Falling in Love with Australia: From Backpacker Trails to Luxury Escapes
I landed in Cairns, backpack on, heart racing, and absolutely no idea just how much this country would capture me. From there I made my way down the east coast to Brisbane, soaking up the tropical sunshine, lively hostel nights and endless beaches. Then I headed back up again to discover a very different side of Australia in the wild beauty of Kakadu. Here, the adventure really began. I took a job fruit picking in Kununurra, Western Australia, where red earth, big skies and outback life became my everyday. After that season, I travelled right down the middle of the continent, through the spiritual heart of Australia at Uluru (Ayers Rock) and on to Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney.
Sydney quickly drew me in. I found a job there so that I could extend my time in Australia and keep exploring. From my base in the city, I travelled back up to Byron Bay and Fraser Island, and crossed over to Tasmania for something completely different again: rugged coastlines, cool climate wilderness and charming historic towns.
By the time I finally flew home, I was completely in love with Australia. So much so that, on returning to the UK, I took my very first job in travel for one reason: to make sure I could keep going back.
From Backpacker Hostels to Beautiful Hotels Since that first year away, I’ve been lucky enough to return to Australia many times. These days, my trips look a little different. I have swapped bunk beds and shared bathrooms for beautiful boutique hotels, luxury lodges and unique places to stay that showcase the best of each region.
What hasn’t changed is the feeling Australia gives me. It is a country that gets under your skin, a place that feels simultaneously relaxed and exciting, familiar yet endlessly surprising.
I have had the privilege of experiencing:
Chic city stays in Sydney and Melbourne, with skyline views, rooftop bars and world-class dining. Coastal hideaways near some of the most stunning beaches I have ever seen. Immersive stays close to national parks and the Outback, where the night skies are filled with stars and the silence feels almost magical. These experiences mean I now see Australia not just as a backpacker playground, but as an incredible destination for premium and luxury travel, tailor-made road trips, special-occasion holidays and once-in-a-lifetime adventures.
Why Australia Is So Special Australia is a country of contrasts and immense beauty. It offers so much more than “just” beaches, although those are pretty spectacular too.
Here is what I love most:
Rich culture: From ancient Aboriginal stories and sacred sites to cutting-edge art galleries and food scenes, Australia’s cultural tapestry is endlessly fascinating. Incredible beaches: Whether it is the world-famous stretches of the Gold Coast, the laid-back sands of Byron Bay or remote coves in Western Australia, there is a beach for everyone. Stunning national parks: Rainforests, red desert landscapes, dramatic gorges, waterfalls and unique wildlife. Each park feels like a different world. Iconic sights: Uluru glowing at sunrise, the Sydney Opera House framed by the harbour, the Great Ocean Road, the Great Barrier Reef, and so many more. Vibrant cities: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Hobart are modern, multicultural and full of character, each with its own distinct style. Untouched wilderness: Vast stretches of Outback, remote islands and wild coastlines where you can still feel wonderfully far from the everyday. Creating Your Perfect Australian Adventure Whether you are visiting Australia for a once-in-a-lifetime trip or travelling to catch up with friends and family, your experience should feel personal to you. That might mean:
A carefully planned multi-centre itinerary, combining iconic cities with beaches and the Outback. A self-drive adventure, taking in stunning coastal routes, vineyards and charming small towns. A luxury stay in a boutique lodge or beachfront resort as part of a special celebration trip. Adding in unforgettable experiences, such as wine tasting, Aboriginal cultural tours, scenic flights, wildlife encounters or private guided excursions. Drawing on my own journeys, from backpacker routes to upgraded hotel stays, I can help you avoid the common pitfalls, choose the right areas to focus on and ensure your time is used in the best possible way.
Australia is a big country and planning can feel overwhelming, but that is exactly where my experience comes in. Together, we can create an itinerary that flows beautifully, fits your pace and budget, and is filled to the brim with memories-in-the-making.
Ready to Start Planning? If Australia is calling your name, I would love to share my first-hand knowledge, tips and inspiration, and design a trip that is every bit as special as the country itself.
Whether you are dreaming of a classic east coast adventure, a sophisticated city and wine region escape, an Outback journey or a mix of it all, I am here to help.
Contact me today on Claire.MacInnes@TravelCounsellors.com and let us start planning your Australian adventure.