Image: Shutterstock

Sun, surf and sand are the hallmarks of summer in Australia, but perhaps you prefer a little history on your holiday, some Pimms with gal pals or pool time in one of the country’s most beautiful hotel pools.

Honour Australia’s History at Hotel Kurrajong

Canberra is the repository of the Australian story, evident in institutions like the National Museum, the National Gallery, and the Australian War Memorial. All contribute to the broader Australian story and make the National Capital a special place to visit. Most of the major institutions have special exhibitions throughout summer, and from most it’s an easy walk from the hotel.

Book into the Hotel Kurrajong for a uniquely Canberra experience and to soak up the ambience in the hotel’s pretty courtyard. This nostalgia-laden hotel opened in 1926 and was home to Members of Parliament including Prime Minister Ben Chifley until his death in 1951.

For a relaxing way to spend a summer’s day, rent a GoBoat and spend a couple of hours cruising around Lake Burley Griffin (no licence needed). The boats seat eight around a centre table so you can take your own picnic. You’ll come away with a new appreciation for this beautifully designed city.

Harbourside Living at Adina Darling Harbour

There’s nothing quite like spending summer on Sydney Harbour, and the Adina Apartment Hotel Sydney Darling Harbour is perfectly located for guests to take advantage of various attractions on offer.

For a truly special experience, climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge and get a bird’s eye view of one of the world’s most beautiful harbours. BridgeClimb has taken more than four million people to the top of the bridge since it began offering climbs in 1998. This is one summer holiday experience you’ll remember forever.

Living Up Large in Brisbane at The Calile

Brisbane’s relaxed, alfresco lifestyle takes place on both sides of the Brisbane River, with easy transport connections via the CityCat ferries and CityHopper service. Particularly vibrant is Southbank with its restaurants and bars, swimming lagoon (complete with sandy beach), giant ferris wheel, and cultural precinct. Head to Southbank and park up in a sunny spot on the banks of the River for a picnic. The nearby eateries have plenty to whet the appetite.

Across the river, Eagle Terrace and Howard Smith Wharves bustle with restaurants and bars against the backdrop of an illuminated Story Bridge. Some of the trendiest venues are in cosmopolitan New Farm and Fortitude Valley, where you can check into The Calile for designer style and rest and pampering in an urban-style resort oasis.

Known to locals simply as The Valley, this is one of Brisbane’s liveliest areas in which to hang out, with live music venues, night clubs, old-fashioned pubs and a huge array of restaurants, including The Calile’s much-acclaimed Hellenika.

The Cultural Capital at Travelodge Docklands

Spend a summer’s day taking in an exhibition or two in Melbourne and you’ll appreciate why the city is often called Australia’s Cultural Capital. The backdrop to the city’s cultural diversity is highlighted in the Immigration Museum, while the beautiful Old Treasury Building runs a regular exhibition program.

The State Library of Victoria also has regular exhibitions, including a permanent display of Ned Kelly’s armour alongside his colourfully worded Jerilderie letter, provoking questions about truth, mythmaking and nationhood. 

A great place to get away from the city bustle is Docklands where you can catch a summer concert or just shoot the breeze in the great outdoors, making Travelodge Docklands the perfect place to rest your head for the night.

** Peace of mind when you stay with us: Introducing Clean Touch. Note some activities listed may be subject to Covid restrictions. **