Well, here goes.... My first official blog entry and quite possibly the biggest one in the world..........ever!! LOL!!

I just wanted to put some details on here about the tours I'm doing, so that you can have a butchers at exactly what I'm going to be getting up to over the next few weeks!! I've copied the official itineraries we will be following on my Connections tours!!

Woooooo hooooooo!!!

6th Feb Depart Heathrow

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AUSTRALIA

7th Feb Arrive in Perth via Singapore

8th Feb fly to Alice Springs

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9th Feb 09 - DAY 1 : Alice Springs to Ayers Rock

Today we travel south crossing some of the oldest river systems in the world on our way to Uluru - Kata Tjuta National Park, home of mighty Uluru (Ayers Rock). We will break our journey at Mt Ebenezer Roadhouse before arriving at Ayers Rock Resort where we are joined by any additional passengers and then head to our private campsite for lunch. The afternoon is spent exploring Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), before travelling to Uluru (Ayers Rock) to take in a spectacular sunset.
Ayers Rock - Permanent Private Campsite
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10th Feb 09 - DAY 2: Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to Kings Canyon

It's an early start to the day this morning to enjoy sunrise inside the National Park. You'll have the option to enjoy this spectacular region in many ways. For the energetic - climb to the top of the rock; others may wish to explore the caves around the base; or perhaps just sit back and take in the wonder of this magnificent formation.** You'll also have some time to visit the Cultural Centre before heading off to our next destination. This time we're bound for Watarrka National Park and Kings Creek Station - an operating cattle/camel station in the heart of the outback.
Kings Canyon - Private Permanent Campsite
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11th Feb 09 - DAY 3: Kings Canyon to Alice Springs

You'll need your sturdy walking shoes today! Once at the base of the Canyon we can begin ascending the track that takes us above massive sandstone cliffs overlooking the valley floor. Now for our rim walk finally reaching the back of the canyon and descending to the humble beginning of Kings Creek. Here and along the walk we can see some unique and ancient vegetation, tranquil water holes and some amazing examples of nature's own geological handiwork - sure to be a highlight of your visit to Australia's Red Centre. We return to Kings Creek Station for lunch before travelling through sand dune country as we head back to Alice Springs.
Heavitree Gap Outback Lodge
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12th Feb 09 - DAY 4: Alice Springs

Today you're free to explore Alice Springs at your own pace. Maybe make a visit to the Alice Springs Desert Park where native animals can be seen in their natural habitats, plus you'll learn about Aboriginal arts, crafts, food and weaponry; or maybe make a visit to the Royal Flying Doctor and the School of the Air - two iconic attractions in the outback. Or if "RnR" is more your style, kick back by the resort pool at the foot of the MacDonnell Ranges and grab some rest. This afternoon make sure you visit the local wallabies that come down to feed at the resort before settling down for the night.
Heavitree Gap Outback Lodge
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13th Feb 09 - DAY 5. Alice Springs to Cairns

We wake up today and say a final farewell to the wonderous Northern Territory bound for the contrasting East Coast. FLIGHT NOT INCLUDED IN THE TOUR PRICE
Hides Hotel Cairns
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14th Feb 09 - DAY 6. Cairns

This morning we head off to explore the nearby tropical Rainforest and Kuranda before returning via the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. The Skyrail Experience, spanning 7.5kms travels over heritage listed, pristine rainforest, allows you to explore the wonders of an ancient tropical rainforest and learn about one of the most botanically fascinating and diverse areas on earth. Tonight you're in for a real treat as you'll have the chance to meet the local Tjapukai people and see how they showcase their culture.
Hides Hotel Cairns
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15th Feb 09 - DAY 7. Great Barrier Reef Option

Cairns is the perfect base to explore North Queensland, with a load of activities to suit everyone. With both the reef and the rainforest at your doorstep, you can go wild and crazy with optional activities ranging from adventurous white water rafting* on the Tully River or Tandem Skydiving*, to a day trip* to the World Heritage listed Daintree Region. There's Horse Riding*, Quad Biking*, Bungy Jumping*, Hot Air Ballooning* - the list goes on and on!! Today you also have the option to discover the world's largest coral reef aboard a maxi-catamaran*. The day includes lunch, all snorkelling equipment, optional introductory* and certified Scuba Diving* plus the thrill of sailing on a thoroughbred machine. This evening you're free to visit the night markets, or if you prefer, kick back, relax and enjoy tropical North Queensland in one of the many nearby restaurants, bars or cafes!
Hides Hotel Cairns
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16th Feb 09 - DAY 8. Cairns to Undara

Leaving Cairns behind after an early start, we make tracks for the Savannah country, behind the ranges to the West, leaving the coast behind us for a short while. Undara is famous throughout the world for Lava Tubes - plus it's unique outback style accommodation, gorgeous bush setting and abundance of native wildlife. As the sunsets you'll get to experience a Wildlife at Sunset Tour with your Savannah Guide**. Enjoy a drink as the sun sets over the ranges and spot many of the local native animals at dusk. Then after dinner kick back by the campfire - feel free to join in the entertainment. This will be a real highlight!
Undara Outback Experience (Permanent Tents)
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17th Feb 09 - DAY 9. Undara to the Whitsundays

Leaving the outback behind it's an early start as we make our way south on the inland highway back to the coast via Townsville. It's then on to Airlie Beach, the heart of the thriving Whitsundays. The town overlooks the beautiful Whitsunday Passage and the 74 nearby tropical islands. If there's a heaven on earth, it's definitely in the Whitsundays so prepare to enjoy! And the best way to experience this gorgeous region is onboard a boat - your home for the next 2 nights! You'll be watching the sunset over the water tonight from the heart of paradise. (For any landlubbers, there is an option to stay in Airlie Beach*)
Australian Tall Ships (overnight Sailing - multi share)
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18th Feb 09 - DAY 10. Whitsundays

Wake up in one of the many sheltered coves that make up the Whitsundays. You'll set sail for golden sandy beaches, snorkel over island coral reefs and soak up the sun in this tropical wonderland. A visit to the famous Whitehaven Beach and Blue Pearl Bay will also hopefully be an option - depending on the weather. For the budding sailors, help set the sails and have a turn on the helm as we explore the islands. By night you'll star gaze the Milky Way and forget about your life back home. You're in heaven!
Australian Tall Ship (overnight sailing - multi share)
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19th Feb 09 - DAY 11. Whitsundays to Airlie Beach

This morning we set sail again for another idyllic location before sadly returning to the mainland and the resort town of Airlie Beach. Here our Landlubber Friends will rejoin us and we'll get to experience a night out in "Airlie" - famous for it's laid back lifestyle, colourful characters and toad racing!!
Club Crocodile Airlie Beach
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20th Feb 09 - DAY 12. Airlie Beach to Rockhampton

We make a morning drive to Mackay - commercial centre of Queensland's huge sugar industry. Here we'll stop for an early lunch at one of the gorgeous beaches - your last real chance to enjoy North Queensland. This is a great spot for a quick game of football or to take a walk on the beach and stretch your legs. After a short break it's on to Rockhampton (beef capital of Australia and "Rocky" to the locals). Tonight we explore the local "Rocky" nightlife - if we're lucky we'll check out a real life Rodeo! Giddy up!!! Hope you've packed your Akubra!
Sundowner Rockhampton
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21st Feb 09 - DAY 13. Rockhampton to Fraser Island

Today we reunite with the Bruce Highway and travel south through more beef and sugar cane country towards the Fraser Coast. We make a short stop for lunch and back on the road again to Hervey Bay - beachside resort town and stepping off point for the largest sand island in the world, Fraser Island. Here we board our ferry to cross the Great Sandy Straight, bound for Fraser Island. Perfectly located at Kingfisher Bay, the Wilderness Lodge accommodation is set in a eucalypt forest at Kingfisher Bay Resort, on the western side of the island.
Kingfisher Bay Wilderness Lodge (Lodges Share Facilities)
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22nd Feb 09 - DAY 14. Fraser Island

Fraser Island - Great Sandy National Park is World Heritage Listed and is the world's largest sand island. It was home to the Badtjala Aboriginal people for some 5000 years and was known as "K'gari". This special place supports an extraordinarily diverse rainforest, wildflower heath, mangroves, birds and a large population of dingoes. The island has dunes that reach 240 metres in height and about 40 dune lakes - half the number in the world. A great way to see this magnificent national park is on an optional 4-wheel drive tour*, along the unspoilt surf beaches and to pristine inland freshwater lakes that are ideal for swimming. Whale watching* is also an option usually between the months of July and November where you can see hump back whales on their annual migration. At the end of the day, enjoy a cocktail at the bar, while watching the sun set over the bay.
Kingfisher Bay Wilderness Lodge (Lodge Share Facilities)
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23rd Feb 09 - DAY 15. Fraser Island to The Gold Coast

This morning we say our last goodbyes to Fraser Island, board our ferry and return to the mainland, where we continue our journey south through the old gold mining town of Gympie and past the world famous Glasshouse Mountains. It's then not long before we head into Queensland's capital city, Brisbane. Hit the Queen Street Mall, stroll along the Brisbane River or kick back in a coffee shop and watch the world go by at a relaxed pace. Heading further south it's only a short trip down the freeway to Australia's holiday playground - The Gold Coast, Queensland's second largest city.
Paradise Resort
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24th Feb 09 - DAY 16. Gold Coast to Byron Bay

Enjoy a relaxed start to the morning before we make the leisurely drive across the New South Wales border towards the popular resort town of Byron Bay, Australia's most easterly township. Renowned for its surfing beaches, beautiful rainforests and eclectic lifestyle, Byron Bay oozes a relaxed vibe that "hooks" many a traveller. Some have been known to visit and never leave. After checking into our cabins, we head off to explore this vibrant town and see what all the fuss is about!
Glen Villa Resort (Cabins)
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25th Feb 09 - DAY 17. Byron Bay

A full day ahead to enjoy what Byron Bay has to offer. Famous for its great beaches and counter culture, we have plenty of optional activities here to keep us busy. Try a surfing lesson*, go diving* sea kayaking* or just chill out on the beach. The galleries and craft shops are also sure to fascinate, as are the many cafes and alternate cuisines that are available here. A great scenic walk is to the lighthouse at Cape Byron where the views are breathtaking. It's even possible that you may see some dolphins or whales as they pass by. No matter if you do too much or too little here, you are certain to enjoy it.
Glen Villa Resort (Cabins)

26th Feb 09 - DAY 18. Byron Bay to Myall Lakes

Our journey commences bright and early when we depart Byron Bay southwards along the Pacific Highway. With the Great Dividing Range to our west and the Pacific Ocean on our east, you'll travel through some picturesque rural regions today - be sure to keep your eye out for the "Big Banana"! We travel through the Northern Rivers towns of Ballina and Grafton before arriving at our secluded Eco-Resort situated on the waters edge of Myall Lake within a National Park.
Myall Shores Resort (Cabins)
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27th Feb 09 - DAY 19. Myall Lakes to Sydney

Today we say goodbye to this tranquil location and make for the "big smoke"! Our first stop will be the Hunter Valley a region famous for some great wines, particularly Semillon and Shiraz. It's here we'll undertake our own hands-on research as to why this region is so well known and enjoy a lunch break. We'll then hit the road again crossing the mighty Hawkesbury River and passing the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Sydney looms large as we take time to stop for a group photo with this gorgeous harbour city as our backdrop before crossing the Harbour Bridge. It's then time to bid our travelling companions farewell as our journey reaches its completion in this great city.

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27th Feb - 4th March in Sydney

4th March fly to Auckland

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NEW ZEALAND

5th Mar 09 - DAY 1: Auckland to Paihia, Bay of Islands

Our journey begins as we head across Auckland's scenic harbour and travel north. We will break our journey at Parry's Kauri Park to check out a magnificent Kauri tree. Continuing north we reach the seaside town of Paihia in the beautiful Bay of Islands, home to 144 islands. A good opportunity tonight to get to know our fellow travellers as we share a sunset drink on the beach.
Waitangi Motel

6th Mar 09 - DAY 2: Paihia, Bay of Islands

Today is ours to explore this fascinating region by way of a range of optional activities. If chilling on the beach is your scene then relax, the day is yours!! and we'll gather for dinner and swap stories about our day in the Bay!
Waitangi Motel
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7th Mar 09 - DAY 3: Paihia to Rotorua

This morning we start our journey southwards onto Auckland - "the city of sails". There is time to grab some lunch in the city before we meet additional fellow passengers and head to Rotorua - the cultural heart of NZ. Tonight we will be staying in a traditional Maori Marae and on arrival, we will be welcomed onto the Marae by the elders in traditional style. Tonight is yours to enjoy the company of your friends, learn some maori songs or star gaze when the lights go down.
Traditional Maori Marae Stay - open plan multi-share accommodation
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8th Mar 09 - DAY 4: Rotorua

This morning we leave the Marae and head to Whakarewarewa Maori Village to learn more about the Maori way of life. The afternoon is yours to explore - try the mud baths, some mountain bike riding or white water rafing (at own cost). After dinner you might want to relax under the stars as you soak in the natural thermally heated waters of the motel spas and pool.
Alpin Motel
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9th Mar 09 - DAY 5: Rotorua to Wellington

Today we visit Huka Falls on our way to Taupo for a bungy jump if you dare. Then on past Mt Ruapehu (Mt Doom from Lord of the Rings) and south to NZ's capital Wellington. Time to check out this cosmopolitan city!
Nomads Capital
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10th Mar 09 - DAY 6: Wellington to Nelson

This morning we farewell the North Island and journey across Cook Strait. Enjoy the beauty of the serene blue waters of the Marlborough Sounds as we cruise into Picton. You'll notice the change as we arrive in the South Island, home to mountains, lakes and breath-taking coastline. Onwards to Nelson, and time in the city centre before we head to Tahunanui Beach.
Aloha Lodge
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11th Mar 09 - DAY 7: Nelson

The day is yours to explore this amazing area. The nearby Abel Tasman National Park offers a journey into a world of native bush greeting golden sands, hidden bays and blue-green clear waters. There are loads of amazing options sure to suit. Tonight we'll gather for a scrumptious meal and reflect on the day.
Aloha Lodge
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12th Mar 09 - DAY 8: Nelson to Christchurch

Today we head back across the Bryant Ranges and past the many vineyards of the Marlborough region. We stop at Ohau Point to spy some NZ Fur Seals before reaching Kaikoura. Then southwards to Christchurch.
Cathedral Camelot Hotel
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13th Mar 09 - DAY 9: Christchurch to Flock Hill Station

The scenery will amaze you today as we head off across the Canterbury Plains and into the Southern Alps, to our home for the night, Flock Hill Station - a 14000 hectare working station! You'll be shown around the farm and get a chance to soak up this truly spectacular scenery (where Narnia was filmed). Chose frpm a range of activities such as walking, mountain biking, bouldering, horse riding or take a helicopter flight over the station before you sit down to a true 'kiwi meal'.
Flock Hill Motel (share facilities)
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14th Mar 09 - DAY 10: Flock Hill to Fox Glacier

We head off ot the wild West coast to Hokitika. Continuing south we stop at the visitors centre in Franz Joseph, and an opportunity here to take a scenic glacier helicopter flight to Fox Glacier.
Budget Hotel (share facilities)
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15th Mar 09 - DAY 11: Fox Glacier to Queenstown

Westland National Park abounds with high mountain peaks and glaciers and today we'll have a chance to walk on a flowing river of ice! We'll then head back into the mountains to negotiate Haast Pass on our way to Queenstown past Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea.
Holiday Park
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16th Mar 09 - DAY 12: Queenstown

Today it's time to play! And adventure awaits us everywhere. Choose from a huge selection of optional activities (own cost) sure to get the blood pumping, with everything from bungy, shotover jets, balloon rides, skydives, river boarding, hang gliding and horseback riding. You name it - it's all here and awaiting you in Queenstown!!
Holiday Park
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17th Mar 09 - DAY 13: Fiordland Overnight Cruise

After a leisurely morning in Queenstown we farewell this adventure playground and head to the Fiords. We'll stop and admire the reflection in Mirror Lake before we literally drive through the mountain via the Homer Tunnel and emerge back into a landscape of spectacular mountains and waterfalls. Our cruise tonight in the Tasman Sea! Enjoy the stunning views and discover the hidden arms of the Sound. There is time to kayak around the shoreline or go exploring in the tender craft with the nature guide.
Milford Sound Overnight Cruise (share facilities)
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18th Mar 09 - DAY 14: Fiordland to Lake Ohau

There is time for additional cruising this morning before returning to the wharf. We make our way back through Te Anau and onwards along the Kawarau River this afternoon, with its familiar "Lord of the Rings" scenery, and home to AJ Hackett's original Bridge Bungy site. We journey over the Lindis Pass and wonder at the dramatic variation in scenery of these ranges. Our home tonight is nestled in the hills on the shores of Lake Ohau. You will have time for an evening stroll or quiet drink as we watch the sunset silhoutte Mt Cook.
Lake Ohau Lodge
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19th Mar 09 - DAY 15: Lake Ohau to Christchurch

Today we follow the southern lakes hydroelectricity scheme around impressive blue water lakes and the ever-present Southern Alps as a backdrop. First stop Lake Pukaki and a chance for some amazing photos as we gaze across the clear blue waters to Mt Cook. We follow the canal system over to Lake Tekapo where there is an opportunity to take a scenic flight. Another photo opportunity at the "Church of the Good Shepard" before we enter the Canterbury plains and reach our final destination.

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20th Mar fly to Nadi, Fiji

20th - 22nd March in Fiji

22nd March fly to Heathrow via LA arriving on 23rd March

OMG I'm sooooo excited!!!! I'll try to keep this updated on a regular basis for those of you who will actually be tracking my progress through my online diary.... Woo hoo!

Loadsa love

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