IT’S HARD TO DEFINE
editor@australiantraveller.com
what constitutes a bucket list-worthy destination or experience. The whole concept depends on a traveller’s individual interests, as well as how they travel and what they want to see and do. All too often these lists are crammed full of things that they will never get around to realising. And what’s the point of that? So, putting this issue together, with its bucket list theme, presented an interesting proposition. Instead of making assumptions about destinations needing to be far-flung or restrictively expensive, we approached it from a different point of view. The result is a collection of must-see-and-do destinations and experiences that are relatively easy to access, surprisingly affordable and, in many cases, right under your nose. From the Sunshine Coast’s retro holiday hotspot that’s rich for rediscovery (Everybody loves the sunshine, page 112) to Victoria’s ultimate short break destination that you have probably never got around to taking a short break in but absolutely should (Replenish, eat and repeat, page 122) to a breathtaking walk along Tasmania’s untamed coast that offers up views that would rival anything else seen in the world (Coastal climes, page 128) to a unique island idyll that is just under two hours’ flight time from Sydney (Paradise in the palms, page 86). We have hunted down authentic Australian experiences in the outback, journeyed to Broome to explore the heritage of its long-running festival of the pearl (Harvest moon, page 58) and checked out some of the chicest hotels around the country for under $250 per night (Cheap & chic, page 78). All in all, a bucket list that you can – and we hope will – work your way through in the coming months. And this issue is also your chance to tell us where you’ve been in the last 12 months as part of our annual People’s Choice Awards (page 38). We love to hear about your travel experiences, where you’ve been, what you’ve seen and where you are dreaming of next. And just by doing so you’ll be in the running to stay at the amazing Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley, another bucket list experience well within your reach. Enjoy!