Written by Olivia Baker
As I work fulltime, am career driven, juggle studying, and manage a household, with fruitful daily errands to complete, when the opportunity to travel prevails, the feeling of joy is indescribable.
I have been fortunate to have had the opportunity to travel overseas including London, America, but there are incredibly special places that I continue to return to in Australia, including Nelson Bay, Gold Coast, Four Mile Beach, Melbourne (Emporium Shopping Centre).
Nelson Bay
Nelson Bay is a gorgeous coastal gem tucked away in the nook of Port Stephens, NSW. I have returned to this beautiful location multiple times over the years, and will always continue to return, as the surrounding beaches are beyond magical, with the occasional pelican sighting.
JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa
The JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, located within a 15-minute walk to Surfers Paradise, is a place like no other, encompassed by the most tropical surroundings, saltwater lagoon and chef’s hat recognised restaurant, Citrique.
The overall resort compound is breathtaking at every glace, and I highly recommend booking your next trip here.
Four Mile Beach
Four Mile Beach, located in Port Douglas, NSW is a beautiful, long stretch of golden sand lined horizon beaches and is a paradise for the most spectacular sunsets you will ever witness. The photograph captured speaks for itself, as it is one of the most iconic beach sunsets I have ever seen. The beach itself is pure bliss, with calm waters and a scenic view.
The Emporium Shopping Centre
The Emporium Shopping Centre located in the heart of Melbourne, VIC, is a truly iconic luxury shopping centre and occupies the former Lonsdale Street site of the Myer’s Melbourne store. The Emporium opened in 2014 and following extensive redevelopment, the revamped site offers a magnificent shopping experience, an fashionable atmosphere, and a delectable food court.
The Big Ben
London offers endless cultural icon sites; however, Big Ben in my opinion is the flagship icon. Big Ben is the nickname for what is formally known as the Great Bell of the clock at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London, also known as Elizabeth Tower. The photograph is self-explanatory as you can feel the energy stemming from the photograph, and I would highly recommend adding this iconic site to your bucket list.
Disneyland
Disneyland, Anaheim, California is truly the most magical place on earth and there is no other place I would recommend more than this remarkable experience. Within each and every detail from world renowned treats, magical parades, staff uniforms and immaculately groomed gardens, it is no wonder that Disneyland holds the title, “The Happiest Place on Earth”.
The only advice I recommend to others that are travelling is to research your destination and pack organised for any terrain. Most importantly, embrace your travel journey, connect with the present moment, and be open to new experiences!
Charlie blog is a SSAF funded initiative.
