Discovering my homeland

"The World is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page." – Saint Augustine

The New Year has got me thinking about things I’d like to experience this year and local travel rates highly.

I’ve decided that, instead of planning some grand escapade overseas, I’d like to see more of my own country where time (and some spare cash) will allow.

At a recent family dinner we were discussing weekend getaways and how good it is to go away, even if it’s for a handful of days. There are so many gems that we can visit that are only a few hours from home via plane.

There are so many places in Australia that I would like to visit – here I’ve noted a few that are on my must-see list:

Bay of Fires, Tasmania

The Bay of Fires Lodge

When I was working as a feature writer, I did a piece on the Bay of Fires and ever since, I’ve wanted to visit.

Showcasing the east coast of Tasmania’s truly picturesque landscape and bountiful flora and fauna, you can stay at the award-winning Bay of Fires Lodge and complete a trek along the coastline.

 

Go to http://www.bayoffires.com.au/ for more info.

Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays, Queensland

The tranquil Whitehaven Beach

An aerial view

With its pure white sand and crystal clear blue water, the world famous Whitehaven Beach is Australia’s most photographed beach. 

Located in Queensland’s idyllic Whitsundays, a group of 74 pristine islands, you can get the best view of this stunning beach from Tongue Point.

You have the option of doing a day trip to Whitehaven via boat, or most overnight sailing trips stop her overnight as well.

There is a range of accommodation on the mainland, with Airlie Beach being the closest vantage point, for you to choose from.

Go to http://www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au/destinations/whitehaven-beach/ for more info.

Yarra Valley, Victoria

Visit the beautiful wineries



Dine on amazing local produce

Get a treatment from one of the many spas

As my husband and I are foodies and love a good drop of wine, the Yarra Valley in Victoria’s regional surrounds is a place I’ve always wanted to travel to.

With a range of activities and accommodation options to choose from, weekend getaway possibilities are endless.

Go to http://www.visityarravalley.com.au/ for more info.

Uluru National Park, Northern Territory

Uluru

Latitude 131

Visiting our country’s most spectacular natural formations, Ayers Rock, is a spiritual journey I’d love to take one day.

My father has spent a lot of time in Northern Territory and always talks of its unsurpassed beauty and wonderful people.

There are several places to stay in the Red Centre ranging from inexpensive camp grounds through to pricey, yet opulent, wilderness camps; there is something for every budget.

Go to http://en.travelnt.com/explore/uluru-kata-tjuta.aspx for more info.

 

Perth

The city of Perth

Rottnest Island

I have heard many good things about Western Australia’s capital – its beauty and natural attractions like Rottnest Island and the Swan River leave me wanting to find out more.

Enjoying more than 3000 hours of sun each year, Perth is definitely a place to visit if you like an outdoor lifestyle, like I do. I also want to discover why it has been named world’s most liveable city.

For more info go to http://www.westernaustralia.com/en/Destinations/Experience_Perth/Perth/Pages/Perth.aspx

Apart from these places, some of my favourite destinations to get to by car (from the Gold Coast) include Brisbane, Mooloolaba, Noosa, Caloundra, Byron Bay and Coffs Harbour. If you’re keen for a road trip, these gems are well worth the visit.

In the words of French novelist Marcel Proust:

“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes.”

Happy travelling J