Find Your Next Aussie Bucket List Destination

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With interstate travel across Australia officially back on the cards, there is no better time than now to round up your girlfriends and set off on a girl’s getaway! From relaxing coastal escapes to wine country weekenders, your perfect post-iso Aussie holiday awaits you. 

Take the above quiz to see which bucket list Aussie destination is calling your name! We have no doubt that a visit to one of these beautiful towns or cities will leave you feeling refreshed, relaxed and ready to leave that #iso lifestyle behind.

1.  JERVIS BAY NSW

Think crystal clear waters, stunning national parks, and some of the purest white sand in the world…plus it’s less than a three hour drive from Sydney. Jervis Bay is paradise on the NSW South Coast and is quickly becoming a popular seaside escape for a good reason! There is so much to do and see- from kayaking, to whale watching, to bushwalking, to visiting nearby wineries, you’ll have no problem finding something to keep you busy! However, this gorgeous region is also the perfect place to simply sit back, unwind and embody the laidback coastal lifestyle.

2. TORQUAY VIC

Home to the world famous Bells Beach, this surfer’s paradise offers more than just amazing waves. Being the official starting point of the Great Ocean Road makes it a year-round tourist hot spot, with many visiting to take in the panoramic coastal views from the Surf Coast Walk vantage points or simply enjoy a sandy stroll beneath towering cliff faces. This stunning region where coast meets hinterland is definitely one to visit, being only an hours drive from Melbourne.

3. SYDNEY NSW

For those not wanting to escape the vibrant city lifestyle…Sydney is the ideal destination for you. Stay in the heart of the city and explore cool hidden bars, striking harbour views, and chic dining options, or for those wanting to be closer to the ocean, perhaps Manly, Bondi, Coogee or Cronulla is a better option for you. Sydney sparkles all year round, making it the perfect winter post-iso #staycation for many!

4. GOLD COAST QLD

Nicknamed ‘Australia’s favourite playground’, the iconic glitzy strip of high rises and luxurious resorts set along golden beaches offers something for everyone. Choose from an array of world class surf breaks, a sophisticated culinary scene, or take a 30 minute drive and you’ll discover subtropical hinterland with expansive waterfalls, bushwalking tracks and charming country towns. The perfect GC weekend for us involves a morning beach stroll and swim, visit to a lush day spa, topped off with afternoon cocktails at sunset.

5. MUDGEE NSW

Picture a charming rustic town set amongst rolling green hills, with the added bonus of hosting award-winning wineries. Set roughly 3.5 hours away from Sydney, experience a weekend away from the hustle and bustle with boutique shopping, stargazing, admiring the old colonial buildings and tree-lined streets, or tasting the finest produce in the region at a top restaurant, café, winery or brewery. We couldn’t think of a better destination for a warm winter weekender with your girlfriends this year!

6. BERRY NSW

Nestled between the gorgeous South Coast beaches and lush NSW countryside is the idyllic town of Berry. Only a 2 hours drive from Sydney and 2.5 hours from Canberra, this region boasts amazing local produce and wineries, boutique markets and shopping, and activities galore! We recommend making a pit stop in to taste the delicious donuts from Berry’s Famous Donut Van, wondering the historic streets in town, and sipping on a glass of Shiraz at Two Figs Winery or Crooked River Wines. 

P.S. Our new Gerringong Packages will be released very soon, perfectly positioned only 15 minutes away from Berry.

7. BLUE MOUNTAINS NSW

For a NSW escape to the mountains, you can’t go past the dazzling Blue Mountains region. With breathtaking views over deep valley troughs, spectacular waterfalls, and lush rainforests, it is easy to see why The Blue Mountains are a favourite tourist destination for Aussie’s and overseas visitors. Marvel at the wonder that is the Three Sisters from Scenic World’s glass-bottom skyway on a journey high above the canyon or experience beautiful surrounds from below the canopy on bushwalking trails. We also recommend staying overnight in one of the town villages to truly take in the charming country feel.  

8. HUNTER VALLEY NSW

A favourite destination for many Sydney-siders seeking a wine country escape is the spectacular Hunter Valley. Here you’ll discover world-famous wineries, renowned restaurants, and an abundance of luxury accommodation options. Now it would be almost naive to visit the Hunter Valley and not participate in a wine tour! We recommend indulging with a full day wine tour, that way you’ll have plenty of time to stop in at the chocolate shop, cheese factory, vodka distillery and a number of wineries. For those adventure seekers, lock in an afternoon of horse riding across the countryside or view the vineyards from above on a sunrise helicopter or hot air balloon ride.

We hope you have discovered your next perfect girls getaway destination, ideal for that post-iso escape! Don’t forget to visit our website for our other getaways across Australia.

 Lots of Love,

Destination Diva & The GG Team xx

10 Ways To Make Mother's Day Special In #SelfIsolation

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This Mother’s Day show your mum you care, even if you can’t be there. With government restrictions across Australia limiting group gatherings and closing many public venues and restaurants, it is particularly difficult to celebrate Mother’s Day this year. That is why we were inspired to create a list of our 10 fave activities or gifts that will help you celebrate Mother’s Day together or from afar. We have no doubt these ideas will make this year’s celebrations ones to remember!

1.  girls getaways gift voucher

Help your mum escape on her next girl’s trip (or mother-daughter trip) by gifting her a Girls Getaways Voucher! As travel across Australia is not permitted right now, this is the perfect way to inspire travel planning for a later date. Gift Vouchers range in value from $100 - $500 and can be purchased for a specific getaway package or dollar value to use on any of our holidays! Our vouchers are also delivered in beautiful gift boxes, with goodies like GG candles, lip balm, cookies, luggage tags, #iso inspired calico tote bag, 3 x postcards and more all included! This is the perfect Mother’s Day or B’day gift to absolutely spoil your gorgeous Mum or girlfriend!

At GG, we are constantly developing new packages for you to enjoy with your girlfriends, so click below to find your perfect escape!

2. virtual catch-ups

As many of us have already been doing during isolation, wish a Happy Mother’s Day through your phone or laptop with a virtual Skype, Zoom, or FaceTime session. To make this catch-up even more special, consider surprising mum with the extended family joining in on the video call or spend this time creating a delicious Quarantini together (see image below for our fave recipe). You could even turn your video call into a virtual picnic with beautiful and decadent grazing boxes delivered to your mum from businesses like Nibble and Graze Sydney, Say Cheese Brisbane, Platter Me Beautiful Byron Bay, and Platters and Blooms Gold Coast.

3. bake your heart out

Sometimes the best gifts of all are the sweetest ones, literally! Why not create her favourite cake, brownie, or dessert recipe to show your mum your appreciation for her this Mother’s Day. If baking isn’t your cup of tea, send her a surprise delivery of delicious Bad Batch Mother’s Day Cookies – we guarantee she will love them!

4. get the kids involved

It is always that little bit more special to receive a gift that is hand-made, especially from the kids or grandkids! As it may not be possible to head to the shops and purchase a gift or card this year, try involving the kids with present making. Get as colourful and creative as possible, which in turn will keep the kids busy for longer too (we know parents will appreciate this)! If crafting isn’t an option, a beautiful video message from the family wishing Mum or Grandma a Happy Mother’s Day is just as sentimental.

5. set up a home spa

To treat your mum to a well-deserved pampering session, consider an at-home treatment that you can set up on your own! Begin with drawing a warm bubble bath alongside a glass of bubbly, candles, and calming music - the perfect way to help unwind. Afterwards, spoil her with an invigorating face mask treatment paired with a fresh manicure by yours truly. For those looking to take this at-home day spa even further, get out the hair products and treat your mum to a gorgeous hairstyle make-over. This idea is perfect for those hardworking mums needing a little self-care this Mother’s Day. 

6. drive-by celebration

If your mum lives fairly close to you, consider the idea of a surprise Mother’s Day family drive-by. Tell her to wait out the front of the house, where one by one each family member drives by surprising her with beautiful Mother’s Day messages, signs and presents from a safe distance. With this unique form of celebration being created for birthdays and loved ones across the world during these challenging times, why not adapt the idea for your mum this Mother’s Day!  

7. get outside and move (if possible)

The most special present you can offer your mum is quality time spent together. If possible, a great way to do this is by heading outside for some exercise, even if it is just for an afternoon nature walk together. It is a great way to get help achieve a clear mind whilst we all #stayathome as much as possible, and is simply a perfect way to catch-up. We recommend avoiding popular walking tracks and remaining 1.5 metres away from others at all times.

8. write a letter

When was the last time you hand-wrote a letter? It has become a rare activity for many these days, with most of us opting for a quick phone call or social media post instead. However, personalised letters take time and have a lot of sentimental value, plus receiving one in the post is always a happy surprise. This Mother’s Day, surprise your mum with a letter in the mail to show you care, perhaps including your favourite memories with her or why she is so important in your life! For an added touch, include some family photos or kids drawings to make the letter even more special.

9. make a playlist

If you’re unable to visit your mum this Mother’s Day, consider getting musically creative and making a playlist for your mum to enjoy during isolation! Include old tunes that bring back family memories or new songs that you think she will appreciate, this is a truly unique way to help bring some energy to her life in your absence. Apps like Spotify make it very simple to create and share the personalised playlist with your Mum.

10. other present ideas

If you’re simply stuck on gift ideas, here are a few that we recommend. You cannot go wrong with a stunning floral arrangement including her favourite flowers! With many florists now offering delivery services, it is even easier to bring this simple gesture to life. Another unique present idea is the special edition Mother’s Day At-Home Pottery Kits from GG fave business Crockd. They are perfect for those who can’t physically visit their mum, with dual kits designed so you get one for yourself and you can send the other half to your mum! Other present ideas we love are book or magazine subscriptions to keep her busy during isolation or gift vouchers to her fave High Tea venue to keep her looking forward to experiences after iso!     

We hope these ideas have inspired your very own unique Mother’s Day gift or activity this year! To all our GG Mums and Grandma’s, we wish you a very Happy Mother’s Day and hope you are spoilt (like you deserve to be) from your loved ones! 

 Lots of Love,

Destination Diva & The GG Team xx

Businesses to Brighten Your Life in isolation

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Whether you’re missing your regular meet-ups with your girlfriends or are having a hard time entertaining the kids at home, at GG we understand the difficulties of staying at home during the COVID-19 crisis. We are also aware of how important it is to continue to support small businesses across Australia right now. That is why we have created a list of our fave businesses that will make your time spent in isolation that little bit more special!   

  1. Crafts, Gifts & Entertainment

With many of us girls having so much extra time on our hands whilst we’re staying at home, it is easy to fall into the trap of watching Netflix on repeat. So here is a tally of some of our go-to businesses offering crafty afternoon activities, online entertainment, and gorgeous gifts for you or your BFF’s.  

Bad Batch

Is someone in your life really feeling the effects of Coronavirus? Treat them (or yourself) to a delicious cookie gift box from Bad Batch. Their cookie designs range from special edition COVID-19 and Easter cookies, to Birthday and Hen’s goodies.

Crockd

This is the perfect #stayathome activity to keep you busy and spark creativity! Delivered to your door is a DIY Pottery Kit with everything you need to ‘seize the clay’.  Right now Crockd is also offering special edition Mothers Day kits. One for you and one for mum, so you can co-create from a safe distance!

Posy Lane Co | Eden The Flower Shop

Two of our fave Gold Coast businesses, Posy Lane Co and Eden The Flower Shop, are offering beautiful floral arrangements that can be delivered to your door. This is a stunning gift that will definitely brighten your girlfriend’s day (or even their b’day!)

Flower Power | PlantGirl Sydney

For all those with a green thumb or a love for surrounding your home with leafy indoor plants, you can still purchase your fave succulents, fig leafs and more, which can be delivered to you! Flower Power Garden Centres across Sydney are offering a $25 flat-rate delivery fee till 31st May 2020 for those that live within 10km from a store. PlantGirl Sydney is another local business offering contactless delivery of heavenly indoor plants, ceramics and giftware.

Lip Lab Sydney

Looking for the perfect isolation gift for your glamorous girlfriend? The Lip Lab Sydney is offering a subscription service to ensure every month you receive a popular shade of lippy in a variety of finishes. A 6-month subscription totals to $290, and is a perfect way to mix up your make-up routine!

Taronga Zoo TV

Perfect to keep the kids entertained whilst indoors, many of our Aussie Zoos have created virtual viewing platforms to stay updated on our favourite zoo animals! For example, Taronga Zoo has introduced Taronga TV, whereby on their website you can watch animal live-cams, keeper chats, and even their famous Seal Show for free!

2. It’s Pamper Time

Are you like us and are trying not to panic about missing your regular hair, nail or spa treatment? We feel you girl! These Aussie businesses are offering their tips and tricks to help you achieve your usual glam look set from the comforts of your home.

The Blow Australia

Here at GG, we love Blow Dry Bars that leave us with luscious locks ready for a night out with the girls! Unfortunately, with the closure of many of these services, your luscious locks may be in need of a little love and care. However, the Blow Australia has found a way to help us sisters out - follow their Instagram page to see how YOU can create their stunning blow dry looks at home with virtual tutorials.

Chateau Elan Hunter Valley

Although the accommodation and spa services at Chateau Elan Hunter Valley are temporarily closed, this luxurious local operator is still running a competition to win a $200 spa voucher for use when they reopen! With entries closing 30 April 2020, enter here to win.

Greenhouse The Bathhouse

Although this stunning Gold Coast rejuvenation bathhouse has temporarily closed, they have opened an online store selling self care packages designed to bring a piece of them home with you. Plus, on their socials they will be sharing self care tips and rituals, playlists to keep you calm or get you moving, yoga practices and more!

3. Healthy Mind & Body

It is so important to maintain your physical and mental health during these challenging times we face across the globe. With the closure of many gyms and restrictions on outdoor activities, we understand how difficult it is right now to stay positive and feel good. That’s why we recommend checking out these business services to stay on track of your 2020 fitness goals and #carryonandkeepcalm.

Body Balance Beautiful

One of our fave Remedial Massage Therapists from Torquay is offering online workshops for the month on April on ZOOM focusing on topics like meditation with essential oils, DIY skincare, and cooking with oils!

Keep It Cleaner (KIC)

KIC is a health and wellness program designed for women that is full of workouts, recipes, and meditations. With such a large community following, they are now offering FREE #stayathome live virtual KIC workouts via their Instagram and Facebook pages every Wednesday and Friday morning!

Retreat Yourself

Retreat Yourself Boxes are full of self-care products, designed for a complete at-home wellness experience that will leave you feeling refreshed, inspired and supported! Some of the amazing goodies included are organic skincare products, healthy treats, wellness magazine and more!

4. Eats & Treats

No more weekend brunch catch-ups or restaurant dinners with the girls has got us feeling a little blue. However, so many of your local cafes, restaurants, bars and other eateries are still open for business! Many are just offering take-away, delivery and other amazing deals for you to treat your tastebuds to this week!

New Take Away & Delivery Services

Some of our fave restaurants/bars that we partner with are now offering pick-up and delivery! These include Roth’s Wine Bar Mudgee, Burleigh Pavilion Gold Coast, Lil Darlin’ Sydney, and The Oriental Teahouse Melbourne.

Delicious Grazing Platters

With many grazing platter businesses offering contactless delivery, there is no better time to enjoy a delish grazing board alongside a glass of vino at-home. We recommend Say Cheese Brisbane, Platter Me Beautiful Byron Bay, Platters and Blooms Gold Coast, and Nibble and Graze Sydney – who are all still open for business ladies!

 Other Special Deals

Many of the restaurants/bars that we partner with at GG have created special services for their local communities. For example, Cupitt’s Winery & Restaurant in Ulladulla NSW is now offering fresh Produce Boxes full of delicious fruits & veggies for delivery. Also, The Oriental Teahouse Melbourne has created cook-at-home dumpling kits for you to try! However, one of our favourites has to be new tailor-made Gin Gift Boxes from Covent Garden West End Brisbane, perfect for your next cocktail making night at home!

We hope that these ideas have inspired you to support local businesses that still have their doors open during these challenging times. We want to continue to encourage our GG community to #stayathome, but with so many new crafts, gifts, delicious meals, activities and more for you to try, we are certain your time in isolation will improve in no time!