Australia is best known for its beautiful beaches, iconic landmarks, friendly people, and varied wildlife. Its sheer size, on the other hand (it’s the sixth-largest country on the planet), often takes visitors by surprise.

There’s no better example of this than the Top End region of the Northern Territory — to put this into perspective, the Northern Territory is double the size of Texas with less than one percent of its population. The contrasting landscapes here, including coral coastlines, vast floodplains, rocky escarpments, and the ochre sands of the outback, are astounding.

Here’s why Top End in the Northern Territory of Australia should be on everyone’s list

I first visited the Top End in 1999 while scouting for ideas and experiences that would fit an experiential luxury traveller. In those days, Google was in its infancy and the main way to research travel experiences was through personal connections, making phone call after phone call, and exploring destinations and connecting with locals.

Disembarking the plane in the city of Darwin, in the northern part of Australia, I was struck by the sheer scale of this remote landscape — the ruggedness of the outback juxtaposed against the lush, green backdrop of the tropics. The air was warm and muggy. There was a lingering smell of smoke from the traditional Indigenous land management practice of burning native savanna early in the dry season using small fires, lit in mosaic patterns to avoid the buildup of highly flammable undergrowth. It felt like being in another world.

I began my Top End adventure in Arnhem Land, one of the largest parcels of Aboriginal-owned land in Australia. It comprises 37,000 square miles (95830 square km) of untouched wilderness and culturally significant sites and requires a special permit to visit. Only a few select guides are granted access to this area.

It’s here that I encountered an older hunter, Ray, who had the look of a British captain with a fine moustache and slicked-back hair. Ray worked for Umorrduk Safaris, one of the few operators in the region at the time.

With Ray as my guide, we toured the ancient landscapes of the region, from the coral-laden coastline to the secluded billabongs (crescent-shaped lakes) and rocky peaks. Wildlife was plentiful — giant saltwater crocodiles, wallabies, dingoes, wild boar, and some 280 bird species live here.

The Top End region is one of the last true frontiers of Australia that, to this day, remains relatively untouched. Travellers here can expect to encounter some of the best natural history experiences in the country. The best way to visit is with a local, private guide, who can interpret the land, the First People who call it home, and ancient stories.

This story first appeared on www.travelandleisure.com

Feature Image Credit: Richard I’Anson/Getty Images

Related: Bookmark This: Australia’s Top Unmissable Destinations & Experiences

Pack your overnight bag and appetite as we explore four foodie destinations perfect for the ultimate food-lovers weekend. From the on-trend gastronomy of Melbourne to the flavourful fusion cuisine of Kandy, this guide has got you covered.

PREPARE TO TEMPT YOUR TASTEBUDS with mouthwatering local delicacies while staying in city centre luxury. When you’ve only planned a short weekend break, staying in the middle of the action is always the right choice.

In each of these cities, Radisson Hotel Group has a unique hotel that places you steps from the best places to fill your belly. 

Whether you love street food, fine dining or Instagrammable eats, you’ll find something to love in these hand-picked destinations.

Melbourne, Australia

Our first stop is the dynamic food and lifestyle of Melbourne, Australia. Every corner of this magnetic city is filled with food and culture to discover. 

Stay: Radisson Hotel on Flagstaff Gardens Melbourne

Nestled in Melbourne’s vibrant heart, Radisson Hotel on Flagstaff Gardens offers a haven for urban explorers and discerning gourmands. Sitting in the central business district, the hotel’s 184 stylish rooms and suites feature design infused with modern bursts of colour, ensuring a chic and comfortable stay.

With plush mattresses and an expansive pillow menu, you’ll love sleeping off every meal in supreme comfort. Guests who upgrade to a suite can enjoy a lounge area with city views. During your stay, enjoy skyline views from the rooftop spa and gym and enjoy round-the-clock room service.  

Eating at the hotel is a never-miss option, with a seasonal menu available all day at HQ’s on William. Settle in to caffeinate with the in-house barista-made coffee along with an extensive buffet spread every morning. With a menu dedicated to the delights of regional and seasonal dishes, expect all sorts from their signature wagyu beef burger, seafood linguine, fresh oysters and a wide selection of wine favourites. Savour artisanal cocktails and sample local recipes on the rooftop terrace overlooking the grand skyscrapers of A’Beckett Street.

If you need recommendations on where to eat, the hotel’s 24-hour concierge can offer local insight into the best restaurants, markets and casual bites. 

Eat 

The elegant hotel is just a stone’s throw from the iconic Queen Victoria Market – a bustling hub with a delectable array of artisanal treats around every corner.

Another must-visit spot for satisfying culinary cravings is Smith Street — hailed as the coolest street in the world by Time Out – and just a 10-minute drive from the hotel. Indulge in world-class people-watching as you soak up Melbourne’s coffee culture and sip a famous flat white at one of dozens of trendy cafes.

Explore

Melbourne’s cultural scene offers endless allure, with the legendary Docklands offering a huge variety of attractions — from public art installations to concerts and sporting events — and is located within a kilometre and a half of the hotel. 

To discover the charms of Fitzroy, venture beyond the beaten path and uncover a world of trendy shops and eclectic art displays. Don’t miss the Fitzroy Mills Market, where intriguing artwork beckons and the Brunswick Street Gallery, a haven for art lovers. 

Quezon City, Philippines

While Quezon City may not always be top of mind for weekend getaways — with many people considering nearby Manila the main attraction — this up-and-coming city is gaining traction with locals escaping the cheerful chaos of Manila as well as travellers from further afield.

Stay: Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA

Discover a world of contemporary comfort at Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA. Sitting in the midpoint of Quezon City, this vibrant hotel offers a respite from the busy city, allowing you to relax and recharge amidst modern design in spacious and well-appointed rooms that provide the ideal blend of comfort and style.

Onsite culinary delights blend international and local favourites to curb your every craving. Casa serves up full-service buffet breakfasts and all-day delights while guests in a hurry can get something nourishing to nosh at the newly revamped Dash Cafe. The latest collaboration offers Starbucks coffee to pair on your taste buds with the delectable assortment of pitch-perfect pastries and finger sandwiches. Terazza on 7 is the ideal place to unwind beside the pool with a refreshing cocktail and light meal. 

Once you step outside, a footbridge connects you directly to the extensive SM City North EDSA shopping complex, the second largest mall in the Philippines. From hypermarkets to cinema and from a bowling centre to an archery range, guests will never run out of fun activities in their free time. Home-grown and international brands shine in both shopping and dining options, offering plenty of options for food exploring and souvenir shopping. No other hotel in the ‘City of Stars’ comes close in convenience, location and comfort.

Eat

In the nearby Mother Ignacia neighbourhood, visitors can stroll through streets of affordable restaurants, bars, cafes and shops. The area is known for meat-centric Filipino restaurants and inspired takes on local cuisine.  

Tomas Morato Avenue shines for nightlife, offering many choices for comfort food, fusion dining and Italian fare. On Maginhawa Street, garden restaurants impress with chef-crafted Filipino fare, while provincial speciality eateries serve heirloom dishes. The nearby Timog Avenue is also a haven for food enthusiasts searching for hip cafes and fine-dining experiences. After dark, live music and entertainment make for an unforgettable evening.

Explore

There is lots to see and do in the city when you’re not eating. Quezon Memorial Circle sits near the hotel and offers gardens, museums, a shrine, and amusement for locals and visitors. 

Those who love nature will love immersing themselves in the local flora and fauna at Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Centre, which is easily reachable from the metro station just a few minutes away.

Kandy, Sri Lanka

Peaceful pleasure awaits in the lush embrace of Kandy’s hills. The laidback city is ringed by tea plantations and rainforests, making it rife with fresh, local ingredients to create incredible cuisine.

Stay: Radisson Hotel Kandy

Radisson Hotel Kandy enjoys a divine location between forest and lake, with rooms that meld modern amenities with Sri Lankan art and local touches. With 122 rooms evoking the country’s fascinating culture, guests enjoy it all in the heart of the charming destination. 

With a rooftop bar, meeting rooms, pool and fitness centre, every convenience is available. The hotel also offers Lake View suites with amazing panoramas to further enjoy the surrounds.

Dine is where your day of eating begins, with healthy buffet breakfasts and dinners as well as all-day dining on local and international dishes. After the sun goes down, enjoy views of Kandy by night at Bommu Rooftop Bar, where local cocktails are served with unforgettable plates. 

Dine

At the country’s culinary heart, Kandy’s cuisine fuses flavours from across Sri Lanka’s regions. Travellers can taste famed dishes like Jaffna crab curry and the Dutch-inspired lamprias, a full meal with two curries baked in a banana leaf.

Kandy is also renowned for local dishes such as sour fish curry Ambul Thiyal — a truly unusual experience for foreigners. Street food also abounds in this city , and guests regularly discover street foods of all kinds, known as “short eats,” from local vendors. Don’t skip the hot dosa washed down with a steaming cup of tea. 

As a centre of Buddhism and home to a large Sinhalese community, there are many options for vegans, while the region’s past as a British colony is still evident in high tea services and Western food offerings. 

Explore

Movie buffs will have fun searching out some of the iconic locations where “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom” were filmed, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Dalada Maligawa, or Temple of the Sacred Tooth, houses a relic believed to be Buddha’s tooth and is not to be missed. 

Kandy is known as a starting point for charming train rides offering spectacular views, and Kandy Central Market is a prime place for sampling local fruits and snacks amongst locals. 

Bacolod City, Philippines

Travel to the centre of Negros Occidental to find the delicious wonders of Bacolod City, Philippines’ City of Smiles as well as the home of the country’s sweetest treats. 

Stay: Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod

Park Inn By Radisson Bacolod offers stays to remember in the best part of the burgeoning city. Each of its 150 spacious rooms and suites is finished with every modern convenience, and the location is nothing short of perfect. Step outside the hotel’s doors to find a direct connection to the SM City Bacolod shopping complex and SMX Convention Center Bacolod. This supermall has it all – renowned brands, restaurants, cinema, play areas for kids to enjoy while you shop and plenty of ongoing events and festivals that allow you to soak in the local atmosphere. You’ll never be short of fun and entertaining options while staying at the nearby Radisson Hotel. 

Inside the hotel are four stellar options for dining and drinking. Arima is your first daily stop for filling, seasonal breakfast buffets, and all-day a la carte dining. The Lobby Lounge and Dash are the places to stop for a convenient beverage, light meal or around-the-clock takeaway food as you head out to explore the city. For a more indulgent experience, visit Marapara Pool Bar for appetising light meals and drinks overlooking the pool. With great sunset views, it’s the perfect place to recharge after a day in the city.

Eat

Bacolod sits at the top of foodie bucket lists as one of the Philippines’ capitals of flavour. Once known as the nation’s dessert hub, the city still makes indulgent sweets — piaya and napoleon being the most famous — and is a true candy lover’s paradise. But it also offers much more.

Bacolod is also famed for inasal, the grilled and marinated chicken dish that manages to be both sweet and salty and has become a staple across the country. 

The best place to sample inasal is Manokan Country, a neighbourhood where chicken houses line the entire street and every table features pinakurat, a local vinegar, soy sauce and chicken oil. Birds are served with garlic rice, fresh calamari, hot chilli and plastic gloves to keep your hands clean.

Explore

Just a mere 10 minutes away, Nearby the hotel, guests can take a walk in Bacolod Public Plaza to mingle with locals or soak up local culture and take photos at the postcard-pretty San Sebastian Cathedral.

When you’ve had your fill of chicken, seafood and lavishly sweet desserts, be sure to visit The Ruins, a once-grand mansion that was owned by one of the city’s rich sugar makers that provides a perspective on the Bacolod City of old and provides insight into the destination’s storied history.

Using these insider tips from Radisson Hotels, foodies can embark on tasty city breaks that take them from Melbourne’s coffee culture to Quezon’s lively localities and from Kandy’s Buddhist history to Bacolod’s indulgent inasal. Stay centrally with Radisson Hotels and dine locally for a foodie weekend to remember.

In Australia, Sri Lanka and the Philippines, use these insider tips to enjoy your stay in Radisson hotels that put you in the heart of it all – coffee culture, heritage cuisine, fresh seafood and sweet treats that make these destinations a foodie’s dream.

Join as a member of Radisson Rewards to unlock instant benefits from day one, including exclusive member rates and flexible redemption.  Book your stay directly via www.radissonhotels.com or Radisson Hotels App for the latest special offers. 

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Article Sponsored by Radisson Hotels.
Images courtesy of Radisson Hotels and lede image courtesy of Tourism Australia, unless otherwise noted.

Kaikoura, on the northeast of the South Island of New Zealand, is one of the world’s best spots for seeing sea life and eating seafood, and it’s just a quick roadtrip from Christchurch. Come take the dolphin-, bird- and whale-watching journey with us in pictures.

New Zealand certainly has no shortage of natural attractions, but South Island’s Kaikoura peninsula seems to have it in extremes. Credit that to its unique geography that includes both towering mountains and deep undersea canyons. Bordering from the west, the 2,608-metre-high Kaikoura range forms a majestic backdrop of misty snow-capped peaks. To the east, a 60-kilometers-long trench plummets 1,200 metres below the waves. Down there, warm and cold currents converge to push nutrient-rich water up to the surface, thereby sustaining a rich food chain that features the ocean’s biggest creatures.

The stars of Kaikoura’s marine wilderness are its resident sperm whales, which live in these waters and are easily seen all year. There are also other leviathans that may be spotted if you’re lucky enough—migrating blue whales and humpback whales, for instance, or a pod of visiting orcas. Closer to shore there are more animals to behold, like giant wandering albatrosses, playful dusky dolphins and adorable fur seals. On the other hand, those who like their nature trips on terra firma can check out the many scenic walks inland and along the coast. You’d think a place with such a well-preserved environment would be somewhere remote, but it’s not.

Kaikoura is just a leisurely 2.5-hours’ drive north of Christchurch via 180 beautiful kilometers on State Highway 1. Have a look at photographic evidence of the awesomeness this town full of natural wonders has to offer.

01 – Hemmed in by snow-capped mountains on one side and the open sea on the other, the town of Kaikoura in South Island, New Zealand, hosts picture-perfect views and a pristine marine environment.

02 – The waters off Kaikoura are a feeding area for sperm whales, a fact that made it a bountiful whaling site from the 1800s to the 1960s. Since then, the town has remade itself a major ecotourism destination, and is now known for its popular whale watching expeditions (whalewatch.co.nz).

03 – A sperm whale’s distinctive tail fin above the water signals the start of a deep dive into the undersea canyon below. Kaikoura is the best place in New Zealand—and probably the world—to see these amazing creatures up close.

04 – The Gibson’s wandering albatross, one of the largest seabirds in the world, is the main attraction of the Albatross Encounter wildlife tour. This outfit operates small group birdwatching tours on a 13-seater motorboat.

05 – Dusky dolphins often accompany boats cruising the waters off Kaikoura. These curious animals like to show off with playful jumps and underwater acrobatics. Not surprisingly the tourists love them!

06 – Kaikoura’s wild residents include a few thousand fur seals who live in colonies all along the coast. This one decided to leave its protected area and take a stroll along the nearby parking lot.

07 – Still going strong after four decades, this humble roadside shack serves up fresh seafood caught from the seashore behind it. Nins Bin found its spot along the coastal highway in 1977, and has since then become one of Kaikoura’s famous pit stops.

08 – If you eat only one local meal in Kaikoura, make it this: paua shelfish and crayfish fritters, served with a dash of lemon juice over wheat bread. The Kaikoura Seafood BBQ kiosk on Fyffe Quay cooks it fresh, hot and fast.

09 – Cetacean bones at the Fyffe House bear witness to its history as a whaler’s home during the 1840’s. Now a museum, its preserved interiors and artifacts gives a glimpse of life in a bygone era.

10 – Set amidst a 500-acre deer farm, the picture-perfect Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses offers sustainable luxury to complement Kaikoura’s natural attractions. The hotel boasts 12 gorgeously designed rooms, a full-service spa and a restaurant that serves entrees created from locally-sourced ingredients.

11 – A resident seal takes in the stunning views and the fresh air from the comfort of its breeding grounds. Kaikoura’s unfettered natural charms—and its breezy road connection to  Christchurch—make it an ideal spot for a quick and easy outdoor adventure.

Photographs by Lester V. Ledesma, lede image by Kyle Mulinder/Courtesy of New Zealand Tourism, and unless otherwise noted.

A week paddling through prehistory? Sign us up. Exmouth Adventure Co. specializes in off-grid adventures, and this one took our intrepid science writer into a whole other realm in Western Australia.

WHEN YOUR THEME IS HOW JOURNEYS can make the trip itself, life is a dream to receive a pitch like this:

I’m at this moment about to head to the airport for another kayaking trip. This one is fully offgrid. It’s with Exmouth Adventure Co., but this one is off Karratha, an area that very few tourists visit as it’s more of an industrial hub. This tour is brand new, I’m on the second trip ever. The trip starts with an Aboriginal induction of  Murujuga, one of the most significant rock art sites in the world, with thousands of carvings known as petroglyphs; they’re approximately 30,000 years old.

This area is currently up for World Heritage listing. The islands offshore are completely wild and untouched, and we’ll be paddling for five days, expedition camping across four different islands, bringing all our food and water and camping gear in the kayaks. Whales, turtles, sharks galore, coral reef snorkelling. I thought maybe it was too remote, too adventurous? But if you do want a story, let me know early Monday morning as I’ll be out of range after that! Here’s an image to show you what it’s like. An extraordinary land and seascape!

Too adventurous? No! You must report back! Our resident science writer, Australia-based Carolyn Beasley, went off-grid for a week in Western Australia, in the Dampier Archipelago, and returned with some truly envy-inducing imagery and daily tales of awe. Yes, they were working hard paddling those kayaks all day, but they were also being treated to Exmouth Adventure Co. gourmet meals and the joys of spotting ancient art and swimming in the wild with trevally and rays. Check out her video here:

And read the full account of this awesome Australian adventure with Exmouth Adventure Co. here.

Images courtesy of Paul Pichugin/Exmouth Adventure Co.

The duck-billed platypus is one of the world’s weirdest creatures, and famously elusive, but if you have any chance of spotting one in the wild, it’ll be in Tasmania. We took the Geeveston Platypus Walk, outside of Hobart in the southernmost state of Australia, in the dawn dew, treading patiently with eyes peeled. The reward was an adorable Franken-sight very few people ever see.

“YOU’LL NEVER SEE a duck-billed platypus in the wild,” is what we were told by nearly everyone in Australia. “They’re so rare and secretive, even we don’t see them,” declared nearly every Tasmanian we spoke with. 

Platypuses aren’t pets of course, but they’re so delightfully weird and cuddly, I wish they could be. If you think they look like some sort of fake, AI-generated animal, you wouldn’t be alone. When sketches were sent from Australia to 18th-century European scientists, they actually thought it was a Frankenstein-style hoax created by Down Under scientists who glued a duck bill to a beaver. So paradoxical was this creature that its original taxonomic name was Ornithorhynchus paradoxus. Years later, platypuses were discovered to be egg-laying monotremes, adding to their weirdness. And if that weren’t enough, a few years ago biologists realized they are also bioluminescent, which as far as I’m concerned thrust these critters from super weird into the genus of really, have you ever seen anything weirder? 

I’ve long been fascinated by duck-billed platypuses and wanted to see one since I was a boy watching the animated classic Dot and the Kangaroo on HBO in the 80s, which features two grumpy singing platypuses. As it turns out, Tasmania is the best place to spot them in the wild. And so when a Tas trip started to take shape recently, I wondered how and where I could catch a glimpse of one in its natural habitat.

OK, spoiler alert: I saw platypus in the wild this past May on the Geeviston Platypus Walk, located in the foothills of the Hartz Mountains, just 90 minutes from urban Hobart, but a hushed watery world apart. 

Here’s how I did it.

After a brisk autumnal drive over misty farmland and green rolling hills, my two platypus-seeking friends and I pulled into an empty parking lot, binocs and cameras at the ready. Operation Platypus had officially begun. It was still early morning and the grass was capped with a silver frost while an eerie autumn stillness lingered over the entire Heritage Park, which contains the Geeveston Platypus Walk. As we strolled over a great lawn towards the trail, our feet crunched over clear crystalized dew and I spied red mushroom heads poking out of the ground. Together with moss and lichen, they gave off a faint earthy smell that permeated the cold wet air. Orange and red oak and maple leaves rounded out the Halloween vibes. This is exactly how I imagined the environment for such a solitary and secretive animal. 

Take note, intrepid hikers: the Geeveston Platypus walk is short and sweet. Don’t expect any challenges. Mountaineering this ain’t. It took us about 15 minutes to walk the entire riverbank trail. “Walk quietly and keep your eyes on the water beside the riverbank,” said Josh, the Tasmanian in our trio. “They only surface for 10 to 20 seconds before retreating to their burrows, which are entered from underwater but tunnel deep into the dryer riverbank.”

We walked back and forth along the trail a few times under gnarly trees with a dense canopy. After 45 minutes of patrolling the trail, the frost was melting and evaporating. So was our hope to see a platypus. But suddenly, my American friend Nick spotted something in the water. “Is that it?” he whispered excitedly? “Oh my god oh my god oh my god!” (Full disclosure: we were overly excited to see one and almost spastically surprised when we did. We were also over-caffeinated from Tasmania’s excellent flat whites, which we’d been sipping like water after a Peloton workout all morning.)

The platypus looked busy. And when it saw us, it darted away coquettishly, as if to say, “I know I’m weird. Leave me alone.” It swam diagonally across the tannic waters of the stream creating a distinctive V-ripple. And before we could capture it on our cameras, it disappeared and slipped into its watery clandestine burrow. 

Even though it was a brief sighting, we got a very good look at its face—intricate and fancy like a crab or a monkey, with deep intelligent eyes like a whale or elephant’s. We caught a faint glimpse of its webbed feet and got a good long look at its bluish, chocolate-brown duck bill in the sunlight, which really does look fake. But it was distinctive enough that you knew it wasn’t a beaver, otter, or nutria (if you don’t know what that, perhaps it’s a subject for another story). 

After the sighting we patrolled the stream a bit more but gave up on seeing a second one and headed into the village. We ducked into a cafe called The Bears Went Over the Mountain, the outside of which was painted purple with cartoon bears holding candlesticks. (Weirdness seems to be in Geeveston’s DNA). There, we refueled on more flat whites and hot scallop pies, and sat by the woodstove, nerding out comparing our platypus observations.

Back in Hobart later that night, Nick and I sat over bowls of hot creamy chowder and peaty Tasmanian whisky at the Tasman Hotel and discussed our sighting and how magnificent Australian animals are. There are a lot of reasons to visit Australia—travelers come to surf, explore the outback’s aboriginal culture and snorkel the Great Barrier Reef.  But I’m proud to come from a weirder genus of traveller who seek out the weirder things in life.

The feeling of weightlessness felt while scuba diving is one of the most freeing sensations in the world, but it hasn’t always been available to people with mobility challenges or special needs.

In fact, it wasn’t until 2023 that the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), the world’s leading scuba diver training organisation, launched its Adaptive Service Facilities designation, which recognises dive centres that have adaptive provisions.

The first accessible dive centre on the Great Barrier Reef

One Australian dive centre on the Great Barrier Reef was quick to jump on board. In May 2023, Quicksilver Dive in Port Douglas, Australia became the first PADI Adaptive Service Facility in the state of Queensland and one of just four certified facilities in Australia. It is also the only facility of its kind to hold this accreditation on the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest reef system and a longtime playground for divers.

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“Our skilled dive instructors are focused on diver abilities and can apply adaptive teaching techniques when training and diving with people with special needs; people who may have previously thought diving was not accessible to them,” Chris Snel, the operations manager at Quicksilver Dive, said in a press release obtained by Travel + Leisure. He noted that “as with all diving, age and medical conditions apply.”

Beyond scuba diving’s ability to open up a new, underwater world, PADI said that “learning to dive has helped veterans with PTSD and other life-altering injuries, Paralympians, individuals with spinal paralysis, and countless others find healing.”

To meet the PADI Adaptive Service Facility requirements, Quicksilver Dive had to make changes to their facility — including the addition of ramps, an elevator, and training pool alterations — and undergo training that teaches their dive instructors how to adapt their teaching techniques to accommodate different needs and abilities.

Quicksilver Dive was ready for the challenge of becoming the first accessible dive centre on the Great Barrier Reef. The dive facility is already a PADI Five Star Instructor Development Center, meaning it meets all the standards of a PADI five-star dive centre while also offering instructor-level training. With that rating, Quicksilver Dive offers development courses and continuing education opportunities to dive professionals as well as offering new instructors what they call “the world’s most recognised and desired professional scuba rating.”

Quicksilver Dive is located in Port Douglas, a waterfront town on the doorstep of the Great Barrier Reef. Beyond diving, the town is known for its beaches (Palm Cove and Four Mile Beach both have beach wheelchairs available) and the nearby Daintree National Park, which has several wheelchair and mobility device-friendly walkways including an aerial walkway through the rainforest. The aerial walkway is also suitable for visitors with vision impairments and service dogs.

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This story first appeared on travelandleisure.com

Related: Sun, Sand, Sea And Surf: Bookmark These Best Beaches In Australia For That Summery Vibe

Standing on the banks of the Yarra River in Melbourne, I am lost in the timeless vibe that encapsulates the very essence of the Victorian capital. The city located on the “lands of the Kulin Nation” was called Naarm by the First People of Australia and the “ever-flowing” Yarra River called Birrarung was their lifeline.

Melbourne’s story however begins a couple of centuries ago as a colonial riverine settlement and it now unfolds into a vibrant tapestry of arts, architecture, traditions, and culture.

From being the cultural heartbeat of Australia to being the sports capital and the coffee country, Melbourne offers a mosaic of experiences at museums, markets, stadiums and gardens. But the heart of Melbourne lies in its labyrinthine lanes, teeming with colourful street art as cafes and restaurants jostle for space.

For those seeking a dash of adventure and romance, there are day trips to islands and valleys where you can spot wildlife, go on a cruise or a coastal road trip, take a cable car ride and even become a gold digger. Add thermal baths and wine tasting with a dash of wellness to your holiday plans. If you are heading to the eclectic Victorian city, here is a list of some of the best things to do in Melbourne for some travel inspiration.

Best time to visit Melbourne

Melbourne is thronged by tourists throughout the year and it is always buzzing with life. The high tourist season is around December to February when you can enjoy a summery Christmas and partake in sporting events and music festivals. Do note that temperatures can soar beyond 40 degrees Celsius as well.

While winter is usually considered the low season, Melbourne invites tourists between June and August with a slew of specially curated events. The shoulder season is from March to May and September to October when you can avoid the crowds.

Best things to do in Melbourne

Best free thing to do in Melbourne: Go on a joyride in the City Circle Tram

Start your journey in Melbourne with a fun and free joy ride on the City Circle Tram. The iconic burgundy W Class Route No 35 starts from the Waterfront City and heads to the Central Business District as you go past Docklands and Harbour Esplanade towards La Trobe and Nicholson Streets before entering Spring Street and the main Flinders Street.

Running in both directions every 15 minutes, for a duration of an hour, the trams are the perfect way to acquaint yourself with the Victorian capital. Hop on and hop off or sit in the cosy seats and listen to the stories and soak in the journey.

Best fun thing to do in Melbourne: Lose yourself in the colourful laneways

The best way to have fun in Melbourne is to literally get lost in the maze of lanes which burst into a kaleidoscopic display of graffiti and are splashed with spray-painted murals. Melbourne was created as a grid (Hoddle Grid) of tiny lanes that crisscross the city and are buzzing with boutique bars, fine dining restaurants, hole-in-the-wall cafés and is a treasure trove of trinkets and trivia. But it is the colourful display on the walls that blinds you.

Head to the cobblestoned Hosier Lane- the Practise Alley where artists give free rein to their imagination. Then visit the AC/DC lane to celebrate Australian rockstars as music and art blend to create a riot of colours. Don’t miss Presgrave Place, Meyers Place, and Duckboard Place for vivid murals and graffiti. While there are over 40 lanes take some time out to go to Royal Arcade where you get a slice of the Victorian era.

Best cultural thing to do in Melbourne: Go museum hopping and visit art galleries

There are over 100 art galleries and museums in Melbourne, but the oldest with two distinct wings is the National Gallery of Victoria. The first thing you notice when you enter the massive NGV is the translucent water wall. The international wing houses over 70,000 artworks from ancient artefacts to contemporary works.

One of the iconic paintings is Picasso’s Weeping Woman which went missing during an art heist and you can even see a self-portrait of Rembrandt. For Australian art, head to the second wing at Federation Square to the Ian Potter Centre. While you are there do not miss the Koorie Heritage Trust which celebrates the culture of the First People of South-Eastern Australia. A little further away is the ACMI or Australian Centre for Moving Image. Melbourne Museum is further away.

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Best thing to do with family and kids: Get nostalgic with the Puffing Billy Train

Soak in the nostalgia and become a bit of a time traveller as you board the charming Puffing Billy, the oldest heritage steam train. Chug along the forested tracts of Dandenong Ranges, sitting on the sill of the open carriage, with your legs dangled as you take in the scenery. As the train toots its way through the rainforests, look out for the crossing on the wooden Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge that seems straight out of a fairy tale.

There are several routes from Belgrave which is just 50 km from Melbourne but the most popular is the three-hour return journey or an hour-long joyride to Lakeside. There are special trains as well including the Train of Lights for magical winter nights and a Dog Express for pets.

Best thing to do for couples: Soak in the warmth of thermal baths

Set against a backdrop of rolling hills and verdant bush landscapes, this is a perfect romantic and therapeutic escape into nature. Soak in the herbal-infused thermal baths, filled with rich natural minerals at Alba Thermal Springs and Spa. There are 32 pools nestled amidst forests and gardens and even a couple of private baths on the rooftop and terrace.

Don’t miss the vortex pools that shower rain and immerse yourselves in the lunar pool or watch the crimson hues from the sunset pool. If this is not romantic enough, then pamper yourselves with massages and spa treatments. At the restaurant Thyme, the dishes are prepared with locally sourced seasonal produce. Located in Mornington Peninsula, it is about an hour’s drive from Melbourne.

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Best thing for nature lovers: Watch the adorable Penguin Parade at Phillip Island

As the stars shine down and the sea breeze caresses your face, prepare for one of the most surreal spectacles in Phillip Island, just 90 minutes from Melbourne. Stand on the viewing platform or at the boardwalk on the seashore and watch the tiny penguins, donning white and blue feathers, waddle their way from the ocean to the land.

As the skies darken, little colonies huddle together in a flock called “rafts” and then they slowly totter around, waiting for a call from a partner as they head to their burrows to breed or to raise their young. You can watch this Penguin Parade which happens every evening sunset from any of the grandstands or even from underground hides, especially during winters. There are also guided tours here at night with rangers.

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Best thing for adventure/thrill seekers: Float with the clouds in a hot air balloon

There is nothing more exhilarating than seeing dawn break over a verdant valley of vineyards, surrounded by mountains, spotting wildlife as the Yarra River flows below you. Float over the scenic Yarra Valley from a hot air balloon and lose yourself in the breathtaking vistas. The flight is about an hour as you glide with the wind.

There are hot air balloon rides in Melbourne as well where you can soar over the Victorian capital at sunrise. Enjoy the picturesque views of the serene Yarra flowing amidst the towering skyscrapers as you feast your eyes on the landmarks like MCG and Shrine of Remembrance, amidst other landmarks. The balloon rides also culminate in a gourmet breakfast with a glass of champagne. While there are several operators, it is important to check the weather conditions the day before you book your flight.

Best thing to do at night: Let your hair down in the lively bars

Melbourne is a lively pulsating city by night and is teeming with corner pubs and bars, nightclubs and discotheques, Alfredo dining and fine dining restaurants. All roads lead to the laneways, where you will find an eclectic mix of quirky hidden bars, housed in a basement or tucked away on a rooftop in an alley. Head to Section 8, known for its street art decor and epic dance parties, located off Tattersalls Lane.

Her Bar is a beautiful and warm watering hole and is a four-storey venue with a restaurant as well. Tucked away in the Flinders Street precinct is the cocktail bar, Eau De Vie with the 1920s vibe. You can also do more bar hopping and head to Little Lon, Troika, Beneath Driver’s Lane, Nick and Nora, Gin Palace, and Union Electric among others in the laneways.

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Best thing to do in summer: Go wine tasting at Yarra Valley

On a beautiful warm sunny day, go on a heady escape to the lush vineyards of Yarra Valley for some wine tasting. There are over 80 wineries here and while Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are the headliners, you must try the Shiraz here. Most of the estates are family-run boutique wineries and while you are here, visit some of the cellar doors for tastings.

Head to Dominique Portet winery which was established a couple of decades ago by the 9th-generation winemaker from Bordeaux. Coombe Yaara Estate combines old-world charm and heritage and is the home of the renowned Australian opera singer Dame Nellie Melba and is a fascinating gourmet destination also serving regional wines. Domaine Chandon is known for its iconic sparkling wines.

Yering Station is one of the oldest wineries in the valley. Don’t miss the delicious farm-to-plate lunch at Oakridge Wines. TarraWarra Estate on a hilltop is a destination by itself known for its art museum. While you are here, don’t miss the Healesville Sanctuary which houses over 1,500 rescued animals and even has a hospital.

Best thing to do in winter: Wake up and smell the coffee

In Melbourne, coffee is not just a beverage but an emotion. There are cafes in every nook as Melbourne is known for innovative roasters and lively baristas who are always trying a new brew and have transformed coffee into art. When the temperature drops, snuggle into one of these cosy cafes and enjoy a cup of speciality coffee.

Head to the lively Brother Baba Budan Cafe which serves the expresso blend from the roastery Seven Seeds along with customised single-origin coffee as well. Patricia Coffee Brewers and Industry Beans are roasteries and cafes which are always buzzing.

While Market Lane is a chain of cafes, you can even learn a bit of coffee appreciation at Sensory Lab. Right next to Proud Mary Coffee Roasters is Aunty Peg’s which is popular among caffeine addicts for pure black coffee. And for a taste of Melbourne’s original coffee brews, head to St Ali Cafe.

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Related: These Are Australia’s Best Hotels, Spas, Pools and More in 2023

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

– What are the best cultural places to visit in Melbourne?
You can visit the National Art Gallery – the International Wing with over 70,000 artefacts. The second wing is at the Ian Potter Centre at Federation Square. You can also see Aboriginal art and culture and learn more about the First People of Australia at the Koorie Heritage Trust. Also, don’t miss the Australian Centre for The Moving Image dedicated to films.

– What are the best beaches to visit in Melbourne?
Head to St Kilda but the most iconic is Brighton Beach known for the colourful 80 Brighton Boxes on the beach. Willy or Williamstown Beach is another favourite while Half Moon Beach is secluded. Sorrento Beach outside Melbourne is one of the best beaches as well.

– What are the best cruise ships from Melbourne?
Cruise ships embark and disembark from Station Pier in Melbourne. You can sail to New Zealand or Fiji or sail along the Tasman Sea or the Pacific Ocean and even visit islands around Victoria and South Australia. Some of the best cruise ships are Princess Cruises, Virgin Voyages, Cunard Line, P&O Cruises, and Celebrity Cruises among others.

– What are the best things to buy in Melbourne?
Besides souvenirs, you can buy cheese, chocolates, wine, and local art including boomerangs, opals, cosmetics, shoes and boots.

– What are the best adventures to take in Melbourne?
You can go on a hot air balloon ride and even try skydiving You can also snorkel, surf, kayak and even go ice skating in winter.

Australia, a country as unique as it is captivating, draws travellers from far and wide with its many wonders. With diverse landscapes, Aboriginal culture and wildlife that includes koalas and kangaroos, there’s no dearth of marvels to discover. And, among this array of treasures, one gem shines brilliantly — the beaches in Australia. 

The country is undoubtedly a haven for beach lovers, with a staggering 30,000 kilometres of coastline and over 10,000 glistening stretches of sand adorning its shores. Whether it is surfing on the turquoise waters, snorkelling around the Great Barrier Reef or getting a taste of the Gold Coast nightlife, there are endless possibilities that await at Australian beaches. So, get ready to dive into these beach experiences that you will find only Down Under.

Add these best beaches in Australia to your beach bucket list

Cottesloe Beach

If you are looking for something much more than just a beach — a place with cycling trails, food outlets, art and sculpture exhibitions, along with the usual activities like swimming — then Cottesloe Beach, which is very close to Perth, is a must-visit. Though crowded most of the time, this is one of those beaches in Australia whose vibes are not to be missed.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year
How to reach: Perth Airport is the nearest airport, about 22 km away

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Lucky Bay

[caption id="attachment_124951" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Image credit: Nick Dunn/Unsplash

Fancy a day out with the kangaroos? Hit Lucky Bay early in the morning. Lying southeast of Perth, Lucky Bay is a crescent-shaped stretch in Cape Le Grand National Park. You can soak in the blues and greens owing to the breathtaking view of the Recherche Archipelago islands from here.

Best time to visit: December to March
How to reach: Port Lincoln Airport (PLO) is the nearest airport, about 175 km from Lucky Bay [/caption]

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Burleigh Heads Beach

Located in Australia’s unofficial holiday capital, the Gold Coast, Burleigh Heads is one of the most popular beaches in the country. The palm-fringed beach has numerous little isolated picnic spots, perfect for outdoor cooking. Add to it the magnificent views of the beach and the coastline from John Laws Park.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year (especially during summer)
How to reach: Gold Coast Airport (OOL) is the nearest Airport, about 15 km away from Burleigh Heads

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Wineglass Bay

Aptly named ‘Wineglass’ owing to its shape, this beach is close to some of the finest wineries in the country. Situated on the Freycinet Peninsula around the Freycinet National Park in Tasmania, it is known for its crystal-clear waters, striking white sands and granite rocks, which are bright pink in colour. Don’t forget to try the cruise tours here.

Best time to visit: December to March
How to reach: Hobart (HBA) Airport is the nearest airport, about 99 km away from Wineglass Bay

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Bondi Beach

There’s hardly any beach lover who hasn’t heard of Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach and its Bondi Beach Seafoods and Bondi Icebergs. Lined with a tiny main street, don’t miss the rock pool or the BBQ area for tourists. Since it is crowded most of the time, a weekday visit may give you space to explore and appreciate the beauty of the beach. Make sure to try fish delicacies with a refreshing drink during your stop.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year
How to reach: Sydney Airport (SYD) is the nearest airport, about 13 km from Bondi Beach

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Whitehaven Beach

Known to have the purest sand or 98 per cent pure silica, Queensland’s Whitehaven Beach is a haven indeed for those looking to soak in pristine views. Its major attractions on Whitsunday Island include coves, lagoons and inlets. And, if you take a hike to Tongue Point, you can get mesmerising views from there too. Lying in the Great Barrier Reef, this is one of Australia’s must-visit beaches.

Best time to visit: September to March
How to reach: One of the most thrilling and fastest ways to reach Whitehaven Beach is from Hamilton Island Air Terminal in 30 minutes via a high-speed catamaran. You can also take a helicopter ride from there, which takes about 10 minutes.

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Cable Beach

If you wish to experience one of the most dramatic sunsets of your life, then hop on a camel and take a ride on Cable Beach in Western Australia. To make this whole experience captivating and vibrant, you also have the company of dolphins, migrating whales and the 130-million-old dinosaur footprint at the Gantheaume Point. And if you happen to visit between March and October, you will surely catch the ‘Staircase to the Moon’ phenomenon — the full moon’s reflection in the sparkling water after the tide recedes makes it look like a golden staircase leading to it.

Best time to visit: June to August
How to reach: Broome Airport (BME) is the nearest airport, about three km from Cable Beach

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Turquoise Bay

A tranquil and refreshing swim awaits you at Turquoise Bay, nestled in the secluded Cape Range National Park in Western Australia. Also, snorkelling here amid the turquoise waters is a one-of-a-kind experience. The bay is just a few minutes from the Ningaloo Reef, known as the home of 500 species of fish found in the region.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year
How to reach: Learmonth Airport (LEA) is the nearest airport, about 98 km away from Turquoise Bay

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Noosa Beach

The Sunshine Coast in Queensland is home to numerous beaches, but it is Noosa Beach that stands out. Multiple beach activities and the famous Hastings Street shopping and restaurant precinct are some of the best attractions. The weather is pleasant all year round, adding to its renown.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year
How to reach: Brisbane Airport (BNE) is about 135 km from Noosa Beach, but Maroochydore Airport (MCY) is the nearest airport, which is 30 km away

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75 Mile Beach

Immense length, rugged sands and azure waters, perfect for surfing, attract many tourists to 75 Mile Beach. Some of its other attractions include Rainbow Gorge, the Maheno shipwreck, Eli Creek and the popular freshwater Champagne Pools. This beach makes Fraser Island the largest sand island in the world.

Best time to visit: August to October
How to reach: Hervey Bay Airport (HVB) is the nearest airport, about 64 km from Fraser Island

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Related: 12 Best Beaches In Kauai For Sunsets, Snorkelling, And Swimming

If you’re chalking out an itinerary for Australia, ensure you pen in a visit to these unmissable metropolises replete with dreamy beaches, world-class food, brag-worthy wildlife, and countless one-of-a-kind experiences.

There’s a lot to love about Australia. After all, this massive country boasts of gorgeous coastlines, unique wildlife, amazing foods, and some of the most memorable experiences any traveller can enjoy. But when you’ve got so many alluring gems packed into one nation, it can be tough to narrow down on the must-visit few. Fret not! Travel+Leisure India & South Asia has you covered. When planning your itinerary, make it a point to add these unmissable destinations in Australia to make it a truly fulfilling holiday.

Unmissable Destinations in Australia

Sydney

Think of Australia, and visuals of the iconic Sydney Opera House shining against the Harbour Bridge instantly come to mind. Proudly crowned as the largest city in the country, Sydney is the apt starting point for any traveller visiting the nation. Beyond the usual tourist hotspots though, the city is also home to many rooftop bars, theatre shows, and designer shops that add to its charm. For instance, consider unwinding over drinks at the Opera Bar after a mesmerising performance at the Opera House. Or visit Nelson Brewery Hotel, the country’s oldest pub brewery, for natural ales. Looking for something sweet? Head to Black Star Pastry and whip out your camera for snapping the Strawberry Watermelon Cake, a record-holder for being the world’s most Instagrammed cake.

But beyond culinary delights, this city in Australia also boasts unmissable beaches. Bondi Beach is one such iconic spot. The incredible waves here make this shore a surfer’s delight, while the many surf schools and equipment on hire help novice surfers get into the game. On land, head straight to Bondi Icebergs, one of the world’s most photographed ocean pools. Munch on poolside delicacies while soaking in the expansive Pacific vistas. With plenty on offer, Sydney is best explored on guided tours. Embark upon a Sydney Highlights flight to Shark Island to get an aerial view of the city’s splendour. Get an insight into the local Aboriginal culture, one of the oldest living cultures dating back at least 65,000 years, at the Barangaroo Reserve; taste bush foods at Royal Botanic Garden, or even see the spiritual side of Sydney Harbour at The Rocks with Dreamtime Southern X. Irrespective, be assured to be floored!

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Melbourne

When it comes to coffee, few places can upstage Melbourne. Home to over 2,000 coffee shops, this city in Australia proudly boasts of some of the most unmissable caffeine stops in the world. Think Ali in South Melbourne, Seven Seeds in Carlton, and Dukes Coffee Roasters in Flinders Lane, to name a few. At each spot, go beyond the traditional espressos and flat whites, and sip on pour-overs, siphons, and cold-drip brews. Gin, too, is a favourite drink of the city. Innovative cocktails rule the bar menu at 1806 on Exhibition Street, The Everleigh in Fitzroy, and Four Pillars in Yarra Valley, among others. Foodies can sample the city’s offerings with the Ultimate Foodie Tour at Queen Victoria Market. This guided walking trail takes gourmands through shopping and cooking tips, fresh produce samplings, and a chance to meet traders from heritage-listed food halls.

Beyond culinary brilliance, though, Melbourne also wows with the Hidden Secret Tours that meander through the city’s signature lanes, arcades, and photograph-worthy street arts. Sports fans can take the behind-the-scenes tour of the Melbourne Cricket Ground and catch live matches, too.

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Canberra

Canberra, Australia’s capital, is always brimming with excitement and experiences for all ages. When here, find yourself choosing from countless museums, national galleries, historical sites, and culinary delights. Begin your initiation to the city at the Parliament House where a guided tour takes guests through the Great Hall Tapestry, Senate and House of Representatives chambers, architecture, art, history, and iconic events. Don’t miss out on a visit to the LEGO Parliament House, an unmissable replica of the Australian landmark. This colourful structure, made using 1,52,690 bricks, took over 740 hours to build!

Between your explorations, squeeze in a visit to ONA Coffee, an Australian Barista Championships winner. Caffeine lovers will find themselves spoilt for choice. Think of variations like single origins, espressos, milk-based, and filter coffee. If you’re visiting in the winter, head straight to The Truffle Farm Canberra for a guided tour of the prized fungi. These group tours, accompanied by dogs, come packed with foraging, live cooking demonstrations, and a six-course degustation menu to round the experience. By night, retire to the Jamala Wildlife Lodge. The Jungle Bungalows here feature suites adjoining to different animal enclosures. Sleep in the company of lions, sun bears, and other wild animals with only glass barricades serving as a partition.

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Gold Coast

Gold Coast is famed for its sparkling beaches, and rightly so. But beyond beach bums, this unmissable destination is also a magnet for adrenaline junkies visiting Australia. Take SkyPoint Climb, for instance. Located at Q1, the country’s highest external building climb at 885 feet above sea level, this spot commands 360-degree views of the coastline. For adventures a little higher up, get in touch with Gold Coast Helitours who pride on being the only operator in the country to offer tandem skydiving from a helicopter at over 10,000 feet.

Australian Outback Spectacular promises an authentic Australian Outback adventure, while Pink Flamingo Spiegelclub at Broadbeach assures world-class entertainment with four resident productions, swanky art-deco décor, and a five-star rating. Inspired by the original 1920s Spiegeltent and the NYC Cabaret Club district, it oozes first-class theatre comfort. After dusk, visit Miami Marketta which comes to life with global street food, free live music, and other ticketed events thrice a week. This night market–widely credited as the Gold Coast’s original street food market–offers visitors a laneway dining experience from around the world under one roof.

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Related: These Are Australia’s Best Hotels, Spas, Pools and More in 2023

There’s the way to travel that involves simply luxuriating in the comfort of your room, lounging by the pool, and maybe a massage a day. Hey, we fully support that. But if you’re looking to mix up your days with something out-of-the-ordinary, something inaccessible to non-hotel-guests, something you never in the million years would have considered but once you’ve done it you won’t be able to stop talking about it, well, that’s a job for some of the most luxurious and creative-minded hotels. This list of our readers’ picks of the Best Hotel Experiences in Asia is a multi-culti bucket list to the nth degree.

IT’S HARDLY A WELL-KEPT SECRET that Asia is buzzing with rich cultural experiences. However, if you need more proof, then look no further than this year’s Best Hotel Experiences in Asia winners. The votes came in fast and strong, with the top five spanning luxurious seafaring expeditions, exclusive sustainable dining journeys, a wellness adventure curated by a medicine woman, and a unique culinary immersion. All of them have us thinking we should perhaps pick a hotel by its best experiences, not the other way around.

However, there could only be one winner, and the title went to Mandarin Oriental Guangzhou’s How to Train Your Dragon Boat. Voters were gripped by this unique way to learn about the ancient sport, learning first-hand from 2010 Asian Games’ gold-medalist, Zhang Guo Lin, in Guangzhou’s 1978 Cultural Creative Town before delving into dragon boat traditions at galleries and museums, along heritage trails, and more.

Capella Ubud’s Jungle to Sea Expedition also sounded pretty bucket-list-worthy to voters, who ranked it second Best Hotel Experience in Asia. Maybe that’s because it stretches the idea of “hotel” to both a Bill Bensley-designed luxury tented camp that was named Best Upcountry Hotel in Indonesia for the second year in a row, and a luxurious yacht built for adventure, the Kudanil Explorer. The six-day experience-travaganza has you immersed in the jungle in Bali then navigating unchartered territories of Komodo National Park, under the guidance of explorer, filmmaker and author, Dr. Lawrence Blair.  

Best Hotel Experiences in Asia-Pacific

1. How to Train Your Dragon Boat – Mandarin Oriental Guangzhou

2. Jungle to Sea Expedition – Capella Ubud

3. Little Bukit Farm to Table – Rosewood Phuket

4. Five Senses of Wellness – Raffles Bali

5. Singaporean Cultural and Culinary Immersion – Capella Singapore

Read on for the full descriptions and rankings of our readers’ picks of the Best Hotel Experiences in Asia for 2023. Keep an eye out for our soon-to-launch Travel + Leisure Experiences Marketplace, where you’ll be able to peruse and purchase some of the awesomest adventures at the region’s top hotels. And for all of this year’s Luxury Awards Asia-Pacific winners, click here.