In this article our Lilly tells us all about her 72h Airlie Beach getaway, her first holiday since the travel restrictions eased in Queensland. She had the first taste of what the new travel experience looks like while diving into one of all-time favourite destinations.
I was so excited my 72h Airlie Beach Getaway since the travel restrictions in Queensland relaxed. Brisbane airport was quiet and eerie as most of the retail shops and the airport lounges are still closed. All the passengers seemed to end up at the pub for their celebratory pre-flight drink.
The Flight
Leading up to the trip, I found myself wondering what the new flying experience was going to be like. Once we boarded the Virgin aircraft we were given a face mask and sanitising gel, 2-minute noodles & a glass of wine were served shortly after take-off. The plane was very quiet due to the implementation of social distancing safety measures. There is no doubt that the flying experience has clearly changed to reflects the current reality of the travel industry. In my eyes, however, this is still a small price to pay until we can travel further again.
The Resort
Once arrived at Airlie Beach, we were welcomed by slightly overcast skies although the temperature was still warm. The holiday feels had definitely kicked in and we can’t wait to get to the hotel and relax. The hotel we chose for our little weekend escape is the Coral Sea Resort Airlie Beach, an oceanfront resort with a beautiful view over the blue waters of the tropical North Queensland coast. The resort has recently been renovated showcasing a stylish and contemporary feel throughout. The pool club seemed like the perfect place for sunset drinks so that’s where we headed right away.
We chose this resort mainly because of the location. Only 700m from the centre of Airlie beach nightlife and restaurants and a 20-minute walk to the Marina.
While the location and the resort facilities made our stay very enjoyable, the room was the highlight of my stay. Our Suit featured a spa bath on the balcony and a hammock – the ultimate set up to enjoy the 180’ ocean view.
For our first night, we decided to treat ourselves with a nice dinner out. Some of the local businesses are still closed, however, we still found a wide choice of restaurants and bars. This was an early night for us as our weekend’s activities awaited for us early in the morning.
Hamilton Island Day Trip
Hamilton Island has always been one of my favourite destinations so I wasn’t going to miss out on the chance to take a day trip over there while in the area. On Sunday morning we took a ferry over from the Marina and sailed the calm waters toward HI. It was nice to see the ferry making a stop to DayDream island which is now back open after the hurricane renovations – I think it would be a great option for my next trip here along with Hayman Island.
Once on the island, we hired one of the iconic golf buggies right away: The best and most fun way to get around on Hamilton Island! we had some fun visiting the local bars spending the rest of the day at the swim-up bar of the Reef View Hotel. In this idyllic destination, Â we were able to keep fulfilling our plans of relaxation, Hamilton Island never disappoints.
With the blink of an eye, it’s already Monday. Relaxed and revived, the time to make our way back to the airport has arrived – 72 hours Airlie Beach getaway went fast but we achieved what we came for: getting on a plane again and a weekend of food and drinks.
