Escape Magazine: Australia Edition

Australia Edition 2024

NEW SOUTH WALES + QUEENSLAND + SOUTH AUSTRALIA NORTHERN TERRITORY + VICTORIA + TASMANIA + WESTERN AUSTRALIA

SYDNEY? ICONIC. PAGE 8

CONTENTS

06

NEW SOUTH WALES. NO PROBLEM.

ALL WOW. NO WORRIES. PAGE 12

QUEENSLAND’S CALLING 14

19

STOPOVERS. WHAT’S STOPPING YOU?

SUNSHINE. ALL DAY LONG. PAGE 16

OCEAN TO OUTBACK 20

NEXT STOP, MELBOURNE AND VICTORIA 28 EXPLORE AND SEE MORE 27

GOLD & SILVER AT THE BRITISH TRAVEL AWARDS

WINTJIRI WIRU PAGE 26

TASMANIA TRIP? NO TROUBLE. 30 WESTERN AUSTRALIA? WOW. 32

© Travelbag 2024. The opinions in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of Travelbag. All reasonable attempts have been made to clear copyright before publication. All prices are ‘from’ prices and correct at time of print. Pricing, availability and special offers are subject to change and are according to terms and conditions. For full terms and conditions visit travelbag.co.uk/booking-conditions. Prices shown are per person and based on two adults sharing unless otherwise specified. Booking conditions of Travelbag Ltd apply. The term ‘Exclusive Offer’ relates to any offer that is exclusive to dnata.

Based on over 7,000 reviews

QANTAS EXPLORER PAGE 36

OUT THERE MADE EASY 3

Home to stunning natural beauty, unique wildlife, and a rich cultural heritage, Australia is an adventure for all. From the iconic Sydney Opera House to the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef, this country is renowned for its awe-inspiring landmarks and expansive wilderness. Given its size and location, it can be hard to know where to begin, so let us take you on a journey around each state to explore what awaits you there. Get ready to head to the Land Down Under. OUT THERE. THE DEFINITION OF

Kakadu National Park

Great Barrier Reef

Hamilton Island

NORTHERN TERRITORY

QUEENSLAND

Uluru

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Ningaloo Reef

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Flinders Ranges

NEW SOUTH WALES

Taronga Zoo

Rottnest Island

Lucky Bay

Credit: Destination NSW

Kangaroo Island

VICTORIA

Sydney Opera House

To book any of these offers, call our Travel Specialists on 0204 586 3517. NEED AN ESCAPE? BOOK A HOLIDAY TO AUSTRALIA.

TASMANIA

Freycinet National Park

NEW SOUTH WALES

NEW SOUTH WALES

NEW SOUTH WALES? NO PROBLEM.

SHOWSTOPPING NSW Home to many exciting events, Vivid Sydney is a must-see from 24 th May to 15 th June 2024. A festival celebrating art, music, ideas, and food, it features mesmerising art displays and light projections that illuminate Sydney’s famous landmarks. A highlight is the eight-kilometre Light Walk , which runs from Circular Quay to Central Station. En route, you’ll discover many installations and sculptures.

New South Wales is often the first port of call for many on their trip Down Under. Home to iconic Sydney, there’s much more to discover in this mesmerising state - from its natural wonders to its iconic landmarks. Climb in the Blue Mountains and glide to the Three Sisters Rock formation on the Scenic Skyway cable car ride, walk trails among hillside forests, or survey the heavens on a wine-tasting stargazing experience.

Credit: Destination NSW

Choose sun-soaked New South Wales for the festive holidays and tick ‘ Christmas on the beach’ off your bucket list. Then, take a road trip through the UNESCO listed Blue Mountains and sample the finest wines in Australia’s oldest wine region, the Hunter Valley . It’ll be a Christmas to remember. To end, ring in your New Year with Sydney’s spectacular fireworks.

BLUE MOUNTAINS

Credit: Destination NSW

BOOK IT FROM £4,439

10 nights CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR Includes flights, accommodation and 5 days car hire

Credit: Destination NSW

Speaking of wine, sample small-batch Sémillon and farm-to-fork food in the Hunter Valley , or stay and wake early to soar over the vines on a sunrise balloon ride. South of Sydney, Jervis Bay is a beautiful launch for dolphin and whale cruises from May to November. For a unique escape, go glamping in the beachside bush at the peaceful Paperbark Camp . There’s plenty here to discover.

Credit: Destination NSW

JERVIS BAY

6 CALL 0204 586 3517 | VISIT YOUR LOCAL TRAVELBAG SHOP | VISIT TRAVELBAG.CO.UK

HUNTER VALLEY

Credit: Destination NSW SYDNEY HARBOUR AND CIRCULAR QUAY

BRIDGECLIMB

Dive into familiar scenes as soon as you arrive by taking a classic Captain Cook Cocktail and Dinner Cruise from Darling Harbour or Circular Quay, SYDNEY? ICONIC.

Get to know Sydney’s oldest neighbourhood on a stroll around The Rocks. Wander cobbled streets between boutique restaurants and 19th-century pubs, or discover the darker side of the city’s past on a ghost tour after sunset. There’s no other way to say it - Sydney is iconic.

Island , a natural paradise in the open ocean. Meet koalas and penguins on the cliffside at Taronga Zoo , stay the night within the stylish Wildlife Retreat or join an overnight safari overlooking the city with a Roar and Snore stay in a luxury tent. Looking for a little peace? The Royal Botanic Garden is an oasis between glimmering skyscrapers and historic wharfs; join a guided tour or stroll between the plant species at your leisure. The lawns and fountains of Hyde Park also make the perfect spot for a picnic beside the museums.

around the Sydney Opera House and under the Sydney Harbour Bridge . If you have a head for heights, experience unbeatable views of the harbour and beyond during a BridgeClimb . Choose a day, sunset, or night experience, or hear tales from a time before on a Burrawa Climb guided by a First Nations Storyteller. Learn to surf on Bondi Beach , grab coffee and cake at a shoreline café, and watch the world paddle by. Explore the coast and get away from the crowds in secluded sandy coves, or hop on a flight to Lord Howe

SCAN TO KNOW MORE

8

9

CALL 0204 586 3517 | VISIT YOUR LOCAL TRAVELBAG SHOP | VISIT TRAVELBAG.CO.UK

OUT THERE MADE EASY

SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

Choose the popular Tour & Dine package, and you’ll walk through and see the Sydney Opera House up close before enjoying lunch in either the House Canteen or the Opera Bar. Those looking to go behind the scenes will love the early morning Backstage Tour , where you’ll see the rehearsal spaces and venture into the orchestra pit before tucking into breakfast in the Green Room , normally used exclusively by Opera House performers.

A standing ovation - please - for the city’s and arguably Australia’s favourite building , the Sydney Opera House. No trip to Sydney would be complete without a tour of this iconic landmark. The striking exterior is only half the story; to capture the buzz, learn about the controversial history , and see how unforgettable performances come to life, you must go inside.

SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE? GET SUSSED.

SCAN TO DISCOVER MORE THINGS TO DO IN NEW SOUTH WALES

Photographer Credit: Hamilton Lund

OUT THERE MADE EASY 11

Fly high with Qantas

INSPIRATIONAL ITINERARY

AUSTRALIA’S ICONS Explore three of Australia’s icons on this two-week trip of a lifetime . Spend four nights at the stunning Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, with the famous harbour on your doorstep, and you’ll be within walking distance of the historic The Rocks district and premium Central Business District shopping malls. Bask in the spectacular views of the Sydney Opera House from a new perspective as you scale the Sydney Harbour Bridge with BridgeClimb . Next, witness the spectacular Field of Light in Australia’s Red Centre. With 50,000 lights, this awe-inspiring installation covers more than seven football fields. Finally, head

to Hamilton Island , one of the Whitsunday Islands, and sleep under the stars aboard Reefsleep , a sleepout experience on the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy a luxurious stay with exceptional service at the Four Seasons Hotel Sydney Enjoy 360-degree views across the city from the Sydney Harbour Bridge Discover three of Australia’s most iconic destinations on this trip of a lifetime

BOOK IT FROM £4,899

14 nights

Includes flights, accommodation and touring

As Australia’s national carrier, Qantas’s success is due to its outstanding onboard service, a network of international destinations, and a huge selection of flights within Australia, which help make this incredible country even easier to explore.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL SYDNEY

REEFSLEEP

Economy

Premium Economy

Business

BRIDGECLIMB

When you travel in Economy, you’ll enjoy delicious food paired with Australian wines, plus a self-service snack bar for round-the-clock refreshments.

Upgrade to Premium Economy and enjoy an intimate cabin with more wiggle room, innovative cradle footrest, priority boarding, and a glass of bubbles before take-off.

Qantas Business Class Suites are an experience that everyone deserves at least once in their life. Relax in Qantas pyjamas in your fully flat bed with a mattress and duvet.

From take-off to touch-down, you’re guaranteed an unparalleled travel experience.

OUT THERE MADE EASY 13

QUEENSLAND

QUEENSLAND

QUEENSLAND’S CALLING

For an unmistakably Queensland experience, go north to Cairns and beyond. In Australia’s northeastern state, you’re never far from the reef, and Port Douglas is the most charming resort from which to access this classic Quicksilver cruise or experience a luxurious sailing adventure on a premium yacht. natural wonder. Enjoy a day trip diving on a

A sprawling blend of wetlands, rainforests, Outback, and, of course, stunning coastline, Queensland is also home to five World Heritage Sites , including one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World – the incredible Great Barrier Reef . Running over 1,400 miles, over 900 islands keep the reef company. Lady Elliot Island offers the ultimate natural sanctuary, with white beaches surrounding rainforest trails and water teeming with rays and turtles. Or choose luxury in the lagoon at InterContinental Hayman Island , an all-inclusive escape at the edge of the beautiful Whitsundays .

FOUR MILE BEACH, PORT DOUGLAS

Daintree National Park is North Queensland’s emerald gem. Keep your eyes peeled for distinctive creatures - like the famous cassowary - in the oldest rainforest on Earth, or wander the trails among its 18,000 plant species. Glide over the canopy on the Kuranda Skyrail and wind around the mountains on the Scenic Railway . Why just visit when you can stay? Daintree Ecolodge is a boutique property among the trees in the heart of this mesmerising wilderness.

HEART REEF, THE WHITSUNDAYS

KURANDA SKYRAIL

Just 10 miles off Queensland’s south coast is the largest sand island in the world, K’gari . This World Heritage Listed Area has a seemingly endless 75-mile-long beach, picturesque hiking routes and freshwater lakes and creeks, so there’s plenty here to love. A photographer’s delight , you’ll spot lots of wildlife across land and sea, from dingoes and kangaroos to whales and turtles. If you’re looking for a thrill, you’ll enjoy bouncing over dunes in a 4x4 - the only type of vehicle allowed on this road-free island.

K’GARI ISLAND

14 CALL 0204 586 3517 | VISIT YOUR LOCAL TRAVELBAG SHOP | VISIT TRAVELBAG.CO.UK

SCENIC RAILWAY

QUEENSLAND

INSPIRATIONAL ITINERARY

QUEENSLAND OCEAN AND RAINFOREST EXPERIENCE Experience Queensland’s natural Reefsleep – a unique sleep-out experience on the spectacular Great Barrier Reef.

wonders as you journey through cities, islands, and rainforests on our Ocean and Rainforest Experience holiday. You’ll begin your adventure in Port Douglas , a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, before heading inland to the heart of the Daintree Rainforest , where you’ll become one with nature and rejuvenate at the Daintree Ecolodge. Make tracks for the state capital, Brisbane , and enjoy the hustle and bustle before flying to Hamilton Island, where you can recline in sandy bliss. On this 14-day Queensland adventure, you’ll even spend a night aboard

Relax and rejuvenate in the heart of the rainforest Explore the trendy food markets of Brisbane Enjoy the endless sandy beaches of Hamilton Island

NOOSA EVERGLADES

SUNSHINE. ALL DAY LONG. Queensland, Australia’s Sunshine State, is home to many standout destinations. The Sunshine Coast , just over an hour’s drive from Brisbane, is one of its most popular spots, with sweeping beaches

BOOK IT FROM £3,419

13 nights Includes flights, accommodation and touring

DAINTREE RAINFOREST

DAINTREE ECOLODGE

and endless sunshine. Head further north, and you’ll find Noosa , home to one of only two Everglades in the world. These waterways are ideal for canoeing, swimming, or kayaking.

NOOSA

BRISBANE

This corner of Australia is also home to the Gold Coast , with theme parks, shopping, rainforests, and beaches aplenty. A bit further north, you’ll find North Stradbroke Island, or Straddie as it’s locally known. The world’s second largest sand island , here, you can live like a local as you spot whales from lookouts and stroll along beaches.

GOLD COAST

16 CALL 0204 586 3517 | VISIT YOUR LOCAL TRAVELBAG SHOP | VISIT TRAVELBAG.CO.UK

QUEENSLAND

ALL WOW. NO WORRIES. Hamilton Island is the largest inhabited island in the Whitsundays and is one of Australia’s most desirable destinations. Popular Catseye Beach is a long, sandy stretch perfect for relaxing or watersport excursions like jet-skiing, parasailing, or swimming with turtles. Escape Beach to the south is worth the journey for If you’re looking for something different, enjoy breakfast with koalas at Hamilton Island Wildlife, hire a golf buggy, pack a picnic, go island exploring, or take it up a notch and book an all-day ATV guided tour. There’s a

BANGKOK

SINGAPORE

ABU DHABI

hotel for every style and budget with a selection of accommodations ranging from cute Palm Bungalows to beautiful suites at Reef View Hotel and the luxurious Qualia Resort.

panoramic reef views and brilliant sunsets. On a day trip from Hamilton, set sail for one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, Whitehaven Beach , where the dazzling sand is 98% silica.

HONG KONG

LOS ANGELES

DUBAI

WHITEHAVEN BEACH

REEF VIEW HOTEL

Fancy ticking another country off your list? We’ve got you covered. Stopping off for a few nights on your way to and from Australia is the perfect way to break up the long flight and explore somewhere new. Each airline offers different places to stop, so you can tailor your flights to suit you. Experience the cities and culture of Asia with a stopover in Bangkok, Singapore, or Hong Kong. Soak up the sun in the Middle East on the beaches of Dubai or Abu Dhabi. If you fancy heading west, spend a few days exploring the sights in Hollywood or stop off in the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver before heading Down Under. STOPOVERS. WHAT’S STOPPING YOU?

Call our Travel Specialists on 0204 586 3517 today to discuss your stopover options.

OUT THERE MADE EASY 19

SOUTH AUSTRALIA & NORTHERN TERRITORY

SOUTH AUSTRALIA & NORTHERN TERRITORY

OCEAN TO OUTBACK

South Australia is known for its diverse landscapes - from rugged Outback to sweeping coastlines - abundant native wildlife and world-class wines. Vibrant Adelaide , the state capital, has a thriving arts scene and top-notch dining. And you can’t talk about this state without mentioning Adelaide’s wine regions, like Barossa and the Adelaide Hills , which overflow with exceptional wine. Barossa, for example, is a renowned wine region with over 80 cellar doors where you can taste some of the most celebrated wines in Australia and the world.

Stretching across Australia’s backbone, the Northern Territory and South Australia serve up some of the nation’s most famous sites . Australia’s Northern Territory is vast (six times bigger than the UK) and sparsely populated. Of all the options in Australia, a holiday to the Northern Territory gives you fantastic access to Aboriginal culture . You can discover Aboriginal rock art, galleries, traditional music and storytelling. Even bush tucker is showcased throughout the region.

ADELAIDE HILLS

Step into South Australia’s spectacular outdoors, take a road trip to the Flinders Ranges , an easy five hour drive from Adelaide or visit the wildlife paradise of Kangaroo Island , just a short 30-minute flight away. Whatever type of trip you’re looking for, South Australia and the Northern Territory offer two distinct regions, and both call to be explored.

MINDIL BEACH SUNSET MARKET

Its iconic landmark and Australia’s cultural heart, Uluru , rises majestically from the red desert landscape, drawing visitors from around the world. The Territory is also home to breathtaking Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks , rich in nature and wildlife, dramatic escarpments, and diverse ecosystems. Relaxed Darwin , the Territory’s capital, is a multicultural hub offering visitors a gateway to the surrounding landscapes. The region is also home to the world famous Ghan railway , making it the perfect starting point for your Aussie adventure through this central belt.

KANGAROO ISLAND

Fly with Singapore Airlines, the world’s most awarded airline. Choose from four daily flights from London Heathrow or five weekly flights from London Gatwick or Manchester Airport to Singapore, and seamlessly connect to either Darwin or Adelaide. Enjoy world-class service and delight in delicious dishes created by an International Culinary Panel of global chefs and paired perfectly with wines carefully chosen at altitude by wine experts. A world-class experience awaits on board.

NORTHERN TERRITORY

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

ULURU

20 CALL 0204 586 3517 | VISIT YOUR LOCAL TRAVELBAG SHOP | VISIT TRAVELBAG.CO.UK

FLINDERS RANGES

BAMARRU PLAINS

Exploring South Australia? The best place to start is Adelaide . Wander between landmarks on North Terrace, tour the sporting temple of the Adelaide Oval, and shop like a local at G’DAY SOUTH AUSTRALIA

THE NORTHERN TERRITORY AWAITS

refreshing waterholes and waterfalls and hiking through the monsoonal rainforest. Also not far from Darwin are the diverse habitats of lush Kakadu National Park . For the ultimate in Outback luxury, why not stay at Bamarru Plains ? An all-inclusive safari camp on the edge of Kakadu with plenty of opportunities to escape into nature. And down in the Red Centre, you’ll find the ever-changing shades of Uluru on a sunrise tour or at sunset while enjoying an evening meal under the Outback sky overlooking the Field of Light art installation.

the 150-year-old Central Market . And be sure to bring an appetite, as the food scene is… *chef’s kiss*. Outside the city centre, wonders await. Hit the beach at Glenelg, where you can swim with wild dolphins or encounter native Aussie wildlife on Kangaroo Island, including koalas, echidnas, rare Australian sea lions and, of course, kangaroos. Dig deeper into South Australia among the underground houses and opal mines of Coober Pedy , or stay in a luxury eco villa at Rawnsley Park Station in the magnificent Flinders Ranges .

If you’re ready to uncover otherworldly landscapes, Australia’s ‘Top End’ shouldn’t be overlooked. A short hop from Darwin is Litchfield National Park , where you can spend a day swimming in

22

OUT THERE MADE EASY 23

CALL 0204 586 3517 | VISIT YOUR LOCAL TRAVELBAG SHOP | VISIT TRAVELBAG.CO.UK

INSPIRATIONAL ITINERARY

OCEAN TO OUTBACK MADE EASY Explore the vibrant markets, beautiful beaches and delicious food in Adelaide before spending two nights on Kangaroo

Visit Nitmiluk Gorge , learn about ancient rock art and look out for the Territory’s most ancient inhabitants, freshwater & saltwater crocodiles. Discover the outstanding wildlife and scenery of Kangaroo Island Embark on the luxurious Ghan rail journey from Darwin to Adelaide Admire the rock art, escarpments and billabongs of Kakadu National Park

Island , where you’ll spot local wildlife and take some snaps at the Remarkable Rocks. Departing Adelaide on board the iconic Ghan railway , you will experience exquisite dining, local wines and epic scenery. Travel north through the middle of Australia to the Red Centre’s Outback town of Alice Springs before stopping at Katherine and ending in Darwin . This small but vibrant city is packed with character, and with Kakadu National Park only three hours away, we have included a night in the Outback itself.

RED CENTRE Spectacular

BOOK IT FROM £3,639

10 nights

Includes Singapore Airlines flights, accommodation, car hire and journey on The Ghan

KANGAROO ISLAND

ADELAIDE MARKET

202 5 ON SALE NOW

The Ghan Expedition Darwin to Adelaide Settle into The Ghan’s gentle rhythm as you travel through the heart of Australia. From exploring Kings Canyon to taking your place beside spiritual Uluru and Kata Tjuta, you’ll understand why people travel great distances to see these remarkable landscapes and icons. Inclusions • 3 nights aboard The Ghan Expedition from Darwin to Adelaide, including all meals, beverages, and Off Train Experiences • 2 nights Alice Springs accommodation, including breakfast • 5 nights of Red Centre small-group touring with Outback Spirit, including accommodation, meals and guided touring

DARWIN

KATHERINE

THE GHAN EXPEDITION 1

KATA TJUTA 2 KINGS CANYON ULURU

ALICE SPRINGS

3

2

THE GHAN EXPEDITION 2

MANGURI

COOBER PEDY

ADELAIDE

NO. OF NIGHTS STAY OFF TRAIN EXPERIENCE OUTBACK SPIRIT TOURING TRAIN JOURNEY

SOUTH AUSTRALIA & NORTHERN TERRITORY

EXPLORE AND SEE MORE If you have the time and want to make the most of your trip, add another week to your Down Under adventure and discover other destinations. Here are our recommendations.

WINTJIRI WIRU

New Zealand

The Land of the Long White Cloud has it all, offering cultural experiences, luxury stays, foodie delights, incredible wildlife, and the warmest hospitality. So, what are you waiting for?

Book the upgraded sunset dinner package , and you’ll enjoy a gourmet hamper celebrating native ingredients while you watch the sunset and the night sky come alive. This once-in a-lifetime experience includes pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, arrival cocktails, a dinner hamper with Australian wine, and the show.

A sunset picnic in the most incredible location! This breathtaking sound and light show uses ground-breaking technology to bring to life the ancient Mala story of the Anangu people. Set in an open-air desert theatre with incredible views of Uluru and Kata Tjuta, once darkness falls, the choreographed drones, lasers, and projections illuminate the night sky.

Fiji

Holidays to Fiji conjure images of lush , mountainous islands with pristine white beaches, all surrounded by seemingly endless turquoise waters. And that’s exactly what you’ll find.

Bali

With rice fields, volcanoes and plenty of picturesque beaches, this idyllic Indonesian island teems with beauty spots. Bali holidays are unforgettable, combining a tropical backdrop with an easy going charm.

As custodians of the land, Anangu hold the Mala story from Kaltukatjara to Uluru. To share their story from Kaltukatjara to Uluru, RAMUS designed and produced an artistic platform using drones, light and sound to create an immersive storytelling experience.

26

27

CALL 0204 586 3517 | VISIT YOUR LOCAL TRAVELBAG SHOP | VISIT TRAVELBAG.CO.UK

OUT THERE MADE EASY

VICTORIA

VICTORIA

MELBOURNE AND VICTORIA NEXT STOP,

Join a voyage into the past along the majestic Murray River aboard the PS Emmylou paddle steamer. Dine as you drift from historic Echuca to Moama or step ashore into the twin-town testament to Victoria’s river trade, now reinvented as a playground of eateries, bars, and venues. Times have changed, but the sunset is as spectacular as ever .

PADDLE STEAMER

Or, why not do it all and discover Victoria in fuss-free comfort on a 14-day Melbourne and beyond motorhome tour ?

A patchwork of glass skyscrapers and colonial buildings, Melbourne is a warren of laneways with coffee shops, bars, and vibrant street art. Amble along riverside esplanades to the iconic sporting arenas of Australia’s most cosmopolitan city. Catch the tram to the beach, bookshops, and cake-filled cafés of St Kilda , where locals stretch on the sand and penguins play along harbour walls. Stay in the city as long as you choose, then hit the road for unique experiences in regional Victoria.

MELBOURNE AND BEYOND MOTORHOME TOUR

SCAN TO BOOK IT FROM £2,299

13 nights

Includes flights, accommodation, transfers and 12 days motorhome hire

BRITZ MOTORHOME

MELBOURNE

Travel east to see the adorable penguin parade at sunset on Phillip Island . Drive west for an oceanside selfie at the Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most scenic routes. Head into the Yarra Valley , one of Victoria’s best-loved wine regions, for a tour of the local cellar doors, gin distilleries, and farmland restaurants among the lush green forests of the Dandenong Ranges. Ride the Puffing Billy steam train over preserved wooden bridges on a rail journey like no other before disembarking to explore wilderness trails by bike.

TWELVE APOSTLES

28 CALL 0204 586 3517 | VISIT YOUR LOCAL TRAVELBAG SHOP | VISIT TRAVELBAG.CO.UK

YARRA VALLEY

TASMANIA

Fly direct to Australia?

TASMANIA TRIP?NO TROUBLE. A natural wonderland, Tasmania offers spectacular scenery, boutique accommodation and a host of local wildlife.

Only with Qantas

ESCORTED TOUR

TASMANIAN WONDERS

captivating adventure into the wilderness. It is a state not to be missed.

Our 10-day Tasmanian Wonders escorted tour is an excellent introduction to Australia’s only island state. You’ll get a real insight into the rich convict history and witness the spectacular and diverse landscape in person. Travel to unforgettable locations that will create lasting memories, including a stop at Port Arthur and a visit to the beautiful Russell Falls. Discover Australia’s deepest lake - Lake St Clair - and the famous Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park. Tasmania is a remarkable destination offering a unique and

Enjoy spectacular views of Cradle Mountain

Looking for the quickest way to Australia? Look no further! Travel the 14,500 kilometres between London Heathrow and Perth in one flight. Easy.

Experience the quaint village of Richmond Admire astonishing views across Freycinet National Park

BOOK IT FROM £3,999

9 nights

Includes flights, accommodation and touring

LAKE ST CLAIR

TASMANIAN DEVIL

BUSINESS

The Qantas Dreamliner is fitted with state-of-the-art technology to reduce turbulence, improve noise quality, and reduce aircraft vibrations for a smoother flight.

You’ll feel at home in the sky with roomier Economy, revolutionary new Premium Economy, and class-setting Business Class Suites. With only 236 seats - less than most other aircraft of its type - comfort and space are at the centre of the plane’s design.

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? Call our Travel Specialists on 0204 586 3517 to find out more today.

OUT THERE MADE EASY 31

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

WESTERN AUSTRALIA. WOW. The size of Western Europe and home to year-round sunshine , you can easily spend weeks exploring Western Australia’s otherworldly landscapes, vineyards and beach-side Perth. Here are a few of our top spots.

Western Australia is one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks - an experience of a lifetime. Stretching along Western Australia’s coastline, Ningaloo Reef - a UNESCO World Heritage Listed Site - is where these remarkable creatures gather each year from March to July. The turquoise waters of Ningaloo Reef are also a great place to see manta rays, turtles, and humpback whales during their migration.

NINGALOO REEF

An easy three-hour drive south of Perth is Margaret River, with its beguiling forests, vineyards and beaches. Popular with nature lovers and foodies, this verdant region is well-known for its wine, and no holiday would be complete without a glass. Margaret River is also synonymous with surfing. Renowned for its powerful surf and incredible coastline, the world’s best gather every year to compete in the Margaret River Pro competition. Held at Surfers Point , land lovers can watch the action live for free.

Just off the coast of Perth, Rottnest Island is a car-free nature reserve with beautiful bays and underwater snorkel trails. But it’s the friendly locals it is most famed for, particularly the quokkas, mini marsupials with giant grins found only in Western Australia. Step into Western Australia and discover where reality and the otherworldly combine.

ROTTNEST ISLAND

MARGARET RIVER VINEYARDS

Cape Le Grand National Park and its famous Lucky Bay , near Esperance, are picture-perfect. Sunbathe with wild kangaroos on Australia’s whitest sands and enjoy swimming and snorkelling in the aquamarine waters. In 10 days, you can combine Margaret River and the Southern Forests with untouched Esperance on one epic road trip.

LUCKY BAY

32 CALL 0204 586 3517 | VISIT YOUR LOCAL TRAVELBAG SHOP | VISIT TRAVELBAG.CO.UK

CAPE LE GRAND NATIONAL PARK

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

NINGALOO REEF

INSPIRATIONAL ITINERARY

WESTERN AUSTRALIA GLAMPING AND WILDLIFE SAFARI Enjoy abundant wildlife on our tailor made 12-day Western Australia Glamping and Wildlife Safari trip. Starting in Perth and ending in South Australia’s wildlife haven, Kangaroo Island, you’ll escape to Rottnest Island, camp in style overlooking the Ningaloo Reef, and stop off in one of South Australia’s world-renowned wine regions.

ROTTNEST ISLAND

NINGALOO REEF

WESTERN AUSTRALIA? WHENEVER YOU’RE READY. Western Australia brims with wonders. In this dream state, it’s always summer somewhere. If you want to get behind the wheel, a camper or self-drive works

BOOK IT FROM £4,029

11 nights

Includes flights, accommodation and 4 days car hire and ferries

perfectly on picturesque road trip routes. Go north of Perth to the Coral Coast and Kimberley region between April and October to explore majestic natural landscapes, epic four-wheel-drive adventures , and breathtaking Outback gorges. From September to March, hit the open road and drive south to visit lush wine regions, spectacular beaches and hike the extraordinary Cape-to-Cape track .

THE KIMBERLEY

INSPIRATIONAL ITINERARY

ESSENCE OF THE KIMBERLEY

PERTH

With fire-red landscapes, lush flora, and secluded gorges, experience all that Western Australia’s wilderness frontier has to offer on our small-group nine-day Essence of the Kimberley adventure tour. Immerse yourself in the area’s rich Aboriginal history and culture and witness some of Australia’s most spectacular scenery.

A trip to Western Australia would be incomplete without a visit to the Kimberley region . This wilderness frontier, spread over Australia’s northwestern corner, is ready to capture your imagination with its ancient landscapes and endless beaches, all carved by time. Here, you’ll find more than just natural beauty. The Kimberley region is a living testament to history, with dinosaur footprints, a rich pearling history, captivating rock art, and thundering waterfalls. In this state of incredible diversity, doing a tour is one of the best ways to get the most out of your time.

CATHEDRAL GORGE

BOOK IT FROM £6,049

8 nights

Includes flights, accommodation and touring

ROEBUCK BAY

34 CALL 0204 586 3517 | VISIT YOUR LOCAL TRAVELBAG SHOP | VISIT TRAVELBAG.CO.UK

QANTAS EXPLORER

DARWIN

CAIRNS

HAMILTON ISLAND

Why choose between your dream destinations when you can see them all and save money at the same time? Simply fly Qantas from the UK and take advantage of the Qantas Explorer fares, allowing you to hop your way around this amazing country. In addition to saving money, you’ll also receive free baggage allowance, seat selection, and much more. So, if you’re planning an Aussie adventure starting in Sydney, heading to the Great Barrier Reef, and finishing up in Uluru, then the Qantas Explorer fare is just the ticket.*

ULURU

EXMOUTH

FRASER COAST

COFFS HARBOUR

PERTH

ADELAIDE

SYDNEY

KANGAROO ISLAND

HOBART

*The above represents just a selection of the 65 destinations across Australia and New Zealand included in Qantas Explorer.

Want to do everything we’ve highlighted in one epic trip? Our six-week Australia adventure has you covered.

INSPIRATIONAL ITINERARY

ULTIMATE AUSTRALIA Spend six weeks exploring the Land Down Under on this incredible Australia holiday. Travel from coast to coast , ocean to Outback, and beyond, ticking off all the best experiences as you go. Travelling by plane, train, car, and motorhome this holiday will immerse you in everything Australia offers. Start in Sydney before heading to Queensland. Travel by campervan and make your way up the coast before jumping on a flight west to Darwin. Join the luxurious Ghan train as it whisks you through the heart of Australia’s Red Centre and on to the laid-back coastal city of Adelaide. You’ll then pick up a

car and drive the Great Ocean Road to Melbourne before flying to Tasmania , where an escorted tour will ensure you truly experience this island state. Finally, journey west to Perth , where you’ll collect your car and explore the southwest coast. Explore the exciting cities of Sydney , Melbourne , Adelaide and Perth Join the iconic Ghan train from Darwin to Adelaide, traversing the country in style and comfort Self-drive the iconic Great Ocean Road with the freedom to explore at your own pace

RED CENTRE

BOOK IT FROM £10,599

43 nights

Includes flights, accommodation, touring, 8 day campervan hire , 10 day car hire and journey on The Ghan

GREAT OCEAN ROAD

SCAN FOR MORE AUSTRALIA HOLIDAY OFFERS

THE GHAN