Music for the Kiwi BBQ

I started with this compilation: Music for the Kiwi BBQ and chose 13 tracks – some new, some old – of Kiwi musicians that go perfectly with a sizzling snarler and a quiet ale (or sauvignon please).

Click on the link to have a look at the album and if you like it, simply download it through your iTunes account. You can also pick and choose just the tracks you want if you already have some of them.

You’ll find Gin Wigmore, Brooke Fraser, LadyHawke, Dragon, The Muttonbirds, Ladi6, Avalanche City, Annabel Fay, Fat Freddy’s Drop, Midnight Youth, Hello Sailor, The Naked and Famous, Tiki Taane. Perfect!

Click here: Music for the Kiwi BBQ >>>

Meanwhile I’m working on my next compilation….

Over the years I’ve had luggage get ruined, as you do. Mostly fabric bags which would be ripped by heaven-knows-what. I truly think some baggage handlers must carry ice picks to slash and pull lugagge out of planes.

I bought my first hard-shell suitcase about 3 years ago in Kuala Lumpur with a TSA lock for secure travel around the world lest someone Schappelle Corby me. This one though had a key lock and lo, MAF here in New Zealand was inspecting my bag in my absence (a lost luggage story you don’t want to know about!) and they snapped the key in the lock. My only key. Fortunately for me they took full responsibility and replaced the bag. It was deemed that the Antler Flyweight suitcase was the closest fit and that is now my bag of choice. In fact, I’m so enamored by Antler lugagge, that I’ve convinced them to let me sell it!

So here’s why I love Antler (and some links to independent reviews too!)

Three sizes in the Flyweight

My bag is the Flyweight. It has 4 swivel wheels for easy peasy gliding through airports and hotel lobbies and weighs only 4kg (medium size) so less chance of paying for overweight luggage. It has a combination TSA lock so there’s no risk of snapping or losing keys. The shell is a high-tech ABS material which is practically crack-proof, but is somehow remarkably malleable for when I over shop and need to stuff all manner of purchases into it! It opens in two halves, so I use this for dividing my lighter weather gear and warmer gear, and a zipped in mesh bag secures one side of luggage. Love love. Have a look here at the prices and sizes. I can do free shipping in New Zealand and you’ll have it on your doorstep in 3 working days (or faster actually).

The fancy pants Liquis

Liquis is the top of the range and up there with Samsonite in quality and price. It comes with all of the above but is made with sturdier PC (poly carbonate) material. It’s also amazingly light – only 3kg for the medium size. Have a look here at this independent review from The Vacation Gals >>>

So if you want to check out the prices, jump here to the new retail section. I’m pretty sure you won’t find cheaper! Blogger at Large Products >>>

I have just been sent some info on the newly renovated Club Med Cancun and a special earlybird offer to save 25%, so start your margarita lips smacking…

A drink with an umbrella, please!

The newly renovated resort features draws on Spanish, Mayan and Mexican cultures to create a colourful, festive atmosphere. And those wanting a bit of posh will be pleased to hear that the addition of a 5 Trident Space for those upgrading to a suite, gives guests the highest level of Club Med luxury: spacious suite accommodation, exclusive use of the infinity pool area and free flow champagne from 6pm-8pm  daily.

The boudoir

Club Med was the first to build a resort on the white sandy beach of Cancun 30 years ago. Since then the destination has become world renowned as a beach holiday location. The resort lies on the Caribbean Sea centred around a large lagoon, perfect for water-skiing and wakeboarding.

Last year, the resort was awarded Silver Green Globe Status for its conservation efforts and is also part of the Club Mediterranee Foundation, dedicating time and resources to the local community. The resort supports local children by taking books and stationary to the nearby Escuela Prinaria Lazaro Cardenas Del Rio.

A little sunning a little swimming...

So here’s the deal: a seven-night all-inclusive land package is available from $2,305 per adult and $919 per child (aged 4-11 years). This offer is available for sales until 28th October 2011 for travel 29th October 2011 until 30th April 2012.

The all-inclusive price includes accommodation, all meals and snacks, alcoholic and soft drinks, kids clubs, evening entertainment and activities including flying trapeze, waterskiing and windsurfing. Flights are extra.

Click here for more details > Club Med Cancun

Dabbling in the waters at Moorea

Here are 3 hot deals on now:

1. All flights to Tahiti are 20% off right now in honour of the Billabong Pro surf tourny that is currently on the big waves of Teahupo. You need to book at pay by September 5, 2011 and travel dates are perfect honeymoon time: 15 Jan to 31 March 2012. Click here to get the promo code and grab some flights >>>

2. For all-inclusive packages to Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea starting from $1399 for flights and 4 nights. They’re also listed by Travel Agent too so you can see every deal that’s out there and phone whichever agency you prefer. Some of these deals expire tomorrow so grab them if you see one you like, but if you come back in September, a little birdie tells me a Spring sale might just be happening on some other properties. Have a look at this link and take your pick >>>

3. This is brilliant! Flight Centre has an exclusive deal for two people who book return flights to LA or Europe on Air Tahiti Nui. You get 3 FREE nights accommodation at the Sofitel in Papeete. The pool and bar area at this hotel is so beautiful and in 3 days you can take a ferry to Moorea for a day, go into Papeete and dine at the roulottes after checking out the Pearl Market. From New Zealand phone Flight Centre on 0800 35 44 48. This is room only for 2 people. Your transfers and meals are extra. But you really have to be quick for this one, pay by Friday September 2, 2011 but travel any time until 31 March 2012.

Jump here to read my Tahiti blogs and choose where to go!

She should be happier with this treatment!

Have you ever had that feeling of dread sitting in the stylist’s chair when you just know they’re about to tell you that the painful months and years you’ve spent growing out that uber-fashion forward short pixie cut was all for naught because the dryness, relentless colouring and split ends have taken over and they’re just going to HAVE to cut it all of?

That very feeling could be exactly why this time of the year it’s just so much harder to stay on top of things, especially the self-care essential grooming bits and pieces. Something to do with the cold, rain and bone-chilling wind made me want to stay warm indoors instead of heading to the salon. That, and a fear of coming out shorn like a lamb.

However, despite having to cancel one appointment due to a last minute overseas trip, then another appointment due to a double booking (work does come first sometimes!) – yesterday I finally made it to see Matt at Stephen Marr Hair Design ensconced in the The Department Store, tucked away of Takapuna’s main drag.

I actually cannot bear to describe the poor state of my frazzled bob. Between the travel, air-conditioning, cold and dry followed by cold and damp environments I’ve been trudging through.. things are frizzy, dry, uncooperative and altogether disheartening. And that’s not even talking about my highlights (lack of) or nasty grey (my crown of wisdom, I know, hard to believe) peeking through.

Thankfully the team had already thought ahead and planned a wee treat for my head while Matt assured me he was not to going to attack me with his sharpened scissors. The ‘Shine On You Crazy Diamond’ Winter Promo is actually a shine and gloss booster infusion (those are fancy salon words for “fixing”) followed by a cellophane treatment. The booster was applied at the basin then my head draped in a hot towel. Once rinsed, it was time for the cellophane treatment. This amazing product essentially tones and protects the hair shaft all at once. Applied section by section by brush and hand, my head was then wrapped in clingfilm and I sat under the heat lamps for fifteen minutes while it cured.

Ordinarily, this treatment is $150 so at $47 for both the booster and cellophane I had super high expectations and hopes. Yes, hopes. There is nothing more disheartening about waking up to 8 degrees and looking at a fuzzy head that won’t be tamed.

As soon as the blowdrying began I could feel and see the difference. The individual hairshafts are coated in layers of this protective product, which then ‘sets’, eventually washing away after 4- 6 weeks. The result is incredible. No product or even the miracle Morrocan Oil applied, my hair is soft but frizzfree.

My highlights are shiny and full of life – not too far off those “it won’t happen overnight but it will happen” shiny people in those TV commercials. Plus, just a trim and my hair feels happier and healthier than it has since summer. I am once again, a happy, shiny person!

- Tash McGill

July 14 is Bastille Day, the French National Holiday commemorating the storming of the Bastille in 1789, marking the beginning of the French Revolution. At the time it would have been horrendously scary, but these days you’ll find fireworks and red, white and blue flags waving with gay abandon as all things French, from food to holidays, are celebrated.

Just a little breather along the way...

As a special birthday deal, active European holiday specialists UTracks are holding a revolution of their own by taking 20% off their entire range of French cycling and walking holidays on the national holiday, for one day only.

With a staggering choice of over 50 active itineraries right across France, from hiking Mont Blanc or the Pyrenees, cycling in Provence, Burgundy or the Loire Valley, self guided trips along the Emerald Coast to Mont St Michel and even in the hills above the French Riviera, there’s a plethora of options suitable for anyone, including families, keen to discover the quintessential landscapes, food and history of the French Republic.

Here’s an example of what you’ll save on the popular 8-day Provence Backroads self guided cycling tour which is reduced by $344 to $1375 pp and includes 7 breakfasts & dinners, 7 nights in 2 star hotels, luggage transfers, route maps & directions as well as bike rental which comes with a repair kit, lock and panniers.

Be in quick!

If you’re in New Zealand phone 0800 350 354  or visit www.utracks.com

If you need some Brownie points or just want a romantic weekend away, here are five of New Zealand’s stunning hotels, B&Bs and resorts that you may not have heard about.

Elegant Valentine luxury

Price $450 twin share. This deal is available until 31st August 2011.

Free-falling Valentine

Price $1570, twin share. Valid 12 Feb – 20th March 2011

Action-packed Valentine

Price from $689 per person per night. Minimum two night stay.

Fly Me Valentine

Price $800 per person inclusive. Valid until 28th February 2011.

Sublime mountain-top Valentine

Modern Release Private Retreat in Wanaka is architecturally designed to command panoramic views of Lake Wanaka, Treble Cone and the rugged peaks of Mt. Aspiring. This is a cutting edge masterpiece of eco-friendly design flooded with natural light and filled with unique and contemporary New Zealand designed furniture, artwork and sculptures from local emerging artists.

Whisk away your someone special for a weekend of romance at Edgewater in Lake Wanaka.  Sure, come for Valentine’s Day but this deal is available until 31 March 2011.

A luxurious little wander before breakfast

What’s included? Two night’s accommodation in a spacious one-bedroom suite, bubbles and heart shaped choccies on arrival, brekky for two each morning and a three course meal for two –one night (drinks not included).

Total Price: $620

For more details: www.edgewater.co.nz

Lake Wanaka is linked by direct air services via Christchurch or 1 hour drive from Queenstown. Edgewater is only minutes from the heart of Wanaka.  Amble along the lake hugging walk-way or drive a few minutes to explore the boutique shops, engage with friendly locals and enjoy the inviting atmosphere of Wanaka.

Lake kayaking directly from the front of Edgewater is on offer and on-site mountain bikes are available for hire.  Work out on the all weather tennis courts or relax in the spa and sauna area on site.

Indulge in some wine-tasting in the region, be exhilarated by the expansive wilderness of the Matukituki River by jet-boat, cruise on Lake Wanaka, ski the slopes or take to the skies for a scenic flight, skydiving or hang-gliding.

Normally valued at $500.00, for a limited time only the Canterbury Resort Golf Pass will provide international visitors with the opportunity to play three leading courses – Pegasus Golf Course, Terrace Downs Resort and Clearwater – for the bargain price of just $299.00.

The Canterbury Resort Golf Pass can be purchased from any one of the three courses’ pro shops, or by contacting any of the courses directly via phone or email.

Terrace Downs

Awarded New Zealand’s Leading Golf Resort in the 2010 World Travel Awards, Terrace Downs Resort makes for the ultimate year-round golfing and leisure destination, featuring deluxe one-to-four bedroom accommodation options, three onsite restaurants and a wide selection of resort activities to choose from. The Resort’s par 72, 18-hole championship golf course is nestled in the foothills of the Southern Alps on the edge of the mighty Rakaia River Gorge, just a 50 minute drive from Christchurch international airport. There are very few scenic alpine courses like it.

Jon Doherty, Director of Sales and Marketing for Terrace Downs Resort says, “It’s a great initiative to help put Canterbury on the map as a golfing destination and there are plenty more great courses here too! Our new affiliation with EpiKurean has given us significant access into international markets through which this pass is now being promoted, so it is great that we can extend the validity period of this offer to entice more international golfers to our region.”

Pegasus Golf Course

Pegasus Golf Course, home of the 2010 Pegasus NZ Women’s Open, is a par 72 international standard, 18-hole parklands style golf course located at the new town of Pegasus, 25 kms north of Christchurch and three minutes drive from the beach. Shaped by 11 feature lakes, maturing trees and wetlands and framed by views of the Port Hills, Mount Grey and the Pacific Coast, the course reflects a modern take on classic golf course design and provides players of all abilities with a choice on the degree of risk and reward.

Jenny Lake, Business Development Manager of Pegasus Golf Course, said she was excited to offer this initiative for the overseas golfer.  “With its opening in December 2009, Pegasus is the newest course to open in New Zealand, and having these three magnificent courses in Christchurch and Canterbury makes the South Island an extremely attractive golfing destination,” said Ms Lake.

Clearwater Clubhouse

Clearwater’s par 72 championship course is home to the NZ PGA Championship. Designed by John Darby in consultation with New Zealand golfing legend, Sir Bob Charles, the course combines elements of links golf – inspired by the great Scottish courses – with parkland golf, more reminiscent of Florida. Playable year-round, the course meanders around a succession of spring-fed lakes and trout-filled streams, with uninterrupted views of the spectacular Southern Alps. There are five tee positions to suit players of all abilities.

Clearwater General Manager Steven Power said Clearwater has established itself as New Zealand’s premier lifestyle resort. “We are pleased to be offering golfers the opportunity to experience Clearwater while also partaking in rounds at Terrace Downs and Pegasus. The aim of the offer is to entice golfers and their partners to Canterbury to sample the best of the region,” Mr Power said.

Journey along Ninety Mile Beach, then stand on the tip of NZ and see where the Tasman Sea collides with the Pacific Ocean at Cape Reinga. Visit the ancient Puketi Kauri Forest, with a 20min boardwalk past 1,000 year old Kauri trees andnative bush. Try sandboarding down the massive sand dunes on boogie boards at Te Paki Stream. A fun experience that is available to all passengers.
THEN CHOOSE ONE OF THESE CRUISE OPTIONS:

OPTION ONE: DOLPHIN CRUISE TO HOLE IN THE ROCK
Experience the beautiful Bay of Islands on the water with a spectacular dolphin watching cruise. Our experienced skippers will guide you through the clear waters in search of dolphins and whales, past many secluded islands to Cape Brett and through the Hole in the Rock, then stop a while at one of the Bay’s beautiful islands.

OPTION TWO: EXCITOR FAST BOAT ADVENTURE
Feel the adrenalin rush as the power of four 300hp engines race you past the islands in the Bay and out into the open sea on the Excitor. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery, the skipper’s commentary and onboard music. Travel through the famous Hole in the Rock.

*FREE FERRY CROSSING INCLUDED!

Receive a free ferry crossing from Paihia to Russell or vice versa. Ideal if you want to explore Paihia or Russell before or after either of the above cruise options.

Click on Dolphin Cruises for more information and to book.