Holiday & Travel

The Eden Project will be hosting the ultimate space adventure holiday this summer (July 21 to September 2) starring a mission to Mars, mini-golf on Mercury and a daring slide down the surface of a moon.

Expedition Space is an all-new programme of intergalactic activities taking place across Eden throughout the school summer holidays with plenty to do in all weathers.

Everyone will have the chance to go on an extra-terrestrial holiday of a lifetime including planet-hopping, meeting alien friends and enjoying out-of-this-world fun such as moon buggy driving and a mind-blowing new virtual reality experience.

A big highlight will be Mission to Mars, where space explorers can climb aboard a rocket and blast into orbit while enjoying spectacular views of the Moon en-route.

The journey takes off from the Stage and will showcase the wonders of our stars and galaxies before culminating in a dramatic landing on the Red Planet.

Passengers can see the majesty of Mars and find out from a resident Martian expert what it would be like to live in this barren landscape.

The planet-hopping continues with a bucket list of activities including mini-golf on the cratered surface of Mercury, caving on Saturn's rocky moon Titan, and a lunar driving test on a Renault Zoe slot-car buggy. These activities will all take place in Eden's Arena, Orchard and outdoor gardens.

Thrill-seekers of all ages can bump, bounce and whizz down the icy slopes of Jupiter's smallest moon Europa on a daring slide located on the Arena hillside.

Back on Earth, in a new family show, visitors will be able to 'meet a local' in the form of a friendly alien who will give everyone the lowdown on space travel.

There will be daily space storytelling by Eden narrators and space-themed entertainment shows in the Mediterranean Biome.

A bespoke new virtual reality experience will take intrepid visitors on a thrilling trip across the fiery surface of Venus. Participants wearing headsets will have their real-life steps tracked and replicated in both virtual and augmented experiences while they traverse the planet's volcanic surface.

Gordon Seabright, Chief Executive of the Eden Project, said: “We're so excited to be launching our all-new adventure programme Expedition Space at Eden this summer.

“If you've ever wondered what it would be like to go on holiday to space, then climb aboard our Mission to Mars, try your hand at golf on Mercury or whizz down our huge slope from Jupiter.

“Expedition Space is going to be a fabulous celebration of our solar system with extra-terrestrial activities taking place throughout Eden - including in our stunning outdoor gardens - to suit sunny days, rainy days and every kind of space traveller.”

All activities, with the exception of the virtual reality experience, are included in the standard admission price. The virtual reality experience will cost £5 per person. For more details or to buy tickets, see www.edenproject.com.

Expedition Space is part of Invisible Worlds, a major new permanent exhibition that reveals the world beyond our senses. Its centrepiece in Eden's Core building is ∞ Blue (Infinity Blue), a spectacular new 8.5m sculpture that blows vapour rings.

This summer, holiday makers can take advantage of a new promotion from the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority.

Launching this week and running until 30 September, the Summer of Discovery is the island's biggest and most interactive summer promotion ever. A prize draw of £7,500 is up for grabs for anyone visiting Saint Lucia this season. 25 iconic sites and attractions have been chosen and to enter, holidaymakers need to capture a selfie at one of the locations.

Tropical sun seekers can also save up to 60% on their holiday accommodation in Saint Lucia. With 12 tour operators taking part, including Tropical Sky, Trailfinders, LetsGo2, Caribtours, Elegant Resorts, The Villa Collection, Inspiring Travel Company, The Holiday Place, Tropic Breeze, Caribbean Warehouse, BestAtTravel and Luxury Holidays Direct, there is a range of holidays on offer to suit all budgets and tastes.

To participate in the Summer of Discovery prize draw, visitors must follow @travelsaintlucia on their Instagram and Facebook feeds; visit a minimum of five out of the 25 locations and capture a selfie at each location. The photos must be posted with the hashtag #summerofdiscovery, plus the hashtag for each location. Finally, they need to tag @travelsaintlucia in the photo. One of the selfies must be at the property where the guest is staying. For every location-based selfie posted beyond the five minimum, participants will receive an additional entry in the prize-draw.

In addition, the promotion features the new “Holiday Travel Guarantee.” The “Holiday Travel Guarantee” has been adopted by a number of properties on island and means that booked guests will not forfeit their trip as a result of adverse weather but be allowed to defer their holiday to a later date.

Getting to Saint Lucia is easy with daily direct flights available from London Gatwick Airport and from Manchester in the winter. Saint Lucia is the ideal choice for couples, families and groups looking for a tropical sun getaway. Holiday makers can visit the iconic twin peaks, the Pitons; soak in the soothing Sulphur Springs mud baths or jump around the Splash Island Water Park, the Caribbean's first open-water sports park.

The True Blue Bay Boutique resort in Grenada has launched the True Sleep Wellness Retreat to help people to wind down from their busy lives and the demands of a hyper connected world to achieve deep, restful sleep. The retreat, running from 10 to 17 October, encompasses exercise, diet and healing delivered through yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, Feng Shui and healthy eating.

The retreats will be led by yoga therapist, Malaika Brooks- Smith-Lowe; yoga teacher, May Fakhre; and Master Level Feng Shui Consultant, Wendy Yawching.

Morning yoga and meditation sessions at the resort's Sankalpa yoga studio provide a gentle start to the day. No previous experience of yoga or meditation is required.

Breakfast is followed by a series of informative workshops. The Ayurveda workshop explores the ancient Indian healing system and how herbal treatments, diet, and yogic breathing can help people to unwind, quiet the mind and fall into a deep rejuvenating night's sleep.

Wendy Yawching will advise on how to create the ideal environment to encourage a good night's sleep using the ancient Chinese principles of Feng Shui.

The retreat also includes a look at how food and drink can improve the quality of sleep. The herbal tea workshop taps into Grenada's traditional practice of using 'bush' teas made using indigenous herbs to promote good health and cure ailments. And bush teas will be served as bedtime drinks.

A rituals workshop will help participants create a bedtime routine that can be followed once they get back home.

In the afternoons there is plenty of time for a well-earned siesta or relaxation at True Blue Bay. Away from the resort there is plenty to see and do in Grenada, including many cocoa plantations and chocolate factories, the spice market or the House of Chocolate in the capital St George's or lush, unspoilt nature.

Caribbean Airlines has demonstrated its ongoing commitment to the Caribbean region, by its strong support of Caribbean Week in New York, as the “official Caribbean Carrier of Caribbean Week 2018.” Caribbean Week (#CaribbeanWeekNewYork2018, #CWNY18) is organized by the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), the regional tourism development agency, and takes place 3-8 June.

“We are pleased that Caribbean Airlines has partnered with us in support of Caribbean Week New York,” said Sylma Brown, Director, CTO-USA. Brown added: “With the air carrier’s reputation for warm, friendly and superior service, Caribbean Airlines truly embodies the attributes that make the region so desirable and inviting.”

“Caribbean Airlines is delighted to once again partner with the Caribbean Tourism Organisation for Caribbean Week New York,” said Dionne Ligoure, head of corporate communications, Caribbean Airlines. “This event is a staple in our programme of activities and is of great significance as we continue to strategically promote tourism in the region through our Hello Caribbean campaign, as well as our recently launched Caribbean Explorer fare and our Caribbean Plus economy product ensuring that our passengers have seamless connectivity to enjoy the beautiful destinations and cultural events throughout the Caribbean.”

Launched in Sept 2006, Caribbean Airlines operates more than 600 weekly flights to 18 destinations in the Caribbean and North and South America. The fleet is comprised of Boeing 737-800 and ATR72-600 aircraft. Jointly owned by the people of Trinidad & Tobago and Jamaica, headquartered in Trinidad and Tobago, and with an operational base in Jamaica, Caribbean Airlines employs more than 1,600 people. The airline is a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and is recognized as an IATA Operational Safety Audit qualified airline.

Caribbean Week New York 2018 will have a special feel this year as the Big Apple’s 8.5 million residents get a taste of the re-energising and rejuvenating power of Caribbean wellness. During the week-long event (3-8 June), the wellness theme will be incorporated into many activities, including a trade show and educational forum for travel agents on how to sell the Caribbean as a wellness destination. Registration details for all events can be found at https://www.caribbeanweek.com/events/.

With Father’s Day around the corner on 17th June, challenge your Dad to an afternoon at The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience. After all, doesn’t he deserve more than just socks this Father’s Day?

Get the whole family involved as teams of eight are lead around the maze’s four themed zones: Aztec, Medieval, Industrial and Futuristic, by a charismatic Maze Master (Tip: Befriending them early on is a wise move if you want to beat Dad and gain their insider knowledge).

Inside each zone are different challenges: skill, physical, mental and mystery for the competitive Dad and it’s up to each team captain to decide who takes on which challenge.

Whether your Father loves a bit of Richard Ayoade, you’re looking for an antidote to the usual boring voucher or if you know Dad’s a sucker for a challenge, then this is the ideal Father’s Day gift.

The whole experience is deliciously daft and hilariously funny, not only will Dad be crawling and running, he will be sliding his way around the maze with the ultimate goal of winning crystals to bag a spot on the coveted leader board!

Qatar Airways has launched an exciting new on-board dining experience for its Premium customers, starting with its European routes. The new concepts include newly-designed tableware, in-flight dining menus, cutlery and chinaware that are specially crafted to meet travellers’ high expectations and elevate their experience on board the airline’s award-winning aircraft.

Qatar Airways has also put a greater focus on featuring regional influences within the menu design process, which now sees the inclusion of new signature dishes to the in-flight menu based on route destinations, such as the offering of porcini and truffle risotto on Italian sectors. Traditionally prepared Arabic main dishes such as kabsa, biryani and flame-grilled meats, which offer a taste of the Middle East, will feature as a choice option across most routes.

New signature warm desserts will be introduced to passengers in the Business Class cabin, in addition to a luxurious afternoon tea experience on board selected routes. Attention to detail has been given to every new concept, from the mini condiment grinders dispensing ground black peppercorns and Himalayan pink salt, to tableware such as the linen-lined bread baskets that house a freshly baked trio of bread.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “Qatar Airways is thrilled to introduce a whole new on-board dining experience that will push the boundaries of Premium travel for our esteemed passengers. Every new concept was designed and produced with the highest attention to detail and quality, to meet the exacting standards of our passengers.

“Qatar Airways is collaborating closely with local farms and suppliers to produce products for our specific needs, promoting a ‘farm-to-table’ approach. Our in-flight dining menus are designed to align with the four seasons, better incorporating the use of locally-grown produce and tapping into authentic foods of local provenance delivering the very highest international standards.”

The national carrier of the State of Qatar has recognised the emerging trend of its travellers being more aware of their dietary needs and expressing interests in healthier food options. Qatar Airways supports its customers’ desires and will now feature lighter options, such as fresh crisp salads, woodland berries, warm breakfast oatmeal and more. Healthier drink options such as “cold pressed” juice with great flavour combinations will also be available on selected menus to revitalise during a long flight.

The airline has also improved its indulgent treats, including an enhanced caviar service offering for First Class passengers, which is perfectly accompanied with a Balik-style salmon and showcased on a bespoke crystal plate.

Qatar Airways launched a highly-successful pre-select dining option last year, whereby passengers travelling in First and Business Class are able to pre-select one main course from the à la carte on-board menu as far as 14 days in advance and up to 24 hours before take-off. This is in addition to the existing Dine-on-Demand service already available for valued First and Business Class passengers. The pre-select service enables First and Business Class passengers to now enjoy even more choice and freedom to create their own personalised dining experience while travelling on selected long-haul flights from Doha.

To pre-select a meal, passengers simply need to log into ‘My Trips’ on the Qatar Airways website and choose from the seasonal menu available on their flight. Meals can also be ordered through the Qatar Airways mobile app.

The Pre-Select Dining option complements the airline’s award-winning Business Class experience, Qsuite, which offers an unparalleled level of luxury and privacy on board a Business Class cabin. First and Business Class passengers can now board their flight in the comfort and knowledge that their pre-selected dish is reserved and waiting for them whenever they are ready to dine, giving them more time to relax and enjoy the airline’s superior on-board entertainment and amenities.

As well as enjoying unrivalled five-star service, premium customers can also be pampered with amenities from world-class brands such as BRIC’S, Nappa Dori, Monte Vibiano and The White Company. Meanwhile all passengers have access to Oryx One, Qatar Airways’ award-winning in-flight entertainment system, which offers passengers up to 4,000 entertainment options from the latest blockbuster movies, TV box sets, music, games and much more.

Situated in the South Pacific between Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu, the population of about 550,000 is predominantly Melanesian but includes other smaller groups. Exotic local customs and traditions remain a very important part of life for Solomon Islanders.

The Solomon Islands tourism industry registered for the first Quarter 2018 a 29 percent increase of visitor arrivals over the same period in 2017.

What is it about the Solomon Islands. Here is the answer perhaps:

Visit the villages in the outer islands and step back in time. Experience life much as it was a hundred years ago. No electricity, no internet, no running water supply, no shops, few roads. And no noise – except for the sound of the waves!

The Solomon Islands are an archipelago of 992 tropical islands and atolls, scattered in a gentle curve. They comprise two major parallel island chains extending some 1800 kilometers from the Shortland Islands in the west to Tikopia and Anuta in the east.

The islands and waters are still a little known pristine paradise. They are particularly special for their remarkable biodiversity, containing thousands of different plant and animal species, especially the marine life. Many species are known only to the Solomons.

Tourism figures released by the Solomon Islands National Statistics Office (SINSO) this week show international visitation for the increased from 4881 to 6296 with January, February and March all showing positive growth – respectively, plus 33 per cent, plus 13.5 per cent and plus 36.3 per cent.

Australian visitor arrivals continued to dominate, the 2195 figure recorded for Q1 a 17.6 per cent increase over the 1867 result achieved in 2017 and representing 34.8 per cent of all international visitation.

A strong New Zealand result saw arrivals increase from 301 to 356, an 18.3 per cent increase, in the process firmly cementing the country in place as the second largest source of visitation.

Papua New Guinea and the US maintained their third and fourth positions, increasing 39.3 per cent and 35 per cent, respectively.

If you’re on a quest to find your Zen, The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience has released exclusive, limited-availability tickets to yoga classes in both its Manchester and London attractions to help you feel calm, cool and focused this summer.

The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience is encouraging all to wave goodbye to the gruelling gym and try something new that still keeps you active in a cool setting. From only £25 per person, book into one of its unique classes, only available on the 16th, 23rd and 30th June, and find your inner peace whilst having a giggle with your friends at the same time.

Crystals are commonly used in meditation to channel energy, promote healing and to feel connected – what better crystal for the job than the iconic crystal dome?

Classes commence at 8am and will leave you feeling that little bit smug that you’ve started off your day right. You’ll even receive a souvenir Crystal Maze crystal (retail price of £10.00) to prove it to your friends and family.

With only 40 places per class, experience a full 60 minutes of tranquillity and peace taught by yoga industry professionals in the unique setting of the iconic Crystal Maze dome.

Experienced yoga instructor and head of yoga at London-based studio ‘FLY LDN’, Fiona Clark, comments: “I am so passionate about the importance of letting yourself relax in today’s hectic world. I’m incredibly excited to be leading the Crystal Maze LIVE yoga class in London as everyone can benefit from a little R&R.

“I’ll be leading the attendees through the most popular class at my studio. This is a 60-minute vinyasa flow style session accompanied by upbeat tunes, followed by a breath-lead practice that is suitable for everyone from first timers to regular practitioners.

“After starting with a gentle warm-up, we’ll move into a mellow flow to target all areas of the body with some balances to challenge the body and mind. The class will finish with a series of vital stretches before a final deep relaxation to leave you feeling completely and utterly blissed out.”

Psst…before you get lost in the bliss, we’d advise arriving early to make sure you have time to snap that all important picture for the ‘gram to make your followers envious. We guarantee that with the setting of the iconic crystal dome, and on-trend art of finding your inner zen you will seriously be upping your insta-game.

This year’s Arabian Travel Market, the leading global event for the Middle East inbound and outbound travel industry, celebrated its 25^th anniversary in style with 39,000 travel, hospitality and tourism professionals from across the world, with previous records being broken across the board by the time the four-day show closed on 25 April 2018.

For the second year in succession, the numbers of attendees reached the 39,000 mark, indeed, the show has witnessed a 40% increase in visitors since celebrating its 20^th year in 2013.

ATM 2018 also showcased the largest exhibition of local, regional and global hotel brands in the history of ATM, with hotels comprising over 5,000 square metres, 20% of the total show area.

Simon Press, Senior Exhibition Director, ATM, said: “The continued growth of ATM is testament to the robust strength of the travel and tourism industry in the Middle East. ATM provides an ideal platform in that sense, bringing travel and tourism professionals together to discuss the potential of the inbound and outbound markets of the Middle East,” added Press.

ATM has grown to become the largest event of its kind in the region and one of the biggest in the world. The 2018 edition, on the theme of responsible tourism, boasted more than 400 main stand holders with over 100 new exhibitors making their debut. The number of countries represented at ATM 2018 totaled over 140.

1. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Montrose: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park has always been an incredible location to see the stars and in 2015 it officially received the title of International Dark Sky Park, with its majestic canyons being the perfect backdrop for visitors to spend a night amongst the constellations. The Black Canyon Astronomical Society, in partnership with local star-gazing groups, regularly leads night-time programmes with experienced astronomers and astro-photographers to capture the action in the night sky. As one of the most under-rated national parks in the US, Black Canyon of the Gunnison offers solitude whilst camping under the stars, with three campgrounds for visitors to pitch up in. colorado.com / nps.gov
2. Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs: Located far enough from city lights for a clear view of the night sky, yet a short distance to the cultural hub of Colorado Springs to enjoy in the day, the vast space at Garden of the Gods provides visitors with a perfect view of the starry sky, which lights up the summit of the 14,114ft Pikes Peak against a backdrop of towering boulders. The unusual large sandstone red rock formations set the scene for an enchanting night of stargazing in which travellers can lie back and admire the constellations. Colorado Springs also has an Astronomical Society which holds public stargazing events – also known as Public Star Parties – in which telescopes are set up for visitors to view planets, galaxies and star clusters. colorado.com / gardenofgods.com
3. Grand Lake: The namesake lake of Grand Lake is ideal for spotting the constellations amongst the stars. Whether stargazers are searching for Cassiopeia or the Big Dipper, minimal obstacles stand in the way of catching a glimpse of these views as light pollution levels in the region are extremely low. Known as the Western Gateway to the Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake has a charming lakeside setting with quaint cabins lining the shore of the state's largest natural lake. In the winter months, visitors can ice skate under the star-lit sky or take part in night skiing at Ski Granby Ranch. colorado.com / visitgrandcounty.com
4. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Alamosa: The USA's largest sand dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve provide travellers with a rare spectacle during the day and by night become even more mysterious. As one of the only wild places in the world where rangers actively encourage visitors to do a self-guided exploration in complete darkness, intrepid explorers should plan their visit to coincide with a full moon to hike without the aid of a torch. In addition to the night sky, travellers can spot an array of local wildlife at night, including owls, kangaroo rats, and coyotes. colorado.com / nps.gov
5. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, Denver: Not only does Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre provide visitors with the opportunity to watch some of the biggest musical stars live on stage, it also has an incredible night sky which hosts its own set of stars every single night. Framed by the park's natural red rock topography and views of Denver's skyline in the distance, the amphitheatre has all the ingredients for an incredible night of stargazing. colorado.com / redrocksonline.com
6. Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park: Travellers can gaze up to the night sky in Rocky Mountain National Park – Colorado's most popular National Park – and watch the stars whilst looking across the park's renowned landscape. During the summer months a team of park rangers lead after-dark activities, such as Astronomy in the Park and Stories behind the Moon and Stars. The pinnacle of the parks stargazing events is held in July during the Rocky National Park Night Sky Festival – over the course of three days – as park rangers host late-night stargazing, as well as a daily show, Spirit of the Mountains. colorado.com / nps.gov
7. San Luis Valley: San Luis Valley is not only a great location for stargazing, locals also claim it's a hot spot for alien activity. Dozens of unexplained flying objects have been sighted in the area since 2007 with the nearby watchtower providing information on previous extra-terrestrial encounters. The unobstructed views of the sky without any light competition means there isn't anything getting in the way of the starry night-time show. colorado.com / sanluisvalley.org

Visitors are invited to hop along to Birdland Park & Gardens over the May Half Term holidays (May 26th – June 3rd) and join in their Penguin Week celebrations.

There's a packed programme of penguin-themed events and activities taking place throughout the holidays.

Join Birdland's keepers as they introduce you to everybody's favourite flightless bird with a whole week dedicated to their most popular residents.

Learn all about the inhabitants of Penguin Shore, meet some feathered film stars as well as the UK's oldest penguin plus be in with a chance to help out at feeding time.

The Bourton-on-the-Water wildlife attraction is home to England's only breeding colony of king penguins. The kings share their beach-themed home with a group of comical Humboldts.

Head Keeper Alistair Keen said: “This really is the best time to come and see the king penguins as they are just starting to show off their beach bodies in search of a mate.

“They've shed their winter coats and have been busily feeding up to get the extra energy needed to produce a beautifully sleek summer plumage.”

Keepers will be putting your penguin know-how to the test with a special quiz about everybody's favourite flightless birds, plus visitors can win the chance to join the colony feed the penguins.

There will be twice daily feeding displays at 11am and 2.30pm with herring for the king penguins and sprats for the Humboldts.

“Each of the penguins definitely has its own unique personality and they love to play. Our two hand-reared penguins; Spike and Charlotte, are particularly friendly.

“As the colony is now beginning to pair up we're also likely to see lots of bizarre courtship rituals on display,” said Alistair.

With its combination of woodland, riverside and gardens, Birdland features more than 500 birds, ranging from birds of prey and parrots to cassowaries and cranes in a mix of free-flying and aviary displays.

Accolades continue for Grenada's premier all-inclusive luxury Spice Island Beach Resort as the family-owned and operated retreat was honored for the fifth consecutive year with the prestigious Six Star Diamond Award by the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (AAHS). The Six Star Diamond Award is the most prestigious honor of true excellence in service, hospitality, gastronomy, attitude, quality and cleanliness. The American Academy of Hospitality Sciences specializes in reviewing hotels, resorts, spas, airlines, cruise lines, automobiles, products, restaurants and chefs, and is most notably known for its Six Star Diamond Award. "We are extremely proud to be honored for the past five years with the Six Star Diamond recognition as it is a direct reflection our commitment to upholding service levels that transcend guests' expectations," said Sir Royston. "For over 30 years we have worked to perfect our guest experience. Awards strengthen our belief in our service-oriented philosophy," added Sir Royston, who is pictured right with the award plaque. AAHS receives a large number of possible recipients for the award from respectable sources around the world. The selection is then refined by the Board of Trustees and the final evaluation is a visit by an anonymous inspector to review the destination and its services.

The presentation of the AAHS Six Star Diamond Award follows the resort's receipt of the AAA Five Diamond Award for the second consecutive year in March.

For the first time ever in Australia, a wild dolphin has been caught live on camera giving birth. This amazing and inspiring footage was captured in April 2018 in Mandurah, Western Australia and is further proof that Mandurah and the Peel Region has some of the heathiest and most vibrant wetlands in the world.

Just one hour south of Western Australia's capital city, Perth, nature loving visitors to Mandurah and the Peel Region can find an abundance of things to do to indulge their wildlife and ecological passions.

The Peel-Yalgorup Wetland System was declared of International Importance in 1990 by the Ramsar Convention. It covers over 26,000 hectares and includes Peel Inlet, Harvey Estuary and multiple lakes, rivers and conservation reserves.

A vast array of animals and birds inhabit the wetlands which includes the Peel Inlet, Harvey Estuary and surrounding rivers and lakes. It's a breeding ground and nursery for dolphins, crabs, fish, native animals and birds, including a colony of quendas (bandicoots). Over 20,000 birds travel up to 26,000 km a year to feed and shelter in the wetlands from spring until autumn.

The estuary, twice the size of Sydney Harbour, is the largest and most diverse estuarine complex and the most important area for migratory and resident waterbirds in south west Australia. It supports unique and critically endangered communities, including the thrombolites at Lake Clifton. Scientists believe thrombolites are the earliest form of life on earth, dating back about 3,500 million years. They are mostly extinct and living examples can only be found growing in just a handful of places in the world.

The wetlands have special significance for the Noongar people, the original Aboriginal inhabitants of the region, as they are important sources of food, used for ceremonial purposes and are part of the dreaming and their natural beliefs.

With new tourism experiences complementing its superb natural assets, significant redevelopment and recently being recognised as Western Australia's 2017 Top Tourism Town, Mandurah has come of age, offering award-winning waterfront dining, aquatic adventures, world-class golf courses and plenty of places to shop.

It is also the perfect base to take day trips to explore the wider Peel Region. In an easy half hour drive you'll find beautiful wineries, winding waterways, rolling green hills and tiny timber towns nestled in the forest.

There are hiking, horse riding and mountain bike trails throughout the region and a number of options to explore the waterways including guided cruises and boat and kayak hire.

With extensive wilderness and waterways to enjoy, native animals can easily be spotted as you explore by water or land.

More often than not you'll see dolphins in Mandjar Bay, right in the heart of Mandurah.

Kangaroos graze every afternoon at Melros Beach Reserve in Dawesville and emus are often spotted walking along the shores of Lake Clifton.

To get even closer to Australian wildlife including kangaroos, koalas, even holding and feeding them, visit the Peel Zoo in Pinjarra and Cohunu Koala Park in Byford. Peel Zoo also has Tasmanian devils.

Bring your binoculars and grab the 'Birdwatching Walking Trail Guide' at the Mandurah Visitor Centre or download from visitpeel.com.au and start exploring by land, boat or canoe.