At Leading Out, we’re dedicated to making living abroad as easy as possible for you. We can help you get your visas, find home sweet home, and (of course) dream job placement. We can link you up with locals, and we’re always available for questions!
Still, in this digital era, we’re not the only hands that are ready to help. There are some great apps out there that can help smooth the way to success in your new life. Whether it’s keeping in touch with loved ones back home, learning a new language or scoring a couch, the apps of today are ready to help you do it all—for free.
Here are four of our favourite free apps to keep living abroad fun and breezy!
To pick up the language… Duolingo
Australia is primarily and English-speaking country, but it’s also conveniently close to places that are not, like China or Thailand. If you’re thinking another country where you’re not fluent in the language on your next holiday, Duolingo is the app for you! It’s designed to teach you language basics that will help get you by in only minutes per day.
You can do a few lessons relatively quickly in local transit, and build up your skills on your way to or from work. That’s right, learn Mandarin waiting for the tram. Game-ify your learning, pick up a new language, and feel like less of a tourist on your next vacay. Plus, who doesn’t want to put an extra language on their resume?!
To stay in touch… WhatsApp
We know it’s exciting to move away… BUT it’s also important to keep in touch with your people back home! (Also, to tell them how exciting everything is. This is 100% key in convincing them they need to pay you a visit!)
WhatsApp is the perfect app for this purpose. It uses WiFi to send messages across the world and back again, and can even do voice or video calls. For. FREE. (We don’t even use texting anymore, TBH.)
To book a vacay… Skyscanner
So you’ve nestled nicely in Oz and you’re wondering what you should do over summer holidays or winter break! Maybe you want to but your new language skills to the test by adventuring out to a new country. One of the best ways to search for inexpensive flights is with the Skyscanner app.
It will help you find the trip your looking for at a price you don’t totally hate. Woo! Time to get your travel on!
To find a new coffee table for cheap… Gumtree
Sure, your accommodations are sorted, but maybe you want to make it feel like home without spending big bucks. You need a new coffee table, or maybe you want to search for a used bicycle to get around.
Gumtree is basically Craigslist—so you can buy/sell just like you would elsewhere. Having it on your phone means having maps and convenient access as to whether or not you snagged that cool lamp for your living space instantly.
What are YOUR favourite free apps for living/working/travelling abroad? Shout them out in the comments section below!
Whether you’ve moved to Australia or you’re about to head Down Under, the question has probably come up from concerned loved ones: aren’t you scared of THE #&#*in’ SPIDERS?
After all, Australia has an established reputation as the world’s foremost hub of creepy crawlies. But is all of the hype real?
We here at Leading Out want to put your mind at ease.
You Almost Never See Any, Ever
We’ve traveled all over Australia. We’ve stayed in apartment buildings in cities and camper vans in the Outback, we’ve gone on bush walks and nature hikes around the country, and across its gorgeous, scenic beaches. We’ve camped and swam and spent time indoors and outdoors.
We saw one spider. Ever. And it was when we were camping out in the middle of a jungle.
If you’re a Canadian, you might thing of the spider situation in Oz the way we think of bears here at home. Do we have them? Of course! Have they killed people? Sure they can, but when’s the last time you heard of a bear attack? Are you going to avoid cottage country up North forever because of bears? Heck no!
(True story: some Aussies think Canada is riddled with bears. We’ve met them.)
Don’t Believe ALL of the Bite Hype Either
Turns out a lot of the fear of dying from a spider bite is bombastic. According to Australian Geographic, more people die from allergic reactions to bee stings or car accidents.
Although someone did pass away from a bite in 2016, before that, the last recorded death was 1981, a difference for almost 40 years.
In addition, there’s anti-venom available for all harmful bites. (Which again, almost never happen.) Whew!
Spider Fighting 101
Maybe this is a BIT extreme…
So let’s say you want to be hyper-vigilant about not finding any “bears” in your shoes. Here’s a few steps for the well-prepared.
You can shake out your shoes before you put ’em on, don’t leave clothes or towels on the floor, and wear shoes outside and at night.
If you do see a spider, DO NOT PANIC! (We know. Tough.) Trap them in a glass jar (or kill them, we won’t judge). If you can’t tell whether you’re dealing with a dangerous one or not, don’t approach, call pest control.
If you find one in your car, again, again, don’t panic. Slow down, roll down your window, and pull over. (The wind will keep it away.) Then you can set about getting it out.
So there you have it, some of Australia’s most wanted debunked. While there is need for caution, you’re more likely to get a serious case of the heebie-jeebies than anything else.
After all, trying to pack a preventative flame-thrower in your carry-on just probably isn’t THAT great of an idea. If you need a palate cleanser, you can always spend 20 seconds with the world’s cutest spider, Lucas.
Choosing the next TV show to binge can feel like a big responsibility. You need to pick wisely—after all, you’ll be there for awhile. (Does anyone know how to turn off that judge-y “hey are you still watching?” reminder? We are NOT asking for a friend.) Whether you’re tired of braving Australian summer (and sick of camping with its bread baking opportunities), or hibernating to escape Canadian winter, there’s no better way to do it than camp out on the sofa and surf Netflix. To help, we rounded up a few unique Australian TV shows for your next staycation.
1. Please Like Me
This show is a must if you’re a fan of 20-something hipster drama, chickens named Adele, and the word “offbeat.” It centers around its main character Josh: his mom’s suicidal, his best friend/roommate Tom is a dink of epic proportions, and oh yes, he’s figuring out his sexuality.
We know this sounds like a trap—a funny show about how hard real life is? It’s really true though. Please Like Me eloquently grapples with deep friendships, personal identity, family, AND mental health issues. It will make you laugh, cry, and wonder why you don’t throw more theme parties. Plus, every episode has an original opening sequence. Love it or hate it, you won’t be able to deny that its theme song is catchy.
2. Wentworth
You might know Wentworth by another name—your coworker/bff/sister called it “Orange Is The New Black but Australian and Better.” (We’re not throwing shade, this show has a wicked 8.7 rating on IMDB.) Wentworth focuses on the lives of prisoners in a women’s penitentiary. Unlike OITNB, it doesn’t make use of comedy to pull punches, hooking you in with grit and high-stakes drama. With six seasons in the bag and more to come, it’s enough edge-of-your-seat Australian TV to keep you indoors until spring.
3. Rake
Rake is what happens if a legal drama is put in a blender with dark humour, and sprinkled with some twists. Cleaver Greene is a lush, a womanizer, a divorcee, AND a brilliant criminal defense lawyer. (Boom, we know.) The show follows him as he tackles strange cases, upholding Australian law while skirting Australian justice.
If you’re not sure what we mean, just check out episode one. Cleaver defends a cannibal for a murder, grapples with the disappearance of his mistress and hits up his local café in a bathrobe. P.S. Don’t confuse this with the 2014 American remake starring Greg Kinnear.
Have you checked out any of these shows? What did you think of them? Let us know in the comments!
Winter might be full force up here in Canada, but Down Under, summer is in full swing! All over Australia, people are making the most of the warm weather, spending days on the beach, roadtripping to new destinations, and camping. If that’s you, and you’re heading into the great outdoors to get your camp on, we’ve got a (literal) slice of Australia to enjoy. It’s called damper—and it’ll go great with your next fireside meal.
What’s In a Name?
Sometimes known as bush bread, damper is an unleavened (that means yeast-free!) bread that was noshed by Australian bushmen and explorers of yesteryear as they rambled through the Outback. Some say it got its name because it would “dampen” the appetite. Others claim the origins come from the way the way a Sydney baker “damped” his fire with ashes to preserve the coals for morning baking. Wherever the name came from, the recipe has lasted the test of time—it’s considered an Australian staple.
No Pan, No Problem
Think of this simple bread as the convenience food of the 1800s (way before 7-11 opened up). All it required was “good” flour, salt, and water or milk. It could be prepared anywhere easily, since the first two ingredients were easy to carry, and cooked quickly due to its thin disk shape.
After the dough was shaped, sometimes in a pan or on a sheepskin, it was buried and baked in the red hot coals of a fire. (Some say the explorers learned this baking technique from Australia’s Aboriginal population!) Then it was dug up, cut up, and served with dried or cooked meat, or sometimes golden syrup for a treat.
Bake It ‘Til You Make It
Sure, this all sounds appealing for someone who lived in the PAST, but didn’t they eat this stuff before the invention of flavour? And easiness? Fear not, modern camper/baker. You can impress your friends and campsite guests with a tasty modern version of this classic. Follow our instructions and you’ll be noshing delicious, fresh baked bread around the campfire in no time.
2 1/2 cups flour 5 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. salt 1-2 tbsp. butter 1 cup water (or milk) 2 big sheets aluminium foil
Get your fire going and make sure it’s got plenty of hot coals at the base.
In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt, whisking to combine. Stack the sheets of aluminium foil and lightly dust with flour.
Melt butter over the fire in a pot. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients in the bowl and add water(or milk) and butter.
Mix and knead the ingredients together until the dough is smooth and springy to the touch, approximately 7-9 minutes. (If too sticky, dust with a little more flour.)
Shape the dough into a disk about 1-2 inches thick. Seal inside foil, and place in the hot coals, burying it well.
Bake for 20-25 minutes. Carefully remove the damper from the fire and check on it. It’s ready if it’s golden brown, and sounds hollow when tapped.
If it sounds unbaked, carefully wrap it up again, re-bury in coals, and bake for 5-10 more minutes. (Make sure the middle is cooked by breaking off a or using a knife to check the middle!)
Remove from fire and let cool for a few minutes. (Outback knowledge suggests storing damper on its side to keep it fresh and crispy!) Cut up and serve with butter, vegemite, or whatever toppings you heart desires!
In the fall of 2017, the board of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park voted unanimously to ban the climbing of Uluru—it’s about time.
For the uninitiated, Uluru is a large sandstone rock formation in Australia’s Northern Territory. Standing next to it feels like you’re in the colossal outfield of some cosmic ball game. With nothing but rusted sand and brush around it for miles, it juts out of the earth, a huge, forgotten plaything of giants. It’s monolithic. Its presence is a near-anomaly.
The ban, which is set to be imposed in October 2019, might disappoint tourists, but it shouldn’t. Frankly, it’s high time that climbing this UNESCO world heritage site was banned—here’s why, and what to do instead!
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Uluru, which is also known as Ayers Rock, is sacred Aboriginal ground. You probably wouldn’t sing at the top your lungs in Notre Dame Cathedral—this is pretty much that with more selfies. The local Anangu people believe that Uluru was left behind by the ancestral beings who created the land itself. They believe that the spirits of these beings still live there, and it’s the Anangu’s sacred duty to look after the site.
Imagine trying to do your job with a bunch of backpackers walking all over your metaphorical desk. Now, imagine that desk is a church, mosque, or temple. (Or 10,000 signed Beyonce posters—whatever metaphor drives it home.) Part of the privilege of travel is to witness new cultures in their pure form, and climbing Ayers Rock is literally stomping all over Aboriginal spirituality. Boo, no. Ban: 1, Climb: 0.
It’s Freakin’ Dangerous
As if respecting the locals isn’t enough motivation, climbing Uluru is also dangerous. There are warnings everywhere around the site, declaring that the ascent is perilous. Ayers Rock is 340 metres high. If you factor in Australia’s blistering heat or high winds, you’re looking at a possibly deadly climb.
Just back in 2010, a 54-year-old man died, collapsing near the base of the rock. Beyond that, 35 other people have perished in the attempt since 1958. There are very literally other hills to climb—it’s about time people forcibly sat this one out.
According to locals, disturbing the site is also bad for your karma. Tourists who have taken rocks from the site are said to be cursed with misfortune. Park rangers get packages sending back stolen “sorry rocks” or twigs nearly every day. So, do you feel lucky?
No Climbing, No Problem
Some think the ban will affect tourism, BUT there’s still plenty of things to see and do in the area that make for an amazing visit!
You can hike all the way around it, taking in the magnificence of the landscape from the safety of the ground. There’s also an on-site museum, which shares the legends and the history of this natural wonder. (Keep an eye out for beautiful Aboriginal art in the gift shop!) Another great hike is the nearby Valley of the Winds—something we already wrote about in our Australian travel guide. It’s about TIME the Olgas got their time to shine!
Shutting down the climbing of Uluru is a local victory and a sign of more understanding times. It ensures that the integrity of this sacred site will be preserved for the Aboriginal locals and future visitors alike.
The best view isn’t from the top of anyway—it’s the breathtaking sight of the sun rising or setting over this ethereal, natural wonder.
Welcome back to the final instalment of Leading Out’s comprehensive travel guide to lesser-known places in Aussieland, “23 Amazing Places to Visit in Australia”!
If you’ve missed Part One, Part Two, or Part Three (where have you BEEN, mate?), click back, and fill your tabs with amazing places to see and things to do Down Under—all tested by Leading Out and our friends in Aus! Go ahead, we’ll wait.
If you’re already up-to-date and looking for MORE information to buff up your travel itinerary, read ahead. You won’t be disappointed. (Seriously. This time, we’ve got dingoes.)
18. Take a Trip Back in Time to Magnetic Island
It’s nice to take a step back from the world’s hectic pace—and there’s no better place to do it than Magnetic Island, where “laid back” is a lifestyle. Just off the shores of Townsville, it boasts a simpler way of life, where shops close at sunset and old cars roll through the streets.
There’s something for everyone here: from affordable scuba lessons and the chance to hand-feed wild lorikeets and rock wallabies, to local markets and beautiful beaches. It’s safe to say you’ll want to spend at least a few days here unwinding from the world. However, if you’re seeking some excitement, you can catch one of the notorious Cane Toad races every Wednesday night at Hotel Arcadia.
When To Go
May – November; dry season
Location
Magnetic Island, Townsville, Queensland
19. Hand-Feed Wild Dolphins in Monkey Mia
Are you fascinated by dolphins, but don’t like the idea of interacting with them in a fish tank? Monkey Mia, located in the UNESCO World Heritage Area of Shark Bay, is the place to be. Every morning, like clockwork, wild bottlenose dolphins visit the shores to say hello and take a fresh mackerel right from your hands!
Since the 1960’s, people and dolphins have been interacting here, one of the Earth’s most pristine and diverse marine environments. Picture endless stretches of golden sand, calm aqua waters, and wading pelicans, and you might be giving Monkey Mia’s beauty a tenth of its deserved justice.
This unique encounter is one of the planet’s great wildlife experiences and is a must. What’s more, some of the world’s best scientists are working their tails off here, day-in and day-out, studying these intelligent mammals and are eager to give you the lowdown on their latest discoveries. P.S. They’re always looking for volunteers!
When To Go
June – October; winds are light and temperatures are in the mid 20’s
Location
Monkey Mia, Shark Bay Marine Park, 330 kilometers north of Carnarvon
20. Dodge Disaster at Cape Tribulation – Daintree Rainforest
On June 7, 1770, Captain James Cook crash landed into the Great Barrier Reef just off the shores of Cape Tribulation—hence the name. We hope you won’t share the same difficulties, but instead get the chance to cherish everything the remote paradise has to offer!
This two-and-a-half hour trip from Cairns is breathtaking; you’ll pass endless beaches and the Daintree Rainforest. While discovering its ecology and wonder, why not stop in for a visit at the Daintree tea fields or play I-Spy for a roadside crocodile? The fun doesn’t stop there as you swim the Mossman Gorge, pick wild mangoes, hike Mount Sorrow, or take a train to Kuranda Rainforest Market.
A word of caution: be careful here, as you’ll be in cassowary country—one of our planet’s most elusive, dangerous, prehistoric birds!
When To Go
August – November; avoid box jellyfish season
Location
Cape Tribulation, North Queensland
21. Soak in an Ocean Bath – Newcastle and Sydney
Ocean Baths are a local secret that many people keep quiet—mostly because they don’t want them packed with tourists! These hybrid pools have been carved into rocky shorelines and are supplied by ocean waves that flow and filter the water constantly. Almost always free of charge, it’s a unique way of mixing up your beach routine.
Our top recommendations both have a rich history: Bogey Hole Ocean Bath at Coogee Beach was cut into the rocky outcrops by convict labour, and offers a more rustic look. The Newcastle Baths were originally opened in 1922, and offer a spectacular view of the nearby shoreline and courageous surfers. Salt, soak, sunshine—what more could you ask for?
When To Go
November – March; warmer months
Location
Coogee Beach, Sydney, New South Wales
Shortland Park, Newcastle, New South Wales
22. Rescue Turtles in Mon Repos Conservation Park
Speed won’t be necessary here, so take off your shoes and put on your thongs (Aussie slang for sandals)! Every evening between November and March, these slow-moving Goliaths wash up on the shores of Mon Repos, just 15km east of Bundaberg, to lay hundreds of eggs while you get the privilege of watching.
Unfortunately, many of them bury their eggs below the tide line—this is where you come in handy! With the help of an expert conservationist, you can measure the turtle, dig up the eggs, and rebury them in a safer location. In a single evening, you can expect to see endangered Loggerhead, Flatback, Green, and Leatherback turtles.
For $10, we don’t believe there’s a better deal in the country, and no better way to go to sleep with a feeling of accomplishment.
When To Go
Mid November – February; nesting turtles
January – March; hatching turtles
Location
Mon Repos Conservation Park, Bundaberg, Central Coast, Queensland
21. Dodge Dingoes as you 4×4 on the World’s Largest Sand Island
We admit it: this is not the best-kept secret on this list—Fraser Island draws in tourists from around the globe—but believe us, it’s for a good reason! To get there, leave from either Hervey Bay or Rainbow Beach—we recommend the latter. Hervey Bay has a larger city, but Rainbow Beach revolves around Fraser Island tours and you can be sure you’re receiving the best services.
A must-do on Fraser is the tag-along 4WD tour. Not only is the 123-kilometre beach the top place to run into dingoes, it’s also a once in a lifetime journey—with you at the wheel! Stunning beauty is around every corner as you cruise the beach, cross rivers, and bounce around rainforest tracks in your Toyota Land Cruiser.
The island boasts over 100 freshwater lakes, ancient rainforests, massive sand dunes, and colourful cliffs. Out of the 4×4, relax in the champagne pools, slide down Eli Creek, explore the Maheno shipwreck, hike up Indian Head, wade in Lake Wabby, and swim in Lake Mackenzie. You won’t want to leave this rugged haven!
P.S. Before you depart Rainbow Beach, sand board the Carlo Sand Blow.
When To Go
November – March
Location
Fraser Island, Rainbow Beach, Southern Queensland
That concludes our incredible journey through the unique sights and sounds that only the great nation of Australia has to offer. Have you been to any of our top 23 sites? Have you got one of your own to add to the list? Let us known in the comments! Until then, travel safe and travel happy!
Welcome to week three of our four-part blog series, “23 Amazing Places to Visit in Australia”. We’re here to give you insider info on the best little-known places to go, sights to see, and things to do while you’re adventuring down under!
In part one we filled you in on how to get up close and personal with some of Australia’s iconic wildlife, from kangas and koalas to whalesharks; last week in part two we drank at some historical Outback pubs, caught crabs (for lunch!), and revealed the gorgeous natural wonder of a national park that’s one of the nation’s best-kept secrets.
All of the gems on this list are things the Leading Out team and our country-wide network of friends have seen or done personally. So toss that boring old guidebook and get on board!
12. Tangle with Crocodiles
While you (hopefully) won’t witness Australia’s most dangerous reptile up close, you shouldn’t miss the chance to see it in its natural environment. The Adelaide River is about 100km from Darwin, and is home to an incredibly high concentration of Saltwater Crocodiles (who just happen to be humongous)!
As a local guide dangles remnants of chicken over the side of a shifty boat, 4-meter beasts will cruise towards you, and then leap out of the water to feed. Just keep your arms in the boat to avoid being next on the menu!
P.S. Pay a visit to Litchfield National Park while you’re in the area and check out Wangi Falls, Florence Falls, and Buley Rockhole.
When To Go
April – November; avoid the wet season
Location
Adelaide River, Darwin, Northern Territory
13. Become a Castaway in the Whitsundays
Exploration by water is one of humankind’s earliest advances—why not relive that heritage in the East Coast paradise of the Whitsunday Islands? We recommend partying in one of Airlie Beach’s epic clubs the night before you leave.
Any hangover you’ve got the next morning will quickly diminish upon cruising to Australia’s top rated beach—Whitehaven. It’s not known as heaven on earth for no reason! While you may not find a lost treasure here, you can clean your jewelry with the island’s pure white silica sand. This is the epitome of Australia’s white sandy beaches—enjoy!
If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, extend your sailing excursion to include a sailboat trip including dives on the Great Barrier Reef. Between the months of May and September you can even hear Humpback Whales as they migrate past your snorkel/dive site!
When To Go
May & June
Location
Whitsunday Islands, Central Coast of Queensland
14. Great White Shark Cage Diving in Port Lincoln
The 1975 thriller, Jaws, was filmed along the shores of the Neptune Islands, a couple hours boat ride from Port Lincoln. Do you want to swim here? Heck no! Do you want to visit here? Absolutely! When you are fainthearted or not, the cage dive is a must-do experience. There are several companies that depart Port Lincoln daily at 6:30 am (we couldn’t recommend any company better than Calypso Star Charters) and take you out to the (Great White) shark infested waters.
There, they will not only draw the beasts of the sea in, but drop you down in a cage to witness their feeding frenzy! Shark cage diving is a safe way to observe the ocean’s ultimate apex predator eye to eye. You aren’t required to bring any diving certification (anyone can do it), however we do recommend you bring a pair of spare knickers… just in case.
When To Go
May – October – cold but great sightings
December – February – warmer temperatures, good sightings
Location
Neptune Islands, Port Lincoln, Eyre Peninsula, South Australia
Top Operator
Calypso Star Charters
08 8682 3939
http://www.sharkcagediving.com.au
15. Enjoy Champagne Overlooking an Outback Sunset at Gunlom Falls, Kakadu National Park
We all deserve a bit of luxury sometimes, and your rugged drive into Gunlom Falls followed by a short, steep hike with a freshly iced bottle of champagne is sure to justify a reward. Although the place is really isolated, tours still find their way to this absolute beauty of a spot. Plan to camp here so you can wait out the flocks and enjoy the serenity for yourself.
A 30-minute hike to the peak of the falls reveals a natural plunge pool that allows you to safely lean over the edge of the waterfall. Your view: an orange sun setting over expansive Outback paradise. Your mood: complete peace while you sip your bubbles and bath in the tropical, sun heated, crystal clear waters. Did we mention they filmed Crocodile Dundee here?
When To Go
May – December; access restricted during the wet season. Check water levels in the dry season
Location
Gunlom Falls, South Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory
16. Season Your Sunset BBQ With Organic Salt At Lake Hart
Have you ever wondered where salt comes from? Well it likely wasn’t from Lake Hart, unless of course your salt was purchased in 1931, when the region thrived with the salt production industry. This naturally-salty body of water produces copious amounts of the mineral in a very shallow lake, which can be easily harvested to season your favourite barbequed meal.
Exploring the shallow surface will give you photo ops that make you appear to literally walk on water. Lake Hart has a rather unearthly feel and is definitely worth camping overnight as you travel to the Red Center.
P.S. Keep your eye out for remnants of the old industry (cars, train tracks etc.) frozen in time.
When To Go
May – October; flies are worse in the warmer months
Location
Lake Hart, Lake Eyre Basin, South Australia
17. Spend the Night in an Underground City at Coober Pedy Have you seen Chronicles of Riddick: Pitch Black? Neither had we, but Hollywood thought this place was bizarre enough to shoot a science fiction movie here without having to change much—it’s known for being one of the most eccentric places on our planet. Why, might you ask? Most of the town’s live underground in refurbished mining shafts.
Temperatures often exceed an unruly daytime temperature of 40°C and shivering nighttime temperature of 6°C (Try regulating a thermostat that will adjust to those temperatures!) In your very own underground hotel room, you maintain a constant and enjoyable 23-25°C, without a punishing AC bill.
The city has built a small but unique tourism industry on this odd way of living. What’s more, Coober Pedy is known as the Opal Capital of the World, producing 80% of the world’s opals. Buy an opal, explore the mines, sleep in a dugout, and continue through the Outback.
When to Go
May – October; temperatures are less extreme and flies are worse in the warmer months
Location
Coober Pedy, northern South Australia
That’s it for this week’s instalment. Check this space soon for the FINAL PART in the series, when we’ll offer even more gasoline to power your next adventure!
Welcome to part two of our blog series, “23 Amazing Places to Visit in Australia”!
We’re giving you the insider track on vacation destinations and little-known locales in Oz—all based on our personal experiences and those of our friends across the country! Forget the Sydney Opera House or Great Barrier Reef (both amazing, of course), and get up close and personal with the REAL unseen beauty of Australia. Travel guides can only dream of this kind of insider info! In part one we snorkelled with whale sharks, tanned beachside with some kangaroos, and took a sunrise hike through the Olgas. This week, we’re dropping even MORE knowledge, so make yourself a flat white, sit back, and read on to discover your future favourite travel destination and/or totally life-changing experience. You won’t regret it!
7. Witness Alternative Culture in Nimbin
Sometimes it’s better to just sit back and take it all in, rather than rush from place to place. This laid back philosophy will probably be the feeling you get from the villages of Nimbin, just 70km west of Byron Bay. While the counterculture of these hippie towns is illegal, they thrive and remain undisturbed by the outside world. Nimbin is widely-known as Australia’s “alternative lifestyle capital.”
Although it might seem more like a social experiment, it’s worth a day’s visit! We recommend camping at Granny’s Farm and taking a tour through the local-made museum. There are also a few beautiful hikes in the area, if that tickles your fancy. Whether you want to BE a hippie for the day or just stare at them, Nimbin is a stop you can’t miss.
When To Go
Anytime
Location
Nimbin, Northern Rivers, New South Wales
8. Wet Your Whistle at an Authentic Historic Outback Pub
The desert is dry—why suffer when there are local watering holes just off the main highway? The Larrimah and Daly Waters are two must-stop pubs in the Northern Territory! Larrimah Pub not only cracks a VB or XXXX Gold for you, they also have an array of local wildlife wandering around the property. Hand-feed kangaroos or check out venomous snakes (in tanks) while sipping your favourite brew.
On the other hand, Daly Waters Pub—established in 1930—provides amazing service, excellent food, and really funky décor (we found Canadian Tire money decorating the walls). Despite that small piece of Canada, we guarantee you’ll feel out of place in the best way possible!
When To Go
Anytime
Location
Stuart Highway, Larrimah, Northern Territory
Stuart Highway, Daly Waters, Northern Territory
9. Catch Crabs—for Lunch—at Port Parham
If you’re looking for a quick bite, this is the place to do it—just make sure your lunch doesn’t bite you first! Wade out here at low tide, and wear your shoes or rubber boots, as the Blue Swimmer crabs love nibbling at your toes. Walk out about 200 meters with a rake to search for these tricky little guys. With a little bit of patience, and some friendly local advice, you’ll be able to feed everyone in your entourage in no time!
P.S. Camp for free here!
When To Go Anytime; go at low tide and check for size and limit regulations
Location
Port Parham, South Australia
10. Take a Ride on Australia’s Biggest Pest in Broome
Take in one of the country’s best sunsets while riding high on Australia’s biggest pest: a camel! Surprised? In the early 1800s camels were imported from India, Afghanistan, and Arabia as a means of cheap and hardy transport—aptly nicknamed “ships of the desert.” Now, Australia has the largest population of wild camels on the planet!
With a small amount of predators on the continent, camel populations have continued to explode. One of their friendly uses is to take you along the stunning Cable Beach as you watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean. Romance! Adventure! Humps for DAYS! Can you ask for more than that?
When To Go
April – June
September – November; avoid the wet season and cooler winter temperatures
Location
Broome, Kimberly Region, Western Australia
11. Witness the Most Spectacular National Park in Oz
Just north of the Tropic of Capricorn is Australia’s best-kept secret—Karijini National Park. About 1,055 kilometres from Perth, Karijini is often overlooked.
Its rugged and spectacular scenery offers a variety of recreational experiences, including hiking endless gorges, cooling off in pristine waterholes with cascading waterfalls, exploring 10-foot termite mounds, colourful cliffs, and chasms, and meeting wild horses (aka brumbies). While it’s hard to narrow down, our top spots in Karijini are: Hancock Gorge, Fortescue Falls, Weano Gorge, Hamersley Gorge, Circular Pool, and Fern Pool. It’s one best-kept secret you won’t want to keep to yourself!
When To Go
April – November; avoid the summer heat and cyclone season
Location
Karijini National Park, Pilbara Region, north Western Australia
With that, we’ve reached the end of this week’s instalment. We hope you’ve got some new adventure fuel in the tank, and tons of fresh ideas for your next vacation. Click back here next week for part three in the series, and more great things to do and see down under!
What do you think of when you read the word “Australia”? Boomerangs, vegemite, and kangaroos? Hugh Jackman and Crocodile Dundee? There are plenty of cultural touchstones we associate with the land down under—the sixth largest nation in the world.
Still, Australia has far more to offer than koalas and didgeridoos. One of the best things about living there is chasing the unknown: off-the-beaten-track locales, hotspots that locals love, and secluded spaces that shout “adventure!”
Leading Out has compiled an extensive list of places we’ve personally visited and gathered from our friends scattered across the country. In this four part blog series, we’ll introduce you to 23 of Australia’s best and little-known destinations—places travel guides wish they knew about!
Your next roadtrip is waiting, just scroll down!
1. Snorkel with Whale Sharks on Ningaloo Reef This fringing reef is a stone’s throw away from the shores of Exmouth, Turquoise, and Coral Bay. It’s Australia’s only large coral reef accessible with nothing more than a snorkel and fins.
As you enter the shallow, tranquil waters you are likely to encounter a gentle giant, the world’s largest fish, the WHALE SHARK. The Coral Coast is one of a few places on the planet where whale shark migration patterns are predicted, as they seek mass amounts of plankton. It’s an Australian must!
When To Go
April – July; specifically May and June
Location
North West Australia, about 1,200km north of Perth
Top Operator
Ningaloo Whaleshark-n-Dive
08 9949 1116
www.ningaloowhalesharkndive.com.au/
2. Dive Navy Pier in Exmouth
While you’re in the Coral Coast, why not see all that the Ningaloo Reef and its abundant aquatic life has to offer at Navy Pier? Whether you’re an experienced diver or it’s your first time, this shallow dive site provides opportunities for everyone.
Expect to see more marine life in a single dive than most people will see in a lifetime: angelfish, sharks, sea turtles, and much more! Navy Pier at Point Murat consistently ranks in the world’s top 10 shore dives, and is not to be missed! Important note: Navy Pier is actually on American soil and you’ll need a passport to access the pier itself.
When To Go
March – July; only accessible at low tide
Location North West Australia, about 1,200km north of Perth
Top Operator Three Islands Whale Shark Dive
08 9949 1994
http://www.whalesharkdive.com
3. Share the Beach with a Kangaroo in Lucky Bay, Esperance
Postcards have led us to believe that kangaroos spend most of their time lounging on the beach, but the reality is they rarely venture onto seaside sand—unless of course, that sand is located on one of the country’s most beautiful beaches!
When the crowds leave Lucky Bay, kangaroos emerge from the bush to lay in the sand. Why? Perhaps to witness one of Western Australia’s secret gems in Cape Le Grand National Park, or work on their tan. This common occurrence is a chance to spend your evenings with the furry locals. Even if you don’t spot a ‘roo, you’ll be happy just to have spent some time with the amazing view.
When To Go November – March; temperatures are in the mid-20s (Celsius).
Location Lucky Bay, Cape Le Grand National Park, Western Australia
4. Pay Attention to the Ugly Duckling at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Here at Leading Out we like to think everyone can recognize the famous Ayer’s Rock—also known as Uluru—but how many know about Kata Tjuta, its impressive sibling? For years, Uluru has stolen the show, and now we think it’s time to pay attention to an equally impressive rock formation about 60km away.
Similar in colour and composition, Kata Tjuta—also called The Olgas—offers a breathtaking hike called Valley of The Winds. Take a sunrise walk to catch the many colours as the light washes over the landmark. As you hike, you may be lucky enough to spot a camel, rock wallaby, echidna, or dingo. This is the Red Center, so take your time exploring, and bring your camera!
When To Go April or May; less heat and flies
September and October; desert flowers are in bloom
Location Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Petermann, Northern Territory 5. Spot a Koala in Otway National Park
For thousands of immigrants, Cape Otway was the first sight of land after leaving their maiden country. For you, Cape Otway will offer you your first glimpse of one of Australia’s most iconic animals—the koala.
Hours of hiking and driving around the country have taught us that koalas aren’t dripping from every tree. In order to spot one of these cuddly creatures, we recommend taking The Great Ocean Road, specifically halfway down Otway Lighthouse Road. Keep your eyes on the treetops—once you spot your first koala, you’ll quickly become an expert at pointing out entire colonies!
When To Go Anytime
Location Otway Lighthouse Road, Cape Otway National Park, Victoria
6. See Dozens of Kangaroos at The Dutchman It’s basically a rule: you can’t leave Australia without checking “see a kangaroo” off your to-do list! No need to worry, we know a place! The Dutchman’s Stern Conservation Park in the Flinders Ranges sees them springing around everywhere.
Upon parking your car and taking a deep breath of fresh air, you will quickly begin to spot these timid marsupials in the grass and on the hills. Hike around, and while you’re here, enjoy the rest of the Flinders Ranges like Wilpena Pound, rock paintings at Yourambulla Caves, a drink at the North Star Hotel/Pub, and wrap it up at Rawnsley Park Station.
Note: we recommend you don’t drive through the park at night (unless you are craving kangaroo steak and a new front end of your vehicle).
When To Go Anytime
Location
Dutchman’s Stern Conservation Park, Flinders Ranges, South Australia
With that, we’ve reached the end of this week’s instalment. We hope you’ve got some new adventure fuel in the tank, and tons of fresh ideas for your next vacation. Click back here next week for part two of four in the series, and more great things to do in Oz!
While you’re overseas, you’re guaranteed two things: plenty of adventures, and people back home asking what the heck you’ve been up to!
Sure, arranging video chats with a timezone so far it’s basically the Upside Down sounds FUN, but who has the time to keep everyone in the loop? You might too busy vacationing or sky diving (who knows), to give everyone the low down! You can only tell the story of the first wild koala you saw SO many times before it stops giving you warm fuzzies.
So what’s a globetrotter to do? Postcards are fun, but postage is expensive. Social media is another great tool––but can you put the full story in an Instagram caption? Naw! A great way to keep your loved ones in the know is to make a travel blog. They’re quick to set up AND they work as a scrapbook of your time abroad.
What’s more, with technical advances the way they are, starting your own is basically three easy steps—create, write, share!
Choose a host and a look.
For the simplest set up, we like WordPress or Blogger. They’re both free with paid options to take your blog game to the next level. Once you’re signed up, choose from their available templates, add a catchy name, and you’re in business!
Do the write thing… or not! Now you might be saying, “I’m not much of a writer, why should I blog?” Well, maybe it’s not a writing blog! If you want, you can make a photography blog, and take a picture of every funny road sign you see, or every flat white you drink, or selfies for DAYS. You can write down quotes, or stories. Long or short, your blog’s content is completely customizable to you. Plus, update as much or as little as you like.
Sharing is caring. You named your future masterpiece and tapped out of a couple of posts. It’s time to share your new life and all of its adventures with the world (or at least your mom)! Get on social media, share those entries. Sit back and let the rave reviews roll in.
Blogs are a unique and fun way to let everyone back home feel like they’re along for your daily commute or your latest road trip. Plus, a blog might convince your family and friends to brave the flight across the world for a visit!
Do you have a blog? Would you ever consider blogging your journey? Shout it out in the comments!
This show is a must if you’re a fan of 20-something hipster drama, chickens named Adele, and the word “offbeat.” It centers around its main character Josh: his mom’s suicidal, his best friend/roommate Tom is a dink of epic proportions, and oh yes, he’s figuring out his sexuality.
Feed Wild Dolphins in Monkey Mia
Have you seen Chronicles of Riddick: Pitch Black? Neither had we, but Hollywood thought this place was bizarre enough to shoot a science fiction movie here without having to change much—it’s known for being one of the most eccentric places on our planet. Why, might you ask? Most of the town’s live underground in refurbished mining shafts.
This fringing reef is a stone’s throw away from the shores of Exmouth, Turquoise, and Coral Bay. It’s Australia’s only large coral reef accessible with nothing more than a snorkel and fins.
