Some of us are programmed to explore, others are programmed to dream. Regardless of which category you fall into, there is a whole world out there just waiting to be discovered.
Her.ie’s new weekly travel guide brings you to some of the most inspiring places in the world and dares you to turn those dreams into an adventure of a lifetime.
As the saying goes, ‘home is where your passport is’ – so where will your passport end up next?
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The vast country of Australia has something to offer everyone from the intrepid backpacker to the holidaymaker.
From east coast to west and from north to south, Australia changes and mystifies, excites and entices and with a different experience waiting around every corner, it is a difficult task to cover everything that a tourist should see.
However, here are some of our highlights from a tour of the land Down Under’s east coast.
Sydney
The heart of the east coast, Sydney is a vibrant city full of diversity and brilliant nightlife. From brilliant shopping to beaches just a short bus journey away, Sydney offers everything and more for a visitor. Sip cocktails in the sunset at Sydney Harbour, grab some amazing food deals most nights of the week and visit PJ O’Brien’s for some lovely Irish grub if you’re feeling homesick.
Handy hint: Be sure to check out the bargains in Paddy’s Market, take a trip out to Coogee Beach and of course, visit the famous Bondi Beach.
Summer Bay
This will be the first port of call after Sydney for fans of Home and Away. Visit the iconic beach, check out the surf club and diner and take as many photos as you can.
Handy hint: If you are in the area during filming, try bag a spot as an extra.
The Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains are a must-stop for any visitor to the east coast of Australia. A magical place regardless of the season, the area is filled with oil-bearing Eucalyptus trees. A part of the World Heritage List, make this a weekend away out of the hustle and bustle of Sydney.
Handy hint: The Three Sisters is one of the most beautiful landmarks of the area. An unusual rock formation, it is said in Aboriginal legend to represent three sisters who were turned to stone.
Cairns
A favourite for many backpackers, Cairns is a hive of culture and nightlife. Take the organic experience through the area, soak up the culture and lifestyle and kick back with some fabulous wine to get your evening started.
Handy hint: Go south and take in the beauty of Mission Beach where you can also do a skydive.
Whitsunday Islands
A famous trip for backpackers to the country, the Whitsundays have become part of backpacker folklore. Take a trip on a boat for a couple of nights to experience the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and scuba dive in crystal clear waters.
Handy hint: If you’re not a good traveller at sea, avoid the sail boats and stick with the bigger, sturdier vessels.
Fraser Island
Usually coupled with the Whitsundays, Fraser Island will see you packing up your bags and heading off on a self-drive jeep holiday across the beautiful surrounds of Fraser Island. Groups of six to eight people take off and set up camp for a few nights where you take in the natural beauty of the island and get to meet some dingoes along the way! Also, be sure to visit Lake McKenzie for some stunning pictures.
Handy hint: Driving on sand is extremely difficult – think of driving on ice over here at winter time – so bring someone who is confident in traversing sand dunes to go behind the wheel. Visit Hervey Bay and Rainbow Beach while you are in the area.
Magnetic Island
Staying in the Barrier Reef region of Australia, head to Townsville in Queensland to grab a boat to this beautiful island. Visit the park and bird sanctuary where you can hold a koala bear and wrangle with snakes. The beauty of the island will take your breath away.
Handy hint: Bring the mosquito spray as this place is teeming with them! Head down to Airlie Beach afterwards for some chilling out time.
Brisbane
Stopover in Brisbane as you make your way up or down the coast. With loads to see and do the Queensland capital has spectacular views across the Brisbane River. Check out Moreton Island where you can snorkel around an old ship wreck and feed wild dolphins.
Handy hint: Climb the Story Bridge and visit Alma Park Zoo.
Noosa
Another firm favourite for backpackers, Noosa boasts stunning scenery and all-round sunshine. Take in the national park, the beautiful river and the laid back lifestyle.
Handy hint: After a busy weekend travelling down the coast, Noosa is where you can kick up your feet and relax for a night.
Surfer’s Paradise
Living up to its name, Surfer’s Paradise is exactly that – a paradise for all tourists. Located on Australia’s Gold Coast, there are fantastic restaurants, brilliant nightlife and stunning beaches.
Handy hint: Beware of the rip tides here as depending on the season, it can be very easy to get pulled away by the tide. Keep going south and take in the beautiful Byron Bay.
Canberra
No visit to a country would be complete without paying a visit to the capital city. Although Canberra is quite a business-orientated city it’s still one to tick off on your route down south.
Handy hint: Make the visit a day-trip as you head down towards Melbourne.
Melbourne
A magical city that will win over your heart with its bucketloads of charm, Melbourne has something for everyone – fantastic food, friendly locals, trams and a brilliant nightlife. If you are a fan of Australian soaps, take the Neighbours tour and visit Ramsay Street and all the famous haunts.
Handy hint: The penguins in Melbourne are famous so make sure to pay them a visit!
The Great Ocean Road
Rent a car in Melbourne and head off on a Great Ocean Road adventure. Stop along the way for awe-inspiring views, fantastic scenery and amazing sights.
Handy hint: Visit the famous Twelve Apostles along the way.
Insider’s tips: Australia is quite expensive, so make sure you have saved a good bit of money before you head away. Accommodation and food are very pricey, and a lot of the tours will set you back quite a bit. Make your own way as much as you can by renting out a car or a camper – it will be worth it as the journeys can be quite long from place to place.
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