Tag: travelogue90

Australia was never on my radar for 2023. With how the year was going, all I really wanted was a break—any vacation would do. At the beginning of the year, I decided it was finally time for another international trip. My last one had been way back in 2018 to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. I’d followed a self-made rule throughout my travel journey: explore one new Indian state and one new international destination each year.

I kicked off 2023 with a solo expedition to Shimla and Manali. By the end of the year, I was itching to head abroad again. Initially, I had my sights set on Vietnam. I even started planning the itinerary. But then came an unexpected twist. One day in September 2023, my dad casually suggested, “Why don’t we go to Australia?” Without hesitation, I gave a resounding yes—and the planning began.

Why Eastern Australia?

Australia is massive, and exploring the entire country in one trip is close to impossible. So, we decided to focus on the eastern side, covering iconic cities like Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Cairns, and Melbourne.

VISA PROCESS (for Indian citizens)

Compared to the Schengen and U.S. visa systems, Australia’s process is surprisingly straightforward. Here’s a breakdown for travellers residing in India:

DOCUMENTATION PROCESS

For salaried individuals:

• PAN Card
• Aadhaar Card
• Passport
• Bank statements from the past 12 months
• Last 3 months’ pay slips
• ITRs for the last 3 years

For self-employed individuals:

In addition to the documents above, you’ll also need:

• Business registration documents
• Business address proof
• Business ITRs
• Profit & Loss statements
• Government certifications (if any)

Most applicants with well-prepared documents won’t need to attend an interview. However, in case of discrepancies, the visa office might schedule a phone interview. Once approved, the visa and passport are typically delivered within 10-14 days. Tourist visas can be granted for 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, or even up to 3 years.

We were lucky—our family received 3-year visas, allowing us to revisit Australia anytime until 2026. We got them within a month and planned our trip for November 2023, which is one of the best times to visit, coinciding with the Australian summer. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, April to May is also a good window.

BOOKING FLIGHTS

Once our visas were confirmed, we looked for the most budget-friendly flights. Direct flights via Air India and Qantas are available, but with total travel time hovering around 20 hours, we didn’t mind a layover. We chose Malaysia Airlines. While the economy seat legroom wasn’t ideal, the Airbus A350-900 was incredibly comfortable, and the food was great. We were served both dinner and breakfast on board.

IMMIGRATION EXPERIENCE

Arriving in Sydney was a memorable moment. The airport is almost surrounded by water, and the approach offers a stunning view, with the runway flanked by sea. After landing, the aircraft crosses a bridge with roadway beneath it, before reaching the terminal.

Before landing, the flight crew hands out a yellow customs declaration slip. It asks you to declare any items you’re bringing into Australia, including:

• Food, plant-based, or animal products
• Firearms, weapons, ammunition
• Currency equivalent to or exceeding AUD 10,000
• Certain medications (always carry prescriptions)

Note: Carrying illegal drugs or restricted imports is strictly prohibited.

At immigration, it helps to go as a family. The Australian Border Force generally understand you’re visiting for tourism. Our process was smooth. We were through immigration and out of the airport in no time. That’s when the real adventure began. Our first stop: Sydney, the beating heart of Eastern Australia.

SYDNEY

​Sydney is a sophisticated and chic city, exuding a vibrant energy that captivates visitors. What surprised me was how the city shuts off by 8 PM between Mondays to Wednesdays. Thursdays to Sundays the city restaurants and lounges are vibing until late night. To explore the city better, we opted for local transportation services.​

Taxis: We hired cabs from local services like 13cabs. You can also consider Silver Service. Taxi fares in Sydney are regulated, with standard rates typically around AUD 45-55 for a trip from the airport to the city centre. However, it’s advisable to ensure the driver uses the metre to avoid overcharging. ​

Trains: Sydney’s train network is an efficient way to get around. A standard adult Opal card fare for a single journey within the city centre is approximately AUD 3.61. Fares vary based on distance and time of travel.​

Accommodation

We stayed at the Mantra Hotel near Sydney Airport for 2 nights. The approximate cost for a one-night stay is around AUD 150-200, depending on the room type and booking time.​

Main attractions

Darling Harbour

This bustling area offers numerous attractions:

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium: We visited this fascinating aquarium and witnessed several marine species enjoying their habitat. Ticket prices vary. For example, an adult ticket purchased online in advance on a weekday is around AUD 39. ​

WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo: Located adjacent to the aquarium, this zoo showcases Australia’s unique wildlife, including Koalas. Advance online weekday tickets for adults start from AUD 38.40. ​

Harbour Cruise: We enjoyed a scenic cruise around Darling Harbour, witnessing Sydney Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and the city skyline from the cruise. Ticket prices for such cruises generally range from AUD 30 to 50, depending on the duration and operator.​

Sydney Observatory: Situated near the Westfield Mall, the observatory offers insights into astronomy and provides a panoramic view of the entire city. General admission is free, but guided tours and special exhibitions may have associated costs.​

Day 2 activities

Sydney Opera House: We took a guided tour of this iconic landmark that showed the Grand Theatre and several other smaller theatres inside the Opera. The standard adult ticket for the tour is approximately AUD 43.​

Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG): A guided tour of this historic sports venue costs around AUD 30 for adults.​ You get a special entry into the pavilion and their dining area along with the dressing room.

Shopping experience

You can visit Paddy’s Haymarket if you want to buy clothes and souvenirs for your loved ones here. They price is anywhere between AUD 5 to AUD 8.

Dining recommendations

The Spice Central and The Spice Lounge Indian Cuisine: Offers a variety of Indian dishes. Main courses are typically priced between AUD 20-30.​

KOI Dessert Bar: Renowned for spectacular desserts and coffee/tea. Individual desserts are priced around AUD 12-15. ​

Chambers Fine Coffee: A cosy spot for breakfast and coffee. Breakfast items range from AUD 10-20.​

Jordan’s Seafood: Specialises in fresh seafood dishes. Main courses are approximately AUD 25-40.​

Casa Ristorante Italiano: Serves authentic Italian cuisine. Pizzas and pastas are priced between AUD 20-30. ​

Ministry of Coffee: Known for its artisanal coffee and light bites. Expect to spend around AUD 5 for a coffee and AUD 10-15 for snacks.​

*Note that the prices are approximate and subject to change. It’s advisable to check the official websites or contact the venues directly for the most current information.

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For travelling within Australia, we chose Jetstar for our domestic flights, which provided efficient and timely service, allowing us to reach our destinations quickly.

BRISBANE

Brisbane struck me as a harmonious blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, offering a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Upon arrival, domestic travellers can proceed directly to their destinations without undergoing an additional immigration process.​ We decided to explore two notable spots in Brisbane:​

Museum of Brisbane: This museum offers fascinating insights into the city’s evolving life, showcasing its history and culture through stories, photographs, and films.

Brisbane South Bank River Walk: A leisurely stroll along the riverside led us to the iconic Wheel of Brisbane and you can also check out the panoramic city views. ​

Dining in Brisbane

Geláre: Renowned for its delectable ice creams and classic croffles, Geláre offers treats like the Hot Fudge Sundae priced at approximately AUD 13.50.​

Olé: This Spanish restaurant specialises in tapas and paella, with main courses typically ranging from AUD 20 to 30.

GOLD COAST

For our journey to the Gold Coast, we opted for a private car service. Services like Transfeero offer transfers from Brisbane to the Gold Coast, with prices varying based on vehicle type and service level. ​

Welcome to Australia’s paradise! The Gold Coast is a coastal city renowned for its stunning beaches, making it an ideal escape from urban life.​

Accommodation

Centrally located in Surfers Paradise, the Vibe Hotel Gold Coast offers amenities like an outdoor swimming pool and free Wi-Fi. Our room also had a breathtaking view of the Nerang River and the cityscape. One-night stays are approximately AUD 150-200, depending on the season and room choice. ​After a lengthy journey, we relaxed in our room before taking a short 5-minute walk to Surfers Paradise to witness a breathtaking sunset. We planned a two-night stay here.​

Main attractions

Main Beach Superyacht Marina Parasailing: Experiencing parasailing here was exhilarating, offering views of marine life from above. Solo parasailing starts at AUD 91, with tandem and triple packages at AUD 128 and AUD 193, respectively. ​

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary provides close encounters with Australian wildlife, including kangaroos and vibrant bird shows. Day passes are available, with prices subject to change. ​

Nerang River Boat Ride: An evening boat ride along the Nerang River offers soothing views of waterfront homes and the cityscape. Sightseeing and occasional cruises are available, with prices varying by operator.

Shopping

We visited Woolworths to purchase local Australian items such as chocolates, spices, and fruits to take back home.​

Dining recommendations

Surfers Paradise boasts numerous Indian restaurants, like Balti Indian Bar & Restaurant, and quaint cafés within the market area, offering a variety of dining options to suit different tastes.​

*Note that all prices are approximate and subject to change. It’s advisable to check the official websites or contact the venues directly for the most current information.

CAIRNS

Travelling to Cairns, we again chose Jetstar for our domestic flight, appreciating the convenience of no additional immigration procedures upon arrival. The city welcomed us with its lush greenery and serene harbourside, igniting our anticipation for the adventures ahead.​

Accommodation

Nestled on The Esplanade, the Holiday Inn Cairns Harbourside offers rooms with stunning views of Trinity Bay or the surrounding mountains. Each room features a balcony, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty. The on-site café, located just off the lobby, provides a tranquil spot to enjoy a beverage while overlooking the harbourside and pool. Room rates typically range from AUD 200 to 250 per night, depending on the season and availability. ​

Main attractions

Kuranda Rainforest

An unforgettable experience awaits as you journey through this ancient rainforest:

• Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: Glide above the canopy with a one-way trip priced at AUD 71 for adults and AUD 35.50 for children.
• Kuranda Scenic Railway: Alternatively, immerse yourself in the rainforest’s depths aboard this historic train. A one-way Heritage Class ticket costs AUD 56.50 for adults and AUD 28.25 for children. ​
• Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience: Delve into Indigenous culture through captivating performances and demonstrations. This experience is included in various packages, such as the Rainforestation, Kuranda Village, & Kuranda Scenic Railway tour priced at AUD 185 for adults. ​

Great Barrier Reef – Green Island

Dedicate a full day to exploring this natural wonder:

• Cruise to Green Island: Enjoy a two-hour journey to this coral cay. Full-day tours start from approximately AUD 99.83 per person. ​
• Snorkelling Adventures: Discover vibrant marine life with a boat snorkel tour priced at AUD 65 for adults and AUD 44 for children. ​

Dining places

Frogs Restaurant: Situated in Kuranda Rainforest, this eatery offers a diverse menu, including Indian dishes, pizzas, and pastas. For instance, the Greek Vegetarian Pizza is priced at AUD 13.90. ​

Harbourside Kitchen and Bar: Located within the Holiday Inn Cairns Harbourside, this restaurant serves a sumptuous buffet breakfast. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes while being greeted by the occasional visit of local birds, adding to the unique dining experience. ​

*Note that prices are approximate and subject to change. It’s advisable to check the official websites or contact the venues directly for the most current information.

MELBOURNE

Our final destination was Melbourne, a city that exudes a unique charm and comfort. Despite being a major metropolis in Eastern Australia, it offers quaint laneways perfect for leisurely strolls and quiet moments. We travelled from Cairns to Melbourne via Jetstar.

Accommodation

We chose to stay at Novotel Melbourne Preston, conveniently located near the airport. The hotel offers comfortable and spacious rooms, providing a pleasant stay. Room rates vary depending on the season and booking platform. For the most accurate pricing, it’s advisable to check directly with the hotel or reputable booking websites. ​

Main attractions

Melbourne boasts numerous tourist attractions. Some highlights from our trip include:

Fitzroy Gardens: Ideal for leisurely strolls or solo relaxation with a book. The Conservatory within the gardens showcases a variety of flowers and natural fauna, making it a must-visit spot.​

Streets of Melbourne: Exploring Melbourne’s CBD on foot is a delightful experience. The city’s laneways are adorned with famous graffiti art such as Melbourne Street Art Tours and Flinders Court Street Art, and landmarks like Flinders Street Station are iconic. Taking a train ride from Flinders Street allows you to explore various markets and neighbourhoods around the city.​ Do not forget to check out the famous National Gallery of Victoria.

Phillip Island: A highlight of our trip was the scenic 1 hour and 45-minute drive to Phillip Island. We could witness the seaside sunset enroute. After enjoying a hearty vegetarian burger and dessert at the Philip Island Nature Parks Cafe, we attended the Penguin Parade, where we watched little penguins waddle from the sea to their burrows—a truly delightful experience.

During summer, the penguins typically emerge after 8 pm.​ Standard tickets for the Penguin Parade start from AUD 32, with prices varying based on viewing options.

12 Apostles: On our Day 2 in Melbourne, we visited the 12 Apostles. We took the Princes Highway via Colac to reach the site and returned via the scenic 100 kms Great Ocean Road. Despite the gloomy weather, the coastal views were spectacular. We opted for a helicopter ride to get an aerial view of the 12 Apostles, which was an unforgettable experience.​

Prices for helicopter tours over the 12 Apostles can vary. For example, Melbourne Heli offers tours starting at AUD 1,495 per person, with a minimum of two passengers per flight. ​

Dining recommendations

Lune Croissanterie: A must-visit for croissant enthusiasts. Their menu features a variety of pastries, with prices ranging from AUD 7.10 for a traditional croissant to AUD 15.50 for specialty items like the Pain au Chocolat. ​

Seven Seeds: Renowned for its specialty brews, Seven Seeds played a pivotal role in Melbourne’s third-wave coffee movement. They offer a range of creative options, such as honeycomb espresso, attracting both academia and coffee connoisseurs. ​

Bombay on Bay: For authentic Indian cuisine, this restaurant offers specialties like Butter Chicken (AUD 27), Kadai Chicken (AUD 26), and a variety of vegetarian options such as Shahi Paneer (AUD 23).

Georges Restaurant: Known for its Italian fare at Apollo Bay on Great Ocean Road, they serve dishes like Roast Tomato & Saffron Risotto with artichokes, zucchini, and silver beet (AUD 31.50), and Greek-style Lamb Shoulder with lemon & oregano potatoes (AUD 39.50). ​

***

Australia might seem hefty on your pocket. For us, per person was approx. INR 2.5 lakh (2023 rates) and it was totally worth it. Australia seamlessly blends peace, thrill, adventure, and city life. We enjoyed pleasant weather throughout our trip, making it a perfect end to 2023. Remember to carry sunscreen and comfortable clothing during summer, take plenty of photos, and create memories that will last a lifetime—just as I am reminiscing now 😀