From Tasmania to Taronga – A February to Remember
Jenny Revesz • August 3, 2025
From Tasmania to Taronga – A February to Remember
Back in February, I was incredibly lucky to be invited by Tourism Australia on a famil that took me through some very special parts of the country — Tasmania, Canberra, and an overnight stay at The Retreat at Taronga Zoo in Sydney.
Even though I sell Australia all the time and know it well, there’s something really special about getting out there again, meeting the people on the ground, and seeing how the experiences connect in real time. It reminded me why I love this job — and just how much there is to share with travellers who are looking for something meaningful and unique.
Tasmania – Raw, Real, and Absolutely Beautiful
Being Australian, I’m almost ashamed to admit that this was my first time visiting Tasmania — and I absolutely fell in love with it. I feel bad that it took me this long to get there, but I’m so grateful I finally did. Tasmania always leaves a mark. There’s something about the landscape — it’s rugged but incredibly grounding. Whether you’re tucked away in a boutique lodge or standing on a windswept coastline with barely another soul in sight, you feel like you’ve properly arrived somewhere.
The people are what truly make it, though. Every guide, host, and small business owner we met was so passionate and proud to share their slice of Tasmania — and that kind of genuine hospitality is what makes travel unforgettable.
We also visited Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, which is doing fantastic work in wildlife conservation and education. It’s not just a photo-op — it’s the kind of place that connects you deeply with the land and its animals.
And then there’s the wine. Oh, the wine! So many incredible cool-climate varietals — elegant, expressive, and mostly unavailable outside Australia. Tasting them at the source was a real privilege and an experience I’d recommend to any wine lover who wants to discover something off the radar.
What stood out most, though, was the quality of the experiences. Everything felt considered, authentic, and intimate — perfect for my clients who are looking for more than just the typical.
Canberra – Not What I Remember (In the Best Way)
The last time I was in Canberra, I was on a school trip — and to be honest, I hadn’t really given it much thought since. But wow, has it changed.
Today’s Canberra is quietly cool. It’s home to world-class galleries, beautiful green spaces, and an incredible food and wine scene. We happened to visit during one of the city’s seasonal festivals, and the atmosphere was vibrant and engaging — it really showed a side of Canberra I hadn’t experienced before.
One of the highlights was getting exclusive, behind-the-scenes access to the Australian War Memorial
and Parliament House. These weren’t your standard visits — we were guided by people with deep knowledge and stories that made the spaces come alive. It was moving, educational, and honestly quite inspiring. These kinds of moments stay with you.
It’s also just such an easy place to visit — no traffic, everything works, and there’s plenty of room to breathe. A great stop for curious travellers who want something cultural but calm.
The Retreat at Taronga Zoo – A Bit of Magic in the Middle of Sydney
And then there was Taronga. I’ve been to the zoo before, but staying overnight at The Retreat was something else entirely. It felt tucked away and peaceful, with sweeping views over Sydney Harbour and the sounds of wildlife in the background.
It’s not every day you fall asleep with the city skyline on one side and the call of animals on the other. It was luxurious, yes, but also warm and welcoming — the kind of place I’d happily recommend to families, couples, or solo travellers who want something different.
It’s also a brilliant entry point
into Australia. For those arriving early off an international flight, it offers a unique and relaxed way to start your trip — even if your room’s not quite ready, you still have full access to the zoo and its immersive experiences. Or, if you’re wrapping up a busy itinerary, it’s a gorgeous and memorable way to end on a high note.
It’s not every day you fall asleep with the city skyline on one side and the call of animals on the other. It was luxurious, yes, but also warm and welcoming — the kind of place I’d happily recommend to families, couples, or solo travellers who want something different.
This famil was such a gift — not just in terms of reconnecting with Australia, but also in fuelling my passion for curating travel that really means something.
If you’re curious about any of these spots — or want to plan a trip that feels just right for you — I’d love to help.
Jenny x
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One of the most common things I hear is,
“We don’t need travel insurance — our credit card covers it.”
And sometimes it does cover part of the trip. But part of it and comprehensive protection are not the same thing.
