Placeholder Content Image

Chaos erupts over last-minute cruise itinerary change

<p>Passengers onboard a Carnival Cruise have demanded refunds after their travel itinerary changed once they had already boarded the ship. </p> <p>Guests aboard Carnival’s Vista had booked the eight-night Southern Caribbean cruise out of Port Florida on August 10th intending to stop in Aruba, Curacao and Turks and Cacaos, with the eight-day cruise averaging $11,700 per person.</p> <p>However, as boarding was taking place, the cruise line sent passengers a notification saying their had been a change of plans due to an engine problem.</p> <p>Carnival crew members had discovered a “technical issue affecting the ship’s cruising speed” which forced the cruise line to alter the itinerary, the cruise line told the New York Post, with Vista instead traveling to the Bahamas, making stops at Nassau, Princess Cays, Freeport, and Half Moon Cay. </p> <p>While a cruise worker was trying to explain the situation to passengers, some started chanting "Give us our money!" while staff tried to diffuse the situation.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_OYKHVvIIh/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_OYKHVvIIh/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Only in Florida (@onlyinfloridaa)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>“Ladies and gentlemen, the way you’re going about this with the noise and chaos isn’t going to solve any issues,” one cruise employee explained to the passengers, according to video obtained by Inside Edition.</p> <p>The passengers were given several choices once the cruise line determined the need for an itinerary change, as the cruise line said in a statement. </p> <p>“We communicated directly with guests on board regarding their options for the sailing,” Carnival said.</p> <p>“Those that sailed were given an on-board credit as well as a future cruise credit toward another cruise to make up for the unexpected change, and those who preferred not to sail were offered a 100 per cent refund.” </p> <p>Even with the choice of not cruising to the Bahamas, passengers were still frustrated with Carnival for the last-minute announcement.</p> <p>“They knew about the problem prior to us getting onto the ship,” Ashley Ball told the outlet. “They just didn’t say that until we were already on the ship, and, you know, went through customs and the lines and securities and all that, and then decided to display that information.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram</em></p>

Travel Trouble

Placeholder Content Image

Deck the halls with Carnival's Grinchmas in July cruises

<p>Roll out the mince pies! Carnival Cruise Line announces it will offer five ‘Grinchmas in July’ themed sailings onboard Carnival Splendor to its existing roster of fun-filled cruises.</p> <p>As part of Carnival’s ongoing Dr. Seuss partnership, the Grinch-themed cruises will bring the very best of ‘Christmas in July’ traditions to sea, allowing Australian guests to experience the fun of a wintry ‘Christmas’.</p> <p>The new additions come as part of Carnival’s ‘<a title="https://tbwa.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=be30b62527ebaa7f4369ae725&amp;id=ba3a14e61c&amp;e=ade5c0391b" href="https://tbwa.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=be30b62527ebaa7f4369ae725&amp;id=ba3a14e61c&amp;e=ade5c0391b" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Seuss at Sea</a>’ offerings, including its Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast, Seussapalooza and Seuss Storytime.</p> <p>Grinchmas in July will see Carnival Splendor transformed into a magical winter wonderland, its giant Christmas tree adorned with glittering lights and baubles galore; there’ll even be winter ‘snow’ on board.</p> <p>Guests will be able to immerse themselves in the full holiday spirit by enjoying a delicious array of festive food and beverage offerings, including Christmas-themed beverages and specialty dining options, ensuring a very merry time.</p> <p>The festive fun comes on top of the full array of 45+ activities guests have come to know and love on a Carnival Cruise.</p> <p>The Grinch himself will join the festivities with special appearances and a screening of <em>How the Grinch Stole Christmas</em> at the Dive-In Movies. The fun doesn’t stop there, as guests can party like a Who from Who-ville, to a ‘Jingle Bell Jam’ soundtrack, as well as Christmas carolling, festive games, trivia and arts and crafts. There’s even an ugly Christmas sweater night and festive outfit competition for the fashionistas of the family.</p> <p>VP of Carnival Cruise Line, Kara Glamore comments, “Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, but why should we limit the fun to December? With three within the winter school holidays, there’s no better way to spend time with the family during the school break”.</p> <p>Carnival’s Grinchmas in July sailings depart from Sydney starting from 30th June 2023. The full list of sailings include:</p> <ul> <li>Friday 30th June: 9-night sailing to the South Pacific visiting three amazing ports including Noumea, Mystery Island and Lifou</li> <li>Sunday 9th July: 4-night sailing including a trip to the picturesque Moreton Island, one of Australia's best kept secrets</li> <li>Thursday 13th July: 3-night Weekend Sampler where guests can soak in the very best of Sydney’s famous landmarks whilst getting a taste of the fun on board</li> <li>Sunday 16th July: 12-night South Pacific tour with just under two weeks sailing around the stunning South Pacific. Enjoy the sunshine in Noumea, whilst stopping off at other stunning locations such as Mystery Island and Lifou</li> <li>Friday 28th July: 3-night Weekend Sampler</li> </ul> <p>Fares for Carnival Cruise Line’s Grinchmas in July sailings start from $414* per person twin share interior.  For more information and bookings call 13 31 94, see your travel agent or visit <a style="color: #007c89;" title="https://tbwa.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=be30b62527ebaa7f4369ae725&amp;id=912946709f&amp;e=ade5c0391b" href="https://tbwa.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=be30b62527ebaa7f4369ae725&amp;id=912946709f&amp;e=ade5c0391b" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="color: #0000ff;">https://www.carnival.com.au/</span></a></p> <p><em>Image credits: Carnival Cruises </em></p>

Cruising

Placeholder Content Image

"Rest in paradise": Tina Turner's son passes away

<p>Tina Turner's son has died at age 62 after taking his own life. </p> <p>Ronnie Turner, the second-born son of the legendary singer, died on Thursday morning after police were called to his home in Los Angeles, according to reports from TMZ.</p> <p>Despite the best efforts of emergency services to revive him, Ronnie died at the scene. </p> <p>Ronnie's wife Afida announced the devastating news in an emotional post on Instagram.</p> <p>"My god Ronnie Turner a true angel, huge soul highly spiritual, my husband, my best friend my baby..." she captioned a series of photos. </p> <p>Tina Turner also shared a tribute to her late son in a short post on social media, alongside a black-and-white photo of herself grieving.</p> <p>"Ronnie, you left the world far too early," she wrote. "In sorrow I close my eyes and think of you, my beloved son."</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cl9Y5HtDRav/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cl9Y5HtDRav/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Tina Turner (@tinaturner)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Ronnie had battled several health issues in the past, including cancer.</p> <p>This is the second time in four years Turner's family has been rocked by tragedy, after the singer's eldest son Craig died by suicide at age 59 in 2018.</p> <p>"I think Craig was lonely, that's what I think really got him more than anything else," Turner said in an interview with Gayle King in 2019.</p> <p>"I have pictures all around of him smiling, and I think I'm sensing that he's in a good place. I really do."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram</em></p>

News

Placeholder Content Image

New details emerge after Coolio heads to 'Gangsta's Paradise’

<p dir="ltr">In the wake of the death of Coolio, the rapper behind the iconic ‘90s hit <em>Gangsta’s Paradise</em>, new details of his final moments have emerged.</p> <p dir="ltr">After the Grammy-award-winning artist was found unresponsive in the bathroom of a friend’s LA home on September 28, paramedics frantically worked to save him for 45 minutes before stopping.</p> <p dir="ltr">Coolio, who was born Artis Leon Ivey Jr, was found on the bathroom floor after he had gone in and not returned for “a while”, according to <em>TMZ</em>.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-3e291696-7fff-d63f-69b6-2faeb3d14919"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">He was later pronounced dead at the scene, with paramedics reportedly believing he suffered a cardiac arrest.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is sad news. I witness first hand this man’s grind to the top of the industry. Rest In Peace <a href="https://twitter.com/Coolio?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Coolio</a> <a href="https://t.co/vCeyn08Vsi">https://t.co/vCeyn08Vsi</a></p> <p>— Ice Cube (@icecube) <a href="https://twitter.com/icecube/status/1575295135516020737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Jarez Posey, Coolio’s friend and manager, confirmed the 59-year-old had died on Thursday.</p> <p dir="ltr">Posey told <em>TMZ </em>that the rapper had travelled to LA to sort out an issue with his passport ahead of his performance in Germany the following weekend.</p> <p dir="ltr">As tributes flowed for Coolio, one fan shared a story highlighting a kind and thoughtful side to him.</p> <p dir="ltr">“So much respect for the man!” the fan wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">“My schoolfriend was murdered in ‘97 and Coolio sent flowers to his funeral in London because he had heard he was a fan.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Along with a rap career that kicked off in the 1980s, Coolio also built a career in film and TV, including roles in <em>Batman & Robin</em> (1997), <em>The Nanny</em>, <em>Charmed</em>, and as a voice actor in <em>Futurama </em>and <em>Gravity Falls</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">He also went on to release the reality TV show <em>Cooking with Coolio</em>, followed by the show <em>Coolio’s Rules</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">But it was <em>Gangsta’s Paradise</em>, which featured on the soundtrack of the film<em> Dangerous Minds</em>, that earned him his Grammy award in 1996 and elevated him to stardom.</p> <p dir="ltr">In a recent interview, Coolio said it was a song “that transcends generations”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I didn’t use any trendy words ... I think it made it timeless.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Michelle Pfeiffer, who starred in <em>Dangerous Minds</em>, quickly shared a tribute to the artist after his passing.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-d5677dd1-7fff-fb08-22b6-14f1c8ef51c6">“Heartbroken to hear of the passing of the gifted artist Coolio,” she captioned a clip from the film where <em>Gangsta’s Paradise</em> plays.</span></p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CjEs3_XAkp6/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CjEs3_XAkp6/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Michelle Pfeiffer (@michellepfeifferofficial)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">“A life cut entirely too short. </p> <p dir="ltr">“As some of you may know I was lucky enough to work with him on <em>Dangerous Minds</em> in 1995. He won a Grammy for his brilliant song on the soundtrack - which I think was the reason our film saw so much success.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I remember him being nothing but gracious. 30 years later I still get chills when I hear the song. Sending love and light to his family. Rest in Power, Artis Leon Ivey Jr. ❤️”.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Compton-born artist leaves behind ten children, including six he shared with ex-wife Josefa Salinas.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b0856cb6-7fff-1263-cefc-8412cc1c156d"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: @coolio (Instagram)</em></p>

Caring

Placeholder Content Image

Cruise ship rescues 20 refugees

<p dir="ltr">A cruise ship has rescued 20 refugees from a small boat near Cuba, amid a growing number of cruising vessels assisting refugees they encounter while at sea.</p> <p dir="ltr">The <em>Carnival Paradise</em> was sailing between Mexico and Cuba when at least 20 refugees were spotted on what appeared to be a rowboat.</p> <p dir="ltr">Vici Sheffield, a travel agent who was on the <em>Carnival Paradise</em> during the rescue, shared an image of the refugees online, revealing in the comments that passengers were told the refugees were taken aboard for “their own safety”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We just saved a boat in distress. Wow. First time for me,” she captioned the photo on her Facebook page, Vici’s Travels.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-3e34d37b-7fff-f97a-52a7-db64213281c7"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">“Thankful they were spotted and the ship turned around.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The boat was reportedly drifting at the time it was spotted, with the Carnival cruise ship slowing and turning around to assist those on board.</p> <p dir="ltr">“In accordance with maritime law, we have taken them aboard our vessel and have notified all of the appropriate authorities,” the captain announced to cruise passengers, per <em><a href="https://www.cruisehive.com/carnival-cruise-ship-rescues-refugees-from-overloaded-boat/77811" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CruiseHive</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Though the weather was clear, sunny and relatively calm at the time, the rowboat appeared visibly overloaded and in poor condition.</p> <p dir="ltr">It was left adrift when the passengers were helped onto the cruise ship, with some containers left aboard.</p> <p dir="ltr">Having left Tampa, Florida, on July 20, the <em>Carnival Paradise</em> was scheduled to visit Roatan, Honduras, followed by Cozumel, Mexico, before returning to Tampa on August 4.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-0d40b04b-7fff-2392-9222-7c63786def0d"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">The Carnival cruise ship's rescue comes just days after <em>Carnival Sunrise</em> rescued 12 Cuban refugees that were adrift to the south of Key West.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">A <a href="https://twitter.com/WPLGLocal10?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WPLGLocal10</a> viewer cruising on the <a href="https://twitter.com/CarnivalCruise?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CarnivalCruise</a> Sunrise sent us this video from the ship as it came to the aid of 12 men stranded in a small boat south of Key West yesterday. The men, believed to be Cuban migrants, were later turned over to <a href="https://twitter.com/USCGSoutheast?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USCGSoutheast</a>. <a href="https://t.co/2Rd0Uh7wID">pic.twitter.com/2Rd0Uh7wID</a></p> <p>— Chris Gothner (@Chris_Gothner) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chris_Gothner/status/1553410507079651328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr"><em>Mardi Gras</em>, Carnival's flagship, rescued at least 22 refugees in two separate incidents in June, while Royal Caribbean International's <em>Allure of the Seas</em>, Celebrity Cruise Line's <em>Celebrity Apex</em>, and Carnival's <em>Carnival Magic</em> have also been involved in rescues this year.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-2c6d9f20-7fff-3afe-fd76-ffc3224127f7"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Vici Sheffield</em></p>

Cruising

Placeholder Content Image

Floating fracas: Hour-long brawl breaks out on cruise ship

<p>A mass brawl has broken out on a cruise ship heading into New York. However, it remains unsure if anybody will be charged.</p> <p>The brawl broke out on the dancefloor of a nightclub of the Carnival Magic cruise ship in the early hours of the morning on Tuesday the 28th of June.</p> <p>At the moment of the brawl, the ship was heading back to New York, but the exact location of the vessel will have a bearing on a criminal investigation depending on the jurisdiction of law enforcement it falls under. However, if it took place in international waters, it is possible everybody involved will get away scot-free.</p> <p>The NYPD has confirmed security on-board were unable to contain the fight and had to summon the Coast Guard. "Security onboard the boat attempted to de-escalate the situation and subsequently called for the Coast Guard," the police said in a statement.</p> <p>"The Coast Guard escorted the cruise ship to Pier 88, confines of the MTN Precinct. Uniformed personnel and Traffic Agents met the ship and the ship disembarked passengers without further incident".</p> <p>An eyewitness passenger Theresa James claims the fight began over a "threesome".</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Massive brawl breaks out in nightclub of Carnival cruise ship just off New York harbor. It started because someone got jealous over a “threesome”. The Coast Guard was summoned to escort the ship back to New York. <a href="https://t.co/2Xnljgi3O9">pic.twitter.com/2Xnljgi3O9</a></p> <p>— Mike Sington (@MikeSington) <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeSington/status/1542467886223982592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p>She said the fight lasted for an hour and stretched from the fifth floor to the first floor, involving up to 60 people.</p> <p>Carnival described the brawl as an "altercation".</p> <p>"Thankfully no serious injuries were reported and our onboard security team intervened."</p> <p>The brawl came at the end of an eight-day voyage, which went into various islands in the West Indies before heading back up the US east coast.</p> <p><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p>

Travel Trouble

Placeholder Content Image

Reporter stops live broadcast to save drowning child

<p dir="ltr">A Channel 7 reporter has been hailed a hero after rescuing a child during his live broadcast.</p> <p dir="ltr">Paul Burt was in Surfers Paradise in Queensland when a 10-year-old boy behind him got caught in a rip.</p> <p dir="ltr">Burt immediately stopped his reporting and jumped into the water to help the child who was with his family of inexperienced swimmers from Pakistan.</p> <p dir="ltr">“There was a 10-year-old boy ... that got dragged out into this fierce gutter, and of course into this rip,” Burt told <a href="https://7news.com.au/news/gold-coast/gold-coast-reporter-stops-live-cross-to-save-drowning-boy-in-rough-surf-c-6693814" target="_blank" rel="noopener">7News</a> after rescuing the boy. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Being of a light weight he managed to stay afloat and come in adjacent to the southern side of the gutter.</p> <p dir="ltr">“About four or five of us jumped in and basically pulled him back to the beach.”</p> <p dir="ltr">He explained that the boy had taken in a “fair bit of water in” and was treated by paramedics on scene.</p> <p dir="ltr">Burt took the opportunity to warn swimmers not to risk their lives because they may not get that lucky.</p> <p dir="ltr">Watch the incredible footage <a href="https://7news.com.au/news/gold-coast/gold-coast-reporter-stops-live-cross-to-save-drowning-boy-in-rough-surf-c-6693814" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: 7News</em></p>

Caring

Placeholder Content Image

Hanging out for a cruise? You’re not alone

<p dir="ltr">It feels like a lifetime ago when we were actually able to book cruises for a relaxing getaway.</p> <p dir="ltr">Thanks to Covid, that all stopped about two years ago to help stop the spread of the infectious disease.</p> <p dir="ltr">And let's not forget about the <em>Ruby Princess</em> fiasco…but we won’t go there. </p> <p dir="ltr">The ban on foreign cruises in and around Australian waters was extended until April 17, and cruise ship owners are hoping they can hit the waters once again. </p> <p dir="ltr">Marguerite Fitzgerald, the newly appointed President of Carnival Australia and P&amp;O Cruises Australia believes a return to the seas is on the horizon. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Once the ban is lifted, we expect there will be a lot of excitement and demand, and we want to be ready for that,” she told <a href="https://cruisepassenger.com.au/news/well-be-back-better-than-ever-new-carnival-boss-vows-a-party-to-celebrate-the-return-of-ships/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cruise Passenger</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">She predicts the cruise ban will be lifted by the middle of the year and is preparing a complete makeover of the ships following a grueling two-year break.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We are cancelled through to the end of May. It takes a while to ramp ships back up, when you think about having to bring crew over and suppliers have a lead time to be ready to supply the ships.  </p> <p dir="ltr">“So a middle of the year return, assuming we continue to make good progress, that's what we are aiming for.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Watch this sea (space).</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Carnival Australia </em></p>

Cruising

Placeholder Content Image

First COVID cruise death since restart of cruising scene

<p>Carnival cruises has marked their first death since the cruise scene kicked back up, after a 77-year-old woman died from contracting COVID-19.</p> <p>The woman departed on the Carnival Vista with her family on July 31, to sail to Belize, and soon tested positive for the novel virus after experiencing respiratory complications.</p> <p>27 people tested positive over two weeks in late July and early August – the highest number of cases since cruises begun sailing again.</p> <p>The New York Times reported she was a great-grandmother from Oklahoma.</p> <p>The woman was admitted to a hospital in Belize and was put on a ventilator before being evacuated to Tulsa, Oklahoma, and undergoing treatment.</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7843412/g.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/3be7c24f240b449da71e788aa5c08365" /></p> <p><em>Images: Getty Images</em></p> <p>The outbreak aboard the ship was discovered on the fourth day of an eight-day cruise.</p> <p>Twenty-six of those who tested positive were all crew members except for one passenger.</p> <p>The Texas Governor, Greg Abbott previously signed a law banning businesses from requiring proof of vaccination, however more than 96 per cent of passengers and all but one crew member on the Carnival Vista were fully vaccinated.</p> <p>Authorities are unsure if the woman who has since passed was fully vaccinated or not.</p> <p>“We are very sorry to hear about the death of a guest who sailed on Carnival Vista,” Carnival said in a statement.</p> <p>“Regrettably, there is a fair amount of disinformation about the circumstances of this matter.</p> <p>“The guest almost certainly did not contract COVID on our ship, and she was assisted with expert medical care on board and was ultimately evacuated from Belize after we provided a resource to her family. We have continued to provide support to her family and are not going to add to their sadness by commenting further.”</p> <p>Carnival has updated its vaccination policy that states a majority of guests will be required to be vaccinated.</p> <p>They must also present negative results of a COVID-19 test taken within three days before boarding a ship.</p> <p>Carnival has also states all passengers are required to wear a mask while indoors from August 7.</p> <p>“We have always required vaccinations. From our restart in July, 95+% guests have been vaccinated. We meet the definition of a vaccinated cruise,” a Carnival spokesperson said.</p> <p>“And we added the testing requirement on July 28. (August) 28 is when new guidelines for the Bahamas go into effect.”</p>

Cruising

Placeholder Content Image

Olivia Newton-John lists stunning Byron Bay retreat

<p>Olivia Newton-John has listed her picturesque wellness retreat in Byron Bay.</p> <p>The British-born Australian singer and actress has put their Gaia Retreat &amp; Spa on the market, which is set attract global interest.</p> <p>Between Newton-John and co-owners Gregg Cave, Ruth Kalnin and Warwick Evans, they have described the decision to sell the paradise as bittersweet.</p> <p>“For over 16 years and winning more than 55 global awards, Gaia Retreat &amp; Spa was a dream that became a wonderful reality,” the<span> </span><em>Grease<span> </span></em>star said in a statement on behalf of the owners.</p> <p>“Over these blessed years, co-owners Gregg Cave, Ruth Kalnin, Warwick Evans and myself have helped make Gaia ‘heaven on earth’ by creating a healing and loving place that has become so important to us and our guests from all over the world.</p> <p>“Having won so many humbling and outstanding awards, we have decided it is time to ‘pass the baton’ to new custodians so they can continue our positive message that Gaia is ‘your timeout to reconnect, breathe and surrender’.</p> <p>“It’s bittersweet, but as a team, we always agreed that we would ‘go out on top’ and we couldn’t be more proud of the Gaia we have built with our incredible family team.”</p> <p>Colliers’ real estate agents Karen Wales and Gus Moors told realcommercial.com.au that the Byron Bay retreat is sure to receive interest on a global scale.</p> <p>“The current owners wish to entrust their custodianship to likeminded visionaries who are inspired to continue their ‘G.R.O.W.’ ethos – Gratitude, Respect, Organic, Wellness,” Mr Moors said.</p> <p>Mr Moors said that the location of the retreat makes it an attractive offer for potential buyers.</p> <p>“Highly-profitable luxury retreats are rarely traded, given the strong combination of excellent cashflow and enviable lifestyle offering,” Mr Moors said.</p> <p>“The opportunity to secure such a large, tourist-zoned site in the pristine hinterland of Australia’s highest growth tourism region overlooking the coastline of Byron Bay will never be replicated.”</p> <p>The Gaia retreat was founded in 2005 and has over 22 rooms, suites and villas along with a day spa, restaurant, swimming pool, walking tracks set over eight hectares and tennis court.</p> <p>“The simplicity of Gaia Retreat &amp; Spa as a pioneer of barefoot luxury means an incoming owner has limited medium-term capital expenditure requirements through its understated, yet high quality, interior design,” Ms Wales said.</p> <p>Gaia over the years has developed a strong customer base.</p> <p>“Unlike many other Australian luxury retreats, Gaia is easily accessible from the domestic and international airports of Ballina and Gold Coast, thereby ensuring year-round demand,” Ms Wales said.</p> <p>Byron Bay has fast become a celebrity hotspot – a phenomenon fronted by Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky.</p> <p>Newton-John described the mesmerising paradise as a “special magical place”.</p>

Real Estate

Placeholder Content Image

Heading for Paradise

<p>Justine and Chris Tyerman set off on a road trip to Central Otago... with no idea where they will end up each day. </p> <p>‘Fancy a South Island motorhome road trip this winter... since we can’t travel overseas?’ I asked my husband while he was enjoying a beer by the fire one chilly evening in May.</p> <p>Knowing his hyperactive tendencies, I quickly added biking, hiking and skiing to the mix.</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 300.78125px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7838559/3-on-a-calm-day-the-mountains-are-perfectly-reflected-in-the-mirror-waters-of-the-lagoon-at-glenorchy.png" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/250001b025aa47f7909fef91f3310fef" /><br /><em>On a calm day, the mountains are perfectly reflected in the mirror waters of the lagoon at Glenorchy. ©Camp Glenorchy Eco Retreat</em></p> <p>There was a flicker of interest, especially when I flashed a photo of a luxurious late- model Maui Cascade motorhome in front of him, hinted at the possibility of trialling a couple of brand new Wisper Wayfarer ebikes and reminded him that now we were both ‘seniors’, skiing had just got a lot cheaper.</p> <p>‘What about the weather?’ Chris asked. ‘We’ll freeze to death in a motorhome down south in the winter.’</p> <p>‘Nope. The Cascade has a super-efficient heating system... but we’ll take hot water bottles... just in case.’</p> <p>Fast forward to late August — we duly arrived at Queenstown Airport, collected our smart four-berth motorhome from the nearby Maui depot and set about finding storage for our all bulky ski gear, ebikes, suitcases and enough provisions to last a month. My husband has a fear of running out of food.</p> <p>‘If only you could learn to travel lightly,’ came the predictable comment from Chris, to which I replied, predictably, ‘If only you could learn to buy just what we need.’</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 300.78125px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7838560/3-on-a-calm-day-the-mountains-are-perfectly-reflected-in-the-mirror-waters-of-the-lagoon-at-glenorchy-copy-2.png" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/defe5a53d85f43f583d7a86e0e3d013b" /><br /><em>Our four-berth Maui Cascade motorhome at the head of Lake Wakatipu. Picture by Justine Tyerman</em></p> <p>Investigating the motorhome, we discovered to our surprise and delight that the skis, boots and poles fitted perfectly in the spacious under-floor compartment, the clothes in the wardrobe and drawers, the empty cases in the over-cab storage, the food in the fridge and kitchen cupboards, one ebike on the rear rack, (sans battery because of weight restrictions), and one inside, wrapped in an old duvet with gloves on the peddles and handlebars.</p> <p>Mission accomplished, we were away laughing... literally. We had no idea where would end up that day. We had been advised to plug into a mains-powered site on our first night in order to fully charge the batteries but thereafter, being fully self-contained, we could freedom camp for up to three days using battery and gas power.</p> <p>After stopping briefly to cushion the cutlery, crockery and pots and pans with tea towels to stop the clattering, the big rig trundled along smoothly and quietly. Chris found the driving effortless with great vision from such an elevated position.</p> <p>The heady sense of freedom took a while to sink in. We had to reprogramme ourselves to the fact we had no fixed itinerary, no bookings or check-in/check-out times and no commitments. The sole focus of every day was to meander along at a leisurely pace driving no more than a few hours, and find stunning spots to stop for lunch, dinner, hiking, ebiking and overnighting.</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 301.5625px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7838557/gettyimages-1076492536-640x640.png" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/311c3553b6054a5cb22831244d4ff8dd" /><em>Justine on her Wisper Wayfarer ebike. Picture by Chris Tyerman</em></p> <p>At the Frankton intersection, we had the choice of left to Glenorchy or right to Arrowtown. Chris pointed left, I nodded, and we set off for the idyllic little settlement at the head of Lake Wakatipu, just 50 minutes from Queenstown on one the world’s most scenic lakeside drives. In the pre-Covid era, finding parking space to pull over at the popular observation point at Bennett’s Bluff to photograph the breath-taking view of the lake and mountains would have been well-nigh impossible but we had the road to ourselves that day. We’ve driven that route dozens of times but we’re always spellbound by the vast expanse of the teal-blue lake enclosed on all sides by jagged peaks and gleaming glaciers.</p> <p>We reached Glenorchy by mid-afternoon, leapt on our Wisper Wayfarers and explored the Heritage Trail, an excellent track and boardwalk that begins at the famous Glenorchy boatshed on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and weaves its way through wetlands and lagoons inhabited by native birds, across paddocks and the local golf course. On a calm day, the mountains are perfectly reflected in the mirror waters of the lagoon. The views of Mt Earnslaw/Pikirakatahi and the surrounding ranges are spectacular.</p> <p>No wonder they call this place Paradise... but ironically, it’s not named for the heavenly scenery. To be continued...</p> <p><em>Justine Tyerman travelled courtesy of </em><a href="https://www.maui-rentals.com/nz/en?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=justine-tyerman"><em>thl</em></a><em> in a </em><a href="https://www.maui-rentals.com/nz/en/motorhome-hire/4-berth-campervan-cascade?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=justine-tyerman"><em>Maui 4-berth Cascade motorhome,</em></a><em> and rode a </em><a href="https://wisperbikes.co.nz/"><em>Wisper Wayfarer ebike</em></a><em> courtesy of </em><a href="http://www.electricbikes.co.nz/"><em>Electric Bikes NZ.</em></a></p>

International Travel

Placeholder Content Image

Cruise line targets “offensive” clothing for passengers

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Carnival Cruise Lines are issuing a new ban on clothing that might be considered “offensive”. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The announcement made in late 2019 has sparked a heated debate on whether regulating clothing worn infringes on “free speech rights” or if it is even enforceable. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Carnival's brand ambassador and senior cruise director, John Heald, released details about the addition to Carnival's dress code on his popular Facebook page, revealing it was added to the FAQ section of Carnival's website "in the past few days."</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The section reads: "All guests are expected to ensure their clothing and accessories are respectful to fellow guests. Specifically, items worn during the cruise should not contain any message that may be considered offensive or contain nudity, profanity, sexual innuendo/suggestions. In addition, clothing/accessories should not promote negative ethnic or racial commentary, or hatred or violence in any form."</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Carnival spokesman Vance Gulliksen said the change to clothing regulations came "after some incidents were reported in the media about other travel sectors where customers were wearing clothing with very threatening messages."</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The reports "started a discussion about how we were prepared to handle such a situation and the need for clarification to both guests and crew."</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Carnival spokesman Gulliksen said that while the line’s crew members are "not onboard to be the clothing or expression police," staff members will still go out of their way to "look out for guests wearing clothes with inappropriate images or language and ask them to change as needed.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">"We will evaluate situations on a case-by-case basis and take appropriate steps as necessary."</span></p>

Cruising

Placeholder Content Image

Trouble in paradise? Kate Middleton shrugs off hand on shoulder from Prince William

<p>Duchess Kate set tongues wagging in her and Prince William’s latest TV appearance on<span> </span><em>A Berry Royal Christmas</em>.</p> <p>She appeared to shrug off her husband’s hand when he placed it on her shoulder as they were speaking with volunteers on the show.</p> <p>The pair hosted a Christmas party for charity workers and volunteers who will spend their holiday period working with former <em>Great British Bake Off</em> judge Mary Berry for the BBC.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B6GlHWlJYEW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B6GlHWlJYEW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A Berry Royal Christmas.🎄The Duchess of Cambridge has revealed that one of 19-month-old Prince Louis' first words was Mary because he recognised Mary Berry in a cookbook. William and Catherine have joined the former Bake Off presenter in a Christmassy TV special. Click the link in our bio to find out more.👆#MaryBerry #RoyalFamily #bake #bbcnews</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/bbcnews/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"> BBC News</a> (@bbcnews) on Dec 15, 2019 at 10:16am PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Fans were quick to point out how awkward the encounter was.</p> <p>“She moved with a quickness,” commented one fan on Twitter, while a second wrote: “Awkward! Too awkward!! They should have cut it out!”</p> <p>Another noted: “Kate shaking off William’s hand on her shoulder during #ABerryRoyalChristmas.”</p> <p>Another added: “What just happened here???? Ouch!”</p> <p>“I really can’t stop watching this,” said another Twitter user, while a second penned: “Very awkward indeed.”</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en-gb"> <p dir="ltr">Kate shaking off William's hand on her shoulder during <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ABerryRoyalChristmas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ABerryRoyalChristmas</a> <a href="https://t.co/NyzjdKC3rk">pic.twitter.com/NyzjdKC3rk</a></p> — Caitlin McBride (@mcbride_caitlin) <a href="https://twitter.com/mcbride_caitlin/status/1206688540991655936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">16 December 2019</a></blockquote> <p>However, some other Twitter users had another theory.</p> <p>“I like the way they interact, it’s professional. I don’t want to see excessive hand holding and back rubbing. It’s awkward, like you’re intruding on a private moment,” commented one, while a second added: “They’re not supposed to show PDA.”</p> <p>”Why can’t people just be content with the fact that she didn’t feel a PDA was appropriate at that moment/at that event,” said another via social media. “It wasn’t about them, it was about all the volunteers.”</p> <p>Kate also shared a sweet story about how she stays up late to bake a cake before each child's birthday.</p> <p>“It’s become a bit of a tradition that I stay up until midnight with ridiculous amounts of cake mix and icing and I make far too much,” said Kate.</p> <p>“But I love it.”</p>

Relationships

Placeholder Content Image

Come and see the festivals and markets in Darwin

<p>Darwin has two major seasons, the dry (April-October) and the wet. Now, I must say life in Darwin is dramatically different between the two seasons due to substantial differences in the amount of rainfall, humidity, and community activities for visitors.</p> <p>The dry season, known affectionately as “The Dry,” is definitely the best time to visit Darwin. You’ll know it’s come as the beginning of the season is marked by the opening of the markets all around Darwin and surrounds.</p> <p><strong>The Markets:</strong></p> <p>The most famous of the lot are the Mindil Beach Sunset markets. As the name suggests, the evening-time markets are an incredible way to watch the sunset on Thursdays and Sundays. Stalls filled with clothes, gadgets, and more are lost amongst those offering yummy and quick eats. When it comes to food, the Mindil Beach markets offer the widest range of options from Indian, Malaysian, Japanese, and of course Australian. There’s something for everyone and plenty of room to sit either on the grassy areas or right on the beach to watch the sun go down.</p> <p>The Parap, Nightcliff, and Rapid Creek markets are slightly further out of Darwin city, but definitely still worth visiting. On Saturday mornings at Parap and Sunday mornings in Nightcliff, the traveling market sellers spend the day delighting market goers usually until around 2pm. Although smaller in scale than the Mindil Beach market, there is a range of oriental cuisine available and a good selection of clothing and small goods stalls.</p> <p>The markets run each week, but every so often Darwin gets to host larger events and festivals. Try to time your trip with one of the festivals!</p> <p><strong>The Taste Festival<br /></strong>The Taste Festival, which usually runs in April, is the the Top End’s way of pleasing the foodies. Restaurants all around Darwin are highlighted in the Territory Taste publication and are included in tasting packages and deals.</p> <p><strong>Fringe Festival<br /></strong>Darwin hosted the quirky Fringe Festival this year in early July which put on theater, art and comedy shows, pop-up galleries, live music, and more at venues around Darwin. While most are ticketed, some events are free for both Darwin residents and visitors to enjoy. Some of the local favourites include the many theatre shows and music events.</p> <p><strong>The Darwin Festival<br /></strong>This year, the Darwin Festival will be held on 10-27 August, good timing as the still-dry weather will be irresistible for visitors. This festival focuses on celebrating the traditional landowners and the multicultural identity of the Northern Territory. Over the 18-day festival Darwin hosts a multitude of free and ticketed events around the city. Whether you enjoy art or music or simply love to learn, listening to traditional stories and enjoying the cultural events are sure to please!</p> <p><strong>The Darwin Cup Carnival<br /></strong>Love the races? The Darwin Cup Carnival in July and August is a favourite piece of the fun of The Dry! Try to catch Ladies’ day or one of the many other special days at the Darwin Turf Club.</p> <p>As you can see, the dry season is an exciting time to visit Darwin. And, while the markets and festivals keep you busy in town, the water-holes and swimming areas in the nearby national parks are finally open for swimming when the dry season arrives. So, inside or outside the city, the dry season is surely the best time to plan a trip!</p> <p><em>Written by Luray Joy. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.mydiscoveries.com.au/stories/festivals-markets-darwin/">MyDiscoveries.</a></em></p>

Travel Tips

Placeholder Content Image

Lord Howe Island: a nature-lover’s paradise

<p>From adventurous walks to stunning snorkels, Lord Howe Island is the ideal exotic escape for anyone wanting a diverse array of astonishing natural scenery and activities. It is the ideal vacation locale for venturesome Aussies looking to travel, quite literally, outside the 'normal' Australia.</p> <p><strong>Lord Howe Island facts</strong><br />Lord Howe Island is a multi-award winning, World Heritage-listed paradise less than a two-hour flight from Sydney and Brisbane. It is located 600km from Australia’s east coast and is an unincorporated area of New South Wales. Although it is part of the electoral district of Port Macquarie, it is self-governed by the Lord Howe Island Board.</p> <p>Lord Howe Island has just 350 permanent residents and allows only 400 tourists to visit at any one time. As well as regular flights from Sydney (weekdays) and Brisbane (weekends), QantasLink also offers a seasonal Saturday service from Port Macquarie (September to end of May in 2016/17). </p> <p>Lord Howe Island enjoys consistently warm weather, with average maximum temperatures of around 25 degrees Celsius in summer, dropping to an average of 19 degrees in winter.</p> <p>The island is a truly unique and refreshing getaway as it is beyond the reach of mobile phones and other technologies, forcing you to evade civilisation and immerse yourself in the unspoiled natural landscape. The island features all basic amenities such as a hospital, shops, post office, churches and public phones. One of the most refreshing elements is that you can walk or cycle everywhere around the island. There are also a limited number of cars available for hire if the situation calls for it.</p> <p>It is incredibly safe for people of all ages, including children on account of the lack of snakes or stingers and the island-wide speed limit of 25km/h.</p> <p>The real attractions of Lord Howe Island are its pristine forests and coastlines, as well as the abundant native wildlife. The island is a remnant of a now-extinct shield volcano dating back seven million years. And remarkably, 87% of the original native vegetation remains on the unique isle. </p> <p>It is home to 241 species of indigenous plants, almost half of which are not found anywhere else in the world. On top of the 500 fish species, 1600 terrestrial insect species and 90 coral species, more seabirds breed in higher numbers on Lord Howe than anywhere else in the world.</p> <p><strong>How to plan a trip to Lord Howe</strong><br />In terms of organising your trip, there are a range of travel operators who organise travel, accommodation and tours to Lord Howe Island. It is easiest and cheapest to organise the trip as part of a package or bundle, as your accommodation provider will then pick you up from the airport and help you arrange activities once on the island.</p> <p><strong>Real traveller's tips<br /></strong>Gold Coast resident Heather Mayr recently did a trip to Lord Howe Island with her 78-year-old mother and 55-year-old sister and husband. Her biggest piece of advice for anyone travelling to Lord Howe Island is to be flexible. When planning tours she suggests that you simply register your interest, and then you will be notified (the night before or the morning of) as to whether the trip will go ahead.</p> <p>“Many of the tours and activities operate subject to weather conditions, which are very changeable – so don’t go there with a set itinerary. You need to be flexible and jump at opportunities when they come up.”</p> <p>Keeping this changeable weather in mind, Heather also recommended taking out travel insurance as the flights can often be cancelled. Below are Heather’s top recommended activities for anyone travelling to Lord Howe Island.</p> <p><strong>Top 5 activities on Lord Howe Island</strong></p> <p><strong>1. Bushwalk to a mountaintop for breathtaking 360-degree views</strong> </p> <p>Challenge yourself with the eight-hour return trek to the tallest peak (875m), Mt Gower. This stunning walk features a misty alpine forest, thrilling, rope-assisted climbs and unparalleled views of the surrounding coastline and bushland. Alternatively, if you are looking for a less demanding stroll, you could opt for the one-hour walk to Transit Hill, which also offers stunning 360-degree views of the island.</p> <p><strong>2. Snorkelling at Ned’s Beach</strong></p> <p>Snorkelling is one of the best ways to observe the phenomenal marine life of Lord Howe Island. Wade through the crystal blue water, watch as schools of colourful fish flock to your side as you hand-feed the fascinating little creatures and enjoy the mesmerising kaleidoscope of colours of the fish and coral reef – the southernmost coral reef on the planet.</p> <p><strong>3. Turtle tour in a glass-bottom boat</strong></p> <p>A glass-bottom boat is one of the most authentic and awe-inspiring experiences, allowing you to witness turtles and other phenomenal marine life in their natural habitat.</p> <p><strong>4. Fishing charter or boat tour circumnavigating the island</strong></p> <p>A boat tour provides you the chance to explore the 551-metre Ball’s Pyramid, the world’s tallest sea-stack. You can also go fishing, and spot birds, fish and even dolphins.</p> <p><strong>5. Surfing at Blinky Beach</strong></p> <p>Blinky Beach is a pristine location offering some of the most secluded surfing opportunities in the country. It is also a perfect location for a fishing trip or a relaxing picnic.</p> <p>Other popular activities on Lord Howe Island include golfing with one of the most stunning views in the country, scuba diving among the diverse marine wildlife, kayaking, paddle boarding, bird watching and a myriad of other tours and natural experiences.</p> <p><em>Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/travel/lord-howe-island-a-nature-lovers-paradise.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a></em></p>

Travel Tips

Placeholder Content Image

Passengers infected with gastro outbreak on way to Singapore

<p>A cruise ship that left Perth earlier this month has ended its journey to Singapore with some unhappy passengers who were infected with norovirus.</p> <p>It is understood by <em><a href="https://www.news.com.au/travel/travel-updates/incidents/2000-passengers-on-cruise-ship-evacuated-after-gastro-outbreak/news-story/79883406ce57d3e382db8c5d2c8ef0ff">news.com.au</a></em> that at least 16 passengers on board the ship had symptoms of the virus before everyone disembarked on the final day of the trip in Singapore.</p> <p>The ship had 2,000 passengers on board.</p> <p>Symptoms of norovirus generally last between one and three days. Medical experts recommend regularly washing your hands to avoid contracting the disease.</p> <p>A spokesman for Carnival Australia said that despite initial reports, the vast majority of passengers on board the ship were not impacted by the norovirus.</p> <p>“The vast majority of the 2000 guests on Sun Princess were unaffected but it takes relatively few cases of illness to be reported for on-board sanitation measures to be increased,” the statement provided to news.com.au read.</p> <p>“Creating and maintaining a healthy on-board environment is always a priority with the highest public health standards employed based on best international practice. On-board sanitation was swiftly stepped up following some guests reporting gastrointestinal symptoms confirmed as being due to Norovirus.</p> <p>“Out of an abundance of care and in line with best practice, extra cleaning of the terminal was also carried out on Wednesday.”</p> <p>Carnival Australia’s cruise ships feature casinos, pools and sporting facilities.</p>

Travel Trouble

Placeholder Content Image

Exploring Kakadu: A paradise to see

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The sun is settling across the horizon of the wetlands; thousands of birds are already in place on the calm waters, while many more are making their way across the sky in group formation to where they will rest for the night.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It’s a warm evening with a light breeze and our bush oven is flavouring our bush tucker dinner that was collected during the day.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The sun is setting now which means that our fresh barramundi, wild magpie goose and water buffalo will be ready soon.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Happy and with new friends, we settle in to enjoy the spectacular sunset with a cup of freshly made billy tea with smiles on our faces. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Animal Tracks Safaris are no ordinary tours as we soon find out: it’s the real deal and definitely one of the best tours we have enjoyed anywhere in the world. Owner and tour guide Sean’s passion for Kakadu is complimented by our aboriginal bush guide Patsy who provides us with an insight into traditional living and hunting across this remarkable land. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Our open sided tour bus is comfortable and allows us to all see, hear and smell the bush. It really is a magnificent setting. On our tour is a group of mixed nations aged from 10 years old up to my Mum, Judy, who had recently arrived in Darwin on the Ghan from Adelaide who is in her early 70’s.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Meeting our local guide Patsy really feels like an honour. Patsy is shy at first but warmed to us all as we did to her. Learning how to gather bush tucker and about the history of the area from her was an amazing experience. To me I’ve always looked at the bush landscape as just bush but Patsy helped show me that it’s really a remarkable provider of food and resources to sustain life.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The amount of birds on the water and in the skies around us is hard to imagine as are the sunsets. Kakadu is a paradise and should be at the top of everyone’s to do list.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Kakadu’s Yellow Water Cruise which operates from near Cooinda Lodge is also a great way to experience the abundance of wildlife amongst stunning waterways.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Our guide gives a really informative commentary and is an expert in naming the wide variety of bird life that we come across. On our morning cruise we were certainly treated to a great show by the local crocodiles which were basking in the sunshine along the banks and swimming with surprising grace past our boat.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It ‘s too hard to describe Kakadu without using all of the usual superlatives, in fact Kakadu probably inspired the creation of many superlatives in the first place. Amazing, magic, inspiring, a must see!</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Written by Lynton Jones. Republished with permission of </span><a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/travel/explore-kakadu-the-paradise-of-the-north.aspx"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Wyza.com.au.</span></a></em></p>

Cruising

Placeholder Content Image

Inside the popular island paradise that hides a deadly secret

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sitting among the quiet island of Stromboli, Italy, is a ticking time bomb that has also made the island home.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The 300-full time residents are used to the rumbles that frequently disturb the island that’s surrounded by the Tyrrhenian Sea.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The rumbles are due to a deadly volcanic mountain that rises 924 metres above sea level and extends more than 1,000 metres below.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Earlier this year, the volcano erupted twice, separated by 30 seconds.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Residents and tourists were quickly evacuated from the island as lava spat from the active mouths of the mountain. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“It was like being in hell because of the rain of fire coming from the sky,” Stromboli priest Giovanni Longo told local media.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The explosion killed one hiker and covered the island in ash.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B3VDSRiCEmY/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B3VDSRiCEmY/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">Italy, together with Iceland, presents the highest concentration of active volcanoes in Europe and is one of the first in the world #volcano #volcanoes #italy #etna #vesuvio #stromboli #vulcano #naples #napoli #catania #pompei #eruption #risk #risks #alerts #eruption #lava #lapilli #island</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/i_love_made_in_italy/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"> I love made in Italy</a> (@i_love_made_in_italy) on Oct 7, 2019 at 12:35pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After the small town recovered, there was a “high intensity” blast just two months later.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">No one was injured, but footage emerged of residents fleeing the island in a panic.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Experts believe that the volcano on the island has been in nearly continuous eruption for at least 2,000 years, but it’s the unknown that keeps residents and tourists on edge.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">More and more tourists are heading to the island to witness the powerful experience of a volcanic eruption.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Volcanoes are one of the forces of nature that truly are beyond human power to control: We can’t do anything about eruptions, other than get out of the way,” Amy Donovan, a geographer at the University of Cambridge, wrote for a paper published in December with the Royal Geographical Society.</span></p>

Travel Trouble

Our Partners