Looking for a short break during the semester? Do you love the beach, wildlife animals and snorkeling? Looking for paradise? ;) Then this trip is just the thing for you!

In the beginning of September, my boyfriend and I decided to flee the 'cold' Australian winter and booked a trip to the Whitsunday Islands. And one thing I can already say, it was a great decision!

I am very happy to share our experience with you!

Preparation

The idea for our trip came from the travel agency Backpackers World Travel. Nearly everybody in this agency raved about a Whitsunday Islands tour of the operator Red Cat Adventures which was great to combine with a scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands. It did not took long to convince us, so we booked the whole tour for a total of approximately 1.000 AUD per person (flights, airport transfer, scenic flight, and 'Ride to Paradise' tour altogether). This is not a bargain, but from our point of view the experience was worth the money.

Scenic Flight: Reef & Island

After we arrived at the airport, we took a bus to Airlie Beach. From there we were transported to the airfield, where our scenic flight was to start. The flight was operated by GSL Aviation with a Cessna Grand Caravan and took about 60 minutes. During the flight we got to see the popular Heart Reef, Whitehaven Beach, and Hill Inlet. And what can I say? It was awesome, as you can see in the pictures.

2 Day / 2 Night Whitsunday Tour: Ride to Paradise

Going back from the flight, we directly caught our 'Wildcat' speedboat and arrived after a half-hour drive together with about ten other people at the wonderful Paradise Cove Resort. This great accommodation was only available for our group and offered among other things a pool, whirlpool, surfboards, and amazing food.

The next two days we made different trips around the Whitsunday Islands such as Whitehaven Beach, Mantaray Bay, and the Langford Sandbar. This included a perfect combination of snorkeling and some time to relax at beaches. On all points we went with our speedboat and have been able to see various animals (whales, dolphins, turtles) during the ride as well.

Personal Conclusion

These were some of the best days in my life. I have never seen so many beautiful places in such a short time. So, it was definitely my idea of paradise. I can highly recommend my trip to the Whitsunday Islands.

Anna Hueckel,

Interdisciplinary Public and Nonprofit Studies

University of Hamburg, Germany