Three Main Factors to Consider When Setting Up a Meeting Room

Have you ever been to a meeting room? If not, this article is relevant to your quest in setting up a meeting room for the first time. One clear thing is you cannot plan for a meeting room as the way you do in your home.

You will probably need a spacious room where you can plan for everything that will be used during the meeting. Well, the following are some of the crucial things that can’t be avoided when setting up a meeting room

Things to keep in mind when setting up a meeting room

  • Furniture

For furniture, you need to select chairs that are ergonomic and relaxing to sit on for long hours, especially if the meeting is long. If the chairs are not comfortable enough, people will get tired after only a few hours of sitting on them and this will affect their mental health, and they will find it hard to concentrate on what is being said. But ergonomic seats will provide the comfort they need to stay focused on the meeting for any duration of time. Also, you should consider having wheeled chairs to avoid noise that may arise when a member pulls a chair in the right position.

  • Accessibility

Accessibility is another crucial factor to think about when setting up your meeting room. First, the room should be within the vicinity and the attendees should be able to easily spot a banner or post on the door. Other physical cues like the braille might be of help to attendees who are visually impaired.

Secondly, the equipment should be placed in the right position where everyone can reach it at any time. So, you need to think of a place where both tall and short people find it easy to access certain equipment without calling for help from their colleagues.

Lastly, the entrances/exits should be wide enough to allow attendees to pass with ease, even those who are in wheelchairs. Nowadays, everything you plan that will involve the public requires also planning for people with disabilities to help them realise that they are noticed.

  • Layout

The kind of layout that you choose to go with will depend on the type of meeting that you are hosting. The following are the two main types of layouts for setting up meeting rooms:

The U-shaped style – Here, the tables are placed along each other to form a U-like shape. This leaves an open space as the centre of focus. Thus, a whiteboard or screen can be placed in the centre of focus where every member can see. This is more suitable for meetings that are presentation-driven.

The boardroom style – Where the seats are placed around a centralised set of tables that have been grouped. It is perfect for in-person kinds of meetings because everyone is visible to the other.

Tips on hiring a meeting room at Gold Coast

Before you book a meeting room at Gold Coast, consider the following factors:

Cost – You have to be wary of the cost of securing a given meeting room. Fortunately, there are plenty of firms dealing with meeting rooms and you can always find the one within your budget.

Location – You also have to take note of the location of that meeting room. You need to find a meeting room in a location where most of the attendees, if not all, will find it easy to access.

Different Uses For Custom Lanyards

Lanyards are straps or cords that have been sewn together in a loop designed and worn around the neck. They have a clip or hook attached to them. Custom lanyards are popular as giveaway items at various events. Custom lanyards can come with badge holders, key rings, or any other kinds of attachments for various unique reasons. They are used to identify people so that at crowded events, they will be recognisable. You can have a lanyard created with your own logo or design.

1. Using lanyards

– Lanyards are very helpful for events with a large number of people, such as trade shows and conferences. At events, they are useful to people because a worker at an event can attach their badge or key ring to a lanyard and know where it is all the time when they need it for identification.

– Full-colour lanyards are also called satin lanyards and personalised with detailed graphics and colour photography.

– Sturdy lanyards with safety breakaways and detachable clips get used for long-term uses every day and for holding keys and ID tags. People who are on staff at different institutions use these kinds of lanyards.

– Reflective lanyards are used by people who are employed in situations at night, such as night security.

2. Places using  lanyards

– At colleges and universities by both staff and students. Both student and teacher identification with colour photos are hung around necks by lanyards.

– At financial institutions and corporate offices, lanyards are needed to ID visitors and are usually handed out at reception areas. The identification of visitors is vital for security purposes.

– At large events and concerts, staff requires lanyards with special badges so they can go backstage or onto a sports field, Having a lanyard around the neck is a quick way to gain access to wherever they are needed.

– Government workers require lanyards because they work in a highly secure environment and need to have ID so they can have access to all parts of a government building. A lanyard and badge combination is a great way for these workers to get access to all the areas they need to check out, and when a reflective strip is attached, it is excellent for nighttime low-light situations and regions.

– Gyms and health clubs use lanyards to attach membership cards. This helps the staff keep track of all the members and can easily see who does not belong at the club.

 Lanyards are essential for healthcare workers, especially those who are in charge of medical supplies. Keys for authorised areas are attached to these lanyards as well as IDs so that health care workers can do their job without being stopped by security.

– Lanyards are also used by hotel and resort staff in all spheres of the hospitality industry. Guests need to be able to identify them. The staff also need to have access to controlled areas, so keys are also attached to these lanyards.

– Media reporters use lanyards so they can get into press-only areas. They are identifiable, so they can also get close to celebrities.

– Teaching staff of any school or administration have to have lanyards to attach their ID badges and keys required to open classrooms and offices.

So if you need lanyards for yourself and your employees, remember that AAC supply custom lanyards. Check out their site online that offers custom lanyards so you can get just the kind you require.

Things that the best accommodations in Gold Coast must have

Are you thinking of going for a family vacation in Gold Coast?  Have you considered selecting the best accommodations for your family? Most people think that the kind of accommodation that they select for their families whenever they are going for a family vacation or holidays do not determine the kind of experience and excitement that their families will have during the vacation. However, your family is always looking forward to seeing the kind of accommodation that you will book for them, but they will not tell you about this fact. For this reason, if you have decided that you want to spend time and enjoy with your family, you will need to ensure that you have selected the best accommodations and booked them for your family. However, most of the people will not want to spend their money on booking the best accommodation because they want to save some money for other things.

In the case that you value your family so much, and you would want to make sure that they have enjoyed the little time you have taken them for a vacation, ensure that you have booked them the best accommodation. You must remember that the best accommodations are not the most expensive accommodations but the accommodations that have the required components or elements.  This is why you will need to look for the following features whenever you are selecting or booking the best accommodation in Gold Coast for your family.

High level of hygiene

One of the essential features of the best accommodations is hygiene. For this reason, when you are looking for the best accommodations in Gold Coast, always ensure that you find out about the levels of cleanliness of the accommodation.  This includes checking whether the bathrooms, toilets, food water, kitchens and public spaces are clean. The cleaner the accommodations, the more your family’s health, will be guaranteed.

Guaranteed security

The other thing that you will need to be careful with when you are booking the best accommodations for your family is the level of security or safety. This is because you would not be happy to take your family to a place where they will feel insecure. For this reason,  you must select the accommodation that lets your family feel that they are in a safe place which is more or like their home.  Apart from your family, the luggage that they carry should also be safe in the accommodation. This means that you need to get the accommodations that have CCTV’s, security officers and even very strong gates.

Comfortable beds

You must remember that you do not want your family to have a very hectic time adapting to the accommodation that you have hired. For this reason, the beds that are in the accommodations that you hire must be as comfortable as the beds in your home.

Adequate amenities

When you are looking for the best accommodations, you will also require to find out whether there are restaurants, bars, gyms, spas, swimming pools and any other important facility. This is because you do not want to go to an accommodation where you cannot get sweet and hot foods in the morning, lunchtime or super or where you cannot relax in case you are tired since there are no pools or other amenities.

Room service

The other thing that you will need to consider when selecting accommodation in Gold Coast is room service. This is important since it ensures that you can get food and drinks whenever you need them from your rooms.

Are you wondering where you should check in while on vacation at the Gold Coast? Ultiqa were rated the best accommodation in Gold Coast. It is a highly recommended hotel that you should try out.

Choose wedding venues in Mornington Peninsula for the perfect ambience

The choice of wedding venue is probably the biggest and most important decision an engaged couple will have to make. It is because the wedding venue can influence everything from attire, vendors, decor, and budget.

The wedding venue setting has to provide the perfect ambience to make it memorable for both the couple and their guests. Wedding venues Mornington Peninsula offers settings that are perfectly suitable for all types and kinds of wedding themes.

 

Choosing the types and kinds of Wedding Venues

 

The choice of wedding venue depends on the taste and preference of the engaged couple. Wedding planners recommend choosing a venue that feels like home to the couple. Here are some wedding venue suggestions to make the big day as perfect as it can be:

Traditional hotel or ballroom

Ballrooms and hotels offer the best classic wedding setting for traditionalist couples. An estate, a castle or a historic home can provide a different but decadent setting to make the wedding venue look like a fairy tale come true.

Art galleries, lofts, and warehouses

Huge spaces with an industrial backdrop are gained by wedding parties held in art galleries, lofts, and warehouses. The ultimate flexibility is provided by these settings where the bride and groom can create their unique ideas.

 

Huge outdoor space

Couples that love family backyard parties will find their idyllic wedding venue in huge outdoor spaces. The thing is to look for a lovely garden setting that can comfortably accommodate wedding guests.

Ranches, barns, and farms

The rustic look and setting are always appealing. The rustic setting can provide a fabulous backdrop for elegant chairs and tables, chandeliers, and outdoor fire pits. Trees can be strung up with fairy lights to create a magical setting for a magical moment.

 

Beach resorts, vineyards, and other natural landscapes

When it comes to stunning views, Mother Nature does it best. Having the wedding at natural landscapes ensure couples of a venue that amps the wow factor.

 

Vacation home rentals

Generally, a weeks’ rent is charged when renting a vacation home. However, the cost of renting a vacation house as a wedding venue provides a transcendental setting for small and private weddings. The idea of having the wedding at a vacation home is fast becoming trendy with couples favouring small and intimate wedding parties.

Mountaintops and planetariums

Some couples want their wedding to be unique and peerless above the usual. Planetariums and mountaintops provide phenomenal and magnificent backdrops for a wedding event. The couple also gets to save on decor and flowers with the free natural blooms and grand view furnished by these venues.

Sentimental places

More and more couples are choosing sentimental places to host their wedding. This could range from a favourite restaurant to a place of the proposal. This has become one of the trendy wedding ideas that couples are favouring.

Weekend celebrations

Choosing remote locations to host weekend weddings are also becoming popular. Celebrating the wedding in places such as a desert set with tents for guests can become an unforgettable experience for all.

 

Getting married is one of the momentous events in the life of an individual. This is why choosing the perfect wedding venue is a must for all couples. The choice of a wedding venue can either bring unforgettable or forgettable memories to the couple and their guests. Wedding venues organised by The Wedding Depot will definitely make a big impact to your event.

Photo Booth in Melbourne

What’s a fun up-to-date party without the installment of photo booths to capture every fun, and perhaps a few, embarrassing moments? Well, Melbourne isn’t any different. As the fun city, known for its cool architectural buildings, it can be said to be one of the best memories in the whole of Australia. This article talks in detail about the services offered of a few photo booth companies available in Melbourne. These should also be readily available at your fingertips for your next party.

I must commend that every photo booth establishment in Melbourne has done their homework, and has earned the trust of the people over time. These companies provide a fun, lasting photo booth rentals for all kinds of parties and gatherings to start with.

There’s a popular saying that memories will fade, but certainly not photo strips. Which is why photographing entrepreneurs invest a large sum on every photo strip available for hire. These photo strips come with designs of various kinds, enabling you a wide range of premium choices.

Photo booth owners in Melbourne offer packages that are all by the hour and have their cameras fully stocked with prints to keep your fun moments on the go. This means you get the first-class treatment for every package you pick out. When thinking about the background behind your portrait, be assured that the backdrop display is always filled with a wide variety of options to suit every fun moment. Their services are self instructive. However, if there be a need for further assistance on any of the products, your attendant would bring their expertise to serve you best.

The staff and management of these companies are always about creating a warm atmosphere for high-quality digital pictures. Which is why they took out time in creating a three-option exclusive service to grant you a nice pictorial experience. The services are; First, “Photo Booth” second, “Roaming Photographer” and thirdly, “Party Printer” for a memorial event all in one set of prints.

Photobooth in Melbourne is equipped with an outdoor option that comes with a DSLR professional camera and illuminated studio lighting. This also has a feature where the party printer is a disposable one. Which allows you to take your pictures like a professional with few instructions to get you started.

The roaming photographer service option is a full package with access to the best event photographers the company has to offer. The pro-photo printer in the booth prints fasts and high definition pictures. So you get the pictures documented digitally and also printed files immediately.

Ok, so you’re throwing a party or hang out and have hoped to avoid embarrassing moments attached to a boring party? Hiring a Photo booth is just the right choice because their indoor and outdoor hire packages guarantee that you and your guests witness exciting captured moments all day long.

After a few tryouts with photo booth establishments in this city, I observed that delivering the best quality photo booth hire packages is common among all. Most premium packages are with various options of props, amazing print strips selections, free USB for all soft copy images, and a free guestbook portfolio. They offer these services successfully in the whole of Melbourne, Geelong, Werribee & Country Victoria metropolitan areas.

The photo booth set up at every occasion always turns to be the life of the party. As it is commonly used at most elite events. That’s why every company offers its customers unlimited on-the-house trips to the photo booth. As briefly stated earlier, the free guestbook service comes with a story-like showcase of each photo booth hire in Melbourne.

 

 

Things to Look for in a Holiday Accommodation in Hervey Bay

https://aquaaqua.com.au/Planning to holiday in Hervey Bay? Vacations are the best way to unwind. If you are planning a vacation with friends or family, you must obviously be looking for Hervey Bay accommodation options. There are quite a few things to consider when choosing a place to stay during vacations. The following tips would help you find the perfect holiday home.

Get to know what kind of accommodation you are looking for

Are you travelling solo or in a group? Is it just the two of you or the whole family? This would help determine the kind of place you should be looking for. Make a choice of what is important for you. Are you looking for comfort or simply a place to spend the night? If you are just looking for a place to crash in you shouldn’t have to b too choose about the vacation rental. After all you just need a clean bed and a place to spend the night. However, those who re spending vacations with family have to be choosy. They need to find amenities which would make the whole family feels secure and comfortable.

The location is important

When looking for a holiday accommodation in Hervey bay, choose a place which is in the center of the area. This is one convenience which all travelers need. Even the ones who are travelling solo. Nobody wants to spend hours searching for paces to eat or looking for a place of recreation just because their accommodation is far from the center.

However if you are looking for privacy then choose an accommodation which is far away from the hustle of the city. Somewhere which is private and covered with the lushness of nature.

The right amenities

Amenities are what would make you holiday more convenient and enjoyable. A TV which plays on demand movies, free Wi-Fi and reverse cycle air conditioning are just a few things which can make you stay as easy as possible.  While other amenities like a fridge, dishwasher and an oven are only convenient when you actually plan to do a bit of cooking in your holiday home. People who like to spend time alone can certainly make do with these while people with children could also benefit from these amenities.

The size of the accommodation

No one likes living in a cramped space. If you have a large group accompanying you, a holiday home with ample pace should be your top priority. After all it is all about comfort.

Your budget

Choose a holiday accommodation which comes within your budget/ if you have a smaller budget you might have to give up on some amenities like a daily breakfast but that is something which can be managed.

There are quite a few interesting holiday accommodations in Hervey bay. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy some of the fun filled sea activities. You could choose to o on a whale watching tour or simply relax by the water side.

Few things all good pub menus should have

Looking for a pub in Richland? Finding the best one  requires only a little bit of research. If you want to go to a happening pub, make sure it has a welcoming ambiance. A pub is all about a wonderful and lively ambiance. It should be welcoming and enjoyable. Pubs are meant to put one at ease. A place where you can relax after a long and hard day.

A pub which doesn’t have a good ambiance isn’t going to do much for your mood. So make sure which has a great bar and an even better ambiance. Also it should boast an equally delicious array of food. Find a Richland pub menu that has the following:

  • Delicious food. A pub isn’t just for drinking and boozing. After imbibing all that beer one is bound to feel ravenous. A Richland pub menu should boast a variety of wholesome and scrumptious meals. Plus the food should be economical as well. Choose a pub which offers you the best pub menu.
  • A pub should be consistent in serving the best food throughout the day. It should be just as delicious as it is during the afternoon. Even if you are ordering food late at night, it should be just as wholesome.
  • Fish n Chips. No pub menu is complete without a healthy dose of fish n chips. After all it’s the staple food in every pub. Also the fish n chips should be good quantity to satiate the hunger. The fish should be perfectly friend and the chips should be crispy and cooked to perfection.
  • The food should all be locally sourced. This is guarantee that the food is always fresh and the quality impeccable.

  • Breakfast. As people are becoming more aware they are less prone to drinking all the time. A pub which serves booze along with a daily dose of delicious breakfast can be a real bonus. After all who can resist the delicious aroma of freshly cooked eggs and hash browns?
  • A good pub’s menu should compromise of allergen friendly food items. It should serve people who are looking for exclusively ketogenic meals, dairy free food and food designed for people who are on a low calorie diet. A pub menu which is all inclusive allow people to enjoy with their friends while not having to compromise on their demands.
  • Cask beer. You don’t get it everywhere. However, a pub which offers a cask beer should be considered as a real bonus because it tends to stick to its roots.
  • Vegetable entrees. Vegetable are good for everyone and with people becoming more aware on the importance of eating their veges, a vegetarian menu should offer tasty vegetable entrees for people who prefer to eat their greens during lunch or dinner.
  • Juicy steaks. Who doesn’t appreciate delicious tasting stakes, a pub menu should compromise of these tasty treat as well served with generous sidelines of mashed potatoes or fries.

Make sure that the Richland pub you are visiting offers all these things.

Custom Engagements

The hardest part for women who are into a long-term relationship is the idea of waiting for the guy to tell her that he is willing to commit everything, including his life, just to be with her for the rest of their lives. Engagements happen prior to the formal wedding, signifying that the relationship is close in accepting other affairs for both man and woman.

This critical transition in human life is because of love. With feelings of affection and care comes the idea of manifesting it with what we call as material symbolism. Since love should be for eternity, the ring symbolises its infinity. A continuous cycle without an end.

The tradition of making handmade or custom engagement rings in Sydney has become the sole witness of a much-awaited union between a man and a woman. To deepen our understanding of how it’s done, let us go over some of the following known facts:

Customised ring defined

By definition, customised jewellery like the ring is especially hand-made and carefully or meticulously crafted using special materials with some help from simple machines. It is a perfect gift for someone on a very special occasion like an engagement. More than its material value is the factor that touches the recipient with its special meaning.

What does the ring mean on each finger?

Each finger brings with it a different meaning. It is the key to understanding what each finger symbolises in order to understand where to wear each ring. The most common symbolism for fingers is the fourth finger on the left hand, which in many cultures is reserved for the engagement ring, and later the wedding ring.

How are customised rings made possible?

Since men are the ones who will offer or give a ring, it is best that before he goes to the jeweller, he has the idea or concept already in mind. He speaks with the jewellery consultant and gives specific instructions and specifications on how the ring should look like after it’s done. With exclusive technology and your inspiration, your customised engagement ring will come to life as a masterpiece.

Preparations in ordering a customised engagement ring

  • It is recommended that you start early because a customised ring can take about two weeks or at least two months to create.
  • Think of creative images to use or apply on the ring
  • Look for a jeweller who has a sense of aesthetic qualities and can follow essential details about your order.
  • Choosing the kind of metal to combine with gold or silver.
  • Selecting the kind of stone is important
  • Deciding on the type of cut the jeweller would use or apply.
  • Deciding more importantly on the setting
  • Measuring and wearing your wedding band

Engraving cost for customised rings

If items are bought outside of the jewellery shop, the cost of engraving usually starts at $10 or more depending on the complexity of the job. Letters are set to a maximum of eight characters and are pegged at $1 per letter.

Types and shapes of  customised engagement rings

  • Pear-shaped
  • Teardrops
  • Pear-cut diamond
  • Solitaire
  • Halo engagement rings

Each of the types of the ring can be combined in order to give the woman who wears it a more unique feminine touch and a taste of elegance.

Whale Watching in Hervey Bay

Hervey bay is known as the whale watching capital. Why? Because you get to experience the migration of these exotic creatures up close and personal. The whale watching experience has gained a great deal of popularity in the past decade or so. Though there are whale watching tours offered all over the world but in Hervey bay you just can’t beat the heady experience of encountering these gentle giants at such an up close and personal manner.

Unlike other places where the whales simply pass by, at Hervey bay the whales usually stop over for a number of days to calve and rest. The peak whale watching season starts from July to November. You can expect to find the whales just about everywhere.

You can observe the whales either resting or frolicking playfully in the pristine waters of Hervey bay. These calm creatures are protected by the world heritage listed Fraser island. The whales are so relaxed in their natural habitat that you can glimpse them being their most playful self ever. If you are lucky an inquisitive hale might even decide to come and watch the boat up close and even perform a few flips just to elicit the excited response from the people watching them.

There are quite a few whale watching tours operating in Hervey Bay from July to mid-October. The tours vary is duration, style and vessel so you are bound to find one which suits your budget. You can choose a day tour, an evening tour or even a cruise if you are up to it. It all comes down to what is feasible for you.

Interesting facts on hump back whales

  • If you think that your whale watching experience would simply be limited to large animal floating or swimming about in the waters you have got to think again humpback whales are one of the most playful creatures when they are in their natural habitat. They can swim real close to a vessel but be completely unbothered about it as they indulge in their playful frolicking.
  • You may find a whale performing a tail slap. A tail slap is usually a signal from the whale to vessels to not come up too close as you might be in their territory. So often you just wait and watch as to observe what the whale next manoeuvre is going to be.
  • Most skippers of whale watching tour have now become familiar with the signals sent out by the whale and since they can read into those signals, it doesn’t alarm the whale anymore and you can see a vessel floating in the middle of the water while the whale frolics around it with its calves.
  • The positions seem to be getting better each year. There have been a great many spotting and since the whales are somehow now used to seeing a vessel of around sixty people or more hanging over the deck to catch its glimpse it even feels like giving more than a glimpse. It may do some back flips, or gently nudge the vessel too. It’s an experience of a lifetime and one you shouldn’t miss at all if you plan to visit Hervey Bay.

What you should keep in mind when hiring an Airport Transfer Service

Arriving after a long flight can be tiresome, especially if you have work on your mind. Similarly travelling with the family can be pretty hectic if you have small children accompanying you. Add to it the stress of finding a transport service to drop you off at the hotel. Sounds pretty stressful doesn’t it? Well you shouldn’t be taking any stress, rather you would benefit from hiring airport transfers t Wollongong.

In order to make sure you hire the right transfer services, make sure to keep the following things in mind

  • Get to know the kind of vehicles they offer as a transport service. The right service would have a variety of vehicles to choose from. You should make a choice depending upon the number of people who need to be transferred to the hotel. If you are travelling with family you would need a car which accommodates more people.
  • If you are travelling alone you can even get on the shuttle service. It’s one of the cheapest and most convenient ways of dropping off at you hotel. Plus if you are raveling light, a shuttle service is the best way to get to your hotel.
  • If you are looking for a special kind of car service which is luxurious and comfy then make sure which transport services specialise in luxury vehicles. You can choose to get picked up and dropped off in style. Do a bit of research to find out about the various services offered by an airport transfer service.
  • If you have any special requirements like extra luggage, a wheel chair or a baby cradle which needs to be transported as well, you might need to find a service which offers provisions for all these. You can do your research before you actually travel so when you arrive you know you wouldn’t have to be worried about any special request that you made.
  • Get to know how much a car transfer service would charge. It all depends upon the car that you hire and also the distance of your drop off from the airport. Plus different car services offer different rates for the same destinations. This is because the quality of their service might differ.
  • A car service which boasts a luxury vehicle and all the extra amenities would definitely charge more. While a service which simply offers a regular pick and drop might charge less. It all finally comes down to your personal preferences.
  • Check out various online sites to see what services are on offer and which you would be able to use according to the budget that you have in mind.
  • Ou can even go through the reviews which have been left by previous customers. A shuttle service with the highest ratings mean that they also offer the best services.
  • Word of mouth I a pretty powerful tool as well. You can certainly get recommendations from people with your family and friend circle.

Chartering a Fishing Boat

Are you a fishing enthusiast? If yes, then fishing in Cairns is every Anglers dream come true. The catch is plenty and no matter what time of the year it is, you can fish all that you want to. And if you decide to go fishing somewhere from September to December, who know you might be lucky enough to catch a Black Marlin. But of course, all that depends upon the captain and the boat which you charter to take you fishing. This is why it’s important to charter the right fishing boat in Cairns

The following is a step by step process which would make it easy for you to find a fishing charter in Cairns.

  • Get to know the area where you want to fish. If there is a particular area where you are staying, it is normally advisable to choose a fishing point in that place only. However, keep in mind that different varieties of fish are found in different area. If there is a particular species which interests you then you would need to charter a boat which specialises in catching the particular fish.
  • If possible make sure you go and check out the different boast tied to the wharf. Is there a boat which catches your fancy? Even if the boat isn’t too new or has an innovative design but if it has a good captain you are good to go. This is because fishing charters are several hours long. So if you have a good captain you can be assured of having a great time.
  • Just because a boat is new doesn’t mean you’re going to have a great time. It’s also important to have the right crew. If you are an amateur you need someone who could show you the actual ropes of fishing and how things should be handled. It’s much better than being trussed up in a fancy boat getting bored out of your mind. You need someone who keeps things interesting, gives you a few pointers and takes your picture with your first ever catch.
  • Also make sure that the boat which you hire has enough space to accommodate the number of people on the trip with you. If you plan to take your children along, you need to hire a boat which isn’t too narrow.
  • Some charters offer food and drink while others might not. So you need to ensure whether you should be arranging lunch from home or you would be served food on the deck. While some charters even have the policy of keeping the catch and cooking it live, it all depends on what you actually like.
  • There are few charters which start early morning, so make sure you are there on time. It’s always better to choose a half day charter if it’s your first time on a fishing boat.
  • Sometimes making an early booking is a great way to ensure that you get a boat despite the busy tourist season.

Whale Season

Interesting Things You Should Know About Whale Season In Hervey Bay

Whales are without a doubt some of the most majestic creatures on the planet. Silent rulers of the deep, they cruise around the world covering incredible distances while doing so. Hervey Bay is one of the most well-known attractions in the area when it comes to whale watching. The remainder of this piece dwells on the really amazing things you should know about the whale season in Hervey Bay.

Open To Public

Australia is a country that prides itself on being welcoming to tourists, and this explains how it has managed to become one of the biggest nations on earth when it comes to tourism. This feat has been achieved by the aggregation of activities of tourist places like Hervey Bay.

The area is open to the public and not just to only those who want to watch whales whenever they are in season. So the next time you are in the area, do not mind to pop in and enjoy the experience of a lifetime.

Enchanting Nature

All those who have been to this bay will testify to the fact that this is one of the most beautiful places on the continent. Bays are charming places, but Hervey Bay is in an exclusive class of its own when it comes sheer natural beauty, majesty, and elegance. You really have to experience this to believe it so check the area once you are there.

Vital To The Economy

Wherever you see enthusiasts paying very close attention to the whale seasons, you can be doubly sure that is because there is considerable whale watching activity in the area. Not all countries have this blessing, and for those who have it, they do all possible to get maximum advantage from it. The Hervey Bay whale watching season is critical to the tourism and economy.

A perfect example is Hervey Bay itself, and it contributes in no little way to the tourist industry of the region thus boosting the local and national economy.

Crucial To General Whaling Activities

There is a lot more to whales than just watching them. Hervey Bay is another fantastic illustration of how true this is. Wherever whale watching is done, there is an array of other associated activities like educational tours, marine studies, research work, selling of merchandise, tourism operations and a lot more. All these have direct positive influence and impact on the economy.

Effects on Tourism

The link between whale season and the tourism sector is one that cannot be overlooked. With regular voyages and observation tours organised during whale seasons, there will be a significant boom to the local economy and in general the overall national economy of the country itself. From the listed above, it can be deduced that whale seasons contribute massively to the nation.

The small bus with bags on a roof

Road Trips Are Hands Down The Absolute Best Way To Travel

For sure, hopping on a plane and arriving at your destination in just a couple of hours has its advantages. Yet there is something about road trips and the joy that comes from them that can’t be denied. Sometimes you just want to slow down, take the scenic route, enjoy company and take it easy while driving the back roads. Here are some of the reasons why road trips are the best way to travel when you’re going on vacation.

Part of the reason for travelling is the actual trip itself. When you decide to take a road trip, you are allowing yourself to see and do more. Some of the best memories you make when on vacation is while you’re on the road. It’s just like life and how the journey is just as important as the destination.

Are you going to a new place or somewhere you have been before? Whichever is the case, you are certainly going to see new things and have new experiences along the way if you take a road trip. Plus, when on a road trip, you are in control. Isn’t it nice not to have to go through airport security? In all seriousness, airport travel has its clear advantages, but road trips have theirs, too.

One of the great advantages about road trips is you get to eat what you want and when you want. Whether you budget and bring food in a cooler with you or dine out at restaurants, you’re in control again when it comes to the food. When traveling by plane or via bus or train, you don’t have that type of control. If you’re willing to give up some of your time and be the one in charge of driving, then you have quite a few freedoms that you are going to enjoy.

You have an entire trunk at your disposal, too (or even something bigger if you hire from http://www.rentco.com.au/). When you have a trunk for packing your belongings, you are able to bring much more with you. Of course, that doesn’t mean you need to necessarily do that, but it is another one of those freedoms you have. Now let’s talk about another one of those freedoms, a very important one.

While gas prices have been on the rise lately, travelling by vehicle, especially as a family is typically the cheapest way to go. That means you’re going to save money. Perhaps you can do more along the way and while you’re on vacation. Maybe you can buy more souvenirs or stop at some of those restaurants vs packing all your food. You can also just pocket the money so you can take more road trips in the near future.

Road trips certainly come with their advantages. While there are two sides to the coin, there are just too many benefits to ignore. It might not be time for a road trip every time you travel, but they are quite fun indeed. When it’s time for you to be on the road again, why don’t you put yourself in charge?

Breakfast tray on a bed

How To Choose The Best Hotel For Your Next Trip

Travelling can be a lot of fun. Unfortunately, if you choose the wrong hotel, it can also be a bit of a nightmare. Staying in a hotel that has lumpy beds, noisy neighbours, nearby construction, dirty rooms, or other unpleasant conditions can turn what was supposed to be a dream vacation into an experience you would rather forget.

Deciding on a hotel is one of the most important parts of the planning process when you are getting ready for a trip. There are a ton of different options out there. In fact, there are so many options that it can be completely overwhelming trying to narrow down the selection. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to simplify the process. Check out these tips on how to choose the best hotel for your next trip:

1. Decide which features are important to you.

You wouldn’t want to stay at a hotel that was geared toward kids if you were going on a business trip. Similarly, if you are planning a family vacation, a luxury hotel that caters to honeymooners may not be the best option.

Make a list of the features and amenities that are important to you and anyone else that you are travelling with. For instance, if you are taking your children on a vacation, you may want a hotel that has an indoor pool, a waterslide, or an arcade. If you are travelling for business, you may need free Wi-Fi, a coffee maker and iron in your room, and a great meeting room. You can use this list to help narrow down your choices. Amenities that you should look for in any hotel include air-conditioned rooms, Wi-Fi access, and free parking.

2. Choose a hotel that is conveniently located.

Ideally, the hotel that you stay at should be close to the areas where you plan on spending the most time during your trip. Otherwise, you will spend all of your time driving between your hotel and your activities. For example, if you are visiting the ocean, it may be worth paying a little bit of extra money to stay in a hotel that is located right on the beach so that you can start enjoying yourself right when you get out of bed.

3. Check online reviews.

There are more hotel review sites than ever out there. That makes it easy to see what other travellers had to say about their experience at a particular hotel. Don’t just look at the photos that the hotel posts on their website. Instead, look at photos that are taken by real people and uploaded to review sites. They tend to provide a far more unbiased view of what the hotel is really like. Booking.com is a great place to look for reviews and ratings.

4. Consider the price and availability.

When you find a hotel that you are interested in, contact the front desk to find out how much it costs to rent a room and whether or not there are any available during the dates of your trip.

These simple tips on how to choose the best hotel should help you find the perfect place to stay the next time you travel.

4 Tips On How To Save For Your Dream Vacation

Have you ever wondered how much it will cost you to go on your dream vacation and where you will get the money for it? Well, I have good news for you. As part of my travel tips, I am going to share with you a few ideas on how you can save for your dream vacation.

#1 You need to learn how to track your expenditure

Many people tend to spend plenty of their money on things that they do not need. Therefore, learning how to track your expenses will enable you to identify all your unnecessary expenditure. Once you have done this, you will be able to cut back and redirect this money to your vacation account. Diligently do this for a couple of months and you will have enough money set aside for that vacation.

#2 You must learn how to budget

A budget will help you know exactly how much money you require for your vacation. Once you know this, it will be much easier for you to figure out how much money you can squeeze out from your income and over what period of time to enable you reach your vacation target.

#3 You must reduce unnecessary expenditure

Here, the bottom line is that you must stop buying things that you do not need. Being able to distinguish between needs and wants is the key to learning how to reduce unnecessary expenditure. Ensure that every coin that is not spent unnecessarily goes into your vacation savings.

#4 You must nurture habits that help save you money

You will be surprised how often we spend money on things we would have otherwise gotten for free if only we put in some extra effort. Having a do-it-yourself mentality will help you cut down your expenses significantly and the money saved can be directed to your vacation kitty.

Travel Tips – 5 Things to Consider When Packing

If you are reading this blog then I bet you are like me therefore I’m sure you enjoy travelling. I have travelled a lot, for work and for vacation, and I feel it’s time I shared a few travel tips especially for anyone going on vacation.

#1 Carry the right bag

Depending on how long your stay is going to be, and how many mementos you intend to bring back with you, the bag you carry matters a lot. My advice is bring both a backpack and a suitcase. Always remember that the suitcase will definitely remain in your hotel room, but you will need a backpack as you move up and about once you get to your destination.

#2 Ensure to pack lightly

When on vacation, do not carry too much clothing. Hotels generally have housekeeping services so it is not necessary to carry two weeks’ worth of clothing. My main reason however for suggesting you pack light is that the fun of travelling, is getting to bring back souvenirs. Therefore, the more space you have in your suitcase and backpack, the more the souvenirs you can bring back home without incurring an extra charge for heavy luggage.

#3 Avoid carrying too many shoes

I personally believe that when it comes to shoes and vacation, three pairs is a crowd even for ladies. One pair of casual shoes and one pair of comfort shoes should be sufficient, and of course one pair of flip flops.

#4 Leave your gadgets at home

Our gadgets tend to be too cumbersome and unnecessary because during vacation we rarely use them. Carry your phone and charger, a camera and headphones. Everything else, leave at home. Vacations are meant for personal interactions so you better limit the tech gadgets.

#5 Your security is your responsibility

When visiting new places especially foreign countries, it is important to ensure that your travel documents are always secure. Make sure your passport, plane tickets and any other identification documents are packed securely at all times.

Dark Tourism – 3 Things You Must Know

There’s a new sensation in the tourism sector, a new kind of experiential tourism referred to as dark tourism. Tourists are increasingly making pilgrimages to battle sites, places that once experienced history altering wars, devastating massacres and even natural disasters. This phenomenon has earned the definition “dark tourism”.

The experience is surreal, standing in a spot where hundreds if not thousands of people were killed by either an act of man or an act of nature. Tourists are travelling thousands of miles across the globe to access these tragedy sites all in the name of experiential tourism. So, what do you need to know before engaging in such escapades? Here are a few travel tips.

#1 You must be aware that these kinds of destinations attract controversy

As a tourist it is natural to want to document your travels. Everybody loves a good selfie. However, it is important to recognize that in dark tourism, you are visiting a somber site therefore smiling in that selfie may not go down well with some people. Always try to avoid entangling yourself in such controversies.

#2 You must be aware of potential dangers

Majority of the spots visited by enthusiasts of dark tourism were once war-torn areas or areas stricken by natural disaster and there is still a high probability of these recurring. As a tourist, you must be aware of the potential dangers and ensure to take all necessary precautions to keep yourself safe.

#3 You may be exposed to PTSD

Some psychology experts are of the opinion that tourists who make visits to sites of death and disaster may end up somehow disturbed by the visitation. Knowing that you are standing right on the spot where hundreds if not thousands of people were killed may end up inflicting some form of trauma. The jury is still out on this, I just thought it would be good to mention.

Remains of First World War soldiers recovered in Bullecourt

The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs has just announced that the remains of two soldiers, likely to be Australians who fought in the First World War, were located at Bullecourt in France on Saturday, 23 May 2015.

The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Senator the Hon. Michael Ronaldson, said the remains had been discovered by a French fossicker in an area known to locals as the ‘Australian line’ and then recovered by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC).

“After efforts to identify the soldiers, the remains will be interred in a nearby war cemetery with full military honours,” Senator Ronaldson said.

“During initial examination of the remains, CWGC personnel discovered a button with a map of Australia on it, supporting the likelihood that they are Australian soldiers.

“The First and Second battles at Bullecourt saw some of the most intense trench fighting of the First World War. Australians achieved amazing feats and sadly also suffered significant losses. General Haig described Second Bullecourt as ‘among the great deeds of the war’.

“Australia owes a debt of gratitude to these men, and all those who served our nation on foreign soil. It is our responsibility to ensure that their service and sacrifice is respectfully honoured,” Senator Ronaldson said.

Australian and British troops fought two bloody battles at Bullecourt in April and in May 1917, with the Australian Imperial Force sustaining approximately 10,000 casualties. Hundreds of Australians who died at Bullecourt remain missing.

Returning to Viet Nam

Gary McKay, the historian on our Viet Nam tours, was asked why he believes his tours are above the rest in their conduct and content. He said:

As the author of more than a dozen books on the subject of the Australian involvement in the American war in South Viet Nam, and as a Viet Nam war veteran (4 RAR second tour as a rifle platoon commander), I believe I have the credentials to ensure that our tour lacks nothing in the way of information and attention to detail.

I have been returning to Viet Nam almost every year since 1993 and for the last decade have been conducting and leading tours three and sometimes four times per year. In the last couple of years I have also been leading and guiding Anzac scholarship winners on tours to Viet Nam. Regardless of whether the tourist is a scholar, a returning veteran or somebody who wants to learn about the American war in Viet Nam or gain an understanding of one of the most complex and costly wars since the Second World War, the McLachlan battlefield tour will meet everyone’s expectations.

Viet Nam is fast becoming a developing nation within Asia and its charm and beauty may well be lost to future generations who want to see the real Asia and all that it means. Do not leave it too late to see this beautiful country and the part that Australia played in it during the days when we were all involved as national servicemen.

For veterans who want to return I strongly recommend my book Going Back which will assist those who may have second thoughts on returning to former battle zone.

Mat McLachlan added:

Our Viet Nam Commemoration Tour takes in most of the major battlefields where Australians fought against their elusive enemy. Gary McKay’s personal experience as an infantry officer and combat veteran (who was awarded the Military Cross for gallantry in Australia’s last major battle of the war), allows him to explain in detail how the battles developed, how they were fought and why the combatants fought the way they did. As a historian Gary has the knowledge and insight into providing the finer detail and brings the battles to life as you stand on the ground where brave soldiers from both sides fought and died.

The added bonus is that because Gary has been returning almost every year to the country since 1993 he has an incredible insight into the way Viet Nam has developed and changed since the war years. His intimate knowledge of Viet Nam and its culture allows him to take the tourist into a side of Vietnamese life that not many people get to see.

Gary studied Vietnamese at the School of Modern Languages in Queensland to give him a working knowledge of the language, the culture and social history of this beautiful country. Together with the local guides he provides a touring experience that is extremely rewarding and memorable.

Our 15-night Viet Nam commemoration tour departs on March 24.