In a historic moment for global sports, the National Football League is heading Down Under. For the first time ever, a regular season game will be played in Australia—bringing two rival teams, the Los Angeles Rams and the San Francisco 49ers, to the legendary Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne, Victoria.

Set for September 11, 2026, AEST Melbourne time (September 10 in the United States), this highly anticipated season opener is more than a game—it’s the perfect excuse for sports lovers to make a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Australia, with a full week of celebrations surrounding the game and other exciting sporting activities nearby.

Ticket sales roll out in April, with multiple opportunities to secure your place at this historic event. Whether you choose to purchase tickets directly or prefer a seamless, fully tailored journey, Swain Destinations can assist in crafting the perfect Australia experience—bringing together the game with unforgettable moments beyond the stadium.

Important Dates for NFL Australia Ticket Sales

Wednesday, April 1, at 5pm EST: Pre-sale team fan tickets go on sale 
Monday, April 6, at 8pm EST: Hospitality packages
Tuesday, April 7, at 8pm EST: General public tickets

On Location also has early access options ahead of the public on sale date Wednesday, April 1.

Los Angeles Rams Fans

For local fans of the Los Angeles Rams, getting to the game couldn’t be more seamless. With nonstop service from LAX to Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, your trip to see the season opener is transformed into an international jetsetting getaway. Arrive ready to experience the energy of this historic matchup, and take time to explore Australia’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities before or after the game.

San Francisco 49ers Fans

Meanwhile, local fans of the San Francisco 49ers can take advantage of convenient nonstop service from SFO to Melbourne and Sydney. It’s the perfect opportunity to pair football with a broader Australian journey—adding iconic destinations and experiences along the way. Your Swain Destinations travel consultant can curate an itinerary designed with both ease and exploration in mind.

Explore Victoria, Australia

Explore Victoria in greater depth—from its renowned wine regions and abundant wildlife to dramatic coastal scenery along the Great Ocean Road—and discover sample itineraries designed to inspire your journey. From here, your travels can easily extend beyond Victoria to Australia’s other iconic regions.

More Sporting Activities in Australia

Looking to keep the sporting spirit going? Beyond Melbourne, the Australian Capital Territory and South Australia offer unique experiences that celebrate Australia’s passion for sport.

Go behind the scenes for an immersive experience into the world of Australian sporting excellence. The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) is Australia’s premier sports training institution located in Canberra and the only one of its kind in Australia.

See the city of Adelaide from a new perspective from the iconic roofline of the Adelaide Oval. Experience RoofClimb by day, sunset, night, or even during an Australian Rules Football (AFL) match for the best seats in the house.

The post NFL 2026 Season Kicks Off in Melbourne, Australia: Los Angeles Rams vs. San Francisco 49ers appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.

Learn more about why Swain Destinations thinks you should Savor the South, then read on to find out how this trio of Australian states are being recognized globally.

The World’s Table: The Meal of Your Life is Waiting in Australia

A recent CNN feature, The World’s Table: The Meal of Your Life is Waiting in Australia, celebrates each regions’ distinctive culinary prowess—spotlighting producers, chefs, and regions that are helping redefine what it means to eat your way through the country. Reading about the fresh produce, world-class wines and how each state’s unique regional identity elevates every meal will leave you hungry to start planning a southern Australia culinary adventure.

This ethos aligns perfectly with A Taste of Australia’s South—an itinerary celebrating the incredible cuisine and world-renowned wines of these three Australian states. The journey weaves together sophisticated accommodations, immersive culinary stops, and breathtaking beauty for an authentic and unforgettable Australian experience.

Tasmania: A Must-Visit Island of Local Flavor

Tasmania has been turning heads in the global travel world. It was recently named one of the top travel destinations for 2026 by the Signature Travel Network—a prestigious list that highlights places poised to inspire luxury travelers next year.

Meanwhile, Tasmania’s capital, Hobart, has made Expedia’s list of top ten trending travel destinations for 2026, reflecting a surge in interest from international travelers looking for culture, food, and natural landscapes.

From award-winning local produce and fine wine to dramatic coastlines and World Heritage wilderness, Tasmania is a rich chapter in any Australian adventure.

South Australia: Outback & Wine Country

South Australia’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths—from the ancient peaks of the Flinders Ranges to vibrant Adelaide and the famed Barossa Valley to the pristine Kangaroo Island. The state continues to capture global attention, with several regions earning recognition from influential travel experts, including: CNN Travel named Adelaide among the best places to visit in 2026 and Conde Nast Traveler says Adelaide is gearing up for a blockbuster 2026, both spurred on by the recent addition of direct flights from the U.S.; Flinders Ranges named Best in Travel in the top 25 global destinations for 2026, Lonely Planet; and Lonely Planet’s Best Beaches in Australia book includes 12 South Australian beaches, naming Seal Bay on Kangaroo Island as the country’s best beach for wildlife watching.

Whether you’re exploring iconic wine regions, slowing down on Kangaroo Island, or venturing into the rugged Outback, South Australia delivers experiences that pair beautifully with food, culture and nature.

Western Australia: Wide-Open Spaces & Coastal Wonders

Western Australia’s sheer scale and scenic variety make it a remarkable destination. Its spectacular coastline, pristine beaches, popular wine regions, and unique natural phenomena helped earn the state a spot on global travel lists, including being named one of the top places to visit by BBC Travel. Additionally, Margaret River made Conde Nast Traveler’s Best Places to Go in 2026 list, bringing special attention to vineyard hopping and food festivals.

From Perth’s vibrant arts and dining scene to the wild beauty of the southwest and beyond, Western Australia brings both cosmopolitan charm and natural wonders.

Savor the South

Savor the South features standalone Western Australia, South Australia, and Tasmania example itineraries, as well as one thoughtfully curated sample itinerary that bundles together A Taste of Australia’s South. However, every travel itinerary booked with Swain Destinations is completely customized, so contact our Master Designers of Luxury Travel with your vision to explore Australia!

The post A Mouthwatering Australian Trio for Every Foodie’s Bucket List appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.

Congratulations to our hotel partners that received Keys! Contact our Master Designers of Luxury Travel to start planning an Australia travel itinerary featuring these MICHELIN Key hotels.

New South Wales

Capella Lodge

Lord Howe Island, New South Wales
Two Keys🗝️🗝️

Capella Sydney

Sydney, New South Wales
One Key🗝️

Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

Sydney, New South Wales
One Key🗝️

Osborn House

Bundanoon, New South Wales
One Key🗝️

Park Hyatt Sydney

Sydney, New South Wales
One Key🗝️

QT Sydney

Sydney, New South Wales
One Key🗝️

Spicers Sangoma Resort

Blue Mountains, New South Wales
Two Keys🗝️🗝️

Wildlife Retreat at Toronga

Sydney, New South Wales
One Key🗝️

Northern Territory

Longitude 131

Uluru, Northern Territory
Two Keys🗝️🗝️

Queensland

Lizard Island

Great Barrier Reef, Queensland
Three Keys🗝️🗝️🗝️

qualia

Great Barrier Reef, Queensland
One Key🗝️

Silky Oaks Lodge

Daintree Rainforest, Queensland
Two Keys🗝️🗝️

Spicers Peak

Scenic Rim, Queensland
Two Keys🗝️🗝️

The Calile Hotel Brisbane

Brisbane, Queensland
One Key🗝️

South Australia

Southern Ocean Lodge

Kangaroo Island, South Australia
Two Keys🗝️🗝️

Tasmania

MACq 01 Hotel

Hobart, Tasmania
One Key🗝️

Saffire Freycinet

Freycinet National Park, Tasmania
Two Keys🗝️🗝️

The Henry Jones Art Hotel

Hobart, Tasmania
One Key🗝️

The Islington Hotel

Hobart, Tasmania
One Key🗝️

Victoria

Jackalope Hotel

Mornington Peninsula, Victoria
Two Keys🗝️🗝️

Western Australia

COMO The Treasury

Perth, Western Australia
One Key🗝️

The post Australia’s MICHELIN Key Hotels: A New Benchmark for Luxury Travel appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.

Why Australia?

Australia is a land made for adventure and hospitality, where every sunrise promises something extraordinary and friendly locals are waiting to become your mates. From vibrant cities and pristine coastlines to ancient cultures and untamed outback landscapes, this vast continent invites you to explore and connect.

Tourism Australia’s new video, featuring Ruby Roo and Robert Irwin, includes many of our favorite destinations in Australia:

• Sydney in New South Wales,
• Eyre Peninsula in South Australia,
• Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park and Kakadu in the Northern Territory,
• The Great Barrier Reef in Queensland,
• Great Ocean Road in Victoria,
• Margaret River and Hawkesbury River in Western Australia, and
• Bay of Fires in Tasmania.

Whether you’re diving into the Great Barrier Reef, savoring fine wine in the Barossa, or watching the sunset over Uluru, your Australian journey will be one you’ll tell—and relive—for years to come. Our team of Master Designers of Luxury Travel can personalize an itinerary of these remarkable places just for you—and we can (almost) promise that you won’t lose your phone to an emu!

The post Come and Say G’day to Australia appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.

How It Started

Since its launch in 2010, Luxury Lodges of Australia has redefined how travellers from around the world experience Australia’s extraordinary landscapes and hospitality, in style.

Luxury Lodges of Australia Executive Chair Penny Rafferty said when the founding members first came together in 2009, they recognized that Australia offered something distinctive to luxury travelers, but that perceptions of Australia as a destination did not, at that time, reflect this new era of experiential luxury.

Luxury Lodges of Australia Now

Now, the lodges collectively deliver more than 350 individual experiences that connect their guests with place. They offer rare and privileged access to some of Australia’s most extraordinary landscapes, high levels of hospitality, diverse experiences, people and what makes Australia, distinctively Australian.

The anniversary highlights the broader impact of the twenty member properties, all located in regional Australia. Each lodge partners with local producers, artists, makers and specialist guides, collectively doing business with more than 4,000 local – mostly small – Australian businesses, stimulating the regional economies.

Locations include many World Heritage-listed areas, and range from spectacular wilderness, reefs, outback, desert, rainforest, bountiful wine and food regions, and coastline. While each lodge offers its own unique experiences, the defining characteristics that united the collection at its inception remain consistent today – exceptional hospitality, authentic experiences, and showcasing the best of Australian landscapes, produce, wine, wildlife and culture.

What sets us apart as a collection is that our lodges have always been more than just a place to stay. Each property is in an extraordinary location with a compelling reason to go there and ‘do’ something. Together, we’ve created a distinctively Australian brand of experiential luxury that resonates with global travelers seeking real experiences of place.

Penny Rafferty, Executive Chair

We can’t help but think how perfectly this statement fits with our philosophy of Luxury With Heart. From connecting with people in their cultures to encountering wildlife in their natural habitats to enjoying impeccable accommodations in breathtaking landscapes, luxury and connection truly can go hand-in-hand. By working with travel partners who are as passionate about exceptional service as they are about nature, wildlife, and their local communities, Swain Destinations ensures that travelers experience unparalleled luxury while having a positive impact.

Swain Destinations Luxury Lodge Partners

Our team of Master Designers of Luxury Travel can customize an itinerary of luxury lodges in Australia just for you. Contact us today to start planning!

The post Hats Off to Luxury Lodges of Australia appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.

In Africa, elephant, giraffe, hippo and rhino babies are called calves, while their mothers go by the corresponding name of cow. Lions, leopards and cheetahs have cubs, with moms known as lioness, leopardess and she-cheetah. Much like their fellow horses, a zebra baby is a foal and its mother is a mare.

Down Under in Australia, baby kangaroos, wombats and koalas are called joeys. Meanwhile, a mother kangaroo might be called a doe, flyer or jill; a mother wombat is a jill; and a koala mom is simply a koala. A mother echidna may just be called an echidna, but her spiny bundle of joy has the nickname of puggle! A baby platypus is a platypup, while mom is still just a platypus. Over in New Zealand, the iconic kiwi bird duo is hen and chick.

Penguin hens and chicks, as well as seal, dolphin and whale cows and calves grace the shores each of these distant places.

Like the unique and fascinating mix of wildlife, each place has a diversity of languages and traditions. Here are examples of how a few of our travel destinations say Mother, and show their love and appreciation for their mothers.

Botswana

Mme

In Tswana culture, mothers are regarded as vital sources of strength and are honored for their wisdom and leadership. The Setswana proverb “Mmangwana o tshwara thipa ka ha bogaleng,” which can be loosely interpreted as “The mother holds a sword by the blade,” emphasizes the significant role mothers play in nurturing and guiding families.

In Botswana, Mother’s Day is not a commonly celebrated day. In villages, it is not a known holiday, and would only be celebrated in more modernized communities.

Thank you to Xigera Safari Lodge for sharing their native language and traditions.

Kenya

Mama

Swahili and English are the official languages of Kenya, and Mama is Swahili for mother. Our wonderful partner from the Kikuyu Tribe in Kenya also shared that Nyina translates to “mother of” in his native AgIkuyu language and is a term of respect used when referring to a women’s mother or maternal aunt.

Mother’s Day is widely observed in Kenya, also on the second Sunday of May. Kenyans show their appreciation for mothers with gifts, special meals, expressions of love and gratitude.

Australia

Mum

Mum is shortened from Mummy, which is also used by younger children when addressing their mothers. Australians began observing Mother’s Day in the early 1900s shortly after the holiday became official in the U.S. It began as a tradition of collecting charitable gifts for lonely and elderly mothers in hospital, and grew into a broader tradition of honoring all mothers. Today, mums are celebrated with breakfast in bed, cards and gifts.

French Polynesia

Māmā

While French is the official language of French Polynesia, the Tahitian language is also used by many islanders. Above is mother in Tahitian and Mère is mother in French.

Mother’s Day—or “Fête des Mères”—in French Polynesia is celebrated on the last Sunday of May with a combination of traditional Polynesian customs and French influences. Children may express their love with homemade cards and gifts, and special events are held at local markets.

French Polynesia is also a popular destination for Mother’s Day. Many resorts host a special Mother’s Day champagne brunch to add to the already indulgent experience. Imagine celebrating mom with an overwater bungalow, spa treatments, fine dining, cultural experiences and total pampering!

Happy Mother’s Day!

The post May Word of the Month: Mom appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.

Top 7 Queensland Activities for Families

Our current Top 7 family-friendly activities in Queensland, Australia are:

• Brisbane’s Streets Beach
• Australia Zoo
• Bluey’s World
• Tangalooma Wrecks
• Great Barrier Reef
• Daintree Rainforest
• The Outback

Brisbane

Streets Beach

It’s a beach right in the heart of the city! Located on the South Bank, Streets Beach is surrounded by 40 acres of recreational park, including playgrounds, picnic areas, walking paths, restaurants, and more. With a sandy beach, sparkling blue swimming lagoon, free entry, and lifeguards on duty, Streets Beach is a fantastic spot for families to spend a day in the sunshine.

Australia Zoo

Home of The Crocodile Hunter, Australia Zoo is a must-do day trip from Brisbane for the fam. The Platinum Zoo Adventure includes a golf cart tour with your own personal guide, exclusive behind-the-scenes and up-close animal and reptile encounters, VIP seating at shows, and meals. It is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet and learn about a variety of wildlife.

The Zoo is dedicated to wildlife conservation through habitat protection, research, and education. Now managed by Terri, Bindi, and Robert Irwin, the zoo continues Steve Irwin’s legacy by fostering a deep connection between people and wildlife. The zoo is the main sponsor of Wildlife Warriors Worldwide, a global organization protecting wildlife and wild places. In 2004, Wildlife Warriors opened the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, inspired by the wonderful work of Steve’s mother, Lyn Irwin, who was a pioneer in wildlife care.

In one year, between 9,000 and 10,000 animals are brought to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital for lifesaving treatment.

Bluey’s World

Calling all parents and grandparents who want to have top dog status with the kiddos… The world’s favorite Heeler, Bluey, has opened a theme park in Brisbane! A family getaway that includes an interactive adventure at the vibrant and playful Bluey’s World will have all ages smiling with delight. The experience encourages creativity, imagination, and family bonding right in Bluey’s backyard.

Tangalooma Wrecks

The Tangalooma Wrecks are a fascinating day trip across the bay from Brisbane. Between 1963 and 1984, 15 vessels were sunk for recreational purposes on the eastern side of Moreton Bay outside of Brisbane. Now the cluster of sunken ships is a vibrant marine sanctuary with colorful corals, more than 100 tropical fish species swimming about, and sometimes visiting dolphins. Snorkel or dive to see the wrecks up close or paddle over by kayak for a view from above.

Where to Stay in Brisbane

Every room at the Emporium Hotel South Bank is a luxuriously appointed suite with stunning views of the Brisbane skyline. Vibrant neon lights and bold animal prints gives the hotel a striking appearance that will captivate the whole family. A rooftop pool overlooks the city. And Streets Beach is just a 5-minute stroll away!

Reef & Rainforest

Great Barrier Reef

A visit to the Great Barrier Reef is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a must-have on everyone’s bucket list. There are endless adventures for families, from snorkeling in vibrant coral gardens to spotting turtles and tropical fish from a glass-bottom boat. With activities suited for all ages, kids and adults alike can enjoy exploring the underwater world or relaxing on stunning island beaches. Plus, the fun and educational experience fosters a love for nature and conservation, inspiring young and young-at-heart explorers to help protect the world’s underwater ecosystems.

Daintree Rainforest

More than 130 million years old, the Daintree Rainforest is older than your grandparents’ grandparents—and it’s a pretty amazing destination for all generations to see. Kids, parents, and grandparents all will delight in spotting unique wildlife, like cassowaries, pademelons, and bandicoots. Families can enjoy activities like a rainforest safari to discover plants that pre-date the dinosaurs, a river cruise to see crocodiles, swimming in crystal-clear waterfalls, or drifting down the Daintree river. With a mix of education, adventure, and natural wonders, the Daintree provides a perfect escape for families looking to connect with nature and each other.

Experience the Daintree Rainforest like no other with world-renowned biologist Bill Crew, exclusively through Swain Destinations. Gain rare access to hidden areas away from the crowds as Bill shares his unmatched expertise on the region’s flora, fauna, and history.

Where to Stay for Reef & Rainforest

Where the reef meets the rainforest, Thala Beach Nature Reserve is a destination unto itself. Stay in your own treehouse bungalow built into the forest canopy, explore the Coconut Grove, and splash in the grotto-style pool. This family-owned eco-retreat is the ideal base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.

The Outback

A journey to the Outback is a must for families with young explorers. Opportunities for fun and learning—like ATV adventures, fishing, kayaking, and swimming in waterfalls—are as vast as the wide-open spaces. Stunning sunrises in brilliant shades of orange and red start the day, and when it’s time to wind down, millions of stars paint the night sky. An Outback adventure is an ideal way to disconnect from everyday life and create unforgettable memories together.

Where to Stay in the Outback

With its Wild West-style setting and a range of exciting activities, a stay at Mount Mulligan Lodge will have young travelers feeling like true Aussie cowboys and cowgirls. The Outback Pavilion offers plenty of space for a family, plus a pool, all meals, an electric buggy to traverse the grounds, and a daily Mulligan experience make this an all-inclusive stay.

Getting to Queensland

United Airlines offers daily direct flights from San Francisco to Brisbane. Most direct flights from the US to Australia take off in the evening and, after crossing the International Date Line, arrive two days later in the morning. At approximately 14 hours, that’s time for dinner, a movie, a sleep and breakfast before the adventure begins in the Land Down Under. United’s US to Australia flights include a main meal, mid-flight sandwich, pre-arrival meal, and beverages, plus several upgrade options.

Ready to Plan a Family Trip to Queensland?

If you’re ready to plan a family-friendly adventure in Queensland, a Swain Destinations travel consultant can design the ideal itinerary to suit your family.

The post Family-Friendly Fun in Queensland appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.

Below are some luxury properties that feature outdoor bathtubs in Africa and Australia. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, romantic getaway, or relaxation retreat, these destinations are sure to delight.

Outdoor Bathtubs in Africa

Cottar’s 1920s Camp

Cottar’s 1920s Camp is situated in the 7608-acre private Olderkesi Conservancy bordering the Masai Mara in Kenya and the Tanzania Serengeti game reserve. The Camp provides the romance of safari under cream canvas tents, while at the same time supplying modern and luxurious amenities. Guests can enjoy a traditional canvas safari bath, a genuinely unique way of bathing specifically set up on the tent’s verandah, with views out over the plains. The Cottar family has been providing safaris for more than 100 years, focusing on providing an authentic and individualized safari and guest experience.

Lemala Mpingo Ridge

Lemala Mpingo Ridge Lodge offers sweeping views and impeccable service. After a day or night safari in Tarangire National Park, total comfort awaits. Each tented suite has a private deck featuring a sunken lounge with a siesta bed and outside bathtub to wash away the African dust. The Lodge has all the amenities and activities needed for an incredible getaway in Tanzania. It’s both a relaxing standalone destination or a great place to start a safari that also combines the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti.

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest

Set on the edge of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest is a treetop oasis. By day, immerse yourself in nature, including the epitome of Rwandan adventure: tracking the endangered mountain gorilla. Then unwind in your private open-air bathtub overlooking a forest of eucalyptus trees. The surrounding forest is home to more than 300 bird species, golden monkeys, and other wildlife, making the perfect soundtrack for your bath.

Royal Chundu

Royal Chundu Island Lodge  sits on the private Katombora Island and is wrapped in the watery embrace of the Zambezi River. The river creates a quiet and peaceful environment, while the roaring Victoria Falls is only 19 miles downstream. Your private deck features a riverfront bath overlooking the rapids—a dreamy place to watch the spectacular Zambian sunrise and sunset. The Island Lodge is truly a place of exclusivity, privacy, and luxury.

Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge

Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve offers an exhilarating safari experience. Meanwhile, the luxurious accommodations at Bush Lodge are the perfect setting to unwind after a thrilling day of wildlife encounters. The luxury villa includes his and hers bathtubs with floor to ceiling windows, as well as an outdoor rain shower. Outside the main lodge, the waterhole attracts elephants, zebras, and more, while your private villa tubs lure you to experience pure bliss!

Outdoor Bathtubs in Australia

El Questro Homestead

The rugged red cliffs of Western Australia are a spectacular backdrop to the luxurious suites of El Questro Homestead. Bathe al fresco while looking out over the tranquil Chamberlain Gorge. To further this spa-like experience, guests have exclusive afternoon use of Zebedee Thermal Springs. The Homestead offers a wide range of selected complimentary excursions that provide opportunities to fully immerse yourself in the natural attractions. 

Mt Mulligan Lodge

Mt Mulligan Lodge offers laid-back luxury in the rugged outback of Queensland. Each room has a contemporary, yet raw, aesthetic. Private verandahs feature a corrugated iron water tank that has been re-purposed as a deep outdoor bath. Activities are many, including guided tours of the goldfields, ATV adventures, chef-prepared picnic hampers, barramundi fishing, scenic helicopter flights, guided nature walks and the chance to experience the operations of a working cattle station.

Sea Dragon Kangaroo Island

Sea Dragon Kangaroo Island is an Australian wildlife paradise—more than half of the 250-acre property is a designated area of heritage protection of flora and fauna. Sitting on your deck or taking a walk, it’s not uncommon to see kangaroos and wallabies or maybe even an echidna, while dolphins swim through the bay. Luxury Ocean View Villas have large decks with beautiful outdoor porcelain baths to soak in and listen to the sounds of the sea and land. 

Silky Oaks Lodge

Silky Oaks Lodge is nestled on the edge of the Daintree National Park, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of the rainforest. The lodge is a peaceful retreat set amongst the treetops with easy access to adventures in the region’s spectacular natural attractions, including the Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge, the Great Barrier Reef, and Cape Tribulation. Of course, you may never want to leave your room given that every Treehouse and Riverhouse features a spa tub on the veranda, perfect for taking a soak while soaking up the sights and sounds.

The post Soak in Style: Outdoor Bathtubs Are the Ultimate Luxury Escape appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.

Our travel destinations are among the first and last people to celebrate the New Year. Here’s when Swain Destinations locations will be ringing in the New Year, relative to our Philadelphia headquarters (Eastern Time), as well as a few ways to say Happy New Year in different languages.

December 31

6 a.m. ET Most of New Zealand

7 a.m. ET Fiji

8 a.m. ET Much of Australia, including Melbourne and Sydney

8:30 a.m. ET A small region of Australia, including Adelaide

9 a.m. ET Australia’s Queensland

10:15 a.m. ET Western Australia

3 p.m. ET Seychelles, Mauritius, United Arab Emirates

4 p.m. ET Kenya, Tanzania, Qatar, Jordan

5 p.m. ET Botswana, Egypt, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe

January 1

12 a.m. ET Philadelpia, PA

5 a.m. ET Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea in French Polynesia and the Cook Islands

HAPPY NEW YEAR from the Swain Destinations team! Wishing you a healthy, prosperous, and adventurous 2025!!

The post January Phrase of the Month: Happy New Year appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.

Overwater Bungalows

Overwater bungalows are luxurious accommodations perched on stilts above the dreamy turquoise waters. They provide direct access to the ocean, as well as amenities like private decks, glass floors, and private pools. An overwater bungalow is perfect for a romantic getaway or relaxation retreat. Here are a few of our favorites.

Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts

Le Bora Bora by Pearl Beach Resort combines a heavenly location with proximity to the mainland. The resort boasts an authentic Polynesian style, and offers some of the most traditionally styled rooms in Bora Bora, with some suspended over the dazzling lagoon.

St. Regis Bora Bora

Reaching out across 44 acres of lush landscaping edged by powdery white sands and a crystalline lagoon, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort represents the epitome of carefree elegance. Its exquisitely designed villas are the most luxurious in the South Pacific.

Likuliku Lagoon Resort

Likuliku Lagoon Resort is a haven of subtle luxury—the first resort in Fiji with authentic over-water bures. It is a unique and special place designed with integrity to cultural values, as well as traditional designs and architecture. From the water it looks like an ancient village.

Underwater Suites & Experiences

An underwater hotel suite gives new meaning to the phrase room with a view. It’s like having your own private aquarium in your bedroom. With premium amenities and the tranquility of the ocean, you’ll fall asleep counting fish instead of sheep. Meanwhile, you may not want to overnight in a shark cage, but your underwater experience will be over-the-top amazing.

ReefSuites

Spend a magical night in Australia’s first underwater accommodation, ReefSuites, and have a front row seat to the dazzling underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef. Two rooms with floor-to-ceiling glass walls are available, as well as many other opportunities to explore the deep blue. This property also has an overwater option called ReefSleep.

Shark Cage Diving

Experience the thrill of observing sharks in their natural habitat from the safety of a cage lowered into the water. This experience is available in South Africa (False Bay Shark Viewing and Diving Tour or Gansbaai Shark Viewing and Diving Tour) and Australia. We partner with tour providers who put the safety of the animals, people, and ecosystem first.

So, what’s your over/under? Are you more of a basking in the sunshine above the turquoise water or exploring the depths from your underwater suite kind of traveler?

The post What’s Your Over/Under for Travel in 2025? appeared first on Swain Destinations Blog.