Australian’s are becoming savvier with how they spend their money and turning to domestic travel as the solution for an opportunity to still get away. With the Australian dollar weakening, many Australians are altering their travel habits, knowing there’s currently great value for travelling in our own backyard.
A survey by industry group Tourism & Transport Forum found 5% of travelers had already switched from an international to a domestic destination because of the currency’s fall, and 15% expected to travel more domestically in the future. Tourism Research Australia figures show domestic overnight tourism has increased 7% with spend increasing by 10% to $70.3B and total nights away up 6% ($368.2M). And it’s not just Australians making the most of the weaker dollar – International tourism into Australia is expected to rise further in 2019 after a 6% increase last year.
On the trend, AAT Kings and Inspiring Journeys Managing Director Hans Belle noted, “In 2019 we expect to see a lot of Australian’s finally taking the time to book the trip they’ve always wanted to go on but have been putting off until later. Australian’s will take advantage of the bucket list destinations in our own backyard, discovering the magic of Uluru, hiking to the top of Kings Canyon, taking a river cruise through Katherine Gorge or exploring the wonders of the Bungle Bungles.”
To that vein, Trafalgar has introduced an Australia and New Zealand program into 2019, now offering trips to all seven continents. “Australia has so much incredible diversity and beauty from rich history, some of the best beaches, extraordinary wildlife and a fantastic food and wine scene in our own backyard. We’re giving our loyal guests another continent to experience the real ease, true connections and pure joy of Trafalgar – we’ve definitely seen a demand for it as well as other European destinations that will make the Aussie dollar go further including Slovenia and Poland” says Managing Director of Trafalgar, Matthew Cameron-Smith
The diversity of Australia’s landscape allows Australian’s to take a domestic trip that feels like an overseas getaway without the need for a passport. Below are some essential Australian itineraries to ignite your wanderlust:
The Northern Territory
The Northern Territory is the most popular destination across the AAT Kings portfolio if day tours, short breaks and guided holidays. The Inspiring Journeys 10-day Ultimate Territory Adventure in Style will see travelers explore Kakadu’s ancient gorges, spectacular wetlands and unique wildlife, and meet the descendants of Aboriginal people who have lived here for 65,000 years. Then on to the magical Red Centre, experiencing iconic Uluru, the mystical domes of Kata Tjuta, and windswept Walpa Gorge.
Western Australia
Australia’s stunning West Coast has arguably some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia, such as the crystal clear water of Coral Bay as well as an array of pristine marine life such as the bottle nose dolphins at Monkey Mia. The wild west is also home to the breathtaking Karijini National Park where Trafalgar guests will stay in environmentally friendly retreat in on its 13 Day Wonders of the Pilbara and West Coast, offering guests unique and immersive experiences in each of these magnificent locations and showcasing the highlights of WA.
Tasmania
Tasmania offers a unique blend of old and new world experiences that has seen its domestic visitation rise by 11%, the strongest results country wide. Renowned for its pristine wilderness and gourmet food and wine, you’re in for a treat when you journey to the Apple Isle on the 12-day AAT Kings Perfect Tasmania holiday. Visit the famous Salamanca Markets where you can browse Tasmanian arts, crafts and fresh produce, take a hike along Dove Lake and get the best views of the beautiful Cradle Mountain National Park. From Hobart to Cradle Mountain, Launceston, Freycinet National Park and Port Arthur – you’ll see the best Tasmania has to offer.
Victoria and South Australia
Victoria boasts some stunning natural scenery including iconic Twelve Apostles stretch of Victorian coastline and some of the best coffee in Australia. Whilst South Australia’s Kangaroo Island showcases and some of Australia’s unique and beloved wildlife across its vast spans of nature reserves. A wine lovers paradise can be found at the award-winning food and wine scene of Adelaide Hills, the celebrated Barossa and Coonawarra wine regions. The best of these regions are combined in Trafalgar’s 7 day Great Ocean Road and Kangaroo Island
Current Deals
AAT Kings
Explore the best of Australia and New Zealand with AAT Kings Great Australian sale. Guests can save up to $1300 per couple during the sale between 7 Jan – 15 March 2019 inclusive, for selected itineraries and selected departures before 31 December 2019.
Trafalgar
There’s no better time to book, with 10% off Trafalgar’s Australia, New Zealand, Europe & Britain trips until 31st January, 2019.
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