Australia on your mind? It probably is, thanks to the news coverage and the outpouring of celeb support for this island nation suffering some of the worst imaginable fires. And you’re probably thinking… man, I don’t want to go there any time soon! Let me tell you why you SHOULD visit Australia – now more than ever.
Why You Should Visit Australia Now
First and foremost, despite what the media may be telling you, NOT everywhere in Australia is affected. I receive daily emails from Southern World Australia with updated information.
Many of my clients have Sydney, the Great Barrier Reef, and Melbourne on their list. Other tourist destinations include Uluru/Ayers Rock, Perth and Margaret River, and Tasmania. They are all open for business. Local craftsmen, gin distilleries, coffee roasters, artisans… they are all there, hoping you will be too.
Many travellers are cancelling or postponing their trips. I’m here to tell you – unless you are planning a visit to Lakes Entrance or Eden – there is no need.
So go, visit Australia. Spend your money at the local restaurants, the bars and cafes, take a local guide, and engage with the community.
Where Are The Fires?
The areas most affected are the Blue Mountains and South Coast of New South Wales, East Gippsland and Upper Murray in Victoria, and Kangaroo Island off the South Australia mainland.
While shifting winds bring smoke and haze into Sydney and Canberra, major attractions remain open. The latest updates from Tourism Australia list Tasmania, Western Australia, Queensland, and the Northern Territory as not impacted. That means Perth and the Margaret River wine region, Kakadu National Park, the Great Barrier Reef and other popular destinations are perfectly safe to visit.
Victoria’s most visited areas, including the Great Ocean Road and Yarra Valley, are free and clear. So too are Adelaide and the Barossa Valley in South Australia.
Read More… Australia
- Melbourne
- On The Road: Margaret River Wineries
- 9 Must-Try Foods in Sydney
- Scuba Diving the Great Barrier Reef
What You Can Do To Help Australia
If you already have travel planned to Australia, check with your advisor and the tour operator on the ground before you cancel. Australia is a huge place, nearly as large as the continental US. As when any disaster hits, the affected country’s economy needs a jolt. Lost revenue from cancellations of tours in unaffected areas will slow recovery.
Believe me when I say, your visit can only help Australia.
Sadly, luxury Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island has sustained heavy damage, and is closed indefinitely. Baillie Lodges has vowed to rebuild and reopen the resort, which was a favourite destination of animal lovers in “Australia’s Galapagos.” I am devastated, but look forward to the future as KI as a whole rebounds from the fires.
Where To Donate
If you’d like to donate to rescue and recovery efforts, these agencies are doing incredible work. They could really use your support. I’ve pledged to donate $1 for every night my clients travel from January 1 to June 30, 2020, and I recently donated $1 for every 2019 night my clients travelled.
Wildlife:
- Animal Welfare League NSW
- Taronga Zoo Conservation Program
- Wildlife Victoria
- WIRES (NSW Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Services)
Firefighters:
Community:
- Country Women’s Association Disaster Relief Fund
- Kangaroo Island Fire Fund
- Australian Red Cross
- NSW St. Vincent de Paul Society
Environment:
Australia is a beautiful place. It is a wonderful destination for travellers. And it could really use our help – and our business.