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The good news is that I am in Tasmania to visit wineries and distilleries. The bad news? My computer has packed it in. So, I don’t have access to some of the latest deals, but I can update you if you are planning on visiting this wonderful part of the world. He is in Hobart, you are thinking. No, we are in Launceston or Launnie, as the locals know it. So here are a few tips if you are heading this way.

ACCOMMODATION: You can spend time heading for the pump house or Stillwater. We have experienced both properties and give them a high five. However, if you are looking for a very comfortable inner-city property with a great restaurant, I would recommend The Sebel Launceston. It is comfortable and amicable, and the Bluestone Restaurant has excellent food. Don’t miss dinner at Black Cow Bistro (only for carnivores), but you have to book, and we recommend doing so weeks, if not months, ahead. It is always booked out.

TOURING. We headed today to the Clover Hill Winery, an architectural surprise with lovely country views made out of rammed earth. The wines are exquisite; you can move from the flinty dry to a drop to your taste. We really enjoyed the Foudre, an oak-aged Chardonnay Champagne. Next came Jansz. It was rather lovely sitting out overlooking a lake and the surrounding countryside and sipping more champagne. Our favourite is the 2021 vintage cuvee. More from Tassie next week.

VIKING invites you to book a 2026-2028 river voyage and fly free up to $5000 per couple. Use code FFR25.

MALAYSIA AIRLINES has released a sale of up to 15% deal on selected flights. Book by November 2 for travel until June 30, 2026.

CATHAY PACIFIC has a $100 savings deal for travellers heading to Hong Kong and paying with a Mastercard. Book by November 5.

LUXURY ESCAPES has a deal if you are heading to London. The hotel is the Marble Arch near Hyde Park – get two nights in a deluxe room, plus buffet breakfast, plus a bottle of wine for from $649.

FLIGHT CENTRE is promoting a 12-day fly-and-guided tour holiday to China, priced from $1699. The claimed value is $4099.

INSPIRING VACATIONS is worth a look at if you are planning a trip to Africa. Deals include 13 days Essential South Africa with Victoria Falls from $5295pp twin share.

FROM LAST WEEK:

SINGAPORE AIRLINES has released Time to Travel fares for 2026. The sale is until 05 November 2025. Fares shown are for return travel pp between 19 January 2026 and 26 October 2026 inclusive; blackout periods apply. I am talking ex Adelaide, but London costs Economy 1,679, Business 9,020.

ACCOR wonders if you are heading to New Zealand? This summer, save 15% on stays of two nights or more, plus 5% extra for ALL members. From Pullman and Mövenpick to Novotel and ibis, your escape awaits.

ALDI HOLIDAYS – yes, the supermarket people – always have holiday deals – how about a 24-day best of Europe fly and tour holiday from London priced from $6999. They claim it is valued at 11000pp. Travel in April-December 2026.

Remember, conditions always apply to these specials. Check airline prices from your capital city. I recommend you use a travel agent, and travel insurance is essential. Finally, I make mistakes like all of us. Check websites to confirm details. Got a travel problem? Please send us details to [email protected]. Ian McIntosh is Australia’s senior traveller.