Rowena Ryan

It’s not often Australians are a novelty when travelling in the States. But sitting in the outdoor hot tub after a day of fresh powder turns in Big Sky Montana, a couple from Chicago turns to my brother and me.

It's the most talked about premium economy in the air so I stepped onboard to check it out. 

The last time I was in the Greek islands I was 18 and staying at a very rowdy backpackers’ hostel, rotating between the beach and the bar, and forcing down shots of ouzo. The taste of aniseed still lingers today. 

Full disclaimer: I am not a camper. But that’s the thing with the Kimberley – it lures you in with its red dirt roads and jade-coloured ocean and envelops you in its warm breeze until you are under its spell.

Aussies have a new way of getting to the Middle Eastern jewel of Oman as well as Europe and Africa thanks to Qantas’ recent partnership with Oman Air who will be joining the oneworld Alliance from mid-2025. I flew from Bangkok to Oman's capital, Muscat, to see what it's all about. 

While the south of the country shivers through winter, the Whitsundays is blessed with sunny days and warm waters that are just a flight away. 

I am terrible at making the most of frequent flyer points. Signing up to an airline’s frequent flyer program is about as much as I’ve ever done. An embarrassing admission from a travel editor.

When the hotel staff are polishing your ski goggles before you head out for a day on the slopes, you know you’ve hit peak living.

I have always thought a hotel entrance to be a good indicator of what lies ahead. Is there a sweeping circular driveway? Expect old-school glamour. Or is the entrance marked only by a modest sign? Expect a discreet stay where privacy is paramount. So when the huge gates of Mulia Resort in Bali open up to an enormous feature wall of giant rose sculptures I already know this property will be a “go big or go home” experience.

Jock, our retreat leader, is stripped down to his jocks and about to dive headfirst into the icy waters of Lake Wakatipu.