OUR thoughts on QUEENSLAND ISLANDS

Often referred to as The Barrier Reef Islands, Queensland's offshore island gems are spread over a thousand kilometres of the Queensland coast from Lizard Island to the north of Cairns to Lady Elliot Island on the southern fringe of The Great Barrier Reef off Bundaberg. Amongst all these wonderful islands there is a huge variation on offer; everything from rustic and laid-back eco resorts to true five star international-standard resorts. There are intimate little resorts, some only accessible by boat from the mainland or from other islands, there are some where small aircraft and helicopters provide access services and even one that sports a full service international standard jet airport with several daily flights from Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney or Cairns. They are all different and all great places for a tropical island holiday. Choosing the right island for your holiday needs and then organising one of the many options for transfers between the mainland and the islands can be a bit tricky but you can rely on Our Specialists to organise everything for you to ensure you have the perfect tropical island holiday on one of "Our Queensland Islands".

OUR HAMILTON ISLAND
Now, here's something a bit different to consider for a tropical island holiday. There is nothing quite like Hamilton Island anywhere else in Queensland or in Australia or the South Pacific for that matter. Located in the Whitsunday Islands Group, Hamilton Island is a complete holiday destination in every sense of the word. Getting to Hamilton Island is easy with flights every day from Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Cairns direct to the island's own jet airport. Guests are met at the airport and taken by shuttle the short distance to any one of the several different resorts, each with different facilities and attractions to cater for every holiday need. The most obvious resorts are the high-rise Reef View and the Whitsunday Holiday Apartments from which there are magnificent views out over the beach and sea to the islands beyond; there are low-rise resorts, resorts with stand-alone bungalows, private homes, self-catering apartments, quality pavilions with spa; something for every holiday and budget requirement.

The beaches are magnificent. Catseye Beach is a pure white sand crescent lapped by the Coral Sea but there are other secluded spots too which are accessible by kayak. Don't miss the opportunity for a day trip over to Whitehaven Beach on a neighbouring island which is one of those perfect  squeaky, powdery white-sand beaches you can really enjoy. There are any number of swimming pools and a huge range of land-based sports and there are water sports in abundance. The various resort-based restaurants cater for all-comers. There are family-friendly restaurants some of which, from time to time, have a kids eat free option and there are couples-only restaurants too as well as a cruise-and-dine option. At the Marina Village there are 20 independent boutiques and restaurants including a bakery, a grocery shop, specialty shops and several cafes and restaurants. Don't overlook the Golf Club and the Yacht Club for casual dining and cocktails.

Hamilton Island has been developed as a holiday destination in its own right, so no matter which resort you choose to stay at, the whole island is yours to enjoy. It is quite feasible to walk between some of the resorts but it can be quite hike from the likes of the Whitsunday Holiday Apartments and the Reef View hotel down to say, the Marina Village and you need to watch out for motorised buggies zipping past every minute, but don't worry, there is a complimentary island shuttle that operates on 3 different routes around the island with several services every hour between 7.00am and 11.00pm. If you are looking for an independent way to get around, there are golf-style buggies available for hire and these are great fun.

A holiday on Hamilton Island can be very rewarding and enjoyable - just give yourself enough time to enable you to 'dig-in' to all the very enjoyable features and experiences this place has to offer.

OUR HAYMAN ISLAND
What a perfect place to relax and unwind. Hayman Island is home to a member of the prestigious "The Leading Hotels of the World" which is Australia's most awarded five-star resort. Expect luxury, relaxation, indulgent dining, leisurely activity, reef adventure and breathtaking scenery.

Access to Hayman Island is normally by luxury fast launch from Great Barrier Reef Airport on Hamilton Island where flights arrive daily from Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney and Cairns. Transfers are also available from Whitsunday Coast Airport at Proserpine then by launch from Shute Harbour to the island. Alternatives are available by helicopter or float plane.

There is only one resort on the island and this nestles in a beautiful secluded bay. This means that privacy, relaxation and luxury can be guaranteed. Hayman is a naturally beautiful island with perfect white sand beaches and a lovely forested interior.