What’s up with travel in 2021?
Posted 22 December, 2020
John Pedler
March 2020 saw a sudden halt to overseas travel. It caught us all by surprise and left many international travel plans in disarray.
As the year progressed, we gradually became used to the new normal and rediscovered – or further embraced – the wonderful attractions our own state has to offer. As the regions opened up, we set about road-tripping to the Riverland, the peninsulas, the Limestone Coast and beyond.
Less than a day’s drive from the city, the ancient Flinders Ranges are a geological wonderland of deep gorges, mountain bluffs and spectacular outback landscapes. You can choose to pitch a tent in one of the many campsites,
stay in a self-contained family unit, or glamp it up in a
luxury safari tent with stunning views of Wilpena Pound’s escarpment just outside your door.
There are very few places in the world where you can safely drop into the watery domain of the great white shark, and Port Lincoln on the Eyre Peninsula is one of them. As well as the popular cage dive, you can also view these massive toothy fish from a windowed Aqua-Sub, while remaining fully clothed and enjoying lunch and a glass of wine.
At Coffin Bay, west of Port Lincoln, oyster-lovers can join a tour, don a pair of waders, and stroll out to the oyster beds to sample these tasty molluscs at their absolute freshest. If you’re keen to stay out of the water,
boat tours are also available. While you’re on the peninsula, be sure to explore the stunning west coast – a place of secluded beaches, wave-sculpted rock formations and secret coves.
The world is a wonderful place to explore, but it’s also true that Australia is on the bucket lists of many international travellers – and for good reason. From WA’s rugged Kimberley and Queensland’s World Heritage-listed rainforests to magnificent Sydney Harbour and the cafes of Melbourne’s alleyways, ours is a country of incredible variety. With state borders continuing to open, we’re now able to travel further afield.
With its long, sandy beaches, rocky headlands and great surf, the northern NSW coast is seaside heaven. The heart of the action is Byron Bay, a buzzing township of boutique cafes, eclectic markets, and a vibrant arts and crafts scene. Head into the lush hinterland for rainforest walks and charming country villages.
