Cool Location Tracking Travel Blog - Easy to use blog for anyone to write about travel and destinations.

Australia offers a multitude of experiences for winter and summer. A destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression on the ones visiting the area. From magnificent mountains to glorious beaches, there is no other place quite like Australia. A destination with so many new opportunities to experience that will only have someone returning year after year to try them all.

Winter in Australia

Winter is a great opportunity to go skiing or snowboarding. Try the slopes or even snorkel in waters of Queensland's Great Barrier Reef. North Queensland offers great weather for swimming in the seas or even going sailing. Winter offers a time to discover migrating whales or to take a dive with some other types of marine life. After enjoying these energetic activities, get cozy next to a blazing fire and relax.

In the western part of Australia, there is no chance of seeing dull landscapes during winter. Wildflowers abound across the state encouraging daily walks to take photos for a photo album. Visit Ningaloo Reef to swim with whale sharks or snorkel with tropical fish. Even though the winter temperatures are around 25 degrees, someone can still enjoy the water in this area. 

Winter in Australia offers many locations to see snow-capped mountains and ski runs. Winter activities can include tobogganing or sledding down beautiful mountains. Slopes are available to meet any person's ability whether they are an experienced skier or a novice to skiing. Maybe even participating in a snowball fight might be possible before leaving the slopes in Australia. 

In the south part of Australia, take a four-wheel drive across a desert for an awesome adventure. Take plenty of supplies, and then visit Witjira National Park to relax in a natural spring. The winter is the best time for touring the Simpson Desert due to the heat during the summer. 

Summer in Australia 

Take a spectacular walk along the cliffs or take a trip to a vineyard or a beach. Summer in Australia offers new challenges and interesting activities to explore. Surfing and swimming are two activities to be enjoyed during summertime in Australia. The beach is the ideal setting for taking photos of surfers to add to the photobooks. 

On the Mornington Peninsula, explore the wonderful villages, galleries, vineyards, beaches, spas and golf courses. Relax in the spa or take a tour of this summer paradise. This coastline entices someone to take many walks to view the area and maybe even see a kangaroo or two. After enjoy viewing the natural habitat, be sure to try out some of the cuisine at one of the vineyards or other restaurants in the area.

In Australia, someone can discover the native animals and Aboriginal history by visiting a nature reserve. In addition, the summer is a great time to watch some sport events like cricket or tennis. Many outdoor cultural events are planned for the summer months. From family picnics to fun soccer games, the summers in Australia are filled with energy and excitement. 

Every woman at some stage looks forward to any opportunity to shed the everyday duds to get all dolled up for a night out on the town. Nothing feels better than confidently stepping out into the spotlight looking fantastic and having people admire your fabulous style. Here are a few places you can go in Melbourne to let out the diva in you.

The Races

There are no events like horse racing to bring out the fancy hats and spectacular dresses out of the closet, and all those racing tips! This weekly fashion show is a perfect way to show off your new dress as well as admire other peoples’. While you are there, join the racing culture and try and place a few bets to really get into it. Asking for some horse racing tips is a great way to strike up a conversation with someone and really get noticed by people.

The Orchestra

Get dressed up and hear some fantastic music at the same time at the Melbourne Orchestra. If you aren’t accustomed to dressing very fancy, this is a great place to give it a try as most of your evening will be spend sitting and enjoying the music rather than strutting your stuff amongst a large group of people. The intermission is a great opportunity to mingle and feel great about looking good.

The Bar

A night out dancing at the bar is a classic reason to be looking your best. Get some of the girls together and plan a wild night where you can really let your hair down and get noticed. You are bound to catch the eye of a cute guy as you are busting a move on the dance floor. There are tons of great pubs in Melbourne to check out, so ditch those daggy clothes and look like the goddess you really are!

The Tennis

Since the sport began, Tennis has been recognized not only for the physical intensity of the sport, but also for being a high class and “gentlemanly” sport. Attending a tennis match is a great way to join the fancy attired sporting culture, and Melbourne often has great tournaments going such as the world famous Australian Open.

Melbourne Fashion Week

Every year, the city of Melbourne hosts the highly acclaimed Melbourne Fashion Week, bringing together some of the best fashion designers and all the newest collections of clothes, shoes and accessories. This is your chance to dress your best and mingle with the fashion elite while learning about all the latest trends.

Downtown

Simply hanging out downtown in Melbourne can be a good enough reason to get dressed up. With all of the super trendy restaurants, cafes and pubs, it really adds to the experience to be looking your best while just hanging out. 

There are many places you can go in Melbourne to give yourself the excuse to wear your evening best, so it shouldn’t be too hard to get out there and be noticed. Of course, because it makes you feel sexy and confident to be looking your best, sometimes you don’t even need a reason. If it feels good, just do it!

London, being one of the most remarkable cities of England, is a place that should not be missed. Thus, at least once in your tourist life, you should set your course towards this magical mixture of modern and traditional. Yet, once you do this, you need to get adequately prepared since no traveler sets off without taking care of the details of his/her trip in advance.

First of all, as soon as most London's visitors enter this incredible city, they crave for the sight of the Buckingham Palace, where they can have a cup of tea with the Queen or take a photo with a BeefEater. However, if you will have no problems settling for less, just watching the guards change their shifts or entering the palace for a bit of a tour can be breathtaking as well.

Secondly, when in London you should not miss the Big Ben and the houses of Parliament, waiting for you on the banks of the wonderful river Thames. Truly, the city would not be what it is if it weren't for one of the most famous clocks in the world. You can enjoy this part of your journey for free.

The next stop for your sightseeing tour has to the the London Eye. Without any doubt, many consider this place the best possible spot for having the city's beauty displayed completely, right before your eyes.

Of course, this is just the tip of the wonderful iceberg of mystery and beauty that London holds in store. Hence, reach beneath the surface and discover the St Paul's Cathedral, the Tower of London, the Westminster Abbey, the Piccadilly Circus, the British Museum and countless other jewels as well.

Still, even though you can enjoy the amazing features of this city the old fashioned way, do not forget that new mobile phones can open up a whole new dimension of traveling. Simply, certain apps that most new smartphones support allow you to use GPS maps, virtual tour guides, social networking and various other services which can lead you through the streets of London like a true friend would.

So, get your phone in mobile store and get your Google Maps, Skype, Facebook, Places and various other software of this type installed on your hand-held companion and enjoy the most amazing experience of many tourists, passionate travelers and thrill-seekers – London.

If you are sick and tired of living in the city and dealing with all the hassles and problems that come with it, you may find yourself fantasising about running out of your home and never coming back. Before things get too crazy, maybe it’s time to consider moving your life to a place where you can truly be happy and be living the life you have always dreamt of. It’s always hard deciding where to move to as it often seems that everywhere is kind of the same, though there really are some gems still out there. The following are some really great places to move if you want to get away from it all.

Noosa

This amazing little piece of paradise is not only spectacular but also consists of some real treats as far as accommodation. Noosa is still a growing centre though while it has grown to include all the conveniences of a larger city, Noosa real estate has maintained the feel of being a small community. If you want to feel like you are miles away from everyone but aren’t yet ready to give up all your modern conveniences, a move to Noosa might be exactly what the doctor ordered.

Cygnet

Over the last twenty years a lot of Australians have fled the madness of the mainland and headed for Tasmania, most settling in Hobart or Launceston. These are both great cities though often seem like just miniature versions of Sydney and Melbourne. To really get away, head to the Huon Valley and in particular Cygnet. This cute little town is not only located in a gorgeous valley, but is also a thriving community in it’s own right, with markets and art showings a regular feature. That small-scale life you’ve been dreaming of just might be waiting for you in Cygnet.

Waikerie

An almost unknown part of South Australia and a great place to live on the impressive Murray River, Waikerie has everything you’ll need without the stress and worry of a big city. This beautiful orange growing city has the feel of a country town and will provide you a beautiful setting to get down to living your life away from former hassles. Maybe it’s time to totally turn your back on city living and discover that farmer inside you. A bit of good old-fashioned country living will have you feeling refreshed and ready to live life the way you’ve always wanted to.

Montville

If you want to move to a place where you can sit back in comfort and get a bigger perspective on it all, this cute town high up in the beautiful Blackall Range might be just what you need. Finding work may be an issue though if you aren’t looking for a job, this mountain hide out will have you drinking in breath taking views and feeling on top of the world.

If you are not happy living where you are and want to get away, the best thing you can do is move. Don’t be afraid; change is good, and if you are ever going to be truly happy you are going to need to make it happen yourself.

Attention, history buffs! While many tourists focus on the beaches and the Outback when it comes to travel in Australia, a growing number of tourists—both domestic and international—are exploring the fascinating history of the country as well. While enjoying lush Surfer’s Paradise accommodation might be a beautiful way to spend time on your trip, there are also several areas in Australia that offer something unique and interesting to the tourist—the places where Australia’s history lies. From the top end and the dreaming stories of its original owners to the penal colonies of Tasmania, Australia is rich in all kinds of stories and history. It’s a land with a heritage dating back 40,000 years, and with a European history that started in a way like no other colony on earth. We’ve put together some of Australia’s historical gems so that the next time you’re planning a holiday, you can make sure you experience the past, as well as the present.

Tasmania

Tasmania has a fascinating history, especially Port Arthur, which was the site of a massive penal colony in the early years of European settlement. The site still holds the penal colony, although now it is more of an historical museum. Port Arthur runs ghost tours through the property at night where you can experience the chilling stories about the prison asylum, the brushes with ‘the other side’ that others have had and lose yourself in the generally spooky nature of the place.

Kakadu National Park

Far before the English started shipping their criminals over in the 1700’s, Australia had already been populated for 40,000 years or more by the Indigenous people. Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory bears a lot of the markings of this pre-colonisation time in the country, as you can see ancient Aboriginal art and rock paintings, and learn about the traditional methods used to maintain the land.

Sydney

While Sydney’s historical side might be slightly overshadowed by its beaches and shopping and gourmet food scene, it’s still the first place colonists landed when they arrived in Australia, and was the site of the first European settlement. The Rocks is a harbourside suburb particularly rich in history, as is the old Quarantine Station in Manly, where diseased boat passengers used to be kept for months when they arrived. Spooky!

Ballarat

When it comes to Australian History, the Gold Rush was a pretty important part of it. Ballarat, a country town in Victoria, was the site of this rush, and has been preserved as a monument to more prosperous times. You can pan for gold, take a tour through the mines, or just chill out in charming Ballarat accommodation while you experience the peace and tranquility of rural Australia.

They say if you want to earn about a place you should look to its past. The history of Australia is a rich and layered one, and one that will surely enhance your experience of the country. If you’re looking for somewhere to start you historical education, these will set you well on your way.

This is a short travel movie about my recent overnight camping/bicycling trip to a gorgeous, secluded beach on the north shore of Kauai, Hawaii...

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  Queensland is famous for surfing and with little wonder. The weather in Queensland is perfect and the waves are ideal for competition standard surfing. Watching a surfing competition will blow your mind as people ride astonishing waves. This article will consider some of the factors involved in surfing and list a few of the famous events in Queensland every year. If you like surfing then this article will make you want to check into an apartment in Brisbane today!

Surfing involves the use of a surfboard to ride on the crest or face of a wave. There are ticks associated with riding a wave that can be completed by a competent surfer. The waves required to surf are usually found in the ocean near the shore but can also be found in some lakes and rivers at certain times of the year. Competition surfing usually takes place using big waves in the ocean.

To begin surfing the surfer must propel themselves in the same direction as the path of the wave. For smaller waves this is done by self-propelling with the use of arms and legs. In the case of larger waves the surfer can only be propelled at a great enough speed with the use of a powered tow which pulls the surfer with enough speed to be picked up by the wave.

Manoeuvring onto a wave can be difficult for beginners and often they are unable to catch the wave at all. There are different levels of difficulty when riding waves depending on the size of the wave and the speed at which it is travelling. Ideally a surfer should ‘catch’ the wave in the centre and manoeuvre up to just below the breaking point or shoulder of the wave. Those who catch the wave on the shoulder are referred to by surfers as shoulder hoppers and are deemed an obstacle in the way of more experienced surfers.

The ultimate achievement of surfing is the impressive act of tube surfing. This takes place just as the wave breaks in on itself and the surfer should ride through as the wave breaks behind them. When watching tube riding the surfer will often disappear as the wave breaks around them and coming out still standing on the board is the ultimate challenge for any surfer. This is the spectacle you can expect to see only at surfing competitions.

Surfing represents a particular culture in Australia, Hawaii and California. Whilst for most it is a recreational activity, some make it the central focus of their lives and there are several cultural elements associated with this. Most noticeably, boardshorts or boardies are associated with surfers and have become a worldwide phenomenon. There are numerous surfing brands, such as Quicksilver, which are now huge clothing chains across the world.

Some of the competitions held in Queensland each year are:

·         2011 Coast of Origin Interclub Series

·         Coast of Origin State Challenge Party

·         Surfing Queensland World Tour Trials

·         2011 Ocean and Earth Teenage Rampage

·         2011 Wahu Group Comp

All competitions promise to be fantastic as always and there is guaranteed to be a lot on offer from the pros. Learning to surf and appreciating the competitions is one of the most exciting thing you will ever experience. So book your flights and find a serviced apartment in Brisbane so you can come and appreciate this national wonder.

Consider the way in which I was first introduced to backpacking it was via a newspaper ad for a package tour to watch the Superbowl inMiami. I called the number and yes it was too good to be true ! I hung up disappointed after being asked to buy an alternative deal it had already been booked out. But the energy I had to get somewhere and have an adventure didn’t die. I said ok whyMiamiif I am building this myself why not pick my spot ? I was into some bodybuilding at the time and had a connection with LA at least an imaginary one anyway. And was so much coming fromCaliforniainto TV (there was no www) it was an attractive thing to do. Long story short I turned into a backpacker.

How Companies are targeting Customers

I suspect that the average 18 year old is getting a lot of interactive content like youtube videos and facebook ads foisted into their right hand webspace but have the sparks changed if we agree the media delivery has ? Perhaps it has not changed the way in which we are drawn to a destination but I would easily be convinced that once that spark has occurred an internet search is not far behind. If the spark is through a social channel then it makes sense to sow a seed at that time.

So you have heard about scuba diving and it was at a time ago and interesting prospect. But you live in a grey cold climate, the opportunity to try it isn’t really present so it goes by. Selling a scuba diving holiday to you is the aim of the company but how do they know you like scuba diving ? The facebook social graph shows 3^rd parties what you like if you allow it. Otherwise facebook keeps your personal activities private but they allow advertisers to target you. You know this already. So its targeted advertising. Google were doing it long before but they didn’t gather the kind of stats that facebook did. They were looking at the page you were visiting and suggested advertisers based on this. Your searches now dictate much more what you will see in google ads if you are signed in or not. They can anonymously know that you just visited a celebrity news site and provide ads based on that.

The internet IS changing the WAY you travel

Packages will always be popular for families and those in need of not making much of a plan. Otherwise the fact that these online travel sites and their tools are available at your keyboard allows us to get info on any destination before buying a travel guide.
Consider pre internet how would you get interested in a destination and try and see if it is a great place to travel. Once on your way in hostels you get the opinion of other travellers and this is where I got my inspiration mostly. Meeting a backpacker in Singapore who told me about Thailand(pre the Beach) was a gift I would not have discovered easily for example. But today a quick post on facebook can share information along with photos and this is key.
In short the internet is probably influencing destination choice and hotel or hostel discovery more than any other sector. Your travel business should embrace the internet but to fully get the benefit you will need much more than just a website. Your website will need to be cross referenced by a good few selected sites such as trip advisor and landed travel.
I am yet to be convinced that twitter is detailed enough to offer a decent opportunity for the small travel service or business. People who know you have probably already used your services but where is the link to the anonymous customer who wants your service. I don’t think that people can search effectively twitter. No twitter is for ego maniacs that cannot show their webstats to the world or dare not ! 

Last year, I spend a few weeks in the US. It was my firs time in North America continent and it was unforgettable experience. I have visited many, many cities, from New York, to Chicago, San Francisco, Las Vegas or San Diego (and many, many more). This article will cover my stay in Chicago, approx the same time last year...

Chicago offers a virtual wonderland of one of a kind winter actives which is just one of the many reasons travelers visit during the winter and early spring months. Visiting this time of the year also opens all kinds of doors when it comes to travel on a budget including a selection of cheap hotels in Chicago to choose from.

If you're planning on visiting Chicago between January and April, how about spending some time skating high in the sky? Can you even imagine what it would be like? Just imagine getting the chance to enjoy a fairy tale skating experience high up in the sky with Chicago's sparkling city lights behind you. Amazing right? Well you can skate at the world's highest skating rink which is 1000 feet in the sky at Chicago's John Hancock Observatory. The ice skating rink itself is 900 square feet made with XTRAICE, an innovative synthetic substance which delivers the perfect skating experience that, when paired with the remarkable, panoramic views of the city delivers the perfect winter getaway experience. The skating rink is open daily from January 1st to April 8th, 2012 between 9am and 11pm. I found the video below pretty cool:

You can skate in 25 minute sessions for only $5, bringing your own skates or you can rent them there for just $1; can't beat that! If you don't know how to skate you'll have the opportunity to take lessons from the Chicago Blackhawks Youth Hockey professional coaches. They offer three, 30 minute lessons on Mondays for free with admission. It will be worth the effort because it gives you the chance to try out your new skating skills high in Chicago's sky. If you plan ahead you can find a variety of cheap hotel rooms conveniently located near this fun attraction as well as many others.

After your magical skating experience you'll want to stop by the John Hancock Observatory's award winning Lavaza Espression café for a delicious cup of hot cocoa. For something stronger try their SKYY® High Cocktail or one of their beer or wine choices You'll also be able to enjoy the scrumptious cuisine created by Ferran Adrià, a 3 star Michelin chef, while wrapping yourself in their exceptional ambience featuring 360% panoramic views of the world famous Chicago skyline and beyond.

This world famous city has so many unique venues to experience and the discount hotels that will make it an affordable option for any winter vacation. You'll be charmed by the snow covered landscapes, jazz clubs, a variety of winter sports and most of all, getting the chance to skate high in the sky.

Mumbai has an point of Luxury India tours attractions for world travelers. It is an important transit point of India. Mumbai is the Business Capital of India. It is the important financial and communication centre of India. The city consists the largest and the busiest port handling and third largest Stock Exchange in the world. The biggest film industry of India is popularly known as Bollywood, produces sizable number of Hindi movies every year. Mumbai city generates the maximum revenue for India. Mumbai consists of production houses, stock exchange, seaport and offices of major national and international companies. It is also called the Commercial Capital of India. Mumbai is one of the most glamorous and happening cities of.

The group of seven islands was leased to the who offered freedom of business and religion to persons who came and settled here. Initially a few Parsis and Gujarati came but soon a sizeable population began to thrive. Present day Mumbai is a city of migrants consists of peoples from very nook and corner Tours of India. Mumbai is a multi-lingual and multi-cultural society.

Search no further for Mumbai, the lavish and lively island city renowned for its fun lifestyle. We cannot get much livelier than a city of 14 million people. You might be shocked that it's the world's second largest populous city. Marathi is the local language, with Gujarati, Hindi, and English likewise spoken by the majority of inhabitants. Mumbai got its name after the goddess Mumba, and the suffix -ayi means mother in Marathi.

The inhabitants of Mumbai consist of industrialists, artists, directors, producers, film stars, famous lawyers; just to mention a few. The locals are very friendly and good-natured. Food is one of the most important matters to Mumbaikars, with local dishes and chats in the forefront, together with the likes of Thai, Chinese and so on.

Industries are flourishing at a rapid speed here. Mumbai is a fast growing city and has even become India's financial capital. The city is on the west coast facing the Arabian Sea, and is India's busiest harbor in exporting and importing goods. The film industry, known worldwide as Bollywood, has its roots in this city.

Tourists from all over the world come India Tours Mumbai City to enjoy its beauty, though business travelers are rewarded with the wonders of Mumbai on their visits. We have world class hotels in this city with a full range of services. There are also hotels that fit the budget of anyone, so no need to worry about extravagant expenditures. Restaurants, resorts, pubs, bars, and coffee shops are sprinkled all over the city. Mumbai has a striking night life with fun and joy. Mumbai is a prime 24/7 city. Shahrukh Khan, the famous movie actor currently lives in Bandra, and fans can visit his house.

Whether you are moving from somewhere else in Australia to the city lights of Sydney, or if you are just planning to make the most of summer in Sydney at Bondi, or maybe you are even permanently migrating from overseas. One of the first things you will naturally need to do upon arrival, even before arriving if you can, is to find somewhere to live. Here are some tips around buying, renting, and ideal location to help make the process smoother for you.

1.      Buying a home?

If Sydney is, as far as you are concerned, your preferred long-term location, then perhaps you should look into buying your own home rather than searching for a rental.

There are plenty of great home-buying opportunities in Sydney, and the luxury of your own place means you can enjoy the freedom of decorating it however you like, maintaining it whenever you need, and of course using it as a Property Investment.

Real estate development software is a tool you should consider using to help you feel confident your chosen house will not only be a great home, but a great investment.

Realestate.com.au or domain.com.au are two great websites from which you can start your home buying search.

2.      Renting?

If you aren’t too sure how long you will be in Sydney, or on the search for your dream house, renting is of course your other option.

There are plenty of rentals available in Sydney, and prices will vary depending on your proximity to the city centre and the size and quality of the home.

Bear in mind most rentals come unfurnished, so if you are in a position where purchasing an entire new set of home furnishings isn’t feasible, you could look into joining an established flat and simply renting out a room or two instead.

Furnished rentals are available, but are typically more expensive and it is worthwhile avoiding these if you are planning to stay for an extended period of time. You can always sell your furniture when you leave if you cannot take it with you.

Great sites to search for rentals include gumtree.com.au (particularly if you are looking for a room/an established flat) or domain.com.au.

If you do happen upon a house that you absolutely wish to call home yet it is for sale, not rent: don’t let the fact that you are not sure how long you will be in Sydney put you off considering the purchase.

You can always turn your home into a rental property later on down the line if you need to. Property valuation software will help you work out whether this would be a worthwhile investment for you.

3.      Location.

Sydney is a large city. When it comes to choosing a suburb, you need to make sure your chosen location works for the life you want to create here.

If you are planning to spend most of your summers at the beach, then living in Bondi or in the Eastern Suburbs will be your best bet. If you want to be within walking distance to the city centre, you’ll need to be prepared for either apartment or townhouse living.
 
The public transport in Sydney is reliable, so as long as you are close to a train station or on a popular bus route, you needn’t worry too much about this when choosing a location. In fact you will probably find that if you work in the CBD, it will be a lot easier (and cheaper) to avoid driving in on weekday mornings.

When it comes to travelling through NSW, so may tourists simply stick to the coast. After all, whether you’re on a Port Macquarie holiday, a South Coast fishing adventure or a Byron Bay escape, the East Coast of Australia is where it’s at. Having said this, there are a range of places in inland NSW that deserve a second glance; places where country charm and simple living are still alive and well, and where the history of Australia can be felt. Here, we profile a few of the best spots to explore in inland NSW, from country towns with heart to beautiful landscapes that will have you reaching for the camera every five minutes.

The Hunter Valley

About an hour inland from Newcastle lies the breathtaking Hunter Valley, famous for it’s incredible wines and world class produce. The Hunter Valley is famous for its Semillon, the only Semillon in the world that can be enjoyed straight away (up to 18months after it’s bottled) or saved for over 6 years and allowed to mellow into a far more complex flavour. It’s not just wine that can be enjoyed here, however—the surrounding countryside is ripe for bushwalking and bird watching, with a number of luxury B&Bs and hotels to make you feel spoiled!

Southern Highlands

Located between Canberra and Sydney, the Southern Highlands area of NSW is one of the most picturesque places to spend a few days. Towns such as Bowral, Moss Vale and Berrima have embraced the ‘quaint countryside’ motif, and while they all operate primarily as agricultural regions, the produce coming out of some of these places is so good that it has fostered a thriving gourmand scene. Add to this rolling hills, antique shops, rustic country pubs and an annual flower show that lights up the entire region and you’ve got a tailor-made escape from city living.

Lightening Ridge

Way out west in Country NSW is Lightening Ridge, famous for its history as a mining town. It’s not gold or coal or nickel that is mined here, however, but the elusive black opal, a gemstone as enigmatic and beautiful as the town itself. Covered in a layer of red dust and at the mercy of the hot, dry, sun, Lightening Ridge may not at first appear to be a tourist hub. Listening to the stories of the townsfolk, however, and learning about the rich Indigenous history of the region allows visitors a rare and unique perspective on the way small towns in Outback Australia operate.

Inverell

The definition of country NSW, Inverell is a farming community from way back. Its colonial history still colours the architecture of the town, and with a stunning location on the banks of the Macintyre River, fishing is a favoured pastime here. The Gaelic meaning of the name ‘Inverell’ is ‘meeting place of the swans’, and after enjoying a riverside picnic in the crisp summer sunshine, you’ll certainly know why. If this isn’t enough to have you booking your Inverell accommodation already, we should tell you that Inverell also has a gemstone history, so you can try your hand at fossicking while you’re here, or simply relax and let the sounds of the country wash away all that city angst.

No matter where you are in the world, backpacking is great fun, whether on your own or with a friend or partner. But along the way, you may find that you are running low on funds or that you just want a little bit of extra cash to live it up. Whether you’re in a Sydney hostel or a backpacking lodge in Western Australia, there are lots of casual, backpacking jobs that you can take on, both in the cities and in rural areas. So if you are stuck for a bit of dosh or you’re just keen to get some work experience abroad, here are a few job ideas to keep you motivated – and cashed up!

Bar Work

If you have previous bar experience, a license to serve alcohol or even waitering experience, working in a bar, cafe or restaurant is a great way to increase your cash. It’s casual, which means you can make your own hours and if it’s located near to where you live, it can be as easy as pie (particularly if you live in some Sydney share accommodation near the beach!). It’s also a fun way to meet locals and find out more about the city you’re in.  If you’re looking for something more remote, a bar outside of the major city areas is also a great way to work while seeing the country.

Fruit Picking

As if anything could be easier than picking fruit! If you’re keen to experience the more rural areas of Australia, fruit picking has many perks – it means you spend your work days outdoors, in the sun and fresh air, you get to meet new people, you stay on your feet (to keep you fit) and you get to see some of Australia’s best scenic areas.  If you’re looking for something a little more “physically challenging,” working on a farm or a cattle station is also a good option and it’s a great way to learn what Australian country life is really like!

Oyster Pearling

Oyster, what?! Oyster Pearling is a booming trade in Australia and many travelers from all over the world take on jobs as Oyster Pearlers because it gives them the opportunity to travel and work on the ocean. Pearling work is mainly situated in Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory and is at its peak from April to October each year. Be ready for early mornings and lots of hard work, but if you love boats and being out on the ocean (you can go fishing, swimming and see marine life in your time off!) consider earning some money through pearling. 

Tour Guide

If you’re based in a major city and have some tourism experience, being a Tour Guide is a wonderful and career-widening role where you’ll get to learn all about the city’s historical niches and impart your knowledge and passion onto others. Your English-speaking skills need to be up to scratch for this one, as does your entertaining skills and your enthusiasm! Tour Guiding is also great for casual work and you can search for guide jobs that are only based in the daytime or at nights or on weekends.

Charity Promotions

Promoting a charity for work is rewarding, fun and most of all – challenging! Lots of Charities will hire backpackers and travelers for casual and part-time roles to promote their charity to the general public. You usually need to be bubbly, highly motivated and of course, you need to love talking and interacting with people. Most of these jobs will pay by the day or week and if it’s commission based (and you’re good at your job) you can make a fair bit of cash.

Accommodation: Phuket Old Town Hostel 

To make reservations: +66 076258 27

       We spent two days and one night in Phuket as we transitioned to and from the beaches and 

islands further away. When I had told people that we would be going to Phuket, many people 

questioned why, as the beaches in Patong and the islands off the coast are much more well-known as 

tourist destinations. Although Phuket was not our final destination, we found our stay to be a cultural 

experience that we did not get in the more touristy areas.

       We spent the night at a great backpacker: Phuket Old Town Hostel in – you guessed it – Old 

Town Phuket. It cost 580 THB ($19) for a standard twin with A/C. This was a steal for being in peak 

season – clean, big, hot water, complimentary breakfast. We came after hours, and the staff was very 

accommodating in getting us set up. The women who work there were very friendly and helpful despite 

a small language barrier.  At one point, they went out of their way to help us call the travel agency that 

we booked our boat transportation with. Phuket Old Town Hostel sits in the best part of Phuket for 

exploring and eating at nearby Thai restaurants. 

       We had booked our bus and boat transportation out of Phuket to Ko Phi Phi through a travel 

agency that we got in contact with through our taxi driver from the airport when we arrived. It seems 

that there are many companies who offer services like this making it very easy to find transportation to 

any of the nearby destinations. If you do end up using a travel agent to very painlessly book 

transportation, we recommend making sure the people you are speaking with are registered as a 

company as a means of insuring you’re not getting ripped off. We found Thailand to be a very fair and 

honest place, but it’s always good to check. A large van full of other foreigners picked us up at the hostel 

the next morning (also a common scene in Phuket), and it was a seamless 2 hour boat ride to Ko Phi Phi.

       We did get an opportunity to explore the town on the back end of our trip when we returned to 

Phuket. We walked up and down the streets perusing through shops getting a different, less touristy 

glimpse into urban southern Thai culture. Keep your eyes peeled for lady-men, Thai pancakes, and 

souvenirs.  Food seems to be much cheaper in Phuket than in the resort areas. A big lunch with multiple 

drinks cost us 200 THB. There are plenty of markets to explore and scooters to rent. I would have 

wanted to spend one more day in Phuket (2 nights, 2 nights seems perfect) to get a good feel for it. I 

think there is a lot here culturally we did not have time to see. I'm glad we got a more realistic view of 

what less touristy Thailand is like.

Firstly, welcome to your new life in Oz! You’ve just moved into an apartment in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth or Canberra, you’ve decorated it as best you can and you’re here for the long haul – or at least for a couple of weeks. But something’s still not quite right, because no matter what you do, your serviced apartment still doesn’t feel like home. If so, maybe it’s because you haven’t spent enough time here? Moving to a new city is often exciting, but to really make your apartment feel like home – you have to treat it like a home! Here are some suggestions that will hopefully get you on the right track: 

Have a Movie Night – Haven’t done this a while? That’s probably because Australia is such an exciting place, with much to see and do, but spending a night indoors can be great for the mind, body and soul. It’s time to have a rest, so why not grab a DVD, put out the wine, beers, cheese and crackers and get under your favourite blanket for a night in front of movies. If you can’t manage to rent one, see if you can find something good on TV and just enjoy the couch time.

Cook dinner – Serviced apartments will always feature a decently equipped kitchen, the idea being that you’re meant to cook your own meals, since they don’t provide room service. So while you’re here, why not prepare some home cooked meals? Track down a local grocery store for your ingredients and make a point to have dinner at home at least a couple of nights a week. You’ll be surprised how easy (and cheap!) it is and you’ll start to settle into your apartment much more.

Have People Over – Know a few friends where you are? Why not invite them over! Having guests over for lunch, dinner or just a snack or a drink will undoubtedly help you settle in. Most serviced apartments will have a kitchen with a dining table included, which can be great for entertaining friends. If you’ve got a balcony, dragging a few chairs out there in the sunshine while you indulge in a drink and take in the views is great too! 

Take a Bath – Baths are wonderfully indulgent and if your room has one, you can always treat yourself to a relaxing soak after you’ve cooked dinner. Baths help you unwind tension and anxiety and can introduce a whole new level of enjoyment in serviced apartment living.  

Do Your Own Laundry – Ha! You say? As if! Serviced apartments usually come with a laundry … have you used yours yet? If you don’t feel very settled in your apartment, it could be because you’ve been out partying like you’re on holidays. Time to settle in – doing laundry can be bothersome, but at the same time, very therapeutic when it comes to home-based activities. Put some music on and go for life!

Get Local – You’re never going to settle into your apartment if you don’t get to know what’s around you. So, head out and about with your camera, take some photos and you can even indulge in a few more things to help liven up your pad and that you can also take with you to your next place.

Paris may very well be the city of love, but Sydney is certainly a contender when it comes to the city of sex! With all the beautiful people wandering around, checking each other out, romance is high on the agenda here, and if you’re looking for a great way to set the mood, we’ve got a few tips to help you out! Flowersand chocolates are great ways to grab someone’s attention, but the best way to move things to the next level is to show someone how much fun you can be—something made all the more easy if you know your way around this vibrant city! Here are four ways to woo someone in Sydney…good luck!

 
The Great Outdoors

Sydney is known as being one of the most beautiful cities in the world, but it’s not the architecture alone that makes it so! Much of Sydney’s beauty comes from its natural surroundings; the beaches, the national parks, the green expanses and the stunning natural harbour. There’s nothing more invigorating that the Sydney sun on a summer’s day, so what are you waiting for? Get the object of your affections outside and soak up the smells and sights of Sydney.

Picnics

Extending this theory that the Sydney outdoors are a little bit of an aphrodisiac, why not capitalise on that with a romantic picnic for you and your par amour? The food scene in Sydney is legendary throughout the country, and you won’t be short of quality fresh produce to make a picnic. Pack some cheeses, fresh prawns and a bottle of bubbly and watch the world float by as you spot cloud-shapes and whisper sweet nothings.

Quirky Sydney

Sure, there is a range of national treasures at your fingertips in Sydney, but often the best dates are the ones that get you a little out of your comfort zone. Instead of sticking with the age-old dinner and a movie formula, why not try something a bit more fun and do a ghost tour and pub crawl of The Rocks? If the living dead aren’t exactly your cup of tea for a hot date, then why not try something a little more upbeat but equally whimsical—like the Moonlight Cinema in summer time? Thinking a little outside the box will show how much fun you can be, and if you’re trying to make a good impression, fun is definitely a good place to start!

Classic Elegance

Sydney’s wonders are many, but there are a few experiences that really set it apart. Stunning Sydney Harbour is the centerpiece to the whole city and it provides a breathtaking backdrop for a range of activities. Sydney Harbour cruises are a great way to take in its beauty, and perhaps even take in a meal or a few cocktails at the same time! If you’re not quite confident on your sea legs yet, there are plenty of great bars and restaurants around the harbour where romance is high on the agenda.

Sydney is a fast-paced, fun city where people are constantly meeting and falling in love…and lust. Whether you’re looking to impress on a hot date or trying to move the relationship to the next level, Sydney is the perfect backdrop, as long as you know where to go!