In this modern age where technology has been a staple in everyday life, it’s impossible to imagine planning a vacation without the use of a computer. However, booking accommodations and flights online is actually a new invention. Consumers weren’t given autonomy when it comes to reservations until the introduction of smartphones. As a result, the rising use of online websites for travel agencies emerged.

According to statistics, 85% of frequent travelers heavily rely on their smartphones for booking accommodations, flights, and even dinner reservations. Out of this percentage, 52.5% admitted they would still use their mobiles to buy additional services and 61.4% would book for room upgrades using the same process. These numbers prove that e-commerce craft websites like these don’t only benefit the travel agencies, but also make everything accessible for vacationers.

Online Travel Agencies Make Traveling Easy

When you book with an online travel agency, there are a number of options you can choose from that can fit your schedule, budget, and personal preferences. You only need to specify your destination and the system will do all the work for you. This action can save you precious time since you only need to visit one website instead of making various phone calls and planning separate bookings. Not only that, but big travel websites are trusted, top business advisors in hospitality and tourism.

Online travel agencies also highlight the best bargains of the day. This means you don’t only get to choose your dream destination, but also chance upon the lowest discounts! Most of these online travel agencies have mobile apps that offer discounts once you download them on your smartphone. These apps also connect you to other destinations that are frequently traveled by other users to help you discover new places.

The most important advantage of online travel agencies, however, is that the web design they usually use allows for the convenience of being able to purchase your reservations anytime. Once you’ve made all the arrangements, you are given a choice to pay for it immediately or at a later date. This way, you can still consider your itinerary and make adjustments without any additional fees.

Online Travel Agencies Are Better Than Hotel Websites

While hotel websites can successfully feature all of the redeeming qualities of the property, they lack the engagement of a trust advisor like an in-store travel agent. Since the rising use of online websites for travel agencies, people have relied on online reviews from other consumers in booking for an accommodation. Word-of-mouth, albeit traditional, is still a more effective way of attracting clients than just plain description and pictures. And with all this technology, nothing speaks louder than positive reviews from other customers online!

The power of suggestion is overly underrated and always taken for granted. That is why online travel agencies have gradually taken speed in the competition for sales. With an online website, travel agencies can offer recommendations that are tailored to guide the consumer to the perfect itinerary. The website can analyze information from the users and create suggestions based on their specific preferences. This innovative ability not only shows that technology, equipped with human sensibilities, can make our way of living much easier.

In this day and age, planning a vacation entails a trip to the local travel agent just as hiring a crane would entail researching and meeting with a representative from a crane hire business. Or for the more adventurous traveller armed with a well-thumbed guidebook, relying upon reliable word-of-mouth recommendations to place their travel schedule. Today, due to breakthroughs in engineering and high-speed net, travellers can reserve their airport and resorts online, opt to remain in a stranger’s home, and instead of entering the unknown restaurant with trepidation, hunt online reviews on their cellphone while still connected to the resort Wi-Fi.

Digitalisation has provided us alternatives in a large way.  More people are travelling than previously, and businesses such as Airbnb encourage younger people to research earlier, and in a more cost-effective manner. Technology has also given us more information on the location where previously it was limited. Want to know whether there’s an artisan chocolatier near your hotel in Amsterdam? Well, now you can, in seconds.

In the electronic era, we have become a creation of DIY vacationers who plan, manage and book travel online. Cloud computing services have enabled this such evolution. What exactly has this meant for companies in the travel sector?

For travel agents, the growth of the electronic age has seriously disrupted the business. Traditional travelling supply where high street travel agencies played a prominent part was revolutionised with online travel agencies and direct supply via airlines and hotel sites acquiring an important function.

Low-cost carriers and internet travel agencies had been the obvious winner of the internet travel revolution within the past 15 years, altering the way now customers plan and book their trips. Tour operators endured the growth of independent travelling and therefore are today embracing the internet and mobile channels so as to remain competitive.

Although the internet killed off several high street travel agents, others have been made to adapt to an extremely shifting market, with lots of embracing the net by introducing online reservations.

Among the biggest disruptors in the travel business has obviously been Airbnb that lacked the launching of additional comparable online-only companies like One Fine Stay. As a result of the growth of these sharing-economy companies, we are more inclined to reserve a space in a stranger’s home, with 9 percent of UK and US vacationers having leased space at a private residence or apartment.

The electronic revolution has impacted virtually everything on the Planet as we understand it. In Airbnb’s instance, technology has also brought tradition to the mainstream. The idea of staying in people’s houses when travelling isn’t a brand new one and dates back several years, but what technology has managed do via private cloud computing is accelerate this into a fast-moving and easily-accessible worldwide phenomenon.

Technology has also introduced new opportunities for small companies in the travel industry, allowing customers globally to travel across the state to a B&B in Brighton or luxury safari park in Kenya through internet review websites, social media and the companies’ own sites.

For travel brands it is supposed they have needed to get smarter and accommodate as customers’ expectations grow. For example, airlines, some of which now enable passengers to check online, get their boarding pass on cellular and run Wi-Fi on flights.

Digital technology has changed the way hotels interact with guests, creating a 24/7 connection before and after the stay. It is also changing every stage of hospitality, in discovering a Resort, to checking in, to safeguarding your door and personalising your stay. As travel is inherently portable, travelers expect to utilize their cellular devices to improve their traveling adventures.

Like many in the industry, businesses continually embrace new technology to impress its digitally-savvy clients.

Just how will technology form the future of travel? The upcoming couple of years will observe vacationers requiring an increasingly personalised service, with firms able to produce customised merchandise on the basis of the profiles and past behaviour. With lots of travellers already looking for a more customised and “neighborhood” experience, personalised trips are already starting to take off.

Social Media and Travel

Research shows that social networking can significantly affect traveling plans. In fact, 52 percent of Facebook report that friends’ photographs have inspired travel programs. Additionally, 55 percent of individuals like social networking pages associated with excursions such as seeing the largest cranes in China or visiting Niagra Falls.

This introduces a valuable chance for travel brands and marketers seeking to pull in more clients. And journey manufacturers have begun using social media to make it much easier for individuals to locate and book together. For instance, 50 percent of hotel businesses have a booking engine or widget on their own Facebook page.

Social Media Use Pre-Vacation

If planning a trip, 1 in 5 travellers utilize social networking for inspiration when studying up the destinations. People who use social websites for trip planning look at:

• Destinations: 27 percent
• Hotels: 23 percent
• Holiday activities: 22 percent
• Attractions: 21 percent

Before stocking your esky and fueling up to head into the great, blue yonder, there are some essential things to consider to be sure that you have a fun but safe experience on your off-road holiday, and remember no prestige car is safe for this journey, perhaps take a 4WD!

1. Stock extra supplies

Make certain to have lots of food, fuel and water–enough to sustain your group in case of a breakdown or other mishap that leaves you with no ready access to supplies. Map-out stops for water and gas along your path so that you understand exactly where you’re able to get supplies and emergency services. Also make certain to note the maximum distance between supply resources, even if your trip isn’t especially remote.

2. Know the risks of driving in distant places

Keep aware of weather conditions along your path a few weeks before going outside. Many tracks can experience significant flooding during the rainy season, making them impassable. Bushfires are another environmental element to know about, as is wildlife. Always be skeptical of bounding kangaroos and drifting cows, which may cross into your path. Call ahead to local visitor centers along your path to check current road conditions and inquire about potential hazards, and consider installing gps navigation for your car. 

3. Check for land licenses

Many tracks pass through private and Aboriginal land holdings, so it is important to get all necessary licenses before your trip to avoid legal complications along the way. You also need to call local police stations at the beginning and end of your trek to make them aware of your planned travel itinerary. This helps them track thru-traffic and ensures that your celebration is accounted for in the event that you need emergency assistance.

4. Enjoy the privacy–with a buddy

No matter your level of experience, it is always great to travel with another vehicle. Tracks are always changing, so even if you are familiar with a path, you cannot know when an unexpected obstacle may emerge. While driving in a convoy is safest, 3-4 vehicles ought to be the maximum. Tracks can become cramped, and massive convoys can make it hard for other vehicles to pass by, particularly if there is only one lane.

5. Be sensible about your 4WD abilities

It is important (especially for beginners) to completely understand the dangers of off-roading and be realistic about your own personal ability level. John says “It is fantastic to evaluate your experience in your own mind before going out and think about taking a training class first. Remember, there is a big difference between driving a Commodore and a Land Rover.” Off-road driving requires a specific skillset that driving on a street won’t prepare you for. Taking a course will also make certain that you understand how to reduce unnecessary wear and tear on your car or truck and avoid extra fuel consumption.

6. Consider Your Organization

You might wish to think about how busy the trail may be for your planned trip, because odds are good that you will not be the only one out there who is researched the ideal time of year to travel.

7. Mind the hills

Never drive over a hill before first checking to see precisely what is on the opposite side. You never know when a seemingly benign incline may have a sudden drop-off, dip or other barrier just over the crest. Also be careful of oncoming vehicles, especially if it is a single-lane track. Sound a warning horn, flick in your headlights, fly a flag on the front of your car or truck and stay alert when confronted with a mountain or dune, or if visibility may be limited.

8. Strategy water courses with care

River crossings are a favorite challenge for some, but even shallow flows should be approached with care. While most 4WD vehicles can go through water 60cm deep without specific preparations, concealed depressions, sand or strong currents can cause unforeseen complications. Hop out before crossing and see if you’re able to get across yourself first. If you cannot swim it, definitely do not try to push it. Spray your vehicle’s electrical components with a water repellent and in case you have got manual windows, then roll them down before crossing. Do not try river crossings during the night and remember to enable your brakes to wash out later.

9. Driving on sand is a special ability

Driving through sand presents a special set of challenges. Fixing your tyre pressure is vital throughout the length of your trip–irrespective of the terrain–and it’s very crucial on sand. The recommended pressure is 140kPa to start with, but this will change based upon the weight of your load in addition to the stability of the sand. Try to remain on existing tyre tracks, since the sand is very likely to be milder here. When descending a dune, keep the nose of your vehicle pointed directly back while maintaining a controlled rate, and avoid braking. Also bring along some ironman 4×4 accessories for your trip, as they will help in times of need, especially in the sand!

10. Getting bumped on corrugated 4WD track

You ARE sure to encounter corrugated track, which can make your trip uneasy if not managed correctly. If your tyres are over-inflated, this will accentuate the ruts, sending you bouncing off your chair while your car or truck endures unnecessary stress. While driving too quickly can be dangerous, it is also important not to go too slowly (unless needed). The objective is to ‘float’ over the corrugations, which can normally be done at a rate of 80kmh in great conditions. Well-maintained shock absorbers will also keep the ride smooth, and ironman 4×4 equipment can also help keep the ride smooth and maintained.

Many people think of travelling as a frivolous action, and while at times it can be just that, it’s also much more. There are a great deal of tangible advantages to travelling — especially if you lock up yourself and devote every minute to the functioning of your company.

Here are a few reasons why stepping outside the workplace can be a good thing for your well-being and for your business.

Travelling is healthy

Anxiety, when left unattended, may result in depression and heart issues. Travelling, whether for business, pleasure, or both, helps you to release stress. This is because it takes you away from the office and the wider environment that compels you to work all of the time, while giving you some much-needed downtime, thus improving both your mental and mental wellbeing.

Travelling is inspiring.

Inspiration often requires a broad consumption of influences — something that is just not possible unless you aren’t laser-focused on work.

When you leave the job environment and are travelling around; the stimulation your new environment supplies can often enable you to acquire new insight on the world around you. Occasions you attend or people you meet might inspire one find the world from a new angle, and sometimes meeting people in a relaxed environment can do more for you than listening to motivational speakers. I’ve travelled enough to understand that each and every flash of inspiration, if channelled properly, can benefit your company in some way.

Travelling teaches communication skills

It is not about what you say, it is about the way you say it, that’s the first rule of leadership. We all know it, but it is true, tone of voice, body language, the faces you make and how you talk all contribute to what folks understand from you.

All these are particularly important when you find yourself in overseas territory where you must contend with language limitations and differences in culture. This kind of situation will make you find creative ways of getting around them. As an entrepreneur, studying the craft of successful communication overseas can help improve your general rapport with your workers (especially if they’re from different cultures), investors and clients.

Travelling with others can cause you to love others’ experiences

Some of us prefer to do things solo; nevertheless, travelling in a group is a way to be certain that you gain more adventures than you would have alone. Additionally, it lets you find some much-needed family time.

When you do everything together as a group, others serve as an additional pairs of eyes. They will frequently see and hear and do things that you didn’t do and your interactions with them will provide more insight than your singular experience ever could.

Going with a group also means you will sometimes have to rely on their strengths and give up on your own needs for the betterment of the group. This can help you bond as a team or family and further drive home the point that selflessness can only be a positive thing. This type of bonding can be directly compared back to your business, bonding between the employees and working together on tasks and projects will increase worker productivity, if you have a better understanding of it, then you will see how it can relate to your workplace.

Travelling can help create meaningful connections

Making new friends and enterprise partnerships in new areas can mean more than just business. It could also mean you will not need to check into a hotel when you see the region.

You could also leverage business connections you make in this manner when you want to expand your business. Your connection on the floor can use his local knowledge that will assist you do all the necessary research and legwork and allow you to settle into a new land.

It is possible to carve out more time to think

As an entrepreneur, you are often forced to create spur-of-the-moment business decisions, follow up potential investors and always hustle. When was the last time you had the time to sit down and think?

Travelling affords you the essential time to meditate and reflect. Find something to do to take your mind off work, if you’re only sitting on the top of a mountain bike by a lake or basking in sunlight. These kinds of situations can cause your mind to think of fresh ideas to help your business and private life, sometimes the best thing a business coach can suggest is a holiday.

A tourism pioneer who had a close encounter with a whale says the gentle giants have become bolder in their interactions with visitors to the Great Barrier Reef. Tourism Tropical North Queensland manager Wendy Morris photographed a dwarf minke whale she had been lucky enough to snorkel with off Port Douglas on Sunday. Ms Morris said four groups of those little-known whales saw the ship at a local reef. It was said to be a marvellous sight, to observe the rise in whale numbers in the 45 years Morris had been researching the Reef. The Reef Biosearch founder said the whales seemed to become more interested in their dealings with people. “I think whale watching is another bow in our quiver of attractions for the Reef,” Ms Morris stated. “What’s extraordinary, is minke whales and humpback whales are dropping calves. “If you head out, you might be lucky enough to see that.”

Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch will lead a philosophical inquiry at the Cairns Convention Centre now to encourage Northern Australia’s tourism industry. Tourism Tropical North Queensland’s new chief executive officer Pip Close and manager Wendy Morris will be among those speaking at the inquiry. Their written submission calls for the establishment of a $5 million Northern Australia bid fund to encourage the appeal of business tourism, especially during off-peak periods. It states, it provides a 100 percent guarantee of return on investment as though the bid is unsuccessful no funds are obtained.

The Cairns Convention Centre’s future will also be discussed, together with overall Director Ross Steele’s echoing the call for a business tourism bid fund to invest in business management mobile data capture systems. Cairns Airport CEO Norris Carter also made a submission calling for Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility funds to be redirected to export-building jobs which might not provide immediate returns sufficient to attract 100 percent private investment. He noticed the airport was actively pursuing new flight paths from South East Asia, North Asia and the Middle East. The committee convened in Port Douglas yesterday and will head to Townsville tomorrow before wrapping up this round of meetings in Brisbane on Thursday.

Mantra Group has taken the chance after Cairns was tipped to be the best performing travel destination in Australia at 2017. Mantra Group chief executive Bob East stated the far North Queensland town is exploding with new flights, which is creating strong demand for accommodation providers in the area.

The higher air-capacity, flight affordability and the proliferation of low cost carriers to Cairns, especially from Asia and along with an active domestic market, has fostered occupancies in the past few decades. Cairns is well positioned to take advantage of the opportunities presented out of Asia, applying for commercial owner builder constructions insurance to take advantage of the accommodation demand surge, especially with its large leisure travel market brought by Cairns’ proximity, single flight offering and favourable time zone. 5 million passengers passed through Cairns Airport this year, a record high which not only bolstered business in Cairns but also from the neighboring holiday hot areas of Port Douglas and Palm Cove.

Mantra manager of sales, earnings and distribution Luke Moran stated occupancies in Mantra Group properties in Cairns performed well over the industry-average this season, according to their asset tracking system’s reporting dashboard, which is trading at 83.5 percent for the year to date, and occupancies are forecasted to rise further in 2017. RevPAR in the Cairns properties has increased by almost 12 percent in 2016, making it among their fastest climbing destinations. Moran stated that they are also seeing a smoothing of the city’s traditional seasonal demand curve with high occupancies being attained all year round.

Other major destinations in Australia this season are Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Noosa, Hobart and Launceston and they are also forecasted to continue to perform strongly in the new year. These increasing occupancy rates and RevPAR growth throughout the country are encouraging a wave of new-build resorts for Mantra.

You have loaded, repacked, arranged your attire and collected what you believe are your best over the knee boots for the holiday … to the point of fatigue. You suddenly understand your four-inch heels may look cute and provide your butt a little extra lift, but you cannot walk around in them for more than 5 minutes. All is not lost! Here are some ideas to save your soles and choose the best travel shoes and ankle boots.

The essence is to bring correct shoes and not over pack shoes that you just don’t require. Here’s a hot idea: for travel shoes, three is the magic number.

Strolling Shoes

First, you require a quality, comfortable pair of walking shoes with strong support. This is the set of shoes you’ll be using the majority of the time, so it needs to be comfortable. If you’re doing great deals of sightseeing, you do not want to putter out because you twisted your ankle in the fractures of the Great Wall!

The very best shoes for travel are the ones you can use with a variety of different outfits and that you likewise take pleasure in wearing.

Activity Shoe

Your activity shoe is what you choose to pack for the unique activity you will do on your trip. Whether it’s hiking, dancing, working out, or whatever – this classification is for that shoe that you cannot use all the time however require for your specific activity.

If you’re preparing to go hiking, a set of hybrid trainer/hiking shoes would work well, like the Merrell Siren Sport. Go to an outdoors shop prior to you leaving and try out various styles and colors.

Gown Shoe: Sandals/Flats

Your other set of shoes is where you can add a little bit more style, like something dressier to dress up your attire. It’s a reward if they’re comfy and can alternate with your flat boots to add range!

Ensure they are travel friendly: packable and able to endure wear, flexible with a number of travel clothing, and long lasting like nice winter boots.

Hitting the road on your next trip with your new tyres on your ride? Whether you’re going to Grandma’s with the kids or heading to check out a museum art and design expo, do not leave home without our tried and tested driving tips. Read on to learn more about avoiding traffic, saving cash and staying safe (and remaining awake!) on your next trip.

1. If you do not know this one, shame on you. Never ever drink any alcohol before your trip. While you might not end up being inebriated from one beer, you will become drowsy.
2. Keep an eye on the skies, and if you can, prepare a route around harsh weather. A small detour might, in fact, wind up saving you major time.
3. Utilize mobile phone apps such as Waze or Google Maps to guide you around traffic jams.
4. Not even a GPS app is foolproof, particularly in remote locations, so we suggest bringing a detailed map or road atlas as a backup simply in case.
5. Keep costs down by conserving petrol as you drive. Reduce unexpected starts and stops, empty your automobile of all unnecessary weight, and slow down – in a lot of cars, it takes much less fuel to drive 55 miles an hour than it does to drive 70.
6. If you are driving a rental car, familiarize yourself with the vehicle and all of its devices (horn, brakes, risk lights). Always carry a remote first aid kit in the car for long road trips. Sometimes a small first aid training right before the journey has proven to really help out during long road trips, for everyone’s safety.
7. If you do need to stop, move your vehicle off the road. Never ever park on the shoulder or in the breakdown lane for any reason except an emergency. You don’t want to end up being part of the landscape like an art museum full of car wreckage.
8. Prior to setting off on a long road journey, make sure your car is in prime condition – that your kumho tyres are correctly inflated, all fluids are at their correct levels and you have a full tank of petrol. (For the especially long journey, you may want to have your mechanic do a more comprehensive check.).

Levantine Hill is a breath of fresh air in the heart of the Yarra Valley. The skyrocketing curved roof of the dining establishment and cellar door show up from the road, in sync with the rolling hills near Coldstream. The sculptural building, held up by spans of glass, was designed by designer Karl Fender of Fender Katsalidis, with interiors by Anja de Medspa of Molecule Architecture. Three giant barrel-shaped cubicles protrude from one side. They keep an eye out over the grape vines and the surrounding green hills. Levantine Hill includes a vineyard with well recognised Levantine Hill wines, two dining spaces with food by Teage Ezard, a bar and a cellar door.

It is the vision of one man translated by Fender, the multi-award winning designer. That male is Elias “Eli” Jreissati, Melbourne residential or commercial property designer, self-made millionaire, and creator of the Bensons Property Group, art collector and philanthropist. Almost a year after the dining establishment and cellar door opened, Eli is still like a kid, excited about this latest addition to the 103-hectare estate that includes a truffle grove and homestead. He likes the wine-barrel booths, the bar with angled brass trim that deflects sound and the way the space can be expanded by moving a basic shelving unit.

Anja de Medspa, one of Molecule’s 3 creators, was included from the beginning. Coming from an architecture background rather than design training, Anja turned her academic mind to products and function and the zoning of the space to preserve views in between all locations, but permitting everyone to work separately. She did this, in part, by selecting the best home furnishings and by zoning the space.

The brass detail on the bar is a crucial element. The brass is “pleated” in a manner that is nearly reminiscent of the contours of the original landscape design. It is repeated from the tasting bar right through to the service bars. “In the dining establishment space we wanted to create a more intimate and luxurious environment, so the flooring there has a big carpet,” Anja says. Having dealt with Eli on his homestead way up at the top of the hill, Anja was influenced by the local flower symbols such as the kangaroo paw that appears in the printed material in the upholstered dining establishment chairs.

The palette of tan leather, teal and dark green consists of tabletops of regional hardwood and rather a great deal of black in the steel frames of the chairs and tables. Timber also includes in the main bar. The area had actually never ever been built on before and Karl Fender wanted the building to connect with the fields, the vineyards and the beautiful mountains. The idea has to do with putting the structure in a proper context so that it feels and look as if it belongs and suits the existing landscaping design. Inside, there is more place-making by association. The place is decorated with giant wine barrels that are lined internally and externally with wood, giving you the feeling of being cosy, having an intimate dining experience and a view of the vineyard. A fortunate reservation, as it ends up, since diners almost always wish to sit in a barrel.

Sporting capital of Australia, nationwide cultural capital, and world’s most liveable city – Melbourne uses lots of hats, and with great reason. Within the city and its surroundings lies a world of sports, wine, and all the other good stuff. Here’s a convenient overview of the Melbourne Must-dos.

The Melbourne Cricket Ground – “The G”
It’s the world’s biggest cricket ground; however it’s a lot more than that. Take a tour of the stadium, stroll the hallowed halls of the picture gallery (which includes the picture of Sachin Tendulkar and Sir Donald Bradman). While there, step into cricketing history at the National Sports Museum, and walk through Australia’s finest collection of sporting heritage.

Queen Victoria Market
For fresh food, unique gifts and endless deals, the renowned Queen Victoria Market has everything. Eat, shop, check out and discover your way through the food halls and heritage sheds where the small talk is as fresh as the fruit and vegetables. Or simply absorb the atmosphere of potentially the largest al fresco market in the southern hemisphere.

Premiums and gastronomy
Melbourne prides itself on its fresh prepared meals, and the city’s range of dining options is statement to its culinary track record. You could start with MasterChef host George Calombaris’ Press Space, which produces a creative Greek menu. Or book ahead for award-winning fine-dining dining establishments – think about Attica, among the world’s 50 best dining establishments, and delve into Ben Shewry’s special menu. Dine at Flower Drum, Vue de Monde or taste knock-out tapas at the original MoVida in Hosier Lane.

Walk through the history
Spend a long time in the city centre and you’ll discover it’s nicely divided into little pockets for you to explore. Navigate Melbourne on foot with an expert strolling guide. Take in a heritage path, see well known street art in the narrow alleys and laneways of the CBD, or take your camera on a night-time photography tour. Melbourne slopes extremely carefully down to the bay, so you can bike your method to shops and cafes or through the Yarra River’s parks and gardens without developing excessive of a sweat.

Coffee culture
Melbourne is the coffee capital of Australia. In the CBD, the cobblestoned laneways are filled with the aroma of espresso originating from a myriad of breakfast restaurant spots. At the city’s best cafes, professional baristas will talk beans and machines while tending to your brew. Specialty roasters are emerging quicker than ever and the majority of the very best coffee shops offer their provider’s coffee, so it’s easy to bag in your area roasted beans to take home. Watch out for local favourites Padre, Seven Seeds, St Ali, Five Senses and Di Bella.

Colonial Tramcar Restaurant
What’s glossy, burgundy and dispense terrific meals (apart from the Hogwarts Express)? Melbourne’s Colonial Tramcar Dining establishment, of course! Cruise through the city streets in the lap of heritage while drinking Australian wine and tucking into a delicious seasonal menu aboard the world’s first travelling tramcar restaurants. The atmosphere is cosy, the service friendly and the design as inviting as the colonial duration these cable cars show.

Yarra Valley
An hour from Melbourne’s CBD lays a range of wineries in the yarra valley. The change of the landscape – from slick streets to vines and mountain ash forests, is poetic. Domaine Chandon, the Australian winery of French Champagne’s huge Moet & Chandon, is a popular stop. Even if you’re not an addict of sparkling wine, the homage is worth it, for the Green Point Brasserie does fresh, seasonal fare to opt for the wines and views.

Support nature on Phillip Island
A 90-minute drive from Melbourne, every verb you utilize to describe your experience on this Island, with its diverse wildlife and outdoorsy way of life falls under variations of the verb “to interest.” Have a close encounter with penguins, get week-kneed over nests of fur-seals, or observe animals romping in their natural environment without being caged or included.

Sovereign Hill, the museum with a distinction
If museums were classified, Sovereign Hill would fall under the category of “vibrant.” Set in what used to be a gold-picking location, this al fresco neighbourhood museum is deeply entrenched in gold-rush history. Be it interacting with the dressed-up actors, panning for gold in the Red Hill Gully Creek – peppered with great alluvial gold – or taking a horse-drawn carriage around town, the Sovereign Hill experience sweeps you in.

Own down the Great Ocean Roadway
Running along the Southern Ocean, the Great Ocean Road is a tantalising strip of tar that takes the wonderstruck chauffeur along substantial cliffs, raving browse, relaxing bays, stunning beaches and rich forests. It has wonderful straights with stunning ocean views, as well as curved areas. After forests and pastures the eyes are treated to that many well known traveller destination of the Great Ocean Roadway – the renowned Twelve Apostles, the remains of an extended cliff line that has actually been crafted into stacks of rock by the continuous pounding of the sea and the abrasive caress of salt packed winds. The best way to see them all is to book a helicopter trip, and drink in the sight of the Apostles as well the surrounding rock formations.