Once borders reopen ✈️
Pack your bags, cancel the family reunion and bail on upcoming work commitments – international travel is back, ladies and gentlemen. Here are the top 5 travel hotspots for Aussies to visit once the borders are flung open.
1. Japan
Japan is one of our most beloved travel destinations. There are cultural marvels and heritage sites plus world class shopping in Tokyo. The following two spots in Japan are at the top of our bucket list.
The preserved samurai district, Akita prefecture
This former castle town in the Akita prefecture might not have a castle anymore. What it does have though is the most well-preserved samurai district in all of japan. You can rent a kimono, get in touch with your inner (peaceful) warrior and admire the cherry blossom trees during spring.
Shirakawa village, Gifu prefecture
Located at the foot of Mount Haku, this secluded village is full of traditional cottages with sharply pointed thatch roofs. The Gifu prefecture receives a lot of snow in winter, which makes these cottages quite the sight come the cooler months.
2. Canada
Canada, oh, Canada. With your mountain ranges, unspoiled forests and premium ski slopes, you really do capture the attention of all blue-blooded Australians. There’s so much to see in this North American country, but here are a couple of our favourite picks.
Big Muddy Valley, Saskatchewan
The Big Muddy Valley exudes a distinctly mysterious atmosphere. Rumour has it that bandits and stagecoach robbers used the many ravines and caves as hideouts in the 19th century. Come for the captivating history, stay for the sea of cacti, plunging cliffs and stone effigies.
Mount Thor, Nunavut
If you thought Mount Everest was intimidating, well, you were right. But Mount Thor will also get the blood running if you know what we mean. Home to the world’s longest vertical drop (over 1,250 m of straight-down-the-line steepness), its sharp granite peak is set against an impressive backdrop of glaciers and smaller, less terrifying mountain peaks.
3. United Kingdom
Comprising of Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and Britain, the United Kingdom is chock full of charm, history and comedians with a delightfully dry sense of humour. In addition to witty comics, there are also rolling hills, pristine beaches and mountainous wonders that will make you shake your head in amazement. Below are a couple of spots that we here at Uptown Pokies would love to visit.
Quiraing, Scotland
Scotland packs a big punch when it comes to scenery, but Quiraing may just take the cake. You might recognise this dramatic valley and its cliffs from movies such as Snow White and the Huntsman, The BFG and King Arthur: Legend of the Sword, among others. It really is a sight to see and it should definitely go on your bucket list once borders reopen.
Barafundle Bay, Wales
Here’s something you won’t hear every day – the blue waters of Barafundle Bay are often compared to the Caribbean Sea. Isolated with golden sand and a beautifully bucolic setting, this bay has even been recognised as one of the world’s top twelve beaches. Sorry, no whales. Just Wales.
4. New Zealand
While our eyes may be trained on further away destinations, New Zealand is also worth your consideration. Geographically diverse with everything from remote beaches to rocky alpine peaks, the Land of the Long White Cloud will impress from the moment you step off the plane due to spots such as the following.
Cape Reinga, North Island
Based at the northernmost end of the North Island, Cape Reinga is apparently the place where spirits depart earth and return to their ancestral homeland, according to Māori legend. But there’s also a pretty neat lighthouse with breathtaking views over the surrounding coastline.
Wanaka, South Island
Only one hour’s drive from Queenstown, Wanaka is known for two things: romantic weekend getaways and extreme skiing. It boasts a certain small-town quaintness and is home to a few of the most well-known snow sport resorts in all the South Island.
5. Fiji
Fiji has dreamy getaways and luxury resorts, but there’s so much more to the Fiji islands than just postcard perfect beaches. Get away from the more expensive haunts and explore all the cultural, historical and natural miracles this island nation has to offer.
Cannibal Caves, Viti Levu
Sure, you can wallow in the sun on a palm tree lined stretch of sand, but wouldn’t you prefer to check out the famous Cannibal Caves? Located on Fiji’s fifth largest island, this cave was once a fortress for cannibals. Now all that’s left are a cannibal oven and a ritual platform… plus some very eerie vibes.
Shark Diving, Beqa Lagoon
Get the adrenaline pumping by going shark diving at Beqa Lagoon in Pacific Harbour. You can come face to face with these misunderstood animals and enjoy the stunning underwater scenery. There’s no cage, no glass to provide separation. It’s just you, the deep blue and dozens of smiling (and hungry) sharks.
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