October 2008 - New South Wales Tourism Awards - FINALIST
Somewhere Unique was announced as a Finalist in the ‘New Tourism Development’ category at the 2008 New South Wales Tourism Awards.
August 2008 - Hunter Region Awards for Excellence in Tourism - AWARD OF DISTINCTION
Somewhere Unique was presented with an ‘Award of Distinction’ at the 2008 Hunter Region Awards for Excellence in Tourism.
This is an annual competition for tourism businesses, suppliers to the industry and outstanding individuals, in which a submission is prepared in response to a series of questions and is supported by a site visit to assess business excellence.
July 2008 - Hunter Region Awards for Excellence in Tourism - FINALIST
Somewhere Unique was announced as a Finalist in the ‘New Tourism Development’ category at the 2008 Hunter Region Awards for Excellence in Tourism.
July 2008 - Check Availability Online
The availability at Somewhere Unique can now be checked online, via our user friendly calendar.
June 2008 - New Midweek Package
New 3-night ‘Sample the Hunter’ midweek package added to the Somewhere Unique website, including: late check-out, a dinner hamper from Cafe Wollombi, lunch at Tatler Cafe in Lovedale, a VIP tasting at Tamburlaine winery, entry to Hunter Valley Gardens, and more ...
June 2008 - Accredited Tourism Business
Somewhere Unique becomes an Accredited Tourism Business.
This process initially involves a written submission outlining all business practices, including: customer service, relevant industry approvals, insurances, staff training, occupational health and safety, operational procedures, and marketing. Claims made in the submission must be backed up by documented proof. You can be assured that Somewhere Unique is run in a professional manner.
June 2008 - Eco Tourism Accreditation
Somewhere Unique is Eco Certified by Ecotourism Australia, being granted Nature Tourism Accreditation.
Following a rigorous assessment process, Somewhere Unique is now the only Eco Certified accommodation property in the Hunter Valley. The definition of Nature Tourism is: "Ecologically sustainable tourism with a primary focus on experiencing natural areas". Ecotourism and nature tourism certification provide travellers with an assurance that a certified product is backed by a commitment to best practice ecological sustainability, natural area management and the provision of quality ecotourism experiences.
May 2008 - The switch to 100% Green Power
Switched to Jack Green Energy for our electricity needs, ensuring that an amount equivalent to 100% of the energy we use has been or will be generated by Green Power generators, using renewable energy sources and delivered to the national electricity grid.
May 2008 - Phones and broadband for guests
Direct dial telephones and broadband internet connected to each retreat.
March 2008 - Green STAR Accreditation
Somewhere Unique is granted Green STAR Accreditation by AAA Tourism.
To be awarded a Green STAR, a property must achieve adequate points against a set of practical environmental criteria, including: energy efficiency, waste minimisation and water management. This shows our guests we are responsible and committed to reducing the environmental impact of our business.
March 2008 - STAR Rating Assessment
Somewhere Unique is rated 4.5 STARS by AAA Tourism in the Self Catering category.
The STAR rating scheme is operated by AAA Tourism, and provides independent, accurate and credible ratings for a range of accommodation types. Businesses are assessed annually by a trained assessor on the level of facilities, maintenance and cleanliness. They also have to provide proof of insurance. Over 500 criteria are used to assess a property and determine its rating between one and five STARS.
March 2008 - Open for Business
Somewhere Unique is open for business! After a long and arduous journey, we are ready to welcome guests to our tranquil retreat.
Somewhere Unique -
Hunter Valley accommodation - Wollombi NSW
luxury, privacy, couples only - bush retreat, weekend escape,
wine stay, romantic getaway, honeymoon - environmentally
friendly ecotourism
