November 29, 2011

Discover why more Canadians are visiting Tasmania, Australia's island state

Tasmania, Australia's only island state, reported a year-on-year growth of 19% in visitor arrivals from the North America market, according to the newly released International Visitor Survey (IVS). The increase is dramatic in light of the fact that visitor arrivals from North America to Australia declined by 5%. Each year, the IVS tracks visitor arrivals and spending in Australia, with the latest survey reporting results for the end of the financial year, July 1, 2010, through June 30, 2011.

Visitors from Canada increased 55% and visitors from the United States increased by 9% when compared to the previous fiscal year. Total nights spent by U.S. visitors also increased by 7% and total modeled expenditure by this market increased by 4%. The arrival of 24,100 North American visitors (Canada: 6,700; USA 17,400), maintained the region's position as Tasmania's largest international market.

The recent announcement of Virgin Australia and Delta airlines codeshare agreement equates to even easier connections between North America and Tasmania. From November 2011, flights operated by V Australia will arrive and depart at Delta's Terminal 5 at Los Angeles International Airport. This will allow for faster Delta connections within the same terminal, as well as access to the terminal's new customs and immigration facilities.

Tasmania's tourism infrastructure continues to evolve. From the new Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) to Down Under's newest five-star eco-lodge, Saffire Freycinet, additional developments that continue to pique the North American traveler's interest include:

A new way to meet Tasmania’s wild locals: new Tasmanian Devil experience

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary has taken a leading role in the conservation and breeding of the world's largest surviving carnivorous marsupial, the Tasmanian Devil. This animal now faces extinction owing to the Tasmania Devil Facial Tumor Disease (TDFTD) which has destroyed an estimated 90% of wild populations. A new walk-through devil enclosure provides up to 20 'retired devils' the opportunity to live out their days in complete luxury after playing their part in breeding for an insurance population. The new devil enclosure includes almost one mile of fencing and a large viewing deck with seating for visitors. Beginning in December 2011, the sanctuary will run a new, twice daily, tour called 'The Devil in Detail.' This tour will provide visitors with insight into the fascinating world of the largely misunderstood Tasmanian Devil. A devil feed will be an integral part of the experience.

New adventures in Tasmania’s wilderness: Cradle Mountain canyoning

Tasmania's first and only canyoning company will begin operations this December 2011, and is hosting two trips every day through early April 2012. The canyoning takes place within Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair National Park with two expedition options:

Hard Adventure: The Dove Canyon expedition tackles jumps, slides and abseils within a 160-foot high quartzite canyon. This trip is highly recommended for those seeking an adrenaline rush with a feeling of exploration. The trip lasts five hours and costs CAN$170 for adults and CAN$140 for children. Wetsuits and safety gear are included.

Soft Adventure: The three-hour trip through Lost World Canyon takes adventurers on a journey along the upper section of the Dove River. The experience is suitable for participants of all ages looking to relax, get off-track and explore the hidden scenery of Cradle Mountain. It costs CAN$95 for adults and CAN$75 for children over 8 years of age. www.cradlemountaincanyons.com.au

New mountain biking tours on Tasmania's wild trails

New VertigoMTB offers cyclists a range of mountain and cross-country adventures throughout Tasmania with one-day and multi-day trips taking in diverse terrain and technical biking challenges. Cycle through the state's spectacular and ancient World Heritage Wilderness. Tours start from CAN$430 per day or CAN$1,290 for three days. www.vertigomtb.com.au

New parks & wildlife services apps and podcasts

To enhance Tasmania's already outstanding national parks and wilderness sites, Tasmania's Parks & Wildlife Services has developed new web apps and podcasts for nature enthusiasts. Bushwalkers can now download the new 'Frog Log' app, the ultimate handheld guide to Tasmania's native amphibians. This joins the "a bird in the hand" app which provides comprehensive information of 23 of the island's endemic bird species.

This application will be followed by an app for the 60 Great Short Walks, which allow visitors to geotrack their "discoveries" on many of Tasmania's short wilderness walks.
Parks & Willife Service Tasmania

Premier Travel Tasmania offers 4-day lux-for-less tours

Premier Travel Tasmania has launched a new four-day 'Icons of Tasmania' small group tour, incorporating the island's pristine coastal and inland wilderness, unique wildlife and heritage-list convict sites. Visit iconic Wineglass Bay on the Freycinet Peninsula, bush walk to Russell Falls in Mt. Field National Park, wander the convict ruins of Port Arthur Historic Site and take in the craft stalls of Salamanca Market in Hobart. Prices start at CAN$1,665 which includes four full days of touring, three nights' accommodation at Lenna of Hobart, admission to all attractions and activities, national park fees as well as most meals. The tour is available October 2011 through March 2012. A minimum of two passengers is required and the is a maximum of 10 guests per trip.
Premier Travel Tasmania 4-day Tours

Enhanced accommodation offerings

LENNA OF HOBART RENOVATIONS COMPLETE

One of Hobart's premier accommodation options, the Lenna of Hobart has just completed a CAN$1 million refurbishment. All rooms have undergone a complete enhancement including soft furnishings, beds and bedding, carpet, televisions and decor. Parkview and Harbour View rooms have also had a complete remodel of bathrooms with inclusion of walk–in showers, premium quality tiling and stone vanity units. Located near Hobart's waterfront overlooking Sullivan's Cove and close to the fashionable Salamanca Place, the hotel provides a combination of traditional elegance and modern facilities for guests.

Lenna of Hobart Stylish Historic Hotel

NEW BRUNY ISLAND LUX ECO ACCOMMODATION

Huon Bush Retreats has added a new eco-property to their portfolio in Southern Tasmania - Chez Discovery. This more than comfortable two bedroom house, with its own art studio, on a 1,500 acre coastal property boasts amazing views, 15.5 miles of walking tracks, 95 species of bird including the 12 Tasmanian endemics, 75 orchid species, private beaches, forest and heathland. The kitchen is stocked with complimentary cooking oil, spices, vinegar, rice, pasta, tea and coffee supplies. The 'Aquila Sealegs' amphibious boat with skipper and crew can take guests from Chez Discovery to a private beach of their choice. From CAN$330 per night. Cheaper rates for multiple night stays (from CAN$250).

Bruny Island Experience