Sydney Opera House launches new tour

Visitors to Sydney Opera House can now see as well as hear the dramatic story of the building following the introduction of a completely new visitor experience, The Essential Tour.

Featuring previously unseen video footage, The Essential Tour uses the latest audio-visual technology to give visitors a compelling experience.

Video sequences are shown at points of interest, using the building itself as a storytelling canvas. The sequences are delivered in ways which respect the building’s world heritage values using methods such as the projection of footage directly onto the interior fabric of the building.

The Essential Tour takes visitors on a journey celebrating the creative genius of architect Jørn Utzon, telling the story of a building which came into existence against seemingly impossible odds.

Tour guides bring to life the remarkable tale of design, construction, conflict and renewal, weaving video and sound with the unique structure of the building itself.

The Essential Tour will be available from October 15.

Fly your own Boeing

Fancy flying a Boeing? The five-star Hilton Melbourne Airport, in partnership with the Ansett Flight Simulator Centre, has just launched a new, fully interactive flight simulator package for guests

The Simulator Package enables visitors to strap themselves into the captain’s seat and - under the guidance of a qualified instructor - follow the real airline checklist procedures through all the phases of a real commercial flight. The simulator represents the world’s most popular airliner, the 737 – 300, 400, 500 series.

The Simulator Package includes a one-hour simulator flight; luxury accommodation on the deluxe floor; dinner and breakfast in the Airo Restaurant; a bottle of wine on arrival; late check-out; and return transfers to and from the Ansett Simulator Centre.

Hilton Melbourne Airport is located just minutes from Tullamarine airport and a half hour drive from Melbourne CBD. The 276 deluxe guest rooms offer in-room flight information, broadband access and levels of comfort rarely seen at an airport hotel.

The hotel also has a café, restaurant, lounge bar, ballroom and fully equipped gymnasium with heated indoor pool, spa, sauna and steam room.