FrugalMonkey Discount Travel News

Category: Trip Locations

  • Enjoy Auckland in Winter – Indoor Attractions to Keep You Warm

    The New Zealand city of Auckland embraces the great outdoors. Even with winter winds blowing, you can enjoy island hopping, sailing in the harbor, and exploring volcanic craters.

    But if you'd prefer to shield yourself from the cold, the city has plenty of indoor attractions to keep you warm and entertained. Enjoy all that winter has to offer without the chill at Kelly Tarlton's Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World. This interactive attraction encourages visitors to step inside a Snowcat and walk around a life-sized replica of the Antarctic hut built by British explorer Robert Scott. The highlight for kids is the colony of penguins, who live in freshly created snow. There's also the giant aquarium, with its piranhas, whaler sharks, and sea horses. We know that Sky City serves up great buffet meals at its Observatory restaurant, but you'll find much more in this iconic building than delicious food. In fine weather you can enjoy the full splendor of this looming tower on the Sky Walk. If walking on this narrow ledge 192 meters above the ground isn't exciting enough for you, then consider bungee jumping from it! For a different kind of thrill, step inside and enjoy a flutter at the casino tables or slot machines. [caption id="attachment_3965" align="alignright" width="150" caption="Sky City casino in Auckland, New Zealand"][/caption] Museums are always a great option for escaping wintery weather, and Auckland Museum is New Zealand's oldest and the city's largest. Its first floor showcases artifacts of the native Maoris and people of the Pacific. The second level has a natural history theme, with child discovery centers and an interactive volcano exhibition. The final floor tells the stories of New Zealand's war history. It houses an armory of weapons and warplanes from the Boer War to contemporary conflicts. Auckland doesn't slow down once winter hits as so many tourist towns around the world do, but if you need respite from the city's chill there are plenty of indoor attractions to keep you amused.

    [Image Source: CharlesLam/Flickr]

  • Skateboarding in Sydney at Monster Skatepark

    Ten years ago, Sydney Olympic Park was a hive of activity as elite athletes from around the world competed for gold and glory.

    The Olympics may be long gone, but the Australian park has barely slowed down. These days it's home to a variety of events and activities designed to get your blood pumping. One of the best is the Monster Skatepark, which is the only international standard indoor and outdoor skateboarding venue in Oz. You don't have to be the next Tony Hawk to appreciate this place, which has more jumps and ramps than any other in the Southern Hemisphere. It was built by riders, for riders, so it knows just what board enthusiasts of all skill levels want. There's an international competition sized vert ramp, two adjacent mini ramps connected by spines and a roll through, and a 1000 square meter indoor street course. If you're a beginner on a board, don't let that scare you. The Monster Academy runs development clinics to help everyone from novices to aspiring pros hone their skills. Academy classes are divided into iSkate levels to ensure all participants are challenged and nurtured. The Monster Skatepark is open daily from 10 am until 10 pm, although these times may vary when the park hosts events or other special sessions. It costs $10 for a four-hour skate session or $19 for a day pass.

  • Unusual Animal Races in New South Wales, Australia

    Australians regularly combine their love of sport with their thirst for betting with some wacky animal sporting races.

    We've looked at the Camel Cup in Alice Springs and cane toad races in Queensland, but it seems New South Wales has the market cornered with three unusual animal races. In the big smoke of Sydney they've got crab races. The Friend in Hand pub in the city's inner-west holds the crustacean races every Wednesday night to help folks liven up their working week. For $5 you can buy a crab, give it an inspirational name, and see it face off against 30 other competitors. The atmosphere is rowdy and raucous, especially once the crowd enjoys a few cleansing ales.Australia map The city is also famous for its greyhound races. They might not be as strange as the crab races, but these events are so popular that they're worth a mention. Visit the newly revamped Wentworth Park Sporting Complex in the inner-city suburb of Glebe to see the doggies chasing the robotic hare every Monday and Saturday night. You don't need to know anything about the sport to enjoy this evening out.
    There's plenty of time between races to catch up with mates and indulge in a quiet beer, and there’s nothing quite like the thrill of an unexpected win. Sheep aren't known for their speed, but the locals in the country town of Booligal in the Riverina district still turn out every October to see these animals race at the annual Booligal Cup. The event was originally conceived as a way to perk up the locals in the drought-stricken 1990s. Back then the sheep were only dressed up in colorful costumes, but in time sheep racing became part of the festivities. As sheep aren't the smartest of creatures it can take some effort to encourage them to run in the right direction, but that's all part of the fun of this quirky event. These unusual animal events may never catch on as international pastimes, but they're definitely worth experiencing when you're holidaying in New South Wales.

  • Whitianga Celebrates Scallops at Annual Food and Wine Festival

    Scallops are a New Zealand delicacy, and nowhere are these delicious mollusks more celebrated than Whitianga.

    The small coastal town on the Coromandel Peninsula hosts a Scallop Festival every August. The winter weather puts a chill in the air, but for five days in late August thousands brave the cold to enjoy the annual seafood and wine festivities. A whopping 35, 000 scallops are gobbled up during the festival. They’re crumbed in macadamia nuts, served on seaweed, smothered in a blend of coconut cream and Midori, wrapped up in bacon, and of course eaten as they come, straight from the shell. If scallops aren't to your tastes, that's no reason to stay away. There are plenty of other local gourmet goodies on offer including seafood chowder, venison burgers, wild pork, and the country's famous sauvignon blancs. Saturday is the liveliest day of the festival, with scallop tasting, seafood auctions, and chef competitions. Live jazz and the hilarious Ode to the Scallop poetry slam contest are also popular.scallops Whitianga is located two hours east of Auckland. This year's event runs from August 25 to 29. Go Kiwi Shuttles runs buses from Auckland, Rotorua, Whangamata, and Tauranga to Whitianga, while 360 Discovery ferries leave Auckland every Friday night for Coromandel Harbour. The Free Scallop bus travels around Whitianga during the festival to take visitors to and from the event. Festival passes cost $50 for adults, $10 for teenagers, and $5 for small children.

    [Image Source: Robin/Flickr]

  • Party in Queensland’s Whitsundays Region on Koala Adventure Island

    If you’re young and a little strapped for cash, forget the luxury Australian islands of Hayman and Hamilton.

    The Whitsundays destination for you is Koala Adventure Island, the only location in the region which caters exclusively for backpackers and other tourists aged between 18 and 35. Originally called South Molle, Koala Adventure Island is far north Queensland's party capital. The fun starts at dinner time, which follows a new theme every night. Travelers eat at communal tables, which helps to break the ice before the night's entertainment. That includes a resident DJ, live music, games, and dancing until dawn. Things are a bit quiet during the daytime, perhaps as most visitors are recovering from the night before. But there is plenty to keep you occupied if you want to do more than lazing on the beach. You could get out on the water with a sailing trip to the reef, scuba dive or snorkel, or try your hand at windsurfing or paddle skiing. There's plenty to do on land too, as the resort has tennis courts, a nine-hole golf course, archery range, and a fully equipped gym.see koala bears photo There are a variety of rooms to cater for all budgets and traveling groups. Groups of up to six can bunker down in the dormitory-style rainforest rooms, which are surrounded by lush tropical gardens. For a more intimate luxury getaway, consider the beachfront bungalows. They're right on the shore, and have private balconies for enjoying the gorgeous ocean views. No matter what room you choose, you’ll enjoy your own bathroom, a television and small refrigerator, and air-conditioning. Three-night packages are available for $157 per person for the dorm share rooms and $217 per person for the beachfront rooms. This price includes transfers from Abel Point Marina and access to the island's facilities and many activities. To get to the marina, fly to Proserpine Airport and catch the complimentary coach.

  • New Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa Opens on Thailand Island

    The Westin chain recently opened the doors of its first resort in Thailand. The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa is located on Siray Island in the idyllic Thai province of Phuket.

    The hotel’s location couldn’t be better, with views of Siray Bay, its secluded white beach, and the Indian Ocean.

    Cross the bridge to travel from Siray Island to Phuket Island, or hop on a boat to explore one of the neighboring islands. Phuket International Airport is 45 minutes drive away; it's close enough to be convenient, but far enough away to allow you to really relax away from the crowds. That's pretty easy to do here. All of the 261 rooms, suites, and villas feature the Westin's standard creature comforts like flat-screen televisions, iPod docking stations, rain showers, and patented Heavenly Beds. For true indulgence, make sure you book into one of the luxury suites or villas. These have their own private plunge pools and rooftop areas for chilling out with loved ones.hotel deals in thailand It's easy to hole yourself up in the luxurious rooms, but then you'd miss all of the Westin's other attractions. For total bliss, there's the spa, with single and couples treatment rooms, steam and sauna rooms, and an Ayurveda wellness center. There are also six restaurants and bars ready to cater to your every whim. It's easier to enjoy this pampering knowing your tiny tots are having fun in the Kids Club. The local arts and craft activities, open air movies, and stargazing will keep children so busy they'll never miss you. To celebrate the opening of Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa, the resort is offering selected rooms for 2010 baht, or $59 US.

  • Explore Fiji’s Islands with JetSki Safari Adventure Tours

    It’s very easy to spend your time in Fiji lolling about on the beach and drinking too many cocktails.

    But if you want more out of your Oceanic getaway, consider gearing up for a JetSki Safari adventure. This is a far cry from an African safari experience; rather than wild animals you'll see some of the smaller, lesser known islands around Fiji's Coral Coast. And rather than a jeep, your vehicle will be a high-tech Yamaha jet ski. These large aquatic vehicles can comfortable seat up to three passengers, and carry personal belongings and some snorkeling gear. Where many tours are rigidly structured, the team at JetSki Safari wants you to explore their island paradise at your own pace. If you like the look of an area you can jump off your jet ski and strap on your snorkeling mask. These remote locations are blessedly free of tourists, so you can interact with the local fish without the crowds. [caption id="attachment_2880" align="alignright" width="150" caption="The national flag of Fiji"]jet ski fiji photo[/caption] If you’ve never operated a jet ski before, don’t be concerned. Fijian waters are calm, and the skis are very user friendly. A full safety briefing in the morning will help you gain confidence before getting out on the water. Four-hour JetSki Safari Tours cost FJD $230 per person, twin share. This price includes sight-seeing with a tour guide, snorkeling equipment hire, and lunch on a deserted island beach. The tours leave from Pacific Harbor, a three-hour drive from the Fijian capital of Nadi.

  • Bag a Bargain at Hong Kong’s Shopping Sales

    We all know Hong Kong is one of the world’s best shopping destinations.

    But how do you ensure you don't return home with maxed out credit cards?
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    Just follow our tips to help your dollar go further, and make the most of your spending spree, in this Asian shopping mecca. Treat yourself to a few extra presents; after Christmas it seems like every store in Hong Kong is having a sale. Look for bargains at the major shopping malls rather than markets and family-owned boutiques; The Landmark, The Galleria, Alexandra House, and Prince's Building should offer up some great bargains, particularly on designer goods. Hong Kong celebrates its annual Shopping Festival from the end of June to the end of August. Keep your eyes peeled for stores displaying the Hong Kong Festival signs. You can expect to save more than 50% on plenty of goods in these stores, especially on end-of-season fashion items. And that's just the prices on the shelves. For even bigger savings, get your hands on a promotional brochure released by Hong Kong Tourism. It's filled with discount coupons to help you save even more. With most stores extending their trading hours during the festival until at least 10 pm, you'll have even longer to snap up those bargains. If you are planning a Hong Kong shopping spree it's important to be prepared. Make sure you dress comfortably and wear sensible shoes. Take a good handbag stocked up with a list of stores you hope to hit, a bottle of water, your discount coupons, and of course a well stocked wallet. And most of all, remember to have fun! Don't let the crowds or too-small stilettos discourage you, because shopping in Hong Kong is meant to be enjoyed.

  • Travel Australia in the Off Season – Save Money and See Something Special

    Most people plan their vacations around the most alluring weather conditions, the big events, or the school holidays. But if you travel outside these peak periods, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

    You'll save money on hotels and transport, you'll dodge the crowds, and you'll see your destination in a whole new light. In this article we suggest some great times to visit Australia's biggest tourist towns, and they're not what you would expect. Queensland's Gold Coast is most popular in spring and summer, but the area actually enjoys sunshine most of the year. The temperate conditions in June are perfect for enjoying the area’s theme parks without the long ride queues. Hotels are also desperate to fill their rooms, so you can expect some big accommodation bargains. New South Wales' Snowy Mountains are teeming with tourists in winter, but wait a few months and you'll see this beautiful area differently. In spring you need not spend money on a ski resort, as the conditions are mild enough to enjoy the area’s campsites. With only remnants of snow remaining, the area's gorgeous mountains are ideal for hiking in September and October. In January, music fans from Australia over flock to Tamworth for the town's famous country music festival. But most travelers don't know that the area stages a similar festival in July. The weather's a bit colder for Hats Off to Country, but you’ll enjoy cheap accommodation and the performances of some great up and coming acts. Don't be scared away from the Northern Territory's Kakadu National Park in the wet season. From December to March you'll enjoy all of the regular tourist experiences without the crowds. The animals seem to respond to these quieter conditions, so you never know what you'll see. If you don’t mind getting a bit wet, the area's storms can be awe inspiring. Many tourists are scared of traveling down south during winter, but provided you pack some thick sweaters Hobart can be a wonderful place to explore during the chilly months. Its waterfront cafes and buzzing pubs provide a warm refuge from the dreary weather outside. The Festival of Voices, Australia's only choir festival held each July, is also an event worth traveling for. So why travel when everyone else is? You may find your journey is richer and more memorable if you dare to be different!

  • Affordable Luxury Accommodation in Tropical Airlie Beach

    Airlie Beach is regarded as the gateway to Australia’s beautiful Whitsunday Island region, but many tourists don’t realize it’s a gorgeous vacation destination in its own right.

    You don't need to go island hopping to feel pampered in far north Queensland, as this hidden mainland gem has you covered. Airlie’s main beach is located at roughly the same latitude as The Bahamas and Tahiti, which means that the swimming is perfect all year round. The water rarely dips under 20°C, although you’ll need to look out for stinging blue bottles between November and May. Days spent on the beach are the ultimate indulgence, and happily this experience is free. With plenty of backpackers hostels and caravan parks around, that makes Airlie Beach a great spot for budget holidaymakers.Australia globe But if you want to enjoy real luxury, consider a stay at Peppers Coral Coast. This is the only five-star resort in the area, and delivers everything you'd expect from this prestigious rating. While many plush resorts cater for couples, Peppers welcomes families. The resort has one, two, and three-bedroom apartments so parents can have privacy while the kids enjoy their space. The pool is a great alternative to the beach if you're visiting while the stingers are about. Just imagine sipping cocktails by the pool's edge as you soak up the picturesque views of the Whitsunday Passage. The famous Endota Spa chain also has facilities on site if you're in the mood for even more indulgence. Airlie Beach has a great range of restaurants, from fine-dining options to cheap and cheerful cafes. But if you'd prefer to stay in, Tides Restaurant and Bar won't disappoint. A stay at Peppers Coral Coast Resort starts at $151 per night for a one-bedroom apartment suite. At that price, this is a luxury holiday that most travelers can afford.