09 Aug 2021 | 3 mins

Things are no longer a vibe again... can we please stop with this corona you've made your point. You normally attract what you fear so hahaha, I'm soooo scared of post-isolation.

Delusions may have struck by now but optimism is key! This lockdown will be over eventually and as soon as we get the OK to travel, let's make up for lost time. And in case borders remain closed for a while, I have got you - all these destinations are in New South Wales 🥰

1. Crescent Head

Get some mates together and camp at Racecourse Campground. Play card games under the stars on the beach and wake up early to go to the bakery (best bakery in the world in my definitive opinion. Those pies and custard tarts are surreal). Surf all day (or learn to), get some reading done on the beach and just take in the beachy, laidback lifestyle.

There are also funky places nearby like Port Macquarie and South West Rocks!

 

2. Newcastle 

Maybe I am biased since I am a Novocastrian myself, by Newy has it all. Some beaut beaches (Merewether being my fave), an array of pubs and clubs (Cambridge and Wharf Life *chefs kiss*. Finnegans, The Lass and Newy Hotel also go off. King Street is sticky and rank but an essential to really immerse yourself in the Newcastle lifestyle, as well as King St Maccas) and tonnes of funky shops, cafes, and restaurants, especially along Darby Street. 

*Gods Land* I reckon.

3. Bellingen

20km's from the bangin' Valla Beach is Bellingen - a boho and funky paradise. I got a psychic reading, tattoo and the best Mexican food I'd ever had in one day there. Not to mention, The Waterfall Way Scenic Drive (and all its waterfalls) and Dorrigo National Park are nearby and so so SO much fun!

 

4. Mudgee

The scenery is stunnnnnning in Mudgee - the drives between wineries are like an activity in themselves. Why not suss out their famous vineyards or explore the old Wild West gold mining town? You could see Aboriginal rock art sites, swim in wild spots and take on walking trails with the most Instagram worthy view points. 

You won't get bored in Mudgee, trust me. 

5. Brunswick

We've all heard of Byron Bay... But why not check out the more down-to-earth version: Brunswick! And, it's right nearby!

There are funky shops, amaaaazzzzing cafe's and restaurants, gorg beaches and waterways and tonnes of op-shops. Hotel Brunswick is where it's at for a pub feed and Brunswick Bowling Club is a must for a lawn bowls adventure. 

 

6. Katoomba

With all that sitting inside, you are probably craving some nature. Look no further than Katoomba!

What an adventure Katoomba is. Only a 45 minute drive from Penrith, the walking tracks and lookouts are innsssaaannee. Go to the Blue Mountains, suss out the Three Sisters and take piccies at Katoomba falls. 

7. Kiama

The coastal town of Kiama, south of Sydney is one of my fave places to get away from work and study and just relllaxxxx. Spend your days at the beach, eating bangin' ice-cream (there are so many ice-cream shops) and your nights eating 10/10 pub feeds. The drive to Gerringong is also jaw-dropping.