AussieLand...

I'm BACK!!!

It's been quite some time since I last posted to this ruddy blog (almost 2 years exactly!) Life has taken me on some incredible journeys. A new career in wine and real estate. Buying my first home (hell, I'm 30, It's about time), and finally planning for my next big trip: Australia:) My incredible, strong, intelligent, outgoing, and beautiful cousin Lauré recently moved to the land down under to play Australian Rules Football for the good ol' USA (and to find herself an Aussie husband, obviously). I am totally excited to be traveling south of the Equator to spend some time drinking beer and exploring the outback. Consequently, having a career in the wine industry offers some additional fun bonuses when traveling. I can't wait to explore the vineyards and wine regions that Australia's booming wine industry has to offer. From McClaren Vale, a host of over 65 boutique wineries, to Barossa Valleys old world European charm, Australia offers endless opportunities for even the most novice of travelers to enjoy the class and upscale experience of New World wine tasting on a shoestring budget.

Now obviously, wine tasting is far from the only awesome thing to do while in the only country that is a continent. Australia is an incredibly vast and diverse country. You could easily spends years exploring and still not see everything the Aussies have to be proud of. After visiting the quintessential Australian locals like the Great Barrier Reef and Sydney's Opera, Kangaroo Island is an exciting addition to any savvy and outgoing traveler. Located just south of Adelaide, this gorgeous green carpeted paradise has incredible beaches and delectable local cuisine. From the endless positive things I've heard about this less than appreciated secret spot, it is definitely on my to do list while in AussieLand.

Newcastle. No, sadly not the beer. Nominated as Lonely Planets #9 on the top 10 cities to visit in 2012,  Newcastle will not disappoint. While not as glitzy and glamorous as its neighbor Sydney, Newcastle has plenty of lo-fi charm that is sure to please. This is the place to get in with the locals, find the best watering holes, see amazing local live music, or relax and soak up the sun at one of the many beaches. You can even jump into the convict-carved Bogey Hole ocean baths. Who wouldn't want to bathe with some felons?

Whether you want to experience the calming, quaint beauty of the rolling vineyards, or drink and party up like it's 1999, Australia offers loads of entertaining and exciting options for both the experienced 5 star traveler, or the broke as a joke backpacker.

Cheers,
Danni

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