Australia & Pacific | World Travel Magazine

Broome opens up its rustic wonderland

Staff Writer — Thu, 21 Dec 2017 11:40:43 +0000

Four direct flights from Singapore to Broome, Australia will be launched in mid-2018, reducing the travel time of its indirect counterparts by almost seven hours.

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”10″][vc_custom_heading text=”Beautiful white sands of Cable Beach & Natural Wonder that is Horizontal Waterfalls”][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”2″][vc_widget_sidebar sidebar_id=”sidebar-page”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]Four direct flights from Singapore to Broome, Australia will be launched in mid-2018, reducing the travel time of its indirect counterparts by almost seven hours. Broome is a resort town in Kimberley, Western Australia. The current operational indirect flights from Singapore to Broome lands at Perth Airport and takes 10 hours and 35 minutes.

Karijini National Park, By Tourism Western Australia

SilkAir, a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, partnered with Broome International Airport and Tourism Western Australia to fly a Boeing 737 aircraft on an indefinite trial period back and forth the two countries. The plane can carry a total of 162 passengers, with 150 in coach and 12 in business class. “While the current deal with SilkAir is for four return trial flights, we are hopeful that the demand for the service will be high and lead the way for further services in the future,” said Paul Papalia, minister of Western Australia Tourism.

Broome is home to the beautiful white sands of Cable Beach and the natural wonder that is the Horizontal Waterfalls. This coastal town is also famed for its incredible underwater life and gorgeous pearls, having been a pearling industry for decades.

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Romantic Fijian retreat on Taveuni Island

Fiona Harper — Fri, 20 Oct 2017 03:31:24 +0000

Flowers and Fiji are as inseparable as tonic and gin, as intimately intertwined as history’s great lovers Antony and Cleopatra. Imbued with almost spiritual and magical significance, flowers are a part of everyday Fijian life

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”10″][vc_custom_heading text=”Taveuni Palms Resort, Fiji”][vc_separator color=”black” border_width=”2″][vc_widget_sidebar sidebar_id=”sidebar-page”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]Flowers and Fiji are as inseparable as tonic and gin, as intimately intertwined as history’s great lovers Antony and Cleopatra. Imbued with almost spiritual and magical significance, flowers are a part of everyday Fijian life, whether strung together in celebratory garlands or as single blooms tucked behind the ears much like city women wear earrings. The Garden Island of Taveuni in Fiji’s east is home to Fiji’s floral emblem. The rare and revered tagimoucia’s crimson and white blooms hang in chandelier-like clusters of ruby raindrops on a mountain ridge in Taveuni’s highlands.

Dining is one the many highlights at Taveuni Palms Resort (image by David Hartman).

So, it comes as little surprise that flowers dominate our stay at Taveuni Palms Resort. Peering through the window of a Fiji Airways aircraft we spot staff member Marie waving furiously, a scarlet hibiscus behind her ear catching the sunlight. Checking into the Beach Villa a few languid paces from a wisp of sandy beach, the place is awash with flowers. In the bathroom orange, yellow and red hibiscus sit atop bath towels, grace the vanity and the shower’s soap holder. There’s even a bloom atop the toilet paper roll.

Heady with the scent of tropical blooms, Taveuni Palms Resort is an intimate romantic retreat.

With just two villas, each with an acre of land and a private staff of seven, it feels as though we’ve our own private beach house. We indulge in exquisite meals in each of the five dining locations, on the deck, poolside or beachside, indoors and on a deck cantilevered over lush gardens. Each time the table is beautifully decorated with flowers and shells by Sia the Executive Housekeeper. In the evening while we’re dining on four courses Sia works her floral magic in the bedroom, painting messages of love in petals. One night she creates a carpet of petals upon the timber floor. Love is almost guaranteed to blossom in such romantic surroundings. Antony and Cleopatra’s tragic romance would surely have benefited had they checked in to Taveuni Palms Resort.

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Margaret River, wine, food and adventures in nature

David Bowden — Wed, 10 May 2017 20:30:52 +0000

Western Australia has great appeal as it’s less than a six-hour flight from Singapore and its Mediterranean climate is most inviting.

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Western Australia has great appeal as it’s less than a six-hour flight from Singapore and its Mediterranean climate is most inviting. Drive three hours south of Perth to the Margaret River region which extends for some 100km from Cape Naturaliste near Dunsborough in the north to Cape Leeuwin and Augusta in the south. This coastal region includes a range of landscapes from beaches along the Indian Ocean through to rolling hills and forests beyond the surf.

For many visitors, wining and dining is an essential part of the Margaret River experience but it is also home to many adventures in nature. Restaurants and cafés are located in several wineries such as Wills Domain, Vasse Felix, Xanadu and Cullen. Two great dining options in Margaret River township are the Brewhouse and Morries while the Margaret River Bakery is a meeting place for the locals.

Margaret River produces some of the best wines in the country and while it contributes only 3% of Australia’s grapes, it accounts for 10% of the nation’s premium wines. Climatic conditions are similar to Bordeaux and Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay grapes grow particularly well. Other grape varieties that also thrive are Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Chenin Blanc and Shiraz. Visitors can sample these at over 100 wineries such as Howard Park,

Leeuwin Estate, Voyager Estate, Wills Domain, Aravina and Moss Wood. Festivals are always a good time to travel anywhere but a must when the focus is on the winning combination of food and wine. Two festivals in the southwest worth considering are the Taste Great Southern (March 23rd – April 9th, 2017) and the Margaret River Gourmet Escape (17th – 19th November, 2017, gourmetescape.com.au) and Gourmet Escape has a comprehensive range of activities and events up and down the Margaret River region with an emphasis on superstar chefs such as Nigella Lawson and Rick Stein at the last escape.

Adventures in the great outdoors are another reason to travel to Margaret River with activities both on the sea and land. Many come to surf or just laze around on long, uncrowded sandy beaches. Yallingup is one of the most popular beaches but there are many more with Prevelly Beach being the closest to Margaret River township located inland along the river. Breakfast at the White Elephant Café overlooking the turquoise waters of Gnarabup Beach is a quintessential Margaret River experience.

The vast Australian outdoors is easily accessible with extended and organised walks like those offered along the Cape to Cape walk by Walk into Luxury (walkintoluxury.com.au) offers exactly what the name implies. All paths are well marked and traverse a variety of landscapes from dramatic coastlines to majestic eucalypts. They take care of all the planning and transporting adventurers to their luxury lodgings each evening.

Capes to Coast Experience Adventure (capestocoast.com.au) offer a range of adventures with the fat bike ride through the towering eucalypts of Booranup, a wonderful way to experience another side of the region. The leisurely ride ends on a secluded cover where iced wine and the refreshing waters of the Indian Ocean await.

The Margaret River Discovery Company (margaretriverdiscovery.com.au) operated by Sean Blocksidge takes adventurers on scenic tours starting with a leisurely paddle along reaches of the tranquil Margaret River to take in the scenery and wildlife. Part of his tour includes a sampling of the various therapeutic honeys produced from the different eucalyptus trees of the southwest. Beneath the ground the spectacular

Jewel, Lake, Mammoth, Ngilgi and Yallingup Caves are other attractions with the Caveworks Interpretation Centre being the place to visit. Josh Whiteland from Koomal Dreaming (koomaldreaming.com.au) offers a fascinating tour and an explanation of the close relationship his people, the Aborigines, have with it. A highlight of his cultural tour is when he plays the didgeridoo in the total darkness of Ngilgi Cave.

Perhaps the ultimate indulgence is to fly over parts of the region with Scenic Helicopters (scenichelicopters.com.au) to get the finest photos of the coast and the vines.

TRAVEL GUIDE

Getting There Scoot (flyscoot.com) connection via Scoot’s Singapore hub. A rental vehicle is a versatile way to discover Margaret River with Hertz (hertz.com) offering a comprehensive range of vehicles which can be conveniently pre-booked for collection upon arrival at Perth International Airport. For those who don’t want to drive, travel in style with Perth Luxury Tours (perthluxurytours.com).

Where to Stay Stay in style at Cape Lodge (capelodge.com.au), Injidup Spa Retreat (injidupsparetreat.com.au), the Grand Mercure Basildene Manor (grandmercure.com.au) or Pullman Bunker Bay Resort Margaret River (pullmanhotels.com). Self-catered accommodation is available and best suited to families who can use full kitchen facilities to prepare their own meals. Choose to stay at deluxe selfcontained villas such as Willy Bay Resort (willybayresort.com.my) or luxury homes such as Waterford (privateproperties.com.au).

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St Hugo’s new home in Barossa

Christine Lee — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 19:15:10 +0000

Wine enthusiasts have a new spot to indulge in their favourite pastime.

Wine enthusiasts have a new spot to indulge in their favourite pastime. St Hugo, one of Australia’s most celebrated wine labels, has opened the doors of its new brand home in the heart of the Barossa Valley – and it promises to deliver on a truly luxurious and exclusive wine tasting experience. The sensory journey starts from the moment you cross the estate’s gates and travel through an avenue of aged cork trees before reaching the historic stonewalled building. Inside, a sophisticated wine lounge awaits with especially-crafted St. Hugo wines – including a Private Collection with wines that are entirely exclusive to the brand home.

Guests can choose from exceptional experience packages that feature everything from private helicopter tours of the St. Hugo vineyards to the unprecedented opportunity to name your own row of vines and blend your bespoke wine. And because there is no better way to become immersed in the legacy of St. Hugo than with impeccable food, St. Hugo also offers an intimate dining experience featuring the best of local Barossa produce.

Legacy Wine Experience starts from AUD $5,000 per person and Prestige Wine Experience start from AUD $30,000 for two people.

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Road trip Brisbane to Byron Bay

Rachel Owens — Sun, 25 Dec 2016 19:47:16 +0000

Set off on a memorable ride down Australia’s east coast and experience the best of Brisbane, Gold Coast and Byron Bay.

Set off on a memorable ride down Australia’s east coast and experience the best of Brisbane, Gold Coast and Byron Bay. An enviable trip filled with French picnics, cooking classes, hatted restaurants, poolside cocktails and private beaches all teamed up with exclusive accommodation.

DAY ONE: BRISBANE

STAY

The New Inchcolm Hotel & Suites,
MGallery by Sofitel
73 Wickham Terrace, Spring Hill QLD

EAT

High Tea at Sofitel Brisbane Central
With spectacular views over the city, indulge in one of Sofitel Brisbane Central’s signature High Teas. Inspired by the 2016 Pantone Colour of the Year which is Rose Quartz & Serenity Blue, special effort is made to delight both sight and palate with a stylish combination of classic favourites such as scones, French pastries and ribbon sandwiches. All this, while also discovering new elegant French additions from the French Patisserie Chef Joel Helot. This mouth watering food ‘ensemble’ is available from 1pm – 3pm daily in the Club Sofitel Lounge and from 2pm – 4pm daily in Cuvée Lounge Bar starting at $46 per person.

EAT

Dinner at Thomson’s Reserve Restaurant
Located at The New Inchcolm Hotel & Suites Brisbane, Thompson’s Reserve’s Executive Chef has painstakingly put together a menu that focuses on simple clean flavours. His brand of cuisine allows diners to celebrate the unique ingredients that Australia is famous for. Guests of distinction will delight in the restaurant’s history, ambience and charm. The restaurant, named after Dr Thomson an influential man, selected where to build his home, Inchcolm, back in the 1880s. He naturally chose a prestigious location on the hill in Wickham Terrace. That prestige still remains today at The New Inchcolm Hotel and Suites making it an exclusive much sought after address for the discerning foodie who loves what is on his/her plate and also is fussy about what the setting and ambience is like. On both counts, Thomson’s will not disappoint.

PLAY

Enjoy atipple or two at Socialites bar, and step back in time to enjoy a taste of the roaring 20’s inspired décor, jazz music and delicious cocktails that have been blended by a master bartender. Socialites Bar is a popular go to place for those who want to enjoy a relaxed evening in surroundings that are elegant and classy. It is ideally positioned to commemorate special moments with loved ones, sharing intimacy, laughter and great conversations over a fine selection of food and drinks. Of special note are their Scotch whiskies. If looking for an ‘all girls’ outing, The New Inchcolm Hotel and Suites is the place to be. Their special ‘Girls Night In’ package comes with overnight accommodation in a two bedroom suite, bottle of sparkling wine and cheese platter, mini manicures for two, unlimited movies on demand, premium goodies box containing a boutique range of ice cream, handmade local chocolates and treats and plenty of peace and quiet. It is a great way to bond, catch up and do typical girlie things.

DAY TWO: BYRON BAY

Drive 80km south of Brisbane (one and a half hours) until you reach Gold Coast.

STAY

Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach
81 Surf Parade, Broadbeach QLD

EAT

Dinner at Room81 restaurant
Designated the title of being a ‘theatrical’ restaurant where the theatre aspect comes from food, Room81 is indeed a unique eatery which has a repeat value with regulars simply because it celebrates food in a real fun way. Awarded Two Chef Hats by the Australian Good Food Guide, its degustation experience features delicious taste blasts using local ingredients, uncovering the best of Sam Moore’s piquant delights. Sam’s dishes present a rare opportunity to bask in a tantalising dance of lavish delicacies while ‘culinary tapestry’ gets unravelled course by course.

PLAY

Sign up for an intimate cooking class with Room81’s award winning Executive Chef, Sam Moore and get in front of the gas stove and oven to check out how Sam gets your favourite right every time with precision and ofcourse unbridled passion. After a heated session in the kitchen it would make perfect sense to head out to the pool deck for a relaxing afternoon in the sun.

DAY THREE: BRISBANE

Drive 93km south of Gold Coast (1.15 hrs) until you reach Byron Bay.

STAY

Elements of Byron Resort, MGallery
by Sofitel, 144 Bayshore Dr, Byron
Bay NSW

EAT

Graze at Elements
If you have heard stories of Executive Chef Justin Dingle-Garciyya, you will know that food is the only way to enjoy the fine things of life. So, brace yourself to partake in the experience of relishing every morsel that is served, in what is a lush and sensory affair. A slow meal is recommended to relish each bite and while you do so, to enjoy the views of the stunning infinity pool precinct and fire pit. Here, the ref lection of different colours stream through the day depending on how high the sun is and how dusk falls. You have the option of dining indoors or on the terrace that has the busy wood fired oven laid out rather tantalisingly. Evening time would be perfect for sitting by the open fire at the Drift Bar and sipping a drink of your choice or nursing an elementally inspired cocktail featuring local native ingredients.

PLAY

If yoga is your thing and salvation your goal, join the resident Elements of Bryon Yogi, for an early morning session that will refresh your mind and get you intrigued in the ‘what next’ of yoga. The one-hour session is done at Byron Bay which is the eastern-most point of Australia, the first place to see the sunrise, and what a magical spectacle it is. The stretches are done overlooking Belongil Beach which could be a good reason for your body not complaining much and you being extra surprised at how good the yoga session felt.

Osprey Spa

After the yoga, go for a 90-minute spa treatment and emerge revitalised and refreshed.

Osprey Spa is an organic, simple experience inspired by the local surroundings.Ingredients are pure and basic and come from nature. The treatments emphasise pleasurable enhancement of health and wellbeing while focusing on leaving a light footprint on the environment. This is at the core of the promoter’s efforts, contributing towards making holistic wellbeing and sustainability an integral part of their property.

When not enjoying a treatment relax by the resort’s infinity pool or private beach and lose track of time, space and being. Come back refreshed, detoxified and in touch with your inner self.

Prepare your step-wise plan to get the most out of your time and money, especially in terms of where to stay, what to eat, how to indulge yourself and what the must-do’s should be. These recommendations have been put together after much discussion with local hosts and seasoned travellers on the circuit.

To book visit Accorhotels.com

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Doctor No I Presume

Adam Boinod — Wed, 21 Dec 2016 19:38:47 +0000

AS THE FAMOUS FRENCH WRITER HILAIRE BELLOC NOTED, “I HAVE WONDERED ALL MY LIFE AND I HAVE ALSO TRAVELLED; THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE TWO BEING THIS, THAT WE WANDER FOR DISTRACTION, BUT WE TRAVEL FOR FULFILMENT”.

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I went on a cruise in Fiji. Cruises may not be for everyone. They are as restful or energetic as you feel. You are effortlessly on the move and there is a definite passive beauty in viewing the shorelines, in passing gently past static land. And it is not just ‘plain sailing’. There is always something to feast upon. With over 300 islands across Fiji (of which a hundred are populated) the mountain ranges are friendly and green-topped, the waters crystalline and the sand truly white.

The Yasawa Island group, around twenty in all and volcanic in origin, is properly remote, accessible only by a handful of options. It looks out over Bligh Water, named after William Bligh, Captain Cook’s first mate. It’s also famous as the location for the filming of both Blue Lagoon versions (the 1948 one starring Jean Simmons and the more recent one with Brooke Shields). And yet, miraculously, it remains unspoilt and innocent.

I made more of my visit going to the wonderful Matamanoa, a deluxe resort, perfect for honeymooners as soon became apparent. It offered a delightful aspect over the nearby Modriki Island, the setting for Tom Hanks’ Castaway, with the hillock where he buried Wilson.

At nearby Beachcombers Island I finally got a chance to recreate my own desert island experience. Like “mad dogs and the Englishman” that I am, I swam a circle around the island. I had the place to myself alongside a myriad of little creatures. Snorkelling is the best way to enjoy them especially in and amongst these renowned soft coral spots. I had a hat and some water and of course underestimated the distance and the heat, nothing that a drop of iodine and tea tree oil couldn’t restore.

Robert Louis Stevenson, on his travels in the Pacific, hated the sea but loved the islands. He wrote in 1888 that sailing the sea was “stupefying to the mind and poisonous to the temper … but you are amply repaid when you sight an island and drop anchor in a new world”.

I skipped happily onto Taveuni the delightful island neighbouring Laucala. It is bang on the date line and is only one of two bits of land across the world, it appears (were the line to have been kept straight); the other being somewhere in Siberia. It has fabulous waterfalls and is known as the ‘Garden of Fiji’. A visit to Laucala, a superlative island resort, on a 2×350 horsepower aluminium speedboat cutting across the choppy water proved to be quite an experience.

There, at the efficiently built dock to meet me, alongside the standard wonderful singing that greet all guests in Fiji, stood the stout, patrician, General Manager, Andrew Thomson, who was to dedicate much of his time to showing me around the island. “Doctor Livingstone!”, I jokingly called out and we were to play up other duels and duets, acting out with our golf buggy drive Thatcher and Reagan and then James Bond in the lair of Dr. No as we met at the panoramic Seagrass bar for lunch.

Laucala (pronounced Lauthala) has an extraordinary mystique not just amongst the truly well-heeled jetsetter clientele, but to the normal Fijian. They all see it as something special, unique actually. Malcolm Forbes bought it originally as a hideaway for his private interests, but on his death, it was sold in 2002 to Dietrich Mateschitz. C.E.O. of Red Bull drinks company, and launched in 2011 as a private island resort. And as I sat there thinking that being on an island, off an island, off the mainland of Fiji was surely as remote as you could get I met the head chef Anthony from Brisbane who worked at the restaurant 200 yards from my in London!

Andrew is keen to push for an even more sublime island of paradise. Improvements underway include the cobblestone roads made specifically from the best stone in Vietnam and along which everyone travels in their electric golfing buggy, a style seemingly American but highly practical.

Recently he has included the ‘Deep Flight Super Falcon’, a submersible, for those who love to see fish and coral but don’t scuba dive. It’s the first resort in the world to offer the experience. This is the most advanced of underwater craft, I discovered, and it was available at a mere $2,000 per hour!

As a guest I got to see these 360 degree views of fish busying themselves, and circling sharks, while sitting in comfort in the craft. The shallow lagoons are home to colourful reefs that themselves play home to schools of tropical fish, such as coral trout, angelfish, lionfish, and even octopus. The submersible has LED lights and low electromagnetic fields, and so it keeps sea animals and the environment in rude health.

Set upon a private island of 3,200 exclusive acres in the Fijian Pacific archipelago, Laucala Island brings a new meaning to the term “all-inclusive resort.” It is undoubtedly beyond five-star, it is set among coconut plantations, sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons and rich green mountains. It is 80 percent self-sustainable and Andrew made me aware of how the resort prides itself on incorporating elements of the entire island from homemade spa products to cuisine based on indigenous plants, fruit and fish.

The philosophy of the staff with the guests is one of community, all blessed by nature’s providence. I got chatting to two waitresses. While Hamlet and Julius Caesar was on their school curriculum there are no art books to show Paul Gauguin’s work, a much more vital and fitting connection between European and Oceanic values. They were stunned as they recognized many of the themes Google Images offered of his paintings.

British Colonialism has left its mark with hymn plaques in the Methodist churches and teachers at schools, perspiring in their ties. I bought a copy of the Fijian to English dictionary. Cobo – to clap the hands crosswise, so as to make a hollow sound – was something I had witnessed as part of a ceremonial act. Tele – to paint with

FIJI BENEFITS FROM TOURISM, EXPORTING SUGAR, TUNA, GOLD EVEN BUT IS PREY TO CHINESE COMMERCE WHICH IS GOING TO SLEIGHT THE ISLAND WITH A CASINO, A NEON-LIT ENVIRONMENT CURRENTLY ONLY SEEN AT THE AIRPORT AND THE INDIAN SHOPS

HOTELS

MATAMANOA · LAUCALA ISLAND RESORT · NANUKU (PACIFIC HARBOUR) · THE WAKAYA CLUB & SPA (SUVA)ROYAL DAVUI ISLAND
RESORT (LAMI) · SHERATON TOKORIKI ISLAND RESORT & SPA (MAMANUCA ISLANDS)
INTERCONTINENTAL FIJI GOLF RESORT & SPA (NATADOLA, CORAL COAST) · EMAHO SEKAWA RESORT (SAVUSAVU)
JEAN-MICHEL COUSTEAU FIJI ISLANDS RESORT (VANUA LEVU ISLAND) · SHANGRI-LA’S FIJIAN RESORT & SPA (CUVU, SIGATOKA)
DOLPHIN ISLAND · VOMO ISLAND RESORT · LIKULIKU LAGOON RESORT (MALOLO ISLAND) · TAVEUNI PALMS

Fiji benefits from tourism, exporting sugar, tuna, gold even but is prey to Chinese commerce which is going to sleight the island with a casino, a neon-lit environment currently only seen at the airport and the Indian shops. The land is 10% freehold and 82% native land (ruled by the chiefs known as i Taukei). The remainder is owned by the state, formerly by the crown. Andrew summed it up: “During Colonial times when sugar was king, Fiji was governed by Britain, educated by New Zealanders and owned by Australians”. Andrew explained further about Fiji’s recent inheritance: “In 1970 Harold Wilson decided to get rid of the island, both from costs and left wing sentiment towards independence. In 1993 television came in and was a positive influence as it meant people were more careful about saving up for things advertised”.

Fijians are stockily built, with a strong sense of identity, the village group more important than the individual. For a man coming back from abroad it is the news of any children created that matters most. They don’t worry about provisions: the land is so bountiful and the village chief simply summons one of his tribe to perform their fishing duties, if that is what’s wanted for their evening meal. Fijian villagers are self-sufficient. They need only import from overseas kerosene, outboard motors, corrugated iron roofs, fuel, and fish hooks.”

The classiness of what’s on offer at Laucala is everywhere to be seen. The Island’s farm and hydroponic gardens make it uniquely 85% self-sufficient, with such rarities as its own soap, papaya jam and green tea ice cream. I was spoilt with an evening and breakfast degustation. Some hire the whole island as Arnold Schwarznegger allegedly did recently. Mel Gibson was photographed next door on the island of Qamea getting friendly with the chief. Laucala does get honeymooners but inevitably they are tired from their event and are not that adventurous.

I shall at least dream forever of returning, boosted by being sent on my way by a flattering, humbling turn out of staff to sing their personalized “Isa Lei”, the famous departure song:

Isa Isa vulagi lasa dina
Nomu lako au na rarawa kina
Cava beka ko a mai cakava
Nomu lako au na sega ni lasa.
Chorus:
Isa Lei, na noqu rarawa,
Ni ko sana vodo e na mataka
Bau nanuma, na nodatou lasa,
Mai Laucala nanuma tiko ga.
Isa, Isa you are my only treasure
Must you leave me, so lonely and forsaken?
As the roses will miss the sun at dawn,
Every moment my heart for you is yearning
Chorus:
Isa Lei, the purple shadow falling,
Sad the morrow will dawn upon my sorrow,
Oh forget not, when you’re far away
Precious moments at Laucala Island.

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Art Hotel down under

Christine Lee — Tue, 13 Dec 2016 19:24:21 +0000

Many luxury properties cater to an audience that expects a heightened sense of aesthetic sensibility, with private art collections on display in their interiors.

Many luxury properties cater to an audience that expects a heightened sense of aesthetic sensibility, with private art collections on display in their interiors. Making a statement with the colour, character and drama that the chosen art form brings to the lobbies, corridors, restaurants or rooms, the art connoisseur tends to rely on a few high impact pieces or concepts.

The Australian-owned-and-operated, Art Series Hotel Group goes a step forward by basing their entire boutique hotel around art and sculpture. Their conviction, “that art inspires fine living” is lived out through their art series hotels, befittingly called ‘art series studios’.

Launched in 2009, the collection of luxurious boutique hotels and Art Series Residences sought inspiration from Australian contemporary artists and dedicated themselves to some of the most well-known artists of the region. Located in the hottest art and cultural hubs, these art inspired boutique hotels have made a place for themselves. Strategically located in cities that see good business and leisure traffic, they call Melbourne, Bendigo and Adelaide home. The philosophy is simple; an Australian artist works closely in the development of the hotel, carrying the artist’s name and transforms the property into an exclusive domain of their artwork.

Each of the six properties takes design inspiration from namesake artists, infusing their works and personality throughout the hotel to create a truly art-inspired experience. With original artworks and prints adorning walls and halls, the celebration of the artist and his/her work is complete with dedicated art channels, art libraries, art tours and art utensils for guests to embrace.

The success of the initiative has given further impetus to the management who see the concept of art
hotels as a bridge between the tourism industry and the broader city art scene. It goes without saying that a lot of investment and energy has also gone into training staff through an education programme, learning about the various , their many nuances and strengths.

The Cullen at 32 Commercial Road, Melbourne is a fashionable hotel named after Adam Cullen who uses bold colours and concepts. The property opened in 2010, with reasonably sized rooms with all basic amenities that one would expect.

The Larwill Studio is located on Flemington Road, Parkville and is inspired by the great Australian artist, David Larwill. Here guests find it easy to immerse themselves in the creative process of the artist’s world by just being attentive observers.

The Watson in Walkerville, South Australia is set amongst tree-tops of a leafy village overlooking Adelaide Hills. It draws inspiration from artist, Tommy Watson. Special conducted art tours allow guests to linger in the art library browsing through art journals and a dedicated art channel adds to this unique experience.

The Schaller Studio at Bayne & Lucan Street, draws from the art and cultural overtones of Bendigo and is inspired by contemporary expressionist artist, Mark Schaller. Working fluently with multiple art forms including sculpture, ceramics and painting, the artist’s bold array of abstract shapes and colours capture his visual experiences and local surroundings perfectly.

The Olsen in South Yarra, Melbourne is located in a chic South Yarra precinct and is home to a number of John Olsen’s seminal works. The Blackman at St Kilda Road, Melbourne, named after Charles Blackman is well known for his Alice in Wonderland series, where he articulates life with dreamlike poetry.

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The destination of choice for weddings

Christine Lee — Thu, 18 Feb 2016 22:19:48 +0000

The Tourism Fiji Wedding Expo (FWE) on 19 and 20 March 2016 is THE place to visit for all those who are preparing to get married anytime soon.

The Tourism Fiji Wedding Expo (FWE) on 19 and 20 March 2016 is THE place to visit for all those who are preparing to get married anytime soon. This expo is ideal for all those that are looking out for the next beautiful wedding destination with top notch arrangements. This event features over 50 wedding service providers, all showcases various products and services for tourists and bridal parties in Fiji.

The FWE is a great opportunity to find the best wedding suppliers, from professional photographers, hair & make-up specialists, decorators, caterers and resorts – all under one roof, spread over one weekend. Glass blowing by Alice Hill from Hot Glass Fiji will be the highlight of the event showcasing her marvellous talent and an awe-inspiring visual experience. Mr Anton Wye, a well-established young Fijian designer and Winner of the 2015 Fiji Fashion Week designer of the year award will steal the spotlight at the cocktail party.

The event will also include live exhibits from Tadra Flowers and Weddings, Hair & Make-up specialist, Stanley Morrel and Hens & Bucks party specialist, Events Fiji. Q&A sessions with the Fiji Registrar OF Marriage Office will also be a part of this event.

Visitors registering in advance to attend the expo as buyers will be able to attend the special cocktail with compliments on the 19th of March.

© This article was first published in Feb 2016 online edition of World Travel Magazine.

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Luxury Island Getaways in Tropical North Queensland

Fiona Harper — Wed, 10 Feb 2016 02:47:10 +0000

There are no shortage of tropical islands in Queensland with a select few home to exclusive island resorts.

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There are no shortage of tropical islands in Queensland with a select few home to exclusive island resorts. In fact there are over 150 islands, not including the odd un-named sand cay and rocky islets whose real estate assets rise and fall with the tide. With so many islands, we’ve done the legwork for you, narrowing down idyllic island experiences where you can unleash your inner Robinson Crusoe in style. So slip your toes into the sand, sharpen your palette for some of the freshest seafood you’re ever likely to taste and slip onto island time as we explore four islands on the Great Barrier Reef.

Pamper your palate on Orpheus Island

Arguably one of Australia’s most intimate bespoke island retreats, Orpheus Island welcomes guests with her sun-drenched charms. Exuding a laid back Aussie warmth thanks to passionate staff, there’s an easy conviviality from the moment your helicopter lands on the beach.

Food is serious business at Orpheus Island. In fact the culinary team take cuisine so seriously that guests are asked to complete a comprehensive questionnaire before arrival so that menus can be tailored to specific tastes. Indonesian Head Chef Arie Prabowo leads a culinary team that takes full advantage of the island’s substantial garden. Resident horticulturalist Jen Truasheim manages the fruit orchard, vegetable patch and herb garden along with the resort gardens and landscaping. She’s also chief chicken handler, responsible for egg layers she fondly calls ‘the girls’. The girls produce around 20 golden-yoked eggs daily from their free ranging habitat. The menu changes daily depending on the seasons and Prabowo’s inspiration. For example, pan seared Hervey Bay scallops on a bed of parsnip puree with Iberico ham and tamarind jam. Or blackened bug tails served with avocado, pineapple and almond salsa with a dash of chilli sauce.

A 2014 makeover added a beachfront infinity pool surrounded by lush grass and coconut palms. Four new South Suites were installed – they’re enormous, styled like a modern beach house with lime-washed floors, plantation shutters and indoor/outdoor bathroom. An all-inclusive tariff extends to the fully stocked mini-bar.

Orpheus Island stretches around 11 km in an elongated shape running north and south. The south east trade winds buffet the east coast much of the year while resort side, the bay is sheltered and calm. Beachcombers will enjoy poking around flotsam and jetsam washed ashore from who knows where on the windward side washed ashore.

Resort-side there’s a fleet of craft from stand up paddle boards, a Hobie cat, kayaks and small outboard-powered dinghies. Take a gourmet picnic hamper stocked with food and drinks to any of the secluded coves bookended by granite boulders for an island castaway escapade Robinson Crusoe could only dream of. The crew are on hand to take guests snorkelling (the giant clam garden is extraordinary), for a sunset cruise, to the outer reef for diving or offshore fishing – anything really that floats your boat.

More passive though equally pleasurable, Gwandalan Day Spa is a secluded enclave within an already secluded retreat promising rest and peace

(Gwandalan is derived from the original inhabitants the Manbarra people). It delivers. Using wildharvested Australian and organic ingredients formulated into LI’TYA products, the spa is a sanctuary of total relaxation within a whisper of the beach.

Prices start from AUD1200 (South Room) Getting there: Helicopter from Cairns or Townsville orpheus.com.au

Escape to Lizard Island for an outer Great Barrier Reef escapade

Rising 359 metres above the Coral Sea about 250 km north of Cairns, Lizard Island is one of six islands within Lizard Island National Park. The island was named by Lt James Cook during his 1770 voyage on the HMB Endeavour after the yellow spotted monitor lizards he saw. Cook was in a state of despair by the time he reached Lizard, anxious to find a passage of clear water through the barrier reef. The summit he hiked to check out his surroundings is known as Cooks Look. It’s a challenging walk but hikers are rewarded with stunning views.

The waters below come in every shade of blue from aquamarine in the shallow lagoon to blue so intense that is almost black in the deep depths of the Continental Shelf. While the island itself is lovely, the surrounding sea is one of the main attractions for visitors. Divers, snorkelers and game fishermen come here for the extraordinary marine life. The famous Cod Hole on the Ribbon Reefs is easily accessible from Lizard while the annual Black Marlin Classic (October) attracts sports fishermen from across the globe.

Blessed with a number of beaches, north facing Watson Bay has all the essential elements of paradise: gin-clear water concealing colourful coral and a giant clam garden, crescent of dazzling white sand, shady sheoak trees and an endlessly blue sky.

Lizard Island Resort has had a rough couple of years. Damaged in 2014 by Cyclone Ita then in 2015 by Cyclone Nathan, the resort is revamped and reopened. All suites and rooms have been fully refurbished with interiors by leading Australian interior design team Hecker Guthrie.

Anchor Bay Suites are merely a few barefoot steps to the beach while The Pavilion sits high on the point overlooking Sunset Beach with 270 degrees of Anchor Bay. The Villa is a new addition with two bedrooms, expansive deck overlooking Sunset Beach and an infinity plunge pool. Daily sunset and canapes delivered to The Villa are an indulgent precursor to exquisite dinners in Salt Water Restaurant. Simple and relaxed with ocean views of filtered by coconut palms and lush gardens, daily changing menus focu on fresh local produce. Driftwood Bar and Wine Cellar offers a wine list curated by Jeremy Oliver.

Prices start from AUD1699 per night (Beach View Room). Getting there: private charter flight from Cairns. lizardisland.com.au

Ditch the shoes and go barefoot on Bedarra Island

Beguiling barefoot-style Bedarra Island slips under the radar for many. Which is just the way those lucky 16 guests who managed to secure a villa like it. Just 10 km from mainland Australia, most guests stay at bespoke Bedarra Island Resort though there are also a handful of self-contained villas managed by Romantic Retreats.

Recognising the delicate environment within the Great Barrier Marine Park, private and intimate Bedarra Island Resort has a strong eco focus. Energy from the sun is captured in an off-grid hybrid solar system. Low-powered lighting and electrical appliances ensure the system is not overloaded while maintaining guest comfort. Pure cloud juice, otherwise known as rainwater, as well as underground spring water is stored in tanks, heated by the sun for guest bathrooms. An organic vegetable garden and orchard provide fresh produce in the kitchen.

Seclusion, solace and serenity abound at Bedarra where it’s not unusual to walk along a beach with no-one else’s footprints but your own. Hammocks are strung beachside between coconut palms where guests curl up with a favourite book for hours on end. Kayaks and SUP boards are an interesting way to explore the shoreline or there’s dive and snorkel trips further afield. Or take a rainforest walk into the island’s interior where birds and butterflies are abundant.

Split level Ocean View Villa is located high on the ridge with ocean views through the forest canopy while the two-storey Beach House is about as close as you can get to the beach without getting your feet wet. In case the azure sea is not inviting enough there’s an infinity edge plunge pool on the deck. For ultimate privacy and indulgence check into The Point Villa with panoramic Hernandia Bay views, plunge pool and almost 120 square metres of indoor & outdoor spaces.

Prices start from AUD1090 per night (Ocean View Villa). Getting there: boat from Mission Beach bedarra.com.au

Romantic Retreats for loved up couples

Four luxurious love nests are dotted across Bedarra Island, all with ocean views, some with their own swimming pools (East Bedarra Island Retreat), despite being a few metres from fabulous swimming beaches. Bedarra Beach Villa (which is actually two separate villas) has two acres of private beachfront forest tumbling down to a white-sand beach. If you’re hiding from the paparazzi (or the online world), this is the place to do it. Built on stilts atop the hill, Bedarra 360 Degrees captures views from every angle in every room while Bedarra Hideaway reflects the creativity of photographer owner Peter Lik. All reflecting different personalities of their individual owners, each villa is nothing less than fabulous.

Prices start from AUD 450 per night (Bedarra 360 Degrees). Getting there: boat from Mission Beach romanticretreats.com.au

Unleash your inner Robinson Crusoe on Haggerstone Island

Daniel Defoe wrote a fictional autobiography based on an English castaway named Robinson Crusoe who spent 28 years on a remote tropical island. He may well have been talking of far-flung, remote Haggerstone Island.

Over 600 km north of Cairns and less than 10 km offshore, Haggerstone is a million miles away from life as most of us know it. The only passing traffic this far north on Cape York are fishing trawlers and the occasional cruising yacht. Here, days revolve around the setting of the sun and the rising of the tide. Idle starry evenings are spent watching clouds skitter across the moon. The only shoes required are reef booties for fossicking among the shallows at low tide.

Created from the jungle with the hands of two passionate adventurers, Haggerstone is an exclusive wilderness retreat that promises a unique castaway experience. Roy Turner was a frustrated shearer in Victoria, with a love of hunting, fishing and playing music before he followed his heart into the Papua New Guinea wilderness, hunting crocodiles and playing the guitar. Anna, an Englishwoman, was an accomplished potter who had visited Haggerstone on an earlier shipwreck hunting voyage with her father. They landed together on the uninhabited island in the mid 1980’s with a barge load of building materials and heads full of dreams. Armed with meagre provisions, a few chickens, a tractor and building supplies they set about creating their own island paradise.

These days guests are welcomed to join Roy and Anna and their family in one of four charismatic huts. Each building is a work of abstract art with materials coming from the family’s extensive travels or by utilising washed up flotsam and jetsam. It’s rustic luxury at its most inventive. Where barefoot style is enhanced with the subtle sophistication of crystal glassware and fresh culinary delights

The Main House forms the central hub with a bar, library, dining area and observation deck. There’s also a large stone fireplace that’s a popular spot for guests to congregate around with a glass of wine before or after dinner. Meals are influenced by whatever is ripe in the island garden along with whatever has been caught on daily fishing expeditions. Succulent reef fish, lobster, crab and prawns make regular appearances. Coconut palms provide a never ending source of fresh coconut milk and flesh which is used extensively.

House Mawu is the largest and most luxurious villa sitting on the hillside overlooking the lagoon. A central colossal driftwood centre pole supports a thatched roof. Barefoot, bleached and castaway, the Beach Hut is an open plan hut constructed mostly of driftwood washed up on the beach mere metres away. The Lagoon Hut blends into the forest that tumbled onto the beach. Polished floors and timber shutters open onto a wrap-around deck with ocean views.

Switch your watch onto ‘island time’, or better still leave it at home, and allow your inner Robinson Crusoe to emerge. Haggerstone Island offers the rare opportunity to cast yourself adrift from civilisation in a natural island playground.

Prices start from AUD1600 per night (Beach Hut) Getting there: Charter flight from Cairns to Hicks Island then by boat. haggerstoneisland.com.au

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Spectacular Sydney

Staff Writer — Mon, 18 Jan 2016 11:12:11 +0000

Indulge in the finest luxuries, whether adrenaline fuelled pursuits or shopping local designers in this glorious Australian city.

Indulge in the finest luxuries, whether adrenaline fuelled pursuits or shopping local designers in this glorious Australian city.

SEE & DO

Fuel up on adrenaline with these amazing and thrilling experiences to see Sydney from a new vantage point.

BridgeClimb

For a panoramic view of the city, we recommend the Sydney Harbour BridgeClimb, especially to watch the sunset or sunrise. You’ll join celebrities like Sam Smith, Eva Longoria and Demi Lovato in this thrilling experience, 134m above the sea with panoramic views of the city. Photos of this memorable experience will be included in the ticket price. Bridgeclimb.com; AUD$218

Ultimate Sightseeing

For a day of ultimate pampering, Lime & Tonic will arrange a limousine transfer to the airport, where a helicopter will be waiting to take you on a sightseeing flight over Sydney. Dine in a suite in the city’s most exclusive five-star hotel, on a bespoke menu specially prepared by the hotel’s Executive Chef. Limeandtonic.com/Sydney; AUD$17,500

Thrilling Skydives

Alternatively, take a day trip to skydive the Hunter Valley with Lime & Tonic from heights of up to 14,000ft, with a freefall at amazing speeds of more than 200kmh for a minute, before enjoying spectacular views of the vineyards of the valley from up above. Limeandtonic.com/Sydney; AUD$299

UNESCO Sights

Travel to the Blue Mountains in a Rolls-Royce jet turbine, air-conditioned helicopter, passing the Three Sisters and Wentworth Falls, before descending and exploring the mountains by private 4WD vehicles, followed by a two-course lunch with wine at Lilianfel’s restaurant. This is available from HeliExperiences. Heliexperiences.com.au; AUD$4,999

Whale Watching

Embark on a whale watching tour from Sydney with Captain Cook Cruises, best in May to November. The cruise onboard an ocean catamaran is reputed to have a 99 per cent chance of seeing a whale – most likely a humpback whale or a Southern Right Whale. We recommend a private charter for the utmost privacy. Captaincook.com.au; AUD$49

Scenic Drives

With Red Balloon, drive some of the most renowned supercars like the Lamborghini Gallardo and the Aston Martin around Sydney’s South Coast, passing Stanwell Tops and the Sea Cliff Bridge. The only caveat is you’ll have to have an Australian licence, and that you’ll need a minimum of eight participants for this. Redballoon.com.au; AUD$1,499

Thrilling Aerobatics

Experience the best skills of Australia’s Jet Fighter pilots in a passenger flight in an L39 Jet Fighter. Available with Red Balloon, slide into the back seat and be thrilled by the 4,000lbs of thrust propelling you into the sky. Be thrilled by the high G combat manoeuvres, and the aerobatics before diving for the hard deck at up 910kmh. Redballoon.com.au; AUD$1,590

STAY

At the end of the day, luxuriate in the finest suites the city has to offer.

Park Hyatt Sydney

One of the best options for accommodation in Sydney is Park Hyatt Sydney, with great views of the Opera House. Its Cove Suite is furnished with a Nespresso coffee machine, a private concierge and marble bath with two Terraces.sydney.parkhyatt.com; AUD$950

Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

Families especially will love the amenities at Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, as rooms can be childproofed, cribs and rollaway beds added to rooms like the Presidential Suite and changing mats and tables, bottles and bottle warmers are easily available. Children with allergies can sleep on hypoallergenic pillows available on request. Fourseasons.com/Sydney; AUD$365

InterContintental Sydney

Follow celebrities like Oprah, Frank Sinatra and Daniel Craig and stay in the Australia Suite at the InterContintental Sydney. The hotel has 509 guestrooms, and its 245sqm Australia Suite is Sydney’s largest. Other amenities include a grand piano and a walk-in wardrobe. Icsydney.com.au; AUD$248

Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

Out of the city centre – great for a weekend staycation – head to the Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley. The resort sits on a 7,000ac conservation and wildlife reserve, and has amazing views of the Greater Blue Mountains from your three-bedroom Wolgan Suite. Wolganvalley.oneandonlyresorts.com; AUD$2,050

QT Sydney

The epitome of cool, stay at the QT Sydney, a DesignHotels™ member, located among the State theatre buildings and historic Gowings. It blends a number of distinct designs, with influences from Art Deco, Gothic and Italiante for the building’s exterior architecture. It’s the perfect location for a snazzy event. Stay in the largest QT State Suite, outfitted with designer furnishings and amenities for a stylish, yet comfortable night’s rest. Qtsydney.com.au; AUD$330

Sheraton on the Park

Furnished with Hermès bath amenities and two large plasma televisions with BOSE speakers and DVD player, the 205sqm Royal Suite in the Sheraton on the Park hotel guarantees a luxurious stay, especially with its super king-sized Sheraton Sweet Sleeper® Bed. Starwoodhotels.com; AUD$269

Westin Sydney

Set in the historic General Post Office building, the Westin Sydney’s design pays homage to its legacy, while infusing it with a modern twist. Each of the 416 rooms offer BOSE sound systems, deep plunge baths and of course the Heavenly® bed. Keep fit during your stay –running shoes and a custom running map will be provided. Starwoodhotels.com; AUD$262

EAT

We unveil some of the best Chef’s Hats restaurants to try during your visit to Sydney.

Rockpool est 1989.

With a total of 19 Hats, Rockpool continues to define modern Australian cuisine. Try the tasting menu at dinner, which might include the Blue Mountains Wagyu softly grilled and flavoured with wasabi and pickled chrysanthemum or the original date tart that has been served for 31 years. Rockpool.com; AUD 49

Momofuku Sei?bo

Momofuku Sei?bo is a Three Hat restaurant with a frequentlychanging tasting menu. Group bookings can be made for up to 10 persons, while reservations must be made for lunch and dinner in the 30 – 40 seat dining area. Momofuku.com/Sydney; AUD$185

Marque

Another great place to head to is Marque. Dishes include the New Zealand Bass Grouper with Fish Milk & Scales, paired with 2013 Laurent Tribut Chablis-Burgundy wine from France. Choose the eight-course menu from Monday to Saturday. Book the private dining room that can seat a maximum of 14 persons. Marquesrestaurant.com.au; AUD$49

Guillaumes

Dine on the best French cuisine at Guillaumes, also focusing, like many others on this list, on seasonal, produce driven food. The degustation menu will include Grimaud Duck sourced from the Lower Blue Mountains or King George Whiting at Port Lincoln in South Australia. Guillaumes.com.au; AUD$175

Bentley Restaurant & Bar

At Bentley Restaurant & Bar, on the Corner Pitt and Hunter Streets, definitely try at least one of the wines from the 1,000-odd list. Nick Hildebrandt, three-time winner of the Sommelier of the Year, has procured these wines internationally. The eight-course tasting menu features Murray cod with charred spring onion and scallop roe. Thebentley.com.au; AUD$150 [/ts_one_half] [/ts_row]

Ester Restaurant and Bar

The Restaurant of the Year in 2014, Ester Restaurant and Bar, situated in Chippendale on 46-52 Meagher Street, features a giant wood-fired oven. Run by Chef Mat Lindsay, the menu combines a dose of strange with rustic originality: dishes include sirloin on the bone, flank paired with fermented rice and shitake and a chocolate licorice tart. Ester-restaurant.com.au; AUD$72

Sepia

With 18 Chef Hat Awards, tied with Marque, Sepia offers a five-course and nine-course tasting menu, a collaboration between Sydney Chef Martin Benn and seafood wholesaler George Costi, and is paired with an extensive wine list. Highlights of the menu include David Blackmore Wagyu karubi, hot miso mustard, Japanese pickles and ice plant. Sepiarestaurant.com.au; AUD$165

SHOP

Sydney’s best local designers produce pieces that will surely make an unforgettable and in some instances bespoke souvenir.

In three locations across the city, we love Bianca Spender’s summer collection features soft flowy fabrics with interesting silhouettes. These could include exaggerated peplum tops, dramatic yet tastefully plunging necklines, and amazingly detailed skirts. Our favourite is the Wedgewood Faille Pardalote Trench. Biancapsender.com; AUD$145

Alice McCall’s eponymous label now has four boutiques across the country and is available across the world in Japan, Europe and the US, with celebrity fans like Katy Perry, Alexa Chung and Iggy Azalea. We love the Master of the Universe textured jacket, which can be paired with the matching shorts in the spring. alicemccall.com; AUD$160

Create your bespoke jewellery piece with artisan gemcutter Doug Menadue from Bespoke Gems, including Australian gemstones like aquamarines, chalcedony and smokey quartz. These showcase glorious gemstones such as the 18.7ct natural blue topaz with dazzling internal facet patterns and reflections. Bespoke-gems.com; AUD$40/ct

Visit Andrew McDonald for a shoe fitting appointment, the first of three that will lead to a custom-made pair of shoes. Your measurements will be taken to create a last where the toe shape, fitting and heel height are all tailored to you. The whole process will take 6 to 10 weeks, with free international delivery. Andrewmcdonald.com.au; AUD$1,600

Using leather handmade in the city, Charlie Middleton creates bespoke totes, where you select the colour of the vegetable tanned Italian cowhide leather tote and its stud detailing and bring home the totes within six business days. We love the canary and azure blue shades. Charliemiddleton.com; AUD$199

Make a statement at the races with stylish hats at Hatmaker. Celebrities like the Duchess of Cambridge, Orlando Bloom, Miranda Kerr and Yoko Ono have worn these fashionably stylish hats. Bespoke orders are also welcomed. Hatmaker.com.au; AUD$220

For a memorable souvenir of the local Aboriginal art in the city, head to Kate Owen Gallery. The gallery features original and limited edition works – and some can even be commissioned to fit your specifications. Kateowengallery.com; price upon request

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