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Springtime Beach Escapades in Australia

Springtime is usually associated with beginnings, awakenings and other dynamic notions. So, no wonder Australia, vibrant and joyful, attracts so many people between September and November. Apart from the always popular city breaks, hiking tours and visits to outposts, the most in-demand destinations are the magnificent and renowned beaches.

Despite the existence of coastline paradox, which makes it impossible to say exactly how long Australia’s coastline is, it’s safe to say that it’s among the longest ones in the world. It happens every now and then that great potentials simply don’t deliver. However, this can’t be further from truth when it comes to the beauty of Australia’s beaches and what they have to offer.

Surfing

The obvious first choice. There are few keen surfers who haven’t heard or dreamed of hitting the waves at Bells Beach in Victoria, Byron Bay in New South Wales and, well, the name says it all, Surfers Paradise in Queensland. Naturally, there are hundreds of less famous and less frequented beaches which offer amazing surfing experience, as well. Whatever your preference, there is a wave waiting for you at one of Australia’s pristine and breathtaking beaches.

Beach festivals

These are becoming increasingly popular, attracting hundreds of thousands of tourists, some ready to travel more than 15 hours just to feel the world famous atmosphere. Bands and DJs heat up the stages all over the continent in spring, while after-parties may either cool everyone down or keep the temperature up, depending on the crowd.

Since these festivals last for several days, it’s vital to book accommodation early enough. Luckily, you can choose from a wide offer of private accommodation units, campsites and hotels in the vicinity of the beaches. Depending on the part of Australia you’re visiting and the dates of your visit, you might be lucky enough to attend one of the many festivals organized there

One of the premier surf beaches in Australia. Unfortunately, we could not get any closer as they were setting up for some big surf competition. On to our next scenic stop.

Diving and snorkeling

There aren’t many more awe-inspiring places for divers and snorkelers than the Great Barrier Reef and the area around it. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a complete novice who’s never donned the equipment before, you’re bound to find your own piece of heaven underwater.

You may organize your own trip or decide to join a guided tour. If you’re interested and can afford the time and money, you could take a diving course and become at least a certified recreational scuba diver.

Canoeing and kayaking

Usually associated with tranquil backwaters and inlets or inland white-waters, canoeing and kayaking off the shore provide you with an opportunity to see the marvelous coastline from another perspective. Plus, you’ll be getting an excellent workout while doing something fun.

Chances are, whichever part of Australia you choose, dolphins are quite likely to keep you company while you paddle your way off the coast. They might be accompanied by seals or other curious sea creatures, which would only bring the experience to a whole new level.

Chilling and eating

Perhaps an adrenalin rush is not what you’re after this spring, but it doesn’t mean you can’t have some extraordinary time by the water. For example, you can throw your own beach party for your family or friends. What better way to celebrate one of Australia’s greatest contributions to the culinary world – a barbecue breakfast, than having it at one of nature’s greatest gifts to us – a beach in Australia.

Millions of people flock to the beaches in Australia each year in search for fun, excitement or relaxation and an overwhelming majority of them find what they want. A lot of them find even more than they bargained for, while some find exactly what they need, though they didn’t have that particular experience in mind before embarking on their journey.

You’re probably not a jolly swagman who’s going to camp by a billabong, but someone looking for a spring holiday with a twist. Well, look no further, because you’ve chosen your destination wisely. Now all you need to do is make up your mind about what you’d like to experience, but keep it open. What might happen could be just the thing you need.

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Byron Bay

The Allure of Queenstown in Spring

The area where amazing mountain ranges embrace the unbelievably clear water of Lake Wakatipu, where the flavors of Chardonnay become more citrusy and where Pinot Noir vineyards roll over the hills. The self-proclaimed “home of adventure bucket list”. Welcome to Queenstown, New Zealand.

Why spring?

Because the days are longer, colours change and you have a wide range of offers. For example, you can hit the slopes (usually until mid-October) and make the most of the abundance of sunshine in comparison with winter. Also, all of a sudden, you have so many more options for dining out (and by “out” we really mean “out”). This is the time when keen beach-goers start flocking at numerous beaches in the area.

Where can I stay?

Depending on the type of traveler you are and your budget, you may choose anything from campgrounds to luxurious hotels and resorts. The best starting point for choosing accommodation is most likely this.

I want adventure

Apart from the traditional skiing and snowboarding, Queenstown prides itself on whitewater rafting, river surfing, canyon swinging and thrills on a jet boat. However, real adrenalin addicts say that you haven’t been to Queenstown if you haven’t tried bungee jumping.

I want even more adventure

Well, you can organize a wedding here and springtime is the perfect season. Just imagine you and your loved one amidst some of the most breath-taking landscapes. When it comes to the atmosphere, anything goes. From cheerful bridesmaids’ dresses and outstanding groomsmen suits to completely informal dress code. From classical music to dubstep. You just need to make up your mind.

Culinary delights and night out

With over 150 restaurants, bars and cafes, the Queenstown region caters to everyone’s taste. What’s more, you’ll find many specialized food shops, wineries and local farmers’ markets selling organic produce.

There is nothing better than enjoying a nice night out following a nice dinner. Whether you choose some of the vibrant nightclubs with live music and DJs, or a more quiet place, you’re guaranteed a great time.

Visit movie locations

There aren’t many people who don’t know that The Lord of the Rings trilogy was filmed in New Zealand. It was only logical to shoot the Hobbit trilogy here, as well, right? And what about Wolverine?

So, if you’d like to visit some of the locations featured in these and many more movies and to experience the scenery that inspired many famous filmmakers, you’ve come to the right place. Many local agencies will offer various types of tours and they promise no dragon will wake up during the tour. And if you prefer to explore these awe-inspiring places on your own, you can do so in a free transfer car.

Shopping

If this is what you like to do to relax, Queenstown will oblige. There are internationally renowned luxury brands, as well as local stores offering souvenirs. Naturally, you can buy all types of clothes and equipment for any of the activities offered in the area.

The best part about the shopping experience is that everything is located in the very center of the city, in the pedestrian friendly central business district (CBD).

Needless to say, the city also has the inevitable visitor booking services, post offices, internet cafes, exchange offices, ATMs and banks, should you need any of them.

Though it was early Maori who first inhabited the region, it was the discovery of gold in the local waterways in the late 19^th century that started drawing many more people to this piece of heaven on Earth. Some have come to stay, some only to visit. Nowadays, almost three million people visit the city and the area each year.

You probably won’t come here to search for gold, but even if you do, chances are you won’t get rich overnight. Still, that shouldn’t dissuade you from coming here. Visiting Queenstown for fun, adrenalin rush, relaxation or wine tasting will surely make the trip worthwhile. Visiting it is spring is only going to enhance the experience.

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Exploring the Wonders of the Outback Wildflower Trails

The arrival of spring and balmy weather in Western Australia gives a definite green light to all adventurers and nature lovers to pack their bags and set out to explore the wildflower trails. Australia’s renowned Golden Outback region is a fantastic and fool-proof pick.

The area is packed with no less than 12,000 wildflower species in all colours of the rainbow that provide a breathtaking view for the visitors. Awaken your inner wild child and embark on this exciting journey, but not before you hear our suggestions and tips.

Comprehensive travel guide

We have gathered a selection of essential tips that will ensure you have a pleasant and safe holiday in this beautiful region:

Make sure to have a paper and digital version of emergency info and contacts at all times
Act in accordance with the local health and safety guidelines
Although stops with food can be found at every 100-300km, fill up the tank and bring enough food that doesn’t spoil easily
Acquire permits for travel on Aboriginal lands through the Department of Aboriginal Affairs
National park passes are required as well
Obey the strict quarantine laws regarding the transport of food and plants
Get acquainted with the holiday dates and join the merrymaking
Don’t forget to exchange your currency on time if you’re a foreign citizen

Following the coastline

Coastal wildflower trip is quite a lengthy adventure since it takes up 5 whole days on average. This trip gives you a unique chance to admire the spectacular wildlife scenery during the blossoming season from August to November.

Stage 1

While conquering the distance between Perth and Hyden (4h of drive, or 340km), you’ll run into a tapestry of kaleidoscopic flower species. The patch from Brookton to Boyagin Nature Reserve features deryandras, kunzeas, hibbertias, grevilleas and isopogons, among others. Travelling farther to the Dryandra Woodlands will give you the opportunity to feast your eyes on magnificent pink and lemon orchids.

Stage 2

For starters, don’t forget to make a break for the amazing Wave Rock, a giant granite cliff shaped by the weather and erosion into a wave-like structure. This day includes the trip from Hyden to Esperance (7 hours of drive or 500km) through captivating woodland and wildflower zone. Make a stop in Norseman to dine and recuperate.

Stage 3

Once you arrive in stunning coastal place of Esperance, you’ll get the chance to roam the Cape Le Grand National Park, enjoy the sky-blue waters of Lucky Bay and take part in the local festivals. Apart from variety of spring blossoms, you’ll also be surrounded by lovely marsupials such as grey kangaroos, bandicoots and pigmy honey possums.

Stage 4

When the patch between Esperance and Hopetoun is concerned, the sites worth the visit include Ravensthorpe’s nickel mine, Monjingup Lake reserve and Stokes Inlet National Park. Wattles, mallees, peas and royal hakea are some of the famous wildflower species in the region.

Stage 5

Instead of repeating the trip on the way back to Perth, head via astonishing Wheatbelt wildflower area near salt lakes Grace, Wagin, Dumbleyung and Williams and marvel the local scenery.

Granite path

This one is a fairly manageable trip for business people and families with kids as they can conquer it in the span of a weekend (two days). Springtime is ideal for this type of road trip (late August till October) since the weather is agreeable and the countryside is teeming with vegetation.

Make the best of your drive between Perth and Merredin (260km) and check out the historic town of York. The first ever inland European settlement in Western Australia offers a wide range of attractions, such as vintage car displays, arts and crafts workshops and picturesque farmlands. The shire of Narembeen and Bruce Rock are also some of the cool stops on the way to Merredin.

On you second day, head home via Mukinbudin (464km) and make sure to visit the Billyacatting and Talgomine Rock to soak in the colourful landscape of everlastings and wildflowers. Yellow-spotted donkey orchids and one-sided bottlebrush are the pride of this region. Round up your trip by picking some popular wreath flowers at the Koorda and Wongan Hills.

At-home wildflower oasis

If you get thoroughly impressed with this trip, you might want to make your own wildflower garden in the backyard when you return home. First and foremost, go for the resistant native plants. Place them in a sunny spot away from the shrubbery. Prepare the soil carefully and utilise some handy garden tools, such as quality garden sprayer and rakes. Add organic fertilisers, plant the seed and wait patiently.

Australia’s wildflower trail paths are a great opportunity to explore the country’s natural and cultural landmarks. Simply get a free transfer car and make use of our suggestions to plan a fabulous springtime trip.

Article by Lillian Connors.

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Wildflower

Boyagin Nature Reserve

Wave Rock

Cape Le Grand National Park

Narembeen

Having a blast in and around Christchurch

If you’re planning to take a short vacation with your family or friends, Christchurch and its surroundings may just be the perfect destination. Settled on the River Avon, this is the largest city of New Zealand’s South Island and third biggest in the country.

Once it was famous as the most English city out of England, but nowadays it’s known as the Earthquake City (the reason for this being a big earthquake which hit the town in 2011), but this should in no way deter you from visiting it, knowing that Lonely Planet listed it as one of the top 10 cities to visit in 2013 and the New York Times ranked it second on its list of 52 places to go in 2014.

The combination of historic elegance and contemporary culture creates plenty of interesting venues and even more ways to spend a couple of fun days, make this place and the Canterbury region ideal for your trip.

The Must-Sees

Garden City

Christchurch was once also known as the “Garden city”, so you may start your trip by exploring why it was called like that. It abounds in public parks and residential gardens, like famous, over 150 years old Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Hagley Park, Willowbank or Burwood. You may also visit an Edwardian township at Ferrymead Heritage Park. If you’re a sport type, here you can play golf, cricket or rugby, or, if you prefer easier vacation, take a cycle tour or make a picnic. If you’re lucky, you may catch some of the open-air concerts by local bands and orchestras which are usually held at one of these parks.

Art Venues

If you want to learn about the history of Christchurch and its people, you should visit Canterbury Museum. One of its most fascinate exhibitions is the world’s greatest collection of artefacts from the Antarctic, the Māori collections in the Iwi Tawhito and Ngā Taonga galleries, and the quirky kiwiana of Fred & Myrtle’s Paua Shell House at Canterbury Museum. The town’s cultural diversity is represented by institutions on one hand and the street art gallery on the other. At the city centre you will find many colourful canvas made at walls of abandoned buildings.

Cathedral

Placed at the centre of Cathedral Square, the cathedral was built in 1864 and since then has been the pride of this town, but now it’s just a ruin, a shadow of old days. The so-called “Green Chapel” stands as a symbol of post-earthquake history of Christchurch and is put in juxtaposition with the present. Subsequently, one can observe the changes which this town has went through.

Memorials

Some of the city’s monuments, like the installation of 185 different white chairs or Cardboard Cathedral made from industrial cardboard and corrugated plastic, are built as memorials to the victims of the earthquake. It would be good to visit them and give the honour. The Quake City museum will give you the complete understanding of events in this area’s recent history.

Popular Spots

Flea Markets

All around the city you will find flea marketplaces, where you can buy almost everything you want, from unique arts and crafts to jams and jewellery.

Re:Start Cashel Mall

Placed at the very center of Christchurch this mall has everything you may need. Made from colourful shipping containers, Re:Start Cashel Mall was built to replace a shopping center after the earthquake. There you can find boutiques with designer clothes or some unusual homeware, but also coffee houses and quirky eateries, post office, banks, etc.

The Diamond Bar

For a night out, visit the Diamond Bar, an elegant cocktail lounge decorated with more than 3500 hanging crystals. As the place itself shines, you should also, so don’t forget to check their dress-code.

Gig at the Darkroom

Live music and sometimes even comedians are hosted in one of the Christchurch best clubs, the Darkroom. This is another, definitely a more casual option for an exciting night out.

Fun and Active Vacation

Adrenalin Forest

If you need an adrenalin injection – Christchurch covers that. Pick one of the 100 challenges of the Fun Park and dare yourself and your friends to share it. You can also climb, fly, jump and scream at the Adrenalin Forest.

Ballooning

Have you ever flown in the Hot Air Balloon? Now you have a chance. Christchurch and the places in its vicinity is a unique place in the world where you can fly over the mountains on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other.

Akaroa Magic

Situated on Banks Peninsula, just an hour’s drive from the Christchurch, this small town offers you a unique chance to enjoy spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife, including the rare Hectors dolphins, fur seals and penguins, as well as herds of grazing alpacas. For more family fun, you should definitely visit the Giant’s House, and check out local vineyards if you are a hedonistic type.

All these pieces of information are just a part of the many more of what you can find in Christchurch and its surroundings, but they should be more than enough to intrigue you into visiting it. So, now may be a good opportunity score a free car rental and start the adventure.

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Botanic Gardens

Canterbury Museum

Cardboard Cathedral

Akaroa

Re:Start Cashel Mall

Article by Lillian Connors

Heading for a Dreamy NZ Winter Adventure

Who said you have to stay at home this winter? New Zealand is a great place to explore even during the cold months, as the roads are not congested, the snow-capped mountains look at their best and the thermal areas are particularly enjoyable at that time of the year.
Transfercar has plenty of good deals in winter; check them out!

Thermal pools

Known as the pulsating heart of Maui’s fish, Lake Taupo is a former volcano that changed the shape of this part of the world in 181 AD. Apart from lake cruises, fishing, kayaking and biking, this region is known for its majestic thermal pools, as well. Geothermal wonders should be the first attraction on your itinerary when exploring New Zealand in winter.

The waters of the Wairakei Terraces thermal pools were highly praised by the Maori for their health benefits. In addition, the Wairakei Terraces offer fantastic massage services. However, children under the age of 14 are not permitted. For a family-friendly hot pool experience, visit the DeBretts thermal pools. Children can enjoy playing in freshwater pools with a hydroslide. The third option is AC Baths, with a small private pool and a swimming complex connecting indoor and outdoor pools as the prime attractions of this spa resort.

Whale watching

Winter is perfect for whale watching as June and July are the main migration periods. Drop by Hauraki Gulf Marine Park boasting 50 islands and 5 marine reserves. The marine park protects the Hauraki Gulf, where you can spot the critically endangered Bryde’s whale. Kaikoura on the South Island definitely merits a visit, too – sperm whales, orcas and humpback whales are waiting for you. If you are lucky you can also see several dolphin species.

Wine Trails

Although vineyards are bare in winter, do know that the autumn vintage has just ended. In winter, you are guaranteed some of the best cellar-door experiences. The Classic New Zealand Wine Trail includes travelling From the Hawkes Bay region in the North Island to Marlborough in the South Island, you can be a guest of 120 wineries.

If you would like to take the island by island, take the Christchurch – Hanmer Springs road trip and stop by Waipara, famous not only for its vineyards, but for olive groves, as well. The Central North Island road trip is known for its Rotorua – Waikaremoana circular route. Your itinerary should include Napier and its vineyards.

Some of the best Skiing in the world

That one is obvious. With four ski areas, including Christchurch, Mount Cook Mackenzie, Queenstown – Wanaka and Central North Island, New Zealand is famous for a variety of ski terrains. Even though the first three ski areas have fantastic snow, beautiful ski fields and the spectacular scenery, Central North Island is truly one of a kind because its two ski fields, Turoa and Whakapapa are located on a volcano. New Zealand particularly stands out for its heli skiing and unparalleled off-piste experiences, but this comes with a hefty price tag.

Discover new food

What about making the most of the cold weather to take part in a cooking class. There is plenty of those now in Auckland and Wellington. However, one cuisine experience is particularly unique. A Maori chef Charles Royal and his company Kinaki Wild Herbs are famous for forest food trails and indigenous ingredients. On your way back, do not forget to pick a cookbook by Annabel Langbein, or Peter Gordon, New Zealand’s celebrity chefs so that you can try delicious recipes at home.

From thermal pools to whale watching down to excellent food and wines, New Zealand is a true winter destination. The cultural heritage and majestic landscapes intertwine so beautifully that you would wish to rent a free car, pack your things, and set off for this fascinating adventure right now.

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Lake Taupo

Thermal pools

Mount Cook

US Road Trip: The Rocky Mountains

The Rocky Mountains are considered one of the most dramatic landscapes of the USA. This region, known for skiing in winter, is ideal for road trips during the hot summer days. Our Free RVs can take you there.

Denver – Idaho Springs (33 miles)

The 40-minute drive from Denver to Idaho Springs will take through some of the most beautiful parks outside Denver, a perfect introduction to the Rockies. The first stop is Centennial Cone Park with its 12-mile trail loop, leading to the majestic view of Clear Creek. If you’re lucky, you may meet elks and other wildlife species.

Mine tours, including the Phoenix Gold Mine tour and the Argo Tunnel tour in Idaho Springs are not be missed. Both of them will take you back in time with their museums displaying mining artefacts, receipts, emergency equipment, old photographs, etc. You will certainly be tired and hungry after exploring these old mines, so drop by the Smokin’ Yards BBQ, a family-run restaurant specializing in smoked meat and barbecue sauces. For the end of the day, stay at the Indian Hot Springs.

Idaho Springs – Silverthorne (35 miles)

On your way to Silverthorne, visit a small historic town of Georgetown renowned for its uniquely preserved Victorian architecture. If you’re interested in bike rides, slap some panniers for your ride
onto it and take a 23-mile Guanella Pass Scenic and Historic Byway route in the Pike and Arapaho National Forests. The route follows an old wagon road, linking two silver mining towns of Georgetown and Grant.

Continue with your road trip through the scenic landscape of the Rockies until you arrive at Silverthorne. The tranquil Blue River flows through this small town, nestled between Buffalo Mountain, Red Mountain and Mount Silverthorne. In order to fully experience Silverthorne, take a family-friendly Blue River Trail, or consider bird watching along the Blue. When you’re back in town, drop by the Nepal Restaurant for the taste of the Himalayas.

During the 1960’s, the town of Silverthorne was a makeshift camp for workers constructing the Dillon Reservoir, a water storage facility in the Denver Water system. The Dillon Reservoir surface area offers a large number of recreational activities. Water sports, such as kayaking, rowing, canoeing and windsurfing are available. Nature lovers will love scenic overviews around the Dillon Reservoir as well as numerous hiking and bicycle trails. Make sure you bring your tent as this area is one of the best campsites in Colorado.

Silverthorne – Leadville (34 miles)

Although resorts at Breckenridge and Copper Mountain are buried under snow during winter, in summer they come alive. Visit the village at Copper for a breath of fresh mountain air. You will find a variety of summer activities waiting to be discovered. For instance, a free round-trip ride on the American Eagle chairlift cannot be missed. Adventure seekers will enjoy the largest outdoor climbing wall in Colorado, the Zip Line as well as bungee jumping.

The colorful history of the next stop, Leadville will take your breath away. Include the Historic Walking Tour of Leadville and the visit to the National Mining Hall of Fame & Museum into your activities. There’s something for adrenaline enthusiasts, too. Online maps of area trails from beginner to advanced will help you explore the beautiful Rocky Mountains.

When it comes to lodging and dining, the Victorian-style Delaware Hotel and the 1886 Victorian Inn are a must-do vacation stop in this part of the region. In the hotel, you can take a self-guided tour brimming with the collection of antiques available for purchase. Finally, learn about the history of Victorian tea and choose between Traditional Afternoon Tea, Cowboy Tea and Sweet Tooth Tea at The Delaware Hotel.

Leadville – Aspen (58 miles)

Further south, you will see Mountain Sheridan and Mountain Elbert on the horizon. Between Leadville and Aspen, you will come across another mining town in the heart of the Rockies, Lakes Town. Located at the base of Mountain Elbert, this town offers three trailheads for climbing. Apart from awe-inspiring natural beauty (the Twin Lakes are the largest glacial lakes in Colorado), the town is known for its history during the gold rush. At the end of the 19^thcentury, it was described as “the most charming summer mountain resort in Colorado.”

The final stop is Aspen, situated in the White River National Forest. It boasts world-class ski resorts during winter as well as biking and hiking trails in summer. The vibrant art scene is another thing this town, originally inhabited by the Ute Indians, is famous for. Some of the must-see art destinations are the Aspen Art Museum and the PISMO Fine Art Glass.

This fabulous road trip should definitely be on your bucket list, and renting a free transfer car will make this dream journey not only more comfy, but cheaper, too. The scenery of the Rockies, which is changing every day, will live in the memory for years to come, always reminding you that the road trip you once experienced must be repeated.

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Denver

Clear Creek

Silverthorne

Leadville

Aspen