Australians are famous for their undeniable commitment to the city that they live in. It’s safe to say that just about every city dweller thinks their city is the best. But despite this hometown pride, we often forget how to have fun in our own towns. Well, it’s time to set that straight with a good old fashioned staycation.
Gordon Bayne, Head of Travel at Scoopon reveals 5 staycation suggestions that will help you fall in love with your city all over again.
BRISBANE, QLD
Now a thriving metropolis, Queensland’s capital has come a long way in the last ten years. Kick things off with a visit to the Brisbane lookout on top of Mount Coot-tha. There’s no better way to get a fresh perspective on your hometown when you are literally looking at it from its highest peak. Grab some lunch at the Summit restaurant then head down to South Bank and do a Segway tour – guaranteed laughs for the whole family. At night hit Fortitude Valley for the best bars and eateries in Brisbane. Go totally luxe with the accommodation and check into the NEXT Hotel. It’s a four-and-a-half-star gem hidden in Brisbane’s CBD.
HOBART, TASMANIA
Start your Saturday in true Tassie-style with a trip to the Salamanca markets. In operation since 1972, the markets should be high on your Hobart list. After grabbing a bite to eat at a nearby café, cruise along to MONA. Sure you might walk past it every day on your way to work, but it’s what’s inside that counts. Easily the best collection of ancient, modern and contemporary art in Australia, it will give you a new found appreciation of your towns’ culture. Complete the staycation by booking a hotel in Battery Point – one of Hobart’s oldest suburbs, brimming with stunning Victorian architecture.
SYDNEY, NSW
Considered one of Australia’s main tourism gems, it’s amazing how often Sydneysiders try and escape their own town. Do the opposite this long weekend and spend a little time in the culture capital. Put your feet up on Pitt Street with a few nights at the Tank Stream Hotel. The ultra-modern digs are in the middle of the city, only minutes away from the Sydney Opera House. Stroll down Circular Quay and check out the Museum of Contemporary Art, boasting some of the best exhibitions in the country. For something different, do lunch at Chippendale’s Spice Alley – an outdoor laneway offering up the city’s most delicious Asian cuisines including dumplings, ramen and roti.
MELBOURNE, VIC
Hidden laneways, underground bars and the best coffee you’ve ever had. Often voted Australia’s most liveable city, Melbourne has something for everyone. Kick start your long weekend with a beautiful brunch date on Degraves Street. Once you’ve had your caffeine fix, why not book a walking tour of town, taking in the city’s famous street art. It’s a great way to appreciate the city you see every single day. Seal the deal on your staycation by checking in to the Parkview Hotel on St Kilda Road. Located right near the shopping districts of Chapel Street and Bridge Road, a few nights at the Parkview will be just the ticket. You can even let loose your inner tourist and spend an afternoon at Luna Park – only minutes away!
ADELAIDE, SA
The cosmopolitan capital of South Australia, Adelaide is quickly becoming the hottest city in the country. Get the full experience by heading to the Adelaide Central Market early in the morning. The market has been around for 145 years and is run by some of Adelaide’s most colourful characters! Boasting a thriving arts community, check out the hard work of your fellow Adelaide-ians by heading to Ebenezer Place. Closed to traffic and dotted with some of Adelaide’s coolest and quirkiest cafés and independent boutiques, it’s the city’s most unique shopping experience. Round out the day by tucking into a bottle of the Barossa’s finest.