Having just spent the most spectacular weekend at the Great Barrier Feast at Qualia on Hamilton Island I have a new appreciation for the exquisite things life has to offer. 

Staying at qualia made me realise how we need to find a new word for 'luxury', as places like qualia have really taken Australian tourism up a few notches. Yes, Qualia is beautiful to look at, but it's the experience of the place that makes it so perfect, which is difficult to convey in words or pictures.

"The place somehow changes you", said one returning guest. "It's not just the food, or the scenery or the spa or the rooms, it's the whole thing coming together and you being part of that energy." 

And for us, that's what makes a destination worth visiting. That when you come for a special celebration or a memorable experience, you feel better for the journey. 

Read more about the Great Barrier Feast, the new Hamilton Island Golf Club, the Oatley family, Wild Oates wines, and qualia in MiNDFOOD magazine March 2012 edition.