Those who enjoy wild and lonely places will love driving Nevada's scenic and remote back roads.
01.11.2023 - 11:03 / nationalgeographic.com
Part tropical paradise and part aquatic playground, the northerly regions of Australia’s ‘sunshine state’ are ideal for family road trips. Take three weeks to discover the diversity of the northeast coast, from sailing the turquoise waters surrounding the Whitsunday Islands to exploring the rainforest country of the First Nations Kuku Yalanji people and learning about the underwater wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. As the changing landscapes unfurl along the way, keep an eye out for native wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas and prehistoric-looking cassowaries. Over 21 days, uncover the marvels of the vast tropical north.
With 74 islands dotting its calm waters, the wondrous Whitsundays region is one of Australia’s best locations for sailing, snorkelling and diving. Perched on the edge of the Coral Sea, the laid-back resort town of Airlie Beach is a great base for exploring. Families congregate around the waterfront lagoon, with its surrounding 10 acres of parkland, or take boat trips to nearby islands. Day-trip to dazzling Whitehaven Beach, a three-mile stretch of pure-white silica sand on Whitsunday Island, to swim and picnic on the beach, or take the more energetic option of a trip to Hardy Reef for diving and snorkelling. If your budget allows, take in the best views of the Great Barrier Reef on a helicopter or light aircraft tour.
Head north from Airlie Beach along the Bruce Highway, stopping in the coastal city of Townsville, just over three hours away by car. Castle Hill dominates the city’s skyline, and it’s worth the hike (or drive) up to the lookout for some breathtaking 360-degree views. Spend a day on Magnetic Island, koala-spotting in the national park or taking a jet ski tour of the island’s bays and beaches.
Mission Beach is another three-hour drive from Townsville and is known for its 8.7-mile stretch of palm-fringed beaches. Along the Cassowary Coast, look out for the giant, colourful flightless birds that give it its name — but stay well clear of them, as they can be dangerous. There’s a lot to do here, from whitewater rafting on the Tully River to discovering the ruins of Paronella Park, a 1930s folly of castles, fountains, waterfalls and lush gardens, or exploring the rainforest canopy on the Mamu Tropical Skywalk in Wooroonooran National Park.
At the art deco town of Innisfail, turn inland to meander through the rich farmland of the Atherton Tablelands, stopping to gaze at enormous strangler fig trees and impressive waterfalls. Huge inland lakes provide plenty of opportunities for canoeing, windsurfing and other watersports. Continuing north on the Mulligan Highway will lead you to the coastal resort town of Port Douglas.
Explore the stunning 165 million-year-old UNESCO World
Those who enjoy wild and lonely places will love driving Nevada's scenic and remote back roads.
Peru has plenty of lesser-known pre-Incan archaeological sites, lush jungles, and tranquil beaches to explore – but you'll need a car to reach them.
The drive along Italy's Amalfi Coast, preferably in a vintage Alfa Romeo Spider, is the stuff of travel legend.
This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Kelsey Frampton, a 21-year-old business student from Fresno, California, who's studying in Barcelona. The following has been edited for length and clarity.
I propped open my apartment door and lugged in about eight bags.
The international lineup keeps growing at North Carolina's Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU).
A few months before my 50th birthday in 2002, I was in the hospital for five days. I had become suddenly and severely ill; doctors did numerous tests and ruled out anything serious aside from anemia. While in the hospital, my older sister Diane called and asked if I needed anything. My answer was, "Quality time with my sisters and Mom." Diane reminded me that my 50th birthday was coming up in June, and suggested we reunite to take a trip together. Hence, "The Schemes and Dreams Tour," as we have come to call it, was conceived.
I barreled down New Mexico State Road 150 in a Ram ProMaster.
Is there anything better than drive-through Christmas lights? All you need to do is pack some snacks, turn up the seat warmers, queue up your favorite seasonal songs, and—well, sit back, relax, and cruise. Whether you don’t like crowds or simply want to get in the holiday spirit from the comfort of your toasty car, drive-through holiday lights are a hassle-free and cozy way to enjoy some of the greatest outdoor sights the season has to offer.
Its electric-blue feathered neck draped in a bright raspberry-hued wattle, a beautiful southern cassowary gives me a hard stare from a few metres away. I’m momentarily mesmerised — then I spot the dagger-like claws beneath its lustrous black plumage.
Its electric-blue feathered neck draped in a bright raspberry-hued wattle, a beautiful southern cassowary gives me a hard stare from a few metres away. I’m momentarily mesmerised — then I spot the dagger-like claws beneath its lustrous black plumage.
Whether flying across the world, road-tripping down the coast, or embarking on a bucket-list train ride, a cozy travel blanket is a must-have for any and all upcoming trips. What’s more, the best travel blankets are designed to keep you warm and comfy while on the go—and there are dozens of options to choose from. To determine which one is best for you, consider your individual needs. For example, if you’re going camping or spending lots of time outdoors, look for one made with durable stain- and water-resistant materials like polyester. Other options—such as super-soft cashmere, breathable cotton, and ultra-warm fleece—abound.