Sitting at Brisbane airport waiting on my flight to Adelaide I am reflecting on this week’s travel booking trends.
Like me, lots of people are thinking about travelling close to home.
Post all the lockdowns everyone headed off overseas catching up with friends and relatives and visiting places we had been banned from experiencing.
That appetite being satiated, it would seem a joy see what’s on our doorstep has returned.
Interestingly, The Ghan and The Indian Pacific, our iconic Australian trains are popular again with international visitors so the availability is limited.
If you are considering a trip this year then don’t hesitate – many dates are fully booked and some have limited compartments available.
In fact, book now for travel in 2026 – there are some great early booking specials available, but mostly book early to travel when and where you would like to visit.
The popular Ghan Experience which travels from Darwin to Adelaide visiting Coober Pedy with or without a full week exploring the Red Centre is already heavily booked for 2026.
The Kimbereley is forever popular.
Whether you choose to travel overland to visit the Bungle Bungles, Lake Argyle and the cascading waterfalls or if you prefer to explore the remote coast by expedition vessel exploring by zodiac and learning about the history, culture and environment of the region with the expert knowledge of guides.
Combine this with a few days in Broome and Darwin to finish off your northern experience.
There is some last minute availability however we are now mostly booking for next year. Earlier in the season (May and June) is best for spectacular waterfalls.
Tasmania of course is one of our favourite destinations – fly in, pick up a car and go.
Don’t leave it to chance as you may be disappointed with how tricky it can be to find accommodation on the move.
I once had clients who wanted to ‘wing it’ and they came back to tell me they had spent a week in Bicheno because they couldn’t find available accommodation anywhere else!
This is now a year round destination … rug up for winter and head south!
Other food, wine and cultural destinations are New Zealand and South Australia.
Whether you are looking for a short break or a longer exploration these destinations are wonderful with hidden gems to discover.
Again drive yourself itineraries are popular … I’m off to the Adelaide Hills for Easter with several family members meeting up for a weekend of exploring the vineyards and restaurants. My son lives in Adelaide and he recommended that we prebook all restaurants and even winery visits to avoid disappointment!
I’ve noticed a pickup in wonderful in booking for luxury lodges and adventures – I use the word luxury sparingly, it is over used these days.
However in Australia and New Zealand there really are some amazing small sublime experiences to be had.
Don’t forget east coast Australia – always popular for an escape.
At Travelling Places we would love to design your perfect close to home getaway. P: 07 55451600 E: travel@travellingplaces.com.au.
