May 2009

Star Spotting

As we celebrate our fifth birthday, we chat with some of our best-loved celebrities about their favourite Jetstar destinations

Star Spotting

WORDS JOANNA AND BEN HALL

Deni Hines loves... Auckland

The popular Australian singer admits to a long-term love affair with New Zealand’s “City of Sails”.

“I love the fashion, people and cafés and, oh, did I mention the fashion! There are so many things to do there, like visiting the butterfly house, where there are over 500 different butterflies from around the world — truly beautiful. There are also amazing galleries, artwork, unique jewellery and sculptures over at Devonport, which you can get to by car or ferry.

“Mission Bay is also a must — go with some friends to hang at the beach, enjoy alfresco dining and savour views of Rangitoto Island. But if you need a day or two of rest and relaxation, spoil yourself with a visit to Waiwera Infinity Thermal Spa. Take a dip into the hot mineral pools and grab yourself a massage while you’re there. Heaven!”

Anthony Laffranchi loves... the Sunshine Coast

The Jetstar Gold Coast Titans rugby league player enjoys hitting the beaches of the Sunshine Coast with his family when he takes a break.

The second rower says: “I used to prefer overseas holidays. My favourite place used to be Fiji because this was where my wife Peita-Lee and I had our honeymoon — so it’s always special to us.

“But now we have two little boys and with them in tow, we’re happy to stay closer to home. We love it around here on the Gold Coast, but if we get a chance to get away we usually go to the Sunny Coast and head for Mooloolaba.

“It’s a relaxed place which hasn’t changed too much and there’s plenty to do for the kids. They can play on the beach and in the evening the beachfront lights up and we go down there with fish and chips.

“I’m trying to learn how to surf and the waves up there are really nice, so I’m looking forward to getting back up there at the end of the season.”

Annalise Braakensiek loves... Hawaii

The actress, television presenter and bestselling cover girl has fallen for the laid-back style of the Hawaiian Islands.

“I love nothing more than a tropical island getaway to really unwind, relax and recuperate, and the Hawaiian island of Maui is the perfect destination for doing just that. The beaches are pristine, the waters are protected and an abundance of tropical fish, turtles, dolphins and whales (in the right season) fill the ocean.

“The surfing is also spectacular, the weather warm and mild, and there’s incredible geographical diversity for such a small island. Everything from the white sandy beaches, to the pinnacle of a volcano — Haleakala — where you can watch the sun rise high above the cloud line at 10,000 feet and walk the crater’s edge.

“The locals are super friendly, the food is good, it’s very laid back and there’s no language barrier. Maui offers an easy vacation, with everything from locally grown pineapples to French champagne!

“My husband Danny and I have been to Maui several times, and I can’t wait for the next possible chance to return. Aloha!”

Arron Wood loves... Bali

The young entrepreneur and eco-crusader loves taking time out in Bali when he heads overseas for a holiday.

“I love to visit Bali anytime I get the chance. Whatever time of year you go, you find something different and special that you didn’t discover previously. The food, the people and laid-back lifestyle make you immediately relax as soon as the holiday begins.

“When I’m there, I usually stay at a great hotel called Bali Garden Hotel in Legian. It’s reasonably priced and has friendly staff. It’s quiet, but not far from the action and is right on the beach.

“I also really enjoy getting away from the hustle and bustle and finding cheap accommodation in quiet places like Ubud. Waking up in traditional Balinese accommodation and looking out over lush rainforest and rice paddies is magic. I keep coming back for the food!”

Bessie Bardot loves... Sydney

The bestselling author and television presenter believes dazzling Sydney, spread north and south of the harbour, has it all.

“My favourite Jetstar destination without a doubt is the cosmopolitan hub of Sydney. It has everything anyone could want, from fine dining, culture, shopping, beaches and nature to nightlife, all within minutes of each other.

“To start a perfect day, watch the sunrise from the Botanic Gardens where the view boasts both the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. Then enjoy a delicious breakfast at Woolloomooloo Wharf and check out the historic art gallery, then shop to your heart’s content in Oxford Street, Paddington.

“To rest your tired feet, you can’t beat a long, lazy lunch at Catalina in Rose Bay where the pelicans fly up and land near your table. Then grab your swimmers and head to Ivy Pool Club in George Street to while the afternoon away with a refreshing cocktail.

“Finally, finish the day by catching the latest movie and spoiling yourself rotten at a Greater Union Gold Class theatre. The burnt caramel sundae is bliss!”

Rozz Switzer loves... Singapore

The television personality and celebrity says you can’t beat Singapore for shopping, food and fun.

“I have loved Singapore ever since my husband and I spent the first part of our honeymoon there. We also celebrated New Year’s Eve 2003 there, and stayed at the magnificent Fullerton Hotel.

“This city is beautiful. Its strict guidelines on litter make it one of the cleanest places you’ll visit, and the waterways give you access around town by road or afloat, with the boardwalks offering an abundance of dining and entertainment experiences.

“There are shopping centres galore to buy anything you wish for, and the public transport to get you there is safe, clean and reliable. We had a great day catching the glass cabin, cable car over to Sentosa Island for a day of R ’n’ R in the sun, but by far the top attraction is a visit to the famous Raffles Hotel for a Singapore Sling cocktail.

“It’s not just about the drink, it’s about the atmosphere of history that surrounds you at the Long Bar as you enjoy each other’s company, sip on your Sling and throw peanut shells on the floor.”






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