Domestic Travel

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Readers response: What advice would you give someone visiting Australia?

<p>We asked our readers what advice they would give to someone travelling to Australia, including where tourists need to see and what hidden gems cannot be missed. Here's what they said. </p> <p><strong>Peggy Rice</strong> - Respect our rules, the outback needs to be researched, swim between flags, don't swim with crocodiles. It's the best country in the world, let's keep it that way. Also do yourself a favour and put Tasmania on your list of beauty.</p> <p><strong>Kay L Bayly</strong> - Number 1 advice! Check distances between desired destinations. It is a much bigger country than most people understand.</p> <p><strong>Michael Pender</strong> - Bring a sense of humour.</p> <p><strong>Toni Stewart</strong> - You will need a year at least to see all the different areas from desert, scrub, rainforest, cities, beaches, country side fabulous little towns and lots of festivals.</p> <p><strong>Maureen Prince</strong> - We don’t have Kangaroos running the streets. Koalas are not in everybody's back yard trees. Whilst we do have snakes you’d be very unfortunate if you were to come across a venomous one. We don’t all go around saying “Good day mate”. Our scenery is incredible. Our food is superb and, best of all, we have good friends who do say “Good day mate”.</p> <p><strong>Tina Shaw</strong> - Leave preconceptions at customs. See who we are and you'll have a fantastic time.</p> <p><strong>Dianne Savage</strong> - Put Tasmania on your must do list.</p> <p><strong>Margaret Higgs</strong> - Use sunscreen, wear a hat, drink lots of fluids.</p> <p><strong>Cheryl Anne</strong> - Don't assume you can cover the whole country in 6 weeks.</p> <p><strong>Sarah Hayse-Gregson</strong> - Obey the beach culture. The flags, lifesavers are there for a reason. If a sign says, “beach closed” there’s no one to assist you if you get into difficulty. Our lifesavers are volunteers, don’t forget that. They give up their free time to monitor the beaches and are highly trained. Never turn your back to the sea.</p> <p><strong>Ann Lusby</strong> - Watch out for drop bears.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p>

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Readers response: Have you ever seen or met a member of the royal family during one of their visits?

<p>When the royal family make one of their special, dedicated visits to Australia, some royal fans are lucky enough to catch a glimpse, or even have an interaction with them. </p> <p>We asked our readers if they have ever seen or met a member of the royal family, and the response was overwhelming. Here's what they said. </p> <p><strong>Mike Rogerson</strong> - I saw the Queen and Prince Phillip on the Princes Highway at Blakehurst, NSW. They were on their way to Wollongong, NSW. We were a group of Blakehurst primary school children on the side of the road in 1954. I was eight at the time.</p> <p><strong>Lorraine Strand</strong> - First saw the Queen when the country school kids travelled by train to Adelaide. Then again in Darwin, when she was visiting houses built after Cyclone Tracy. On a more recent visit by the royals, my husband and I attended the same St Paul’s Anglican Church Service in Canberra as the Queen and Prince Phillip.</p> <p><strong>Annette Maree</strong> - I saw the Queen when she was driven past my house in the 1960’s. She was stunning. I clearly remember her wave, her smile, and her “peaches and cream” complexion. It was one of those flashbulb moments that stays in your mind forever.</p> <p><strong>Glenda Grange</strong> - Yes in 1983 I saw Diana and Charles. They attended a royal command performance in Melbourne. I received a formal gilt edge invitation and was one person away from them. I was invited as a bush fire victim of Ash Wednesday.</p> <p><strong>Elaine Smith</strong> - I haven’t but my mum and grandpa did, in 1954 when she came to our small country town of Red Cliffs, VIC. My grandpa and mum were on a special platform with aged residents of country towns, even got to shake hands with her. I was in the crowd with my girl guide group.</p> <p><strong>Gary Johnson</strong> - 1970 when I was in first year high school we went to Perth airport to see Prince Phillip arrive. I had a school blazer on and Prince Phillip came over and asked what school I was from. If it wasn't for my mum forcing me to wear it, I wouldn't have that great memory.</p> <p><strong>Janice Yvonne Colman</strong> - Not in Australia, but in the UK when they passed by our village on way to a county close by. My brother &amp; I got the royal waves as we stood on the side of the road! We were quite thrilled as we were only 14 &amp; 12 at the time.</p> <p><strong>Jean Bryant</strong> - I saw Princess Margaret back in the 50's when she visited a British Air Force base in Germany.</p> <p><strong>Ian Hewitt</strong> - Yes! At NSW Government house in 1992. It was an honour to us to personally meet their majesties.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p>

Domestic Travel

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Amateur photographer captures once-in-a-lifetime photo

<p>An Aussie photographer has captured her favourite photo "of all time", with thousands on social media praising her lucky timing. </p> <p>Chloe Sirach, who decided to try her hand at amateur photography, traversed down the cliffs near Lennox Head point, 20 kilometres south from Byron Bay, to "get some practice in and have a bit of fun" towards the end of June. </p> <p>However, what started as a relaxed day of "clicking the shutter" of her camera has now catapulted her work after she captured a large whale breaching the waves behind surfers at sunrise.</p> <p>"I lined up my shot with the surfers in the foreground... I then managed to capture the moment that everyone is now seeing all over their social media feeds," Sirach told <em><a href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/lucky-timing-sees-aussie-photographer-capture-favourite-picture-of-all-time-005429099.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yahoo News</a></em>. "I was ecstatic and knew I'd gotten the shot."</p> <p>She explained she was absolutely delighted with the image and believes the picture "truly encapsulates the beauty of the area that I live in."</p> <p>Australia's east coast waters are notorious for humpback whales, who travel thousands of kilometres up and down the from antarctic waters, where they feed during the summer, to warmer waters where they breed during winter. </p> <p>The northern migration occurs between early May and August, before mothers and calves will begin their southern migration around late September and October.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram</em></p>

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"Unidentified life form" found off New Zealand coast

<p>Ah, the deep sea, where the mysteries of the ocean lurk in the shadows, waiting to be discovered by intrepid marine scientists armed with nets, trawls and a healthy dose of confusion...</p> <p>Recently, a team of brave souls embarked on a journey off the coast of New Zealand, armed with curiosity and a fervent desire to find Nemo's distant relatives. What they found, however, was not just Nemo's cousins – but a veritable treasure trove of potential new species. Or at least, they think so.</p> <p>In a saga that could rival any aquatic adventure film, the scientists stumbled upon approximately 100 potential new species, including one particularly enigmatic life form that has left them scratching their heads in bewilderment.</p> <p>Initially mistaking it for a sea star – or perhaps a particularly flamboyant sea cucumber – they now suspect it might be a deep-sea coral. Or a cosmic jellyfish. Or a lost prop from a sci-fi movie. The possibilities are as endless as the ocean itself.</p> <p>Dr Michela Mitchell, a taxonomist with a penchant for the dramatic, declared it could be "a whole new group outside of the octocoral." Because why settle for identifying just one species when you can potentially create an entire taxonomic order?</p> <p>Dr Daniel Moore, another member of the expedition and self-proclaimed captain of the confusion ship, confessed, "We can't even describe it to family." One can only imagine the perplexed expressions at family gatherings as they attempt to explain their latest discovery: "Well, it's sort of like a sponge, but not really. And it might have tentacles. Or wings. We're not entirely sure."</p> <p>Their research vessel, the <em>Tangaroa</em>, became a floating laboratory of befuddlement as they collected nearly 1,800 samples from the abyssal depths. Armed with modified sleds and a healthy dose of optimism, they trawled the ocean floor, hoping to snag the elusive creatures that lurked below.</p> <p>"It was true exploration, very exciting," Dr Moore boasted, his enthusiasm undiminished by the fact that they still couldn't <em>definitively</em> identify half of what they'd found.</p> <p>Among their discoveries was a new species of fish, dubbed the "eelpout", which was "instantly recognised as being different to the others." Because, apparently, it had a flair for the dramatic and refused to conform to traditional fish norms.</p> <p>In a surprising revelation, Dr Moore admitted, "Finding new vertebrates is rare." One can only assume that the eelpout, upon hearing this declaration, puffed out its chest (or whatever passes for a chest in fish anatomy) and proclaimed itself the king of the ocean.</p> <p>As the expedition came to a close, the scientists reflected on the vastness of the ocean and the infinitesimal fraction of its inhabitants they had encountered. With only 240,000 species identified out of an estimated 2.2 million, they realised they had barely scratched the surface. Or, in this case, the sea floor.</p> <p>And so, armed with their nets, their sleds, and their unshakeable sense of optimism, the intrepid scientists set sail once more, ready to delve deeper into the mysteries of the ocean and perhaps stumble upon another baffling creature that defies explanation. After all, what's science without a little bit of confusion?</p> <p><em>Image: Ocean-Census | NIWA</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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10 tips for planning a staycation that’s better than an overseas trip

<p>We spent so much of our lives daydreaming to be somewhere else that sometimes we lose sight of how amazing our surrounds actually are! Of course it’s nice to venture overseas, but sometimes it’s equally as nice to take a moment to smell the roses.</p> <p><strong>Here are 10 tips to help you get the most out of your staycation:</strong></p> <p><strong>1. Plan ahead </strong></p> <p>Not having a clear idea of what you’re actually going to do on the day is the death knell of any staycation. So do some research and figure out some interesting activities to try in your city. A little bit of planning ahead can go a long way.</p> <p><strong>2. Find timely events</strong></p> <p>Is there a festival you’ve always wanted to go to but never managed to find the time? Well, a staycation is the perfect opportunity to try this. Staycations are pretty much designed for this sort of experience, so enjoy!</p> <p><strong>3. Don’t go it alone</strong></p> <p>A staycation is also a great opportunity to catch up with some old friends (or even make new ones) so make sure you invite some other people along.</p> <p><strong>4. Set a budget</strong></p> <p>Even though you’re not really travelling anywhere, it makes sense to set a weekly budget to make sure you’re not spending too much. Or if that seems like a bit too much, even just set out a basic daily limit. Also, take advantage of free regular events in your own city.</p> <p><strong>5. Check the weather before you head out</strong></p> <p>There’s nothing worse than getting rained on without an umbrella. Check the forecasts and make sure the weather suits your staycation.</p> <p><strong>6. Say yes as much as you can</strong></p> <p>We spend so much of our lives saying no, but when you’re on a staycation this is your opportunity to say yes as much as possible. Be spontaneous and fun!</p> <p><strong>7. Ice cream and junk food</strong></p> <p>Well you are on vacation after all! This is a great opportunity to take advantage of those foods you avoid on a weekly basis, even if your belt ends up fitting to a different notch.</p> <p><strong>8. Mix up your routine</strong></p> <p>Sleep in, stay out late and throw your routine out the window. Enjoy your city for what it is and make sure you take advantage of everything.</p> <p><strong>9. Be silly</strong></p> <p>Don’t take yourself too seriously when you’re on a staycation and make sure you spend plenty of time enjoying the company of those that are nearest and dearest.</p> <p><strong>10. Reward yourself</strong></p> <p>While you’re technically not travelling everywhere, staycations still require a lot of work, so make sure you reward yourself with a glass of wine.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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4 caravan facts you never knew

<p dir="ltr">Caravans have come a long way since their humble beginnings in the 13th century, with the 20th century seeing them finally used for holidays!</p> <p dir="ltr">They’re increasing in popularity as more people want the caravan experience. </p> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong>1. Internet connection</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Some would simply turn away at the thought of no WI-FI, but with the rapid evolution of technology comes the evolution of caravan modernity.</p> <p dir="ltr">You won’t be cut off from the world on your caravanning holiday as plenty of parks offer 4G connection. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>2. Pet-friendly</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">A lot of people will refrain from holidaying if they can’t bring their beloved furry friend but a lot of them are now dog-friendly, so you don’t have to leave your best bud behind.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>3. Custom-built</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Caravans can be tailored to suit your taste! If you own your own, of course, run rampant with the decorations! But a lot of caravan parks will allow you to personalise your home away from home.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>4. The future </strong></p> <p dir="ltr">With technology only further developing, it is certainly going to continue impacting the caravanning world. </p> <p dir="ltr">Some believe there might be fingerprint entry one day, and there are possibilities of an aquatic caravan, where it will be liveable on water and land!</p> <p dir="ltr">See the sites from the comfort of your very own caravan. It’s a unique experience, is often less costly, and very accommodating. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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Why you need domestic travel insurance

<p dir="ltr">If you’re travelling domestically then you’ve already eliminated the stress of long flights and airport hold-ups. But just like travelling internationally, it’s important to be insured.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Natural disaster cover</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Most insurers will cover cancellation and amendment claims caused by natural disasters for both international and domestic travel. Cover will vary significantly so check with your insurer to see if you’re eligible to claim.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Flight cancellation cover</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">While travel insurance doesn’t always cover cancellations and delays - if there is a natural disaster preventing the plane from taking off, then travel insurance will likely cover it.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Rental car cover</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Domestic travel insurance policies usually cover hire-car excess. Insurance can be an affordable alternative that covers more than just the care hire. </p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">If you’re involved in an accident in your rental car, you’ll likely have to pay the car-hire company for the damages upfront, and then claim them back from your insurer.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Travel insurance is charged per person, so if there is more than one driver, you will need insurance for each person.</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Baggage cover</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Domestic travel insurance will cover your baggage, with the exception of some ‘cancellation only’ policies. Make sure you don’t already have ‘portable contents’ cover for specified items under your home contents insurance. If you want to cover expensive items you regularly leave the house with, such as a phone or laptop, you should ensure you’re covered all the time.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Credit card insurance</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Credit card insurance typically won’t apply to domestic travel, though some platinum cards can reimburse expenses as a result of flight delays and missed connections. </p> <p dir="ltr">Pro tip: Inform your bank that you will be travelling because they may detect fraudulent activity if you're making frequent purchases far away from home. </p> <p><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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The Long and Winding Road

<p>Road-trip preparedness. If you're planning on taking a road-trip for your next holiday, think beyond your standard checklist. Snacks, music and emergency kits are necessities, but pre-planning and forget-them-not extras will make for smoother trails ahead.</p> <p><span style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif, Arial; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #444444; background-color: #ffffff;">Safety</span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif, Arial; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;"> Don’t wait until the last minute to have your car tuned up if you’re taking your own. Many a trip has been delayed or cancelled due to maintenance issues. If you haven’t already got roadside assistance, sign up with your insurer.</span></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif, Arial; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #444444; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The right ride</span> Is your vehicle ideal for your trip? For maximum convenience, find one to match your itinerary. Opt for a fuel-efficient car for longer trips or get an all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive if you’re planning to explore back roads.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif, Arial; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #444444; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Insurance</span> If you already own a vehicle but are choosing to rent another for the trip, talk to your insurance provider about adding to your plan if you’re not already covered.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif, Arial; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #444444; background-color: #ffffff; text-align: center;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">PACK SMART</span></p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif, Arial; margin: 0px 0px 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #444444; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">A road atlas</span> You’ll probably bring a smartphone or GPS unit, but electronics can get lost or break down, and there are always some spots where you can’t get a signal. Road atlases never fail.</p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif, Arial; margin: 0px 0px 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #444444; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Stand-up comedy</span> When road trips don’t go as planned, moments of levity are scarce. Funny CDs or podcasts from your favourite comedian will release tension.</p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif, Arial; margin: 0px 0px 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #444444; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Refreshers</span> Wet wipes, travel-size deodorant and a small spritzer bottle full of water can bridge the gap until your next shower.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif, Arial; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #444444; background-color: #ffffff;"> </p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif, Arial; margin: 0px 0px 20px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #444444; background-color: #ffffff;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Sports equipment</span> A Frisbee, skipping ropes or bocce balls will motivate you to take regular breaks and get your blood flowing.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/travel/road-trips/long-winding-road" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest.</a></em></p>

Domestic Travel

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The ultimate travel guide for film fanatics

<p>More often than not, the stunning landscapes and sweeping vistas in film and television leave audiences craving a trip to fantasy worlds, with little to no idea how to get there.</p> <p>And for the talented team over at SetJetters, this was a problem they had to tackle. From their efforts came “the best way to search for, navigate to, and share your trips to the great film and television locations around the world”, all with their handy dandy “handheld travel guide”.</p> <p>SetJetters is a free app that allows people all across the globe to find the real-world locations where some of their favourite moments from the screen were filmed, and even offers them the opportunity to upload their own images and share their thoughts with fellow film fanatics. </p> <p>“Whether you’re a location geek out in the field or a film buff binge-watching at home and wondering where a great scene was filmed, SetJetters will not only help you find the answer – but also help you get to the location and right into the action,” SetJetters’ official Instagram account explained in a post. </p> <p>“Whether it’s close to home or across the globe, SetJetters is designed to be your handheld travel guide to the most exciting film locations, from the biggest studio franchises – like <em>Lord of the Rings</em>, <em>Star Wars</em>, <em>Game of Thrones</em>, and <em>Mission: Impossible</em> – to smaller independent films and classics.”</p> <p>And as Erik Nachtriev - a former filmmaker and co-founder of SetJetters - explained to Andrew Bucklow on the <em>I’ve Got News For You </em>podcast, the idea came about for the group during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. And they have no intentions of slowing down any time soon, with so much more still to be added to their passion project. </p> <p>“We have 91,000 movies, but we only have 6000 published, so you can see we have a lot of work to do as far as movies [go],” he said. </p> <p>“We actually intend to have movies in the hundreds of thousands eventually.”</p> <p>The team also hope to one day have enough data that they can determine the world’s most popular scenes and locations, something they believe may assist local economies in understanding the impact of big screen tourism in their area. </p> <p>“The biggest scenes, I would say, the craziest people about scenes are Twilight people. And the people who love the movie The Goonies from the ’80s,” he said of their findings so far, before adding that while their app has a global reach, most of its locations are focussed where the app originated - the United States of America.</p> <p>As well as its innovative map, the app also features something it calls the ‘ShotSync camera’, which allows users to place themselves directly into their favourite on-screen scenes.</p> <p>“We find that a lot of users like to take a picture immersing themselves in the scene. They want to be right where their favourite actor stood or inside their favourite scene,” Nachtriev explained. </p> <p>“There’s a really large emotional attachment to the scene and reliving it, so this was a way that we could develop this for them.</p> <p>“You bring up your camera and there’s a slider on your camera that comes up inside the app, and it shows the image of the scene. Whoever is taking the picture can slide the slider back and forth to make it transparent, so you can line it up almost exactly. You can even cosplay with your favourite costume.</p> <p>“Take the picture. It’ll show [it] like how it was in the movie and how it is with you there. A lot of the background changes. </p> <p>“People love that ‘then and now’ kind of thing.”</p> <p><em>Images: setjetters.com, @setjetters / Instagram</em></p>

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Everything You Should Know Before Going Caravanning

<p>If you’re looking for a fun and unique way to see the country, travelling in a caravan or motorhome is an excellent way to go. In a sense, you get to take your house with you, and you can stop anywhere you want along the way. Before you hit the open road, however, it’s a wise idea to make a few preparations. Driving motorhome is different from driving most other vehicles, and being aware of those differences can make your journey safer and more enjoyable. Here are five things to keep in mind before you cruise off into the sunset.</p> <h3>1. Have your vehicle serviced and inspected</h3> <p>No matter what kind of vehicle you’re driving, you need to make sure it is roadworthy before you pull out of your driveway. Whether you own the motorhome or are renting it, always insist on a pre-trip service and full inspection. Once it gets a clean bill of health, you can pack it up and hit the road with confidence. The last thing you want is to have your long-anticipated road trip come to a premature end because of a preventable maintenance issue.</p> <h3>2. Practice driving the motorhome before you hit the road</h3> <p>Chances are you won’t have a lot of problems driving a motorhome on the highway, but navigating smaller streets can be a real challenge in such a large vehicle. Put in plenty of driving practice before you leave home and learn how to use all of your mirrors to determine your position and back the vehicle safely.</p> <h3>3. Consider installing a reversing camera</h3> <p>If your motorhome doesn’t already have one, consider installing a reversing camera. It’s a handy accessory that will make pulling into those tight parking spaces a lot easier and give you additional peace of mind. (Alternatively, if you’re traveling with passengers, you can always ask them to check behind the vehicle before you reverse.)</p> <h3>4. Be aware of handling differences when driving</h3> <p>Driving a motorhome is different from driving a car or even a full-sized utility vehicle, for that matter. The higher centre of gravity means you need to take turns wider, and the large size means you’ll need a bigger turning radius. Again, practicing ahead of time can help you get used to handling such a large vehicle. You will also need to be mindful of the wind speed as you drive. When the winds get strong, it could cause the vehicle to drift unexpectedly. Take a tighter grip on the wheel when it’s windy, and give other drivers more space.</p> <h3>5. Consider forming a convoy!</h3> <p>Chances are you’ll meet other motorhome drivers on your road trip, particularly if you’re traveling down a popular road trip route. If you are all going the same way, consider teaming up with the drivers you meet at campgrounds, local attractions and restaurants, and forming a motorhome convoy. Traveling with other drivers is fun, but it can also enhance your sense of safety: a large convoy of motorhomes will be easier for other drivers to spot.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/travel/camping-caravanning/Everything-You-Should-Know-Before-Going-Caravanning" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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Why it’s so much better to explore your own backyard

<p dir="ltr">Travelling overseas is very enticing. From diving into a new culture and learning their customs, to absorbing and learning a new language, it’s no doubt an incredible experience – but don’t neglect the beauty of your own country. You might be surprised at what you're missing out on right on your own doorstep. Here are just a few simple reasons why thinking local is often the best way to explore.</p> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong>1. It’s cheaper</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Most people are eager to see the world but overseas travel is expensive! You can have your holiday with money left over if you travel locally. </p> <p dir="ltr">You can stay with friends to keep accommodation costs low and since you’re in your own country, you don’t need to worry about taxi drivers ripping you off, or if lunch comes with a hefty price tag as you are already well acquainted with currency and costs.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>2. It’s more eco-friendly </strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Road trip time! Or just shorter flights. Driving or taking shorter flights will reduce your carbon footprint compared to travelling overseas. Driving in particular is a fantastic way of taking in the scenery. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>3. It’s easier</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">You don’t need months to plan a domestic trip, and if your plans change, no worries! Last-minute changes are much easier to handle since you’re already in the country. Travelling locally also allows for far more spontaneity. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>4. It’s a chance to support local enterprise</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Travelling in your own country will help to give your local economy a boost. You’re sure to discover hidden gems and form long-lasting relationships with small businesses, which will only entice you to return for years to come.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>5. It’s never too late to go back</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Coming home from a holiday and realising you haven’t ticked off all the boxes on your itinerary can be disappointing because you don’t know when you’ll have the money or the time to go back! Travelling locally allows for more trips, especially if you drive, so you’ll have the opportunity to go back again and again!</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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Packing tips for domestic travel

<p dir="ltr">Domestic travel can make for some of the best trips. The unseen beauty of your own country might surprise you, so if you’re planning a domestic trip, here are some tips on how to make it easier for yourself.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>1. Luggage</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Get the right suitcase. Travelling domestically often means you won’t need checked luggage and can get away with carry-on bags alone. If you do need to check in baggage, then weigh your bags at home to make sure you won’t be hit with additional fees for weight restrictions.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>2. Carry-on</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">There are a lot of items that are carry-on specific such as medications, e-cigarettes and batteries. These are items you want access to, and if a plane is held up or delayed, you’re stuck without some of your essentials. You should also pack any luxury items such as jewellery, cash and cameras. Invest in luggage locks, even for carry-on, because you’re always better safe than sorry!</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>3. Packing liquids</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">I think most of us are aware that the maximum amount of liquid allowed on the plane is 100mL, so if you have a seven step skincare routine, then make sure to invest in a travel pack to limit the amount of product you have; this includes concealer and foundation. Even if you’ve taken out half of the contents of a bottle, if it’s still inside its original container of 100mL or more, you won’t be able to take it with you. The only exceptions for limits on liquids are medications, vital dietary supplements and essential medical items that may be required during your flight. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>4. Comfort items</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Domestic travel means less time spent on the plane, so you won’t have to find ways to endure an overly uncomfortable flight. Domestic flights aren't equipped with fancy entertainment screens, so it’s a good idea to download a podcast or movie to watch on your phone, laptop or tablet. Noise cancelling headphones are also a good option. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>5. Biosecurity</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Beware of what you’re packing. Different states and territories have their own restrictions when it comes to what you’re allowed to put in your luggage. Make sure you read up on the rules your desired travel destination enforces. Common items that are prohibited include vegetables, some wood products, cut flowers or objects with soil. </p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-c615f8c4-7fff-8390-f7c3-fa2e20ebe36e"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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4 domestic travel tips to help you explore your own backyard, safely

<p dir="ltr">Domestic travel tips incoming! Now that the states have opened up after the pandemic, there’s never been a better time to explore your own backyard.</p> <p dir="ltr">There are plenty of reasons to travel domestically; exploring your own country holds a lot of benefits for the local economy. </p> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong>1. Start with a staycation</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">No matter where you live - stay at a local hotel, even just for a weekend. Take some time to relax and check out some local restaurants, bonus points for supporting small businesses.</p> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong>2. Find ways to get around</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Instead of driving, utilise public transport. You can also try cycling or an e-scooter or simply walk around and see the sites of your own country.</p> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong>3. Be a happy camper</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">When planning a camping trip, call ahead to secure your place. There are different rules applied to different camping grounds, so do your research. </p> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation"><strong>4. Rediscover wine country</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">People connect over food and wine, and this makes vineyards a very popular destination. You can explore the beautiful ground of the vineyard, soak up the sun and enjoy a glass of vino.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credit: Getty</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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The five best books to read by the pool this summer

<p>Australian literature is having a real moment, so here’s our pick of the best Australian novels to soak up with the sun this summer…</p> <p><strong>The Narrow Road to the Deep North, Richard Flanagan</strong></p> <p>It took Tasmanian author Richard Flanagan 12 years to write this Booker Prize-winning novel, and it’s easy to see why.</p> <p>Based on his father’s real-life experience, it’s a beautifully written, haunting read about a Japanese Prisoner of War camp on the Thai-Burma death railway during the Second World War.</p> <p>It focuses on Dorrigo Evans, an Australian surgeon haunted by a love affair with his uncle's young wife two years earlier, struggling to save the men under his command from starvation, cholera, and brutal beatings. </p> <p>At times the novel is harrowing, graphic and disturbing, but is ultimately a story of love in the midst of a cruel war.</p> <p><strong>The Light Between Oceans, M. L Stedman</strong></p> <p>Read this novel. We could just leave it there, to be honest, it’s that good.</p> <p>Hollywood movie rights were recently snapped up so, because books are nearly always better than subsequent films, read it quickly! It has won three prestigious ABIA awards, including their 'Book of the Year', and also won the Indie Awards' 'Book of the Year'.</p> <p> It’s 1926 and Tom Sherbourne is a young lighthouse keeper on a remote island off Western Australia. He and his young wife Isabel live a quiet life, cocooned from the rest of the world.</p> <p>Fatefully soon after suffering devastating miscarriages, a boat washes ashore carrying a dead man and a crying infant.</p> <p>Only years later do they discover the devastating consequences of the decision they made that day - as the baby's real story unfolds.</p> <p>Get your tissues ready. This book will stay with you for life. Promise.</p> <p><strong>The Night Guest, Fiona McFarlane</strong></p> <p>Fiona McFarlane’s debut novel has been shortlisted for the Stella prize and the Miles Franklin Award.</p> <p>One morning Ruth, an elderly widow, wakes thinking a tiger has been in her house in a small coastal town. Later that day a carer, Frida, arrives to look after her. Both Frida and the tiger are here to stay, and neither is what they seem.</p> <p>The Night Guest is a mesmerising novel about love, dependence, and the fear that the things you know best can become the things you're least certain about.</p> <p><strong>Eyrie, Tim Winton</strong></p> <p>Tim Winton’s 25<sup>th</sup> book follows Tom Keely, whose reputation is in ruins, whose marriage is over and career finished. Holed up in a grim high rise, cultivating his newfound isolation, he reluctantly meets a woman from his past and a boy who will change his life.</p> <p>Eyrie is heart-warming and human, and reassures the reader that no matter how low you can feel, life will renew itself and take new paths, whether you want it to or not. </p> <p><strong>The Swan Book, Alexis Wright</strong></p> <p>This is like nothing you’ve ever read before.</p> <p>Set in the future, around the time of Australia’s third centenary, we see Aboriginals still living under the Intervention in the north, in a country fundamentally altered by climate change.</p> <p>The book centres around the life of a mute young woman called Oblivia, the victim of gang-rape by petrol-sniffing youths. We follow her from the displaced community where she lives to her marriage to Warren Finch, the first Aboriginal president of Australia, and her elevation First Lady.</p> <p>Alexis Wright’s previous novel, <em>Carpentaria</em>, was a prize-winning best-seller and The Swan Book has been short-listed for the Miles Franklin Award. </p>

Domestic Travel

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Kiwi firefighters receive rare Aussie honour for heroic efforts

<p dir="ltr">A New Zealand firefighter has been awarded one of Australia’s special service awards for his efforts in fighting bushfires during the summer of 2019 and 2020.</p> <p dir="ltr">Phil Muldoon, Lake Ōkāreka’s chief rural fire officer, was one of 53 firefighters awarded the Australia National Emergency Medal during a recent awards ceremony.</p> <p dir="ltr">Muldoon, who worked 16-hour days fighting fires, said the honour was very humbling.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It’s not what we do it for but it is nice to be recognised, especially from the Australian Government,” Muldoon told <em><a href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/kahu/australia-bush-fires-nz-firefighter-given-rare-and-special-honour/4K7KKB2WRVEHXJKJ7IC5WBFY4I/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NZ Herald</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">He was among a 208-strong contingent of New Zealanders sent to help their Aussie neighbours, including personnel from Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ), the Department of Conservation, forestry company partners, and the New Zealand Defence Force.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">We were proud to see 27 Department of Conservation firefighters awarded the Australia National Emergency Medal last week for their efforts fighting the devastating Australian wildfires during the 2019/2020 black summer. 🎖️<a href="https://t.co/Wh7xVdZQ8g">https://t.co/Wh7xVdZQ8g</a> <a href="https://t.co/vl8iEC9acs">pic.twitter.com/vl8iEC9acs</a></p> <p>— Department of Conservation (@docgovtnz) <a href="https://twitter.com/docgovtnz/status/1591974150008377344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">The majority of those who took part received the award during recent official ceremonies hosted in New Zealand by Australian High Commissioner HE Harinder Sidhu.</p> <p dir="ltr">Muldoon received his award along with 38 firefighters from FENZ, two members of the NZ Army, eight NZ Air Force members, two from the Department of Conservation, and three from forestry company partners.</p> <p dir="ltr">Having been a firefighter for 25 years, Muldoon said fighting the bushfires was his 16th deployment and that firefighters were chosen to deploy based on their skillset.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We went to help their firefighters in Australia who had a tough season. We’re fresh feet on the ground and give them a break,” Muldoon said, adding that the contingent brought New Zealand’s “can-do” attitude with them.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">A great honour to present the Australian National Emergency Medal at Ohakea <a href="https://twitter.com/NZAirForce?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NZAirForce</a> base, and to personally thank members of the <a href="https://twitter.com/NZDefenceForce?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NZDefenceForce</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/FireEmergencyNZ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FireEmergencyNZ</a> for their service to Australia in support of the 2019-20 Australian Bushfires response. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZAirForce?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZAirForce</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Force4NZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Force4NZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/GtTUay8VY6">pic.twitter.com/GtTUay8VY6</a></p> <p>— Harinder Sidhu (@AusHCNZ) <a href="https://twitter.com/AusHCNZ/status/1580682019985854464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Earlier this month, nine firefighters from Northland received the award, including wildfire specialist Rory Renwick.</p> <p dir="ltr">After spending 14 days fighting blazes in remote Australian bush, Renwick said the gratitude expressed through the medal was just “icing on the cake”.</p> <p dir="ltr">"People stopped you on the street to shake your hand and say thank you. It's humbling and pretty amazing," he told <em><a href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/northern-advocate/news/northland-firefighters-awarded-medal-for-efforts-during-australian-bushfires/FIMYEOSD5QQGEYTVSFHIRP34WI/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NZ Herald</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Renwick explained that New Zealand crews were often working in remote areas and tackling large fires.</p> <p dir="ltr">"We were trying to put out the edge of the fire to stop it spreading," he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">"We did anything from patrolling edges [and] dealing with small hotspots to working with aircraft and heavy machinery to slow the fire down and stop it."</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">I was presented with a national emergency <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/medal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#medal</a> Monday night for the 19/20 bushfires here in Australia. <a href="https://t.co/L8il9Eob7P">pic.twitter.com/L8il9Eob7P</a></p> <p>— Craig Chiffers (@cchiffers) <a href="https://twitter.com/cchiffers/status/1569818214888263681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">The award, which was approved by Queen Elizabeth II in 2011, is given to those who performed significant or sustained service during “nationally-significant emergencies”, according to the Governor-General’s <a href="https://www.gg.gov.au/australian-honours-and-awardsnational-emergency-medal/bushfires-2019-20" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">Muldoon, Renwick, and the many others recognised for their efforts during the bushfires will receive a medal with a clasp that reads, “BUSHFIRES 19-20”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Russell Wood, the national commander of FENZ, said the award had never been given to any member of the organisation before.</p> <p dir="ltr">“This is a rare and special honour that the Australian Government has extended to us,” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The bushfires in Australia in 2019/20 were catastrophic and we were glad we could be there to help them.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I am immensely proud of our people, who responded to the call so selflessly and put their time and energy into fighting one of the biggest wildfire disasters of our time.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It was a dangerous environment for everyone to be in, and they showed true Kiwi spirit in their sustained efforts under challenging conditions.</p> <p dir="ltr">“As a nation, we are very proud of our fine firefighters.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Fire and Emergency NZ (Facebook)</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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Like father, like son: Man’s sky-high dreams come true

<p dir="ltr">Having dreamt of being a pilot just like his dad since he was a boy, Luke Schembri’s dream has come true in the sweetest way possible.</p> <p dir="ltr">After becoming a fully-fledged commercial airline pilot, the 23-year-old found out that his first flight from Melbourne to Sydney came with a surprise: his dad, Jetstar captain John, would be joining him on the flight deck for his debut trip.</p> <p dir="ltr">"I freaked out and gave him a quick call and asked him 'how did this happen?'" Luke told <em><a href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/son-to-fly-first-commercial-flight-alongside-dad-copilot/9f89ad30-e337-4686-beaa-bfaadbb85453" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9News</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">"He told me the story, that he's been planning it for three months."</p> <p dir="ltr">Luke’s dream of flying with his dad and following in his footsteps has been a long time coming, with the signs appearing from the start according to John.</p> <p dir="ltr">"When kids like something, you can tell, because their eyes light up when we'd be in the backyard and the aeroplane would fly over," John said.</p> <p dir="ltr">"I knew then that Luke had the bug, because I still do that."</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-dc402d8f-7fff-e17a-ec25-48492b64ba84"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">At the age of 14, Luke joined the Air Force Cadets, which led him to receiving a cadetship with Jetstar.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/luke-schembri1.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Luke Schembri’s dream of flying a plane with his pilot father has come true, and it’s been a long time coming. Images: Facebook</em></p> <p dir="ltr">With his dream in reach, Luke hit a major snag: the COVID-19 pandemic.</p> <p dir="ltr">Luke was stood-down during the pandemic and worked at Coles as a shelf stacker.</p> <p dir="ltr">Luckily, the aviation enthusiast was able to return to work at Jetstar, where he continued training and became a pilot.</p> <p dir="ltr">His first flight was a success, with John giving his son five stars and saying that he was “100 percent” proud.</p> <p dir="ltr">"[He] picked me up on a few things I missed. He did a really good job," John said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“[I] don't need to add any more that, very proud, how could you not be?" </p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-60b14169-7fff-002c-0cce-2313d3455153"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Nine</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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Top 10 spooky stays for those Halloween weekend road trips

<p>It's the spookiest time of year, and there are plenty of ghoulish places to discover around Australia. To help you plan your next spooky road trip, Toyota Australia has compiled a frightful list of ten top stays for a Halloween-themed road trip like no other.</p> <p><strong>1. <a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.montecristo.com.au/__;!!IHJ3XrWN4X8!Ngc0COUlXfvAPcWa76VI_T27Ce9juwK-Y7cUZh4HcjW0O7Lv9maA12KJkUIyW9mqjnZreRPe2Jy4IZ1YHy1xZb_k4JCv$" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Monte Cristo Homestead</a>, Junee NSW</strong></p> <p><strong><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/monte-cristo-homestead2.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></strong></p> <p><em>Images: Monte Cristo Homestead (Facebook)</em></p> <p>Dubbed “Australia’s most haunted homestead”, Monte Cristo – only two-and-a-half hours’ drive from Canberra – is said to be haunted by at least ten ghosts, most significantly its original owners Christopher and Elizabeth Crawley. Christopher still haunts the room in which he passed, as kind a spirit as he was in life – Elizabeth, however, is not so nice; if she doesn’t like you, she’ll cause a chill across your skin to scare you off. Don’t believe us? For the thrill seekers and sceptics out there, Monte Cristo offers accommodation for you to sleep – or stare at the ceiling wide awake in terror all night.</p> <p><strong>2. </strong> <a style="text-align: center;" href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.georgeiv.com.au/accommodation/__;!!IHJ3XrWN4X8!Ngc0COUlXfvAPcWa76VI_T27Ce9juwK-Y7cUZh4HcjW0O7Lv9maA12KJkUIyW9mqjnZreRPe2Jy4IZ1YHy1xZYG9SB7T$"><strong>George IV Inn</strong></a><strong style="text-align: center;">, Picton NSW</strong></p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/george-iv-inn.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p><em>Images: George IV Inn (Facebook)</em></p> <p><span style="text-align: center;">If you’re game, how about a night or two at the century-old George IV hotel in Picton? The eerily stripped-back interior couldn’t be more fitting for accommodation located in what is considered Australia’s most haunted town. Picton in NSW – an hour’s drive from Sydney – is host to a variety of ghostly locations. If you dare, venture down to the Redbank Range Railway tunnel, where it is claimed the spirit of Emily Bollard, who was killed by a train in 1916 – stay on the lookout for a pale, faceless figure of a woman. That’s not all - according to residents, the cries of babies can be heard from Picton’s now-defunct Old Maternity Hospital, three ghosts haunt the Wollondilly Shire Hall, and the jukebox has been known to start playing while unplugged at the Imperial Hotel.</span></p> <p><strong><span style="text-align: center;">3. </span></strong><a style="text-align: center;" href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.qstation.com.au/__;!!IHJ3XrWN4X8!Ngc0COUlXfvAPcWa76VI_T27Ce9juwK-Y7cUZh4HcjW0O7Lv9maA12KJkUIyW9mqjnZreRPe2Jy4IZ1YHy1xZemwu4JL$"><strong>Quarantine Station</strong></a><strong style="text-align: center;">, Manly NSW</strong></p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/quarantine-station.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p><em>Images: Quarantine Station Ghost Tours (Facebook)</em></p> <p>Q Station in Manly – only half an hour’s drive from the Sydney CBD – is a stunning venue with accommodation ranging from guest lounges, suites, and cottages, and multiple on-site harborside fine dining restaurants and bars. Yet, the station also has a dark history as a quarantine station for the unwell, first operating over 150 years ago and only closing in 1984, where it has since been the site of almost 600 deaths. As a result, the place is allegedly riddled with ghosts – that’s why Q Station also offers a range of ghost tours around the property, including through the onsite cemetery and morgue.</p> <p><strong>4. </strong><a style="text-align: center;" href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.jenolancaves.org.au/__;!!IHJ3XrWN4X8!Ngc0COUlXfvAPcWa76VI_T27Ce9juwK-Y7cUZh4HcjW0O7Lv9maA12KJkUIyW9mqjnZreRPe2Jy4IZ1YHy1xZac_sEC_$"><strong>Caves House Hotel</strong></a><strong style="text-align: center;">, Blue Mountains NSW</strong></p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/caves-house-hotel.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p><em>Image: Caves House Hotel (Facebook)</em></p> <p>Described on its website as a “romantic and relaxing place to stay overnight”, you’d be forgiven for thinking otherwise if you knew the haunted history of the Jenolan Caves. From disembodied screams and unexplained shoulder taps within the caves to sightings of ghostly arms and the sounds of playing children deep into the night in Caves House, the official website has been sure to <a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.jenolancaves.org.au/about/blog/spinechilling-stories-from-the-underworld/__;!!IHJ3XrWN4X8!Ngc0COUlXfvAPcWa76VI_T27Ce9juwK-Y7cUZh4HcjW0O7Lv9maA12KJkUIyW9mqjnZreRPe2Jy4IZ1YHy1xZVr10l2I$">document</a> any stories and sightings of spirits and spectres of those brave enough to stay the night in their stunning – but spooky – Blue Mountains lodgings, a three hour’s drive from Sydney.</p> <p><strong>5. </strong><a style="text-align: center;" href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.booking.com/hotel/au/castlemaine-gardens-luxury-safari-tents.en-gb.html?aid=356980&label=gog235jc-1DCAsoD0InY2FzdGxlbWFpbmUtZ2FyZGVucy1sdXh1cnktc2FmYXJpLXRlbnRzSDNYA2gPiAEBmAEJuAEXyAEM2AED6AEBiAIBqAIDuALvvsqZBsACAdICJGM1YWMzNWExLWNmOWMtNDMwZS04MDg5LWUwZjM3ZjIyMzQ4ONgCBOACAQ&sid=7840f168f5ccfb8a42fa50883655b5f2&dist=0&group_adults=2&group_children=0&keep_landing=1&no_rooms=1&sb_price_type=total&type=total&__;!!IHJ3XrWN4X8!Ngc0COUlXfvAPcWa76VI_T27Ce9juwK-Y7cUZh4HcjW0O7Lv9maA12KJkUIyW9mqjnZreRPe2Jy4IZ1YHy1xZaDDH6o3$"><strong>Castlemaine Gardens Luxury Safari Tents</strong></a><strong style="text-align: center;">, Castlemaine VIC</strong></p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/castlemaine-gardens.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p><em>Image: </em><em>BIG4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park (Facebook)</em></p> <p>Glamp in style at the Castlemaine Gardens Luxury Safari Tents, a semi-open-air accommodation tucked away in beautiful gardens in outer north-west Victoria – only an hour and a half’s drive from Melbourne. With an exposed wood interior and white tulle mosquito nets draped over the four-poster beds, the tents are reminiscent of the gold rush era. To further your historical-themed getaway, you could perhaps consider a trip to Old Castlemaine Gaol – a colonial-era prison famed for housing some of the time’s most violent criminals, many of whom are said to still haunt the hallways. If you’re too scared to go back to your tent, how about sticking it out for one of their infamous 12-hour overnight ghost tours?</p> <p><strong>6. </strong><a style="text-align: center;" href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/craigsroyal.com.au/accommodation/__;!!IHJ3XrWN4X8!Ngc0COUlXfvAPcWa76VI_T27Ce9juwK-Y7cUZh4HcjW0O7Lv9maA12KJkUIyW9mqjnZreRPe2Jy4IZ1YHy1xZb3Qyc0y$"><strong>Craig’s Royal Hotel,</strong></a><strong style="text-align: center;"> Ballarat VIC</strong></p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/craigs-royal-hotel.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p><em>Images: Craig's Royal Hotel (Facebook)</em></p> <p>You know it’s worth the drive if the whole city has a dedicated website to ghost tours in the area. That’s the case with Ballarat’s <a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.eerietours.com.au/__;!!IHJ3XrWN4X8!Ngc0COUlXfvAPcWa76VI_T27Ce9juwK-Y7cUZh4HcjW0O7Lv9maA12KJkUIyW9mqjnZreRPe2Jy4IZ1YHy1xZW8NcLBZ$">Eerie Tours</a>, which offers a variety of historic ghost tours across both Ballarat, including its Old Cemetery and the Town Hall, and the nearby infamous Aradale Lunatic Asylum in Ararat – known as one of the most hostile haunted locations in Australia. After a night of frights (or two), it’s only fitting to retire in somewhere as grand as the heritage-listed, Victorian-designed Craig’s Royal Hotel – only an hour and a half’s drive from Melbourne.</p> <p><strong>7. </strong><a style="text-align: center;" href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.spencersuitesalbany.com.au/__;!!IHJ3XrWN4X8!Ngc0COUlXfvAPcWa76VI_T27Ce9juwK-Y7cUZh4HcjW0O7Lv9maA12KJkUIyW9mqjnZreRPe2Jy4IZ1YHy1xZZpDd-oj$"><strong>Spencer Suites</strong></a><strong style="text-align: center;">, Albany WA</strong></p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/spencer-suites.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p><em>Image: Spencer Suites (Facebook)</em></p> <p>Far down south in WA – five hours away from Perth if you drive – is the former colonial settlement of Albany, a seaside town rich with tales of ghost stories. From the ruins of a lighthouse said to be haunted by its keeper, a former hospital with doors closing on its own, a 150-year-old quarantine station and an old gaol, Albany offers so many spooky experiences you’ll just have to spend a couple nights – how about checking out Spencer Suites, where “heritage meets chic”? The refreshing modernity of the self-contained apartments would be a welcome change from the haunted colonial-era ruins.</p> <p><strong>8. </strong><a style="text-align: center;" href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.babindaquarters.com/__;!!IHJ3XrWN4X8!Ngc0COUlXfvAPcWa76VI_T27Ce9juwK-Y7cUZh4HcjW0O7Lv9maA12KJkUIyW9mqjnZreRPe2Jy4IZ1YHy1xZS_cs8AM$"><strong>Babinda Quarters</strong></a><strong style="text-align: center;">, Babinda QLD</strong></p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/barbinda-quarters.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p><em>Image: Babinda Quarters (Facebook)</em></p> <p>Most of the locations on this list so far have been colonial man-made institutions housing spirits of those who passed within their four walls, yet, a short drive from the beautiful tropical town of Babinda are the Babinda Boulders – a stunning and tranquil swimming and picnic area with a particularly treacherous stretch of the creek aptly named Devil’s Pool. According to local Indigenous legend, a young widow named Oolana came to the pool to grieve her husband, ultimately drowning herself to overcome her sorrows. It is said she still haunts the pool, with unexplained tides and sudden rushing torrents. Morbidly curious travellers beware: this creek has claimed many lives, something expressed on a sign as you approach it; most of them young men a similar age to the Oolana’s husband. If staying in Babinda to explore the rainforest (both haunted and not), Babinda Quarters, a recently refurbished art deco homestead offers stunning and quirky accommodation with a rainforest twist less than an hour’s drive from Cairns.</p> <p><strong>9. </strong><a style="text-align: center;" href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__http:/www.fothergills.net.au/__;!!IHJ3XrWN4X8!Ngc0COUlXfvAPcWa76VI_T27Ce9juwK-Y7cUZh4HcjW0O7Lv9maA12KJkUIyW9mqjnZreRPe2Jy4IZ1YHy1xZXtl3Uxs$"><strong>Fothergills of Fremantle,</strong></a><strong style="text-align: center;"> WA</strong></p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/fothergills-fremantle.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p><em>Image: Fothergills of Fremantle (Facebook)</em></p> <p>Just half an hour’s drive from the heart of Perth CBD, Forthergills of Fremantle is a stunning 19th century heritage listed building, with rooms filled featuring local craftwork and fitted with on-theme colonial furniture – lit quite eerily in their official photos. Fittingly, Fremantle is home to one of the most infamous haunted locations in WA – the Fremantle Arts Centre. The former lunatic asylum is claimed to be one of the most haunted buildings in the state, with reports of faces being seen in windows, strange bouts of cold air, and doors opening and closing on their own.</p> <p><strong>10. </strong><a style="text-align: center;" href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.thestationkapunda.com/__;!!IHJ3XrWN4X8!Ngc0COUlXfvAPcWa76VI_T27Ce9juwK-Y7cUZh4HcjW0O7Lv9maA12KJkUIyW9mqjnZreRPe2Jy4IZ1YHy1xZZZ0jA3h$"><strong>The Station</strong></a><strong style="text-align: center;">, Kapunda SA</strong></p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/station-kapunda.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p><em>Images: The Station Kapunda (Facebook)</em></p> <p>While the most haunted hotel in Australia might not be available for bookings, we thought it’d be more advisable to stay in a nicer, considerably less-ghostly accommodation such as The Station at Kapunda, a stunning and modern escape in a 162-year-old renovated railway station, only an hour by car from Adelaide. That way you can escape from The North Kapunda Hotel should the spirits cause you too much distress. Kapunda is also known as an extremely haunted town, with tours across the town available for any thrill seekers out there.</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

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How to make your own mosquito trap

<p>Nothing ruins a good time like a swarm of hungry mosquitos. Keep the outdoor fun going longer with this easy DIY mosquito trap.</p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">You will need:</span></strong></p> <ul> <li>An empty 2 litre plastic bottle</li> <li>A marker</li> <li>A box cutter</li> <li>A tape measurer</li> <li>¼ cup of brown sugar</li> <li>1 cup of hot water</li> <li>1 gram of yeast</li> <li>Duct/electrical tape</li> </ul> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">How to:</span></strong></p> <p>1. About 10cm from the lid, make a mark around the bottle.</p> <p>2. Using your box cutter, cut the bottle in half at your mark.</p> <p>3. In a saucepan, boil your water until steaming.</p> <p>4. In the lower half of the bottle, add brown sugar and boiling water. Let cool.</p> <p>5. Once cooled, add yeast. Stirring isn’t necessary.</p> <p>6. Take the top of the bottle, flipping it upside down, and fit it into the base of the bottle, leaving enough room above the mixture for mosquitos to enter. If there isn’t, pour out some mixture.</p> <p>7. Use tape to secure the cut edges at the top.</p> <p>8. Place wherever your mosquito problem resides. The mosquitos will be attracted to the sugar mixture and not be able to fly back out of the trap.</p> <p><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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5 great spots to take your grandkids in Australia

<p>Want a holiday that really is fun for the whole family? These are the best spots in Australia for kids of all ages. To see the destinations, scroll through the gallery above.</p> <p><strong>1. Canberra, ACT</strong></p> <p>There’s much more to the nation’s capital than politics. Kids will love the interactive and immersive mix of science and play on offer at Questacon as well as the huge adventure playground at the National Arboretum. Hire bikes to ride around the shore of Lake Burley Griffin or a paddleboat to cruise across the calm water under your own steam. At the National Zoo everyone can pat a cheetah, feed a bear or make friends with a cheeky meerkat.</p> <p><strong>2. Kangaroo Island, SA</strong></p> <p>Australia’s third-largest island is just off the coast of South Australia and manages to be both a gourmet paradise and a kid-friendly funzone. Families can spend their days spotting seals, feeding pelicans, fishing from jetties, tasting native honey and sandboarding down huge sand dunes. At night, the adults can dine on fresh caught marron (washed down with a few glasses of local wine) while the kids tuck into fish and chips.</p> <p><strong>3. The Top End, NT</strong></p> <p>Start in Darwin, where kids can splash and shriek to their heart’s content in the Waterfront Precinct’s Wave Pool then come face to face with crocodiles at Crocosaurus Cove. The Litchfield National Park is just an hour from the city and a great introduction to native wildlife and wetlands (locals say it’s even better than Kakadu). The park is full of easy bushwalking trails, safe swimming holes, waterfalls and camping spots.</p> <p><strong>4. Mount Selwyn snowfield, NSW</strong></p> <p>Skiing can be an expensive hobby, even more so for a family. Mount Selwyn in the Kosciuszko National Park in New South Wales is a great value option for families when compared to the other major resorts. There’s a good selection of easy runs for the kids, as well as tougher ones for the grown ups, plus an easily accessible toboggan run. There are even dedicated kids’ clubs from 18 months old with ski lessons and fun indoor and outdoor games.</p> <p><strong>5. Port Douglas, QLD</strong></p> <p>The Great Barrier Reef really is for everyone and is easily accessible in a day trip from Port Douglas. Little ones can learn to snorkel or take a glass-bottomed boat ride while older children and adults can try scuba diving. Inland, the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway soars just metres above ancient rainforest before descending right through the canopy. And you’ll find a fantastic range of resorts that are specifically set up for families, with plenty of pools, waterslides, games rooms and kids’ clubs.</p> <p>Have you been to any of the destinations mentioned above? Are there any other destinations in Australia you think that are great for grandchildren? Share your thoughts in the comments below.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/travel/international/2016/06/7-australian-holidays-you-can-visit-all-year-round/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>7 Australian holidays you can visit all year round</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/travel/international/2016/06/the-power-and-beauty-of-crashing-waves-in-australia/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>The power and beauty of crashing waves in Australia</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/travel/international/2016/06/adorable-baby-koala-explores-world-for-first-time/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Adorable baby koala explores world for first time</span></em></strong></a></p>

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15 hiking tips for beginners

<p>Always be prepared. It’s the motto you should live by if you’re heading off on a trek. To ensure this never happens to you, here are the essential tips that all beginner hikers need to remember.</p> <p>1. It is always safest to hike with at least two other people.</p> <p>2. Each hiker should carry a map and compass, and know how to use them.</p> <p>3. You should tell someone where you are going and an estimated return time.</p> <p>4. Never “wing it” – study a map beforehand so you know the terrain and routes.</p> <p>5. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather by wearing layers and carrying wet weather gear.</p> <p>6. Pace yourself when you first get on the trail. Choose a route that is suitable for the skill and fitness level of all group members – you don’t want to run out of steam half way through the trek.</p> <p>7. Pack an emergency kit, including a basic first aid supplies, matches, emergency shelter, as well as a whistle or signal mirror in case you need to summon for help.</p> <p>8. Never hike in brand new shoes. Wear comfortable socks and shoes that are suitable for the terrain.</p> <p>9. If you are hiking when lightning strikes, never walk above the tree line.</p> <p>10. Bring a light source, such as a flashlight or a headlight.</p> <p>11. Don’t dispose of your trash in the wilderness. Bring it back with you.</p> <p>12. Check the weather report before heading out and adjust accordingly.</p> <p>13. Wear sunscreen and insect repellent.</p> <p>14.  Keep your backpack as light as possible.</p> <p>15. Always bring some supplies of water and food, even if it’s meant to be a short trip.</p>

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