When one of Michael’s cousins turned 50 recently, the idea of a guys weekend getaway was born. With just four male cousins in the family, the trip naturally took on a masculine vibe. Being the family’s travel writer and the youngest cousin, Michael was tasked with planning the adventure.
Considering various destinations across Australia, Michael initially thought of Darwin for its rugged activities like jet skiing, fishing at Barramundi Adventures, and a unique pub crawl using a helicopter. However, seeking more diverse options, he reached out to his travel industry contacts for suggestions.
Several recommendations revolved around city experiences. Brisbane offered activities like kayaking, abseiling, bridge climbing, and brewery tours. Fremantle boasted craft beer tours and underground prison tunnel explorations. The Bellarine Peninsula near Geelong provided a mix of golfing, brewery visits, and unique tours like mussel excursions and live concerts on the Blues Train.
Exploring regional options, Michael discovered the NSW Snowy Valley, where Nimbo Fork Lodge in Tumut catered to fishing, fine dining, mountain biking, and thermal pools. The idea of aligning the weekend with major events like rugby games or music festivals in cities like Melbourne, Sydney, or Hobart was also considered.
For a more secluded experience, Michael contemplated destinations like Flinders Island in Bass Strait, known for kayaking, snorkeling, and whisky distillery tours. Another suggestion led him to Norfolk Island, offering a range of activities within its scenic landscapes.
Ultimately, Queensland emerged as the chosen destination for the guys weekend, specifically the tropical north around Cairns and Port Douglas. Fishing charters, helicopter tours, rainforest explorations, and golfing at Palmer Sea Reef Golf Course were among the planned activities. The group also anticipated enjoying local brews at Hemingway’s Brewery.
From bustling cities to remote islands, the journey to plan the ideal guys weekend across Australia showcased the country’s diverse offerings. While the trip may be filled with blokey experiences in a popular tourist area, the research process itself unveiled a plethora of options for future adventures.
Michael Turtle, an Australian journalist turned full-time traveler, curates unique travel experiences, delving into lesser-known destinations, cultural immersion, historical insights, and local interactions. His quest to unearth hidden gems worldwide provides a glimpse into unconventional travel experiences.