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8 Best Road Trips in Australia

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Welcome to the Land Down Under, where gorgeous cityscapes meld with the rough outback and sunburns are indicative of a day well spent. This continent/country is tailor-made for the wide-eyed adventurers. Expansive rainforests, canyons, mountains, and world-famous beaches beckon thousands of visitors every year, but what exactly is the best way to get the most out of a tour in Australia? Eschew the plane in favor of a 4WD! Cruising the open road guarantees the best sights and experiences, so here are 8 of the best road trips in Australia.

  • The Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road leads you along some of Austalia’s most stunning coastlines. Gawk at cliffs, rainforests, and shipwrecks and don’t forget to spend a moment taking in the beauty of the Twelve Apostles – a collection of limestone structures just off the shore of Port Campbell National Park.

Recommendation: Twelve Apostles is Port Campbell National Park’s most iconic spot, but don’t forget to wander further. Check out Lock Ard Gorge for the stunning 19th century shipwreck, the Island Archway, and snap a few photos of the Gibson Steps rock formation.

Distance: 243 kilometers

Starting and ending point: Torquay to Allansford, South Australia

Duration: 2-3 days.

Best time to go: February-March or October-November for warmer weather and off-peak prices away from the crowds.

  • Gibb River Road

A road trip through the Gibb River Road is definitely one for the books, what with its magnificent displays of wildlife and wilderness. Touted as one of Australia’s greatest 4WD adventures, this road trip takes you through Kimberley where you can explore gorges, waterfalls, outback cattle stations, rock art, and Aboriginal sites.

Recommendation: The Bell Gorge can be a challenge to reach, but the sight itself is worth all the effort. Marvel at cascading waterfalls while swimming in its natural pools!

Distance: 660 kilometers

Starting and ending point: Derby to Wyndham, Western Australia

Duration: One to two weeks.

Best time to go: Catch the dry season from April to September when waterfalls are fully fed by the previous rainy season. The road is closed December to March due to heavy rains and flooding.

  • The Great Eastern Drive

For adventurers seeking a little solace, the Great Eastern Drive offers the peace and quiet of Tasmania with the hustle and bustle of only its wildlife. From Orford to St. Helens, this reflective journey takes you through the east coast wine country, forests, beach towns, and stunning farmlands. The region’s bountiful produce and seafood guarantee you’ll be munching something along the way.  

Recommendation: The Freycinet National Park is a worthy detour with its crystal-clear bays, waters and rich birdlife.

Distance: 176 kilometers

Starting and ending point: Orford to St. Helens, Tasmania

Duration: 2-5 days.

Best time to go:  The autumn months of March-May for crowd-free travel.  

  • Roadtrip to The Tip

Looking to get lost in the wilderness? A trip to Cape York, one of Australia’s most remote landscapes, offers more than a thousand kilometers of untamed and rugged rainforest beauty. This picturesque route features river crossings infested with crocs, ancient rock art, and two World Heritage sites in the Wet Tropics. Beautiful as it may be, here’s some bad news for your social media followers: Cape York has very limited phone reception, so bye-bye Instagram (that’s right, take this time to reconnect with Mother Nature!)

Recommendation: Take a guided tour through the Quinkan Galleries at Laura to gawk over 30,000-year-old rock art.  

Distance: 1000 kilometers

Starting and ending point: Cairns to Cape York, Queensland

Duration: One to two weeks

Best time to go:  During the cooler months of June to October. Other times of the year might be met with road closures and floods.  

  • Australia’s Coral Coast

Nature lovers, buckle up your seatbelts. This trip from Perth to Ningaloo promises to offer you the best that Mother Nature has to offer. Here, the sprawling Indian Ocean converges with the rugged outback, offering countless adventures on both land and water. Explore the Pinnacles Desert and the Kalbarri National Park for land-dwelling creatures and the World Heritage Shark Bay to spy on manta rays, dolphins, and whale sharks.  

Recommendation: Dedicated divers must check out the Navy Pier – one of the world’s top 10 on-shore dive sites.

Distance: 1200 kilometers

Starting and ending point: Perth to Ningaloo, Western Australia

Duration: 1 week

Best time to go:  Come between June to September for a stunning display of vibrant wildflowers.

  • Great Alpine Road

Cruise along the continent’s highest accessible sealed road to marvel at scenic mountain ranges, deep valleys, and spectacular wine regions. The waterways of the Gippsland Lakes region are a must visit. Looking to reflect? The journey is studded with charming historic towns, such as Omeo, Beechworth, and Bright.

Recommendation: Visit Mt. Hotham, Victoria’s highest alpine village, for rejuvenating mountain air and absolutely breath-taking alpine views. Lots of action here for snowboarders, skiers, and sledders!

Distance: 500 kilometers

Starting and ending point: Wangaratta to Metung, Victoria

Duration: 3 days

Best time to go:  Any time of the year, but some roads may be closed during winter (June to August)

  • The Savannah Way

Our penultimate road trip will have you traveling 3,700 kilometers across five World Heritage sites and 15 national parks, all without ending up in another country or kissing the ocean. This epic road trip may be grueling, but this is one journey that truly offers the Australian outback experience. Expect lots of time spent in nature from grassy plains to lush rainforests, waterfalls, ancient rock art, remote cattle stations, and turquoise waters.  

Recommendation: The Boodjamulla National Park is a must-visit. Gawk at magnificent gorges, 25-million-year-old fossils, emerald waters, and orange sandstone cliffs.  

Distance: 3700 kilometers

Starting and ending point: Cairns, Queensland to Broome, Western Australia

Duration: 10 days to 3 weeks.

Best time to go:  Come during the dry season between May to September.

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  • The Big Lap

Ready for an adventure of a lifetime? The Big Lap is for die-hard road-trippers – an epic road trip that encompasses the entirety of Australia. If you have 6 months or more to spare, this road trip promises more than just spectacular sights and the full Australian experience, you’ll also get lifelong bragging rights.  Highway 1 links Australia’s seven capital cities and skirts around Brisbane, Darwin, Perth, Melbourne, Sydney, Cairns, Broome, Esperance, Hobart, and Adelaide. The Big Lap offers everything Aussie: verdant rainforests, bustling cities, coastal towns, the rough outback, and crystal beaches. This is one road trip unlike any other.

Recommendation: Add more to the experience by including Alice Springs, Kakadu, and Uluru, all accessible via the Stuart Highway in NT.

Distance: 15,000 kilometers

Starting and ending point: This is an epic road trip around Australia with no definite start or end points. You will be cruising along Highway 1 which skirts around the entire continent, with some divergences if you want to explore key cities

Duration: Six months to a year

Best time to go: If it’s summer, December to Australia head south. During winter, June to August, head north or explore the red center. Wet seasons from November to May may close roads and national parks.

If you want an amped up travel experience, explore Australia on four wheels. The greatest part of a road trip isn’t about arriving at your destination and this rings true in the Land Down Under. This continent offers a myriad of sights and adventures you just might miss when traveling on air!

Cole is one half of New Zealand's leading adventure travel blogging couple who have been wearing out their jandals around the world since 2009. He loves any adventure activities and anything to do with the water whether it is Surfing, Diving, Swimming, Snorkeling or just lounging nearby on the beach. You can follow Cole on Google+. Or consider following us via RSS Feed, Twitter, Facebook and subscribe to our Newsletter.

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Visiting the UK for the First Time? 10 Things to Consider Doing (2024)

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Are you planning a trip to the United Kingdom and feeling a little overwhelmed with all there is to do? No worries! The UK is packed with history, culture, and beautiful landscapes, making it an exciting destination for any traveler. To help you get started, here are ten things you should consider doing on your first visit.

1. Explore London’s Iconic Landmarks

London is often the starting point for many visitors, and for good reason. The city is bursting with iconic sights that you’ve likely seen in movies or read about in books. Be sure to check out:

  • The Tower of London: Learn about its rich history and see the Crown Jewels.
  • Buckingham Palace: Try to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
  • The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben: Snap some photos of these famous structures.
  • The London Eye: Get a bird’s eye view of the city from this giant Ferris wheel.

Walking along the River Thames will give you a great perspective of the city’s skyline, too!

2. Take a Day Trip to Stonehenge

Just a couple of hours away from London, Stonehenge is a prehistoric marvel that has stood on the British landscape for thousands of years. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous landmarks in the UK. Many tours are available that can provide round-trip transportation and insightful commentary about this mysterious stone circle.

3. Discover the Scottish Highlands

If time allows, venture north to Scotland and experience the breathtaking beauty of the Scottish Highlands. With its rugged mountains, serene lochs (lakes), and sweeping glens (valleys), it’s an area of outstanding natural beauty. You might even want to try spotting the elusive Loch Ness Monster while you’re there!

4. Play the Irish Lottery

While exploring the UK, many travelers try their luck with the Irish Lottery. While based in Ireland, the Irish Lotto remains popular in the UK among locals and visitors alike. People can purchase a ticket from authorized retailers like Lottoland.

5. Visit Historical University Towns

The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, and the towns of Oxford and Cambridge are well worth a visit. Wander around the historic college buildings, admire the architecture, and maybe even take a punt (boat) down the river. Both towns have a unique charm and are brimming with history and culture.

6. Enjoy Traditional British Cuisine

Your trip won’t be complete without trying some traditional British food. Fish and chips are a must-have, ideally enjoyed by the seaside. Also, don’t miss out on a classic Sunday roast at a local pub, complete with Yorkshire pudding and gravy. For something sweet, afternoon tea is a charming British tradition where you can indulge in scones, sandwiches, and a selection of teas.

7. Wander Through the Lake District

The Lake District is England’s largest National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its stunning lakes, forests, and mountains. It’s the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you prefer hiking, cycling, or simply picnicking by the water’s edge, the natural beauty here is sure to leave you in awe. Don’t forget to visit the charming villages like Windermere and Keswick.

8. Experience the Welsh Culture in Cardiff

Cardiff, the capital of Wales, offers a blend of ancient history and modern Welsh culture. Explore Cardiff Castle, stroll through Bute Park, or catch a rugby match to experience the national sport and passion of Wales. The city also boasts a vibrant waterfront at Cardiff Bay, where you can find delicious Welsh cuisine and entertainment.

9. Attend a West End Show in London

For theatre lovers, attending a show in London’s West End is a must-do. The area is famous for its high-quality theatrical productions, ranging from musicals and comedies to classic dramas and new works. There’s something magical about spending an evening in one of the historic theatres, enjoying world-class performances that you’ll remember long after the curtain falls.

10. Visit the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland

A trip to the UK wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. This natural wonder consists of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, give or take, resulting from an ancient volcanic eruption. Legend says it was built by giants, and as you walk the coastal path with the Atlantic Ocean crashing beside you, it’s easy to see why this myth persists. It’s a truly unique and unforgettable sight.

Remember, the UK is more than just its sights; it’s the experiences and the people that make a trip truly memorable. So, chat with locals, take in the scenery, and immerse yourself in the culture. Have a fantastic trip!

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Did you get receive an inheritance or own the Lottoland’s lottery and are planning a trip to the UK? Here are 10 things to consider doing next time you visit the United Kingdom.

 

 

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Exploring Equatorial Guinea: A Journey through the Heart of Africa

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Tucked away in the western part of Central Africa lies Equatorial Guinea, a nation often referred to as the “Heart of Africa” due to its geographical location straddling the equator. This small yet captivating country comprises the mainland region called Rio Muni and several islands, with Bioko being the largest and most populous. Exploring Equatorial Guinea is akin to embarking on a journey through a microcosm of Africa’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and history. So, if you are in the mood to plan a trip to this wonderful land, make sure to check out eVisa in order to keep things going easily and plan stress-free.

A Tapestry of Landscapes

Equatorial Guinea’s geography is as varied as it is stunning. From dense rainforests to pristine beaches and volcanic landscapes, this country offers a tapestry of natural wonders waiting to be discovered. The lush rainforests of Bioko Island are a haven for biodiversity, home to rare species such as the drill monkey and the African grey parrot. Hiking through the dense foliage, one can encounter cascading waterfalls, hidden lagoons, and endemic flora that thrive in this ecological paradise.

Venturing to the mainland, Rio Muni unveils a different facet of Equatorial Guinea’s landscape. Here, expansive savannas stretch as far as the eye can see, interrupted by winding rivers and rolling hills. The Monte Alen National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers intrepid travelers the chance to witness elephants, gorillas, and other wildlife roaming freely in their natural habitat. Explorations along the Rio Muni River reveal traditional villages where ancient customs and traditions are still preserved, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Equatorial Guinea.

Cultural Encounters

Equatorial Guinea is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from indigenous tribes, Spanish colonial heritage, and neighboring African nations. This diversity is reflected in the country’s vibrant music, dance, and cuisine. Traditional rhythms reverberate through the streets during festivals and celebrations, where locals clad in colorful attire showcase their ancestral dances passed down through generations.

The capital city, Malabo, offers a fascinating blend of old-world charm and modernity. Spanish colonial architecture stands side by side with contemporary structures, creating a unique juxtaposition of styles. The bustling markets of Malabo are a feast for the senses, with vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts crafted by local artisans. Exploring the city’s museums and galleries provides insight into Equatorial Guinea’s history, from its pre-colonial roots to its struggle for independence and subsequent development.

Island Escapes

Equatorial Guinea’s islands offer a perfect escape for those seeking sun, sand, and sea. Bioko Island boasts pristine beaches fringed by coconut palms, where azure waters beckon travelers to swim, snorkel, and dive amidst colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life. The island’s volcanic peaks provide a dramatic backdrop for exploration, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and even volcano trekking for the adventurous.

Off the coast of Rio Muni lies the tranquil island of Annobón, a secluded paradise untouched by mass tourism. Here, time seems to stand still as visitors immerse themselves in the laid-back island lifestyle, characterized by warm hospitality and breathtaking natural beauty. Snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, exploring hidden coves, or simply unwinding on deserted beaches are among the activities that make Annobón a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Conclusion

Exploring Equatorial Guinea is a journey of discovery, where every corner reveals a new facet of Africa’s rich heritage and natural splendor. From the lush rainforests of Bioko to the pristine beaches of Annobón, this small yet diverse country offers endless opportunities for adventure, cultural immersion, and relaxation. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination, Equatorial Guinea promises an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

 

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How Gaming Inspires Real-World Adventure

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Video games have gone well beyond just entertainment; they can now open doors to real-world exploration and adventure too. Their unique ability to take players to new worlds, albeit virtual ones, can motivate players to go out on their own to experience those locations, cultures, and adventures first-hand. A trend that’s gaining popularity with gamers is seeking out these virtual experiences in the real world to bridge the gap between the two realms. After all, they’ve already visited these diverse cultures virtually. In this article, we look at the impact gaming has had on our desire to explore and connect with the world around us.

The Influence of Gaming on Travel Choices

The immersive worlds of video games serve as more than just backdrops for storytelling and gameplay; they can be jumping-off points for real-world exploration. Games like Assassin’s Creed, which explores various historical settings, including cities, landscapes, and cultures in detail, and Yakuza, which unfolds the heart of Tokyo, have piqued the curiosity in gamers, motivating them to explore these destinations themselves.

These games have rich narratives and often take place in authentic settings, giving players a close-up look at the spirit of different locales, from the ancient streets of Rome to the bustling districts of modern-day Japan. This virtual tourism not only enriches the gaming experience but also influences travel choices, as players seek to experience the depth and authenticity of the cultures and places they’ve grown to admire in their digital adventures.

Las Vegas and Online Casinos

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Las Vegas is one of the best examples of how gaming—video games and online casinos—inspires real-world adventure. For those who don’t live in the Southwestern United States, getting to the entertainment capital of the world requires planning and long-distance travel. However, you can find aspects of the city’s glittering appeal in various video games and online platforms that offer a virtual taste of one of the world’s most famous cities.

These digital experiences, from the strategy of blackjack to slot machines’ virtual spins, mirror the excitement of Las Vegas, motivating gamers to experience the city in person. Titles like Fallout: New Vegas and numerous casino-themed games have significantly shaped perceptions, enticing gamers with a virtual Las Vegas adventure to seek the authentic entertainment, sounds, and sights of the Strip, boosting tourism as players pursue the excitement they’ve first encountered online.

From Virtual to Reality: Other Popular Destinations Inspired by Gaming

Within video games, distant and fictional worlds are available for us to explore with the tap of a controller or click of the mouse, which can inspire real-world curiosity among audiences. If a player explores Tokyo through the Persona series, they’ll get a vibrant, stylized glimpse into Japanese culture, fashion, and daily life, which can encourage fans to get out and explore the city’s actual streets, shrines, and districts on their next vacation.

Similarly, the Spider-Man games set in New York City allow players to swing through the different Manhattan boroughs, which can foster a desire to experience the Big Apple’s iconic landmarks in person.  One of the biggest draws of the Assassin’s Creed series is its historical settings that educate players on different eras and locations, including everything from Renaissance Italy to Ancient Egypt, making history accessible and intriguing. These games entertain while at the same time acting as interactive travel guides, encouraging cultural exploration and a deeper appreciation of the history and significance of their real-world counterparts.

The Role of Augmented Reality (AR) Games

Augmented Reality (AR) games, like Pokémon GO, have changed the way we interact with our surroundings, turning boring everyday activities into a backdrop for fun and exciting adventures. AR works by overlaying virtual elements onto the real world and these games encourage players to venture outdoors, explore new locations, and even travel far from home as they try to collect as many Pokémon as they can along the way, making it one of the most unique gaming experiences available. Pokémon GO, in particular, has had a big role in creating community events and gatherings, bringing together players of all ages in public spaces, parks, and landmarks worldwide.

The Pokémon Go phenomenon has gotten people off the couch and engaging in physical activity and exploration while also bringing together communities for a shared adventure among players. Although there hasn’t been another game as successful as Pokémon GO, its success demonstrates the potential to blend virtual gaming experiences with real-world adventures, making the act of exploration both fun and rewarding. Through these interactive experiences, AR games have the power to transform local neighborhoods and distant locales into playgrounds for the imagination, further blurring the lines between the digital and the physical worlds.

 

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Meet Cole and Adela

Cole and AdelaWe have been wearing out our jandals (Kiwi for flip-flops) on our travel adventures around the world since 2009. We think our blog is thought provoking and a little witty. But we have been proven wrong before. Find out more about us here...

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