 
|
 Take a trip Down Under. This gay group tour to Australia concentrates on the beautiful Southern Coast where the scenery and wildlife are as exciting as the gay-friendly cities. Spend 11 days traveling from Melbourne (a gayer city than Sydney) to Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, Barossa Valley and end with a guided tour and private harbor cruise in the brilliant city of Sydney.
While in Adelaide, a full day trip along the spectacular Great Ocean Road is planned. On Kangaroo Island, enjoy safari drives to see kangaroo, koala, wallabies, platypus, and much more. Unlike most Coda Tours, the Southern Australia tour stays at lovely 4-star properties. It is rich in sightseeing and packed full of fun. Why not start the trip with our extension to Tasmania?
Optional Pre-Tour Extension to Tasmania - May 4 - 8, 2017.
Optional Pre-Tour Extension to Tasmania - May 4 - 8, 2017.
Day 00 - Saturday, May 6, 2017
Depart Home on regularly scheduled flight to Melbourne, Australia. [A VISA IS REQUIRED FOR ENTRY INTO AUSTRALIA.]
Day 0 - Sunday, May 7, 2017
Cross the International Date Line, an imaginary line on the surface of the Earth that runs from the North to the South Pole – and defines one calendar day from the next. Crossing the International Date Line adds one day (24 hours) traveling west, and subtracts one day (24 hours) traveling east.
Day 1 - Monday, May 8, 2017
 Transfer from Melbourne International Airport to Crown Promenade Hotel for check-in.
The Crown Promenade Hotel is a classic luxury hotel offering stylish, modern accommodations, with every effort made to make your stay enjoyable – centrally located with well appointed, air-conditioned rooms, a knowledgeable and friendly staff, 24-hour room service, on-site gym, sauna and health spa, coffee shops, cafes, restaurants and bars.
Remainder of day at leisure.
This evening, dinner will be served in one of Melbourne’s most unique establishments – The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant – the first traveling tramcar restaurant in the world. For a fabulous experience, board the converted 1927-vintage tramcars and be whisked back into the golden era of opulent splendor and gracious dining. Relax with a superb meal accompanied by delicious Australian wines as The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant slowly wends its way through the heart of Melbourne.
Meals: Dinner
Hotel: Crown Promenade Hotel, Melbourne, 4+*
Room: Standard Room
Day 2 - Tuesday, May 9, 2017
 Truly a city like no other, Melbourne boasts an eclectic mix of cultures and history. See The Golden Mile with its high-end shops, boutiques, restaurants and cafes; take in the immensity and grandeur of The Melbourne Sports and Entertainment Precinct; drive through the beachside suburbs, stopping in St Kilda – Melbourne’s favorite esplanade and playground – a wonderful site to relax and “people watch” For further adventures, stroll through Melbourne’s iconic laneways and arcades, home to world renowned street art, hidden cafes, bars and restaurants, independent galleries, and fashionably-unique boutiques, or, for a true “down-under” Melbourne experience, tour the Queen Victoria Market, the heart and soul of the city, bustling with shoppers at the many produce, food and souvenir stalls.
Enjoy a delicious two course lunch in one of Melbourne’s hottest restaurants!
The evening is free to explore the city.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel: Crown Promenade Hotel, Melbourne, 4+*
Room: Standard Room
Day 3 - Wednesday, May 10, 2017
 Victoria’s Great Ocean Road is one of the country’s most beautiful highways, stretching 243km/151m along Australia’s southern coast. Today, drive along this roadway, glimpse the ever-changing scenery and discover charming villages and hamlets as the route heads inland towards Port Campbell National Park and the sculptured beauty of The Twelve Apostles. A collection of naturally eroded limestone – some rising to the height of 65m/213ft – these pillars contribute to the area’s pseudonym “Shipwreck Coast”. Visit Loch Ard Gorge, named after the sinking of the English clipper ship – one of Australia’s countless seacoast catastrophes – which ran aground on nearby Muttonbird Island, June 1, 1878.
Return to Melbourne, arriving late evening.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Crown Promenade Hotel, Melbourne, 4+*
Room: Standard Room
Day 4 - Thursday, May 11, 2017
 Transfer to the airport for flight from Melbourne to Adelaide. Upon arrival in Adelaide, connect with flight to Kingscote, capital city of Kangaroo Island – transfer to hotel, the Mercure Kangaroo Lodge. (Luggage is strictly limited to 15kg (33 pounds) per person – excess will be stored in Adelaide.)
Visitors from around the world come to Kangaroo Island for an unspoiled Australian experience. Just 25 minutes from the ferry port of Penneshaw, the lodge lies along the American River, and was expressly designed to blend into its tropical surroundings. Situated on seven lush Australian acres, with a small fishing village its closest neighbor, this idyllic setting has warmly welcomed guests since opening in 1892, with each room offering a stunning view, whether it is the serene water front, the bush-lands or the cool saltwater pool.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge, Kangaroo Island, 4*
Room: Standard Room
Day 5 - Friday, May 12, 2017
 Welcome to tranquil island life – where time slows and “relaxation” is the by-word. Travel by motorcoach and see the many varied sights of the island – drive to the North Coast and arrive at Lathami Conservation Park. Accompanied by the guide, enjoy a leisurely stroll through tall Eucalyptus trees and catch sight of an Australian Koala – walk quietly through the under-bush, searching for Australian Wallabies – almost extinct on the mainland – or, perhaps, discover a “mob” of miniature kangaroos found only on Kangaroo Island.
Midday, lunch will be served at a secluded park location.
On a guided tour, walk along the sandy beach of Seal Bay Conservation Park and find yourself surrounded by Australian Sea Lions – watch pups playing in the surf under the attentive and protective eyes of their mothers, and see the huge, domineering old bulls, bearing the scars of yearly territorial disputes. The remainder of the afternoon is spent exploring more of the south east region of the Island before returning to the lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel: Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge, Kangaroo Island, 4*
Room: Standard Room
Day 6 - Saturday, May 13, 2017
 A full-day of touring takes you to Flinders Chase National Park – a vast wilderness covering the entire west end of Kangaroo Island and home to many indigenous Australian species. Visit Rocky River, the impressive visitor center offering detailed information of the many facets of the park and its history.
At Cape du Couedic, see a fur seal colony – now numbering over 20,000 animals after being nearly decimated by rampant hunting in the early 1800’s – frolicking in the surf under Admirals Arch – a spectacular coastal grotto. On the headland above is the 25m/75ft beautiful stone Cape du Couedic Lighthouse, located near The Remarkable Rocks – huge natural granite sculptures, carved by relentless winds, rain and salt from the Southern Ocean.
Enjoy an al-fresco lunch before exploring more of the island.
Depending upon the day, the tour might include a visit to Grassdale in the heart of Kelly Hill Conservation Park and Caves.
Return to Kingscote for afternoon flight.
Fly from Kingscote to Adelaide. Transfer from Adelaide Airport to the downtown area to check in to the Mayfair Hotel, a luxury residence offering only the very best of amenities. Taking precedence in the heart of Adelaide, this beautiful “Romanesque” hotel offers the traveler elegance and a touch of glamour, especially complemented by its newly designed ‘jewel box’ addition. Truly, the Mayfair Hotel is the gateway linking old, romantic Adelaide to the newly refurbished Rundle Mall and exciting new Riverbank Entertainment Precinct.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel: Mayfair Hotel, Adelaide, 5*
Room: Courtyard View Room
Day 7 - Sunday, May 14, 2017
 Drive through the scenic Torrens Gorge to the Barossa Valley, home to many of Australia’s world-reknowned vineyards. Travel to Jacobs Creek, internationally known for wine-making, for our first tasting of the fine wines at the Peter Lehmann Winery. We next visit the Torbreck wine cellars, a small winery abundant with rustic charm, and then continue on to include visits to other small, and highly respected, wineries. Stop for a stroll in the German town of Tanunda with time to discover the small shops, many of which specialize in locally-made crafts. Before lunch, take the picturesque drive up to Menglers Hill for panoramic views of the entire Barossa Valley. Our next stop will either be Henschkes Winery in Keyneton, or historic Yalumba, the biggest family run winery in Australia.
Return to Adelaide for flight to Sydney.
Fly Adelaide to Sydney. Transfer from Sydney Domestic Airport to downtown and check-in at the Sydney Harbour Marriott. Located near Circular Quay, the Sydney Harbour Marriott, with its grand interiors, tasteful guest rooms, in-hotel cafes, restaurants and bars, gym, pool and sauna, 24-hour concierge and room-service is perfectly and conveniently located for enjoying Sydney’s major attractions.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel, Sydney, 5*
Room: Standard Room
Day 8 - Monday, May 15, 2017
 Today our guide will be a local “Sydney-sider” of Sydney’s Gay and Lesbian Community. From our hotel, let’s set off to discover the truly “fabulous” city of Sydney.
This morning, travel through the business district and various shopping areas, see Darling Harbour with its vibrant China Town and walk along gay-friendly Oxford Street with its trendy boutiques, cafes, restaurants and bars –and, not to overlook, it’s exciting, and irresistible, nightlife! Spend the afternoon wandering the hidden lanes and secluded pathways of Centennial Park, a 544 acre urban getaway in Eastern Sydney.
Reaching the coastline, we see the small and pristine Bronte & Tamarama Beaches before venturing onto Australia’s famous and gay Bondi Beach. Relax among the oil glistened bodies and enjoy the view!
Drive through the the seaside suburbs of Vaucluse and Double Bay before reaching colorful and vibrant Kings Cross, “…the part of Sydney that never sleeps.” Return to Sydney’s Business Centre via Saint Mary’s Cathedral, historic convict buildings, State Parliament House and the historical quarter of the ‘Rocks’. Visit Sydney’s Observatory Hill where we have amazing views over Sydney Harbour to the Blue Mountains. Drop off at Sydney Opera House for private tour.
Today’s tour includes lunch.
Sydney Opera House – Privately Guided Tour – The 60-minute guided tour offers the opportunity to experience the Sydney Opera House in its daily operation. We are guided into theatres and their backstage areas, given a fascinating account of the history and the architecture of the building, and introduced to the excitement of Performing Arts in Australia. Please note that this is a walking tour, and there are approximately 200 stairs in total. At the conclusion of the tour, make our own way back to the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel: Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel, Sydney, 5*
Room: Standard Room
Day 9 - Tuesday, May 16, 2017
 Sydney’s harbor is home to a multitude of sensational attractions and experiences. With thousands of people visiting harbor attractions per week, skip the crowds & see it all from a well-appointed 54-foot cruiser – from its deck, tour the main harbor attractions of Darling Harbour, the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Enjoy a unique and exclusive cruise, provided by a professional and personable captain and crew. Immerse yourself in all the activities that a private vessel provides including a delicious barbeque meal and beverages.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel: Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel, Sydney, 5*
Room: Standard Room
Day 10 - Wednesday, May 17, 2017
 It is no surprise that when the British first arrived in Sydney they named the area Botany Bay. Even today, with a population of over 4 million people and a reputation for fun rather than flora, one is still surrounded by bush land in this bustling city. Native Waratah wind their way through the historic Rocks area, palm trees frame long stretches of pristine beach, and Eucalyptus embrace the endless and beckoning bays of Sydney Harbour.
It is Sydney’s manmade wonders, however, that draw most visitors. The Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge are the most photographed icons on the continent. Choose a Seaplane Safari experience and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Opera House’s signature sails.
See the Harbour Bridge up close and personal by climbing the metal monolith and enjoy stunning 360- degree views of the glittering vista below with BridgeClimb as you climb to the top. Whether it is an early morning visit to the largest fish market in the southern hemisphere, or your very first surfing lesson on Bondi Beach, in this vibrant metropolis you will find no lack of energetic escapes and dynamic distractions. There are many ways to enjoy the harbor; on a small luxury motor cruiser or sailing yacht, to ferries that take you to Taronga Park Zoo or Manly, and the harbor suburbs.
Take the Darling Harbour Rocket that connects Circular Quay to Darling Harbour where there are many restaurants, and attractions such as The Sydney Aquarium, Wildlife World, The IMAX Theater and the Naval Museum. For a more leisurely afternoon, take a walk through the Royal Botanical Gardens and Hyde Park, or learn about Australia’s National Gemstone, the Opal, at Altmann & Cherny or The National Opal Collection, right in the heart of the city on Pitt Street.
We will gather for a farewell dinner with fellow travelers this evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Hotel: Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel, Sydney, 5*
Room: Standard Room
Day 11 - Thursday, May 18, 2017
Transfer City to Sydney Airport for your flight home.
Meals: Breakfast
|
|
• 10 nights accommodations as per itinerary:
3 nights at Crown Promenade Hotel in Melbourne;
2 nights at Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge on Kangaroo Island;
1 night at Mayfair Hotel in Adelaide;
4 nights at Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel in Sydney
• Tours and sightseeing as mentioned in the itinerary
• Domestic airfare as required for the itinerary
• Coda representative on minimum participation
• Transfers as per the itinerary. Arrival in Melbourne & departure in Sydney is Group Transfer only. A designated flight will serve as the Included Group Transfer. Flights not arriving at this time may require Private Transfers at additional cost.
• Meals as per the itinerary (beverages are not included)
• Hotel porterage – 1 bag per person
• Goods & Services Tax of 10% in Australia
• The 24-hour service of our Australia office from Australia
• Pre-departure assistance and Coda Travel Portfolio
• International Airfare Home/Melbourne (MEL) | Sydney (SYD)/Home
• Visa for Australia
• Gratuities to guides & drivers
• Items of personal nature, phone calls laundry, WiFi
• Beverages during meals
• Excess luggage charges.
• Trip Cancellation & Interruption insurance (recommended)
• Any other item not mentioned in Inclusions
Visa: Required
Requirements: Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond duration of stay). An ETA or non-electronic label visa is required for tourist stays of up to 3 months, and must be obtained prior to departure. An ETA may be obtained online at Electronic Travel Authority. There is a processing fee (currently AU$20 per visa) to be paid on the site.
Shots
None required or recommended. It is recommended you have your regular vaccinations up-to-date before traveling. For further information, visit the Center For Disease Control website.
International Airfare
American Airlines, Qantas, New Zealand Air, United Airlines are airlines that can be used for this trip from/to USA. We recommend booking at least 7 months in advance if you want to try to use Frequent Flyer Miles for free tickets or upgrades or the American Express Platinum card 2-4-1 program.
Minimums
The departure is guaranteed on minimum participation of 10 travelers. A Coda Tour Manager accompanies the tour on a minimum of 10 participants. (* Some modifications to the inclusions in the program may be made if participation is fewer than 10 travelers.)
Crown Promenade Hotel, Melbourne
 Crown Promenade Hotel offers spacious rooms with views of Port Phillip Bay or the city and Yarra River. Guests have access to a restaurant, bar, indoor swimming pool and fitness centre.
Each room at Crown Promenade Melbourne includes a luxury en suite bathroom, 42-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels and a minibar. High-speed Wi-Fi access is available.
Guests can work out in the fully-equipped fitness centre or relax beside the indoor swimming pool with views of the city skyline. Steam rooms and a masseuse are also available.
 Mesh Restaurant offers stylish modern cuisine in elegant surroundings. Tonic Bar has an outdoor terrace and serves cocktails until late.
Located in Melbourne's vibrant Southbank entertainment precinct, Crown Promenade is directly linked to the Crown Casino and Entertainment Complex, offering world-class restaurants, bars and shopping.
Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge, Kangaroo Island
 Featuring accommodation with pool or water views, the Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge is surrounded by the native natural landscape and overlooks Eastern Cove. Guests can enjoy a restaurant, a bar, a swimming pool, sauna, tennis court, nature trail and pelican feeding.
Each air-conditioned room features a refrigerator, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. Some rooms also have a kitchenette. WiFi is available in all rooms.
 Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge Reflections Restaurant is open for breakfast and dinner, and specialises in the best local produce. The bar is the perfect place to enjoy a cool drink on the terrace in summer, or warm up by the fireplace in winter.
Kangaroo Island Lodge is a 30-minute drive from both the Kingscote Airport and the Ferry Terminal at Penneshaw.
Mayfair Hotel, Adelaide
 Located in the heart of Adelaide and overlooking Rundle Mall, the luxurious Mayfair Hotel offers free WiFi and a restaurant, cafe and lounge bar. All rooms offer stylish décor and a 55-inch flat-screen TV. Guests enjoy an onsite fitness centre.
Set within a heritage-listed, renovated building, the boutique Adelaide Mayfair Hotel is 200 m from the Art Gallery of South Australia. It is 3 minutes' drive from Adelaide Convention Centre, Adelaide Oval and Parliament House. Adelaide Airport is 6 km away.
 Each air-conditioned room has a minibar, tea/coffee making facilities and a hairdryer. All rooms include a private bathroom with a shower and free toiletries.
The bar serves a selection of South Australian wines, while the restaurant offers cuisine using local produce. The French-inspired Café55 features delicious French food and a deli-style snacks.
Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel, Sydney
 Located at Circular Quay in Sydney CBD (Central Business District), Sydney Harbour Marriott is only 10 minutes’ walk from the Opera House and offers rooms with harbour, city or opera house views. It features a day spa and an indoor pool.
Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel is just a 5-minute walk from The Rocks and the Museum of Contemporary Art. The Royal Botanic Gardens and the Sydney Harbour Bridge are each a 15-minute walk away.
 Each air-conditioned room at the Sydney Harbour Marriott comes with luxurious 300 thread-count linens and down-filled comforters. All rooms have flat-screen satellite TV, a minibar and tea/coffee facilities.
Guests can work out in the hotel's well-equipped fitness centre, or relax in the sauna. Level 4 Day Spa offers massages, waxing and a range of facial and body treatments.
The Customs House Bar is a 19th-century pub offering casual outdoor dining, while Icons Brasserie serves Modern Australian cuisine or a seafood buffet. Macquarie Lounge offers coffee, drinks, as well as cocktails and entertainment in the evening.
|
|
