When visitors come to Australia, there’s a certain itinerary they stick to: Sydney, Melbourne, Great Barrier Reef. And these places are great, but for those looking to do the unusual in Australia, there’s a whole list worth investigating. Whether you’re visiting Australia for your first time or live there currently and want something unusual to do for your next holiday, these five items will definitely blow you away. From Kangaroo Island in South Australia to Hyams Beach in New South Wales to the world-famous MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) in Tasmania, this list is sure to spike your curiosity.
1. Have a wildlife adventure on Kangaroo Island, South Australia
If your holiday checklist demands wildlife, mesmerising beaches, adventurous activities and 5-star food, look no further than Kangaroo Island. It also offers spas and retreats to relax in. The major cities of Sydney and Melbourne are great for these as well but there’s a certain charm to Kangaroo Island - not to mention its abundant wildlife - that will entice you to spend a week here. Flinders Chase National Park, along with Seal Bay Conservation Park, are the best picks for your wildlife fix. Since a lot of young travellers make up the staff at these hotels and resorts, especially at the Health Retreat and Southern Ocean Lodge, you’re guaranteed interesting stories and a unique experience here. Known for its pristine wilderness, its abundant wildlife and a great place to escape, you won’t be disappointed.
2. Relax on the majestic beaches of Merimbula, New South Wales
The jewel of the Sapphire Coast, once you arrive, Merimbula will be one of your favourite places in the world. With its great climate, pristine beaches and abundant natural beauty, it’s the perfect place for people who like to get lost in nature. A holiday in Merimbula will be like no other: hiking, canoeing, camping, all the outdoor activities one can imagine. And if any in your entourage tires of the natural world, Magic Mountain, one of the best amusement parks in the South Pacific, is located here as well.
3. Get your head warped in MONA, Tasmania
Known worldwide because of its eccentric and iconic owner, David Walsh, the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) has come to represent the very oddness of the art world. No trip to Tasmania can be complete without a day spent in MONA, located in the capital of Hobart. Attracting thousands of visitors a day, MONA has become a cultural icon in today’s world. Though the entry fee is steep at 25 AUD (18 USD) for an adult ticket, the price is well worth it as the museum will take up your entire day. Open from 10.30am to 5.30pm, it may not be enough time to see all the works on display. An eclectic array of exhibitions make up the museum’s revolving roster: from light shows that perplex audiences with its confusing yet mesmerising displays to performance art pieces by the likes of Marina Abramovic. Visiting MONA is a treat because you’ll never know what you’re getting yourself into, especially with the photography and paintings on display. After visiting any of the numerous exhibitions, you can also dine at the famous restaurant inside.
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4. Indulge in the unknown of Esperance, Western Australia
If you’re looking for isolation from the world coupled with gorgeous, pristine beaches, look no further than Esperance. Though it is a tad difficult to get to, this town, whose population stands at less than ten thousand, will warm your heart. If you want to view sharks at a safe distance, one can sit on the beach and see fins that pop in and out of the water occasionally. Esperance is the type of town where you’ll have a lengthy conversation with everyone you meet. Its isolation from the rest of Australia does make it expensive and difficult to get to, but its beauty is unmatched. Esperance also lies on the Great Ocean Road past Adelaide, and is the best place for a stopover if you’re doing the famous drive.
5. Soak in the rarity of Hyams Beach, New South Wales
Hyams Beach is renowned as having the whitest sand in the world. Located about two hours from Sydney, this beach is situated in Jervis Bay and offers beautiful beaches, sea kayaking, snorkelling and rock pools to explore. You can even see whales and dolphins at certain times of the year. It’s one of the most ethereal spots in the world due to its solitude and serenity. Don’t be surprised, as with most places in Australia, you will come across several kangaroos and koalas in the surrounding areas.
Australia’s uniqueness lies in its unknown qualities
Though Australia is usually at the frontier of culture, and its two major cities reflect the claim, it’s in the strange and unknown that Australia’s true nature comes out. Whether you’re exploring these locations all at once on a majestic road trip, or selecting only one of them as an antithesis to your city-trip, they’re all unique in their own special, majestic, spectacular way.
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