Best winter packages downunder in 2013

It’s winter downunder and that means plenty of ski and snow time. But while some might be seeking alpine reaches to make most of the conditions others may be looking for warmer places and experiences to see them through the cold months. Whatever your desire, here are five packages to consider this winter in Australia and New Zealand.

Go white out
If you really want to get into the snow and enjoy all it has to offer here are some options.

Franz Josef Heli Hike

Discover up close the magnificent phenomenon of the stunning West Coast glaciers. Combine an awesome scenic helicopter flight over Franz Josef Glacier with a unique guided walk among the ice caves, pinnacles and seracs of this pristine alpine environment. The experienced and professional helicopter pilots’ informative commentary will showcase the exciting landscape for the adventure ahead. MORE INFO

6 great travel tours to do over Easter

Looking for something fun to do this Easter? Here are six fantastic tours we offer that will keep you laughing, happy and enthralled over the holiday season in Australia.

These take in Australia’s Great Ocean Road, fantastic surfing spots on the East Coast and plenty of reef and rainforest.

Groovy Grape Getaways – 3 Day Great Ocean Road & Grampians (Adelaide-Melbourne)
The grooviest coastal adventure around. One of the world`s best coastal routes blended with the beauty and history of the Grampians National Park, making this one of the best trips in Australia. MORE INFO

Follow up: Cairns breaks Zumba world record

Last month we posted a blog about Cairns attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the number of Zumba dancers.

We are happy to report (sorry for the late notice) that Cairns did become the Zumba capital of the world!!

Here are some of the details from the Cairns Post:

CAIRNS is claiming the title of Zumba capital of the world after more than 3000 people crammed into Fogarty Park yesterday to set a new mark for Guinness World Records.

The official tally last night was 3105 people, including Donna Patane (centre) of Cairns, who took part in the 30-minute dance fitness session and organisers are confident the record will be officially recognised next month.

IT was more like a rock concert than fitness class as a Cairns crowd of more than 3000 unofficially set the world record for the most participants at a Zumba class.

Be part of the Zumba World Record attempt in Cairns

Pic: http://www.cairnsesplanade.com.au

On Tuesday, February 21 at 3pm you are cordially welcome to join in the attempt to break the Guinness Book of Records for the most number of participants in a Zumba fest.

The record is currently 2012 participants, while the Australian record sits at 1400. Cairns is hoping to get more than 2000 and have a crack at the record. So head on down to Fogarty Park for your chance to join history.

If you need some practice or still want a Zumba experience another time do note the Cairns Regional Council does have classes twice a week on Tuesdays and Fridays on the Cairns Esplanade. See www.cairnsesplanade.com.au for details.

Here’s the media release about the Zumba attempt:
http://cairns.qld.gov.au/about-council/media-and-public-notices/media-releases/releases/zumba-record

10 things to do in Australia before you die

Read on for the ultimate list of things to do in Australia.

1. Visit the rock
The great monolith, Uluru, beckons out in the middle of central Australia with walks, camping and the chance to learn about Aboriginal Australian heritage. An absolute must on your downunder list.

2. Drive the Great Ocean Road
You can’t beat the Great Ocean Road for romantic and scenic drives. Stretching between Melbourne and Adelaide it’s a good overland weekend trip, or you could make it longer stopping off to camp, surf, sight see and snorkel on the way.