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Tasmania, for a small island state of Australia, packs a lot of punch for it’s size. It took me more than 40 years to take my first visit and have now been four times. Each time a new and varied experience. The most recent an unplugged getaway to the north west corner of Tasmania for an unforgettable and unique adventure at Corinna Wilderness Experience. This place is rugged, rustic and off the grid situated on the south end of Australia’s largest temperate rainforest - the Tarkine. No phone reception, no television coverage and certainly not any wifi - this is an unplug and breathe in the air kind of vacation. We flew into Launceston on the new direct Virgin route from Adelaide and made our way North West visiting Brickendon Estate and Cradle Mountain on our itinerary before weaving our way through the windy dirt road through thick forrest to reach the Pieman River which can only be crossed via the Fatman’s Barge - yes that’s what it’s called - I thought the barge operator was solid but I wouldn’t have called him fat! Corinna Wilderness Experience consists both camping and cottage accommodation and has a restaurant/bar/general store. And apart from that there is a river to kayak on, fish to be caught and forests to be hiked. Corinna was settled as a gold mining town in the 1880’s - according to census surveys at the peak it was populated by some 2000 people. However women, indigenous, children and migrants were not counted so the population was likely much higher The accommodation are refurbished original cottages from the old mining town with an old post office, general store and butcher’s store amongst the historical offerings sharing the site with 16 wilderness retreat cottages built to replicate the original town. Much of the history is told through story plaques scattered across the property so if you are a history buff there is plenty of information to soak in.
The old cottages offered great balconies to take in the sunsets and enjoy sundowners while the local wildlife, mostly pademelons, came up to the lawns to feed. The site is powered by an eco friendly solar system and as you don’t have mobile phone reception the accommodation does not exactly encourage you to power up all your tech while staying there. Power points were notably lacking - there wasn’t even a power point in the kitchen to boil a jug or a hair dryer in the bathroom - prepare to go eco friendly here. If you like hiking then you will love this location - there are a range of walks to take through rainforest, along boardwalks, up hills and along the river. From short strolls to three hour treks there is a great range for all levels and the location is well worth discovering on foot. If you are keen to hit the water there are kayaks to hire and plenty of idyllic locations which provide breathtaking scenery down the Pieman River. And you can’t leave this location without taking the historic Arcadia 11, a 17m craft built from Huon pine in 1939, for a leisurely cruise down the Pieman River to Pieman Heads. On the edge of Western Tasmania - venture directly west from here and you won’t hit land until you reach South America! The return trip offers a leisurely commentated cruise down spectacular river flanked by forest and wildlife - quite a peaceful and memorable experience to fill a day at Corinna. If you are looking for something different - whilst absolutely spectacular! - when in Tasmania we highly recommend adding the Corinna Wilderness Experience to your itinerary. Penny Itchy Feet Family Itchy Feet Family stayed at Corinna Wilderness Experience as a Guest. More details of the resort including rates can be found at their website www.corinna.com.au
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Australia’s island State Tasmania is a diverse place with plenty of activities for all ages. If you are exploring the north of the island and are looking for a unique place to visit - here are eight reasons to include Brickendon on your itinerary. 1. Location Located just 20 minutes from Launceston Airport, Brickendon is a great launchpad for an adventure in the north of Tasmania as the start of your trip or as you are wrapping it up before flying home. It’s very easy to find - no crazy ventures into wild farm country before you are smelling this fresh farm air! 2. Cosy Cottages There are a number of cottages available for accommodation, we stayed in the one bedroom pumpkin cottage. Complete with a picturesque porch and a cosy wood fire, bring a good book and a bottle of wine and sit back and enjoy! The cottages are fully self contained with breakfast provisions provided in the kitchen to cook up some fresh farm eggs to start your day. And there is plenty of lawns and open space for the kids to run amongst the fresh air and explore. 3. Fishing Situated on the river, there are plenty of possibilities for the fishing enthusiasts. Head down to the jetty - just a 10 minute walk from the main property - and you are set to cast. There are plenty of rivers in Tasmania, but finding access to them can be tricky. Grab your rod and your fishing licence and try your luck on the banks at Brickendon 4. Meet the Animals Get up close and personal with the farm animals. You will find lambs, turkey, geese and ducks roaming the property. There is plenty of birdlife and if you time your visit you may even see the wool shed in action for some sheep shearing. 5. Pilates Yes, you read right - the latest add on to your farm stay is a reformer pilates studio! Enquire before you stay and you can escape the kids for some relaxation in this brand new studio. 6. Say I do! There is a beautiful chapel at Brickendon, as well as picturesque gardens and an old barn, perfect for a wedding. Bring in your own caterer, there is a commercial kitchen, and create beautiful memories on this historic site. 7. Extended Family Getaway
With so much space and options for accommodation, why not gather the extended family and utilise the space for an extended family reunion, special occasion or getaway. With activities to suit young and old this property lends itself to extended family or friend group getaways. 8. Rich in History The Brickendon Estate is rich in history. A UNESCO world heritage site, spend your day wondering through the property and soaking up all the history to uncover life as it was in the 1800s for both the farming Archer family and the convicts that spent their time on the property. Read about the 12yo from England that stole a loaf of bread and ended up on the other side of the world as a farm labourer to pay for his crime! Penny Itchy Feet Family Itchy Feet Family stayed at Brickendon Estate as a Guest. More details of the property including rates can be found at their website www.brickendon.com.au Tasmania has many varied experiences to offer. From wilderness and wildlife, city breaks to farm stays, art museums and fine dining. There seems to be something for everyone on this small island. It took me more than 40 years to visit Tasmania - now on my fourth trip in as many years I wonder what took me so long to start exploring this amazing piece of the country. Most recently we flew into the north of Tasmania on the newly opened Virgin direct route from Adelaide to Launceston and stumbled across the unique and fascinating Brickendon Estate.  The only privately owned World Heritage Site, the property has been in the Archer family since settled as a farm in1824 and is now owned by 7th generation Richard Archer and his family. I met with Louise Archer on my visit who passionately shared the family story of how the farm and all it’s history was on the brink of disappearing before they took the brave decision to open the property up to share with the world as a tourist destination. They achieved the UNESCO World Heritage Site listing in 2010 making the privately owned farm an official Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Property. Clearly a passion project that is done for the love and sense of responsibility to preserve a vital piece of Australian history, the property is a living museum of convict history in Australia. The family have restored many parts of the original farm and presented an interactive museum that presents life as it was for convicts in the 1800s that were sent to the farm to serve out their sentence. As well as the historic significance, Brickendon is still a functioning and operational farm with crops and livestock a plenty on the 465 hectare property. If you get lucky like we did you will not only see the lambs, ducks and turkeys roaming the grounds but you may even see the quintessential Australian sheep sheering taking place in the wool shed. And for those with a green thumb - or an appreciation of those that have one - the Estate Gardens is open to the public with what has been described as one of the most unusual collection of trees of any private garden in Australia. With trees some 180 years old from origins from across the globe the Estate Garden provides a picturesque setting for a wander.  Just 20 minutes north of Launceston the property is accessible for a day trip from Launceston, or you can stay in the rustic cottages making for a charming farm stay suitable for all ages.
Recently the property also added a commercial kitchen and function space providing options for weddings, corporate functions or extended family gatherings. Plenty of reasons to include this destination on your next Tasmania adventure! Penny Itchy Feet Family Itchy Feet Family stayed at Brickendon Estate as a Guest. More details of the property including rates can be found at their website www.brickendon.com.au Holiday Rental Review Just 76km from the Adelaide CBD, South Australia, sits the coastal town of Normanville. If you are looking for a holiday rental by the beach, we recently stayed at the Log Cabin located at 47 Jetty Road and absolutely loved it. I have rented a number of houses on the Fleurieu Peninsula in the Normanville and Carirckalinga area over the years and the Log Cabin comes in as my favourite so far. Just a 200m walk to the Normanville Jetty and a five minute walk to the main street, location is perfect for this holiday rental. The beach and jetty are situated in front of the surf life saving club, there is a kiosk for takeaway coffee and fish and chips and the sand is golden and clean. And I would be amiss not to mention the floating pontoon a few hundred metres off the shore that my teenage kids loved as it facilitated as a meeting ground to interact with other locals and holiday makers. The Log Cabin is a two bedroom, one-bathroom house with a large open living/dining/lounge area. It has a large front porch with comfortable outdoor furniture, a large BBQ and a fantastic double person outdoor bean bag perfect for evening star gazing.
We visited in the summer, but if you are visiting in the winter there is a purpose built fire pit that would be great for marshmallows and bottles of wine! The outdoor shower - with both hot and cold water - was well positioned to capture the sandy footprints of the kids as they returned from the beach and the front lawn area perfect for an afternoon game of bocce! The house was really well decorated and purposefully put together. It felt like someone’s home rather than some of the holiday rentals I have previously had that feel more like a collection of someone’s left over furniture. The kitchen was well equipped with everything you could possible need. I took five days supply of food and drink and the large fridge coped well with our haul and I was not once left wishing the kitchen had an accessory I needed. The pod coffee machine was of course well received! The bathroom - whilst only one in the house - has a large free standing bath which I also used and welcomed. There is plenty to do in this area - it is a great holiday destination in both summer or winter. If the Log Cabin had a sea view it would probably triple the rental price. However if you can forego that view and don’t mind the 200m walk to the beach, it’s a great option. We rented the property through Fleurieu Accommodation website for New Years 2021/2022. Penny Itchy Feet Family If you are heading to Tasmania be sure to hire a car and get out and explore. After two previous trips to the island where I only ever visited the city of Hobart this trip we decided to get out and explore. As much as I loved Hobart, Tasmania truly has so much more to offer than just a big city. Just over an hour South of Hobart is a beautiful region called the Huon Valley. Along with mountainous ranges, rivers and pines providing plenty of fresh country air you will also find the area covered in apple orchards with distilleries serving up a variety of craft ciders and gins. Here are a few ideas to include on your itinerary to the Huon Valley in Southern Tasmania.  Apple Museum As you drive through the region you will notice apple orchards are in abundance. Not surprisingly then that we stumbled across an Apple Museum. Located inside Willie Smith’s, a gold coin donation provides entry into the display at the back of the eatery. The wall of apples is fascinating - who knew there were so many varieties of apples to be had! And how Australian to have a variety named Barry! Check out the vintage machinery, the apple sorting machines and the retro packaging from days gone by.  Willie Smith’s If you are after a hip and cool eatery, you won’t want to miss Willie Smith’s. Enjoy a paddle of ciders in the beer garden, take a picturesque window seat in the main dining room and look out amongst the fields, or get a group together for a lunch in the sunken private dining space. We visited during lunch time, but the outdoor area looked like a great place to spend an evening with rustic wood pallet furniture in an open shed.  Tahune Adventures After being devastated by fires in 2019, closing for a year to rebuild and then being shut down again due to COVID 19, the Tahune Airwalk has shown some resilience to once again be open seven days a week for visitors. Take a walk high up in the tree tops, cross the suspension bridges and get a birds eye view from the eagle flier or take a raft down the river - there is plenty to do at this location. There is something special about being up in the tree tops, the air is clean, the views intriguing and the nature calming. It will take some time for the vegetation to return to it’s full glory post the fire - however there was still plenty to see.  Port Huon Hospitality at the Kermandie Hotel For a peaceful night with a picturesque view, consider a night at the recently refurbished Kermandie Hotel. Built in 1932 this hotel has a funky new vibe matched with a very local and casual charm. Enjoy a meal in the restaurant - inside or out there are calming views over the marina. Join the locals in the front public bar and enjoy a game of pool, a pint and some pub classic fare, or opt to stay the night in the upstairs hotel rooms. Hotel guests enjoy a private upstairs lounge space with calming views, and a comfy couch in front of the wood fire place to enjoy a bottle of red from the hotel’s bottle shop.  Galverston This town is something out of a wild west movie with wood carved statues throughout I could have been mistaken to think I had stumbled across a back road American town. Being on the edge of the forest, the history comes from the woods and there is plenty of charm in this small town. Stop by the sweet shop and check out the wall of candy, enjoy Devonshire tea at the bakery and check out the local museum.  Drive Australia’s Southern Most Street If you are going to explore the edge of Australia, you may as well go as far as you possibly can. Take Australia’s Southernmost street all the way to the end to say you have driven to the edge of Australia. If you are a walker, you can then venture on a 12-14 day trek that really takes you to the edge. We met some walkers that had just completed the journey. They had been hammered by the rain for days but said it was well worth the journey to tick it off the bucket list with breathtaking views and scenery.  Dover For a picturesque stay check out the Driftwood Cottages at Dover. With views overlooking the water this is a peaceful and tranquil part of the world, a perfect place to relax and unwind. A great doorway to the South, Dover is a quiet town with the local RSL the best place to visit to meet the locals and enjoy some regional hospitality.  River Fishing
Southern Tasmania is abundant with rivers and streams - being from Adelaide it is not something we have a lot of so we were keen to check out some of Southern Tasmania’s spots. The river banks can be difficult to get to as much of the land alongside is privately owned, but if you are persistent there are some sneaky pockets to find to throw a line in. Be sure to purchase a licence before you start though as this is a requirement. Have you visited the Huon Valley in Southern Tasmania? What was your highlight? Penny Itchy Feet Family  Your hiking boots are the most essential piece of equipment that any hiker will own. A good pair of boots makes walking so much more enjoyable as you can approach the terrain with confidence and get the most out of your experience on the trails. Good boots, however, can be expensive and when you find a pair that you like, you will want to do everything that you can to keep them looking and functioning their best.
To help your hiking boots stand the test of time, you need to take care of them properly. With the right care, you can ensure that your boots will last longer, allowing you to spend more days on the trails in comfort. Form good habits and be sure to take care of your boots after every hike. If you take good care of your hiking boots, you can be sure that they will take care of you. Let’s take a look at a few useful tips to help you to extend the life of your hiking boots. Always Clean After Use The very first step to maintaining your hiking boots is cleaning them after every use. Be sure to remove any residual mud, dirt, sand or snow from the sole and from in between the lugs. Allowing mud, dirt and other debris to set into your boots will damage your boots over time resulting in the materials breaking down and water getting in. Take Out The Insole Removing the insole from your hiking boots when you get back to base will help your boots to dry faster and allow your boots to breathe. You can add an odour eliminating spray also to keep your boots fresh. Taking the insole out will also allow the insole to decompress after hours of walking so that it can recover and be ready for your next hike. Waterproof Your Boots Water can penetrate boot materials over time, wearing the materials down in the process. Waterproofing your boots will help to prevent damage to your boots from water and help you to prologue their life. There is a range of treatments that you can choose from. When you are making your choice, be sure to choose a waterproofing treatment that is suitable for the material of your boots. For example, you will need a different product for Gore-Tex finishes than you will for a wax-based leather boot. Pay Attention To Your Soles It goes without saying that the soles of your boots will take the most damage over time. Depending on your gait, your boots sales could wear down quickly and long before there is anything wrong with the rest of the boot. In this situation, consider getting your boots re-soled. This will give your boots a new lease of life and is much more cost-effective than forking out for a brand new pair. Use Your Boots Wisely If you invest in a good pair of hiking boots and want them to last longer, then be sure to wear them exclusively for hiking. If you put more kilometres on your boots wearing them for day-to-day, they will already be partly worn out when you get to the trails. Of Breaking your boots in is fine but don’t too comfortable wearing them day-to-day, as you will go through them much faster if you don’t reserve them for the trails. Take Care Of Your Boots And Make Them Last Longer As with anything that you own, the better care that you take of things, the longer they tend to last. When it comes to extending the life of your boots, be sure to keep them clean, waterproof them, allow the insole to recover and re-sole as required. Completing these simple maintenance tasks while reserving your hiking buts exclusively for the purpose that you bought them will ensure that they will last you for a long time to come. *Sponsored Post  There are so many different styles of travel available from camping through fancy hotels, and as a frequent traveller I enjoy trying as much of that range as I can. On a recent trip to Tasmania I discovered a gem in the Rathmore Farm Stay - a style of getaway that I have never really trialled before - but one that I am thankful I uncovered. The closest to this I had ever done before was a stay at the Dixie Dude Ranch in Texas, a rustic farm stay with cowboys, but I had never considered this type of stay in Australia before - and wow have I been missing out! Here are my top reasons to consider a stay at Rathmore in Tasmania. 1. Just one hour from Hobart At just over an hour from Hobart, Rathmore is accessible as a weekend away for locals - or as a side trip for mainland tourists even if only flying into Hobart for a weekend getaway. 2. Suitable for families, couples or groups  There are a range of accommodation options at Rathmore to suit all groups of travellers. The main homestead is a B&B with four bedrooms available (including two adjoining rooms great for families), the Shearers Quarters has five rooms available (perfect for a group) and Rathmore Cottage can accommodate up to six making it great for a family. The three accommodation options are spread out across the 92 acre sheep property in the central Tasmanian highlands and with all that space there is even room to park a caravan or pitch a tent! We visited as a couple on a one night getaway, but I would love to return with the kids and could imagine hiring out the whole venue for a milestone birthday weekend with friends and family or even as a venue for a corporate retreat. 3. Hand feed a bullock  It is not every day you can get up close and personal with an almost six foot tall bullock and hand feed him a piece of bread! However Hercules is a gentle hand reared bullock that will approach the SUV to stick his head in, slobber all over you and accept a piece of bread! As well as Hercules the farm has some friendly hand reared sheep that will come in close for a pat, a number of horses that can be fed a carrot or two, six wild platypus that can be spotted in the Dew Rivulet and a trout or two ready to be caught if you bring your line and head out on the row boat. 4. Attention to detail  The attention to detail that Cally has poured into the renovations at Rathmore are not unnoticed when you stay. And the personalised touches at every turn highlight how meticulous she is as a hostess with the mostest! Marshmallows left as a welcome gift for guests to roast on the campfire, a fully equipped mess in the shearers quarters for self catering as extensive as including a rice cooker and slow cooker, fresh herbs picked and placed in a vase in your accommodation, the sprinkles of flowers on the plates of food prepared ensuring plenty of colour as Cally quoted “We all eat with our eyes”. Rathmore may not be a 5 star hotel, but the rustic authentic accommodation includes personal touches for guest comfort that would rival any 5 star city hotel. 5. Sparkling Sparkles  One thing I am known for is being partial to a glass of sparkling wine or two….. when presented with an opportunity to enjoy canapés with sparkling Tasmanian wine overlooking the property at sundown it ticked all my boxes.
Hosted by owner Cally, we sipped sparkling wine while she shared with us the history of the property and a few intriguing tales that I am sure have evolved over the years through the local gossip trail. Canapés were followed by a candle lit dinner for two in the main homestead capped off with a bottle of wine by the outdoor campfire to enjoy the sparkles in the sky. The skies in this part of the world are spectacular and we had a clear night for viewing. Penny Itchy Feet Family *Itchy Feet Family stayed as a guest of Rathmore. For more details about Rathmore visit their website www.rathmore.com.au Seminyak is the style icon of Bali. It is a place where fashion and modern-day luxury meet beach holidays and Balinese culture. Apart from mind-blowing sunsets, shopping arcades, world-class restaurants and famous beach clubs, this booming tourist town is also a great destination for families! Seminyak has got something for everyone, even for families with young kids and teens. Here is an overview of different areas, the best Seminyak villas and things to do in the area. We hope it will bring inspiration for your upcoming Bali trip - or encourage you to consider this destination. Oberoi The famous Oberoi Road (also known as Jalan Kayu Aya and ‘eat street’) is where you will stumble upon trendy coffee bars, designer boutiques, bars, restaurants and shopping malls. You wouldn’t even have to leave this street as it heads straight down to the beach and KU DE TA Beach Club. Have a coffee at Revolver Espresso, Grocer & Grind or Sisterfield. Dine at Ginger Moon (amazingly delicious Asian fusion food), La Lucciola (beachfront!) and LacaLaca Cantina Mexicana (kids eat for free on Wednesday). The options are limitless! Oh, and don’t forget to get yourself pampered at Bodyworks Spa!  Villa in Oberoi Seminyak: Villa Crystal Just off the famous Oberoi Road - this villa couldn’t be any more central, tucked in a secluded lane away from the crowds - it is just unbeatable! You can walk to the beach, take the kids for a surf lesson and treat them to ice cream - Gelato Factory is just across the villa’s laneway on Oberoi Road. The villa is modern but oh so tropical - the best combination you can get! There is a large private garden with a pool for you and the family to enjoy. The villa has four bedrooms and especially great for kids, they get to sleep in bunks. Not sure why you stay in a villa over a hotel? Read this article to find out why! Things to do for families with kids:
PetitengetThe boutique shops, coffee bars and restaurants in Oberoi have gained more territory in our beloved Seminyak, expanding gradually towards Petitenget. This trendy part of town used to be a separate village, but now it is probably the chicest area in all of Seminyak. You can find the very best restaurants by world-famous chefs and favourite beachfront hang-outs such as Potato Head and W Bali. Be sure to check out classy restaurants that are perfectly family-friendly such as Merah-Putih (one table filled with dishes to share), SeaSalt (beachfront location at Alila Seminyak), Sarong (by head chef Will Meyrick and it’s just a must-try!). How about a high tea? Head over to Biku - they’ve got a little playing nook on-site as well as mini cup cakes and tea cups, so there is no need to worry about them getting bored.  Villa in Petitenget: Villa M Seminyak Villa M is a fabulous family villa with a huge private garden and amazing facilities! This holiday home in Seminyak Bali has five bedrooms and multiple places for lounging and dining. The large 16 x 6 private swimming pool has a shallow area for the little ones and you can dine alfresco style in the garden with delights from the BBQ. Villa M even boasts a rooftop terrace for sunset drinks. There are tropical open-air living spaces as well as air-conditioning ones (up for an in-villa family movie night, anyone?). The villa is located just off the buzzing Petitenget Strip and you can easily get around on foot. Things to do with kids
Batu BeligBatu Belig lies in between Petitenget in Seminyak and Berawa in Canggu. It’s an upcoming and trendy area with a gorgeous beach and lots of places to eat and drink (including a Unicorn Cafe!). Batu Belig Beach is home to Tropicola Beach Club (one of the latest hot spots in Seminyak). For a lovely family lunch, definitely check out Watercress Cafe! For a scrumptious dinner head over to iconic restaurants such as Sardine and Metis - both overlooking the rice paddies and it is stunning!  Villa in Batu Belig Seminyak: Villa Hiburan 1 Villa Hiburan 1 is a perfect family holiday haven in Batubelig. This beautiful villa has four bedrooms and two of the rooms are interconnected, making it perfect for a family travelling with young kids! Another highlight is the fantastic family pool with a built-in jacuzzi and the location which is peaceful and strategic at the same time. It has all the necessary modern amenities you need for a great Bali family holiday: A TV to keep the kids from boredom, a kitchen for when you don’t want to dine out, high chairs and baby cots for the littlest members of the fam. Things to do with kids
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- Family cycle tour Bali - Christmas Cruising Pros and Cons - Cheese Wheel Pasta on the Gold Coast - Hong Kong Disneyland  When you go on a family holiday so much of the itinerary is tailored around the kids. We put most of our energy into making sure they have a great time. But what about the parents? Why not include some indulgence for us on our family holidays too. My kids, now 10 and 13, have had a few trips to the Gold Coast and in the past it has been all about them. I always have theme park tickets arranged, sunscreen and bathers packed for days at the beach, but on this trip I decided on something different. A pamper package for mum pre-booked and part of the itinerary. I came across a company on the Gold Coast that specialises in catering for holiday makers, Ripple Massage, who take the hassle out of pampering by offering an in-room service. If you are worried about taking time out, finding a massage therapist, getting a car park - a mobile massage is a great option. An in-room mobile massage comes to you in your accommodation and they do all the hard work. You don’t need a car, or to catch an uber - worry about getting a car park - or rushing back to the family when you are finished. You simply answer the door to a masseuse carrying a mobile massage table.  I opted for the one hour pamper package that included a full body massage, foot soak and hot towel face massage. And I have to say the hot towel face massage was amazing!
My masseuse arrived with everything required to provide an hour of downtime for me - a massage table, speaker to create a calming ambience and plenty of massage oil. Bliss! With the massage table set up in front of the apartment’s balcony I was able to switch off for an hour, listen to the sounds of the beach crashing on the sand and melt away into the soothing massage as the morning sun shined through the windows. Whilst my little darlings are the world to me, there should be a balance to your family holiday. Yes the kids are the main priority on a Gold Coast holiday - however parents deserve some down time amongst all the thrill rides, character greetings and trips to the beach. Have you ever pre-booked a mobile massage as part of your family holiday itinerary? Penny Itchy Feet Family *Itchy Feet Family were a guest of Ripple Day Spa and Mobile Massage. For details about the packages they provide visit www.ripplemassage.com.au  Dining out with children can be challenging at times. They like to be entertained and it is so easy to simply place an electronic device in front of them to keep them quiet in a restaurant. However on a recent dinner out on the Gold Coast I managed to keep the kids entertained with the help of a large wheel of parmesan cheese and a flame thrower! Salt Meats Cheese is a family owned Italian restaurant on the Gold Coast that every Wednesday night serves up a special pasta dish - cheese wheel pasta. Apparently a very authentic way of cooking pasta in Italy, the restaurant makes a presentation of the process which had us all fascinated. A large wheel of parmesan cheese on a presentation table was rolled up to our dining table and a flame throwing butane can used to heat the inside of the cheese to soften it. A bowl of pre-cooked freshly made spaghetti then taken from the hot pan and put into the cheese wheel to be tossed.  As the hot spaghetti jumped around in the cheese wheel the pasta picked up the melted parmesan to flavour the dish. Amazing! A bit of bacon added on top to finish the dish and cheese wheel carbonara pasta was served! For extra flavour we also tried one tossed in pesto, which was also done on the presentation table in front of us. As Australians we have a tendency of adding lots of ingredients into our pasta dishes, Salt Meats Cheese dishes were simple yet so full of flavour proving that sometimes less really is more. Once the cheese wheel presentation was completed the kids also enjoyed the opportunity to return to the simple art of a blank piece of paper as a canvas to draw, which at the end of the meal they proudly pinned to the restaurant wall. Look out for the drawings we tagged @ItchyFeetFamily!
While the adults enjoyed eating the pasta - the kids tucked into freshly made wood-fire oven kid’s meal pizzas - which we followed with a nutella/peanut butter calzone AND a serve of nutella filled donuts. YUM!
The restaurant offered a great vibe for families, when Miss 10 spilled her water all over the table there was plenty of ambience in the restaurant that no-one heard the commotion or even batted an eye lid! Thankfully there were no electronic devices on the table to be ruined - just a paper canvas that needed to be started over. Penny Itchy Feet Family *Itchy Feet Family were guests of Salt Meats Cheese. For more details about the restaurant visit www.saltmeatscheese.com.au Other blogs you may enjoy:
 A trip to Disneyland is a dream for many children. For Australians, a trip to LA to visit the original park is a long way to travel. Australians have the advantage of Asia on our door step and with the influx of all things western, we now can travel to Hong Kong to experience a quintessential childhood bucket list item of a visit to Disneyland. In April 2019 we spent a week in Hong Kong and decided to include a visit to Hong Kong Disneyland as part of our activities. Here are some useful tips for your family visit. Getting There I am sure you have all heard the phrase that the journey is as important as the destination and Hong Kong Disneyland takes that ethos to heart with the amazing Disney Express Train. We were delighted to find a dedicated train service that takes you to the Disney doorstep, but even more surprised when the train turned up and it was actually Disney themed. All the kids onboard absolutely loved it, taking selfies with the Mickey windows and checking out all the intricate details of the Disney train. The train is absolutely a great way to get to the park. All the Classics If you have visited any Disney Park around the world there are a few staple attractions that you expect to see. It’s a Small World for example takes you on a slow boat ride past displays from all over the world while the song runs on repeat - the tea cups spin making both young and old giddy - and space mountain takes you on an epic fast roller coaster ride through pitch darkness. Having also visited Disneyland Parks in LA and Paris it was nice to recognise some of the classic rides and enjoy them in another country. Main Street When you enter a Disneyland you are welcomed by a familiar main street that flows guests into and out of the park that is lined with stores and cafes ready to take your tourist dollars. If you are after anything Disney branded, you are going to find it here. The stores have every imaginable item from key rings to Christmas decorations, dressing gowns to slippers, hats to sunglasses, cups to glasses - you name it you will find it in a store on Main Street and it will be Disney branded. Marvel Rides If you are a Marvel fan, you are going to enjoy your visit to Hong Kong Disneyland. Unique to this park are the Marvel attractions. Ant-Man and The Wasp: Nano Battle officially opened March 31, 2019 - we visited in April allowing us to be amongst the first to experience the new attraction. An attraction for all ages this interactive ride uses laser technology to get you in amongst the action whilst competing against your fellow riders as you shoot at targets to earn points. The park opened the Iron Man Experience in 2017 and has plans to continue the expansion of the Marvel Super Hero action to create an ultimate hub for fans. There is plenty of Marvel entertainment to keep guests entertained as well as a wide range of merchandise to purchase. Great for Families One of the benefits of a visit to Disneyland is that they offer entertainment for both young and old. The rides are more catered for younger families (and the grandparents that no longer seek thrills) and whilst there were a few thrill rides for our adventurous crew, there were a lot that our 9 and 12 yo were happy to pass on. However the mix of thrill, rides for the young, interactive and walk through entertainment meant there was a good balance of activities to cater for all ages. English ThroughoutFor the main part everything in the park was spoken in English. The only exception was a Jedi stage show that was bi lingual - and although we had no idea what words were being spoken we still managed to follow the story line and understand what was going on.
We had a fun day at Disneyland Hong Kong and would recommend a visit on your itinerary to this city. Have you been - what were your highlights or tips for a visit? Penny - Itchy Feet Family Note: Itchy Feet Family were guests of Hong Kong Disneyland.  Hobart is a fantastic city - I can’t believe it took me 44 years to visit this gem! Having never visited before I have now been twice in two months and I am looking for my next opportunity to return. In June we took a family cruise from Sydney to Hobart for the dark MOFO festival that included a 48 hour stopover, in August we took advantage of new direct flights from Adelaide and indulged in a weekend girls trip. As first time visitors to this southern city we were keen to pack in as much as possible on our short city breaks. If you are looking for a reason to visit - and ideas for things to do while you are there - here are a few suggestions. Red Decker Hop on Hop Off Bus A great way to acclimatise yourself with a city is to take the Red Decker hop on hop off bus tour. This is a sure fire way to make sure you see all the major highlights of a city when you are short on time. The double decker bus provided a loop of the city that takes you to locations including the wrest point casino, through battery point, past the Cascades Brewery and women’s prison, back through the city and then across to the Botanical Garden. We opted for a 48 hour ticket and of course you can get off and on at any of the stops that spark your interest. The advantage of a tour like this is the commentary that comes with it that offers a good insight into facts and figures about the city and a lesson on the history. Walk to Cascades Brewery If you are after a city walk, head uphill from Salamanca to the Cascades Brewery. A four kilometre route will take you through South Hobart (SOHO) past the heritage cottages and vintage stores to arrive at the Brewery visitor centre where you can enjoy a well deserved drink. During winter you can enjoy a glass of mulled cider with a serve of chicken wings - and if the sun is shining there is plenty of seating in the outdoor gardens to take in the views. Of course there are also brewery tours that you can take to see the back end operations to the Cascades brews. Salamanca Markets Operating every Saturday, the markets are a fun way to spend your day meandering through a collection of market stalls offering local products and produce. From soy candles, to gin, pashminas to potatoes there is a wider variety of stalls to wander. The open air markets operate from 8:30am to 3pm and have been lining the streets of Salamanca since 1972. Classy Cocktails Hobart knows how to style a bar - there are some amazing venues to enjoy a classy cocktail in a chic setting. In Salamanca you will find a great selection including The Den, The Botanical and The Whiskey Bar and don’t forget to head over to the Henry Jones Hotel and visit the IXL bar for rosemary infused glasses filled with tasty cocktails. Visit MONA If you love Modern Art, you are going to love MONA. If you have no clue about modern art, you will still enjoy a trip to MONA! The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is the jewel in Hobart’s Crown and a must see activity. The adventure starts when you board the camouflaged catamaran from the Brooke Street Pier and take the 25 minute fast ferry ride to the museum. If you don’t like the water, there is also a bus service to use as an alternative. Upon arrival be prepared for an assault on the senses as you take the spiral staircase down into the underground tunnels of the museum. Download The O app and be guided through the exhibits with all you need to know by the phone in the palm of your hand. Stop and enjoy a drink in the funky bar, visit the mechanical replica bowel depositing smelly outputs, explain the fish bowl with a knife in it sitting on a chair or just ask the question - what the MONA? Long Lunch If you are after a picturesque setting for a long lunch head to the Brooke Street Pier and settle in at the Glass House restaurant. The floor to ceiling glass walls provide an uninterrupted view of the waterfront where you can gaze at the country side and watch the MONA fast ferries pull in and out on their journey from the pier. Enjoy a three course meal, matched with a glass or two of Tasmanian wine, for a long lazy lunch. Mt Wellington If you are visiting in winter it is highly possible there will be snow fall on top Mt Wellington which is the back drop to Hobart city. A great way to get amongst the snow is to take the Mt Wellington Explorer Bus tour to the summit which sits at 1270m above sea level and provides spectacular views of Hobart. The tour bus leaves Hobart city regularly for the 2.5 hour return journey. If it is snowing, the only way you will get to the summit is if you are on the Mt Wellington Explorer Bus. This tour operator has exclusive and unique access to the road that leads to the summit that is otherwise closed during snow. On the morning we visited our small bus of tourists were the only people on the summit. The fresh snow was untouched providing a unique experience for the kids who had never experienced snow fall before and were able to make their first snow angels. Stay in Salamanca If you are staying for a city break to enjoy the highlights of Hobart you really don’t need a car if you stay in the heart of Salamanca. We stayed at the Salamanca Wharf Hotel which is an apartment style boutique hotel right in the heart of all the city action. Walking distance to everything you need for a weekend city break, the Salamanca Wharf Hotel provided great quality accommodation and fantastic service from friendly staff. For a unique room, stay in the penthouse loft and enjoy the balcony views of the city. As this is an apartment hotel it features a kitchenette and laundry facilities which are always useful for families. Have you visited Hobart before on a short break? What were the highlights of your city stay? Penny Itchy Feet Family *Itchy Feet Family were hosted by Red Decker Hobart, Mt Wellington Explorer and the Salamanca Wharf Hotel.  South Australians can feel right at home and still get away from it all when they embark on an Adelaide staycation. A holiday in your home city or state provides an unexpected and affordable getaway from routine and reality. Hotels.com offers many Adelaide accommodation options online. There’s also fun-filled suggestions for capturing all that Adelaide and surrounding regions have to offer. Wine lovers are spoilt for choice in this premier wine state. The Adelaide Hills, Clare Valley and world-renowned Barossa Valley are a stone’s throw away and provide access to renowned wineries, including Penfolds, Hahndorf Hill, Wirra Wirra, Bremerton, Mt Lofty Ranges and endless boutique vineyards, offering cellar-door tastings. The kids can also feel fulfilled, educated and enlivened at a selection of tourist attractions that are right on your doorstep. The Adelaide Zoo, Art Gallery of South Australia, Adelaide Botanic Garden and pet-friendly Adelaide Himeji Gardens provide hours of child-focused sightseeing, events and activities. Venture further afield to a range of metropolitan beaches, including the historic, family-friendly Glenelg and Brighton beaches. Chocoholics can get their cacao fill at Australia’s oldest chocolate-making company, Haighs. While the parents are sipping premium Pinot, Shiraz or Eden Valley Riesling in the Adelaide Hills and beyond, the kids can also savour the freshest strawberries at Beerenberg Farm before a family visit to Melba’s Chocolate Factory. For some much-needed rest in between the exciting sightseeing, dining and cultural attractions in abundance, Hotels.com offers a range of Adelaide accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. Staycationers can choose to stay in five-star style at the Intercontinental Adelaide. Located in the city’s vibrant heart, this premium accommodation option provides the ultimate luxury in first-class suites, guest rooms, facilities and dining options for discerning families. The Mayfair Hotel also offers five-star appeal, a central Adelaide base and all mod cons in one of the city’s newest and most lavish accommodation options. If you’re planning on a seaside staycation, Glenelg beachgoers can relax in luxurious comfort and family-friendly facilities at the Stamford Grand Adelaide Hotel. With enticing family package offers and a chocolate high tea that staycationers of all ages will savour, a visit to the Stamford Grand is worth getting excited about. Back in the Adelaide heartland, access all the city attractions with a mini or maxi break at the five-star Hilton Adelaide. With the cream of the city’s dining destinations, including Chinatown, Central Market and Gouger Street, on your doorstep, epicureans will be spoilt for choice. Peppers Waymouth Hotel is another central and premium Adelaide accommodation option. The feature indoor heated pool with its CBD outlook through heritage bay windows, heart-and-body warming on-site sauna, state-of-the-art gym and 24-hour room service are the makings of staycation heaven. Every day is a holiday when you and your family embark on an Adelaide staycation, with a little expert guidance from Hotels.com. *This article was written in partnership with Hotels.com Other blogs you may enjoy
- Adelaide Oval Roof Climb - Adelaide Parade of Lights - Adelaide Weekend at Sea - 24 Hours in Sydney with Kids - Melbourne Weekend with Kids Family time is incredibly special and precious. The nature of modern life means that we often spend family time in front of devices and screens instead of out and about enjoying adventures together, so it’s important to get away. A staggering £6.4 trillion is spent in the travel and tourism sector every year – but where to go? What to do? And how do you keep everyone in the family happy? If you are heading to the UK, we have found three exciting places to take the family to create memories that none of you will ever forget. 1. The Yorkshire Coast The perfect family break requires a blend of comfort, outdoor adventure and relaxation. The Yorkshire coast has all of those things and if you get the weather, it is one of the most beautiful spots on earth. The beaches, caves and hidden coves of Flamborough, the history and culture of wonderful Whitby and the charm of Filey are all worth visiting and that's without even touching upon the incredible wildlife on show at Bempton and the revival that Scarborough is enjoying. There are some fantastic cliff-top walks which will get the children away from their screens for a few hours. There are excellent restaurants, some of the best fish-and-chip shops in the country, and if the children claim they are getting bored, you have got the Flamingo Land theme park just up the road. 2. The West of Scotland This is a truly stunning part of the United Kingdom with great cities, incredible lakes and mountains, and a wondrous coastline. Start your family trip in Glasgow, where you can soak up all this magnificent city has to offer – including incredible theatre, music and culture, fantastic restaurants and things to do. Once you have visited the many brilliant places in Glasgow (don't miss the Kelvingrove Art Gallery or the Transport Museum by the way) drive an hour north to Loch Lomond. It is a place you can easily fall in love with. There are lots of spots to camp around the shore and the views are just magnificent. Pack the car back up and drive up to Oban on the coast to catch the ferry across to the Isle of Mull. There you can soak up some history and Scottish culture. Take plenty of spray for the midges if you are going in May or June and you will have an incredible time. 3. Windsor Famous, of course, for its historic castle and its role in the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Windsor is a brilliant family destination. Of course, the castle is the centrepiece and the tour around it will delight all ages. But the parks around Windsor are also fantastic for children and for having picnics in the sunshine. Stop by 'The Two Brewers' pub in the shadow of the castle for the best lunch in the town and then to keep the kids happy with a trip to Legoland, which is just 10 minutes up the road. What would your top three locations in the UK be to take the family - leave us your suggestion in the comments below. * Collaborative Post Other blogs you might enjoy
- Cycle London with Fat Tire - Christmas Cruising Pros and Cons - Adelaide Oval Roof Climb - Four Seasons Sydney Review  Why do people around the world leave the comforts of their home to travel? The answers are varied but they almost always have one thing in common – the opportunity to try something new. Travelling exposes you and your family to unique cultures and pushes you outside your comfort zone. But with the costs of airfares, accommodation and tour tickets, travelling has undoubtedly become more expensive. But if all of that is still wanting you to take flight, here are some tips on how to enjoy your holiday without breaking the bank.
Choose a Suitable Destination The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur) is a beach resort located in the Mediterranean coast of Southeastern France. It’s undoubtedly a beautiful destination and one that’s appealing to many. But it also costs significantly more in terms of airfare and accommodation. Traveling doesn’t have to stretch your finances to the limit. Other options in the Maldives and Thailand offer similar experiences of relaxing in a bungalow and basking in the sun at a fraction of the cost. And with the amount you save, you may even be able to extend your holiday a few days longer. Travel Off-Season Peak season is when more tourists travel, and in Australia starts around December to the end of January. If you can, you’ll want to avoid booking around this time as airlines and hotels generally increase their prices. The difference can be quite significant. School holidays also cause a fluctuation in prices - consider taking your kids out of school for a week of experiential learning that could never be achieved from the four walls of a class room. A more cost-effective way to travel is during the off-season . not only do you save on airfare costs, but there will also likely be fewer tourists at your destination. Create a Travel Budget A budget is an important part of travelling as it creates a spending plan for your money and ensures you have enough to cover all expenses. Start by creating a basic budget if you haven’t already. It should include expected expenses like airfares and accommodation. Research your destination ahead of time to find out the costs for any activities you want to do. Then be sure to include that in your budget. Add at least 5% to give your budget some breathing room as unexpected costs will undoubtedly arise. You can save up faster for your holiday using a high interest rate savings account. This not only means you can reach your budget sooner but you may even have a little more room to spend by the time you’re off to travel. Compare Airfare and Accommodation Prices Airfare and accommodation are two of the largest travel expenses. Use comparison sites to compare airfare prices to your destination. Prices vary frequently so book at the right time to maximise your savings. Another way to save is to book a stay at an Airbnb. These options may not be as luxurious as a hotel room, but if you’re not planning to spend most of your holiday relaxing inside your accommodation, opting for Airbnb may be a cheaper option. If you are cruising, consider the cheaper inside cabins - the price you save on your room you can spend on shore excursions and onboard activities. Be Smart About Exchanging Currency Exchanging money at the airport is extremely convenient. All you need to do is walk up to the currency exchange counter with the amount you want to convert and you’ll receive local currency. However, you’ll end up paying a small service fee and get an exchange rate that’s often much worse than the standard bank rate. A cheaper way to get local currency without the high conversion fees is to either withdraw from a local ATM or exchange with your bank. Just be sure to order the local currency of your destination a few days in advance. Buy Travel Insurance Anything can happen when you’re on holiday. Your flights might be cancelled or your luggage might get lost on the way. Plans vary depending on the provider you choose but most cover unforeseen circumstances including medical emergencies, flight-related problems, and even personal accidents. Even if you don’t end up using the insurance, it’s better to be safe than sorry. By Guest Blogger Alex Morrison |
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