Grand Pacific DriveGrand Pacific Drive-New South Wales

It's been raining off and on for days, which is great for the drought but the kids aren’t' as understanding. With the end of the school holidays upon us, I'm looking for a change of scenery and something to keep both kids and adults amused. We decide
to take a short break and check out the Grand Pacific Drive, the stunning stretch of highway between Sydney's Royal National Park, through Wollongong and and Kiama to jervis Bay.

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Hapuku LodgeI love tree houses. I loved them when I was a kid and nothing has chnaged now I'm an older, fatter kid. Hapuku Lodge, outside Kaikoura on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island, has taken the tree house concept to new heights.

As I looked out from mine, the view was of olive groves, rolling meadows and, in the distance, the blue waters of managamaunu Bay. In the other direction the backdrop was the snow-capped Kaikoura Seaward Mountain range towering over a cluster of deer.

Hapuku Lodge has a lot more than a bed, although mine was supremely comfortable.

My tree house boasted not only giant windows from which to enjoy the views, but an iPod music system pre-programmed with my choice of music, custom-crafted furnishings using local wood, wide-screen TVs with satellite channels, bathrooms with heated towel rails and floors and rainforest style showers that open directly on to the private decks.

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Border Collies at Riverwood DownsAny true dog person will usually tell you two things about their beloved pet: first, they're a lot smarter than most people, and second, fido is not just an animal, but a part of the family unit.

This can lead to a fair bit of angst at holiday time when thbe furry family member is deposited with strangers who place him in a steel cage that looks suspiciously like a doggy jail.

Now don't get me wrong: a lot of kennels are top notch, more akin to a dog resort than a canine Kerobokan: but they just don't suit all dogs or their owners.

The only time I ever left my Dalmatian Claude in a kennel, he stood on his hind legs, pressed his nose against the bars and, as I walked away with my equally distraught four-year old daughter, he uttered the most mournful howl, something he'd never done before.

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Switzerland-One of the most popular destinations for older people!Have the time of your life!!! 10 Things older travelers might consider before venturing overseas.

First thing is to admit that you are now getting older and may not be as young as you once where and admit that you're over backpacking, rough digs and bad food. Why not consider group travel?

Operators range from the the ultra-swish Captain's Choice Tours to the more modes such as Insight and boutique groups like Travel Indochina.

For some destinations, organized tours are the only practical way to go. Others can be conquered solo, but why bother?

Consider a longer stay at the beginning or end of your tour, Operators will usually organize it, often at attractive rates.

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