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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 News You Need to Know
This $45 Flight Sale Is a Sign to Book a Holiday
Misty coastlines, rugged bushwalks, cosy wineries and winter festivals — Tasmania has all the makings of a dreamy escape, and getting there has never been easier (or more affordable). Jetstar is tempting mainlanders south with one-way fares from $45, departing from six Australian cities, including Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Adelaide. Travel between March and December, 2026, and you can chase off-season adventures or wait for spring, when tulip farms and lavender fields burst into colour. If Tassie has been on your radar, consider this your sign to book before the sale ends on March 16th, or the best seats disappear.
Visit Jetstar for terms and conditions.
Sitchu Tip: Get planning your Tassie getaway with our list of the best luxury accommodation in Tasmania
Virgin Australia’s Pets in Cabin Program Just Got Bigger
Your furry travel buddy is officially invited to ride shotgun. Virgin Australia has confirmed its Pets in Cabin service isn’t going anywhere — and it’s about to get even better, with Adelaide and Launceston flights set to join the network after the Easter holidays (pending final approvals).
Since kicking off in October, 2025, the program has already changed the game for pet owners, letting small cats and dogs (under 8kg, carrier included) swap the cargo hold for a comfy spot under their human’s seat on select Melbourne, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast flights. This month, the airline is on track to welcome its 1,000th pet onboard. The upcoming expansion means more destinations, more paws in the cabin, and more holidays where pets can come along for the ride (for an introductory $149 per pet, per flight, of course).
Visit Virgin Australia for information.
Baz Luhrmann Just Dropped the Ultimate Train Experience
Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin have unveiled Celia, a lavish new private dining carriage aboard the British Pullman, and it’s pure cinematic escapism. Inspired by West End glamour and the dreamlike world of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the carriage feels plucked from a Luhrmann film: ornate panelling, polished fittings, and a story woven through every detail. Designed for long lunches, celebrations and intimate gatherings of up to twelve guests, Celia brings old-school rail romance into the present.
For Australians planning a northern-hemisphere adventure, this is one detour worth building an itinerary around.
Expedia Spills Top Travel Secrets
Your next getaway just got smarter. Expedia’s 2026 Air Hacks Report spills the secrets: Fridays are officially the cheapest day to fly (up to 12% off), February is the steal-of-the-year month, and Tuesday mornings? Quiet as a ghost town.
Want the full pro move? Book 4 – 6 weeks ahead, pack light (carry-on only, duh, and layer up to dodge those pesky baggage fees. Aussies are even swapping seats mid-flight just to snag the perfect spot.
Where are Aussies actually going? Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane top the domestic charts, while Bali, Tokyo, and Bangkok are flying high internationally — perfect inspiration for your next weekend escape or big holiday plan. Expedia’s annual sale might even save you some coins.
Jetstar Launches New ‘Kids Fly & Stay Free’ Deals
If you’re thinking about where to jet off to with the fam in 2026, you’re in luck. Jetstar has just dropped some epic family holiday deals, with return flights and accommodation included. Best of all, the kids can fly and stay for free!
Destinations include family-friendly Aussie faves like the Gold Coast, Uluru and Cairns as well as international stunners like Bali, Vanuatu and Singapore. Departing airports, travel dates and prices vary, but you can find some pretty epic fly and stay packages for less than $2k total flying out of most major cities. Not bad at all.
The deal: Kids Fly & Stay Free across a huge range of holiday package deals.
Sale ends January 21st 2026. Explore all deals here.
A Thoughtful Fiji Escape, Done Two Ways
Fiji remains one of the few destinations that still feels like a true reset — close enough to reach easily, far enough to change your pace completely. Right now, Marriott International’s Fiji collection is offering a Stay & Save opportunity across its Sheraton resorts, including the secluded Sheraton Resort & Spa, Tokoriki Island and the more social Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort on Denarau Island.
Whether your idea of escape leans towards lagoon-front stillness or a resort stay shaped by dining, pools and activity, this is a well-timed window to book a premium Fiji holiday with flexibility and value built in.
Book your stay with Sheraton Resort & Spa or Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort
The Maldives Just Got Way Easier to Reach
Australia is about to make paradise a lot easier to reach! For the first time ever, a nonstop flight will connect Melbourne directly with the Maldives’ capital, Malé, meaning Aussies can skip long stopovers through Singapore, Dubai or Colombo and land in the Indian Ocean in under half the usual travel time.
The seasonal service, launching in May 2026 in partnership with Maldivian Airlines and Luxury Escapes, will run weekly and offers a much smoother way to get straight to beaches, overwater bungalows and turquoise reefs. It’s a game-changer for anyone who’s ever dreamed of ticking the Maldives off their bucket list without marathon airport layovers.
More details here.
A Year-Round Snow Resort Is Headed to Sydney
Western Sydney is about to flip from scorching summers to snowy thrills with Winter Sports World. Yes, Australia’s first indoor snow resort is now gearing up with real momentum after securing a major international partner. The $700 million project in Penrith has signed a memorandum of understanding with China’s Bonski Group, one of the biggest names in indoor ski operations, bringing world-class know-how to the planned year-round snow destination.
Slated to open around 2028, the winter wonderland will include an Olympic-scale indoor ski run, snow play areas, a 200-room hotel and plenty of dining and leisure spots which puts lots more snow days on the calendar for Sydney families, tourists and athletes. With planning approvals locked in and construction shovel-ready, developers are pitching it as a new tourism icon for western Sydney, poised to attract millions of visitors annually and inject fresh life into the region’s visitor economy.
2/4 Tench Ave, Jamisontown NSW 2750
FlixBus Launches in Australia With $9.99 Fares and Even More Routes
FlixBus is levelling up East Coast travel this summer, rolling out two huge new coach routes that link Sydney to Brisbane and Brisbane to Cairns, with launch fares starting from a wild $9.99. The European budget icon is teaming up with local operators to offer daily services, dozens of regional stops, comfy onboard perks (think Wi-Fi, power and a generous luggage allowance) and a far greener way to city-hop.
They join the operator’s newly launched Sydney–Canberra–Melbourne corridor, where FlixBus made its Aussie debut with the same eye-catching $9.99 fares. The long-haul service brings all the signature Flix touches like free Wi-Fi, power outlets, roomy baggage limits and a carbon footprint that’s dramatically lower than flying. These ultra-low fares stick will around until June 2026, but after that, prices climb closer to $60 one-way, so now’s the moment to book!
New Data Crowns Great Ocean Road Australia’s Ultimate Coastal Road Trip
New research from iSelect has crowned Victoria’s Great Ocean Road one of Australia’s most impressive road trips, ranking it first for families, first for couples and second for solo travellers. The study analysed 22 popular routes across metrics like mobile coverage, hospital access, rest-stop density, attractions and social sentiment. The Great Ocean Road stood out for its full phone coverage, high hospital density, mild weather and iconic coastal scenery.
The Sydney to Melbourne coastal drive and the Legendary Pacific Coast also scored strongly across all traveller types, proving that choosing the right route is about more than views – it’s about safety, comfort and ease.
Jetstar Launch Direct Flights to Sri Lanka
Jetstar is tempting us with a new passport stamp next year, announcing direct low-cost flights from Melbourne to Colombo. In an Aussie airline first, from August 25th, 2026, flights will take off every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, opening up more than 100,000 seats a year to one of South Asia’s most vibrant destinations. And to mark the launch, Jetstar is rolling out an epic sale, with fares starting from just $315 one way, until sold out. The catch? It ends 12pm (AEST), December 9th.
Visit Jetstar for terms and conditions.
Australia’s Most Instagrammable Foodie Road Trips Revealed
Around 60% of Australian travellers now turn to social media to plan their trips, including where to eat along the way. New research from ROLLiN’ has revealed the legendary Pacific Coast as Australia’s most Instagrammable foodie road trip, amassing over 116,000 posts thanks to hotspots like Broadbeach Tavern and The Star Gold Coast. Close behind are Cairns to Cape York and the Great Barrier Reef Drive, where Salt House and Nu Nu Restaurant steal the spotlight with ocean views and camera-ready plates. In short, these road trips serve food — and serious feed envy.
Adelaide Named Best Place to Travel in 2026
Adelaide is officially having a moment. The South Australian capital has just been crowned the #1 Best Place to Travel in 2026 by Yahoo! Creators, topping global heavyweights like Kyoto, the Dolomites, and Sacramento. The reason? Major global connections, bold new developments, and world-class food and wine — United Airlines is launching its first direct flight from the USA this December, the Adelaide Central Market is getting a $400 million makeover, and fine-dining newcomer Restaurant Aptos is set to turn heads. Add buzzing laneways, a thriving arts scene, and world-class wine regions just a short drive away, and it’s easy to see why Adelaide is on everyone’s radar.
Wake Up to Wow in Tasmania at Wrest Point
Turns out Tasmania isn’t Australia’s best-kept secret anymore. A new national survey crowned it the country’s most wow-worthy holiday spot — outranking Byron, Adelaide and Perth — with travellers praising its value, beauty, and sheer magic. To celebrate, Wrest Point, Hobart’s entertainment icon, is leaning in with its new Wake Up to Wow package: think harbour-view upgrades, breakfast for two, luxe extras, and surprise gifts (from River Derwent cruises to dinner at the legendary Point Revolving Restaurant).
Add in PNAU, Delta Goodrem and more on the 2025 and beyond lineup, and suddenly Tasmania’s calling.
Kennel? Please. QT Launch Luxury Stays for Dogs
QT Hotels & Resorts are rolling out the red carpet for four-legged guests with Pup Yeah!, a luxury dog-friendly stay for pampered pooches. Expect memory-foam beds, grooming products, a butler service and in-room dining — yes, steak tartare and bacon ice cream are on the menu. Each stay comes with a curated map of pup-friendly walks and cafés, plus dog walkers at select hotels. Launching across Australia and New Zealand on August 26th, 2025, stays start from an additional $120 for three nights.
Book your stay here.
The Ultimate Velocity Points Hack Returns To Aus
Velocity Frequent Flyer’s 1 Point Rewards Store is back — bigger, better and popping up in three cities. After a sell-out Melbourne debut, Sydney kicks off on August 22nd 2025, followed by Brisbane on September 5th, with Melbourne still to come. For one day only, members can trade just 1 Velocity Point for premium rewards, from Dyson Airwrap multi-stylers and Prada fragrances to Bose headphones, Virgin Australia flights and lounge access. Claw machines, mystery prize carousels and Myer shelves stacked with goodies make it playful, with Virgin Australia cabin crew on site to lend a hand. You’ll need the Velocity app, have a minimum balance of 1 Velocity Point and quick reflexes. The locations and times will be announced on Instagram, so keep your eyes peeled and your wish list ready.
Visit the Velocity Frequent Flyer for terms and conditions.
A New Aussie Airline Is Set to Take Off in 2026
There’s a new contender on the horizon in Australia’s aviation scene. Koala Airlines is preparing for take-off from late 2026, promising a fresh approach to domestic air travel. With major players like Qantas and Virgin still dominating the skies, Koala is keeping things strategic, quiet, and decidedly un-flashy.
Unlike past challengers, Koala isn’t chasing the budget carrier model. Instead, the airline is focusing on long-term sustainability, a point of difference that’s already attracting serious backing. While exact routes and fleet details are still under wraps, the prospect of a new player in the air is giving Aussie travellers something we’re always here for — more choice (and hopefully, better fares). Watch this space.
The Inspired Unemployed Just Launched a Travel Brand — And It’s Actually Epic
Forget cookie-cutter holidays and budget hostels — the boys behind some of Australia’s most iconic memes are bringing a new ethos to travel. ARRIVAL is a curated travel platform for the experience-obsessed and those who want a little more out of their trips than simply snapping a pic in front of the Eiffel Tower. Think backcountry skiing in Kyrgyzstan, surf camps in Fiji, meditative escapes in Morocco, and chartered yachts on the Amalfi.
Built by The Inspired Unemployed with legit travel pros behind the scenes, ARRIVAL is all about chasing that “pinch me” moment — minus the planning stress. With over 50 immersive trips live now (and more dropping soon), prices start at $1,000 and cover everything from yoga takeovers in Indonesia to Tuk Tuk adventures in Sri Lanka and volcano-to-glacier vanlife in Iceland.
The best bit? You can book it all in a few taps — flights optional, good vibes guaranteed.
Front Row to the Humpback Highway: Book a Tour With Sea World Whale Watching on the Gold Coast
Every winter, the Gold Coast becomes the front row to one of nature’s greatest shows — the humpback whale migration. Over 40,000 whales pass through the “Humpback Highway,” and Sea World Whale Watching Tours puts you right in the splash zone. Departing from Main Beach, the luxury vessel Spirit of Migaloo II offers 360° views, onboard snacks, and — for those who like their wildlife with a side of plush — a Captain’s Club upgrade with priority boarding, comfy seating and uninterrupted ocean views. There’s even a hydrophone to listen in on whalesong. Add a luxury day spa or long lunch, and your Gold Coast escape just hit peak magic. Whale season runs May to November. Book early. Prepare to gasp.
Alba Thermal Springs ‘The Sanctuary’ Opens This Month
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, opening June 2025
Book your stay via website here
Qantas Frequent Flyers, Say Aloha to Tropical Paradise
Qantas Frequent Flyer shoppers now have a brand new location to redeem their points on. From Thursday 5th June, Qantas is adding hundreds of thousands of brand new rewards seats on flights to Hawaii, in partnership with Hawaiian Airlines. This new partnership includes flights to all four of the major Hawaiian islands, as well as 15 cities in the US and 10 international destinations.
Frequent Flyers will be able to book Economy and Business reward seats on Hawaiian Airlines flights using their Qantas Points, opening up more opportunities to explore popular destinations like Honolulu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island. Beyond Hawaii, travellers can also redeem points on routes across North America, including New York, Austin, San Jose, and Las Vegas, as well as select cities in Asia and the South Pacific.
Reward seats will be subject to availability, so members are encouraged to plan ahead and secure their spots early.
Launching Thursday 5th June
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.
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 of 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
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
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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