#EXPLORELIKEALOCAL WITH CROWNE PLAZA & WIN A $1000 STAY!!

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BY MARCIA LEONE

As much as I love the month before Christmas, it can get super hectic and stressful so we decided a pre-christmas mini break was just what we needed to re-charge the batteries. We enjoyed 2 nights at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley - an easy drive from Sydney and the perfect family- friendly destination.

The Hunter Valley is Australia's oldest wine region and holds a special place in our hearts as it's where we got engaged almost 10 years ago! From fine wine and gourmet food to fabulous events for the family, this picturesque region makes for a great getaway for couples, groups of friends and families.

The resort is centrally located and set over sprawling grounds with a golf course, a variety of recreational facilities and considering we arrived in a 40 degree heatwave, possibly the best family pool area I've seen. The choice of self-contained one or two bedroom villas or hotel style rooms means they cater for family groups and longer stays to couple getaways and overnighters.

WE LOVED

The friendly  "in the know" concierge staff.  They introduced us to some great  cafes and local attractions that we wouldn't have found on our own. They also organised tickets to the Christmas Lights Spectacular at Hunter Valley Gardens which was such a fun way to spend a balmy evening- those lights were impressive!

The robes and room service. Those little luxuries that make you feel like your on holidays. Is there anything better than ordering dessert in bed at 1opm?!

Buffet Breakfast. I think as mum's we can all agree, it's just not a break when you have to cook or prepare food. And who doesn't love a buffet ?! Especially a pregnant mama... and a muffin obsessed five year old who managed to find the Nutella stack!

The huge pool with plenty of sun loungers and shade. This is a really family-friendly space and one of the best features for the the Summer- especially after a day out exploring the region.

Ubika Day Spa. If you can, you need to make the time for a treatment- the pregnancy massage was divine.

Kids specific activities. The Games Room was Archie's highlight of the stay. The resort also has a train and merry-go-round. Kids Club is available on weekends and during school holidays- so, you can enjoy the facilities, go out for lunch and actually get a bit of R&R!

With so many locations across Australia and New Zealand, if you're planning a Summer getaway you can't beat the offering at Crowne Plaza. From scenic wine regions to coastal and city locations, their focus on creating "experiences"  by immersing you in the local culture, means you'll get insider recommendations to pop up restaurants, entertainment and adventures you wouldn't discover on your own. Find more info on Summer deals HERE

WIN $1000 TOWARDS YOUR STAY AT CROWNE PLAZA

In Celebration of Summer with Crowne Plaza in Australia & New Zealand, where they are giving up to 20% off for stays before January 31st 2017, we are giving you the chance to win AUD $1,000 towards a stay at any participating Crowne Plaza hotel in Australia!

To enter email one of your favourite holiday photos to notsomumsy.comps@gmail.com and explain in 25 words or less how you would like to explore like a local this summer.

Competition ends at 12AM EST on January 3rd 2017, so get in quick for your chance to WIN!

*Terms and Conditions apply- see below.

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Terms and Conditions

*Offer is valid for redemption before 30 September 2017, at any participating Crowne Plaza hotel within Australia. AUD $1,000 must be spent within a Crowne Plaza hotel in Australia (on accommodation and/or food and beverage), with the value to be redeemed in full during one stay. 

Dates are subject to availability. Black-out dates may apply.

Accommodation based on the public Best Flexible Rate for the selected dates.

The voucher cannot be exchanged for cash, and any unspent value will not be offered.

Any additional charges, above AUD $1,000, will need to be covered by the guest.

Competition ends at 12AM EST on January 3rd 2017.

By entering this competition you provide consent that InterContinental Hotels Group and Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts reserve the rights to the use of all images provided.