When your best friend marries an Australian and they have a second wedding reception in Australia, well you gotta go right?!
Australia is massive, diverse, and absolutely worth the long ass flight. From ringing in the New Year by the water in Sydney (our winter is their summer!) to hiking in Tasmania and petting a koala, this trip was an unforgettable mix of adventure, wildlife, and a LOT of coffee.
Stop 1: Tasmania
Tasmania is wild, rugged, and totally different from mainland Australia. The flights to get there? Insane. We had a 30-hour journey from NYC → China → Melbourne → Launceston, Tasmania. Worth it? YES.
Wildlife Encounters
We visited an animal sanctuary and got up close with kangaroos, wombats, wallabies, and even a Tasmanian devil. The kangaroos and wombats roamed freely around the grounds and you could walk up to pet and feed them straight from your hand! They’re used to humans so they’re very docile and it was an animal lovers’ dream.
Outdoor Adventures
5K hike straight after landing in Launceston – Because why rest when you can immediately hit the trails in one of the most beautiful places on Earth?
Strathlynn Vineyard – The whole reason for coming to Tasmania was my best friend’s second wedding reception at a gorgeous winery (her official ceremony was back in Virginia). The wine? Incredible. The views? Gorgeous. Unfortunately, this venue doesn’t exist anymore.
Stop 2: Sydney
What We Did
Sydney Opera House – An absolute must-see. It’s even more breathtaking in person, especially at sunset.
Weird Drinking Rules – Australia has strict alcohol laws, so don’t be surprised if you have to order food with drinks or get told you can’t buy more after a certain time, and they always measure the alcohol in a mixed drink (no free pours here!).
New Year’s Eve by the Water – We were lucky enough to be in Sydney for NYE, and the fireworks over the harbor were next level. Easily one of the best New Year’s Eve celebrations ever.
Bondi Beach + Coastal Trail – Bondi is iconic, but the real gem is the coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee. The cliffs, ocean views, and hidden beaches along the way are stunning.
Three Sisters Rocks (Blue Mountains) – A quick day trip outside Sydney, these dramatic rock formations in the Blue Mountains are a must for nature lovers.
Featherdale Wildlife Park – We made a special stop at Featherdale Wildlife Park, where I got to pet a koala! This was one of the highlights of the trip—up close and personal with so many adorable Aussie animals.
Sydney’s city-meets-beach vibe is amazing and Tasmania feels like an untouched paradise. Next time I visit the continent, I want to see Melbourne and the Gold Coast!
Samantha Shammas, Author
A true travel enthusiast, Samantha has been going around the globe her entire life and has visited over 35 countries and counting. With a lust to wander, she’s always excited to visit new places and soak in inspiration for her artwork.
