5 Unusual Things To See In Dunedin, New Zealand

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Part of the South Island of New Zealand, Dunedin is situated right on the coast, almost comprising a little peninsula of its own. It’s about 225 miles south of Christchurch, and is best known as being home to the University of Otago and its large student population. However, Dunedin is also a frequent stop for tourists, and in addition to offering a beautiful setting and college-town vibe, has plenty of unique – and wonderfully strange – attractions to enjoy.

Here are five we’d recommend keeping in mind.

1. Baldwin Street
This is one of the steepest streets in the world (out-steeped, if you will, only by one road in Wales), with houses built on a crazy incline that makes them look like they’re slipping down the hill. From local fun runs hosted on the street every year to charity events, there’s often something going on at Baldwin Street as well, turning it into a kind of quirky center of activity. Pictures don’t do justice to this dramatic slope or the fun it inspires, so be sure to stop by and see it in person.


2. Yellow-Eyed Penguins
These rare birds are found only one place in the world, and that’s New Zealand. Dunedin has some great penguin-watching spots, especially on the Otago Peninsula. Try Sandfly Bay or Allans Beach for a glimpse of the unusual animals. Just make sure to keep your distance if you do spot some; it’s considered common courtesy to let them be.


3. Larnach Castle
While Victorian architecture is one of the popular visual highlights of Dunedin, Larnach Castle stands out with a different style altogether. It’s not medieval, as you might expect of anything labeled a “castle,” but rather showcases a Gothic revival style augmented by a unique, glassed-in porch. It’s a sight to behold, and a place with a vaguely haunting, semi-Shakespearean history. Rumor has it original owner William Larnach occupied the house while descending into a great depression as a result of his third wife’s suspected infidelity. It’s not the happiest of thoughts, but Larnach Castle’s gorgeous design and well-kept gardens nevertheless make it a popular site for weddings and other events.


4. Dunedin Thunder
There’s a fairly active sports scene and culture in New Zealand. Several football clubs at various levels (and for men and women) are based in town, and there’s cricket (Albion Cricket Club) and rugby (Alhambra Union Rugby Football Club) as well. You can enjoy this scene however you like, whether that means live attendance, betting, or just watching from a local pub. But if you want to keep up your tour of the more unusual attractions in Dunedin, head to Dunedin Ice Stadium, where you can somewhat bafflingly find professional ice hockey. The Dunedin Thunder were founded in 2008 and have become a fixture in the New Zealand Ice Hockey League – which most are probably unaware of in the first place!



5. The Alexander Piano
This grand piano is one of the largest pianos in the world, spanning almost 19 feet in length. With scientific experiments about sound in mind, creator Adrian Mann built the instrument as a teenager, and named it after his grandfather. Today you can see the resulting, beautiful monstrosity at Mann’s workshop in Dunedin. It’s not a very involved tourism stop, but it’s a quick one and something actually well worth seeing.

Traveling to new places is especially fun when you find uncommon sites to visit. To that point, singular attractions like these can help make Dunedin one of your favorite destinations.

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4 Awesome Things to Do in Northern Territory, Australia During Winter

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Traveling in Northern Territory of Australia during winter? No problem! In fact, this season draws more visitors to come and spend their vacation at this region. With plenty of lively events, thrilling activities, interesting attractions, and outstanding food, you will always be kept entertained while here.

Northern Territory offers tons of amazing things to visitors of all ages, especially during the winter. It is no surprise that its Top End is one of the most popular destinations and is such a lovely spot whenever you choose to come. With this, here are some exciting things you can do in Northern Territory in winter:

Discover all corners of Kakadu

Head to Kakadu National Park and explore this natural beauty. It is said that its striking swimming spots are best visited during winter. You can check out Kakadu’s breathtaking pools, such as Gunlom Falls, Jim Jim Falls, and Maguk, which are usually closed or difficult to access during the wet season. Your trip here gives you an unforgettable experience as well as jaw-dropping photo opportunities, so be sure to seize the moment.

Go food tripping at Mindil Beach Market

Never miss the chance to go to Mindil Beach Market when in the Northern Territory. Known for its good reputation for mouthwatering food, this region is truly a must-visit, especially in winter. It is where you can score meals of multicultural goodness as well as find a great spot to witness the glorious sunset. You can also shop until you drop and enjoy the local talents as they perform live music.

Explore Fannie Bay

Another worthwhile activity to do during winter in the Northern Territory is to check out Fannie Bay. It is a historical and educational attraction that is considered as one of the most significant heritage sites of the region. You can spend a nice day at Defense of Darwin Museum, Darwin Military Museum, and Qantas Hangar while here with your family or friends. Exploring this site will give you more knowledge about the region and its great history.

Cruise down Katherine Gorge

Of course, the incredible Katherine Gorge is included in this list. Apparently, there are a lot of exhilarating things, like canoeing, walking, swimming, and cruising, you can do here. An approximate of three-hour drive south of Darwin, this magnificent attraction is also home to Nitmiluk National Park. This is the main reason why it should always be in your itinerary when in the Northern Territory no matter what season you visit. More so, you will be delighted to see the 13 fantastic gorges as well as discover the Aboriginal rock art, history, and culture during your journey.

There is truly something great about Northern Territory, particularly in winter. You can try out these fun activities mentioned above when you are here and make your escapade one for the books. Certainly, you will have a great time spending your much-awaited vacation at this region.

You can read more winter break tips here to help you plan your next getaway properly.

6 Must Do Activities While in the Kimberley

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Are you a tourist exploring the rich sights of Australia and found yourself at a loss as to what to visit first in the Kimberley? Or perhaps you’re a native looking to indulge in some domestic tourism, and you’re itching to see what the best Kimberley tours can offer you in terms of exciting stuff to do.

Whichever the case, you are definitely spoiled for choice, as this part of Western Australia is host to a huge number of must-do activities that you and your family are sure to enjoy, no matter your tastes or budget. What’s more, it’s also got its own fair share of historic and awe-inspiring sights to explore!

With that said, if you’re on a tight schedule or there’s just too much on your itinerary, you may find it difficult to choose just which must-do activities in the Kimberley you’re going to actually enjoy. This could cause you a lot of stress and wasted time.

In order to help you prioritise and manage your time in the Kimberley better, we’ve assembled all the top activities in the Kimberley into the list below.

Ride a camel on one of the most picturesque beaches ever

The Kimberley is home to Cable Beach, one of the most picturesque beaches that you’ll ever find anywhere else. Not only is it a great location to snap your photos and enjoy the sun, but you can also treat yourself to a camel ride along the coast. Ride one of these magnificent beasts of burden and enjoy the beach as evening slowly unfolds, allowing you to enjoy the sunset and stars like never before.

Fly over the Martian-like landscape of the Bungle Bungle Range

If you’re looking for a surreal, out-of-this-world experience, then hop on a scenic flight and enjoy the eerie alien landscape of the Bungle Bungle Range. This gigantic mountain range is known for its unique beehive-shaped peaks of karst sandstone. What’s great about the Bungle Bungle Range is that it’s been formed completely by Mother Nature’s own hand and not by some avant-garde modern art sculptor looking to make a statement. Definitely consider this if you’re itching for something new and exciting.

Marvel at the Horizontal Falls

If you’ve seen one waterfall, then it’s reasonable to assume that you’ve seen them all. After all, it’s just a lot of water falling down someplace high, right? Well, what about a waterfall that goes horizontal? This is exactly what the Horizontal Falls are in the Kimberley, specifically the Talbot Bay area. Thanks to a unique island formation and erratic, crazy tidal currents, the water flowing through this specific series of parallel coastal gorges make for some furious, fast-flowing water that truly lives up to its name—a waterfall that’s lying on its back. To experience it in the best way possible, book a sea plane or jet boat to it.

See how pearls are farmed in the Willie Creek Pearl Farm

Pearls are one of the most gorgeous and naturally-occurring gems in the world, and if you’ve ever been curious about them, then you can learn all about it firsthand at the Willie Creek Pearl Farm. Located just a few kilometres from Broome, the Willie Creek Pearl Farm will give you a personal guided tour about all the ins and outs of the modern pearl industry. Their staff can walk you through the entire farming process—from seeding, harvesting, and finally to grading the pearl itself. Make your Kimberley trip an educational one with this particular activity.

Dive in the Rowley Shoals Marine Park

Are you into diving and want to see the underwater wonders of the Kimberley? If so, then you should definitely find the time to fit visiting the Rowley Shoals Marine Park in your itinerary. Travel just some 260 kilometres from Broome and you’ll be treated to one of the best diving experiences ever. With three coral atolls to its name—specifically the Mermaid Reef, the Imperieuse Reef and the Clerke Reef—you’ll be treated to marine life that you can only see in Australia and nowhere else. You’ll also come face to face with some of the more well-known aquatic fauna, such as manta rays, whales, sea turtles, and dolphins. Giant shellfish and clams will also be greeting your underwater jaunt. If you just want to relax and chill, though, then you’re welcome to simply beach-comb, or watch the whales and dolphins frolic from the safety of a chartered boat.

Shop for souvenirs in Ganada

No trip to Australia or to the Kimberley is ever complete without nabbing your own share of souvenirs, and Ganada is home to the best that you can ever buy. Travel directly to Chinatown, Broome and you’ll be spoiled for choice with only the most authentic and high-quality souvenirs that feature aboriginal Australian culture in prominence. They have everything from locally-made art and crafts, such as books, paintings, scarves, and T-shirts, to something a bit more exciting like boomerangs and didgeridoos.

The Kimberley is the spot to be in West Australia

There are so many interesting activities in the Kimberley that trying to include them all in your itinerary would be nigh impossible. However, if you’re really pressed for time and you want to experience only the absolute best that this chunk of Australia can offer, then the above-listed activities should serve you well. Just remember to hydrate frequently, as Australian weather can get quite hot. Enjoy!

The Best Cherry Picking Farm Near Sydney

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Where’s the best best cherry picking farm near Sydney? Certainly not in Orange (a town in NSW, 255kms from Sydney). My first experience of picking your own cherries at a cherry farm was many many years ago. I drove all the way to Orange with a small group of uni friends who picked that cherry farm for us to go. We were told “There isn’t any cherry tree left for you to pick your own” at the farm when we finally arrived. So that was that.

Don’t get me wrong. I still had a superb time in Orange. We bought lots cherries, had a feast of BBQ, swam in a lake, went out at night with fire crackers in hands. These happy old times. And how time flew! Later I heard the best cherry picking farm near Sydney is in Young (375kms from Sydney) but never tried “pick your own” again. Until this year.

J suggested to go visit Young, “the Cherry Capital of Australia” during the national cherry festival and do some sight seeing. Located in a valley surrounded by low hills, Young is famous for cherries, peaches, plums and other stone fruits. The cherry harvest runs throughout November and December and the fruit season ends in April. There are dozens of orchards around town which, in season, sell cherries, peaches, nectarines, apricots, plums, apples, pears, grapes, strawberries and raspberries. Some of these orchards offer visitors “pick your own fruit” option. Where others only sell fruits readily picked or jams, pies made from fruits from their own farms.

“Pick your own fruit” at Young, NSW

As soon as you drive near Young on Olympic drive, you’ll see orchards after orchards with signs on the road side, inviting you to go in. So it wasn’t easy to decide which one is a good one to “pick your own”. We drove around that road twice, searched through google reviews and stopped by a few to check how they operated. Eventually we decided to go to Ballinaclash Fruit and Wine on Olympic Highway South of Young. Staff at the reception explained how it works and I was so glad to go on my own cherry picking for the first time! The good news is, they also has pick your own apricots for $4 a kilo. There’s no entry fee to go in. You can eat as much as you can inside the orchard and cherries you pick to take home is $8 per kilo. That sounded really good compared to some other orchards that charge $10 entry fees to go in on top of $10 per kilo for cherries you pick.

No wonder they had relatively more people inside and good reviews. Nevertheless, we had to test it ourselves.

Oh my, there were rows after rows of cherry trees full of cherries in the orchard. All I saw was big, plentiful of cherries everywhere ready for you to pick. I started to wonder how it was possible “there’s no tree left for you to pick your own” back then in Orange?

Anyways, I wasn’t complaining. 🙂 With so few people around because it was Friday, we ate, picked and took lots of pictures.

Walking pass by different types of cherries, we reached the apricot orchard. How cute are these apricots! Not to mention that they are delicious!

Will I come back again?

This cherry farm is full of cuteness. They also have a shop next to reception full of cherry wines, jams and pies.
cheery picking farm near Sydney

The next day when we drove pass it to the Young Cherry Festival Parade, it was crowded with people and cars. Glad we went in on a week day while it wasn’t so packed.

The Cherry Festival Parade in Young town centre was so fun. Want to check out what it looked like?  J posted lots of photos here. Go and check it out!

Will I go back to the cherry farm again? That’s for sure! It’s the first cheery picking farm near Sydney I’ve ever got in. It’s got to be the best! Haha. Finally I went into a cherry farm to pick my own fruits! With a little bit more research beforehand, we fully enjoyed the trip, feeling full and happy.

Finding Your Sense of Adventure in Australia

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There’s much to see and do in Australia. Spend your days exploring the cosmopolitan cities? Yupp. Do nothing other than lay on the beach and soak up the sun? Sounds good to us! However, while it can be fun to enjoy the laid-back pace of life that the country provides, let’s not forget that this land is a mecca for adventure! If you’re ready to get the adrenaline pumping, then you’ll find plenty of opportunities. Below, we take a look at five ways to find your adventure, whether you’re a native Aussie or you’re just visiting the Land Down Under.

A View From Above

>Australia looks pretty darn beautiful from ground level, but can you imagine what it would look like from the air? All that space, all that natural beauty, with not an obstruction in sight! To get up high and have a memorable experience, you have two options. The first is a hot air balloon. You’ll go up, cruise around the sky in peace, and then gently touch down when the adventure is over. The other is a skydive. This is slightly (ok, extremely) less peaceful, and definitely not for the faint-hearted. You will get a pretty awe-inspiring view, though, as you’re hurtling and then gliding towards earth.

Under the Sea

Being on land is all good and well, but if The Little Mermaid has taught us anything, it’s that it’s better down where it’s wetter! Australia is famous for all its awesome snorkelling opportunities, and the good thing about it is that almost anyone can take part. You’ll be able to explore all the colourful marine life that makes up the Great Barrier Reef as if you were a fish! There’s nothing quite like seeing fish and turtles doing their thing in their natural environment.

Following the Wildlife 

In a land as big as Australia, you better believe that there are plenty of enchanting animals roaming around. Being on the prowl trying to see a wild creature in the flesh is exciting enough, and it only gets better when you finally spot one! So what do you have to look forward to when you’re searching for wildlife? Well, you might just see a kangaroo, or a little penguin, or a koala bear, or maybe a quokka (which if you didn’t know, might just be the cutest creature on earth). 


Into the Park 

It’s kinda hard to know where to start when we’re talking about Kakadu National Park. It’s massive, it’s amazingly diverse, it has bags of Aboriginal history; or in other words, it’s a land that’s ripe for adventure. Go swimming, hiking, take in the views – you can do it all. Word of advice: don’t forget to bring your camera!

Into the Wild

Now, you’ll want to have some experience if you’re planning on going camping in Australia. But if you’re familiar with the outdoors, then you’ll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy all the natural beauty this land provides in an intimate way – and you’ll also find out just why Australia is so good for stargazing!

Finding The Life Of The Party In Australia

The Australian people are not widely known to be a quiet lot. There are very few who would take that as an insult. Australia is amongst one of the most open, friendly, and lively countries in the world. It’s no surprise that so many people bored of quieter trips come to these sunny shores when they’re looking to liven up. So, when you feel like getting into the party, where should you go?

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Hit the beach

In a country famous for its coasts, anyone not mentioning the beaches would be missing one of the biggest draws of a visit. You can enjoy any kind of beach holiday you like in Australia, with Broadbeach offering one of the most diversely entertaining towns overlooking the coast. Restaurants with fresh seafood and cuisines from all around the world, live music bars keeping the coastal atmosphere fun and engaging, spas, it has it all. If you prefer having a few more people around you, however, then head up north to Surfers Paradise.

See the show

There’s nothing quite like a bit of raw talent on live display to get you in the party mood. Live music bars are popular all across Australia, but when you want to see the best of the best, then Sydney is going to be your best bet for the top concerts in the country. You can buy tickets online well before you arrive, so you have time to organise the trip around the concert. The Sydney Opera House might be the most famous venue for live shows, but the Qudos Bank Arena is a little less stuffy in its sensibilities.

Sail the seas

Moving away from Sydney, perhaps you don’t want all your party to be stuck on dry land. With as much coast as there is, it should be no surprise that Australia has lots of cruises, river tours, and party yachts on offer. Perhaps one of the most famous, however, for the sights that it offers is the Great Barrier Reef adventure. Sit back, relax, and have a drink before you get up close to one of the most astounding displays of eco-diversity in the world, right beneath your feet. Beyond going for a dive, yourself, this is the best way to see the reef up close.

Surf the snow

Those from out of town might not be aware of the fact that Australia has a booming ski industry, as well. Indeed, the Australian Alps have lots of resorts offering the chance to hike, ski, snowboard, and climb in both winter and summer. You can be shredding the snow one day, then relaxing in luxury accommodations with a warm drink, a lavish meal, and some live entertainment in the evening. If you want something more of a private party with some friends, then this might be the way to get it.

The Australian people pride themselves on being some of the most fun across the globe. Find yourself heading down under the next time you’re up for a good time. You won’t regret it.

3 Great Reasons To Go North Next Time You Visit Australia

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With its unique ecosystem, friendly locals, endless sunshine and host of idiosyncratic charm, it’s no wonder that Australia continues to draw legions of tourists from around the world. Few countries in the world can offer the same diversity of local plant and animal life as well as the same blend of cultures, arts and delicious foods reflecting influences from across Europe and Asia but with a distinctly Aussie twist. Yet, for one reason or another, some tourists just don’t think to look north when arranging their holidays. Perhaps they’re lured by the familiar charms of Sydney with its iconic opera house and the wistfully trendy appeal of The Rocks. Or likely they’re drawn to the capital city of Canberra with its impressive War Memorial and parliamentary buildings. Yet, venturing further north to the state of Queensland offers a quintessentially Aussie experience and a greater concentration of incredible sights and activities the likes of which you won’t find anywhere else in the country. Here are just a few of the many jewels in the northern state’s crown…

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Brisbane

As historic as Canberra, as picturesque as Sydney and as cool as Melbourne, Brisbane has a whole lot to offer those hungry for a quintessentially Aussie experience. You can rent a party boat and trail the Brisbane river, knocking back stubbies as you wind your way to the picturesque Moreton Bay. You can get up close and personal with one of Australia’s most iconic marsupials the koala at Lone Pine Koala sanctuary. You can scratch your cultural itch at the GOMA (that’s Gallery of Modern Art to me and you) or even check out some underground opera in the cavernous Spring Hill reservoir; home to the Underground Opera Company. Finish up your trip by watching the sun set over this amazing city from Kangaroo Point (home of the iconic Story bridge) or Mount Coot-tha; the highest point in the city.

Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef

For those who thirst for adventure, few destinations offer the combination of adrenaline rush and astonishing natural beauty of Cairns. From here you can engage in a host of activities from snorkelling to skydiving. You’ll also find a host of cosmopolitan bars and restaurants as well as the famous swimming lagoon. But Cairns is, of course, also the gateway to the great barrier reef. This network of over 600 varieties of hard and soft coral spanning over 2,000 km. The reef is a UNESCO world heritage site and offers some of the most breathtaking snorkelling and diving opportunities anywhere in the world.

The Gold Coast

For those who love to be beside the seaside but at their own pace, the Gold Coast offers some of the best beaches and surfing to be found anywhere in the entire country. It’s home to some of the country’s best theme parks including Wet ’n’ Wild, Sea World and Dreamworld as well as some areas of outstanding natural beauty. Check out the criss-crossing hiking trails of Lamington National Park where you’ll explore miles of picturesque mountain ridges and rainforest that are home to the region’s many beautiful bird species.

Australia travel tips: 6 things that will surprise first-time visitors

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From food, drink, wildlife, or the sheer size of the country itself, there are many things that will surprise a first-time visitor. So if you are planning a trip, it is best to be prepared. Here are just some of the sights and sounds that might take you by surprise.

Sydney Opera House

The building itself looks quite statuesque when shown on pictures or for events like new years eve. But in reality, it is much smaller than people think it will be. While it is still worth a visit, it can feel underwhelming to many who were expecting something to look more grand.

Sydney harbour bridge walk

The Distances

It can be an easy mistake to make, thinking that you can see all of the major cities in the two or three weeks that you are there. But it is important to remember that it is a country, as well as a continent; it really is vast. So getting around and seeing it ‘all’ can be easier said than done. The best way to do things would be to rent a car, and see as much as you can in that area. Then do the same in one two other areas. Pick two or three places, rather than all of them.

Weather and Seasons

Visitors can see pictures of people having Christmas day on a hot and sunny beach and be mistaken that that is how it is all over. The seasons are mostly reversed to those that we experience in the northern hemisphere. However, it isn’t the same across all of the country. The best time to visit somewhere south like Sydney is usually November to April. However, if you wanted to visit more of the north, like the great barrier reef, for instance, then those months can be some of the worst, being the most humid and wet.

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Quality of Food

Some foods are going to be done better over in Australia and some are going to be better in the UK or US. The food generally has good quality ingredients, so your average steak bar will be better than their equivalents around the world. However, there are some things that the Aussie’s don’t get quite right, and that is chocolate and cheese.

Tipping

Tipping is different in many different countries. But in Australia, it is a little like the UK; you can tip if you want to. There is no pressure to tip either way, which can be a confusing concept for Americans that come to visit. So something to bear in mind when it comes to budgeting for your trip.

History

Ignorantly, a lot of us naturally think that there isn’t much to the history of Australia. It is where the criminals from England got sent to, right? Wrong! There is so much to the country’s modern history, not to mention the thousands and thousands of years or aboriginal history.  So it is worth looking into some historical sites on your trip.

Australian Adventures: Places To Visit

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The land down under really does have it all. Tropical weather, stunning beaches, incredible cities, extraordinary wildlife, wilderness and so much more. Regardless of the type of vacation you’re after, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Australia so if this is a place you’ve always wanted to go to but are yet to visit, there are plenty of reasons to make it your next vacation. If you’re planning your trip, here are a few interesting places to look into.

The Great Barrier Reef

One of the seven wonders of the natural world, the colossal Great Barrier Reef is the largest living thing on Earth and can even be seen from space. Located off the coast of Queensland in northeastern Australia, it’s made up of thousands of reefs and hundreds of islands, molluscs, fish, hard and soft coral and so much more. There are lots of different dives and tours, with companies, you can even go whale watching. Expect to see everything from manta rays to sea snakes thousands of varieties of incredible fish species. You could go scuba diving, snorkelling or hire a yacht and navigate the waters yourself. It’s a must- see if you visit Australia, chances are this will be on your bucket list already since it’s such a spectacular sight.

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Australian Cities and Beaches

If a city break is more your thing, you will be spoiled for choice with Australia. You have Sydney, Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne and many more to choose from, where you can go shopping, visit attractions, dine out and enjoy the hustle and bustle. But best of all, because Australia’s cities are along the coast, you’re never too far away from the beach too. This means you have the unique opportunity to split your time between a city break and a beach vacation without much travel. Once you’ve shopped til you dropped and need a break from the busy city, you can head down to the beach and lie in a hammock while sipping a cocktail. Perfect!

gold coastThe Outback

If you want to do something completely different, how about exploring the fascinating yet challenging terrain of the outback? There are tours and camel treks, you can head into the wilderness and really feel what it’s like to be away from everyone and everything. You will see species of animals and geological formations that exist nowhere else on earth. Take Purnululu National Park known as ‘Bungles’ for example. The landscape is dominated by orange and black striped domes or the ‘Three Sisters’ an incredible trio of rocks standing proud at nine hundred metres tall. There are mountains, waterfalls, gorges and so much more. Many people report having a spiritual experience in the outback, being disconnected from the rest of the world can help you tap into your true self.

Whether you want excitement, romance, relaxation or a spiritual awakening, Australia is the ideal place for your next vacation. So do some research and make note of some of the incredible places you want to visit while you’re on your trip.

A Day Trip To Norah Head & How To Have More Energy?

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Unfortunately I’m not the healthiest person in the world. As a matter of fact, I’m quite fragile.

I’ve been adjusting toa new environment in the last few months and feeling exhausted most of the times.

How to manage to do more in a day than just to go to work, eat and sleep? How to have more energy and less pain?

People say exercise can give us more energy but what if I don’t have any energy to exercise?

There must be a way to get out of this lethargic state! No matter how hard it is for me, I must try.

I’ll eat more healthy food like kale, nuts, chia seeds;

I’ll take iron tablets, Vitamin C… whatever is required by my body;

I’ll go for long walks on my limited days off work.

Speaking of walks, I’m quite fond of Norah Head Lighthouse walk. It’s 2 hours drive away from Sydney but worth the drive for sure.

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Things You Need To See In The Land Down Under

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Australia is a huge place, but you didn’t need anyone to point that out to you. Still, the point is that you’re not going to be able to see it all (unless you return for hundreds of trips). Nonetheless, that doesn’t mean you have to feel disheartened about missing certain key parts. If you plan your adventure well then you can see all the greatest sights of Australia in one fun-packed trip. Here are the things you definitely need to see when you visit the land down under.

sydney

Sydney.

It wouldn’t be a trip to Australia without seeing the beautiful capital of New South Wales: Sydney. We’re putting this one on the top of the list, however, because it’s not even the best place you’ll see in Australia. Still, even though capitals often aren’t the best thing a place has to offer, they’re certainly places that you need to see. Sydney is no exception, as it’s the hub of culture, entertainment, and iconic sights (often rolled into one in the case of examples such as the Sydney Opera House).

There are also a heap of beautiful beaches in the capital, and if you want to get a taste of Australia at the beginning of your trip then you should definitely head down to the coast. You don’t really need a guide for that part of your trip; you’ll find so many incredible things along the coast, such as surfing and boating opportunities, that you’ll want to just go with the flow, so to speak.

Melbourne.

Melbourne is another stunning city that you certainly have to see. Of course, there’s a lot of culture and entertainment in the center of the city, but there’s also a tonne of beautiful scenery and nature trails to explore in the surrounding area of Melbourne. You might want to consider hiring a 4 wheel drive because there’s nothing more satisfying than packing your belongings into a car and heading off into the wilderness. You could camp beneath the stars, or simply admire some of Australia’s beautiful natural landscapes from its long stretches of open road.

The Great Barrier Reef.

When it comes to exploring the beauty of nature in Australia, the Great Barrier Reef is certainly one of the best sights you’ll possibly see whilst you’re down under. It’s something that you have to see to believe and words certainly don’t do the reef enough justice. Diving down there is certainly something you’ll have to try (with professionals) because there’s an entire underwater kingdom unlike anywhere else in the world.

The ecosystem in the coral down there is over 2300km long. That’s a long way, in case you were trying to estimate the length in your mind. There are hundreds and hundreds of different species down there too; the kind of fish that, again, you won’t see anywhere else in the world. You could always go to a zoo in Australia, but the best way to experience wildlife is to simply go out and see it with your own eyes.

How Much Of Australia Can You Visit In One Trip?

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One problem with travelling around Australia? You can’t see it all in one go. We’re talking about a country the size of a continent here, so you’re going to have to pick and choose a little. Whether you are a home traveller, or you’re coming down under from the other side of the planet, you’ll need to plan your trip out. But how can you decide on where to go, how to make the most of it, when there is just so much to see and do? As it turns out, there are some simple things you can do to get much more out of your Australia travels.

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Do More Than Plan

One common and likely response to the sheer amount of options is to spend part of your holiday planning it out. Although a little planning beforehand is recommended, when you are actually on the road you want to make the most of the time you have. For that reason, one of the most important things you can do is to spend more time actually seeing and doing things compared to the amount of time you spend thinking about it. It might sound simple, but you’d be surprised at how often people waste their travels thinking about the next thing and the next thing – instead of just doing it.

Arrange The Transport First

If there is one thing that you should definitely arrange first however, it is the transport. You don’t have to worry about every little thing, but at least having the major transport links sorted will help you to spend more time on seeing what you want to see, and doing whatever you feel like doing. Similarly, you might find it is highly beneficial and a huge time-saver to plan any excursions you might want to do. From a boat tour of the Gold Coast to a city-stop in Sydney, make sure you have the basics plotted, sorted and – hopefully – paid for. That way you can spend less time arranging the basics, and more actually enjoying yourself.

Know Your Next Stop

When you are travelling over such a large area, it really makes a huge difference if you have the luxury of knowing where your next stop is. Australia is riddled with many different kinds of accommodation, from five-star hotels right through to youth hostels. You will probably be spoiled for choice, but there might sometimes be a stretch of desert or a mile or two of the bush in between destinations. Having the next one fixed firmly in your mind will ensure that you won’t have to worry about it. That means you can see more of Australia than you might have imagined, and with a great deal less stress.

Australia is vast, but with the right mindset and a positive approach, you can see a surprising amount of it in one trip. And if you feel as though you have been a little short-changed, you could always come back next year!

What Not To Miss In Australia!

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If you’re planning a trip to Australia sometime in the future, or if you live there already and fancy exploring what makes the country so great, here are all the places that you won’t want to miss out on.

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Blue Mountains

If you consider yourself a tracker that enjoys long hikes through the wild bush, then the Blue Mountains is one to visit. It’s dramatic scenery, small villages, eucalyptus forests, steep cliffs and waterfalls are what make the area such a magical place. Because of the interest it brings from people all over the world, it’s now possible to get a panoramic view of the mountains while being transported in a glass bottom cable car that is suspended right above the steep gorges!

Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House is one of the world’s most famous and distinctive buildings. Whether you’ve been to Sydney or not, you’ll recognize this building because it’s so iconic. As it’s a multi-venue performing arts centre, you can expect to see the biggest and the best shows, exhibitions and performances that are being held there every day.

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The Bungle Bungles

With such an interesting name, who wouldn’t want to visit this place? The park is famous for its dramatically sculptured ‘beehive’ towers formed from sandstone that vary in appearance, all due to the rainfall that creates striking and vivid colour patterns. So if you’re in the Western parts of Australia, research some tours of the amazing bungle bungles so that you can get an informative day out, and some awesome selfies.

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Taronga Zoo

With over 4,000 animals to see, why wouldn’t you want to visit the Taronga Zoo at least once or twice (or eight times…) The zoo was officially opened in 1916 and is still standing strong to this very day, and is always improving. Don’t just expect to see animals though; there are also plenty of events that get thrown and even concerts too.

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Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is an underwater world full of brightly coloured fish and stunning coral that has an ecosystem of over 2,300km-long! There are over 1500 different species of fish and sea life that live in the Great Barrier Reef, including the whole cast from the film Finding Nemo. Having said that, due to mankind, the wildlife is slowly deteriorating and has drastically changed in appearance within the last few years, so you should plan a trip sooner rather than later if you want to experience it.

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Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach is the hotspot for tourists and locals to go to. With enormous waves to ride, white-gold sand to sink your feet into, incredible sand sculptures made by talented artists, and smooth trails to skate down with your weapon of choice, whether that be rollerblades, skateboards or even a Segway. And don’t forget the delicious restaurants and cafes that are lined up along the strip.

So why wouldn’t you want to explore Australia? There’s such a variety of different things to see and do – you’d be mad to miss out.

 

Heading Down Under: An Insider’s View of Exploring Australia’s West Coast

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Once you’ve decided to “travel Australia”, you will quickly realize that you’ve perhaps bitten off a little more than you can chew. It is a vast country, sprawling 7.6 million square kilometers and it plays host to an incomparable array of landscapes: bustling cities, sandy beachfront, expansive coral reefs, tumbleweed ridden deserts and the outback. Australia’s East coast is home to Sydney, Queensland and the world famous Byron Bay, while the West spans between Perth and Exmouth and plays host to stunning natural parks with astounding rock formations. So how can you possibly decide where to start? That’s where we can offer a helping hand. Let’s start with an insider’s recommendations to make the most of the West Coast.

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Experiencing the West Coast to the Fullest

In order to see as much of the West Coast as possible, we’d recommend taking a road trip. This allows you to visit all the major cities and sights in the area, while still allowing you to stray from the beaten track, undertaking your own adventure and finding lesser known surprises along the way. For a short jaunt, I’d recommend opting for a route between Perth and Albany. This will average around 650km. You can amble along at your own pace, but a direct trip from Albany back to Perth will only take you about four hours on the Albany Highway, meaning you can head back in good time whenever you please. This is a perfect idea for beginners who don’t have much experience being on the road for extended periods of time. If you’re a more experienced or enthusiastic road tripper, try out the jaunt along the Coral Coast. This will take you between Perth and Exmouth, with the entire route totaling a staggering 2950 km. This is a huge distance, but we can guarantee that it’s worth it. We’d suggest booking about ten days off from work and other responsibilities to make the most of this extensive journey.

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What Can You Expect to See?

Whichever route you take, your road trip will be exactly what you make of it. Plan a loose itinerary to fit in all of the major activities that you and your travel buddies wish to take part in or witness. Traveling the Coral Coast can see you pass the Pinnacles Desert, Kalbarri National Park’s Gorges, the Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park. So prepare for some of the most stunning scenes that anyone could hope to encounter.

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Preparation

Preparation is going to be key for this journey. First of all, you need to ensure that you have a reliable means of transport. Breakdowns can throw your schedule off track and result in you having to miss out on major parts of your planned trip. Opt for car hire. This will ensure that the vehicle you take is in prime condition and definitely road-worthy. Choose a roomy vehicle that can comfortably accommodate you, your traveling partner(s) and any luggage that’s coming along for the ride too. When it comes to packing your bags, try to bring as few items as possible. This will prevent everything from piling up around you, making the journey irritating.

So, there you have it. Pack your bags, plan a route and join up with some of your nearest and dearest for the experience of a lifetime. Don’t forget to bring a camera and plenty of suncream. You’ll be heading home with a tonne of memories and a healthy tan to boot!

Planning Your Australian Automotive Adventure

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Australia is a huge country, but there’s a lot that you’re going to miss out on if you’re travelling around it by plane. Sure, it’s the quickest way of getting from A to B, but when there’s so much on the ground to explore and take in then it can become a limiting option. That’s where driving definitely becomes an option. You don’t have to worry about being trapped in a vehicle that heats up well past the point of being a comfortable temperature; cars have come on a lot in the last decade, and more and more people are getting behind the wheel to start their Australian Adventure.

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Plan Where You’re Going

The best thing to start off with is a route of where you’re going. Just one wrong turn could take you so far off piste that you’ll be spending hours, if not days, trying to get back to where you are meant to be. This is avoided a lot of the time by following the maps either on your phone or on a sat nav, but if you’re using a traditional paper map then it’s still a wise idea to have your journey planned carefully. There are routes online from people who have travelled across the country before, and it may be a good idea to have a look at the time scale that they have provided for getting from place to place. Don’t underestimate how long it will take you to get to where you need to go, as it’s easy to misinterpret just how big this country is.

Be Prepared

Generally speaking, there are four different ‘types’ of Australia that you will be driving through: cities, towns, rural villages and the Outback. It may not be so much of a hassle if you run out of gas in the first, but it’s a pretty big deal if you do in the latter. If you are driving through the Outback, it is more essential than ever to be prepared for anything that may happen to either you or your vehicle. You can never over-pack on supplies such as food and water; you never know when they may come in handy. It’s so important to let people know where you are going, and try to keep a GPS link at all times to somebody who is in the position to send out emergency help to you. It’s a good idea to get a phone that is linked to a satellite rather than to a particular network – that way, you know that you will have signal in even the most remote of areas should you be driving into them. There are certain walkie-talkies and other radios that you can get that are linked to specific manned helplines around the more populated places which should be able to send you help. It’s best to learn basic survival methods just as a precautionary measure; you could be stuck for hours, but in a worst case scenario it could be a a few days before anybody passes your car to lend a hand.

Know Your Car

If you are sticking to cities, going with a general all-rounder car from a reputable car hire company will do the job. It’s important to ensure that you are fully covered on the insurance and have the documents to hand with you whenever you are in the vehicle – just in case. If you are venturing out onto rural roads, it may be better for you to get a 4 x 4, but knowing how to drive one and engage all of the different (and at times, much needed) features is something that requires a bit of practise. If you have never driven one before, ask the lender to show you how to work it as well as leaving you with an instruction manual. The last thing that you want is to be put into a position that could have been easily avoided if only somebody had shown you how to avoid it in the first place.

Sort Out Accommodation

If you thoroughly plan your route, and plan it right, you will be able to pinpoint hostels, B&Bs, hotels and other points of accommodation throughout your journey to be able to stay in. If you’re not too confident about your timing capabilities, or don’t have the money to be able to afford different beds to sleep in every night, it may be worth investing in a campervan for the duration of your stay. These can either be rented or bought outright; depending on how long you’re staying for, you may want to weigh up your options and see which one suits your budget more. The great thing about moving around in a campervan is that you can transport so much more food, water and luggage around with you then if you were in a standard car, as well as more people to boot. That way, it’s fun for all the family! (Or friends, depending on which one you’re actually travelling with.)

Check The Weather

Cars react differently to a lot of things – the most obvious one being the weather. Hot days can do a lot of damage to vehicles if they’re not maintained properly, so you need to ensure that you are topping up with any fluids that it may need on an extremely regular basis – especially if you are travelling across the Outback. Different conditions on the road can cause havoc for your tyres, not least your entire car as a whole. There are tip and pointers online for driving across things that you are mostly likely to encounter on Australian roads, such as rocky surfaces and sand. They require a multitude of PSIs for the inflation of your tyres to make sure that they are going to last as long as you would expect them to. It’s good to follow the rules in this instance, as those who are recommending the things for you to do have almost always been in the same situation before you have even thought of attempting it.