Inspiring Vacations – January/February 2023

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Happy New Year and welcome to our January/February issue of the Inspiring Vacations magazine. If your New Year’s wish was for a travel-filled 2023, you’ve certainly come to the right place!

This issue we’re taking you to the wilds of Borneo for an unforgettable turtle encounter, uncovering the adventurous side of Egypt and island-hopping through the 160-odd islands of Japan’s tropical paradise, Okinawa. If the wide open road is calling your name, choose from one of the five bucket list road trips in the US or closer to home, Queensland’s quick getaways, all within

a two hour drive of Brisbane.

As always, I love to hear your feedback so please get in touch through magazine@ inspiringvacations.com and remember to tag #inspiringvacations on your social media for the chance to win a $100 e-gift card.

Wishing you an adventurous year ahead.

Paul Ryan CEO

INSPIRING VACATIONS MAGAZINE

Editor

Vanessa Mulquiney Art Director SIXTWO Creative

Contributors

Laura Coop, Scott Forth, Emily Humphrey, Alistair Lawrence Marketing & Advertising Laura Coop Contact For editorial and advertising enquiries, please email magazine@ inspiringvacations.com or phone 1300 88 66 88 (AU)

Turkey

The picture was taken in October last year in Cappadocia, Turkey. It was exhilarating to be going up with the other 165 balloons at sunrise over such a beautiful landscape.

Peru

top of Vinicunca with the amazing backdrop of Rainbow Mountain. The arrival at the summit was a personal triumph for us both. A must-do experience worth all the effort!

— Richard & Odette Q

This photo was taken in September last year while on the Pennicott 3-hour cruise of the Tasman Peninsula and Eaglehawk Neck. It was awe-inspiring to view the rock formations and then for the seals to be frolicking around the next bend—it was fabulous!

— Karen C

WHAT’S ON

South Africa

JAN 2, TWEEDE NUWE JAAR

This long-standing traditional festival, officially known in English as the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival or simply Second New Year, brings together thousands of flamboyantly dressed performers as they parade through the bustling streets of Cape Town.

USA

JAN 19–29, SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL

One of the world's biggest independent film festivals is back to showcase fresh work from a variety of new and emerging independent filmmakers. Each year the state of Utah hosts exclusive screenings, panels and competitions for a massive international audience.

Japan

FEB 4–11,

SAPPORO ICE FESTIVAL

Ice sculptures, illuminated displays, winter activities and local food, Sapporo hosts a winter experience like no other. Most famous for its towering ice sculptures averaging 15 metres high, the ice cold winter of northern Japan gives way to a week-long funfest attracting millions of visitors from around the world.

Taiwan

FEB 5, TAIWAN LANTERN FESTIVAL

Originating in the Buddhist tradition, thousands of lanterns take to the sky in celebration of the closing of the Lunar New Year.

Brazil

FEB 17–22,

RIO CARNIVAL

The world’s largest samba-filled ceremony is back for a dazzling display of dancing, music and colourful costumes. Complete with seemingly endless street parties, the Rio Carnival truly earns its title of the Biggest Show on Earth.

Australia

FEB 17–MAR 19, ADELAIDE FRINGE FESTIVAL

This massive month-long festival promises a variety of art-centred events. From theatre to visual arts and comedy, Adelaide hosts an eclectic array of talent for what has now become the biggest arts festival in the Southern Hemisphere.

No matter where you are in the world, there’s plenty of events—both online and offline—to enjoy

IN THE KNOW

What to do, see and where to play

Return of the Orient Express

This renowned luxury train, first setting off in October of 1883, has recently unveiled its brand new opulent interior. Still known to this day for its glamour and style, inspiring literary classics such as Murder on the Orient Express, the train ran from Paris to Istanbul up until operations ceased in 2009. After the lost train carriages were rediscovered in a YouTube video from 2015, all 13 carriages have since been acquired by French hospitality group Accor Hotels, who hope to get back up and running by 2025.

Italy’s New Hiking Trail

Well-known for her astounding natural beauty, Italy is home to 25 national parks, from the Dolomites in the north to Sicily in the south. With the help of the Italian Alpine Club and the Ministry of the Environment, it will soon be possible to hike through all of these parks along one continuous hiking trail. The route will use much of the existing Sentiero Italy trail, which covers some 7,000-km across 18 parks, with a few key deviations to allow for one long uninterrupted path.

Venice Carnival

Brazil’s Highest Peak Reopens to Tourists

Pico da Neblina, simply translated to ‘misty peak’ in Portuguese, sits at a staggering height of 2,995 metres in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest. Little known to those outside of the most dedicated of mountain climbers, Pico da Neblina is one of the world’s most challenging summits to surmount. The mountain sits within the territory of the Yanomami indigenous people, who see Pico da Neblina and its surroundings as one sacred living entity. In 2003 the federally protected area was banned to tourists following a complete lack of regulation and disregard for Yanomami culture. Now tourism is back, and this time the expeditions are wholly owned and managed by the Yanomami people.

A Breakthrough in the Hunt for Cleopatra’s Tomb

For 12 magnificent days in February, Venice hosts one of the oldest annual celebrations in the world. Expect elaborate masks, colourful dresses and lavish events, as thousands gather to flaunt their extravagant outfits. Originating back to the 11th century, Carnival encourages people from all over the world to take part in the revelry. The most competitive of the events is the most beautiful mask (la maschera più bella) competition, where festival goers are encouraged to visit the Grand Theatre in St Mark's Square to earn the coveted prize.

We all know about Cleopatra: the last ruler of Egypt, lover of Julius Caesar and husband to the Roman general Mark Antony. She played a crucial role in Roman politics during the reign of Julius Caesar and in 30BC, following their defeat by the Roman armies of Octavian, Cleopatra and Mark Antony famously committed suicide. From Shakespeare plays to Hollywood films, her story has been captivating people for centuries. To this day her tomb has never been found. Finally, we have the first promising signs of its discovery. Thirteen metres below the temple of Taposiris Magna, located in the Western part of Alexandria, an advanced tunnel complex has been discovered containing roughly 1,500 religious objects, many of which portray Alexander the Great and Queen Cleopatra. Archeologists remain hopeful the tunnel will lead to the tomb’s discovery.

Turtle Time

WORDS BY LAURA COOP

As a country known for its dense jungle and thriving wildlife, it should come as no surprise that Borneo is also home to a collection of islands, fondly known as the Turtle Islands, that are dedicated to the conservation of their marine namesake.

The beaches of Selingan, Gulisan and Bakungan Kecil Island provide a safe haven for two species of endangered turtles, Green and Hawksbill. In fact, it's one of the only places in the world where these turtles will arrive to hatch year round. Selingan, the largest of the islands, is the only island with facilities for tourists to stay overnight and truly experience the magic that occurs after sundown. Easily accessible from Sandakan, the adventure of visiting Selingan Island begins with an hour-long boat ride and is limited to a handful of visitors with only 25 rooms available at the chalet-style accommodation.

During the day, visitors to Selingan can unwind on the sun-soaked beaches, snorkeling or even scuba diving around the nearby reefs. Then, after dusk, when the female turtles come ashore to nest, visitors can not only witness the laying of eggs but also watch as local rangers transplant these eggs into the safety of a turtle hatchery. And perhaps the most unique experience of all? Watching as baby turtles are released and take their first stumbling steps down the beach, clambering over their siblings to reach the safety of Sulu Sea.

Between orangutans and sun bears, wildlife experience not to be missed on your next adventure to Borneo

HIT THE ROAD

BLUES HIGHWAY

Take in great blues icons along this 1,330-km section of Highway 51 from Nashville, Tennessee to New Orleans, Louisiana. This journey is a rich tapestry of the Deep South’s layered history. Visit the birthplaces of celebrated artists, iconic recording venues, blues landmarks and discover comforting Southern food at every stop. The small town of Clarksdale, Mississippi bears claim to the birthplace of blues title and be sure to make a stay of it in Memphis, too. There’s Graceland, of course, and Elvis Presley’s Heartbreak Hotel. If ever there were a road trip that deserves its own playlist, this is it.

PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY

Stretching from San Francisco to the border city of San Diego, this epic West Coast route hugs the rugged California coastline. The views to be had as you take the steep ascents and windy turns really are the star. Get ready for beautiful beaches, towering mountains, giant Redwood forests, endless blue sky and even the chance to spot elephant seals. Stop in resort areas like Santa Cruz and Monterey, mountain towns like Big Sur and gape at Hearst Castle and, of course, the Malibu coastline. California dreaming, indeed.

UTAH MIGHTY 5

Southern Utah’s natural wonders deserve days of exploration, so take your time with this 564km beauty; seven to ten days is ideal. This reaches all of the state’s Mighty Five national parks, from red rock country in Canyonlands – try to catch sunrise peeking through Mesa Arch – to Capitol Reef’s sandstone formations and indigenous rock art petroglyphs. Marvel at Arches’ geological features, with dramatic landscapes carved by 300 million years of erosion resulting in iconic features like Delicate Arch. Hike Angels Landing in Zion and take in the red rock hoodoos and pink cliffs of Bryce Canyon, the highest elevation park of the five.

HĀNA HIGHWAY

With 620 curves, 59 bridges, sheer cliffs with steep drops and hairpin turns, this is not one for those prone to car sickness. But the scenery along Maui’s rugged eastern coastline is as incredible as it is stomach churning. The narrow, winding Hāna Highway is only an 84km stretch from Kahalui to the peaceful village of Hāna, but it's jampacked with Hawaiian delights – incredible waterfalls, black sand beaches, lush rainforests, roadside fruit stands and local coffee. The journey takes around three hours but best to make a day of it.

ROUTE 66

This historic road trip starts in downtown Chicago, Illinois and ends at Santa Monica, California. Approximately 3,665km long, the ‘Mother Road’ is best completed in about three weeks from the Midwest to the West Coast. Along the way you’ll see dusty Panhandle flatlands, New Mexico’s quintessential American West landscapes and Arizona’s incredible red mesas, before entering the Golden State. Hit the open road and soak up the roadside culture and nostalgia to be found along this enduring symbol of Americana.

These all-American beauties make for days of driving bliss

A VISIT TO ICELAND

Stefan reflects on his tour to Iceland

What prompted you to book your tour to Iceland?

Iceland has always been on my bucket list to witness volcanos, waterfalls, rugged landscapes and, of course, the famous iceland horses—wow! In 2014, I did a 50-day trip around Scandinavia (mostly Norway) which was incredible. My only regret is that I didn't visit Iceland and I'm grateful that I spent time in Reykjavik and travelling around the country to witness the changing landscape.

Did your expectations meet reality?

Yes, yes, and yes! Everywhere I visited was wow, wow, wow! I’m so glad I toured around the country. There are so many distinct and different waterfalls to witness and are a joy to take in.

Any surprises?

Active volcanoes—that was unexpected and I couldn't ask for anything more.

What were the highlights of this tour for you?

Waterfalls, active volcanoes and the delicious food—gotta love the Icelandic lamb! Iceland is very English-language friendly, and it was a great experience to be able to travel to a country where its people are sociable and proficient in English.

What do you say to those pondering whether or not to book?

Book and don't hesitate!

Any advice for future travellers?

Don't just stay for a few days, travel around the whole country. I know many travellers just like to stay in Reykjavik and do day trips, but you don't see half of what the country has to offer.

See Kenrokuen Garden, Mount Fuji, the deer of Nara, Miyajima Island’s iconic floating torii gate, Takayama Old Town and UNESCO sites Shirakawa-gõ Village and White Heron Castle.

• 14 nights in well-located hotels

• 1 night in a traditional Ryokan

• Ride the iconic Japanese bullet train

• Breakfast daily, 1 dinner

• Fully escorted by professional, expert, English-speaking guide

TRAVEL MAR 2023 TO MAY 2024

Japan’s icons and sights, including Mount Fuji, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and beautiful temples, and UNESCO-listed Golden Pavilion and Itsukushima Shrine.

• 14 nights in quality 3 and 4-star hotels

• Experience the iconic, exhilarating Japanese bullet train

• Breakfast daily, 1 dinner

• Fully escorted by professional, expert, English-speaking guide

TRAVEL MAR 2023 TO MAY 2024

Explore

• Centrally located, 3 and 4-star hotels including 1 night in a traditional Ryokan

• Ride the famed shinkansen bullet train

• Explore northern Japan with both independent travel and guided tours

• Expert, English-speaking guides

TRAVEL MAR 2023 TO MAY 2024

• 12 nights in 3 and 4-star accommodation

• All coach, rail and ferry transport including the Japanese bullet train

• Breakfast daily, 1 dinner

• Fully escorted by professional, expert, English-speaking guide

TRAVEL MAR 2023 TO APR 2024

delights like feudal relic Himeji Castle and Takayama Old Town. Plus, time to explore the beauty of northern Japan, including Hakodate, Sapporo and a scenic cruise around the islands of Matsushima Bay.

Dreaming of sakura season? Japan’s iconic landscapes and sights are even more magical drenched in petals, including Kyoto’s Heian Jingu Shrine and Philosopher’s Path, Tokyo’s Ueno Park and Lake Kawaguchiko.

OKINAWA ISLANDS

Japan’s own tropical idyll is a heady blend of beautiful beaches, rich culture and absorbing history

WORDS BY EMILY HUMPHREY

Okinawa, an up-and-coming tropical paradise and Japan’s southernmost prefecture, is made up of about 160 islands. Think white sand, sapphire waters, subtropical climate: the perfect beach break is only a two-hour flight from Tokyo. A world-renowned diving destination, these postcard-perfect islands are packed with vibrant coral reefs and loads of unspoilt, natural beauty.

DAYTRIPPER

It’s relatively easy to island-hop around the three island chains—Okinawa, Miyako, Yaeyama—that make up Okinawa Prefecture. Yaeyama, less populated than the other two, is known for jungle-like, lush landscapes. Each island has its own special charm. Kume Island is renowned for pristine white sand beaches, Iriomote Island for lush mangrove forests and the Kerama Islands for bright cobalt blue waters.

On Taketomi Island, there are no vehicles so transport is by bicycle or water buffalo. Take a tour around the island or even over to Yubu Island (it’s a leisurely ride, about 400 metres away), a tiny island that consists entirely of an enchanting subtropical botanical garden.

HISTORY BUFFS HAVE LOTS TO SEE

Okinawa’s long and complex history makes for a tropical holiday that’s equal parts relaxing and intriguing. During World War II, the 90-day Battle of Okinawa was a fierce battle during which a quarter of the civilian population died. Exploring the elaborate underground network of tunnels and bunkers at the Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters is an eerie experience, where so many Japanese sailors ended their lives as troops closed in. The Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum is home to many displays that commemorate victims of the war and share this painful history with future generations.

THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Taketomi Island; Fresh seaweed; Miyakojima Island; A traditional Okinawan house; OPPOSITE PAGE: The north coast of Ishigaki Island

REMNANTS OF RYUKYU RULE

Okinawa’s special, proud culture is thanks in large part to its past as the Ryukyu Kingdom, before becoming part of Japan in 1879. Traditional Okinawan language is still part of cultural activities like folk music and dance, but generally, the locals speak mainland Japanese with a distinctive accent. It’s the birthplace of karate— under Ryukyu rule, weapons were banned and locals defended themselves with their bare hands. Shuri Castle, the ancient royal capital in Naha and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a much-loved icon of Okinawan history and culture. Explore Yaima Village on Ishigaki Island, a wellpreserved Ryukyu village where you can tour a traditional hut and enjoy cultural experiences like music, dance and food.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT JAPAN?

THE SECRETS TO A LONG AND HAPPY LIFE

Okinawans are known for their long life expectancy, more than anywhere else—even the rest of Japan, the longest-lived ethnic group in the world. It’s theorised that their longevity is due to factors like their relaxed island lifestyle, community and spirituality—but largely their traditional diet, which is mostly plant-based, low-fat and low-salt, with staples like purple sweet potato and seaweed.

LOTS TO CELEBRATE

Japan loves a matsuri (festival), especially in Okinawa, where the locals are known for their strong sense of community and lust for life. From folk dancing at the All-Okinawa Eisa Festival, to the re-enacted coronation of the first Ryukyu king at the Shuri Castle Festival or one of the many hari (traditional Okinawan dragon boat race) events, there’s plenty to enjoy. Pray for good health and harvest at the Naha Great Tug-of-War, which started in the 15th century and uses a 200-metre-long rope made of rice straw.

THIS

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Okinawa Eisa Festival; The outer wall of Shuri Castle, Naha; Purple sweet potato sushi, a staple Okinawa dish; Aharen Beach; OPPOSITE PAGE: Shuri Castle

Shuri Castle, the ancient royal capital in Naha and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a muchloved icon of Okinawan history and culture

Sun, sea & Egypt: 10 experiences for adventurers

From exploration to excitation: these are the pastimes for travellers who enjoy a change of pace

WORDS BY ALISTAIR LAWRENCE

1. Quad biking

Proof that there’s an adventure to be had away from the water, Egypt’s quad biking excursions are a chance to journey inland for some adrenaline-fuelled fun. Tours tend to last between three and six hours and cost an average of about E£115 an hour. It’s possible to ride to world-famous sites such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Luxor Temple or reach some otherwise hard-to-find markets and camps. Hurghada is a popular starting point and tour guides are happy to run a few practice laps with you if it’s your first time on a quad bike.

2. Snorkelling

Whether you’re an experienced diver or someone who wants to learn in shallow waters, the coral reefs of the Red Sea are bustling with life and ready to be explored. In total, Egypt has 1,400-km of coastline. The water temperature has an agreeable average of 25°C so snorkelling in the spring and late summer is a good way to avoid higher temperatures and crowds. In Hurghada, a former fishing village and now a popular resort town, plenty of beachfront hotels offer snorkelling. Further north, you can head to Dahab or Ras Muhammad for a more low-key but equally enjoyable experience.

3. Windsurfing

Windsurfing and kitesurfing are both popular pastimes in Egypt, meaning that it’s a great place to learn and connect with an existing community. Beginners can start out in one of the Red Sea’s lagoons, while seasoned surfers can get up to speed on its expansive flat waters and waves. Dahab and Hurghada are common destinations, while further south Soma Bay and Safaga have something for all levels along their lengthy, idyllic beaches.

4. Sailing

Egypt boasts sailing excursions of all shapes and sizes, whether it’s a relaxing one- or two-hour cruise down the Nile to watch the sunset or, a more bracing trip across the waters of the Red Sea. Hurghada and other popular destinations offer sailing lessons for adults and children, while experienced seafarers can take the opportunity to head out on their own and see Egypt’s bays and reefs at their leisure. Learning to operate a felucca—the modest sailboats that have been used for centuries in Egypt—is a great way to connect with coastal culture.

5. Shipwreck diving

Divers looking for an even bigger thrill can take on the challenge of shipwreck diving in the Red Sea. There are several sites to explore, the most famous of which is the SS Thistlegorm. A British merchant navy ship, it has sat more than 30 m underwater near Ras Muhammad since it was sunk during World War II in 1941. It is often described as an underwater museum given its size and contents. Other popular destinations include the six shipwrecks that comprise Abu Nuhas in Hurghada and the SS Dunraven which sunk near Ras Muhammad in 1873.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT EGYPT?

6. Desert camping

Anyone wanting a longer stay in the Egyptian desert can get away from it all with a camping trip. Located in Western Sahara, the White Desert is the most popular destination, with eye-catching rock formations such as the mushroom and icecream cones forged from chalk. A national park, it became a protected area in 2002 and visitors come from around the world to experience its blissful calm, stunning sunrises and sunsets. Other nearby desert locations popular with visitors include the Black Desert, so-called because of its volcanic rock landscapes, and the Crystal Mountain, an ancient ridge that sparkles with quartz crystals embedded in its rocky edifice.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Shipwreck diving in the southern Red Sea; West Suhail, a Nubian village on the west bank of the Nile; The rock formations of the White and Black deserts

7. Nubian villages

Another attraction of touring Egypt’s more secluded locations is the chance to visit Nubian villages, populated by the descendants of tribes who live in traditional brightly painted houses among the palm groves. Aswan, a city in southern Egypt, has one popular Nubian village on its outskirts along the banks of the Nile. Accessible by quad bike, jeep or motorboat, some hotels will also run pick-ups and drop-offs to the site, with excursions from as little as E£322. Elephantine Island is home to two Nubian villages—Siou and Koti village—and more modern resorts for travellers looking for rest and relaxation.

8. Kayaking on the Nile

The famed Nile has long been popular among tourists, however, a new method of exploration is making its way onto itineraries. Kayaking on the Nile is a great way to take in Egypt from a new perspective. As kayak tours are a relatively new concept in Egypt, most trips depart from Cairo or southern Aswan. Unlike sea kayaking or tackling rapids, the Nile is a calm stretch of water without headwinds, making the journey an easy one. So sit back, relax and enjoy the sights of the Nile as you float by.

9. Mountain trekking

Mount Sinai on the Sinai Peninsula is where Moses received the 10 Commandments, according to Abrahamic religions. It has a variety of trekking options, from brief excursions to multi-day epics that will enable you to cover an impressive amount of its 2,285 m elevation. The 220-km Sinai Trail is arguably its best-known and comes steeped in history, granite and volcanic rocks. A less daunting option is to visit the Sinai region, marvel at its stunning views and discover the nomadic Bedouin tribes whose culture is preserved in the surrounding area.

10. Camel riding

Egypt’s most famous animal is also a tour guide in its own right, with camel riding popular at the Pyramids of Giza, in particular. Trips can range from 20 minutes to two hours and while being elevated up to two metres for your ride can seem daunting, a responsible guide will take good care of their animals and you. You will have to haggle for the best price, but short tours can cost as little as E£39—and it’s easier than riding an Egyptian crocodile!

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Camel riding near the Pyramids of Egypt; Windsurfing in Dahab; Local bedouin and hiker on the trail in the Southern Sinai

Felucca sailing on the Nile

A highlight of any trip to Aswan, Felucca sailing is a fantastic way to soak up city views from the mighty Nile River

The city of Aswan has a fascinating history, as it was home to one of Africa’s earliest civilisations. From 2500 BC, the region of Nubia stretched along the Nile from the southern Egyptian city, right down to central Sudan. Over the course of several thousand years, Nubia was led by multiple groups, the most significant being the Kingdom of Kush. Throughout history, they were treated as both comrades and adversaries of the Egyptians, depending on who was in power. Somehow, despite lacking the typical keystones of an empire—namely a written language system, operational capital or any formal bureaucracy—they managed to establish their own dynasty within Egypt.

Although the Kingdom of Kush ended around 350 AD, Nubian culture has had a lasting impact on both Egypt and Sudan. Many monuments erected during Nubia’s dominant years were influenced by typical Egyptian architecture, due to the historical integration of the cultures. Sadly, the construction of the High Dam in the 1960s led to the flooding of Nubian settlements across Aswan and destroyed many of these sacred structures. While the people were relocated, many of the monuments have been lost forever.

Since antiquity, various groups around the Mediterranean including the Nubian’s, have relied heavily on modest boats (known as feluccas) for work and transport. Typically the vessels were made of wood, with cotton sails. Over the years, their composition has evolved to incorporate other materials, however, their layouts are still highly reflective of the original design—that is, open style wooden decks covered by large mattresses. Classic felucca boats were solely reliant on wind and utilised the technique of ‘tacking’ to travel along the Nile, zig-zagging up the river at whatever pace the breeze enabled. Modern iterations tend to include engines for more efficient transport, however, locals and tourists agree that watching the wind catch in the sail of a traditional felucca is wonderful and so quintessentially African.

Today, most feluccas are used for leisure, to give tourists a taste of traditional Nile life. Often crewed by local Nubians, felucca rides are a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the culture of the region and its people. From the cushioned deck, you can watch the pastel buildings and towering palms of Aswan drift by, a welcome respite from the typically fast-paced Egyptian lifestyle. To learn more about Nubian culture, pay a visit to Elephantine Island, where you can dine with a local family and explore their customs.

FROM TOP: Felucca on the Nile near the banks of Aswan; Sunny Aswan; Banks of the Nile

9 Quick

QUEENSLAND GETAWAYS

Explore the capital and the south-east hot spots only two hours away from Brisbane

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Caloundra Coastal Walk; Lamington National Park; Alpacas make great friends in Canungra; Kings Beach; HOTA, Home of the Arts

From a relaxing day coupled with fine dining to a view with funfilled outdoor activities—you’ll be spoilt for choice at these nine Queensland destinations.

CALOUNDRA

Only an hour drive from Brisbane, Caloundra is a sun lover's paradise that evokes nostalgic memories of laid back seaside holidays. Walk the 8km headland trail from Golden Beach to Dicky Beach, enjoy fish and chips by the beach, feed the pelicans or cruise, paddle or jetski down the Pumicestone Passage. Meander through the Caloundra Street Fair markets on a Sunday, try surfing at the Caloundra Surf School, visit the Queensland Air Museum or splash about in the saltwater tidal pool at Kings Beach.

SURFERS PARADISE

Always famous for fun, Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast is a vibrant hub to spend a day by the beach. Dip your toes in the water or sprawl out on the sand to soak up the sun before taking to the waves with a surfing lesson. Next take the adventure sky high for 360 degree views of the Gold Coast coastline at SkyPoint Climb and Observation Deck. Discover a celebration of art and culture at the Home of the Arts (HOTA) then head to Stingray for cocktails at the QT Gold Coast hotel.

THE SCENIC RIM & LOST WORLD VALLEY

The Scenic Rim and Lost World Valley make for the perfect hideaway from the hustle and bustle, but still within easy reach of major hubs Brisbane and Gold Coast. Escape the crowds and immerse your senses with romantic mountain and country escapes, delectable food experiences and hikes through some of the most stunning mountain ranges and national parks. In Canungra enjoy a picnic with some very different new friends—alpacas! Or take a scenic horse ride in Beechmont with sweeping views of the Gold Coast beaches. Sleep under the stars in ultimate luxury in the Lost World Valley, hike the foothills of Lamington National Park or show the kids a real taste of country life with a farmstay.

TOOWOOMBA

Explore Toowoomba, an elevated mountain city with glorious parks and gardens, beaming with rich history. Toowoomba’s historical showcase starts with its architecture, spearheaded by the beautiful art deco Empire Theatre and the City Hall and Clock Tower. Park your head on a pillow in one of the heritage B&Bs while enjoying the sound of a real fire crackling in the background. Get your 'vintage' on with antique and op-shopping or head off on a walk down Russel 'Heritage' Street past landmarks of fine historic architecture dating back to the 1860s. Pack a picnic and take a short drive out of town to spend a few hours among the flowers at the heritage listed Spring Bluff Railway Station or drop in to check out the spectacular collection of vintage cars at The Barn and Scotty's Garage.

NORTH STRADBROKE ISLAND

Refreshing, relaxing, and simply beautiful, North Stradbroke Island (or Straddie) is one of Moreton Bay's best loved getaway spots. Stretches of white sandy beach line the island's ocean side making it ideal for swimming, surfing, and fishing. Try your hand at catching a wave with North Stradbroke Island Surf School or explore the island with Yura Banji Scooters. Learn about the history and culture of the Quandamooka people and keep an eye out for whales during the annual migration from the headland at Point Lookout.

SUNSHINE COAST HINTERLAND

West of the Bruce Highway, the Blackall Range beckons. Montville, Maleny and the other villages that perch on or behind the escarpment have restaurants, boutique accommodation, wineries and breweries, alternative-style eateries and local producers, art galleries, boutiques and curiosity shops catering for tastes both refined and earthy. It’s the perfect spot to get out and enjoy nature with stunning national park walks and waterfalls, spectacular botanic gardens and animal encounters.

LAKE WIVENHOE

Holding twice as much water as Sydney Harbour, Lake Wivenhoe is the sweet spot for fishermen, boat enthusiasts and campers. The nearby village of Fernvale is well known for its colourful Sunday markets and folks as far afield as Brisbane and Ipswich travel there just to snap up a bargain.

NOOSA NORTH SHORE

Across the river from Noosa Heads and Noosaville is Noosa North Shore, a long stretch of white sand, dunes and beautiful coastline, and the gateway to World Heritage-listed K'Gari (Fraser Island) and Great Sandy National Park. A quick and convenient car ferry operates from Tewantin to showcase the region's unspoilt natural assets. Try horse riding, four-wheel driving, swimming, fishing, surfing or go kayaking on Lake Cooroibah. For a nature-filled Noosa North Shore experience camp in style on the shores of Lake Cootharaba and explore the Noosa Everglades (one of only two everglade systems in the world).

GOLD COAST HINTERLAND/ MOUNT TAMBORINE

Swap the crashing waves of Surfers Paradise for the rolling hills of the hinterland, home to bushwalks, rainforests, restaurants, health retreats, wineries, breweries and tours that see guests experience the best this region has to offer. Surrounded by Springbrook National Park and Lamington National Park this is nature at its best. If you're looking for a little recharge, stay at one of the region's many chic hilltop retreats including O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat, Binna Burra Lodge, Songbirds Rainforest Retreat, The Mouses House or Pethers Rainforest Retreat.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Point Lookout; Maleny; Noosa Heads; Springbrook National Park; Hinterland streetscape; Lake Wivenhoe; The Empire Theatre

QA &

NAME MIETTA WHITE OCCUPATION THEATRE ACTOR CITY MELBOURNE

The Phantom of the Opera has been a much-loved musical across the world since debuting in 1986 on London’s West End. Following its record breaking season in Sydney, its new home, until February 18, is Melbourne’s Arts Centre. We chat with newcomer Mietta White who plays young ballerina Meg Giry

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Can you describe the show in four words? Exhilarating, epic, classy and timeless.

What excites you most excited about playing Meg Giry?

The angst that she has in this version is a quality that really lifts Meg into a darker world, a reality which helps inform the narrative leading into Love Never Dies.

What is your favourite aspect of your character? Her determination and fearfulness.

How did you prepare for this role?

More time in ballet class, positive self talk and making sure I was experiencing all that life had to offer before starting the intense schedule.

You’re a Melbourne gal—describe your perfect day in your beautiful hometown

A brunch spent at Cibi in Collingwood, followed by a picnic in the park with some friends then maybe a drink or two at Above Board.

Tips for visitors to Melbourne (anything that is overrated/underrated that visitors need to know about?) Get outside, browse some op/vintage shops, have a coffee in the sun (if it’s out) and enjoy the simple moments.

Where are you headed on your next holiday? Japan, early next year! I have never been and am very excited to travel with my favourite travel buddy, my oldest brother.

The Phantom of the Opera Australia 2022 cast, Mietta White front left

INTERVIEW BY: VANESSA MULQUINEY. IMAGE CREDIT: DANIEL BOUD

Done two trips with Inspiring Vacations now, first Vietnam and now Africa. Both have been outstanding. Organisation has been superb. Accommodation terrific and the whole package in both cases has been very well thought out and organised. Both have been excellent value.

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ARMCHAIR TRAVELLER

A visit to Sri Lanka

PHOTO: SIGIRIYA, SRI LANKA. © INSPIRING VACATIONS

Sri Lanka is an island that everyone loves at some level inside themselves... a place where the contours of the land itself forms a kind of sinewy poetry.

Romesh Gunesekera

Sri Lankan-British author