Nomade Yachting Bora Bora - Ready for the Solar Eclipse

Nomade Yachting Bora Bora will position their ship the Ti'a Moana in the Tuamotu Archipelago to meet the total Solar Eclipse on July 11th, 2010.

The 6 nights / 7 days cruise will depart from Fakarava on July 08th and visit Tahanea, Motutunga (on July 11th, the Eclipse day), Kauehi, Toau before cruising back to Fakarava on July 14th.

Nomade Yachting offers one of the best cruise expereinces in French Polynesia. With no details overlooked the cruise is sure to satisfy even the most discerning traveller.

Hilton Moorea gets a Makeover

In an effort to modernize the hotel and emphasize the Polynesian flair, The Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa has been undergoing renovations over the past year.

All overwater Bungalows are completed and now features new bathrooms, new furniture and new curtains.In addition to renovating the 54 overwater units, the plans also call for the renovation of the remaining units such as the garden bungalows.

Set to re-open early 2010, all garden Bungalows will be remodeled and will feature new bathrooms and new terraces with small private pools.Please note that in order to avoid any inconvenience, all garden units will be closed from September 21, 2009 until the end of the year.

During that period, only the overwater bungalows will be available to guests. The existing bookings for the garden and beach units will be automatically upgraded to overwater bungalows. The renovations will not cause any disturbances to guests who will be staying in overwater bungalows during that time.

Hilton Bora Bora Nui - New Presidential Overwater Villas

Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa Introduces New Presidential Overwater Villas
Opening in September 2009, the two unique presidential overwater villas will be 3,229 square feet.


These spacious villas will feature two bedrooms, three bathrooms, two dressing rooms, a spacious living room, a private swimming pool, a well-being room, a sun-deck, Jacuzzi and a covered gazebo among other amenities.

How's that for some luxury living in Bora Bora?!?

Paul Gauguin Sold

Further to my last post, it is true the Paul Gauguin has been sold to Pacific Beachcomber a company who operates many destination resorts in French Polynesia. The extremely successful luxury cruise will continue to sale as scheduled for 2009 and 2010.

The Paul Gauguin is a great cruise experience for people looking to explore French Polynesia and the other South Pacific nations. Just remember to book well in advance. For 3 years the ship sailed at full capacity and now in 2009, during these more challenging economic times, it is still sailing at a 95% occupancy rate.

Read Reviews from Cruisers of the Paul Gauguin - Click Here

Paul Gauguin Cruise Ship up for sale?

After leaving ways with Regent Cruise Lines, the cruise ship the Paul Gauguin decided that they would strike out on their own for operating this luxury vessel that sales around Tahiti, Bora Bora and the stunning islands of French Polynesia.

Rumour now has it that the Paul Gauguin is close to being sold to Dick Bailey who owns 4 Intercontinental Hotels in French Polynesia.

The future ownership is yet to be determined of this incredible luxury cruise as it continues to ply the stunning clear waters of French Polynesia - one of the most beautiful places on earth! However, she remains to be one of the premiere cruise experiences in the world.

Other great cruise experiences to consider in French Polynesia:

Nomade Yachting - Tu Moana and Tia Moana -- Luxury boutique yacht experience with a French Polynesian feel

Roa Yachting - private yacht charters for a complete customized and private adventure

Star Flyer - a modern day tall ship sailing experience

Haumana Cruise - luxury catamaran exploring one of the world's largest lagoons in Rangiroa

The Aruani - travel by freighter amongst the South Pacific to explore some of the more remote regions of the Marquesas Islands and more

From private yachts, to luxury cruises or sailing on a freighter - there is something for every cruise fan in the French Polynesia. Add it to your must do list as it is a destination like no other!

Tahiti Whale Watching Season

Just a reminder that July to October is the season for viewing Humpback whales. Tours can be organized from Tahiti or Moorea to experience these wonderful giants either by boat or in the water!

Upcoming Events in Oz

24 July - 09 August
Melbourne International Film Festival

The Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) is an iconic Melbourne event with a devoted audience. MIFF hosts a feast of cinematic delicacies from over 50 countries.

For more information, click here.

01 - 08 August
Australian Safari
The Australian Safari is an epic adventure from the lovers of cars, motor bikes and quads. The nine-day safari crosses around 5,500km of spectacular Western Australian outback, taking you through grueling terrain from the tropics to the outback and on to the sea.

For more information, click here.

13 - 30 August
Darwin Festival
The Darwin Festival provides a feast of local, national and international performances to excite, inspire and entertain. The festival includes everything from free outdoor events to theatre, dance, music, cabaret, films, workshop and comedy, not to mention the sensational cuisine.

For more information, click here.

22 - 29 August
Race Week Hamilton
Race Week is a world class yachting regatta that attracts competitors from across Australia and the world. A premier event now in its 26th year.

For more information, click here.

Queenstown New Zealand - At a Glance

Queenstown New Zealand is often referred to as the adrenalin capital of the world. You can choose to do as much as you want, or just relax and take in the incredible views and scenery that surrounds you.

If you are looking for that adrenalin pump you can choose from bungy jumping, jet boating, white water rafting, zorbing, skiing, snowboarding, go carting, paragliding, cycling, hiking, river surfing....just to name a few!

Have a look at this video for an overview of Queensland at a glance...

Air New Zealand staff have nothing to hide

Air New Zealand launches a creative ad campaign featuring 7 employees naked wearing nothing but body paint to promote their "Nothing to Hide" airline fees.

Even CEO Rob Fyfe takes part saying, “Consumers today demand radical transparency from companies, and rightly so,” said Air New Zealand CEO Rob Fyfe. “Along with Air New Zealand employees, I took off all my clothes to demonstrate in a remarkable way that Air New Zealand staff have nothing to hide and in fact have good reason to feel pride. I'd love other CEOs to follow suit if it would help consumers to feel more confident in organizations!”

Air New Zealand offers North Americans flight optoins to New Zealand, Australia, Tahiti, Cook Islands, Vanuatu and more.

Tahiti Video Contest - How To Enter

Here is the video version of how to enter to win your trip to Tahiti!

Win a Trip to Tahiti

Tahiti has just launched a major promotional campaign with a chance for lucky people like you to WIN A FREE TRIP TO TAHITI!

It’s called “Invest in your love”.

And these days, what could be more important to invest in. Just send a short, cute, creative video telling why you really need Tahiti now. If you’re a winner, you’ll finally get to enjoy that romantic trip to paradise you’ve always dreamed of.

For complete details, INCLUDING SPECIAL OFFERS AND DEALS OF THE WEEK, go to (http://www.investinyourlove.com) And hey, do you have friends and family who could use Tahiti right now? Share this link with them and spread the love!

Mauru'uru roa!

Your Friends at Tahiti Tourisme and your South Pacific Travel Expert - Carl Henderson

Cook Islands Departure Tax Change

Departure Tax Change

Effective April 2009 the Cook Islands Departure Tax is now:
Adult: $55

Child (3-12 years): $15

Infant (0-2 years): No charge

Departure Tax is payable at the Westpac Bank in the International Departures area prior to proceeding through security.

Matava Resort Fiji Wins Environmental Award

Press Release


KADAVU, FIJI ISLANDS - 15th April 2009 - Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco-Adventure Resort is proud to announce that it is the official 2009 winner of PADI Asia Pacific Member Awards 2009 in the in the Project AWARE Marine Environmental Award 2009





The PADI Asia Pacific Member Awards were developed to better recognise the achievements of those PADI Dive Centres and Resorts who have made significant contributions to the growth and development of diving.





In competition with more than a thousand dive centres throughout the region, Matava was awarded the great honor of this award as a token of appreciation for all the efforts and initiatives put forward by the company in the last few years.





"At Matava, we are of course both happy and proud to receive this prestigious award. We find it even more important that the industry, by rewarding similar efforts, choose to take a stand for the environment we depend on. We also see it as an important signal to the community which at the same time can serve to inspire the numerous individuals and companies who have been doing so much, and continue to do even more in the field of environmental enlightenment and conservation. This award has highlighted Fiji's leading role and efforts in this regard especially." said Matava Director, Mr Richard Akhtar.





Mr Ian Cumming, PADI Regional Director for the Fiji Islands, said "I'd just like to send my congratulations to the Team at Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco Adventure Resort who have taken out the Project AWARE Marine Environmental Award for 2009."





"Having visited the resort I know firsthand the mighty efforts everyone there have gone to to ensure the resort is very much the 'Eco Adventure' resort that has guests coming back time and again. Given the location of the resort, which adds greatly to its charm, it is a wonderful achievement that everyone involved in the resort should be very proud of!" Mr Cumming continued.





Mr Akhtar went on to say that "This PADI Member Award gives us special recognition within the entire tourism industry and shows our customers that we are responsible and committed to reducing the environmental impacts of our business. After 6 years of hard work and commitment to our strict environmental policies, it is rewarding to be recognised again and this time by the world's largest international scuba certification agency, PADI.





"Our recent major resort upgrade in early 2008, and the addition of our new high-tech solar power plant solution for the Main Bure, kitchen and The Terrace restaurant area, we believe we are the leader in eco-sustainable resorts in the country.





"Mr Akhtar finished by saying "Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco-Adventure Resort has again proved that it is indeed among the leaders in environmentally sensitive resorts worldwide, and this latest award solidifies our position as an example of how resorts can operate AND help maintain and improve the surrounding environment."

With more than 12 years experience in the Fiji Islands, Matava is recognized as a leading educational dive centre. Matava offers accommodation for up to 22 guests in lush tropical surroundings in traditional thatched Fijian 'bures' with hardwood polished floors, louvre windows and private decks offering privacy, comfort and superb ocean viewsMad Fish Dive Centre is our on-site PADI Dive Centre offering the best of diving in the South Pacific.
www.matava.com www.scuba-diving-fiji.com

Job Loss Refunds from Air Pacific

Refund for Job Loss

Air Pacific, Fiji's international airline, is reassuring passengers who book a new flight on Air Pacific originating in North America to Fiji from April 8 until June 30 and travel by Dec. 31 that they can get a full refund if they lose their job before their trip.

“We understand that travellers might be hesitant to book their next dream vacation due to these uncertain times,” said Candy Andrus, Air Pacific regional general manager of The Americas. “We are delighted to announce this special offer to help keep our passengers' minds at ease. Fiji is a place for relaxation. We want to make sure this starts when you book your flight with Air Pacific.”

Air Pacific will waive any cancellation fee and charge an administration fee of $50 per ticket. Travel must be cancelled within 14 days of departure and travellers will need to show proof of layoff in order to qualify for the full refund and cancellation waiver.

Source: Travel Week April 13

Air Tahiti orders more ATR Aircraft

Despite the economy and low hotel occupancy rates in French Polynesia, Air Tahiti has placed orders for up to 7 ATR - 600 Series Aircraft with firm orders for 2 - 50 Seaters, 3 - 70 Seaters and an option for two more additional 70 seat aircrafts.

The airline currently operates an ATR fleet of aircraft that services over 47 Pacific Islands. As one of ATR's most loyal customers, Air Tahiti chooses the aircrafts for their unique design best suited for the tropical salty environment and the short and narrow airstrips often found throughout these beautiful South Pacific Islands.

Flying with Air Tahiti is a whole lot more than just getting to your destination with some of the most incredible views in the world as you land at island airports like Bora Bora. Each flight is like scenic tour so keep your camera handy and batteries well charged.

Come WalkAbout

Thinking about a trip Down Under? Tourism Australia has created a new website to help you explore before you go!

Click on the link below to help get ideas and have an interactive exploration of 16 epic Australian adventures. View photos, maps and download pdf files with information on tours and then give me a call to let me know what catches your interest and we can custom build an itinerary for your trip of a lifetime!

Explore Australia

The BEST Job in the World

Are you adventurous - love to swim, snorkel, try new things? Would you like to earn over $120,000 (AUD $150,000) in 6 months? If so - you MUST check out this new job posting by Tourism Queensland where you will be paid to spend 6 months exploring over 600 islands along the Queensland Coast in the Great Barrier Reef, Australia.

Your job - to blog, do videos and share you experiences with the world on what the amazing islands are like and have to offer. Unbelieveable isn't it! I think it really is the best job in the world.

For more details and to apply visit http://www.islandreefjob.com/ The website is getting so many hits though it is hard to get through so be persistent - it could pay off in a big way!

Click on this link to view the CBC Story with my brief interview on The National:

Watch News Story

Air New Zealand tests Jatropha Biofuel

Air New Zealand is working hard to go Green! In this day and age of travel, more and more consumer and travel suppliers are working to become Green and promote environmentally friendly and sustainable travel alternatives.

I am in the process myself of working on becoming a Green Certified Travel Consultant through CITC - the Canadian Institute of Travel Counselors.

It is great to get news like this hearing that a major long haul airline is working to find an environmentally friendly fuel alternative!

Click Here to read more in the Los Angeles Times

Life in the Outback of Australia

Life in the Outback of Australia can be lonely and harsh in this region often referred to by Aussies as the 'back of beyond'.

With so much of the country being desert, more than 90% of the country's population live in the urban centres along the coasts. Much of the dry, barren land is used for massive cattle and sheep farms. It takes a special type of person to be able to spend their life in the isolation of the Outback but the country has adapted somewhat with special services like The Flying Doctors Service and the School of the Air.

What is it like to live in the Outback? If you like the big screen, head off to the theatre to see Baz Luhrmann's Australia The Movie. It is only getting mediocre reviews, but the scenery and filming is inspiring people to travel to the Outback to see more of this incredible and unique landscape.

The other great option is to pick up a copy of Thorn Birds - the 1977 best selling novel written by Colleen McCullough set on a fictional sheep station in the Australian Outback. The novel was a best seller, then turned into a TV Mini-Series and became the United State's second highest rated mini-series after Roots.

It has just been announced that Thorn Birds is now going to be turned into a theatrical musical production - but we will see if they can actually capture the essence of the Outback on stage as it was done in the novel and on TV.

To read more about Thorn Birds the Musical - Click Here

If you are really interested in seeing what life is like on a cattle or sheep station you can incorporate a visit on a trip to Australia. Choose from something as short as an afternoon tour with lunch or plan a bit of a working holiday to get your dirty and properly involved in the operation.

Below is a short video depicting a little bit about what life is like on a Cattle Farm and then the second video is all about the incredible Royal Flying Doctors Service