6 Tips for Planning the Holiday of a Lifetime to Australia
If seeing koalas in the wild, sailing past the Great Barrier Reef, or exploring the sprawling Outback are items on your bucket list, a trip down under may be in your future. Australia is a vast country with diverse landscapes, varied wildlife, and a relaxing culture that lends itself perfectly to an unforgettable holiday. Follow these planning tips to craft your dream holiday and make memories that will last beyond your return flight home.
1. Determine Your Priorities
With its range of destinations from vibrant cities to remote beaches to the rugged interior, your Australia itinerary can go in countless directions. Decide what experience holds the top spot on your wish list – perhaps a little of everything beckons – to shape where you’ll go and what you’ll do. Those wanting to cuddle koalas can head straight for wildlife parks while wine connoisseurs may savor sampling vintages in the vineyards ringed by blue mountains.
2. Know the Seasons
One of the most important factors in planning your trip is knowing Australia’s seasonal differences. The northern states tend to be tropical while the south can get quite cool. If you dream of sunbathing on the Gold Coast, visit between December and February. Temperatures drop sharply in the winter months of June through August. Consider when peak seasons align with your must-see sights.
3. Work with a Travel Expert
Rather than get overwhelmed researching cities, hotels, and flights on your own, enlist a travel expert to craft your personalised holiday and help you discover Australia in style. Describe your interests, budget, and vision to a specialist and let them sweat the logistics while you gleefully anticipate the trip. Travel experts know the ins and outs of Australia and can incorporate unique local gems suited just for you. The cost of this bespoke trip consultation is well worth the streamlined planning.
4. Mix Up Your Accommodation
One advantage of a longer Australia trip is the chance to sample a variety of lodging that enhances your experience. Spend a few nights glamping in the bush, stick your toes in the sand at a beachside bungalow, rest your head in hip urban hotels, or treat yourself to exclusive luxury estates complete with private chefs and infinity pools. Mix up where you sleep by region or every couple of nights.
5. Don’t Overschedule
While you may have a lengthy Australia bucket list, take a more relaxed approach for at least part of your getaway. Build in buffer days between busy spurts of sightseeing or activity. Explore smaller towns or wine regions at an easy pace. Wander rather than race from one attraction to the next so you have time to get a feel for each unique place. Australia’s laidback culture lends itself to an agenda-free approach.
6. Splurge on Experiences
Although Australia offers plenty of urban conveniences and comforts, take advantage of more exclusive experiences only available in this part of the world while you are there. Sign up for exclusive eco-tours, fine dining events, seaplane rides over the Great Barrier Reef, or multi-day hikes guided by Aborigines. These special opportunities cost more than everyday attractions but deliver rare memories to cherish.
Follow these handy holiday planning pointers and get ready to take off on your ultimate dream holiday. After a sip of stellar Shiraz overlooking the sandstone cliffs, you’ll never want to leave.