Your Aussie Travel Expert’s In-Flight Essentials

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I do love Australia, but what I really love is to travel. I thrive on exploring new destinations and sharing my experiences through my weekly travel journal blog. While this year has been quiet thus far on the travel front, only a quick visit to North Carolina, I’ve been known to be on the road more than once a month. You can often find me visiting such places as Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Turks and Caicos, Jamaica, Mexico, and beyond. Currently, I am getting ready for next month’s trip back to Australia (visit #6) and thought it would be fun to share with you what are some of my must-have items in my carry-on.

Your Aussie Travel Expert’s In-Flight Essentials

Socks-I love to fly with my shoes off. Barefoot even while seated. But when the cabin is cool, or I need to take a stroll through the cabin, I have my feet cozy and free.

Comfy Change of Clothes-Once we are in the air, I take off my business casual and get into my loungewear. Once we get close to landing at the destination, I freshen up and change back into my casual attire. I am ready to greet the day.

An External Charger-Vitally important for me to always have my phone, if nothing else, working. Not only to stay in touch with the family, office, and clients but also to capture images and video of the destination.

Journal-I like to make notes, write down thoughts, and keep a detailed account of my time in a destination which can later be used for photo books, blogs, and more.

Moisturizer/Lip Balm-It’s essential to keeping your skin hydrated and refreshing. I travel with moisturizer and lip balm that has SPF in it, too, for outdoor exposure.

Breath Mints-My favorites are the cinnamon Altoids. Not only a quick fix for the breath but sometimes a little wake me up.

Immunity Boost-I carry Airborne or its generic equivalent. Typically I use the dissolving tablets when traveling because of their ease to mix in a glass of water and smaller package sizing for the bag or purse. I find keeping your body filled with good vitamins and antioxidants helps keep you from picking up those nasty travel bugs that seem to inhabit the flights.

Sunglasses-Don’t leave home without them. Of course, flying to the South Pacific, we leave at night, but we arrive for sunrise. Plus, sunglasses can hide tired eyes.

A Pareo-A large scarf essentially that can be used or worn in a multitude of ways. Check out a previous journal entry here.

Body Wipes-Perfect for freshening up before your arrival after the long flight.

 


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslYour Aussie Travel Expert’s In-Flight Essentials
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Dreamtime Walk in Mossman Gorge

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What is Dreamtime? Dreamtime by dictionary.com definition, is the ancient time of the creation of all things by sacred ancestors, whose spirits continue into the present, as conceived in the mythology of the Australian Aborigines. The dreamtime is used to describe important features of Aboriginal existence and beliefs. Dreamtime dates back over 65,000 years. It shares the story of how events happened, how the universe came to be, how human beings were created and what their functions within this world were to be. During the Dreamtime the creators made men, women, and animals, declared the laws of the land and how people were to behave to one another, the customs of food supply and distribution, the rituals and ceremonies of death and marriage. Dreamtime is part of the very essence and reason for being here and will always be the center of existence for Australia’s Aboriginal Culture.


A Dreamtime walk in Mossman Gorge gives us a look into these beliefs, customs, stories, and ways of the indigenous people originating from the far north Queensland rainforest. It is a “must do” for any visit to this region of northern Queensland. Mossman gorge lies within the Daintree National Park, a world heritage listed site. The walks are led by locals from the Kuku Yalanji. These people have been present in the rain forest are for over 50,000 years.

The walks take visitors on a gentle journey on easy tracks meandering along rainforest streams and stopping at significant sites, shelters, and other culturally significant spots. The walk begins with a traditional “smoking” ceremony that cleanse and wards off the bad spirits. Your guide will introduce you to bush food sources, demonstrate how they were used and share stories along the way of their people. Discover soap bush, the difference between boomerangs, the traditional art of face painting, and more before your tour concludes with a bush tea and damper. It is a very soul lifting experience. The gorge is situated conveniently near Port Douglas and easily works into a nice 2-3 night stay in this north part of Queensland.

 


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslDreamtime Walk in Mossman Gorge
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Staying Fit During a Stay on Hamilton Island

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As an Aussie Travel Expert, aka Aussie Specialist, people are always asking me to tell them my favorite place to visit in Australia. This is almost an impossible task for me because I am so in love with the destination that no matter where I am I am in #myhappyplace. But when push comes to shove, a place I would choose for my own personal rest and relaxation would be Queensland’s Hamilton Island.

Not only is Hamilton Island incredibly beautiful, it has all the things I am looking for in my vacation experience. As some of you know I have a separate little division, let’s call it, of Boomerang Escapes, called Be Fit To Travel. Be Fit To Travel was born out of my own love and passion for staying fit and from the stories I’ve heard from travelers that weren’t able to enjoy their “Golden Years” as planned. I have created a whole page and a closed motivational fitness group dedicated to inspiring and encouraging others to live their best healthy life.


Which brings me to one of the reasons I so love Hamilton Island. Hamilton Island is a place to for me to escape, thrive, revive, and indulge. The key components for returning to your happy place. Hamilton Island has a wide variety of stay options from the luxurious Qualia, to the harbour condos, to the family friendly Reef Hotel. On top of excellent accommodations, the harbour restaurants, and the resorts have mouth watering selections of food to dine on, spas and beaches to relax on, and then oodles of activities to thrive on.

What are some of my favorite sports, fitness items to do while staying on Hamilton Island? Here’s a list of several of mine….

Hiking Passage Peak at sunrise. I love to see the earth come awake and what better thing to do then get a morning climb in for a 360 degree view. There are actually several hiking options.

Snorkel and/or take a swim. Spend an afternoon with the sea creatures exploring their underwater world.

Golf. Take the ferry over for a round of golf and see what you shoot.

Beach walk at Whitehaven taking the path up to the scenic outlooks.

SUP and/or Windsurfing. My personal preference is the Stand Up Paddle board. Always great fun and good core workout.

Catching a fitness class at the resort. My love is yoga.

Staying fit doesn’t have to feel like a workout. When you’ve filled your day with healthy fun activities such as these then its easy to indulge in the food, night entertainment, or lovely spa!

 


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslStaying Fit During a Stay on Hamilton Island
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Glenrowan-Home of Ned Kelly

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Glenrowan-Home of Ned Kelly can be found in the state of Victoria.

 

Are you familiar with our US History? Specifically do you recall in your history lessons the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral? It was an infamous shootout in the American West during the late 1800s in the town of Tombstone, Arizona. I mention it because it was exactly what I thought of when I was introduced to Ned Kelly on my first visit to Australia. The whole trip was a reminder of how closely tied our histories are with Australia despite being located on opposite ends of the world.


Like our own famous “Cowboys” from the Gunfight, Australia had its own shootout with its “Bushrangers”, led by the outlaw Ned Kelly.

Ned and his gang had been alluding the police for two years, but in 1880 they had their final showdown in Glenrowan. Kelly was not shot, but taking into custody. He was convicted and sentenced to death. His last words are reportedly said to have been “such is life.”

He still stands as a cultural icon and one of the most written about Australians in Australia. Some sympathizing and seeing him more of Robin Hood then the outlaw and murderous villain he was convicted of being.

Journalist Martin Flanagan wrote:
“What makes Ned a legend is not that everyone sees him the same—it’s that everyone sees him. Like a bushfire on the horizon casting its red glow into the night.” From <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ned_Kelly>

What else is great about making a stop in Glenrowan to see Ned?

You can tie your history lesson to one of Australia’s well known and oldest wine regions dating back to 1870. The area has 13 growers and 7 cellar doors. Shiraz is the main wine produced along with delightful fortified wines. A winery worth making a stop and taste at is Baileys of Glenrowan. They have been in the wine business for 145 years with a spectacular site in the Warby Ranges. If you enjoy these wines and consider yourself a true wine drinker, you may be interested in joining their 1870 wine club. So, let’s raise a glass to Ned Kelly and the other the legend makers that have shaped our country’s histories.

 


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslGlenrowan-Home of Ned Kelly
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Fraser Island-Sand Island Gem

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Did you know islands made of sand exist? Did you know that Fraser Island is a world heritage listed island and considered to be the largest sand island? It is also the largest island off the coast of Queensland, Australia. While not found on your everyday itinerary to Australia, it is certainly a gem to consider putting into your vacation experience.

Fraser Island then is a Sand Island Gem

Why you ask? This unique island is actually loaded with some spectacular lakes, lush rainforest, and miles of pristine beaches. It is absolutely amazing how diverse the landscape is on this island created from sand. Another added bonus is it is home to one of the largest dingo populations.


To get to Fraser Island you begin with a ferry ride from Hervey Bay.

Hervey Bay is about 3 hours north of Brisbane. It’s a beautiful drive up from Brisbane along the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Once you ferry across the bay you arrive at Fraser Island and check into Kingfisher Bay Resort. The gorgeous resort overlooks the Great Sandy Strait on the western side of the island. It is a purpose-built ecotourism resort with numerous awards and accolades it can boast about over its 21 years of operation. The resort has an extensive program of guided walks, talks, and 4WD tours as well as wildlife. They even offer whale watch cruises during season. Kingfisher Bay Resort is an ideal base from which to explore the island.

A fantastic tour option is the Beauty Spots Tour.

On this incredible beautiful day of off-roading, you’ll visit the top natural attractions and cool off in fresh watering holes all in the comfort of your air-conditioned four-wheel drive coach. Lunch is provided, but you’ll want to pack your swim wear, a hat, and your sunscreen for this adventure. Here are the highlights you’ll discover:

Gorgeous Lake McKenzie
Central Station and Wanggoolba Creek
Pile Valley’s stunning Satinay and Brush Box forests.
Seventy-Five Mile Beach’s famous highway. (yes, you drive on it)
The Maheno Shipwreck.
The colored sands of The Pinnacles.
The temperate, fresh waters of Eli Creek.
The might Stonetool Sand Blow

To make it even more spectacular, consider taking a scenic peak of the interior by purchasing a ride in one of the sea planes that appear on the beach. And if you’re lucky and have your eyes out you may spot a dingo or two. Or in my case the dingo may want to join your tour and run along side your vehicle.

After a fantastic day of experiencing the island return to Kingfisher Bay Resort for a lovely dining experience at the Seabelle Restaurant. All of their dishes incorporate local indigenous items in them. Then end the evening in your room over looking the swamps and fall asleep to the sounds of the night world.

Sounds divine, doesn’t it?


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslFraser Island-Sand Island Gem
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Kick Back and Relax at Kickenback

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Winter, spring, summer, or fall, no matter the season, you don’t need a reason to kick back and relax. Whether you are a twosome or a small group of friends, a perfect Australian escape awaits at Kickenback at Crackenback.

Kickenback is a beautiful holiday residence snuggled in the Snowy Mountains at Crackenback. This residence is ideal for exploring the many activities available in the Snowy Mountains while relaxing and enjoying family and friends.

Crackenback is located in the Alpine way and is only 2 hours from the country’s capital in Canberra. It is perfect for long or short stays with its studio for a couple or the chalet ideal for families and larger groups. The two units can actually be booked together as one stay as well!


The area has plenty to do to keep you occupied during your stay, no matter the season. Whether you are looking to hit the snowy slopes, view autumn colors, or discover some of the regional tastes, you will be sure to love your experience. Here is a list of just some of the activities you and your spouse or you and your friends might divulge in:

Food & Wine
Art & Culture
Fishing
Skitube
Touring by road
Well-being activities
Horse riding
Kosciuszko National Park
Mountain Biking
Skiing
Shopping
Archery

When your day is done, return to the warmth and comfort of your lodge at Crackenback. Share stories around the dinner table, fireplace, or lawn chairs over a nice glass of wine.

I can highly recommend a couple of things after I visited the resort during spring a few years ago. First, make a trip over to Canberra to spend time in the city’s capital. Enjoy the high life while taking in some of the museums. The War Memorial was of special interest, and it was neat to discover our close connection in history with the Australians. My other favorite activity was driving the countryside and stopping for a picnic lunch in Kosciuszko National Park. While there, we were able to observe the wild kangaroo mob very up close and personal.

With all of its unique opportunities and fun, Crackenback is just one small piece of New South Wales worth putting on your visit list.

 


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslKick Back and Relax at Kickenback
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Amazing Facts About Koala Joeys

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1. Baby koalas are called Joeys. All marsupial babies are called joeys – kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, tasmanian devils, possums & bilbys. The meaning/origin is unknown – it’s possibly just a diminutive used at that time for any small animal. Joey as a baby marsupial was first recorded in use in 1839.
The use of the word joey may have started with the word being applied for a British fourpenny coin. Politician Joseph Hume promoted the use of the fourpenny, thus the coin developed the slang name joey after him.

2. The first time you see a koala joey it is already 6 months old. Koala joeys are born as tiny naked creatures that don’t look anything like a koala. They move straight into the pouch, and remain unseen until they emerge at around 6 months old.
Actual emergence takes time. The joey first pokes his head out of the pouch at 5.5 months, and fully emerges at 6 to 7 months. By 8 to 9 months the joey becomes too large to get into the pouch, and spends all his time on his mother’s belly or back.

3. Koalas invented pro-biotics. Koala joeys eat ‘pap’ – a special substance produced by their mother that looks like poo and acts like a probiotic. It contains gut flora that the joey needs to process eucalyptus leaves. The mother koala produces it from her caecum (a special chamber in her large intestine) and delivers it from her cloaca, so though it looks a bit like poo, its not.
Pap is absolutely essential to a koala’s health. Wildlife Carers with orphaned koala joeys will frequently ask the wildlife care community for a postal delivery of pap from a koala mother – any koala mother will do, the closer the better but any is better than none. Imagine receiving that package of squishy green slurry in the mail!

4. Koala joeys are born out of their mother’s central vagina. Female koalas have three vaginas.

Why? Its complicated, and deserves a complete blog on the subject. Suffice to say that the two lateral (side) vaginae are for the passage of sperm to the uteri, and the median (central) vagina is for birth.
5. Koala joeys are born high in a tree. There is no danger of them falling to the ground – they are so tiny they get trapped in their mother’s fur. At birth a koala joey weighs only 1 gram – as much as a single sultana/raisin – and is only 2cm long.

It’s Koala Joey Season in the state of Victoria right now. All over the state wild koalas can be seen with joeys – hotspots are The You Yangs near Melbourne, the Great Ocean Road and Raymond Island, East Gippsland.
Echidna Walkabout runs the following tours to see koalas in the wild – with a high chance of seeing koala joeys each year from September to November:
Wildlife Journey 4 days
Great Ocean Road 3 days
Koalas & Kangaroos IN THE WILD 1 day
For more information contact:
Janine Duffy
janine@echidnawalkabout.com.au
T: +61 (0)3 9646 8249
Echidna Walkabout Nature Tours & Koala Clancy Foundation
http://www.echidnawalkabout.com.au http://koalaclancyfoundation.org.au

*Reprinted with permission from Echidnawalkaobut


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslAmazing Facts About Koala Joeys
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Master Bridge Climbing

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Another year, another trip, another Amazing Aussie Adventure with another Harbour Bridge Climb. Yes, I can officially call myself a master bridge climber now.

A bit easier and actually even more exciting than the last, but still a test of fear as I push myself to the heights above the Sydney Harbour. Each time I travel to Australia, or even another destination, I take chances to step outside my comfort zone. The feeling of accomplishment makes it well worth the discomfort as much as seeing and experiencing all the world has to offer.
The sights from the bridge are well worth facing any fears you may have to experience Sydney from this vantage point. There are three hundred and sixty degrees of pure beauty as you scan across the city and the harbour. On a clear day like we had, you can see the Blue Mountain ridge in the distance. Each climb presents a different experience than the last.

With varying guides, climbs, and times of climbs, you are sure to have a new experience each time you make your way up onto the bridge. There is a climb for every client and those with fears. As you make your way along your metal path, your guide will fill you in on the history of how the bridge came to be. It is a tale of absolute wonder, considering they did not have the modern building conveniences today. Learn how brave these men had to be up there, putting in the pegs that connect this and all with ultimate precision and alignment. Discover how brave you are as you rise above the city to see the most spectacular sight.

The climb runs all year and just about all weather. My last climb was a wicked windy day, but we prevailed. The wind actually made for an incredibly clear view seeing well beyond the reaches of the harbour. The center provides all gear. All items are securely attached to your blue and grey jumpsuit as you are securely attached to the bridge itself. You only need to bring a do it attitude and closed-toe shoes. Indeed you have your knees knocking by the end of your adventure (mine always are), but the exhilaration of completing this climb will bring you back for more adventure.

 


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslMaster Bridge Climbing
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Follow my #amazingaussieadventure

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I’m off again. Next week I take off on my third Amazing Aussie Adventure with Travel2. You will be able to follow my adventures on my social media accounts. All you need to do is search the following hashtags: #amazingaussieadventure, #myhappyplace, #Australia, and #returntoyourhappyplace.

Like last year, about 60 top agents from across the U.S. have been chosen to head Down Under to meet suppliers and experience the wonders the country has to offer. I am back in Queensland this year and will be going up to the Sunshine Coast from Brisbane to Cairns with stops on Fraser Island and the Whitsundays.
My adventure begins on Wednesday, August 24th, as I make my way from Memphis to LA to catch my overnight flight on Qantas. (I love Qantas!) We will arrive in Brisbane Friday, August 26th, and be off and running. Friday begins day one, crikey!

Day 1-Our first stop– Australia Zoo. It is the home of the “Crocodile Hunter.” We will have a quick breakfast, followed by a morning of activities. There will probably be another koala cuddle for me, and, of course, I will need to check out the saltwater crocs. After a morning of zoo fun, we will be off to Montville in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland to visit Flame Hill Vineyard. What’s better than a wine tasting at midday? By late afternoon, we will head to the Sebel Resort Noosa for a little R&R shopping. We will also enjoy bathing on the beach or laying by the pool before dinner that evening at Bistro C looking over Noosa’s Laguna Bay.

Day 2-We will rise early for a morning run/walk through Noosa National Park, followed by a healthy breakfast at Season Restaurant. After breakfast, we hit the road and travel to Hervey Bay to board the ferry to Fraser Island, where we will check into the Kingfisher Bay Resort. The afternoon will be spent doing a resort inspection and trying out the many available activities to guests. The day will end with a pleasant dinner at Seabelle Restaurant.

Day 3-We will savor breakfast at leisure before we depart for a full day of Beauty Spots Tour. We will visit the top natural attractions and cool off in fresh watering holes on this beautiful day off-roading. We’ll have lunch on the road and have the opportunity to discover:
Gorgeous Lake McKenzie
Central Station and Wanggoolba Creek
Pile Valley’s stunning Satinay and Brush Box Forests
The Maheno shipwreck and the colored sands of The Pinnacles
The temperate, fresh waters of Eli Creek
The mighty Stonetool Sand Blow
The day will end with a quick shower before dining at Meheno Restaurant and taking the ferry back to spend the night at Mantra Hervey Bay.

Day 4-There will be an early sunrise departure from the hotel for a flight to Hamilton Island. Once at Hamilton Island, we will be staying at the Qualia. We will grab our golf buggies and head to the marina for lunch before our hotel inspections via Hamilton Island Treasure Hunt. The evening will be filled with food and wine as we begin with cocktails at One Tree Hill, followed by dinner at Long Pavilion overlooking the sparkling Coral Sea. This is only for guests of Qualia.

Day 5-We will start the day with a sunrise walk, followed by yoga before diving into a healthy breakfast. After breakfast, we are off to the sea and sand, spending a day seeing Whitehaven beach via yacht and helicopter. I will be taking a flight over to see the famed Heart Reef. After a full day of sun, there will be dinner at Marina Tavern back on Hamilton Island.

Day 6-We will grab one last breakfast at Qualia before catching our flight to Cairns. Cairns is the gateway to Queensland’s tropical north. We will spend three nights here at the Pacific Hotel Cairns, conveniently located near the Esplanade, Markets, and Reef Casino. We will have the afternoon free to visit those wonderful places before meeting for dinner at Wharf ONE Café at Trinity Warf. After dinner, we will enjoy a peaceful evening.

Day 7-We will start the morning with some yoga on the Esplanade before assembling our Trade Training Day. This is a full day to meet with fifty of my Aussie and Kiwi partners to get all the latest updates. The day will close with a little free time before our Beach Party on Green Island. The evening will be great for networking and enjoying Cairns.

Day 8-There will be breakfast, followed by a play day. My playtime will be spent out on the Great Barrier Reef with a day of sun and snorkeling. After a full day on the reef, we will return to the Bushfire Flame Grill Restaurant for a Brazilian Churrascaria a la Australian dinner.

Day 9-We will head to the airport for breakfast included on the flight to Sydney. Upon arrival, we will check into the Holiday Inn Old Sydney. The morning will be free time to shop at the Rock Markets before our Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb. The climb takes about three and a half hours and is suitable for most fitness levels. After our climb, we will clean up to head for dinner aboard Captain Cook Cruises for their food and dancing trip. After a three hour sail around the harbor, we will return with some time to explore the famous old pubs on our short walk back to the hotel.

Day 10-There will be many sad faces as our adventure will come to an end, and it will be time to catch our flight back to the U.S. I will look forward to making another trip to my happy place but until next time, Australia. Xoxoxo.

**Any activities that I participate in on my travels can be worked into your own itinerary. Call for a complimentary planning session to begin customizing your own #amazingaussieadventure.**

 


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslFollow my #amazingaussieadventure
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Little Penguins of Phillip Island

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I was first introduced to the Little Penguins at Featherdale Wildlife Park in August 2011 during my first trip to Australia. Featherdale is located just outside of Sydney and makes for a great day trip for visitors wanting to get up close and personal with some of Australia’s most famous wildlife.

As our trip continued along the Southeast coast of Australia to Melbourne, I got the experience of a lifetime at Phillip Island, which is home to The Little Penguins.

Phillip Island has a wealth of activities for visitors to partake in with great landscape and wildlife. Some favorites are visits to the Churchill Island Heritage Farm and the Koala Conservation Centre, but Phillip Island has probably become most well known for the Penguin Parade. The island is one of the Little Penguins’ homes that come in each night to their nests.
The penguins are the smallest of all the penguin species. They have homes along the rocky coastlines of New Zealand, Tasmania, and Australia’s southern coastline like Phillip Island. The penguins are under increased threat from non-native carnivores, and areas such as Phillip Island have become national parks that work to protect and conserve these tiny creatures.

Phillip Island has set up an amazing opportunity for educating visitors while allowing them an up close and personal glance at these cute creatures. This is an impeccable experience that allows visitors to see the creatures make their nightly trek up into the rocky shore banks to return to their nests. Hundreds or more birds each night come ashore and make their waddle to the nests. Visitors can choose from several watch options for viewing from the main area at Summerland Beach to personal guided eco-tours. My personal view back in 2011 was from the Penguin Plus Viewing Platform. I highly recommend spending the extra few dollars for a closer viewing station for a more intimate experience and a front-row seat.
Listening to the bird’s chatter and call out to one another as we watched them make their nightly journey was truly amazing. It didn’t even matter that we were getting wet in a light rain that had begun to fall. I was literally close enough to reach out and touch them but sadly was not allowed. Photography is not allowed either. However, the shop at the end of the tour has professional photographs available for sale in various formats. I took home several of the postcard photos, one of which you see here. Animal lover, bird lover, wildlife enthusiast, or not, you will love and be amazed by these little birds and their nightly trek home. Photo courtesy of www.visitphillipisland.com

 


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslLittle Penguins of Phillip Island
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