As a huge fan of Australia, I was super excited when Steven asked me to help plan a trip to the latest destination to tick off his bucket list.
With 15 nights to spend in Australia and two “must sees” in the Sydney Opera House and the Great Barrier Reef, he was happy for me to make recommendations…
Amanda created a fantastic Aussie adventure, allowing plenty of time to explore plus several fun excursions, to really experience Sydney, Cairns and Melbourne.
A big shout-out to Singapore Airlines. I had decided to upgrade my flights to Premium Economy and was rewarded with exquisite service along with extra space and a comfortable seat.
The flight connections via Singapore itself were stress-free and easy to navigate.
I spent six action-packed days and nights in Sydney, staying at the Holiday Inn Darling Harbour right next to Chinatown and a short walk to the main attractions at Circular Quay.
Amanda had pre-booked a Harbour Bridge Climb at twilight, a panoramic city tour including a stop at Bondi Beach, a nighttime dinner cruise around the harbour, a seaplane scenic flight and a trip to the Blue Mountains. I also managed to visit Taronga Zoo, take in a rock concert at the Opera House, take two helicopter flights and enjoy the stunning city views at night from the Sydney Tower Eye.
I headed up the coast to Cairns next, with five nights at the fantastic Mantra Trilogy Hotel in the heart of the city centre next to the shops, bars, restaurants and the busy promenade.
Amanda had again pre-arranged several excursions, including seeing the Great Barrier Reef, Barron Falls, Daintree Rainforest and Cairns City Centre from the air.
I saw sea turtles, sharks, thousands of colourful fish and coral from a semi-submersible; travelled the spectacular Kuranda Scenic Railway in Gold Class; took an Aboriginal art class, and pushed my comfort boundaries with an incredible adrenaline-rushing freefall 15,000ft skydive.
My epic adventure concluded in Melbourne, the cosmopolitan, hipster, coffee capital of the country, where I resided at the Hotel Grand Chancellor, another great location with restaurants close by and a lovely half-hour's walk from Federation Square.
Once more, I crammed in as much as possible, taking to the air in a balloon at sunrise, witnessing the penguin parade at Philip Island and touring the Great Ocean Road with picturesque stop-offs at several bays, coves and the spectacular 12 Apostles, which I also had the privilege to see from the air.
I cruised along the Yarra River after dark to take in the sights and sounds of the city at night, and saw the world-famous Rod Laver Arena that hosts the Australian Tennis Open and the spectacular Melbourne Cricket Ground, Australia’s largest stadium, able to host 100,000 spectators.
Amanda organised seamless transfers to and from all airports and each of the excellent hotels, along with the exceptional tours which enhanced the trip to epic proportions.
I loved everything about Australia, from the people’s warmth, friendliness and accents, and the massive food portions and first-class hospitality to the stunning sunrises and sunsets. This trip was undoubtedly one of the best decisions I have ever made.
There were so many highlights, some of which I have tried to convey but I could easily spend considerably more time listing everything that I did. I haven’t even mentioned seeing koalas and kangaroos in their natural habitat, Mr Wong – the best Chinese restaurant in Sydney, and the breathtaking Loch Ard Gorge and the Baron Steps - another incredible sight from both the air and ground.
I am still reflecting on this awesome adventure weeks later and can’t wait to return to this magical country to explore its West, the Northern Territories and Alice Springs.
Amanda once again was simply sensational. Her support, organisation, reassurance and care to ensure everything ran smoothly surpassed even her own previous highs. I cannot recommend her service highly enough.
Thank you, Amanda - this was unforgettable.
Steven
