Click here for our travel alert about the Israel – Gaza conflict.
Due to the current conflict in Ukraine, our policies exclude coverage for any trips to Russia, Ukraine or Belarus. Check out latest travel alerts here before buying a policy.

Summer Down Under: 9 things you should say YES to!

Welcome to the land of deserts and Vegemite, of wondrous cities, beautiful coastlines and the world’s largest coral reef.

If you’re a local staying down under this summer, here are 21 things we urge you to say yes to.

1. An outdoor movie

Nothing beats movies that start at twilight and end under the glorious stars! Plus, the surroundings are usually spectacular. Think: Mrs Macquaries Chair in Sydney, the Deckchair Cinema in Darwin or Rooftop Movies in Perth.

Outdoor cinemas have become somewhat of an Aussie summer tradition, so if you still haven’t given it a go, find something to watch and book your seats!

2. Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

Clear summer days and long nights make the Bridge Climb a must, must, must if you’re in Sydney. And contrary to popular belief, it’s not just for tourists!

Spots go fast so make sure you book early. If you want to save cash but still get the experience, go for the Bridge Sampler or a night climb.

More info: www.bridgeclimb.com

3. Taste of Tasmania

Three words to describe this one: Nom, nom, nom! Spanning over the new year, food, wine, arts and other cool activities come together at Taste of Tasmania. And best of all, you get to sample all of the state’s freshest produce and foods.

If you’re going with the family, there’s lots of stuff for kids too, like cooking classes and jumping castles.

More info: www.thetasteoftasmania.com.au

4. A swim with something awesome

Aussies love to bum around in the sun and surf. But why not take your swim to the next level and go for a dip with something awesome, like:

5. Falls festival

It’s one of the biggest and best in Oz! And it happens all over the east side. This year, artists like Bloc Party and the Hilltop Hoods and even Weird Al Yankovic will feature. Falls Festival destinations include Lorne (VIC), Byron Bay (NSW) and Marion Bay (TAS).

6. The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race

If you’ve never seen this race in all its watery glory, get your butt to the coast this summer. This iconic race kicks off from various points in Sydney (like Nielsen Park and Shark Island) on Boxing Day and ends near the Castray Esplanade on the River Derwent in Tassie.

Arrive early to get a prime viewing spot, or book yourself a seat on a spectator boat to view the race from the water!

More info: www.rolexsydneyhobart.com

7. The 39th Swim Through Rottnest

Get your togs on, people! This swimming race is held in the beautiful waters of Rottnest Island in WA (just near Perth) on the first Saturday of December. It’s been going on since 1977, is open to all ages, and now has both 500m and 1600m events.

Both male and female winners grab $400 each!

More info: www.swimthrurotto.com

8. Something Christmas-inspired

Don’t be a Santa stickler! Make sure your Aussie summer bucket list includes at least one Christmassy thing. After all, warm summer Christmases are what Australia is all about (remember, a lot of the rest of the world is in winter!). Some suggestions:

Carols in the Domain in Sydney
Myer Christmas Windows in Melbourne
Christmas Parade and Gold Lotto City Hall Light Spectacular in Brisbane
Christmas in the City or Christmas Vintage Ball in Canberra
Santa in the City in Adelaide

9. New Year’s Eve fireworks

No matter where you end up for NYE, don’t skimp on the fireworks action. Scout out your spot and aim to make a day (or night) of it. If you don’t want to face the crowds, choose a place that’s less popular but still lets you see some kind of fireworks.

Did you know that InsureandGo can cover your Aussie holiday? Learn more about our Domestic Travel Insurance in Australia here or contact us.