The Kangaroo Route

After lunch, check in at the Sheraton Penang just off Burma Road.
Admire Georgetown's collections of intact prewar colonial buildings, one of Southeast Asia's largest. The most visible of these architecture is found around the streets in old Georgetown. Fort Cornwallis, marks the beginning of British settlement.

A walk in the streets of George Town is an experience that should not be missed. Inspite of the humid weather, the persperation will be rewarded with a multitude of encounters with the history and culture of a vibrant and culturally diverse city.

The culinary legacy of the Nyonyas or Peranakan consist of combination of Chinese and Malay flavours must not be missed. Savour the well renowned local delicacies in streetside hawker centres. The experience of having dinner at a hawker center is enormous. Try 'Gurney Drive'. Laksa is amongst the best known and loved of hawker fare in Penang. A bowl of steamed spaghetti-sized rice vermicelli is first generously garnished with finely sliced vegetables including onions, cucumber, red chillis, pineapple, lettuce, mint and pink ginger buds.

After a satisfying hawker fare, an evening stroll along Gurney Drive or Gurney Plaza before retiring for the day back at the Sheraton .

Day 8. Penang to Kuala Lumpur

Good bye Penang. An early breakfast at the Sheraton prior to checking out. Head towards Bayan Lepas Airport to catch a 45 minutes Malaysia Airlines 737 flight to Kuala Lumpur , Malaysian's capital.

Kuala Lumpur is commonly known simply as 'KL', a sprawling, noisy and energetic city where gleaming glassy skyscrapers and countless mega-malls sandwiched between colonial edifices and ageing Chinese shops. Kuala Lumpur's International Airport or simply KLIA is approximately 75 km from the city centre. Hop into the KLIA ekspres and head for KL Sentral the main railway and commuter hub terminal.

Proceed to Sheraton Imperial in the neart of KL's golden triangle along the monorial route and within reach of the Bintang Walk shopping district. A short hop away, head towards KLCC at the base of the dazzling 88-storey Petronas twin towers for lunch. Head up to the towers sky bridge located on the 41st & 42nd floors.

Hop on the KL LRT to KL's Central Market and Chinatown. Head to Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square), the heart of colonial Kuala Lumpur, to find Victorian St Mary's Cathedral, Moorish Sultan Abdul Samad Building and the mock-Tudor Royal Selangor Club. Pay particular attention to the 100 meter flag pole, the tallest in the world where Malaysia gain independence from the British in 1957.

Absorb the evening nightlife and dinner back at the Golden triangle and Bintang walk area before retiring for the night after a workout.

Day 9. Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, Borneo

Proceed to KL Sentral and transfer on the KLIA ekspres to KLIA for a Malaysia Airlines flight to Kota Kinabalu in the state of Sabah in the eastern Malaysia n Borneo (formerly Jesselton in North Borneo). Arrive after a two and a half hour flight across the South China Sea, head for Le Meridien for an afternoon check in.

Explore the rest of the afternoon and evening around Kota Kinabalu. The only colonial remnants of an almost century-long British control are the old post office building and the Atkinson Clock Tower in the older part of the capital. Signal Hill, the highest point in the city, is one of the best places to get a good view of Kota Kinabalu. Just a couple of minutes drive will bring you to the airy deck where you can get amazing views that extend to the outlying islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park and further.

Sabah's population is heterogeneous and culturally diverse, with more than 30 different ethnic races and over 80 local dialects spoken. Traditions and customs have long been part of our daily lives. With around 32 indigenous groups in Sabah, one can expect to see tribal dresses of various styles. Most of these have retained much of their original design and color.

Witness some of them at the Monsopiad Cultural village, nestled beside the Penampang River located about half an hour away from the KK City Centre.

After dinner, retire to an early night in preparation for an early check out and departure to Mount Kinabalu National Park, a world heritage site .

Day 10. Mt Kinabalu, Borneo

Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure around the mountains while grazing at the unique fauna and flora. Climatize to the high altitude in preparation for an early morning continuation hike to the summit.

2 am wake-up call followed by an early breakfast prior to commencing on an early hike in the dark towards Mt. Kinabalu summit at 4096 meters ( 13,436 ft). Upon reaching the summit (Low's Peak) after a strenuous 4 hours hike just before the spectacular sunrise, at the highest point in South East Asia (ranked 20th in the world), one can appreaciate the immense summit view on rare clear days.

By mid morning, retrace route back to Laban Rata Resthouse and onward descent to Timpohon gate by 1 or 2 pm. After lunch, transfer towards the Poring Hot Springs about an hours drive away located approximately 47 km from Kinabalu Park. Soak and let the invigorating sulfurous water stimulate the body after a long hike. Depart Poring Hot Springs for Kota Kinabalu. On arrival just before dawn, transfer to the Le Meridien hotel.

Day 12. Kota Kinabalu to Kuala Lumpur

After a hearty breakfast, enjoy the early morning in Kota Kinabalu at leisure. Check out and proceed to Kota Kinabalu airport for a 12:15 departure to Kuala Lumpur on Malaysia Airlines. A 14:40 arrival at KLIA just intime for new year's eve celebration at the capital.

After a hasty transfer onboard the KLIA ekspres to KL Sentral, make way to the strategically located KL Crowne Plaza Hotel located in the Golden triangle region of Kuala Lumpur, just a few steps away from the Petronas Twin Tower.

Day 13. Kuala Lumpur

New Years Day. After breakfast, hop into the nearby KL's Monorial and head towards Bukit Bintang and the colossal Berjaya Times Square, Malaysia's largest mall. Kuala Lumpur's Central Market is a hive of activity with stalls selling traditional arts and crafts, souvenirs and antiques. Delve into Malaysian culture at the National Museum.

VIsit the astounding Jamek Mosque (Masjid Jamek) located at the convergence of the Klang and Gombak rivers is the stately Masjid Jamek, one of the oldest mosques in the city since its construction in 1909. Also located within the vicinity of the birth site of Kuala Lumpur.

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure on this New Years day. Perhaps some last-minute shopping.

Check out after breakfast and head towards the distinct KL Old Railway Station. This moorish architecture was buiit almost 100 years ago. Today, most of the railway operations have since been moved to the ultra modern KL Sentral almost a decade ago.

Embedded conveniently within the Old Railway Station, board a 10am NICE southbound coach through the serene villages onroute to Singapore. This 4 to 5 hour journey is a good opportunity to appreciate the scenic countryside prior to arriving at the Immigration checkpoint at the southern most point of Peninsula Malaysia just before entering Singapore.

Arrive in Singapore during the mid-afternoon. Spend the rest of the afternoon and early evening in the city state island. This marks the end of 10 days in the South East Asian leg of the trip as we bid farewell to Malaysia and Singapore.

The second and final leg of the 'Kangaroo' route continues onward to Australia. Board a Qantas Airways A330 jet, flight 82 for Adelaide, South Australia at 22:15. A late departure from Singapore's Changi airport southwards across the southern horizon while being pampered by the new Qantas International Skybed and inflight service as one settle down for the night high above in the comfort of the southern hemisphere skies.

Day 15. Adelaide, South Australia

Good day Australia, land of the marsupial mammals. Just after alittle over 6 hours of flying, wakeup to the aroma of freshly grounded and brewed espresso prior to the scheduled 7:40 arrival at Adelaide. Upon arrival, collect the car rental and locate the way to Holiday Inn at the centre of Adelaide.

Adelaide is South Australia's capital city that is renowned as a small stylish city surrounded by beautiful green parklands and gracious colonial architecture. This elegant city offers a vast array of city cafes, restaurants and pubs, as it is known as the city of food and wine.

Walk on foot to the North Terrace boulevard of galleries and museums, particularly the South Australian Museum, flowing into the serene, green Botanic Gardens. Rundle Street Mall runs parallel, lined with cafes, bars and restaurants: the bustling hub of the East End. After morning Coffee, drop into the Ayers House, one of the best examples of colonial architecture. A few blocks south is Victoria Square which lies at the geopraphic heart of the city.

Craving for chocolate? Settle down after a 5 minute drive from Adelaide, for the best at the iconic Haigh's, where once can enrich the appreciation and the low-down on how it's made. Tour through the life-cycle of chocolate. Remember to make reservations for the 20 minute tour.

In the late afternoon, venture out of Adelaide towards Adelaide Hills to nearby Belair National Park, the eigth-oldest national park in the world. Meander through the forest and lookout for the native wildlife of kangaroos and emus.

Drive towards the historic and picturesque village of Hahndorf, the oldest German settlement in Australia. Take a break at one of Hahndorf German cakeshops or tearoom.s Head up to Mount Lofty Ranges, admire the fine view of the city at the top of the 2385ft summit. Just below is Cleland Wildlife Park where strolling along with the kangaroos and emus is ubiquitous.

Day 16. Barossa Valley, South Australia

Barossa Valley Tour. Just one hour's drive north of Adelaide is The Barossa , home to approximately 50 wineries and rich in European heritage. The area is renowned for its premium wines, fine restaurants, magnificent old churches, wineries and cottages amongst the unique Barossa culture. Home of the reputable Penfolds, Wolf Blass, Peter Lehmann Orlando are just some of them. Experience some of them with some wine tastings.

Along the way before Barossa Valley, is Adelaide Hills region, which is only a 20-minute drive from Adelaide where fresh organic produce may be sampled and enjoy the panoramic views of hillsides draped with steep vineyards and orchards. This region is known for their excellent Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling grapes.

Ever tried lavender gourmet foods? Tour the award winning Lyndoch Lavender farm located in the lower Barossa Ranges. Up to 80 varieties of lavender is ubiquitous. Take a self or guided tour of the farm located in the town of Lyndoch. Browse through the range of unique lavender gourmet products, such as jams, chutney, mustard or the body care line.

Seppeltsfield Road is one of the Barossa's most scenic drives, affording picturesque views over gently undulating vineyards and pastoral land. The iconic date palm lined roadway is one of the most photographed locations in the region. There are more than 10 wineries in the area including Peppers Hermitage with its acclaimed Appellation Restaurant. Maggie Beer's Farm shop and Barossa Valley Estate offer casual lunches, and one can take an historic winery tour at Seppelts Winery. Head back to Adelaide and retire for the evening after dinner.

Day 17. Adelaide to Melbourne , Victoria

Head towards nearby Adelaide Airport for an early morning flight on Qantas Domestic Business service to Melbourne, Victoria. Australia's sassiest city filled with fabulous melange of old and new amongst the vibrant and character-filled precincts througout the city of elegance. Arrive into Melbourne Tullamarine Airport an hour later at 8:30 am. After collecting the rental car, drive to central Melbourne and vicinity.

First stop is the mother of all Melbourne markets, Queen Victoria Market, considered as one of the top 10 markets in the world. Sip a morning espresso at one of the cafe stalls, sample the widest range of organic produce available in Melbourne.

After checking in at the Novotel hotel on Collins St, venture into Melbourne's most intriguing architecture network of alleys, lanes and arcades in the central Business District. Walk on Collins St, Melbourne's most elegant streetscape, cross through the Block Arcade to Bourke St, a 19th century intricately and magnificently built shopping arcade. Its design was inspired by the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan. Continue on to Royal Arcade, Melbourne's oldest arcade. Head further towards Melbourne Central where a unique blend of the soaring new and the stately old combined sympathetically.


Hope on a westbound city circle tram passing the Docklands and get off at Crown Towers and the South Bank along the Yarra River. Stroll along the riverbank through the ostentatious Crown casino to South Gate. The newly opened Eureka Tower on Oct 11 2006, boast a splendid observation deck, Southern Hemisphere's highest observation deck. It is amongst the tallest residential towers in the world. Hopefully, the observation deck is due to open by Jan 2007. Alternatively, the 55 storey Rialto Towers across the Yarra river is justifiably popular. This is a good spot to savor the array of restaurants and cafes along the riverside walk of South bank. Walk up to St Kilda Rd and north across the Princess Bridge towards Swanston St. passing the legendary Flinders Street Station, Federation Square and City Square.

Drive towards Kings Domain precinct. A parkland which contains the wonderful Royal Botanical Gardens. It is arguably among the finest in the world. Don't miss the massive Shrine of Remembrance prior to entering the Botanical Gardens. Stroll through the beautifully laid-out plants feature from all around the world. Nearby is the sports-centric expanse, Melbourne Cricket ground (home of the obsessed Aussie rules football), Melbourne and Olympic Park, Rod Laver Arena (Home of the Australian Open in January each year).
Head back across the river towards the hotel for a quick refresh. As the evening rolls in, promenade along Lygon Street in Carlton, the city's Italian quarters, alongside the Fitzroy & Collingwood precinct where alternative, quirky and trendy scene is. Along the way drop by the pleasant Carlton Gardens, home to the historic Royal Exhibition Building. Dine and sip cappuccinos while soaking up the evening atmosphere in Carlton's Lygon Street.

Day 18. Great Ocean Road, Victoria

Great Ocean Road Drive! After a quick check out, head westward out of the city towards Geelong on the Princes Hwy all the way to Torquay on the coast of Bass Strait. Geelong, a small city scoffed by most Melburnians, used to be a dilapidated but has since been revived. Wander along Geelong's glittering revamped waterfront for a quick morning coffee.

Continue on southwards on Ocean Rd (Surfcoast Hwy) towards Torquay, the capital of Australia's booming surfing industry. From this point on, drive on Great Ocean Rd. westwards through several small towns such as Anglesea and Aireys Inlet. From here on, the spectacular coastal road begins. Further down is Lorne, an edgy town, which main-streets are swamped with dwellers during Saturdays. Cafes and restaurants are in abundance.

Onwards to Apollo Bay is quite spectacular with the treacherous narrow and twisting roads carving higher and lower into sheer cliffs. Beware of the meandering of drivers and scenic views that are dangerously distracting.

Apollo Bay is a ridiculously picturesque fishing town and a popular summer beach drop zone. Less trendier than Lorne but dominated by undulating hills. Take a break in Apollo Bay, hike up Marriners Lookout and Triplet Falls. Lunch at one of the many cafes along Apollo Bay's Great Ocean Road.

Continue on towards the rugged Cape Otway National park , where the Great Ocean Rd, starts to straighten out before meeting the coastline again at Moonlight Head. This is the beginning of the historic shipwreck trail for 110km where notoriously treacherous stretch of coastline have caused havoc to sailors in the 19th century due to frequent heavy fog and hidden reefs.

A little further and finally, Port Campbell National Park, the most famous and photographed stretch of Great Ocean Road with its dramatic Twelve Apostles towering from the open coastline. Other formations worth a visit are Mutton Bird Island and Blowhole along the way. Nearby is London Bridge, albeit fallen down. Retire for the rest of the evening at the Best Western Great Ocean Road in the town of Port Campbell.

Day 19. Ballarat to Melbourne

Make way inland north towards Ballarat, a 3 hour drive from Port Campbell where gold was discovered nearby in the late 19th century. The days of gold rush leaves a gracious Victorian architecture reminder of the prosperity during that period. Visit the fascinating Sovereign Hill on Magpie St , a re-creation of the 1860s gold-rush era. Spend the rest of the afternoon around Ballarat .



In the late afternoon, drive along the Western Freeway back to Melbourne. Arrive in Melbourne 1.5 hours later in St Kilda precinct. After checking in at the Novotel St Kilda, stroll along the lively St Kilda beach seaside facing Port Phillip Bay. Savour an afternoon coffee at one of the numerous cafes along nearby Acland Street which is famed for it's continental cake shops and delicatessens and central European cafes. This is a focal centre for waves of Jewish and other Europeans settlers post WW2. Stroll along St Kilda Pier. The Sunday Esplanade Market provides a new age Australian slant in the various stalls along Esplanade..

Splurge a sumptuous dinner at Fitzroy and Acland Streets or drive towards Chapel Street precinct, Melbourne's most diverse rand stylish retail centres. There is also numerous extravagant eateries. With Melbourne being well know as the country's eating capital, there is no shortage of variety of good food establishments.

Day 20. Mornington Peninsula and Phillip Island

After an early checkout from Novotel St Kilda, head south along the coast of Mornington Peninsula passing through coastal beaches to Nepean Hwy all the way to Portsea at the tip of the peninsula. Enjoy the numerous beaches, parks , hills and wineries around the quaint countryside.



Drive through Main Street in Mornington and savour some of the cafes in mid morning. Catch a breeze at Schnapper Point in Mornington before driving along the Esplanade towards Mt Eliza and Dromana. Here, head up towards Aurthurs Seat State Park and get a glimpse of the spectacular view of the eastern shores of Port Phillip Bay at 305m at Murray's Lookout.

Head down back to the coast and drive through many of the seaside towns of Rosebud, Rye and finally to Sorrento. Seaside Sorreto is the site of first official European settlement. Before reaching Sorrento, stop by at the Collins Settlement Historic Site to learn more on the historic event. Sorrento is an extremely hot spot for Melburnians particularly in the summer months. This is an excellent place to break for lunch.



After lunch, travel to nearby Portsea and head to the back beach to see London Bridge, an impressive rock formation. Mornington Peninsula National Park at Point Nepean is originally a quarantine station and army base. Head to Cape Schanck which houses the Cape Schanck lightstation.

Along the way, drop in at one of local Mornington Peninsula's wineries Red Hill or Stonier. Before heading around the Western Port Bay towards Phillip Island on the other side.

After a two hour drive, arrive at Phillip Island, a penguin parade of subculture. First stop is the Koala Conservation Centre. After dinner at one of the restaurants in the town of Cowes, head towards Summerland Beach where the world famous little penguins parade shows off themselves at the Phillip Island Nature Park. Once sunset, the parade begins. At nightfall, drive back for 2 hours towards Melbourne.

Prepare for a late arrival in Melbourne and check in at the Melbourne Mercure Hotel facing the leafy Fitzroy Treasury Gardens.

Day 21. Melbourne to Brisbane


Enjoy a morning stroll around the Fitzroy Treasury Gardens right opposite the hotel. This serves as a verdant retreat from the bustle of the city life. In the centre of the gardens is a miniature Tudor Village and a carved Fairies' Tree. Captain Cook's Cottage is situated in the park which was dismantled, shipped over from Yorkshire and rebuilt in the 1930s. Nearby is the Conservatory with glorious display of floral.

Visit nearby Chinatown on Little Bourke Street from Spring Street Swanston St. The Old Melbourne Gaol on Russell St is a gruesome old prison and worth a visit where convicts used to be hanged. It's a spooky, dark and dank place.

Lunch at stylish Chapel St in Prahran where Prahran market is the highlight. Alternatively, head towards the bohemian Brunswick St in the Fitzroy lively precinct .

Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure around fabulous Melbourne precincts prior to heading to the Melbourne Airport for an evening departure for Brisbane on Qantas Domestic Business flight 636 at 20:05.

After a mere two hours flight, upon arrival, drive into Brisbane city centre and check into the Novotel Brisbane.

Third largest city in Australia. City centre fits along the U-shaped of the Brisbane River and can be explored on foot. After breakfast, explore the morning in and around centre of Brisbane. Several sites including the Parliament House and Commissariat Store Museum are worth visiting. Admire Central Brisbane's mixed new high-rises and old 19th century constructions. Stroll along Queen Street pedestrian mall and Brisbane Arcade, Brisbane's most elegant shopping area or take a scenic walk in the Botanical Gardens at the edge of the city centre by the river.

Drive towards the nearby Fortitude Valley and Chinatown. View some of the impressive structures and art deco landmarks. Travel across the Brisbane River to the South Bank precinct, home of the Expo 88. Further south is the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary , home to more than 100 koalas and largest Koala Sanctuary in the world.

Head towards the glitzy and much touted Gold Coast where recreation, theme parks, casinos and malls are sprawled everywhere. After a short one hour drive, arrive at Surfers Paradise, the epicenter of Gold Coast. Check into the Marriot Courtyard. After dinner at the Marriot, stroll along the hustle and bustle of the paradise along the esplanade or the nightlife in its proximity of the party hub.

Day 23. Gold Coast, Queensland


After a morning workout and breakfast, explore the beaches of Gold coast at Surfers Paradise. For a quieter and less hype from the epicenter, proceed to Broadbeach and Mermaid Beach. The quiet beaches of Kirra and Coolangatta at the border with NSW is an alternative.

There are numerous activities to splurge that superfluous money. Balloon Down Under, Surfers Paradise Parasail, Banzai Bungey, Flycoaster, Sling Shot and the Gold Coast Theme Parks of Sea World, Warner Brothers Movie World. and the list goes on.

Spare those American –style theme parks and proceed to Springbrook Plateau, 900m high, the remnant northern edge of a huge ancient volcano in Springbrook National Park. The town of Springbrook is located at the edge of the plateau with numerous waterfalls that tumble over the coastal plain. From the coastal Gold Coast Hwy, drive inland towards the park and don't miss the spectacular lookouts and falls of Purling Brook Falls, Canyon Lookout and Best of All Lookout.

After the leisure climb, head down towards the Marriot Courtyard in Surfers Paradise. Relax the evening around the epicenter.

Day 24. Gold Coast to Sydney, NSW

After breakfast, cruise along Surfers Paradise northwards to South Stradbroke Island. Relax in style or simplicity far from the crowds. Checkout from the Courtyard Marriot and proceed to Brisbane.

Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure before heading to Brisbane Airport for an evening Qantas Domestic Business service flight 559 at 7:45pm to Sydney. After a short hop, arrive at Sydney Airport at 10:15pm. Find the way to Darling Harbour Holiday Inn. Retire for the night.

Day 25. Sydney

, one of Auckland's most famous landmarks. As the highest volcano around Auckland, it provides good views over the city and the Harbour. Close to the centre of the city, Mt Eden is a constant reminder that Auckland is situated on a potentially active volcanic field.

Take a

The Auckland Museum preserves Maori artifacts and the National Maritime Museum celebrates the history of an island nation. Auckland is also the largest Polynesian city in the world, as it attracts many Maori, and islanders from the South Pacific.

Or take a ferry ride across to closeby Waiheke Island, just 35 minutes cruising from Auckland, Waiheke Island is 92 square kms of beautiful sandy beaches, native bush, vineyards, olive groves and laid back seaside villages in the morning for the rest of the day.

Day 30. Auckland to Nadi, Fiji

Morning stroll in the waterfront after breakfast and a late morning checkout from the Hyatt. Proceed to the Auckland airport for a 3 hour Qantas flight 3843 (operated by Air Pacific 737-800 Winglets) to Nadi Fiji with a departure time of 2:00 pm.


Ni sa Bula! as they greet in Fiji. Arrive into Nadi at 4:05 PM local time. Obtain necessary vouchers for transfer to the outer islands prior to leaving the terminal. Make way towards the Mercure Hotel Nadi, a mere 5 -10 mins away from Nadi Airport.

Enjoy the rest of the day in the South Pacific tropics. Catch a ride to Nadi town in the evening prior to dinner.

Day 31. Nadi to Yasawa Islands, Fiji

Check out after breakfast in the morning and proceed to the Sea Plane base for a 30 minute flight on the Turtle Island Airways seaplane to the Nacula Islands in the heart of the magnificent Yasawa Island Group. View the gorgeous corals and islands as the seaplane cruises over the south pacific offshore Fijian main islands. Immediately after a water landing, hop into the water taxi for the fabulous Nanuya Island Resort, located at the very spot where the Brook Shields movie Blue Lagoon movie was filmed at. This resort consist of only 8 private bungalows (bures).

Spend the rest of the afternoon and evening in pure indulgence. Relax in the tranquil crystal clear blue waters of the South Pacific.

Dinner at the resort and retire in the traditional Fijian hilltop bures under the clear skies.

Day 32. Yasawa Islands, Fiji

Arouse by the sound of ocean waves to a satisfying breakfast. Relax the morning at the clear sandy beach around the lagoon.

As noon approaches, after lunch, head towards the water taxi for a short ride across to the Oarsman's Bay Lodge on the other side of the Nacula Islands. Oarsman's Bay is known for its pristine and one of the most impressive beaches located at one of the Yasawa's volcanic islands. A true jewel of Fiji.

Check into the one of the deluxe private bures upon arrival.

Spend the rest of the day at leisure amongst the serene island and hospitality of the locals.

Day 33. Yasawa Islands, Fiji

Another easy day at the islands at Oarsman's Bay.

Discover the mystery of the Sawa-i-Lau Caves, the rich ethnicity of the Island, the most magnificient beach in Fiji, enjoy the powdered white sand and swim in the protected and tranquil waters of the bay.

Go for a hiking trip and soak up awe-inspiring views or enjoy the soothing benefits of a local massage. Relax with a book on a hammock with nothing but the sounds of gently lapping waves to disturb you.

Snorkelling is an option or visit the nearby Nacula village, 20 minutes away, the oldest village in the Nacula Islands.
Treat to a relaxing massage at the resort.

Day 34. Yasawa Islands to Mamanuca Islands, Fiji

In just over 4 hours, at 5:10 pm, arrive at the Bounty Island Resort , located in the Mamanuca group of Islands. This is one of the smaller offshore islands where one can walk around in less than 30 minutes.

Upon arrival, check into one of the private beach front Bure. Surrounded by golden sandy beaches and clear pristine waters which provides spectacular snorkeling.

Enjoy the resplendent sunset over the pacific.





Day 35. Mamanuca Islands to Nadi, Fiji

A free day to explore and relax on the small amazing island. Laze around the pristine beaches or stroll around the island on foot.

Prepare to board the Yasawa Flyer at 5:10 pm as we leave the Mamanuca Islands behind.
Arrive at Denarau Bay on the Viti Levu main Island at 5:45 pm.

Proceed to the Nadi Mercure Hotel to freshen up and retrieve the rest of the luggage.
After dinner, head towards Nadi Airport as we greet farewell and Vinaka!

Board an Air Pacific 737-700 flight FJ822 , departure time 23:59 with destination Christmas Island and onwards to Honolulu, Hawaii.

Day 36. Christmas Island to Honolulu, Hawaii

Arrive in Kiribati, Christmas Island on Wednesday January 23, 07 at 6:30 AM local time. An hour long transit later, depart at 7:30 AM for Honolulu with arrival time of 10:35 AM on January 22, 2007 as we gain back a day after crossing the International Dateline in the Pacific Ocean.

Stroll the evening along the busy Kalakaua Avenue emblazoned with various means to attract tourist.

Day 37. Honolulu to Kona, Big Island, Hawaii

Early morning checkout from the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani and head towards Honolulu Airport for a inter-island Hawaiian Airlines flight 120L departing at 8:35 AM for Kona, Big Island.

Arrive in Kona airport at 9:18 AM. Collect the car rental and head off north around the Big island towards Hilo on the other side.

First stop. Honokohau Harbor Beach is located in the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park on the Kona Coast, north of Honolokohau Harbor off of Highway 19. Continue along Hwy 19 towards Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site.

Head towards Waimea and onwards to Hilo along Hwy 19 via Honokaa. Prior approaching Hilo is Honomu and the Akaka Falls State Park. After 3 hours of driving from Kona, arrive in Hilo.

After a brief stopover in Hilo for lunch, continue south on Hwy 11 towards Volcanoes National Park in Volcano. A 45 minute drive from Hilo.
Arrive in the town of Volcano and proceed towards the Volcano Inn for and early evening check in.

Day 38. Big Island, Hawaii

After breakfast and check out from the Volcano Inn. Continue exploring the Volcanoes National Park.

Kilauea Mountain in the park is located on the southeastern tip of the Big Island of Hawaii and is one of the most active volcanoes in the world! Hike through lush rainforest to experience vents spewing steam, brand new land being created, walk-through lava tubes.Its current eruption started in January 1983 and has been continuously flowing ever since. As of January 2000. Lava erupting from the Pu'u 'O'o cone flows through a tube system down the Pulama pali about 7 miles to the sea.

In late afternoon, proceed around the Big Island from Volcano on Hwy 11 via Pahala and continue on towards Kailua-Kona.

Upon arrival in Kona, check in at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa.

Spend the rest of the evening at leisure.

Day 39. Kona, Big Island to Honolulu

Explore Kona at leisure and the Sheraton resort.

After lunch, proceed towards Kona Airport. Return the rental car and check in for the return flight to Honolulu on Hawaiian Airlines 3875 departing at 5:13 PM arriving into Honolulu at 5:58 PM.

Upon arrival in Honolulu Airport, pick-up the car rental and proceed to the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani in Waikiki for check in.

Spend the rest of the evening and night at leisure around Waikiki. Perhaps drop by the Ala Moana Center.

Day 40. Honolulu, Oahu

Wake up to an early morning. A day of excursion around Oahu.

Drive towards Diamond Head State and Monument Park at the edge of Waikiki and hike up to the crater at the top to view the breathtaking Waikiki panoramic Waikiki from above during the early morning sunrise. Gates to the State Park opens at 6:00 AM. Diamond Head is an inactive volcano which erupted very briefly some 200,000 years ago and is considered as one of the younger volcanic cones.

Next, drive on Kalanianaole Hwy along the shore eastward towards Hanauma Bay. This gorgeous bay lies between two dormant volcanic craters in southeast. Its clear and shallow waters teem with a multitude of tropical fish and other marine life is ideal for experiencing excellent snorkeling.

Close by is Sandy Beach. This popular beach is located at the southeastern tip of Oahu, next the famous Halona Blowhole. The Blowhole spits out water high in the air as the waves crash against the rugged lava cliffs. Watch out for the shorebreaks.

Continue along the East Shore of Oahu. The East Shore of Oahu boasts its longest, most uninterrupted beach. Relatively clam all year, white sand and blue water.


The first of the beaches is Waimanalo beach in Waimanalo. A quiet, rural town beach. Next, Lanikai beach must not be missed. Close your eyes and imagine a perfect beach, this is it. Sparkling white sand, crystal clear blue water. Conde Nast has rated Lanikai as the #1 beach in the United States and is regularly being featured in travel publications. Further on is the sister beach, Kailua beach which presents the same quality as Lanikai.

Make way towards the North shore passing the Polynesian Cultural Centre. Dramatic mountains are just on the left side.

Experience some of the north shore beaches which consist of monstrous waves reaching heights of 20 feet and higher during the winter months which can be treacherous. This is usually not the place for swimming or snorkeling during the winter months.

The first of the beaches is the two-mile Sunset beach and is considered the longest stretch of rideable surf spots in the world.

Ehukai Beach or (Banzai Pipeline). The name is derived from the massive 'tube' that forms from the curling wave. Banzai Pipeline is one of the many famous surf spots on the North Shore and constantly attracts popular surfing events such as the Rip Curl Pro Pipeline Masters competition.

The next of the popular beaches is Waimea Beach. This is the place to catch big waves. Waimea Bay is notorious for producing monstrous waves in the winter. Big-wave surfers flock to the break every winter hoping to catch 'the big one'. A popular big-wave contest, the Quicksilver Eddie Aikau Invitational, is held at Waimea every year, the only requirement for the contest being that the wave height must be 20 feet or higher for the contest to be held. The shore break at Waimea is one of the most dangerous shore breaks in the world. Waimea's waters calm down and become flat during the summer months.

As we head back towards Waikiki on Hwy 99, turn off at Kamehameha Highway into the Dole Plantation for a visit.

Continue towards Waikiki and the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani .

Enjoy the rest of the evening and night at leisure.

Day 41. Honolulu to Chicago, IL

Final day in Honolulu.

During early morning, head east to the USS Arizona National Memorial .

Waikiki at leisure. After lunch, preparation for final leg of the journey. Head towards Honolulu International airport.

Depart on an early redeye flight on American 72 B767 service to Chicago at 5:45 PM. Enjoy the North American First class inflight service cabin as we cross the Pacific Ocean and the North American continent in 8 hours.

Day 42. Chicago to Toronto

An early arrival from Honolulu on a dreadful Monday morning in Chicago at 5:55 AM.

Connect on the final flight of this journey on American 632 bound for Toronto departing at 7:10 AM.

Arrive in Toronto at 9:40 AM just in time for the end of the Monday morning rush hour.

posted by Mike @ 09:28 0 comments