(Image source: www.australiagoldenoutback.com) 

Good Deals for Road Trips

Road trips are top on the list of must-dos while in Oz. Cruising the country’s open roads is the best way to enjoy its spectacular scenery as you tick off the stops on your bucket list. To better manage your costs, do your research (which route you want to take, the attractions you want to visit and accommodation that matches your budget) before you embark on your trip. To get a good deal on a vehicle, check out RentalCars.com. The site connects you to major car rental companies and allows you to compare rates before making a booking. Did you know that you can also compare the fuel prices at service stations across Australia? There is an app for that called MotorMouth. It works on both iPhone and Android devices so go ahead and download it for the inside track on the best prices for petrol.

There are plenty of options for road trips but if you want to explore the Outback, winter is the perfect time to do so. You will not have to contend with all the mosquitoes and flies that come with the humidity of summer, nor will you have to worry about the monsoon season’s heavy rain and thunderstorms. Take the the 3,000 kilometre Explorer’s Way from Adelaide to Darwin, and be enthralled by the many exciting attractions and activities along the way. Stop by the Barossa Valley to sample premium wine as well as dine on fine local cuisine as you explore the many cellar doors (60 to be precise) and vine-lined chateaux. Stop by the opal capital of the world, Coober Pedy, where you can stay in underground accommodation just like the locals, go opal shopping or attempt noodling (fossicking) for opals at various working mines. Leave the next day for a leisurely nine-hour drive to Uluru. Winter is the perfect time to walk around this natural wonder and World Heritage-listed site. The stunning landscapes here will provide a fantastic backdrop for selfies and Instagram pics. Don’t forget to take in the amazing aboriginal rock artwork, some of which is about 20,000 years old.

Get Up Close to Australia’s Unique Wildlife

Australia is famous for its interesting variety of wildlife, much of which is unique to the country. Seeing these amazing creatures in their natural habitat is a thrilling experience – no prizes why this is on many people’s bucket list. One of the best places for your very own wildlife encounter is by traversing the North Gorge Walk on North Stradbroke Island in Queensland. A delightful coastal walk on its own, it will amaze you with the number of wildlife you can spot while on this trail, including kangaroos, echidnas and lace monitors. When you stop to take in the awe-inspiring ocean view, be blown away by the marvellous sight of frolicking dolphins, wave-surfing sea turtles and gliding manta rays in the clear waters below. In the winter months (June to November), migrating humpback whales also make an appearance – a majestic sight to behold. If you have always wanted to see a koala in the wild at close range, head over to Kennett River on the Great Ocean Road.

Ready…Set…Ski (or Embark on Other Fun Winter Sport Activities)

(Image source: Falls Creek Resort) 

Many of us in Asia dream of a white winter experience. Make this a reality in Australia by booking a trip to alpine retreats such as the one at the resort town of Falls Creek, Victoria –where the terrain is suitable for skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing and toboganning. Get your adrenaline pumping by skiing down the nearby peak of Mount McKay, the highest point in Australia accessible by road, or enjoy a workout by going cross-country skiing. Or get those snowshoes on and explore the scenic back country on foot. If you are a speed junkie, explore the wintery white landscape on a snowmobile or on a snow bike. There are free shuttle buses running through the town so you can easily get to the activity of your choice. There are also different types of accommodation to suit different budgets, including more affordable options such as dorm-style rooms, lodges and apartments.

Fun at Festivals – Without Burning a Hole in Your Pocket!

(Image source: McLaren Vale Sea & Vines Festival Facebook) 

Free festivals not only provide fun and entertainment that are light on your wallet, but are also a good way to get the pulse of a place you are visiting. Vivid Sydney, which kicks off at the tail end of May and runs all the way to mid -June, showcases the city at its best and liveliest with its stunning display of innovative lighting sculptures and art installations. The Winter Magic Festival in the city of Blue Mountains in New South Wales is another fun-filled event featuring art, music and culture. There is no entry fee but there may be a fee for some activities. Attendees are encouraged to dress in costume for the festival, which will be held on 24 June, 2017 in Katoomba.

Are you a die-hard foodie? Then don’t miss your chance to sample the latest Australian culinary delights and new refreshing beverages at the annual Good Food and Wine Show, which will be held in various cities across Australia including Melbourne (2-4 June), Sydney (23-25 June), Perth (14-16 July) and Brisbane (27-29 October). Enjoy free wine-tasting classes, sample gourmet treats during daily cooking demonstrations and learn how to whip up some of these very same dishes in your own kitchen. Or experience foodie heaven at the McLaren Vale Sea and Vines Festival in South Australia (this year’s event will from on 10-12 June). Held annually, it’s a chance to enjoy this region’s best wine, food, beaches, trails, markets and art, all while enjoying lots of fun activities for the whole family.