We all book holidays overseas to see great landmarks such as the Egyptian pyramids, the Eiffel Tower, the Grand Canyon and the historical Colosseums. While it’s something we should all experience, with the current state of the economy it’s crazy expensive to travel abroad – and why would we when we have such a stunning country to explore first?
In Australia, our landmarks are unlike anything you’ll see anywhere else in the world, plus there are some special spots that offer similar vibes to those international holiday locations on your wish list.
We’ve got eight local budget-friendly travel alternatives that you’ll love.
01
Swap Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer for The Ghan
Veer off the beaten track, safely and in stylish comfort, aboard The Ghan. Choose a 2- or 3-day all-inclusive journey and take in captivating landscapes as your train lilts through Australia’s mesmerising Red Centre – from Adelaide in the south to Darwin in the north.
02
Swap the beaches of the Greek Islands for Rottnest Island, WA
You’ll find breathtaking whitewashed shores and crystalline waters, just 19km off the coast of Perth. Rottnest Island offers snorkelling spots across 63 beaches, 20 secluded bays, myriad coral reefs and 13 shipwrecks. And you might even fall in love with a brown-eyed local – the cute quokka. Get there by ferry from Fremantle, where there’s a great choice of top-rated Airbnbs.
03
Swap France’s Champagne region for the Tamar Valley, TAS
It’s good to know you don’t have to travel 20-plus hours to quaff the good stuff. It turns out the latitude, climate and agricultural conditions of the Tamar Valley’s north-east corner mirror that of the prized French appellation. This Tassie wine region is home to Loira Vines, Cabbage Tree Hill Winery, Clover Hill and Jansz.
04
Swap Route 66 for the Great Ocean Road, VIC
If your ideal holiday looks more like a Thelma and Louise road trip, we promise that an epic drive down the heritage-listed Great Ocean Road will have a much happier ending. In fact, it’s sheer bliss from start to finish. Crowned the ‘most beautiful route in the world’, it stretches 243km from Torquay to Allansford, along the southeastern Victorian coast. Hire a car through Expedia and set up your portable dash cam for hundreds of Insta-worthy pics.
05
Swap the Amazon for the Daintree Rainforest, Far North QLD
On your next Cairns hiking adventure, hit up the heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest for an Amazonian-like experience – sans the jet lag. This 1200sqm living museum is more than 135 million years old, making it the oldest tropical rainforest in the world. Feel the ancient energy as you explore the many rare animals and plants not found anywhere else on this Earth. Virgin Australia flies direct to Cairns from most states.
06
Swap the Lake District, UK, for the Adelaide Hills, SA
Lie back and think of England – beguiling villages, lush landscapes with lakes, rolling farmland and cosy places to eat – and you’ll realise you can simply head for the Adelaide Hills. Here you can explore picture-perfect leafy hamlets, gastronomic pubs and artisan restaurants dishing up the region’s world-famous food and wine. There’s also an endless number of parks, forests, gardens and reserves to explore. Soak up the vibe and stay at a cosy Airbnb cottage.
07
Swap stargazing in Alaska for Warrumbungle, NSW
If spotting planets, constellations and the Milky Way is on your short-break bucket list, note down Warrumbungle National Park, about 500km northwest of Sydney. It has Australia’s only Dark Sky Park. With the clear night sky above the volcanic landscape and zero light pollution, expect a stargazing experience that’s out of this world. You can join a stargazing tour at Milroy Observatory – or set up camp overnight. Stay the night in this regional greenscape.
08
Swap Boston for Brisbane, QLD
Both places are small ‘walking’ cities, offering a blend of historical sites and modern attractions, beautiful riverfronts and lush parks. Plus, they boast the opportunity to do plenty of island hopping. But in downtown Brisbane, you won’t have to worry about a pitiful exchange rate. Shop at Queen Street Mall, eat alfresco and immerse yourself in architectural heritage. You’ll also find the thrill of adventure within the city’s walls. Kayak down the river or abseil down the Kangaroo Point cliffs. Alternatively, sail off to nearby Stradbroke Island, Moreton Island or Bribie Island. Choose from a wide range of affordable accommodation, too.
