We’ve all grown up with the idea of the ‘Big OE’ being a life essential that every Aussie must experience. A trip overseas, diving into new cultures, landscapes and life experiences. But if you’ve already done it, want to save on dollars and kilometres, or just need some training before trekking off across the ocean to distant lands, how about having a look in your own backyard?
We’ve discovered equivalent Australian destinations to suit every kind of traveller. No passport required.
Popular alternative destinations to popular international spots, right here in Australia
Barossa Valley, South Australia instead of Bordeaux, France
Rolling hills, postcard-perfect scenery combined with mouth-watering local delicacies and, perhaps most importantly, good, good wine. Yep, we’re talking about Barossa, SA, not Bourdeaux. Considered to be the gourmet capital of South Australia, Barossa tickles all the senses with the biggest emphasis on visual feasts and taste explosions. To really get the full Barossa Valley experience, we recommend visiting a vineyard and taking a local cooking class; though perhaps not in that order, or driving the stunning Barossa Butcher, Baker, Winemaker trail.
Overland Track, Tasmania instead of Peru
Okay, Macha Piccu is definitely worth it and should be on everyone’s bucket list, but adventurers don’t need to hit the Inca Trails in Peru for serious cross-country treks. Just off the south coast of Australia sits Tasmania’s Overland Track, offering a 65 kilometre, six-day trek through the heart of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. This walk offers hikers a combination of magnificent scenery and a physical challenge, with the track earning itself a reputation as being one of the world’s greatest bushwalks. Venture through landscapes of amazing glacially-carved valleys, ancient rainforests, eucalyptus, moorlands and rolling meadows.
Old Melbourne Gaol, Victoria instead of Alcatraz, California
We all know that Australia has been home to some of the world’s most notorious criminals, creating a truly dark and fascinating history.The Old Melbourne Gaol is as macabre, enthralling and illuminating as Alcatraz. Travel back in time as you wander through the cells and yards that housed Australia’s most feared and dangerous characters; including the infamous Ned Kelly. Aussies wanting to push themselves to the limit can take the night tour – a guided ghost tour that dives into the stories of the prisoners and the gaol’s grim history.
Magnetic Island, Queensland instead of Ko Samui in Thailand
To those of you wanting to escape the city hustle for some island action, there’s no need to follow the hordes to Asia: Magnetic Island, just off the coast of North Queensland rivals Thailand’s famous beaches and holds its own as an island paradise. All the mental checkboxes are ticked; beautiful beaches, palm trees and crystal clear water; activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding and hiking, or just taking in the majestic landscapes. Richly embedded in Australia’s history, Magnetic Island earned its name after Captain Cook noticed that his ship’s compasses ‘would not travis well’ as he sailed past in 1770.
Great Barrier Reef, Queensland instead of the Coral Reef in Hawaii, US
Speaking of bucket lists, seeing the seven wonders of the natural world tends to feature pretty heavily on most. Start or add to your list with the Great Barrier Reef; right on your doorstep. With more than 3,000 individual reefs and coral cays, the world’s largest reef system offers travellers a unique underwater and world-class diving experience. Visitors can bask on a number of picturesque tropical islands, or try activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, helicopter tours, and whale watching.
The Blue Mountains, New South Wales instead of Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Sure, the mountains of Yellowstone National Park have breathtaking views, bracingly fresh air and Herculean walking trails. So what? We have The Blue Mountains. Just a short drive from Sydney, the mountains are stunning 365 days a year; a veritable palette of colours and temperatures that reflect Oz’ seasons, and offer a unique perspective of native Australian flora, fauna and wildlife. Be sure to check out the Three Sisters and Katoomba Falls, as some of Australia’s most spectacular natural landmarks, you’d be doing yourself a disservice if you didn’t.
Note:
*Hotel prices (including taxes and fees) for the above were collated on 19 May 2016 for travel in August 2016, for the respective hotels mentioned in the release with a minimum 4 star rating.
**The flight prices (including taxes and fees, excluding baggage fees) for one round-trip economy seat given above were collated on 19 May 2016 for travel in August 2016 from another city in Australia.
Prices are subject to change and offers may no longer be available.
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