It's The Size That Counts

When travellers think of Hervey Bay they often think of a quiet seaside village, but they couldn't be further from the truth. Think more of a 'quiet seaside city' and you're closer to the mark. 

It all started thanks to a man named Boyle Martin, who was the first person to take up settlement in Hervey Bay. His bold move attracted others, until in 1984 Hervey Bay was officially popular enough to be proclaimed a city. The city now boasts a population of over 75,000 people and with the title of one of Australia's fastest growing cities under it's belt, the annual growth of the region increases on average another 3% each year. 

With 75,000 people to cater for, Hervey Bay has 5 shopping precincts and over 30 kilometres of safe swimming beach-front for everyone to spread themselves out over, meaning the city never feels crowded. And there is plenty to do - from Ten Pin Bowling to Camel Rides, to the botanical gardens and water park. In fact, here's a few more ideas:

Stand Up Paddle Boarding from Enzos

1. Parasailing
2. Jet Ski Tours
3. Skydiving
4. Stand Up Paddle Boarding
5. Kite Boarding
6. Aquarium
7. Scenic Tours by Microlite, Helicopter or Plane
8. Fishing Charters
9. Wakeboarding
10. Trike & bike tours
11. Horseriding
12. Go Karts and Movies
13. Whale Watching
14. Shark Museum
15. Kayak Hire, Banana Boat Rides and Beach Volleyball... And that just gets us started! 

So don't be surprised when you get to Hervey Bay and it's not what you expect, and it's not what you've been told. Unless you've been told "Paradise". Because Paradise it definitely is. 

Travelling Solo on the East Coast

New friends are made every day on a Palace Adventures tour!

Many travellers along the East Coast are travelling solo, with Australia one of the safest destinations in the world to do so. Travelling solo can be one of the most rewarding ways to truly explore and make the most of your holiday. Not only do you have the flexibility to go where you want and do what you want, but people travelling alone are also more likely to immerse themselves in local cultures, meet new people and try new things.

The reason being, people travelling alone don't have the 'safety bubble' of the companionship of their friends. They don't travel with the same views, and they don't have the the strain of friendship arguments when differences arrive regarding travel plans. Solo travellers have the ultimate freedom ... but sometimes the ultimate sacrifice to make as well!

While travelling alone can be a scary thought and sometimes can feel quite lonely, it is a fantastic way to grow as a person. Travel is the ultimate confidence booster and a fun way to build new independent skills. Who knew what you were capable of until you tried? Travelling Australia is not only just a great adventure, but it's a great journey of self discovery too. Thousands of travellers every year embark on a holiday on their own - there's no reason you shouldn't too!

Here are some of the top travel tips for Solo Travellers in Australia:

• Stay in a hostel. Hostels are communal and will attract travellers from all walks of life. 
• Take a journal. You'll want to remember everything and won't have anyone to remind you!
• Join a tour group. They're a great way to meet people you immediately have something in common with.
• Avoid romantic destinations, or attractions encouraging groups of people.
• Carry a book. It's a great way to look busy in uncomfortable situations or when trying to avoid unwanted conversation with someone.
• Utilise hostel and touring safe/lockers for valuables when you haven't got anyone to watch your belongings. 
• Use common sense. If you wouldn't do it at home, don't do it when you're away!
• Get to know local cultures so you won't be misunderstood.
• Familiarise yourself with popular travel agencies or information sources for advice you can trust. 
• Don't be afraid to ask. Nobody cares if you ask a silly question and you'll never forgive yourself if you miss a great opportunity or don't fully understand something because you were too embarrassed to find out more.

More Information:

Your home country may provide helpful government websites and resources for travel, but in Australia it's useful to check Smart Traveller for travel advice, tips and helpful checklists for your journey.