27 September 2023

Hand picked holidays to beat the winter blues

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By Rama Gaind.

Norfolk Island is an external Australian territory in the Pacific Ocean about 1,600 kilometres northeast of Sydney.

The colder, darker months have arrived … with shorter days … along with the winter blues!

You are not the only one who may feel some disquiet. Push aside the restlessness. Look at ways to beat the gloomy mood, become energised and one of the lifestyle modifications could well be planning your next holiday – to somewhere a little warmer.

Head back in time and experience rich Australian history on Norfolk Island or sit back and relax with a luxurious, wellbeing retreat – just for starters.

Norfolk Island is anything but a one-dimensional destination for history buffs and retirees? Their history is anything but dusty. Explore ruins and museums that bring to life heart-stopping tales of shipwreck, mutiny and leg irons.

While it’s an ideal spot to kick back and bask in the sunshine and sea air, chances are you won’t be sitting still for long. The winds and waves of Norfolk carry the call to adventure, from deep-sea fishing adventures to gentle glides over teeming coral reefs.

With its mix of sunlit sands and pristine waters, rugged cliffs and deep forests, Norfolk’s diverse landscape magically changes at each turn.

Kingston Pier, built in 1839, has long been the lifeblood of Norfolk Island.
Photo: Rama Gaind

Not been there yet? This island is one of the South Pacific’s best-kept holiday secrets. It offers so much more than just tropical sunshine, perfect beaches and balmy nights. Its culture and history are unlike any other, with the landscapes being incredibly diverse.

Less than a three-hour flight from Australia and New Zealand, faraway is closer than you ever could have imagined. Once you experience Norfolk Island’s 360° of Wonder, you’ll wonder why you hadn’t gone across any earlier!

Once you’re there, you’ll find numerous ways to experience it all, from outdoor adventures to history tours, from paddock-to-plate dining to tax-free shopping. At the end of each day, feast on straight-from-the-boat seafood, island-reared beef and organic goodness that will make even the fussiest foodie’s head spin.

From surfing to stargazing, ghost tours to golf, on Norfolk you’ll find 101 things to sink your holiday teeth into.

Not convinced? You’ll find a week is not going to be enough to sample all that’s on offer. Check out Norfolk holiday options before 20 June 2022.

Wellness haven

Elysia Wellness Retreat Hunter Valley, NSW.

For another holiday treat, turn your attention to surrounding yourself with nature and completely disconnect from the stresses of daily life at the Elysia Wellness Retreat Hunter Valley, NSW.

This luxury wellness retreat will help you create a life-changing journey of wellbeing carefully tailored to your needs. These experiences are designed to meet a great range of personal situations or goals. The getaway reasons are many including whether you’re in need of peaceful sleep, detox from the hum of work emails and app notifications, life-giving nutrition advice, energising activities and fitness, weight management or relaxing meditation for refocusing and clarity.

On offer is a three-night package from $1,460 per person in a one-bedroom suite.

Retreat from the noise and distraction of your daily life and join the wide-open spaces of the NSW Hunter Valley where you’ll find the key to your wellbeing at one of the best wellness retreats in Australia.

The team will help you discover a new, transformative way to see life as you balance your mind, body and spirit on your way to achieving lifelong health and wellness.

Experience Norfolk Island’s 360° of Wonder!

Their all-inclusive health and wellness programs have been developed to motivate change and give you the tools you need for lasting results. The retreat is a place for you to take time to reset your mind and body and gain a wealth of knowledge to create a healthier, happier and more motivated you.

Not only can you treat yourself at the day spa, but experience food that feeds your health and wellbeing. Select travel dates for this package are from 18 July to 17 September 2021

These hand picked holidays are exclusive to Travel Associates. Flexible bookings are available, so turn your dreams to reality so you will have stories to tell, “not just stuff to show”.

DETAILS BOX

Travel Associates

13 70 71

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