TAKE 2
AUSTRALIA BY RAIL, ROAD AND SEA
Cater for the two in three UK visitors making a repeat trip with Lina Molloholli’s suggestions for alternative journeys
a 46
ustralia is an awfully big place – so big, you’ll probably need to
come back a few times to see it all. But with the rise of remote work allowing clients to do their jobs from anywhere, and short sabbaticals permitting more than two weeks’ off duty, there’s no better time to discover Australia’s pristine coastal hideaways and wonderful and wacky wildlife. And Australia’s appeal endures:
according to Tourism Australia, a whopping 70% of the 537,000 UK visitors (aged 15+) in 2022
16 NOVEMBER 2023
were returning to the country. For clients seeking to delve deeper into the Australian experience beyond the well- trodden paths, we’ve picked out three lesser-known journeys – one by rail, one by road and the other by sea – that promise adventures as thrilling as they are authentic. From rugged outback ranches
to cultural hotspots and offbeat culinary delights, these treasures invite second-time visitors to unearth a new side of Australia. And the best part? There’s still plenty more to come back for.
travelweekly.co.uk
LIKE THIS? THE GHAN
Traversing a whopping 1,850 miles, this south-north railway connects the vibrant southern city of Adelaide with the terracotta landscapes of Alice Springs before arriving in tropical Darwin. Passengers on the 54-hour journey are treated to an immersive experience as the train’s panoramic windows unveil mesmerising scenery, with off-train excursions such as biking and Indigenous experiences.
INDIAN PACIFIC
WHAT IS IT? Spanning 2,700 miles from the Indian Ocean in Perth to Sydney, the west-east Indian Pacific train takes four days and is the world’s second-longest railroad.
WHY GO? On this transcontinental passage, passengers are treated to the floral Avon Valley before heading through the dusty Nullarbor plains (with a quirky stop at the ghost town of Cook). The train also chugs through the hilly majesty of the Flinders Ranges and the Blue Mountains. But the Indian Pacific offers more than just breathtaking scenery. From mouthwatering meals inspired by the regions the train passes through to immersive off-train experiences in towns like Broken Hill, the vibrant city of Adelaide and the boutique wineries of the Barossa Valley, passengers get a comprehensive view of the diverse cultures and pioneering communities that shape Australia’s identity.
BOOK IT: Journey Beyond offers a three-night trip from £1,385 for a Gold Single cabin, travelling from Sydney to Perth, including meals, fine wines and off-train experiences.
journeybeyond.com
TRY THIS
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64
