As the rest of the world swelters in the summer heat, guests seeking a more chilled-out vacation should head south of the Equator. Australia is a wonderful vacation destination at any time of year, but during the Southern Hemisphere’s colder months, between May and September, the land down under offers a wealth of opportunities for Asian travellers to cool off amidst an array of amazing attractions and activities. The sheer size of Australia creates a wonderfully diverse range of options for travellers. From tropical forests to ski resorts, rolling sand dunes to high-rise cities, this stunning southern land has it all. Here’s our guide to the best things to do and places to stay all across Australia this summer…
– Perth –
The remotest city on Earth, Perth is closer to Singapore than Sydney – just over five hours flying time! This makes it a great option for Asian travellers seeking a Southern Hemisphere break this summer.
WHAT TO DO
Sand boarding: Just two hours’ drive from Perth, Lancelin is a dramatic landscape of rolling white sand dunes. And in typical Aussie style, it has been transformed into a centre of sport and adventure!
Simply hire a sandboard, head out onto the dunes and slide away – this is a fun-filled experience for all ages.
WHERE TO STAY
Quality Hotel Ambassador Perth
Commanding a prime position in the Perth CBD, this four-star hotel offers 170 well-appointed rooms and suites, free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, bar, gym and sauna. Guests can walk to many of Perth’s downtown attractions and Elizabeth Quay is just 1.3km away.
Comfort Inn & Suites Goodearth Perth
This 3.5-star hotel in downtown Perth focuses on comfort and value for money. The 180 apartment style rooms are ideal for families, coming equipped with kitchenettes and free Wi-Fi. There is also an onsite restaurant and bar, a shop and beauty salon.
– Sydney-
Australia’s largest city and a genuine global icon, Sydney crammed with attractions. But guests who choose to explore outside the city will discover a picturesque landscape of rolling countryside.
WHAT TO DO
Hot air ballooning: The best way to fully appreciate the beauty of New South Wales is from the air. Based in the scenic Macarthur region, just 50 minutes from Sydney, Balloon Aloft Camden allows guests to float serenely into the sky, reaching altitudes of 600 metres and more. A truly unforgettable experience!
WHERE TO STAY
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
Overlooking Sydney Harbour’s iconic landmarks, the Four Seasons is a spectacular five-star hotel that showcases the best of the city. The rooms and suites command stunning views, while Mode
Kitchen & Bar focuses on modern Australian cuisine and Grain features 200+ types of whiskey.
The Macleay
For guests seeking a more affordable downtown option, this comfortable 3.5-star hotel is a great choice. The Macleay offers views of Sydney Harbour from many of its 126 rooms, plus free Wi-
Fi and a refreshing outdoor pool, all within walking distance of Sydney’s most famous landmarks.
– Melbourne –
Australia’s sporting capital, Melbourne is a great destination for adventure seekers. Just four hours’ drive outside the city, guests can discover an exhilarating range of alpine activities.
WHAT TO DO
Skiing and Snowboarding: As the Northern Hemisphere feels the summer heat, Australia transforms into a worldclass winter sports destination. Visitors to Melbourne should head to Mount Buller, which offers great skiing and snowboarding on a series of scenic slopes, including a challenging black run.
WHERE TO STAY
Crowne Plaza Melbourne
Nestled on the Yarra River in downtown Melbourne, the Crowne Plaza is just steps from the buzzing South Wharf precinct. The rooms and suites overlook the city skyline and beyond, and facilities include a gym, a heated outdoor swimming pool and the Clarendon St Grill restaurant.
Intercontinental Melbourne The Rialto
A landmark in the heart of the city, this five-star hotel blends a dramatic gothic façade with state-of-the-art interiors. There are 253 luxurious rooms and suites, an exclusive club lounge and a choice of F&B options, including the Alluvial Restaurant and Market Lane Bar.
– Cairns –
In Queensland’s tropical north, Cairns is the gateway to one of the world’s most breath-taking wonders: the Great Barrier Reef. The cooler Australian winter is the perfect time to discover this captivating region.
WHAT TO DO
Snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef: You don’t have to learn to dive to enjoy the Great Barrier Reef. Many operators offer snorkelling trips, enabling all visitors to explore the exotic underwater world, including colourful corals and tropical fish, as well as idyllic islands and sandy coves.
WHERE TO STAY
Riley, a Crystalbrook Collection Resort
Perfectly positioned on the Esplanade, overlooking the ocean, Riley is a luxurious hotel where guests can unwind in style. Plunge into the 1,000m² lagoon pool, cool off in a cabana, relax in the spa, or savour Mediterranean and Asia cuisine at a choice of restaurants.
Kewarra Beach Resort
Immerse yourself in the tropical beauty of north Queensland at Kewarra Beach Resort & Spa. Nestled in 13 hectares of tropical beachfront forest, this fourstar resort features a collection of bungalows and suites, a day spa, an open air restaurant and a beach bar – great for lazy days by the sea.
– Brisbane –
The capital of Queensland, Brisbane is a dynamic city with an array of activities and attractions. Explore trendy boutiques, bars and restaurants, immerse yourself in the arts or simply stroll along the Brisbane River.
WHAT TO DO
Visit the world’s largest koala sanctuary: Cute and cuddly, the koala is an iconic symbol of Australia. Located just outside Brisbane, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary, housing over 130 koalas and many other Australian wildlife species, including kangaroos.
WHERE TO STAY
Hilton Brisbane
Centrally located at the Queen Street Mall in downtown Brisbane, this five-star hotel puts guests in the heart of the action. The 319 rooms and suites all have free Wi-Fi, while the Vintaged Bar & Grill serves contemporary cuisine. There is also a heated outdoor pool, tennis court and gym.
Pacific Hotel Brisbane
This four-star downtown hotel is ideal for a family holiday or couple’s break, putting the Brisbane’s top attractions within easy reach. The recently renovated rooms feature smart TVs and free Wi-Fi, while hotel facilities include the Gazebo Bar & Restaurant, a heated outdoor pool and gym.
