Best Trips Abroad Close To Home From Sydney
They say that travel broadens the mind, but it also does far more than that.
First and foremost, it gives us some invaluable time to relax and reset away from the strains and stresses of everyday life. With a break from work and other commitments that we face for all the other weeks of the year, it’s how batteries get recharged and mojos are regained.
But one of the issues that Australians face is that many overseas breaks involve long-haul flights, stopovers and considerable expense. It’s very different for people living in Europe, where short-haul destinations are plentiful, and so are the cheap flights to reach them.
But there’s no need to despair for Sydney residents. There are still quite a few places that are within reasonably easy reach. So all you have to do is make sure you’ve packed all those travel essentials, mentally prepare yourself for your trip, and choose one of these five great destinations.
Tasmania
OK, so it’s not exactly abroad, but you could argue that Tasmania is overseas. And with its lush green vegetation, it’s certainly going to be a big change of scenery from Sydney. After just a short trip across the Bass Strait you’ll be plunged into Tassie life.
Head for the state capital, Hobart, and you’ll find that it’s full of history, not to mention beautiful buildings in the colonial style dating back to the 19th century. Around the coast, there are many attractive towns, and no visitor should miss out on Wineglass Bay, a regular inclusion in listings of the best beaches in the world. Tasmania might be a little light on nightlife, but it’s where, if you’re lucky, you’ll be able to see the magnificent natural light show of the Aurora Australis.
Auckland
Our first properly foreign holiday idea is Auckland, New Zealand.
As the country’s most cosmopolitan city, you’ll be able to enjoy cuisines from all over the world as well as wines made in the region at Waiheke Island, sometimes known as “The Island of Wine”. If culture’s your thing, then you’ll find plenty of museums to visit, including the stunning Auckland Art Gallery Toi O Tamaki, which features internationally-important exhibitions as well as an extensive collection of Maori art.
New Zealand also claims to be where bungee jumping originated, so where better to experience it than by jumping off the city’s iconic Sky Tower? For thrills of another kind, why not check out the Sky City casino? Or, if you prefer your action online, you’ll find that you can play for no deposit at an NZ casino as long as you know where to look. Just make sure to stay safe and be responsible.
Papua New Guinea
For a break with a real difference, then, Papua New Guinea makes for an unusual and unusually captivating choice. If you’ve ever wanted to hike through a rainforest where tree kangaroos roam and brightly coloured birds swoop above you, then the Kokoda Track has been tailor-made for you. Other wildlife safaris take you along the Sepik River, where freshwater sharks and barramundi swim in a landscape that will stay with you forever.
The country’s rich cultural heritage means that there are also exciting tribal events to enjoy, including September’s Goroka, with its music, dancing and traditions that have been carried down from generation to generation.
Fiji
If festivals are your thing, then Fiji is a natural choice. In April, towards the end of summer, there’s the South Indian Fire Walking Festival, which takes place on Viti Letu island. During the Indian Holi Festival in March, the air turns into a riot of colour as the crowds scatter powders of all hues over each other. A little more sedate is the Hibiscus Festival in Suva, which is held each August.
Fiji is also perfect for a relaxing break where you can just lie back on one of the countless white sand beaches and enjoy the exciting nightlife of tourist hot spots like Sigatoka and Denarau.
Bali
Last but not least, there’s that perennial Aussie favourite Bali. The great thing about holidaying here is that you can enjoy exactly the kind of break that suits you. For a lively time, then Denpasar’s the place for you, especially if you want to be surrounded by your fellow countrymen and women.
For the more culturally minded, then head inland to Ubud with its art galleries, restaurants and bars. Don’t forget to visit the monkey sanctuary while you’re there – but keep a firm grip on your sunnies if you don’t want to see them disappearing up a tree.
Head further inland, and there are many boutique hotels surrounded by rice fields and incredible scenery, as well as a pace of life that’s so laid-back it’s virtually horizontal
So, hopefully, this has given you some inspiration for when you’re choosing your next break.
Bon voyage, and have a great time.
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