We all love Australia, but sometimes we might need a little inspiration when looking for exciting new holiday ideas. Pete Rawley, G.A.P Adventures Managing Director for Australia, New Zealand and Asia, offers some insight and inspiration into traveling Down Under.
Pete Rawley, G.A.P Adventures Managing Director for Australia, New Zealand and Asia
What is it about Australia that you love and why do you think it appeals to so many people around the world?
Well I guess I’m a little biased, but as someone who has travelled to just about every corner of the globe, I still reckon you’d be hard pressed to find a land that was more beautiful, diverse and packed with adventure. Coast to coast offers just about every kind of travel experience you could hope for, from beautiful beaches to stunning deserts, coral reefs to rainforests and mountains – I think it’s the diversity of experience and scenery that ranks it high up on most people’s ‘To Do’ list. Plus, even towards a local adventurer, the people still top my list of the most friendly and helpful whilst travelling.
Where is your favourite part of Australia and why?
Well I know most people think of Australia in terms of beaches and rainforests, but for me the best two places have always been The Outback and hiking around Tasmania – probably for the same reason, because when I go on holiday I really enjoy getting away from the constant buzz of the city and my two choices are probably unbeatable for the perfect coupling of peace and quiet and simply breathtaking scenery.
Can you tell us about GAP Adventures and its Australia tours
G.A.P Adventures is the world leader in the adventure travel industry offering small group adventures on all seven continents and beyond to more than 85,000 travellers from all over the world. Our award-winning trips, which focus on culture, nature and active travel, are ideal for those with a sense of adventure – people who want to leave the beaten path and authentically immerse themselves in a local culture or environment to experience the real world in a sustainable manner. Demonstrating its ongoing cultural, social and economic commitment to responsible tourism, G.A.P Adventures has also established the Planeterra Foundation as a way for our company and its passengers can give back to the communities visited.
What would your recommendations be for people looking to explore Australia?
My first piece of advice would be to plan a large part of your trip in advance, even if it is just timeframes for when you wish to arrive in different locations. Many people don’t realise how big Australia truly is, and often don’t allow themselves sufficient time to get around. Organising group tours can obviously help with this, but like any trip – do your homework first and then you will be free to enjoy the holiday when it happens.
In terms of where, I would be hard pressed to fault any location (again, I’m a little biased) but remember to factor in The Outback and Tasmania as they are sometimes overlooked in favour of larger cities, but they are well worth the journey.
The outback is well worth exploring - but don't forget your toilet paper!
Are there any essential experiences people should embrace Down Under?
Kangaroo Steaks, Pies and Sausage Rolls, Lamingtons and Pavlova – these are all Aussie dishes that you must try whilst on holiday! We also have a fantastic and varied range of boutique beers and wines, so definitely immerse yourself in those!
In terms of people, the only advice I would give is to make yourself open to meeting people (Aussies or otherwise) and you will be fine. Australia is a very open place, and is a mix of many cultures, but – like anywhere in the world – try to immerse yourself and appreciate the experience for what it is and you will have a ball!
Travelling with preconceptions and constantly comparing things to home is always a sure-fire way to kill the buzz, so open your mind and have fun.
Have you had any funny travel experiences while in Australia?
…All I’m going to say is if you’re travelling somewhere remote like The Outback, whatever you do don’t forget the most important ingredient – toilet paper!
Gap Adventures three most popular Australian trips are:
Larapinta Trek
8 days ex Alice Springs
www.gapadventures.com/tour/OALT
Includes: Larapinta Trail, Alice Springs, Telegraph Station, Wallaby Gap, Serpentine Gorge, Chewing’s Range, West MacDonnell Ranges, Ormiston Gorge, Finke River, Mount Sonder.
The Larapinta Trail is fast becoming one of Australia’s greatest trekking destinations – for good reason. With spectacular views that anyone would love, this is a perfect adventure for outdoor lovers. Averaging 12-18km of graded trail per day, there is still plenty of time to relax and enjoy the Australian Outback.
Cradle Mountain Overland Track Tour
8 days ex Launceston
www.gapadventures.com/tour/OACM
Includes: Launceston, Waterfall Valley, Cradle Mountain, Lake St Claire National Park, Sheffield, Dove Lake, Nothofagus Gunnii, Lake Windermere, Innes Falls, Wild Rivers National Park, Pelion Plains, Pine Forest Moor, Frog Flats, Douglas Creek, Kia Ora, Cathedral Mountain, Pinestone Valley, Windy River, Mount Massif, Ferguson, Dalton and Hartnett Falls, Du Cane Gap, Bowling Green.
The Overland Track is Australia’s premier extended bushwalk. The Cradle Mountain Lake St Clair National Park is renowned for its abundant wildlife, rare and unusual vegetation and dramatic scenery. Averaging just 12km per day, there are plenty of opportunities to appreciate the highlights and side trips. Savour this remote landscape, with highlights such as Pelion West, Mount Oakleigh and the Geryons. No special skills are necessary as our experienced guides will help to bring the track alive for you with their local knowledge and enthusiasm for the Tasmanian wilderness.
Don't overlook the natural beauty of Tasmania
Cycle Tasmania
10 days ex Hobart
www.gapadventures.com/tour/OACT
Includes: White sand beaches, rainforest and rugged mountains, World Heritage area, cosmopolitan cities, small country towns, local friendly people, lots of great photo opportunities.
Join a group of like-minded adventure people for an active ride through some of the hidden treasures on Tasmania’s coastlines and mountains. Tackle the Tasmanian terrain on this 10 day trip, suitable for everyone with an adventurous heart.
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