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Issue 43: Friday, 5 July 2019

  Israel included in SeaDream itinerary

Small is beautiful – and that particularly applies to cruise ships. My favourite cruise experience was exploring Spain aboard SeaDream 11 – with just 52 other couples. Nothing like travelling in your own private yacht. The big news from SeaDream is that in 2021 Ashod Israel is included in Med itineraries for the first time. SeaDream II will depart from Piraeus, Greece, on an 11-night voyage with calls in Israel, Cyprus and Turkey. Details her

Free flights for expedition cruise

Hurtigruten is offering Free Flights to Antarctica and Greenland from London. On the Greenland Expedition Voyage experience some of the most beautiful scenery in the world – amazing icebergs, fjords, and a rich wildlife. Get to know the rich cultural traditions, meet the fascinating Inuit people. You also get to sail onboard one of Hurtigruten’s new state-of-the-art, environmentally friendly expedition ships, the MS Fridtjof Nansen. Detailshere 

Cruise to five free offers

Cruise companies are forever coming up with special deals – so often in fact that it is easy to ignore them. One that seems really good value has just been released by the Norwegian Cruise Line. During the mid winter cruise sale, depending on what level cabin you select, you can get up to five bonus deals and onboard credit that can add up to US2,900 in value,  the cruise line says. Offers include a beverage package, dining package, shore excursions discount, WIFI package and special rates for family and friends. Details here

$1600 discount on Antarctica cruise

The time has never been better for you to set sail towards the wonderous landscapes of Antarctica on a National Georgaphic & Ponant Cruises Expedition. As well as the best available Ponant bonus, you will also be entitled to an extra A$1,600 discount pp on each of the four Antarctica itineraries below. Ponant  Cruise experts will be joined on each cruise by a National Geographic expert and photographer.  See here

New refuge from Bangkok’s noise, pollution

Hard to believe as it may seem given the pollution levels in Bangkok, Mӧvenpick Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of a Wellness Resort in busy Sukhumvit. The resort is surrounded by 1.2-acres of lush greenery with trees dating back over a century. Guestrooms come equipped with yoga mats and a dedicated health and fitness TV channel. First guests will enjoy a 30% discount plus daily breakfast for two. Details here

The world’s best touring experiences

Tripadvisor has millions of members who love to travel and comment on their experiences. The latest poll was to find the world’s best tours. Number one slot went to a three day tour of Southern Ireland from Dublin. See iconic landmarks including the Cliffs of Moher and historic Blarney Castle. Round-trip transportation and a local guide included. There are lots more terrific holiday ideas included. Have a look here

Escape the real world in WA

Hikes to Western Australia’s wild Explosion Gorge, sunsets spent overlooking the vast landscape at Branco’s Lookout and boat adventures cruising the Kimberley’s towering Chamberlain Gorge are all included as part of El Questro Resort’s new Adventure Package at Emma Gorge. With no mobile phone reception and limited wifi connection, it’s a chance for guests to really get away from the real world. Details here

Travel agents as popular as ever

As you would have noticed at the end of each Top10 newsletter, we point out that there are dangers in booking travel yourself. Mistakes can be costly. When in doubt, use an AFTA travel agent. Travel insurance agent SureSave points out that agents are still relied on by a large number of Australian travelers and travel agents are more trusted now than ever.

Kids sail free until July 18

Carnival Cruise Line launched its popular ‘Kids Sail Free sale. Pay for the first two guests and up to two kids sail free. Whisk the family away to the tropical islands of the South Pacific, soak up the sun in the Great Barrier Reef, enjoy a trip to the Melbourne Cup or celebrate with friends on a cruise to Moreton Island. This promotion is available from today until 18 July 2019 for select Carnival Spirit sailings from 26 August to 6 December 2019. Seehere

Enjoy breakfast for $1

The Travelodge $1 breakfast sale is now on! Stay at any participating Travelodge Hotel across Australia and New Zealand and receive hot buffet breakfast for just $1 per person. Hurry, offer ends 17 July. Minimum one night stay required.  Stay Dates: 02/07/19 – 14/10/19. See here