BENGALURU: Earlier tourism to Australia meant Sydney Opera House or catching a match at the Melbourne Cricket Stadium. “People would visit only the eastern parts of Australia,” says Nishant Kashikar, Tourism Australia’s Country Manager, India and Gulf. Now, according to him, there is a “huge change”.
He was in the city recently to promote new destinations Down Under.
There is a 19% increase in the number of Indians visiting Australia and Kashikar credits it to the promotions done by the government, easier procedures, stable currency and more Indians, therefore relatives, living in the country. There have also been significant shift in the travel and culinary tastes. Indians are curious about the restaurants owned by chefs and judges who come on Masterchef Australia. “Australian cuisine is popular among Indians.”
If you are keen on customised packages or simply want to take of on your own, Australia offers some options. “It is the best place for self-driven holidays,” he says. “Indians can even drive on the same side as they do here and the drivers’ license issued here is accepted by the Australian government.”
Age won’t stop you from having fun, he promises. “A three-year-old can have fun with the kolas and kangaroos at the Kangaroo Islands. Honey mooners can visit any of the 10,000 different beaches, they can also have packages in which they can book an entire island. Senior citizens can appreciate the varied art and architecture there, besides relaxing in the parks and beaches.”
The best is for the teenagers, Kashikar says. “There are several theme parks like the Dream World and the Gold Coast, which populated with their favourite cartoon characters.” They can experience adventure sports like paragliding and rides on hot-air balloons.
Where can Modi Go?
There is even something for our Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is a travel enthusiast. Besides the many museums and the Sydney Opera House, Kashikar suggests an island with free Wi-Fi. “Since he is keen on digitization, there is the Hamilton Island which has free Wi-Fi. He would love a visit and he could share it with his friends and followers.”
TRY THESE NEW SPOTS
Islands in the Great Barrier Reef:There are several islands in the Great Barries Reef, in which tourists could relax and have fun. They can visit, among others, the Haymen, Hamilton and Lizard Islands. Reaching there is easy with several flights and self-drive option.
The South of Australia: You can head to the Kangaroo Island, particularly if you are making a trip with the kiddies. Children can try the Kangaroo Safari or play with the kolas and kangaroos.
In the Centre of Australia: The can visit Perth and Bungle Bungle Range. There are several mountain ranges and a national park you can explore.
The Hunter Valley: It has the best wine yards in the world. There are also farms that rear race horses, cruises along the Hunter River and Lake Macquerie and rides to be taken on the steam trains.