Christine Knight

Christine is the editor of Adventure, Baby!

Manta Ray Night Snorkel on the Big Island of Hawaii

September 8, 2022 / Hawaii, Travel, USA / 0 comment

Manta Ray Night Snorkel on the Big Island of Hawaii

Watch giant mantas up close on a manta ray night snorkel in Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii.

The Mobula alfredi species of manta rays that live in the Hawaiian waters are the second largest species of manta rays. They can grow up to a wingspan of 5.5m (18 ft), with the rays around Kona around 12ft.

The Manta rays live in the waters off the Hawaiian islands their entire lives, filtering plankton out of the water with their giant mouths. With life spans of up to 50 years, each manta ray is well known and all of the Kona manta rays have been named.

There are several tour operators and locations where you can enjoy manta ray snorkelling. If you get seasick like I do, I suggest choosing a company that has a short distance to travel from where their boats launch and the manta ray site they visit.

There are three main locations on the Big island that are recommended for swimming with manta rays. The two most popular and consistent for the manta ray sightings are nicknamed “Manta Village” and “Manta Heaven”. A third, less reliable but also less crowded location, is off the Waikoloa coast near the Kohala Coast Resorts. You can get further info on the pros and cons of visiting each site on this excellent website: lovebigisland.com/big-island-manta-ray-night-dive.

We had booked our tour many months out (and highly suggest doing the same as the tours book up). While we were on our trip however we were struck down with a virus and unable to do our booked tour. As we were desperate to still do the tour and at short notice our options were limited, we called around every tour operator until we found one with vacancies. While initially I had done my research and chose the tour with the shortest distance travelled due to my propensity for seasickness, at the end of the day we just had to take whatever we could and it was absolutely fine. The moral of this story for me is don’t stress the decision because any tour will be a good tour at the end of the day if you swim with manta rays!

The tour we ended up taking was booked through Hawaiian Island Ocean Tours – the actual tour was run through their sister company Snorkel Big Island. I cannot recommend either company highly enough for their help in booking us in at extremely short notice and for the amazing tour.

We did the Honokohau Manta tour. Participants must be aged 8+. The tour goes for two hours, with only six passengers on board. This makes for a much more personal experience with the manta rays. Snorkeling with the mantas on this tour is either at the Northern site near the Kona Airport (Manta Heaven) or down South at Keauhou Bay (Manta Village) depending on which area is having the better sightings. We were provided with mask, snorkel and wetsuit.

The Honokohau Manta ray night snorkel tour departs from Honokohau Harbor in the evening, with a 20-30 minute boat ride to the manta ray site. It’s pretty stunning watching the sun set over the ocean as we make our way out to the manta ray site.

At the site, after donning our wetsuits, we slid into the water and hung on to their custom-made light board to watch the huge, acrobatic, gentle giants feed on tiny pieces of plankton.

The time in the water is about 30 minutes. Keep in mind the tour is at night and even with a wetsuit on it can get cold in the water.

In the water, the manta rays swoop through the water in circles, coming right up to the swimmers and often brushing up against them with their massive wings as they open their mouths and catch plankton.

The bright lights brought by the tour operators attract the plankton, and the plankton attracts the manta rays. To me it looks like an underwater ballet as they gracefully swim and somersault through the light beams.

Back on the boat, we were given hot cocoa and light snacks while we head back to the harbour. Make sure to take a towel to dry yourself off and a jacket to keep warm, plus underwear and a wetbag for swimsuits.

Manta rays in Hawaiian waters are protected by law. If you do a tour, please observe the rules that make this incredible experience possible by ensuring the safety of the manta rays:

Observe only: No touching. Resist the urge to “pet” the mantas. This will rub off their protective mucus coating. Do not chase, grab, or try to take a ride on the mantas.

hawaiiislandandoceantours.com
snorkelbigisland.com

A huge thank you to Hawaii Island Ocean Tours and Snorkel Big Island for the amazing experience and the photographs!

More things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii

Find the best things to do in Hilo, Hawaii
Visit Coconut Island, Hilo
Enjoy Liluokalani Gardens in Hilo
See the Captain Cook Monument and Kealakula Bay
Get a glimpse of the past at the Waikoloa Petroglyphs
Get the best things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii
See a volcano up close at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Visit Rainbow Falls, Hilo
See a majestic waterfall at Akaka State Park, Hilo Hawaii
See turtles on Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Hawaii
Swim with giants on a manta ray night snorkel, Hawaii
See lava and land at the foot of a waterfall on a helicopter tour
Hold a seahorse at Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm Kona Hawaii

Hawaii Big Island Helicopter Tours – Big Island Spectacular with Blue Hawaiian

September 6, 2022 / Hawaii, Travel, USA / 0 comment

Hawaii Big Island Helicopter Tours – Big Island Spectacular with Blue Hawaiian

See the lava inside the Kilauea volcano, rainforests, beaches and an optional landing at a 1200-ft. waterfall on Hawaii Big Island helicopter tours by Blue Hawaiian.

The best way to see the Big Island’s majestic volcanoes, black sand beaches, lush rainforests and sparkling waterfalls is by air.

There are a few helicopter tours of the Big Island available. We chose Blue Hawaiian because we loved the sound of their Big Island Spectacular tour which covered the entire island as well as a waterfall landing add on, which is exclusive to Blue Hawaiian.

Blue Hawaiian helicopter tours depart from both sides of the island. We chose the Kona departure helicopter tour vs Hilo as different tours operate from each location.

The Blue Hawaiian Helicopter base is located at Waikoloa Village, which is about a 40 minute drive from Kailua-Kona. The helicopters fit five passengers plus the pilot. Two in the front and three in the back. You can pay an extra fee for guaranteed front seating, otherwise it’s up to luck if the other passengers do opt to pay for this better view or it comes down to weight distribution.

The Big Island Spectacular tour heads inland to get a close up look at the famous Kilauea volcano, which has been continuously erupting since 1983.

The tour flys over the arid volcanic landscape where lava had flown during previous eruptions, to the edge of the volcano itself. We saw red lava in the crater of the volcano, and steam gushing out – what an incredible experience.

Next we head over the lush rainforests of the Hamakua Coast and the scenic valleys of the Kohala Mountains, where countless waterfalls pour from the cliff edges.

The highlight of the Big Island Spectacular comes at the end – the optional landing at remote, isolated Laupahoehoe Nui, a majestic 1200-ft. waterfall on the Kohala Coast. Landing at the base of the waterfall was very much a Jurassic Park movie moment.

On the ground we had 20-25 minutes to take photos and explore this untouched area before boarding the helicopter again and heading back to base.

The entire tour goes for roughly 1h 45m.

We highly recommend Blue Hawaiian for their Hawaii Big Island helicopter tours.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters
68-690 Waikoloa Rd, Waikoloa Village, HI 96738
bluehawaiian.com

Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm Kona Hawaii

August 31, 2022 / Hawaii, Travel, USA / 0 comment

Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm Kona Hawaii

Get up close to seahorses at Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm in Kona on The Big Island of Hawaii.

Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm is a family-run aqua-farm. They breed and provide farm-reared seahorses to aquariums and hobbiests to protect wild seahorses facing the threat of extinction due to being taken from their homes in the wild.

The aqua-farm began raising mustang seahorses in 1999 and now breeds over 25 species of seahorses in captivity, including some on the verge of extinction. Their amazing variety of seahorses can be viewed on a guided tour.

Ocean Rider’s vision statement is to eliminate the need to take wild seahorses off the reefs by providing home and public aquariums with healthy, eco-friendly, hand raised, domesticated seahorse pairs to be kept as pets for many years to come.

Join an Ocean Rider seahorse tour and learn about ocean conservation and the amazing seahorse. The Kona seahorse guided tour lasts about 60 minutes and is an indoor and outdoor tour so wear a hat and sunscreen plus good walking shoes.

Tour times are Mon – Fri at 10am, 12pm and 2pm except for low season (May and September) when there is only one tour per day which is at noon.

We were extremely excited to take a tour on our recent visit to The Big Island of Hawai’i. We were able to see thousands of seahorses from babies to pregnant males, as well as leafy sea dragons and a variety of beautiful fish, plus enjoy an interactive tide pool.

The highlight of the tour is holding a seahorse (extremely gently!) at the end of the tour. Visitors must be aged 5 and up to be able to hold a seahorse.

Book online to guarantee your spot on a tour. Walk-in spaces are available if tours are not fully booked, however the price is higher so I highly recommend booking online at least 24 hours before the tour.

Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm Kona Hawaii
73-4388 Ilikai Place
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Phone: 808-329-6840
seahorse.com

High Tea at May Gibbs’ Nutcote, Sydney

August 17, 2022 / High Tea, Sydney, Sydney Food / 0 comment

High Tea at May Gibbs’ Nutcote, Sydney

Enjoy a beautiful high tea at Nutcote, the heritage-listed former home and studio of author and artist May Gibbs.

May Gibbs’ former dwelling and study have been converted into an education centre and house museum, located in Neutral Bay. We have previously visited and highly enjoyed the tour.

Nutcote now offers a delightful high tea on select weekends. The menu includes a selection of freshly made finger sandwiches, home-made scones with jam and cream, sweet treats and your choice of tea or coffee. High tea is served on the undercover terrace.

There are limited spaces available each seating and bookings are essential. Cost for the high tea is $55 per person.

Entry to the museum with guided tour is included in the ticket price. I highly recommend taking the tour as the museum is only accessible during the guided tours.

Nutcote
5 Wallaringa Ave, Neutral Bay NSW
maygibbs.com.au/high-tea

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Explore the best Sydney gardens and parks.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Visit the most beautiful Sydney gardens.

Explore Sydney’s best parks.

Find things to do in Wollongong.

Find the best high teas for kids in Sydney.

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Explore the best Sydney gardens and parks.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Visit the most beautiful Sydney gardens.

Explore Sydney’s best parks.

Find things to do in Wollongong.

Find the best high teas for kids in Sydney.

Kaboo Studio: Splatter Paint Studio in Bondi Junction

August 15, 2022 / Indoor Play, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Kaboo Studio: Splatter Paint Studio in Bondi Junction

Throw paint, get messy and create your own masterpiece at Kaboo Studio, an art experience for all ages and abilities.

The brain child of local mum Yasmin, Kaboo Studio was inspired by a favourite children’s book. Kaboo is an imaginary world where people go to play, laugh and have fun.

Kaboo Studio is the perfect place where adults and kids of all ages and abilities can come together and have a messy good time.

The one-hour paint-splattering sessions are the perfect length to create a fun masterpiece to take home and hang on the wall.

Pick your paints and then splash, splatter, spray, flick, drip and throw paint onto a stretched canvas to create your own unique art work.

The team is on hand to assist with tips and tricks, and are especially focused on creating an inclusive environment for all members of the community. You can read about the positive experience my friend Julie had over at Have Wheelchair Will Travel.

After creating your masterpiece, the art work is packaged into a take home box made from recycled Australian materials. If you want to create unique gifts with your art work, you can turn it into wearable art or products like a cute mug.

Everything is provided for the experience including goggles, shoe covers and a smock, but I would suggest dressing for mess.

Kaboo Studios hosts kids parties, celebrations, hens, bucks and corporate functions. I could see it would be a fantastic place to hold events for kids or adults.

Bookings are essential.

Kaboo Studio
Level 2/78 Spring St, Bondi Junction NSW 2022
Phone: 0401 775 288
kaboostudio.com.au

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids.

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Explore the best Sydney gardens and parks.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney.

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Visit the most beautiful Sydney gardens.

Explore Sydney’s best parks.

Find things to do in Wollongong.

Find the best high teas for kids in Sydney.

We were hosted for our session at Kaboo Studios for reviewing purposes.

Top things to do in the “Top End” Northern Territory

June 7, 2022 / Australia, Northern Territory, Travel / 0 comment

Top things to do in the “Top End” Northern Territory

The “Top End” Northern Territory is where the tropics meets the outback. Visit the Northern Territory’s capitol city Darwin, World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park, the Katherine region and remote Arnhem Land.

Darwin and Surrounds

We visited the Top End during the pandemic and while we had a great run through the surrounding area, unfortunately the pandemic caught up with us and we spent our scheduled time in Darwin mostly in lockdown. Darwin is a beautiful, coastal city, with stunning street art, fantastic cafes we were thankfully able to try prior to lockdown, and plenty of activities to do in the city and surrounds. There are so many things to do in the Top End Northern Territory, allow a good 10 days or so to see as much as you can.

Mindil Beach Sunset & Markets

Sunsets at the Top End must be experienced over the beach – there are few so famous for their sunsets than Mindil Beach. During the dry season (May-Oct) the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets are the place to be on Thursdays and Sundays. Try food from 60 stalls and eat on the beach while watching the sun go down.

Crocosauraus Cove

See crocs up close at Crocosaurus Cove, right in the heart of Darwin. watch crocs being fed, wander through the reptile enclosure, hold a baby croc and other reptiles and, if you’re feeling brave, “swim” with a croc in the “Cage of Death”.

crocosauruscove.com

Darwin Waterfront Precinct

Stroll around the waterfront through the lush parklands overlooking the ocean and Darwin’s most popular attraction, the Wave Lagoon.

The Wave Lagoon at the Darwin Waterfront Precinct includes a huge pool with an artificial swell for riding boogie boards on and shallow water play areas for littlies, too.

The free, patrolled Recreation Lagoon in the same area has a sandy beach and safe swimming in salt water.

Kids can also hand feed fish at Doctors Gully where, at high tide, hundreds of mullet, stingrays, barramundi and plate-shaped moonfish swim in to let tourists feed them bread from their hands.

There are also playgrounds dotted around the water front area that kids will love.

Darwin Street Art

Darwin features a stunning collection of vibrant street art. International, national and local artists have contributed to this open-air gallery adorning the city’s walls.

Download the Darwin Street Art Festival app for insight into the artists and their works and bring the murals to life using augmented reality.

activatedarwin.nt.gov.au/local-favourites/guide-darwins-street-art

Where to stay in Darwin

In Darwin we stayed at the DoubleTree by Hilton. I couldn’t fault the hotel, even when the entire city was placed on lockdown. The included breakfast we experienced prior to lockdown was fantastic.

Kakadu and Surrounds

Spot wildlife, swim in waterfalls and see ancient Aboriginal rock art. There are so many incredible things to do in Kakadu National Park. Three hours’ drive from Darwin, Kakadu is Australia’s biggest national park. Covering nearly 20,000 square kilometres, Kakadu National Park is World Heritage listed for both its cultural and natural values.

Read more about things to see and do in Kakadu National Park.

No trip to the Top End is complete without seeing crocodiles. A highlight of our trip was the Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise on the Adelaide River, an hour out of Darwin, between Darwin and Kakadu.

Read more about taking a Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise on the Adelaide River.

Katherine and Surrounds

Plan to spend several days at the remarkable Katherine, a big country town located three hours drive south of Darwin on the Katherine River.

Swim in waterfalls, get an authentic Aboriginal experience, relax in hot springs and go underground at Cutta Cutta Caves.

Read about about the best five things to do in Katherine.

Litchfield National Park

Located just 90 minutes from Darwin, Litchfield National Park is the perfect Top End day trip with waterfalls, swimming holes, walking trails and termite mounds to see.

Read more about things to see and do in Litchfield National Park.

Arnhem Land

When we visited the Top End during the pandemic, Arnhem Land was closed to the public. It has since re-opened, and is a place to immerse yourself in an ancient landscape stretching over 97,000 square kilometres, filled with Aboriginal culture, stunning scenery and rare wildlife.

Read more about things to do in Arnhem Land.

Read about more things to do in the Top End.

Read more about visiting Litchfield National Park.

Take a dip in Katherine Hot Springs.

Visit Cutta Cutta Caves.

Get information on visiting Maguk Falls.

Visit Jim Jim Falls.

See the Spectacular Jumping Crocodiles.

See some of the world’s oldest rock art at Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock.

Stay at the Mercure Crocodile Kakadu Hotel.

Spot wildlife on a Yellow Water Billabong Cruise.

Find things to do in Kakadu National Park.

Take a dip at Edith Falls.

Experience a tranquil Katherine Gorge Cruise Tour.

Check out things to do in one day at Litchfield National Park.

Find the 5 best things to do in Katherine.

The Five Best Things To Do In Katherine, Northern Territory

May 30, 2022 / Australia, Northern Territory, Travel / 0 comment

The Five Best Things To Do In Katherine, Northern Territory

Plan to spend several days at the remarkable Katherine, a big country town located three hours drive south of Darwin on the Katherine River.

1. Explore the mighty Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge

Experience the wonder of Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park with a Katherine Gorge Cruise Tour.

The tranquil Katherine Gorge Cruise Tours are the perfect way to experience the highlights of Nitmiluk National Park, particularly if you are time pressed or aren’t into long hikes or kayaking. They are especially suitable for families with kids whose legs aren’t up for long walks.

2. Enjoy an authentic cultural experience

Enjoy an authentic Aboriginal experience at Top Didj & Art Gallery in Katherine, NT, including storytelling, spear throwing, fire-lighting and traditional Aboriginal rarrk painting.

The Top Didj Cultural Experience was a highlight of our Top End NT trip. The cultural experience is led by Manuel Pamkal, a traditional indigenous man who grew up in the Top End. Manual very generously shares his experience as a child living On Country and surviving in the bush, giving visitors like us a deeper understanding of Australia’s indigenous communities.

Read more about visiting Top Didj & Art Gallery in Katherine.

3. Go underground at the Cutta Cutta Caves

Discover natural limestone caves at Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park in Katherine, Northern Territory.

The caves, located 27km south of Katherine, were formed millions of years ago. They are easily reached by the Stuart Highway, with the caves themselves a short walk along a dirt path from the visitors centre.

Read more about visiting Cutta Cutta Caves.

4. Relax in the Katherine Hot Springs

Take a dip in the refreshing Katherine Hot Springs, natural thermal springs on the banks of the Katherine River. The spring water is the perfect swimming temperature year-round, a balmy 32 degrees.

Read more about visiting Katherine Hot Springs.

5. Leliyn (Edith Falls)

Swim underneath a picturesque waterfall at Leliyn (Edith Falls) Nitmiluk National Park.

Leliyn (Edith Falls) is located on the western side of Nitmiluk National Park, a 60km drive north of Katherine along the Stuart Highway. It is easiest to access when driving between Kakadu National Park and the town of Katherine as a stop over.

Read more about visiting Leliyn (Edith Falls).

Where to stay

We stayed at Pine Tree Motel, which was reasonably priced and included a hot and cold breakfast. The motel was clean, conveniently located and the staff were friendly and helpful. Facilities at the Pine Tree Motel included a swimming and laundry.

Read more about things to do in Katherine.

Read more about visiting Litchfield National Park.

Take a dip in Katherine Hot Springs.

Visit Cutta Cutta Caves.

Get information on visiting Maguk Falls.

Visit Jim Jim Falls.

See the Spectacular Jumping Crocodiles.

See some of the world’s oldest rock art at Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock.

Stay at the Mercure Crocodile Kakadu Hotel.

Spot wildlife on a Yellow Water Billabong Cruise.

Find things to do in Kakadu National Park.

Take a dip at Edith Falls.

Experience a tranquil Katherine Gorge Cruise Tour.

Check out things to do in one day at Litchfield National Park.

Find the 5 best things to do in Katherine.

Top things to do in one day at Litchfield National Park

May 25, 2022 / Australia, Northern Territory, Travel / 0 comment

Top things to do in one day at Litchfield National Park

Located just 90 minutes from Darwin, Litchfield National Park is the perfect Top End day trip with waterfalls, swimming holes, walking trails and termite mounds to see.

While you could easily spend days slowly enjoying the area, if you’re tight on time it is possible to hit up many of the highlights in one day.

Download a full-size version of the map and fact sheet here.

Tips for visiting Litchfield National Park

Ensure your car is full of petrol. There are no petrol stations in the park.

Bring food and water. There are very limited places to buy anything to eat or drink (just one small kiosk)

Bring sunscreen, hats and sunglasses. Even in winter the park is blazing hot.

Magnetic termite mounds

The magnetic termite mounds of Litchfield National Park are up to 100 years old and two metres high.

Wangi Falls

The iconic Wangi Falls feature picturesque walking tracks of varying and stunning waterfalls. Camping is permitted at the falls – facilities include a kiosk, hot showers and barbecues.

Florence Falls

Visit a secluded plunge pool in the middle of a monsoon rainforest at Florence Falls.There are a number of walks around the falls, and Florence Falls is open for swimming for most of the year.

Buley Rockhole

A popular spot with locals and tourists alike, the Buley Rockhole is a series of cascading small swimming holes fed by waterfalls in the middle of a rainforest. Buley Rockhole can get quite busy. Picnic and barbecue facilities are available.

Tolmer Falls

Tolmer Falls is one of the most spectacular falls in Litchfield National Park, cascading over two high escarpments into one deep plunge pool. A short walk from the car park leads to two viewing platforms at the top of the gorge. The 1.6 kilometre Tolmer Falls loop walk takes you to two viewing platforms at the top of the gorge. It’s an easy walk (that is rocky in parts), taking about 45 minutes. Swimming is not permitted.

Sandy Creek Falls (Tjaynera)

Access to Sandy Creek Falls/Tjaynera is limited to 4WD access only, plus a 1.4km trek through the rainforest. Sandy Creek camping ground is available for those wishing to stay the night. Swim only in the areas marked safe to do so.

Lost City

Visit the unique rock formations that make up the Lost City of Litchfield National Park. A 4WD is essential to access the Lost City.

Read more about visiting Litchfield National Park.

Take a dip in Katherine Hot Springs.

Visit Cutta Cutta Caves.

Get information on visiting Maguk Falls.

Visit Jim Jim Falls.

See the Spectacular Jumping Crocodiles.

See some of the world’s oldest rock art at Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock.

Stay at the Mercure Crocodile Kakadu Hotel.

Spot wildlife on a Yellow Water Billabong Cruise.

Find things to do in Kakadu National Park.

Take a dip at Edith Falls.

Experience a tranquil Katherine Gorge Cruise Tour.

Easter High Tea and Lunch Celebrations in Sydney

March 31, 2022 / Sydney / 0 comment

Easter High Tea and Lunch Celebrations in Sydney

Easter is the perfect time for gathering with friends and family for a fancy hotel staycation, a luxe high tea or a fabulous brunch. These Sydney hotels are offering plenty of ways to celebrate Easter in style.

Four Seasons Sydney

Easter is a time to connect with family and make ever-lasting memories, and Four Seasons Hotel Sydney provides many family-friendly options – from a decadent chocolate high tea to an in-room experience with a custom tent – creating an egg-cellent Easter tradition.

Family Fun

With the Hotel’s Family Fun package, little ones arrive to a special Aussie-themed gift and welcomed to a room full of surprises – kids will be bouncing with joy!

The Family Fun starts here with:

Welcome gift for kids
Daily breakfast for two adults and two children at MODE Kitchen & Bar
One in-room kids’ movie with movie snacks
50 percent savings on kids’ laundry items
Kid-friendly bath amenities
Themed linen
With stays in a suite: Tent experience

Kids can wake up Easter morning to find the Easter Bunny has not forgotten about kids staying in the Hotel.

Win the Golden Ticket at Mode’s Easter High Tea

Savour a variety of carefully crafted menu that will treat the palate to a truly memorable experience. The three tiers of handcrafted sweets, savouries and scones on the Easter High Tea menu are made 100 percent in-house.

Just for the Easter holidays, kids are invited to take part in decorating their very own chocolate Easter egg, but the sweetest is what’s inside. Pastry Sous Chef Quentin Zerr has created a large chocolate egg that is nestled on top of a fluffy bed of Pariyas Persian fairy floss accompanied by edible chocolate paints for the kids to create a delicious masterpiece. Once it’s painted, they will quickly want to dive inside to see if they’re a golden ticket winner. Two lucky winners will receive an overnight accommodation in the Family Fun package.

Served in the relaxed ambience of Mode Kitchen & Bar, High Tea is available Friday through Sunday from 2:00 to 5:00 pm; and the Easter themed high tea is available the weekends of April 8-10 and 15-17, 2022.

Easter at Mode Kitchen & Bar

Executive Restaurant Chef Francesco Mannelli and his talented culinary team have unveiled an extensive menu to appeal to all appetites and preferences with a special set menu dinner on Easter Sunday.

For the set menu, guests will be taken on a culinary journey from the moment they sit down with delectable starters such as Easter duck and pork terrine, quail eggs, pickled baby radish and grilled focaccia to Mode Kitchen & Bar’s favourite wood-roasted zucchini flowers with buffalo ricotta, truffle, fresh peas and sprouts.

For the main course, guests will be impressed by the pan-roasted snapper served with organic spelt, broccoli, cavolo nero and “acqua pazza” or a risotto Acquerello with Parmigiano Reggiano and fresh black truffle.

No meal is complete without the signature frozen Easter pavlova with banana, pineapple, passionfruit and bee pollen – and for those looking for something traditionally Easter, there’s a specially crafted Mode Easter delice with carrot cake, dark chocolate and orange, crafted by French born Pastry Sous Chef Quentin Zerr.

Children Dine Free at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts Asia-Pacific

No matter what package or room rate they book, families will enjoy additional dining perks as part of a regional campaign rolled out across all Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in Asia-Pacific. Valid from April 1 through to August 31, 2022, the extra benefits include:

Free breakfast, lunch and dinner at Mode Kitchen & Bar for children aged six years and under
50 percent off breakfast and kids’ menu pricing for lunch and dinner for children aged seven to 12 years old
Not applicable towards in room dining or high tea.

To make reservations, contact Hello@ModeKitchenanBar.com.au or call the Hotel directly at +61 2 9250 3160.

Four Seasons Sydney
199 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000
https://www.fourseasons.com/sydney/offers/

Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park

Fall down the rabbit hole at Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park this Easter with their range of family friendly dining options and activities for a guaranteed memorable celebration. Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park has always been a destination for families and friends to come together over key holidays in Australia and they are getting ready to deliver even more delicious food, drink, creativity, and fun to their popular concepts.

From Thursday 14th April to Sunday 17th April, the hotel will host a delightful weekend of events from Easter-themed high teas in The Gallery to Easter Friday Brunch and Buffet Dinners at the famous Feast Restaurant.

The hotel promises special visits from Mr Rabbit himself set against the backdrop of a spectacular donut wall and a waffle chocolate fountain. The fun doesn’t stop there with egg-citing Easter egg hunts and kids showbag giveaways – all proving that Easter is set to be a whimsical and unforgettable long weekend at the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park.

Easter Thursday – 14th April

Seafood Buffet Dinner at Feast Restaurant

Kicking off their Easter celebrations is the best seafood buffet in Sydney, overlooking stunning Hyde Park. Join them for all you can eat fresh seafood and Feast favourites from their signature Feast buffet.

The Seafood Buffet Dinner is available from 5:30p.m. to 8:30p.m. and is priced at $99 per adult and $49.50 per child (11-12 years old). Kids under 11 eat free.

Easter Friday – 15th April

Rabbit Hole Afternoon High Tea at The Gallery

The magic of Easter comes alive with the Rabbit Hole Afternoon High Tea at The Gallery, the best high tea experience in the heart of Sydney’s CBD. Guests can expect a rabbit warren of sweet and savoury treats along with a visit by Mr Rabbit, who will be bringing an Easter gift and colouring-in activities for the little bunnies to enjoy. For the big bunnies, included is a glass of sparkling on arrival.

The Rabbit Hole Afternoon High Tea is available from 12:00pm – 2:30pm and 3:00pm – 5:30pm. It is priced at $99 per person.

Easter Friday Brunch and Dinner

There is something for everyone at Feast Restaurant this Easter. For brunch, kids will be dazzled by a world of sweet treats with hot cross buns and activities including a visit by Mr Rabbit, a themed photo booth, show bag giveaways and an interactive donut wall and waffle chocolate fountain. Meanwhile, adults can enjoy the hotel’s famous seafood buffet dinner with an extended seafood offering.

For those who want to head outside and take in the beautiful surrounds of leafy Hyde Park, the hotel is bringing back their Feast’s Famous Fresh Seafood Takeaway Box which includes jonah crab claw, champagne lobster, balmain bugs and more.

The Easter Friday Bunch is available from 11:30am – 2:30pm at $119 per adult and $59.50 per child (11-12 years old). Kids under 11 eat free.

The Seafood Buffet Dinner is available from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and is priced at $119 per adult.

The Feasts Famous Fresh Seafood Takeaway box is priced at $320. It includes blue swimmer crab, balmain bugs, Sydney rock oysters, jonah crab claw, champagne lobster, mignonette dressing, smoked salmon, cocktail sauce, and lemon wedges. Pre-orders are required by 13 April 2022 with limited numbers available.

Easter Saturday – 16th April

Gallery Easter Family High Tea

A morning of indulgence awaits with the Easter Family High Tea at The Gallery. On Easter Saturday, the family can enjoy a themed high-tea buffet with hot cross buns, a chocolate fountain, an Easter gift for the kids, colouring-in activities, and a visit from Mr Rabbit.
For the adults, bottomless prosecco can be enjoyed as part of the 1.5-hour experience.

The Gallery Easter Family High Tea is priced at $99 per adult and $49 for children (ages 5 – 11years)

Feast Lunch & Dinner Buffet

On Saturday, guests can enjoy Feast’s famous lunch and dinner buffet and elevated seafood offerings which includes blue swimmer crab, balmain bugs and more.

Feast Seafood Buffet is available from 11:30am – 2:30pm and 5:30pm – 8:30pm.

It is priced at $129 per adult and $64.50 per child (11-12 years old). Kids under 11 eat free.

Easter Sunday – 17th April

Gallery Easter Family High Tea

A morning of indulgence awaits with the Easter Family High Tea at Gallery. On Easter Sunday, families can enjoy a themed high-tea buffet with hot cross buns, a chocolate fountain, an Easter gift for the kids, colouring-in activities, and a visit from Mr Rabbit. There will even be a themed photo booth where kids can take photos with and pet Hephner the Alpaca. For the adults, bottomless prosecco can be enjoyed.

The Gallery Easter Family High Tea is priced at $99 per person. The High Tea is also available for takeaway by pick-up only and can be enjoyed in the beautiful Hyde Park or at home.

Feast Easter Sunday Brunch

Join Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park on Sunday for the main event – a festive brunch buffet with classic Easter highlights including a traditional Easter roast, antipasto, a decadent Easter dessert and a glass of sparkling for the adults.

Kids will be entertained with a host of fun activities, including a dedicated kids chill out movie room, colouring, face painting, egg painting, an Easter egg hunt and show bag giveaways.

Feast Easter Sunday Brunch is available from 11:30am and is priced at $129 per adult and $64.50 per child (11-12 years old). Kids under 11 eat free.

Room Service Amenities

For families staying in the hotel over the Easter Long Weekend, kids Easter amenities will be included in the room including a colouring book and egg bags.

Sheraton Grande Hyde Park Sydney
161 Elizabeth St, Sydney NSW 2000
marriott.com

Sydney Harbour Marriott’s Easter Extravaganza

Inaugural Easter Egg Hunt – On Saturday 16 April, join Sydney Harbour Marriott’s inaugural Easter Egg Hunt. From lobby lounges, the library, dining areas and across all parts of the ground floor and other hidden areas, kids are invited to explore and find eggs for their chance to win a mystery prize, along with the bragging rights as Sydney Harbour Marriott’s first ever Easter Egg Hunt winner.

Kids activity corner –Kids will also be able to come along to an Easter Activity Corner on Easer Saturday. From Easter bunny origami, Easter colouring books and an egg painting station, there’s something very egg-citing for everyone this long weekend.

Silvester’s Easter Brunch– On Easter Sunday, Silvester’s will transform into an Easter extravaganza featuring speciality easter treats including Easter donuts, ultimate sticky buns, an interactive pancake and waffle station, a mini chocolate Easter egg stall and a chocolate fountain – the whole family is sure to indulge.

Weekend toys galore – All weekend long, guests can enjoy exciting games, toys and activities across the hotel meaning there will never be a dull moment. From giant games on the play terrace to fun pool toys, in-room puzzles and play tents, Easter kids chocolate amenities – there’s something for everyone at Sydney Harbour Marriott.

Family-friendly rooms: Sydney Harbour Marriott features some of the city’s most interconnecting rooms and two-bedroom suites, with Opera House and Bridge Views, ensuring space, privacy, and a “wow” factor for both parents and the little ones. Several select enhancements are available including in-room tepees or giant cubby houses, complete with a “Hot Shoppe Cafe” setup, so they can let their imaginations run wild as they play shop.

At the heart of family attractions: Families can also enjoy all that Sydney has to offer with the kids’ M Passport Kids Attraction Guide to all things fun and family friendly nearby. Animal lovers can visit Taronga Zoo, catch the ferry to Darling Harbour and visit SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium or WILDLIFE Sydney Zoo, or enjoy a ride across the harbour to iconic Luna Park.

Sydney Harbour Marriott at Circular Quay
30 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000
Sydneyharbourmarriott.com

Sir Stamford Easter Sunday Mad Hatters High Tea

On Easter Sunday you are invited a Bonkers and Brilliant Mad Hatter’s High Tea buffet at Sir Stamford at Circular Quay hotel!

Enjoy a decadently delicious adventure down the rabbit hole as their utterly mad Easter celebrations transform the hotel into a wonky world of wonderful sweets and treats.

Sip chilled bubbles or your favourite fine tea while enjoying the scrumptious delights from wonderland.

You would be Mad not to attend!

Sunday 17th April 2022 from 11.30am, $119 pp

NSW Dine & Discover vouchers may be used for this event.

Easter Sunday Mad Hatter’s High Tea Menu

Cold Selection

‘The French Quarter’ Cucumber, Cocktail Prawn & Potato Salad en Croute
Tweedle Dee’s Bruschetta: Pastrami & Dijon Mustard, Green Bean Bouquet
Tweedle Dum’s BBQ Chicken & Chive, Cheese Charcoal Mini Brioche
The March Hare’s Roasted Cherry Tomato , Bocconcini & Pesto Tartlet

Hot Selection

Wonderland’s Signature Curry Puff
The Mock Turtle’s Beetroot, Goat Cheese & Chive Arancini
Alice’s Magical Mushrooms
The Caterpillar’s Duck Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls

Sweets

Cheshire Cat’s Mysterious Strawberry Rhubarb Coconut Sago Bowl
The White Queens’s Scones with Crème Fraîche and Jam
The Queen of Hearts Strawberry Mousse
“Eat Me” Macarons
Topsy Turvy Mango Coconut Tartelette
The Mad Hatter’s Sweet Unbirthday Cupcakes
The Duchess’ Pistachio White Chocolate
The Queens’ Coffee Praline Crunch
“Drink Me” Mango Shots

Menu correct at time of publishing and but may be subject to change.
Special dietary requests are welcomed – please indicate requirements when booking

Sir Stamford at Circular Quay
93 Macquarie Street Sydney 2000 NSW Australia
https://www.stamford.com.au/hotels/stamford-circular-quay-hotel/events/mad-hatters-high-tea-sydney

Top Didj Cultural Experience & Art Gallery

March 16, 2022 / Australia, Northern Territory, Travel / 0 comment

Top Didj Cultural Experience & Art Gallery

Enjoy an authentic Aboriginal experience at Top Didj & Art Gallery in Katherine, NT, including storytelling, spear throwing, fire-lighting and traditional Aboriginal rarrk painting.

There are plenty of hands-on activities to enjoy as part of the cultural experience, making it a fantastic place to bring kids to learn about Aboriginal culture.

After listening to Manuel play a tune on his didgeridoo and telling stories of growing up in the bush the traditional way, he taught us to paint our own aboriginal rarrk painting using a special reed brush called a Jalk, as well as demonstrating and showing volunteers how to light a fire using two sticks and how to throw a spear using a woomera.

We also enjoyed meeting a wallaby who was living at the wildlife rescue located on site, and bought some stunning artwork created by local indigenous artists.

Top Didj Cultural Experience sessions run twice daily, seven days a week, from May to October. The tour lasts for 2.5 hours and is located a very short drive out of the centre of Katherine.