As the pioneering force in youth travel since 1962, Contiki has been bringing 18-35-year-old travellers together to discover the world – but now it’s time to explore Australia with the launch of its new Aussie Adventures. Despite the world being brought to a standstill which resulted in the day-to-day monotony of lockdown and social distancing – Contiki encourages millennials and Gen Z to keep dreaming big and plan out their next adventure, but this time, keeping it close to home.
Now more than ever, travellers are seeking unique local experiences, realising the time is NOW to explore their own backyard. These domestic trips are the perfect opportunity to #MakeTravelMatter with Contiki Cares to support local businesses and communities deeply affected by the Australian bushfires and Covid-19. A collection of 14 carefully curated trips for locals, by locals, with locals ranging from 4 to 11 days – give wanderlusters’ the opportunity to explore top destinations such as North Queensland, Kakadu and Uluru’s Field of Lights; plus all new destinations including Western Australia’s Rottnest Island and Margaret River and the ultimate road trip via the Great Ocean Road through to the wineries and wilderness of South Australia.
Contiki believes in the ‘power of our community of Aussies’ who are hungrier for travel (and human interaction) than ever before. A recent survey found that most youths are craving unique experiences, with the opportunity for social travel, being the most important when choosing a domestic holiday. It’s no surprise they have a desire to escape isolation and are looking for social interaction – with 61% ‘raring to go’ and take their next break as soon as the restrictions ease, and 47% looking to travel domestically.
As we adapt to this new world – travel with peace of mind knowing that Contiki has worked with government authorities to elevate its already high hygiene standards and protocols. By implementing enhanced training for Trip Managers, its operational procedures, and numerous new measures throughout to comply with physical distancing requirements – travellers can expect the very best possible care and service when travelling.”
With all the details sorted, travellers will explore via coach, trains and sailing; and stay in comfy hostels, eco-lodges or glamping. Expect lots of included local, cultural, foodie, wellness, active and conscious travel experiences – all these inclusions are what makes these ready-made groups on-the-go so appealing.
As we endure the colder months ahead, the survey showed the Top 5 experiences that are being daydreamed about are beaches and islands, natural wonders, nature, foodie experiences and wildlife. Topping the destination hitlist are the Whitsundays, Byron, Uluru, Great Ocean Road, Rottnest Island, Cairns, Fraser Island, bushfire affected areas and Kangaroo Island. Based off these findings, trips have been designed to include:
North Queensland Adventure (with sailing) (9 days, from $214 per day)– jump on a 9-day unforgettable island-hopping adventure! Who needs Greece when the crystal-clear waters and spotless sands of Queensland are calling? This sun-soaked escapade kicks things off in the paradise of Airlie Beach before sailing along the Whitsundays on a converted racing yacht. Head to Magnetic Island, meet some of the local koalas, before ending on a high in Cairns to get even closer to that wonder of the natural world: The Great Barrier Reef.
Great Ocean Road Trip (8 days, from $236 per day)– a foodie, wildlife lover and culture craving traveller’s delight, experience Melbourne to Adelaide via the Great Ocean Road and Kangaroo Island. Designed for the conscious traveller, make travel matter with Contiki Cares by visiting a wildlife experience on Kangaroo Island, plus meet the Maremma Dogs Middle Island Penguin project.
Sunshine, Beaches & Breweries (11 days, from $200 per day)– soak in the sunshine between Brisbane, Noosa, Noosa Everglades, Fraser Island, Byron Bay, Gold Coast and Lamington National Park. Visit the popular Lost Palms and Stone & Wood breweries. Cruise along the white sands of Fraser Island in a self-drive 4×4; canoe in the pristine Noosa Everglades; plus mix in the activity of a rainforest walk, ziplining, sea kayaking, surf lessons and beachside yoga bliss for an action packed holiday to remember.
Rottnest Island & Margaret River (8 days, from $207 per day)– Immerse yourself from Perth to Rottnest, Dunsborough and Margaret River for wine tasting, with an option to skydive or take a helicopter ride over Rottnest Island. No trip to WA would be complete without beach hopping along the coast, sunset dinners, and quokka spotting!
Right now, you can book with confidence and lock in your holiday for only $99 deposit (normally $200) if you book by Sep 1, 2020. We know plans can change, so you’ve got a full 30 days to change your mind and if you want to cancel within 30 days of booking, we’ll guarantee 100% of your money back.
For more information visit https://www.contiki.com/activity/domestic-travel or contact your local travel agent.
SOURCE: Contiki
