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Subscribe The Travel Sales, Deals & News You Need to Know About
Because who doesn't love scoring a great deal on an upcoming holiday?
There’s nothing better than being on holiday. And always having one planned means you have something to look forward to, especially when you’re going through a dull patch.
And who doesn’t want to book a trip or staycation in if they can get a sweet deal on it? We’ve gone hunting for all the best travel sales, deals and packages so that you don’t have to, as well as any important news you need to know about.
The Travel Sales You Need to Know
Escape the Winter Chill With This Massive Qantas Sale
As winter creeps closer Down Under, now is the perfect time to escape the chill—for a bargain price.
Qantas has just announced its Asia Red Tail Sale, with prices slashed on return flights to Asian hotspots. There are more than 100,000 discounted seats available, with the sale coinciding with some of Asia’s biggest events and festivals, like the Edogawa, Ōme City and Sumidagawa fireworks festivals in Japan in July.
If a beachside escape sounds like your idea of total bliss, return economy flights from Melbourne to Bali start at just $599, with flights from Brisbane to Manila from $829 and Sydney to Hong Kong from $929. Or if you’re keen to visit Australia’s new fave overseas destination, Japan, return flights departing from Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney to Tokyo start at just $949.
The sale runs from May 13 to midnight on May 19, and includes checked baggage, meals, beverages and entertainment on flights departing between June 1, 2025 and March 31, 2026.
Jetstar Throws Epic LARP Battle for $50K Worth of Flights
Hark! Jetstar is celebrating its 21st birthday, and is giving away $50k worth of flights to celebrate…but not in a typical fashion. Jetstar has announced the “Knights of the Skies” tournament, an epic LARP (Live Action Role Play) simulated battle to be held in Melbourne, which calls on brave and noble Aussies to don their best medieval costumes and armour, snap a picture for their Instagram feed tagging @JetstarAustralia and #KnightsoftheSkies, sending it to Jetstar as a DM or commenting it on the Facebook competition post.
Eight champion competition winners will be given the chance to claim flight vouchers worth $50K for the winner and $1K for each of the runners up in a mighty LARP play battle on the 25th May at a Melbourne garden (location to be confirmed), splitting into two teams to weild battle alongside LARP warriors from Swordcraft.
It’s weird, it’s whacky, and we’re on board. En garde!
The Travel News You Need to Know
Everyone’s Ditching Euro Summer in 2025: Here’s Where They’re Going Instead
Don’t have your Euro Summer trip planned and feeling major FOMO? Never fear, because it turns out that the chicest places to travel during the world’s warmer months are closer to home than you think.
The Mastercard Economics Institute (MEI) has just released its annual Travel Trends report, and the trends are telling: eight of the world’s top 15 trending summer travel destinations are located in the Asia-Pacific region.
It’s no surprise that Japan takes out the top two spots, with Tokyo and Osaka, respectively, high on consumers’ travel bucket lists, with a favourable exchange rate making it a wallet-friendly, yet still hugely satisfying, spot to sojourn. Other Asian destinations like Shanghai, Seoul, Beijing and Singapore also make the list, while Vietnam’s Nha Trang made a surprise entry, climbing in popularity thanks to beautiful beaches, enviable coastline and vibrant nightlife.
While fan favourites like Paris, Palma de Mallorca and Madrid still make the cut, tourists are prioritising bang-for-their-buck trips that combine good food, gorgeous natural surrounds and wellness offerings, where places like Thailand and Bali truly shine.
All in all, it’s good news for those of us who don’t have their ticket to Europe locked and loaded—there’s still plenty of places to travel on trend close to home.
You can read the full Travel Trends 2025 here.
Airbnb Just Gave Travel a Major Makeover
Seventeen years after it changed how we find places to stay, Airbnb is reinventing how we travel once again, with the introduction of new hotel-style services and curated experiences, all bookable through its newly redesigned app.
Bringing hotel-like perks to private stays, Airbnb Services will be launching across 10 categories including private chefs, massage therapists, personal trainers and makeup artists. Available in 260 cities (and with more soon to join the ranks), these vetted professionals—many of whom have over 10 years of experience—offer everything from custom spa treatments to Michelin-level catering with pricing starting below $50.
Each service is bookable directly through the Airbnb app, with detailed host profiles, transparent pricing, and instant booking in just a few taps. The best part? You don’t need to be traveling—or even staying in an Airbnb—to book. From a pre-event glam session to a private dinner at home, it’s luxury on your terms.
Another new feature, Airbnb Experiences, has been reimagined to help travellers explore like locals. From food tours and behind-the-scenes museum tours to fashion styling and lucha libre training, the experiences are available in 650 cities. The new Airbnb Originals take things one step further, with one-of-a-kind encounters hosted by global icons like Megan Thee Stallion and Patrick Mahomes on offer.
Combining the best parts of hotels with the space and authenticity Airbnb is known for, this is a vacay (or even a staycay!), but not as you know it.
Win the Ultimate G&T Experience for Two with Never Never Distilling Co.
Gin lovers, this one’s for you. Never Never Distilling Co. is turning the humble G&T into a nationwide celebration—complete with a dream getaway up for grabs.
Think: return flights to Adelaide, two dreamy nights at the ultra-chic Ukiyo House, a heli ride over McLaren Vale, lunch and a private tasting at Never Never Distillery, and luxe transfers throughout.
Simply purchase a Never Never G&T at a participating venue, scan the QR code, and tell them your favourite G&T moment in 25 words or less.
Enter here
Your Perfect Excuse to Book a Flight to South Australia with Virgin Australia
South Australia is calling! In partnership with Virgin Australia, the South Australian Tourism Commission is offering up to 25% off selected domestic flights to Adelaide. Don’t miss out on this limited-time sale to experience the state’s thriving events calendar, breathtaking natural wonders, and exceptional food and wine.
Book your next adventure before 12th May 2025—this is the perfect excuse to discover the simple pleasures of South Australia.
T&C’s apply
Book here
Until 12th May
The Winter Solstice Package at Jackalope
Winter is all about slowing down and embracing the smaller moments, and Jackalope is helping you do exactly that with their ‘Winter Solstice’ package. Available April through to September, this unique package paints the charm of winter on the Peninsula with fireside moments, indulgent dining and the perfect amount of luxury. Think slow mornings wrapped in plush robes, afternoons spent exploring the estate with a glass of red in hand, and evenings capped off with multi-course dinners at their award-winning restaurant, Doot Doot Doot. It’s the ultimate winter escape—where every detail is designed to warm, nourish and delight.
Available April to September
Book your stay with Jackalope
Cruise the Kimberley on a Brand New Luxury House Boat
Kimberley Spirit Tours has unveiled its latest offering—and we’re absolutely on (star)board. Nyawoorn, which means ‘large gathering of people’ in Kija a language of one of the region’s Traditional Custodian groups, is a large, luxury houseboat which can sleep six passengers for the ultimate Kimberley experience. Cruise along the region’s winding rivers and untouched coastline, discovering hidden waterfalls, ancient rock art, and breathtaking natural beauty—all from the comfort of your floating home. Opt for a fully private hosted journey and enjoy nights lit up by a dazzling canopy of stars and days spent exploring the wetlands, creeks and waterfalls with kayaks and boats provided. It’s an adventure unlike any other.
United Airlines To Launch Adelaide to USA Direct Flights
Adelaideans, rejoice! If you’re planning on heading to the United States later this year, say goodbye to timely and costly stopovers in Melbourne or Sydney. United Airlines has flown in to the rescue, announcing they will be introducing flights from Adelaide to San Francisco in December 2025. Their will be three flights per week—Monday, Wednesday and Saturday—meaning you can unlock a world of adventure seamlessly. It also provides travellers from Perth a more convenient stopover, rather than hauling it all the way to the East Coast.
From December 2025
Gunlom Falls to Reopen After Six-Year Closure
In thrilling news for travellers, Gunlom Falls in Kakadu National Park will officially reopen in May 2025 after a six-year closure. Found in the stunning southern ‘stone country’ region, this iconic waterfall has long been a bucket-list destination. Visitors can now trek the newly upgraded track to the top, where they’ll be rewarded with sweeping views and emerald-coloured rockpools perfect for a refreshing swim.
With increased international flights and tourism investments, this reopening marks a vibrant new chapter for Kakadu. Get ready for the ultimate Kakadu experience!
See flights to Darwin here
Reopens May 2025
Kakadu National Park, NT
Time Declares The Ghan as One of the World’s Greatest Places of 2025
Named one of Time’s World’s Greatest Places of 2025, The Ghan has spent nearly a century connecting travellers to Australia’s remote heartland. The iconic sleeper train weaves through sacred Aboriginal sites, vast desert plains, and ancient, crocodile-filled gorges on its transcontinental route from Adelaide to Darwin. In celebration of 20 years crossing the country, Gold Premium service debuted last April, featuring luxurious cabins, an exclusive lounge, and multi-course menus showcasing native ingredients. Stops in Katherine, Alice Springs, and Coober Pedy unlock all-inclusive excursions, from Aboriginal rock art cruises to opal mine visits. An extraordinary journey unlike any other.
Book here
Adelaide to Darwin
Tripadvisor Declares Manly Beach Superior to Bondi
Tripadvisor’s prestigious annual Travellers’ Choice Awards results are in and it’s official — Manly Beach has outdone popular rival Bondi. Coming in at number 1 in the South Pacific category, Manly Beach also managed to snag number 15 in the world. Impressive! With a buzzing brunch scene and accessible by both car and ferry, it’s not hard to see why this pine-lined stretch is beloved the world over.
Turquoise Bay in Exmouth, Surfers Paradise Beach on the Gold Coast, Mooloolaba Beach, Four Mile Beach in Port Douglas and Cable Beach in Broome were also ranked in the top ten South Pacific beaches.
Lonely Planet Reveals The Travel Trends Taking Over 2025
Pack your bags and grab your tickets—2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for travel! Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel guide has unveiled the top ten key travel trends for the year, with each trend featuring ten of the best places around the world to experience it. Australia is right at the heart of many of these trends, offering everything from scenic train journeys to hidden gems in nature. Here’s a quick rundown of the Aussdainie highlights you won’t want to miss.
The Indian Pacific Rail Journey, ranked #2 in the Taking It Easy trend, offers a two-night experience from Adelaide to Perth, crossing the vast Nullarbor Plain. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure as you enjoy the serene solitude of the desert with a cocktail in hand.
The Cassowary, ranked #1 in the Extreme Birdwatching travel trend, is a must-see for any bird lover. Standing up to 2 metres tall, this striking bird roams Queensland’s Daintree Rainforest, earning its spot as one of the world’s most impressive creatures.
If you’re a music lover, Melbourne Forum, ranked #8 for Following the Music, is an iconic venue with its stunning Moorish architecture and a ceiling that mirrors the southern hemisphere’s night sky. Meanwhile, the Farm Gate Market in Hobart, ranked #8 for Marvelous Markets, is a Sunday institution where you can enjoy local produce, freshly baked goods, and gourmet treats from food trucks.
Sydney’s Mardi Gras, taking #7 for What a Drag, is a vibrant celebration of LGBTQI+ culture, bringing bold performances to Oxford Street in February.
For those seeking hidden gems, Great Sandy National Park in Queensland, ranked #10 for Underrated Parks, offers 4WD adventures and stunning coastal scenery.
If you’re craving a taste of Australia’s Local Flavours, try the iconic lamington at #10—an irresistible combination of sponge cake, chocolate, and coconut.
For Arboreal Adventures, the towering Mountain Ash trees in Victoria’s Yarra Ranges National Park, ranked #2, offer a serene experience amidst giant ferns and the calls of cockatoos.
As for Best Beaches, Whitehaven Beach in Queensland takes the top spot with its pristine white sandbars and aquamarine waters. Squeaky Beach in Wilsons Promontory, ranked #2, offers a unique experience with its squeaky quartz sand and crystal-clear waters. Australia is truly shining in Lonely Planet’s 2025 travel trends, offering unforgettable moments and diverse experiences that make it the perfect destination for the year ahead.
See the full Lonely Planet ‘Best in Travel’ list here
‘All New’ Lyall Hotel
The Lyall Hotel in South Yarra has undergone a recent renovation that has transformed into a modern yet classic European-inspired stay. Tucked away on a leafy neighbourhood street (yet a short walk away from Toorak Road), this hotel is known as ‘the hotel for people who don’t like hotels’ due to its cosy atmosphere and relaxed feel.
The ‘all-new’ Lyall renovation was delivered by DKO, one of Asia-Pacific’s foremost design practices, and the transformation saw it receive a coveted Commendation at the 2024 Eat, Drink Design Awards, for Best Hotel Design. Each fo the 50 rooms have been crafted with the notion of staying in a prestigious inner-city home, despite being in a hotel.
Room prices start from $335
Book your stay with Booking.com
16 Murphy Street, South Yarra
Alba Thermal Springs Announces Accommodation for 2025, ‘The Sanctuary’
The Sanctuary is the newest luxury accommodation to come to The Mornington Peninsula. This accommodation provides travellers the opportunity to stay at Alba, taking their wellness experience to the next level.
The Sanctuary features five stand-alone villas, along with two studio rooms. Each villa is provides the guests with an intimate retreat, nestled within native bushland. Perched at the highpoint of the enormous 15-hectare property, each villa showcases sweeping views across the peninsula.
“An on-site accommodation offering has been part of the development plan for Alba Thermal Springs and Spa from the very beginning,” said Alba’s General Manager, Craig Dodd.
“With the success of our bathing, spa, and dining experiences, we are thrilled to welcome guests overnight and for weekend stays, especially from interstate and overseas visitors who many wish to explore the region for a number of days.”
Now accepting bookings from 1st June, 2025.
Book your stay via website here
This NSW Renovated Beachside Motel Takes Out No. 3 in The World’s Best Hotels Australasia
More than 125 000 Condé Nast Traveller readers have dubbed Halcyon House the third best hotel in the world, Australasia edition and we think they’re bang on. The former surf motel has been reimagined into a 22-room luxurious boutique hotel with a hatted poolside restaurant right on one of the country’s best surf breaks. What more could you want? If you ever needed a sign to nip to the coast, this is it!
Book your stay with booking.com
Book your stay with Halcyon House
Airplane Mode: MAISON de SABRÉ New Carry On Suitcase
Redefining luxury travel with their newest collection, Airplane Mode, MAISON de SABRÉ’s new Carry On Suitcase. is the ultimate travel companion. Crafted with a German aerospace-grade shell, frictionless wheels, and drop-resistant aluminium corner guards, the suitcase is built to withstand even the toughest transit conditions.
The buttery DriTan™ full-grain leather and scratch-proof BioVeg™ seamlessly blend elegance and functionality, while the 360-degree manoeuvrability ensures smooth travel. Featuring an innovative internal compression system with a dedicated laptop sleeve and TSA-approved lock, it’s designed for ultimate convenience.
QT Singapore Debuts with Chef Sean Connolly’s Signature Dining Experiences
Ahead of its opening this September, QT Singapore, located in the historic Hotel Telegraph, is set to welcome to new key dining offerings helmed by award-winning chef Sean Connolly who serves as QT Singapore’s Creative Director of Food & Beverage (and is also the culinary brains behind QT Sydney’s Gowings & Parlour restaurants). Cygnet offers a Manhattan-inspired bar and grill with rich flavours, private dining rooms, and an extensive wine list while the Rooftop at QT transforms into a lively venue featuring a pool and vibrant bar serving up cocktails and unforgettable events.
Bookings now open
Up Bank Launches Travel Mode
Everyone’s favourite digital bank has just dropped a new feature that’ll make your next trip a whole lot cruisier. The new feature boasts a currency converter tool that calculates foreign exchange rates for all the major currencies. All you have to do is tap your card whilst abroad and you’ll see your balance in the local currency without having to do a thing. But the best bit? Up eliminates hidden foreign transaction fees so you get no nasty surprises.
Learn more here
Experience the best of Melbourne in Winter with Marriott Bonvoy
There’s no better time to visit Melbourne than the middle of winter, with the city coming alive thanks to its vibrant cultural scene, exquisite dining and thrilling sporting events.
With some of the best hotels in the world tucked within its city limits – many offering incredible deals and bonus offers right now – there’s a stay guaranteed to align with your travel needs, whether you’re a culture seeker, an art lover or a sports enthusiast.
To learn more about Marriott Bonvoy‘s winter deals, click here.
Discover Hong Kong’s Unmissable Festivals
Want to travel further afield? Hong Kong perfectly blends centuries-old tradition with cutting-edge modernity and is the spot to be (and be seen) for those seeking a mix of luxury and culture.
From the enchanting glow of the Mid-Autumn Festival lanterns to the whimsical bun towers of the Cheung Chau Bun Festival, magical festivals and events provide a glimpse into the unique and authentic cultural experiences on offer for visitors to Hong Kong. Add to that incredible dining experiences, shopping spots beloved by fashionistas and some of the world’s best hotels, and you may just have yourself the perfect trip.
Read more about why Hong Kong should be on your must-visit list here.
Want more amazing deals? Why not check out the best Melbourne and Sydney warehouse sales and style news? Or take a look at these incredible knits for under $150.
Our Sitchu editors work hard to deliver you the best products, events and venues that we hope you will love and each one is selected independently. Sitchu may receive an affiliate commission when you follow some links.
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