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Sawadee ka Thailand

Sawadee ka Thailand

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Sawadee ka Thailand,

You are enigmatic. You have shown me so many sides of yourself, I am still figuring you out. You are a dynamic and vibrant nation that entices all walks of life. You provide the yin and yang of travel. You are calm, relaxed and peaceful, yet fierce and energetic, like a firecracker, but you show us how easily one complements the other.

Bangkok, you hit me like a big slap in the face, you are so frenetic, a sensory overload. Phuket you are the middle ground, where the yin and yang come together. Patong is your beating heart, scattered with laneway bars and beach huts, a great spot for raucous fun on warm balmy nights. But, for most of it, Phuket you are calm and serene.

An island of small villages and palm-fringed beaches, lined with small beach bars, market stalls and every star of accommodation, it is no wonder you’re are a melting pot of travellers and long-term dwellers. Roads twist and turn around your mountainous landscape, each hill I climb at the base lies stunning beaches, private enclaves and buzzing townships, full of friendly faces and eager tuk-tuk drivers..

I miss the seductive aromas of the street food stalls, Pad Thai, Som Yum, I want to eat it all! I must one day thank the hotel concierge in Phuket who suggested that a Thai cooking class would be fun. After lots of practice, I fancy myself a Thai Food MasterChef and will often share my creations with family and friends.

Phuket, you are my perfect Thailand holiday where I can do as little or as much as I want. You are my launchpad for day trips to the smaller islands, Phi Phi, Krabi and others. But, at times when I have been looking for a little solitude, I have travelled directly to the islands. My favourite is Koh Samui for its pristine waters and serenity.

Although not an island I find solitude in Khao Lak too. The yin to your yang. Just north of Phuket Airport, it’s the same by taxi as the southern beaches of Phuket, but quiet. The perfect place to flop, drop and relax with a cocktail and a good book and set to a lush green backdrop of hills that sweep down to large stretches of coastline and white sand beaches that go on for miles.

Oh, Thailand how I long for your sun-drenched beaches, warm ocean waters, cocktails by the pool and relaxing Thai massages. I miss that I can party all night but also relax and unwind, nothing is out of reach. You show me a world much different to the one I know at home, as well as rich in culture, amazing food and warm friendly smiles.

khàawp-Khun, thank you, Thailand for sharing your amazing beauty.

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Top Things To Do in Fiji!

The Pacific island paradise of Fiji offers holidaymakers a huge choice of activities and experiences, meaning every day of your getaway can be filled with as little or as much as takes your fancy. If working on your tan by a spectacular resort pool with a cool drink in hand is your thing, Fiji has you covered at many world-class hotels and resorts, set in lush surrounds. There are few destinations in the world better placed than Fiji to deliver a classic island flop and drop (and eat and drink) escape, filled with massages, leisurely meals, and hours in a hammock with a good book. But Fiji offers so much more for couples and families looking for a fun, varied and memorable holiday. If you’re keen to get the muscles moving there are adrenalin-pumping jet boat rides, quad bike tours, snorkelling adventures and beautifully maintained golf courses. Perhaps you’d like to meet locals and learn about their way of life, shop at local markets or visit a wildlife sanctuary? Or swim with manta rays, relax in therapeutic mud pools or visit a beach club? Fiji is perfectly positioned to deliver a holiday experience like no other, and caters to people travelling on all budgets, whether you’re looking for a basic room or five-star luxe treatment with all the trimmings. Here is our checklist for some of the top things to do in Fiji. You may not squeeze them all in, but we reckon you’ll have a great time trying! 1. Kula Wild Adventure Park The biggest, most diverse family fun park in Fiji is home to a nature walk through acres of natural forest with elevated boardwalks allowing exploration, from the valley floor to the forest canopy; Fiji’s only Roller-Coaster Zip Rail and Jungle Waterslide; and spectacular local bird, reptile and marine life. The 28-acre property is set in three valleys, with 12 acres of coastal forest open to visitors. Huge walk-through enclosures help put visitors inside the habitats of the resident parrots, doves, water birds and reptiles. Marine displays of ocean turtles, soft and hard coral and tropical fish provide a glimpse into the sensational marine world that surrounds the more than 300 islands of Fiji. Open seven days a week from 10am. Last entry at 3.30pm. Location: Coral Coast.  2. Sigatoka Sand Dunes The Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park highlights Fiji’s natural beauty. The sandy expanse of hills and dips is a spectacular landscape to view, and an awesome place to stretch your legs. You can visit the dunes on your own, or with a walking tour, which will generally take around one hour. Just be sure that if it’s a hot day you visit before 11am or after 3pm. Location: Coral Coast. 3. Sigatoka River Safari The Sigatoka River is the longest river on the main island of Viti Levu, running from the hills of the Navosa Province down to the sand dunes in Kulukulu, on the famous Coral Coast. The river provides locals with fresh water mussels (kai), fish, prawns and eels, and water for agriculture and drinking. You’ll be collected from your resort in a mini-coach and transferred to Sigatoka Town. From there you’ll enjoy a 17km scenic cruise into the Sigatoka valley, discovering the fertile area known as the “salad bowl” of Fiji. After arriving at your departure point, surrounded by Fijian natural beauty, you begin your journey up the river, hearing stories about the history of the region. The water is so clear that the fish and rocks are visible. A warm welcome from villagers awaits when you reach your destination. Sigatoka River Safari visits a different village every day to minimise the impact of tourism. You will visit the village Chief’s bure (house) or community hall and take part in a kava ceremony, before a tour of the village and a traditional Fijian lunch, including wonderful fresh tropical fruit. Location: Coral Coast. 4. Cruises from Denarau Island Is there anything more enjoyable than relaxing on the deck of a ship as you sail through tropical waters? Companies offer day trips to one of the nearby islands, each displaying an aspect of Fiji’s unspoilt beauty. Or enjoy a sunset dinner cruise with that special someone. Love is in the air, everywhere I look around… Location: Denarau Island, about 10km from Nadi. 5. Golf Denarau Island is home to a world-class 18-hole championship golf course, with an added tropical touch — its sand bunkers are carved into the shape of sea creatures. There are water hazards on 15 of the 18 holes, so you need to bring your A-game. And if you can’t bring your A-game, bring plenty of balls! Location: Denarau Island. 6. Visit a beach club! A visit to a beach club in Fiji is the ultimate escape, offering a blend of relaxation and adventure in a stunning setting. One of our favourites is Malamala Beach Club located on its very own island,  just 30 minutes from Port Denarau. Grab a full or half day pass and enjoy white sand beaches, cabanas & an infinity edge pool. Enjoy delicious food & sip on island cocktails. The perfect way to spend a few hours relaxing, and the photo opportunities are next level! Location: Daily departures from Port Denarau. 7. Visit a local bar with a view and watch the sunset while sipping an icy cocktail Nothing says beach holiday like cool, colourful cocktails and a liquid gold sunset. Never will the term “no filter” be more relevant, and let’s be honest, you can’t visit Fiji without at least one Insta to make your friends back home turn green with envy. Fiji is home to numerous bars and restaurants and many have signature cocktails made from the finest liquors and fresh, local ingredients. Location: Wherever the wind takes you. 8. Treat yourself and indulge in a Fijian Bobo message The traditional Fijian Bobo massage has been passed down through the generations. It’s a firm massage using a rich coconut oil blend to increase circulation, remove

Travelling with young children ~ The low-down on Fiji kids clubs

Travelling with young children ~ The low-down on Fiji kids clubs

Fiji is a paradise for all age groups, but if there is one demographic that is ready to take maximum advantage of all that’s on offer, it’s surely children. Particularly if they’re old enough to have gained a bit of independence and are happy to sign up for the kids’ club. This means they get to enjoy Fiji holiday adventures and relaxation time with the family while also having some experiences all of their own. Fiji resorts cater to children in both entertainment and dining, and kids’ clubs are one of the facilities that make this the ideal family getaway destination. The clubs are usually divided into groups to ensure each child gets to enjoy activities suitable to their age. These examples of in-house kids clubs in Fiji are just a few of the scores available across Fiji’s islands. Let Hoot Holidays help you choose the location that best suits your family’s needs. The Naviti Resort ~ Coral Coast The Kids Club caters to children aged 5-12 years. Open from 10am until 5pm daily and complimentary for hotel guests, with a fun-packed daily kids program, Naviti youngsters are engaged in fun, educational activities with a combination of art and crafts, and Fijian cultural experiences and games to keep kids happy during their stay. Radisson Blu Resort Fiji ~ Denarau Blu Banana Kids Club sessions are available for children 4 – 12 years of age. Infants aged 0-3 years play for free, however must be accompanied by a babysitter (charges apply). There are 3 sessions offered throughout the day: 9am-12pm, 2pm-5pm & 6pm-9pm. Until 31 Mar 2025 kids play free for the morning session 9am-12pm (to a maximum of 2 children per room 4-12 years). Additional children and all other session times – charges apply. The dedicated Blu Banana team will entertain your children with a variety of exciting activities, Fijian games and crafts. Many of the activities take place around the resort, on the beach or at the lively Blu Banana Kids Club playground. The Kids Club is located near the resort lobby on the ground floor. Kids also have the opportunity to participate in a special torch lighting ceremony at sunset each day and theme nights, three nights per week. Charges apply for both. InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa ~ Coral Coast The resort’s signature kids’ club Planet Trekkers, is designed to entertain and inspire kids in this beautiful Natadola Bay location. Planet Trekkers caters to two groups 4-7 and 8-12 years. Children under four may attend in the company of a resort nanny (nanny charges apply and children 1-4yrs are not allowed to take part in organised activities). Planet Trekkers is open from 9.30am – 10.30pm, offering 3 x sessions each day: 9:30am – 12:30pm, 2.00pm-5.00pm & 6.30pm-10.30pm. Each session includes a snack pack. At time of publication Planet Trekkers is FJD$30 per child, per session to attend (subject to change). Shangri-La Yanuca Island Fiji ~ Coral Coast The activity coordinators at Little Chief’s Club entertain children with fun activities throughout their stay. It offers a range of supervised activities, allowing parents to enjoy some time to themselves while ensuring their children are well taken care of. Many of the activities take place at the children’s pool, on the beach, or at the children’s playground. Children aged under four require a babysitter. Registration is at 9.30am daily. Plantation Island Resort ~ Mamanuca Islands Kids of all ages will be swept away by the holiday magic offered by Plantation Island Resort’s Coconut Kids Club. Each day offers a range of activities to keep your kids occupied and having fun from 9am – 8:30pm. Better still, there’s activities to ensure even the shyest of kids have a blast. With offerings ranging from traditional crafts such as coconut boat making and meke preparation to tie dye, beach games, and evening movies, your kids’ time in Fiji will be their best holiday ever. They may even find their new best friend! Three complimentary sessions are offered each day from 9.00am-12.30pm, 2.00pm-4.30pm, & 6.00pm-8.30pm. Plantation Island also offers the Lairo Club for kids aged 12 to 16 years who are too young for adult activities and too old for kids activities. The club offers the group the idea to make new friends and compete at their own age level when it comes to activities. It also makes it easy for the age group to relate to each other. ~ Hoot Holidays wants nothing more than for you and your family to enjoy the happiest of holidays, and that means helping you find the right family holiday destination. Contact us today!

Where to Stay in Fiji - Island vs. Mainland Holiday

Where to Stay in Fiji – Island vs. Mainland Holiday

So you’re starting to prepare for your dream holiday in Fiji, but you’re stuck on where to stay? It can be tricky deciding between some of the most spectacular destinations in the country – but it’s a good problem to have! Lucky for you, we’re here to help. Here’s how to choose between a holiday full of island living or an all-inclusive holiday on the mainland. Fiji Islands We all need to get away to a faraway island from time to time. After stressing about deadlines and spending every morning to night working, you need some quiet time on a tranquil island. This is precisely what you will find on your holiday in the Fijian islands. The Fijian islands are a great place for a quiet escape with fewer crowd numbers than the mainland. The majority of resorts in the islands are purely based on providing tranquillity and relaxation to its guests so expect a very relaxing atmosphere wherever you decide to book. Choose between the magnificent Mamanuca Islands, Yasawa Islands or the Northern islands, and you’ll have a selection of high-class resorts at your fingertips. You’ll also be surrounded by some of the friendliest staff in the world. The Fijian locals always welcome visitors with cheerful smiles and incredible customer service. You will be in great hands! Access to Island Resorts Getting to the islands takes an extra boat or plane ride. If you’re set on an island escape, make sure to book a package deal. This will take out all of the stress of travel and accommodation so you can enjoy your holiday from start to finish. Hoot Holidays offers plenty of incredible Fiji Island deals that include flights, luggage and airport transfers. Fiji Mainland The Fijian mainland is a popular destination for visitors. The Fijian culture, townships and people are the main appeal to staying on the mainland. Choose between the tropical Coral Coast, picturesque Denarau Island, and plenty of other mainland locations. We certainly recommend staying at Coral Coast and Denarau if you are looking for an incredible beachfront resort. Resorts on the Coral Coast and Denarau Island offer fantastic facilities and Kids Clubs to cater for every family holiday. If you do plan to have the little ones in tow, check out some of the very accommodating resorts on the Coral Coast and Denarau. Located on the Coral Coast is the popular Shangri-La Yanuca Island Fiji, Warwick Fiji, The Naviti Resort and Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort. All four resorts offer fantastic Kids Clubs as well as all the facilities you and your family could possibly need. If Denarau is more up your alley there is also the 5-star Radisson Blu Resort Fiji – upgrade to a suite with kitchen, and laundry for all the creature comforts of home. Access to Mainland Resorts Fly direct from Australia into Nadi Airport, hop in your airport transfer and arrive at your hotel. No-fuss travel is certainly a bonus when you’re taking the little ones! Why Not Both? Of course, there is also the option to cover both. If you’re planning on spending a week or two in beautiful Fiji, you will have plenty of time to discover both the mainland and some of its islands. Book Your Ideal Fiji Holiday Today So which one is it? Or maybe you’ve decided on both! If you’re still making up your mind, contact one of our friendly holiday specialists today!

Thailand Travel Guide

Thailand Travel Guide

About Thailand Welcome to the Kingdom of Thailand. Discover this diverse country with its irresistible combination of breathtaking natural beauty, inspiring temples, renowned hospitality, robust cuisine and ruins of fabulous ancient kingdoms. Whether you’re young or old, travelling alone or with friends or as a family. Looking for a romantic getaway, an action-packed holiday, a cultural experience or something a little more relaxed. Thailand holidays are for everyone. The main entry port to Thailand is the capital, Bangkok, which is served by several international airlines on a daily schedule from most Australian ports. Suvarnabhumi International Airport, Bangkok, is modern and efficient and is the main hub for connecting flights to all the major tourist destinations in Thailand including Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi and Chiang Mai. The airport is located approximately 45 minutes drive from the city but transfer times will vary depending on traffic and weather conditions. The resort areas of Pattaya and Cha Am/Hua Hin are also accessed via Bangkok and are a comfortable two and three-hour drive from the city. Phuket, Thailand’s premier holiday island destination, is able to be accessed by several direct flights from the East Coast of Australia with Thai Airways International and Jetstar or via several Asian ports including Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong and of course Bangkok. There are also direct flights from Perth. These many options make Phuket an ideal choice for a convenient tropical holiday. Thailand is seven hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time GMT + 7). An easier way to think of it is: Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne in normal time are three hours ahead of Thailand (during Daylight Savings this increases to four hours). Perth is usually only one hour ahead of Thailand and Adelaide is one and half hours ahead.