmania...this cheese is the bees knees!

2010-02-03T15:23:00.000-08:00

If you're staying in Tasmania and looking for an idea for a day trip, how about Bruny Island?

Bruny Island lies off the south-east coast of Tasmania. To get to this little paradise, cross the D'Entrecasteux Channel by ferry.

Spend the day exploring its wild seascapes and sweeping surf beaches, abundant birdlife and wildlife, tall forests and historic lighthouse. Surfing, kayaking, even fairy penguins, the island has so much to offer. You can be as mild or as wild as you like.

All that exploring can make a girl build a pretty big appetite and guess what? The island is home to some of Tassie's finest quality produce including wine, oysters, fudge and of course, cheese!

One of my favourite reasons to pay a visit to Bruny Island is the Bruny Island Cheese Co.

Bruny Island Cheese Co was started by Nick Haddow, after he spent 10 years working with specialist cheese makers all over the world. His cheeses are heavily influenced by his travels and for him, cheese making is a pursuit of integrity and flavour.

For me, it's all about the flavour. Mouthwatering!

They produce a big variety of delectable cheeses. From The Tom (cow milk, simple, fresh), to the O.D.O (marinated in olive oil and herbs), to the affectionately named The Bastard (cow and goat milk, delicate and robust all at the same time).

My personal favourite is the Otto. It's a fresh cow cheese, wrapped in prosciutto and made in the Italian style. It has to be baked for 15 minutes before eating. Delicious served with a glass of wine.

The team at Bruny Island Cheese Co run monthly workshops so that you can go along and learn how to make some of their famous cheeses, as well as great breads, pizzas or even hand made butter.

Alternatively, grab a bottle of Pinot from Bruny Island Premium Wines, stock up on cheese and fresh sourdough bread and enjoy the island.

Stories from the Suitcase...Aloha

2010-01-28T15:20:00.001-08:00

We're introducing a new idea for Fridays here at Girl With A Suitcase. Most people have great travel stories that they'd like to share. We want to know the good, the bad and the ugly! Inspire other people to see different parts of the world or share what's special in your neck of the woods.

This week we have Alex sharing her Hawaiian adventure.

1. Destination?

Island of Oahu, Hawaii.

2. What time of year did you travel?

We flew from Sydney, Australia to Hawaii. Jetstar had some great air fare specials and it was really cheap for us to fly over.

We flew to Hawaii in February. I expected it to be balmy and tropical but it was actually a little bit chilly. Luckily, we'd all packed a few jumpers to keep us warm.

It was quite windy on the North Shore but Honolulu was warm and we spent most of our time at the beach in Waikiki.

3. Who did you travel with?

It was our first international family holiday, so it was the husband, myself and two kids. I was also pregnant with baby no. 3. Flying for 9 hours on a plane when you are pregnant is not very comfortable. Make sure you pack a pillow or cushion.

4. How did you get around?

We arrived in Honolulu early in the morning (morning sickness is a great way to get acquainted with the local toilets!) and hired a Hummer.

This is the valley where they film Lost.

We hadn't booked any accommodation because I hate booking from brochures and discovering that you are stuck with views of brick walls or cockroaches. Don't worry, we're not completely loopy, we had a week of time share for week 2 of our stay. But week 1 we wanted to explore.

Waikiki is a mass of high rises. We decided to give that a miss.

Hawaii isn't as big as I expected so we decided to drive around the island until we saw something that we liked.

That being said, we were exhausted. So we pretty much all passed out as soon as we got in the car.

The husband drove around the island and luckily for us, we discovered the Turtle Bay Resort.

If you haven't heard of it (we hadn't it) it has an amazing golf course and they filmed Forgetting Sarah Marshall there.

Beautiful resort. Kids loved saying Aloha to everyone, we snorkelled in the lagoon, the restaurants were fabulous and the husband played golf.

Rainbows every morning. This was the view from our room.

5. Food?

I have to admit I find US inspired food...disgusting. Over processed and generally unhealthy. We were served soft drinks as big as my son's head (medium) and hash browns are a plate of potato slop.

On the other hand we we visited the Polynesian Cultural Centre for the day and stayed for the Luau.

So for pregnant me, this was divine. Yum.

6. Trip Highlights?

The husband taking the kids for the day while I went shopping in Waikiki. I have a GUESS addiction and it was bliss. Can you tell?

Taking a submarine cruise with the kids. I get sea sick but I survived and the kids loved the adventure.

We visited Pearl Harbour. Once we were there, it was one of the saddest placest I have ever been. The area is so beautiful but you can feel the spirits of all the people who died there.

Visiting the Polynesian Cultural Centre for the day was amazing. You get to experience so many cultures in one day. There was so much to do, in a lot of ways it was better than a theme park. The kids LOVED it.

7. Trip low point?

Waikiki. I know for a lot of people it is an amazing destination. There are boats for you to jump on, straight off the beach and lots of cocktail bars to play in (Duke's on the Beach). For an Australian girl like me it was just too crowded and the beaches were too small.

We also didn't see any big waves. Sunset and Waimea Bay were flat. Pretty, but flat.

8. What would you like others to know about your destination?

Oahu is a small island. For a true Hawaiian experience, spend a little more and head to the North Shore. It's a good base to explore the area and the resort is beautiful.

Waikiki is great for shopping and partying. With kids? Not so much.

We didn't explore the other islands (pregnancy and volcano fumes don't really mix) but it's something we hope to do in the future.

Stories from the Suitcase...Aloha

2010-01-28T15:20:00.000-08:00

This week we have Alex sharing her Hawaiian adventure.

1. Destination?

Island of Oahu, Hawaii.

2. What time of year did you travel?

We flew from Sydney, Australia to Hawaii. Jetstar had some great air fare specials and it was really cheap for us to fly over.

We flew to Hawaii in February. I expected it to be balmy and tropical but it was actually a little bit chilly. Luckily, we'd all packed a few jumpers to keep us warm.

It was quite windy on the North Shore but Honolulu was warm and we spent most of our time at the beach in Waikiki.

3. Who did you travel with?

4. How did you get around?

We arrived in Honolulu early in the morning (morning sickness is a great way to get acquainted with the local toilets!) and hired a Hummer.

This is the valley where they film Lost.

Waikiki is a mass of high rises. We decided to give that a miss.

Hawaii isn't as big as I expected so we decided to drive around the island until we saw something that we liked.

That being said, we were exhausted. So we pretty much all passed out as soon as we got in the car.

The husband drove around the island and luckily for us, we discovered the Turtle Bay Resort.

If you haven't heard of it (we hadn't it) it has an amazing golf course and they filmed Forgetting Sarah Marshall there.

Beautiful resort. Kids loved saying Aloha to everyone, we snorkelled in the lagoon, the restaurants were fabulous and the husband played golf.

Rainbows every morning. This was the view from our room.

5. Food?

I have to admit I find US inspired food...disgusting. Over processed and generally unhealthy. We were served soft drinks as big as my son's head (medium) and hash browns are a plate of potato slop.

On the other hand we we visited the Polynesian Cultural Centre for the day and stayed for the Luau.

So for pregnant me, this was divine. Yum.

6. Trip Highlights?

The husband taking the kids for the day while I went shopping in Waikiki. I have a GUESS addiction and it was bliss. Can you tell?

Taking a submarine cruise with the kids. I get sea sick but I survived and the kids loved the adventure.

We visited Pearl Harbour. Once we were there, it was one of the saddest placest I have ever been. The area is so beautiful but you can feel the spirits of all the people who died there.

7. Trip low point?

We also didn't see any big waves. Sunset and Waimea Bay were flat. Pretty, but flat.

8. What would you like others to know about your destination?

Oahu is a small island. For a true Hawaiian experience, spend a little more and head to the North Shore. It's a good base to explore the area and the resort is beautiful.

Waikiki is great for shopping and partying. With kids? Not so much.

We didn't explore the other islands (pregnancy and volcano fumes don't really mix) but it's something we hope to do in the future.

Stories from the Suitcase...Sharnanigans

2010-01-21T23:16:00.001-08:00

This week we've got Sharni from Chronicles of Sharnia sharing her stories from the suitcase.

1. Destination?

Sapa, North Vietnam

2. What time of year did you travel?

We were there April / May - it was quite cold there which was refreshing after the overbearing humidity of Hanoi. The only downfall of being in beautiful Sapa in these months was that the mountains that surrounded the town were not visible a lot of the time and covered in thick mystical fog, which, in itself was a pretty magnificent sight.

3. Who did you travel with?

My partner and (as I soon found out in Sapa) the beginnings of my son Monte (we found out we were pregnant whilst in Sapa).

4. How did you get around?

We got to Sapa via overnight train from Hanoi - which was an experience! While there we walked - heaps of trekking, travelled by motorbike, scary bus trips around windy mountains and jeeps. Lots of up-mountain walking - great for fitness.

5. Food?

Sapa is very touristy - we had some tasty Vietnamese cuisine but also had great pizza!

Dave had the pleasure of going on a trek with some locals, they took him to a village where he ate congealed ducks blood (masquerading as jelly) when he found out what he was eating, he was too polite to stop. I am glad I was feeling poorly that day and did not attend!

6. Trip Highlights?

While we didn't climb Mount Fansipan - we did do a mini trek and it felt like we were on top of the world looking down on creation. Karaoke with the locals, walking around Cat Cat Village, the scenery was incredible.

7. Trip low point?

Both Dave and I were hospitalised. Dave with food poisoning - me from pregnancy and possibly food poisoning. The hospital beds did not even have sheets. We were very vulnerable and the language barrier made this very challenging.

8. What would you like others to know about your destination?

Sapa is a pretty town North of Vietnam about 30kms from the Chinese border. It is worth a visit.

I was turned off by the fact that the Hill Tribes that live there are the drawcard to the town - and supposedly these guys that live in traditional ways in the mountains of Sapa are used as a selling point.

Very touristy. Beautiful scenery, a little bit magical.

Ahhhh Bliss....

2010-01-19T16:37:00.001-08:00

The word holiday means different things to different people. My husband's idea of a holiday is flying for hours to an international destination, checking into an expensive hotel and sleeping for a week.

This drives me mad.

As a mother of several small children I've learnt that sleep is overrated (sleep? What is this sleep that you speak of?) and on holidays I want to DO something.

And I'm not referring to the same old tourist activities that are offered everywhere that we seem to visit. The ones that leave your wallet empty and credit card company in business.

Let's do something interesting and CHEAP. Something that gets you into shape (bonus after having babies), increases stamina and pushes you to new heights.

Let's go bushwalking.

Okay, okay. I can see that you're a bit hesitant. Bush walking (or hiking) doesn't quite have that wow factor. You're probably thinking that all it involves is walking...through the bush.

It does. But let's make it interesting.

If you've been following this blog, you may remember that I've been exploring the wineries and cheese makers of Tasmania. I've decided that combining a walking trip with my gastronomic holidays is a great idea. Best of both worlds.

Throw in stunning scenery, a great lunch and exercise to work off the camembert. Bliss.

If you're holidaying with the kids, bush walking provides quality time without the distractions of video games and television. It's a great opportunity to develop a real connection to the natural world and to see wild life up close. And all that fresh air makes them really, really tired. Double bonus.

If you're lucky enough to be able to ditch the kids for a few days, then a walking holiday gives you the opportunity to take a break from your ordinary routine and a chance to reconnect with the natural world and ourselves. You can go totally zen.

Why have I jumped on the promote Tasmania band wagon?

I've travelled to a lot of places, in Australia and overseas. And I've discovered that sometimes the most spectacular places are at home.

Tasmania's location in the Southern Ocean has preserved it as not only an island of rare beauty but also one of the most unspoiled places left on earth.

Much of its ancient glacial formed mountains and lakes, temperate rainforests and undeveloped coastline are protected as World Heritage Area, national parks and marine reserves.

This means the rains that fall, the rivers that tumble through its valleys and the oceans that brush its shores are still clean.

Sounds pretty good to me. And you know I'm a sucker for mountain views. It's that whole Sound of Music obsession I had as a child.

So I present to you Cradle Mountain in Tasmania. It has world renowned walking tracks. Really. I googled it.

And guess what?

After a day in the wilderness, you've earned some special pampering don't you think?

I've found a spa that will take special care of your tootsies after a long day of trekking.

WALDHEIM ALPINE SPA - Cradle Mountain Lodge.

Doesn't this sound like heaven?

"Waldheim Alpine Spa invites you to embark on the ultimate sensory journey designed to indulge the senses. The pampering begins with a traditional Hot Lime Foot Cleansing and Thai Foot Ritual, using warmed aroma-therapeutic oils, applied to nourish and condition the feet, followed by the decadent experience of soaking them in Elemis' award - winning Skin Nourishing Milk Bath. Exfoliating with Exotic Lime & Ginger Salt Glow, feet are lavished with an application of warmed Frangipani Monoi Oil to seal in moisture and leave skin feeling silky soft. With feet and mind in a blissful state, the focus shifts to the upper body with a customised back, neck and shoulder massage and is completed with an energising foot massage that will leave you floating on air as you leave the Spa."

See, a bushwalking holiday isn't as daggy as you thought, is it?

Stories from the Suitcase...

2010-01-14T19:25:00.001-08:00

This week Alex shares her story from the suitcase.

1. Destination?

A few years ago we picked up some cheap 2 for 1 airfares to Japan with Jetstar. We hadn't really planned on travelling there but the opportunity was too good. $800 return for two people! It was an 8 hour flight to Osaka.

We chose Osaka instead of Tokyo, just in case it was too overwhelming.

I'd studied Japanese in high school but my conversational Japanese was sketchy to say the least. Lucky for us, all the signs in Japan are in English too. Also, Japan is so organised and the people so polite that we had no problems finding our way around.

2. What time of year did you travel?

We flew over in February. It was their winter and apart from 2 days of snow, the rest were warm and sunny.

4. Who did you travel with?

It was my husband and I and our 7 month old baby. Crazy to take a baby on an 8 hour flight and a foreign country? Probably, but she was great. Japanese people fell in love with her blue eyes and blonde hair. The school girls on the trains would squeal when they saw her. I guess it was a novelty for them.

We took a small pram instead of a port-a-cot and she slept in that.

5. How did you get around?

We arrived late at night and decided to take a taxi to our hotel instead of trying to navigate the trains and monorail. Once we got our bearings, we realised Osaka is surrounded by a monorail system. The train system criss-crosses the city. Each day we just bought a day pass and explored the city. The trains are busy in the morning and night but great during the day. They even have women only carriages.

We spent a few days in Osaka then caught a train to the city of Kyoto. We explored most of Kyoto on foot.

6. Food?

The food in Japan is AMAZING. I don't mean sushi. There are small stores on every corner that sell the freshest, most delicious meals. Ordering is easy, we just pointed to pictures of what we wanted. We stayed away from hotel restaurants apart from at breakfast and explored the city. Lots of yummy food washed down with cold Asahi beer. This was my favourite meal...

Oh, in Osaka their speciality is Takoyaki...octopus balls. Being the adventurous gal that I am, I ordered 6. I made it through 2 before I gagged. Oh well.

Yuck!

7. Trip highlight?

There were so many, it's hard to choose! I had fun playing with the technical toilets, the food, the service. On the third day I was looking out the window and noticed that there was fluff falling out of the sky. It was snowing! We're from Australia so we rarely get the opportunity to see snow.

That was the day we also went to see a car show next to our hotel (think Fast and The Furious crossed with Pimp My Ride).

And later in the day caught the train to the city of Kyoto. We stayed at the Westin Miyako. Kyoto reminded me of an Alpine city but with all the historical shrines and temples that you expect to see. The Imperial Palace is in Kyoto too.

There was a chapel near our hotel room and I had the opportunity to spy on a few weddings.

8. Trip low point?

There really wasn't one. Apart from putting my back out because we pushed our double beds together and I slept in the crack! It was easy, stress free and lots of fun!

9. What would you like others to know about your destination?

Japan is AMAZING! I loved it. It was so clean, organised and fun! So much attention is put into small details. My husband bought a piece of cake in a pattiserie and they spent 5 minutes beautifully packaging it. He took it outside, ripped it open and devoured it on the street. Men.

The shopping is out of this world. There are malls everywhere, even underground. Sizes are a little on the small side, but the quality is great. And Japan isn't expensive.

The people are very polite and friendly. If we were ever lost or couldn't figure something out, people were more than helpful.

I enjoyed Osaka but I fell in love with Kyoto. It's smaller and you have the opportunity to explore the historical aspects of Japan.

I'd totally recommend that you visit if you get the opportunity.

Bed and Breakfasts.

2010-01-12T22:53:00.001-08:00

If you're anything like me, you may have a teeny weeny obsession with reality TV. I'm not referring to Big Brother or The Real Life.

I mean quality TV shows like The Real Housewives of Atlanta.

And my current favourite, Tori and Dean Inn Love.

If you haven't had the chance to see it, Ms Tori Spelling and her new husband opened a B & B 'Chateaux La Rue' (after her pug) when gazillionaire daddy Aaron Spelling forgot to leave her more than 100 grand in his will. Oh, life's tough for some.

Anyway, I love this show. I love how they interact with each other and their guests. They've had all sorts. Romantic couple, partying grannies and NUDISTS.

Which brings me to my question. Why choose a Bed & Breakfast for your weekend away? And how do you know your host will be more like this

than this?

Here are some tips for choosing a quality B & B.

The internet has made it possible for anyone to google a destination and fall in love with the pictures on a web page. Then you arrive and find out you're staying with someone that reminds you of Norman Bates in Psycho. Yikes!

Your best bet is to go by recommendation or get someone reputable to organise it for you.

First and foremost understand that most bed and breakfasts are owner operated. Most of the things in the home are usually antiques, fine linens and bedding. This is what makes the experience unique and special.

You always receive much more personal attention at a B & B than you would in a hotel or motel. If you're shy then I wouldn't recommend them! Your inn keeper will be happy to give you a history of their home and the area, the best places to go, the places to eat and the places to avoid. They make sure you get the most out of the time you have away (which is what we do here at Luxury Oz Stays too).

Breakfast is always special too. That is kind of the whole point of a Bed and Breakfast. Duh.

Not only will you enjoy the culinery talents of your host, but you'll get to meet the other guests too.

Downside?

Most bed and breakfasts don't accept young children. Usually the cut off is 7 +. Most people go to bed and breakfasts for peace and quiet. They're perfect for a romantic get away, a unique weekend for friends or for someone who wants some quiet time alone.

If you see a B & B you like, book early. Remember B & Bs only have a few rooms and it doesn't take long to fill them. Get an expert to do it for you.

Unfortunately, Tori and Dean have moved on from running Chateaux La Rue. Darn it. I'm sure Donna Tori and I would have gotten along like a house on fire.

Have you ever tried a B & B? Did you love it?

Bed and Breakfasts.

2010-01-12T22:53:00.000-08:00

If you're anything like me, you may have a teeny weeny obsession with reality TV. I'm not referring to Big Brother or The Real Life.

I mean quality TV shows like The Real Housewives of Atlanta.

And my current favourite, Tori and Dean Inn Love.

Anyway, I love this show. I love how they interact with each other and their guests. They've had all sorts. Romantic couple, partying grannies and NUDISTS.

Which brings me to my question. Why choose a Bed & Breakfast for your weekend away? And how do you know your host will be more like this

than this?

Here are some tips for choosing a quality B & B.

Your best bet is to go by recommendation or get someone reputable to organise it for you.

Breakfast is always special too. That is kind of the whole point of a Bed and Breakfast. Duh.

Not only will you enjoy the culinery talents of your host, but you'll get to meet the other guests too.

Downside?

If you see a B & B you like, book early. Remember B & Bs only have a few rooms and it doesn't take long to fill them. Get an expert to do it for you.

The Great Family Road Trip

2010-01-04T18:36:00.001-08:00

Australia has some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. We have the beaches, the mountains, the desert, the rainforest. So much to see and do.

And what better way to explore this country than in a good old fashioned road trip! You know you want to try it.

See this on the Great Ocean Road, Victoria.

It seems most parents face the family road trip with some trepidation.

You can almost hear it now.

"He touched me."

"I did not."

"You did too."

"You're lying."

"He touched me again."

"You did it first."

"Ow, quit it!"

"You quit it."

"MUM!"

Forget everything you've seen. Your trip doesn't have to be based on National Lampoons Family Vacation.

Here are some tips for your survival.

1. Do the prep work a few day before. Try to minimise the clothes that you take. Most kids are happy to live in the same clothes for days.

"When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money." - Susan Heller

Fill up the car with fuel. Pack bags to put in the boot but also organise travel packs to keep in the car with you.

For you -

Wet wipes, an absolute god send. Kids get pretty grimy, even if they're buckled in.
Lip Balm
Drinking water
Hand cream
Eye cream
Hand sanitizer
Mints
Fashion magazines or a fat book
Travel pillow
A thermos of coffee.
Sunglasses
Your favourite music. A car trip is a great way to get the kiddies acquainted with your favourite tunes. Sing. Loudly.

YOUR CAMERA. Document the heck out of your trip. You never know what you'll see on the road.

For the kids -

Try to avoid a DVD player. Chat to your kids, sing, play games and prepare activity bags. Fill them with books, stickers, stuffed toys.

Change of underwear. Trust me it happens.

A pillow and their favourite blanket. The car is a great place for a nap.

Water

Snacks and bribes.

For everyone -

Snacks. Stock up on supplies to stifle even the heartiest appetite. Include fruit, sandwiches and treats. You'll save lots of cash and avoid the dreaded service station sandwich.

Water

More wet wipes. Trust me, they come in handy for everything.

2. Leave at the crack of Dawn. We're talking 5am. The roads are clear and the kids will still be sleepy. A few hours napping in the car and you're off to the perfect start.

3. Most important tip -

Relax.

Be prepared to change your plans. Have a rough itinerary but remember things happen. If you have any problems, let someone else organise your accommodation.

Enjoy it.

Road trips with the family are often a great adventure and will provide you with memories for a lifetime.

What are your tips?

A quick culinary delight...

2009-12-28T18:18:00.001-08:00

Well the mayhem of Christmas is behind us and The Girl With A Suitcase is already organising my next weekend getaway. I've developed an obsession with fresh local produce and beverages (cheers!) so in the next few weeks I'll be scouting out the best locations to experience some of these delicacies.

First destination?

Hobart.

Southern Tasmania has some of the most incredible food experiences on offer (wine, cheese, seafood, beer) and has quickly become a gastronomic extravaganza for those in the know! Hobart is the perfect place to drop anchor and then explore the surrounding area.

My recommendations for a quick visit?

Grandvewe Cheese Factory in Birchs Bay. Australia's only Sheep Milk Cheesery. You can experience up to 15 different cheeses, visit the sheep farm and enjoy platters overlooking the spectacular D'Entrecasteaux Channel.

MeadowBank Winery/ Restaurant in Cambridge. Just 15 minutes drive from Hobart puts you on the doorstep of this multi-award winning restaurant and cellar door, it's surrounded by a sea of vines and overlooks Coal River Valley.

Next? The Lark Distillery in Davey Street, Hobart. The cellar door and whiskey bar overlook Mawson Place and give you the chance to sit outside and enjoy your favourite drink whilst overlooking the Derwent.

After all that booze culinary delight, you'll need somewhere comfortable to lay your head each night and recuperate, before the next days adventure.

I like to stay someplace that is full of old world charm but full of the latest modern convenience.

Here I can relax on the private balcony, sipping a James- Boag (yes, more booze but it's Tasmanian)...

and watch the boats sail in.

Upon a good friends recommendation I stay in Hobart at Kinvara House. It was built in the 1890s but has undergone ultra- modern renovations to create a unique and spacious house with unsurpassed views of the city and Derwent River.

It offers fully self-contained luxury accommodation for up to 10 people. That's fantastic for getting a group of good friends together or for the family. It is designed for those who appreciate quality and privacy, with all the feel of a century old home with all the modern additions.

All located within walking distance to the city centre and famous Salamanca Place.

When you're not visiting all the gastronomic delights in the surrounding Tasmanian area, Salamanca Place is the place to go, with its daytime shopping, galleries and its evening restaurants. It is in one of the most picturesque areas of Hobart and if you are in Hobart on a Saturday, you can't miss the Salamanca Market.

Regardless of the weather it is the place to visit for odds and ends and to taste Tasmania's famous local produce. Food, more food.

(Insert Homer Simpson drool).

Ahhh, bliss.

More Tasmaninan experiences to come.

Dear Santa,

2009-12-22T21:36:00.001-08:00

Dear Santa,

Is it too late to drop you a quick note and let you know what I'd like for Christmas? I've been a very, very, very good girl this year and was hoping you could pop a little something special under the tree for me.

I can? Excellent!

I'd like the very fashionable OP Art Suitcase from Coach. Op-Art-coated canvas fabric, glossy black leather trim and a hot pink interior. To die for.

A pretty pair of Christian Louboutin pumps. The bows on these little babies turn them into special presents just for moi and the red soles are very festive, don't you think? Practical too.

An Alain Sauser 'Star of the night' watch, so I'm never late for a flight, ever again. White gold, equipped with sapphire crystal and black diamonds. Heavenly.

3 return plane tickets to Melbourne, so I can spend a weekend away (and you know I deserve it) with my favourite girls.

Please ask Susan to organise our weekend away, because the girls only deserve the best. We want a limousine from the airport and champagne and chocolates on arrival. A little bit of bubbly is good for the soul.

Oh, and Santa please make sure you get Susan to book 39/ 220 Barkly Street for me and the girls. A 3 bedroom penthouse in St Kilda is the only place I like to stay in Melbourne.

Then a weekend of luxury shopping and the nightlife of St Kilda.

Oh, and Santa? If you've been a good boy, you can come too.

Love,

The Girl With A Suitcase

Apartments by the Award Winning Last Architects...

2009-12-18T20:34:00.001-08:00

For the stylish couples out there...

Have you ever been browsing through your favourite lifestyle magazine and thought "I'd love to stay there."

Well now you can.

The Last Villa in Sandy Bay, Tasmania is a multi award winning, architecturally designed property. If you want it, they have it. Stay for a weekend or a week.

"This eccentric Hobart building does double-duty as a home and B & B - all with a touch of cool." House & Garden.

We all want that little something extra when we go on holiday. Depending on our personal style, we envision that where we're going to stay will be just a little bit special. If you wanted bland accommodation you'd stay at a motel, right?

If you're looking for a unique property for your getaway, check this out.

The Penthouse caters for couples in eclectic European inspired interiors overlooking the famous River Derwent, Mt Wellington and prestigious Sandy Bay.

The Cruise Ship also caters to couples and is fitted out with an eclectic mix of historic and designer furniture themed on yachting. The apartment has stunning views of the Derwent River and beyond.

The Barcelona has a Romeo and Juliet inspired balcony and provides fresh sea air and leafy green garden views.

Voyager has a Japanese inspired, minimalist interior. It caters to adventurous couples with a hint of Japanese culture.

Studio Last is an inspiring place to do business while you are in Hobart. It has a drawing table, desk, kitchenette and bathroom, opening onto a deck with its own fireplace.

But what are you and the significant other going to do on your getaway? Don't be alarmed, there's plenty for the two of you to do.

Visit nearby art galleries

Salamanca Market

Nutgrove Beach and cycleway

Sandy Bay Massage Centre

Wrest Point Casino

Wineries

Bush walks

100m to the beach

Indulge in the fabulous restaurants, cafes and eateries.

Indulge, enjoy and make memories to last a lifetime. Let the Luxury Oz Stays team create the holiday of a lifetime, everytime.

TOP TEN TRAVEL TIPS

2009-12-15T18:56:00.000-08:00

Well the silly season is upon us and you all know what that means.

The obligatory annual pilgrimage to see the relatives we avoid the other 360 days of the year. Or for those that are truly blessed, the annual family vacation.

Some people want nothing more than to go home for the holidays, while others are happy to leave tradition behind in favour of a setting that's a little more relaxed, exotic and sun drenched.

One of my girlfriends is flying to London to see her parents (thanks for the strike British Airways that should make that 24 hour plane trip more pleasant) and another has saved for years to take her family to Fiji ( which has just been wiped out by a cyclone). Yikes! Another damn good reason to holiday in Australia.

But if you do need to travel overseas, here are a few tips from Smart Traveller.

1. Check the latest travel advice. Always handy to know if your dream location is in the middle of a military coup or earthquake. Makes packing easier (camouflage gear? Check.)

2. Take out appropriate travel insurance. You do not want to be stuck in a hospital in a foreign country after the bungy cord snaps. Really. It's inconvenient.

3. Before travelling overseas register your travel and contact details online. That's so the loved ones can track you down in case of tsunami, cyclone, earthquake or if the Arab slave traders decide you'd fetch a good price.

4. Obey the law. Kind of obvious really. Don't steal bar mats. Bali jails are not fun.

5. Check to see if you require visas for the country or countries you are visiting or transiting. We've all seen Border Security. Customs agents are not known for their sunny dispositions.

6. Make copies of your passport details, insurance policy, travellers cheques, visas and credit card numbers. Leave a copy with someone at home. Because people steal stuff. And then you'll be stuffed.

7. Check with health professionals about necessary vaccinations and overseas medicines. Nothing like a few jabs to get you in the mood for a holiday.

8. Ensure your passport has at least six months validity from your planned date of return to Australia. Some countries will not let you in. That would be a tad irritating after a 10 hour flight.

9. Leave a copy of your travel itinerary with someone at home. So they can find you. Obviously.

10. Before departing Australia check whether you are regarded as a national of the country you intend to visit. If you have dual nationality (and don't even know it) you might be liable for MILITARY SERVICE in that country. OMG. Imagine arriving and being drafted into the army! Yikes!

So yeah, The Girl With A Suitcase recommends you follow all of these tips if you are planning on travelling overseas for your holidays.

This year I plan to holiday local. Bit less stressful in the silly season. Have a Merry Xmas.

Beaches (and no, not that movie with Bette Midler)

2009-12-14T18:44:00.000-08:00

I have a confession to make. The Girl With A Suitcase is a beach holiday kinda girl. Yes, I know it's a cliche but who doesn't dream of lying on a white sandy beach somewhere, sipping on a daquiri and watching the waves roll in.

Two years ago we bit the bullet and decided it was time to visit the ultimate beach location HAWAII. I had visions of miles of pristine beaches, the towering waves at Sunset Beach and a whole lot of daquiris.

Reality check.

It took 10 hours to fly from Melbourne to Honolulu. The flight itself wasn't bad (thank you Jetstar for amusing the kiddies) but sitting still for that long is enough to drive anyone crazy. And I don't sleep on planes. EVER.

We picked up our hire car after haggling for an hour with every rental company in the airport (could have used your help here, Susan!) and set off to explore Hawaii.

Let's just say Hawaii is...um...overrated.

There were places of genuine beauty and the kiddies had a wonderful time.

But the beaches looked like this.

And every spare inch was covered in these.

Not exactly my fantasy beach holiday, fighting for sand space with a million American tourists.

And the view from our pokey hotel room above a nightclub? Skyscrapers.

So The Girl With A Suitcase has learnt a few things on her travels.

No. 1. Stay local. Sitting on a plane for hours can drive you crazy.

No. 2. Hotel rooms and families do not mix.

No. 3. Australia has some of the worlds best beaches!

I'm not talking about The Whitsundays. Too many tourists and backpackers.

This beach has been voted one of the top ten in the world.

Simply stunning.

Wineglass Bay in Tasmania.

When I saw this place, I did a little happy dance. It ticks all the boxes for a stunning, family holiday. And look. No skyscrapers.

Freycinet National Park and Coles Bay is located 202km north east of Hobart and is noted for its spectacular coastal scenery and its emphasis on fishing, boating, bushwalking and swimming. Apparently Wineglass Bay is so beautiful that on the last royal visit to Australia, the Royal Yacht Britannia anchored there to allow the Queen ashore for an Australian-style beach barbeque. So if it's good enough for royalty...

Second must have for a family holiday? Room to move! No pokey hotel rooms here.

Plenty of room to hide the kids away.

Freyscape is luxury accommodation and has stunning views of the water and coastline.

The kiddies love to be kept busy on their holidays. Trust me, in Hawaii the activities were very expensive (we're talking US dollars) so it cost us a small fortune to keep them occupied. Here they can go kayaking, mountain biking, swimming, bird watching, abseiling, surfing, fishing, heck there's even a golf course in the area to keep the hubs amused.

But we all know that The Girl With A Suitcase prefers to take it easy and indulge on her holidays.

All I need is a quick visit to the Freycinet Vineyard cellar door to pick up a few of these...

So I can relax on the pristine beach, sip a vino and take in the amazing scenery.

Only in Australia.

WISH I WAS HERE...

2009-12-12T15:34:00.001-08:00

Well the school holidays are finally upon us.

Seven weeks of quality family time.

God help us all.

Even though I'm actually looking forward to having all the little critters running around the house (no more school runs! No more lunches!) I know the next 7 weeks are going to be a little...um...trying on occasions.

So please, today, let's indulge and pretend there are no children. Mummy needs to relax.

I have literally found a SPA TOWN. Why hasn't anyone ever mentioned this to me? I would have moved out of the suburbs years ago! Ladies and gentlemen, I bring you Dalesford - Hepburn Springs aka Spa Town.

Located in central Victoria, this place is the ultimate word in hedonistic indulgence. Massages, treatments, pampering...no children...

Where was I?

Oh yes.

Spa Town. And I've found the most divine place to stay.

Kudos Villas. Channelling Rachel Zoe...Oh. My. God. I. DIE. 5 star luxury.

Welcome to Kudos Temple.

There are 8 Villas to choose from, all drawing inspiration from the elements essential to life. And as mummy has decided to have a zen moment, I'm showing you Kudos Temple. Just imagine soaking in that spa with a glass of wine.

Wine that you chose yourself after visiting the cellar door at Ellender Estate.

The Temple Lounge

And just so the hubby and I can get re-acquainted...I bring you the Kudos Love Seat.

Throw in a little Micheal Buble and mummy is in heaven.

Cheers!

Enough daydreaming...let the school holidays begin!