Here, one visit is never enough!

Published in the Sunday Mumbai Samachar on 04 August, 2024

After having spent 4 years living in Australia, I certainly think that the land Down Under is a treasure trove of natural wonders and vibrant cities, each with its own unique story to tell. I have always said that when I reflect on the early 2000s and my perception of Australia, two distinct memories come to mind:

First, the thrill of waking up early to catch the live telecast of the iconic Boxing Day cricket test match, a ritual that was almost sacred for many cricket enthusiasts, including me. These matches weren't just sporting events; they were cultural touchstones that connected Australia and India over a shared love for the game.

Second is Aamir Khan and Preity Zinta bringing Sydney to life in "Dil Chahta Hai". That Bollywood hit wasn't just a movie; it was a cinematic experience that turned Australia into a dreamy, story-filled landscape that captivated Indian audiences. Bollywood's knack for storytelling, combined with Australia's stunning landscapes, deeply influenced how Indians saw and experienced this captivating country.

Back then, Australia was often thought of as a remote, almost mystical destination. For many Indian travellers, a journey to Australia, frequently coupled with New Zealand, was often regarded as a once-and-done trip. This perception led to planning extensive trips, often exceeding 15 days. There was an underlying sentiment that one might not need to revisit the Australian shores again. Ask anyone who visited Australia in the 2000s, and you'll be met with tales of excitement and awe. It's no surprise, really. Australia's charm is undeniable.

But fast forward to today, and Australia has undergone a massive transformation. For the Indian traveller, it’s no longer only about iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House or the Great Ocean Road drive from Melbourne. It’s about a whole lot more!

Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG)

One such emerging highlight is the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), now garnering more attention from cricket enthusiasts, especially since the inauguration of the Sachin Tendulkar gate. This tribute to Sachin has added a sentimental value to the SCG, transforming it into a pilgrimage site for Indian cricket fans.

Perth

Perth is coming into the spotlight as a new focal point for Indian tourists. Traditionally overlooked in favour of more famous eastern cities, Perth is now known for its unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. For cricket fans, the top draw here is the legendary WACA stadium. There are also its pristine beaches, sprawling parks, and a vibrant cultural scene that are captivating Indian tourists. The city's relative proximity to India compared to other Australian cities also makes it an appealing entry point for exploring the vast country. And speaking of its proximity to India, Perth is the only major Australian city where you can be on a beach and swim in the waters of the Indian Ocean.

The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef, renowned as the world's largest coral reef system, has long been a major attraction for visitors to Australia. Its sheer magnitude, boasting around 400 varieties of coral, 1,500 species of fish, and 4,000 types of mollusks, makes it an underwater marvel. However, while the Great Barrier Reef continues to draw global attention, the focus of many travellers has shifted to another spectacular part of Queensland - the Whitsunday Islands. The Whitsunday Islands, a stunning archipelago located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, offers a unique blend of serene beauty and adventure. Among these islands, Hamilton Island stands out as a particularly captivating destination. Hamilton Island's popularity has surged due to its accessibility and the variety of experiences it offers.

Uluru

Uluru, a colossal sandstone monolith in the heart of the Northern Territory, stands as a sacred sentinel of the Australian Outback. For the Anangu people (traditional people of Australia), the traditional custodians of the land, Uluru is not just a rock but a living cultural landscape. Visitors often speak of the awe-inspiring experience of watching Uluru change colours at sunrise and sunset. The rock’s deep spiritual significance is palpable, and respectful engagement with its history and stories enhances the experience tenfold.

Daintree Rainforest

Venturing into the Daintree Rainforest is like stepping into a primeval world. This ancient rainforest, believed to be around 180 million years old, is home to an extraordinary array of plant and animal species. Eco-tourism in the Daintree is thriving, with guided tours offering glimpses of rare species like the cassowary and the tree kangaroo. The forest is home to the Idiot Fruit, one of the rarest and most primitive flowering plants in the world. Encountering such ancient species underscores the rainforest's status as a living museum of Earth's evolutionary history. Visitors can take river cruises to spot saltwater crocodiles or embark on night walks to see nocturnal creatures.

Blue Mountains

A short drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer a dramatic landscape of deep valleys, soaring cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. The misty blue haze, caused by the eucalyptus trees, adds an ethereal quality to this magnificent region. One popular legend associated with the Blue Mountains is that of the Three Sisters rock formation. According to Aboriginal lore, the three sisters, Meehni, Wimlah, and Gunnedoo, were turned to stone by a tribal elder to protect them from a bunyip, a mythical creature. The elder planned to reverse the spell but was killed in battle, leaving the sisters petrified forever. This tale is just one of many that enrich the cultural tapestry of the Blue Mountains. The region's stunning lookouts, like Echo Point, offer panoramic views that inspire both awe and contemplation.

These were just some of the incredible things that you may still have on your bucketlist even if you have visited Australia before. I have been to the land Down Under eight times and there’s still so much I haven’t seen! After all, it is the sixth largest country in the world that we are talking about. So one visit will never be enough! When are you opening your account and getting off the mark? Chalo Bag Bharo Nikal Pado!