There is no place like Australia; that’s a fact. The sixth largest country on our planet, it is also one of the most bio diverse: with the majority of its wildlife unique to Australia, this vast medley of irreplaceable landscapes and multi-cultural cities truly makes this land one on its own. With Australia Day on the horizon, we thought we’d give you a few tips on how to enjoy what’s on offer in this great southern land in 2015.
Make that long awaited trip to Oz
There are countless reasons why you should book a trip in 2015 – remember if you’re sitting in the world’s northern hemisphere, possibly shivering, Australia’s southern summers are right now. From embracing the outdoor culture by snorkelling among a luminous bed of coral reef, through to rainforest adventuring, road tripping into the wide, brown and burnt beyond, or delving into ancient Aboriginal culture, arts and alleyways in cities like Melbourne, the land down under will continue to come out on top as a life changing trip.
A few reasons to plan your trip, now…
Melbourne Central YHA has just re-opened!
Our lovely heritage building hostel in the heart of Melbourne’s vibrant CBD has been spruced up, with its doors opened again this month. Now you can enjoy panoramic city views from the rooftop, a travel and tours desk, spacious kitchen and dining areas, and a brand new retro bar/café with a modern twist.
World class, wacky gelato popping up everywhere
Now with four stores in Sydney and one in Melbourne, Gelato Messina are the kings of inventive flavours, with six new combinations introduced each week to go alongside their classics such as salted caramel and poached fig. It’s been voted the best in the world, and seriously, it’s enough to make a grown man or woman cry with happiness.
A future of festivals
You can embark on a musical odyssey in Australia this year; start with St Jerome’s Laneway Festival, which started as a small party on Caledonian Lane and has now evolved into an international taste maker.
Enjoy the sonic sensation further into summer with Future festival in March – Australia’s answer to the sprawling European dance events and drawing huge names in EDM and techno music, among other world class pop acts.
City 2 Surf, Sydney for fitness fanatics
Looking for a challenge on this year’s trip overseas? Kick start your New Years’ resolutions and look no further than this annual 14km race, starting at Hyde Park nestled in Sydney’s CBD, and finishing up at the iconic Bondi Beach. It’s slightly cooler in August, so get your sweat on, then jump into those crashing blue waves for a refreshing swim.
Camel racing in Alice Springs
By July, temperatures have cooled down in potentially baking Alice Springs. Happily, this is also the month of the quirky Lasseters Camel Cup 2015, an annual carnival where riders race grumpy camels across the outback. Entertainment guaranteed.
The new YHA Australia accommodation guide is out
Everything you need to know in your up-to-date guide for great hostels, and discounts all around Australia, at a click.
Search for further inspiration in our Australia Tripbook, jam packed with ideas to bookmark for your trip down under.
Then find a place to crash at from our hostels in Australia.