Last-minute Easter escapes you can still book
From new hotels to top restaurants, we have you covered.
With Easter almost upon us, we have some last-minute ideas for making the most of the autumn break, with a focus on what's new in some of our favourite Australian destinations.
Fine dining and digs
The Sebel Sydney Martin Place has just unveiled its ravishing multimillion-dollar makeover - think rooms with slate-grey feature walls, oversized mirrors, brass accents and bright-hued rugs that give the interiors a vibrant pop of colour. And, at press time, plenty of rooms were available during the Easter period, making the property a great base to explore the Harbour City.
The Sydney scene is just as hot when it comes to brand-new eateries. Make your way to Bondi Beach, where La Cantina is doing a fine trade in lip-smacking Mexican, from classic tequilas and margaritas to chef Juan Alvarez's signature slow-cooked pork ribs. Or check out Casa Esquina in Balmain, where fire-licked Argentinian fare takes centre stage. Go for premium cuts of meat seared to perfection in the open-plan kitchen at the heart of the restaurant, or try something a bit unexpected, such as Fugazzeta (stuffed Argentinian-style pizza). all.accor.com; lacantinabondibeach.com.au; casaesquina.au
Culture capital
Sydney may have food and wine covered, but the Victorian capital is the king of culture. So make a beeline for the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, where Leonardo da Vinci - 500 Years of Genius has just opened (until June 16).
Look out for the original sketches by the revered artist being shown in Australia for the first time, as well as a 360-degree replica of Mona Lisa, which shows both the front and back of the artwork, with markings listing its past owners. For works by emerging Australian artists, head to the Top Arts show at the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia (until July 14). With paintings, sculptures and photographs by 45 creatives, the exhibition is a glimpse into the future of Australia's artistic landscape. thelumemelbourne.com; ngv.vic.gov.au
Wild west sunsets
The direct Jetstar flight between Melbourne and Busselton Margaret River Airport in Western Australia has made travelling to the coastal town Busselton so much easier for eastern seaboarders. And if you're heading there this Easter, don't forget to visit the brand-new Busselton Pavilion - a 500-people gastropub, where you can enjoy roast chicken rolls and marron sangas with a side of sea views. busseltonpavilion.com.au
Holiday hideaways
Landscaped gardens, infinity-edge swimming pool and state-of-the-art interiors are just some of the things you can expect when you check into Robinsons Run, which has just been ranked Australia's best holiday home by Stayz.
Located in NSW's Kangaroo Valley, the three-storey, six-bedroom property can accommodate a group of up to 12 people, and has availability on select dates over the Easter break, with plenty of other hideaways on the top-10 list, curated by the holiday-home-booking platform. Book the six-bedroom River Hamptons (ranked sixth on the list) with a whirlpool spa and tennis court in South Australia's Berri, or check into the three-bedroom Mount Edgcumbe House (ranked number nine) in the Tasmanian town of Rowella. stayz.com.au
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Akash is the Deputy Travel Editor for Australian Community Media. He has lived and worked in four cities around the world – Sydney, London, New Delhi and New York – and, at last count, travelled to 42 countries.
My all-time favourite destination is ... New York. You can drop a pin anywhere in Manhattan and start walking in any direction, and the sights and sounds of the city that never stops will begin to stimulate all your senses in an instant.
Next on my bucket list is … Scandinavia - at the peak of summer, when the sun almost never sets.
My top travel tip is … If you’re flying to Sydney from anywhere in the world, pick a window seat far from the wing on the left-hand-side of the aeroplane. If the weather gods and flight path align, you’ll have the most incredible views of the Sydney Harbour and Opera House.
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