One Flight Wonders! Gorgeous Getaways Without the Long-Haul.
In an age where time is the ultimate luxury, the allure of a swift escape has never been more enticing. While the dedicated team here at Y Travel loves nothing more than planning long, detailed itineraries to the far corners of the globe, they are equally skilled at recommending the perfect 'drop-of-a-hat' escapes much closer to home, for those times when a quick ‘recharge’ is needed. Enter the concept of 'one flight wonders' - destinations that offer a profound change of scenery and pace, all within reach of a single flight. Let us guide you through a curated (but definitely not definitive) selection of these proximate paradises, each promising a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and unparalleled relaxation.
BALI: ISLAND OF THE GODS
Bali, our beloved island neighbour, has long been a go-to for Australians seeking a quick tropical escape, yet beyond the well-trodden paths of the bustling tourist centres lies a Bali that continues to enchant and surprise even the most seasoned travellers. The brand-new Jumeirah Uluwatu, on the south-western side of the Uluwatu peninsula, perches dramatically on limestone cliffs, offering breathtaking sunsets and ocean views, as well as direct access to its own beach. Nestled amongst the lush vegetation of the cultural heart of the island, COMO Uma Ubud is a serene retreat that also happens to be a stone's throw from Ubud's main town centre, allowing guests to enjoy the best of both worlds. Meanwhile, perennial favourite, The Legian in the culinary and shopping hub of Seminyak, continues to set the standard for beachfront elegance, its timeless charm drawing visitors back year after year.
Getting There: Direct Flights East Coast to Denpasar - approximately 5.5 - 6.5 hours
TOP 3 BALI PICKS:
SINGAPORE: A CITY IN NATURE
Often overlooked as merely a stopover, Singapore deserves recognition as a destination in its own right. This city-state has reinvented itself as a 'City in Nature', where cutting-edge architecture harmonises with verdant spaces. Spend your time enjoying world-class shopping, exploring the city's Michelin-starred hawker stalls, or finding respite in the otherworldly floral wonderland of Gardens by the Bay. Indulge in a stay at the iconic Raffles Singapore, freshly restored to its colonial-era splendour, or experience the stunning Marina Bay views from the elevated pool terrace of the also recently reimagined Mandarin Oriental. For a resort-style experience only a short drive from the city, the elegant Capella Singapore on nearby Sentosa Island offers the perfect tropical escape to relax and unwind for a few nights after your Singaporean adventures.
Getting there: Direct Flight East Coast to Singapore - approximately 7.5 - 8.5 hours
TOP 3 SINGAPORE PICKS:
FIJI: AN ARCHIPELAGO OF TRANQUILITY
A South Pacific paradise of warm crystalline waters, powdery white sand and gently swaying palms, Fiji offers myriad opportunities for a quick retreat from the daily grind, with something for everyone. On touching down in Nadi, a short transfer by car, speedboat, or private flight will land you on a deckchair with a cocktail in hand in no time at all. The incredible Kokomo Private Island stands out as the ultimate exclusive retreat, while the Six Senses Malolo Island deftly combines beautiful sustainably designed villas with the warmest of Fijian hospitality. Back on Viti Levu, often referred to as the 'mainland', the InterContinental Fiji presents a perfect balance of resort life, ideal for golfers teeing off with ocean views, families seeking fun-filled activities, and those looking for the ultimate in spa pampering.
Getting There: Direct Flights East Coast to Nadi - approximately 3.5 to 5.5 hours.
TOP 3 FIJI PICKS:
AUSTRALIA: LAND OF CONTRASTS
It's easy to overlook the wealth of extraordinary experiences right here in our own backyard when planning our travels. Australia boasts an incredible diversity of landscapes and luxury retreats that rival any international getaway and are perfect for a long weekend or an extended escape. The mesmerisingly beautiful Uluru is our nation's cultural and geographic heart, and the 16 luxurious tented pavilions of Longitude 131° offer a front-row seat to the changing colours of the iconic monolith, complemented by world-class dining under the stars. For a taste of subtropical luxury, Spicers Peak Lodge, just two hours drive south of Brisbane in Queensland's scenic rim provides an intimate mountain retreat, complete with gourmet experiences and invigorating bushwalks. Alternatively, a quick flight across Bass Strait will find you in newly-hip Hobart – home to galleries, a thriving culinary scene, and the multi-award-winning Tasman Hotel, situated on the vibrant waterfront. Hobart is the perfect spot for a few days of fun, or if time permits, the ultimate starting point to explore Tasmania's natural wonders.
Getting there: Direct Flights Melbourne to Uluru - approximately 3 hours / Melbourne to Brisbane - approximately 2 hrs 15min / Melbourne to Hobart - approximately 1hr 15min
TOP 3 AUSTRALIA PICKS:
NEW ZEALAND: BREATHTAKING OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Our neighbours across the Tasman offer a world of adventure and luxury just a short flight away, with direct routes from Melbourne into major cities on both the North and South Islands. In Auckland, the sleek Park Hyatt welcomes you with its harbourside elegance, providing a stylish base to explore the City of Sails, or to ferry across to nearby Waiheke Island. Meanwhile, just a stone's throw from Wellington, the elegant Wharekauhau Country Estate invites you to experience the charm of a working sheep station combined with culinary delights and optional outdoor adventures. For those drawn to the South Island's dramatic landscapes, the Rosewood Matakauri in Queenstown offers an exclusive retreat with stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range.
Getting There: Direct Flights Melbourne to Auckland or Wellington - approximately 3.5-4 hours / Melbourne to Queenstown approximately 3-3.5hrs
TOP 3 NEW ZEALAND PICKS:
These destinations are but a glimpse of the remarkable 'one flight wonders' available on our doorstep. At Y Travel, we're poised to help you discover your own ‘one flight wonderful’ escape, enhanced by our exclusive partner offers. Whether you're seeking a swift weekend getaway or a slightly longer sojourn, we're here to craft your ideal close-to-home adventure, proving that extraordinary experiences don't always require long-haul flights.