SECRETS TO GREAT HOLIDAYS WITH PETS
NOW IT’S EVEN EASIER TO TAKE YOUR FURRY FRIENDS WITH YOU NEW TRAVEL
Of course we want to take our pets on holidays with us, they’re part of the family. Around two in three Australian households own pets, so it’s no surprise that finally the travel industry is realising what we already know – our well-loved furry family members like holidays as much we do. Here’s some options that roll out the welcome mat for Fido or Fluffy over summer... HOME STAY With the rise of Stayz and Airbnb comes more options for places to stay with pets. Holiday rental website Stayz recently announced the finalists of its 2017 Holiday Rental Awards in the pet category. There was tough competition across all states, with properties offering secure and gated fences and interiors that are comfortable, but also open to slight wear and tear from furry companions. Our pick is Blue Island House in Culburra Beach, NSW. Not only is the beachside town pet-friendly, the house is spacious and tastefully designed. Visit stayz.com.au.
HOLIDAY PARK In the past, holiday parks around Australia were averse to accepting furry friends, but these days, many welcome pooches with open arms. Parks like Moonee Beach Holiday Park in Coffs Harbour, NSW, and Beachlands Holiday Park in Busselton, WA are allowing pets inside cabins. At Moonee there’s a Doggy Cafe nearby and at Beachlands you can head to one of the dog-friendly beaches. Check out big4.com.au/caravanparks/pet-friendly and northcoastholidayparks.com.au.
CITY ESCAPE
Fancy a city stay with your beloved pooch? There are many options available. When you want the very best views, head to Pier One Sydney Harbour, where your dog will be treated like royalty. Think designer bowls and dog minibar. At Mercure Canberra, take advantage of a Pampered Pet package, which includes access to an enclosed garden and a surprise pet gift. See mercurecanberra.com.au and pieronesydneyharbour.com.au. WALK AMONG THE VINES Fancy a jaunt to the wine regions, but keen to take your furry friend as your escort? Try Yarra Valley in Victoria or the Swan Valley in WA. The Novotel Vines Resort outside Perth lets pets stay. Here you can base yourself to visit the many wineries and breweries nearby, plus there’s a golf course on site. In the Yarra, head directly to Chum Creek Hut, a 136-acre horse property, allows dogs inside the huts. When not touring the cellar doors, go yabby catching or walk the dog. Visit chumcreek.net.au.