Destinations

Visit Turkey: Why Australians Would Enjoy This Rich Culture

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Turkey

Optimise Travel Test – Turkey

Turkey has been a part of Australia’s history, dating back to the ill-fated Gallipoli campaign in World War 1. Paying your respects to our fallen soldiers at Anzac Cove is an emotional rite-of-passage for many Australians, and is well worth the trip alone. However, Turkey also offers plenty of other options for holiday-makers, including its culture, World Heritage Sites and the architecture of numerous historical buildings.

We’ve put the country through our Optimise Travel holiday destination test, and it certainly passes.

  • Is now a good financial time to go? 

  • Is there a wide variety of interesting things to see and do? 

  • Is there a good time of year to go? 

  • How hard is it to get to and get around when you’re there? 

We’ll look at each one of these criteria in more detail in this article, offering you some practical tips and advice along the way.

A good financial time to go √

Current exchange rates between the Australian dollar and the Turkish lira make Turkey a great value for money destination for Australian tourists, which is a bonus.

As the graph below shows, this has been the case for the last few years in particular. The Australian dollar (AUD) will currently buy you approximately 2.04 Turkish liras (TRY), about double the figure of a decade ago when it hovered around the 1 lira mark. Even 5 years ago, an Australian dollar would only get you about 1.5 Turkish liras. So now is a good time to go.

Exchange Rate - Turkey

Image: xe.com

A variety of interesting things to see and do √

Before we get into those, you need to get your head around the geographic layout of the country, and in particular, appreciate two of its bordering countries. The capital city of Turkey is Ankara, and as you can see from the map below, the country is bordered by Syria and Iraq in the south, two countries that are currently in conflict. It is best to avoid Turkish regions that border those two countries accordingly.

In addition, you need to appreciate that there will be an English language barrier to some extent in Turkey. Turkish is the official language, and while young people in Turkey may know some basic English, older people are less likely to know any.

Turkey Map

Image http://guidemap.tk

ANZAC Cove, Gallipoli peninsula

ANZAC Cove is a small, 600-meter long cove on the Gallipoli peninsula, about 200 kilometres south-west of Istanbul. It is where the ANZAC soldiers landed at dawn on April 25, 2015 (a date commemorated each year via the Anzac day public holiday in both Australia and New Zealand).

8709 Australians lost their lives in the ill-fated, 8-and-a-half month Gallipoli campaign of World War 1, and a further 19, 441 were wounded. Each year thousands of Australians and New Zealanders trek to Gallipoli to pay their respects, firstly at the ANZAC Day dawn service, followed by visiting the grave sites of fallen soldiers. It is a truly moving and humbling experience.

Operation Gallipoli 2013, NZDF Contingent Support to ANZAC Day Commemorations in Turkey. NZDF Hats at ACS and on ANZAC Cove.

                                                           Image:http://www.syne.com

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul

The Hagia Sophia was built in the 6th century and is remarkably well preserved. Formerly a mosque and before that a church, it is now a museum. Its distinctive architecture is a landmark in Turkey, and its inner walls feature a variety of striking religious mosaics.

Hagia Sophia, Instanbul Turkey

Image: www.wikipedia.com

Topkapi Palace, Istanbul

Topkapi Palace was a royal residence that also served as the administrative centre of Turkey from 1465-1856. It is now a museum containing artefacts from that era, holy relics and jewellery.

topkapi-palace-istanbul Turkey

Image: http://ephesus-tour.com

Pamukkale

Meaning “cotton castle” in Turkish, Pamukkale is a distinctive travertine (white limestone) terraced hot spring landscape in the south-west of the country. People have bathed in its pools for thousands of years, and it is a World Heritage Site.

pamukkale Turkey

Image: http://www.sademdis.com

Ephesus

Ephesus is a city from the Roman empire in south-west Turkey that still has many of its monuments largely intact, as well as its marble-columned roads from that era. It is another World Heritage Site.

Ephesus Turkey

Image: http://www.wanderlustturkey.com

Bodrum Castle

Built in the 15th century, Bodrum Castle in south-west Turkey has a fascinating history. It has been used variously over the years as a chapel, mosque, military base and prison. It is now an underwater archaeology museum, containing ancient shipwrecks extracted from the Aegean Sea.

bodrum castle, Turkey

Image: https://evapartments.files.wordpress.com

Relax by the beach or paraglide at Ölüdeniz

Ölüdeniz is a small secluded beach resort in Turkey’s south-west. Its turquoise coloured water makes it one of the most photogenic beach location in the world. Tandem paragliding is a popular option available to take in its panoramic views.

Hang gliding in Turkey

Image: http://www.otelseden.com

Cruise the Mediterannean, off Bodrum

Hundreds of tiny islands are scattered off the coast of Bodrum in the south-west, and these can be explored on a relaxing yacht cruise.

Take a cruise in Turkey

Image: http://www.turkeytraveller.com

Hike or go hot air ballooning in Cappadocia

Cappadocia is a historical region located in the provinces of Nevşehir, Kayseri, Aksaray and Niğde in central Turkey. Its World Heritage listed rock formations and underground cities built hundreds of years ago provide lots of exploring opportunities for hikers. You can also take in the breathtaking views via hot air ballooning.

Hot air balloon in Turkey

Image: http://www.asherworldturns.com

A good time of year to go √

Being located in the northern hemisphere, Turkey’s seasons occur at the opposite time to Australia’s. Coastal areas of Turkey tend to have hot, dry summers and cool to cold, wet winters. Winters in the interior of the country are more severe, with significant snowfall.

Turkey’s major summer school holidays occur each year predominantly between mid-June and mid-September. A shorter 2 week winter school holiday period occurs during the last week of January and the first week of February each year. You can expect holiday destinations and accommodation within Turkey to be more crowded and expensive accordingly during these times, especially in summer.

Islam is the major religion in Turkey, and in 2016 the Ramadan month of fasting will begin in early June. It is recommended that tourists respect the locals by not eating, drinking or smoking in public during this time, nor in the presence of people who are fasting.

Getting there and getting around while you’re there √

There are regular flights to Ankara and Istanbul (the two largest cities in Turkey) from most capital cities in Australia. It’s a long flight, taking between 16 and 19 hours from the east coast of Australia, based on one quick stopover at a connecting flight destination along the way (such as in Singapore or Dubai). Connecting flights are common for such a long journey. Your total travel time will obviously be affected by the length of any stopovers, so you should plan accordingly.

Within Turkey, there are airports in each of its major cities. Flights between cities are relatively short by Australian standards. For example, a flight between Ankara and Istanbul only takes about 30 minutes. An example of a long flight within the country would be between Istanbul in the north-west to Erzurum in the east, which takes about 2 hours.

Is it safe?

The Australian government’s official advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is that Australians should exercise a high degree of caution when travelling in Turkey. This is because there is a relatively high threat of terrorist attacks and kidnapping in the country, especially in regions near Syria, due to the on-going conflict in Iraq and Syria.

In addition, as you should in any international country, pay close attention to your personal security and belongings in Turkey. You should also talk to your doctor about appropriate vaccines and preventative medicines before you go. In addition to the routine vaccines, for Turkey, you should prevent your chances of contracting any of the following diseases –hepatitis A/B, typhoid, rabies and malaria.

Please Share your travel tips, tricks and stories about Turkey in the comments section so that others can benefit on their travels!

*We aim to provide up to date content and information. If any information provided is no longer correct then please email us at optimisetravelaustralia@gmail.com or post in the comments section

Is it the Year to Travel to South Africa ?

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South Africa

Optimise Travel Test – Travel to South Africa 

If you’re looking for a destination that offers you plenty of options for cultural, historical, scenic, and adventure experiences, then South Africa should rank highly on your ‘possible next overseas holiday’ list!

We’ve put South Africa through our Optimise Travel holiday destination test, and it certainly passes all of our key criteria with flying colours:

  • A variety of interesting things to see and do? 

  • Is there a good time of year to go? 

  • Is now a good financial time to go? 

  • How hard is it to get to and get around when you’re there? 

We’ll look at each one of these criteria in more detail in this article, offering you some practical tips and advice along the way.

But first, you’ll need to get your head around the geographic layout of the country. South Africa is made up of 9 provinces. Each is colour-coded in the map below. It is bordered by 6 countries – Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Swaziland, and Lesotho.

Map of South Africa

Image: http://www.worldofmaps.net/en/africa/map-south-africa/map-regions-south-africa.htm

A variety of interesting things to see and do √

 

Kruger National Park in the provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga 

South Africa is known for its wildlife safaris, and Kruger National Park is the oldest national park in South Africa. It is also one of the largest game reserves in the country. Various guided safari drive tours are available in the early morning, late afternoon or evening, as well as self-drive tours. You will be able to see wild animals including lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinoceroses and elephants in their natural habitat, a truly unique experience!

Naturally, if you take the self-drive option, it is very important that you keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the animals, and are aware of escape routes if necessary.

Accommodation options at Kruger National Park range from basic campsites for tents and caravans, right through to luxury lodges, depending on your preferences and budget.

Masthulele

Image: http://corridorgazette.co.za

                                                  

Table Mountain Aerial Cableway in Cape Town

Table Mountain forms part of the Table Mountain National Park, and overlooks Cape Town. Its summit is more than a kilometre above sea level. Besides riding the Cableway to take in the breathtaking views, tourists can hike the mountain (it takes about 2-3 hours), or go mountain biking, caving or rock climbing on its surface.

CBL CAR 001

Image: http://www.splashpr.co.za

Nelson Mandela’s prison cell on Robben Island

Robben Island, just off the coast of Cape Town, is where the iconic Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in prison. Tours are conducted by former prisoners, and you’ll see where Mandela spent his time breaking rocks into gravel, before ultimately triumphing to become President of South Africa in the late 20th century.

Robben_Island

http://studentenwohnungenkapstadt.co.za/robben-island-boat-trip/

Watch a live sporting event

Rugby, cricket, and soccer (football) are three popular sports in South Africa, just as they are in Australia. The Super Rugby competition runs from late February through to early August each year, and in 2016 there will be an Australian Super Rugby team playing a South African team in South Africa in the months of March, April, and July. 

The Australian cricket team will also tour South Africa regularly and play different international matches. The South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) season runs from August through to May, with 16 teams from all over the country competing.

Rugby Match South Africa

Image: http://www.independent.co.uk

Cango Caves in the Western Cape province

Two types of guided tours of these wonders of mother nature are available. A standard walking tour takes about an hour, and the adventure tour lasts approximately an hour and a half, where you will crawl through dark narrow passages, as well as climb some steep rock formations.

Cango caves South africa

Image: http://africageographic.com

Cape Winelands

For wine lovers, most of the vineyards in South Africa are in the Western Cape. Cape Winelands is a region that is particularly well-known and includes wine routes such as Constantia and Stellenbosch.

Cape Winelands South Africa

Image: http://www.blacktomato.com/?attachment_id=27640

Whale watching in Hermanus

Hermanus in the Western Cape is known for its whale watching tours, with the best time for sightings typically from September to November each year.

Travel to South Africa

Image: http://www.ushoponline.co.za/whale-watching-route/

Beaches and surfing

The South African coastline is dotted with pristine beaches, meaning you can’t go too far wrong wherever you are. For two potentially memorable experiences, try swimming with the penguins at Boulders Beach, which is about a 50-minute drive south from Cape Town, or surfing at Elands Bay, which is about a 2 and a half hour drive north.

Travel to South Africa

Image: http://www.tentree.com/

Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg

To understand a country, you need to appreciate its history. This museum illustrates the 1948-1994 era of racial segregation in South Africa and is as educational as it is haunting.

Apartheid-Museum-Johannesburg- Travel to South Africa

Image: http://www.financialgazette.co.zw

Visit a township

Townships were segregated urban living areas during the Apartheid era. Soweto in Johannesburg is the largest historical township in South Africa. If you want a genuine cultural experience of the daily living of many South Africans, take a professionally guided tour of a township like Soweto.

Soweto Township South africa

Image: https://asktam.wordpress.com/tag/south-africa/

A good time of year to go √

Like holidaying in Australia, if you want to avoid the maximum crowds and the most expensive accommodation dates, it’s best not to go to South Africa when the local school holidays are on. Below is a list of the 2016 South African school holiday dates, which are the same across all 9 provinces.

2016 South African school holiday dates (all 9 provinces)

South Africa School Terms 2016

http://www.schoolterms.co.za/2016.html

In terms of seasons, South Africa’s occur at the same time as Australia’s, since both countries are in the southern hemisphere. Its climate is similar to Australia’s, with various areas ranging from desert to sub-tropical, and temperatures varying across the country. South Africa gets most of its annual rainfall between October and April, and particularly during the summer months.

For visiting game reserves like Kruger National Park, this is best done in the dry season (May to September). There are a number of reasons for this – temperatures are milder, there is less vegetation to block your view of wildlife, animals will come to waterholes to drink more often, and there is less chance of you contracting malaria. Travelling withing South Africa is easy and we recommend using this travel site for flight bookings.

 A good financial time to go √

 Current exchange rates between the Australian dollar and the South African rand make South Africa a great value for money destination for Australian tourists, which is a bonus.

As the graph below shows, this has been the case for several years now. The Australian dollar (AUD) will buy you approximately 10 South African rand (ZAR), a far cry from a decade ago when it hovered around the 4-5 rand mark.

South Africa Exchange rate

Image: xe.com

Getting there and getting around while you’re there √

There are regular, direct flights to Johannesburg (the largest city in South Africa) from both Sydney and Perth, which take approximately 13 and 8 hours respectively. This is a long distance but well worth the experience.

Within South Africa, there are airports in the major cities of each of its 9 provinces (Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West, Northern Cape, Western Cape).

Flights between provinces are relatively short by Australian standards. A “long” flight, for example, would be from Cape Town in the Western Cape to Kruger International Airport in Mpumalanga in eastern South Africa, which takes approximately 2 and a half hours.

Is it safe?

The Australian government’s official advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is that Australians should exercise a high degree of caution if they travel to South Africa. This is because there is a relatively high level of serious crime in the country.

This means you should take sensible precautions, like paying close attention to your personal security and belongings at all times. You should also be aware that there is a relatively high level of HIV/AIDS within South Africa, and you should take precautions if engaging in any activities that will expose you to the risk of infection.

As with travelling to any destination, you should talk to your doctor about appropriate vaccines and preventative medicines before you go. In addition to the routine vaccines, for South Africa, you should prevent your chances of contracting any of the following diseases – hepatitis A/B, typhoid, malaria, and rabies.

 In addition, if you are travelling with children under 18, you must carry both a passport and full valid birth certificate for each child, to be produced on request by local authorities.

Please Share your tips, tricks and stories about Travel to South Africa in the comments section so that others can benefit on their travels!

*We aim to provide up to date content and information. If any information provided is no longer correct then please email us at optimisetravelaustralia@gmail.com or post in the comments section

Best Beaches In Asia Without The Crowds

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Koh Lipe in Thailand
Koh Lipe in Thailand

 Are you planning an Asian Holiday?

If you are, chances are you’re thinking of places like Bali, Koh Samui, Phuket or Pattaya as potential destinations. There’s nothing wrong with that, they are all great spots. The problem is that nearly everyone else thinking of an Asian beach holiday will be thinking of going to those same places.

If you want to find the best beaches in Asia without the crowds this article is for you. We’ll reveal some lesser known “gems” where you won’t have to compete for a spot on the sand or share the streets, shops, and bars with thousands of other tourists on your Asian beach holiday.

We’ll take a look at some of the hidden beaches in several countries, so first let’s look at a map of the Asian region so you can get your bearings.

 

Map of South East Asia: http://www.lib.utexas.edu
Map of South East Asia: http://www.lib.utexas.edu

Indonesia – Beaches In Lombok & Gili Islands

Bali is definitely a destination to avoid if you are looking for a beach holiday away from the hustle and bustle of crowds. Instead, if you are heading to Indonesia try Lombok and the Gili Islands. Lombok is about a half hour flight from Denpasar, the airport closest to Bali. Its beaches are better and quieter than those you’ll find in Bali. Lombok’s neighbouring Gili Islands is also a beautiful location, which attracts plenty of travellers but is still quieter than neighbouring Bali.

How to Get There:

Fly from Australia to Denpasar (Bali) through a variety of low budget to first class airlines.

Gili Transfers will help you plan your journey via boat from Bali to Lombok or the Gili Islands.

 

asian beach holiday, Gili Islands Travel
Image of Gili Trawangan: http://www.bigbubblediving.com
Bali to Gili Islands
Transport Map: http://gilitransfers.com

Malaysia – Pangkor Island Beaches

Pangkor Island off the Malaysian coast has many beautiful and quiet beaches. You can also easily explore this idyllic location by cycling around it. To get there, it is a combined 4-hour road and ferry trip from Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia. 

How to Get There:

Fly from Australia to the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur. From there it is a combined 4-hour road and ferry trip from Kuala Lumpur

Malaysian Airlines, Air Asia X, Emirates and Malindo Air have departing flights from various Australian cities.

https://www.audleytravel.com
Image of Pangkor Island: https://www.audleytravel.com

The Philippines – Various Islands With Beaches

The Philippine islands are known for their beaches and some of the more remote ones are perfect spots for a quiet getaway. The best islands include Bugsuk, Saluag, Olanivan, Omapoy, and Onuk.  The Philippines are made up of over 7000 Islands so experiencing even one of these beautiful destinations can be logistically difficult. 

How to Get There: 

Fly from Australia to the capital, Manilla and then a domestic flight to Cebu.  This trip will likely require a combination of flight, bus and ferry trips, but that is all part of a remote island adventure!

Qantas and Philippine Airlines fly Direct from Sydney to Manilla. 

asian beach holiday, Philippines
Image of Olanivan Island: http://www.choosephilippines.com

 

asian beach holiday diving
Diving in The Philippines: pinterest.com

Vietnam – Cat Ba Island & Ninh Chu Beach

With more than 3000 kilometres of coastline, Vietnam offers plenty of beach options. Two of its best quieter destinations are Cat Ba Island and Ninh Chu Beach. After a 160 kilometre road trip west from Hanoi (the capital city of Vietnam) to Hai Phong, you can reach Cat Ba Island via a short ferry ride. Ninh Chu Beach is located much further away in South Vietnam. The quickest way to get there is via a 2-hour plane trip from Hanoi to Nha Trang.

How to Get There:

Fly from Australia to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. From there a 3-hour bus ride will take you to Halong Bay and the beautiful coast. 

Direct Flights from Australia will take you to Ho Chi Minh City and from there you can continue to Hanoi. 

Click here for a trip advisor post on travelling from Hanoi to Halong Bay

 

Best Beaches In Asia without the Crowds, Vietnam
Image of Monkey Island Resort: http://www.tomyhalong.com

Cambodia – Koh Rong Samloem Beaches

Most of the tourist beaches in Cambodia are located in Sihanoukville in the south of the country. Otres Beach is probably the quietest and least commercialised in the region. A short boat from there Koh Rong Samloem and you’ll find kilometres of untouched white sand, palm trees and crystal clear waters.

How to Get There:

Fly from Australia to the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh. Then travel south to Sihanoukville on a 35-minute plane trip from or you can spend several hours on a bus to get there instead. A 2-3 hour ferry will then take you from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong.

Fly from Australia to Phnom Penh with one stopover using many well-known airlines. 

Best Beaches In Asia without the Crowds, Koh Rong, Cambodia
Image of Koh Rong Samloem: http://www.girlmeetsglobe.com

Thailand – Ko Phayam Beaches

For the same reasons as Bali in Indonesia, it’s best to steer clear of popular Thai destinations like Koh Samui, Phuket and Pattaya. The island of Ko Phayam is an alternative, where you can enjoy pristine beaches without the crowds, and go on peaceful jungle walks to explore nature. There are only a handful of high-end resorts on the island, with beach bungalow style accommodation far more common. You can get to the island by ferry after catching an overnight bus from Bangkok. Other similar island options to consider in Thailand are Ko Surin (ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving enthusiasts), Ko Adang, Koh Lipe, Bamboo, Ko Lanta and Ko Tarutao.

How to Get There:

Fly from Australia to Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. From there you can fly domestically or take the overnight bus to the city of Ranong. Next step is to take a fast or slow ferry from Ranong to Ko Phayam which will vary from 45 minutes to 2 hours.

Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney all have direct flights to Bangkok.

Thai Airways, Qantas, and Emirates are all options for travellers. 

 

Best Beaches In Asia without the Crowds, thailand
Image of Koh Phayam http://thailand.net.au

 

asian beach holiday, Koh Lipe, Thailand
Image of Koh Lipe: http://www.andamanadventures.com

Laos – Si Phan Don Beaches

Laos does not have any beach locations due to its geographical location. Instead, it has the Mekong River and with it plenty of sites and exotic adventures. Si Phan Don is a region located in southern Laos. Translated to English, the name means “four thousand islands”. These islands are surrounded by the Mekong River rather than an ocean, but in the dry season (October to April) you will still be able to feel sand between your toes at places like Don Kone, Don Khong, Don Daeng, and Muang Ngoi.

How to Get There:

Fly from Australia to Vientiane, the capital city of Laos. A short Internal flight will then take you to Luang Prabang in the north of the country.

The waterfalls km 23 kms from the city centre but we have included a guide here on how to get to the waterfall.

Kouangxi Waterfalls: http://www.flickriver.com
Kouangxi Waterfalls: http://www.flickriver.com

Myanmar – Ngwe Saung Beach

Ngwe Saung, translated in English as “Silver Beach”, is an unspoiled paradise in the Bay of Bengal in south west Myanmar. It takes approximately 5 hours to get there from Yangon, Myanmar’s largest city. At Ngwe Saung you’ll find pristine beaches and swaying palm trees as far as your eyes can see, and be able to swim in its beautiful turquoise waters.

 

Best Beaches In Asia without the Crowds
Image of Ngwe Saung: http://www.bayofbengalresort.com

China – Beihai

Due to the sheer size of China’s population, you’re unlikely to find too many secluded and quiet beach spots in the country. However, a potentially less crowded option includes the beaches in Beihai in southern China. You can get to Beihai via a 1 hour flight from Guangzhou and it’s a great choice for those exploring China and wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of the large mega cities.

There are daily flights with Qantas and China Southern from Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane to Guangzhou. 

 

Best Beaches In Asia without the Crowds Beihai, China
Image of Beihai: http://www.qinguofood.com

 

Hong Kong – Turtle Cove Beach

Turtle Cove Beach and South Bay Beach are your best secluded options in Hong Kong. Both can only be accessed by foot. Turtle Cove Beach is located about an hour’s walk along the south side of Lamma Island, south west of Hong Kong. It is closed between June and October each year to allow its namesake to nest. And as its name suggests, South Bay Beach is located in south Hong Kong, and is about an hour’s walk from Repulse Bay.

Visit our guide on stopovers in Hong Kong.

Australians can take direct flights from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Darwin. Qantas and Cathay Pacific offer the best services.

 

Best Beaches In Asia without the Crowds, southbay sunset, Hong Kong
Image of South Bay Beach: http://www.urban-outdoors.com

Taiwan – Green Island Beaches

Baisha Bay on the north coast of Taiwan is a long clean beach, popular with campers. Baisha translated to English means “white sand”. Other secluded options include the beaches of Green Island off the east coast, where you can dive or snorkel around the coral reefs, as well as the beaches at the Penghu Islands in the Taiwan Strait.

 

Best Beaches In Asia without the Crowds, Green Island, Taiwan
Image of Green Island off Taiwan: http://www.dgrin.com

Conclusion

So there you have it, our Optimise Travel tips for the best beaches in asia without the crowds. There a plenty of great options to consider. It will be a tough choice for you, but whatever destination you choose will be well worth it!

If you have any tips for travellers who may be looking to visit some of the best beaches in asia without the crowds then please share them in the comments section below so others can benefit from your experiences.

 

Why Smart Australians are Travelling to South America

by
Carnival Time

Vacations to South America offer the best value in terms of international holiday choices for Australians 

Planning a trip to South America for your holiday is an incredible opportunity. Not only because of the inherent natural beauty that awaits you, but also due to the advantages you gain in terms of paying less for more. The reason is that most countries in South America favor the Australian Dollar (AUD) in their rates, meaning that, considering the past couple of years and present currency exchange, Australians can obtain a superior price-value ratio when planning their holidays to these regions. The National Currency of Brazil (Brazilian Real R$) has lost value consistently against the AUD and current prices make these destinations the perfect retreat – filled with pleasure and adventure at an affordable cost.

Brazil is the most well-known country in South America. It is renowned for its beautiful, vibrant beaches and giant mountain ranges that provide an exquisite backdrop for tourists and locals alike. The city’s landmark is Christ the Redeemer is a 38 meter Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ welcoming visitors to Corcovado Mountain perched high above the city below.

Christ the Redeemer statue in Brazil, South America

Image: youtube.com

One of the biggest carnivals in the world is the Rio Carnivale, held from the 1st-9th of March in 2019. Music, street festivals and dancing converge at this time of the year, resulting in lavish parades and extravagant parties throughout Rio de Janeiro. The streets come alive with laughing, dancing and endless fun alongside approximately 2 million other people.

For a more comprehensive guide to visiting Brazil please please see our guide.

      Carnivale. Brazil, South America

        Image: www.ibtimes.co.uk

In the past 5 years, the Brazilian Real has constantly depreciated with respect to the AUD, making it possible for Australians to spend less and experience more. 

Brazil Real vs Australian Dollar

Image via xe.com

The numbers indicate that you’ll definitely enjoy the value of your money in Rio but if you want to feel the vibration of Latin America outside of Brazil then Argentina & learning to dance the Tango in Buenos Aires should be on your bucket list. Infamously easy to learn, this dance brings out the warmth and friendliness of people to the surface irrespective of the harmony of their movements. Certainly an authentic experience for travellers who want to step into the shoes of a local.

Latin Dancing in Argentina, South America

Image: hotel-magazine.com

The capital city of Argentina is another one of the incredible value spots for Australian vacations. Sports enthusiasts are recommended to experience a Boca Juniors vs. River Plate football match. The festivity, intensity of emotions and engaging shows put on by the crowd’s often make the stands look as exciting as what’s happening on the pitch itself.

Argentinian Peso vs Australian Dollar

Image:xe.com

If you feel closer to nature, the majesty of Iguazu Falls might be exactly what you need. These wondrous cascades are located on the junction of the Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay borders with many airlines within Argentina and Brazil offering direct flights from larger cities to this beautiful site.

waterfalls in South America

Image source: sploid.gizmodo.com

For a dose of history and heritage in South America, Peru’s Cusco is very popular due to its Incan architecture and Renaissance cathedrals. This world heritage site at the base of the Andes is famous for the ancient ruins of Saksaywaman, whose mysteries have yet to be fully deciphered by modern science. Baroque constructions and churches from the 1500s make it the perfect place to start exploring South American Culture. Even though the Peruvian Nuevo Sol has steadily gained in value relative to the Australian Dollar in the past couple of years, this country is currently one of the most affordable destinations on our list.

bolivia, South America

Image: tarainperu.wordpress.com

Another popular destination in South America is Bolivia, housing the amazing Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat and home to the iconic species of pink flamingos. This stunning formation of prehistoric lakes is not only picturesque but also teaming with unique wildlife.

Further North on the continent, The Santuario de las Lajas in Colombia should be of particular interest to Australians coming to South America since the AUD has gained a bit over 30% in relation to the Columbian Peso. Here, you can find the Las Lajas Sanctuary, a Gothic Revival style church built in the 20th century that attracts millions of pilgrims every year due to its incredible architecture and religious connections. According to a folklore legend, an apparition of Virgin Mary took place here as a miracle in 1754 and the image is still visible on the stone to this day.

Colombia Peso vs Australian Dollar

Image: xe.com

South America offers more than meets the eye, from natural beauty to man-made ancient wonders the arsenal of tourist attractions rivals any other continent in the world. Travel from the top of the mountains to the warmth of the beaches and everything in between. Australians can explore South America with value for Australia Dollar being at record highs.

Please feel free to write about your South American recommendations and experiences in the comments below so that others can benefit on their travels.

*We aim to provide up to date content and information. If any information provided is no longer correct then please email us at optimisetravelaustralia@gmail.com or post in the comments section

Getting the Most Value from Your European Holidays

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European holiday hotspots remain a popular choice among Australian travellers of all ages. From the heritage of the Renaissance era to modern and contemporary art, wonderful beaches and wild mountains, it seems that everyone can find something special in Europe. 

The catch for Aussies in 2015/2016 is the currency exchange rate. The Australian dollar has been at all-time lows for the past 5 years relative to the Euro and British Pound. In November 2015, around 2 AUD will get you 1 GBP and 8 AUD receives 5 EUR. These figures highlight the extra burden travellers now face when visiting European cities meaning their hard-earned AUD won’t go as far as it once did.

Optimise Travel has done the research for you to showcase european holiday destinations that will give you more ‘bang for your buck’.

Euro vs Australian dollar

Image via xe.com

Nonetheless, European holiday destinations do not only include the UK, France, Germany, Spain or Italy.

Central and Eastern Europe

These are amazing destinations that offer unique and memorable experiences similar to the more popular regions, but at a much better price. This is the case because not every EU country has adopted the Euro as its currency, our table below explains.

Countries such as Sweden and Denmark have their own currencies and while the exchange rate might be favorable to the AUD in 2016, the services, food and travelling costs in these northern countries are almost equivalent to those practiced in Western Europe, so they do not represent great deals for Australians. To gain significantly more value for your European holiday in 2016, you can visit the following countries which are not in the Eurozone: 

Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Macedonia, Romania, Bulgaria, Russia, and Turkey.

eurozone currency map

Image via http://www.economist.com

The major Eastern European capitals such as Warsaw in Poland, Budapest in Hungary or Bucharest in Romania are just as technologically advanced and up-to-date with 21st century trends as any western city. These come with the added benefit of generally less tourists. The adventures awaiting travellers visiting this region of Europe is extremely unique, highlighted by the diversity of Serbia and Macedonia, Russian vodka tasting in Moscow or the outstanding all-inclusive offers in Turkey’s beach resorts.

The Czech Republic others coffee festivals, fantastic art collections including Andy Warhols best work, castles, caves and gorgeous Chateaux’s. Even though Prague has attained popularity in the past decade and prices have increased, it still represents high value for Australians. Architecture from the Gothic and Renaissance eras is littered throughout the capital. English speaking guided mountain bike tours are available and extremely popular along with Czech beer. This brew is known around the world for its taste, which comes from decades of brewery experience passed down from one generation to the other. The best thing about it is that you can get the finest Czech beer at excellent prices regardless of where you stay.

Religion or literature enthusiasts can follow in the footsteps of Rabbi Loew and the renowned legend of the Golem – a trip that starts in front of his statue, takes you through the Kafka square, two synagogues, and a Jewish cemetery. Just outside of Brno, in the east of the Czech Republic lies the Moravian Karst, a vast landscape of gorges, caverns, underground rivers and cave systems.

 

 

Prague River on European Holiday

Image via https://www.ietf.org/

The next on our list is Poland and the city of our choice is Krakow, which seems to be the most accessible destination. Free walking tours of the city are available for backpackers leaving daily from the main square. This central grand square (Rynek Glowny) is the perfect people watching both day and night and is an excellent starting point when exploring the city.

Attractions such as the Wawel Royal Castle, Bunker of Modern Art and the Church of the Virgin Mary (Kosciol Mariacki) are all within walking distance and easily accessible. If walking and site seeing takes its toll then Spa and wellness resorts are also popular throughout Poland with more than 40 renowned for their affordability, modern features and tranquility.

Travel further east to a Romania to experience Medieval Castles such as Bram Stoker’s inspiration for Dracula. Located just outside of the picturesque mountain town of Brasov and just a few hours north of the capital Bucharest, this 600 year old castle is a must see for adults and children alike and with tickets no more than 30 Romanian Lei (€6).

In terms of modern scenery, the capital Bucharest is renowned for its historic beauty and with many focal points showcasing its communist times. You can learn something about Romania’s roots at the Village Museum or the Museum of the Romanian Peasant or gaze upon the 2nd largest building in the world, the Palace of the Parliament.

Art galleries are plentiful and usually come without the crowds of its Parisian counterparts. The most interesting 21st century galleries include the Anaid, Zorzini Gallery or H’art Gallery. Alternatively, the capital is renowned for its nightlife and entertainment scene. Low prices, plenty of underground locations and live music clubs can turn every night into a party.

 

Romanian Castle on European Holiday

Image via www.reddit.com

The Russian economy has experienced difficult times recently, with the AUD gaining as much as 60% in value when compared to the Russian Ruble since January. Services are quite pricy in Moscow, seeing as it is one of the largest capitals in Europe, but transportation, food and drinks are more than reasonable.

Visit the Kremlin, a fortress dating back to the 1100’s and renovated in the 15th century by Italian architects and currently the seat of the Russian state power, as well as the Red Square, where you’ll be blown away by the the psychedelic onion domes of St. Basil.

Beach in Antalya, Turkey on European Holiday

Image via www.holidaystoturkey.com

Antalya, Turkey is the place for your perfect European holiday in 2016. Considerably cheaper than the capital Istanbul, Antalya is mostly known for its beach resorts. The incredible value of your vacation is powered by an exceptional currency rate between the AUD and Turkish Lira. Additionally most hotels offer ‘all inclusive’ packages meaning you can indulge in all the food and drink you that your stomach can handle. Visit our comprehensive guide to Turkey here.

Turkish Lira vs Australian Dollar

Image via xe.com

Even though the AUD has lost a lot of ground in the past 5 years compared to the Euro and British Pound, Europe still remains an attractive destination for Australians. This is because tourists can experience art, history, mountains, beaches, spas, nightlife, medieval castles and architecture all on the one continent. Travellers who venture outside the more recognised european cities can stretch the AUD further, experiencing more on their European holiday adventures.

Please Share your European holiday tips, tricks and stories in the comments section so that others can benefit on their travels!

*We aim to provide up to date content and information. If any information provided is no longer correct then please email us at optimisetravelaustralia@gmail.com or post in the comments section

Why Croatia Is a Must See Destination for Australian Travellers

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Croatia

Optimise Travel Test – Croatia

Croatia offers plenty of options for holiday-makers, including its culture, historical buildings and national parks, as well as beautiful coastal and inland mountain resorts.

We’ve put the country through our Optimise Travel holiday destination test, and it comes up trumps.

  • Is now a good financial time to go? 

  • Is there a wide variety of interesting things to see and do? 

  • Is there a good time of year to go? 

  • How hard is it to get to and get around when you’re there? 

 

We’ll look at each one of these criteria in more detail in this article, offering you some practical tips and advice along the way.

A good financial time to go √

Current exchange rates between the Australian dollar and the Croatian kuna make Croatia a good value for money destination for Australian tourists.

As the graph below shows, the Australian dollar (AUD) will currently buy you approximately 5.17 Croatian kunas (HRK). Although you would have been able to get more than 6 kunas to the dollar 2 or 3 years ago, the Australian dollar has held up better against the kuna in recent years than against currencies like the United States dollar (USD) and the Euro (EUR).

AUD vs Croatian Kuna

Image: xe.com

A variety of interesting things to see and do √

Before we get into those, you need to get your head around the geographic layout of the country. The capital city of Croatia is Zagreb, and the country is bordered by Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. Croatian is the official language in the country, but most people speak at least a little English, so the language barrier won’t be as acute as in some other countries.

Map of Croatia

Image: http://reliefweb.int

Pula Arena

This amphitheatre was built in the first century, and is the 6th largest surviving arena from the Roman Empire. It is also the best preserved historical building in Croatia, and hosts a variety of festivals and concert performances over the summer months.

Pula Arena in Croatia

http://www.houseofcoco.net/park-plaza-arena-hotel-pula-croatia/

Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes is a World Heritage-listed national park located near Croatia’s border with Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is particularly famous for its series of cascading lakes and their green, blue and azure watercolours. Its dense forests are home to unique flora and fauna species, including the European brown bear, eagles, owls, wolves and wild cats.

Plitvice Lakes In Croatia

Image: https://acoupledetours.files.wordpress.com

Hvar

   Hvar is a Croatian island town located in the Adriatic Sea, off the Dalmatian coast near the city of Split. It is home to some of Croatia’s more upmarket resorts, and is known for its sunny weather, beaches and harbour.

Hvar in Croatia

Image: http://www.suncanihvar.com

Zlatni Rat Beach

This much-photographed and popular beach, also off the coast of the city of Split, is surrounded by pine trees and is typically lined in summer with sunbeds. It is ideal for water sports activities such as wind-surfing and kayaking.

Zlatni Rat Beach in Croatia

Image: http://stuffpoint.com

Korčula

Korčula is also an island town located off the coast of Split. There you can stroll and explore its centuries-old stone buildings, medieval walls and towers on car-free stone alleys. You can also visit Marco Polo House, the birthplace of the famous 13th-century explorer.

korcula Sunset In Croatia

Image: http://i.uniline.hr

Dubrovnik

Nicknamed “the pearl of the Atlantic”, the city of Dubrovnik in the south is one of Croatia’s most prominent tourist attractions. It is a walled city, and the stunning architecture of its churches, monasteries and museums are its most striking feature. Besides walking the streets to take its history in, a great way to view the city as a whole and its neighbouring islands in the Adriatic Sea is via aerial cable car. In addition, the ‘old city’ was used in filming the HBO TV series Game of Thrones.

  Old town, dubrovnik, Croatia

Image: http://www.valamar.com

 

A good time of year to go √

Being located in the northern hemisphere, Croatia’s seasons occur at the opposite time to Australia’s. Its weather is much cooler than in Australia, with average summer temperatures of 18°C and -3°C in winter. Coastal areas are warmer than inland areas.

You can expect holiday destinations and accommodation within Croatia to be more crowded and expensive during school holiday times. Approximate Croatian school holiday dates are as follows:

Christmas: 24 December 2015 to 8 January 

Spring:       21 March 2016 to 28 March 2016

Summer:   13 June 2016 to 31 August 2016

Autumn:     5 September 2016 to 9 September 2016

 

Getting there and getting around while you’re there √

There are regular flights to Zagreb (the capital and largest city in Croatia) from most capital cities in Australia. It’s a long flight, taking approximately 24 hours from the east coast of Australia, based on one quick stopover at a connecting flight destination along the way (such as in Abu Dhabi, Bangkok or Dubai). Connecting flights are common for such a long journey. Your total travel time will obviously be affected by the length of any stopovers, so you should plan accordingly.

Within Croatia, there are airports in each of its major cities. Flights between cities are relatively short by Australian standards. For example, a flight between Zagreb in the north of the country and Dubrovnik (popular tourist destination in the far south) only takes about an hour.

 

Is it safe?

The Australian government’s official advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is that Australians should exercise normal safety precautions when travelling in Croatia. As you should in any international country, pay close attention to your personal security and belongings.

You should also talk to your doctor about appropriate vaccines and preventative medicines before you go. In addition to the routine vaccines, for Croatia, you should prevent your chances of contracting any of the following diseases –hepatitis A/B and rabies.

 

Please Share your Croatian tips, tricks and stories in the comments section so that others can benefit on their travels!

*We aim to provide up to date content and information. If any information provided is no longer correct then please email us at optimisetravelaustralia@gmail.com or post in the comments section

Why You Should Go & Holiday In Brazil

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Brazil

 Optimise Travel Test – Brazil

Put simply, the eyes of the world were be on Brazil in 2016. If you are looking for excitement on your next holiday, it should definitely rank very highly on your “potential destinations list”. If you’ve always had ambitions to go there, now is a great time!

The Olympic and Paralympic Games were held in Brazil’s second largest city, Rio de Janeiro, in August and September respectively of 2016. As anyone who was lucky enough to be in Sydney in 2000 will agree, being in the host Olympic city while this global sporting extravaganza is taking place is an amazing experience, whether or not you actually attend any events.

Brazil also offers plenty of other options for holiday-makers, from carnivals and culture to adventure and ecotourism. We’ve put the country through our Optimise Travel holiday destination test.

  • Is now a good financial time to go? 

  • Is there a wide variety of interesting things to see and do? 

  • Is there a good time of year to go? 

  • How hard is it to get to and get around when you’re there? 

We’ll look at each one of these criteria in more detail in this article, offering you some practical tips and advice along the way.

 

A good financial time to go √

Current exchange rates between the Australian dollar and the Brazilian real make Brazil a great value for money destination for Australian tourists, which is a bonus.

As the graph below shows, this has been the case for the last few years in particular. The Australian dollar (AUD) will buy you approximately 2.64 Brazilian reals (BRL), a far cry from a decade ago when it hovered around the 1.5 real mark. Even just 12 – 18 months ago, an Australian dollar would only get you just over 2 Brazilian reals.

Screen Shot 2015-11-23 at 3.26.54 pm

Image: xe.com

 

A variety of interesting things to see and do √

Before we get into those, you need to get your head around the geographic layout of the country. Brazil is made up of 26 states, and 5 regions (Northern, Northeast, Central-West, Southeast and Southern). These regions are colour-coded in the map below. It is bordered by 10 countries – Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay, Bolivia, Peru, Columbia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname and French Guyana.

While Portuguese is the official language of Brazil, learning a second language is compulsory in Brazilian primary and secondary schools, and English is a popular option. So while there will be a language barrier to some extent, it won’t be as severe as in some other parts of the world.

Map of Brazil and territories

 

Source: http://www.worldofmaps.net/en/south-america/map-brazil/map-of-brazil-regions.html (Creative Commons Attribution License)

Thumbnails below: (Creative Commons Attribution License)

The Rio CarnivalRio carnivale

This world famous 4-day festival is the largest of its kind in the world and is held before Lent each year. In 2019, it will be held from March 1st-9th. During this time, you can expect a party atmosphere with numerous street parades, floats and more than 2 million people a day flooding Rio’s streets, bars, cafes and other popular venues. The festival finishes with the spectacular Rio Samba Parade.

Copacabana Beach, Rio de JaneiroCopacabana Beach

The Copacabana beach stretches for more than 4 kilometres with its picturesque white sand and surf. The beach is bordered by a distinguishing promenade paved in a black and white mosaic style.

Corcavado Mountain, Rio de JaneiroCorcavado Mountain

The summit of this 710-metre high mountain offers unsurpassed panoramic views of the city. At the summit, you’ll also find the iconic 30 metre statue of Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer). This statue is the second largest sculpture in the world and casts an imposing presence watching over the city. A train or taxi is the best way to reach the top of Corcavado.

Sugarloaf Cable Car, Rio de JaneiroSugarloaf Cable car

The Sugarloaf Cable Car is an alternative to Corcavado mountain in terms of gaining an aerial view of Rio de Janeiro. The cableway takes you to the summit of the 396-metre mountain.

The Amazon River and rainforest, AmazonasAmazon River

The Amazon River stretches for 6,400 kilometres and is the second longest in the world, accounting for about one-fifth of the world’s river flow. It is surrounded by half of the world’s remaining rainforest area. Boat tours are a great way to explore the unique Amazonian ecosystem, taking in the wonders of nature and providing the chance to see wildlife like monkeys, jaguars, anacondas, anteaters, otters, and toucans.

The Pantanal in Mato Grosso do SulPantanal

The Pantanal is the world’s largest tropical wetland area, supporting a diverse range of plant and animal species. It has one of the largest jaguar populations in the world.

Iguaza Falls in ParanáIquazu Falls

The Iguaza Falls are located near the border of Brazil and Argentina. There are over 275 waterfalls, the largest being Devil’s Throat, which is U-shaped and has a height of 82 metres. There is a long walkway along the canyon where tourists can take in the breathtaking views.

Jericoacoara in CearáJericoacoara

Also known as “the Brazilian Maldives”, at Jericoacoara you’ll be able to swim in the freshwater lagoons, with its deep blue and green water, and relax afterward in a hammock drinking a cold beverage. You can also watch the sunrise over the ocean, which is a magical experience at this beautiful location.

Dive at Fernando de NoronhaFernando de Noronha

If you’re looking for something a bit off the beaten track, Fernando de Noronha is a World Heritage listed collection of 21 islands, approximately 350 kilometres off the coast of Brazil. The only way you can get there is via a two-day cruise or by booking a seat on a chartered plane. When you arrive, you need to pay a small environmental preservation fee, and you’ll understand why when you get there. It is one of the best dive sites in the world, with incredible visibility in its clear waters.

A good time of year to go √

In August and September, Brazil can be slightly more expensive and crowded. Brazil successfully hosted the 2014 FIFA World Cup, and 2016 Olympics and will have learnt a lot from dealing with the massive influx of tourists from all over the world.

Local school holiday dates in Brazil aren’t as fixed as they are in many other countries, it is up to individual schools to decide. However, with Christianity being the dominant religion in the country, you can expect Easter  and Christmas periods to be school holiday times, with holiday destinations and accommodation within Brazil being more crowded and expensive accordingly.

In terms of seasons, Brazil’s occur at the same time as Australia’s, since both countries are in the southern hemisphere. Its climate is similar to Australia’s, with various areas ranging from desert to tropical, and temperatures varying across the country. In the southern regions of the country it gets cooler in winter, but in other parts of the country temperatures are more even throughout the year. Brazil only has moderate rainfall throughout the year, with most occurring in the summer months.

Getting there and getting around while you’re there √

There are regular flights to both Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro (the two largest cities in Brazil) from most capital cities in Australia. It’s a long flight, taking between 29 and 31 hours from the east coast of Australia, based on one quick stopover at a connecting flight destination along the way (such as in Singapore or Dubai). Connecting flights are common for such a long journey. Your total travel time will obviously be affected by the length of any stopovers, so you should plan accordingly.

Within Brazil, there are airports in the major cities of each of its 26 states. Flights between states are relatively short by Australian standards. For example, a flight between the two largest cities of Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro takes about 45 minutes. A long flight would be from Rio Grande do Sul in the deep south of the country to Roraima in the far north, which takes approximately 4 and a half hours.

Is it safe?

The Australian government’s official advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is that Australians should exercise a high degree of caution when travelling in Brazil. This is because there is a relatively high level of serious crime in the major cities of the country.

This means you should take sensible precautions, like paying close attention to your personal security and belongings at all times. You should also be aware that there is a relatively high level of HIV/AIDS within Brazil, and you should take precautions if engaging in any activities that will expose you to the risk of infection.

In addition, Sao Paulo is currently experiencing a severe drought and has imposed water restrictions and rationing. The quality of available water has also been affected, with people in the city being advised to boil water for sanitation accordingly.

As with travelling to any destination, you should talk to your doctor about appropriate vaccines and preventative medicines before you go. In addition to the routine vaccines, for Brazil you should prevent your chances of contracting any of the following diseases –hepatitis A/B, typhoid, yellow fever and malaria.

Please Share your Brazilian tips, tricks and stories in the comments section so that others can benefit on their travels!

*We aim to provide up to date content and information. If any information provided is no longer correct then please email us at optimisetravelaustralia@gmail.com or post in the comments section

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