travelblog – Affordable Luxury

5 Must-Visit Destinations in Queensland

Queensland, without a doubt is Australia’s hottest travel destination. Every traveler that visits the country will not leave without stepping a foot in Queensland, so here are some of the must visit places for you in this state:

Palm Cove

A cute little beach paradise that is tucked away between Cairns and Port Douglas- Palm Cove is the perfect place for catching some chill vibes. There is a huge jetty for fishing for those who just want to kick back and enjoy some lazy afternoons and have good conversations. This beach suburb is also lined with lots of cafes, bars and restaurants and has the ideal atmosphere of relaxation.

Cairns

This place is just something you need to see. Heaps of tours to the Great Barrier Reef and islands are available. The foreshore near the CBD is awesome and generally where you will find every backpacker in North Queensland. The Sky rail and Kuranda scenic will be a major highlight of your trip!

Daintree Forest

The perfect example of an Australian landscape, the beautiful Daintree forest has a diverse species of flora and fauna. Like the Great Barrier Reef, this place is a part of the UNESCO world heritage site. A perfect place for nature-lovers!

Lamington National Park

Another UNESCO world heritage site, Lamington National Park is filled with unique flora and fauna. The park is particularly known for its bird life, wildflowers, and waterfalls, and it’s easily accessible: you’ll find some of Australia’s best bush-walking trails here, with over 160 km of walking tracks. It’s also a great place to do some adventure sports like abseiling, archery and a flying fox.

Gold Coast’s four theme parks

Warner Brothers’ Movie World, Dream World and Wet’n’Wild – are must-dos for anyone who loves theme parks and roller-coaster’s. Movie World is full of cheesy Warner Brothers’ fun. Take a photo with all your favorite characters, and enjoy top-quality rides such as the Scooby Doo Spooky Coaster. Dream World is the biggest theme park on the Gold Coast, with many attractions and rides. Wet’n’Wild is an aquatic theme park with some of Australia’s greatest water-slide fun, including some extreme water-slides such as the Kamikaze which gives you the sensation of zero-gravity as you plunge down!

Visit Aabode.com for accommodations near these must-visit destinations and make your trip a memorable one!

24 Hours in Adelaide

Whether you’re in Adelaide for a stopover or just whisking yourselves on a weekend getaway, we’ve got the perfect plans for you! From delicious pastries to decadent beaches, we’ve got a packed day for you!

9am – Jamface

Start your day with a range of sweet pastries and house made relishes at Jamface. Run by ex masterchef Poh, Jamface is a culinary favourite within Adelaide and offers some of the best baked fares in the city. Whether you begin your morning with a lychee raspberry bavarois tart or a simple cup of joe, Jamface will help you kick start your morning! Hot tip: Jamface always changes their pastries and treats based on what’s in season so try whatever is displayed! You’ll never know if you’ll be able to try it again!

10am – Adelaide Central Markets

Once you step right out of Jamface, you’ll be situated right in the center of the Adelaide Central Market! This place is the central hub and is the epicenter of the culinary world within Adelaide. Grab some cheeses, cured meats and local treats for a picnic treat later! If you’re still peckish there are loads of small side dishes, fresh juices and plump oysters for you. Whether you’re after a nibble, bite or stroll, the markets will overwhelm you for choice!

11:30am – Beerenberg Farm

After you leave the busy markets, take a quick ride for thirty minutes or an hour bus ride east to Beerenberg farm. Spend your afternoon away from the hustle and bustle by picking strawberries at this quaint farm! Open from November to April, you’ll be able to pick your own juicy strawberries at this farm for only four dollars! Pick your strawberries and peruse down the farm. Don’t worry, we won’t tell anyone if you eat any on the way!

4pm – Take a dip at one of the beaches

After all of that exploring on the farm, you need one last bit of relaxation before tonight’s activities. Whether you’re going by car or public transport, heading to one of Adelaide’s picturesque beaches is a must do when in the city. If you’re in the city center, Glenelg beach is just a quick tram ride away, but if you wanted to venture a bit further, go and check out Semaphore beach! Plop yourself down on the plush white sand and take a refreshing dip before the next feed. Hot tip: Check out Adelaide on a budget!

7pm – Africola

As 7pm rolls around, so will your stomach. The best place for your last meal in Adelaide will be at cult favourite, Africola. This joint will be tantalizing your taste buds till the sun comes up and will tempt you with their smoked meats, African inspired vegetables and house pickles. Try out some of their grilled smoked tongue or their wood over cauliflower! Whatever you choose to graze on, be sure to finish it with their tahini ice cream and tamarind roasted pineapple!

10pm – Electric circus

If you still have the energy to party on a Friday or Saturday night, dance yourself down to Electric Circus. EC is one of the best clubs in Adelaide, offering some of the best tunes in the city. If you want to get even more out of your night, the upper levels of EC are also home to Rocketbar & Rooftop and Mr Kim’s if you’re after a more chilled night. Whether you want to dance the night away or unwind with a drink, Adelaide will have something for you

Have more than 24 Hours? Check our more sports to visit here!

Whether you’re staying in Adelaide for 24 hours or 24 days, we’ve got the perfect place for you to stay at Aabode.com!

5 things you must do in Yorke Peninsula!

Only two and a half hours from Adelaide, Yorke Peninsula could be the perfect weekend getaway for you! Whether you’re a single, couple or family, it’s got something for everyone! Check out five of our favourite things you must do in Yorke Peninsula.

Take a stroll along the waters

You’d have to be crazy to not check out the views of Yorke Peninsula! Start your morning or end your busy days with a relaxing stroll along the path with some spectacular views of the crystal waters. You won’t get lost with the walking as there are walking trails that will take you on an astonishing track! On your walk, you might even bump into some native furry friends on the way! If you’re not sure where to go or where to get started, just pop by the Yorke Peninsula Visitor Information Center as most walking trails start there!

Hop on the Moonta Mines railway

Jump on board the Moonta Mines train as it gives you a guided tour of the Moonta Mines National Heritage Area! You’ll be tooting around with local drivers and shown historical landmarks of former mining operations in the area! As you zip through tunnels and zoom across planes on the railway, you’ll be sure to have a great time.

Visit an art studio or gallery

Sneak some culture in your itinerary by visiting one of the local galleries or taking a masterclass! Check out the Roar Art Escapes Studio for art retreats, master classes or pop up events! It’s situated in the timeless and historic Edithburgh and can’t be missed when visiting Yorke Peninsula. If you’ve got time, also give the Moonta Gallery a visit for some timeless pieces!

Go for a putt

When you’re in the area, you’ll notice that there are heaps of gold courses around! Although there’s a plethora of golf courses to choose from, if you’re no Tiger Woods, there’s putt putt! Whether you want to plan a romantic date or a family afternoon, Port Vincent putt putt is the place for you. It might be the only place that has putt putt with luxury views! That’s right, while you play your nine hole game of putt putt, this place offers some spectacular beach views!

Stay the night in an old flour mill

Add this to your bucket list ASAP! Stay the night at one of a kind Butterworth Mill, a restored original flour mill. It’s situated in between local wineries and close by pubs. This rustic abode is a unique part of history and was built all the way back in 1874! Spend your cozy night by the fireplace or spend the evening relaxing on the deck nestled amongst the vines! This one in a lifetime opportunity is one of our must do’s in Yorke Peninsula. Check it out here!

What are you waiting for? Yorke Peninsula is definitely a place you have to put on you bucket list! Check out our properties at Aabode.com so you can have the perfect weekend getaway.

Top travel mistakes not to make

When you’re trekking across the globe, your bound to make mistakes and run into some issues, but it’s all part of the learning process! Travelling gives insight into some of life’s larger lessons and provides a different perspective on how to see the world. Even though you’ll be learning these lessons on your own, we’re here to give you some basic tips on what not to do, to get you started!

Skimping on travel insurance

Even though flights, accommodation and activities can quickly strain your bank account, travel insurance is NOT something you want to skip on, especially if you’re travelling outside of the country. Travel insurance is usually a fraction of the cost of any other expense and it will protect you from any medical or non medical emergency. Your thirst for travel might be quenched by a spontaneous holiday but your safety always comes first!

Cramming your day to the max

So many sights to see and so many things to do! Travelling to a new place is always exciting and you’re always presented with a plethora of things to do. Even though you should definitely make the most of your holiday, don’t pack your itinerary by the minute! By doing this, you might be disappointed when you don’t get enough time to do an activity or you won’t have enough time to enjoy the sight itself. Take it easy and enjoy your time in each place or activity. If you want to roughly plan your day, perhaps schedule in one or two events! That way you have time to relax and enjoy your time, which is what travelling is all about!

Over packing

Although you want a killer outfit for every instagram photo, there is a thing such as over packing! For most of you guys out there, half of the clothes you pack in your suitcase end up staying there for the whole trip! Make you only pack what you need and clothes that you know you’ll wear! Carrying extra large luggage can also make transportation a hassle. We recommend you pack wisely and think about your destination when packing!

Not informing your bank

Although planning your getaway can be extremely exciting, some get too excited and forget this vital step! Failure to do this could mean your account could be locked and you won’t have any funds available overseas. Make sure you go and have a chat with your bank or inform them through a mobile banking app to notify them of your travel dates! Hot tip: When travelling, especially overseas, make sure you have a bit of cash in case of an emergency, even if your destination is card friendly.

Skimping on accommodation

Just to be clear, this doesn’t mean you have to splash millions and stay in a penthouse! Although travel can get expensive, it’s ideal not to skimp on accommodation because it’s where you’ll be resting and recharging. There are lots of affordable accommodation options out there and you just have the right one for you! Just keep in mind that your accommodation should be a place you can get a good night’s rest or take a quick break, so find a place where you feel comfortable. Make sure your accommodation has all of the amenities you need such as air conditioning, linen or towels. You can always be spontaneous in your adventures around your destination, but you never want any nasty surprises about your accommodation!

Whether you’re on a budget or ready to ball out, Aabode.com has all of the best accommodation for any traveler! We know how important accommodation is and we’ve chosen the best for you!

Travel books to spark your wanderlust

What books inspire your wanderlust? We’ve picked some of our favourite travel books – fiction and non-fiction – that get us packing our bags and itching for a new adventure!

In a Sunburned Country – Bill Bryson

Get to know the little quirks of Australia and see why this sunny country island is as beautiful as it is today – you’ll even have a few belly laughs to go with it!

Outlander – Diana Galbadon

Travel back in time to 18th century Scotland, and fall in love with the dashingly handsome Scottish highlander. You’ll also find yourself quickly falling in love with Scottish history and landmarks, and you’ll be looking up flights to visit asap.

Into the Wild – Jon Krakauer

This non-fiction piece leaves a lasting impression as you experience Christopher McCandless’ hitchhike to Alaska and leaves behind his family and possession to build a new life for himself.

Eat, Pray, Love – Eliza Gilbert

Watch Elizabeth step out of her comfort zone and journey through Italy, India and Indonesia with her!

The Alchemist – Paulo Coelho

Follow the inspiring adventure of a young Shepherd boy who yearns to travel the world. This book will remind you to listen to your heart and follow your dreams!

Dave Barry Does Japan – Dave Barry

Embark on a hilarious journey with Dave Barry as he takes on three weeks in Japan. You’ll be laughing your head off whilst wanting to experience the drastically different, but beautiful culture in Japan!

Finding Gobi – Dion Leonard

Prepare your heart and witness the lovable pup, Gobi, stand by marathon runner Dion Leonard and take on China and the UK.

Itching to travel? Start planning your next trip and book your next accommodation through Aabode.com! We have over 4000+ properties across Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Indonesia and more!