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
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.
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
