In this issue - June 2010

The next time you’re longing for some warmth and sunshine, head up to the Cassowary Coast in northern Queensland and spend some time in idyllic Innisfail. This quaint town resting on the banks of the Johnstone River boasts a location that is close to two incredible World Heritage listed natural attractions – rainforest at Wooroonooran National Park and the spectacular Great Barrier Reef! With a modest population of around 8500, Innisfail is the type of place where you can relax while still knowing there are plenty of services nearby. The town was once famous for sugar cane, but today bananas, delicious tropical fruits and tea are more prolific in the area. There is also plenty of seafood to be enjoyed, with a substantial prawn and reef fishing industry. Things to do: Woo... Read more

We really are spoiled for choice in Australia, not only because our country features so many different and wonderful landscapes, but also because there are accommodation operators like Shani Graham and Tim Darby, who have taken their love of art, nature and sustainable tourism, and turned it into a unique place to stay, The Painted Fish. Take an exceptional location like Fremantle, add a mixture of quirky accommodation and a commitment to a greener way of living, and you have a fascinating and sustainable place to stay for a break like no other. Shani & Tim had several goals when they conceived the idea for The Painted Fish.  They wanted to offer a haven from the noise and ‘busyness’ of the city to relax and inspire; provide short-term accommodation for travellers wi... Read more

45 Olympian Parade Leura NSW   This wonderful property was designed by renowned architect Phillip Cox, sits in beautiful gardens and boasts magnificent views. It is definitely the whole package for a wonderful stay in the mountains.   Overall rating? Excellent, with outstanding ambience and location   What makes Blue Mountains Rhapsody different? This is a property that has been well planned and beautifully executed, however the thing that stays with you when you think of it is the incomparable view. Panoramic views of the world heritage listed Blue Mountains, the iconic Three Sisters and superb Mount Solitary just take your breath away.   Accommodation overview There are four large bedrooms, one with a king-size bed and ensuite, another with a queen-size bed... Read more

We all love the romance and pampering that comes with a luxury holiday and a high standard of service, facilities and attention to detail is the very least we expect. No wonder then that Sunset Waters won the luxury accommodation category in the 2009 TakeABreak Awards.   It boasts a superlative location on tranquil Macleay Island, which lies half way between the Gold Coast and Brisbane and the views across Moreton Bay to the hinterland beyond are breathtaking.   This luxurious waterfront home features a stylish and thoughtful design, which makes the most of the location, and the vast expanse of floor to ceiling glass is a welcome feature that brings the outside in. The land runs down to the high water mark, so it is waterfront in the true sense of the word and it is easy to s... Read more

Bronte Cottage, Bygone Beautys Cottages 78-80 Genevieve Road Bullaburra NSW     Set at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, you drive through lush green gardens and abundant foliage and then come upon the white, French provincial-style Bronte cottage. It is a lovely way to arrive at a property. Overall rating? Outstanding What makes Bronte at Bygone Beautys different? Statues flank the low steps to the front door and the interior of the house strikes you as being very luxurious, with beautiful living space, extensive floor-to-ceiling windows and an abundance of light. The French provincial feeling is continued with the large fireplace and a grand piano in one corner.   Accommodation overview The main bedroom with ensuite and queen-size bed is well appointed, and... Read more