Aussies are renowned for being the life of the party while on holiday, but a week of partying can take the sightseeing energy out of anyone – even the most vivacious among us. To help you maintain your balance on your next overseas adventure, we’ve uncovered five ultimate travel destinations with the perfect mix of parties and pampering. At these retox to detox hotspots, you can get the best of both worlds, living it up before recouping with some R&R ahead of the journey home.
Ibiza, Spain
Ibiza is as well known for its good weather and beaches and for its world-famous clubbing scene. If you want to cut shapes on the dance floor until dawn, then head straight to Ushuaia for a quintessential clubbing experience. With world-class DJ’s such as David Guetta hitting the decks, you’re guaranteed a good time, any night of the week.
On the flipside, hidden away from the bright lights and thumping beats, Ibiza’s historic Old Town offers plenty of recovery options. A week-long retreat at Hot Yoga Ibiza is a great way to sweat out toxins and recentre yourself. Alternatively, you can bask in the sunshine for a Vitamin-D driven recovery at one of the island’s many beaches; Cala Conta is a great spot to tune out and enjoy the most picturesque sunset on all of Ibiza.
Flights to Ibiza from A$943** Stay at Hotel Playasol The New Algarb from A$65*
Koh Phangan, Thailand
Koh Phangan’s full moon party is arguably the world’s most famous beach party, and definitely one of the wildest. Once a month, revellers gather on Sunrise Beach at Haad Rin on the island’s south side for a night of music, dancing and entertainment; filled with fluorescent colours, fireworks and thousands of other like-and-out-of-their-minded partygoers.
Once the sun rises, take a break from the chaos and head north for a little peace and quiet. If you’re up for some serious fitness, take part in a Muay Thai martial arts course at Koh Phangan’s Horizon Muay. If you’re looking for a mental rather than physical recovery, you can get in touch with your inner self on a seven-day silent meditation course at the Buddhist monastery Kow Tahm, or renew your vitality with a guided three-day detox at The Yoga Retreat.
Flights to Koh Samui from A$704** Stay at The Coast Resort from A$110*
Las Vegas, USA
Travellers looking to live it up large needn’t look further than Las Vegas. The self-proclaimed entertainment capital is known for its mega casinos, spectacular shows and larger than life nightclubs, making it a party haven for globetrotters. Cool off from the desert heat at one of the infamous pool parties hosted by various hotels across the city. The Bellagio offers a luxurious poolside experience complete with cocktails, bottle service and a private cabana for the ultimate wind down.
After a day of dancing in the sun, unwind and revive your energy with a session at the Shio Salt Room at the Aria Resort and Casino, where calming music plays in the background while the salt therapy works wonders to clear the respiratory system and flush out party toxins.
Flights to Las Vegas from A$959** Stay at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino from A$102*
Budapest, Hungary
With its communist past, Budapest is an intriguing and history-rich destination, while its popular ‘ruin’ bars – located in derelict buildings – create a buzzing and unique underground clubbing scene.
Aside from being famous for its eclectic nightlife, Budapest is known as the ‘City of Spas’. With more than 15 public thermal baths to choose from, Aussie travellers seeking some R&R before the long flight home are spoilt for choice. Located in the heart of the city, the Szechenyi Thermal Bath is one of the largest in Europe – with three outdoor and 15 indoor pools there’s no problem finding space to relax after your hedonistic Hungarian experience.
Flights to Melbourne from A$961** Stay at Sofitel Budapest Chain Bridge from A$200*
Hamilton Island, Australia
Queensland’s Hamilton Island is just one of many stunning destinations in the Whitsundays renowned for its laidback beach culture. However, in August each year, it really comes alive when billionaires, socialites and sailors gather for one of the biggest events of the sailing calendar: the Hamilton Island Race Week. This is one huge party, and with good tunes, great outfits, fine food and a stellar location, it’s not hard to see why it’s a wonderful time to visit the sun-kissed island.
After a week of champagne, gourmet food and thrilling boat races, remedy your fatigue by checking into Hamilton’s acclaimed Qualia Spa for an indulgent Bularri Yarrul hot stone massage. Post massage, guests can experience the resort’s 6-star facilities and recline by one of the two infinity pools to take in breathtaking views of the Great Barrier Reef.
Flights to Hamilton Island from A$195** Stay at Beach Lodge from A$593*
*The hotel prices (including taxes and fees) are for stay in a double occupancy room, and were found on KAYAK.com.au on 6 July 2016 for travel in August 2016, for the respective hotels mentioned in the release with a minimum 3-star rating. Prices are subject to change and offers may no longer be available.
**The flight prices (including taxes and fees, excluding baggage fees) are for a one-way economy flight from Sydney, Australia, and were found on KAYAK.com.au on 6 July 2016 for travel in August 2016. Prices are subject to change and offers may no longer be available.
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