A Night on Heron Island – Exactly the Escape I Imagined

Jenny Revesz • August 25, 2025

A Night on Heron Island – Exactly the Escape I Imagined


I spent one night this year on Heron Island, flying in by helicopter and living exactly the kind of island escape I’d pictured.


The 30-minute flight from Gladstone was incredible. From above, we saw reef patterns, turtles and rays in the blue, and landed on the helipad. It was special, quick, and everything I hoped for.


Stepping off the helicopter, the air smelled fresh and the Pisonia forest framed the island perfectly. This tiny coral cay—just about 800 m long and 16 ha in total —is actually part of a protected National Marine Park. It’s wild, beautiful, and felt like a completely different world.


My room was simple—no AC, just a fan—and a little rustic, but in the best way. Everything was clean, comfortable, and the staff had that warm island friendliness I love. No fuss, just genuine service (and no Wi Fi unless you opt in)—perfect for unplugging.


Dinner that night? Better than I expected—not just edible, but excellent. Fresh seafood, thoughtful flavours, and enough variety considering there’s only one resort restaurant. Breakfast was solid too: buffet plus tasty extras and good coffee. No fine dining fuss, just genuinely good food when I sank into that island calm 


Heron Island is a major turtle nesting ground. Green and Loggerhead turtles come ashore from about November to March to nest, and baby hatchlings emerge between January and May. Guests are encouraged to join naturalist-led turtle walks at dusk or dawn.


Snorkelling right from the beach, I swam among tropical fish, rays, reef sharks, and turtles cruising near the reef edge. Heron Island supports nearly 900 fish species and over 70% of the coral species of the Great Barrier Reef. There’s so much life—it felt like swimming through a living aquarium.


Watching the sunset over the reef with a drink in hand at Baillie’s Bar was simple bliss. As night settled, the island went silent—no screens, no noise, just nature. Birds roosting, forest sounds, maybe a turtle coming ashore. It was exactly the unplugged reset I needed.


All photos courtesy of heronisland.com

February 2026 Spotlight - Taronga Zoo, Sydney

By Jenny Revesz • February 6, 2026
Taronga Zoo is one of those places many travellers think they already “know” — but behind the iconic Sydney Harbour views lies one of Australia’s most important conservation stories. Having visited Taronga Zoo many times and being fortunate enough to stay at the Wildlife Retreat, I’ve always felt there is something truly special about its setting. Perched in one of the most iconic positions on Sydney Harbour, Taronga is just a short ferry ride from downtown Sydney yet feels worlds away. Arriving by water, with the city skyline behind you and wildlife ahead, is part of what makes the experience so memorable. Home to more than 5,000 animals, Taronga Zoo is a not-for-profit organisation with a powerful mission: protecting wildlife, supporting breeding programs for endangered species, and leading global conservation efforts. One of the most exciting developments is the planning of a new, state-of-the-art wildlife hospital, reinforcing Taronga’s long-term commitment to animal care, research, and education. What makes Taronga especially compelling for Travel Like Jenny clients is the ability to go beyond a standard zoo visit. Exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences offer rare insight into animal care, conservation programs, and the passionate people working quietly in the background to protect wildlife for future generations. For an unforgettable stay, the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga offers a unique overnight experience with wildlife views, guided walks, and a strong sustainability ethos — all just minutes from the heart of Sydney by ferry. Dining at Me-Gal completes the experience, pairing native-inspired cuisine with one of the most spectacular harbour outlooks in the city. This is Sydney with depth — where an iconic attraction becomes a meaningful, immersive experience rooted in conservation, education, and purpose. And that’s exactly why Taronga Zoo earns its place as February’s Pick of the Month.

January 2026 Spotlight - MACq 01 Hotel, Hobart – Where Every Stay Tells a Story

By Jenny Revesz • January 26, 2026
MACq 01 Hotel, Hobart – Where Every Stay Tells a Story If you’re the kind of traveller who loves staying somewhere with a true sense of place, then MACq 01 in Hobart is a hotel I absolutely love recommending. Set right on Hobart’s historic waterfront, MACq 01 is not just a beautiful place to stay — it’s a storytelling hotel. Every room is inspired by a real Tasmanian character, from explorers and artists to pioneers, entrepreneurs and change-makers. Your room key doesn’t just unlock the door; it unlocks a story. This is Tasmania done properly — thoughtful, immersive and quietly luxurious. Why I Love MACq 01 Storytelling at its heart – Each room comes with a beautifully written story about the person it represents, giving guests a deeper connection to Tasmania’s layered history. Unbeatable waterfront location – Walking distance to Salamanca Place, Battery Point, waterfront dining, markets and galleries, with easy ferry access to MONA. Stylish, contemporary comfort – Warm timber tones, floor-to-ceiling windows and harbour or mountain views create a calm, refined space. Perfect for summer travel – January is one of the best months to visit Tasmania, with long daylight hours, festivals, food and vibrant cultural life. A Stay That Goes Beyond the Room MACq 01 also excels when it comes to food and drink. The hotel’s bar and restaurant continue the storytelling theme, celebrating Tasmanian produce and local flavours — whether you’re enjoying a relaxed drink overlooking the harbour or starting your day with breakfast and views. Who This Is Perfect For Couples looking for a romantic but interesting stay Culture lovers who enjoy history, art and storytelling Travellers seeking luxury with meaning, not cookie-cutter hotels Those combining Hobart with a Tasmania self-drive or food and wine journey Travel Like Jenny Tip MACq 01 works beautifully as a 2–3 night Hobart stay, the start or finish of a Tasmania road trip, or as part of a longer Tasmanian journey. I often pair it with Bruny Island, the Tasman Peninsula, or unique lodges and experiences across the state. Thinking About Tasmania? If MACq 01 has caught your eye and you’re dreaming of Tasmania — whether for a short escape or a deeper journey — I’d love to help design something that feels personal, seamless and truly special. This is Tasmania, Travel Like Jenny style.  Button Button Button Button
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