Slow Travel in Australia
The Aussie Way
Reading time: 4 min
Slow Travel in Australia
The Aussie Way
Reading time: 4 min
Slow Travel in Australia
The Aussie Way
Reading time: 4 min
Some destinations grab you and never let you go… Australia was that place for me. My name is Tim, I’m 25 years old and a travel designer at Connections in Leuven. In 2023, I left with a one-way ticket and a fully packed backpack to the other side of the world for what would become the journey of a lifetime. Vast Australia was, for me, just like for so many others, one big mystery. Eight months later, I left the country with nothing but love for its nature, culture and way of life. I travelled the East Coast at my own pace, from the unique flora and fauna of northern Queensland to the rugged and wild landscapes of southern Tasmania. Through my favourite destinations and memories, I would love to take you along for the ride.
I began my journey in the beating heart of Australia: Sydney. The country’s largest city, home to iconic landmarks such as the Opera House. Seeing it for the first time, especially at night, when its sails light up and live music fills the air at the Opera Bar, was my first real moment of falling in love with Australia.
What makes Sydney so special to me is the perfect balance between vibrant city life and laid-back beach culture. One moment you are taking photos of the Opera House from the Harbour Bridge; the next, you’re relaxing on Bondi Beach with a refreshing drink in hand. A city that truly offers the best of both worlds. But THE highlight of my time in Sydney? Taking the ferry from Manly to the harbour at sunset. One of those rare moments when time seems to stand still. It does not get more beautiful than that.
From Sydney, I continued north along the East Coast. The stretch between Sydney and Brisbane is dotted with relaxed towns like Byron Bay, perfect for fully immersing yourself in the Australian lifestyle. Yet the stop that left the biggest impression on me was K’Gari. Many people know this island north of Brisbane as Fraser Island, but on June 7th, 2023, its original name was officially restored to honour the Traditional Owners and their deep connection to the land. In the Butchulla language, K’Gari means “paradise.” I could not have described it better myself.
K’Gari is the largest sand island in the world. There are no paved roads, only 4WD vehicles cruising along the beach. To your left, the wild and untouched island; to your right, the endless ocean. Freedom has never felt so real. I had the opportunity to spend the night camping in the heart of the island. Under one of the clearest starry skies I’ve ever seen, gathered around a campfire, I felt completely connected to nature, as if I had briefly washed up on a deserted island.
Travelling in Australia is also about pushing your limits and stepping into the unknown. Near Airlie Beach, on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef, I had the chance to skydive over the Australian coastline, with a view of the world’s largest coral reef beneath me.In moments like that, you truly realise you’re alive. And you understand what travel can do to you as a person.
From Airlie Beach, I also visited the famous Whitsundays by sailboat, an archipelago of 74 tropical islands home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whitehaven Beach is undoubtedly the most iconic. With its pure white silica sand and turquoise waters, it looks like something straight out of a postcard. The viewpoint overlooking Hill Inlet is simply breathtaking.
The place where I stayed a little longer was Cairns. Not only does it offer access to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, but it was also the first city where I truly connected with Australia’s Indigenous communities and their culture. It was important for me to discover this side of Australia. Through conversations and encounters with Indigenous Australians, I learned so much and gained a deeper understanding of the country.
My visit to the Daintree Rainforest, the oldest rainforest in the world, remains one of my most vivid memories. With its waterfalls, hidden trails and lush landscapes, it is a region you could explore endlessly. It is also a paradise for wildlife. I saw saltwater crocodiles, tree kangaroos, platypuses, and of course plenty of kangaroos and wallabies.
My story would not be complete without Tasmania. This island in the south of Australia, still unknown to many, became my home for four months. I worked at a nature lodge surrounded by forests and lakes, experiencing firsthand how Australians live in harmony with nature. From stunning hikes and boat trips on the lake to camping under Tasmania’s crystal-clear night skies, if you ever get the chance to visit this island, grab it with both hands.
After eight months, it was unfortunately time to return home, my backpack filled with memories. Australia’s breathtaking landscapes constantly amazed me, but what stayed with me most were the people. Always smiling, always ready to help, always focused on enjoying life. The country is so vast that I have only explored a small part of it, which means there is still so much more waiting to be discovered if I ever return. No matter what, Australia will always hold a special place in my heart.
Recommended for you
A tailor-made quote?
Wish a detailed tailor-made quote? We gladly assist you with your travel plans, thus prepare your ideal tailor-made trip and calculate a detailed price proposal in no time. No hidden costs and entirely to your liking.
Visit our travel shops
Need more info, assistance to tailor your trip or the latest tips by our experienced Travel Designers? Pop in at one of our travel shops or make an appointment now. We will be delighted to set aside time for your travel plans.
Over 100 Travel Designers
all over Belgium are eager to assist you
Year after year Connections sends its Travel Designers to all corners of the world in order to be able to advise you even better when mapping out your trip.
No destination is too foreign or far. Find out who they are here and feel free to contact them!
Why choose Connections?
Because we are travellers, just like you. Always looking for exciting experiences, fascinating encounters and new horizons. Because we are 100% Belgian and can assist you in your own language. Because we make it our personal mission to lift your travels beyond your wildest imagination. Because life is more intense when you travel, really travel!
More about ConnectionsThe twinkle in the eye
Do not expect conformity from us. We are always looking for those extra ingredients that make your trip truly special. We swear by intense experiences.
Over 100 Travel designers around the country
Meet the Connections crew in our Travel Shops located all over Belgium. All of our Travel Designers are looking forward to meeting you and welcome you with open arms.
+35 Years on the road
We've been paving our way for a while. Travelling with Connections means choosing 'peace of mind'. Everything perfectly arranged, excellent service, certainty and reliability.
Always by your side
We're here whenever you need us! Available via our website, our travel shops, our customer service center and via our mobile travel agents.