Heading to Australia in Autumn? This Is What You Must Do!

You might have heard about the great Aussie summer. However, it is autumn that is one of the best times to visit! You don’t have worry about covering yourself head to toe in suncream  or the 35+ degree heat! Find out the best ways to experience autumn in Australia like a local.

Head to The Snowy Mountains

horsesSome people won’t believe it but Australia does it an average snowfall of 3 metres. You need to head south of Sydney to the Snowy Mountain to experience it. It worth a visit in summer as well, there beautiful lakes and hikes to as well as horse riding. You can stroll to the highest point of Australia or head up into the mountains on horseback.

If you’re looking for a casual walk, why not climb to the highest point of Australia? First you catch a ski lift up 1900m. For there it is just an easy 45 minutes stroll to the top, where you won’t even break a sweat. At the top you can see for miles at the top and makes for some beautiful pictures.

In the valleys of the Snowy Mountains, are many places where wild horses or otherwise known “brumbies” are cared for. During the colonisation of Australia, the brumbies were used to help settlers claim land. There are many opportunities to jump in the saddle and see these rare creatures.

Go Cliffside for A Few Kms

With perfect weather until late May, you don’t have worry about grabbing a jumper for a cliffside walk. The coastal track from Coogee to Bondi is a picturesque pleasure. Not only will it the 6km track help you burn off the excessive beers, lattes & seafood it is packed with so much to do. There are plenty of rock pools, hidden beaches, parks & picnic stops to stop. Finish off our walk with a true Aussie lunch, fish and chips on the beach, just don’t forget the tomato sauce!

Have A Weekend Barbie on A Grassy Knoll with Some Locals

No matter time of the year or temperature locals always flock to Bondi Beach. The locals complain it full riffraff and overpriced coffees but it doesn’t stop them heading down.

There are only a few remaining spots too set up a true Aussie BBQ. If you head down the northern end of the beach there is a grassy knoll, where you can fire up a coin operated gas barbecues.

You will find a huge congregation of locals here every Saturday and Sunday and well pretty most other sunsets to eat, drink and mingle. It’s a good chance to integrate yourself with a cheery local and get some insider knowledge. It might find that it does get turn into a pretty heavy drinking session. Taking this into account makes sure you always have your wits about when lighting up a natural gas smoker in the park. Follow some gas safety or you may be jumping on that plane home a little bit earlier.

Grab a Beer and Head for Barefoot Bowls.

You may have heard that Australians love their sport. This one isn’t physically demanding it more of a get together for a laugh and a beer. Bowls clubs were originally just reserved for the senior citizens however in recent years barefoot bowls has become the summer activity of choice.

You will find that most bowls clubs will have designated times that you and some friends just drop by for some barefoot bowls. You just slip off your shoes, grab a drink (at prices from the 1970s) and try to not let the alcohol affect your game.

Head to The Park for A Movie

4469084486_affc71db81_b (1)In summer there nothing like heading to open-air movies. All the cities around Australia offer it however it variety of the locations is what makes it special. In Melbourne you have the option of sitting back on the grass of the Royal Botanic Gardens or taking in the sunset whilst at the rooftop cinemas.

We recommend a BYO beanbag or picnic rug to get comfy. Drop by the local supermarket and pick up some movie snacks and a bottle of wine, otherwise you can also grab something for the food trucks surrounding it.

No matter where you are in Australia during autumn the weather is still extremely mild. You can still swim in northern beaches, get around in shorts & enjoy a BBQ on the beach.

Brittnay is an Aussie and one half of the The Travelling House Sitters. She lived in London for the past two years before making the move to back to Melbourne. She managed to squeeze in 21 trips to Europe & Africa in that time (including lots of cheese, wine & beaches).  Find out where will Jay & Britt will end up next by following them at The Travelling House Sitters or on Instagram @thetravellinghousesitters.

 

 

The Ultimate Penguin-spotting Guide to New Zealand

Teeming with exotic animal species and wonderful opportunities for wildlife sightseeing across the map, New Zealand is a true save haven for nature enthusiasts and mindful travellers of the world. Among the country’s rich and diverse wildlife scene, the “impeccably dressed” penguins can be found in abundance, frolicking on the sun-laden beaches and swimming the crystal-clear waters beyond. However, New Zealand is a vast country, so if you want to reach all of the following destinations with ease, it’s best you find a free transfer car or campervan to ensure an adventure to remember.

The Marlborough Sounds

Located in at the north end of the South Island, Marlborough Sounds is comprised of an extensive network of sea-drowned valleys too beautiful not to be visited at least once in a lifetime. But what this magnificent region has to offer is not solely confined to riveting vistas, as it’s also the home of little blue penguins, as well as dolphins, seals, and even whales. Taking a boat cruise through the natural maze is the best way to experience it all.

Dunedin

The city of Dunedin is not only the home of a thriving community of student’s, nomads, and global backpackers, but it is also the place you want to visit on your penguin sightseeing tour around the country. Located in the southeast end of the South Island, the town offers numerous wildlife exploration tours where you are bound to see yellow-eyed penguins enjoying a warm afternoon.

The Banks Peninsula

image3 (1)Located just outside of Christchurch in the Southern Island, the Banks Peninsula is home to the largest colony of little blue penguins. The region of Canterbury is also the only place you can find the white-flippered penguins as well, so this destination is a double must! The Banks Peninsula has plenty of sightseeing spots from which you will be to admire the little blue penguins in their natural habitat.

Munro Beach

Munro Beach is situated some 30 kilometres from Haast in the South Island, and is by far the best place to find the world’s second rarest penguin species, the Fiordland-crested penguin also known as Tawaki. Although the chances of actually spotting one are not that great, the sheer beauty of the region and the possibility of witnessing this remarkable species makes the trip worthwhile.

Oamaru

image1 (1)

Popularly named “Penguintown”, Oamaru is the largest town in the North Otago region, and is a great place to see blue and yellow-eyed penguins nestling along the coastline just before sunset. Be sure to keep your distance though, so as not to disturb their peace.

 

The Catlins

Travelling further south and we find ourselves at the shores of the Catlins Coast, home to the yellow-eyed penguin as well as numerous other marine species. The best spot to see the beautiful creatures in their natural habitat is at Curio Bay at dawn or dusk when the parents are feeding their younglings. No matter how inspiring the scenery might feel, be sure to adhere to the distance rules pointed out at Curio Bay in order to avoid disturbing the penguins.

Stewart Island

Rakiura, or Stewart Island, is the third-largest island in New Zealand, located 30 kilometres south of the South Island. It’s also home to numerous exotic bird species and is the place you should absolutely visit on your exploration tour in hopes of seeing the yellow-eyed penguins as well as the little blue penguins on its shores. If you want to improve your chances of spotting these beautiful creatures, head over to Oban located in Halfmoon Bay on the eastern fringe of the island.

 

New Zealand is one of the best places in the world to revel in the beauty of thousands of exotic animal species and penguins are just the cherry on the cake. In order to reach every destination safely and quickly, you can get a free transfer car that will help you experience an adventure of a lifetime.

 

Images:

Image1

Image2

Image3

The Hunter Valley: The Ideal Trip for Wine, Vodka & Chocolate Lovers

Haven’t visited the Hunter Valley yet? Then you’re missing out. This little gem is one of the best destinations in New South Wales and beyond. Escape the rat race in Sydney and take the 2 hour drive to a whole new world. This paradise is a foodie heaven, with a huge array of decadent chocolates, vodkas and wines produced in this region. Hunter Valley is the ideal trip for any food enthusiast!

 Over 150 wineries
 wine-3296512

You can take your pick of over 150 fabulous wineries in acres of rolling green vineyards. Whether you’re looking for a full-bodied, rich red wine or a light and sparkling chardonnay, you’ll find more than one wine to suit your taste here! Elect a dedicated driver and take a trip to a handful of wineries to compare the produce!

 Award winning restaurants

 Once you’ve had your liquid lunch, refuel with something more substantial. Hunter Valley is home to many award winning restaurants. You don’t have to stay stuck in the city to enjoy quality foods, you’ll likely find some of Australia’s very best meals located right here.

 Food and drink festivals

The Hunter Valley know the quality of their produce, that’s why they celebrate it. Head to The Hunter Valley to experience one of the regional food and drink festivals. Here you’ll be able to sample all of the finest goods in one sitting – perfect for those of you with a limited time frame!

 Chocolate and cheese
 food-3196302

Dairy goods are immensely popular in Hunter Valley, and you can spend an entire day visiting various chocolate factories and cheese shops. You’ll find dairy products ranging from rich and bitter dark chocolate to smooth, creamy white chocolate or mature, crumbly cheeses to melt-in-your-mouth soft cheeses. No matter your preference, you can be confident in a quality, tasty product made from locally produced ingredients.

 Vodka and spirits

 If wine and cheese isn’t to your taste, The Hunter Valley can still be the perfect weekend trip for you. They specialise in strong vodkas and spirits for those of you with a sharper palate. You can try your vodkas straight up, with a twist, on the rocks, or if you’re feeling more exotic, why not try a flavoured vodka? There are a huge array of vodkas and gins infused with botanicals and fruit to diversify the range.

Other experiences in the Hunter Valley

 We’re sure by now we’ve tickled your tastebuds and you’re dying to dive right into some of Hunter Valley’s local delicacies. But, there’s even more to The Hunter Valley than the food and wine. The Hunter Valley is also one of the most beautiful places in all of Australia. There are beautiful green fields for as far as the eye can see, friendly kangaroos in the wild among amazing lake and hill views. Escape the city and detox from your busy life here.

 Include the Hunter Valley on your next Sydney based tour for wine, vodka and chocolate, or take a special weekend getaway to explore the best of what the region has to offer.

Coolest Australian Music Festivals in Autumn/Winter 2018

The summer might be over but that doesn’t mean that the party stops in the Land Down Under. Quite the contrary, with beautiful weather gracing the Aussie continent all year round (or most of the time), the opportunities are numerous for a festival road trip around the country. So pack your bags, round up your posse, and grab a free campervan because you’re going on a tour around Australia, experiencing the sights, sounds, and shivers of the best festivals Australia has to offer in the following months.

Wide Open Space, 4th to 6th of May

If dwelling into the heart of Australia was your dream, then you definitely shouldn’t miss this magical cultural experience taking place in NT this fall. The Wide Open Space Festival celebrates the beauty life itself, expressed through breathtaking natural vistas, various musical performers, uniquely Australian art, and timeless cultural heritage.

Accompanied by numerous workshops and panels, the three-day festival offers a comprehensive, engaging, and immersive experience that will cleanse your mind, liberate your soul, and allow you to let yourself go in the beauty of the present moment. So be sure to visit Ross River Resort, 80 kilometres outside Alice Springs this fall.

Groovin the Moo, April 27th to May 12th 

This one will take you across Australia, so get ready, as the festival takes place in Wayville (Adelaide), Maitland (outside Newcastle in NSW), Canberra, Bendigo (VIC), Townsville (QLD), and Bunbury (south of Perth). Groovin the Moo features national and international artists ranging in styles and genres, from R’n’B through electronic beats and house, to a mix of everything, so the festival has something for everyone. If you are looking to have an amazing time listening to the energetic, irresistible beats, don’t skip the festival’s headliners such Cosmo’s Midnight, Alex Lahey, Duke Dumont, and many more.

Big Pineapple Music Festival, 26th of May

Less than an hour and a half car ride north of Brisbane is Sunshine Coast, the host of a truly magical one-day camping even known as the Big Pineapple Music Festival, gathering artists from around the country and beyond. This is another one for all of you nature lovers out there looking to chillax in pristine tree-lined surroundings while listening to the innovative beats from numerous performers ranging from energetic and wild all the way to “chill, dude” type of laid-back. The friendly atmosphere radiating from performers and crowds alike will make you wish the day (and night) would never end.

Happy Daze Festival, 1st to 3rd of June

Defined as so much more than a music event, the Happy Daze Festival is a cultural experience celebrating art and mindful living. This is not just a place where you want to party all night long, this is the place where you also are to grow, learn, connect with yourself and others, and leave as a better earthling.

Along with numerous concerts, you can enjoy art installations, various mindful workshops, and a myriad of activities on a daily basis. Some of the headliners this year will be The Strides, Fat Picnic, Talpa, Mickey Space, and many more, so be sure to grab your tickets while they’re still available.

Splendour in the Grass, 20th to 22nd of July

Held in the North Byron Parklands, Splendour in the Grass is one of Australia’s biggest festivals and an established host of top-line performers hailing from across the globe. This is the festival you don’t want to miss this season, as some of the biggest stars in the music industry such as Kendrick Lamar and Lorde will be gracing the stage. But great music is not the only thing this world-renowned festival has to offer, as you can visit the science tent, enjoy a good laugh at the Splendour comedy club, and enjoy a myriad of other activities that will leave you yearning for more when the time comes to pack your bags!

When the summer ends, so does the partying, at least for the rest of the world – but not in the Land Down Under. Actually, the party is just about to begin, so be sure to grab your tickets in time, plan your route, and take a free transfer car in order to live out a cultural adventure of a lifetime across beautiful Australia.

 

Image1

Must-See Places in California

June is the perfect time to visit, experience, and explore some of the hotter regions in the country before temperatures rise to “let’s stay inside” levels. And California, being a notoriously toasty region of the US, is just the place where you want to spend your spring exploring its breathtaking natural, and urban, scenery. The following destinations will take you across the Sunny State, so be sure to grab a free transfer car or campervan to make your trip as laid-back and smooth as possible.

Beautiful Palm Springs

image1 (1)One of the most popular resorts in the world, Palm Springs, is located not a two-hour drive east of Los Angeles, offering everything from leisure and spa, to sports and entertainment all year round, but springtime is when you truly want to visit in order to escape the dreaded heat of the summer months.

Renowned for its top-of-the-class hotels, hot springs, golf courses, spas and much more, Palm Springs has something for everyone, making it a perfect family vacation destination or a romantic couple’s getaway. Be sure to take on the numerous hiking trails to San Jacino Mountain and Sky Valley while there.

 

Timeless San Francisco

Image2When in California, you mustn’t miss the iconic city of San Francisco and it’s numerous landmarks, sights, tastes, and of course, the unique cultural vibe that permeates every street. In fact, springtime is the perfect season for a lengthy visit, as there are fewer tourists to dodge in the streets, and the weather is just right for a whole-day exploration of the city.

The city is an art installation on its own, but if you had to choose where to go first, it should definitely be the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. After reveling in the beauty of the expansive view, you can take the famous Cable Car ride across town. Be sure to visit the California Academy of Sciences and walk all around Union Square, exploring its numerous shops and cafés.

 

The Roar of Yosemite Falls

image3Springtime is the perfect time for nature lovers to explore the breathtaking natural sceneries this part of the country has to offer, and Yosemite National Park is just the place to be if you are up for some hiking, river rafting, and camping. If anything, the beauty of Yosemite Falls alone is worth the visit.

This is the time of year when the Yosemite Falls put on their best show, as the high Sierra snowpack starts melting and the clashing of the Falls can be heard throughout the valley. So be sure to visit this beautiful destination before the summer crowds start pouring in.

 

Valley of the Oaks

This hidden gem of California located near King City between San Francisco and Los Angeles might not be as well-known as some other destinations, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less beautiful! With plenty to do and numerous sightseeing opportunities in the region, you can enjoy a beautiful spring day exploring the surrounding natural sceneries, delving into the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and the Pinnacles National Park. Be sure to visit King’s City as well, and stay at the quaint Mr. Hearst’s ranch house.

Watch the Shooting Stars in Death Valley

It seems that plenty of beautiful destinations grace the regions between San Francisco and Los Angeles, and the iconic Hearst Castle is definitely one of them. What’s more, this is a destination you wouldn’t want to miss on your springtime exploration of CA, as this year-round tourist destination offers special evening tours during the spring season.

This will also allow you to avoid the summer crowds and experience the beauty of the castle all lit up in the warm evening hours, with the castle staff dressing in period costumes and posing as guests – truly a beautiful all-around experience.

California is beautiful in spring, and the moderately high temperatures make it all the more appealing to pack your bags and head out on an exploration tour of a lifetime. So be sure to check out these top destinations by taking a free transfer car from location to location, making your trip as smooth and as pleasant as possible.

 

Image1

Image2

Image3

Image4

5 Top Hidden Beaches Around the Great Ocean Road

They are some world-famous beaches around the Great Ocean Road that shouldn’t be missed. Not only that there are some other beauties you must experience, such as the Twelve Apostles, the Otway Rainforest, and the beautiful beachside town of Lorne.

However, sometimes you want the chance to explore something a little bit different or unknown. We have put together some of our favourite hidden gems along the Great Ocean Road, that only the locals know about.

Milanesia Beach

Milanesia beach is a can be a little bit  difficult to reach, but it certainly worth the effort.  You need to walk 14 kilometres (8.6 miles) to reach this beautiful beach. Along the way, you pass through stunning farmlands and rugged cliffs that lead to the breath-taking views of this area. Our first time here we learnt that several dinosaur footprints were found in this area.

This hidden beach has a plethora of wildlife and wild plants to take in. It’s located near Blanket Bay, be sure to take the time to walk to Parker Inlet which is near Blanket Bay Road.

To find Milanesia Beach,  head southwest out  Lavers Hill Township. Keep an eye out for a sign indicating Milanesia beach, from the car pack you will find lots of signage all the way to the beach. Simply follow it too and discover this hidden beauty.

Parker Inlet

Parker Inlet is a unique little spot. It is where a freshwater river and a stunning bay meet. The inlet is sheltered in a hidden cove in-between Blanket Bay and Cape Otway light station. However, it can be quite a walk to it with some 300 steps.

Whenever we visited we found that it was only ever a few families and fisherman there. This means you can swim in peace as well as explore the inlet. In spring you will find the entire inlet covered in wildflowers in bloom, which are a magnificent array of colours.

Parker River is often just a shallow and easily crossed stream. However, do be careful we have seen it run high and fast following heavy rains and high tides. So make sure check the weather forecast before you head out to this beach.

Rivernook Beach

If you want to head some quiet on the Great Ocean Road then this is our top pick. It has some of the best views of the coast. This beach is also famous for fishing. So you if you enjoy throwing in a line, head to the local shop, they have a huge array of bait. We also managed to catch some for dinner at Rivernook.

If you want to head to Rivernook Beach, head east on the Old Coach Road coming from Princeton. On this road, you will an find a path the veers off of the Great Ocean Walk that will take you to this spectacular secluded beach.
Station Beach

Although the locals are certainly well aware of Station Beach, only a few travellers have what it takes to reach this beautiful beach. To get there, you’ll need to go west from Cape Otway, you will hit a marked trail that will take you there. It’s about a 90-minute walk to this secluded beach, so make sure you take some snacks with you.

When you arrive at Station Beach, you’ll be able to see Rainbow Falls and explore the many rock ledges that can be found here. You can also search for hidden treasures and simply enjoy your time away from the busier beaches along the Great Ocean Road.

If you’ve got the time for the 90-minute walk it takes to get to this hidden gem. This beautiful beach is perfect for explorers and adventurers. Here, you will find Rainbow Falls, which features incredible rock ledges. Or, you can fossick for treasures that can be discovered in this scenic location.
Urquats Bluff Beach

This is another amazing hidden set of beaches around the Great Ocean Road. It’s so off the beaten path, in fact, that you’ll want to make sure you pack a lunch as they no vendors in this area.

Halfway arriving from Fairhaven, you’ll find the picturesque Urquhart Bluff. It sits on a stretch of coastline riddled with rugged reefs, eroding bluffs and limestone cliffs. You will see the bluffs rise 20m to 50m. There is a collection of 12 inviting beaches that have a wild vibe with their impressive headlands.

The first five beaches stretch out in an endless stretch of golden sands and turquoise waters.  It can be difficult to reach however there a car park at the bluff, or you can enter via the beach access tracks at the Point Road Knight end of the shoreline.
If you plan on heading to the Great Ocean Road (which you must) you will notice how busy it gets. Now you have some local knowledge on the hidden gems you have to seek out. Some are a little more difficult than others, but trust us, it worth the effort.

Brittnay is an Aussie and one half of the The Travelling House Sitters. She lived in London for the past two years before making the move to back to Melbourne. She managed to squeeze in 21 trips to Europe & Africa in that time (including lots of cheese, wine & beaches).  Find out where will Jay & Britt will end up next by following them at The Travelling House Sitters or on Instagram @thetravellinghousesitters.