|
Across the sea or around the corner?
Getting there keeps getting easier but deciding where is the hard part, writes Paul Edwards
Our stronger dollar, coupled with greater travel confidence and lower airfares, has opened up new holiday opportunities for many Australians. But there is still the eternal dilemma: so much too see, so little time. Around the world old and new travel treasures are alluringly close, while at home we can share the activities and attractions that have made Australia one of the worlds great travel destinations. So should you see what’s across the oceans, or should you embrace your own backyard in 2005?
Take note of the views of some travel professionals to help you make your destination decisions
– or maybe confuse you further.
Karsten Horne, Reho Travel Three factors govern what’s hot and what’s achievable in 2005
– frequent flyer points, TV travel shows and family adventures.
-
Frequent flyer points: Qantas has recently added new destinations to its network that for redeeming points. Leading to interest in India (Mumbai), China (Shanghai) and Kota Kinabalu (Sabah) and Japan (Sapporo). Destinations once thought too expensive are now only a handful of points away. Think New York & Santiago. But you need at least 6 months to get a seat!
-
Travel TV shows: These shows have opened minds to destinations that were previously beyond the scope of most people. Among them are Dubai, helped by Emirates massive profile in Melbourne, Antarctica, Sabah, Vietnam and The Silk Road.
-
Family Adventures: In the last 2-3 years Family Adventures have appeared from nowhere. Ironically adventure travel is the most relaxing holiday you can have with a child as they are never bored, constantly learning, interacting and the holiday experience lasts well after the tan has worn off. The most popular destinations for family adventures are:- Egypt, Thailand, India, Vietnam & Peru.
Top activities: Skiing/snowboarding – especially in Sapporo, the new Canada;sand skiing in Dubai in the morning, water sliding in the afternoon; ballooning – It’s back in a big way, thanks to Virgin’s Sir Richard Branson!
Promise yourself: Travel around the world doing something you wouldn’t do at home: Bungy jump in Queenstown, cycle down a volcano in Hawaii, Camel ride around the pyramids in Egypt. Take the trip of a lifetime to your dream destination at the right time: Inti Rami Festival - Cuzco 24 June, Rio Carnival 4 Feb, and Edinburgh Festival 14 Aug.
The Sunday Age – January 2, 2005 (Summer 2005 trends
|
.jpg)
