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Tourism hotspot in Italy attracts attention for selling strange souvenir

Italy’s picturesque region of Lake Como has started selling a unique souvenir, making many people raise their eyebrows. The north Italian tourist hotspot has long been known for being the backdrop of many Hollywood films, while also hosting countless celebrity weddings, with many famous faces owning houses in the region. For those travelling to the stunning Lake Como and wanting to purchase a souvenir to remind them of their travels, you can now forgo the classic keyring or magnet for a more unique souvenir item. Communications company ItalyComunica says it has bottled the very air of Italy’s picturesque Lake Como and is selling these cans for €9.90 ($16 AUD) apiece. Each can is said to contain 400 millilitres of “100% authentic air” collected from Lake Como, with the website stating buyers can “Open it whenever you need a moment of escape, tranquillity, or simply beauty.” In an attempt to capitalise on the ever-growing visitor numbers, marketing specialist Davide Abagnale originally created the e-commerce site to sell dedicated Lake Como posters, before delving into the world of the unique souvenirs. His latest initiative of selling canned air aims to “create a souvenir that could be easily transported in a suitcase for tourists” and “something original, fun and even provocative.” Abagnale told <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/11/04/travel/lake-como-air-cans-on-sale-intl-scli/index.html">CNN</a>, “It’s not a product, it’s a tangible memory that you carry in your heart,” adding that once tourists are home and have opened the can, they can repurpose it as a souvenir pen holder or plant holder. Not everyone was first onboard with the idea, as Como mayor Alessandro Rapinese said it wouldn’t be his first idea for tourists, and would prefer they take home other souvenirs, like the silk scarves the area is known for. “It’s a novel idea, but not for everyone,” he told CNN. “But as mayor of one of Italy’s most beautiful cities, if someone wants to take some of their air home, that’s fine as long as they also take beautiful memories of this area.” Image credits: ItalyComunica/CNN/Shutterstock

International Travel

Why you should visit Lake Toba in Indonesia

Anne Sinclair, 68, was born in England but spent most of her youth in Darwin, Northern Territory. Now in a position to travel and explore the world, Anne looks forward to sharing her personal experience and encourages others to step out and have fun. If you are travelling in Indonesia, why not consider visiting Sumatra? Are you perhaps seeking that very special spot for a holiday and soak up peacefulness, then this little gem might be right up your alley? This little jewel of Indonesia, is tucked away within lush green mountainous terrain, and almost perfect weather, lakefront villas and a community of most obliging people. And it’s all here at Lake Toba, the waters surrounding Samosir Island - an island, within the island of Sumatra. The catastrophe of a giant volcano eruption some 70,000 years ago (as quoted in Wikipedia notes) created this most incredible crater and dare we say, gave mankind this new piece of paradise; a peaceful contrast to its beginnings I would think? Then, in the immense scheme of things we have total enjoyment of nature’s inexplicable creation. According to the Toba Catastrophe Theory, proposed by S.H. Ambrose of the University of Illinois and Urbana-Champaign in 1998 – the effects of the Toba eruption may have decreased the size of human population to only a few tens of thousands of individuals. This hypothesis was not widely accepted though as similar effects on other animals had not been observed. But that was then, and this is now… To get you to this little piece of paradise, is relatively easy. If you do some Google searches you are bound to find an airline heading this way. Probably a morning arrival at Medan (Kuala Namu airport) would best serve your plans, as the drive out to Lake Toba from the airport, is around four hours. Very well worth it! The taxi drivers are very accommodating and will most assuredly stop at a café, or do a wash room stop for you to freshen up along the way. The taxi will likely pass through some very interesting little villages, showing you the mixture of cultures with Mosques and both Protestant and Catholic Churches almost built side by side. Little villages are filled with busy locals adding to the exciting culture of Sumatra. Very attractive structures could coax the camera snapping time, and wonderful cultural villages which could well deserve some memorable photos. Once you arrive at Parapat, the little township where you catch the ferry across Lake Toba, everything is quite organised; with the colourful ferries departing from Parapat mainland almost at every half hour. Ferry crews are very obliging and will assist you and any cases or bags on to the ferry, and safely placed for the half hour journey across this ocean-blue Lake Toba. The Journey could be a little longer, just depending on which attractive Villa you have chosen to be home for your stay. There is an abundance of Villas and Resorts, with prices ranging to suit any budget. Some of the bigger Resorts (like The Carolina) do have swimming pools, but the water of Lake Toba is quite safe and most inviting for a refreshing swim. You will be helped again by the crew as you come ashore on Samosir Island. An Island donned with amazing waterfront villas. My choice for this visit has been Tuk Tuk Timbul. Overlooking the calm waters on Lake Toba, one could well think one was perhaps relaxing and gazing across the cold yet delicately blue water of Lock Ness. But no, the waters of Lake Toba are much warmer than Lock Ness. This body of water is a natural lake occupying the caldera of a super volcano. This Lake is around one hundred kilometres long. The Island of Samosir is unbelievable attractive. With nature providing cool weather all year round with such dynamic views of the mountainous ranges, and waterfront villas in abundance, fresh food and fabulous prices. It’s all here. This grand ocean-blue lake, found high amongst Sumatra’s volcanic peaks, is where the amiable Christian Batak people reside. Their folk dance and villages are excitingly captivating as their Batak buildings still stand, some in reasonably good condition. It’s nice to see this cultural growth with their Batak homes standing proudly alongside more of what we might refer to as, modern structures. Again, whilst you are on Samosir and also worth a visit is the small village of Tuk Tuk which has a great concentration of tourist facilities; and Tomoki village too, being the main village on the east coast of the Island. The people who reside here are very approachable and responsive, and will help you at any time. Many speak English so, it’s easy to communicate and find your way. If you are seeking somewhere extra special with peaceful surrounds, then Lake Toba at Samosir ticks all the boxes for you. Please keep this little story your personal secret, as Lake Toba lazily boasts uniqueness, with its distinction of utter calm and natural beauty - derived from natures force. Images: Getty

International Travel

Putin’s allies in tears over sanctions impacting luxury homes

A Russian TV host has complained about sanctions imposed on Russia by the European Union and how they are impacting his various luxury properties in Italy. Vladimir Soloviev was angered to tears as he discussed the restrictions, and how he was now facing the loss of his two luxury villas in Lake Como: a popular location for Hollywood’s elite. The TV host, who is known for strident attacks on the West, flew into a passionate rage as he debated Italy’s property rights. “I was told that Europe is a citadel of rights, that everything is permitted, that’s what they said … I know from personal experience about the so-called ‘sacred property rights’,’’ he said. During Friday’s program of The Evening With Vladimir Soloviev, he complained, “I bought it, paid a crazy amount of taxes, I did everything. And suddenly someone makes a decision that this journalist is now on the list of sanctions.” “And right away it affects your real estate. Wait a minute. But you told us that Europe has sacred property rights!” A disgusted Soloviev said of the sanctions, “All of a sudden, now they say: ‘Are you Russian? Then we will close your bank account, if it’s in Europe. And if it’s in England, you’re allowed to keep no more than a certain amount there. Why? Because you’re Russian.” Following Soloviev’s on-air spat, hundreds of people flocked to Twitter to express their disgust at his rant, noting that people were dying while he was only concerned about his holiday home. As he concluded his rant, Soloviev looked at his watch before looking at the television camera and saying, “Is Trump coming back yet?” Image credits: Russia-1 / Getty Images

Real Estate

Woman's body found sitting in chair two years after her death

The body of a 70-year-old woman has been found in her house in Northern Italy, two years after her death.Marinella Beretta lived alone near Lake Como in Lombardy.Her decomposed body was discovered on Friday by the Como fire brigade following complaints that a tree had fallen in her garden as a result of overgrown vegetation, Como City Hall press officer Francesca Manfredi said.Beretta’s body was found sitting in a chair in the living room, SkyTg24 reported on Monday.Manfredi told CNN that the cause of Beretta’s death was unknown, and the examiner had established that she died sometime toward the end of 2019, based on the level of decay to her body.No relatives of Beretta had yet come forward, Manfredi said, adding that police were investigating whether she had any surviving family.For now, Beretta’s body remains at the morgue, and a funeral date has not yet been set, Manfredi added.Como mayor Mario Landriscina has invited the town’s residents to attend Beretta’s funeral. He told the Italian media on Tuesday that the local government would take care of the funeral arrangements.“I will try to be there and I invite the city to be present,” Landriscina said.“This is the moment to be together, and even if this woman had no relatives, we could become her relatives.”On Facebook, Elena Bonetti, Italy’s minister for family and equal opportunities, mourned Beretta’s solitary death.“What happened to Marinella Beretta in Como, the forgotten loneliness, hurts our consciences,” she said. “Remembering her life is the duty of a community that wants to remain united.”Bonetti added: “Taking care of each other is the experience of families, institutions, of our being citizens. No one should be alone.”Image: Getty

12 of the world’s most haunted bodies of water

Devil's Pool, Australia Devil’s Pool is a natural pool created by surrounding boulders and a waterfall that feeds it, and as beautiful as it is, people say it’s cursed. According to legend, Oolana, a young woman from the Yindinji Tribe, drowned herself in the pool after being separated from her true love. Still searching for him today, she lures young men to their death in the green waters. Sixteen young men have died there in the past 50 years, reports News.com.au. Manchac Swamp, USA According to local legend, Julia Brown, a practising voodoo priestess, used to sit on her front porch near the Manchac Swamp in Louisiana and sing, “One day I’m gonna die, and I’m gonna take all of you with me,” reports MentalFloss.com. That curse turned out to be true: On the day of Brown’s funeral in 1915, a category 4 hurricane tore through the area, causing hundreds of drowning deaths. These days, people say that Brown can be heard cackling on the shores of the swamp. Spooky, right? Truk Lagoon, Micronesia If it’s shipwrecks that make your spine tingle, then look no further than Truk Lagoon in Micronesia. That’s where the wreckage of 40 Japanese ships and 25 American aircrafts that went down in the waters lay. They went down during Operation Hailstone, the ill-fated WWII battle. The underwater scene is described as a massive “ship graveyard.” Photos of the wreckage are absolutely chilling and a haunting reminder of all the lives that were lost in that one battle, alone. Lower Yellowstone Falls, USA In 1870, a group of Native Americans stole pack horses from a group of five militiamen and their guide during the night near the area that’s now known as Lower Yellowstone Falls in Wyoming. When they woke up, the men gave chase and caught up with the Native Americans as they were attempting to cross the treacherous falls. During the fighting, the Native Americans’ makeshift raft sank and they were swept over the falls and drowned. Today, some who stand on the platform at the falls swear they hear the death chant of the brave Native American warriors and the river water is said to turn red on occasion. Bride's Pool, Hong Kong The Bride’s Pool, a natural pool created by boulders with an adjoining waterfall in Hong Kong, is said to have gotten its name because a bride fell into the water and drowned on the way to her wedding. If that’s not chilling enough, “today, some people report seeing a woman dressed in a red cheongsam [a traditional Asian wedding dress] brushing her hair near the majestic waters,” reports Time Out Hong Kong. Saco River, USA Sure the Saco River in Maine is a great place for holiday-makers to go tubing, but you may not want to after you find out about its rumoured curse. As the legend goes, around 1675, a group of drunken English sailors crossed paths with the chief of the Saco tribe and his family. The sailors callously threw the baby in the river to see if he could swim; sadly, the baby died a few days later. To enact revenge, the chief put a curse on the Saco River that three white people would drown in it each year. Whether or not the body count has held up, the murder of the child actually happened and likely led to further bloodshed in the years following. Loch Ness, Scotland There are some who believe with all their heart that a lake near Inverness in Scotland is haunted by a mythical being, aka the Loch Ness Monster. “There are over 300,000 visitors each year and only one to two bona fide sightings,” Gary Campbell, president of the Official Loch Ness Monster Fan Club tells the Travel Channel. But those odds continue to inspire visitors who always carry their cameras just in case “Nessie” decides to make an appearance. White Rock Lake, USA They say Dallas’s White Rock Lake is haunted by a young woman wearing a soaking-wet evening dress. “Apparently, the girl tells people she was involved in a boating accident and needs to get to an address on Gaston Avenue. When she gets into a car’s back seat, she disappears,” the Dallas News reports. These encounters have been reported off and on since 1964, although no one knows who the woman is or whether a woman in an evening dress actually drowned there. Changi Beach, Singapore During Japan’s occupation of Singapore during World War II in 1942 tens of thousands of Chinese men who were suspected of having anti-Japanese sentiments, were forced into the waters of Changi Beach and machine-gunned en masse. It’s said that the ghosts of these executed men remain trapped on the shores, crying and screaming as they suffer the same deadly fate over and over again. Blackwater River, USA Like the Saco River, Blackwater River in Florida is also a popular tubing spot with a dark past. A woman with long black hair smelling of rotting flesh haunts the water and will attempt to drag you to your death if you can’t escape her clutches. No matter what is causing people to drown in the river, it would be wise to be careful when taking a dip. Lake Superior, USA In 1985, more than a decade after the SS Edmund Fitzgerald sunk 150 metres to the bottom of Lake Superior – all 29 men on board were lost – it was spotted sailing on the surface of Lake Superior by a commercial crew. There’s a perfectly reasonable explanation involving mist and a lighthouse, according to CNN, but there are those who believe that the Edmund Fitzgerald will continue to sail on as a ghost ship in the choppy, icy waters of the lake that took it. The Bermuda Triangle No discussion of haunted water would be complete without including the Atlantic Ocean’s Bermuda Triangle (bounded by Bermuda, Miami and Puerto Rico). Countless aeroplanes and ships have dared to enter the 1,300,000-square-km perimeter in perfectly good weather and not the slightest hint of engine malfunction – only to disappear forever. Not for nothing, it’s also known as the “Devil’s Triangle.” Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/travel/destinations/12-of-the-worlds-most-haunted-bodies-of-water?pages=1">Reader's Digest</a>.

Travel Tips

Polluted lakes turn pink, frustrating local residents

Though many tourist spots boast being unusually coloured, Argentina’s pink lakes won’t be widely advertised. Several lakes outside the city of Trelew have suddenly turned bubblegum pink, concerning locals and prompting authorities to search for an explanation. Since then, the authorities have uncovered a truck which has been disposing waste from nearby fish factories in the region’s network of lagoons. Environmental and virologist Federico Resrepo told AFP that the colour change was due to sodium sulfate in the fish waste, which is an antibacterial agent used to preserve prawns for export. Juan Micheloud, the environmental control chief of the area, told AFP: “The reddish colour does not cause damage and will disappear in a few days.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Experts say pollution from a chemical used to preserve prawns for export purposes may have changed this Argentinian lagoon's color to bright pink. <a href="https://t.co/doGMeE9U6d">pic.twitter.com/doGMeE9U6d</a> — DW News (@dwnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/dwnews/status/1419773772727341059?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote> Residents have complained about the pollution, which has also caused foul odours to spread. In protest of the pollution, residents of the neighbouring town of Rawson blocked the roads to prevent trucks transporting fish waste from leaving the factory. “We get dozens of trucks daily, the residents are getting tired of it,” environmental activist Pablo Lada told AFP. “Those who should be in control are the ones who authorise the poisoning of people.” With the factories generating thousands of jobs within the province, tension has been growing between frustrated locals and the area’s reliance on the factories economically. “Fish processing generates work … it’s true,” Lada said. “But these are multi-million-dollar profit companies that don’t want to pay freight to take the waste to a treatment plant that already exists in Puerto Madryn, 35 miles away, or build a plant closer.” The lagoon, which covers an area between 10 to 15 hectares, is not used for recreation, and is located within the Industrial Park of Trelew.

International Travel

Have a peek inside George Clooney’s dreamy Italian mansion

George Clooney is easily one of the most recognisable faces in the western world. He is also renowned for his international property portfolio. One of his favourite places is surely one of yours as well – his idyllic mansion in Lake Como, Italy. The star bought the Italian villa in 2002 and paid an eye-watering €11.7 million (NZD $19.7 million) for the property. The 18th century estate features several extraordinary features including 25 rooms, an outdoor theatre, a swimming pool, and a garage big enough to house his number of vehicles and motorcycles. This luxurious home has a tennis court as well, along with a full gym, landscaped gardens, incredibly ornate ceilings, a separate “pizza room”, and a meticulously constructed wall to keep water from pouring directly into the house. Lake Como is home to many international celebs, including Donatella Versace who is reportedly within walking distance from Clooney. George Clooney is reported to have said that his villa is one of his best purchases. “[It] changed my life in a very pleasant and unexpected way… “I realized how beautiful life was in Italy and how it really helped calm me and not feel so pressured.”

Real Estate

Get the inside scoop to Switzerland's Lake Geneva region

Home to amazing Swiss food and wine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, world-renowned events and some of Europe’s most spectacular sceneries, Switzerland’s Lake Geneva Region has a lot more to boast than just watches and chocolate - the usual suspects that spring to mind when it comes to this French speaking region of the country. The scenery Surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains that roll into rows of verdant vineyard-covered slopes, there really is no bad angle when it comes to Lake Geneva. Along the expansive shoreline you’ll find beautiful old towns and villages decorated with multi-coloured geraniums as well as well-preserved cobbled streets. It all adds to the unique charm of this region and keeps history standing still. However, subtle modern elements creep in here and there so you won’t forget you’re still in the 21st century. The contrast of old and new is what makes a visit to this region truly eclectic. Activities One of the major highlights and events of the region is the Montreux Jazz festival, where thousands of jazz lovers descend on the shores to soak in the Swiss summer and enjoy the tunes of the world’s most popular music legends. Down the road is Vevey, gateway to the breathtakingly beautiful Lavaux vineyards. Take in a World UNESCO Heritage Site, while savouring the extraordinary flavours of the region. As Swiss wines are not generally exported due to limited produce, the exclusivity of the produce only adds to the allure. If you simply can't eat and drink any more, then a visit to the Olympic Museum in the historical city of Lausanne is sure to impress any sport lover. The story of the Olympics from the very beginning until today has been painstakingly documented and is presented in an exciting way – worth a visit they say! To learn more about attractions in the Lake Geneva Region and Switzerland, visit <a href="https://www.myswitzerland.com/en/">myswitzerland.com.</a> Fact file The best way to see and experience Switzerland is with a Swiss Pass, which entitles the holder to hop onto any train, bus or boat during the duration of the visit. The Pass also allows the holder free entry to more than 470 museums around the country and 50% discounts on mountain peak rails. Visit myswitzerland.com/rail for more information. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/travel/inside-scoop-to-switzerlands-lake-geneva-region.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a>

Cruising

Picture perfect poison: Warning over Melbourne’s bizarre pink lake

Rangers in Melbourne, Australia have issued a warning to tourists against going for a swim in the pink lake to achieve the perfect shot for their social media feeds. Melbourne’s new attraction in Westgate Park has people flocking to take photographs of the pink lake, much to the chagrin of rangers. The lake turns pink due to replacing the original saltmarsh that was already there. When levels of the saltmarsh are higher than normal, along with high temperatures, lots of sunlight and a lack of rain, algae grows in the lake. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BxbV7yyH2Pc/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BxbV7yyH2Pc/" target="_blank">A post shared by 🍒 (@paigekimmorley)</a> on May 13, 2019 at 8:05pm PDT </div> </blockquote> The type of algae grows in the lake produces a red pigment according to <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-02-21/why-does-this-melbourne-lake-turn-pink/10833186">the ABC</a>, which is called beta carotene. This turns the lake pink. The lake is currently pink and is expected to stay this way until later in autumn, where it will return to being blue. This is due to the weather cooling down as well as the increase of rainfall. People have been warned by the park authorities in Victoria to not come into contact with the water. Despite the algae not being harmful to local wildlife, the same can’t be said for humans. “Algae growing in the salt crust at the bottom of the lake produces the red pigment (beta carotene) as part of its photosynthesis process and in response to the extremely high salt levels,” Phil Pegler, manager conservation planning and programs at Parks Victoria,<a href="https://www.heraldsun.com.au/"> told the Herald Sun.</a> “In order to protect the sensitive saltmarsh vegetation around the lake, visitors are urged to obey all signage and any barriers in place. “We recommend people avoid coming into contact with the water as it is very saline (salty) so can cause skin irritation.” However, this shouldn’t stop people from getting out and exploring nature. “Getting out in nature has proven health and wellbeing benefits. As the lake is currently pink, grab the kids and take them down so they can better understand and appreciate how fragile and beautiful our environment is and hopefully take steps to protect it so future generations can also enjoy it,” explained Pelger.

Travel Trouble

The heartbreaking story behind this note found by the side of a lake

A school rowing club has shared the heartbreaking story behind a mystery note the team discovered at a lake. Earlier this week, a school rowing club from Sutton Coldfield in the UK went down to their local lake for a training session when they made the unexpected discovery. Tied to the gate was an emotional note from an anonymous woman who had visited the lake, asking for a very important favour. "This note was left on the gate at the water this afternoon," Bishop Vesey's Grammar School Rowing Club wrote on Twitter. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> This note was left on the gate at the water this afternoon. No name or number left but whoever you are, rest assured your rose is in place in the middle of the lake. <a href="https://t.co/GAQcbQRSZJ">pic.twitter.com/GAQcbQRSZJ</a> — BVGS Rowing (@BVGSRowing) <a href="https://twitter.com/BVGSRowing/status/1052911464456081410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2018</a></blockquote> The note read: "Please can someone throw this into the lake for me? My late husband’s ashes are in the lake and I can’t get to the lakeside in my wheelchair anymore and gates are locked – have to drive back up north tonight. Thank you x." Alongside the note, the widow left a single red rose. After reading the heartbreaking message, the rowing club made sure they fulfilled the woman’s wishes. "No name or number left but whoever you are, rest assured your rose is in place in the middle of the lake," the rowing club tweeted, sharing a photo of the rose in the middle of the water. Since sharing the woman’s emotional story, the rowing team’s tweet has received over 162,000 ‘likes’ and over 46,000 retweets. The story has been impactful for many users, with one even saying it has “restored their faith in humanity”. "I really hope karma exists, because you guys only deserve the very best," wrote one user. Another wrote: "It touched my old heart. Just a wonderful thing to do for someone you'll never know and I hope whomever this lady was she somehow finds out." Another added: "There are some wonderful, caring people in the world, if you can't find one, be one.”

Relationships

10 unmissable lakes in Australia

Australia is full of endless amounts of variety and that especially applies to our natural wonders. These 10 lakes dispersed across Australia give travellers unmissable views and a glimpse into this sunburnt country’s rich history. Scroll through the gallery above to see which lakes in Australia you should consider making a visit to. Have you been lucky enough to visit any of these lakes? Let us know in the comments below.

Cruising

Western Australia’s Lake Hillier will take your breath away

Western Australia is known for its pink lakes and Lake Hillier, with its vibrant bubblegum-coloured waters, is one of the most spectacular. The lake is around 600 metres long and is fringed by a narrow strip of sand leading onto thick forest of eucalypts and paperbark trees. This is then separated by a row of sand dunes from the and deep blue waters of the Southern Ocean, making for a remarkable contrast. Why is it pink? Strangely enough, no one really knows why the water is this eye-catching colour. It could be the combination of high salinity and a specific species of algae, which creates a similar effect in other lakes around the world. However, Lake Hillier behaves differently – the water doesn’t change colour with temperature fluctuations and even retains its pink hue when bottled. Where is it? Lake Hillier is on Middle Island in the Recherche Archipelago off the southern coast of Western Australia. There are 105 islands sitting around 50 kilometres offshore and stretching 230 kilometres from the town of Esperance to Israelite Bay. Middle Island is the largest in the Recherche Archipelago, covering almost 11 square kilometres. Matthew Flinders named the island in 1802. <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/idkwZ-t1DVI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> Can I visit it? Yes! You can join a tour from the town of Esperance, which will involve a short cruise out to Middle Island and then a walk around the lake. There are special walkways built along the shore so that you don’t damage the fragile ecosystem. Unfortunately, you can’t swim in the lake as it is used only for scientific research. For the best views of the lake, and to fully appreciate the contrasting colours of the surroundings, you’ll need to see it from the air on a scenic flight. Have you ever been to Lake Hillier?

International Travel

10 reasons you should visit Lake Macquarie in 2017

Few parts of Australia are as perfect for a weekend escape as Lake Macquarie. From the beaches to the bushland beauty, trails, cultural hotspots and everything in between, this gorgeous corner of the Hunter is perfect for a holiday. Here are 10 reasons you should go to Lake Macquarie in 2017. 1. Redhead Beach – A favourite with families and surfers alike, Redhead Beach has stunning cliffs, rocky outcrops and an iconic shark tower. The beach is patrolled in the warmer months and is the perfect place to cool off on a hot day. 2. Fernleigh Track – Constructed in place of the former Belmont railway line, Fernleigh track is a lovely stroll or cycle that gives you a chance to enjoy some of the region’s remarkable landscapes and views at a leisurely pace. 3. Warner’s Bay – Perfect if you’re looking for something to eat or to do a bit of local shopping, Warner’s Bay has a range of boutiques, cafes and restaurants featuring some of the most sumptuous local produce you can find in Australia. 4. Speers Point Park – If you’ve got grandchildren in tow, you’d be doing them a disservice if you didn’t visit Speers Point Park. Arguably, the best play space in Australia, this playground is full of incredible equipment for the littlies. 5. Lake Macquarie Art Gallery – Looking to take in a little bit of culture? Lake Macquarie Art Gallery features an enviable collection of travelling and permanent exhibitions for visitors to view, all set among lovely, leafy grounds. 6. Wallarah National Parks – Boasting some of the most incredible views in the Hunter Region, Wallarah National Park is a stunning pocket of coastal bushland. The panoramic ocean views from the scenic lookouts is worth the hike. 7. Rathmines Park – A serene spot to sit back and relax, Rathmines Park was once home to the largest seaplane base in the southern hemisphere during WWII. There’s no end of historical significant to revel in as you visit. 8. Watagan Mountains National Park – A favourite among locals (and for good reason), Watagan Mountains National Park has it all from winding walking trails to picture perfect campgrounds and some of the best lookouts in the Hunter. 9. Toronto Foreshore – If you want to have a nice meal with your nearest and dearest, head to Toronto Foreshow. Dine at one of the many incredible restaurants, with Lake Macquarie as a gorgeous backdrop to your meal. 10. Pelican Foreshore Reserve – Few places in NSW are as picnic-perfect as the gorgeous Pelican Foreshore Reserve. Beloved by locals, this picnic spot has shady grassed areas, useful BBQs and an easily accessible jetty for fishing. What else would you add to the list? Share your tips in the comments below. For more information about Lake Macquarie, <a href="http://www.visitlakemac.com.au">click here</a>. Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/12/man-fends-off-shark-with-garden-broom/">Man fends off shark with garden broom</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/2016/11/surfer-paddles-straight-into-shark/">Oblivious surfer paddles straight into shark</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/2016/10/diver-escapes-death-shark-in-cage/">Shark breaks into diver’s cage</a>

International Travel

The story behind that Wanaka Tree

Say #thatwanakatree to a photographer and listen for the sigh and laugh. Wanaka's willow with wet feet is perhaps New Zealand's most photographed tree. About five years ago, Wanaka photographers and writers began pumping images of it to social media sites as bit of a joke. Two years ago, Lake Wanaka Tourism put the tree on its photo trail and last year a Wanaka Instameet that beamed tree images to millions of people. More often than not, the tree appears on Google in splendid isolation. But now that is the joke. Every day, tree-botherers click away in a gentle curve in Roys Bay opposite the showgrounds. Some days the tree faces a hundred-strong firing squad. Former Central Otago photographer Tony Bridge says friends gave him "bollocks" for his tree article in this month's issue of F11 magazine because he had resisted joining the "heavily-armed columns of photographers". When he found a tree "light, tender and diaphanous", his cynicism melted and his ego shredded. Just what it is about that tree? "I don't know, to be honest," Bridge said by phone from Hokianga on Friday. "To be honest, I think it's got to be ego. The "I can do better than everyone else". Everyone takes a photo and shares it," he said. <img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/24729/shutterstock_347775725_498x245.jpg" alt="wanaka tree (3)"/> The tree appals and fascinates in equal measure but on the whole, Wanaka folk have been good-natured about something that is possibly better click-bait than Richie McCaw. But when Wanaka-based US travel blogger Liz Carlson wrote about camera-wielding crowds this month, followers criticised her use of a social media tag considered offensive to visitors from Asia. Carlson has apologised and taken down the offending post but has declined to discuss it with The Wanaka Mirror. Bridge describes the clamour was "a form of appropriation . . . a photo as consumerist pastime". "It's not just Asians. It is all sorts of tourists. It is photo tourism, blogging, the raising of the selfie stick. I find it quite hilarious. And of course, cell phones and smart phones are so good, as good as a camera. I think the key thing is Facebook and social media have changed things. . . . Once we took pictures for our own purposes and perhaps for an exhibition. We printed them and maybe put them in an album. But now everyone shares it on Facebook," Bridge said. Christchurch photographer Dennis Radermacher took a tree photo on a misty June day that won the 2014 New Zealand Geographic photograph of the year. "I think everyone with a camera has a photo of that," Radermacher laughed, when contacted on Friday. Radermacher also had an epiphany at the tree when confronted by fog rather than a hoped-for sunrise. "I was quite disappointed when I was there because it was not what I had in mind." He was not the only person there. "There were four or five. It wasn't too bad. You have to be really really lucky to get that, these days . . . My problem with the tree is we [landscape photographers] suffer from the loner in the wood syndrome. Any more than two people is a crowd," he said. Why does he like the tree? <img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/24725/shutterstock_240311278_498x245.jpg" alt="wanaka tree"/> "It's the curvature [of the branches]. And it's really easy to reach. You just walk over from Wanaka. And because it is in Wanaka. But I do know there are a few more trees like it, at Glenorchy, that are similar subjects. And it seems isolated, just exactly where you need to be . . .If it was standing in a lake on the top of a mountain and you had to walk eight hours uphill to get to it, I could guarantee it wouldn't be that popular," Radermacher said. The photograph was the boost in confidence Radermacher needed to become a full time professional photographer and set up his Lightforge website and From Zero to Hero workshops last year. "I sold one or two prints. It didn't do much financially for me. But if I am known for anything, I am known for that photo. I run landscape photography courses and I use it as a model," Radermacher said. Wanaka Camera Club president Heather Macleod has photographed the tree just twice, the last time about two years ago. While some members felt the tree was "almost a joke", others had pushed it on websites and social media. "Let's face it. It is such a pretty photogenic tree. It has got an appealing curve to it. But I have heard of wedding parties with the brides sitting in it and breaking branches, which is not appreciated," she said. <img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/24726/shutterstock_435483688_498x245.jpg" alt="wanaka tree (1)"/> The tree started life as a fence post at least 77 years ago. Wanaka artist and writer Gwenda Rowlands, 85, is a keeper of local history and remembers the fence line from 1939, when she first visited it in a little dinghy her father built for her and her older brother. She has watched it evolve from a "hacked off branch from nearby willows" to a symbol of determination. "It was 1939 I remember it growing there and that is not yesterday. So it has been growing slowly all that time . . . It was just big enough to lift the wire up with a bit of tension on it. I can remember a gap where the tree is now, on the beach, and the sheep could just wander off into the town shopping if they wanted." Rowlands agrees the tree "seems to be getting a bit of an overload" but has not let that overwhelm her enjoyment of the site's natural history. Just last week she enjoyed observing a young Asian couple posing for wedding photographs with the tree. "They looked as if their marriage was going to work, that they would be happy ever after, and that is what you want for them." Rowlands suggests Otago artist Brian Halliday (1936-1974) made one of the earliest images of the tree while it was still a post. A copy of Halliday's painting graces the cover of Wanaka and Surrounding Districts: A Sequel to Wanaka Story, by Irvine Roxburgh (1990). Rowlands likes to think the tree could the very last, very tiny strainer shown in Halliday's painting but accepts the artwork is representative. So what does she make of the famous tree? "It shows anything that is alive has a determination to live," she said. Have you ever viewed the famous Wanaka Tree? Tell us about it in the comments. Written by Marjorie Cook. First appeared on <a href="http://Stuff.co.nz" target="_blank">Stuff.co.nz</a>. Related links: <a href="/travel/domestic-travel/2016/05/why-you-need-to-visit-the-spectacular-otago-central-rail-trail/">Why you need to visit New Zealand’s spectacular Otago Central Rail Trail</a> <a href="/travel/cruising/2016/06/cruise-in-new-zealand-time-lapse-video/">What’s it like to cruise around New Zealand?</a> <a href="/travel/domestic-travel/2016/06/10-lesser-known-new-zealand-holiday-spots/">10 lesser-known New Zealand holiday spots</a>

Domestic Travel

10 images from Canberra’s most unique hotel

Located on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, just 15 minutes from the National Museum of Australia, Hotel Hotel is fast becoming an attraction in and of itself. Part of what draws visitors to this accommodation is the unique design. To see the amazing designs, scroll through the gallery above! Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/04/landing-plane-on-bhutan-paro-airport-runway/">The world’s most difficult runway to land</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/04/lifetime-ban-british-airways-flight-for-getting-up/">Woman gets banned from airline for life for getting up too often on flight</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/03/singapore-airlines-new-plane-end-jetlag/">This new plane could be the end of jetlag</a>

International Travel

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