#misatravel

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FROM MOUNTAINS TO COASTLINES

There is much to experience in New South Wales. Prepare to be wowed by rugged cliffs, picturesque vineyards and stunning beaches with these trips road trips from Sydney

The Blue Mountains The beautiful Blue Mountains offer vast, unobstructed views of vast eucalyptus-forests below. Here, you will get to see the world-famous Three Sisters from different lookouts, or take a short hike down to the Honeymoon Bridge where you can cross over to the ‘first Sister’! Be sure to explore the magical Scenic World with the Unlimited Discovery Pass too. Take the world’s steepest Scenic Railway right into the Jamison Valley, where you can walk along a 2.2 km elevated board through rainforest and open woodlands. Glide above lush canopies while standing on the Scenic Skyway’s glass-floored cable cars, also Australia’s highest cable car, strung across steep limestone cliffs. Feast your eyes on the lush rainforest, gorges and canyons, and get ready to be astounded by sandstones that reach 300 metres high and valleys that dip 800 metres deep.

The Hunter Valley About 2 hours’ drive north of Sydney, the Hunter Valley is home to Australia’s oldest wine region. With charming towns and quaint villages, the Hunter Valley’s rich history of Australian wine pioneers include Audrey Wilkinson, where you can visit a museum dedicated to Ms. Wilkinson and enjoy a wine tasting session as well as a masterclass with the in-house experts! End your visit to the Hunter Valley in a memorable fashion – with a stroll through the vineyards followed by an afternoon picnic with a bottle of the region’s well-known Semillon or Shiraz.

Nelson Bay Located in the suburbs of Port Stephens, this idyllic coastal beach boasts a variety of dining options making it a convenient spot for families with young children. The Sand Dunes are located just 10 minutes away from the central of Nelson Bay, so those looking to fill up their time with a little more adventure could spend hours’ sandboarding or revving through the golden lands on a quad bike. Visitors can treat themselves to a 360-degree, panoramic view of the lands and fresh water lagoons from the top of the Sand Dunes. Dolphin Watch CruiseDid you know that Port Stephens is the Dolphin Capital of Australia? Board a Dolphin Watch Cruise to spot a few of the 150 resident bottlenose dolphins frolicking in the water. During the whale migration season from May to November, you may even see playful humpback whales breaching from the water!

Grand Pacific Drive Hop into a car and cruise through one of Australia’s best coastal routes. The Grand Pacific Drive brings you through national parks, hugging dramatic cliffs on the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge and past beautiful seaside towns Shellharbour, Kiama and Shoalhaven. Sky-diving, surfing and apple-picking are just some of the many experience you can enjoy. Don’t forget to check out the Kiama Blowhole – the world’s biggest blowhole – a spectacular spot for a photo opportunity!a Blowhole – a spectacular spot for a photo opportunity!

Oyster Farm Cruise Visit a working oyster farm with Magical Oyster Tours, where you will have the chance to cruise on the wild, beautiful Pambula Lake, learn about oyster farming, the river estuary and of course, savour the famous and fresh Sydney Rock Oyster straight from the waters! Learn about the stories behind bringing your plate of oysters to the table – from its history, modern farming techniques and biological sciences behind – all these while enjoying a cruise ride downstream on the scenic Pambula River with a chance of spotting White Bellies Sea Eagles flying overhead. The entire tour takes approximately two hours and is an enriching travel experience like no other.

DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF VIVID SYDNEY

Enjoy Sydney’s icons both day and night as they light up during the world’s largest festival of light, music and ideas.

Vivid Sydney The world’s largest festival of light, music and ideas – and Australia’s biggest event – is back from 26 May to 17 June 2017. This free, public event transforms Sydney into a colourful, bedazzling outdoor art exhibition, with mega light installations and projections on famous buildings that is bound to take your breath away. Sydney Opera House This world famous icon needs no introduction. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007, the Sydney Opera House was quoted as “one of the indisputable masterpieces of human creativity, not only in the 20th century but in the history of humankind”. Step into this superbly built building and unveil the stories behind its creation. During Vivid Sydney, the iconic sails of the Sydney Opera House are illuminated with stunning designs and flashy hues – a sight that never fails to fascinate.

Darling Harbour There are plenty of things to see and do around the bustling Darling Harbour. Step into the SEA LIFE Sydney Zoo to meet the real locals – kangaroos, koalas and other friendly animals. Discover amazing sea creatures through Australia’s unique fresh water and marine environments at the SEA Life Sydney Aquarium, including a new ride-through expedition to see sub-Antarctic King and Gentoo penguins! When night falls, Darling Harbour gives one of the best views during a fireworks display – so be sure to check out the latest fireworks schedule when you are there during Vivid Sydney!

Sydney Tower Eye The Sydney Tower Eye is the tallest building in the city. Standing at 250 meters, it offers fantastic panoramic views of the city, where you can take in its famed landmarks all at once. On a clear day, you can even gaze at the silhouettes of the Blue Mountains from afar – a beautiful sight, especially during sunset. Watch the city glow with an orange hue atop Sydney’s highest point as buildings light up one by one, an experience made even more magical during Vivid Sydney.

The Rocks Walking Tour This is where European settlers chose to step ashore in 1788 and The Rocks became the birthplace of modern Sydney. Walk on the charming, cobbled streets of this historic area and be amazed with the early settlement story of the First Fleet of convicts and how they occupied The Rocks and Sydney Cove. The storehouses, pubs and working class cottages remain, reminiscent of the precious past of this vibrant town. At night, the place lights up with spectacular light art installations and large-scale illuminations during Vivid Sydney. Stroll along the waterfront and be entertained by live music performances. It is also one of the best places to take in the Lighting of the Sails.

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VIVID SYDNEY (26 MAY - 17 JUNE 2017)

The world’s largest festival of light, music & ideas.

  Magical Events for the Whole Family As Australia’s capital of events, Sydney’s calendar has plenty of happenings that appeal to the whole family. From 26 May – 17 June 2017, experience Vivid Sydney, the world’s largest festival of lights, music and ideas – and Australia’s biggest event. During this 23-night event, Sydney transforms into a colourful, bedazzling outdoor exhibition, with spectacular light installations and projections on famous buildings, including the sails of the Sydney Opera House.

If you happen to be in Sydney from 6-19 April 2017, the Sydney Royal Easter Show is event not to be missed. Visit the huge festive carnival to go on fun theme park rides, get up close with farm animals and watch exciting live competitions – from wood chopping, rodeo riding to horseback show jumping – all these topped with an extravaganza of evening fireworks daily. Attracting over 850,000 visitors each year, the Sydney Royal Easter Show is a two-week long event organised by the Royal Agricultural Society (RAS) of New South Wales, a non-profit organisation that encourages sustainable practices in Australia’s agricultural industry. First held in 1823, the revenue generated by RAS from this event allows the organisation to invest in agricultural programs, education, and rural New South Wales.   For more information, please visit http://www.getaways.com.sg/

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FAMILY FUN IN SYDNEY

Look no further than Sydney for your next family getaway!

With the June holidays around the corner, it’s time to plan for that annual trip with the kids again. If you are looking for somewhere with a wide range of activities for the whole family, we have just the right destination for you. Whether it’s wildlife, nature or adventure-packed activities, there is something fun for everyone in Sydney and New South Wales.

Live on a Farmstay There are a number of charming farm stays close to Sydney. Just over an hour’s drive away is Mowbray Park Farmstay, an authentic working farm where kids can immerse in real farm activities like feeding cattle, milking cows or riding a tractor. Families can huddle by a fireplace and experience the traditional Aussie Billy tea and Damper during June’s cool winter weather. Another great option is Bilpin Springs Lodge, which allows playing with farm animals and activites like canoeing, table tennis and a trampoline.

Scenic World in the Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains is a World Heritage-listed area just a 90-minute drive from Sydney. It is home to dramatic limestone cliffs, stunning waterfalls and plenty of picturesque, walking trails for the whole family. Be sure to visit Scenic World, an outdoor playground in the mountains for both the young and young at heart. Enjoy a thrilling ride on the world’s steepest railway right into the valley, or Australia’s highest skyway suspended between cliff tops, with views of the iconic Three Sisters rock formation and a see-through glass bottom that looks straight into the deep drop below.

Family-friendly Activitiesin Sydney The vibrant city of Sydney has plenty to offer for all ages. Kids will absolutely love the opportunity to have breakfast with koalas in WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, take a boat ride through the newly opened Penguin Expedition to see Emperor Penguins in SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium or go on an educational submarine tour at the Australian National Maritime Museum. For an award-winning zoo experience, take a ferry to Taronga Zoo, where you can hop on a cable-car ride to the top of a hill for stunning views of the Sydney Harbour, and get up close with kangaroos, koalas, gorillas and more. Those looking for more exciting activities can try out OZ Jet Boating to speed past the Sydney Opera House, or go atop the Sydney Harbour Bridge with BridgeClimb Sydney. If you would like to have a relaxing day instead, simply spend the day picnicking at Sydney’s beautiful beaches or take a stroll along its stunning coastal cliffs.

Dunes, Dolphins and Whalesin Port Stephens Port Stephens is the kind of holiday destination where families make memories that last a lifetime. A 2.5 hours’ drive north of Sydney, it is filled with action-packed activities. Thrill seekers will love to quad bike or sand board across the vast sand coastal sand dunes at Stockton Beach, the largest in Southern Hemisphere. Port Stephens is also the Dolphin Capital of Australia, so where better to hop on a dolphin watch cruise? Visitors are likely to spot a few of the 150 resident bottlenose dolphins – and during the months of May to November, migrating humpback whales. Families can even choose to dolphin and whale watch together on a parasail high above the sparkling coastlines!

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A SUMMER,FOOD AND WINE EXPERIENCE IN PERTH

Spanning 2,400 kilometers from the North to the South, Western Australia is a place that offers the perfect ‘urban-nature’ blend. With its immense diversity of photogenic landscapes, trying to pick a select few noteworthy spots can be quite the mind-boggling process. You could consider a tour of the Pinnacles in the desert landscape of Nambung National Park, basking in the sun at Scarborough Beach, or heading stomach first into the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour for a food hunt. Even Western Australia’s capital city, Perth, a seemingly familiar destination to many Singaporeans, still possesses a few tricks up its sleeve for the curious traveller. 

Perth City

While it is considered to be one of the most ‘isolated cities’, sunny Perth is filled with warm people, great food and glorious beaches. Capture the stunning views of Perth especially at night when the lights illuminate this beautiful city. The beautiful Swan River gracefully meanders its way through the heart of Perth, laid back and relaxed, almost symbolic of the city’s tranquil disposition. Apart from enjoying the best cityscape views from Kings Park and Botanic Garden - one of the largest inner city parks in the world - you can join an indigenous tour to discover unique local plants and learn about Perth’s natives, the Whadjuks. Visit The Perth Mint for its world class metals, to learn about gold mining legends and to be amazed by the world’s greatest collection of gold bars. Head over to Northbridge, home of The Perth Cultural Centre (PCC) - also known as the cultural heart of the city. Sitting between Northbridge and Perth’s city centre, PCC is a breath of fresh air and a welcome change, away from the bustle of the city. Besides housing the Western Australian Museum and Art Gallery of Western Australia, the PCC almost always plays host to a myriad of must-see events. Don’t forget to check out Perth’s brand new Elizabeth Quay - it’s renowned for its unique design that overcame geometric challenges. Watch it light up at night, illuminating the nightscape of Perth.

Fremantle

Fremantle is renowned for its eclectic mix of old and new charms. Wander through the well-preserved 19th century port streetscape of Fremantle’s historic West End, or explore the city at your own pace when you embark on walking trails. Explore Fremantle’s historic sites when you embark on a ‘Heritage Highlights’ trail. The Round House will be one of your stops, it is Western Australia’s oldest public building, initially built as a gaul. Stop by the Fremantle Prison, the largest and the most intact prison built by convicts in Australia. The prison became Western Australia’s only World Heritage site in 2010. A tour of the prison at night with only the aid of a torchlight is also available for brave souls. Feast on fresh seafood or order the famous fish and chips at Fremantle’s Fishing Boat Harbour. If you happen to visit Fremantle on a Friday or on a weekends, step into the iconic Fremantle Markets. Touted as one of the best and wellknown markets in Western Australia, you will be dazzled by the array of offerings.

Nambung National Park

About a three hour drive north of Perth, lies one of Western Australia’s most unique natural attractions - Nambung National Park. Witness the beauty of the Pinnacles rising out of yellow sand dunes; some of these amazing limestone structures stand as tall as 5 meters and were formed approximately 25,000 to 30,000 years ago. To understand more, head to the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre where you will find displays, soundscapes and videos that explain the geology of the pinnacles formations as well as the history of the area. Nambung National Park is also known for its beautiful beaches at Kangaroo Point - named after the mobs of kangaroos which gather on the beach at dawn and dusk at Hangover Bay. Continue your exploration to the nearby fishing village of Cervantes and Lake Thetis, a salt lake teeming with living fossils.

Winery Experience

Venture to the town of Margaret River, Australia’s premium wine region, located a mere three-hour drive from the south of Perth. Learn about and savour international premium wines when you embark on one of the many wine tours available at Margaret River. Be sure to check out Cape Mentelle - one of the oldest vineyards and working wineraries at Margaret River. Enjoy an afternoon sipping on exquisite wines and learning how to pair them with the right foods. An option closer to the city would be a 20-minute drive from Perth to Swan Valley, a favourite amongst the locals. Visit the award winning Talijancich Wines, a boutique winery in Swan Valley. Stop by The Cheese Barrel at Swan Valley to have a hands-on cheese making experience or to simply enjoy cheese boards with a selection of gourmet cheeses to pair with your wine tasting.

Rottnest Island

A quick and adventure-filled island getaway is just 19 kilometres off the coast of Perth. Getting to Rottnest Island is just a short ferry ride from either Fremantle or Perth, or you could fly over in an air taxi or helicopter. Rottnest Island is home to some of the best swimming spots, snorkelling trails, diving, and surfing breaks in the world. With over 135 species of tropical fish and 25 species of coral, heading below the surface will make your summer a truly unique experience. Meet the world’s happiest animal - Quokkas -which is one of the main highlights on Rottnest island.

Bunbury Dolphin Discovery Centre

For an exhilarating and memorable experience at Western Australia, be sure to make a stop at Bunbury Dolphin Discovery Centre. Here, you will get a true once in a lifetime opportunity to snorkel and swim with the bay’s Bottlenose dolphins! Besides enjoying close encounters with dolphins in the water, join a dolphin eco cruise or simply interact with dophins at the shoreline in the dolphin interaction zone. There is also the 360-degree digital dolphinarium, movie screenings and scheduled guided site tours for visitors to learn more about these lovely creatures.

Scarborough Beach

Scarborough Beach is popular amongst the locals and one of the best white sand surf beaches in the world. Amazing panorama views and its pristine white sands has attracted both locals and tourists alike. When the afternoon sea breeze kicks in, try kitesurfing and windsurfing. Scarborough Beach is also the only beach in Western Australia with an amphitheatre which hosts regular events from beach volleyball contests to summer concerts. At night, the foreshore comes alive with its pumping bars and resturants. Enjoy the gentle ocean breeze while sipping on your favourite cocktails.

For more information on the destination, visit Westernaustralia.com