New air link between Darwin and Bali

Indonesia AirAsia is set to reconnect the Northern Territory with Asia, resuming three direct flights per week between Darwin and Bali from March 22. And fares start from $189.

The new services will bring over 1,000 visitor seats weekly through Darwin International Airport and Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport.

The flights will also open seamless connectivity to and from Darwin via Bali, making travel to other Asian destinations more accessible.

Indonesia AirAsia CEO Veranita Yosephine said the airline is thrilled to return to the Territory.

“Bali is now our largest hub in terms of flight capacity, driven by strong demand. These direct flights will cater to the enduring popularity of Bali as a destination for Australians and offer great low fare connections to over 130 destinations across the AirAsia Group network.

“Passengers from Darwin can enjoy seamless connections via Bali to destinations like Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Hong Kong and Komodo Island starting from as low as under $300.

“At the same time, millions of guests from across Asia will be welcomed to the Northern Territory. They will discover the extraordinary culture, wildlife and natural beauty of Kakadu National Park, Arnhem Land and other iconic locations where the tropics meet the outback.”

Airport Development Group Executive General Manager Sandra de Kock welcomed AirAsia back to Darwin, highlighting the strong local demand for travel to Bali.

“Territorians have been calling for more options to fly to Bali and we’re excited to deliver with the return of AirAsia,” she said.

Flights can be booked now at airasia.com or via the AirAsia MOVE app.

How eating eggs may help you live longer

Regular consumption of eggs is associated with a 29% lower risk of cardiovascular disease-related death in relatively healthy older adults, new research from a Monash University-led team has found.

In a report published in the journal Nutrients, the researchers found that for relatively healthy older adults, consuming eggs 1-6 times per week was associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality (death from any cause) and CVD mortality compared to those who rarely or never eat eggs.

The study involved 8756 adults aged 70 years or older, who self-reported the frequency of their total egg intake: never/infrequently (rarely/never, or 1-2 times/month), weekly (1-6 times/week), and daily (daily/several times per day), as part of the ASPREE Longitudinal Study of Older Persons (ALSOP) sub-study.

First author Holly Wild, a PhD candidate and lecturer from the Monash University School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, said compared to older adults who never or infrequently ate eggs (up to twice a month), those who ate eggs 1-6 times a week had a 15% lower risk of death from any cause, and a 29% lower risk of cardiovascular disease-related death.

“Eggs are a nutrient-dense food; they are a rich source of protein and a good source of essential nutrients, such as B vitamins, folate, unsaturated fatty acids, fat-soluble vitamins (E, D, A, and K), choline, and numerous minerals and trace elements,” Wild said.

“Eggs are also an accessible source of protein and nutrition in older adults, with research suggesting that they are the preferred source of protein for older adults who might be experiencing age-related physical and sensory decline.”

The study also explored the relationship between egg consumption and mortality across different levels of diet quality (low, moderate, high).

“The study found that older adults with a moderate-to-high diet quality reported a 33% and 44% lower risk of CVD-related death, suggesting that the addition of eggs to moderate and high-quality diets may improve longevity,” the researchers wrote.

The current Australian Dietary Guidelines and the American Heart Association (AHA) recommend that adults with normal cholesterol can eat up to seven eggs per week, while some European countries suggest limiting it to 3-4 eggs per week. 

The AHA also supports up to two eggs per day for older adults with normal cholesterol.

“Previous research has observed a higher risk of mortality with egg consumption for those who have high cholesterol," Wild said. "For this reason, we also explored the association between egg consumption and mortality in people with and without dyslipidemia (clinically diagnosed high cholesterol).

“We found a 27% lower risk of CVD-related death for participants with dyslipidemia who consumed eggs weekly, compared to their counterparts that consumed eggs rarely or never, suggesting that in this study cohort, the presence of dyslipidemia does not influence the risk associated with egg consumption.

“Our results suggest that eating up to six eggs a week may reduce the risk of death from all causes and cardiovascular related diseases in older adults. These findings may be beneficial in the development of evidence-based dietary guidelines for older adults.”

Read the full paper in Nutrients: Egg Consumption and Mortality: A Prospective Cohort Study of Australian Community-Dwelling Older Adults. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17020323

Peppers Gladstone adds spice to the Capricorn Coast

When I first started writing about travel I journeyed from Sydney up to the Hunter Valley to interview a livewire young couple called Mike and Suzi O'Connor.

They were about to open a ground-breaking vineyard venture called Peppers Guest House.

That was in 1983. Today, Peppers is a luxe brand, part of the global Accor group, with properties in Australia, New Zealand and Bali. Mike and Suzi have long sold the business, but they must be proud of what their vision became.

Yaralla Sports Club and Accor today announced the opening of Peppers Gladstone, the region's first five-star hotel.

The 32-room Peppers Gladstone adjoins the existing 60-room Mantra Gladstone at the Yaralla Sports Club and is operated as a dual-branded hotel concept.

This is the first new-build hotel to open in the region in over a decade, setting a new benchmark for high-end accommodation in Gladstone and the broader Central Queensland region.

“The debut of Peppers Gladstone is a proud moment for Accor as it brings a new level of hospitality to Central Queensland," says Accor Pacific Chief Operating Officer Adrian Williams.

"This hotel is a unique addition to our premium brand portfolio and exemplifies our commitment to creating extraordinary guest experiences, blending Peppers' signature style with the charm of Gladstone.”

Yaralla Sports Club CEO Will Schroeder, said: "The opening of Peppers Gladstone is an exciting moment for our region.

"Together with Accor, we're delivering a world-class accommodation option that's set to become the ultimate destination for visitors, whether they're here for business, a special event, or to explore our beautiful coastline."

Designed by BSPN Architects and constructed by Mettle Projects, Peppers Gladstone offers a range of accommodation options, from king studio rooms to superior two-bedroom apartments.

All guest rooms feature fully equipped kitchens, king-sized beds, large televisions with Chromecast capabilities, and a complimentary non-alcoholic minibar.

Amenities include a heated outdoor swimming pool, complimentary drinks at the pool deck bar (during select hours), access to Peppers' eight-seater cinema room, a gym, secure undercover parking, wifi, and a choice of two on-site restaurants for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Peppers Gladstone joins a network of more than 20 Peppers retreats, resorts, and hotels across Australia, New Zealand, and Indonesia, expanding the brand's legacy as it celebrates its 40th anniversary.

SPECIAL OFFER: Be among the first to experience Peppers Gladstone with the hotel's opening special offer from $200* per night - a saving of 15%. To book, visit ALL.com

Santorini on high alert after tremors

The Greek resort island of Santorini is on high alert after more than 200 tremors were recorded over the weekend.

Authorities have warned people to avoid ports, not gather indoors and schools were closed on Monday, travel news hub Travel Mole reported. Thousands of residents departed the island early in the week. 

The civil protection ministry said 200 tremors were registered but that doesn’t necessarily mean a large earthquake is imminent.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis urged islanders to "stay calm" after the increase in seismic activity in recent days in the popular tourist destination known for its whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches.

More than 280 earthquakes were recorded across Greek islands the University of Athens' Seismological Laboratory said.

Tremors of up to 4.9 in magnitude were recorded north-east of the island on Monday.

Ports affected included Fira Harbour where cruise ships tender offshore.

Disaster response teams are on standby.

“This does not necessarily mean that there will be a strong earthquake, it may well be that the thermal energy dissipates and we have a smaller earthquake in Santorini - but we have to take measures,” said Costas Papazachos, a professor of seismology who is advising authorities.

Santorini is itself is a volcanic island formed by a huge eruption.

A barrel of fun: discover a new Tasmanian beverage experience

 

Tasmania is renowned for its cool-climate wines and artisan spirits. 

What could be more Tasmanian, then, than two local producers joining forces for an indulgent tasting experience?  

Tasmanian winery Tamar Ridge and neighbouring distillery Turner Stillhouse have partnered to create an exclusive Wine and Spirit Tour. 

The new immersive experience invites guests to delve into the worlds of both premium Tasmanian wine and spirits, with a special focus on the art of barrel-aging.

The three-hour experience begins with a guided tour of the Turner Stillhouse distillery, where participants learn about the production of Three Cuts Gins and whiskies, including the unique process of resting the gin in former Tamar Ridge wine barrels.

The tasting showcases the influence of Tamar Ridge's pinot noir and chardonnay barrels on the final gin product. 

The pinot barrel-rested gin is aged in ex-Tasmanian French oak pinot noir barrels to provide an intense colour and rich pinot influence. The chardonnay barrel-rested gin, meanwhile, provides subtle colour, but its palate is citrus heavy with a long, smoky finish.

Guests then transition next door to the Tamar Ridge cellar door where they embark on a seated wine tasting, savouring four signature wines (a mix of pinot noir and sparkling) while enjoying panoramic views of the Tamar River. 

The experience is rounded out with a gourmet platter featuring local Tasmanian produce to complement the drinks.

"This collaboration with Turner Stillhouse allows us to offer a truly unique and comprehensive Tasmanian experience," says Tamar Ridge senior winemaker Tom Wallace.

"Guests will discover the craftsmanship behind our wines and the fascinating way those flavours translate into Turner Stillhouse's exceptional barrel-rested gins."

The Wine and Spirit Tour is available seven days a week, from 11am to 2pm, priced at $60 per person. Bookings are essential and can be made at tamarridge.rezdy.com/596770/wine-spirit-cheese-tour.

Delta adds new flights to/from Australia

Timing is everything - and I'm not sure Delta Air Lines got its timing right with the announcement of its new flights between Melbourne and Los Angeles.

The announcement came on the heels of a whole batch of nonsense from Donald Trump and wildfires in the Los Angeles area.

Delta Air Lines will launch nonstop Melbourne flights from LA on Airbus A350 jets starting early in January. By which times things may have returned to normal. Or not.

The flights add competition to current providers Qantas and United Airlines.

Delta initially launches Melbourne flights with a three times per week service.

The airline already flies to Sydney and seasonally to Brisbane.

“This is a win for the whole state – for tourism operators, businesses, hotels and restaurants, and for families and travellers,” Victoria state Tourism, Sport and Major Events minister Steve Dimopoulos said.

“These new Delta flights will bring thousands more tourists from North America to Victoria.

“These new flights will also make it more affordable for families who have America on their bucket list."

Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus said: "North America is an incredibly important inbound market for us, and we’re proud to be partnering with Visit Victoria to help restore capacity on the Los Angeles route.”

Delta’s flights from LAX will depart on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, with the return journey from Melbourne every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

The new flights are set to add an extra 86,000 annual seats between Melbourne and the US.

Giant sculpture pays tribute to indigenous women

I have no intention of going anywhere near the US while it is being run by Agent Orange. 

I am, therefore, most unlikely to find myself in South Dakota. 

If I did, perchance, I would probably want to see this giant stainless steel sculpture, which was highlighted this week as a hidden gem by a former colleague. 

It is called Dignity and was created by artist Dale Lamphere to honour the women of the Sioux Nation.

The 15-metre plus artwork gazes across the waters of the Missouri River. 

During the day, the South Dakota winds brush the diamonds in her star quilt, causing blue shades to twinkle in the sunlight. At night, she stands illuminated. 

It is said the more than 100 blue diamond shapes move in the wind "like an Aspen leaf".

The Dignity statue is described as "a stunning combination of art and history". 

You'll find her located on a bluff between exits 263 and 265 on Interstate 90 near the small town of Chamberlain (takes a quick look at Google Maps). 

The giant piece honours the cultures of the Lakota and Dakota people and is a highlight of the Native American Scenic Byway.

Norm and Eunabel McKie of Rapid City announced their gift of Dignity to the state of South Dakota in 2014, in honour of the 125th anniversary of South Dakota statehood.

"Dignity represents the courage, perseverance and wisdom of the Lakota and Dakota culture in South Dakota," says the artist. 

"My hope is that the sculpture might serve as a symbol of respect and promise for the future."

The US could certainly use a little dignity right now. 

Why [yellow tail] and Domino's are teaming up

Australian wine brand [yellow tail] and pizza giant Domino’s have teamed up for an unlikely collaboration in some US markets.

The [yellow tail] team has introduced a red bland in a 1.5-litre bottle "designed to pair best with a traditional Domino's cheese pizza as well as a variety of popular toppings".

"At [yellow tail], we believe that seriously good wine doesn't need to be so serious," says Dan Kleinman, chief brand officer, for US distributors Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits.

"We're thrilled to be partnering with Domino's, a brand loved by customers for interesting and exciting creations, to make the everyday pizza night more convenient, special and, most importantly, more fun."

Some of the new bottles will feature the Twist.Tap.Order. cap, a smart technology that connects with the Domino’s app. Customers can quickly place a pizza order by twisting off and tapping the cap on a smartphone. That feature will start on Monday in US market, including Florida, Washington, DC., Nebraska, Wyoming and Oregon, a media release says.

"Domino's is known for innovations," says Kate Trumbull, executive vice president, chief marketing officer for Domino's.

"We're always looking for ways to make ordering easier than ever, and 'Twist.Tap.Order.' does that. It's all about convenience, and we're excited to give customers yet another fun way they can order their favourite pizza."

If your are in the US, you can check out www.yellowtailwine.com/us/dominos/

Planning to be in London? Ryanair launches new cheap flights

 With budget airline Ryanair you know exactly what you are getting: a seat on a plane that may, or may not, depart on time. 

Want to reserve a seat? That will cost you more. Want extra baggage? Pay up. Want something to eat? Hand over your credit card.

It's cheap, but not necessarily cheerful  

If you are happy to just get a cheap seat to a faraway destination you might never have heard of, then there are some intriguing options available on the Ryanair network. 

Ryanair has just revealed its London summer 2025 schedule with seven new routes from London Stansted.

The airline will launch new flights to Bodrum, Clermont-Ferrand, Dalaman, Münster, Lübeck, Linz (a re-launch) and Reggio Calabria, as well as extra frequencies on 30 other London routes. 

OK. These are not mainstream destinations. I even had to look up Dalaman, as I'd never heard of it. It's in south-west Turkey, apparently. But flights start from around $60.  

Overall, Ryanair is offering a total of 206 routes.

To support this traffic growth, Ryanair will base one new Boeing 737 in London Stansted for the summer, travel site Travel Mole reports. 

This brings Ryanair’s total London-based fleet to 56 aircraft and will create 30 new jobs for pilots, cabin crew and engineers.

Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary said: “We are pleased to announce new summer routes from London. We are also launching extra frequencies on 30 other London routes.”

Brewers get frothy: want a break on beer taxes

 

There is nothing more Australian than enjoying a cold beer.

But the price of a beer is constantly increasing and brewers are asking for a break.

With the beer tax set to increase yet again on Monday, February 3, the Brewers Association of Australia has made a submission for Treasurer Jim Chalmers' budget consultation process calling for urgent action to address the high rates of tax.

Brewers Association of Australia CEO, John Preston said: “On behalf of brewers and beer drinkers across Australia we are asking for urgent action to address the high rates of beer tax.

"We already have one of the highest beer tax rates in the world – there is no need for it to keep going up twice a year.

“Australians are doing the right thing and drinking responsibly. All these tax hikes are doing is making it increasingly unaffordable for Australians to head out to their local for a beer.

“Last year the newly elected Labour Government in the United Kingdom used its first Budget to continue the reductions in beer tax that were started under the previous Conservative government.

"We believe the Treasurer should follow the example of his British counterpart and give much needed relief to beer drinkers and our hospitality sector."

Image: Scop.io

Security guards employed to keep unruly tourists in line

Not everyone in Japan is delighted by the current tourism boom.

On a recent visit to Kanazawa I saw several restaurants with signs saying they would not serve anyone who didn't speak Japanese.

Several shops displayed blatantly racist signs warning foreigners they were not welcome (image above). 

   
And now a small town in Japan has taken drastic measures and hired a team of security guards to manage badly behaved tourists, news portal Travel Mole reported.

Otaru, a small port town on Hokkaido island has been inundated by crowds of tourists with some of them being a nuisance to locals.

The visitors have been blocking roads and pavements to scramble for photos at Instagram hotspot Funami-zaka, a steep street offering scenic views of the port and ocean.

It was a location for the 1995 Japanese film Love Letter and the 2015 Chinese movie Cities in Love, which have sparked interest in the town.

A Chinese woman was recently killed by a train in the town while reportedly distracted by taking photos.

Local residents have complained about large crowds of tourists blocking roads and some trespassing on private property to get a better vantage point to take photos.

“The road is lined with houses and has heavy traffic," a city official told the Mainichi Shimbun newspaper.

"Tourists standing on the street or walking side by side often make it impossible for vehicles to pass. The impact on residents has been significant.”

A record 36.7 million people visited Japan last year.

Several areas have taken action against over-tourism issues in Kyoto, Fujikawaguchiko near Mount Fujim and the spa town of Ginzan Onsen.

Images: Winsor Dobbin and Hokkaido Tourism