This week we are celebrating Australia and all the beautiful destinations we have available to us in our own backyard. The world is a magical place, with so much to see and experience, that sometimes we forget just how much variety and how many beautiful destinations we have in our own amazing country. It’s great to experience new cultures, hear new languages and taste foreign local cuisines – but the truth is, in a country as diverse and rich in history as our very own, we have all of this (and more) on offer to us every day. Add to that a climate that offers everything from tropical paradise, to snow, to hot summer days and we think you’ve got no reason to put off exploring Australia.

We’re a little biased of our home State South Australia. From the sprawling vineyards in the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale regions, to the splendid coastline of the Yorke Peninsula, the rugged beauty of Kangaroo Island to the calm serenity of the Murray River – we really do have it all in our beautiful home state. Experiencing something new can be as simple as a short drive on a Sunday, to a weekend away and we have an array of first class restaurants offering a range of delicious cuisines for us to choose from.

South Australia aside, when you want to escape the day to day routine of being at home and have a mini getaway without having to leave the country, there are so many options available for people looking for any type of holiday. Whether it’s a family holiday to the Gold Coast, a romantic getaway to Daydream Island, a solo trip through the outback or a weekend girls’ trip to see a musical in Melbourne or Sydney, we are certainly spoiled for choice.

These trips can suit any budget and we’ve put together a few of our personal favourite tours that you can take advantage of in 2017.

1. Mitchell Plateau expeditions

Nestled at the northern most point of Western Australia is the beautiful region of the Kimberley. Offering year-round tropical climate, breathtaking scenery and an unspoiled coastline, this is a destination all Australian’s should witness in their lifetime. Flowing waterfalls, full gorges and a diverse array of flora and fauna inhabit the land and waters, including birds, marsupials, fish and of course the famous crocodile.

Our pick: An incredible 9 day Odyssey Expedition beginning and ending in Broome that takes travellers on a spectacular journey through some truly amazing sites along the Kimberley coast. Cruising the waters, flying above the landscapes, walking and exploring will give you a one of a kind perspective on one of the world’s most remote and tranquil destinations. Plus, Odyssey Expeditions are giving our readers a special discount of 15% off their classic twin cabin for trips departing August and September 2017 – 9 DAYS from $6,757pp – normally from $7,950pp!

2. Get a taste for Australia’s Outback

When you ask someone from another country to describe Australia, one of the first answers you’ll get is the Outback. The simple beauty of the flat plains, rugged mountain ranges and delightful gorges have to be seen to be believed.

Our pick: Adventure Tours Australia offer responsible and sustainable small group touring, with exclusive and unique Australian native food menus and Indigenous experiences. With a style of trip to suit everyone, it’s the perfect way to experience our amazing Land Down Under.

Cross this great land from the Centre to the far East on this Rock to Reef Overland (Basix) journey. Pack your sturdiest hiking boots and don’t forget your snorkel – itineraries like this are very rare. For those keen to check out two of Australia’s best-known attractions this off-road adventure across the Red Centre and into Cairns offers the chance to encounter an Australia few ever do. – 7 DAYS from $1,390pp

3. Port Douglas

Situated in tropical far North Queensland, Port Douglas is a perfect location for visiting the Great Barrier Reef and the majestic Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation. Relax on the picturesque beaches that line the coast or head into town to visit their unique boutiques and local markets. Snorkelling, hiking, paddle boarding or scuba diving – whatever your choice of adventure, it’s on offer in Port Douglas.

Our pick: Stay at one of the top 5 star resorts in Port Douglas, the Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple. Package includes 4 nights accommodation in a 1 bedroom Penthouse Villa, including return airport transfers. – 4 NIGHTS from $889pp twin share

4. Adelaide to Darwin on board The Ghan

The Ghan all-inclusive journeys offer many ways to explore Adelaide, Darwin, and everywhere in between. Experience the breathtaking scenery of Central Australia, the inspiring Northern Territory and access parts of Australia you never thought possible.

Our pick: Setting off from Adelaide, you’ll travel coast to coast through the fiery red centre, experiencing Australia at its dramatic best. Travellers will experience the scenic Flinders Ranges, the iconic Alice Springs and Uluru, Katherine and of course end your epic journey in Darwin. – 3 DAYS from $2,069pp twin share – save $530pp!

5.Explore Kakadu National Park

The Top End represents iconic Australia – the red dust of the Outback, numerous billabongs, Indigenous culture, and a range of wildlife. Kakadu, the country’s biggest national park, offers travellers the opportunity to get adventurous and hike, swim and camp within its scenic landscape.

Our pick: A 4WD adventure with Adventure Tours Australia. Cruise on a billabong while looking out for crocodiles, learn about the ways of Kakadu’s original inhabitants, and see ancient rock art. Get the most of Kakadu’s raw and rugged natural beauty and panoramic views with swims in waterholes like Jim Jim Falls and Barramundi Gorge, or climbs to the top of Twin Falls and Budjimi Lookout. Finish your active days with some traditional Aussie cuisine and slip into a swag and sleep right beneath the stars. – 3 DAYS from $630pp

From the vast plains of the outback, to the breathtaking beauty of the Great Barrier Reef – how much have you seen of our great land?

Although we are recognized as specialising in International adventure travel, we’re more than happy to assist you in planning an Aussie adventure as well. Contact us to find out more about any of the offers mentioned above.

*Terms and conditions apply for specials mentioned in this post. Limited availability is available.