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When is the best time to visit Australia!

G’day, backpackers! If you’ve got Australia on your bucket list, timing is everything. The Land Down Under has a diverse range of climates and activities, making it a year-round destination. So, let’s talk about where to visit season by season, to help you plan your Aussie adventure.

Spring (September to November):

Spring in Australia consists of blooming flowers, mild temperatures, and outdoor celebrations, with an average temperature of 17°C and 35°C depending whether you’re north or south. This is an ideal time to visit iconic destinations like Sydney and Melbourne, where the weather is pleasantly warm, and the cities come alive with festivals and events. Explore the stunning landscapes of the Blue Mountains or the vibrant colours of the Floriade Festival in Canberra.

Summer (December to February):

Summer – the season of sun and surf. Head to the beaches of the Gold Coast, Sydney, or Perth to catch some sun and learn to ride the waves. Dive into the Great Barrier Reef for an underwater adventure, or embark on a road trip along the Great Ocean Road. Just be prepared for higher temperatures- over 40°C, especially in the northern regions.

Autumn (March to May):

Autumn in Australia brings cooler temperatures and a sense of tranquility. It’s an excellent time to explore the Red Centre, where iconic landmarks like Uluru and Kata Tjuta are surrounded by a softer, more temperate climate. The wineries of the Barossa Valley and Margaret River are also at their best, offering a feast for the senses with grape harvests and wine tastings.

Winter (June to August):

Winter down under is a time for adventure, especially in the southern regions. Hit the slopes in the Snowy Mountains for some winter sports or go on a wildlife adventure in Tasmania, where the cooler temperatures bring out the unique fauna. The whales are on the move along the east and west coasts, making winter a fantastic time for whale watching in places like Hervey Bay and Albany.

Year-Round Adventures:

Certain experiences in Australia are available year-round. The vibrant city life in Sydney and Melbourne, for example, is a constant delight. Explore the diverse landscapes of the Daintree Rainforest or take a road trip along the stunning coastline of the Great Ocean Road – these activities can be enjoyed any time of the year.

The best time to visit Australia depends on your preferences and the experiences you’re after. Whether you’re chasing the sun on Bondi Beach, exploring the rugged Outback, or immersing yourself in the vibrant city life, Australia is amazing year-round. So, pack your bags and get ready for your adventure down under!

Em ❤

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Best locations to visit in Western Australia

WA has to be my favourite place in Australia! You get to enjoy the busyness of city life whilst having the most beautiful wildlife and nature just a few hours drive away. In this post I am going to talk about the best locations on the west coast which you HAVE to include in your trip down under! As always if you have any questions, get in touch with me via social media!

Perth: City Lifestyle

Start your adventure in Perth, the sun-soaked capital. Perth is such a chilled out city compared to any on the east coast. You can stroll through Kings Park, explore the trendy neighbourhoods of Northbridge and Fremantle, take a graffiti tour of the city and learn about Aboriginal history and soak up the sun on the beaches of Cottesloe. Perth also has loads of nice restaurants and bars and unique things to do like rooftop cinema experiences. This is the perfect place to start your trip in WA to get immersed in Aussie culture.

Margaret River: Wine Capital

For the wine lovers among us, Margaret River is a must-visit destination. This stunning region is not only known for its world-class wineries but also for its stunning coastline and lush forests. You can take a leisurely drive along Caves Road, stopping to taste wines for just $10 aud, indulge in delicious chocolate, visit a natural water spa and snorkel at ‘The Aquarium’. Be aware the accommodation in this region is very expensive so plan to book ahead.

Hamelin Bay: Swimming with Sting Rays

Hamelin Bay is a famous spot for seeing wild sting rays close up to the beach! Make sure you head down early to avoid the crowds and walk 5 minutes from the beach car park to the best area to watch the rays. 8am is the ideal time to arrive and the sting rays will begin to come close to the shore and swim around your feet! Please avoid touching them as it can be damaging to both them and yourself.

Rottenest Island: Quokka Paradise

Just a short ferry ride from Perth, Rottnest Island is a perfect location for nature lovers and for anyone looking for the famous quokka selfie. Watch the quokkas sunbathing, explore the island’s stunning beaches, discover the historic lighthouses, and snorkel in vibrant coral reefs while enjoying the laid-back island atmosphere. You may be lucky enough to spot whales and sealions!

The Pinnacles: Mars on Earth

To experience the most surreal desert, head to Nambung National Park and visit the Pinnacles. These ancient limestone formations are situated within the bright golden sand, creating a scene that feels straight out of a movie. Visit at sunset or sunrise for an even more mesmerising experience! Whilst you’re there, head less than an hour down the road to Lancelin to swim with wild dolphins in the evening!

Jurien Bay: Home of the Sealions

Jurien Bay is a hidden gem that deserves a spot on your Western Australia itinerary. This stunning town has amazing beaches as well as the opportunity to visit the marine park to swim with wild sealions! For those who prefer to stay dry, a visit to the iconic Jurien Bay Jetty is a must. Stretching into the Indian Ocean, this jetty provides the perfect point for a beautiful stroll or some fishing! If you are a seafood lover, there is an abundance of restaurants providing the catch of the day!

Kalbarri National Park: Crazy Nature

You HAVE to head further north to Kalbarri National park and experience the amazing nature! Explore the rust-coloured gorges carved by the Murchison River, visit the Pink Lake and stand on the edge of the iconic Nature’s Window. For the adventurers, there are so many amazing hikes you can do such as the Z-Bend and the aptly named “Loop,” where the scenery looks like a painting!

Exmouth Region: Snorkelling and Sharks

Exmouth is a coastal paradise that has endless marine life. Known for its proximity to the UNESCO-listed Ningaloo Reef, Exmouth lures snorkelers and divers into an underwater paradise full of colourful coral gardens and marine life. With its relaxed atmosphere, stunning beaches, and the opportunity to swim with whale sharks – Exmouth is a must-visit destination for those looking for a perfect mix of natural beauty and aquatic experiences. Some of the top places to add to your list include: Coral Bay, Ningaloo Reef and Shark Bay.

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Em ❤

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Top travel destinations for 2024!

As we welcome the start of the new year, I wanted to share with you my top destinations for 2024 to allow us to manifest lots of travel into the next 12 months!

Reykjavik, Iceland: Chasing the Northern Lights

2024 is the year to see the northern lights at their best! Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland and has been gaining popularity for its beautiful landscapes, geothermal hot springs, and of course, the Northern Lights. The best time to visit is between September and March.

Tokyo, Japan: The Tech Capital of the World

Tokyo is no stranger to the travel scene, but 2024 is going to be a year like no other for this city. With the Summer Olympics having left a buzz of excitement, Tokyo is the destination to explore this year and despite what everyone says, it is actually possible to do on a budget. Immerse yourself into the mix of ancient traditions and modern technology by exploring historic shrines, eating fresh sushi, and navigating the neon-lit streets of Shibuya. The best time to visit is March to May when it isn’t too hot and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom!

Cape Town, South Africa: A Combination of Culture and Nature

Cape Town is an absolute hidden gem. Nestled between the famous Table Mountain and the stunning beaches of the Cape Peninsula, this city is the perfect balance of culture, history, and amazing scenery. You can explore the diverse nature, indulge in local cuisine, and take a cable car ride to the top of Table Mountain for a panoramic view that will leave you in awe. The best time to visit is January to March as the days are longer and the weather is gorgeous!

Marrakech, Morocco: The Red City

Be transported to a world of sun and spices in Marrakech. The vibrant colours, busy souks, and the aromatic scent of spices will leave you in awe of this amazing city. Get lost in the maze-like streets of the medina, visit the historic Jardin Majorelle, and savor the flavors of tagines and couscous. The best time to visit is May to September as there is less rain and it is not too hot!

Quebec City, Canada: Winter Wonderland

If you’re a winter person, Quebec City is your dream destination. The historic charm of Old Quebec during the winter season, with twinkling lights and snow, is straight out of a fairy tale. Embrace the cold with activities like ice skating in Place d’Youville, exploring Montmorency Falls, and sipping on hot maple syrup-infused drinks. Who said winter is the worst season? The best time to visit is of course December to March!

These are my top travel destinations for 2024 that are sure to give you the travel bug and make the most of this year! Pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready for your next adventure! Safe travels!

Em ❤

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Whale Sharks: Where and When to see them

Whale sharks are the largest fish in the sea, growing up to 12 meters long, and swimming with them is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. They are completely safe to swim with as they only eat plankton.

Here are some of the best places across the world to see whale sharks, and the best time to visit each destination:

Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia

Ningaloo Reef is one of the best places in the world to see whale sharks. The reef is located off the coast of Western Australia, and is home to a variety of marine life, including the whale shark. The best time to visit Ningaloo Reef is between March and July, when the whale sharks come to feed on the plankton-rich waters. You can also see manta rays, turtles, and dolphins here.

Donsol, Philippines

The small fishing village of Donsol in the Philippines is another great place to see whale sharks. The best time to visit Donsol is between November and June, when the whale sharks come to feed on the plankton in the area. Aside from whale sharks, you can also spot other marine life such as sea snakes, rays, and barracudas.

Utila, Honduras

Utila, a small island located off the coast of Honduras, is also a popular destination to watch whale sharks. The best time to visit Utila is between March and April when the whale sharks congregate in the area to feed. You can also see other species of sharks, turtles, and dolphins.

Mafia Island, Tanzania

Mafia Island off the coast of Tanzania is home to one of the largest populations of whale sharks in the world. The best time to visit Mafia Island is between November and February, when the whale sharks come to feed on the plankton-rich waters. The island is also a sanctuary for sea turtles and various species of fish.

Koh Tao, Thailand

Koh Tao, a small island located off the coast of Thailand, is known for its whale shark sightings for scuba divers. The best time to visit Koh Tao is between March and May, when the whale sharks come to feed on the plankton in the area. Aside from whale sharks, you can also find other marine life such as turtles, barracudas, reef sharks and groupers.

La Paz, Mexico

La Paz in Baja California Sur, Mexico, is known for its whale shark sightings, and you can even swim with them. The best time to visit La Paz is between October and April, when the whale sharks come to feed on the plankton in the area. Aside from whale sharks, you can also find sea lions, dolphins, and various species of fish.

Whale sharks are some of the most amazing creatures in the sea, and seeing them up close is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re visiting Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia or Donsol in the Philippines, there are plenty of opportunities to see these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. Be sure to visit during the right season to maximize your chances of seeing them, and enjoy the experience of a lifetime!

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The Best Places to Travel in April

April is a great month to travel as many destinations around the world have perfect weather and less tourists. There are so many options for travelling in April which are affordable and beautiful, whether you want a beach holiday, jungle adventure or city break.

Here are some of the best places to travel in April:

Japan

April is one of the best times to visit Japan, as the famous cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The cherry blossoms typically peak in late March or early April, depending on the location. Some of the best places to see cherry blossoms include Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara. In addition to the cherry blossoms, April is a great time to explore Japan’s beautiful gardens and temples, and to try its delicious local food.

Portugal

April is a great time to visit Portugal, as the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller than in the summer months. Portugal is known for its beautiful beaches, historic cities, and delicious food and wine. Some of the best places to visit in Portugal include Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve region. In April, you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and surfing for really cheap and explore Portugal’s history and culture.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali is an amazing destination year-round, but April is one of the best times to visit. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are much fewer tourists than in the peak season. Bali is super budget friendly as whilst to get there is expensive you can survive on less than £20 a day. Bali is known for its stunning beaches, jungles, and sea life. In April, you can go surfing, hiking, and snorkeling, or explore Bali’s many temples and traditional villages.

Greece

Greece is also a good place to visit in April as the weather is still nice and you can travel for much cheaper than peak season. Greece is known for its beautiful beaches, historic cities, and delicious food. You can explore ancient ruins, go hiking and sailing, or relax on the beach. Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos are among the best places to visit in Greece and island hopping in the south is definitely a bucket list activity!

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is another great destination to consider in April, as it marks the end of the dry season and the beginning of the rainy season. The weather is warm and sunny, and the rain only comes in short bursts. Costa Rica is known for its beautiful beaches, rainforests, and wildlife and there are so many amazing hostels to choose from. You can go surfing on the coast, hiking in the jungle, zip-lining through the trees and explore Costa Rica’s many national parks and wildlife reserves.

April is a perfect month to get out of the UK, as there are so many destinations around the world that offer better weather and delicious food. Whether you’re looking for a beach holiday, city break, or a jungle adventure, there are plenty of options to choose from. From Japan’s stunning cherry blossoms to Bali’s beautiful beaches, there’s something for everyone in April.

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