by Guest contributor | Dec 30, 2014 | Asia-Pacific, Travel blogger destinations
Melbourne residents looking to take a break from the city or visitors to Victoria looking to see a little bit more than just the Melbourne CBD are re-discovering the ‘world away’ feeling of a driving holiday to Daylesford.
And the best part; No car? No problem! While DriveAway Holidays Australia has already become synonymous with motorhome hire around the globe, travellers can also grab a great deal on car hire for mini getaways to some of Victoria’s most scenic and relaxing destinations.
Packing a weekend bag, my partner and I decided to venture outside the city for a mini mid-week break!
Visitors flying into Melbourne Tullamarine can easily collect a hire car from DriveAway’s airport location or in the Melbourne CBD (which is what we did.) We were pleasantly surprised to find the process smooth and the car in great shape (freshly washed and ready to hit the road.)
Located about 100km from Melbourne’s CBD, Daylesford has become known for being a ‘spa town’ offering plenty of options to relax and unwind with some great options for mineral baths, massage treatments, fresh local produce and a whole lot of pampering. What might seem like a quick 2 day trip is certain to feel like an extended break.
We checked into Frangos and Frangos, a boutique property located in the middle of the town of Daylesford. Offering just 12 rooms, each themed differently, and offering a sophisticated glamour and luxury amenities that make it popular with couples. The onsite restaurant Jimmy’s Bar and Dining Room offers contemporary Australian fare with a bit of a twist.
The regional area, known for its quality local wine and produce is highlighted on the Jimmy’s menu in beautiful surroundings. So if you’re a wine enthusiast (and who isn’t?) you’re certain to find something that will please your palate.
With both a bar area and a semi-formal dining area, Jimmy’s is ideal for a variety of special events, casual dining options or events, and a romantic dinner.
While in town, wander around the local area and enjoy the variety of cafes and boutique shops including a wide assortment of unique gifts, antiques, and handmade items. Make sure to take a little time out to drive just a short distance to one of many local wineries as well.
We took our chances on finding a winery along the drive and stumbled upon Passing Clouds. Greeted by the official winery dog, we did a quick tasting, discovering a remarkable chardonnay before heading back into town.
As the area is known as a wellness destination, you’ll find plenty of options for looking after yourself with a bit of indulgence and we made sure to experience a treatment at Daylesford Day Spa. Located in the centre of town, it’s a short stroll from our accommodation. With six treatment rooms and a host of treatments available ranging from facials to massages to aromatherapy and everything in between. We tried out one of the spas signature treatments, an aromatic candle massage. By selecting the candle that suits your preference, it’s melted into warm oil that’s used to treat your skin with soybean and essential oils and leave your skin not only moisturised but feeling incredibly soft.
Day two we took our DriveAway car on another adventure into nearby Kyneton where, similar to Daylesford, you’ll find a variety of quirky shops and antiques as well as the Piper St Food Co. Here you’ll find a tasty little cafe and shop offering a variety of housemade and local treats from nearby producers as well as a cooking school.
Located on the main strip of Kyneton, these courses cover everything from basic cooking classes like creating the perfect picnic to pasta making to full day charcuterie classes- even a master-class on breaking down a full pig just like the butcher!
Class sizes are small so you’re certain to be able to see what’s happening and answer questions.
My session was the Cooking Basics: Eggs course which, in just two hours, had me preparing mayonnaise from scratch, learn how to create the perfect poached egg any time, make a hollandaise sauce and so much more.
Our two days felt like four and we drove back to Melbourne and returned our little car feeling like we’d had an interstate holiday.
While two days certainly wasn’t enough time to experience all there was to see and do, you can plan your own getaway using the Daylesford app offering plenty of ideas and inspiration regarding things to see and do in both Daylesford and nearby Hepburn Springs.
Alternatively, you’ll find more information on experiencing the best of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs area by checking out dmrtourism.com.au for plenty of tips and ideas.
About the author
Gwen O’Toole is an accomplished writer focussing on travel, events management and food and wine. She also published a fiction novel while spending the past eight years as a magazine editor and travelling the globe before launching The Ideas Library, a creative services and event management company. She is regularly featured in a variety of travel and leisure publications and blogs.
by Guest contributor | Dec 9, 2014 | Autumn and winter in Europe, Travel blogger destinations, United Kingdom
Beautiful Devon – it’s not just for summer! Visit Devon has suggested these amazing spots that are ideal for a wander in winter (a great opportunity to walk off the pudding too).
Best winter walks in Devon, UKThe Middle Dart Valley Walk, Totnes
Distance: 5 miles
This route is perfect for winter as the trail follows surfaced paths and lanes, so if it’s snowy or been a little wet the going will still be easy, and there is just one gentle climb and no stiles – ideal for families and those looking for an easier stroll.
Beginning and ending at Totnes, the walk passes along the River Dart through the Dartington Hall Estate, where there are lovely views over the Middle Dart Valley. Walkers could stop off at Dartington Hall or the Dartington Press Centre nearby for refreshments and then the walk continues along lanes and through woodland, where walkers will pass by the working waterwheel before returning to Totnes.
The South West Coast Path, Bolberry Down
Distance: 7 miles
Bolberry Down has a network of paths running along the high cliff tops with wonderful views, providing a choice of walks which vary in length and course. In the autumn the heathland is vivid with gorse and heather, and the migrant birds gather ready to leave.
This section of coast is relatively flat and the National Trust have undertaken work to ensure that a network of paths can be used by people in wheelchairs, or with buggies, or for those who prefer a flatter terrain.
The Mamhead Sensory Trail, near Exeter
Distance: 1.5 miles
Beginning and ending in Haldon Forest Park, just minutes outside Exeter, the all-ability trail and takes walkers along flat, well surfaced tracks. It’s perfect for those with younger children, as it’s a ‘sensory trail’ with special markers along the way to encourage walkers to appreciate their whole surroundings, and plenty of resting points and picnic benches. It’s also pushchair friendly, with no steep inclines.
Starting at the car park in Mamhead, the route follows through the forest and a beech-lined avenue to the high viewpoint near the Obelisk. From there walkers can admire views across the whole of Exeter, and on a clear day across to Start Point and Dawlish. The route consists of two loops that both lead to and from the car park, and can be shortened to one mile.
The Tarka Trail, North Devon
Distance: 1.5 miles
The Tarka Trail is an accessible walking and cycling path that runs through 163 miles of North Devon coast and countryside beginning at Instow and encompassing the South West Coast Path. Walkers will pass through old railway tunnels, under bridges and through the village with the opportunity to follow the path ahead and round to the beach, walking through the dunes. When the tide’s in, walkers can continue along the cricket club driveway to join the path through the village where there’s a few nice pubs to warm up in after a cold winters walk.
The Ernest Bassett Walk, Dartmoor
Distance: up to 5 miles depending on route
Devised by a keen Dartmoor walker and founder member of the Dartmoor Rescue Group, this walk is intended as an easy introduction to the area’s natural attractions.
Beginning in Okehampton on the shoulder of Dartmoor, the walk covers the historic architecture and an old waterwheel before continuing along paths, fields and through woodlands, leading to the East Okement River.
The scenic route passes by small waterfalls and still pools, before continuing in a climb to East Hill where, on a clear day, walkers will see fantastic views across to Exmoor and an almost aerial view of Okehampton – before returning to the town.
Windford Valley Walk, Arlington Court
Distance: Various
The Windford Valley Walk is part of the 2700 acre Arlington Estate. The wooded walk features fairly easy terrain with one section of steps and one steady climb, which will take walkers through a variety of lush, wooded walks.
Wellington’s are recommended as the public footpaths can be muddy. For those who enjoy long walks, Arlington House is a great stopping point of a nice cup of tea (walkers are advised to check Arlington House opening times prior to arrival).
Steeperton Tor from Belstone
Distance: 7 miles
For those walkers who like a more challenging route, Steeperton Tor walk, starting from the village of Belstone, near Okehampton, is an exhilarating route into the high ground with a few boulders along the way.
Walkers will climb past the waterfalls and rapids of the River Taw, Oketor and Belstone Tor, before heading back over Belstone Common and back to the village of Belstone.
Devils Point
Distance: 1 mile
Devils Point Park, part of the South West Coast Path, is a mile long park and coastal pathway that is now joined with the historic Royal William Yard.
Both steeped with naval history, Devils Point, used for centuries as a farewell and welcome home point as Royal Navy Warships arrive and depart, features spectacular views across Plymouth Sound and Cornwall.
Located adjacent to Plymouth’s Royal William Yard, an old walled naval yard built in 1826, the two are now joined by cantilevered stairs which link the two sites together, allowing walkers on the South West Coast path to walk through to the 19th Century walled yard through a concealed entrance.
The contemporary, purpose built stairs feature a glass viewing platform and panoramic views over the Tamar Estuary. Walkers can admire the coastal surroundings before finding refreshment in Royal William Yard’s many artisan restaurants and cafes.
Torquay’s Victorian Gardens and Lookouts
Distance: 3 miles
The 3 mile circular walk along the beautiful South West Coast Path from Daddyhole Plain, Torquay, passes what was once a Victorian rock garden, now preserved as a wildlife conservation area with some rare and beautiful plants.
With stunning views of Tor Bay and down through wooded cliffs walkers can catch a glimpse of crystal clear waters.
From viewpoints along the way walkers will see Torquay’s most dramatic rock formations such as the Devonian limestone arch, named London Bridge by the Victorians.
Towards the end of the coast path section lies Peaked Tor Cove where the Torbay Home Guard’s Second World War lookout post can be found offering panoramic view across the Bay. The spectacular walk and views demonstrates why the English Riviera is a UNESCO-recognised Global Ge-opark.
Plym Valley Trail
Distance: 5 miles
The Plym Valley Trail is a gentle route for walkers which heads towards Dartmoor.
The trail starts at Plym Bridge Woods and offers great views and the opportunity to spot wildlife. The walk passes the disused quarries of Cann and Bickleigh Vale, and many old viaducts and railway paths along the way, as well as rivers and woodland.
Devon’s also dog friendly, which we like! Drop by this site to plan your visit: visitdevon.co.uk
Keen for an another adventure that’s great for the body, mind and spirit? Have a read here
by Sarah Blinco | Nov 22, 2014 | African continent, South America, Travel blogger destinations
My parents were explorers – avid travellers who were among the original backpackers. They were contemporaries of the Wheelers (founders of Lonely Planet). Although explored varying routes right throughout Africa, South America and Asia. In the ’70s, my parents scored jobs with Encounter Overland (EO), one of the early companies to specialise in international and off-the-beaten-track adventure travel.
EO’s HQ was based in London, although my parents joined the party in South Africa. It doesn’t exist now, but there are plenty of people who had great adventures (or misadventures) on board EO’s famous overlander trucks during its operational period (late ’60s to late ’90s as far as I understand).
Two of the trips my dad, John, and mum, June, embarked upon were some of the very first to mark the Encounter Overland trails through Africa and South America, and would subsequently determine the itinerary for future expeditions.
Travel adventures: Encounter Overland
On Googling “Encounter Overland” I discovered blogs from travellers who toured with EO, and a couple mention “disasters” like dirt flying up at them on the trucks, or getting bogged. These are not disasters. Nearly being thrown in jail as an innocent is. Being held up at gunpoint at border crossings, trapped below landslides, or stalked by rhinoceros’ when you’ve been deliberately left at a camp in the middle of nowhere in Africa, these are “disasters”. And just a tiny insight into the many enthralling stories shared with me as I grew up.
I can confidently say however, that I don’t think anyone on board would trade the experiences – even the scary ones (well, maybe they would trade the examples I’ve mentioned above, but I hope you see my point). In the end, it’s travel – a life-changing adventure.
Some of the places these crews visited 40 odd years ago aren’t even accessible to the average traveller now. Pretty amazing.
I appreciate that EO is in the hearts of many the world over, because of the friends made on these tours – through good, bad, terrifying and exhilarating times. The intriguing local people met, and remote, wonderful, awe-inspiring sights witnessed too, are a reward that lasts a lifetime, and a reason we continue to pursue travel and associated experiences to this day.
For as long as my brother and I can remember, we thought images to accompany our parents’ travel tales hadn’t survived years of humid tropical North Queensland summers.
Fortunately mum has diaries, a good memory and the ability to tell an engaging yarn, so our imaginations did the rest. I’d say these stories mark the origins of my personal interest in travel and adventure.
Recently though, some photos (slides, actually), were discovered by my parents, and for the first time in my lifetime – thanks to modern photo technology accessible at home – we’ve been able to view these images which could be scanned into a computer and colour-corrected (we used PaintShop Pro, Adobe Photoshop, Picasa and SnapSeed).
Here are some of my favourites from the Vintage Travel Photography Encounter Overland Adventures collection.
A few are a little marked but it adds to their character, don’t you think?
If you like these, the full set (over 100 we’ve restored to date), featuring people, places, animals and architecture across most continents, is featured on our Encounter Overland Vintage Photography tumblr blog.
Vintage travel photography Encounter Overland adventures
Original photography by “my” globe trekkers, John & June Blinco.
Mum, making friends in South America
The streets of Marakesh
Life in Bolivia
On the road in Turkey
India
Dancers in Durban
Camping above Cusco
“Vintage” London (Earl’s Court?)
EO on the road
Mont Aux Sources, Drakensburg Ranges, South Africa
Classic camping, UK
Want more vintage travel photography Encounter Overland adventures? View the entire gallery here. Additionally, here’s a blog that mentions a vintage EO adventure late ’60s/early ’70s including an original promotional poster and images.
And if you were part of the crew or you’re a little nostalgic for all that was, you can connect here with others who are keeping the spirit of EO alive. Drop us a line in the comments, and you will want to take a look at Lance Thomas’ site about Encounter Overland.
As always, I’d love to hear from you – please do drop me a line in the comments below.
-Sarah
by Guest contributor | Nov 15, 2014 | Travel blogger destinations
I’ve observed that in today’s somewhat shallow world, many of my clients are afraid (or don’t know how) to take off the masks that they wear in fear that their true self will be revealed.
We wear a mask because it covers up feelings of unworthiness or insecurity. People also wear masks because it’s easier to conform to the expectations of loved ones, work colleagues and strangers. We don’t want to offend or be seen as different or unusual. We want to fit in with others and be accepted and liked. Wearing a mask stops us from being our true self and being genuine.
Here are some strategies I use with my clients – how to reveal your true self
Feel vulnerable. Unfortunately, it’s only the rare individuals I come across now and again that refuse to limit their true selves by being honest, direct and authentic.
We are afraid of letting people see our true selves as it makes us feel vulnerable and out of our safe zone. Courage and vulnerability work hand-in-hand. To overcome our fear we have to be honest and expect there might be failure and criticism and acknowledge that we will feel vulnerable, but that’s ok. We all had to learn how to crawl before we could walk. It’s the same principle.
When you feel vulnerable and embrace it, what people think of you and their expectations of you will be become less intimidating. In time you will no longer fear what people think. Being authentic will greatly improve your life.
Live in the now. To develop courage and to let go of the fears that hold you back, you need to start living in the now. In our fast-pasted lives, we are always ten steps ahead thinking about tomorrow rather than living for today. When you start to live in the now, you’ll free up a lot of your energy. Focus in the moment and prioritise your time on you, to build a better future for tomorrow.
Face your fears. Courage is the ability to act in the face of your fears. Don’t let fear control or paralyse you. One of the most effective ways to diminish fear is to head towards it and face up to what you’re afraid of. The more times your put yourself in a position to take action against your fears, the easier it will be for you to live courageously. Tolerating and becoming familiar with the pain that fear represents is the quickest way to move forward in your life and move toward a greater version of yourself.
Perform courageous acts. These were Aristotle’s words. He was one of the ancient philosophers who believed in being courageous to reach your full potential.
When was the last time you were courageous? When was the last time you stood up for yourself, or someone in trouble? Did you turn a blind eye, listen to gossip and believe it or avoid confrontation fearing you may have a target placed on your back?
By masking your true persona, you are only a limited version of yourself. You remain safe, limiting your growth and stunting your true potential. There’s no fun in being a smaller version of yourself.
Perform a courageous act and you’ll soon let go of the fear of disapproval. You will reveal yourself and embrace who you truly are, a unique gifted soul.
And according to Aristotle, practicing courage could make all the difference in life. As he wrote, “You will never do anything in this world without courage.”
This is about being courageous, you’re not being discouraged from becoming the person you’re meant to be. The possibilities for your life are endless. Though to write the next chapter of your life you’re going to have to become courageous. Courage is not something you have, it’s something you choose.
“Ships in habour are safe, but that’s not what ships are built for” –John A. Shedd
About the writer
Luke Sheedy is a gifted life advisor, motivator and free thinker. He combines his metaphysical talents to advise clients on their natural strengths, talents and abilities. Luke helps release what is holding you back, so growth can occur and your life’s plan can unfold naturally.
Feature image via Ricardo Liberato, Flickr creative commons
by Guest contributor | Nov 2, 2014 | Cool hotels, Travel blogger destinations
Where in the world can you stay in decent digs without breaking the bank? Booking.com have exclusively shared their top ten world’s best budget travel accommodation with TLL…
St Christopher’s Inn Paris – Gare du Nord
Located in central Paris, St Christopher’s Inn Paris – Gare du Nord is situated just 400m from Gare du Nord Train Station and a 2 minute walk from the Metro station, meaning no expensive cab fares from the airport are required. Bustling Montmartre and the Sacré Coeur are also just a 15-minute walk away, allowing travellers to save on transport costs when heading off to see the sights of this magical city.
Complete with three bars, a chill-out room with a foosball table and free Wi-Fi throughout, guests will love the relaxed vibe of this hostel, with plenty to do. All rooms and dormitories enjoy heating, with a choice of either shared or private bathroom facilities. A continental or buffet breakfast is included in the room rate and provided each morning, saving even more money for Paris shopping. A range of fantastic restaurants can also be found within walking distance of the Inn.
Casa Gracia Barcelona Hostel
Nestled around beautiful Modernist architecture, Casa Gràcia is a modern hostel at the top of Barcelona’s Passeig de Gràcia – an area known for it’s exclusive shops, restaurants and bars. It features spacious, air-conditioned rooms, free individual lockers to keep belongings safe, free Wi-Fi in all areas, as well as a fully-equipped kitchen meaning you can save money by preparing their own meals whenever you like.
Complete with a communal terrace, expansive lounge, game hall and dining area, buffet breakfast is also served daily and is included in the room rate. Free tea and coffee are also available 24 hours a day!
For those looking to join in on some cheap and easy activities, the hostel arranges group events every evening, as well as daily walking tours of the city.
Santa Tere Hostel – Rio De Janeiro
Santa Tere Hostel offers guests brightly styled and spacious rooms with bed lined included, free WiFi access, it’s own sparkling outdoor pool and a relaxed bar and lounge space complete with a pool table. Complimentary breakfast is also provided daily by the hostel and a shared kitchen gives you the option to save some coin by preparing your own meals and snacks each day.
Gloria Underground Train Station is just 800m away from the hostel, with Rio’s buzzing city centre and Praia de Copacabana beach both short drives away, easy access to all the wondrous sights of Rio!
Close to shops and restaurants, Santa Tere Hostel is just a few kilometres away from stunning Guanabara Bay and there are several parks along the water’s edge where guests can relax and enjoy the warm South American sunshine.
Saphaipae Hostel – Bangkok
Saphaipae Hostel offers stylish accommodations in Bangkok’s Silom area, close to downtown Bangkok and just a five minute walk from Surasak BTS Skytrain Station. Both dormitory rooms and private rooms come with free Wi-Fi and are fully air-conditioned, with a free buffet breakfast included in the room rate.
Providing easy access to downtown Bangkok, the hostel is just four stops away via Skytrain to MBK Shopping Centre and using the Airport Train service, just a 45 minute train ride to Suvarnabhumi International Airport – no expensive cab fares!
The hostel offers pool tables and internet stations, as well as coin-operated washing machines to keep your washing pile at a minimum while roaming the globe.
Ovolo Laneways – Melbourne
In the heart of Melbourne’s restaurant and theatre district on Little Bourke Street, Ovolo Laneways features original artwork, luxurious bathrooms, quality furnishings and free high-speed wireless internet. While the rates may not be considered ‘shoestring’, Ovolo Laneways Melbourne are experts in providing the best bang for your buck.
All rooms not only have a work desk, Apple TV, cable TV channels and black-out curtains, they also include free local calls plus a complimentary minibar! That’s right – everything you can find in the minibar is included in your room rate. As if that wasn’t enough, the hotel also provides a free ‘grab n go’ breakfast which includes breakfast juice, pastries and coffee/tea, perfect for powering you up for a day of sightseeing.
As the hotel is situated just a quick walk from both Parliament and Treasury Gardens, guests are able to immerse themselves in everything Melbourne has to offer with theatre, shopping, sports arenas, art galleries, restaurants and bars all within easy walking distance – no taxi fares!
Xi’an Green Forest Hotel – China
Close to public transport, Xi’an Green Forest Hotel is situated just under half a mile from Anyuanmen subway station (Line 2), 1 mile away from Xi’an Train Station and 3.5 miles away from Xi’an North Train Station, saving visitors plenty on unnecessary travel costs.
Sightseers will enjoy visiting The Bell and Drum Tower which is just 2 subway stops from the Hotel and the Tangdaminggong Hanyuandian Relic Site is only a 20 minute stroll away.
Complete with a tour desk and accommodations with free Wi-Fi, guests will also have access to heating and cosy slippers – perfect after a long day of sightseeing!
Cityherberge Hostel – Germany
Boasting a central location in Dresden’s historic quarter, free Wi-Fi internet access and a complimentary, hearty breakfast buffet each morning, this hostel is an excellent choice for travelers of any age.
In the Cityherberge’s guest kitchen, you will find all you need to store your food and prepare meals, including an oven, fridge, microwave, silverware, herbs, dishwasher and towels.
The 24 hour service doesn’t only apply to the reception, but also to the cozy bar, where you can always find a friendly member of staff with tips and recommendations.
The Cityherberge is a great base from which you can explore Dresden and all of its famous sights as well as popular night-life spots.
Hollywood Beach Suites – USA
Situated across the street from the Intercoastal Waterway and the stunning Hollywood beach, guests will never be bored with access to free bikes and surfboards!
Activities including fishing, kayaking and beach volleyball are only steps from the hotel, so no need to spend loads on travel to enjoy everything the area has to offer.
Alongside free Wi-Fi, the hotel also offers microwaves and mini-refrigerators in each room which allow guests to prepare quick meals in the comfort of their own room.
Pensionat City – Sweden
This property is just 150 metres from Gävle’s main square, Stortorget and boasts free Wi-Fi, free sauna access and beautifully modern rooms.
Organic, locally produced items are served on Pensionat City’s daily breakfast buffet and guests can also enjoy traditional Swedish cuisine for lunch and dinner at the on-site HC Bar & Restaurant – no need to splurge on cabs for a hearty meal.
Gävle Central Station is a 10-minute walk away, the Swedish Railway Museum just 4 km away, while Furuvik Zoo and Amusement Park is less than 20 minutes’ drive from the hostel.
Bounce Sydney – Sydney
Visitors to Sydney should make a beeline to the Bounce Sydney Hostel, situated in Sydney’s artistic quarter, Surry Hills. Several chic bars and restaurants are on its doorstep and Chinatown and the popular Crown Street and Oxford Street are both within a 10-minute walk of the hostel.
Buses to Bondi Beach and several other beaches are available just outside the hotel.
Positioned across from Central Train Station, the Bounce Sydney provides budget accommodations just 6 miles from Sydney Airport. It features a restaurant, a bar and a rooftop terrace and BBQ area showcasing terrific views of Sydney.
Guests also have access to a fully-equipped shared kitchen which includes eight refrigerators – don’t worry about spending cash on three meals per day when you can easily prepare your own!
