Walk It Out

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The best way to see a destination is often by setting off on foot. I am that proverbial person that says, “We can walk it.” Don’t know what to do with the day, then start walking. I find you stumble upon some of the most significant discoveries when you take to the pavement or the off-beaten path. It is a fabulous learning experience with discoveries around every bend.

Australia has plenty of walks to discover. Or hikes if you are in for a bit more workout. I’ve climbed an array of gorges, canyons, and more! I’ve had the thrill of experiencing a climb up Peak’s Passage on Hamilton Island, trekking around King’s Canyon Rim, and scurrying down the hillsides in the Blue Mountains to witness cascading falls. No matter your state or territory, you will find somewhere unique to explore on foot.

Australia makes it even easier to Walk it Out.

Australia has what is known as the Great Walks of Australia. For the fitness buff, nature buff, and explorer, these are a variety of walks throughout the regions and in varying degrees of difficulty. Some are multiple days, and some you can do only part of. No matter your choice you need to try one.

Walk it Out in Australia.

Here is a list of the Great Walks:

  • The Arkaba Walk– Located in South Australia, is a 4-day walk of moderate intensity traversing the Flinders Ranges. It is best done from March to October.
  • Murray River Walk-Located in South Australia, is a 4-day walk rated easy that takes along one of Australia’s greatest rivers. It is best explored from May to September.
  • Bay of Fires Lodge Walk-Located in Tasmania, is a 4-day walk of moderate intensity as you explore the northeastern part of Tasmania along Mt. William National Park. It is best done from October to May.
  • Cradle Mountains Hut Walk-Located in Tasmania, is a 6-day walk rated moderate to hard discovering World Heritage areas along the famous Overland Track. It is best experienced from October to May.
  • Freycinet Experience Walk-Located in Tasmania, is a 4-day walk of moderate level. This walk will take you through the pink granite Hazard Mountains, and you will see the famed Wine Glass Bay. This walk is best done from October to April.
  • The Maria Island Walk-Located in Tasmania, is a 4-day walk with an easy to moderate rating. Explore eucalyptus forests and spot amazing wildlife on this trek. Plan this walk for October to April.
  • Three Capes Lodge Walk-Located in Tasmania, is a 4-day walk of moderate level open year round. It is fully guided and walks along the Tasman Peninsula.
  • Scenic Rim Trail-Located in Queensland, is a 4-day walk rated moderate to hard. It is accessed from Brisbane and explores South East Queensland’s Main Range Park. It is best done from February to November.
  • Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk-Located in Victoria, is a 4-day walk of moderate level. It explores the famed Great Ocean Road. It is best experienced from September to May.
  • Cape to Cape Walk-Located in Western Australia, is a 4-day walk of moderate intensity exploring the landscapes along the Margaret River. Plan this walk from March to June and September to November.
  • Classic Larapinta Trek in Comfort-Located in the Northern Territory, is a 6-day walk listed as moderate to hard. It will take you along the high ridge lines of the MacDonnell Ranges. This walk is best done from April to September.
  • Seven Peaks Walk-Located in New South Wales, is a 5-day walk. It is rated moderate to hard with options. This walk takes place on Lord Howe Island, a Unesco World Heritage listing. Operational months for this walk are April and May, and September thru November.

For more information, contact your Australia Travel Expert here at Boomerang Escapes. I can guide you to what will work with your travel plans. Until then, happy walking!

 


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslWalk It Out
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New South Wales-A Top 10 of Things to See

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New South Wales is one of Australia’s states located on the east coast. It was founded as a penal colony in 1788 and now boasts the largest population of Australians.  The capital of New South Wales is the infamous Sydney well known world wide and serves as the major entry point for travelers.  Therefore, New South Wales makes for a perfect state to begin your Australian explorations.

Here is a top 10 list of some of our must see and do items for exploring this state.

  1. Sydney Opera House-What trip would be complete to Sydney without seeing this iconic architectural building.  Designed to look like sails the Opera House is a focal point of this harbor city. One can see it via a walk around the exterior, tour inside, or even a show.
  2. Sydney Harbour Bridge- Another iconic landmark in the heart of the Sydney is the bridge. A climb of this structure is a must and we highly recommend doing it or sunset or sunrise for some of the most fantastic city views you will ever have.
  3. Bondi Beach-The birthplace of the surf life saver is a great spot to visit and easily accessible on your own via Sydney’s great public transport. Get adventurous and take your own surfing lessons while visiting.
  4. Hunter Valley-Australia’s premier wine district within a 2 hour reach from Sydney.  Perfect for wine tours as a day trip or consider staying in the valley for a more immersive experience. Go beyond the wine too visiting boutique breweries.
  5. Blue Mountains-Is a mountain range west of the Sydney. It is ideal for a  day trip or overnight stay.  Visit waterfalls,  take in hiking, learn about aboriginal stories such as the “3 Sisters” and more is this beautiful fragrant destination.
  6. Kiama Blowhole-Travel down the southeast coast from Sydney to visit this famous blowhole and feel the spray of salt water.  Also, discover the ‘little blowhole”  while smaller than Kiama a bit more reliable for is spray.
  7. Wollongong-Another southeast coastal city less than 3 hours drive from Sydney. Great for beach walks and lookouts.  Also, New South Wales 3rd largest city.
  8. Lord Howe Island– has amazing sand amongst its 11 beaches, great for snorkeling, and spotting rare birds. Only a short 2 hour flight from Sydney or Brisbane.
  9. Ned’s Beach- One of the 11 beaches located on Lord Howe Island where you can wade in shallow waters and hand-feed the King fish.
  10. The Snowy Mountains-Informally known as the “Snowies” is Australia’s highest mountain range with Mt. Kosciuszko it’s largest mountain. Home to the oldest ski club in the world. Makes a great visit in winter or warm months for recreational outdoor activities.

We’ve only brushed the top of the highlights for a visit to New South Wales and encourage you to make an immersive experience to this popular state with both visitors and a natives.

 


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslNew South Wales-A Top 10 of Things to See
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Kick Back and Relax at Kickenback

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Winter, spring, summer, or fall, no matter the season, you don’t need a reason to kick back and relax. Whether you are a twosome or a small group of friends, a perfect Australian escape awaits at Kickenback at Crackenback.

Kickenback is a beautiful holiday residence snuggled in the Snowy Mountains at Crackenback. This residence is ideal for exploring the many activities available in the Snowy Mountains while relaxing and enjoying family and friends.

Crackenback is located in the Alpine way and is only 2 hours from the country’s capital in Canberra. It is perfect for long or short stays with its studio for a couple or the chalet ideal for families and larger groups. The two units can actually be booked together as one stay as well!


The area has plenty to do to keep you occupied during your stay, no matter the season. Whether you are looking to hit the snowy slopes, view autumn colors, or discover some of the regional tastes, you will be sure to love your experience. Here is a list of just some of the activities you and your spouse or you and your friends might divulge in:

Food & Wine
Art & Culture
Fishing
Skitube
Touring by road
Well-being activities
Horse riding
Kosciuszko National Park
Mountain Biking
Skiing
Shopping
Archery

When your day is done, return to the warmth and comfort of your lodge at Crackenback. Share stories around the dinner table, fireplace, or lawn chairs over a nice glass of wine.

I can highly recommend a couple of things after I visited the resort during spring a few years ago. First, make a trip over to Canberra to spend time in the city’s capital. Enjoy the high life while taking in some of the museums. The War Memorial was of special interest, and it was neat to discover our close connection in history with the Australians. My other favorite activity was driving the countryside and stopping for a picnic lunch in Kosciuszko National Park. While there, we were able to observe the wild kangaroo mob very up close and personal.

With all of its unique opportunities and fun, Crackenback is just one small piece of New South Wales worth putting on your visit list.

 


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslKick Back and Relax at Kickenback
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Master Bridge Climbing

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Another year, another trip, another Amazing Aussie Adventure with another Harbour Bridge Climb. Yes, I can officially call myself a master bridge climber now.

A bit easier and actually even more exciting than the last, but still a test of fear as I push myself to the heights above the Sydney Harbour. Each time I travel to Australia, or even another destination, I take chances to step outside my comfort zone. The feeling of accomplishment makes it well worth the discomfort as much as seeing and experiencing all the world has to offer.
The sights from the bridge are well worth facing any fears you may have to experience Sydney from this vantage point. There are three hundred and sixty degrees of pure beauty as you scan across the city and the harbour. On a clear day like we had, you can see the Blue Mountain ridge in the distance. Each climb presents a different experience than the last.

With varying guides, climbs, and times of climbs, you are sure to have a new experience each time you make your way up onto the bridge. There is a climb for every client and those with fears. As you make your way along your metal path, your guide will fill you in on the history of how the bridge came to be. It is a tale of absolute wonder, considering they did not have the modern building conveniences today. Learn how brave these men had to be up there, putting in the pegs that connect this and all with ultimate precision and alignment. Discover how brave you are as you rise above the city to see the most spectacular sight.

The climb runs all year and just about all weather. My last climb was a wicked windy day, but we prevailed. The wind actually made for an incredibly clear view seeing well beyond the reaches of the harbour. The center provides all gear. All items are securely attached to your blue and grey jumpsuit as you are securely attached to the bridge itself. You only need to bring a do it attitude and closed-toe shoes. Indeed you have your knees knocking by the end of your adventure (mine always are), but the exhilaration of completing this climb will bring you back for more adventure.

 


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslMaster Bridge Climbing
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Your Palate is Immature!

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During a recent visit to Australia, I had the pleasure of finally visiting the Hunter Valley. The Hunter Valley is one of the most visited places in Australia. An easy day or overnight trip north of Sydney, you can not only wet your palate with the various wines of the region, but you can enjoy local cuisine, golf, or a restful day at the spa. Wine tours and tastings can be set up in advance. They can be done by vehicle or even by bike if you are up for a pedal. Most of all, the Hunter Valley offers a taste of the countryside and the hospitality of the locals.


I was graced with the opportunity to travel with AEA Luxury tours for my wine tour. I love this company and typically use them when arranging my client’s tours. We visited four wineries my day out, beginning with Mount View Estates. We lucked out with an absolutely gorgeous spring day in Australia for our wine tasting. The scenery was spectacular, and they were able to have our wine tasting outside, looking over the vineyards. I am not a huge wine drinker, but I am always game when I travel to try anything once!

We were introduced to Melissa, who would be our hostess and “educator” for the tasting. The table was already set with glasses, spit buckets, and a lovely cheese and cracker plating with selections from the local area. As we began the tasting, she described the first white wine and remarked about how our palates change with age. I decided to raise my hand for a question, letting her know I had never really become much of a wine drinker and still preferred my wines to be sweet. She politely asked my age and discovered we were the same.

Her next comment was, “My friend, you have an immature palate, but that’s okay because we can fix that.”

I then became the example of the day, much to my fellow travel professional’s enjoyment, as she continued to make her selections. She had me keep an open mind and mouth as we went through the selections of the day. She had me try various things such as smelling the wine first, trying it from different size glasses, and holding my nose so I couldn’t smell it. She was good! By the end of our time with her, she had actually found me a red wine or two that I didn’t mind.

The best part, which made everyone laugh, was the homework she gave me. She said, “Dear, you need to drink more!” A roll of laughter erupted from our group as they knew I would have no problem following up with that assignment.

Our afternoon continued onto three more wineries that day, the last having a lovely lunch with pairings. Another lesson I learned on my wine tasting trip is to be sure to eat breakfast before you go. I spent most of the day inebriated to a high degree, and lunch was more than a welcome sight before we headed out to spend the night at a local homestead. The Hunter Valley experience was truly one not to be missed on your Australian vacation.

Cheers!

 


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslYour Palate is Immature!
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Sydney at New Years-No Better Place to Ring in the New Year

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Sydney at New Years-No Better Place to Ring in the New Year!

Sydney New Year’s Eve is as world famous as the city itself. It is believed to be the capital of New Years, hosting the best New Year’s Eve party in the world! The Harbour is the premiere location for this event. This spectacular evening boasts more than a 1000 fireworks to light up the sky. Sydney is also one of the first cities to celebrate the arrival of the new year.

More Than Just Fireworks
Each year there are plenty of events leading up to the fireworks extravaganza. There as many as 55 different vantage points around the Harbour for viewing. Here is a list of what is expected at they event.
Aerial Acrobatics above Sydney Harbour

  • Fire Tug Water Display
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Smoking Ceremony
  • Pylon Projections
  • Acknowlegement of Country
  • Sydney Harbour Bridge Effect
  • Family Firworks Display
  • Harbour Light Parade
  • Telstra Design-a-Firework Show

To learn more about this event and the planning behind it visit www.sydneynewyearseve.com

Many hotels offer special meals and packages for the event. Booking early is essential for planning a trip to Sydney for the New Year. January is peak season and planning a year in advance is essential. You’ll want to be sure to extend your stay and explore more of Sydney and its surroundings while there. You don’t want to miss any of the fun!

*Photo credit www.dailytelegraph.com.au

 


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslSydney at New Years-No Better Place to Ring in the New Year
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