When it comes to cocktails, one of the great books on the subject, “The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks” reminds us that the original vodka martini was actually called the Kangaroo Cocktail making it a perfect drink to head down under with.

Although Australia is best known for its amazing wine, (and there’s lots of it) for those really rough Fridays, a Kangaroo Cocktail will defiantly take the edge off in a hurry.

Make your own Kangaroo Cocktail:

1 ½ oz Vodka
½ oz Vermouth

Pour ingredients into an ice filled martini shaker and strain into a martini glass. Add a lemon twist to serve if desired.

Some of the best luxury hotels in Australia to get an amazing Kangaroo Cocktail:

Lake House:
Perfect for relaxing and resting, Lake House is a luxury boutique inn that sits right on the shores of beautiful Lake Daylesford. The Inn is surrounded by six acres of garden, really giving guests an intimate, secluded environment. Stay in the Waterfront Suites for a really special occasion as they have balconies overlooking the lake and lagoon.

Bedarra Island:
If you love modern design, diving and snorkeling, you won’t want to be anywhere else than Bedarra Island Resort. Consisting of 16 luxury villas surrounded by the rainforest, suites are open-plan and have floor-to-ceiling windows. A few of the villas have their own plunge pools, so be sure to ask about this when you book your stay here!

Lilianfels Blue Mountain Resort & Spa:
Housed in a historic country house set amidst two acres of manicured gardens and surrounded by breathtaking views, the Lilianfels Blue Mountain Resort & Spa is designed to put you at ease. Awarded as one of the top hotels in Australia by Travel + Leisure, this is also a great getaway for food lovers with their onsite restaurant Darley’s recently winning the Regional Restaurant of the Year award for 2009.

Lyall Hotel and Spa:
As one of Melbourne’s only privately owned five-star hotels, the Lyall Hotel in Spa is a chic boutique hotel located in the heart of South Yarra, one of the worlds most fashionable and cosmopolitan destinations. Each spacious suite offers exclusive custom-made furniture along with all the modern amenities and each floor features a mini art gallery showcasing original, local works.

Longitude 131°:
Found right next to the Aboriginal site of Uluru, Longitude 131° Lodge is the perfect boutique camping experience travelers to Australia’s unique Northern Territory will be looking for. You’ll experience sunset at the famous Ayers Rock and will enjoy “roughing it” in one of 15 luxury tents. Keep in mind that tents are equipped with all the conveniences  you’ll need – everything from air condition to iPod docking stations.

The Richardson Hotel & Spa:
Designed by renowned London architect Sir Terry Farrell, The Richardson Hotel & Spa is one of Perth’s best luxury boutique hotels. Enjoy the beautiful city vies from your private balcony or dine in their exclusive restaurant Opus for inventive cuisine using one the finest West Australian market fresh ingredients.

Lizard Island:
Remote, gorgeous and sunny, Lizard Island Resort and Spa is an excellent spot to enjoy diving on the Great Barrier Reef. Lizard Island also has an excellent spa! Rooms here boast amazing views of the reef, and all of them have beach access. Guests here can charter the resort’s 51-foot yacht for some time on the water.

Establishment Hotel:
The Establishment Hotel is a luxurious boutique hotel close to many of Sydney’s fabulous hot spots. If you are looking for a good time, come here and enjoy anyone of Establishments seven bars or hit the dance floor at the ever so popular Tank Nightclub.

qualia Great Barrier Reef:
You’ll find qualia Great Barrier Reef on Hamilton Island, which is just off of Australia’s Queensland coast. Get in some serious world-class diving at this resort, and a whole host of other water activities: kayaking, yachting, sailing a hobie cat – you name it. The view is what makes qualia Great Barrier Reef really stand out, so be sure to spend some time just watching the horizon.

The Observatory Hotel:
Located right in the heart of Sydney, The Observatory Hotel is a world class getaway that offers an amazing five star restaurant and a wonderfully indulgent day spa. If you and your loved one are planning a romantic escape, this luxury hotel lets you customize your stay making sure that your visit is no less than perfect.

Artists who are looking for a creative retreat this spring will really like Arajilla Artists’ Retreats – think warm weather, gorgeous scenery, and art lessons from some of Australia’s best talent all on beautiful Lord Howe Island.

Each retreat takes place from a Friday to a Monday (four days and three nights), making for a fun, creative long weekend.

While on the retreat at this gorgeous boutique hotel on Lord Howe Island, you’ll partake in drawing and painting with the artist in both studio and at spectacular Lord Howe outdoor locations, evening art lectures, discussions and films.

And it wouldn’t be a retreat without a small group size – there’s only a maximum of 10 participants allowed.

Garry Shead, along with fellow artist Adam Rish, will be the featured artists for the March 2010 session (March 19 to March 22, 2010).

Guy Maesti (this year’s Archibald prize winner) will be leading the June 2010 session (June 4 to June 7, 2010).

At only 12 suites, Arajilla Retreat is truly a luxurious, relaxing escape from the every day.

Guests will love the resort’s tranquil and soft design, and stunning location on one of Australia’s most beautiful islands.

There’s plenty to do outdoors here, so be prepared to spend some time snorkeling, hiking, fishing or mountain biking.

Check out some more photos of Lord Howe Island, this beautiful resort in Australia, and the artists at the retreat:

Kiwi Collections luxury online magazine Wow Travel has just put together a new photo feature. This is just a small sampling of some of the hotels beautiful landscapes.

Make sure to check out the full feature titled In the Middle of No Where.

Longitude 131 near the famous Ayers Rock in northern Australia

Amanpulo on Pamalican Island, Philippines

Cave B Inn at Sagecliffe along the Columbia River in Quincy, Washington, United States

Wilson Island at the Great Barrier Reef in beautiful Australia

Alila Villas Hadahaa Maldives in Gaffu Alif Atoll, Maldives

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve on the Sabi Sand Reserve, South Africa

Any Thoroughbred horseracing fan knows that the Melbourne Cup is one of the greatest horseracing events in the world. And, race day is fast approaching – November 3, 2009.

And given its reputation of being “The Race that Stops A Nation”, it’s time to start planning your trip down under.

The Melbourne cup has been held since 1861 and is the richest and most prestigious “two-mile” handicap in the world. With the lineup for the race yet to be officially confirmed, anticipation is brewing.

Like every year, races will be held at Melbourne’s Flemington Racecourse, only a 15 min drive from the heart of the city. And aside from race day there is a multitude of activities and attractions to indulge in. Melbourne is a city for everyone with cutting edge arts and cultural exhibitions, chic fashion stores, amazing food from every culture, beautiful gardens, spectator sports and a rich historic heritage to discover.

While in the city, Kiwi Collection has an amazing selection of luxury Melbourne hotels to choose from all with their own individual flair making your stay during the Melbourne Cup even that much more enjoyable.

Sofitel Werribee Park Mansion Hotel & Spa:

Situated just on the outskirts of Melbourne the Sofitel Werribee Park Mansion Hotel & Spa is the perfect tranquil escape. Rich in heritage and tradition this countryside 1870’s mansion is beautifully designed and features all of the modern amenities one could ask for. One of the great perks of this hotel is their award winning menu at their restaurant, Joseph’s, serving a modern menu of European and unique Australian dishes.

Other amazing hotels you should make sure to consider for you stay in Melbourne:

Crown Towers
The Westin Melbourne
Park Hyatt Melbourne
The Lyall Hotel and Spa
The Prince

Calling all food lovers! For the entire month of October, Sydney Australia is opening its doors to the world and letting everyone come on in….granted they bring a sampling of their finest cuisine, of course. And what better way is there to make some new international friends then through bribes of culinary delights?

At the Sydney International Food Festival (SIFF) there’s something for everyone – from cooking classes, markets, community and regional events as well as extravagant dinners in Sydney’s best restaurants.

Some of the major highlights of the festival include its much awaited “World Chef Showcase Weekend” from October 9 -11, 2009 which brings together some of Sydney’s best culinary stars.

If you feel like taking it easy, Carlo Petrini, Slow Food founder and international president, will be speaking at the Sydney Opera House on October 18, 2009. This discussion will cover Slow Food’s approach to agriculture, food production and gastronomy.

And while in the city and seeing all that Sydney has to offer, make sure to book your stay at one of the best luxury hotels in Sydney.

Establishment Hotel:

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If you like small, intimate and elegant the Establishment Hotel is the perfect spot for you to relax from all of your indulging at the SIFF.

Nestled in Sydney’s business district, and within walking distance to major attractions, means you never have to go far for world class food, great entertainment and exciting nightlife. And if you are someone who thinks that walking is too much, Establishment has three restaurants, six bars and one night club!

All of the 31 rooms and two penthouses are beautifully designed with two sleek and modern styles. One style features strong bold colour against Japanese-like black floorboards and restored warehouse ceilings, while the other is much softer in color and feel, giving guest a tranquil environment.

If you’re looking for a great location, cool vibe and a place big on luxury, the Establishment Hotel is definitely the right spot for you.

The Observatory Hotel:

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Sydney is renowned for its relaxed lifestyle and nowhere is this more true than at The Observatory Hotel. Located near Sydney’s historic Rocks and Business District, this is a great starting point in discovering all that the city has to offer during SIFF, such as museums, galleries and shopping.

Known as Australia’s most awarded hotel, and recently crowned the “Most luxurious hotel in Australia 2009” by Australian Annual Travel & Tourism, there is no doubt your stay will be unforgettable.

Every room at the hotel is beautifully and spaciously designed in an opulent Regency style accented by polished mahogany furnishings and rich fabrics.

And after a long day of festivities make sure to take advantage of their day spa which offers a number of treatments and modern amenities including an on-site restaurant and cocktail bar. What could be better than that!?

The Observatory Hotel is definitely where stylish traditions meet modern efficiencies.

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Concert goers who are seeking a quiet place to escape in their down time during Spelndour in the Grass 2010 should consider a stay at The Byron at Byron Resort.

Kiwi Insider Farah Khan stayed at this resort during Splendour in the Grass 2009 and loved hanging out with the stars while kicking back and relaxing without being too far away from the action.

Read her review of this stunning resort in Australia.

Byron Bay is famous for its rejuvenating and reenergizing resorts, great restaurants and relaxed beach lifestyle. But most of all, it’s renowned for hosting some of the greatest music events and festivals in the world – such as Splendour in the Grass.

For the last eight years, Splendour in the Grass has produced a lineup of some of the greatest international acts in the world. From Coldplay, Arctic Monkeys, Interpol and MGMT to Queens of the Stone Age, Happy Mondays and Brian Wilson, Splendour covers all bases with the musically savvy and features something for everyone. Well, if you are one of the lucky 17,500 people who managed to get their hands on a ticket within five hours after they were released for sale, that is.

Although, be forewarned that this event is not for the faint hearted or the tired and in need of pampering either.

Ladies, leave your stilettos at home; here it is all about gumboots and rock chic, alcohol tolerance (for both those that do and don’t drink) and stamina. Starting at a rather early time of the day, you almost need your own personal bodyguard to maneuver past the masses of young partygoers leading you to the escape route which is none other than the VIP Shuttle. The shuttle takes you away from all the manic fun to the peaceful surroundings of the rainforest surrounding the magnificent Byron at Byron resort.
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There is no better way to celebrate spring than Floriade. The biggest flower festival in Australia is found in Canberra’s Commonwealth Park from September 12 to October 11, 2009.

This year’s theme, Mind, Body and Soul, will really set a relaxing and rejuvenating tone as spring’s flowers bloom!

You’ll be able to meander amongst magnificent gardens, sample regional food and wine, enjoy natural spa treatments and see more than one million flowers!

If you’re going to attend this fresh spring festival, we recommend staying at luxurious hotel in Canberra to maximize your time with the flowers and to keep your trip totally relaxing.

The Best Hotels in Canberra:

Hotel Realm:

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This modern design hotel in Canberra is only a 10 minute drive away from the Commonwealth Park and is found in the Parliamentary Triangle of the city.

At Hotel Realm, you’re a quick walk from Australia’s culture icons: the National Gallery of Australia, National Library of Australia and Old Parliament House.

The hotel has 158 rooms and suites of varying sizes, so you will definitely find something that suits your needs whether you’re staying for only a few days of whether you’re on an extended stay. Our favorite suite is the Terrace, which is a two-storey penthouse featuring a huge entertaining area, fully equipped kitchen and private balcony featuring excellent views of the city.

Other excellent features of this hotel include its Mediterranean restaurant, Konoba Restaurant, award winning Bacchus Bar and Mudd the Spa. The spa has five relaxation suites including a couple’s room, perfect for unwinding with your sweetheart!

Hyatt Hotel Canberra – a Park Hyatt Hotel:

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Also found in the Parliamentary Triangle, Hyatt Hotel Canberra is a heritage building that has been carefully restored to its original art deco grandeur. If historical buildings are your passion, than you will love this hotel!

Again, only about a 10 minute drive from The Commonwealth Park, you won’t find a better boutique hotel in Canberra from which to base yourself if you’re partaking in Floriade this year.

In fact, you’ll get right into the spirit of Floriade because the hotel features gorgeous landscaped lawns and gardens on its property.

Our favorite features of this hotel include its spacious guest rooms, excellent views of the city and art deco features. This hotel is also wheelchair accessible, which is a thoughtful touch.

Guests who book their stay at Hyatt Hotel Canberra through Kiwi Collection can take advantage of our special relationship with them and will be able to check out late on their last day!

Kiwi Insider John Nielsen tells us all about some of Australia’s best golf courses. Be sure to consider Australia as a prime destination if you’re looking to go on a relaxing golf vacation or want to stay at a golf resort. The beautiful photo running with this article is a courtesy of Gary Lisbon Golf Photography.

Keen golfers traveling to Australia have traditionally sought out the golden sunshine coast of Queensland with its pristine beaches and resort style golf courses. That is now slowly, but surely beginning to change. For the keen golfer the famous Melbourne sandbelt golf courses are a “must” to play, but now new developments are changing the fairways and offering visitors an opportunity to play superb designer courses.

On a global scale Australia has produced its fair share of champions. From five time British Open winner, Peter Thomson to Greg Norman, Ian Baker-Finch, Adam Scott, Stuart Appleby and the 2009 Accenture World Match Play Championship Winner Geoff Ogilvy.
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The Lake House is a perfect place to stay if you’re looking for a gastronomical vacation! Perfect for food and wine lovers, this Australia hotel is also a well known environmentally friendly hotel.

If you have ever wondered what the recipe is to make the perfect gourmet retreat, then I have just found the answer. Begin with a lovely little luxury hotel in the idyllic town of Daylesford, then add the award winning cuisine from Alla Wolf-Tasker AM and one of Australia’s best young sommeliers, Winemaker Adam Foster, and your gourmet retreat recipe is ready.

Oh and for good measure add a spa and the picture is complete.

The Lake House luxury resort was founded by Alla and Allan Wolf-Tasker and celebrates this year as its 25th anniversary. Beginning life as a 40-seater weekend-only restaurant, they discovered diners loved it so much they had trouble getting them to leave. So, rather than call the police, they built a boutique hotel!

Over the years the Lake House has become the premier destination for food and wine lovers in addition to a superb location for weddings and as a conference venue. The elegant restaurant with sublime service overlooks the lake and epitomizes the country town of Daylesford.

The charming town is 1 1/2 hour’s drive north from Melbourne towards the Macedon Ranges. Here, birches and maples vie for the limelight with their splendid scarlet, tangerine and claret hues. Quince trees are laden with furry fruit and leaves of cadmium yellow, and signs are everywhere pushing breads, honeys, figs and organic produce.

Its neigboroughing town of Hepburn Springs is an historic village located in the middle of the largest concentration of mineral springs in Australia. The springs are full of health-giving minerals that occur naturally in different formulations, giving every spring a distinctive taste.

The Victoria hotel has 33 rooms and suites that are spread over the six-acre grounds, all with enchanting lake views – something you can also enjoy from the mineral water treetop tubs of the new Salus Spa. Linger away in one of their rooms and suites; it is like you are a million miles away from everything.

The Guesthouse Rooms are part of the original homestead of the property and are all elegantly decorated. Enjoy a quiet read in the spacious lounge or on the terraces or be tempted by a myriad of bushwalking tracks meander from the property. Nearby are boating facilities, local wineries, excellent artist’s studios and galleries, places of historical interest, magnificent gardens and an 18-hole golf course complete with kangaroos.

For many years it has been cuisine that had led the way, complemented by excellent wine list. The wine list component has just taken another step up with the arrival of Winemaker Adam Foster to head up the skillful service team.

Adam, a well respected Chef in his own right, moved from the heat of the kitchens in London and Melbourne in 2002 to the front of house and began the journey into the world of wine. Adam worked as a cellar hand with a who’s who from Australia and France, including Chapoutier, Mitchelton, Domaine Ogier, Jasper Hill and Domaine Pierre Gaillard gradually honing his skills.

Adam’s first wine, Syrahmi Shiraz Viognier 2004 from Heathcote, was a big success with specialized wine stores and was quick to find its way in to leading restaurants in Melbourne and Sydney. The few wine writers who tasted Syrahmi gave the thumbs up.

The wine is an ideal food friendly wine; Adam explained, “Syrahmi combines the French words; Syrah and Amis meaning Shiraz and Friends, simply a wine to drink with friends”.

The region of Heathcote in Central Victoria is today recognized as one of Australia best cool climate Shiraz growing regions, and has many similarities with the Rhone Valley (often referred to as the home of Shiraz). The warm summers, cool winters and Cambrian soil offers the perfect conditions to produce great wine. Since its first release of 80 dozen, Adam has increased the production to 500 dozen to keep up with local and now foreign demand. The 2007 vintage named “the Don” pays tribute to Adam’s late Grandfather who encouraged Adam to become a Chef.

The wine cellar of Lake House boasts 600 plus labels from the surrounding wine regions and benchmark vineyards around the world. Adam has “designed the list to be accessible, affordable, diverse, interesting and special with an emphasis on local regional wines”. The icing on the cake is the “private cellar dinning room” where a hand crafted oak table seats up to 16 diners. They’re set to enjoy a gourmet experience like no other, all in all heaven for lovers of good living! Put yourself in their hands, with twenty-five years of service excellence you can be sure your next break is relaxing and indulgent!

Going green at the Lake House

Hotels have over the years come to terms with how they can do their part towards being environmentally friendly. The Lake House adopted a policy of ‘green procurement’ taking environmental factors into account in all purchasing aspects, sourcing regional produce where possible –reducing “food miles”.

Other efforts such as source produce that is organic and bio dynamic where possible and never knowingly use genetically modified ingredients. Taking every opportunity to reduce waste at the source, re-use waste components, recover and recycle where possible and dispose of final wastes by the most environmentally suitable means.

With South East Australia going through a 5-year drought the aim is reducing the amount of water used on the property and continuously capturing as much rain water as possible in tanks for use on site rather than sourcing from town supplies. A main focus is also adopting a practice of responsible energy management through reduced consumption and the encouragement of energy efficiency throughout the business.

During the 25 years the Lake House has become an important part of the community. In giving back to the community, the Wolf-Tasker family encourages staff to participate in local community projects such as the Daylesford Primary School Kitchen Garden, which aims to teach children from a young age the benefits of growing their own food and how to maintain and continuously rejuvenate their little plot throughout the years.

With these efforts in place there seems little doubt that we can look forward to another 25 years of harmony and balance between the environment and a luxury boutique hotel.

Silky Oaks Lodge is the perfect place if you’re looking for an adventure hotel or a fabulous spa hotel. It’s location in the Daintree Rainforest makes it ideal for both nature lovers and relaxation seekers.

If you’re in the mood to explore the sights and sounds of the tropical rainforest, head to the Daintree Rainforest in Queensland, Australia. It’s one of the most beautiful and diverse areas of the world.

The Daintree Rainforest is a World Heritage Listed area. And, with 65% of Ausralia’s butterfly species calling the Daintree home, you won’t be sorry that you spent some time in this gorgeous place. Here, you can explore the largest range of rare plants and animals on earth in luxury with Voyages Silky Oaks Lodge.

This Queensland Hotel blends a casual and contemporary design with the tranquil sound of the Mossman River. Enjoy one of the 50 Treehouses and Riverhouses, which feature wide verandahs and spa baths.

There’s plenty to do and see when staying here. You can go on a guided nature walk through the hotel grounds and adjoining rainforest, go canoeing, swimming or snorkeling in the Mossman River or, of course, relax by the resort’s pool. Also, there are half day and day trips out to the Daintree River and Cape Tribulation. The tour guides are experts in rainforest ecology, history ornithology and botany.

Particularly fun is the crocodile and wildlife spotting tour on the Daintree River.
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The French wine region of Bordeaux is well known for producing some world’s great Cabernet Sauvignon wines, but in recent years, boutique producers from Australia’s Margaret River region have begun to convince Cabernet lovers to look elsewhere.

I had the pleasure of meeting the passionate founder of Leeuwin Estate’s Dennis Hogan a few years back and ever since have always wanted to visit the Margaret River. Dennis explained that it was the in 1972, following an extensive search for the area most suitable to produce the best varietal wines in Australia, legendary American winemaker, Robert Mondavi, identified the future site of the Leeuwin vineyard. Originally a cattle farm, Leeuwin Estate evolved with Robert Mondavi acting as consultant, mentor and life-long friend.

It was with great excitement that I set off from Perth and headed south along the coast. After a four-hour drive the scenery began to change and vineyards appeared. Names including Brooklyn Valley, Devils Lair and Howard Park to name few were found on signs and the excitement began to grow.
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Beach combing on two dozen powdery-white beaches, diving in the Great Barrier Reef’s renowned  clear waters and swimming with the sea turtles are but three of the many ways to spend your time at Lizard Island.

This 40-room luxury resort is a remote paradise located on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, making it the perfect spot to enjoy the beauty of one of the world’s seven natural wonders.

Guests are greeted with Champagne and fruit upon arrival at the Pavilion, and, depending on how they feel, they can get right in to the action or relax on the beach.

Diving and snorkeling are by far the most sought after activities at Lizard Island, given the pavilion’s proximity to the reef. If you aren’t an expert in the water, no worries: Lizard Island offers both snorkeling lessons and diving lessons!

And, you don’t have to go too far to start seeing the inhabitants of the sea. There is excellent reef snorkeling in Anchor Bay (right in front of the resort), as well as at Sunset Beach and Watson’s Bay. A highlight of snorkeling in this area is the giant clams that make this area their home.

Once guests get their feet wet, they can go on many an excursion, including diving and snorkeling trips to the inner or outer reef. Catering to every kind of diver, go for a quick half day dive, or explore the reef all day long.

But remember to save your energy. Just because the afternoon is over, doesn’t mean the diving is too. For the adventurous souls looking to see something different, be sure to check out one of Lizard Island’s night dives to catch a glimpse of the Ocean’s nocturnal creatures.

Of course, not everyone is up for diving each and every night. If you just want to relax, make an appointment for a massage at the Azure Spa before enjoying  a drink at Lizard Island’s bar and lounge, and fresh seafood at Ospreys Restaurant.

We at Kiwi Collection can’t think of a better place to stay than Lizard Island for a diving or snorkeling vacation on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

Home of the feral camel, red kangaroo and emu, who would have thought that the remote Australian Outback is also the stomping ground of a 5-star luxury hotel and resort: Longitude 131°.

This eco-sensitive and romantic resort is found at the border of World Heritage listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in the Northern Territory in Australia, perfect for an Outback adventure in comfort.

Accommodation at Longitude 131° is really unique. Guests stay in elevated luxury tents, each paying homage to an early Australian pioneer or explorer.  Each of the hotel’s 15 rooms is adorned with white domed roofs of flowing fabric draped from the center. They’re designed to be cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

The creative and rustic design certainly fits the mood of the Outback. And, of course, each suite offers breathtaking views, especially during sunrise and sunset: a true experience in this stunning area of the world.

During the day, guests can “take the road less traveled” through Longitude’s exceptional wilderness touring program. Be sure to go on an expedition to Uluru—Australia’s world-renowned sandstone icon. You can experience tours in an intimate environment with a few other guests, or customize your own personal itinerary.

In the evening, enjoy the sunset at Dune Top with pre-dinner cocktails before going to dinner. Guests can feast under the stars at Longitude’s outdoor dining venue, Table 131°, or they can relax indoors in the Dune House. For guests looking for a more private dining experience, arrangements can always be made to dine in the library area, the Dune Top or at the poolside.

There isn’t any better way to experience the Outback in style, which is why Kiwi Collection recommends this desert gem.

Kiwi Collection CEO Erik Haugen offers journey suggestions to travellers based upon his own personal experiences travelling around the globe. The journey below is meant to provide and idea of what is possible based on our experience and does not represent an endorsement of the particular properties chosen. All the properties in the Kiwi Collection have been chosen based on their ability to provide an outstanding guest experience and are recommended by Kiwi Collection.

Fly to Melbourne

Stay for 3 nights in the Como Melbourne, sampling the thriving arts and culture scene

Fly to Hobart

Stay for 1 night in the Islington Hotel in the middle of Hobart, Tasmania’s capital, with stunning views of Mount Wellington

Drive to

Stay for 3 nights in the Cradle Mountain Lodge in Tasmania’s beautiful Lake Clair National Park, making the most of the views, the Spa and the acclaimed restaurant

Fly to Sydney

Stay for 3 nights in the Establishment Hotel in Sydney, close to Circular Quay and perfectly located for the sights, shops and nightlife of Sydney

Fly to Great Barrier Reef airport

Stay for 4 nights at Hayman Island on the Great Barrier Reef, taking a boat out onto the reef for snorkelling and diving on the reef

(Optional add on: Ayers Rock)

By James Dutton

Upon escaping the hustle and bustle of Hamilton Island Airport, we were welcomed with cool glasses of water, hand towels and a Mercedes, the ‘Qualia treatment‘ was just beginning. We entered the front gates of the retreat and negotiated the winding driveway up to the main entrance and were overwhelmed by the magnificent view which was reminiscent of a Jurassic Park landscape. We were treated to champagne on arrival and left to relax and absorb the view.

Qualia’s harmonious design is the work of Australian architect Chris Beckingham. His philosophy was to create a luxurious Australian retreat that stimulates the senses and draws the outside in. The resulting design combines a unique sense of space, openness and harmony. Set amongst native Eucalypts, each pavilion has been handcrafted from the finest imported and local timber and stone. To complement the natural surrounds, Dennis Nona’s artworks adorn the walls and Freedman Rembel has furnished the interiors with fabrics and patterns inspired by nature. Guests can choose from two types of spacious, one-bedroom freestanding pavilions or a private Beach House. An array of timber in the entrance area and an intriguing mirror of water created by the infinity edge pool expanding to the north and to the open water of the Whitsundays conveys a sense of connection to the elements. The usual paraphernalia of a front desk and concierge are out of immediate sight, club seating and a library down a discreet hallway create a relaxed atmosphere.

Upon check-in we learned that all food was included in the package, with some small charges on mini bar, alcohol and spa treatments. We were then taken by golf buggy to our retreat at the top of the resort. Luscious greenery, timber and high stone walls conceal the amazing view that awaits your entrance. The furniture and fit-out is plush with Australian flair. Our service manager ensured us that everything, and I mean everything, was at our disposal. From a fully stocked mini bar consisting of my favourite Grey Goose vodka, Turkish delights, to a full entertainment system allowing our iPod and camera to be plugged in to view the day’s activities. An icemaker, private plunge pool and outdoor shower to relax and take in the abundance of natural surroundings and warmth of the Whitsundays as well as a very well-planned air-conditioning system to cool off if the warmth was too much to take in.

This 61-room and suite luxury hotel, part of Bob Oatley’s big plans for Hamilton Island, has some specialty suites and I look forward to seeing much more of his work on the island. The main room is entirely wood-panelled and decorated in soft fabrics custom-designed to suit the hotel. The window coverings allow guests to sleep uninterrupted throughout the night then well into the morning if desired. Soft-covered arm chairs, and a cream sofa with matching large outdoor bed allows you to lie down outside whilst being protected from direct sun, accompanied by an outdoor teak dining setting. The flat screen television is set into the soft fabric wall.

The main pool has been designed to once again blend in with the beauty of the region. Lunch, which is served whenever desired, was a choice of food to satisfy all palettes, and a selection of house cocktails to sip by the bar. Mention must be made of the degree of aptitude and attention from the staff as we ordered lunch when it was noted that I had an intolerance to a certain ingredient. The next day at dinner, served by another staff member, we were advised that this ingredient would not be in the food we were ordering. Qualia deserves an excellent reputation with this attention to detail after only 6 months of operation. I was truly impressed. Qualia staff take their role seriously and with pride.

The quality of the cuisine was extremely high. Meals were meticulously presented, the cocktails were worth the trip alone and there was even a never-ending supply of chocolate croissants baked especially and hand-delivered even when guests are poolside.

Spa Qualia offers the ultimate in anti-stress, anti-ageing, detoxifying and cleansing treatments. It makes use of international organic product ranges from Phyto and Eminence. I received the signature hot stone treatment with ancient ‘Bularri Yarrul’ stones, and chakra-therapy sessions using a range of Australian essential oils from Anoint. They were as special and relaxing as the rest of my stay in the resort.

After two days at Qualia we then chartered a 47-foot Riviera called Ocean Magic for another two days. The charters are run by Ocean Dynamics and complement the service and style of Qualia their attention to detail and quality of their charter vessels are the best in the Whitsundays. The Charter took us to the northern tip of Hayman Island and then returned to Hamilton Island. Should guests wish to book these boats, we will have a charter section very soon on duttondirect.com.

Throughout your stay you receive crisp white linens and stunning Aesop essentials. Wonderful coffee, sensational selection of gastronomical choices from the daily menus and stunning service make for a truly special retreat experience.