Holidays
Right at home, cast adrift
The placid waters of Lake Macquarie beckon those looking to swap the rush for some hush, writes Peter Vincent.
Animal attraction
Kate Nancarrow and her family get hands-on with the resident creatures at this rural retreat.
Bolt-hole by the beach
Bruce Elder has ocean views from a beige-on-beige apartment in Collaroy.
A solar state of mind
![CARPEL COTTAGE - ILFORD MUDGEE](http://web.archive.org./web/20110524110853im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2011/05/14/2362632/th-carpelcottage-90x60.jpg)
An energy-efficient cottage makes for a great base when exploring the Capertee Valley, writes Mags King.
A welcome stranger
Mary O'Brien finds a retreat next door to dinner in a bluestone pub.
A modern marriage
Elicia Murray finds marble and leather suites have taken over an old haunt.
To the cottage, at a canter
In Australia's self-proclaimed thoroughbred capital, Daniel Dasey discovers a pretty Victorian base from which to explore it.
Cosy among the gums
Bruce Elder stays at a timber cottage surrounded by bellbirds and eucalypts.
On the dress circle
Paul Kalina discovers a coastal retreat with an inspiring outlook.
Reach for the stars
With his family in tow, Stephen Lacey discovers some of the best haunts in Hollywood are free.
Soak up the good life
From the bath with bold harbour views to the deco references, a hotel's revamped suites make for a chic city stay, writes Danielle Teutsch.
Boat-house comforts
Bob Hefner checks into a retreat with a wood fire and nautical touches.
In relative comfort
Emily Dunn is surprised by the luxury digs chosen for a family reunion.
A novel approach
For Dianne Dempsey, Lord Howe Island is a perfect backdrop for a week of reading.
Above their station
![All stops ... the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel with sweeping staircase.](http://web.archive.org./web/20110524110853im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2011/04/29/2332860/th_St-Pancras-Renaissance-Hotel-Exterior-90x60.jpg)
Nick Trend visits London's grand and lavishly renovated railway hotels, including the new St Pancras Renaissance.
Mind your Gs and queues
![Red means go ... the Formula Rossa reaches speeds of 240km/h.](http://web.archive.org./web/20110524110853im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2011/04/25/2324653/th_Ferrari-World-90x60.jpg)
Talk about cornering like it's on rails — Louise Goldsbury spends a death-defying day at an Abu Dhabi oasis devoted to all things Ferrari.
Family-friendly flight: are we there yet?
![Baby Crying Flight Singapore Airlines](http://web.archive.org./web/20110524110853im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2011/04/27/2328095/th_Baby-Crying-Flight-90x60.jpg)
Jane E. Fraser Can travelling long distances with children ever be a stress-free experience? Fear not, frazzled parents: airline services and staff can make all the difference.
Inside Abu Dhabi's seven-star hotel
![Emirates Palace Hotel. Abu Dhabi](http://web.archive.org./web/20110524110853im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2011/04/26/2326024/th_Emirates-Palace-External-Front-90x60.jpg)
Angela Habashy learns that the Emirates Palace's high star rating is no idle boast.
Into the art land
A weekend at the Olsen, inspired by the works of the great Australian painter, gives Mal Chenu the perfect excuse to brush up on art-rich, un-snooty Melbourne.
Where hearts run wild
The rolling savannah worked wonders for Prince William when he popped the question. Ute Junker stops by to rate the romance factor.