Let’s talk travel for 2022! With a rocky beginning to the year with State and International borders slowly opening; we have decided to focus our top 5 on amazing destinations in our own Aussie backyard! This year we will do plenty of domestic travel and include international adventures where possible and safe to do so.
We are re-learning how to travel again after the hiatus of the last few years and it is an interesting landscape to navigate. Booking in advance or at the last-minute pending availability, carefully reading cancellation policies, choosing close to home destinations and electing to drive rather than fly; are all changes in the way we plan and take our trips. Check out our article about travelling during COVID times for tips.
Whilst most Australians will stay close to home this year, there is no shortage of sensational destinations to consider. We have provided some of our current favourites for you to visit in 2022. All the destinations included are ones that we have been lucky enough to visit in the past year in between lockdowns and as restrictions eased. We have curated a mix of adventure and luxury, family friendly and budget trips. Happy travel planning for 2022!
1. Uluru and Kata Tjuta National Park, Northern Territory
The first glimpse of Uluru is breathtaking, one of Australia’s most iconic natural attractions rising from the earth in all its rust-coloured glory. Situated in the south west corner of the Northern Territory, a visit to Uluru is a unique and spectacular experience. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of the local Anangu people and gain an understanding of the importance of seasons and elements of nature. The convenience of staying of the doorstep of the world’s most famous monolith with activities and amenities at your finger-tips adds to the ultimate red centre adventure. A perfect destination for a mini break or a longer exploration, a visit to Uluru has much to offer. Flights are available from most capital cities or for those with a little more time you can take an epic road trip and drive. Accommodation options vary from camping and self-contained apartments through to a 5 star resort. Don’t miss the Field of Lights Star Pass which allows you watch the sun fade and silhouette ‘the rock’ as 50,000 solar lights come to life making a patchwork of colour across the desert floor – oh and did we mention canapes and sparkling wine is included in the ticket price!
2. Mount Gambier and surrounds, South Australia
Just 11km over the South Australian state border lies the city of Mount Gambier. The state’s second-largest city is famous for its spectacular deep Blue Lake set in the crater of an extinct volcano. On sunny days the sapphire blue water glistens and the view is breathtaking from the various lookouts dotted around the periphery of the crater lip.
The region has a spectacular landscape with numerous extinct volcanoes and sinkholes formed in the subterranean limestone rock layer. Many natural attractions invite visitors to explore lookouts and walking trails. Whilst a city by name, Mount Gambier has a country town feel with friendly locals and wide streets lined with imposing historic facades. A new age of foodies is creeping in as young business owners inject a big city vibe into the historic town.
A visit to Mount Gambier beautifully blends nature, arts and culture and is a fantastic destination for an interstate holiday. Chose from a fly/drive trip taking advantage of the recently updated regional airport or take a road trip and make some stops along the way. Accommodation options vary from caravan parks to country motels and some wonderful AirBnb‘s.
3. The Kimberly, Western Australia
Whilst the Western Australian borders are currently closed to travellers, surely it won’t last forever? We couldn’t leave the spectacular Kimberly area off this list. The region is situated in the north east of the state, not too far from the Northern Territory border and is known for its remote yet stunning landscape. Some of the highlights include the Purnululu (Bungle Bungle) National Park, El Questro, Lake Argyle and Kununurra. Activities include hiking, scenic flights, swimming in hot springs and waterfalls, fishing and cruising on the lakes and rivers. Of course it goes without saying that it is crocodile country, so it is important to be aware of where it is safe to swim. To get there access flights into Kununurra or fly into Broome or Darwin and drive to the area. Many secondary roads are suitable for 4WD only and are quite rough and corrugated so be prepared. Accommodation ranges from high end remote resorts, luxury camping, moderate motels and well equipped caravan parks.
4. Hobart and surrounds, Tasmania
Breathtaking scenery, historic buildings, world-class arts and culture, and a renowned foodie scene elevate Hobart as a city that rivals all of mainland Australia’s capitals. It is an easy flight from most capital cities and a great destination for a weekend escape. Make Hobart your base and explore the many galleries and museums by day and discover bars and restaurants by night. A visit to MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) is not to be missed and you can enjoy the full package taking the ferry from the city to the gallery site enjoy food, drinks and entertainment on site. Day trips to locations such as Port Arthur Historic Site or Bruny Island are available through various tour operators or you wish you can take the self-drive option. For a longer stay, hire a car or take your own on the Spirit if Tasmania ferry service and explore further a field – Freycinet National Park, the Bay of Fires and villages such as beachside Bicheno and historic Ross.
5. Melbourne
Come and visit our home city and Victoria’s art and culture, fashion and sporting capital. Plan your stay around some of the major events the city plays host to or simply pick a weekend in the calendar and there is sure to be plenty to keep you busy. From the laneways, boutiques and restaurants of the CBD to the quirky suburbs and majestic Yarra River you will need at least a few return trips to see and do it all. The theatre scene is pumping and in 2022 there are some award-winning shows to enjoy including Moulin Rouge, Hamilton and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Accommodation includes the major chain hotels in the CBD and as you venture a little into the suburbs you will find smaller motels and AirBnb options. There are even a few caravan parks within the city limits.
There is sure to be a destination to suit your style of travel in this or the past years recommendations 2018 and 2019, 2020 (let’s not not talk about 2021).
We would love to hear where you are planning on going in 2022 and beyond. Please share in the comments below or tag our social media @possandruby
