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• Lizard Island: An Idyllic Paradise

  
  Located 17 miles off the Queensland coast, Lizard Island Luxury Resort is the premier accommodation for experiencing the Great Barrier Reef. Being a resort on one of the world’s natural wonders, it’s the only accommodation promising coveted reef encounters and seclusion. Lizard Island offers direct access to the fringing reef, with vibrant snorkeling and scuba diving just a short boat ride away. The complimentary activities, crisp Scandinavian décor, and top-notch cuisine make Lizard Island an idyllic paradise and a must for those seeking beauty, relaxation, and luxury.

  

  Beach | Photo Credit: Lizard Island – Great Barrier Reef Luxury Island Resort

  Getting There

  A 60-minute flight from Cairns transports you to heaven on earth. Meanwhile, guests have a prime view of the turquoise waters and sprawling reef formations below. The runway is so close that it only takes a few minutes to reach the check-in desk. Within a half hour of landing, you can hop into the water and snorkel with giant clams and colorful fish.

  

  Diving | Photo Credit: Tourism Queensland

  The untouched nature surrounding the property creates an instantly relaxing environment. You’ll see the spider lilies that line the wooden walkways, and watch blissful butterflies and birds drift by. Then, approach the understated elegance of the 40 suites and villas, decorated with homey furniture, and a palette based on whites and creams, soft browns, and muted blues. The large glass sliding doors allow the natural environment outside to extend inside. Actually quite literally…I stumbled upon a lizard in my suite!

  With direct beach access, a spacious deck, and a cozy King-size day bed, the Beachfront Suite is my personal favorite room category. Finally, end the evening relaxing on the day bed with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc in hand, watching the sunset over Anchor Bay.

  

  Beachfront Suite | Photo Credit: Lizard Island – Great Barrier Reef Luxury Island Resort

  

  Living Room | Photo Credit: Lizard Island – Great Barrier Reef Luxury Island Resort

  

  Bathroom | Photo Credit: Lizard Island – Great Barrier Reef Luxury Island Resort

  

  Patio | Photo Credit: Lizard Island – Great Barrier Reef Luxury Island Resort

  Lizard Island Cuisine

  Salt Water is the only restaurant on site, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The laid back eatery has views of the Coral Sea and the palm trees. All meals are incredibly fresh and focus on the island’s local resources. First, start with a plentiful breakfast including tropical fruits like dragon fruit and star fruit, as well as staple items such as eggs, bread, and house-made honey yogurt. Then, finish off with dinner that varies daily. The menu highlights the catch of the day, with a modern Australian flare and Asian fusion.

  

  Seafood Dinner | Photo Credit: Kathryn Fischer

  

  Breakfast | Photo Credit: Kathryn Fischer

  Also included in the nightly rate is a “create your own” picnic basket. Lunch choices vary from sushi and king prawns, to cheeses and meats, and champagne, of course! After lunch, take advantage of the complimentary boat transfer to one of the island’s 24 beaches. You could also use a motorized dinghy to discover a sandy cove on your own. Lastly, end the day snorkeling with turtles and enjoying the solitude of an empty shore.

  

  Beach Picnic | Photo Credit: Kathryn Fischer

  Activities on Lizard Island

  Other activities include scuba diving, fishing, paddle boarding, and glass-bottom kayaking. Other than that, you may stay on land and visit the Lizard Island Research Centre, go on a scenic hike, play a round of tennis, have a dip in the freshwater pool, indulge in a spa treatment, or practice yoga on the beach. Lizard Island Resort is perfect for those seeking an exclusive experience in paradise.

  

  Dinghy | Photo Credit: Lizard Island – Great Barrier Reef Luxury Island Resort

  

  Beach View | Photo Credit: Kathryn Fischer

  

  Essentia Day Spa | Photo Credit: Lizard Island – Great Barrier Reef Luxury Island Resort

  

  Pool | Photo Credit: Lizard Island – Great Barrier Reef Luxury Island Resort

  Lodge Features:

  • 40 suites and villas located directly on the Great Barrier Reef
  • Restaurant highlighting fresh seafood and produce, unlimited non-alcoholic beverages
  • A selection of fine Australian and New Zealand wines, beers, and spirits
  • In-room mini bar, restocked daily with snacks, and beverages
  • Day spa, freshwater pool, gym, and tennis court
  • 24 private beaches with complimentary drop-off
  • Activities on land such as hiking, tennis, and nature presentations
  • Water activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and motorized dinghies
  • Books and games library
  • Guest lounge with internet access

  

  Kathryn Fischer

  Though I was born and raised in Philadelphia, a city that values tradition, my path of life has been not so standard. I’ve lived on the East and West coasts of the United States, and have ventured over the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, studying food and wine in Italy, and working in the travel industry in Australia. Travelling across the globe has allowed me to recognize my true passion: helping others experience this beautiful, yet varied world that we live in. I have a wandering soul that continually urges me to visit new countries, meet new people, and learn new things; I love to adventure to faraway destinations, discovering unfamiliar cultures, and tasting their local cuisine.

  Lizard Island: An Idyllic Paradise was last modified: September 7th, 2017 by Kathryn Fischer

  August 21, 2017 • Articles, Australia, Destinations, Kathryn Fischer, Luxury Lodges, Property Highlights, Travels • Views: 1980

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• Rustic Elegance – Wolgan Valley Resort

  
  Located in New South Wales, home to the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains, sits Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley. This lodge offers the rare opportunity to experience true luxury in a spectacular Australian bush setting. Surrounding by a beautiful backdrop, Wolgan Valley is the true epitome of luxury.

  

  Blue Mountains | Photo Credit: Destination NSW

  Getting There

  About a 3 hour drive Northwest of Sydney, you’ll find the stunning luxury lodge of Wolgan Valley.  The drive is easy highway driving at first, before weaving into the mountains and past Katoomba.  The last part of the drive can be intimidating, as you’re winding on narrow roads down into the Valley.  We drove there in the dark, which I wouldn’t recommend for the faint of heart!

  

  Pathway | Photo Credit: Jessa Rachael Photography

  

  Pool | Photo Credit: Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa

  

  Wolgan Valley Exterior | Photo Credit: Jessa Rachael Photography

  Rustic Elegance – Wolgan Valley

  Once we arrived, my partner and I were collected at the car park and taken in one of the lodges 4WD vehicles up to the main lodge of the property.  Due to our late arrival, we immediately sat for dinner and were not disappointed to say the least.  The cuisine was absolutely world-class.  They have a tasting menu if your table is keen to commit, or an a-la-carte menu.  The first night we stuck to a-la-carte and then the second evening, went for the tasting menu.  Each dish was exceptionally plated and delicious.  After dinner, we were taken to our private villa.  Our villa had an open concept sitting room and bedroom, divided by a double sided fireplace; large bathroom, walk-in closet, and our own private heated plunge pool.  The feel was luxurious, but comfortable; we could have stayed there forever!

  

  Picnic | Photo Credit: Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa

  

  Private Dining Room | Photo Credit: Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa

  

  Living Area | Photo Credit: Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa

  

  Suite | Photo Credit: Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa

  Activities Outside the Lodge

  In the morning, we awoke to a gorgeous view that had evaded us the previous day due to arriving after dark.  We were surrounded by stunning cliffs in the middle of a valley.  Outside of our villa was a beautiful rainbow, and a few kangaroos.  Breakfast boasted an array of buffet options such as granola, fruit, cereals, pastries, juices and breads.  There was a hot menu for order as well.  Then, we headed off to horseback ride on the property.

  

  Rainbow | Photo Credit: Jessa Rachael Photography

  

  Kangaroos | Photo Credit: Jessa Rachael Photography

  

  Horses | Photo Credit: Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa

  A staff member drove us to the stables, discussed the basics of riding for those who were new to horseback riding, and paired us with a horse.  We embarked on a 90 minute trail ride through the property, and it was breathtaking.  Along the way, we spotted kangaroos, wallabies, and lots of bird life.  After our ride, we decided to tackle one of the properties numerous hiking and biking trails, spotting more wildlife along the way.

  After another exceptional dinner, we spent the evening relaxing and looking at the unhindered stars.

  Lodge Features:

  • 40 villas that accommodate travelers from single guests to family
  • Private pool with a deck surrounded by a garden of native plants and shrubs
  • Spa featuring many different treatments
  • In-room dining
  • Wifi throughout the resort
  • Access to onsite archery range
  • Access to onsite tennis courts

  

  Sarah Herman

  As a graduate of Eastern University with a degree in Anthropology, I have always valued the experiences one can find in other cultures. I’ve spent time in Belize, Honduras, Mexico, Kenya, and backpacked across Western Europe seeing 12 countries there. I have lived in Sydney and used it as a base for travels across the country. I’ve also spent time in New Zealand; and my latest trip back was a luxury lodge tour across both islands, seeing first hand some of the most breathtaking accommodations and properties that New Zealand has to offer. With the passion and longing for every individual to experience at least one other culture in their lifetime, I have found myself at Swain; with the opportunity to bring this passion to life.

  Rustic Elegance – Wolgan Valley Resort was last modified: September 7th, 2017 by Sarah Herman

  August 14, 2017 • Australia, Luxury Lodges, Property Highlights, Sarah Herman, Travels • Views: 1768

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• Southern Ocean Lodge – Kangaroo Island

  
  Kangaroo Island in South Australia is brimming with native wildlife and natural beauty. While being Australia’s third largest island, roughly the size of Long Island, it only has a population of 4,000 people. Tucked in a corner of the island, on a rugged cliff facing the wild Southern Ocean, lies Southern Ocean Lodge.

  

  Kangaroos | Photo Credit: Exceptional Kangaroo Island

  Getting There

  The drive from the airport to the lodge is about an hour long. Look out for wallabies, kangaroos, and koalas along the way because there are over 800,000 combined, so wildlife encounters are guaranteed. Then, out of nowhere, the polished iron gates of Southern Ocean Lodge appear. The whole property eludes a sense of exclusivity.  After passing through the secured gateway, it’s another 10 minutes up a bumpy road until you reach the lodge. It all feels very remote. The property is completely off the grid; it relies on solar power and rainwater. It doesn’t even have an exact address!

  With panoramic views of the bush and aqua sea, the great room at Southern Ocean Lodge invites the landscape inside. Coastal colors and recycled woods create a comfortable and relaxed environment. The young, international staff are friendly and welcoming.

  

  SOL Great Room | Photo Credit: Southern Ocean Lodge

  

  SOL Balcony | Photo Credit: Southern Ocean Lodge

  Exceptional Food & Wine

  The food and beverages at Southern Ocean Lodge are exceptional because the chef is proud to focus fully on South Australian cuisine. First, start the day with either a hot or cold breakfast, whether a warm bircher muesli to avocado toast with tomatoes. Then for dinner, enjoy the catch of the day, ranging from king fish, abalone, and octopus. Finally, there’s many desserts which utilizes native herbs and sweeteners, like local blue gum honey. The lodge also has a classic menu for picky eaters, which is nice if you’re not as adventurous. In addition, you can whip up a cocktail of your choice from the stocked open bar, or pour a refreshing glass of South Australian wine at any time of day.

  

  South Australian Cuisine | Photo Credit: Exceptional Kangaroo Island

  

  Cuisine from SOL | Photo Credit: Exceptional Kangaroo Island

  

  SOL Cuisine | Photo Credit: Exceptional Kangaroo Island

  The Interior

  21 glass-fronted suites curve along the coastline. The wall-to-wall windows allow an unobstructed view of the dreamlike scenery. The bathrooms are spotless, and the view from the shower is particularly memorable. Aligned with the lodge’s local focus, the artwork in all suites is commissioned from Kangaroo Island artisans. Each suite is sophisticated, yet comfortable.

  

  Exterior | Photo Credit: Southern Ocean Lodge

  

  Suite | Photo Credit: Southern Ocean Lodge

  

  Bathroom | Photo Credit: Southern Ocean Lodge

  

  SOL Exterior | Photo Credit: Southern Ocean Lodge

  Activities Outside the Lodge

  As for the experience outside of the lodge, there’s many opportunities to get immersed in the island’s natural attractions. Small group guided excursions are offered daily. Ranging from coastal walks to barbeques, the tours allow guests to encounter the wildlife with exclusive access and a touch of luxury.

  Lodge Features:

  • 21 luxurious suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows
  • Restaurant with local fare, indoor and outdoor seating, and ocean views
  • Spa incorporating local traditions
  • Wine cellar featuring South Australian vintages
  • Plunge pool
  • Lounge with fireplace and panoramic views
  • Boutique with unique gifts and island mementos
  • Reference library stocked with books, DVDs, and CDs
  • Wifi throughout the lodge

  

  Kathryn Fischer

  Though I was born and raised in Philadelphia, a city that values tradition, my path of life has been not so standard. I’ve lived on the East and West coasts of the United States, and have ventured over the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, studying food and wine in Italy, and working in the travel industry in Australia. Travelling across the globe has allowed me to recognize my true passion: helping others experience this beautiful, yet varied world that we live in. I have a wandering soul that continually urges me to visit new countries, meet new people, and learn new things; I love to adventure to faraway destinations, discovering unfamiliar cultures, and tasting their local cuisine.

  Southern Ocean Lodge – Kangaroo Island was last modified: December 28th, 2017 by Kathryn Fischer

  August 7, 2017 • Articles, Australia, Destinations, Kathryn Fischer, Luxury Lodges, Property Highlights, Travels, Videos • Views: 1747

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• Silky Oaks Lodge in Daintree Rainforest

  
  Queensland, also known as Australia’s “sunshine state,” is home to a 110-million-year-old rainforest—Daintree National Park. The park is a World Heritage-listed site and nestled on the edge is Silky Oaks Lodge. This lodge blends casual and contemporary design, amongst the most tranquil surrounds.

  

  Silky Oaks Suite | Photo Credit: Jessa Rachael Photography

  Getting There

  Located 90 minutes north of Cairns and just 20 minutes from Port Douglas, Silky Oaks Lodge is in the heart of the Daintree Rainforest.  The drive is easy and beautiful, as Captain Cook highway leads the way up the coast.  Set on the Mossman River, this lodge provides an immersive rainforest experience while still pampering you with the finest luxury amenities.  Upon arrival, my partner and I were greeted with welcome cocktails at a table for two. While overlooking the Mossman River, we went over our itinerary for the next two days.  We enjoyed our welcome cocktails while our treehouse was being prepared.  Chilled wine, a handwritten note, lit candles, and soft music greeted us as we walked in, and a sense of peace immediately flooded us.  Each treehouse has a large outdoor porch with a hammock, and all the amenities you could wish for.

  

  Silky Oaks Lodge | Photo Credit: Silky Oaks Lodge

  

  Suite | Photo Credit: Silky Oaks Lodge

  

  Jungle Perch | Photo Credit: Silky Oaks Lodge

  Activities Outside the Lodge

  We spent nearly all of our time outside, taking advantage of every recreational activity the lodge had to offer.  First, we got a picnic backpack from the kitchens and hiked a gorgeous trail that ended at a huge flat rock with a rope swing into the river. Then we kayaked and swam in the natural-looking outdoor heated stone pool. We also went on a sunset bike ride through the corn fields outside of the rainforest.  You name it, Silky Oaks has it.  After the end of an active day, we made our way back to the main lodge for dinner.

  

  Billabong | Photo Credit: Silky Oaks Lodge

  

  Pool | Photo Credit: Jessa Rachael Photography

  Unforgettable Dining Experience

  The Treehouse Restaurant – one of Northern Queensland’s premier dining experiences, is a unique open-sided restaurant that features unobstructed rainforest and river views set above the trees.  The food was exceptional, focusing on seafood given its close proximity to the ocean.  The menu showcases the freshest local produce and Australian wines.  There are a-la-carte options, or you can pre-book your dinner for a two or three course option.  I highly recommend booking at least the two course option, as you’ll want to take advantage of the world-class food the lodge has to offer.  After dinner, it was time to turn-in for the night, falling asleep to the sounds of the rainforest and flowing river.

  

  Treehouse Lobby | Photo Credit: Silky Oaks Lodge

  

  Jungle Perch Dining | Photo Credit: Silky Oaks Lodge

  

  Treehouse Restaurant | Photo Credit: Silky Oaks Lodge

  Lodge Features:

  • 50 treehouses and riverhouses with a balcony and hammock, outdoor table and chairs
  • Restaurant with sensational rainforest and river views
  • Spa offering rejuvenation through healing waters
  • Outdoor, natural-looking, heated stone pool
  • Jungle Perch positioned over the Mossman River, providing views of the Daintree Rainforest
  • Air conditioning, ceiling fans, fully stocked mini bar and a turn-down service every night

  

  Sarah Herman

  As a graduate of Eastern University with a degree in Anthropology, I have always valued the experiences one can find in other cultures. I’ve spent time in Belize, Honduras, Mexico, Kenya, and backpacked across Western Europe seeing 12 countries there. I have lived in Sydney and used it as a base for travels across the country. I’ve also spent time in New Zealand; and my latest trip back was a luxury lodge tour across both islands, seeing first hand some of the most breathtaking accommodations and properties that New Zealand has to offer. With the passion and longing for every individual to experience at least one other culture in their lifetime, I have found myself at Swain; with the opportunity to bring this passion to life.

  Silky Oaks Lodge in Daintree Rainforest was last modified: September 7th, 2017 by Sarah Herman

  July 31, 2017 • Articles, Australia, Destinations, Luxury Lodges, Property Highlights, Sarah Herman, Travels • Views: 1590

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• My First New Year’s Eve in Sydney

  
  As soon as I landed in Sydney, I felt the energy of the city all around me. As I looked out of the plane window, I saw the Iconic Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the suburbs fringing the water. It gave me a strong sense of belonging. And knowing I would soon be climbing the bridge, and sailing under it, let alone seeing the world’s most spectacular fireworks display, had my adrenaline surging. It was my first New Year’s Eve in Sydney!

  

  Sydney Harbour | Photo Credit: Destination NSW/Ethan Rohloff

  Exploring Sydney

  A short drive brought me to my city hotel, and a friendly “G’day” from the doorman and reception staff made me feel at home. Right away, I wanted to get out and explore. I walked to Circular Quay, watched the ferries, and viewed the myriad of people from all over the planet enjoying the sunshine and warm weather. The outdoor cafés beckoned me in for a traditional Aussie beverage and a delicious meat pie.

  I couldn’t help but stare at the Opera House, and to my left at the Sydney Harbour Bridge. I was so lucky to be spending New Year’s Eve in Sydney. The world’s greatest fireworks display was only several hours away, but now there was time to discover the beautiful Royal Botanical Gardens just a few hundred yards away. I was also able to take a leisurely walk through the historic rocks area. This is the place where the first English settlement landed over 200 years ago!

  

  Sydney Harbour Bridge | Photo Credit: Tourism Australia

  The New Year’s Eve in Sydney Celebration

  It was finally time to prepare for the night ahead, casual clothes were the instructions. Then I met my fellow revelers for a short coach ride to the dock, where the 100-foot luxury motor yacht awaited.

  With a glass of champagne waiting on the boat, I eagerly walked the gangway. Ben the Skipper, renowned for knowing the best spot to be on the harbor for the fireworks display, greeted us with a warm Aussie welcome.

  The DJ had the music going, champagne was flowing and everyone checked out the fly bridge, aft saloon, the bow and the main saloon. We were all trying to decide where to be at 9 pm for the first round of fireworks. The appetizers served by the crew were scrumptious! After two hours of cruising the Sydney Harbour and glimpsing the high-priced houses with the amazing views, we settled into where Ben felt the best viewing would be. He was correct! We were right in the center, surrounded by hundreds of other vessels, all shrieking with delight as the fireworks started. The entire boat was taking selfies, but mostly just watching in awe.

  

  Sydney Opera House | Photo Credit: Tourism Australia

  Gearing Up for the Main Event

  Right after this spectacle ended, dinner was served downstairs in the main saloon. There were several delightful beef and chicken dishes, fresh vegetables, salads and an array of ways to prepare sandwiches. There was also a fantastic seafood selection with fresh fish and Sydney Rock Oysters. This made for a beautifully prepared and truly well-enjoyed meal.

  Ben, in the meantime, had been cruising and edging his way to the front of the pack so we would have a splendid view of the Harbour Lights Parade. As the 20 or so decorated boats made their way around, we were right in the front of the other viewing boats. We had an unobstructed view of the main event, the fireworks at midnight.

  Like the earlier fireworks display, they were fantastic! The second round lasted much longer and the finale could not be put into words. New Year’s Eve in Sydney exceeded my expectations.

  Remembering these wonderful times makes me extend my hand to you. Come and join me this New Year’s Eve, and experience this for yourself. It will be one of those events you will remember for a lifetime.

  

  Sydney Harbour | Photo Credit: Destination NSW

   

  

  Ian Swain

  This self-described “true blue Aussie” was born in Brisbane and showed a true knack for entrepreneurship. After meeting and marrying Linda, an American with a penchant for international travel, they started Swain Australia Tours (now Swain Destinations) in 1987. Over the course of the next 10 years, Swain Destinations became the largest seller of South Pacific travel on the East Coast.

  http://www.ianswain.com

  My First New Year’s Eve in Sydney was last modified: September 7th, 2017 by Ian Swain

  July 25, 2017 • Articles, Australia, Destinations, Ian Swain Sr • Views: 1526

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• Explore Hampi

  
  A few weeks ago, I was in Hampi in Karnataka, South India, which is a World Heritage Site. I arrived at Toranagallu by overnight train from Bangalore. After a wash and change at the Hyatt Place, my guide and I headed towards Hampi. The first impression is of the magnificent large landscape with huge boulder rocks.

  

  Boulder Landscape | Photo Credit: Bela Banker/Swain Destinations

  There were intricately carved temples all over the place. We then took a wonderful coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River.

  

  Coracle Ride | Photo Credit: Bela Banker/Swain Destinations

  The ruins of the 14th century Hampi, and seat to the Vijayanagara kings, covers an area of 10 miles. Hampi sprawls across a spectacular barren and boulder strewn landscape. The remains of palaces and baths and audience hall tells a tale of a kingdom that was grand and of fabulous wealth. There is an awe inspiring image of Hindu God Lord Vishnu which is carved from a single boulder and is the incarnation of half man and half lion. Watching the sun go down between the boulders, captures a moment in your heart that will stay with you.

  

  Ruins of the 14th century Hampi | Photo Credit: Bela Banker/Swain Destinations

  The Boulder Resort, where I stayed offers a stunning view of the rocky terrain. The luxurious cottages at the resort fit perfectly with hiking trails , organic gardens and delicious food.

  

  Bela Banker

  I was born in Bombay (now called Mumbai), and have lived in the USA for more than 30 years. I have a passion for travel, for exploring, learning new cultures and being in new places. I love India and like to introduce all our clients to the colors, sounds, scents, traditions and food found throughout India. I customize all India trips and take our clients off the beaten path, where they can touch the heart and soul of the country. Other than travel, I love to read, cook, hike and spend time with my four boys.

  http://www.swaindestinations.com

  Explore Hampi was last modified: March 31st, 2016 by Bela Banker

  March 29, 2016 • Bela Banker, Bloggers, India • Views: 2504

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