HOW TO SURVIVE A ROAD TRIP WITH KIDS

HOW TO SURVIVE A ROAD TRIP WITH KIDS





The weather's just perfect for a vacation and what better than planning a road trip, as trains and flights will be overbooked. To top it all, if you have kids along with you, going on a road trip will not only be a fun experience for you and your partner, but also for your kids as well.Simply pack your stuff and get into your cozy flour-wheeler and get ready for the relaxed holiday you've been looking forward to.Since, travelling with kids can sometimes be a task, here are a few ways you can plan the trip with your little ones.

 

MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A WELL-EQUIPPED AND COMPLETE FIRST AID BOX
A well-equipped first aid box is a pre-requisite for any trip. It saves the panic since you have all the necessary medication handy in case of any emergency. Stock up everything from painkillers to paracitamols, and from ointments to bandaids, hot water bags as well. This will help you stay prepared always, as stomach infections, a minor flu and wounds are common among kids.

STOCK UP AS MUCH EATABLE AS POSSIBLE
There might be a possibility that you won't find any restaurants or roadside eateries when you are driving on the high way. So, pack sustainable food items with you for the journey.
From sand wiches, sausages, fruits, chips, dry fruits, juices, etc.make sure you have enough with you. Make a separate food bag with neat compartments. Also, do not forget to carry enough drinking water.

TAKE FREQUENT BREAKS
Do not drive continuously for a long time, take short breaks in between. This will not just make you feel relaxed, but let the children have some open space to stretch their legs or jump and run a bit to put their boredom at bay.Secondly, the kids would need loo breaks, or you might just want to stop midway to enjoy a coffee or juice along with a picturesque view.

CARRY COMFORTABLE AND PORTABLE BEDDING
Adults might adjust within their limited seating space, but kids often get irritated and cranky if their body movements are restricted for a long time. Carrying portable bedding will help himher get a sound sleep whenever heshe wants to sleep in the car.

LOAD YOURSELF WITH GAMES AND ENOUGH ENTERTAINMENT SO THAT THEY DON'T GET BORED
Right from good books to video games, and from scrabble to blocks, ensure your child is busy while on the trip. Carry your laptop or any other gadgets which will keep your child occupied. You can also download your child's favourite movies before you set out. This way you and your partner can enjoy your road trip, without having to attend to your child.

Wheels start turning for Mumbai-Ah’d bullet train corridor

Wheels start turning for Mumbai-Ah’d bullet train corridor

The railways, under new minister Suresh Prabhu, has begun moving on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s bullet train dream in right earnest. On November 21, the interim report on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train corridor was submitted by experts from the Japan Industrial Cooperation Agency to the infrastructure directorate of the railway board, the final report is expected by May next year. Meanwhile, a five-member team led by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) chief Satish Agnihotri left for China on Monday night on a five-day tour to assess the possibility of a Delhi-Chennai bullet train. Speaking to dna, chief spokesperson for the railway ministry Anil Saxena said the team will discuss the terms and conditions of the feasibility study for the Delhi-Chennai project. “The cost of the study will be borne by the China Railway Corporation, which is the government operator of railways there,” he added. Agnihotri, an Indian Institute of Technology (Roorkee) alumnus and an Indian Railway Service of Engineers official from the 1984 batch, has spearheaded railways’ bullet train endeavours for the past few years. Agnihotri has had training in Germany, France and Austria on the maintenance of high-speed tracks. RVNL is the parent company of High Speed Rail Corporation of India Limited, the latter entrusted with working on country’s future bullet train corridors. While the quick moves by the railways on this has elicited cheers from one of its sections, another is calling it “good TRP” for the railways. “The Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor is expected to cost Rs60,000 crore and, by the same standards of cost estimation, the Delhi-Chennai corridor will be Rs2 lakh crore. The question is whether these two projects are needed. It may be soft loans from Japan or China, but the railways could do better to put this kind of money to upgrade tracks to a standard of 200kmph. It is a shame that the benchmark for a superfast train in India is if it runs at an average speed of above 55kmph throughout its journey,” said a senior railway official

Outstanding Ooty - Popular hill station

Outstanding Ooty

Here’s why you should visit this popular hill station

According to a proverb, clichés are clichés for a reason. And that’s probably why even when newer destinations and off-beat trails crop up, some locales never lose their charm. When Ooty — Fern Hill, A Sterling Holidays Resort, invited us to explore the beautiful locale, we went there with a lot of expectations, and were extremely pleased with the experience. Driving on long-winded roads, experiencing the unscheduled rains and fog, were all a part of the days that were spent there. And it’s during the beautiful rides that one understands why tourists as well as Bollywood loves this destination so much. Where to stay We stayed at the Sterling Resorts’ Ooty — Fern Hill. What works for this resort is that it is at a comfortable distance to the various places of interests like Doddabetta, Coonoor, Avalanchi and Pykara. The resort also houses various facilities like a spa, club, play area, entertainment area and two restaurants. Plus it has a travel desk that will help you arrange all your local sightseeing. Also, try the delicious local dishes that are served here. For more information, log on to www.sterlingholidays.com Flower power Everlasting Flower: Like the name suggests, this flower can last up to a year, say locals. The Kurinji: This is a blue flower that blooms once in 12 years and envelops the mountains around Ooty. Some believe that’s the reason why the mountain ranges are called the Blue Mountains. Shop talk: Besides the various winter clothes, shawls embroidered by the Toda tribe are a favourite among tourists. Train trails The blue-and-cream Nilgiri Toy Train (Nilgiri Mountain Railway) connecting Ooty with Mettupalayam at the foot of the hills is one of the few remaining steam locomotives in the world today. It was added as an extension to the World Heritage Site of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway by UNESCO in 2005. The train is popular for its four-hour journey through the beautiful landscape, and has been the setting for many movie scenes, including the famous song Chaiya Chaiya in the movie Dil Se. For those who prefer a shorter ride, you can take a trip from Udhagamandalam to Coonoor. How to get there The closest railhead is Mettupalayam, 40 km from Ooty station, which is only meant for the toy train. The nearest airport is Coimbatore. Ooty is approximately three hours away by road from here. The scenic road makes this a wonderful drive to experience. It is well connected by roads to all towns. What to see The picturesque hill station of Ooty, short for Ootacamund and now officially Udhagamandalam, lies amid four peaks — Doddabetta, Snowdon, Elk Hill, and Club Hill. As you chug through the spectacular landscape in the toy train, the wonderfully uplifting smell of eucalyptus fills up the senses. In and around About 10 kilometres from Ooty town is the Doddabetta peak (8,652 feet), the highest point in the Nilgiri Hills. The peak offers spectacular views of the town and district and is ensconced within a reserved forest area. Tea Museum, Ooty lake and Botanical Garden are among the other attractions of Ooty. Near Botanical Garden is a Tibeatan Market, which you should check out. Coonoor Around 17 km from Ooty, Coonoor is a cool and cosy tea garden town at an altitude of 6,000 feet in the Nilgiris. It’s an excellent place to do some bird-watching because of the sheer variety of birds there. The main attraction here is Sim’s Park, a small well-maintained botanical garden with several interesting plant varieties. Locals say that the Rudraksh tree within the premise is a huge attraction for locals as well as tourists. Avalanchi and Pykara The lush green Avalanchi and Pykara are extremely inviting. Pykara is also home to some shooting locales. Both places have lakes and dams that make for great pictures and stopovers. You can plan a day picnic while visiting and take along a picnic basket that you can gorge on near a tranquil lake. And though you may not spot too many animals at the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the eco tour is a wonderful experience that takes you deep into the forest area.

Alankrita wins two more titles at Miss Earth, taking her tally to four sub-title crowns

Alankrita wins two more titles at Miss Earth, taking her tally to four sub-title crowns





India's Alankrita Sahai (Yamaha Fascino Miss Earth India 2014) continues to shine at the Miss Earth pageant taking place in the Philippines. After winning the Miss Pagudpud and Miss Casual Wear titles, she has now won gold in the Evening Wear Gown round and a bronze in the Swimsuit round. For the Evening Wear round, Alankrita wore a stunning golden gown designed by Gaurav Gupta with jewellery by Curio Cottage. For the Swimsuit round, she turned heads in a striking black bikini that she paired with her killer smile.
Before the finale on November 29, Alankrita will participate in several other sub-titles, including Yahoo Beauty For A Cause. Winning this will fast-track her to the top 16 of Miss Earth 2014.
To make Alankrita win the Yahoo Beauty For A Cause title, vote for her on http:goo.glxrOHda
To make Alankrita win Miss Photogenic, vote for her on http:goo.gl0l1Q3j and to make her win Miss Eco Beauty, vote for her on http:goo.glQKNslT. You can also share her profile on Facebook and Twitter

Goa an ideal holiday destination

Sylvan sojourn





Natural scenic beauty, bountiful beaches, gothic churches and temples along with wildlife sanctuaries make Goa an ideal holiday destination

Goa, India's smallest state by area and fourth smallest by population, is fondly re ferred to as the “tiny emerald land of the West coast“. With its natural scenic beauty, abundant greenery, eye-catching beaches and temples and churches, colorful and lively feasts and festivities and above all the hospitable people; all this gives Goa an ideal tourist profile. When you think of Goa, a montage of beach, beer, parties and endless fun comes to your mind. However, visiting some parts of this place for a simple leisure trip could turn into an ideal vacation.
The main asset that contains this high profile product is Goa's 105 kms coastline studded with 29 beaches lined by golden sand, silver sand, a natural harbor and the large network of inland waterways. Tour to the land of Goa can never fail to fascinate the travelers to relax and have fun on the translucent sandy beach. The natural treasures and the exotic beaches offer perfect escapade for the excitement loving holiday seekers.
Among all the tourist attractions, the romantic beaches of Goa are the prime attraction of tourists. The state is gifted with some of the finest beaches in the world that creates amiable ambiance to enjoy Goa beach tours and beach holidays in a memorable way. Arjuna Beach, Baga Beach, Calangute Beach, Vagator Beach, Morjim Beach and Palolem Beach are some of the famous beaches here. Goa is a perfect blend of old and modern culture. The history and heritage of the state is richly preserved in its churches, forts, traditional homes and villages.The state has some national parks and wildlife sanctuaries also such as Bondla National Park, Mollem National Park, Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and Cotigao Wlidlife Sanctuary. These protected areas provide shelter to various kinds of wildlife species.Another natural charm of Goa is Dudhsagar Waterfall, which is known as the highest waterfall of India.
Goa boasts of hotels and resorts, which make for an important aspect of tourism component, in abundance. One is likely to find a plethora of resorts and hotels, from which the person can pick and choose as per his budget and choice. The Goa beach resorts are largely popular among the tourists. These hotels and resorts are specifically designed to cater to the traveling needs of the visitors as they offer a wide variety of flexible plans. There is no dearth of good restaurants in the state which are known to serve delectable Goan cuisine.
No holiday is complete without shopping. Shopping in Goa is a fabulous experience to say the least. It boasts of an age-old tradition of fantastic handicrafts that speak volumes for the craftsmanship and aesthetic sense of Goan people.

Popular destinations for the big day

Popular destinations for the big day





Awedding is one of the most special chapters of one's life. It is natural that you would want the destination of your big day to be the kind that is nothing short of spectacular.Wondering about the places to tap a perfect dream wedding? Take a look at these six destinations: 

 

 PUERTO RICO
Perfect for those who love adventure and culture, Puerto Rico is one of the most loved wedding destinations of the world.A beach wedding at Puerto Rico is for those who enjoy surfing, hiking and old-fashioned travelling. From lounging near a waterfall to dancing to Samba music, the beauty of Puerto Rico in endless and is sure to take you by surprise.

TOBAGO
A three-and-half-hour flight from Miami, Tobago is crowd-free and perfect for an exotic wedding. One of the island's major attractions are its eco-friendly resorts that provides the best Caribbean experiences. The island's newest addition in resorts is set amid mangrove forests and is a favourite amongst tourists. If you're looking to have a unique wedding experience, choose Tobago as your wedding location.

LAS VEGAS
Often called the marriage capital of the world, Las Vegas is one of the most famous wedding destination. No wonder several celebrities, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Depp and Michael Jordon got hitched here. The chapels at Las Vegas are known to offer varied services like limousines, photography, videography, floral arrangements as well as internet viewing for friends, who are not able to be there personally for reasons of their own. So if you're dreaming of an unforgettable, fun-filled wedding, this destination is your best bet.

HAWAII
One of the best wedding destinations, Hawaii is beautiful to say the least. It boasts of active volcanoes, rural farmland, lush waterfalls and sweeping canyons. Hawaii also offers six islands with some of the most picturesque settings for weddings and receptions. You'll also find planning professionals to assist you with every detail as well as photographers, florists and caterers.

BERMUDA
A tropical paradise with a touch of the Brit, Bermuda has it all -pink sand beaches, pubs and party venues. If you wish to have a touch of Bermuda's history, you ought to plan the wedding in St. George's Unfinished Church. But an even better location is the underground gazebo, 500,000 year-old crystal caves located beneath a popular resort is just the kind of backdrop needed for a dream wedding. Sounds just perfect, doesn't it?




TUSCANY, ITALY
Thinking of having the perfect romantic wedding? Head to Tuscany in Italy. The region provides 15th century villas that are far more affordable than the hotels there. Rented properties such as Villa Poggio Bartoli, which is a rural property located in the Vicchio del Mugello hills also offers a spectacular ambience. Known for its art and culture, wine and food, Tuscany will surely make your wedding a memorable one.





Maya merchandise on sale

Maya merchandise on sale

 

 

Running to packed houses Maya the musical is a partnership between Teach for India students and artists on Broadway. The musical is an original script with Broadway composed music, and tells the story of Princess Maya’ s journey to “Find her Light”. Actor Rahul Bose commented after watching the show, “It was astounding! I didn’t expect such a high level of stage awareness, confidence, poise. I know these kids. I have met these kids before but i just didn’t expect this. A musical is really difficult to pull off, and to do that with the energy they were doing it with show after show, the music itself is beautifully composed I know someone from Broadway came down and helped your team but I’m really staggered.”

Maya is a magical adventure of Princess Maya , her pet dragoness Kutti, the talking peacock Indigo, mystical spinning Zara, evil Prince Daksh and the nine – headed snake Ska. The task is to bring light back into her kingdom.
After watching the play actor Boman Irani said, “I have been witnessed to something that has woken me up from my sleep, not that I was sleepy but generally in life you are so used to doing things that have a routine and mundaneness. I saw something that kind of woke me up, the children who did this wonderful play Maya along with Teach For India are truly blessed. They were joyous and they were happy and they were every single adjective that you could use to make one feel that they feel fulfilled.”
Teach for India has tied up with Hopscotch.in India’s premiere online store for baby and kids brands to retail the merchandise created for Maya. One can avail of bags, stickers and greeting cards. The merchandise has been created on the lines of the various characters in the play. All proceeds will go towards Teach for India.

Priyanka and Parineeti Chopra’s cousin Actress Barbie Handa aka Mannara Interview

‘I seek Priyanka’s advice when I feel it’s needed!’

PC’s cousin Mannara who is all set to make her Bolly debut talks about the advantages of having a superstar in the family and more..

Priyanka and Parineeti Chopra’s cousin Mannara is all set to make her Bollywood debut with Vivek Agnihotri’s Zid. Though the film doesn’t star an established actor, it has managed to grab eyeballs courtesy its racy trailer which was released few days ago and went viral on the internet within no time. We decided to catch up with the young actress… The trailer of Zid went viral and has received over two million views on YouTube. How does it feel? We are all on the top of the world. Super happy! I feel blessed, given the way my film has been received. I just hope all my hard work, sincerity and the trust that the film makers showed in me pays off and the film proves to be successful, both in multiplexes as well as single screens. Usually actresses play safe with their debut films. Weren’t you apprehensive about taking up Zid since its a bold film? I completely followed my instincts when I heard the script. It was a difficult role but my director and producer had confidence that I could pull off a character like this. It has a wide spectrum of emotions and I sincerely hope that I did justice to it. There are a lot of bold and intimate scenes in Zid. Do you think you would get typecast because of the same? Actresses like Mallika Sherawat and Sunny Leone did get typecast… Though the movie is bold, it is not full of intimate scenes, rather it is an amalgamation of drama, thrill and wonderful music which most certainly will keep the viewers engrossed. I feel lucky that I was chosen to take up this role, in turn interpreting, showcasing and bringing onscreen the character I play. I’ve put my best foot forward and have left no stone unturned in doing so, doing justice to the challenging and performance-based script. I just hope that filmmakers like my work and the industry welcomes me with open arms and I get opportunities to experiment with roles which would challenge my acting capabilities. We have heard that you’re a Kathak dancer and have even learned hip-hop and belly dancing. So wouldn’t it have been better to debut with a dance film since the genre is also growing in Bollywood? I believe that an actor doesn’t choose his/her debut film, it’s the film that chooses the actor and then destiny plays its role! Also, it’s rather important to get out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself as a person and as an actor and I guess playing Maya, I discovered a different side to myself and the character, somebody who is nice, bubbly, emotional, bold and perilous at the same time highlighting various shades of the character. Your cousin sister Priyanka Chopra tweeted about the trailer of your film. She even clarified about your Twitter account which is nice. Do you think having a superstar in the family helps? It certainly does! And especially when it’s somebody as helpful and motivating as Priyanka Chopra. She is a pillar of support and helpful at the same time. When you have someone like her who is at the top of the heap, all her experience comes handy to us newcomers who are making an entry into the same world. You started your career down South with Prema Geema Jantha Nai. Any particular reason because by then you had already done commercials with Priyanka and you did get noticed… I consider it to be a privilege to work with Priyanka but every individual has a journey of his own and mine started down South. I genuinely loved working there. Now I am very happy with my Bollywood debut, Zid. Is Bollywood your only focus for now or are you open to doing films down South as well? I’m open to all kinds of films and industries as long as I love the script and the setup. Any other Bollywood films offered to you? The response to my trailer has been overwhelming. I have just taken my baby steps into this world. My agency is in talks with several filmmakers. But right now my priority is my debut film. What kind of rapport do you share with Priyanka and Parineeti. Do you go to Priyanka for any professional advice? We have a very healthy relationship as sisters and I definitely seek PC’s advice when I feel it’s needed. Lastly, both Priyanka and Parineeti love singing. Is that the case with you as well? Yes, I love singing too. Singing runs in our family.

Sophie Choudry recently visited London. The actress shared some pictures with us and spoke about her trip.

Sophie’s London diaries

Sophie Choudry recently visited London. The actress shared some pictures with us and spoke about her trip.

Loving London There are three things I love doing in London — walking, shopping and eating! I absolutely love walking around London especially when it’s cold but sunny. There is so much to see, take in and enjoy when you explore a city on foot. Even in Central London there is so much greenery. And it’s all so beautiful. It’s also great to catch up with friends and eat out! London has some of the best restaurants in the world including my favourites Nobu, Roka, Coya, Kai. A frequent visitor I normally go to London about three times in a year because it feels like home. I still have family there and all my childhood friends. This year, I couldn’t go at all because of work commitments and especially Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. This was my well- deserved break post all my hard work in the show. Not a long break My holiday this time was for about a week. It’s not long enough for a proper holiday, but it was a nice little break. Foodie Fundas I love this restaurant called Entrecôte. My friends had been raving about it. It’s one of the only restaurants that doesn’t take reservations and you have to stand in a queue, sometimes for over an hour! There is no menu. It offers only steak, salad and chips. The only thing they ask you is how would you like your steak cooked. And the craziest thing is that they bring you a second helping. It is one of the best meals you could have. I cannot wait to go back there again. And the dessert... The picture (left) says it all... The profiteroles had ice cream not cream! Scrumptious!

London to Paris in just two hours

London to Paris in just two hours

Eurostar has unveiled a new state-of-the-art 200mph train. Passengers travelling between London and Paris will soon have their journey time cut by 15 minutes, after the company unveiled a fleet of new high-speed trains. By the end of next year, travellers will be able to make the 306-mile trip to Paris through the Channel Tunnel in just two hours, thanks to a 200mph state-of-the-art train. Built by German firm Siemens and capable of carrying 900 passengers, the e320 trains will replace the current coach Class 373/1 trains which run at up to 186mph.

But at the launch at St Pancras station earlier today, the company announced it was ordering a further seven new trains. The trains will go into service at the end of 2015. The launch comes on the eve of the 20th anniversary of the start of Eurostar services in November 1994. There were just two trains a day when the service started, while there are now between 15-17 daily services to Paris.
The original London to Paris journey time when Eurostar started was two hours and 50 minutes. That was cut to two hours and 35 minutes after the first section of high speed line was built in Kent in 1998, and then two hours and 15 min following completion of the high speed line in 2007. The new trains are described as being ‘inter-operable’, meaning they can run across diverse European signalling systems, and opening up the potential for a whole range of new direct services between the UK and European city centre destinations.

Join the Great Santa Run

Join the Great Santa Run

Las Vegas along with Opportunity Village will commemorate the 10th Las Vegas Great Santa Run on December 6 in Downtown Las Vegas. Every year The Great Santa Run raises millions of dollars to support programs for residents with disabilities in Southern Nevada. In addition to The Las Vegas Great Santa Run, Opportunity Village will also organise a Christmas themed attraction, Magical Forest. The Magical Forest serves as one of organisation’s major attractions. It is a winter wonderland with millions of sparkling lights, nightly entertainment, great food and holiday cheer. Visitors enjoy the Forest features Forest Express Passenger Train, Boris the Elf’s 3D Experience, Avalanche Slide, Rod’s Mini-Golf, Wondrous Gingerbread House Display and a 60-foot animated Christmas tree.

In 2013, the event witnessed over 11,000 participants donning their Santa Suits in support of Opportunity Village and individuals with disabilities. The event attracts families, businesses, individuals and global tourists to downtown Las Vegas. The Las Vegas Great Santa Run in 2013 won the World Santa Challenge in 2013.

You are invited on a culinary trail of Australia

You are invited on a culinary trail of Australia

Australia’s stunning weather, sunshine, outstanding natural beauty and outdoor dining lifestyle means you can enjoy some of the world’s best food and wine in some of the world’s most stunning surroundings. At Restaurant Australia, experience open air dining like nowhere else.

1. Dining against spectacular backdrops, Sydney Sydney boasts a gorgeous harbour, seductive outdoor lifestyle and great natural beauty, surrounded by some of the world’s most prestigious restaurants. Arrive at the stunning harbourside restaurant Quay by water-taxi or boat, and take in the spectacular harbour views with a sunset glass of Hunter Valley Semillon. You may also choose to dine on a private yacht or alongside the cafés near the Rocks. 2. Fish and Chips at Bondi Beach, Sydney Sydney beaches have many great cafés and dining by the sparkling ocean is a treat anytime of the year. For visitors to the iconic Bondi Beach, nothing is more appropriate than fish and chips. This quintessential Sydney destination is the perfect venue for a seafood fix. 3. Coffee culture, Melbourne - Set along the picturesque banks of the Yarra River, Melbourne’s melting pot of cultures is reflected in its eclectic mix of restaurants, cafés, bistros and bars. Wander the quirky web of over 180 tiny laneways and side streets, bursting with one-off fashion boutiques, art galleries, hole-in-the wall cafés and secret bars and restaurants. 4. Gourmet delights, Great Ocean Road, Victoria Take a scenic helicopter ride over the Great Ocean Road and the awe-inspiring 12 Apostles, while also taking in the produce rich agricultural hinterland. Back on land, experience the scenic, wine and food region of the Bellarine Peninsula. 5. Private island picnic, Whitsunday Islands, Great Barrier Reef The Whitsunday Islands of the Great Barrier Reef are famous for their luxurious offerings, including world-class food and wine experiences ranging from decadent beach dinners to chef prepared picnic baskets served on private strips of sparkling white sand. Sail away on board a self-skippered or crewed catamaran or yacht, visiting a different island or reef each day. 6. Rainforest dining experience, Cairns Hidden within the rainforest and surrounded by dramatic candelabras and flame torches, walking in through the gates feels like stepping into a magical world. Seated under a billowing canopy, as the candle and moonlight bounces around, the night takes on an otherworldly feel. Partake of the sumptuous tropical feast as platters of inventive cuisine showcasing Tropical North Queensland’s stunning produce is served to perfection. 7. Barossa Valley,South Australia With more than 80 cellar doors and 150 wineries, the Barossa Valley is one of Australia’s oldest - and the world’s finest wine producing regions. From boutique and quirky vineyards, the Barossa Valley is renowned for its fresh seasonal produce, artisan food producers and award winning restaurants. ‘Blend You Own Wine’ at Penfolds, the internationally renowned winery or wander around Maggie Beer’s farm shop to get a taste of fresh local produce. 8. Breakfast with the kangaroos @ Kangaroo Island, South Australia Dining at Southern Ocean Lodge, on a cliff overlooking the ocean, is both a dynamic delight for the senses and a true gastronomic journey of Kangaroo Island. Take a luxury four-wheel drive across Kangaroo Island and enjoy barbecue and picnic meals in the open as you watch kangaroos hopping about and koalas snug on tree tops. 9. Oyster shucking, Tasmania Perched on Tasmania’s east coast, overlooking the Hazards Mountains, Freycinet Peninsula and Great Oyster Bay, Saffire Freycinet is a stunning luxury lodge surrounded by breathtaking nature. Don a pair of waders and visit the Freycinet Marine Farm, a working oyster farm where you can sample oysters fresh from the bay with a glass of champagne in the most beautiful setting. 10. Sounds of Silence, Uluru, Northern Territory ‘Sounds of Silence’ is an evening of dining under the sparkling outback sky at Australia’s Red Centre, Uluru (Ayers Rock). As the sun sets and darkness falls, listen to the sound of a didgeridoo and join your table for an unforgettable dining experience and an introduction to Aboriginal culture with a traditional dance performance.