Festive treats are in the stores, some people are already getting their trees put up, and we’re already starting to hear Christmas songs on the radio. Christmas is fast approaching – but why not do something a little different this year?
This year, more than ever, I am trying to focus on less stuff – I don’t want to give people things that they don’t need and won’t use, and I equally don’t want to receive stuff for the sake of it. I’d much rather make more memories with my loved ones. That’s why I’m focusing on giving
experiences and doing bucket list activities that I wouldn’t do otherwise!
I’ve teamed up with RedBalloon to show you some of their unique Christmas gifts. They offer Australian experiences that you can purchase your loved ones for Christmas – and any other time of year, of course. This will be an Australian gift guide like no other!
Some of these are experiences that I have already enjoyed in Australia, and some are things that I’m putting on my bucket list for when I’m next there!
Australian Gift Guide – Seven Unmissable Experiences
Hot Air Ballooning Over the Hunter Valley
I’m going to guess that hot air ballooning isn’t something that you do every day. Imagine catching the beautiful Hunter Valley, New South Wales premier wine region, just as it awakes from its slumber – you’ll see the sun beginning to touch all areas with its light, and get a panoramic birds-eye view of the entire area!
The hot air balloon ride includes the hour trip, an a la carte breakfast at a nearby winery, and a glass of sparkling wine. After the hot air balloon ride, you’ll be able to enjoy the sights and tastes of the Hunter Valley at ground level. It’s an easy weekend trip from Sydney, so it’s the ideal gift to buy city dwellers who will need a weekend away in one of the country’s best wine regions!
Mount Cotton Winery Tour
Speaking of wine tasting, there’s no reason why you need to miss out if you’re a Queenslander. While most of the state is too warm for vineyards, there are a few wineries around Brisbane.
Mount Cotton is a short drive from both the city and the Gold Coast, and RedBalloon offers a package for two people, consisting of a tasting session of six wines, winery tour, and lunch with a glass of wine.
What’s more, the winery is family-run, so you’ll be supporting a local business by buying a wine-tasting package here. The winery has won over 800 awards and is famed in the region for its delicious beverages and fine Italian cuisine. It’s a must-do for any wine lovers in Brisbane or the Gold Coast, or anyone who’s just moved to the area!
Rottnest Island Superior Glamping Stay
Famous for its blue waters, white sands, and adorable quokkas (native marsupials), Rottnest Island usually is only a day trip destination for people living and visiting Perth. But, what if you want to stay in paradise for longer? Rottnest Island is the ideal place to unwind from your hectic
lifestyle and get back to nature. RedBalloon can help you with this – one of my personal favourites on this Australian gift guide is a glamping experience on Rottnest Island.
The glamping tent is the best of both worlds – the chance to experience the great outdoors, but with plenty of luxuries that you don’t find with regular camping! Inside the glamping tent, there’s a kitchenette and a double bed (which can also be made into two singles). On-site, enjoy a restaurant, swimming pool and BBQ facilities. This experience can be booked for one or two nights, so you can tailor-make the holiday to your needs and wishes!
Great Barrier Reef Cruise and Snorkelling
The Great Barrier Reef is where most tourists to Australia head to first – so if you’re living in or are from the country, it’s an absolute must-do! This natural phenomenon needs no introductions, but this particular cruise includes up to five hours of snorkeling time as well as lunch on board a luxurious superyacht. It’s the ideal present for someone who’s never
experienced the reef before.
Remember to be responsible when at the reef so travelers and locals can enjoy it for years to come. Wear reef-safe sunscreen, don’t touch any coral, don’t aggravate any fish or sea life, and take extra care not to drop anything into the sea – especially plastic.
Thai Cooking Class in the Adelaide Hills
Do you have someone in your life who you know would love to try a new skill this year? Or do you have any friends or family who are keen travelers and are missing visiting Asia?
Why not give them a Thai cooking class, set in the stunning Adelaide Hills region. This experience is exclusive to RedBalloon and includes a 4 hour instruction from a professional chef, as well as a sit-down meal with wine. Its location is just a short drive from Adelaide CBD, so it’s perfect for anyone living in the city who wants to escape to Thailand for the afternoon.
Mornington Peninsula Spa Day
Spa days are a fantastic experience gift to give someone – it says to them that they deserve a break, a chance to unwind and relax by themselves or with a loved one. Your partner, friend or family member will be incredibly grateful after receiving this spa package at a top-rated spa on the Mornington Peninsula.
This experience includes 15 types of bathing from all around the world. Try out the Moroccan Hammam, the infra-red sauna, and the zen chi machine, amongst many others! Also included is a full dinner and robe and towel hire.
Romantic Sunset Cruise in Darwin
There are few sunset spots as epic as Darwin, with its backdrop of tropical beaches. This sunset cruise takes in the best of the city and Northern Territory coastline from the water. As well as enjoying the breathtaking surroundings, this cruise includes a three-course dinner made from local produce.
Due to the seasonality of Darwin, this cruise is only available in the dry season (April to November). This is the best time to visit Darwin anyway – so why not make a trip out of it and enjoy the other best parts of the city!
Afternoon tea in Hobart
If you’re looking for an all year round activity to do in the unpredictable weather of Hobart, why not treat your loved one to afternoon tea? This traditional afternoon tea is set in a heritage-listed hotel in the city centre, with plenty of sandwiches and cakes for you to enjoy.
It’s an ideal experience gift for someone who is based in Hobart or is planning on visiting and wants to do something that’s not weather dependent!
Australian gift guide ideas – which will you pick?
More people than ever are trying to tick things off their bucket list. This Australian gift guide suggests some of the fantastic experiences that you can have in this wonderful country, making all-important memories with people you love at the same time. I hope you’ve enjoyed this gift guide – drop me a message and let me know which is top of your Christmas list for this year!
