Revel in awesome Oz!
AUSTRALIA is a land of adventure and surprises, of impossibly big skies, coral reefs, surf beaches and pristine rainforests.
Beyond the fun coastal cities, there’s the vast and magical Outback, where a red carpet through the desert leads somewhere special – the massive rock formation that is Uluru.
As the world’s largest island, Australia could swallow the countries of the EU whole. But its appeal goes way beyond its sheer size to something far more mysterious, ancient and alluring.
Whether you’re gazing in awe at ancient sculptures or snorkelling among turtles over reefs, this awesome country of contrasts is sure to engage you in ways you could never have envisaged.
Find the right tour
Given the wide horizons, it’s natural to wonder how you can do justice to Australia in one holiday.
That’s why it’s so important to find an escorted tour that ticks all the most important boxes, without breaking the bank.
You’ll want to see Sydney, of course, with its fabulous beaches, boutiques and bars, a city where a trip to the opera is every bit as magical as the performance.
Melbourne is all arts, alleyways and a stellar food scene.
Then there is laid-back Cairns, with its hearty hospitality and infectious holiday vibe. In the far west, easy-going Perth offers wonderful weather, beautiful beaches and myriad restaurants.
And deep in the Red Centre, Alice Springs is a key touchstone for understanding Aboriginal Australia, as well as everyday Outback life. Most famously, it is the gateway to Uluru and its changing colours – best witnessed at sunset with a glass of sparkling wine, and again at sunrise.
The perfect itinerary should show you other stupendous spectacles, too, such as the dazzling Great Barrier Reef, where you could view tropical fish and coral while snorkelling, riding in a semi-submersible or glass-bottom boat, or visiting an underwater observatory.
Look for an escorted tour that gives you five hours here.
Don’t miss out on a chance to immerse yourself in the rainforest, either, ideally by taking a cable car over the tree canopy and travelling back by scenic railway or by walking with a guide, before taking a cruise to spot saltwater crocodiles.
And opportunities for viewing kangaroos, koalas, penguins, dolphins, platypus and amazing birdlife should also abound on that perfect tour.
Value for money
The next consideration is whether the holiday you have in mind offers great value for money, without compromising on quality, leaving you more to spend on the ground.
Ensure that you’ll be flying with a reputable airline from a convenient airport and that hotels will be of a high standard, in good locations. Will breakfast and luggage porterage be included? Breakfast alone can save you hundreds of pounds.
And do check out the reputation of the company you plan to travel with. What are the reviews like and is it ATOL-protected?
There are numerous operators and it pays to search around.
Essential Australia
One option that ticks all the boxes in terms of itinerary and superb value is a new 19-day tour just released by Distant Journeys – Essential Australia. The experts at this specialist operator know Australia like the back of their hands – as recognised by the fact that Distant Journeys has been named Best Small Holiday Company to Australasia at the British Travel Awards two years running.
The impressive new Essential Australia itinerary explores the cities and diverse landscapes at a relaxed pace, building in plenty of time to do your own thing.
And, best of all, it offers incredible value for money.
With prices starting at £3,995 per person, including flights with Qantas and Emirates, great four-star hotels with full daily breakfast and many amazing experiences included, such as a cruise around Sydney Harbour and a full day on the Great Barrier Reef, it really is hard to beat Distant Journeys on value.
What’s more, Distant Journeys is offering those booking by November 30, 2018 a two-night homeward stopover in either Singapore or Dubai, for only £29 per person.
Prices from £3,995 per person, including scheduled flights, accommodation, daily breakfasts, a tour manager, hotel porterage and many wonderful experiences. Departures available from October 2019 to April 2020. Visit distantjourneys.co.uk or call free on 0808 271 5296.