Whitsunday Islands, Australia - Travel Guide

74 Island Wonders!

Hill Inlet

Ohhhhh to be from Australia....wouldn't that be the life.  Growing up and having access to some of the world's most beautiful destinations in your backyard. 

The grass is always greener on the other side right??!?!!

But I am just a little ole North Carolina girl

 (proud of it) 

that is thankful for at least having United Military Travel on my side....what would I do without them?!?!!

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I have been to Australia before and I kick myself everyday for not visiting these islands before I left - I was in the area too!  What was I thinking?!?!

But I would like to educate all of you on where the Whitsundays are, what to do, where to stay, how to get there. etc - a travel guide if you will :) 

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Where Are These Islands You Speak Of????

The Whitsundays are a group of islands off the east coast of Australia's Queensland region in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.  The Queensland paradise puts you right in the warm waters of the Coral Sea and gives you 74 islands to explore and the freedom to make the experience truly unique to whatever you desire.  

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How To Get There...

 

Getting to the islands from overseas is best done by flying directly into Brisbane, Cairns, Sydney or Melbourne...all of which are major airports in Australia and then booking a domestic flight into one of the Whitsunday's two airports.  I suggest booking your domestic flight from Brisbane because it has the best range of connecting flights into the region.

  

Now keep in mind that you probably are not going to Australia just for the Whitsunday Islands so play around with the ideas of renting a car and driving from Sydney to Brisbane or spending time in Melbourne...catching the bus to Sydney and flying from there. Whatever you decide to do please understand that just because it is a domestic flight, it is still pricey.  

Your biggest expense in this vacation is going to be the airfare.  But that is ok since I know you are going to book through UMT!

The two airports that service the islands daily are:

Great Barrier Reef Airport, Hamilton Island (HTI)

It is located on Hamilton Island, and is serviced by major airlines from Cairns, Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne.  Also Cruise Whitsundays operates ferries from Hamilton Island to transfer passengers from Airlie Beach on the Whitsunday Coast and other island resorts. 

 Whitsunday Coast Airport, Proserpine (PPP)

This airport is currently only serviced by three domestic carriers: Virgin Australia, Jetstar, and Tiger Airways. 

Approximate Flight Times

From - To	Flight Time
Cairns – Hamilton Island	1 ½ hours
Brisbane – Whitsunday Coast	1 ½ hours
Brisbane – Hamilton Island	1 ½ hours
Sydney – Hamilton Island	2 hours
Melbourne – Hamilton Island	3 hours

*source: http://www.tourismwhitsundays.com.au/getting-here-and-around/

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Where To Stay

First: Most of the Whitsunday Islands are just beautiful, tropical deserted islands and only 7 of the 74 offer resort accommodation.  But whether it is eco-style, family friendly, all-inclusive, activity based, food and wine focused or pure luxury, there is a resort to suit everyone's need.

Second: Choose your island

Daydream Island

Hamiliton Island

One&Only Hayman Island

Hook Island

Long Island

South Molle

Lindeman Island

Third: Choose your type of accommodation

Apartments

Backpacker Hostels

Cabins and Cottages

Caravans and Campers

Holiday Houses

Hotels

Motels

Resorts

Retreat and Lodge

Self-Contained

Fourth: Let United Military Travel know what you have in mind and see what they can do!

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What To Do 

The Whitsundays have 23 National Parks and Reserves - check out a list of them here.  

My top 3 are: 

Hill Inet 

Whithaven Beach

Molle Island National Park

Aside from the parks and reserves you can take part in:

Snorkeling

Diving

Sailing

Fishing

Whale season (June-September)

Learn the indigenous history

Pamper yourself

Shop

Visit the zoo, aquarium or wildlife park

Take a scenic drive or walk

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So as you can see the possibilities are endless in the Whitsunday Islands....

You can completely customize your vacation for a once in a lifetime experience!

What are you waiting on?!?!?!!

Mentawai Islands - Sumatra

The Ultimate Diversity Of The Hidden Paradise

For some people you may be thinking, 

"where the heck are the Mentawai Islands" 

and others may know of them well or have personal experience there. 

People have always asked, 

"What do you want to be when you grow up?"

What I have really wanted to say, is...

"When I grow up I want to live on a Pacific Island, run a small guest house, raise an island family and live amongst the tropical forest with the ocean as my horizon."

Yep, that sums it up...

   The Mentawai Islands are just that for me....only now that I am grown up it is very, very hard to leave.....

Yep... something like this is what I envision when I go to my happy place....Togat Nusa Retreat

> Background <

The Mentawai Islands are not terribly far from the mainland of Sumatra but the island and the people have been kept isolated up until the 19th century because of strong winds, unpredictable currents, and razor sharp coral reefs.  It is thought that the archipelago separated from Sumatra about 500,000 years ago, resulting in the very unique flora and fauna that ranks the Mentawai Islands alongside Madagascar in terms of endemic primate population.  For example: the siamang kerdil, a rare species of black and yellow monkey, named simpai Mentawai by the locals.  

How freaking cute!

The largest island, Siberut, is where the majority of Mentawai people call home and is also the most research and protected of all the islands.  About 60% of Siberut is still covered with tropical rainforest which has earned its biological protection from the Unesco biosphere reserve.  The whole western half of the island is protected as the Siberut National Park.  The park is open to visitors, check out their website to learn more. 

If you are a surfer and are in search of the holy grail of waves, Palau Sipora is the spot for the continuous big wave barrels.  While it is the primary drop off point for surfers it is also the seat of regional government.  Surfers comprise the majority of tourism, many of whom rank the Mentawais as the ride of their life.  
  

Further south are the Pulau Pagai Islands - Utara (North) and Selatan (South) which is far less traveled than the other islands.

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There are many different surf breaks among the islands - check out this map and if you already know which break you are interested in this will help you decide which island to go to.

While the Mentawais are primarily a surfing destination do not let that deter you from visiting this fantastic archipelago if you are not a surfer.  
With majority of the waters being a part of the Unesco Heritage Park there are more than enough activities to keep you entertained. 
* Scuba Diving
*Snorkeling
*Underwater Photography 
*Kayaking
*Island hopping
*Boat riding
*Learn to surf

LAND
* Hike through the rainforest
*Relax on the beach and drink fresh coconut water
*Lounge poolside 
*Photograph some of the best wildlife in the entire world
*Mingle with fellow travelers 
*Visit a spa
*Eat, eat and eat some more
*Walk the endless miles of beach
*Yoga

Check out these websites to help plan your trip!
Travel information:
Best Travel Guide

Official Tourism Website

United Military Travel

Ferry Schedule and how to get around

Magic Seaweed Surf Report

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Places to stay:
Mentawai Surf Camp

Macaronis resort - Premiere Family Surf Resort

Aloita Resort - Mentawai's most refined and comfortable resort and spa

Mentawai Surfing Retreat

Awera Island - The Perfect Surf Spot

Kandui Resort

Wave Park - All Inclusive Surf/Family Resort

Togat Nusa Retreat

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Life is too short too not go on adventures

See the world

Step out of your comfort zone

Meet new people

Travel to exotic locations

Never feel guilty about taking a nice vacation

Spoil yourself

Make life everything you want it to be...

Top Honeymoon Destinations

Let United Military Travel send you on the honeymoon of your dreams!

Ever since I was a little girl, my honeymoon was something dreams were made out of.  I think the destination changed at least 100 times but the one thing that stayed constant was that it was a going to be a BIG trip.  

Hopefully, you will only have one honeymoon in your lifetime and I believe that you should make it everything you have ever dreamed of. 

United Military Travel sends a lot of couples of their dream honeymoons each year.  It is something they are skilled in so the best advice I can give you to help off set the expenses is take out a travel loan that will allow you to pay it back over time. 

Take a look with me at the top 8 honeymoon destinations!

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1.  East Africa and the Seychelles

From what I can tell, a beach-safari honeymoon is the hottest thing for this year since sliced bread.  Africa is getting more and more popular - their safaris have always been their main attraction but now beaches too? The Seychelles are in the beautiful, crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean so you can feel like you are in the Caribbean but then take off to Africa to witness the Great Migration!

   

  

2.  Brazil

Brazil is not only a fantastic honeymoon destination but a killer vacation spot too.  The country is so diverse and offers a traveler the chance to mark multiple items off their bucket list in one trip.  They have super sexy beaches, nightlife that rivals Las Vegas, and pristine jungles.  Start your honeymoon off by celebrating in Rio de Janeiro, then relax on the beaches of Bahia, and finish by taking a river boat cruise through the Amazon.

  

3. Rwanda and Mauritius

It is becoming more and more common for people to create multi-destination trips, especially for their honeymoons.  If you are looking for an eye opening trip choose this combination and you will be searching for wild mountain gorillas in Rwanda then relaxing by the Indian Ocean at a Mauritius resort. 

4. Java, Indonesia

If you want a trip where you can stay in one spot and be completley satisfied, Indonesia offers some of the world's best beaches, private islands, cuisine, and ancient temples.  You can stay at a romantic resort and still be as adventurous as you want to be.  If it were me, I would travel to Java just to go to the deserted island of Kura Kura.  There are only a handful of beach cottages and pool villas so you can be as private and romantic as you want to be!

5. The Maldives

We already know that I am a fanatic for the Maldives and if I could die and go to Heaven, it would be here.  This is the ULTIMATE honeymoon destination, who wouldn't want to travel to an exotic island with their partner to wake up to fish swimming under your bed and stepping onto your balcony to your own private swimming area.  You can also watch the dolphins play on a sunset cruise, spend a day on a deserted island, or book a night time snorkeling adventure!  These are the things I would do :) 

  

6. Marrakesh, Morocco

My style is very bohemian so Morocco appeals to my inner self.  Between the rollings desert, ancient markets, belly dancers, and snake charmers, this city will make you feel like you are on a movie set not a honeymoon.  The whole idea of Morocco is very sensual to me, you can be wandering the markets or watching the belly dancers and feel the romance but be sure to keep it private as public displays of affection are frowned upon!

7. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Lets get domestic again for a minute, I hate to leave out destinations in our own back yard.  Jackson Hole is a great place to visit year round and for many reasons.  Spending your honeymoon here is something a lot of folks do.  According to The Knot wedding website, the town offers many "honeymoon" like activities year round.  Like taking sleigh rides through National Elk Refuge or staying at Rustic Snake River Lodge and Spa to enjoy honeymoon specials.    

8. Argentina

Just thinking of Argentina makes my mouth water for their fabulous food and wine!  Buenos Aires can offer you delectable food while taking in some of the most impressive architecture anywhere. Then to work off the calories go dance the tango, walk through the city markets or travel to Mendoza - the wine capital of Argentina!  If cities are not you idea of a honeymoon, the country offers glaciers and mountain ranges where you can choose your favorite outdoor activity and do them for the duration of your stay!

  

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I am curious as to where my followers took their honeymoons.  Leave me a comment on the details of yours, I would love to hear about them!

2014 Top Rated All-Inclusive Resorts

What is important to you when booking a vacation?  

Is it this:

 An all-inclusive resort is a holiday resort that includes a minimum of three meals daily, soft drinks, most alcoholic drinks, gratuities, and possibly other services in the price. Many also offer sports and non-motorized watersports and other activities that are included in the price as well.

If so then check out this years most coveted all-inclusive resorts to help plan your next vacation through United Military Travel. 

Hermitage Bay, Antigua

Staying here you will experience a true luxury all-inclusive resort that offers 25 cottages resting in their 16 acres of rich tropical forest with views of the picture perfect, caribbean beach.  Hermitage Bay offers casual dining with a luxury feel by making sure the guest is waiting on hand and foot.  And for the ladies you cannot miss out on their world class Garden Spa for an ancient Eastern treatment. To find out more visit their website.

Beaches - Turks and Caicos

If you are looking for a family friendly destination, look no further than the all-inclusive resort at Beaches in the Turks and Caicos.  They know what it takes to entertain all ages so they offer endless distractions for all ages.  Seriously, you can mingle with Elmo and his gang, sip sarsaparillas while listening to the top 40 at the teen disco, spend hours at their water park, or get out on the beach and enjoy the different water sports.  Don't worry mom and dad, you can spend your days at the spa, golfing, lounging by the pool or beachside, or dine at each of their 19 restaurants. Check out more of their activities here!

Amanyara, Turks and Caicos

I would suggest this luxury resort to the couple who wants to truly experience the Caribbean in a "holistic" way.  Amanyara provides secluded lodging on some of the most pristine reefs in the Caribbean and borders the Northwest Marine National Park to give their guests an ample diving opportunities.  The resort itself is open to all the elements - the sun and its reflection off the water, the sea breeze and the sights and sounds of the ocean.  This would be the ultimate honeymoon destination for me if I could do it all over again! 

Hayman Island, Great Barrier Reef - Australia 

If wildlife is what you are looking for, look no further!  The island provides access to an abundant amount of exotic fish, wallabies, and kookaburras.  It also is a great place for adults and kids so feel free to bring the whole family along!  I know some people are the "get up and go" type while others rather "hang low" and try the local cuisine.  Well, Hayman Island provides both - it is a place where world-class winemakers and chefs display their talents and how could you not find something to do on the Great Barrier Reef!   And for the kids, they can take guided tours of the island, sailing trips or play on their very own beach.  See for yourself!

Howie's Homestay -  Chiang Mai, Thailand

I am in love, Howie's Homestay is impressive to say the least!  This is a place where only one group, family, or couple can book at a time so you will have the place completely to yourself.  It offers exquisite gardens and rooms with antique Thai furnishings that are world re-nowned.  Nestled against the Himalayans you will have access to all the distinct Thai activities you would anywhere else.  Wait no longer to check out what this American expat has made abroad here!

Mii Amo Spa - Sedona, Arizona

This American spa actually is more of a wellness resort with 16 suites that offer whatever kind of "well-balance" you are looking for.  Some people travel here to lose weight, tone, become one with nature, discover ways to reduce stress, or learn how to live a healthier lifestyle.  Whatever the reason one would chose to go to a "wellness resort", Mii Amo can cater to everyone by offering cooking classes, tennis, yoga or spa treatments and psychic healing.  Namaste.  

Nizuc Resort and Spa - Cancun, Mexico

Since its opening in September of 2013 it has remained the "most luxurious" resort in Cancun to this day.  If you are looking for suites or villas that come equipped with their very own infinity pools or multiple multiple high-end restaurants to choose from look no further.  But you do not have to stay tucked in your room all day, the resort is nestled against lush foliage of mangroves and beaches to offer you all the privacy in the world....even in Cancun. Their motto is "A Mexican Spirit. A Mayan Soul." 

Travaasa Hana - Maui, Hawaii

If you are traveling to Hawaii and would like to stay in an all-inclusive resort beware that you will not find many among any of the islands.  Travaasa Hana became the first all-inclusive resort on the island of Maui so it draws a lot of visitors each year.  Unlike the other resorts listed so far, here does not offer flat screen televisions or devices to check the time.  You will stay in a rustic, island cottage, get pampered in a outdoor lava-rock pool and do yoga against the Pacific Ocean while humpback whales play in the background.  What else could you want out of a vacation in Maui??  

ME Cancun - Cancun, Mexico

This adult-oriented luxury resort is a great place to get away from the kids and reconnect with the activities YOU like to do best.  In order to stay in you only have one choice, and that is to book the "complete experience" package - they do this because their primary goal is to make you feel "human" again.  It is a large resort with 417 rooms that either view the ocean or sunset lagoon and when you are not in your room you are swimming in on of their two pools, using their 24/7 fitness center, reading in their library, or getting pampered at their YHI spa.  Check out their website here.