Author Archives: Danielle

QANTASLINK A220-300 Melbourne to Canberra Australia Business Class flight review – March 2024

QantasLink A220-300 Canberra to Sydney Business Class

Waiting for us was this brand new QantasLink A220-300 sitting at Tullamarine airport, Melbourne.

I was excitedly anticipating this flight with Qantas’ one of only two newly acquired A220’s at the time.  More fuel efficient and with nearly double the range, these will eventually replace the older  B717’s in the Qantas fleet.
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The Blossom Hibiya, Tokyo, Japan, Accommodation review – March 2024

The Blossom Hibiya, Tokyo Japan

The Blossom Hibiya, Tokyo Japan

Our first time to Tokyo and Japan, we chose to stay away from the hustle and bustle but still close to subways, shops and eateries.  We also found we could get a nicer place for our money and The Blossom Hibiya turned out to be in the perfect location with stunning views, modern rooms and an amazing all you can eat breakfast.
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Japa Suites and Villas, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia Accommodation review – July 2022

Japa Suites and Villas Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

We were in Bali for four weeks where we would be meeting up with our daughter and her husband for some of that time who were also holidaying in Indonesia.  Hoping to get a good rate on four weeks of accommodation we reached out to a few places and Japa Suites and Villas came back with the best deal.  So this lovely quiet retreat would become our home for the next few weeks.
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Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Helsinki, Finland Accommodation review – April 2022

Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Helsinki, Finland

Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Helsinki, Finland

As our tickets were booked with Finnair, our flight from New York to Lisbon involved a transit through Helsinki so I thought it would be the perfect excuse to see a bit of this charming city.  We chose this hotel based on its location and as it reviewed well and was very reasonably priced, it was an easy choice.
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The Revolution Hotel, Boston Massachusetts, USA Accommodation review – April 2022

The Revolution Hotel, Boston Massachusetts

The Revolution Hotel, Boston Massachusetts

Boston is beautiful but like New York City, it is expensive.  I searched for somewhere to stay in a reasonably good location that reviewed well and wasn’t too expensive.  And so The Revolution Hotel became our accommodation for the next two nights.
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Qantas 787-9 Dreamliner Melbourne to Los Angeles Business class flight review – March 2022

Our Qantas B787-9 Dreamliner that would fly us from Melbourne to Los Angeles

Our Qantas B787-9 Dreamliner that would fly us from Melbourne to Los Angeles

After a long hiatus in international travel due to COVID, it felt good to get back in the air and fly internationally once again.  Travel to the US required a negative COVID test from a travel pathology centre within just a calendar day of departure.  The test could be done at the airport for less money but we couldn’t guarantee we would get the results back in time.  A valid ESTA is also required which at the time cost around $20 AUD each and could be obtained via an online application.  These are valid for two years.
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QantasLink B717-200 Canberra to Gold Coast Economy flight review – June 2021

QantasLink B717-200 sitting on the tarmac at Canberra Airport

Our QantasLink B717-200 at Canberra Airport preparing for its flight to the Gold Coast

This was our first flight since January 2020 before COVID had really taken off.  So we were excited to be back in the air and at the same time cautious about what to expect.  Was it going to be safe? Were adequate measures in place and what impact would this new way of flying have on our experience?  We were about to find out. Continue reading

Singapore Airlines B777- 300ER Singapore to Canberra Economy class flight review – January 2020

Our Singapore Airlines B777-300 ER displaying her Star Alliance livery

Our Singapore Airlines B777-300 ER displaying her Star Alliance livery

After a very enjoyable holiday in Singapore with my husband, two daughters and my parents, it was time to fly home.  This time we were booked on a Boeing 777-300 ER which would take us all the way through to Canberra with a quick fuel and pickup stop in Sydney on the way.

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Singapore Airlines A350-900 Brisbane to Singapore Economy class flight review – December 2019

Our Singapore Airlines A350-900 in preparation for it's flight from Brisbane to Singapore

Our Singapore Airlines A350-900 in preparation for it’s flight from Brisbane to Singapore

Following on from our flight to Brisbane our family was very excited to be flying Singapore Airlines to Singapore where we would join my parents on an eight day holiday.  The plane was less than a year old and we were already familiar with the good service and food on board Singapore Airlines so couldn’t wait.

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Virgin Australia B737-800 Canberra to Brisbane Economy X flight review – December 2019

Our Virgin Australia B787 on the tarmac of the Canberra Airport just before its flight to Brisbane

Our Virgin Australia B787 on the tarmac of the Canberra Airport just before its flight to Brisbane

Our family was flying to Brisbane where we would take a connecting flight on to Singapore to meet up with my parents for a holiday together.  We chose this flight as it was cheaper than the direct flight with Singapore Airlines and also avoided flying through the night which isn’t my favourite.

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Seabreeze Beach Hotel, South West Rocks NSW Accommodation review – November 2019

Seabreeze Beach Hotel, South West Rocks NSW

Seabreeze Beach Hotel, South West Rocks NSW

On our way back from Queensland we stopped off at a town that was very special to us called South West Rocks where we had previously camped on a couple of occasions.  As it was already late and we would be leaving the following morning, we were after a place that was cheap and where we could park the truck we were driving.  Above the pub would be where we spent the night.
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Grafton Lodge Motel, NSW Accommodation review – November 2019

Grafton Lodge Motel, Grafton NSW Australia

Grafton Lodge Motel, Grafton NSW Australia

We were passing through Grafton on the way up to Queensland and needed somewhere cheap and cheerful to stay the night before continuing our drive first thing the following morning.  The Grafton Lodge Motel fitted the bill nicely and on hearing about our ordeal getting there, the lovely owner upgraded us to a Queen suite.  The highway had been blocked due to the bushfires so we were forced onto a narrow back road that not only added a fair bit of time to our trip, but was quite scary to drive on.
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Singapore Airlines B777-300ER Singapore to Canberra Business class flight review – October 2019

Boarding our Singapore Airlines B777-300ER aircraft at Changi airport

Boarding our Singapore Airlines B777-300ER aircraft at Changi airport

After an enjoyable breakfast at the Changi Airport’s Aerotel hotel where we had spent the night followed by a second breakfast in the lounge, we boarded our Singapore Airlines flight from Singapore to Canberra in Business Class via Sydney.

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Singapore Airlines A350-900 ULR New York to Singapore Business class flight review – October 2019

Our Singapore Airlines A350-900 ULR that took us on the longest flight in the world

Our Singapore Airlines A350-900 ULR that took us on the longest flight in the world

We were about to embark on what was currently the longest flight in the world – Newark, NJ to Singapore on Singapore Airlines’ A350-900 ULR in Business class.  The journey was scheduled to take a whopping 18 hours and 45 minutes.  We caught the hotel shuttle to the airport turning up with plenty of time to grab a bite to eat at the Polaris Lounge.  It was situated in the other terminal but I had heard a bit about this lounge so was eager to try it out.

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Singapore Airlines A350-900 ULR Singapore to New York Business class flight review – October 2019

Our Singapore Airlines A350-900 ULR that took us from Singapore to Newark, USA

Our Singapore Airlines A350-900 ULR that took us from Singapore to Newark, USA

After a whole day’s layover in Singapore, we were ready and excited for our next flight which was a long one at over 18 hours.  And what better way to spend it than flying on Singapore Airline’s A350 in Business Class.  We had heard a lot about the A350 and were about to try it out for the first time.

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Singapore Airlines B777-300ER Canberra to Singapore Business class flight review – October 2019

Our Singapore Airlines B777-300 ER at the Canberra Airport

Our Singapore Airlines B777-300 ER at the Canberra Airport

We were very excited to be trying out Singapore Airlines’ Business class product on our flight to Singapore and then on to New York.  It would be my first time flying internationally direct out of Canberra before.  Singapore Airlines don’t have a lounge at the Canberra Airport but upstairs you can use the Virgin lounge.  It’s fairly simple with a modest selection of hot and cold food but given it was very late at night and we were getting a meal on board anyway, there was plenty to keep us happy.  I settled with a bowl of tasty creamy tomato and basil soup.

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Qantas A380-800 Singapore to Melbourne Economy class flight review – August 2019

Our Qantas A380-800 aircraft we were flying from Singapore to Melbourne

Our Qantas A380-800 aircraft we were flying from Singapore to Melbourne

Although not keen on overnight flights in Economy, I was looking forward to flying this leg with Qantas on the A380 for our flight back to Australia from Singapore.  My plan of selecting a window and aisle seat paid off as we had no one sitting in the middle and more room for us to spread out whilst trying to catch a bit of sleep.

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Malaysia Airlines A330-300 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to Singapore Economy flight review – August 2019

Our Malaysia Airlines A330-300 plane that would take us to Singapore

Our Malaysia Airlines A330-300 plane that would take us to Singapore

After a very enjoyable time in Malaysia, it was time to say goodbye to the friendly people, great food and warm weather and make our way back home.  Having flown Malaysia Airlines on our way here, we had an idea of what to expect on this short flight to Singapore.
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Hilton Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Accommodation review – August 2019

The Hilton Kuala Lumpur photographed from Perdana Botanical Gardens

The Hilton Kuala Lumpur photographed from Perdana Botanical Gardens

I had a good feeling about this place even before we arrived.  The reviews I read online were great and the customer service I received from Hilton leading up to our stay when I contacted them was excellent.  Turns out our expectations were not just met but surpassed.
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Aerotel Kuala Lumpur (Airport Hotel), Malaysia Accommodation review – August 2019

The Aerotel Hotel at KLI2 Airport in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The Aerotel Hotel at KLI2 Airport in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

We were being met at the airport the next morning and driven to our Luxury Escapes accommodation at Pangkor Laut.  So we needed a hotel for the night after our flight from Canberra, Australia and the two year old Aerotel seemed to fit the bill perfectly.
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Malaysia Airlines A330-300 Melbourne to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Economy flight review – August 2019

Our Malaysia Airlines A330-300 aircraft that would take us from Melbourne to Kuala Lumpur.

Our Malaysia Airlines A330-300 aircraft that would take us from Melbourne to Kuala Lumpur.

Our Qantas flight on the A380-800 had been cancelled so we were moved to this Malaysia Airlines flight on their A330-300.  Not having flown with Malaysia Airlines before we were not sure what to expect and to be honest were a little nervous.  Our flight to Malaysia was to celebrate our 25th Wedding Anniversary with a stay on spectacular Pankor Laut and a week in Kuala Lumpur.
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Qantas B737-800 Canberra to Melbourne Economy flight review – October 2019

Our Qantas B737-800 plane preparing for its flight to Melbourne

Our Qantas B737-800 plane preparing for its flight to Melbourne

We were about to embark on the beginning of our holiday to celebrate our 25th Wedding Anniversary and what better way to kick it off than 5 nights in an overwater bungalow in tropical Pangkor Laut, Malaysia.  However when we got to the airport we were in for some unexpected news.
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QANTAS A380-800 Los Angeles to Sydney Business class flight review – May 2019

Our Qantas A380-800 having just landed in Sydney

Our Qantas A380-800 having just landed in Sydney

After our short layover at Los Angeles LAX we were back on the plane for our 15 hour flight to Sydney Australia.  This time it would be on the Airbus A380 so I was interested in comparing the Business class product on this to the B787-9 Dreamliner we had just been on.

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QANTAS B787-9 Dreamliner Los Angeles to New York Business class flight review – April 2019

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This was our third flight on our long journey from Canberra to New York and after hopping off this plane and spending more than an hour going through immigration, customs and security, we hopped back on the very same plane we had just been on.   Continue reading

QANTAS B787-9 Dreamliner Brisbane to Los Angeles Business class flight review – April 2019

Our Qantas B787-9 Dreamliner waiting to take us from Brisbane to Los Angeles

Continuing on from our flight from Canberra to Brisbane, we were excited to be doing our first ever long haul business class flight together.  I looked forward to being able to lie down and get some sleep on this Qantas’ 787-9 Dreamliner and turning up refreshed when we hit the ground.

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Qantas B717-200 Canberra to Brisbane Business class flight review – April 2019

Our Qantas B717-200 plane loading up at Canberra airport for its flight to Brisbane

Our Qantas B717-200 plane loading up at Canberra airport for its flight to Brisbane

This flight would be our first time ever flying Business class together so we were both very excited.  Not all of Qantas’ 717-200’s are configured with a Business class but QF1562 is one of the few that are. This flight would take us to Brisbane where we would fly to New York City via Los Angeles.

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Oval Motel, Bendigo Victoria Accommodation review – March 2019

Oval Motel Bendigo

Oval Motel Bendigo

Hubby and I drove to Bendigo to go see the Little House Festival the town was putting on.  Therefore we were just after a cheap night’s accommodation for one night.  Our only requirements were that it was clean and we had our own room and bathroom.  The oval motel fitted the bill perfectly offering a great rate and a few extras we weren’t expecting.
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Qantas 787-9 Dreamliner New York to Los Angeles Economy flight review – October 2018

 

After our two hour Amtrak train ride from NY State to Penn Station, we caught the E train to uptown Queens getting off at Sutphin Boulevard for the JFK airport.  The ride took about half an hour and from there we took the elevator to the third floor (C floor).  After putting $5USD onto our AirTrain card we checked the terminal we needed which was eight and hopped onto the AirTrain.  I love seeing all the different airlines on the way to our terminal.
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Alaska Airlines A321 Las Vegas to San Francisco Economy Class flight review – October 2018

As was the case with our last Alaska Airlines flight, the plane was one acquired from Virgin America and hadn’t yet been painted or decked out in the Alaska livery.  This route appeared a strange way to get to New York, travelling west for nearly two hours only to then fly east to New Jersey’s Newark airport.
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Alaska Airlines A320 Los Angeles to Las Vegas Premium Class flight review – October 2018

This was my first time flying Alaska Airlines and I was surprised to discover the aircraft was painted in the Virgin America livery.  What appeared to be a pilot sitting behind me explained that Alaska Airlines acquired Virgin America in 2016 and were still in the process of repainting and refitting the planes they purchased off VA.
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Qantas Dehavilland (Bombardier) Dash 8-400 Canberra to Sydney Economy flight review – October 2018

Our Qantas Dash 8 plane that would take us to Sydney

Our Qantas Dash 8 plane that would take us to Sydney

This was the first of several flights for our trip to New York via Las Vegas.  Qantas often run the Dash 8’s from Canberra to Sydney and back as they’re smaller and more economical.  In hindsight I wouldn’t have chosen the first day of daylight saving for the start of our trip as putting the clocks forward an hour meant we had to be up very early. Continue reading

Virgin Australia Aeritalia ATR Sydney to Canberra Economy flight review – August 2018

Virgin's Airitalia ATR turboprop ready for it's flight to Canberra

Virgin’s Airitalia ATR turboprop ready for it’s flight to Canberra

I had never flown on this particular type of aircraft before so I was interested to see what it was like.  This joint venture French/Italian manufactured turboprop aircraft has just 68 seats with it’s passenger door located at the rear. Continue reading

Virgin Australia B737-800 Gold Coast to Sydney Economy flight review – August 2018

Boarding our Virgin B737-800 plane the old fashioned way

Boarding our Virgin B737-800 plane the old fashioned way

Sad to be leaving, we made our way to Coolangatta Airport for our flight home.  The weather had been perfect on our trip so we didn’t mind that whilst we were inside the airport waiting to board our flight, it started raining.  Due to the strong winds in Melbourne and Sydney some flights had been delayed, but fortunately our flight left just ten minutes later than scheduled. Continue reading

Virgin Australia B737-800 Canberra to Gold Coast Economy flight review – August 2018

Our Virgin Boeing 737-800  plane on the tarmac at Coolangatta Airport on the Gold Coast

Our Virgin Boeing 737-800 plane on the tarmac at Coolangatta Airport on the Gold Coast

Excited to be spending a few days at the Gold Coast with our eldest daughter on her Birthday, we booked our flights with Virgin who were offering departure times that best suited us along with reasonable prices. Continue reading

Qantas Dehavilland (Bombardier) Dash 8-400 Sydney to Canberra Economy flight review – May 2018

Having just walked off our Qantas Dash 8-400 flight from Sydney to Canberra

Having just walked off our Qantas Dash 8-400 flight from Sydney to Canberra

Our third and final flight home was a short 55 minute ride in this twin propeller Qantas Dash 8.  It’s a strange looking aircraft but I like seeing it up close which you can’t do when you have to board via an air-bridge. Continue reading

American Airlines B787-9 (Dreamliner) Los Angeles to Sydney Main Cabin (Economy) flight review – May 2018

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American Airlines B787-9 (Dreamliner) taking off from Sydney Airport

It had been a long day already with a car ride to the train station, a two hour train ride to NYC, a couple of subway rides to the airport, a six hour flight to LA and now a 15 hour flight to Sydney followed by a short flight home.  So needless to say I was not too excited about this red eye flight except that I was looking forward to seeing our family back home. Continue reading

jetBlue Airways A321 New York to Los Angeles Even More Space flight review – May 2018

Our jetBlue A321 plane that would take us from JFK to LAX

Our jetBlue A321 plane that would take us from JFK to LAX

Having never heard of JetBlue before I was a little unsure of what to expect. This airline was offering a suitable price, departure time and a direct flight and with another two flights to follow this one, we wanted to avoid a stopover from New York to Los Angeles. Aware that like most airlines flying within the US, this was not a full service airline, I read some reviews and was pleasantly surprised with what I found.  Continue reading

The Westin New York Grand Central, New York, USA Accommodation review – May 2018

The Westin New York Grand Central

The Westin New York Grand Central was where we chose to stay after our long haul flight from Australia.  This modern hotel was well located and gave us the perfect opportunity to explore Grand Central Station properly.  It was also a Trip Advisor 2017 Certificate of Excellence winner.
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American Airlines A321 Los Angeles to New York Economy flight review – May 2018

American Airlines A321

American Airlines A321 with sharklets

 

As soon as we had walked off the plane from our flight from Sydney to LA, our  express boarding passes for our next flight to New York were stuck on the wall with our names on them.  It was just as well as because by the time we got through security and immigration, it was time to board our plane. Continue reading

American Airlines B787-9 (Dreamliner) Sydney to Los Angeles Main Cabin (Economy) flight review – May 2018

Excited to be boarding our American Airlines B787-9 plane to Los Angeles

Excited to be boarding our American Airlines B787-9 plane to Los Angeles

I love flying to a country on its national airline and today we were trying out American Airlines for the first time on our flight from Sydney to Los Angeles.  Not only that, it would be our first time on the B787-9 Dreamliner which I had heard so much about and couldn’t wait to experience.
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Qantas B717-200 Canberra to Sydney Economy flight review – May 2018

Our Qantas 717-200 waiting to take us to Sydney

Our Qantas 717-200 waiting to take us to Sydney

We were excited to be commencing our journey to New York State with this first flight to Sydney on a Qantaslink 717-200.  As it began to gently rain, the thought of warmer weather on the other side of the world felt so enticing.  We bid our beautiful daughters goodbye for the next couple of weeks and boarded our plane. Continue reading

Sleeper Train – Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand review – October 2017

No.9 train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Date: October 2017

Destination: Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand return

Class: Second

After weighing up the advantages of catching a train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok over flying, hubby and I decided to purchase a couple of return train tickets.  We both loved trains and this would allow us to travel like the locals. It was also an inexpensive way to get to Chiang Mai which included a night’s accommodation. Continue reading

Joy’s House – Chiang Mai, Thailand review – October 2017

Joy’s House Chiang Mai, Thailand

We chose Joy’s House due to its excellent ratings on tripadvisor and for the Children’s shelter the owners founded just up the road that provides a home, education and training to 45 underprivileged children from the hill tribe villages of Northern Thailand and Burma. Continue reading

Sala Arun Hotel, Bangkok Thailand review – October 2017

Sala Arun Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand

This holiday I left choosing and booking the accommodation up to hubby as it was usually me who did all that.  So it would be interesting to see what he came up with.  The Sala Arun Hotel, despite being close to a number of attractions was situated in a less touristy part of town on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and with the most glorious views of Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn). Continue reading

Club Quarters Hotel, World Trade Center, New York review – September 2017

Club Quarters Hotel, World Trade Center, NY

We needed somewhere to stay for the night before heading out of the city the following day and this place was well priced and well located.  Whilst it seemed it was designed for longer stays in mind, it provided the perfect place for just the one night too. Continue reading

Qantas B737-800 Melbourne to Canberra Economy flight review – September 2017

A great view of our Qantas B737-800 from the lounge at Tullamarine Airport

 It had been a long journey which commenced with a two hour train ride to New York City but this would be our third and final flight for the trip to get home.  I find flying to a destination exciting and enjoyable but coming home, I’m keen to get it over with, especially if the rest of the family are back home.  I also don’t enjoy overnight flights as much and for some reason the flights back seem to always be overnighters. Continue reading

Qantas A380-800 Los Angeles to Melbourne Economy flight review – September 2017

Boarding our A380-800 flight from LAX Los Angeles to Melbourne Australia

Boarding our A380-800 flight from LAX Los Angeles to Melbourne Australia

Due to the late arrival of our flight from New York to Los Angeles, our next flight which we boarded immediately was already nearly full.  Finding room in the overhead compartments was a bit of a challenge which is a good enough reason to board early when possible.  It was late and we had a long 16 hour flight in front of us to Melbourne, Australia. Continue reading

Qantas B747-400 New York to Los Angeles Economy flight review – September 2017

Our Qantas 747-400 plane from New York to Los Angeles

This was to be a long journey.  After a two hour train ride from New York State to New York City, we had to negotiate the subways and Airtrain to the airport where we had a five and a half hour flight to Los Angeles followed by a nearly sixteen hour flight to Melbourne, Australia before yet another flight to Canberra. Continue reading

Qantas A380-800 Sydney to Los Angeles Economy flight review – September 2017

A view of the wing from inside our A380-800 Qantas flight to Los Angeles

Excited to be flying on an A380-800 again, our youngest daughter drove us to the airport for our 7:20 am flight to Sydney where we would board our next plane to New York via Los Angeles.  I felt a mix of excitement and trepidation as it was the first time leaving the Girls at home on their own with our youngest only just getting her licence the month before. Continue reading

Seaview Guest House, Queenscliff, Victoria Accommodation review – March 2017

Seaview House, Queenscliff, Victoria

Although no longer a B&B, this 1875 Queenscliff guest house has a tonne of character and old world charm. Formerly a green grocer and then the Seaview Coffee Palace, it was later converted to a Guest House with fourteen guest rooms each individually unique from each other. Continue reading

The Hilton Garden Inn, New York Accommodation review – July 2016

The Hilton Garden Inn, NYC

Situated on West 35th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, this modern Midtown Manhattan hotel built in 2009 is in an ideal location.  Close to the Empire State Building, Macy’s at Herald Square, Times Square, Madison Square Garden and Fifth Avenue shopping there is plenty to see and do in the area.  And with just a short walk to Penn Station, it’s easy to get to places further away. Continue reading

The Lucerne, New York Accommodation review – July 2016

lower section of the Lucerne, New York, USA

The Lucerne, built in 1904 is a grand old building situated on the upper west side of New York. Bell Boys are waiting by the large doors to open and close them at the ready.  Recently renovated, it has an old world charm combined with the usual range of modern amenities such as complimentary WiFi, spa services and a fitness centre.   Continue reading

Regal Airport Hotel, Chek Lap Kok, Hong Kong Accommodation review – June 2016

Regal Airport Hotel, Chek Lap Kok, Hong Kong – photo credit Regal Airport Hotel

Recognised as the World’s Best Airport Hotel by Business Traveller Magazine for nine years running, this hotel is directly connected to the passenger terminal of the International airport, just a short three minute walk away.   Continue reading

Royal Plaza Hotel, Kowloon, Mong Kok, Hong Kong Accommodation review – June 2016

Royal Plaza Hotel, Kowloon, Hong Kong

This luxury 5 star hotel is situated in Mong Kok in the heart of Kowloon.  Boasting 699 guest rooms over 18 floors, there are some spectacular views to be had.  The Royal Plaza Hotel is attached to the famous seven storied shopping centre known as Moko Mall.  The bottom level has an MTR that connects to Mong Kok East Station. Continue reading

Cathay Pacific A330-300 Sydney to Hong Kong Economy flight review – June 2016

 

Our A330-300 Cathay Pacific plane getting ready for its flight from Sydney to Hong Kong

Our A330-300 Cathay Pacific plane getting ready for its flight from Sydney to Hong Kong

This holiday to Hong Kong and New York was a Christmas present for our daughters and although we booked it well in advance, we had to keep it a secret until Christmas.  Needless to say they were pretty excited. It did however come with one condition. Continue reading

Ayung Resort, Payangan, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia Accommodation review – January 2016

Ayung Resort Ubud

I was excited to be returning to one of our favourite resorts, this time with our two daughters 15 and 17.  On arrival you are given a warm welcome which comes as a blessing after the hour and a quarter taxi ride from the airport combined with the hot and humid weather.  Continue reading

Sky Rider Motor Inn, Katoomba, Blue Mountains, NSW, Australia Accommodation review – September 2015

Sky RIder Motor Inn, Katoomba, Blue Mountains

Room Reviews Rating

We spent three nights here and chose this place based on its positive reviews along with the fact it was ranked No. 1 in Katoomba on TripAdvisor .  It was also fairly well priced at $160/night for our family of four.  Continue reading

Hobart Airport Tourist Park, Cambridge, Tasmania, Australia Accommodation review – September 2014

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We chose to stay the week in Hobart in a cabin which not only kept the cost down but meant the in-laws who were travelling with us could stay in one next door which made seeing each other nice and convenient.  The cabin was located close to the airport although there was not a lot of air traffic and the windows were double glazed so it was never a problem.  Continue reading

Spirit of Tasmania – Melbourne to Devonport – September 2014

The Spirit of Tasmania docked at Port Melbourne

Date: September 2014

Destination: Devonport, Tasmania, Australia

Vessel: Spirit of Tasmania I

Sailing time: 10hrs 30 mins

As our two Girls had never been on a ship before we thought catching the ferry to Devonport would be the perfect way to start our holiday.  We drove to Melbourne where we met up with my husband’s parents who were joining us on our holiday. After grabbing a bite to eat, we joined the queue in order to drive our car onto the ship.  It was an overnight sail which was due to depart at 1930 and arrive at 0600 the following day.  Continue reading

Emirates review – August 2013

Emirate A380 from Sydney to Dubai

Date: August 2013

Destination: Sydney to Dubai return

Aircraft: Airbus A380-800

Flying time: Sydney-Dubai 14hrs 30mins |Dubai-Sydney 13hrs 50mins

I was really looking forward to this trip as I was flying to London via Dubai with Mum and Dad to attend my youngest brother’s wedding.  It had been ages since I last travelled just with my parents and I was excited to be spending some time with them and seeing my brother again. Continue reading

The Arthaus, Hackney, London, UK Accommodation review – August 2013

The Arthaus, Hackney, London

As I was travelling with my parents, we thought an apartment with a couple of bedrooms and bathrooms would be more suitable than a hotel room or two.  Airbnb had a new complex in the heart of Hackney, London that was perfect.  The Arthaus was to be our accommodation for the time we were in London. Continue reading

Dubai International Hotel, Dubai, UAE Accommodation review – August 2013

Dubai International Hotel – photo courtesy of hotel’s website

Also known as Dubai International Airport Terminal Hotel, this modern hotel boasting 530 guest rooms is situated smack bang inside terminal 3 of the Dubai International Airport.  After a 14 hour flight from Sydney, a night at this conveniently located hotel provided a great night’s sleep and a refreshing break before our continued journey on to London early the following morning. Continue reading

Thai Airways – Sydney to Bangkok review – April 2013

our Thai Airways plane from Sydney to Bangkok

Date: April 2013

Destination: Sydney to Bangkok, Thailand return

Aircraft: Boeing B747-400

Flying time: Sydney-Bangkok 9hrs 20mins | Bangkok-Sydney 9hrs

Our flight out of Sydney was due to take off at 10am but had been delayed by nearly an hour due to coming in late. Once on board we were welcomed with friendly Sawadee’s and handed a cup of water after taking our seats. Continue reading

Qantas A380-800 Hong Kong to Sydney Economy flight review – January 2013

View out the window of our Qantas A380 flight from Hong Kong to Sydney

View out the window of our Qantas A380 flight from Hong Kong to Sydney

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After a fun-filled couple of weeks in Hong Kong, we were on our way home again.  This time we would be flying on Qantas’ A380 which I was really looking forward to after our great experience flying on one with Singapore Airlines the previous year. Continue reading

The Salisbury YMCA, Kowloon, Hong Kong Accommodation review – January 2013

YMCA Salisbury Hong Kong

I have to start by saying this place is not what I expected from a YMCA. The foyer can be mistaken for that of a typical five star resort and the commanding views of the harbour and excellent proximity to the hustle and bustle of the city make this place worthwhile.

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Singapore Airlines – Sydney to Phuket – January 2012

Our Singapore Airlines flight to Phuket via Singapore

Date: January 2012

Destination: Sydney to Phuket, Thailand return

Aircraft: Airbus A380-800

Flying time: Sydney to Singapore 8hrs 5mins| Singapore to Phuket 1hr 45mins

This was our first time flying Singapore Airlines and the four of us were very excited.  We drove a hire car to Sydney Airport where we would board our first A380-800.  We would get to sit up top where it was quieter, more spacious and less crowded.  Upstairs was decked out for premium economy but for some reason the airline decided not to use it for that. Continue reading

Double Tree by Hilton Darwin Accommodation review – April 2011

Double Tree by Hilton, The Espanade, Darwin – photo courtesy of Double Tree by Hilton website

I was keen to to take hubby and the kids to Darwin where I was born and spent seven years of my childhood growing up to show them my old home town.  And Double Tree by Hilton (then Holiday Inn) seemed like a good choice. Continue reading

Jetstar A330 Sydney to Phuket return review – December 2010

Jetstar Sydney to Phuket

Date: December 2010

Destination: Sydney to Phuket, Thailand return

Aircraft: Airbus A330

Flying time: Sydney to Phuket 9hrs 15mins|Phuket to Sydney 9hrs 05mins

Our last minute decision for hubby and I to go to Thailand over the December/January holidays left us with not a lot of options.  Jetstar had the cheapest prices and even they weren’t cheap.   Continue reading

Dewa Phuket Resort Nai Yang Beach, Nai Yang, Thailand accommodation review – December 2010

Dewa Phuket Resort Nai Yang Beach, Thailand

The Dewa is located just five minutes from the airport beside Nai Yang Beach and 30 minutes from Phuket city.  The resort has a mix of pool villas and junior and family suites.  On arrival we were told we had been upgraded to a villa with a private plunge pool.  Things were off to a good start. Continue reading

Quay West Resort Bunker Bay review – September 2010

Quay West Bunker Bay Resort

Whilst in Perth with my parents and my brother’s family to celebrate my Nanna’s 90th Birthday and my Aunt’s 70th, we decided to extend our stay by a couple of nights and drive south to Bunker Bay resort.  It looked like a lovely place to base ourselves to relax and explore a bit of Cape Naturaliste and the Margaret River wine region. Continue reading

Holiday Inn San Francisco Golden Gateway, San Francisco, California review – June 2009

Holiday Inn San Francisco Golden Gateway, SF, USA – photo credit Holiday Inn

Situated near eateries and public transport, this Holiday Inn provided heavenly views over San Francisco’s bay or city.  Here kids twelve and under can stay and eat for free.  With 26 floors, all 496 rooms are non-smoking.  Pets are allowed to stay at this hotel. Continue reading

Holiday Inn (now Four Points by Sheraton), San Diego, California review – June 2009

Four Points by Sheraton, (was Holiday Inn) San Diego, California, USA

At the time we stayed here it was a Holiday Inn hotel but in 2012 was taken over by Four Points by Sheraton.  The hotel offers 360 degree views of San Diego Bay and Downtown.  It is located close to the airport with complimentary shuttle buses. Continue reading

Le Meridian (now Holiday Inn Resort), Vanuatu review – October 2006

overwater bungalows at the Holiday Inn Resort, Port Villa, Vanuatu

Holiday Inn Resort in Vanuatu has had a number of name changes from when it originally opened in 1975 as an Intercontinental Hotel.  When we stayed it was Le Meridian before it then changed name again to Palms Resort and Casino and finally Holiday Inn Resort.

Continue reading

Radisson Treetops Resort & Spa (now Ramada Resort Port Douglas) Accommodation review – November 2005

Radisson Tree Tops Resort & Spa – now Ramada Resort Port Douglas

We stayed at this same resort with the kids when they were little back in 2001 and decided that when they were a bit older hubby and I would return for a few days on our own to explore the area a bit more thoroughly.  So in 2005 the Girls went to stay with their Grandparents and we went back to Port Douglas. Continue reading

Air Pacific/Fiji Airways review – May 2002

Photo credit RN Smith, Aussieairliners.org

Date: May 2002

Destination: Sydney to Nadi, Fiji return

Aircraft: Boeing 747-200

Flying time: Sydney to Nadi 3hrs 50mins|Nadi to Sydney 4hrs 45mins

This was the first time our two Girls had flown and our first overseas holiday as a family. Our youngest was not yet two so were interested to see how she would go with overseas travel. Continue reading