Wednesday, December 29, 2010



















Kind regards
Matt Palmer
SNAP Photographic
snap.photographic@gmail.com
0410120705
Posted by Picasa

Sunday, August 29, 2010

Official Member of International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance

I have just joined as a professional member of the International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance as attachment to my "ULTIMATE TRAVEL WRITING PROGRAM" through the American Writers and Artists Inc.

As part of my studies, I am open for travel writing/photography assignments in my direct region, and also outside my region.

Please view my material on a regular basis via this SNAP-SHOT Australia Blog, and also at my personal website at http://www.snapphotographic.artdealers.com

Look forward to your enquiries

Kind regards
Matt Palmer SNAP Photographic
snap.photographic@gmail.com
0410120705

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Thursday, April 1, 2010

a SNAP-SHOT of "GOOLWA ESCAPE" ~ Luxury 3 Bedroom Holiday Home, Goolwa, Fleurieu Peninsula, SA, 5214

I think I speak for most of us, when I talk about the need for "time out", a break from the day to day grind of life, and the ability to retreat to a place where you can relax, have some YOU time and bring those closest to you together to enjoy some R&R.

Last weekend, my partner, our 3 boys and I took "time out" to venture to the Fleurieu Peninsula's river port town of Goolwa. Located at the mouth of the Murray River on Lake Alexandrina, Goolwa is 83km south of Adelaide and the gateway to the internationally acclaimed wetlands of the Coorong National Park.



Our reason for chosing this destination was to share in a relaxing weekend at the well presented, luxury 3 br holiday house "Goolwa Escape" which is located within a short stroll of Goolwa's main surf beach, and just minutes from the adjoining towns of Middleton, Port Elliot and Victor Harbour.

A spacious, homely and functional, well amenitized open plan layout were all the things that captured us on arrival to this gem. Although the escapes street appeal is quite deceptive at first, the outdoor area additions and attention to detail, have you feeling immediately relaxed, and covincingly moves you into the R&R mode.



The "Goolwa Escape" is fully self contained with a well appointed kitchen filled with all the must have amenities for a break away, including microwave, fan-forced oven, and a full selection of quality utensils, crockery and cutlery.
The kitchen adjoins the open plan dining/lounge area encapsulated by the floor to ceiling sliding glass doors opening out onto both the front and rear outdoor areas. The front outdoor area consists of a large deck for you to setup the outdoor setting, outdoor lounge and umbrella for that refreshing sun-filled lunch, or evening meal pondering the sunset over a glass of wine.



The rear patio, provides a discreet area complete with quaint directors chairs and timber table overlooked by its "Relax ~ Enjoy" feature wall, to have that morning coffee, cook up a storm on the provided bbq or weber kettle, or to venture for a quiet spot to read your fave book. This area is also very practical if you have toddler age children as it provides a safe retreat area for them to play with the addition of a security gate. The front yard area also provides ample play opportunities for the kids, and our boys were especially impressed with the functioning Table Soccer game under the main carport.





The three bedrooms sleep 6 -8 people and provide a personable, relaxed feel with modern styling and are in keeping with the Beach Escape theme. Bedrooms 1 and 2 are smartly furnished with queen size beds, and ample storage area for clothing and Bedroom 3 consists of a double bunk and fold
out sofa bed, also with BIR.







The Dining area is complete with a stylish square dining table and chairs and shares the open living area with the adjoining lounge appointed with two large leather sofas and entertainment unit brimming over with options (TV, Stereo, DVD's, CD's, board games, books/mags etc) and overlooking the front decking providing for a great place to lay back, relax and let the world drift away.



The bathroom, although small, is well presented and functional and contains in all a deep bath and shower (with impressive pressure), and seperate adjoining vanity area. Ample tea light candles are provided if you want to add a relaxing, romantic ambience, and considering our stay co-incided with Earth Hour 2010 on the Saturday evening , the candles managed to provide a novel multi-purpose addition.

A fully equipped laundry and toilet area adjoins the kitchen, and completes this exceptionally impressive holiday escape.

SPECIAL MENTIONS:
  • My partner Mich was extremely impressed with the decor, and the "at home" feel, and made special mention of the fantastic hot water, and "there are even dish gloves sized for men". "hint hint" :-)
  • The sensor light that comes on automatically when you venture out into the Patio area of an evening. Simple addition, but practical.
  • The selection of DVD's, CD's, books, etc to immerse yourself in.
  • The short stroll to the main Goolwa Beach accessible via the beach access at the end of the street, where you can surf, play with the kids or enjoy a refreshing long walk.
  • The complete feeling of serenity and comfort. A true reflection on Gabriella (the owner) and her commendable attention to detail in providing a genuine "ESCAPE"

The "Goolwa Escape" is conveniently located to a nearby shopping precinct on Beach Road complete with supermarket, bottle shop and cafe's. Special mention must go out to Cafe De Carlo, and the hospitality of Peter and Angela, who I believe make the best coffee in town, and also Aqua Cafe, located on Barrage road which has a great little atmosphere on the water front and provides delectable food (try the fabulous Fish Pastie - a light pastry encasing white-fleshed mulloway fish cooked with cheese and leeks. There is nothing like it)


In addition to this, Goolwa and the surrounding areas play host to a bevy of tourist attractions, cafes, restaurants and wineries, although with experiencing rainy weather on day 2, we were more than comfortable with staying indoors and soaking up the "Goolwa Escape" vibe.


With this unique blend of quality accommodation, historic attractions, fine food, and stunning scenery, time set aside to experience what "Goolwa Escape" has to offer, either on its own or in conjunction with its surrounding areas, is a must for your much needed "time out".

"GOOLWA ESCAPE"~ a solid 4 star (****) rating! *refer to rating system below

For more "Goolwa Escape" enquiries, and/or to book your stay at this holiday retreat, please visit http://www.goolwaescape.com.au

* = very basic and I was so bored I killed time counting fly specks on the ceiling.
** = average presentation and was kept inspired long enough to finish a bottle of wine.
*** = good presentation and the necessary facilities to consider a return
**** = impressive presentation, great facilities, and all round genuine retreat
*****= I want to remain in this environment and never ever leave. Im in paradise.

NOTE: This review and photography remains the property of Matt Palmer. SNAP Photographic and can not be reproduced in any format without the express permission of myself.

If you wish to have your destination, business and or/venue reviewed and photographed for promotional purposes, please contact me via email or mobile provided below to organise my visit.

Kind regards

Matt Palmer
SNAP Photographic

E: snap.photographic@gmail.com

M: 0410120705