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Tag: australia travel

  • Eco-Friendly Indulgence in Daylesford – Green Romance at Frog Hollow Estate

    For a romantic Aussie getaway that won’t hurt the planet, consider a stay at Frog Hollow Estate in the Victorian country town of Daylesford.

    The former gold mining town, located 115 kilometers north west of Melbourne, is becoming a popular destination for tourists looking to enjoy life at a slower pace.

    The streets are lined with fine dining restaurants and cafes, and the stores full of original fashions and quirky homewares. You can indulge in a mineral bath or spa at the local retreats, or a few choice drops in the nearby Macedon Ranges and Sunbury wine regions. That is, of course, if you want to venture out of Frog Hollow. This eco-friendly estate was once a stone and timber workshop, but today it enjoys spoiling its guests without harming the planet. The hot showers use collected rain water, and the appliances and eco-friendly lights green power. All villas are equipped with a corner spa for luxuriating with your love, a cosy gas or wood fire for snuggling up at the end of the night, and air conditioning for the summer. With all this romance in the air, it's unsurprising that the folks at Frog Hollow Estate love a wedding. The staff will happily take care of the arrangements, including accommodation for your guests, leaving you free to attend to more important matters. You might even like to return to reminisce on your first anniversary! Accommodation at Frog Hollow Estate in Daylesford starts from $250 a night and includes a gourmet hamper, featuring the best local produce, on arrival.

  • Dog-Friendly Beaches in Australia – Holiday with Your Pooch

    Beach holidays should be family affairs but with many Australian beaches adopting a strict no dogs policy, it can put a dampener on that ideal. But it doesn’t need to be that way.

    There are many beaches around the country that open their sand to the whole family, and that means Fido too. Byron Beach has a reputation as one of Australia's most laid back tourist centers, so it shouldn't surprise you that its Tallow Beach is chilled enough to allow pooches on the beach. There are restrictions though that dog lovers should be aware of though. While the beach extends for seven kilometers, pups are only allowed to roam in the area which runs from near Jarman Street to the northern end of Arakwal National Park. But that still gives them plenty of room to enjoy the white sand and clear waters. If you've got a city holiday in mind, head to Sirius Cove Reserve in the Sydney suburb of Mosman. This is definitely a dog friendly place, with waste bins complete with doggy bags, and picnic and barbeque facilities. Dogs can enjoy the beach at any time on weekdays and between 4 pm and 9 am on weekends and public holidays. dog at the beach Queensland has some of Australia's best known beaches, but you’ll want to veer off the tourist track if you want to bring Rover along. He's welcome at the unfortunately named Yorkeys Knob Beach near Cairns, and Sunshine Beach in Noosa. Yorkeys Knob Beach has an off-leash area at its southern end, but he must be on the leash elsewhere on the sand. Owners and canines can swim there without stress, as nets keep the stingers out. At Sunshine Beach, dogs can roam freely between Noosa National Park and the car park in Seaview Terrace. That should give him plenty of space to enjoy the beach's famous laidback atmosphere and beautiful sandy shore. With a name like Peasholm Dog Beach, you know canines are welcomed at this spot in the Perth suburb of South Scarborough. There's plenty of space for a raucous game of fetch on the beach or a run. It often feels like there are more dogs than humans at O'Sullivan Beach in the South Australian capital of Adelaide. During daylight savings (from October to March) dogs must be leashed between 10 am to 8 pm, but the rest of the time they're allowed to run freely and enjoy the dog exercise area, which extends from the marina to Christie Creek. So why should Spot miss out on all the fun? With a little careful planning, your next beach vacation can be a real family holiday!

  • Explore the Outback – Travel Around Australia’s Countryside

    Australia is a vast land but few tourists, and indeed few locals, ever see it in all its majesty. While the buzzing Eastern coastline with its beaches and big cities is alluring, to see the real Australia you’ll need to head to The Outback.

    Some 6.5 million square kilometers of rugged rural land are just waiting for you to explore. It’s tempting for tourists to join a guided tour and let someone else do all the work, but setting out solo can be much more rewarding. The major Outback roads are sealed, so it's a bit of a myth that you'll need a four-wheel drive to explore this area. However, if you want to step off the tourist path an all-terrain auto is the only way to cope with the dusty dirt roads and rocky countryside. Make sure you set off with enough food and water to feed everyone in your party for a few days. You'll need these supplies if your vehicle breaks down, as it may be some time before help arrives. It's also important to notify others of your intended route and time of arrival. Many Outback areas do not receive cell phone reception, so this is extra insurance in case of emergencies. Ease yourself into your Outback vacation by starting at Alice Springs. This is the most populated Outback town, with restaurants, tourist attractions, and friendly locals. Its ready accommodation makes it a great base for your Outback adventures. [caption id="attachment_3299" align="alignright" width="150" caption="Uluru at sunset"]Uluru at sunset[/caption] Uluru is a long day’s drive away from Alice Springs. Many tourists make an early start and see the rock before returning to Alice Springs, but it's a lot of traveling to do in one day. If you've got the time to spare it's better to make a more leisurely trip and bunker down at one of Uluru's resorts or camping sites. Following the Mereenie Loop Road from Alice Springs will take you to Finke Gorge National Park. It's home to the Finke River, which is believed to be one of the oldest running waterways on the planet, and the ancient cabbage palms of Palm Valley. And that's just for starters. From Alice Springs you can also reach the Kimberleys, the Simpson Desert, and a host of friendly country towns. But many locals suggest that it doesn't matter where you go, as a trip to the Outback is more about the journey than the destination.

  • Party in Queensland’s Whitsundays Region on Koala Adventure Island

    If you’re young and a little strapped for cash, forget the luxury Australian islands of Hayman and Hamilton.

    The Whitsundays destination for you is Koala Adventure Island, the only location in the region which caters exclusively for backpackers and other tourists aged between 18 and 35. Originally called South Molle, Koala Adventure Island is far north Queensland's party capital. The fun starts at dinner time, which follows a new theme every night. Travelers eat at communal tables, which helps to break the ice before the night's entertainment. That includes a resident DJ, live music, games, and dancing until dawn. Things are a bit quiet during the daytime, perhaps as most visitors are recovering from the night before. But there is plenty to keep you occupied if you want to do more than lazing on the beach. You could get out on the water with a sailing trip to the reef, scuba dive or snorkel, or try your hand at windsurfing or paddle skiing. There's plenty to do on land too, as the resort has tennis courts, a nine-hole golf course, archery range, and a fully equipped gym.see koala bears photo There are a variety of rooms to cater for all budgets and traveling groups. Groups of up to six can bunker down in the dormitory-style rainforest rooms, which are surrounded by lush tropical gardens. For a more intimate luxury getaway, consider the beachfront bungalows. They're right on the shore, and have private balconies for enjoying the gorgeous ocean views. No matter what room you choose, you’ll enjoy your own bathroom, a television and small refrigerator, and air-conditioning. Three-night packages are available for $157 per person for the dorm share rooms and $217 per person for the beachfront rooms. This price includes transfers from Abel Point Marina and access to the island's facilities and many activities. To get to the marina, fly to Proserpine Airport and catch the complimentary coach.

  • Travel Australia in the Off Season – Save Money and See Something Special

    Most people plan their vacations around the most alluring weather conditions, the big events, or the school holidays. But if you travel outside these peak periods, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

    You'll save money on hotels and transport, you'll dodge the crowds, and you'll see your destination in a whole new light. In this article we suggest some great times to visit Australia's biggest tourist towns, and they're not what you would expect. Queensland's Gold Coast is most popular in spring and summer, but the area actually enjoys sunshine most of the year. The temperate conditions in June are perfect for enjoying the area’s theme parks without the long ride queues. Hotels are also desperate to fill their rooms, so you can expect some big accommodation bargains. New South Wales' Snowy Mountains are teeming with tourists in winter, but wait a few months and you'll see this beautiful area differently. In spring you need not spend money on a ski resort, as the conditions are mild enough to enjoy the area’s campsites. With only remnants of snow remaining, the area's gorgeous mountains are ideal for hiking in September and October. In January, music fans from Australia over flock to Tamworth for the town's famous country music festival. But most travelers don't know that the area stages a similar festival in July. The weather's a bit colder for Hats Off to Country, but you’ll enjoy cheap accommodation and the performances of some great up and coming acts. Don't be scared away from the Northern Territory's Kakadu National Park in the wet season. From December to March you'll enjoy all of the regular tourist experiences without the crowds. The animals seem to respond to these quieter conditions, so you never know what you'll see. If you don’t mind getting a bit wet, the area's storms can be awe inspiring. Many tourists are scared of traveling down south during winter, but provided you pack some thick sweaters Hobart can be a wonderful place to explore during the chilly months. Its waterfront cafes and buzzing pubs provide a warm refuge from the dreary weather outside. The Festival of Voices, Australia's only choir festival held each July, is also an event worth traveling for. So why travel when everyone else is? You may find your journey is richer and more memorable if you dare to be different!

  • Affordable Luxury Accommodation in Tropical Airlie Beach

    Airlie Beach is regarded as the gateway to Australia’s beautiful Whitsunday Island region, but many tourists don’t realize it’s a gorgeous vacation destination in its own right.

    You don't need to go island hopping to feel pampered in far north Queensland, as this hidden mainland gem has you covered. Airlie’s main beach is located at roughly the same latitude as The Bahamas and Tahiti, which means that the swimming is perfect all year round. The water rarely dips under 20°C, although you’ll need to look out for stinging blue bottles between November and May. Days spent on the beach are the ultimate indulgence, and happily this experience is free. With plenty of backpackers hostels and caravan parks around, that makes Airlie Beach a great spot for budget holidaymakers.Australia globe But if you want to enjoy real luxury, consider a stay at Peppers Coral Coast. This is the only five-star resort in the area, and delivers everything you'd expect from this prestigious rating. While many plush resorts cater for couples, Peppers welcomes families. The resort has one, two, and three-bedroom apartments so parents can have privacy while the kids enjoy their space. The pool is a great alternative to the beach if you're visiting while the stingers are about. Just imagine sipping cocktails by the pool's edge as you soak up the picturesque views of the Whitsunday Passage. The famous Endota Spa chain also has facilities on site if you're in the mood for even more indulgence. Airlie Beach has a great range of restaurants, from fine-dining options to cheap and cheerful cafes. But if you'd prefer to stay in, Tides Restaurant and Bar won't disappoint. A stay at Peppers Coral Coast Resort starts at $151 per night for a one-bedroom apartment suite. At that price, this is a luxury holiday that most travelers can afford.

  • Chocoholic Heaven in Sydney on Chocolate Espresso Tours

    When we think of chocolate vacations most of us think of Swiss or Belgian getaways. But Australia is determined to put itself on the map with Chocolate Espresso tours around Sydney.

    Tour founder Shelagh Coleman and her team take chocoholics on three-hour walking tours around Sydney’s central business district and Darlinghurst.

    On the way you’ll learn lots about the history of this delectable dessert, and of course have plenty of time for tasting. After burning all those calories walking, you definitely deserve it! There are a range of tours to suit all tastes, from the traditional Chocolate Shots and Teatime Treats tour to the more indulgent Espressos and Exotic Chocs experience. If you enjoy champers with your chocolate, consider the Soft Centers, Short Blacks, and Sparkles tour. There are a few notable highlights on the tours. One of the key stops is Haigh's Chocolates, the oldest chocolate company in Australia. It serves up old favorites and many uniquely Australian creations flavored with lilly pilly, lemon myrtle, and quandong.Tasting chocolate Lindt may be a Swiss icon, but the world's first Lindt Café was actually established in Sydney. Here you'll enjoy gourmet chocolate treats including Delice macarons filled with chocolate cream and nut covered truffles. Chocolate Espresso tours start from $70 and operate all year round. This price includes a guide, chocolate samples, and hot drinks. Bookings are essential, and can be made over the phone or via e-mail.

  • Unusual Camel Cup is The Race That Stops Outback Australia

    Most of the time the residents of the Australian Outback are happy to enjoy life at a slower pace.

    But every July the Northern Territory town of Alice Springs comes alive as it celebrates the annual Camel Cup. While horses are obliging animals, camel jockeys are faced with a much tougher task. The beasts live up to their cantankerous reputations, which can result in some interesting antics. They might sit down on the track, or leave it altogether if the whim takes them! They’re also prone to spitting and biting their rivals, which only adds to the fun. But once they get going, camels aren't a bad way to get about. They can maintain a speed of 40 km/h for around an hour, and reach up to 65 kays when sprinting. While the series of camel races are the main event, there's more to lure spectators including market stalls and live entertainment. Some of the biggest crowd pleasers are rickshaw races, belly dancers, live music, and a uniquely central Australian take on "Fashions in the Field." The first Camel Cup was raced in 1970 when two locals raced camels down the dry Todd River as a bet. It drew quite a crowd of curious spectators who enjoyed the race so much it became a regular fixture on the Northern Territory calendar. This year the Camel Cup celebrates its 40th anniversary on July 10.

  • Ski Australia’s Snowfields On a Budget

    Winter’s only just begun, but already Australia’s snow fields are enjoying steady falls.

    Taking advantage of the thick white powder can prove expensive, but there are a few ways to cut the costs of your skiing adventure. The most luxurious ski resorts often come with luxury price tags, but there are a few affordable options to be found on the snow fields. The acclaimed backpackers chain YHA has two snowy locations; one in Thredbo, New South Wales, and the other in Victoria's Mt Buller. The Thredbo YHA is located in the center of the skiing village, a convenient stumbling distance from the restaurants and pubs. Twin rooms start from $68, but if you bring some mates you could pay as little as $27.50 for a four-share dormitory. You’ll find the Mt Buller YHA a stone's throw from the chairlift, so you can literally ski to your front door. It's a little more expensive with rates starting from $79 for a six-bunk room, but still much cheaper than anything else you'll find in the area. Another option is to stay a little further from the ski fields. While you might need to forgo your sleep-in to get an early run at the slopes, you'll save a pretty penny. Consider Jindabyne when skiing at Thredbo or Perisher, Dinner Plain if you want to hit Mount Hotham, and Mount Beauty when skiing Falls Creek.[caption id="attachment_3952" align="alignright" width="150" caption="A snowboarder at Thredbo, Australia"]A snowboarder at Thredbo, Australia[/caption] When it comes to accommodation rates, timing is everything. While you'll pay through the nose in August, June and September prices are much more reasonable, even if the snow isn't quite as impressive. You'll also save money by traveling through the week, rather than weekends. It's tempting to invest in skis, snowboards, and outfits to match, but unless you're considering regular snow holidays hiring the kit may be a better financial decision. Or if you want a ski job in Australia then you might buy gear too. If you do want to own your own, you'll be surprised at the bargains you’ll find on eBay or in second-hand stores. It also pays to ask around, as the closets of your friends may have everything you need. Lift tickets are a necessary expense, but there are still ways to save cash here too. Look for early-bird specials before the start of the season, discounted rates at the start and end of the season, and half-day tickets if you prefer a sleep in or tend to tire in the afternoon. You can also save money by visiting the smaller slopes. Mt Baw Baw in Victoria and Selwyn in New South Wales offer very cheap rates for their fields, which are mostly made up of beginner runs. That won't suit if you're a regular snow bunny, but novices will be very happy here. While not always the most economical solution, it can pay to look out for package deals. If you want to stay at the best accommodation, and ski the best slopes in Oz, you'll probably save money with these all-inclusive offers.

    [Image Source: SnappedUp/Flickr]

  • Natural Beauty of Australia’s Coast at Kangaroo Island

    It’s just 13 kilometers from the coast of South Australia, but Kangaroo Island seems a world away from the Australian mainland.

    The isolation of this beautiful spot has seen flora and fauna flourish away from the threats of feral animals and diseases. Its rugged environment lures tourists keen to get back to nature. It was discovered way back in 1802 by French explorer Nicholas Baudin. He found the island deserted, although historians have since found evidence of indigenous habitation dating back to 2250 years prior. The island was named for the kangaroos which roamed freely here, and for the tasty meal of Skippy meat the explorer enjoyed on his arrival. Slowly it became home to an eclectic mix of whalers and sealers and escaped convicts. It was once home to Australia's most uncivilized residents, yet these days you'd hardly know it. [caption id="attachment_3902" align="alignright" width="150" caption="The Remarkable Rocks in Kangaroo Island"]Rocks in Kangaroo Island[/caption] Kangaroo Island revels in its natural environment. Many major roads are unpaved, and national parklands and forests abound. There is no public transport, so visitors must join guided tours, bring their car over on the ferry, or hire a car when they arrive. The slower pace of Kangaroo Island does shock some visitors, although with careful planning it's easy to embrace this back-to-basics way of life. Banking facilities are only available in Kingscote and Penneshaw, so make sure you're cashed up before heading to the island's outskirts. These towns, along with American River and some areas of Emu Bay, are the only ones with mobile phone reception too. While modern folks may struggle to be disconnected, there's something lovely about removing yourself from civilization. By maintaining its natural beauty, Kangaroo Island has become a haven for fresh produce. Seafood is plentiful in the waters, jams are made from the indigenous fruits, and the local sheep and goats make some tasty cheeses. These fresh foods make eating at Kangaroo Island’s many restaurants a wonderful experience for gastronomes. Despite its small stature, there's plenty to do on Kangaroo Island. Flinders Chase National Park spans across 33, 000 hectares.
    It’s home to the striking Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, the historic Cape du Couedic lighthouse, and kangaroos, echidnas, koalas, and the rare Cape Barren geese. You can see more animals at Seal Bay Conservation Park, a coastal attraction where seal lions happily laze in the sun while tourists walk amongst them. Fairy penguins make a nightly procession from the waters of Kingscote and Penneshaw to the burrows on the shore. Take a flashlight and look amongst the rocks at dusk to spot these tiny birds settling in for the night. Kangaroo Island is accessible by air and sea. You can fly between the South Australian capital of Adelaide and Kingscote by Regional Express for roughly $150 return. If you'd prefer to have your car with you, consider catching the Kangaroo Island Sealink ferry. Ferries leave three times a day from Cape Jervis on the mainland, and dock at Penneshaw. One-way fares cost $39 for passengers, and $79 for cars.

    [Image Source: Navin75/Flickr]