Indigenous art, pearl farms, and top-notch sunsets on a Western Australia cruise. Our Travel Partner, Virtuoso's general manager Australia and New Zealand operations, Fiona Dalton, cruised through the continent’s Kimberley region, a rugged and mostly inaccessible stretch of Australia's northwest coast, proved a welcome chance to reconnect with her favorite school subject: geology. On a seven-night sailing from Kuri Bay to Broom aboard Ponant’s 32-passenger Le Ponant, she hiked, swam, and observed ancient dinosaur footprints in a landscape she’d always dreamed of seeing, with insight from the line’s expedition team and a sleek perch to return to each day.Here, Dalton shares what she learned on her Kimberley cruise. Le Ponant. Fiona Dalton in the Buccaneer Archipelago. Why put the Kimberley on your list? The Kimberley is a remote region with vast landscapes of important geological and cultural significance. It encompasses thriving coral reefs, thousands of uninhabited islands, and rich bird and marine life. It’s an ancient and humbling reminder that we are only on [...]

If there is one island in Australia that has something for everyone it is definitely HAMILTON ISLAND. Over the years I have been there several times, during all different seasons, for both work and pleasure, and stayed in ALL of the different styles of accommodation. So, I can honestly say that I am an expert on this destination and I want to share that expertise with you. The island is split into two sides by a hill – The Resort Side and Marina Side. With several restaurants, on both the resort side and marina side, plus a few shops, boutiques and cafes at the Marina you are spoilt for choice. I have included a map of Hamilton Island so you can see what I am talking about. Hamilton Island is the only Australian island that has so many choices for accommodation, to suit every budget and whether you want hotel-style or self-catering apartments – below is a rundown. Qualia From the moment you are met at the airport and driven to the resort, [...]

On a recent trip to Uluru and Kata Tjuta, I went to “see the rock” but left with a newfound understanding, and spiritual respect for this iconic Australian location. It was an experience that I think every Australian should have! And if you want to really experience something special and really connect to the heartland the best place to stay is Longitude 131. You go to this area to visit Uluru, so nothing is better than staying in a luxury tented pavilion with the view of Uluru from your bed, your deck, and the restaurant lounge. Dotted amongst the sand-dunes the sixteen pavilions are luxury whilst being homely and welcoming. With views to Uluru from the bed, or the outdoor day bed on the deck, you could be forgiven for wanting to stay in your tent!!! And, returning from the lounge after dinner on a cool winter evening, to enjoy a nightcap on your private deck with a lit fireplace and blankets, to look up and see the starry sky was just [...]