Travel restarts with 12 million Aussies planning holidays in coming months

It looks like travel is back on the agenda for many Aussies, with 12 million people planning a getaway in the coming months, a new study has revealed. According to Finder’s latest survey a whopping 61 per cent of Aussies are preparing to pack their bags and head off on a holiday within the next three months.

Road trips are at the forefront of Australians’ travel aspirations, with almost half (48 per cent) of the population planning to hit the highway before the end of the year. Meanwhile, 21 per cent of Aussies are planning to fly domestically during the same time period, while train journeys (5 per cent) and cruises (2 per cent) remain on the lower end of the scale.

After a challenging year for the travel industry, Angus Kidman, travel expert at Finder, said it’s great to see Aussies making the most of their own backyard and exploring everything that the Land Down Under has to offer.

“From beaches to camping spots, Australia has a lot to offer,” he said. “People who would usually jet off overseas are instead exploring their own county. Although border restrictions are in place in certain parts of the country, each state or territory has its own unique places worth exploring.”

So, where are Aussies heading to and what experiences are currently on offer? Well, Travel at 60 has a huge range of deals available across the country, for those who can travel interstate or those required to stay closer to home.

South Australia

For those in South Australia you really can’t go past a relaxing cruise on the mighty Murray River. This is a favourite holiday for many over-60s as everything is taken care of for you and all you have to do is sit back and watch the beautiful scenery pass you by.

Travel at 60 currently has a great deal on offer for a New Year’s cruise onboard the iconic Murray Princess. The trip departs from the historic town of Mannum and travels to Blanchetown, Pelican Point, Sunnydale and Younghusband. Throughout the five-night journey you’ll go on walking tours and a nocturnal tour, enjoy a bush tucker breakfast, visit a winery, enjoy live entertainment and of course be treated to a special festive celebration on New Year’s Eve. All your meals are also included in the price.

New South Wales 

For a quick getaway you can head to the beautiful Hunter Valley on a three-night escape to luxury accommodation. The award-winning property Chateau Elan is situated in the heart of the Hunter Valley wine country, just two hours drive north of Sydney and 45 minutes from the Newcastle airport. Nestled among rolling vineyards it’s a great base to explore the region and visit local cellar doors and fresh produce stalls.

At the accommodation itself you’ll find an 18-hole Greg Norman designed golf course. Meanwhile, the private villa offers spectacular views of the Hunter Valley through large glass doors which lead our to a balcony or terrace and there’s even a spa bath in the ensuite.

Australian Capital Territory

For Canberrans, or those who can enter the ACT, you could treat yourself and enjoy a night at the famous Jamala Wildlife Lodge. It’s the ultimate overnight safari where you can get up close to some of the zoo’s incredible animals.

But, it’s also very luxurious. During your stay you’ll be treated to a five course gourmet African-inspired dinner with drinks, a delicious breakfast and afternoon tea. However, probably the most exciting part of this experience is when you get to meet a cheetah and wander through the zoo on not one, but two safari tours.

Queensland

Further north in the Sunshine State you can venture to Lady Elliot Island. The eco-island is located at the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef, around 80 kilometres north-east of Bundaberg and just north of Fraser Island. It’s situated within a highly protected Green Zone of the Marine National Park and is a sanctuary for over 1,200 species of marine life.

You could stay five nights on this incredible island and spend your days exploring the reef and getting close to the amazing marine animals which call it home. The island is known as the home of the manta ray which can be seen feeding in the waters close by. Meanwhile, there’s three species of sea turtles which frequent Lady Elliot Island through the year which you may be able to spot during your stay.