Destinations

• Five Myths About Koalas

  
  Koalas are so cute they could be mythical creatures; maybe that’s why there are many popular myths about them. Below are the top five most popular myths about these fuzzy creatures.

  Myth 1: Koalas are “drunk/high” on eucalyptus

  This is possibly one of the most popular myths in the animal kingdom. In fact, if you start typing into google, “are koalas…” the first option is “are koalas high”!

  The idea that we’re not the only species on the planet that gets intoxicated is gratifying. That this intemperate animal should be Australian resonates with the world view of Australia: a land of friendly, sozzled creatures lazing about in the sun. However, koalas are not drunk or high on eucalyptus! There is no alcohol in eucalyptus to intoxicate them. They do rest a lot, but it’s not due to a hangover!

  

  Photo Credit: Echidna Walkabout

  Myth 2: Koalas only eat one type of gum-tree

  So, these creatures live all over Australia, but only eat one tree? No wonder such a fussy animal is dying out!

  However, this is not true. Koalas in the You Yangs near Melbourne have been recorded eating every one of the 15 species of eucalypt in the park. All over Australia, the gum-trees they eat number in the hundreds of species!

  This myth may have started from some early scientific research that showed that koalas have a high preference for certain species of eucalyptus in certain regions. That can be true in some places, but not in others. In the You Yangs, 34% of koala sightings are in River Red Gum Trees. The rest of the time, they are in Blue Gums, Yellow Gums, Ironbarks, Sugar Gums and many other types.

  Myth 3: Koalas are slow

  Researchers probably wish this were true. A koala can run on the ground at around 32km per hour. If frightened, they can leap up a tree in 2 metre bounds.

  Koalas lead a slow lifestyle most of the time. They rest a lot due to the low nutrient value of their food, but when they move, they can be fast, agile and powerful.

  Myth 4: Koalas are docile and love to be pet and cuddled

  These cute creatures are still wild animals and like most wild animals, they prefer to have no contact with humans at all.

  Two independent scientific studies: a 2014 University of Melbourne study (1) and a 2009 study (2), found that even captive koalas, born and raised in a zoo, experience stress when humans approached too close to them. In the wild, Echidna Walkabout Nature Tours have found that 10 metres is the closest you should ever be to a koala. Any closer, and the koala’s behavior changes — they stop resting or feeding and they stare nervously. Unfortunately for them, they look cute even when they are terrified.

  Now an orphaned koala being raised by a wildlife carer may enjoy being pet by their carer. But all evidence suggests koalas do not enjoy being pet by strangers.

  

  Photo Credit: Echidna Walkabout

  Myth 5: Koalas are so numerous, they are hanging out of trees everywhere

  This is not true. Wild koalas are declining at a rate of 53% in Queensland, 26% in the small remaining population of New South Wales and 14% in Victoria. That is why they are listed as “Vulnerable” (one step below endangered). The IUCN lists them as one of the 10 species worldwide most at risk from climate change (3).

  This myth comes from two partial-truths — the first is historical: there was once a time when the animals were very plentiful across their range. However, that time is long gone. The other partial-truth is that there are five to six small pockets in southern Victoria and South Australia where koalas are overabundant (4), for reasons that are not understood. These populations receive a lot of media and research attention, which makes them seem larger than they are.

  This is why Australians are getting behind Wild Koalas Day on May 3rd. Wild Koala Day is about connecting koalas with habitat protection. If we are all to enjoy koalas, we need them to survive in the wild, not just in captivity. Act now to save them! On Wild Koala Day, May 3rd, plant a tree, protect the forest and phone a politician!

  

  Photo Credit: Echidna Walkabout

  References

  (1) http://theconversation.com/how-many-visitors-can-a-koala-bear-not-many-it-seems-26970

  (2) http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0007378

  (3) https://www.iucn.org/content/species-climate-change-hit-list-named

  (4) The 5-6 overabundant koala populations:

  • Cape Otway/Great Ocean Road, VIC
  • Raymond Island, East Gippsland VIC
  • Portland/south western VIC
  • Kangaroo Island, SA
  • Adelaide Hills/Mt Lofty Ranges, SA
  • French Island, VIC

  Five Myths About Koalas was last modified: May 23rd, 2018 by Swain Destinations

  January 16, 2018 • Articles, Australia, Bloggers • Views: 5042

  Read More

• Adventure in Queenstown

  
  Queenstown will always be one of my favorite places on earth. Home to never ending mountain views, pristine lakes, a small town feel and more restaurants and shops than imaginable. Queenstown on the South Island of New Zealand will always be a place I long to call home. Whether it’s jumping off a mountain or out of a plane, hitting the trails on a day hike or skiing trip, tasting wines, jetboating, or simply relaxing; Queenstown truly has something for everyone.

  

  View of Queenstown | Photo Credit: Sarah Herman

  Through the Mountains

  A must-do for those with prior dirt bike or ATV experience, Nomad Safari’s Quad Safari was an outing that I’d absolutely do again. Per the norm with activities in New Zealand, first came the safety briefing and gear fitting. We were advised that quad biking is the most dangerous activity you can do in Queenstown. After a brief tutorial on how to operate the ATV’s, we drove out to the test track to polish up on our skills. Here, they determine if anyone is unfit to journey on their own ATV – and if so they will simply ride on the back of one of the guides bikes.

  

  Quad Safari | Photo Credit: Nomad Safaris

  After a few rounds on the test course, we were off and ascending Queenstown Hill. Delighted to find fresh snow, we quickly made our way through powder and mud puddles. We stopped at every gorgeous outlook imaginable. We enjoyed hot chocolate and biscuits over the most beautiful snow-capped mountains. Riding through hills, we made our way through more puddles of mud and slush. All too quickly it was time to head home.

  

  Driving Through Queenstown | Photo Credit: Nomad Safaris

  On the Water

  I had never been white water rafting, but it was high on my list. We went for the ambitious Shotover River, graded 3-5, and had a blast. After safety briefing and wet suit fittings, and the treacherous journey on the road through skippers canyon, we arrived at the launch site. They broke us up into groups of 5-8, and paired us up with our guide. Then, we got right in the rafts and advised of the basic rafting commands. After practicing the slew of commands and ensuring we were ready, we paddled off and braced for the rapids.

  

  Shotover River | Photo Credit: Go Orange

  The river had five or six main rapid sections, broken up by calm stretches of the river. We were even given the ability to hop in and go for a swim. I didn’t have to be asked twice to jump in the Shotover River! Although it was freezing, it was sparkling clean – and when was I going to get this chance again?! After getting back in the raft, we headed for the highlight of the river; the cave. This is one of only two rivers in the world that has a cave you raft through. At the end of the cave was the biggest rapid of the river, and after ducking down and surviving, our incredible journey had come to a close. Out of all of the experiences on my trip, this is the one I would do again in a heartbeat.

  

  View in Queenstown | Photo Credit: Sarah Herman

  In the Air

  Milford Sound is one of those iconic “must-do’s” for every visitor to Queenstown. In my opinion, there’s no better way to see it than hopping in a helicopter and flying there. By road, the trip to Milford is around 4.5 hours one way. By helicopter, it’s about 30 minutes. We flew over the mountains and into the fjord, and were surrounded by unmatched beauty. On the flight back, we landed on top of a glacier where they stopped the engine of the helicopter so that we could simply enjoy the serene setting and breathe in the fresh air. After snapping some photographs and relishing in the moment, it was back in the chopper and back down to Queenstown.

  

  Milford Sound | Photo Credit: Milford Ultimate Heli Flight

  

  View of Milford Sound | Photo Credit: Milford Ultimate Heli Flight

  The Big Swing

  If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, look no further than AJ Hackett’s experiences in Queenstown. They have a handful of bungies and swings to choose from, and we chose the biggest swing of all: the Nevis Swing. After traveling out to the site, we waited our turn and contemplated our lives – our choices, our regrets – okay but seriously watching the people go in front of you is terrifying! Once harnessed into the swing, we were slowly brought out over thin air and stared down at the canyon below – an over 500 foot drop.

  It began with a misleading countdown of “5….4…..3….2…” before we were dropped and free falling for a few seconds, before swinging toward the other side of the canyon.  The total arc of the swing is just shy of 1,000 feet. After swinging back and forth a few times, and wiping the tears from our eyes, we were able to spot a few goats at the bottom of the canyon while we were pulled back up to safety.

  Returning to Queenstown brought a rush of adrenaline and tons of adventure activities, something that Queenstown specializes in!

   

  

  Sarah Herman

  As a graduate of Eastern University with a degree in Anthropology, I have always valued the experiences one can find in other cultures. I’ve spent time in Belize, Honduras, Mexico, Kenya, and backpacked across Western Europe seeing 12 countries there. I have lived in Sydney and used it as a base for travels across the country. I’ve also spent time in New Zealand; and my latest trip back was a luxury lodge tour across both islands, seeing first hand some of the most breathtaking accommodations and properties that New Zealand has to offer. With the passion and longing for every individual to experience at least one other culture in their lifetime, I have found myself at Swain; with the opportunity to bring this passion to life.

  Adventure in Queenstown was last modified: May 23rd, 2018 by Sarah Herman

  January 5, 2018 • New Zealand, Sarah Herman, Travels • Views: 3285

  Read More

• Exploring New Zealand’s South Island

  
  While Christchurch on New Zealand’s South Island may be best known for the devastating earthquakes it has suffered in recent years, this city is certainly worth the visit – especially for its breathtaking surrounds. After spending an afternoon exploring the downtown, we had one day to try and see just what Canterbury was all about before hopping on the TranzAlpine to the West Coast.

  

  South Island | Photo Credit: Sarah Herman

  

  Flying over Christchurch | Photo Credit: Sarah Herman

  Exploring Christchurch

  The day began with a brief drive through downtown Christchurch, before ascending the hills on the way to Akaroa. Stops were made to view the incredible scenery. We also stopped for tea down by the water before heading into town. Once in Akaroa, we meandered through some local shops before heading to Black Cat Cruises for our adventure.

  After receiving a safety briefing and getting fitted for wet suits, it was time to hit the water. A short 20-minute cruise to the edge of the harbour was all it took to spot the first Hectors Dolphins. We were advised to never reach out and try to touch one of the dolphins. We were to respect their rights as wild animals. After assessing the wild dolphins, the brave jumped right into the freezing ocean for a closer view. After treading water and seeing dolphins in the distance, it was time to move locations for a better view.

  

  Dolphin Jumping | Photo Credit: Black Cat Cruises

  For the next hour or so we were hopping in and out of the boat, cruising through the harbour and swimming alongside of the dolphins. It was an incredible experience, and one that I’ll never forget. Once back on dry land, it was time for a hot shower and some fish and chips for lunch before heading back to Christchurch.

  TranzAlpine

  The TranzAlpine Train is the preferred method of travel from the East to the West side of the South Island. This five-hour train ride seemed more like five minutes. You pass through breathtaking scenery of rolling hills and planes, gorges, and snow-capped mountains. We were just a few weeks early for wild flower season, but the colors of the countryside did not disappoint. Each traveler on the train has assigned seats, and there is a full café on-board. The highlight of the train is the open viewing carriage. There are no seats, and the windows are wide open with no glass to obstruct the view.

  

  TranzAlpine Train | Photo Credit: Canterbury Tourism

  After taking the TranzAlpine and driving a few hours down the coast, Franz Josef is the perfect place to spend a few nights. Its remote location is emphasized by a few restaurants and handful of shops, but the beauty of the West Coast is stunning. The biggest feature of Franz Josef is its proximity to the glaciers, most notably Franz Josef Glacier.

  Flying Over Franz Josef

  We lucked out with the weather, and were able to take the only trip they were running the entire week. After safety briefings and handing out gear, the excitement begins with a five-minute helicopter flight from town to the glacier. Due to recession, the only access to the glacier is by helicopter – and you don’t hear anyone complaining about that! After getting a bird’s eye view, we touched down on the glacier and were instructed on how to properly put on our crampons. Then we were off! We weaved our way in and out of ice tunnels and across the face of a gigantic slab of ice. After what seemed like no time at all, it was time to head back to the helicopter and back to reality. I think most of us would have camped up there if given the chance!

  

  View Over Lake | Photo Credit: Sarah Herman

  

  Sarah Herman

  As a graduate of Eastern University with a degree in Anthropology, I have always valued the experiences one can find in other cultures. I’ve spent time in Belize, Honduras, Mexico, Kenya, and backpacked across Western Europe seeing 12 countries there. I have lived in Sydney and used it as a base for travels across the country. I’ve also spent time in New Zealand; and my latest trip back was a luxury lodge tour across both islands, seeing first hand some of the most breathtaking accommodations and properties that New Zealand has to offer. With the passion and longing for every individual to experience at least one other culture in their lifetime, I have found myself at Swain; with the opportunity to bring this passion to life.

  Exploring New Zealand’s South Island was last modified: February 12th, 2018 by Sarah Herman

  December 21, 2017 • Articles, New Zealand, Sarah Herman, Travels • Views: 8599

  Read More

• Celebrate Diwali and Holi in India

  
  Celebrating Diwali

  October through March is the best time to travel to India, but I simply love to be in India when there is a festival. Growing up in Bombay (now Mumbai), we would wait for our Diwali holidays from school. Mom would make delicious sweets and we would decorate our home with lanterns, diyas (clay lamps), marigold garlands, and Rangoli. We always got new clothes for the festival, and my brother and I would celebrate by lighting sparklers. Diwali is the Hindu New Year and festival of lights signifying victory of good over evil. It falls between October and November.  The exact dates change each year based on the Hindu lunar calendar, but traveling during that time in India showcases beautiful celebrations, gorgeous decorations and people in festive moods. Diwali is a 5-day celebration.

  

  Celebrating Diwali | Photo Credit: Bela Banker

  

  Diwali Celebrations | Photo Credit: Bela Banker

  Holi Festival

  Another festival that I celebrated growing up with my family and friends was Holi– a festival of color. It is a spring festival that celebrates life with color that falls in March! Holi celebrations start on the night before with a huge bonfire and prayers so that evil can be destroyed the way it did in the Hindu legend, by burning a demoness named Holika. Young and old, rich and poor, family and friends, all celebrate this festival by smearing color. The festival also marks the end of winter and the abundance of the upcoming spring harvest season.

  

  Powder Colors for Holi | Photo Credit: Shutterstock

  

  Holi Festival in Nepal | Photo Credit: Shutterstock

  If you want to travel during the festivals, plan your India journey around the following dates:

  • Diwali Festival in 2018 begins November 7th
  • Holi Festival in 2018 begins on March 1st with a bonfire and followed by a smearing color day on March 2nd
  • Diwali Festival in 2019 begins October 27th
  • Holi Festival in 2019 begins on March 20th with a bonfire and followed by a smearing color day on March 21st

  

  Bela Banker

  I was born in Bombay (now called Mumbai), and have lived in the USA for more than 30 years. I have a passion for travel, for exploring, learning new cultures and being in new places. I love India and like to introduce all our clients to the colors, sounds, scents, traditions and food found throughout India. I customize all India trips and take our clients off the beaten path, where they can touch the heart and soul of the country. Other than travel, I love to read, cook, hike and spend time with my four boys.

  http://www.swaindestinations.com

  Celebrate Diwali and Holi in India was last modified: May 23rd, 2018 by Bela Banker

  November 29, 2017 • Articles, Bela Banker, Destinations, India, Travels • Views: 4180

  Read More

• Barangaroo – The New Sydney Suburb

  
  Barangaroo is the newest suburb of Sydney. This area is receiving much attention because of the beauty of the location and the diversity of experiences found there. Barangaroo was a wife of Bennelong, an aboriginal. He was instrumental in helping the British colonists of Sydney during the early days of settlement. As a result, the area is rich in aboriginal and maritime history.

  

  Aerial View of Barangaroo | Photo Credit: Destination New South Wales

  Exploring the New Suburb

  The two main areas of Barangaroo are the Barangaroo Reserve in the north and the Dining and Retail precinct in the south.  There is easy access from the city which makes a visit to this inviting waterfront precinct a great addition to any exploration of Sydney. Because it’s close, visitors can drive, bike, walk or take a ferry.  There are fully accessible walking paths from Circular Quay and from the train station at Wynard. The Wynard Walk is an easy way to reach the Reserve. Or a ferry can take you right to Wulugul Walk, the heart of the restaurant and retail complex.

  

  South Barangaroo | Photo Credit: Destination New South Wales

  The Reserve features a re-created Sydney Harbour headland, with the foreshores built from local sandstone as they would have looked in the earliest days of Australia’s history. The Cutaway is a unique cultural venue underneath the Reserve. It has hosted many special art exhibits and Fashion Week.  There are extensive gardens with native Australian plants, ideal for walking and biking. You can also enjoy the lovely views with a picnic or observing the public art throughout the area. Fishing and hunting were an important aspect for the Aboriginal people, who were the first inhabitants of this land; therefore an Aboriginal guided tour to learn of the significance of Sydney Harbour is a must.  Through artworks and special events, the Aboriginal culture is celebrated in Barangaroo.

  

  Street in South Barangaroo | Photo Credit: Destination New South Wales

  What To Do

  The southern precinct is a foodies delight! There is a wide range of restaurants to appeal to different palates and budgets. Options range from fine dining to more casual places, coffee shops, artisan bakeries and hip bars.  This is a fun waterfront area with world class dining.  There are impressive shopping options here as well, with boutiques offering both international and local designers. David Jones, the major Australian department store has opened a world-first concept store in Barangaroo.

  

  Cuisine from Anason Restaurant | Photo Credit: Destination New South Wales

  

  Anason Restaurant | Photo Credit: Destination New South Wales

  There is definitely something for every visitor to enjoy in this new dynamic location!

  

  Anne Pace

  Anne Pace, born and raised in Australia has traveled extensively throughout the world. She returns frequently to her favorite destination, her hometown of Sydney.

  Barangaroo – The New Sydney Suburb was last modified: May 23rd, 2018 by Anne Pace

  November 13, 2017 • Anne Pace, Articles, Australia, Destinations, Travels • Views: 14177

  Read More

• Under the Radar: Tasmania

  
  Tasmania is sometimes referred to as the “forgotten state”; it’s typically not on the radar for first time visitors to Australia. Many of my Aussie mates haven’t even visited! However, Tasmania is full of adventures and surprises for the fortunate traveler. It’s compact size allows you to experience a variety of landscapes and activities in a long weekend. Stroll on empty coastlines, walk through eucalyptus-clad forests, and climb rugged mountains. Spot land and sea life, savor the gourmet food and superb wines, witness the flourishing creative arts scene and embrace the local lifestyle.

  

  Views of Tasmania | Photo Credit: Kathryn Fischer

  

  Hobart | Photo Credit: Tourism Tasmania

  The main gateway to Tasmania is Hobart Airport, servicing flights predominantly to and from Melbourne and Sydney. You will need to connect through either city if you are flying in from another country, or from another Australian destination. I recommend renting a car directly upon arrival as self-driving is the best way to explore Tasmania.

  Yes, you will have to drive on the left side of the road, but it just takes a few minutes to adjust!

  Discovering Hobart

  Hobart is a quaint port city with a strong colonial heritage. Sandstone Georgian warehouses contrast with modern offices, and old pubs remain alongside trendy craft breweries and whiskey distilleries. Former port buildings now house contemporary restaurants and funky art galleries.

  On Saturdays, locals fill Salamanca Place selling and purchasing all types of goodies, including freshly picked produce, cheeses, homegrown honey, antiques, and second-hand goods. It’s an unmatched cultural experience that allows you to mix with Tasmanian’s of all ages, and is a true foodies’ dream. I tasted a wide variety of eats from savory salmon jerky and sausage, to sweet blueberry crumb cake and juicy strawberries with cream. Finally, I grabbed a loaf of sourdough bread and multicolored apples to fuel our adventures ahead.

  

  Salamanca Place | Photo Credit: Kathryn Fischer

  

  Fresh Berries | Photo Credit: Kathryn Fischer

  Arts & Culture

  Up the Derwent River on the Berriedale Peninsula lies MONA. The Museum of Old and New Art was built underground on a picturesque winery, and has been described as a “subversive adult Disneyland.” The best way to get there is via the fast ferry from the heart of Hobart. Before or after your journey through the cavernous gallery, enjoy a tasting at Moorila Winery or Moo Brew Brewery onsite.

  

  Museum of Old and New Art | Photo Credit: MONA

  The non-labeled artwork is controversial and thought-provoking. The exhibits broaden your perspective, and make you appreciate the eccentricity of Tasmania. After emerging from the intriguing museum, I witnessed a double rainbow and wild peacocks roaming around the land. Tasmania is truly magical.

  Exploring Nature

  Countless nature-based experiences are accessible from Hobart. Dominating the skyline, Mt. Wellington stretches 4,000 feet above the city. If you do not have the time or energy to hike up the mountain, a 20-minute drive from the city center will lead you to its peak. The Pinnacle has expansive views of Hobart and beyond … if you’re lucky and the dense clouds clear.

  

  Waterfall in Tasmania | Photo Credit: Kathryn Fischer

  Northwest of the city, Tasmania’s first national park, Mt Field, is the perfect place to get your nature fix, especially if you’re time poor. The national park has trails for all types of hikers. One particularly easy, yet scenic walk is to Russell Falls, the most photographed waterfall in Tasmania. You will stroll past moss-covered rocks and draping fern trees, and spot the world’s tallest flowering plant, the swamp gum. It’s likely that you’ll encounter native Australian animals, such as wallabies and echidnas. If you do not, stop at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. You’ll be able to get up-close to all sorts of Australian wildlife, including the infamous Tasmanian devil.

  

  Tasmanian Coast | Photo Credit: Kathryn Fischer

  

  Tasmanian Devil | Photo Credit: Tourism Tasmania & John J Kamma

  Venturing Out of Hobart

  If your schedule allows you to venture farther from Hobart, a journey up the East Coast is a must. First, stop in Bicheno to visit the blowhole, which erupts every few minutes. Be on the lookout for roadside stalls, where you can enjoy fresh seafood, dairy products, berries, and fruits direct from the local growers and fisherman. I purchased a ½ dozen oysters the size of my hand for $5 total. The quality of the food is unbelievable, until you have the pleasure of tasting it yourself! The fresh flavors are ingrained in my memory forever.

  Choose an accommodation that’s half way up the East Coast, near Freycinet National Park. It’s one of Tasmania’s principal draws, and for a good reason. One of my personal favorite hikes within Freycinet is the Wineglass Bay Track. You’ll wind through the eucalyptus-filled bush, which will lead you to pure white beaches and turquoise waters. The pink granite rocks speckled with orange lichen, contrasting against the azure sea, is a sight not to be missed. Lastly, if you prefer to visit the national park by water, cruise the crescent shaped Wineglass Bay with a local catamaran operator.

  

  Freycinet National Park | Photo Credit: Pure Tasmania

  

  Wineglass Bay | Photo Credit: Sail Walk

  Isolated from mainland Australia, Tasmania has a quirky, laid-back culture that feels different from the rest of the country. Although there’s so much more to explore, my suggestions are a solid start for an authentic Tasmanian experience. The clean air, fresh food, and pristine wilderness will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.

  Where to Stay:

  Hobart – Islington Hotel, Henry Jones Art Hotel, or MACq 01 Hotel

  East Coast – Saffire, Edge of the Bay Resort, or Freycinet Lodge

  When to Go:

  Tasmania is a year-round destination, but November to April boast sunnier skies & warmer days.

   

  

  Kathryn Fischer

  Though I was born and raised in Philadelphia, a city that values tradition, my path of life has been not so standard. I’ve lived on the East and West coasts of the United States, and have ventured over the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, studying food and wine in Italy, and working in the travel industry in Australia. Travelling across the globe has allowed me to recognize my true passion: helping others experience this beautiful, yet varied world that we live in. I have a wandering soul that continually urges me to visit new countries, meet new people, and learn new things; I love to adventure to faraway destinations, discovering unfamiliar cultures, and tasting their local cuisine.

  Under the Radar: Tasmania was last modified: November 1st, 2017 by Kathryn Fischer

  October 27, 2017 • Articles, Australia, Destinations, Kathryn Fischer, Travels • Views: 3429

  Read More