21 February 2012

Travel briefs with John Crook

Dose of Dalmatian sunshine

I've never been to Croatia or Slovenia, but those who have tell me that they are two of the most beautiful countries in the world. Conflicts of the past seem a world away on Tempo Holidays Dalmatian Sunshine Coach Tour.

The 9-day fully escorted tour explores the must see sights while staying in first class hotels. But you don't get driven everywhere – they even throw in a walking tour of Old Dubrovnik. Throw in a journey along the spectacular Adriatic Coast to Split, a miniature train ride through the Postojna Caves, and a visit to Zagreb, you get the feeling this would be a memorable holiday.

The tour starts from $1853 per person twin share, and the price includes 8 nights in first class hotels with daily breakfast, 5 dinners and English speaking guides.

For bookings, call Tempo Holidays on 1300 558 987.

Another reason to visit Tassie

Not that you really need an excuse to visit Tassie, but if you've done all the usual things – visit the Salamanca markets, Port Arthur and even Cataract Gorge - you could taste a local ale at one of the many boutique breweries scattered around the State.

One of the best places to sample Tasmania's boutique beer and cider offerings is at Preachers Bar in Hobart - a beer, spirits and tapas bar. (5 Knotswood Street, Hobart – better take a cab!)

If you  want to get really organised, you could even plan a holiday midyear to really get a taste for what I am writing about. Held in La Trobe on 8 July, an event called Dark Side of the Brew celebrates Tasmania's fine microbreweries and cider makers.

La Trobe is not far Devonport's Spirit of Tasmania ferry terminal, so you can always plan your visit so you can drop off your car at your accommodation, and cab it to the event.

Tickets are available at the gate, or for more information, contact Willie from Seven Sheds Brewery at email@example.com

It is the season to cruise

There are so many cruise offerings for 2013 in the market place at the moment; it's almost impossible to choose which one to turn to. They all offer amazing experiences, but one is upping the ante by keeping 2012 prices, and throwing in free return flights with savings of up to $5400 a couple.

Travelmarvel has a 15-day Classical Europe cruise between Amsterdam and Budapest priced from $4,995, which includes 12 small group excursions, 41 meals, and complimentary drinks.

Cruising is on the 90-stateroom MS Johann Strauss, with many rooms featuring a French balcony. The ship is equipped with a stylish lounge, restaurant, sun deck and fitness centre.

Eleven departures are scheduled between March and September.
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