Australia - Page 2

It’s no secret that Western Australia is home to a number of UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites, including the incredible Ningaloo Reef, spectacular and isolated coastlines in the country, huge swathes of wilderness dotted with rugged gorges and dramatic mountain ranges, and of course, home to Australia’s whitest beach.

With all of this in mind, it may come to no one’s surprise that this state, which makes up a third of Australia’s landmass is an absolute goldmine of outdoor adventure opportunity.

Come and experience some of the world’s most thrilling and scenic adventures, for whether it’s on water, land or in the air, you’re bound to find an activity that appeals to your sense of adventure, all within the state.

The best thing is, Perth (the capital of Western Australia) is only a 5.5-hour flight from Kuala Lumpur and shares the same time zone as us!

To help plan your escapade, here’s a must-see list of unique and adventurous experiences to explore across the five diverse regions in Western Australia:

• Go above and beyond

If skydiving has been on your bucket list for a while, or you’ve just been waiting for your chance to leap from a plane at 15,000 ft all over again, Western Australia is the place to make it happen.

You can do it over the beach at Rockingham or admire the breath-taking scenery high up in the air with the Rottnest Island skydive and ferry pass combo. And once you’re back on solid ground, it’s time to whip up your camera and go selfie-hunting with an adorable Quokka on the same day! Seeing this island paradise with your own eyes is a real must-do in Perth.

For something a little more leisurely, you can always hop into a hot air balloon. The sensation of calmly floating up in the air is something you just have to try at least once. Drifting with the wind is quite unlike anything else – it’s a really smooth glide across the sky, with plenty of time to take it all in and snap some really amazing sunsets or aerial shots. If you’re planning to pop the question to your significant other, doing so will certainly make it all the more romantic and memorable. We’re not sure if there’s enough room to get down on one knee though…

• An Instagrammable Playground

Another area that you may want to visit is Castle Rock, where you’ll be greeted by massive ancient granite domes that are 1,100 million years old. At 670 metres above sea level, take in a truly exhilarating view from the suspended Granite Skywalk or scale the last few metres to reach the summit.

This unique granite range of 12 peaks sits in the heart of Porongurup National Park and merely a 4.25-hours’ drive away from Perth.  Allow at least 2 hours to complete the steep 3-kilometre return walk and stop to get a closer look at the incredible variety of plant and animal life that makes this region one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots.

Another popular adventure spot is Collie, which is an outdoor adventure playground nestled in a scenic forested valley in the Darling Ranges. All the beauty, challenges and thrills of the South West bushland are right here. Think white water rafting, water skiing, canoeing, bush camping and fishing, plus bushwalking and mountain biking on some of the world’s greatest long-distance trails.

Visit in springtime (September to November) and you’ll see the valley come alive with blooms of colourful wildflowers. You can be here in just over two hours from the freeway south of Perth, making it an easy weekend getaway.

• Ride along the waves

Your trip is not complete without heading over to rugged Kimberley in the north west region of Western Australia where you’ll find a variety of spectacular waterfalls, including some of the world’s biggest and most stunning. Experience jumping in the waterfall for an invigorating dip, tackle the rough waters or take to the skies in a helicopter for a bird’s eye view of the action.

If bumpy waves and water sports don’t tickle your fancy, you can “surf” in one of Australia’s biggest waves at Hyden – it’s nowhere near the ocean, but uniquely enough  home to the world famous Wave Rock. Over 2,700 million years in the making, the wave rises 15 metres over the outback plain, which becomes a sea of colourful wildflower blooms in spring.

Located near the Wheatbelt town of Hyden, it’s a pleasant drive (between 3 to 4 hours) from Perth, where you’ll see picturesque rolling farmlands to wide vistas of wheat and canola fields.

• Free your spirit with natural wonders

Located just over 2 hours north of Perth, Pinnacles Desert is almost like an other-worldly landscape. Formed over millions of years, the lunar-like Pinnacles form one of Australia’s most unique and fascinating natural landscapes. Once darkness falls, get a rare chance to see an unpolluted and breath-taking view of the Milky Way.

Some people love getting up close with fascinating and diverse marine and if you’re one of them, you’ll be in awe of World Heritage-listed Shark Bay and Ningaloo Reef. Being one of the largest fringing reefs on Earth, you’ll get the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with the largest fish in the sea, the gentle whale shark, as well as a huge variety of marine wildlife including sea turtles, humpback whales, orcas (killer whales) dugong, manta rays and reef sharks!

• Journey back to “the land before time”

Last but not least, a land of breath-taking contrasts covering billions of years in history and over one million square kilometres, the North West is one of the last true wilderness areas on Earth. Find adventure in Karijini National Park, one of Western Australia’s most spectacular natural attractions offering amazing hiking trails through ancient gorges.

Explore tunnels of marbled rock, clamber over boulders, squeeze through narrow tunnels, paddle through waterways and descend deep into ancient chasms.

Ever tried riding a bike on sand or even better riding a fat bike? For anyone unaware, a fat bike is similar to a regular mountain bike but with huge oversized tyres and rims. And you can ride one of these against the sunset on Cable Beach, which is well known as one of the best spots to admire the setting sun.

If we were you, we’d save this for last, for then you can literally say that you spent your last few days in Western Australia riding into the sunset.

For more details and destination inspirations, head over to Tourism Western Australia’s website at https://www.westernaustralia.com.

Despite (or because of) the bushfire tragedy in Australia, Tourism Australia has been fighting to get its tourism industry back on its feet.

One of the ways it’s been doing that is launching its Holiday Here This Year campaign, where they’re encouraging Australians to support their fellow countrymen and plan a local holiday to show that they are open for business and welcome visitors.

Here’s a list of the best activities you can dive into in Western Australia in 2020.

Easily accessible via a 5.5-hour flight from Kuala Lumpur, Western Australia is perfect for all types of travellers – from those looking for a quick getaway to those embarking on a sabbatical.

For inspiration, here’s a list of fun-filled things you can do in Western Australia in 2020.

1.Spend some time frolicking in the sun

With plenty of sunny days, you’ll be sure to enjoy a day out in the sun at the many white, sandy beaches in Western Australia during any time of the year.

Along its 12,500 km coastline, you’ll find some of the most stunning World Heritage scenery and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters for a truly unforgettable beach holiday.

For those looking to get in some good old Vitamin Sea, head to Greens Pool in the South West region – one of Western Australia’s most iconic beaches.

The beach is truly an Insta-worthy spot with a view of clear emerald waters, pure white sand and sculpted rocks, making it the perfect spot for swimming, snorkelling and diving.

You can also check out the many other beaches in Western Australia in 2020, including those located along Perth’s 80km coastline. It offers an endless supply of sun, sea and sand.

Popular destinations among the 19 beaches situated in Perth include Cottesloe Beach, Scarborough Beach and City Beach which offers the best beach-front activities for travellers all over the globe.

2.Enjoy the best seasonal food of Western Australia in 2020

No matter the time of year, there’s sure to be plenty of gastronomical experiences awaiting you across the five regions of Western Australia.

If you’re curious to know the stories behind Western Australia’s produce, take the Swan Valley Fresh Seasonal Produce Trail where you can meet the people behind the produce that adorn the amazing dishes throughout the four seasons.

If you’re looking to “hunt” your food, the annual Truffle Kerfuffle is a weekend long celebration of Manjimup’s famous black truffles.

Held at the beginning of truffle season in June, festival goers can join truffle hunters and their truffle dogs to sniff out prized truffles, visit the festival village to meet the producers and get a taste of the region, or get a truffle fix at a multitude of exclusive dining events.

3.Go on an exciting road trip

Another great perk of Western Australia’s sunny weather is that you can plan to go on a road trip during any long weekend or public holiday throughout the year – earning it its title as the road trip state.

Western Australia offers some of the most gorgeous coast-hugging scenic drives along the Coral Coast.

If you can’t stay away from the crystal clear waters of the sea, try going on an adventure along the Coral Coast Highway where you will be brought to the two wonders that put Ningaloo and Shark Bay on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

For those looking to go off the beaten track and enjoy longer drives, try planning for a road trip to the South West and Golden Outback where you’ll witness the landscape changing right in front of you as you travel south from the city skylines of Perth to witness the spectacularly diverse landscape as you take an adventure to the great South West Edge.

4.Be one with nature

Western Australia boasts an amazing line up of natural events and attractions, many of which are found only in a handful of locations on Earth.

Regularly occurring during different seasons of the year, these events offer unique opportunities for you to immerse yourself in nature.

For starters, there’s the collection of wildflowers in Western Australia, which is one of the largest on Earth. More than 12,000 species, over 60% of which are found nowhere else on Earth, call Western Australia home.

Beginning from the north in June, the flowering season moves south by September to reach Perth and moves on to the South West by October.

Another event you ought to bookmark for your trip to Western Australia is the whale migration season.

Between May and December, the Humpback, Southern Right and Blue Whales make their way along the coast, often coming close to shore where you can see them with binoculars or even the naked eye from coastal vantage points.

Besides, you can get close to these gentle giants of the ocean by making a trip to Coral Bay or Exmouth, particularly from June to November.

If you’re looking for a fun-filled family getaway, be sure to check out the friendly dolphins at Monkey Mia where wild dolphins have been visiting the shoreline virtually every day for over 40 years, making this spot a must-visit.

With this list, we’re sure you’ll be able to plan for the best trip in western Australia – be it a weekend getaway or a long vacation.

For more details and destination inspirations, head over to Tourism Western Australia’s website at https://www.westernaustralia.com.

Nothing beats a romantic escape with your significant other. Whether you’re looking to plan a special anniversary trip or a quick couple’s escape, Western Australia is the ideal location to bring your romance to life.

Easily accessible with a 5.5-hour flight from Kuala Lumpur, you and your partner can easily jet off on your getaway during one of the many long holidays coming up.

Want to make the most out of your romantic getaway? Opt to rent a car right at Perth airport for as low as RM 130 a day to embark on an adventurous road trip in one of the largest states in the world – Western Australia.

As you make your way along the Coral Coast Highway, be sure to have your camera at the ready to take in beautiful sights of the beach and lush green landscapes along the way.

Here are some of the must-visits stops along the Coral Coast Highway for a truly memorable romantic escape with your loved one.

1.Take a stroll on the ‘moon’ at the Pinnacles Desert

Starting from Perth, take a scenic four-hour Indian Ocean Drive to the Pinnacles Desert of Nambung National Park. Regarded as Australia’s most fascinating landscape, a walk through the desert feels as though you are walking on the moon as you follow the trail through the limestones coming out of the shifting sand.

After your walk on the ‘moon’, head to the park and check out the beautiful beaches, coastal dune systems, shady groves of tuart trees and low heathlands of plants that produce vibrantly coloured flowers between August and October.

For more curious couples, head over to the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre located within the park to find out how this curious landscape took shape and discover the abundance of flora and fauna that call it home.

2.Capture the beauty of wildflowers at Kalbarri National Park

Located four hours away from the Pinnacles Desert along the Coral Coast Highway lies Kalbarri National Park. The park covers an expansive 186,096 hectares and offers some of the most spectacular scenery in Western Australia for nature-loving couples.

To see the park blossom with the colours of spring, make a visit between July and October where over 1,100 varieties of wildflowers are in full bloom, from Grevilleas to feather flowers. This offers you the most picturesque backdrop for the perfect Instagram shot!

3.Visit the friendly dolphins of Monkey Mia

With a four-hour drive from Kalbarri, you and your loved one will be able to get up close with these friendly creatures located at Monkey Mia in the Shark Bay World Heritage. Known for their ritual of swimming up to the shore almost daily, as many as five wild Bottlenose dolphins will visit the beach, making this spot a popular dolphin watching destination.

While the exact timing of these dolphin experiences depends on, well, the dolphins, there are feeding sessions between 7.45am and 12.00noon with a few lucky onlookers getting the chance to hand feed the dolphins. However, they are also known to visit the beach outside these times to forage and socialise. For your safety, and the dolphins’, do remember to not approach them too closely and refrain from touching them without the supervision of the specially trained rangers.

4.Marvel at the wonder of Shell Beach

After spending time with the friendly dolphins at Monkey Mia, drive an hour to Shell Beach. Formed from billions of tiny shells, Shell Beach is a hidden gem in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area and is popular for swimming, and simply relaxing in the sunshine.

Shell Beach, like its name, is one of only a handful of places on earth where shells replace beach sand. A walk on the 100 km stretch with shells that are seven to 10 metres deep with your loved one is truly an experience like no other.

5.Swim with whale sharks at Coral Bay

From Monkey Mia, take a six-hour drive to Coral Bay – the only place in Western Australia that gives you direct access to Ningaloo Reef. Here, in the peaceful waters of the bay, you and your partner are just a short snorkel or glass-bottom boat ride from Ningaloo’s coral gardens, all of which are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.

You can also come face-to-fin with the gentle giant itself, the majestic whale shark. Take some time to explore the outer reef on a kayak, dive charter or even a snorkel tour and go on an exciting journey to discover humpback whales, turtles, and manta rays, which is sure to be a sight to behold. With plenty of beachfront stays to choose from, you’ll truly enjoy being just a few steps away from the sparkling waters for a quick dip in the waters or a snorkelling adventure.

Glamp under the stars at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef

Located two hours away from Coral Bay lies the exclusive beach safari camp of Sal Salis. Nestled in the dunes of the Cape Range National Park, the camp offers an exclusive camping experience overlooking the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef.

The campsite is perfect for a romantic evening under the stars as each of the 15 eco-luxe wilderness tents is decked with comfortable beds and comes complete with en suite bathroom with an eco-friendly toilet and solar hot shower.

The cherry on top is, of course, the fact that your stay comes with a spectacular view of the surrounding bush and the expansive Indian Ocean.

Spend the night stargazing under the bright jewels of the night and witness the cosmic wonder of the Milky Way for a truly memorable experience with your loved one.

With these equally relaxing and adventurous spots along the Coral Coast Highway, we’re sure you and your loved one will spend quality time together and enjoy the experience of these uniquely exciting activities across the Coral Coast.

For more details and destination inspirations, head over to Tourism Western Australia’s website at https://www.westernaustralia.com.

World-famous for its dazzling wildflowers, Western Australia is home to the largest collection of flowers on Earth.

With more than 12,000 species, 60 per cent of these wildflowers species cannot be found anywhere else on the planet.

Its capital city, Perth, is just a 5.5-hour flight away from Kuala Lumpur.

The season begins in June at the northern part of the State before sweeping down on the south in November.

What’s more, it has been reported that Western Australia is having the best wildflower season in a decade!

While wildflowers can be found across Western Australia, here are five of the best wildflower hotspots to snap those Instagram-worthy pics!

1.Pilbara Region, North West (July – September)

Venture up to the North West of Western Australia, where you’ll catch magnificent views of wildflowers contrasting against the dusty red earth and golden Spinifex grass.

The Pilbara Trail at Karijini National Park is not one to be missed, especially with Wildflowers of all colours, sizes and shapes.

These include the unmistakeable Sturt’s Desert Pea, fluffy Mulla Mulla, the tall majestic Ashburton Pea or any number of the 65 species of Acacia (wattle) that can be seen throughout the region.

Many of the plants and flowers in Pilbara have evolved with unique adaptations to survive in an arid climate that receives most of its rainfall during summer by way of tropical cyclones.

Aside from the wildflower hunt, visitors can also enjoy the glorious sunset or sunrise on top of Mount Nameless.

Then, “Spiderwalk’ across Hancock Gorge or cool down at the cascading waterfalls and massive emerald pools. All of these can be found within the Karijini National Park.

2.Gascoyne-Murchison, Golden Outback (July – September)

The Gascoyne Murchison area of Western Australia is internationally renowned for spectacular wildflowers.

From late July to September, thousands of nature lovers are drawn to the region as spring wildflower season turns the outback landscape into a blanket of vibrant colour.

In the north, iconic species such as the scarlet red sturt desert pea and the royal purple mulla mulla sets the undergrowth ablaze with carpets blooming at the roadside.

Whether one is a wildflower enthusiast, a photographer, or just someone looking for an excuse for a road trip, now is the time to pack up and picnic among a blanket of pink, yellow and white Everlastings.

Many of these species only last a month or so once they bloom, so there’s no better time than now to hit the road.

Other interesting places to explore in the area includes Walga Rock, Australia’s second largest granite monolith after Uluru (Ayers Rock). There is also Kennedy Range National Park, a plateau on the edge of the Gascoyne River catchment which has dominated the surrounding plains for millions of years. Both destinations are less than an hour drive from the Gascoyne Junction.

3.Ningaloo Coast World, Coral Coast (July – September)

The Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area is one of the last great ocean paradises. It runs from Carnarvon in the south to Exmouth in the north.

Located near Carnarvon, Coalseam Conservation Park is flooded with everlasting flowers. The flowers can be found in patches and fields along the North West Coastal Highway and sometimes at Rocky Pool.

Carnarvon’s Everlastings generally start in late July going into September – with Everlasting carpets intertwining with purple Dampier Pea, thriving in the red Pindan dirt – truly picturesque!

On the other hand, the Cape Range National Park near Exmouth is home to 630 species of flowering plants. These flowers are expected to bloom into a bright and colourful landscape in the month of August.

Both parks will treat you to an unspoilt environment brimming with a wealth of flora in a rainbow of colours.

Other top attractions to experience in Ningaloo includes swimming with whale sharks, flying above migrating whales in an Exmouth microlight flight, and staying in a luxury campsite metres from the coral reef.

4.Wildflower Country, Mid-West (August – September)

Visitors will delight in viewing some of the state’s most vibrant wildflowers as they drive through the inland farming towns of Badgingarra, Eneabba, Coorow, Three Springs, Carnamah, Mingenew and Mullewa, collectively known as Wildflower Country during late winter and spring.

Highlights include carpets of Everlastings, and individual species such as Purple tassels and a huge variety of Orchids.

One of the best spots to view these wildflowers is the 2.4km Mullewa Bushland Trail loop.

From Mullewa, drive 20 minutes north to Pindar to see the rare and exquisite Wreath Leschenaultia. These flowers will be in full bloom beginning mid-September.

Consider biking or walking around the Chapman River Park inland from Geraldton for a wide range of Orchids.

Wildflowers are just the beginning, there are numerous free camping spots throughout the region.

This is perfect to view clear country night skies along with many secluded bays. This include Dynamite Bay which was voted as one of the top 20 beaches of Australia in 2016.

5.Margaret River region, South West (August – November)

Margaret River is one of only 34 biodiversity hotspots in the world. It is rated by World Wildlife Fund (WWF) as one of the world’s most important areas for biodiversity and conservation.

Bask in wonder of nature as you explore over 2,500 species of wildflowers.

The colour range and combinations are amazing. The brightest of true blue, lime green, yellow, red, pink, orange, white and mauve to name just a few.

There are also 150 species of orchid, many of which are rare and endangered.

Be on the lookout for the splendid spider orchid and giant donkey orchid, which are celebrated finds amongst botanical enthusiasts.

The best time to marvel over these tiny yet magnificent works of (natural) art is from September to November.

Margaret River is also world-renowned for its outstanding wineries, stunning beaches, natural wonders and unique landmarks.

Visitors should not miss out on exploring Boranup Karri Forest, Lake Cave, Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, Hamelin Bay and Busselton Jetty.

With over 100 national parks, many of which are renowned for their wildflowers displays, you are spoiled for choice.

It’s never too late to start planning now but do remember not to pick any of the flowers.

This is a press release provided by Tourism Western Australia. For more information about Tourism Western Australia, kindly visit http://www.westernaustralia.com or its Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ExtraordinaryWesternAustralia

Whether you are looking for a beach getaway or experience nature in all its glory, a scenic road trip along the Golden Outback is perfect for any kind of traveller.

Home to white beaches and technicolour fields filled with wildflowers, you can be guaranteed an amazing experience during your trip to this wonder of nature.

Set off on your adventure by flying into Perth on a short 5.5-hour flight from Malaysia.

From there, rent a car right at the Perth airport. Then, begin your adventure to these top spots along your drive to explore the Golden Outback.

1.Spend an afternoon exploring Wave Rock

From Perth, enjoy a four-hour scenic drive while admiring the wide vistas of wheat and canola fields to the Wheatbelt town of Hyden.

Over 2,700 million years in the making, Wave Rock rises 15 metres above the outback plain. Interestingly, one of Australia’s biggest waves that is located the furthest away from any ocean.

This 110-metre long multi-coloured granite cliff is shaped remarkably like a huge wave that is about to crash. Thus, making it a popular photo spot among tourists.

Pose on the rock face and “surf” the giant wave. Or see it from a different perspective by walking along the trails around the base and over the top. 

2.Stroll along the white sands of Lucky Bay

Located just under five hours away from Wave rock, Lucky Bay is the jewel among the string of spectacular beaches along the coast of Cape Le Grand National Park.

The white sandy beach, turquoise waters, and breath-taking views are sights to behold for nature lovers.

If you’re lucky, you might even come across a group of kangaroos lazing away and taking in some vitamin sea themselves. Now, that’s something you don’t want to miss!

While you’re there, grab a quick bite at Lucky Bean Café. It is located right on Lucky Bay. Plus, don’t forget to ennjoy their espresso coffees, fresh juices, freshly baked muffins and a variety of confectionery snacks and ice cream.

3.Get a bird’s eye view of the bubblegum-pink hues of Lake Hillier

After your stop at Lucky Bay, take a pause from driving to inject a splash of pink into your trip with a journey to Lake Hillier, located on Middle Islands.

The lake is situated at a remote location 11 km away from the coast of Cape Arid National Park. It is accessible via charter plane or boat.

The breath-taking panorama of the contrasting deep blue ocean next to the bubblegum-pink colour of Lake Hillier is separated solely by a thin strip of sand.

This charming natural attraction of Golden Outback defies scientific explanation. The colour of the water remains unmistakably pink which makes it the perfect shot for your Instagram feed.

4.Amaze with colourful wildflowers in Fitzgerald National Park

Once you’re back on land, take a drive to Fitzgerald National Park. There, take in its pristine wilderness in all its glory.

Listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the park is the largest single national park in Western Australia. It is perfect for nature lovers and adventure-seekers.

Being one of the most diverse botanical regions on Earth, the park is home to about 1,800 species of flowering plants. These species include Royal Hakea, Qualup Bell, Sepulcralis, Weeping Gum, Pincushion Hakea, Woolly Banksia, and Bottlebrush.

With the diverse flora as the perfect backdrop, be sure to take plenty of pictures for that perfect Instagram post.

5.Visit the largest outdoor art gallery at Lake Ballard

From the park, take a 10-hour drive to Lake Ballard to view the creation of award-winning artist, Antony Gormley.

The surreal landscape offers a stunning exhibition of 51 metal statuettes scattered along the expanse of the shimmering salt lake.

Furthermore, the vast 10 square kilometre land makes it geographically ideal to spend a night bush camping.

Be sure to walk and explore across the exhibition site to view the different sculptures.

Plan your visit between the cool months of May until October. This is when the lake surface is sturdier, making it much easier to explore the exhibition site.

The Golden Outback is the perfect destination for a road trip to experience the best of nature and go on an adventure.

With easily accessible facilities and destinations, you can easily plan a quick getaway during any of the upcoming long weekends!

For more information on Western Australia, visit their website at www.westernaustralia.com or their Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/ExtraordinaryWesternAustralia.

This press release is provided by Tourism Western Australia.

Sometimes, all we have to do to see magic is look up.

Catching the Northern Lights – a transfixing display of lights caused by charged particles entering the atmosphere – is one of the most sought-after experiences of all time.

Lucky for us, we don’t have to travel all the way to Iceland – their counterpart, the Southern Lights, is just right around the corner! There are so many places in Asia where we can chase after the beauty of the night sky and go star-gazing.

Here are five of them to get you started.

1.Lake Tekapo (South Island), New Zealand

In the day, Lake Tekapo offers a picturesque view of the dramatic Southern Alps – by night, it transforms into a whole new destination.

Part of the UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, the lake has some of the darkest skies in the world, forming the perfect viewing spot for the Southern Lights. Seize the winter season (June to August) to catch the illuminating lights display, with a full array of colorful lights dancing in the night sky.

You can also head to Mount John Observatory, which houses some of New Zealand’s largest telescopes, to get up close and personal with millions of stars.

2.Flinders, Australia

There’s no doubt that the Melbourne city center has a lot to offer, but by nightfall, seek new attractions elsewhere. Make your way to the unassuming town of Flinders, a 90-minute drive away from the city.

Located on the southern coast of the Mornington Peninsula, the beaches of Flinders offer an uninterrupted view of the night sky and its magnificent lights. With an absence of noisy tourist crowds or sounds of the city, you can marvel at the other-worldly Southern Lights in complete serenity and peace.

Stay: DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne Flinders Street

Strategically located just steps away from the arts and entertainment district, DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne Flinders Street is a choice location for when you do spend time in the city. Start your trip with a warm DoubleTree welcome with their signature chocolate chip cookie, and take full advantage of the proximity to attractions like Federation Square and the historic Flinders Street Station.

3. Halong Bay, Vietnam

With its pristine emerald waters and towering limestone islands, Halong Bay has long become a fan-favorite among those looking to take a day trip out of central Hanoi.

The experience here gets even better at night! Get aboard an overnight cruise and set sail on a journey off into the starry, starry night. Without the smog and light pollution from the city, you’d have full view of the clear skies and constellations. The universe has never felt so vast.

Stay: Hilton Opera Hanoi

When back in the city, head to Hilton Opera Hanoi to continue the rest of your travel adventures in style and comfort. This iconic landmark is situated in the historic French Quarter of Hanoi, and offers locally-styled rooms and traditional Vietnamese cuisine for the full Vietnamese experience.

4. Doi Chiang Dao, Thailand

If you are up for some adventure, look no further than Doi Chiang Dao, Thailand’s third highest peak! No matter how difficult the hike, it’ll certainly be worth it in the end. Literally translating to the “City of Stars”, Doi Chiang Dao offers ethereal views of star trails, and takes you so high up, the stars are almost within your grasp. If you are keen to sleep among the stars, overnight camping is available, but be sure to get a permit in advance.

5. The Maldives

The Maldives is often considered to be paradise on Earth, and for good reason – from untouched white-sand beaches, exhilarating sea-sport activities to the ultimate in resort-styled luxury, you’re sure to have the getaway of your dreams. By day, bask in the sunlight and soak up your fair share of Vitamin D; by night, kick back with a cocktail and take in the mesmerizing view of the sea of stars. With these clear Maldivian nights, you’re almost guaranteed to catch a shooting star. Time to make your wish!

Stay: Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

Set on Rangali Island, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is one of the Top 100 Greatest Destinations in 2018, and home to the world’s first undersea residence, THE MURAKA. With its distinctive design and focus on personalized experiences, you can even star-gaze from the luxury of your own living room.