Tall Ship Sailing Cruises 13th Birthday Bash Recap

Tall Ships Sailing Cruises Gold CoastIt seems that, in some cases, the number 13 is definitely lucky for some – the Experience Oz crew was lucky enough to be invited to attend the 13th birthday celebration of popular cruise company Tall Ships Sailing Cruises for a night full of island-themed fun. The Tall Ships crew, lead by owner Bruce Nicholls and carried out by the many experienced and friendly staff on-hand, spared no expense and put on a delightful spread that included a cruise (obviously!) on board their luxury catamaran that departed from the Gold Coast City Marina and headed for a secluded private beach on McLaren’s Landing. Beverages and canapés were enjoyed during the trip over, and upon arrival guests were greeted by on-island entertainment including fire-twirlers, costumed hosts and acrobats putting on impressive displays of athleticism.

A hollowed-out boat filled with copious amounts of carved coconut halves containing Pina Coladas was situated on the secluded beach amongst the atmospheric glow of tiki sticks reflecting on the water, and soon after a spectacular fireworks display that would put many of the public exhibitions to shame lit up the night skies with its myriad shining colours.

 

Gold Coast Tall Ships Cruises - Experience Oz Blog

Guests were then lead to a spacious dining facility decked out in bark-and-straw-style huts, each offering a different category of delicious menu with seafood, Asian and suckling pig buffets being among the highlights, and an open bar providing accompanying refreshments. Guests were then able to enjoy the combination of socialising and music while dancing the night away to the sounds of live RnB music put on by popular group Sex & Chocolate.

Upon the return cruise the party was in full swing, with live music and a dance floor on board the ship providing further entertainment – all in all a wonderful and highly satisfying night! Experience Oz would like to extend our warmest thanks to the Tall Ships crew, and wish them the best in the new year and beyond. You can view and book a range of Gold Coast Tall Ships Sailing Cruises at Experience Oz online here.

by Experience Oz Staff on January 22, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Experience Oz, Gold Coast, Gold Coast Cruises, gold coast tall ships, stradbroke island cruises, tall ships sailing cruises
Posted by Experience Oz Staff on January 22, 2012

http://blog.experienceoz.com.au/queensland/gold-coast/tall-ship-sailing-cruises-13th-birthday-bash-recap/

SkyPoint Climbs Begin this Weekend

 

SkyPoint ClimbThe first public SkyPoint Climbs will be held this Sunday, Janurary 15, 2012! Be among the first to climb around the crown of the Gold Coast’s iconic Q1 tower on a SkyPoint Climb, Australia’s highest external building walk.

Meet at Mission Control, get suited up and head outside from the SkyPoint Observation Deck, 77 floors up. Climb up the Q1’s south side, enjoy the viewing platform at the summit at 270 metres and return down the building’s north side for a total of close to 300 steps.SkyPoint Climb

Throughout the climb, marvel at the far-reaching, 360-degree views of the Gold Coast’s golden sand beaches, vast blue sea, winding waterways, green mountainous hinterland and all of its iconic buildings in between.

Further, learn interesting tidbits about the region’s landmarks from your knowledgeable Climb Leader. For the more daring, there are opportunities to get close to and look right over the edge, enabling you to view the sheer vertical drop!

The Experience Oz crew was lucky enough to try the climb yesterday—and we SkyPoint Climbwere all in awe of the spectacular perspective of the Gold Coast gained from 270 metres up in open air. Having gone at twilight, we saw the Gold Coast in many lights—under the shining sun, under a purple and red sky and lit by the city lights.

Having thoroughly enjoyed the impressive views and excitement of the climb, we would like to share the experience with you. If you’re interested in doing the SkyPoint Climb and want to get the inside scoop, read Experience Oz’s detailed review of the SkyPoint Climb.

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by Mary Anne Terry on January 12, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Gold Coast, Gold Coast Activities, Gold Coast Attractions, Queensland, Skypoint, SkyPoint Climb, Skypoint Observation Deck, things to do on the gold coast, what to do on the gold Coast
Posted by Mary Anne Terry on January 12, 2012

http://blog.experienceoz.com.au/queensland/gold-coast/skypoint-climbs-begin-this-weekend/

Have a Great Day Out on a Gold Coast Hinterland 4WD Tour

Gold Coast hinterland
Many travellers flock to the Gold Coast for its stunning, sandy beaches, theme parks and evening entertainment options. But there is another Gold Coast must-experience that should not be overlooked—the Gold Coast hinterland.

Gold Coast Hinterland 4WD Tours operates full day, half day, and private charter tours through Lamington National Park. On these tours, go 4-wheel driving on steep, bumpy paths, hike through rainforests to a waterfall, spot wildlife, feed native birds, take a tree top walk, swim in rock pools, learn to crack a whip and throw a boomerang and indulge in plenty of food and drink all in one day!

Recently, Experience Oz joined the Window to the Wilderness full day hinterland tour and was extremely impressed, so we would like to share the experience with you. If you’re interested in one of these hinterland tours, learn what they have to offer by reading our detailed review of the full day hinterland tour. Join one of these tours and you will not be disappointed!

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Buy your 4WD Hinterland Tour Here!

by Mary Anne Terry on January 11, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Gold Coast, Gold Coast Attractions, Gold Coast Hinterland, Gold Coast hinterland 4wd tours, gold coast hinterland tours, gold coast tours, Lamington National Park, Mount Tamborine, Queensland, things to do on the gold coast, what to do on the gold Coast
Posted by Mary Anne Terry on January 11, 2012

http://blog.experienceoz.com.au/queensland/gold-coast/have-a-great-day-out-on-a-gold-coast-hinterland-4wd-tour/

Australia Zoo’s new walking track to Africa

Following the opening of the brand new AFRICA part of Australia Zoo, guests now have greater access to this new area and great flexibility!

Giraffes, rhinos and zebras are now just a hop, skip and a jump away, with a new walking track to Australia Zoo’s Africa exhibit opening on Boxing Day.

The new 700m track means our guests have the option to experience the African savannah at their leisure, which will be great for families visiting over the school holidays.

Regular local visitors in particular can also make the most of the new access to the exhibit, which offers different views and corners of the zoo to explore.

Following the 24 acre exhibit’s official opening in September the track will link guests from the Tiger Temple in South East Asia to the African savannah.

Safari shuttles to and from the exhibit will continue over the busy holiday period, but the new walking track will provide visitors to the zoo greater flexibility in organising their day.

To see a map of Australia Zoo’s new Africa Exhibit and where it fits in with the rest of the park, click here.

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HOT DEAL – receive cheaper than at the gate entry as well as FREE discount coupons for in-park specials on merchandise!

by Kirsty Bell on January 4, 2012  •  Permalink
Posted in Australia Zoo Tickets, family activities on the sunshine coast, Queensland, Sunshine Coast, things to do sunshine coast, what to fo sunshine coast
Posted by Kirsty Bell on January 4, 2012

http://blog.experienceoz.com.au/queensland/sunshine-coast/australia-zoos-new-walking-track-to-africa/

Last Weekend to Enjoy a White Christmas at Movie World

White ChristmasThere are only four more nights to experience a White Christmas at Warner Bros. Movie World! For the past five evenings, from 5:30pm to 8:30pm, the popular theme park has transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with a stunning display of one million fairy lights, falling snow and ice skating!

The White Christmas evening events are packed with family entertainment. Don’t miss the spectacular Christmas Parade and Santa Claus appearance; let your favourite Looney Tunes characters entertain you in the ‘Kwazy Christmas’ live show; enjoy the unique Polar Express 4-D experience; and be serenaded by Christmas carollers!

And the thrills don’t stop at the festive fun. Hop on one of the many Movie World rides that are opened, such as Superman Escape, Lethal Weapon, Batwing Spaceshot, Road Runner Roller Coaster, Green Lantern Coaster and the Kids’ WB Fun Zone!

Be sure to take part in the festivities and wear your Christmas spirit proudly at one of the remaining evening events, concluding this Sunday, December 18th. Buy your tickets online and enjoy a White Christmas!

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Buy your White Christmas ticket here!

by Mary Anne Terry on December 15, 2011  •  Permalink
Posted in Gold Coast, Gold Coast Attractions, Gold Coast Theme Parks, Queensland, theme park passes, Theme Park Tickets, things to do with kids on the Gold Coast, warner bros movie world, what to do with kids on the Gold Coast, White Christmas, White Christmas at Warner Bros. Movie World
Posted by Mary Anne Terry on December 15, 2011

http://blog.experienceoz.com.au/queensland/gold-coast/last-weekend-to-enjoy-a-white-christmas-at-movie-world/

Australian Outback Spectacular 3: Spirit of the Horse is Now Showing

Spirit of the Horse Last week, in perfect time for the Christmas holidays, Australian Outback Spectacular unveiled its third production, Spirit of the Horse—and it is a huge hit!

The AOS crew has done an incredible job balancing the old and the new, making it an entertaining show for both repeat and first time guests. The story has shifted from focusing on the role of Light Horsemen played in World War I to paying tribute to the legendary horse, Phar Lap.

“The new show brings to life the iconic Australian story of Phar Lap, a legendary horse that gave Australia courage and hope during the nation’s Great Depression,” Production Manager Shane Phillips said.

For those who have attended the first or second production, you can expect to see the characters you know and love, such as host Johno Johnson and quirky stable hand, Bluey, but you can also look forward to meeting new faces! And you can look forward to plenty of new stunts and trick rides such as vaulting and roman riding over fire!

The Experience Oz crew saw the new show last night and has not stopped raving about the special effects, the impressive horsemanship, the hilarious characters, the touching story and, of course, the delicious three-course meal! We suggest it to anyone looking for a fun night out on the Gold Coast!

To be able to bring you the inside scoop, Experience Oz interviewed Production Manager Shane Phillips about the new show. For a more in-depth review of the latest production, read our feature on Australian Outback Spectacular 3: Spirit of the Horse here. Enjoy the show!

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Buy your show tickets here!

by Mary Anne Terry on December 11, 2011  •  Permalink
Posted in australian outback spectacular, Australian Outback Spectacular 3, Gold Coast, Gold Coast attraction, gold coast dinner show, Queensland, Spirit of the Horse, things to do on the gold coast, what to do on the gold Coast
Posted by Mary Anne Terry on December 11, 2011

http://blog.experienceoz.com.au/queensland/gold-coast/australian-outback-spectacular-3-spirit-of-the-horse-is-now-showing/

Top Tours on Rottnest Island, the WA Tourist Attraction Winner

Rottnest IslandWestern Australia’s hidden treasure, the spectacular Rottnest Island, received well-deserved recognition at the 2011 WA Tourism Awards on November 26, 2011; the unspoiled island paradise won the Gold Medal for Major Tourist Attraction!

This award really comes as no surprise—more than 500,000 travellers flock to the island every year to visit its 63 secluded beaches and 20 beautiful bays, fascinating history and Aboriginal culture, unique and adorable wildlife, such as quokkas and New Zealand fur seals, and endless activity options.

Congratulations is also due to the Rottnest Island ferry and tour operator, Rottnest Express, for winning two Gold Medals at the awards—one for Major Tour/Transport Operator and the other for Tourism Marketing for its “Love My Rotto” campaign.

We at Experience Oz highly recommend a visit to the impressive Rottnest Island! To help you plan your holiday and pick the tour that best suits your travelling style, we have written a Guide to the Top Rotto Tours. For more information on the island, what to do and see there and the tours available, read our guide here. Have fun!

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Book your Rotto tour here!

by Mary Anne Terry on December 9, 2011  •  Permalink
Posted in Experience Rottnest Island, Fremantle, Perth, Perth tours, Rottnest Island, Rottnest Island Tours, things to do in perth, Western Australia, what to do in Perth
Posted by Mary Anne Terry on December 9, 2011

http://blog.experienceoz.com.au/western-australia/perth/top-tours-on-rottnest-island-the-wa-tourist-attraction-winner/

Have a Memorable and Merry Christmas in Melbourne

Melbourne Aquarium

Melbourne is officially transforming into a Christmas playground! The beginning of the 30 days of Christmas in Melbourne will be marked at 7pm tonight, as City Square becomes Christmas Square for December. Head there to meet Santa Claus and to sing along with your favourite carols being sung by Jack Vidgen, winner of Australia’s Got Talent 2011, as well as other carolers. Then, as a grand finale, be impressed by the official lighting of Christmas Square!

Melbourne’s festive spirit doesn’t end here—Christmas decorations paint the entire town! Tour the city to see a gift-wrapped Melbourne Town Hall, the giant presents on Flinders Street Station, decorations suspended from the Swanson Street tram lines, the 12 days of Christmas in various laneways and a traditional nativity scene at Christmas Square!

There are several other festive events, such as the Spirit of the Square, where you can enjoy songs from the Salvos and community choirs, festive films, mazes and a forest of 150 Christmas trees to explore; and the South Cinema events, where you can enjoy Joyeux Noel, Love Actually or Four Holidays in a silent deck chair cinema. Check out the City of Melbourne What’s On page for a full listing of Christmas events.

To make your time off in Melbourne even more memorable, attend not only the seasonal events, but some of the permanent attractions that the city is known for as well. For family fun, try to get to the Melbourne Aquarium, Melbourne Zoo, or other exciting attractions. If you are short on time, see the whole city in one shot from 88 floors above on the Eureka Skydeck.

For great value, consider the Melbourne 5 in 1 Pack, which allows you to choose and enter 5 of area’s 20 best attractions for $125.00. You may prefer a See Melbourne & Beyond Attraction Pass. This pass, worth over $1000 of admission fees, provides you with unlimited access to over 40 of Melbourne’s attractions for the length of time you chose (2, 3, or 7 days) for a small fraction of the price.

To take advantage of the warm weather, swim with the dolphins or dive with sharks or go on a snorkelling tour or on a kayaking tour! For something more unique, take to the skies in a hot air balloon flight over the city or over Yarra Valley or on helicopter flight over the scenic region of your choice! There is something for every type of holidayer—spend your vacation in Melbourne and have a merry Christmas!

by Mary Anne Terry on December 2, 2011  •  Permalink
Posted in Christmas events in Melbourne, Free things to do in Melbourne, hot air ballooning in Melbourne, Melbourne, Melbourne 5 in 1 Pack, Melbourne Aquarium, Melbourne kayaking tours, Melbourne snorkelling tours, melbourne zoo, Sea All Dolphin Swims, See Melbourne & Beyond Attraction Pass, Shark dives, Victoria, what to do in Melbourne
Posted by Mary Anne Terry on December 2, 2011

http://blog.experienceoz.com.au/victoria/melbourne/have-a-memorable-and-merry-christmas-in-melbourne/

Festive Fun in Sydney for the Christmas Holidays

Sydney HarbourLast week, crowds gathered at Sydney’s Martin Place to jam to the live concerts and marvel at the lighting of the iconic 21 metre high Christmas tree. Guy Sebastian, The Smurf Christmas Show, Playschool’s Jay Laga’aia, Lah-Lah’s BIG Live Band, carols from the Australian Girls Choir and others took to the stage and performed for the people.

As the concert concluded, the 58,000 LED lights, the over 300 stars and the 1.5m, seven-point shimmering star on the Martin Place Christmas Tree were lit before a spectacular fireworks display ended the evening. This event, as well as the neighbouring more low-key event, Hyde Park Christmas on the Green, marked the beginning of the City of Sydney’s Christmas festivities.

There is plenty of festive fun to come in the lively, diverse city. Catch one of the free Christmas Village concerts that will be put on throughout the weekends in December in various Sydney parks or watch the Sydney Town Hall transform each night between 8:30pm and 1am as Christmas images are projected onto its facade. Visit Sydney Christmas for a full list of festive events and activities in the city.

Take full advantage of your Christmas holidays by also visiting some of the city’s non-seasonal attractions. There are many affordable options for vacationers of all types. If you’re looking for family fun, consider purchasing a Sydney Attraction Combo Pass. For one low price, choose to see 2, 3, or 4 of this exciting city’s top attractions, including Sydney Aquarium, WildLife Sydney, Sydney Tower Eye and Oceanworld Manly.

For those with more time, look into the full day tours of Sydney’s scenic surrounding regions. Book a combo tour of the Blue Mountains and of Bondi Beach; choose any two days in a week to discover the two remarkable areas. Another great escape-the-city option is a Hunter Valley wine tour complete with plenty of fine wine tastings!

For something a little more relaxing, book a Sydney Harbour cruise. Board a yacht and sail the stunning Sydney Harbour at sunset while sipping champagne; soak in the sunshine and cruise around on an authentic 1850s style tall ship; or enjoy a romantic dinner cruise with great food, live entertainment and breathtaking views.

From free outdoor Christmas carol sing-a-longs to extreme water sports and unique day tours, Sydney has a lot to offer. Plan ahead to make sure you don’t miss out and enjoy your Christmas holidays!

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Book your Sydney holiday experiences here!

by Mary Anne Terry on November 29, 2011  •  Permalink
Posted in Blue Mountains with Sydney City and Bondi Beach Tour Package, Christmas activities in Sydney, Christmas attractions in Sydney, Christmas events in Sydney, Exclusive Hunter Valley Wine Tours, New South Wales, oceanworld manly, Sydney, sydney aquarium, Sydney Attraction Combo Passes, Sydney dinner cruise, Sydney harbour cruises, Sydney Harbour Dining Cruises, Sydney Tower Eye, Sydney wine tours, WildLife Sydney
Posted by Mary Anne Terry on November 29, 2011

http://blog.experienceoz.com.au/new-south-wales/sydney/festive-fun-in-sydney-for-the-christmas-holidays/

‘Tis the Season to Plan your Christmas Holiday

Christmas on Experience Oz

‘Tis the season to be jolly! Indulge in fruitcake, catch A Christmas Carol on TV, decorate the tree, and, most importantly, enjoy your holidays! Put the cramped malls out of your mind, forget the long lines and the parking spot wars, leave all your shopping stresses behind; get back to the true joy of the season—spending quality time with your loved ones. This Christmas, plan something fun for the friends and family to do!

Sharing an exciting experience together prolongs the festive season as it is usually enjoyed post-Christmas and it creates lasting memories. This holiday season, surprise the family with a group hot air balloon flight over some of Australia’s most stunning scenery; treat your partner to a romantic dinner cruise; spend a day touring acclaimed cellar doors and tasting fine wines with the ladies; or challenge the boys to an intense paintballing match!

Choose the experiences that suit you and your loved ones from the 2000+ options on Experience Oz. From budget to luxury, from thrilling to relaxing and from fun to romantic, there are options that please people of all interests, budgets and ages. Experience Oz makes it easy to find what is relevant and what appeals to you, as all of the experiences are organised by region and, within each region, by categories, such as day tours, water sports, attractions, activities, hot deals and more!

Heading to the Gold Coast for your Christmas holidays? Browse the “Theme Parks” to see all of the passes available or “Attractions” to find a dinner theatre show, such as the popular Australian Outback Spectacular. Perhaps you’re spending the season in Sydney? Browse through “Harbour Cruises” or “Day Tours” to find the best ways of seeing the city’s iconic sites.

Don’t waste precious vacation time and avoid the disappointment of tours selling out. Enjoy beating the queues and receiving instant confirmations, as well as no booking fees, no credit card fees and a best price guarantee, when planning your holiday’s adventures on Experience Oz. From all of us at Experience Oz, merry Christmas and happy holidays!

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Book your holiday experiences here!

by Mary Anne Terry on November 23, 2011  •  Permalink
Posted in Christmas, Christmas gift ideas, Christmas holiday, Christmas vacation, Family activities, Gold Coast, Gold Coast Theme Parks, New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, sydney day tours, Sydney harbour cruises, Tasmania, theme park passes, Victoria, Western Australia
Posted by Mary Anne Terry on November 23, 2011

http://blog.experienceoz.com.au/queensland/gold-coast/tis-the-season-to-plan-your-christmas-holiday/

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