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For
those cultural souls who are motivated by gourmet
cuisine, fine wines and luxurious accoutrements,
Australia is full of hidden gems that will have
you sighing, "ahhhh" at the end of every day.
This honeymoon is all about living the good
life, whether on a private island, in the colorful
countryside or in a vibrant city.
 Early
in the AM, you will touch down in Sydney, but
only for an instant. Upon clearing customs,
shuffle over to the Qantas counter to check
in for your next flight. Don't worry, though,
you will have the opportunity to enjoy remarkable
Sydney later in the trip - first things first.
Your current objective is to reach the private
island of Bedarra, perhaps one of Australia's
most relaxing and pampered spots. With only
16 villas, privacy is practically assured.  Spend
your days doing absolutely nothing, or perhaps
take a nature hike or go for a snorkel. With
more beaches than guests, a secluded picnic
is simple to plan and highly recommended. And
while the setting is sublime, it's the cuisine
that sets Bedarra apart. The menu changes daily
and always features the freshest seafood and
produce.
 Fully
de-stressed and refreshed, it's time for a complete
change of scenery. Next on the agenda is the
scenic Hunter Valley, one of Australia's premier
wine regions. You will make your way back south,
pick up your Saab 9-3 convertible, drop the
top, and take a leisurely drive through the
Valley's rolling hills and endless acres of
vineyards. Your destination is the tranquil
Tower Lodge, highly regarded for its elegant
environs and top notch restaurants. This part
of the trip is all about epicurean indulgence
as you partake in the handiwork of some of Australia's
finest chefs and sample some amazing wines.
With over 70 wineries in the area, choices abound.
For an "insiders" view, you will have the opportunity
to tour some of the top wineries and participate
in a number of tastings with our favorite oenologist.
To aid digestion, play a round of golf, take
a nature walk, or hop in the convertible and
explore the region's many charming small villages.
 Your
final stop on this gastronomic expedition of
Australia will be the striking city of Sydney.
The pride and joy of many "Sidneysiders" is
the city's beautiful harbour, thus a good way
to orientate oneself is from the deck of a ferry.
In particular, hop on the Sydney Harbour Explorer,
which runs frequently and makes stops at the
Rocks, Sydney Opera House, Watsons Bay, Taronga
Zoo, and Darling Harbour. Cap off a day of sightseeing
with a night you'll remember for years to come.
Begin by meeting your personal attendant at
the Sydney Opera House. He or she will provide
an overview of your evening and then set you
up with a guided tour. After viewing the inner
workings of one of the most famous theatres
in the world, it's time for a gourmet dinner
at the delicious Guillaume at Bennelong restaurant,
located right in the opera house.  The
final piece to this elegant evening will be
premium seats for the symphony or opera, depending
on the schedule. Now matter how you decide to
spend your time in Sydney, you will always be
able to return to the luxurious Four Seasons
Hotel for a bit of rest, relaxation and pampering.
You
will return home with an appreciation for the
diversity of this vast country, along with its
new gastronomic traditions.
Who
will enjoy this trip:
Foodies! Couples who want the ultimate in luxury
and pampering. Those who want a mix of beach
time, outdoor exploration and big city activities.
Who
should avoid this trip:
Couples who are not into food and wine. Those
who prefer a more extensive beach experience.
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