If you think about travel to Australia, you may immediately picture backpacking students. Maybe you did this yourself on a gap year, or maybe one of your children did? Or you may associate travelling around Australia with hiring a giant motor home. These are just stereotypes. Not for you?
You may not necessarily think of Australia as a luxury destination, but I can assure you that a first-class experience is definitely possible Down Under.
So many of us in the UK have relatives living in Australia. Maybe they went out on a £10 ticket back in the 70’s or maybe they fell in love while touring round as a student and ending up marrying and staying. I know it is hard for relatives, especially grandparents when their families live so far away.
Lots of my more mature clients travel out to Australia every few years to visit family. Others may never have been and want to tick it off their list. It’s exciting, but a bit daunting travelling such a long way. How can it be made easier?
Firstly, let’s talk about getting there. Some of the best airlines fly there, such as Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Qatar and British Airways. All have superb business class services, which makes the journey so much more comfortable. Next best would be premium economy. However, if you are concerned about the negative effect of upgraded seats on the environment, flying economy on Emirates is definitely no hardship at all! Break your journey in Dubai and again in Singapore and stay in one of the superb airport hotels.
So, on to luxury experiences in Australia itself. How about taking one of the iconic trains, such as the Ghan? I have been privileged to step on board and it’s very opulent and a wonderful experience. Or you could take a private helicopter tour over the Barrier Reef and the rainforest, or over the Blue Mountains? You could sail around Sydney Harbour on a private yacht or explore the Barrier Reef aboard a private catamaran.
Australia is famous for its wines, and you can visit vineyards and sample some of their finest, paired with exquisite fine dining whilst staying in magnificent hotels like the boutique Cape Lodge at Margaret River. Or stay on one of the islands such as Lord Howe, home to the modern Capella Lodge or the Hamilton Island Reef View Hotel on Hamilton Island. For a truly unique experience, how about staying in a luxury, safari-style tent overlooking Uluru (formerly Ayers Rock)?
Finally, a mention about culture in Australia. Australia has wonderful theatres, art galleries, music venues, historical monuments, and iconic sporting venues. A cultural experience can be combined with a stay in one of the countless luxury hotels on offer. For example, stay in the Four Seasons or the Park Hyatt in Sydney, both with magnificent views of the Sydney Opera House. Or in Melbourne, the Langham Hotel is just a stroll away from the National Gallery of Victoria, The Australian Ballet and Hamer Hall.
If you are as concerned as we are about the environment, there are plenty of eco luxury options for tours and accommodation. Please ask me when you enquire.
Feeling inspired? Book your next escape now. Get in touch with Lizzi by emailing [email protected] to book your dream trip!
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