When it comes to once-in-a-lifetime holidays, a visit to Australia usually features high on people’s bucket lists. From its beautiful coastline to its red heart, Australia promises excitement and exploration at every turn. On a recent unforgettable trip, in partnership with Southern World, Qantas, and Tourism Australia, a group of eight Travel Counsellors got the opportunity to see the wonders of Australia, from the iconic city of Sydney to Alice Springs deep in the outback.
Settling the scene in Sydney
After a comfortable and relaxing flight with Qantas, they began their trip in Sydney with an adventure into the Blue Mountains National Park, which is double the size of the Grand Canyon National Park and a must see if you are planning a trip to Sydney. Afterwards, they got a tour of the surrounding neighbourhoods to get a feel for what local life is like. A standout place was Leura a beautiful, suburb that looked like something out of a film set, with amazing stores for thrifting or antiquing.
Day two was filled with more fun and adventure in Sydney, with a sightseeing tour taking in iconic landmarks such as Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, which the group got the opportunity to climb. At 440 feet high, 160 feet wide, and 3770 feet in length, it’s the world’s heaviest steel arch bridge and climbing it gives you some of the best views over the whole of Sydney. Their final day in the city featured a stunning seaplane flight over Sydney Harbour before heading to Bondi Beach for a surfing lesson and some downtime soaking up the sun before delighting in a tasty lunch overlooking the ocean – what could be better?
The Red Centre
The group then made their way to the Red Centre, with a flight to Ayers Rock Airport. On touchdown, the group marvelled at the red sand, vibrant blue sky, and lush greenery that surrounded them before making the journey to Uluru. They then got to experience the visually stunning and emotionally stirring Field of Light. After enjoying a meal surrounded by the sights, smells, and sounds of the outback, our Travel Counsellors got to watch the incredible light show which features around 50,000 lights and is inspired by the desert’s wildflowers found all around Uluru and Kara Tjuta. The never-ending sight of colour and light in the outback with the clear, dark, starry sky that meets it in the landscape is truly something to behold and something they would recommend to anybody looking to visit Australia soon, as the installation won’t be there forever.
Bowing out in Brisbane
The final full day in Brisbane started with a scenic ferry ride to Tangalooma Island Resort. A breathtaking helicopter tour offered unparalleled views of the island's vibrant coastline while spotting dolphins and whales below added to the excitement. As daylight faded, a leisurely stroll led the group to Ciao Papi for a delicious Italian meal capped by a surprise fireworks display. Toasting to their Australian adventure, they ended their day by appreciating Brisbane's twinkling skyline, the perfect close to an extraordinary journey.
Feeling inspired?
The experiences our Travel Counsellors had can be included in a bespoke tour fully tailored to you, including transport, accommodation, and guides who can help you get under the skin of this incredible destination.
To book your holiday to Australia, contact your Travel Counsellor today.
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